LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y. – 3D imagery has advanced from simply a special effects tool to a mandatory media that conveys significant visual information with greater clarity and accuracy. A variety of industries use 3D imagery for entertainment value (gaming, exhibits, events) or as an information tool — Internet (online shopping), architecture (building schematics), education (science/archeology), medical (multidimensional view of the body to determine injuries), product design (features and dimensions) and fashion (fabric texture and design).
Now, a quantum leap in stereoscopic technology – the first digital video 3D zoom lens for exclusive use with the Canon XL1 digital camcorder has been introduced by Canon U.S.A.
The new 3D lens and the Canon XL1 operate similar to the human eyes and brain. Lenses of the eye project two slightly different pictures onto the retina. These images are transformed by the brain into a spatial representation. The stereoscopic observation is derived from the perception through both eyes.
Unlike traditional shooting of 3D images — two cameras synchronized to shoot the same images simultaneously — the new Canon lens actually is two lenses in one, with stereoscopic synchronization controlled by the camcorder. Easy to use, the lens captures right and left eye images alternately on the CCD for 1/60 second using an LCD shutter panel.
The lens will be available in October 2001 at authorized Canon camera and video dealers. The suggested retail price is $8,499.
“There have been several 3D imagery booms but the most significant advancement in the technology is happening now,” said Yukiaki Hashimoto, vice president and general manager, Photographic Products Group, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “This revolutionary development in 3D imagery will create new ways to use the Canon XL1, make 3D effects easier to achieve and will bring this technology to more videographers.”
Canon XL1 is a three-chip digital camcorder that features an interchangeable lens system to maximize shooting options. The Canon XL1 provides high quality images even in super low light conditions to produce full-feature productions for the Internet, television and the big screen.
Old 3D Shooting Versus New 3D Shooting
Traditionally, two cameras with separate lenses and separate imaging element units have been needed to achieve separate left and right images for 3D. The optical axes of the two images require fine adjustments to provide a perfect 3D image. Considerable time, specific knowledge and special training are required to set up and operate these cameras.
The new Canon 3D lens solves these problems. The compact, high-precision 3D imaging optic system employed in the lens optically merges the images obtained from left and right lenses via a high-speed shutter. During the 1/60 second when an image is captured, the corresponding shutter is open while the other shutter remains closed to prevent the image from recording.
This alternate image-capturing process is repeated each 1/60 second so that 30 images are taken through each of the left and right lenses per second for a combined capture rate of 60 field images per second. During playback, the left and right images are output alternately in a single video signal to provide the 3D image.
Adjustments, special training and considerable time are not needed with the Canon 3D lens. The compact design of the lens permits perfect synchronization of zooming and focusing. The system delivers precise, reliable optical axis alignment, and it is easy to operate.
The Canon 3D zoom lens incorporates a unit that uses triangulation to measure the distance to the subject. Motors adjust focus and the mirrors inside the left and right lenses. This permits automatic setting of focus and the angle of convergence, making it easy for even novice users to record in 3D. The Canon 3D zoom lens also allows the user to manually set the focus and convergence point.
Product Features
- 3D System: field sequential system
- Focal length: 7.5mm – 22.5mm (equivalent to 54-162mm in 35mm format)
- Focusing: auto/manual
- Minimum focusing distance: 39 inches (one meter)
- Angle of convergence adjustment: auto/manual
- Dimensions: Approx. seven inches (diameter) x nine inches (length) – excluding hood
- Weight: Approx. 2 lbs., 3 oz.
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