We can all assume that 3D video is the future of television and movies, but unfortunately no one wants to wear awkward 3D glasses to do so. Well, this could be changing in the near future. Companies like Fujifilm, Panasonic, and Ikonoskop are developing 3D video cameras that create 3D images to the human eye without any special glasses required. The new technology uses twin lenses to create three-dimensional images.

The prototype camera is able to “see” the third dimension by illuminating each frame of video with laser light pulses that last no longer than a few billionths of a second. These pulses reflect off the subjects then return to the camera, where they are registered by a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) micro-sensor, which then calculates the subjects’ distance from the camera. It’s not unlike sonar, except it uses light instead of sound.

For now it doesn’t seem this technology is ready for the big screen, however there are other potential uses this special camera could be used for. This could be used for interactive gaming allowing people to play a game without ever having to hold onto a remote. It could also be used for navigation purposes, perhaps as an electronic guide in places like parks and museums. It could also be incorporated into devices for elderly or disabled people to help them identify dangerous situations, such as those that could result in falls.

There’s no doubt there’s several uses for this new camera, and there’s no doubt in my mind that within this decade we’ll be able to see movies like Avatar in 3D without the shades.

via [gizmag]