Dolby takes a new step to forget glasses in 3D

Developed by Dolby Labs, in collaboration with Philips, the new autostereoscopic technology will allow viewing 3D images without the need to wear glasses on television screens, PCs and tablets.

Coinciding with CES 2013 in Las Vegas, Dolby Labs has carried out a new demonstration of its autostereoscopic technology. This proposal, which continues to evolve by leaps and bounds, is based on a sensor that locates the exact position of each person in front of the screen and, through software and with absolute precision, directs each viewer to their own three-dimensional image.

Developed in collaboration with Philips, the new process is compatible with televisions, laptops and tablets. According to Dolby technicians, the system known for now under the generic name “Dolby 3D” uses five simultaneous procedures: FCFR (Full Resolution Compatible Frame), video signal enhancement software designed for mobile devices that work with the H.264 processing protocol, 2D-3D conversion in real time to adjust the depth of the image, a sensor that can be activated automatically or by the user, a processor, and a decoder for professional use that extracts the various layers. contained in the original signal.

The system can be adapted for individual use, such as on tablet screens, or collectively. At the big fair in Las Vegas, we were able to see the demonstration on a 55-inch screen.

When it comes to a broadcast for several people, one of the aspects that Dolby works on is eliminating possible delays of just milliseconds that may occur. On smaller screens, it's less noticeable. According to Dolby, perfect operation depends on the internal arrangement of the lenses used in each unit. The algorithm created for Dolby 3D allows you to create nine image layers, and can reach 120 layers on some televisions, thus achieving a very natural three-dimensional effect.

Dolby is now working with video producers and Hollywood film studios, whose names have not yet been revealed, to promote the adoption of the system in their productions. Roland Vlaicu, director of Dolby, highlights that during CES many filmmakers came to the company's space to witness the demonstrations, "and everyone thought that the level of depth achieved was great. We are convinced that television manufacturers are willing to introduce the novelty in the next generation of 4K models."