Have you ever wondered how the 3D glasses that make 3D movies and rides so magical work? The technology behind these glasses is pretty fascinating. During a 3D viewing experience, two different images are shown on the screen at once using a layering technique. As this is happening, 3D glasses direct images into each eye separately to make them “pop” off the screen. The layering effect behind 3D projections is why it’s actually impossible to focus on the image on the screen when we try to watch 3D films without 3D glasses. The details on exactly how 3D glasses get your eyes to see images “popping” off the screen vary based on the type of 3D glasses being worn.
Why 3D Glasses Work With Human Eyes
Did you know that humans technically have binocular vision? This feature allows us to tell the difference between objects that are closer and farther away. The distance between our eyes helps us to achieve two different visual perspectives on a single object. Unfortunately for 3D filmmakers, our binocular vision doesn’t make seeing 3D effects possible without a little bit of assistance. 3D glasses allow the human eye to experience an illusion of depth when watching 3D projections. Our brains actually process two different images together in a way that causes it to seem like things are popping right off the screen.
Different Types of 3D Glasses
All 3D glasses rely on the concept that different colors enter the human eye in different waves of speed and intensity. Controlling the way that images enter each eye creates the depth needed to allow us to perceive two images as one three-dimensional image. That’s why 3D glasses use two different filter colors to prevent eyes from merging images. Here’s a look at the different types of 3D glasses you might encounter when ordering 3D glasses online.
Anaglyph
Anaglyph 3D glasses are the signature 3D glasses most people picture when they think about settling into a movie theater to watch a 3D movie. They remain the most popular type of 3D glasses today. This style uses red and cyan lenses. While you’re wearing anaglyph 3D glasses, the profound effect you’re seeing on the screen is caused by the filtering of all red and cyan from the images being displayed.
Polarized
Polarized 3D glasses are commonly used for IMAX 3D movie experiences. They feature grey lenses with a filter that works specifically with 3D movie screens that also use polarizing filters. When worn, polarized 3D glasses allow each eye to see two superimposed images on the same screen.
Shutter
The cutting-edge option is 3D glasses, shutter 3D glasses don’t actually filter out colors or images to create a three-dimensional effect. They instead work with LCD screens that have been programmed to alternately darken each lens to create a 3D effect. As you’re watching a film, the changes in lighting happen so quickly that they are nearly impossible to detect.
