Orad CamTrack helps out in virtual world

Orad Hi-Tec Systems will unveil CamTrack at NAB 2007. The infrared-based tracking system is specifically designed for virtual studio applications, helping track camera positions in real time.

Coupled with Orad’s patented pattern recognition tracking (grid), CamTrack provides free camera movement of dolly, crane and even hand held cameras, as well as pan, tilt, zoom and focus.

CamTrack consists of two overhead surveillance cameras hung above the grid on both sides, and a small LED mounted on each studio camera. Each infrared LED is given an ID number which corresponds to a specific studio camera’s ID. Once CamTrack is calibrated, the position of the two surveillance cameras is determined, thereby enabling the studio camera’s LED to be detected via simple triangulation. While the studio camera is in range of both surveillance cameras, the tracking data changes in real-time and continuously updates the studio camera position, thereby enabling free camera movement in the studio.

Orad says CamTrack is unique in that it maintains existing grid tracking capabilities and requires no change in the studio’s configuration or working methods. This cost effective solution has a negligible three-frame delay, supports multi-camera production, and is both HD and SD compatible. Its simplicity of operation requires only brief training and implementation time, and its added values are visible from the first moment of operation.