Village Gamer

Point Grey, a BC-based designer and manufacturer of innovative, high-performance digital cameras, has announced the release of the all-new Ladybug®5 camera, the next-generation version of the popular Ladybug series of 360-degree cameras, continuing Point Grey’s long-standing leadership in spherical imaging. The new LD5-U3-51S5C redefines past performance benchmarks, boasting an impressive 30 megapixels (MP) of total resolution covering 90% of a full sphere; a 5Gbit/s USB 3.0 interface; and a ground-breaking post-processing workflow that provides high dynamic range, superb image quality and maximum user flexibility.

The Ladybug5 spherical imaging system is an excellent choice for:

• applications in geographic information systems (GIS)
• vehicle-based photogrammetry
• situational awareness
• entertainment solutions for lighting models
• full dome projection content
• other immersive experiences

The LD5-U3-51S5C camera uses six high sensitivity 5 MP Sony ICX655 CCD image sensors; five CCDs are positioned in a horizontal ring and one is positioned vertically pointing upwards. Unlike rolling shutter CMOS, global shutter CCD technology prevents motion artifacts when capturing images from a moving vehicle. All six Ladybug5 imagers are pre-calibrated in Point Grey’s manufacturing facility, removing the need for in-field calibration. The Ladybug5 captures, optionally compresses, and transmits full bit-depth (12-bit) images to the host PC where a unique software post-processing workflow can be used to apply white balance, gamma, smear correction, fall-off correction and other image processing functions.

“The Ladybug5 has generated significant interest by addressing customer demands for increased resolution and higher dynamic range,” explains Michael Gibbons, Director of Sales and Marketing. Mr. Gibbons adds, “We are also very excited to introduce our innovative capture and post-processing workflow model with Ladybug5, which allows users to maximize dynamic range and maintain flexibility by being able to return to the original content and re-apply post-processing steps as desired.”

The Ladybug5 LD5-U3-51S5C-44 (black or red enclosure) camera is list priced at USD $19,995 and €15,995 and is available to order now from Point Grey and its network of distributors.