Abstract
Traditional still cameras can only focus on a single plane for each image while rendering everything outside of that plane out of focus. However, new light-field imaging technology makes it possible to adjust the focus plane after an image has already been captured. This technology allows the viewer to interactively explore an image with objects and anatomy at varying depths and clearly focus on any feature of interest by selecting that location during post-capture viewing. These images with adjustable focus can serve as valuable educational tools for neurosurgical residents. We explore the utility of light-field cameras and review their strengths and limitations compared to other conventional types of imaging. The strength of light-field images is the adjustable focus, as opposed to the fixed-focus of traditional photography and video. A light-field image also is interactive by nature, as it requires the viewer to select the plane of focus and helps with visualizing the three-dimensional anatomy of an image. Limitations include the relatively low resolution of light-field images compared to traditional photography and video. Although light-field imaging is still in its infancy, there are several potential uses for the technology to complement traditional still photography and videography in neurosurgical education.
Highlights
BackgroundThe way we acquire and learn new information is changing rapidly
A new imaging technology, light-field imaging, known as plenoptic imaging, allows the user to focus on any part of an image after the image has been captured and may prove to be a valuable tool for neurosurgery education
One of the newest developments in optical imaging allows the viewer to change the focus of a photograph after it has already been captured. This is a revolutionary change from previous imaging modalities in which the focus point, and focal plane, is set before the image is captured. This is accomplished by utilizing a light-field camera, known as a plenoptic camera
Summary
The way we acquire and learn new information is changing rapidly. Learning has become multimodal, with various multimedia technologies allowing the novice to interact with difficult subject material in a way not possible via printed text [1,2,3,4]. By changing the lens aperture to a smaller setting, the depth of field of an image is enlarged so objects near, but not necessarily directly in, the focus plane can appear in focus as well. This is a revolutionary change from previous imaging modalities in which the focus point, and focal plane, is set before the image is captured This is accomplished by utilizing a light-field camera, known as a plenoptic camera. This additional information is obtained by placing a microlens array in front of the camera sensor Sophisticated processing of these additional features of the incoming light field allows one to create an image that can have its plane of focus adjusted after the image has been recorded [15]. With a light-field image of the same object, the user can direct the focus point to any location they desire
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
