3D cameras

Back in December we reported that Sony might be developing a 3D DSLR camera. Now we hear that Sony is very keen to expand into 3D imaging, and wants to create a 3D camera. In fact Sony wants to create a camera similar to Fuji's Real 3D W1 consumer camera. This might suggest that in fact it'll be a compact and not a DSLR...

via dpReview

Fujifilm announced a new 3D printer, the "3D Print System". The system will be available in the UK in 'summer 2010', and it will be priced by April. Now users of the FinePix Real 3D camera will be able to print 3D photos using the new system which will be available in local stores (rather than use the 3D photo frame or order prints from Fuji which takes "weeks"). Fuji says that each print will take "minutes" and it'll be cheaper than the online prints available today.

The 3D prints are produced using dye-sublimation technology to print directly on to the base of a lenticular sheet. The prints will be available in four sizes from 4x6 inch to 6x9 inch.

Chinese researchers have created the largest 3D holographic display at 1.8 x 1.3 m². Their invention also includes a way to record and transmit the images. The use 64 digital cameras to capture a 3D object, and the large display uses 64 projectors to re-create the image.

Each projector emits its data onto a holographic functional display screen at various angles. By mirroring the image capture setup, the projectors can recreate the original 3D object. Since the magnification depends only on the ratio between the geometry sizes of projector and camera arrays, the screen size is not limited by the usual restraints experienced by holographic technology. In fact this method can be used to create 3D images in any size, and retain a high-quality image.

The team wants to commercialize this system, but are currently busy optimizing it and developing hardware and software solutions for various applications.

Via Optics.org

IMAX plans to build a next-gen 3D digital camera, to be released in 2011 (with a prototype completed in 2010). IMAX has developed several analog 3D cameras, but this will be their first digital one.

Just a couple of days ago, IMAX announced plans to launch a 3D TV channel in 2011, together with Sony and Discovery.

Via HolywoodReporter

Sony are really into 3D, and there are reports that Sony might be developing a 3D digital camera in their DSLR Alpha line. Interesting...

Via Engadget

The Fujifilm V1 Real 3D viewer is now shipping for 499$. The 3D display is 8" in size and sports 800x600 resolution. It's made for the Fujifilm Real 3D camera. It has 512Mb of internal memory, and also accepts SD Cards. It has an IR remote (and can also view photos directly from the camera via IR).

The V1 Real 3D viewer is available now for 499$.

Zalman Tech are already making 3D monitors (and are selling them together with Fuji Film) and polarizing filters for 3D displays. They are now seeking to expand that business. They have invested in Real Scope (a 3D content developer), and hold 11%, and they consider going into 3D film for projector and cameras.

Zalman are also looking to raise funds for facilities for producing larger polarizing films (they can currently make up-to 32" filters).

Via The Korea Herald