1. Two Screens: The 3DS has two LCD screens, one for each eye. They are placed very close to each other, and the top screen is slightly offset.
2. Lenticular Lens: A sheet of plastic with tiny cylindrical lenses is placed in front of the top screen. These lenses are aligned vertically, creating a series of narrow, parallel channels.
3. Image Separation: The 3DS renders two slightly different images, one for each eye. These images are displayed on the top screen, but each image is directed towards a different lens in the lenticular sheet.
4. Lens Focusing: The cylindrical lenses in the lenticular sheet focus the light from each image onto the corresponding eye.
5. Depth Perception: Because each eye sees a slightly different image, the brain perceives depth and the image appears three-dimensional.
Key points:
* The 3DS uses passive 3D technology, meaning it does not require special glasses.
* The 3D effect is adjustable by a slider on the device, allowing users to control the depth perception.
* The lenticular lens system is relatively simple and cost-effective compared to other 3D display technologies.
* The 3D effect can be strained on the eyes for prolonged use.
In summary, the 3DS uses a lenticular lens system to direct separate images to each eye, creating the illusion of depth and three-dimensionality. This technology offers a relatively simple and affordable way to experience 3D gaming on the go.