Novel 3D stereoscopic imaging technology

Numerous 3-D stereoscopic techniques have been explored. These previous techniques have had shortcomings precluding them from making stereoscopic imaging pervasive in mainstream applications. In the last decade, several enabling technologies have emerged and have become available and affordable. They make it possible now to realize the near-ideal stereoscopic imaging technology that can be made available to the masses making possible the inevitable transition from flat imaging to stereoscopic imaging. The ideal stereoscopic technology must meet four important criteria: (1) high stereoscopic image quality; (2) affordability; (3) compatibility with existing infrastructure, e.g., NTSC video, PC, and other devices; and (4) general purpose characteristics, e.g., the ability to produce electronic displays, hard-copy printing and capturing stereoscopic images on film and stored electronically. In section 2, an overview of prior art technologies is given highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. In section 3, the novel (mu) Pol^TM stereoscopic technology is described making the case that it meets the four criteria for realizing the inevitable transition from flat to stereoscopic imaging for mass applications.