Eye researchers develop new 3D monitor vision test for children
3D-News Posted: Thursday, October 26, 2006 (8:57 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
A new random-dot stereotest using a 3D display and infrared oculography has been found to objectively assess stereopsis in children older than three years according to an article published in the November 2006 issue of Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (IOVS). The study involved 56 children, 38 with various visual impairments and 18 with normal vision. Study participants were seated on their mother's lap or alone with their heads stabilized by a chin and front rest. Unlike a number of other tests, this new 3D monitor stereotest does not require disassociating glasses that children often find cumbersome. The random dot stimulus was presented on an autostereoscopic display which allows viewing of full-color 3D images. The stimulus recognition was objectively assessed using infrared photo-oculography. The overall accuracy of the test was found to be 95 percent. If applicable to preverbal children, the new test may permit study of the development of stereovision under natural conditions since no glasses are necessary to see the stimuli. The new test may be useful for the objective measurement of the sensory outcome following the treatment of ophthalmic disorders in the pediatric age group. It is also a potential substitute for the Lang I and II Test and the Radom-dot E Test, which require verbal capabilities from the subject tested. The new test setting was developed by Daniel Mojon, MD, FEBO, of Kantonsspital St.Gallen in Switzerland, and the stimulus presentation algorithm by Xiaoyi Jiang, PhD, of the University of Muenster in Germany.

	Robert Zemeckis's 'Beowulf' to Premiere in 3D
3D-News Posted: Thursday, October 26, 2006 (8:53 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
Groundbreaking Film Comes to REAL D and Other Large-Format 3D Theaters November 16, 2007 When Robert Zemeckis's "Beowulf" is released in theaters nationwide on November 16, 2007, Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures will offer audiences an immersive motion picture experience unlike anything they've seen before as the film is presented in REAL D and other large-format 3D theaters day-and-date with its 35mm release, it was announced today by Jim Tharp, president of Paramount Pictures distribution. When the film is released, REAL D will be in over 1,000 theaters worldwide, mostly in North America, and it is also expected that "Beowulf" will be the largest day-and-date large-format 3D release of all time. Robert Zemeckis directs "Beowulf," a digitally enhanced live-action film from a screenplay by Neil Gaiman and Rogert Avary inspired by the 9th century English epic poem. The film stars Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins, John Malkovich, Robin Wright Penn, Brendan Gleeson, Crispin Glover, Alison Lohman, and Angelina Jolie. Commenting on the announcement, Steve Starkey, the producer of the film, said, "Bob Zemeckis instinctively presents his films in a very dynamic way that suits itself perfectly for the 3D experience, and 'Beowulf' is no exception -- the film is an ideal match for the REAL D system and other large-format 3D presentations. When we presented 'The Polar Express' in 3D, we looked for a way to differentiate the cinema experience, and with 'Beowulf,' REAL D is allowing us to expand on that idea." REAL D's 3D format enables a single digital projector to beam images that seem to move toward or away from viewers when wearing special, comfortable, lightweight glasses. Unlike traditional anaglyph (red and blue) 3D, REAL D Digital 3D leverages digital cinema projection technology to eliminate eye fatigue, ensuring moviegoers enjoy the most comfortable 3D viewing experience possible. Michael Lewis, chairman of REAL D, added, "We try to present involving and realistic stories to the audience. That's what this new generation of 3D allows us - to make the audiences feel like they're part of the movie. Our format creates an even more lifelike experience; this is the premier way to see cinema." Paramount Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment present an ImageMovers production, a Robert Zemeckis film, "Beowulf." Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film is written by Neil Gaiman and Roger Avary, based on the book. Produced by Robert Zemeckis, Jack Rapke, and Steve Starkey, the executive producers are Martin Shafer, Roger Avary, and Neil Gaiman.

	Next Step in Cinematic Evolution: the New XpanD Theater in Murcia, Spain
3D-News Posted: Wednesday, October 25, 2006 (10:55 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
XpanD, an ever-growing digital 3D cinema network that combines cinematographic content with special effects, has announced the official grand opening of their first XpanD theater in Spain. Featuring a large library of cinema experiences, XpanD offers a powerful integration of dramatic digital imagery with the excitement of a theme park experience. The XPAND theater in Murcia features X6D - the full solution of XPAND, and integrates two DCI compliant 2k projectors that generate an optimal stereoscopic 3D experience for a truly immersive atmosphere. By incorporating physical periphery elements such as scent delivery system, winds ranging from mild to heavy, combination water/mist and rain effects, fog, smoke, lasers and a vast array of artistic lighting for the depiction of explosions and many other surprise occurrences, the XPAND theatre provides a movie-going experience unlike the rest. With a VIP area housing 48 customized special effects luxury moving seats, with full motion capability simulating real-time motion, this theatre is sure to become the pièce de résistance in cinematic entertainment. All of these special effects are custom-synchronized to the action of each movie title. Kolosej, a fast-growing European entertainment group, developed XPAND's extraordinary melding of advanced entertainment technologies by merging a group of prestigious content providers and advanced technology developers. XPAND predicts this unique cinema event will become the next generation of sophisticated entertainment. "XPAND in Murcia will transform the cinema complex into a national attraction," says Maria Costeira, Chief Executive Officer of XPAND. "These theaters enable us to join our heroes on the screens - to feel the wind while we're flying with them, or when driving with them. Or to feel the rain during a storm or even something simple like smelling flowers. There's no home theatre or even digital cinema, no matter how advanced that can create an experience that comes close. XPAND is one of a kind." The flexibility of the XPAND digital cinema solution is unparalleled in the current theatre industry. XPAND comes in three turnkey solutions. They are: X6D - Full solution that includes a 3D digital system, SFX moving seats and in-theater effects. X4D - Enhanced solution, which includes the 3D digital system with in-theater effects. X3D - Basic solution includes the exceptional 3D digital cinema system. "The XPAND X6D theater in Murcia is the first of three planned theaters in Spain. We have plans for 12 more XPAND theaters in Europe during 2007, reaching approximately 40 XPAND theaters globally by 2008," says Ami Dror, XPAND's Executive Vice President of Business Development. XPAND plans to partner with a minimum of ten international cinema exhibitors who will enjoy substantial financial support from XPAND with regard to technology, installation, ongoing operations and market drive.

	Barco and daytaOhio Equip Collaborative Visualization Complex at Wright State's Joshi Research Center
3D-News Posted: Tuesday, October 24, 2006 (7:58 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
Barco has partnered with daytaOhio to implement the industry's most advanced virtual collaboration and visualization complex at Wright State University's new Krishan and Vicky Joshi Research Center. This multi-room, network-centric facility marks the first visualization center of its kind in the Ohio Miami Valley. It is equipped with intelligent presentation systems and large-scale, immersive Virtual Reality technology for virtual collaboration, analysis, and decision making. Some of the work done by Wright State researchers will support applied research for members of daytaOhio (the Ohio Wright Center for Data), a non-profit corporation that supports a consortium of organizations, civilian and military, working to resolve the complexities of large-scale data management issues. "This kind of technology is exactly what we need to stimulate local growth," said Paul Cashen, President of daytaOhio. "We are very excited about the visualization systems Barco has provided, which will actively help Ohio and the Dayton area to become a competitive player in today's global market." "The Joshi Research Center solution demonstrates what Barco is all about," said Ken Hunter, director of marketing, virtual & augmented reality for Barco. "We are about bringing the very latest in virtual technology to the practical level, enhancing education and analysis. Barco's comprehensive visualization system will enable research teams in a wide variety of disciplines to collaborate locally or remotely, visualize and evaluate data in a more intuitive fashion, and make decisions in real-time." Excellent visualization is crucial to the success of the high-end data management and analytics center of daytaOhio housed in the Joshi Center. The visualization facility is equipped with a comprehensive and sophisticated visual system consisting of Barco's CADWall system, I-Space immersive virtual environment, and network-centric presentation system. The Barco CADWall and I-Space are located in the facility's main visualization room. The CADWall is a 1:1 scale, large-screen rear-projection wall that is operated by Barco's revolutionary external desktop system, the XDS-1000. The scalable and modular XDS-1000 allows the facility to simultaneously display multiple external sources, such as data, video, and network information, in mono and stereo 3D in multiple windows on the large CADWall canvas. The CADWall features a two-channel, edge-blended Barco Galaxy DLP projection system. According to Cashen, the broader use of the Internet, advancement of technology/miniaturization and globalization contribute to a glut of data that paralyzes decision-making in organizations. "Immersive visualization of designs, environments and other applications will allow daytaOhio members to develop and commercialize data analytics expertise and viable tools. The power of visualization will help bring intelligence to information. In other words, it will create the ability for businesses and government extract the "so what" of data and connect appropriate and multiple data resources." The I-Space immersive visual system, also powered by Barco Galaxy projectors, takes visualization to the next level; this four-channel, multi-sided unit surrounds the user with rear-projected, continuous virtual imagery. Both the Barco CADWall and I-Space virtual reality systems serve as a design and engineering tool for interacting with stereoscopic 3D models and will also be used as a presentation tool for many different Joshi Center technical and educational applications. The brightness, high resolution, and color depth of the display systems make the Barco CADWall and I-Space the tools of choice in visualizing complex, multi-faceted R&D data. The Joshi Center's main visualization room will be networked to two satellite conference rooms equipped with Barco's intelligent projection systems. One conference room is powered by an IQ Pro 500 projector with SXGA resolution and the other room is powered by an iCon H600 with HDTV resolution. Both projection systems are equipped with on-board computer servers that use the familiar Windows XP desktop, and can simultaneously process up to four external sources with picture-in-picture flexibility. The network-centric capabilities of the Barco IQ Pro, iCon, and XDS-1000 enable users to share information between multiple sources over the facility's local area network to enhance team-based collaboration. The facility will also be able to set up, monitor, and manage these projection systems from a central IT/AV location. Control over a projection system can be passed instantly over the network to any meeting room. The Joshi Center, scheduled to open on Friday, October 27, is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advanced data management. Funded in part by Ohio Gov. Bob Taft's Third Frontier Initiative, The Joshi Center houses daytaOhio and several departments of the Wright State School of Engineering. Barco has installed over 850 systems worldwide. The Joshi Center project is another example of how Barco systems play an important role in helping institutions visualize their solutions so they can be more productive, advance technology, realize bottom-line advantages.

	Conceptual Artist Rick Silberman Combines Magical Illusion, Theater and Science to Create Breakthrough Hologram
3D-News Posted: Monday, October 23, 2006 (18:39 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
Holographic Art Transforms Traditional 'Cups & Balls' Magic Illusion Conceptual artist and magician Rick Silberman, originator of the holographic technique "Shadowgrams", has created a novel approach to the magical arts, by creating the first magical illusion to utilize Holography as its modus operandi. The foundation for Mr. Silberman's newest hologram is the centuries old cups and balls illusion, in which a magician appears to hide a ball under one of three cups and an audience member tries to guess under which cup the ball is hidden. What makes Mr. Silberman's magical illusion, "Cups & Balls", so unique after nearly 250 years is not merely the holographic technique. Rather, it is that the hologram becomes integrated into a performance, in which Mr. Silberman's presentation brings magic into the fourth dimension. The props actually seem stuck in time, straddling the realm between visibility and invisibility. During the performance the spectator sees three copper cups and three red crochet balls. The first ball vanishes from beneath the cup on one end only to reappear as a solid shadow of its former existence; then it literally passes through the side of the other cups. At that moment the spectator can't help but question what is real and what is imagined. At one point the center cup itself turns into a solid shadow, revealing a ball beneath it - as if the spectator has suddenly been given X-ray vision and can see directly through the solid cup. "This hologram utilizes the unique characteristics of holography: parallax, the ability to see around objects, and spatial real imaging, images that project forward into space without external viewing aids", notes Mr. Silberman. "By the viewer moving to the extreme edge of the hologram, something new is revealed, as if there may be more to see if you just peeked a little harder. The hologram teases you into trying to catch the balls in flight, but you can't because the elusive ball itself is merely a hologram". About Rick Silberman Mr. Silberman is well known for his work in defining holography as art and creating a visual record of the unique characteristics of holograms. He began his career in holography in the early 1970's, during which time he created "Shadowgrams", a reflection hologram technique in which he creates a three-dimensional recording of the shadow of an object, thus creating an illusory atmosphere. Mr. Silberman's most famous piece, "The Meeting", is a hologram of the shadow of a wine glass displayed with the broken stem of a real wine glass, creating a visual record of the object. Although often imitated, "The Meeting" holds its place as one of the most memorable holograms ever created. Mr. Silberman's other holographic projects include: "Artifacts from Descartes' Dreams", a continent-wide holographic journey and the largest holographic installation to date; "Axis", the first theatrical performance with a well-crafted stage set consisting of holograms with which the performers interact; and "Mesh", "Balls & Jacks" and "Cat's Cradle", which exhibit his "Shadowgrams" technique. During his thirty-plus year career, Mr. Silberman has held exhibitions of his works at such distinguished institutions as The Museum of Modern Art, The Museum of Holography, and The International Center of Photography in New York; The Royal Photographic Society and The Walker Art Gallery in England; and the BMW Gallery in Germany, to name a few. His work appears in the permanent collections of museums and private collections worldwide. In addition, Mr. Silberman has lectured at various educational institutions, such as Brown University, where he held a visiting lecturer post and contributed to the establishment of a creative holography research program; Rhode Island School of Design; Minneapolis School of Art and Design; Massachusetts College of Art; and the University of London. Mr. Silberman is currently the executive director of the Milford Agency and the president of Nine Design, two prominent Manhattan-based multi-media concerns.

	Siemens Goes 3D with New Stereo Medical Imaging Display
3D-News Posted: Thursday, October 19, 2006 (20:48 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
System Projects Images of Vessels with Dimension, Depth and Detail Visualize an image of a vascular structure in the human brain so detailed, so life-like that you try to reach out and touch it but can't. With the new three-dimensional (3D) Stereoscopic Display system from Siemens Medical Solutions (http://www.usa.siemens.com/medical) Angiography, Fluoroscopy and X-ray (AX) Division, physicians can more clearly view and better understand vascular structures in the human body. Physicians specializing in angiography will be able to utilize this system by viewing a 3D stereoscopic display to improve decision-making for faster and more confident treatments. Mimicking the perception of the human eye, the display creates two or more views of an object to produce a stereoscopic impression delivering depth information. This enables physicians to understand complex vessel structures which can be more easily differentiated via this display. The 3D display enables physicians to provide more efficient treatment for diseases like vascular aneurysms, stenotic narrowing of vessels and vascular malformations. The 3D display provides a life-like impression without the need to wear special glasses or to be limited to one observer, making the display useable in sterile environments or meeting rooms. "Our new 3D stereo display system helps enhance patient images so physicians can have the best possible information going into interventional procedures," said Claus Grill, vice president, AX Division, Siemens Medical Solutions. "With a more detailed image, physicians can make a more confident decision when choosing a treatment approach for their patients."

	University of Minnesota to help NASA 'follow the sun' - in stereo
3D-News Posted: Thursday, October 19, 2006 (9:16 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
Like geologists poring over seismograph records to identify the telltale signature of an imminent earthquake, University of Minnesota researchers are poised to probe the sun for a tipoff that a huge eruption of its corona is brewing. Called coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, these solar castoffs can wreak havoc with satellites, whole nations' power grids and the well-being of astronauts. The university-designed and built instruments aboard the twin spacecraft of NASA's STEREO mission - currently scheduled for launch Oct. 25 from Cape Canaveral, Florida - will detect waves of energy and charged particles emitted by the sun via processes that may help cause CMEs. "As our society becomes more electronic and sophisticated, these outbursts become more disruptive," said Paul Kellogg, a retired physics professor who is part of the university's space physics team. "STEREO will allow us to see when one is coming to Earth." The $400 million STEREO mission is the first to use the moon's gravity to "slingshot" more than one spacecraft into orbit. As the two spacecraft circle the moon, the moon will first throw one into orbit trailing Earth and then, a month later, hurl the second into orbit moving ahead of Earth. As the distance between the spacecraft widens, they will gain a stereoscopic perspective on the sun that will allow cameras and other instruments aboard to detect the direction in which any CMEs are traveling. The University of Minnesota team has worked closely with researchers at the Paris Observatory to design and build instruments for their joint experiment, called S/WAVES (short for STEREO WAVES). The university's instruments will be able to track the shock wave that precedes a CME as it moves through space. "It's all to understand and predict how the sun works," said university physicist Keith Goetz, the project manager for S/WAVES. "We hope to get moving pictures of CMEs and solar flares. We want to be able to look at the surface of the sun and say, for example, 'There's going to be an eruption-right there, in that spot.'" It will be the first of the experiments aboard STEREO to be turned on following launch.

	3D Conversion of 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' Marks a Trend
3D-News Posted: Thursday, October 19, 2006 (9:13 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
The wide re-release of Tim Burton's "The Nightmare Before Christmas" in 3D on Friday comes right on the heels of the many-months-long run of "Superman Returns" with scenes converted to IMAX 3D. With word that "Star Wars," enhanced by similar conversion, will be re-released in 3D, this trend gains real momentum. Along with the recent success of 3D animated films, from "Polar Express" to "Open Season," 3D has captured the public's imagination. However, it is conversion of existing library films that first sparked the imagination of inventor and computer graphics pioneer David M. Geshwind, President of Three-Dimensional Media Group, Ltd. (http://www.3dmg.com). 3DMG licensed two US Patents to IMAX to enable their conversion of films to 3D. Geshwind believes 3D conversion offers a "unique opportunity to bring blockbusters back into theaters with something new to offer. Consider the box-office that a relatively low-cost re-release in 3D of 'E.T.' 'Indiana Jones' 'Harry Potter' 'Lord of the Rings' 'The Matrix' or even 'The Ten Commencements' would bring to theaters. "However, for new live-action films, with only a few weeks between the completion of a 2D film and its release, there is not enough time to economically convert a two-hour film to 3D using our original process. IMAX converted only 20 minutes of 'Superman Returns.' We have worked hard to solve that problem, and developed advanced patent-pending technology to convert an entire film to 3D for simultaneous 'day-and-date' release with the 2D version," says Geshwind. "Library films can be converted at leisure, but what excites me now is the ability to show an entire new live-action film in 3D on the same day as its 2D release," says Geshwind. "We look forward to licensing the first such production with our new technology soon." While "Superman Returns" was the first widespread public use of Geshwind's patented StereoSynthesis process, he first demonstrated it in the early 1990s to add 3D depth to a segment of the original (1933) King Kong. Geshwind, who holds eight other patents, developed StereoSynthesis as a low-cost form of Virtual Reality, and to "adapt the huge resource of existing 2D media for 3D systems. The advent of 3D has taken longer than anticipated, but the effective use of 3D adds greatly to the 'suspension of disbelief' that is key to entertainment. We will bring this same realism to enhance medical imaging, educational materials, scientific visualization, TV, games, the desktop, advertizing, and to other fields as 3D digital displays become ubiquitous." 3DMG licensed IMAX through UNIPAT.ORG. Geshwind conducts independent R&D in media technology through Digital Media Group, Ltd. (an affiliate of 3DMG). His other technologies, available for licensing through UNIPAT, include: ChromaSynthesis, internet protocols, intelligent search, interactive video, bandwidth compression, educational technology, 3D paint, improved HDTV, and personalized video.

	Barco and Alterface bring the magic of immersion and interactivity to ASTC 2006
3D-News Posted: Thursday, October 19, 2006 (9:03 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
Barco, a global leader in visual display systems for education and entertainment, welcomes Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) conference attendees to booth 204 on 28-31 October for a dynamic presentation of its exhibit solutions. At the conference, held at the Louisville Science Center in Loiusville, Kentucky/USA, Barco will showcase a 3D stereo exhibit using its innovative TRACE, a cutting-edge system which brings visualization to life with breathtaking clarity. Barco will also partner with Alterface in an exciting exhibit which will transform an informative presentation into a stunning display of interactivity. "Barco's visual systems make education more creative, engaging, and fun than ever before," said Hernan Rodriguez, Director, Sales and Marketing, Latin America for Barco's Simulation business. "These are exactly the solutions which museums, planetariums, and science centers need to captivate guests and to keep them returning again and again." ASTC attendees will marvel at Barco's 3D stereo exhibit made possible by the TRACE system. TRACE is an industry standard for active 3D stereoscopic display. Powered by a Barco Galaxy WARP DLP projector, TRACE depicts high-resolution imagery in crisp detail. With a simple pair of electronic shutter glasses, the viewer can experience the magic of 3D imagery generated by this portable, freestanding unit. TRACE immerses the viewer in a world of floating subjects, creating an environment of learning that is both thrilling and memorable. In addition to the 3D exhibit, ASTC attendees will experience a remarkable presentation of diverse visual solutions in a uniquely hands-on way. With content and programming provided by Alterface and visualization powered by Barco's high-definition Sim 6 Ultra II LCD projection system, this exhibit will turn viewers into active participants. Upon entering the exhibit, an image of the guest is captured by the system; their image is made part of the virtual environment and appears on the display screen. The guest will then have the option to "select" screen content through virtual interaction. "This is the stuff of fantasy," said Xavier Marichal, Alterface CTO. "These robust technologies will revolutionize the way contemporary museums and science centers operate. The unique interactivity and arresting imagery promise new heights of participatory learning." Paul Lyon, International Product Manager for Barco's Simulation business, will participate in a panel discussion during the conference. Mr. Lyon will highlight features and benefits of Barco's high-definition projection systems, and offer key insight into creative solutions which can transform vision into reality. As a conference sponsor, Barco will supply a high-definition ICON projector for use during presentations. This intelligent, scalable projection system simultaneously displays data collected from multiple sources on one large screen, making it perfect for intuitive visualization and educational collaboration.

	Robodoc: MUHC surgeon teams up with Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal robot to perform prostate cancer surgery
3D-News Posted: Wednesday, October 18, 2006 (13:25 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) urologist and surgeon, Dr. Assaad El-Hakim has teamed up with a robot from Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal (HSCM) to perform robotic prostatectomy - the latest advancement in the surgical treatment of prostate cancer. Under the fine surgical skills of Dr El-Hakim, the robot, known as da Vinci, has been used to perform three successful operations at HSCM since last May, the first such surgeries to be performed in Quebec. Da Vinci has two major components: the actual robot or surgical cart which comprises three or four arms, and the surgeons computer console. The system is equipped with 3-dimensional stereoscopic image magnification, a tremor filter, EndoWrist technology, and improved ergonomics for the surgeon. "In 2006, 40% of prostatectomies in the United States were performed using a surgical robot," explains Dr. Ronald Denis, Chief of Department of Surgery at HSCM. "While robotic surgery cannot replace surgeons, it does enhance the surgeon's ability to work around delicate areas and improves the outcome for the patients." The da Vinci robot offers all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery: improved nerve preservation, virtually no blood loss, less pain, faster recovery times for patients, and less scarring. Dr. El-Hakim, the first fellowship-trained robotic urological surgeon in Canada, adds that "these advances in microsurgical techniques, the use of three-dimensional computer guided navigation, the application of high tech enhanced imaging robotic technology, and precision motion scaling allows surgeons to perform more fine-tuned and less invasive surgery than traditional prostatectomies. This translates into better long-term functional outcomes and quality of life for patients." In addition he says "I appreciate the opportunity to work with da Vinci and collaborate with Hôpital du Sacre-Coeur de Montréal to treat patients with prostate cancer."

	S3D-Today: International Conference and Exhibition on Stereo-3D
3D-News Posted: Thursday, October 12, 2006 (13:23 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
The event, taking place in Munich/Germany on November 27th and 28th, will show that the currently available S3D (Stereo 3D) techniques and applications are more extensive and better in quality than is generally known. Today you can already buy and sell very interesting products and systems, with prices accommodating both small and professional budgets. Scientists, developers and producers of S3D components and S3D systems as traders, content creators and users are invited as speakers, consultants and exhibitors. Visitors - apart from those mentioned before - are first of all commercial and private end customers, who want to inform themselves about the current state of the art (hardware and software), possible applications and sources of supply. For more information, see http://www.s3d.eu

	iFusion turns any flat panel display into a stereo 3D display
3D-News Posted: Wednesday, October 11, 2006 (8:00 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
Neovision Labs (http://www.neovisionlabs.com) has developed iFusion™, a proprietary and patent pending technology that allows the viewing of stereoscopic content (think Polar Express 3D or Spy Kids 3D) on any type of flat panel display without the use of special glasses or any degradation in image resolution. Since iFusion™ is a pure optical solution it is uniquely positioned to deliver very affordable stereo 3D content to a consumer audience since no software or hardware modifications (i.e. software, drivers, additional graphics chips, etc.) are necessary to deliver a stereoscopic experience. iFusion™ works with any specially encoded image or video file: it supports any media container and any codec. Among others, iFusion™ was tested with the following media formats: Images: TIFF, PSD, JPEG, GIF, PNG, TARGA, RAW, BMP, SVG Video codecs: H261, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, h263, h264 (AVC), DivX, XviD, 3ivx, Sorensen 3, Theora, WMV 7-10, RealVideo, Cinepak, etc. Video containers: AVI, MOV, MP4 Ogg, ASF, RealMedia, Matroska, 3gp Unlike other stereo 3D products, iFusion™ does not interfere with traditional 2D content and even the smallest type is perfectly readable. 2D and 3D content can be shown simultaneously, the only difference being that 2D content appears to be positioned on the display surface (zero parallax), while 3D content is perceived as having depth in front and/or behind the display (negative and positive parallax). iFusion™ PMP Although the long term strategy is to support a wide range of display types, Neovision will enter the market with iFusion™ attachments for portable media players (PMPs) and other multimedia capable handheld devices, such as mobile phones, GPS devices, handheld gaming consoles, etc. They plan to support a majority of mobile devices that feature a form factor which can accomodate a display attachment such as iFusion™ PMP. After careful review of all currently available devices the company has, however, chosen the iUbi Blue as the first supported PMP due to its accomodating design as well as for its powerful multimedia capabilities. iFusion PMP will also be available for the Archos RV500, Sony PSP, Creative Zen, iRiver U10, Meizu, etc. Availability and price iFusion™ for PMPs will be sold in two ways: As a separate accessory product to owners of existing media players, and as a bundled 'iFusion™ PMP package' that will contain the attachment as well as the underlying PMP itself. Both types of products will feature a DVD packed with compelling stereoscopic content ready to be viewed. The introductory product, the iUbi Blue iFusion™ PMP accessory is expected to be available late fall of 2006 and is expected to retail for under US$50. Other iFusion™ PMP products for competing PMPs are planned for the following quarter. The price of any bundled iFusion™ PMP package is dependent on the manufacturer of the supporting PMP and will be determined on a case by case basis.

	SENSIO licensing rights to real time 2D to 3D conversion technology
3D-News Posted: Friday, October 6, 2006 (8:55 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
SENSIO announces its first 3D high definition chip targeted to CE manufacturers featuring unlimited 3D content and compatibility with all display technologies SENSIO Technologies Inc., the inventor of the SENSIO(TM) 3D technology, is proud to announce the development of its first generation 3D high definition decoder chip which will also feature JVC's (Victor Company of Japan) unique real time 2D to 3D conversion technology. The SENSIO(TM) chip will not only allow spectacular 3D content delivery with quality rivalling with the best 3D Digital Cinema experiences, it will allow home viewers worldwide to enjoy all of their favourite SD or HDTV shows and movies in full color, full resolution 3D on any display. At the heart of the SENSIO(TM) Chip is the SENSIO(TM) 3D decoder that allows the decoding of the largest and growing library of 3D movies including major Hollywood titles such as "Spy Kids 3-D - Game Over" and the classics "Jaws 3-D" and "Creature from the Black Lagoon" with stunning realism and quality. The SENSIO(TM) formatting engine inside the chip also allows the formatting of the 3D content in multiple output formats to fit any display device. With today's agreement, the SENSIO(TM) Chip will also feature JVC's technology that will allow any regular 2D content to be displayed in 3D providing the consumer with an infinite selection of quality 3D entertainment. "We have been exposed to many real time 2D to 3D conversion technologies but up to now, they all fell short of our quality expectations. JVC's technology is by far the most advanced and efficient real time conversion technology that exists. This new agreement will make our chip the ultimate 3D solution to be integrated into manufacturer's A/V product says Nicholas Routhier, SENSIO President. "JVC has proven once again that they are at the forefront of technology and we are very proud to be associated with such an innovative company" he added. The SENSIO(TM) 3D chip is designed for seamless integration in home theatre consumer products such as HDTV (plasma, LCD, LCOS, DLP, etc.), DVD players and AV receivers. On the first day of the CEATEC show, SENSIO has presented a seminar entitled "Integrating Stereoscopic 3D functionalities in HDTV consumer products". The content of this presentation is now available upon request or on SENSIO's website. Also, SENSIO is exhibiting its 3D technology during CEATEC (Combined Exhibition of Advanced Technologies) in the Canadian pavilion at booth 4B04.

	In-Three, Inc. is Granted 3 More Patents in 2D to 3D Motion Picture Conversion Technology
3D-News Posted: Wednesday, October 4, 2006 (10:02 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
In-Three, Inc. announced that it has just been granted 3 additional patents covering its proprietary 2D to 3D conversion technology. In-Three's unique 2D to 3D conversion process, called Dimensionalization®, can convert any full-length motion picture into high-quality 3D regardless of the age or origination of the image source. Using its Dimensionalization® process, In-Three can convert any 2D image content into fully authentic and believable 3D, whether it was derived from live photographic action, cell animation, CGI animation, computer effects, in color or black & white, and is fully resolution independent. Dimensionalization® is the world's first process for the creation of compelling 3D motion pictures from original 2D entirely in post-production. 3D content producers now have full control over every aspect of their 3D project regardless of how their images were initially captured.

	Virtual Simulations Inc. and Sensics Inc. Announce Business Partnership to Offer Highest Immersive Experience to its Clients
3D-News Posted: Wednesday, October 4, 2006 (9:55 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
Virtual Simulations Inc. announced the establishment of a new business partnership with Sensics Inc., the panoramic head mounted display company. In this partnership, Virtual Simulation will become a value added reseller (VAR) of Sensics products. Sensics products will be integrated with software components developed by Virtual Simulations to provide complete VR turnkey solutions to its end-clients. Sensics Inc. latest product, the piSight 150, is a head mounted display capable of displaying panoramic, high-resolution stereoscopic imagery to the user. The piSight delivers a field of view of 150 degrees and a resolution of 3200 x 1800 pixels per eye, providing large peripheral vision capabilities and high immersion sensations to the user. Developed during nearly a decade of research sponsored by NASA and a major car manufacturer, the piSight uses a patented optical design to seamlessly combine full-color images from two dozen microdisplays into a stunning, panoramic 3D visual experience. "We are very excited to have Sensics as a business partner as it will open new opportunities to us and push the technical limits of what we can achieve in terms of simulation visual quality and immersion. The capabilities of the piSight are unequalled at this time and allow us, for the first time, to create VR experiences the way VR was meant to be, giving a strong and believable immersion sensation to the user," says Marc Bernatchez, President of Virtual Simulations Inc. "We are very pleased to welcome Virtual Simulations to our growing list of business partners," says Lawrence Brown, Ph.D., President of Sensics. "We look forward to combining our HMD expertise with the substantial VR experience brought by the principals of Virtual Simulations towards providing excellent solutions to our customers."

	'Superman Returns' grosses over $30m on IMAX in 13 weeks
3D-News Posted: Wednesday, October 4, 2006 (9:52 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures have announced that Bryan Singer's blown up version of 'Superman Returns', has grossed more than 30 million dollars world-wide to date, and is still continuing to show strong legs in theatres through its 13th week. Toronto-based Imax said that the digitally-remastered 3D version of the superhero blockbuster has thus far earned 22.7 million dollars on 92 Imax screens in North America, and another 7.5 million dollars on 36 dates internationally. "We are very pleased with the longevity of the film's performance in Imax theaters. The immersive Imax Experience has helped this terrific film continue to draw crowds thirteen weeks into its run," The Hollywood Reporter quoted Warner Bros. Pictures president of domestic distribution Dan Fellman, as saying. "Superman Returns has been a huge hit in IMAX theatres throughout the entire summer. The strong legs provide a clear indication that audiences want to experience Hollywood event movies in the most powerful and unique way. We are encouraged by the ongoing positive reactions to the world's first live-action Hollywood feature with scenes converted into IMAX 3D," Greg Foster, Chairman and President of IMAX Filmed Entertainment said.

	NTT Docomo Co-Develops 3D-System
3D-News Posted: Wednesday, October 4, 2006 (8:24 UTC) | Posted By: Webmaster
NTT DoCoMo, Inc., the Japanese Mobile Phone Company, announced that it has co-developed a portable, seven-inch 3D display system with Associate Professor Yasuhiro Takagi of Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. Both still images and video can be viewed in 3D without special glasses, and unlike similar displays, the images are visible off-center vertically, as well as horizontally. The system, which enables 3D images to be viewed within a 60-degree horizontal angle and 30-degree vertical angle, generates the images based on the viewer's position relative to the screen. Using a camera embedded in the display's LCD screen, the system determines where the viewer is and immediately projects 3D images through a Lenticular (single-convex) lens attached to the front of the screen. This results in the viewer seeing an object that appears to leap out from the screen.

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