Element Makes 3D Simple as 2D

A new 3D camera kit from Element Technica that weighs and costs less than standard 3D rigs, is promised to bring 3D acquisition down to the simplicity of traditional 2D.

The Technica 3D systems are configurable into both beam splitter and parallel camera platforms, and the systems are scaled to fit popular cameras from the tiny SI-2K Mini to a full size Red One, even with zoom lenses. Camera and lens controls are neatly integrated.

The camera rigs that hold pairs of cameras and lenses in precise alignment are made of machined aluminium for optimum rigidity, and (unlike other systems) require no tools for camera alignment or mounting. Alignment adjustments are made linearly in each of three axes, in addition to pitch and roll. Rig set-up takes about ten minutes instead of the up to an hour required for traditional 3D rigs. Dedicated motors for interocular and convergence control are built in.

Technica 3D systems are available in three sizes. The largest, Quasar, is designed for full size cameras, such as the Sony 1500 or the Red One, equipped with prime or zoom lenses. The mid-sized Proton mounts box-style digital cinema cameras such as the Scarlet, Epic and the SI-2K. The Neutron is designed for tiny 2/3-inch or 1/3-inch imager cameras sporting C-mount lenses such as the SI-2K Mini and the Iconix. All three Technica 3D systems can convert from parallel to beamsplitter and back depending on the application.

To automate stereo calculation, Element Technica has developed a set of hardware/software tools that will be available as add-in modules for the core systems to enable the director or DoP to control how much or how little the subject comes off of the screen, without requiring complex calculations. Interocular, convergence and zoom, focus and iris control can be coordinated through the company's patented Stereo Assist feature.

By David Fox, IBC E-Daily