Abstract: The invention features a multi-spectral microscopy system for illuminating a sample with light of a selectable spectral content and generating an image of the sample in response to the illumination. The multi-spectral microscopy system includes a multispectral illuminator that provides output radiation having the selectable spectral content. A preferred set of optical arrangements for the multispectral illuminator generates the output radiation so that the spectral content of the output radiation is substantially uniform across its transverse profile. Furthermore, the multispectral illuminator can include monitoring optics and a corresponding detector array that independently monitors the output in each spectral band of the radiation produced by the multispectral illuminator. The monitoring provides calibration, feedback, and/or source aging information to insure robust and reliable performance for the multispectral illuminator.

Abstract: A method for making display products that generate special visual effects with autostereographic, dynamic, alternating, animated, and morphed images used in conjunction with lenticulated arrays for marketing and informational purposes. The special imaging effects, which can be integrated with discrete lenticulated container structures for data storage media and other contents, are achieved by digitally sampling and formatting source images with resampling procedures and then generating a merged image file that serves as the digital input for color printers or digital printing presses. The sampled images are printed on substrates along with registration lines or on preperforated stock preformatted for use with a corresponding lenticulated component. Afterwards, the images are separated from the substrate by either cutting them from the substrate using the printed registration lines as guides or breaking them out along the preperforated lines.

Abstract: A compact binoculars utilizing roof mirrors is disclosed. Compactness of the binoculars is achieved by maintaining the optical axis in the same plane as the axes of movement of the focusing apparatus and eyewidth adjustment apparatus. A method of manufacturing the roof mirror is also disclosed. The method allows produces and inexpensive and precisely aligned roof mirror for use in the compact binoculars.

Abstract: A device for displaying multiple images in an animation-like manner is provided. The device includes an outer shell having a pair of opposed transparent lenticular surfaces and a pair of opposed side walls extending between opposed outer edges of the lenticular surfaces thereby forming a hollow rectangular cavity. The device also includes a generally rectangular slide insertable through an opening in the first end of the cavity. Interleaved images are positioned on the opposed faces of the slide. The device further includes a part for reciprocating the slide in the cavity thereby altering the appearance of the displayed image. The reciprocating part includes a detent slot formed in an interior region of each of the side walls of the outer shell and a corresponding pair of spring bar mounted detent tabs for engaging the detent slots. A spring bar is positioned generally parallel to the second end of the slide and dihedral spring leaves are positioned in a center of the spring bar.

Abstract: A video observation system, useful for location of fish and other plant and animal life underwater, comprises a solid state imager having substantial sensitivity to infrared radiation; video signal generating means for generating a video signal corresponding to the image formed on the solid state imager; mounting means for mounting the solid state imager on a submersible portion of a watercraft; and a video display device arranged to display a visible image corresponding to the image formed on the solid state imager.

Abstract: Diffuse “dark field” illumination and “bright field” illumination are each provided for a hand-held encoded symbology imager/reader; to be projected therefrom upon symbology disposed on a target (component part, goods, package, etc.). The imager/reader is encased in a housing ergonomically configured to be griped in more then one manner and to thus facilitate holding the imager/reader steady. The symbology to be imaged is targeted by a line that not only spots the symbology, but by extending a length commensurate with that of the symbology, indicates that the symbology is in the field of view of the imager/reader. A CCD, disposed to receive light reflected from the symbology, has its readout controlled so that only selected portions of the CCD need be analyzed for illumination and focusing purposes.

Abstract: The height-of-fill of a container comprising a body having an optically detectable feature, and contents filling the body up to a fill level, at least a measuring portion of the container extending from the optically detectable feature to the fill level being capable of transmitting electromagnetic radiation, is determined by illuminating at least the measuring portion of the container with electromagnetic radiation; forming an image of part of this measuring portion of the container; and analyzing the image by data processing means to identify: (a) a first region having a first intensity that varies in accordance with the properties of the optically detectable feature; and (b) a second region having a second intensity that varies in accordance with the optical properties of the contents below the fill level, and determining the distance between a point within the first region and the upper edge of the second region, thereby determining the height-of-fill.

Abstract: Compact dual focal length cameras are disclosed having wide angle and telephoto modes of operation. The ratio of telephoto to wide angle ratios is at least 3 to 1, but is typically higher so that the cameras can be used in conjunction with binoculars to take telephoto pictures that give the same visual appearance as when the same scenes are observed through binoculars. Compactness and increased focal length are achieved via four mirror arrangements one preferred embodiment of which wraps around the camera film plane and uses a single constant angular velocity shutter for providing both wide angle and telephoto exposure times. Compact, single-use, medium telephoto cameras are also disclosed.

Abstract: Image display easels are provided with mechanical and optical features that permit them to be used for advertising, marketing, and other such purposes. The easels display multi, 3D, and animated visual effects that can be easily changed as needed by the user while easily achieving the alignment needed for such effects.

Abstract: A display and viewing unit, for use with a printed insert card bearing at least one pair of interlaced images and having a reference edge, comprises a base bearing flexible fingers and a cover member having at least one transparent lenticulated section, a seating area for receiving the printed insert card, and an abutment against which the reference edge of the card can be placed. The base and the cover member pivot relative to one another between an open position and a closed position in which the flexible fingers lie adjacent the seating area, and in which the base and the cover member snap fit together to keep them in this closed position. Also, in this closed position, a slot is left between the base and the cover member so that the card can be inserted between them and viewed through the lenticulated section. The display permits cards to be readily inserted and removed.

Abstract: A focusable imaging system particularly suitable for use in acquiring digital images for subsequent processing such as in a hand held, omnidirectional symbology or bar code reader by which linear and two dimensional (matrix, maxi-code) bar codes may be imaged over relatively long working distances. The imaging system includes an focusing objective taking lens and a two-dimensional photodetector that operate to form an image of an object such as a bar code in X and Y directions simultaneously and generate an electrical signal representative of the object or code for subsequent downstream processing by which information embedded in the object or bar code may be extracted. Focusing is achieved via a rotating disk that carries a plurality of optical shims or other light controlling surfaces to provide for different focus zones.

Abstract: A dual purpose optical device that is convertible between binocular and stereoscope modes of operation while using a common eyepiece arrangement for both. The device includes a housing containing a pair of optic supports mounted side-by-side for lateral movement towards and away from one another. Each support preferably carries three lenses. Two lenses on each support serve as the eyepiece and are aligned in a common plane with an eyepiece opening through the housing and a rotatable mirror assembly. The assembly pivots substantially ninety degrees from opposing forty-five degree angle positions with respect to the plane through the eyepiece opening and the eye and field lenses so as to fold the lines of sight either up or down within the housing. A circular photo transparency reel is received horizontally in a slot provided on an upper side of the housing.

Abstract: A method for making display products that generate special visual effects with autostereographic, dynamic, alternating, animated, and morphed images used in conjunction with lenticulated arrays for marketing and informational purposes. The special imaging effects, which can be integrated with discrete lenticulated container structures for data storage media and other contents, are achieved by digitally sampling and formatting source images with resampling procedures and then generating a merged image file that serves as the digital input for color printers or digital printing presses. The sampled images are printed on substrates along with registration lines or on preperforated stock preformatted for use with a corresponding lenticulated component. Afterwards, the images are separated from the substrate by either cutting them from the substrate using the printed registration lines as guides or breaking them out along the preperforated lines.

Abstract: Optical arrangements are provided by which observers of flat containers or display boxes, such as compact disc (CD) jewel boxes, can be presented with different information about the contents of the box when looking at one of its surfaces from different angular perspectives. Advantageously, parallax effects are compensated where the size of the observable images and the viewing distance create undesirable visual artifacts. Horizontally and vertically oriented lenticulated panels are used in combination with interlaced images to convey the differently coded views without the need for physically manipulating such boxes as in the past to see equivalent information. Compliant inserts preferably provide the information content of the various views and are adapted for use with industry automated insert machinery while being self aligning with the lenticulated panels.

Abstract: Compact dual focal length cameras are disclosed having wide angle and telephoto modes of operation. The ratio of telephoto to wide angle ratios is at least 3 to 1, but is typically higher so that the cameras can be used in conjunction with binoculars to take telephoto pictures that give the same visual appearance as when the same scenes are observed through binoculars. Compactness and increased focal length are achieved via four mirror arrangements one preferred embodiment of which wraps around the camera film plane and uses a single constant angular velocity shutter for providing both wide angle and telephoto exposure times. Compact, single-use, medium telephoto cameras are also disclosed.

Abstract: Optical arrangements are provided by which observers of flat containers or display boxes, such as compact disc (CD) jewel boxes, can be presented with different information when looking at one of the box's surfaces from different angular perspectives. Advantageously, parallax effects are compensated where the size of the observable images and the viewing distance create undesirable visual artifacts. Horizontally and vertically oriented lenticulated panels are used in combination with interlaced images to convey the differently coded views without the need for physically manipulating such boxes as in the past to see equivalent information. Printed informational inserts are provided with interlaced images and reference surfaces for alignment purposes which is achieved either with control of fit or via resiliently flexible arrangements for urging the inserts into positions of proper alignment.

Abstract: Optical arrangements are provided by which observers of flat containers or display boxes, such as compact disc (CD) jewel boxes, can be presented with different information about the contents of the box when looking at one of its surfaces from different angular perspectives. Advantageously, parallax effects are compensated where the size of the observable images and the viewing distance create undesirable visual artifacts. Horizontally and vertically oriented lenticulated panels are used in combination with interlaced images to convey the differently coded views without the need for physically manipulating such boxes as in the past to see equivalent information. Compliant inserts preferably provide the information content of the various views and are adapted for use with industry automated insert machinery while being self aligning with the lenticulated panels.

Abstract: Optical arrangements are provided by which observers of flat containers or display boxes, such as compact disc (CD) jewel boxes, can be presented with different information about the contents of the box when looking at one of its surfaces from different angular perspectives. Horizontally and vertically oriented lenticulated panels are used in combination with interlaced images to convey the differently coded views without the need for physically manipulating such boxes as in the past to see equivalent information. These arrangements enhance the possibilities for displaying more and different kinds of information on a given box surface area compared with conventional approaches, and as such, enhance the prospects for increasing initial and multiple sales of CD products.

Abstract: Optical, printing, and fabrication arrangements are provided by which observers of flat containers or display boxes, such as video and audio tape cassettes or compact disc (CD) jewel boxes, can be presented with different information when looking at one of the box's surfaces from different angular perspectives. Advantageously, parallax effects are compensated where the size of the observable images and the viewing distance create undesirable visual artifacts. Horizontally and vertically oriented lenticulated panels are used in combination with interlaced images to convey the differently coded views without the need for physically manipulating such boxes as in the past to see equivalent information. Printed informational inserts or box surfaces are provided with interlaced images and reference surfaces for alignment purposes which is achieved either with control of fit or via resiliently flexible arrangements for urging the images and optics into positions of proper alignment.

Abstract: Optical arrangements are provided by which observers of flat containers or display boxes, such as compact disc (CD) jewel boxes, can be presented with different information when looking at one of the box's surfaces from different angular perspectives. Advantageously, parallax effects are compensated where the size of the observable images and the viewing distance create undesirable visual artifacts. Horizontally and vertically oriented lenticulated panels are used in combination with interlaced images to convey the differently coded views without the need for physically manipulating such boxes as in the past to see equivalent information. Printed informational inserts are provided with interlaced images and reference surfaces for alignment purposes which is achieved either with control of fit or via resiliently flexible arrangements for urging the inserts into positions of proper alignment.