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Thomson Reuters: 3-D Technology Moves into the Home, According to Global Intellectual Property Report (31/12/2009)

Global Patent Analysis Shows Accelerated Growth in 3-D Television, Photography and Cinematic Technologies

3-D interest does not stop in Hollywood. According to an analysis of world patent activity published today by the IP Solutions business of Thomson Reuters, Coming Soon in 3-D … Everything, consumers will soon be able to experience 3-D technology on their televisions at home. The report tracks unique inventions published in patent applications and granted patents from 2003 to 2009 to identify the areas showing the sharpest growth over the last five years. The findings include:

* 3-D TV in Your Living Room: It will only be a matter of time before you can enjoy 3-D television programs from your couch. Between 2003 and 2008, patent activity in the 3-D television space grew by 69 percent. Breakthrough new technologies include lenticular lenses, which create a more natural 3-D viewing experience without the need for special glasses.

* Capture Moments With 3-D Photos: 3-D photographic technology is also on the rise; it has grown by 57 percent between 2003 and 2009 as the digital camera industry works to combat declines in other areas.

* 3-D Glasses Are Big Business: A great deal of 3-D cinema innovation has less to do with movie production than it does with ancillary products. Between 2003 and 2008, patent activity in the 3-D cinema space grew by 45 percent. Areas receiving the most attention include: projection systems, specialized glasses, cleaning apparatus and registration systems for glasses.

The data in this report was compiled using the Thomson Reuters Derwent World Patents Index® (DWPI) database. Patent activity is being used as a benchmark for innovation. The research aggregates granted patents and published applications (examined and unexamined) in 2003 and 2008 through the first quarter of 2009. Results from both time periods were then compared to determine the overall growth trend over the last five years.

ip.thomsonreuters.com/info/3D