A Single Lens 3D Camera System

[Palidadi]

Sony has introduced a camera for shooting in 3D that requires a single lens for capturing information from the left and right eyes. While most current 3D cameras contain two lenses, this new system records 3D images through the use of one lens. This one lens then feeds into two sensors via mirrors that reflect light to each sensor. Basically, a single image is taken and separated into right and left images. These images are then recorded by individual image sensors. The light is split using mirrors instead of shutters so the recorded image appears smoother.

When operating the zoom and focus of current two-lens systems, it’s important that each camera lens works closely with one another and that there are no differences in image size or focus. This often involves complex technology. The sensitivity of the human eye has meant that differences in the size and movement of dual images could result in misalignment or difference in image quality.

By utilizing a single lens the camera solves the problem of the cumbersome set-up required when using dual lenses. When using a camera with two lenses, the lenses must be carefully aligned so that the resulting images maintain the same degree of 3D perception when seen by viewers.

The introduction of a system with a single lens corrects issues that may occur as a result of differences in each eye. The system uses mirrors instead of shutters. Thus, light that comes in will be separated into left and right images and recorded on the relay lens. The left and right images, which have been separated, will then be processed and recorded with the appropriate left and right sensor.

Since there is no difference in time between when left and right eye images are taken, it should be possible for 3D images involving rapid movement to be captured. A further benefit of this system is that viewers will still be able to see 2D images without polarized glasses as the images for the left and right eyes are within the range can be recognized as being a blurry.

Sony believes that there could be many potential benefits of the new system. The new camera system will shoot up to 240 frames per second, making it ideal for sports coverage. Sony said it would also add 3D technology to its PlayStation 3 games console. Other manufacturers will likely wait for public reaction before launching products of their own.

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