The stereoscopic pictures seen on television- s-3D TV- Methods and tools

Stereoscopy, or the technique of creating a 3D impression using binocular vision, first appeared with still images in the mid-19th century. It wasn't until the period 1952-1954 that film production in stereoscopic 3D was significant, then declined, only to experience a resurgence from 2003 onwards, thanks to the use of digital techniques. In television, it wasn't until 2010 that 3D-s TV sets began to display stereoscopic images, but the range of programs didn't follow.

The aim of this series of two articles is to present the specificity of stereoscopy for :

• create an impression of relief;

• The difficulty and complexity of producing and distributing stereoscopic images for television;

• understand the evolution of 3D-s TV, and its (temporary?) eclipse in favor of Ultra-High Definition TV (UHD TV).

This first article details :

• the basic principles and parameters for creating a relief impression from two images corresponding to the two views of the left and right eyes;

• the methods and tools used in 3D television production and post-production: filming, editing and 2D to 3D conversion equipment;

• image formats used for storing and distributing stereoscopic images.

The 2nd article [TE 5 678] presents :

• the standards used for television broadcasting of stereoscopic images, or their distribution on Blu-ray Disc ;

• television display and visualization technologies ;

• quality control of 3D images.

The appendix "For further information" provides references and lists a number of tools.