FRAME COMPATIBLE DEPTH MAP DELIVERY FORMATS FOR STEREOSCOPIC AND AUTO-STEREOSCOPIC DISPLAYS

Stereoscopic video data and corresponding depth map data for stereoscopic and auto-stereoscopic displays are coded using a coded base layer and one or more coded enhancement layers. Given a 3D input picture and corresponding input depth map data, a side-by-side and a top-and-bottom picture are generated based on the input picture. Using an encoder, the side-by-side picture is coded to generate a coded base layer Using the encoder and a texture reference processing unit (RPU), the top-and-bottom picture is encoded to generate a first enhancement layer, wherein the first enhancement layer is coded based on the base layer stream, and using the encoder and a depth-map RPU, depth data for the side-by-side picture are encoded to generate a second enhancement layer, wherein the second enhancement layer is coded based on to the base layer. Alternative single, dual, and multi-layer depth map delivery systems are also presented.