Fergason Patent Properties LLC

1. How is flicker free operation and high definition achieved?

The 3D image results from adding and superimposing two complete full frame rate views together. The stereo image has the full pixel count and native definition of each of the two AMLCD monitors. Both of the monitors run at their full design frame rate with no flicker. For example one of the FPP demonstrators displays a 75 Hz flicker free 1280X1024 image from two flat panel monitors. Most current CRT stereographic monitors use a time sequential mode and shutter glasses to squeeze two view fields into a single frame. Flicker usually results. Most stereographic LCDs use a lenticular lens mode that effectively cuts the image definition in half.

2. How can the StereoMirror monitors be as bright in 3D mode as they are in conventional 2D mode, especially when polarized glasses are required for viewing?

The StereoMirror design relies on taking full advantage of the fact that the AMLCD monitor image is linearly polarized. The StereoMirror beamsplitter and passive glasses are designed to conserve polarization and maximize light throughput.

3. What types of displays can be used in StereoMirror monitors?

Basically any AMLCD flat panel monitor or television can be used. In the current demonstrators the bottom panel is addressed conventionally, left to right, top to bottom, in each frame. For stereo viewing, the top monitor scan is switched from to mirror mode (right to left, top to bottom). In the FPP demonstrators, the control of the mirror scan in implemented in the panel controller. Other approaches are feasible.

4. What are the interface requirements?

FPP has two system demonstrators, a DVD platform for 3D entertainment applications, and a PC platform for computing. The DVD platform takes advantage of existing stereo 3D content that outputs the two views in a time sequential format. A commercially available interface board separates the left and right view in two outputs. The AMLCD television monitors are then directly connected to the interface ports. The PC platform incorporates 2 graphic cards, each outputting to one of the flat panels. Currently FPP can demonstrate 3D PC games in stereo mode. FPP is working with beta integrators and end users to define platform and application software requirements and to document reference designs for required interfaces.

5. When will monitors be commercially available?

Fergason Patent Properties is a technology development and licensing company. Our goal is to invent and develop new concepts to improve display performance and reduce costs. We usually build technology demonstrators to show to potential licensees and end users, but do not have the necessary resources to engineer or prototype commercial products. FPP has identified several display and monitor integrators as potential licensees of StereoMirror and is working with them to evolve commercial targets to meet the needs of end users and optimize the StereoMirror for specific applications.

6. What platforms and applications will licensees support?

FPP is pursuing licensees in two market segments: professional and entertainment. In the professional space it is expected that a range of high performance computer platforms will be supported, including PC, SGI, Sun, and HP workstations. Applications will include CAD, geospatial, biochemical, medical, and other professional applications. In the entertainment space, platforms will range from game consoles and DVD players to PCs. Contents and applications will include movies and games.

7. How can I find out more about StereoMirror 3D Displays?