Panasonic Exhibits Concept Model of Twin Lens 3D Camcorder: AVC-ULTRA 3D

April 21, 2009 - Panasonic is making a big splash at NAB with the showcasing of numerous 3D production systems. Along with a full HD plasma home theater display (first debuted at the CEATEC trade show in Japan), Panasonic has also presented a conceptual model of a high definition 3D camcorder. Previous 3D productions, including those highlighted in Panasonic's home theater display, were shot by rigging multiple 2D camcorders together to create the 3D environment. In an attempt to simplify 3D production, Panasonic's concept model features a twin-lens system for capturing 3D footage using only one camcorder.

While the model is entirely in its development stage, it appears the camcorder will record video to Panasonic's P2 memory card system—the same system that is featured on much of Panasonic's professional camcorder line. Due to the compact, non-mechanical design of the P2 system, Panasonic claims the cards should offer more flexibility with 3D recording. The P2 cards should also enable the camcorder to record two channels of full HD footage. Panasonic has been describing the camcorder as an AVC-ULTRA 3D model. The name stems from Panasonic's new compression system that is in development for, among other things, capturing 3D footage.

Early development plans also suggest the camcorder will utilize one image sensor and there will be an optical switch to control which lens is capturing footage. Joined together, the final footage from the camcorder would be 1080/60p, with each lens recording at 1080/30p. Whether or not this system will be effective in capturing smooth motion, especially high-speed action like sports and movies, is left to be seen. Panasonic reiterated that these details were entirely conceptual

The AVC-ULTRA 3D concept model on display at NAB