Sharp Intros 3D Camera Module for Mobile Devices

Today, Sharp Corporation announced the development of a 3D camera module aimed at mobile devices. According to the company, the module is capable of capturing high-definition (720p*2) 3D video images. Sharp marks an industry first with this announcement, and says that samples of the module are expected to be shipped in July, while mass production of the solution should kick off before the end of the ongoing year.

It's a common fact that 3D images are composed of two views, taken via two cameras at the same time, which capture the images for the right and left eyes. In addition, a 3D camera needs peripheral circuitry for image processing, so as to adjust color or to correct positioning between the cameras. Manufacturers have been hard at work with the development of reduced size designs for these 3D cameras, while being focused on the shortening of the development period.

The 3D camera module Sharp has just announced comes with the capability of processing the image data output by the left and right cameras, the company states. The processing includes Color Synchronizing Processing for the adjustment of colors or brightness, Timing Synchronizing Processing to sync the timing of the video signals, as well as Optical Axis Control Processing for the correction of positioning.

“In addition, Fast Readout Technology rapidly transfers video data from the image sensor, enabling 3D images to be captured in high-resolution HD mode. Further, in developing this camera module, Sharp applied high-density mounting technology nurtured over long years of experience in camera module development to achieve a compact form. Embedding this camera module in mobile devices such as digital cameras, mobile phones, and smartphones will contribute to the development of a wide range of new, innovative communications tools,” Sharp added.

The company is set to open up new 3D markets in the future, based on 3D display technologies, which are expected to include small/medium-size and large-size 3D LCDs. In addition, it also aims at delivering 3D input device technologies such as 3D camera modules.