3D Telemedicine and Video Conferencing Using High-Speed Networks
The National Broadband Network (NBN) is now beginning its roll-out around the country. As a consequence many people are beginning to investigate innovative ways to utilise this increased bandwidth. At the same time, there is increasing pressure to justify personal travel as a consequence of the need to be “green”. Video conferencing technology thus stands out as a promising solution in both cases. An example is in the area of tele-medicine - remote-patient diagnosis. Particularly in rural areas, the travel requirements on clinicians and/or patients can be quite onerous, and, in extreme cases, have adverse clinical outcomes. Standard video conferencing however has proved to be insufficiently accurate. High-definition video options have improved this situation considerably, yet the experience is still far short of the physical presence of a patient. While 3D displays have been available for some time, it is only recently that they have become a commodity item. Combining these with a high-definition video conferencing system, high-speed networks such as we find in the NBN, and relatively cheap consumer level 3D cameras now available, we have the prospect of a real solution that will enable the next step forward in remote Telemedicine. Being able to see a patient in high-definition, real-time 3D will enable a remote clinician to make a more accurate and confident diagnosis.
Beyond the Telemedicine application, 3D video conferencing may well replace high-end 2D video conferencing. Just as the improvement in quality from low-resolution standards such as H.261 to full HD solutions available with H.323 systems and high-definition Skype, has made video conferencing a viable alternative to travel. In many cases, the immersion provided by 3D takes a video conference a significant step forward, greatly enhancing the sense of co-location.
Our project investigates the technology required to facilitate 3D video conferencing with particular emphasis on its application to Telemedicine, where we see the most significant benefits.
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Bernard Meade's Biography |
