METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMAGE ALIGNMENT

摘要

Apparatus and method for the alignment of images in which, typically, two perspective views are provided. The observer's head location is detected and each of the views is presented to the respectively correct eye to provide a stereoscopic image. A retro-reflective marker worn by the observer removes the need for the observer to wear special viewing devices, whilst providing an infrared imaging system with a means for locating the observer's head. Image content may be driven by the observer's viewpoint. The two perspectives may be presented simultaneously using conventional display elements. A tapered lenticular structure provides a means for adapting to changes in the observer's distance from the display. Alternatively, each perspective image may be rapidly sequenced, either as two complete single images, or as a sequence of suitably arranged compositions of the two. The infrared source used in the head tracking apparatus is modulated to aid image processing. The modulated source may also be used to synchronise a stereoscopic viewing device, switching views on a field sequential basis. Inter alia, the invention has applications in minimally invasive surgery, remote handling, virtual reality, teleconferencing and computer aided design and visualisation.