Frame sequential 3D is a method for displaying stereoscopic three-dimensional content. It's a specific stereoscopic 3D format that places each, full left and right frame in sequence (left, right, left, right, etc.).
Understanding Frame Sequential 3D
In this technique, instead of displaying images for both the left and right eyes simultaneously or interleaved line by line, the system rapidly shows a full frame intended for the left eye, immediately followed by a full frame intended for the right eye. This sequence continues, alternating between the left and right views at a high speed.
To perceive the 3D effect, the viewer typically wears active shutter glasses. These glasses rapidly open and close each lens in sync with the display's alternating frames. When the left frame is displayed, the left lens is open and the right lens is closed. When the right frame is displayed, the right lens is open and the left lens is closed. By presenting each eye with its corresponding image at a fast enough rate, the brain combines these slightly different perspectives into a single 3D image.
How it Works in Practice
The core principle is the rapid presentation of discrete left and right eye images:
- Sequence: Left frame -> Right frame -> Left frame -> Right frame...
- Shutter Glasses: Synchronized to block the view from the eye that should not be seeing the current frame.
A common implementation requires the display to operate at a high refresh rate to avoid flicker and ensure smooth motion. The total refresh rate is effectively split between the two eyes.
For example, NVIDIA's 3D Vision is a system that utilizes frame sequential 3D. It operates by alternating 60 left with 60 right frames to create 120 frames per second on a compatible high-refresh-rate display. This means each eye receives 60 distinct frames per second, which is typically sufficient for the brain to perceive continuous motion and depth.
This method is known for providing a full resolution image to each eye, unlike some other 3D formats that might compromise resolution per eye.
