Himax unveils innovative 2D to 3D conversion solution

TAINAN, TAIWAN: Himax Technologies Inc. has introduced its unique 2D to 3D conversion technology, which can convert any 2D image into 3D format in real time.

This innovative technology is co-developed by Himax Media Solutions, Himax's subsidiary specializing in video processing technologies, and the Perceptual Video Lab of National Taiwan University, one of the most prestigious research institutes in Taiwan.

As shown at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show, 3D technology is widely-regarded as one of the next big things for the world's flat panel display industry, making long-term growth opportunities for hardware and software companies in the 3D eco-system. However, the currently scarce 3D content may be delaying consumer adoption.

Himax's innovative 2D to 3D conversion solution, first of its kind utilizing human visual perception characteristics, can be applied to TVs, Notebook PCs, monitors, digital photo frames, digital cameras, projectors, cell phones, STBs and game consoles. The resulting abundant and high quality 3D content will be one of the catalysts triggering wide adoption of 3D displays, devices, and applications.

Dr. Liang-Gee Chen, Vice Dean of the College of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, National Taiwan University, commented: "The Perceptual Video Lab has long been exploring the human visual perception characteristics, which should be among the essential considerations in generating high quality 3D content.

"As opposed to the conventional, resource-consuming 3D content creation, Himax and the Lab co-developed a unique algorithm that transforms 2D content into 3D format by retrieving the image depth based on the characteristics of human visual perception. Himax, with its solid and in-depth knowledge in the display industry, has further optimized this technology. We are extremely excited to see the commercialization of this technology which both hardware makers and end users alike will benefit from."

Dr. Linkai Bu, Chief Technology Officer of Himax Media Solutions, commented: "Our 2D to 3D conversion solution can be easily implemented in a number of hardware platforms, such as Notebook PCs and TVs. Our solution is compact and effective in performing real-time 2D to 3D conversion.

"Our unique algorithm which utilizes human visual perception characteristics, not only reveals more 3D details, but also offers a more comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience. Several of the world's first-tier PC makers and TV manufacturers are highly interested in adopting Himax's 2D to 3D conversion solution as they believe it will not only help accelerate consumer adoption of 3D displays, but also be one of the key differentiators for their new generation PCs and TVs, some of which are expected to hit the market in the second quarter of 2010, at the earliest."

Himax is filing worldwide patents in relation to this innovative 2D to 3D conversion solution.