Teranex 2D To 3D Encoding Helps Luc Besson's Digital Factory Postproduction Facility Into 3D

Digital Factory, one of France's most advanced postproduction facilities, has selected Teranex VC1-2D-3D real-time 2D to 3D conversion technology to convert selected archival and new 2D content into simulated 3D programming.
An option for dual channel Teranex VC100 processors, the VC1-2D-3D provides the ability to convert 2D content for 3D distribution while keeping all existing VC100 features such as frame synchronisation and more than 250 formats and frame rate conversions.
Digital Factory has been using the VC100 for several years and views its software upgradeability as an added advantage over other products. Technical Director Frédéric Warnotte said Digital Factory uses the VC100 on almost every job. He has reviewed the VC1-2D-3D's performance since last autumn and believes the company will now be able to transform 2D archives into simulated 3D.
Digital Factory's objective is to use 2D material when possible as part of its increasing 3D post-production efforts. Being able to repurpose and use 2D content is a must for cost-effective 3D post-production and distribution.
Mike Poirier, General Manager at Mike Poirier, added: "Good simulated 3D content generated from 2D sources eases the evolution to 3D for our clients by enabling them to create more content now for 3D distribution, just as Teranex conversion of SD content is used in lieu of native HD whenever needed. We were intimately involved in the SD to HD transition and we believe our exceptional 2D to 3D conversion technology will do the same for 3D."
Demonstrated by Preco at Broadcast Video Expo in London during February, the VC1-2D-3D can be programmed to generate real-time depth information from spatial and temporal clues derived from 2D video content. This allows it to deliver credible 3D without the visual distraction seen in less advanced systems.
The VC1-2D-3D is ideal for networks which want to include monoscopic source material into their stereoscopic programmes during the transition between 2D and 3D broadcasting. The system was recently chosen by public-service German broadcaster ZDF to process selected 2D content for 3D.
(KMcA)