FujiFilm's new 3D imaging system is an interesting amalgam of technologies that are inspired by how the human eye works!

"The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and all science."
--Albert Einstein

Of late, we have heard the word ‘innovation' a bit too often. So much so that any mention of a new innovation has ceased to cause a stir. But FujiFilm's latest FinePix REAL 3D System, a 3D (three dimensional) camera that lets users enjoy 3D images without the need to wear special 3D glasses-definitely sounds innovative!

Advertised by the company as the world's first 3D digital imaging system, it comprises the camera, called FinePix REAL 3D W1; an 8-inch (20.3 cm) viewer on which the 3D images are displayed, called FinePixREAL 3D V1; and production technology that enables users to print 3D images, called 3D Print.

"We can anticipate a virtual world of 3D images, which could be the next big thing." --A. Rajkumar, country general manager (DSC), FujiFilm India

But what's 'revolutionary' about it?
Capturing a 3D image is akin to the way our eyes capture the world around us. A pair of human eyes produce two slightly offset images of the same scene, which the brain combines to perceive depth. To achieve a 3D image, it is necessary to flawlessly layer together two images, says A. Rajkumar, country general manager (DSC), FujiFilm India.

He enumerates the facets that make the FinePix REAL 3D system a 'revolutionary' and 'one-of-its-kind' innovation: "Since the creation of a 3D image involves shooting of two identical pictures from the same perspective, with a slight gap between two cameras, earlier a 3D image could only be achieved by using two different cameras. It then required flawlessly layering together these two images. But with the FinePix REAL 3D system, it is now possible to capture a 3D image using a single camera. The user has to simply point and shoot."

The FinePix REAL 3D system fact-file Priced at Rs 39,999, the camera bundles an interesting array of functionalities for users. It allows them to edit 3D images-a feature that is useful for landscape photography, or conversely, macro shots, where the 3D effect can be too strong, says Rajkumar. The camera also has advanced 2D functionality that lets users take two different shots simultaneously by pressing the shutter once. Another interesting feature is the parallax control 3D tuning function, which allows users to manually adjust the 3D images on the viewer for a clear and sharper 3D view. Both the live or recorded images are adjustable. This feature allows users to really get creative, affirms Rajkumar.

Other elements that add to the product
Another enhancement achieved is the 3x optical zoom required to align two lenses with precision. The camera is powered by a 3D RP (real photo) processor, developed by FujiFilm. This processor synchronises data passed to it by the two lenses and two CCD (charged coupled device) sensors, to determine shooting conditions such as focus, brightness and tonality, and instantaneously blend this information into a single symmetrical image.

The 3D imaging system also allows 3D printing. Rajkumar shares more: "The 3D print is the result of two interlaced images generated via micro lenses arranged in parallel rows, on lenticular sheets. From a specified distance, the lenticular print gives a fantastic 3D feel."

The 3D evolution
The FujiFilm 3D imaging system has three key elements to it-the camera, the viewer and the 3D printing capability.
We have already seen the 3D application in motion pictures, outdoor media, television, virtual worlds (video games, etc) and so on. But one wonders in which direction 3D images are headed? Says Rajkumar: "Considering the technology development aspect, we can foresee a lot of convergence happening in this area. We can anticipate a virtual world of 3D images, which could be the next big thing. This would open up various possibilities, including advanced research in space related matters." However, this is just a peep into the future and is all in the realm of conjecture, he affirms.

Undoubtedly, this new imaging system looks like an exciting gadget that may interest many a technologist into bundling its 3D functionality with their own innovations, adding a competitive dimension (the fourth?) to their products!