With all of the fuss surrounding the arrival of a new generation of 3D movies, the likes of Panasonic and Sony have been quietly laying the foundations for a 3D viewing revolution in the home.

TV companies such as Sky and major manufacturers such as Panasonic and Sony feel confident enough in its potential to be making huge investments in 3D technology.

In 2010, Sky are launching a dedicated 3D TV channel in the UK which subscribers will be able to access through their existing Sky+HD set-top boxes. Sky have been filming a broad range of programmes in 3D for over a year using specially built camera rigs.

While there will be a ready source of 3D material, the success of the format will hinge on the willingness of consumers to invest in dedicated 3D display equipment.

The levels of investment by the likes of LG, Sony, Panasonic and Samsung suggest that the big manufacturers have confidence in the widespread appeal of 3D for the home.

The likes of LG, Sony, Samsung and Panasonic have spent much of 2009 previewing their own 3D TV systems and plan to introduce consumer ready equipment on a large scale in 2010. Samsung, Hyundai and Mitsubishi are already selling 3D-ready TVs in the US and Asia.

Based in Los Angeles, Panasonic's new 3D labs have been establishing a 3D Full HD (3D FHD) Blu-ray format and they plan to introduce a range of 3D products including TV's, Blu-ray players and Home Cinema systems in 2010.

The success of 3D in the home depends to some extend on how well the new generation of 3D films are received. If movie goers take to the advanced digital presentation and are happy with the latest incarnation of 3D specs they will be more inclined to invest in 3D themselves.

In the same way that we have seen standard format films converted to High Definition (HD) we may also see the conversion of existing films to 3D. Blu-ray already has the capacity to store a 3D version of a movie.

The availibility of the latest 3D blockbusters on blu-ray could be the inducement many consumers need to make an investment in 3D technology. There are also rumours that james cameron's 3D blockbuster will be available through Sky's 3D platform in the near future.

2010 is set to be a big year for 3D in the home, with everthing in place for thew consumer to enjoy the experience in their own living rooms. Whether there will be widespread take up remains to be seen ...

If you would like to find out more about 3D technology you might like to read our 3D TV, Cinema & Gaming Guide