Block based depth map estimation algorithm for 2D-to-3D conversion

3D vision is becoming increasingly important, in major motion pictures as well as in home entertainment. Depth map generation plays a major role in 2D-to-3D conversion and acts as a precursory stage to Depth Based Image Rendering (DIBR). This paper presents a novel algorithm for depth map generation using a block based approach. The algorithm is composed of 2 parts: Background depth map generation and moving object detection and filling. The quality of generated depth maps is adequate, considering the block based approach. The proposed algorithm is suitable for VLSI implementation.