Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for 3-D photography. Multiple cameras or lens and sensor assemblies are employed to provide a range of interaxial separations. A user selects two of such cameras to achieve a desired interaxial separation, the two cameras separated by an interaxial separation closest to that desired. The systems and methods may be applicable to even low-cost consumer-grade still and video cameras to provide stereoscopic 3-D effects.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for encoding and decoding a multi-view image are provided. The method of encoding the multi-view image can use a difference in views between pictures of the multi-view image, add an image area obtained from a picture at one view at a first time to a picture at another view at a second time, thereby generating a reference picture, and perform prediction encoding using the generated reference picture, thereby increasing prediction encoding efficiency.

Abstract: The invention involves a sort of curved film projection system, including a rendering surface, a projection screen, a real scene rendering model of image system, a rendering model of projection system that renders the projection the image rendered by the rendering model of image system on the rendering surface, and projecting devices that projects the image finally rendered by the rendering model of projection system onto the projection screen through optical lens. The viewing direction and angle from observer's eyes to the rendering surface is consistent with that to the projection screen. The image system rendering model can be reversible on optical path with the projection system rendering model. The curved film projection system not only reduces the rendering cost, but also produces lifelike experience for audience.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides an active illumination imaging system comprising a first camera and a second camera, each having an optical axis and a field of view (FOV) characterized by a view angle in a plane that contains the optical axis and wherein the optical axes of the cameras intersect at an intersection region common to their FOVs at an angle substantially equal to half a sum of their view angles.

Abstract: Embodiments may take the form of three-dimensional image sensing devices configured to capture an image including one or more objects. In one embodiments, the three-dimensional image sensing device includes a first image device configured to capture a first image and extract depth information for the one or more objects. Additionally, the image sensing device includes a second imaging device configured to capture a second image and determine an orientation of a surface of the one or more objects.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus for three-dimensional (3-D) image acquisition can include: (i) first and second lenses configured to receive light from a scene; (ii) first, second, third, and fourth sensors; (iii) a first beam splitter arranged proximate to the first lens, where the first beam splitter can provide a first split beam to the first sensor, and a second split beam to the second sensor; and (iv) a second beam splitter arranged proximate to the second lens, where the second beam splitter can provide a third split beam to the third sensor, and a fourth and split beam to the fourth sensor. For example, the sensors can include charge-coupled devices (CCDs) or CMOS sensors.

Abstract: An image measuring device comprises an imaging unit; and an processing unit operative to treat image information obtained at the imaging unit by imaging a measurement object and compute coordinate information on the measurement object from the image information. The processing unit includes an error correcting unit operative to apply the error information inherent in the imaging unit to correct the image information obtained at the imaging unit by imaging the measurement object, thereby obtaining corrected image information, and a coordinate computing unit operative to compute coordinate information on the measurement object from the corrected image information.

Abstract: A receiver and transmitter in a multi-view stereo imaging system and a compression method applied thereto are provided for increasing a compression rate of an image. A first, second, and third image is captured at the same time by a first, second, and third camera consecutively located at certain intervals. Data is encoded and transmitted for one of the first and third image, data regarding non-transmission of a residual image created, when the residual image is lower than the threshold value, and the residual image, when the residual image is higher than the threshold value. Thus, the compression rate is increased since data compressed for the second image is not transmitted at the time when a difference between an intermediate image and the second image is lower than the threshold value.

Abstract: An array of monoscopic sensing devices comprising one or more image sensors and one or more depth sensors captures a 2D monoscopic video and captures corresponding depth information at a plurality different view angles for the captured 2D video. The captured 2D monoscopic video and the captured depth information at the different view angles are utilized to compose a 3D video. The captured 2D video and the captured depth information at the different view angles are compressed utilizing MVC. The compressed 2D monoscopic video and the compressed depth information at the different view angles are transcoded into a Blu-ray left view stream and a right Blu-ray right view stream, respectively, for storage. Depending on display configuration, the stored Blu-ray left view stream and the stored right Blu-ray right view stream are decoded utilizing MVC to compose a single view 3D video and/or a multi-view 3D video for 3D video rendering.

Abstract: 2D images and corresponding depth information are concurrently captured via an array of monoscopic sensing devices such as a monoscopic video camera array. The captured 2D images and the captured corresponding depth information are utilized to determine an image mapping function based on view angles. The captured 2D images and the captured corresponding depth information may be modified or adjusted to a given view angle through the determined image mapping function to compose a corresponding 3D image for the given view angle. Regression analysis may be performed to determine the image mapping function by fitting the captured 2D images and the captured corresponding depth information to known view angles of the monoscopic video camera array. 2D image data and corresponding depth information are determined for the given view angle utilizing the determined image mapping function so as to compose corresponding 2D and/or 3D images/video for the given view angle.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses disclosed herein relate to image sensing devices. One embodiment may take the form of an image sensing device that includes a first image sensor for capturing a luminance image, a second image sensor for capturing a first chrominance, and a third image sensor for capturing a second chrominance image. The image sensing device may further include an image processing module for combining the luminance image captured by the first image sensor, the first chrominance image captured by the second image sensor, and the second chrominance image captured by the third image sensor, to form a composite image.

Abstract: An electronic device for producing an image of an object is disclosed. The electronic device may include a black-and-white camera having a first sensor area configured to receive luma data pertaining to the object. The first sensor area may correspond to a first pixel array, the luma data associated with the first pixel array. The electronic device may also include a color camera having a second sensor area configured to receive chroma data pertaining to the object. The second sensor area may correspond to a second pixel array. The chroma data may be associated with the second pixel array. The electronic device may also include first logic configured to correlate pixels in the first pixel array with locations on the second sensor area.

Abstract: Provided are a multi-display supporting multi-view video object-based encoding apparatus and method, and an object-based transmission/reception system and method using the encoding apparatus and method.

Abstract: Apparatus to capture three-dimensional images of a head comprises a plurality of image capturing device modules, each module comprises a plurality of image-capturing devices; and a rigid support structure supporting the plurality of image capturing device modules to define a space wherein an image of the head may be disposed. The rigid support structure supports all of the modules in predetermined relationship to each other and to the space. The rigid support structure further supports the modules in positions such that each module is positioned to capture a group of first images of a corresponding surface portion of a head disposed within the space such that each group of first images captured by the corresponding module captures a substantially different surface portion of the head disposed within the space.

Abstract: A method and device are described for measuring a chassis and for measuring the chassis geometry of a vehicle, which includes providing a chassis measurement system having four measurement heads situated in known positions relative to one another, of which each has a monocular image recording device, the position of the measurement heads relative to one another being known, and the distance of the front measurement heads from one another differing from the distance of the rear measurement heads from one another; recording a respective front wheel, or a measurement target attached thereto, in at least one first run-in position of the vehicle using the rear measurement heads; recording the four wheels, or the measurement targets attached thereto, using each of the four measurement heads, in a first main measurement position and in a second main measurement position of the vehicle; carrying out local 3D reconstructions in order to determine the translation vectors, the rotation vectors, and the wheel angles of r

Abstract: A panoramic imaging system includes a plurality of separated video cameras that may be distributed around an object. A series of images captured by at least one of the separated video cameras is stored in a predetermined file format. The panoramic system further includes a viewer module that may render the series of images using the first file format. Moreover, the panoramic system includes a calibration module capable of modifying information associated with at least one of the series of images, where the modification results in calibration data stored in a configuration file and/or in the predetermined file format. The viewer module may also be capable of rendering the series of images in accordance with the predetermined file format.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus includes an audio/video capture mechanism having an audio/video processing unit, an image synchronization unit, a first imaging unit, a second imaging unit and a sound input/output unit; and an output mechanism movably installed on a side of the audio/video capture mechanism, and including a display unit installed on a surface of the output mechanism and coupled to the audio/video capture mechanism, and the second imaging unit is installed on another surface of the output mechanism, such that when the imaging apparatus is used for taking a picture, the first and second imaging units are used for capturing images from a same viewing angle, and the image synchronization unit is provided for synchronously combining the images to form a three-dimensional (3D) image, so as to achieve the effects of capturing and playing the 3D image.

Abstract: The present invention realizes picture recording in simple configuration such that a user can easily and intuitively identify a minified picture of a multi-view picture from among minified pictures of pictures being taken. A 3-dimensional thumbnail picture is created by performing 3-dimensional CG processing on a multi-view picture thumbnail picture, and a thumbnail picture is created from a normal picture and recorded in association with a primary picture. The 3-dimensional CG thumbnail picture X is given a stereoscopic effect as a result of the 3-dimensional CG graphic processing so that the difference from a normal 2-dimensional thumbnail Y is clear at a glance. Consequently, a viewer can readily recognize the picture X as a minified picture of a multi-view picture without using a special apparatus to realize a graphical approach.

Abstract: An image processing apparatus stores moving image data including a plurality of frames and enables a user to select at least one frame from the plurality of frames included in the moving image data and select a type of processing that is to be performed to the selected frame. The apparatus executes control to perform the selected type of processing to the selected frame. Further, the apparatus manages history information indicating the frame to which the processing is performed and the type of the performed processing.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for capturing images including a base, and image capture adjustment mechanism, a first camera, and a second camera. The base is constructed and arranged to support an alignable array of cameras. The image capture adjustment mechanism is disposed relative to the base for adjusting an image capture line of sight for a camera relative to the base. The first camera is carried by the base, operably coupled with the image capture adjustment mechanism, and has an image capture device. The first camera has a line of sight defining a first field of view adjustable with the image capture adjustment mechanism relative to the base. The second camera is carried by the base and has an image capture device. The second camera has a line of sight defining a second field of view extending beyond a range of the field of view for the first camera in order to produce a field of view that is greater than the field of view provided by the first camera. A method is also provided.

Abstract: Digital data acquired from individual cameras and images converted to digitized images are projected onto virtual 3D screens, which can be generated by a computer. This can be realized by way of 3D-accelerated hardware. The images are not, however, projected in 3D. The virtual 3D scenario with the current camera images is projected and presented to the users in 2D. This process makes it possible to use simple cameras (2n) with single lenses. There is no need to use cameras with zoom technology.

Abstract: In an exposure controller of a camera mounted on a robot for taking an image utilizing incident light from external world in which an object such as a human being is present, a brightness histogram of the image is generated and exposure parameters are set based on the generated histogram. Then, it is determined whether the set exposure parameters are within a predetermined range and when they are out of the range and if a high-brightness imaging region is present in the image due to high-brightness incident light, it is again determined whether it is necessary to remove the high-brightness imaging region. When it is determined to be necessary, the high-brightness imaging region is extracted and is removed from the image, thereby enabling the camera to image the object with suitable brightness even when a bright light source such as the sun is within the camera angle of view.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus and a method for video capture of a three-dimensional region of interest in a scene using an array of video cameras. The video cameras of the array are positioned for viewing the three-dimensional region of interest in the scene from their respective viewpoints. A triggering mechanism is provided for staggering the capture of a set of frames by the video cameras of the array. The apparatus has a processing unit for combining and operating on the set of frames captured by the array of cameras to generate a new visual output, such as high-speed video or spatio-temporal structure and motion models, that has a synthetic viewpoint of the three-dimensional region of interest. The processing involves spatio-temporal interpolation for determining the synthetic viewpoint space-time trajectory. In some embodiments, the apparatus computes a multibaseline spatio-temporal optical flow.

Abstract: A small, low-profile imaging device that obtains imaging signals having similar light intensity distributions for different colored light, even when there is variability in component precision or assembly. The imaging device (101) includes a plurality of lens units (113) each including at least one lens, a plurality of imaging areas corresponding one-to-one with the plurality of lens units, and each having a light receiving surface (123) substantially perpendicular to an optical axis direction of the corresponding lens unit, an imaging signal input unit (133) that receives as input a plurality of imaging signals each output from a different one of the plurality of imaging areas, and an intensity correcting unit (142) that corrects the intensity of each of the plurality of imaging signals, so that the degree of correction changes depending on the position of the imaging area.

Abstract: A stereoscopic imaging system incorporates a plurality of imaging devices or cameras to generate a high resolution, wide field of view image database from which images can be combined in real time to provide wide field of view or panoramic or omni-directional still or video images.

Abstract: A system to detect the transit of vehicles having license plates includes at least one video camera to detect license plates capable of framing the plates of said vehicles and, preferably, at least one video camera to detect vehicles capable of framing a zone of transit of said vehicles having license plates. A series of processing operations is capable, starting from the video signals generated by the video camera to detect license plates, of detecting the presence of a vehicle in transit and, starting from the video signals generated by the video camera to detect vehicles, of detecting the position and three-dimensional shape of vehicles in transit in said zone. A supervisor module aggregates the results of these processing operations to generate records of information each identifying the modality of transit in said zone of a vehicle identified by a given license plate that has been recognized.

Abstract: Method for determining the angles and the characteristic parameters of the alignment of a vehicle situated at a measurement location comprising the following steps: equipping each of the wheels of the vehicle with a flat target carrying any design; determining the relationship between the position of the target and the wheel; arranging at least one pair of television cameras making a stereo system in a position such as to see at least the target associated with a wheel; creating a spatial reference system W to which the three-dimensional image of the target created by said at least one pair of television cameras refers; processing the three-dimensional image of the target collected by the two television cameras and determining the angular orientation and the position of the target in the spatial reference system W; using said position and angular orientation to determine the alignment of the wheel relative to the spatial reference system.

Abstract: A method and system for forming a surrounding seamless bird-view image by processing a plurality of surrounding images associated with a carrier captured by different imaging devices is provided in the present invention. During the process, the surrounding images are converted into corresponding bird-images respectively and then an overlapping area corresponding to each two adjacent bird-view images is determined. After that, distances between the pixel in the overlapping area and the boundary of the overlapping area in each adjacent bird-view image is calculated so as to determine a weighting value for each corresponding pixel in each adjacent bird-view image thereby forming an overlapping image, wherein each pixel in the overlapping image is determined according to the weighting value and information of the corresponding pixel in each adjacent image. After determining the overlapping image for each two adjacent bird-view image, it is capable of forming the surrounding seamless bird-view image.

Abstract: A user portable viewing device includes a plurality of non-coaxially aligned sensors for sensing a scene. A processing element combines electronic images into a single electronic image. A display displaying the combined electronic image is adaptable for mounting in an optical axis including an eye of the user and an input end of the first sensor for direct view. In a second embodiment, a system for fusing images comprises sensors for generating sets of image data. An information processor receives and samples the sets of image data to generate sample data for computing a fused image array. A display receives the fused image array and displays a fused colorized image generated from the fused image array.

Abstract: Provided are an apparatus and method for processing a three-dimensional (3D) video signal which corrects first and second video signals to prevent a reduction in a 3D effect and a disparity estimation error due to a difference between the first and second video signals. The method includes: a video signal detection unit detecting a difference between respective characteristics of received first and second video signals; and a video signal correction unit correcting the first video signal or the second video signal to equalize the characteristics of the first and second video signals. When the apparatus and the method are used, a reduction in the 3D effect and the disparity estimation error due to the difference between the first and second video signals can be prevented.

Abstract: Systems and methods may employ separate image sensors for collecting different types of data. In one embodiment, separate luma, chroma and 3-D image sensors may be used. The systems and methods may involve generating an alignment transform for the image sensors, and using the 3-D data from the 3-D image sensor to process disparity compensation. The systems and methods may involve image sensing, capture, processing, rendering and/or generating images. For example, one embodiment may provide an imaging system, including: a first image sensor configured to obtain luminance data of a scene; a second image sensor configured to obtain chrominance data of the scene; a third image sensor configured to obtain three-dimensional data of the scene; and an image processor configured to receive the luminance, chrominance and three-dimensional data and to generate a composite image corresponding to the scene from that data.

Abstract: A method for processing an image acquired through a guide consisting of a plurality of optical fibers includes, for each optical fiber, isolating on the acquired image a zone corresponding to the optical fiber, locally processing each zone individually to correct the photon flux detected in each optical fiber, then reconstructing the acquired image by eliminating the pattern caused by the optical fiber. The method also includes a sampling process for obtaining, for each optical fiber and from a sampling image, a sample injection rate which can be used for reconstructing the acquired images. The method also includes a prior step which consists in detecting the fibers from a target.

Abstract: Apparatus and systems, as well as methods and articles, may operate to capture a portion of an omniscopic or omni-stereo image using one or more image capture media. The media may be located substantially perpendicular to a converging ray originating at a viewpoint on an inter-ocular circle and having a convergence angle between zero and ninety degrees from a parallel viewpoint baseline position that includes a non-converging ray originating at the viewpoint. The media may also be located so as to be substantially perpendicular to a non-converging ray originating at a first viewpoint at a first endpoint of a diameter defining an inter-ocular circle, wherein the origin of the non-converging ray gravitates toward the center of the inter-ocular circle as spherical imagery is acquired.

Abstract: An image capturing apparatus includes a plurality of image capturing units that photograph images from a plurality of viewpoints, a recording controller that performs a process of recording a plurality of subject distances, which are measured by each of the plurality of image capturing units, on a recording unit as attribute information of the photographed images, and an image selection controller that performs a highlight scene extraction process by using subject distance information included in the attribute information. The image selection controller performs a process of determining whether a subject is located at a center area of an image frame by using the plurality of subject distances, which correspond to each of the plurality of image capturing units and are included in the attribute information, and selecting an image, for which the subject is determined to be located at the center area, as a highlight scene.

Abstract: A vehicle backup detector that indicates a distance from an obstruction comprises multiple ultrasonic transducers, a central processing unit, memory, a video camera, a graphics superimposing module and a display device. The ultrasonic transducers emit and receive ultrasonic waves. The central processing unit defines multiple sensing coordinates in a sensing area in which ultrasonic waves are transmitted and calculates a position of the obstruction. The memory is divided into multiple storing fields corresponding to the sensing coordinates to store obstruction data based on the position of the obstruction. A video camera records images behind the vehicle. A graphics superimposing module superimposes graphical images representing ultrasonic waves on the images recorded by the video camera based on the storing fields where no obstruction data are stored. The display device displays images behind the vehicle with the ultrasonic wave images.

Abstract: A method, medium, and apparatus for 3-dimensional encoding and/or decoding of videos, including adapting to temporal and spatial characteristics of the videos. Methods include performing temporal estimation on videos taken by a camera located in a centerly position with reference to videos taken by the same camera at immediately previous times, when a plurality of other cameras are arranged in a row, and performing temporal-spatial estimation on videos taken by the other cameras with reference to previous videos taken by cameras adjacent to the camera located in the centerly position.

Abstract: Apparatus to capture three-dimensional images of a subject selected from the group consisting of an animate object, an inanimate object, a human, an animal, a biological mass or a portion of a subject comprises a plurality of image capturing device modules, each module comprises a plurality of image-capturing devices; and a rigid support structure supporting the plurality of image capturing device modules to define a space wherein said subject may be disposed. The rigid support structure supports all of the modules in predetermined relationship to each other and to the space. The rigid support structure further supports the modules in positions such that each module is positioned to capture a group of first images of a corresponding surface portion of the subject disposed within the space such that each group of first images captured by the corresponding module captures a substantially different surface portion of the subject disposed within the space.

Abstract: A system and method are described for performing motion capture on a subject using transparent makeup, paint, dye or ink that is visible to certain cameras, but invisible to other cameras. For example, a system according to one embodiment of the invention comprises the application of makeup, paint, dye or ink on a subject in a random pattern that contains a phosphor that is transparent in the visible light spectrum, but is emissive in a non-visible spectrum such as the infrared (IR) or ultraviolet (UV) spectrum; using visible light such as ambient light or daylight to illuminate the subject; using a first plurality of cameras sensitive in the visible light spectrum to capture the normal coloration of the subject; and using a second plurality of cameras sensitive in a non-visible spectrum to capture the random pattern.

Abstract: A scanning camera with a rotating drum has one or more sensors characterized by a non-radial optical axis. With two sensors on opposite sides of the drum and facing in substantially the same direction, stereoscopic recording of a panorama is accomplished as the drum rotates. The adjustment of convergence between stereoscopic viewpoints is described that improves the viewing and interpretation of stereoscopic images. Rapid rotation of the scanning camera produces panoramic motion picture recording, with the final frame speed dependent on the sensitivity and speed of the sensor, the resolution desired, and the capabilities of the recording device. The preferred embodiment employs rotating fisheye lenses for a substantially full-sphere field of view. Additional sensors in the same arrangement are used to increase resolution and light sensitivity through multiplexed or additive recording of the image data.

Abstract: According to the present invention, a CCD color image pickup element forms a right and left parallel object images and photoelectrically converts the object images into a object image signal. In this case, the object image signal is analyzed to calculate exposure information on a predetermined photometric area. Then, when an SPM synthesizing section generates a stereo image from the object image signal, a partition area setting section sets the luminance level of a partition are on the basis of the exposure information on the parallel object images, the partition area is a median strip used to arrange monocular images of the parallel object images away from each other.

Abstract: An image processor is disclosed for a vehicle having a plurality of cameras and a monitor that displays a panoramic image derived from multiple images generated by the plurality of cameras. The processor includes input buffers for storing camera image data captured through respective camera modules and output buffer for storing a panoramic image. The camera image data for generating the panoramic image are retrieved from input buffers. The camera image data are stored in an output buffer using an reconfigured address conversion table. The reconfigured address conversion table is an address conversion table which is obtained by reconfiguring an address conversion table when camera modules are assumed to be free of vehicle installation errors. The reconfiguration is performed on the basis of parameters which are used to correct vehicle installation errors of camera modules.

Abstract: A motion estimation method and apparatus for video coding of a multi-view sequence is described. In one embodiment, a motion estimation method includes identifying one or more pixels in a first frame of a multi-view video sequence, and constraining a search range associated with a second frame of the multi-view video sequence based on an indication of a desired correlation between efficient coding and semantic accuracy. The semantic accuracy relies on use of geometric configurations of cameras capturing the multi-view video sequence. The method further includes searching the second frame within the constrained search range for a match of the pixels identified in the first frame.

Abstract: A surveillance system and methods are disclosed. The system of the invention includes computing means connected to memory means, input means and a plurality of sensors, such as video camera and plurality of display screens. The system is adapted to compute for the sensors a 3D coverage space which considers terrain data and man-made objects and specific features of the sensors such as the 3D location and the pan, tilt and zoom (PTZ) of the camera and to establish a data base indicative of the coverage area. The system and method of the invention are also adapted to support tracking of an object within the coverage space of the sensors, either in automatic or manual mode and to provide a user of the system with data indicative of sensors into the coverage space of which a tracked object is about to enter.

Abstract: The present invention provides an advance in multi-dimensional displays for digital monitors and televisions. In general, the present invention provides image capture devices arranged at different angles about a target image, or in a straight line, to capture images at pre-designated angles. Each captured image is combined into a composite image using hardware such as a computer. The composite image and a virtual lens are then transmitted together to a display means to be viewed having stereoscopic characteristics.

Abstract: An inspection system for inspecting a semiconductor wafer. The inspection system comprises an illumination setup for supplying broadband illumination. The broadband illumination can be of different contrasts, for example brightfield and darkfield broadband illumination. The inspection system further comprises a first image capture device and a second image capture device, each configured for receiving broadband illumination to capture images of the semiconductor wafer while the semiconductor wafer is in motion. The system comprises a number of tube lenses for enabling collimation of the broadband illumination. The system also comprises a stabilizing mechanism and an objective lens assembly. The system further comprises a thin line illumination emitter and a third image capture device for receiving thin line illumination to thereby capture three-dimensional images of the semiconductor wafer.

Abstract: A method of implementing a motion control camera effect includes: inputting images of an object captured at one or more points of view; inputting a control parameter containing a motion control camera effect to be applied to the input images, a target time of the motion control camera effect, and a reproducing speed; extracting frames of the target time from the input images; processing the frames using software based on the control parameter; and outputting the processed frames at the reproducing speed. The motion control camera effect includes at least one of a motion control camera effect for a fixed viewpoint still object, a motion control camera effect for a fixed viewpoint moving object, a motion control camera effect for a free viewpoint still object, a motion control camera effect for a free viewpoint moving object, and a dual motion control camera effect.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement and a method for capturing and displaying images of a scene and/or an object. Said arrangement and method are particularly suited to display the captured images in a three-dimensionally perceptible manner. The aim of the invention is to create a new possibility to take images of real scenes and/or objects with as little effort as possible and then autostereoscopically display the same in a three-dimensional fashion from two or more perspectives. Said aim is achieved by providing at least one main camera of a first camera type for recording images, at least one satellite camera of a second camera type for recording images, an image converting device which is mounted behind the cameras, and a 3D image display device, the two camera types differing from each other in at least one parameter. A total of at least three cameras is provided. Also disclosed is a method for transmitting 3D data.

Abstract: A three-dimensional imaging apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a generated first planar light screen, and a first and second detector offset from the perpendicular plane of the light screen. The first detector is located on a first side of the perpendicular plane, and the second detector is located on the opposite side of the perpendicular plane. The first and second detectors detect the instantaneous projection of the first planar light screen upon an object within the first planar light screen, and to output first and second data corresponding to the detected projection. A velocity sensor determines the instantaneous velocity of the object as the object moves relative to the first planar light screen, and to output third data corresponding to the determined velocity.

Abstract: A YUV format to be stored in a memory is selected from A or B by a format judging unit for RGB data that is the input output display data of a memory unit, based on the comparison between chrominance (U, V) difference information on horizontal two pixels and the threshold values of U difference and V difference to be resistor-set at a format judging unit. The YUV data and information of A or B that are YUV format-converted at the format conversion unit are stored in the memory. The selection of the YUV format of A or B is, when the chrominance difference information is small as compared with the threshold value the format is YUV 422 (B conversion), and when it is large the format is that the low order bits of Y, U, V of each pixel are reduced (A conversion).

Abstract: A camera array captures plural component images which are combined into a single scene. In one embodiment, each camera of the array is a fixed digital camera. The images from each camera are warped to a common coordinate system and the disparity between overlapping images is reduced using disparity estimation techniques.