Stereoscopic 3D Television (s3D TV) Distribution, display, quality control

Stereoscopy, or the technique of creating a 3D impression using binocular vision, first appeared with still images in the mid-19th century. The 1952-1954 period saw the emergence of a substantial output of stereoscopic films, which then declined, only to experience a resurgence from 2003 onwards, thanks to the use of digital techniques.

In the field of television, we had to wait until 2010 to see the emergence of 3D-s TV sets for displaying stereoscopic images, but the range of programs did not follow.

The aim of these two articles is to :

• present the specificity of stereoscopy to create an impression of relief;

• assess 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).

The first article [TE 5 676] 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.

This article 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.