New characteristic equation of three-dimensional integral imaging system and its applications

A three-dimensional integral imaging system is analyzed using the viewing parameters, namely, the image resolution, the viewing angle and the image depth. A new characteristic equation of this integral imaging system, which shows the relationship among the viewing parameters, is presented. This characteristic equation can be adopted as a design criterion for the integral imaging system. This can also be used as, a figure of merit for the quantitative analysis of the integral imaging system.