Taiwan shows off 3-D TV conversion chip

A Taiwan-made chip that could revolutionize the global TV market by converting 2-D video and images to 3-D content was unveiled Jan. 3 in Hsinchu City.

The invention, which was developed by Cheng Fang-hsuan—a professor at Chung-Hua University’s Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering—offers consumers the opportunity to watch 3-D TV sans glasses from any angle.

“An image usually has to split into two frames to create 3-D effects,” Cheng said. “This new technology automatically calculates depth and converts the original 2-D image into multiple frames, providing 3-D viewing from any area in front of the TV.”

As the availability of 3-D programming content is still limited, the chip offers consumers the opportunity to watch shows in the new format, Cheng said. Other applications include projecting images of museum exhibits and promoting tourism spots, he added.

According to Cheng, he is in the process of registering patents for the chip and is looking to link up with TV manufacturers interested in technology transfers. (JSM)

•Source： Taiwan Today
•By Audrey Wang