Realistic 3D ‑ in medical and media applications

So called autostereoscopic 3-D displays are leaving the prototype stage making it possible to create a “holographic” 3-D effect where the viewer perceives a realistic depth in the presented image, without the requirement of using specific eye wear. A set of views containing separate perspectives of a scene are projected into the viewing space using specific optics directed to the left and right eye of the viewer, which thereby fulfills the main requirements for perceiving 3D depth – the binocular parallax. By merely changing her position, the viewer sees new perspectives, allowing for looking-around in the depicted scene. The ultimate goal of 3-D presentations is to give the viewer an experience of actually being part of the observed scenario. This gives a better foundation for proper conclusions in scientific and medical applications, whereas it gives the sensation of being part of the depicted scenario in media applications.

Realistic 3-D in medical and media applications

This technology is envisioned to revolutionize many applications where present visualization technologies mainly consist of 2-D displays without the possibility of presenting realistic depth. Examples of possible applications are medical diagnostics, product design and construction, marketing using digital signage, video conferencing, computer and console gaming, 3DTV, mobile phones, and more. An economical growth within 3-D products and services is envisioned on an international market to several billions of dollars.

With experience in theoretical research within 3-D visualization, industrial application, as well as practical medicine, the project partners have an exclusive position to jointly address realistic 3-D in emerging applications and position the project in the international forefront with regards to research and development. Parts of the problem domain of 3-D visualization have already successfully been addressed from a more general perspective been addressed by the project partners. With the focus on a number of specific applications, these research methods and results can be combined with regional industry and medical practice, and thereby be converted to concrete solutions.

The project comprises the following activities:

1. Development of clinical applications
2. Quality modelling and optimization of 3-D displays
3. Analysis and adjustments of capture methods for accurate rendering in realistic 3-D on a multiview display for applications within medicine and media
4. Development of compression algorithms that minimize bandwidth and storage requirements
5. Adaptation of core 3-D display technology including graphics processing for multi-view rendering
6. Demonstration of project results under characteristic conditions for the application