Abstract: A method of recording an image of an object onto cinematographic color film comprises forming a number of successive images of the object through a single lens system onto each frame of the film, the successive images being recorded in light of different characteristics, for example different colors. In a preferred embodiment, each frame of the film is exposed successively to light of two or three different colors. The film is projected using a conventional projector, and when viewed through spectacles consisting of two appropriate filters gives a stereoscopic effect. The method can be used to produce a film which can also be viewed without spectacles, and is found to give enhanced sharpness and color saturation. The invention also includes a moving film camera having a mechanism for interposing a number of filters in the optical path successively during exposure of each frame so that successive images are overlaid on each frame.

Abstract: A photographic display for depicting a three dimensional visual image including a supporting frame for displaying a photographic image including a height, width and a predetermined thickness. A viewing screen is provided and disposed to extend substantially along the height and width of said supporting frame and being positioned on a first side thereof. The viewing screen includes a plurality of substantially parallel lines having a predetermined width and being separated by clear spaces. A photographic image is provided and disposed to extend substantially along the height and width of said supporting frame and being positioned on a second side thereof, spaced from said first side by said predetermined thickness of the supporting frame.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the computer-assisted processing of standard two-dimensional motion pictures to generate processed image sequences which exhibit some three-dimensional depth effects when viewed under appropriate conditions.

Abstract: A method for creating a 3-D television effect is disclosed in which a scene is recorded with a relative lateral movement between the scene and the recording mechanism. The recording is played back and viewed through a pair of viewer glasses in which one of the lenses is darker and has a spectral transmission characterized by a reduced transmissivity at least one, and preferably all three, of the television's peak radiant energy wavebands. The lighter lens, on the other hand, has a spectral transmission characterized by a reduced transmissivity at wavelengths removed from the television energy peaks. The result is a substantially greater effective optical density differential between the two lenses when viewing television than in normal ambient light. This produces a very noticeable 3-D effect for television scenes with the proper movement, while avoiding the prior "dead eye" effect associated with too great a density differential in ordinary light.

Abstract: A method for creating a 3-D television effect is disclosed in which a scene is recorded with a relative lateral movement between the scene and the recording mechanism. The recording is played back and viewed through a pair of viewer glasses in which one of the lenses is darker and has a spectral transmission characterized by a reduced transmissivity at at least one, and preferably all three, of the television's peak radiant energy wavebands. The lighter lens, on the other hand, has a spectral transmission characterized by a reduced transmissivity at wavelengths removed from the television energy peaks. The result is a substantially greater effective optical density differential between the two lenses when viewing television than in normal ambient light. This produces a very noticeable 3-D effect for television scenes with the proper movement, while avoiding the prior "dead eye" effect associated with too great a density differential in ordinary light.

Abstract: A means and method of generating disparate information for imparting depth perception to an image. An image is formed with a shadow from a plurality of energy sources. The energy sources each having a different locus. In one embodiment, using only two energy sources the image is detected by an image detector which permits the portion of the shadow formed by one energy source to be distinguished from the portion of the shadow formed by another source. In either a static-imaging system such as a still photograph or a dynamic system, such as television, means are provided for optically segregating the shadows viewed by each eye. In a monocular version of the dynamic imaging system, such as a motion picture film, a three-dimensional illusion is created by successively displaying images formed with different shadows.

Abstract: A method for creating a 3-D effect is disclosed in which a scene is recorded with a relative lateral movemnet between the scene and the recording mechanism. The recording is played back and viewed through a light filter which has a greater optical density for one eye than for the other eye, thereby causing one eye to perceive a darker image which appears to lag in time behind the image perceived by the other eye. The result is a three-dimensional effect which can be controlled by controlling the direction and speed of relative movement, the relative optical densities of the filter used for each eye, and the size of the distance from the viewing screen. The invention also includes viewer glasses with a spectral density gradient in which the optical density of one lens is at least 0.3 optical density darker than the optical density of the other lens, and the differene in optical densities between the two lenses is preferably within the range of approximately 0.8 to approximately 2.0.

Abstract: Apparatus and method of projecting photographic images from a first film onto a second film. The images on the first film are made in a scan camera and represent a series of aspect views of a subject photographed by the scan camera. The apparatus includes means at a first location for mounting the first film adjacent to a first lattice. Light is directed through the first film and the first lattice as the first film and first lattice are moved one pitch line relative to each other. The light is then directed through a projection lens and a second lattice and onto a second film spaced from the first film as the second lattice and the second film move relative to each other one pitch line. The first and second lattices can comprise Ronchi gratings or can be first and second lenticular screens.

Abstract: Apparatus for recording a sequence of frames through a single lens system along different optical axes which exit the lens system along a common axis, and focus at a recording station, and which converge at a predetermined location in a scene to be recorded, comprises a recording station for film, or a photoelectronic scanner for video, a recording control providing for sequentially recording scenes focused at the recording station, and a lens system having a field of view encompassing scenes to be recorded and defining an optical path along which light rays pass from a scene and exit the lens system on a common axis to the recording station. A light shifting device is arranged to shift the optical path cyclically within the lens system between at least two different non-parallel axes which intersect at a predetermined location in a scene viewed by the lens system.

Abstract: A method is described for producing and projecting a theater quality entertainment motion picture, by photographing and then projecting the motion picture on a screen, which creates an unusually vivid impression of realism. The film frames have a resolution of over 40 line pairs per milimeter, and each frame has an area of at least 0.36 square inch, which creates more than 10 million pixels per frame on the film and on the screen. The illumination level on the screen is at least 15 foot lamberts. The film frames are photographed and projected at a predetermined constant rate of more than 50 frames per second, such as 60 fps. The high resolution and light level, combined with the unusually high frame rate, has been found to produce an unusually vivid impression of realism.

Abstract: Three dimensional viewing achieved through use of multiple lens camera with included erector lens which yield a multiplicity of side by side medium-carried-images with provisions for some overlap and subsequent projection of said images by means of a plurality of spaced parabolic mirror reflectors on opposite sides of a diffusion screen, said reflectors being optically focused and mutually arranged to yield an ultimate, reflected, virtual image of three dimensional character over a relatively wide viewing range occupied by a plurality of viewers. System adapted for home television or commercial movie (cinema) projection.

Abstract: A method is described for producing and projecting a theater quality entertainment motion picture, by photographing and then projecting the motion picture on a screen, which creates an unusually vivid impression of realism. The film frames have a resolution of over 40 line pairs per milimeter, and each frame has an area of at least 0.36 square inch, which creates more then 10 million pixels per frame on the film and on the screen. The illumination level on the screen is at least 15 foot lamberts. The film frames are photographed and projected at a predetermined constant rate of more than 50 frames per second, such as 60 fps. The high resolution and light level, combined with the unusually high frame rate, has been found to produce an unusually vivid impression of realism.

Abstract: This apparatus forms and displays sequentially a plurality of three-dimensional images. Frames from a film strip are stroboscopically selected and projected on a moving screen. The effect may be simply a comparison of two three-dimensional images. Alternatively, an illusion of motion of a three-dimensional image may be created. Safety features prevent access to rotating parts and other features protect the stroboscope from excessive and unnecessary use. A single three-dimensional image may be selected and continuously projected on the screen.

Abstract: A process for recording and projecting a three dimensional visual scene onto a receiving surface from which the scene may be viewed in stereopsis by the unaided human eye. A scene is recorded from right and left view positions which are laterally separated by a distance of no more than about 1 inch, and separated in a direction generally perpendicular thereto by a distance of no more than about 1 inch, groups of one or more recorded right and recorded left views are alternately projected onto a receiving surface in sequence such that the visual duration of each group varies from a minimum to a maximum time which is generally proportional to the distance of the nearest non-moving object of special regard in the scene from the recording positions and is approximately equal to the visiopsychological supression rate of the human eyes.

Abstract: An apparent three dimensional image is produced from a two dimensional image by causing the two dimensional image to appear on a saddle shaped surface. This saddle shaped surface may be a real surface such as a light scattering glass or a surface in space formed by an optical component such as an aspheric lens or lenticular array. The two dimensional image may be produced by a cathode ray tube e.g. a television receiver, a slide or film projector, or a non-emissive display such as a liquid crystal display.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recording on a photosensitive surface with enhanced vividness and proper perspective is disclosed. The invention is adaptable for use with any type of camera including a television camera and includes the disposition of an opaque mask located on the surface of the camera lens. The mask width is related to the degree of reduction of size of the chief object in a scene by the recording camera. Projection equipment then brings the image back up to life size. Proper perspective for viewing is achieved by determining the viewer's distance from the screen and placing the recording camera at that distance from chief object in scene to be photographed.

Abstract: This disclosure describes an apparatus for an optical visual display in a simulator training apparatus to develop a realistic infinity virtual image. Two spherical mirrors are positioned facing each other a multiple of their radius apart so that an image projected from above will be focused by one mirror so that an observer viewing the other of the two spherical mirrors will see an infinity virtual image. A modification of this arrangement is described also as providing a tilt in the projected image to develop a startling three-dimensional effect in the viewed image. A modification of this arrangement is described also as providing dual viewing of two differing infinity virtual images utilizing a single optical system.

Abstract: A luminous spot in a model area displays the position and movements of an object in space by means of apparatus which receives a location signal, such as a radar signal, indicative of the instantaneous coordinates of the object with respect to each of three axes of a system of coordinates in the space. The apparatus includes an oscilloscope and a thin, converging lens which is rotated about an axis parallel to the screen of the oscilloscope and perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens. A potentiometer coupled to the lens generates an angle signal indicative of the instantaneous angle defined by the optical axis and a line perpendicular to the oscilloscope screen. Control circuits connected to the source of the location signal cooperate with the oscilloscope to produce a visible, luminous signal in a point of the screen surface when the afore-mentioned instantaneous angle assumes a predetermined value.

Abstract: A process for recording and projecting a three-dimensional visual scene onto a receiving surface from which the scene may be viewed in stereopsis by the unaided human eye. The scene is recorded from right and left view positions laterally separated by a distance of no more than about one inch, and groups of recorded right and recorded left views are alternately projected onto a receiving surface in sequence such that the visual duration of each group varies from a minimum to a maximum time which is generally proportional to the distance of the nearest non-moving object of special regard in the scene from the recording positions and is approximately equal to the visio-psychological suppression rate of the human eyes.

Abstract: A solid object, such as a human head, is optically scanned by photographically or photoelectrically recording, in each of a succession of closely spaced angular positions about a central axis, a group of three linear images to be subsequently used in a three-dimensional representation of the object. Each group includes the image of a silhouette of the object, taken along a line of sight perpendicular to the central axis, and two collateral images of contour lines projected upon the object in two planes on opposite sides of that line of sight intersecting approximately orthogonally along this axis. These images, or their stored data, serve to control the movement of carving tools such as a cutting wire and an end mill to sculpture a replica of the object from a block successively rotated into corresponding angular positions.

Abstract: Images and respectively associated timing marks are arrayed, as phototransparencies, about a disk. The disk is rotated and the timing marks are sensed. Display occurs either in two-dimensional fashion, such as in a television system, or in three-dimensional fashion such as in a semitransparent full image projection. Associated logic circuitry determines whether the full 3-D transparency is to be produced, in which case all images on the disk are to be illuminated, or whether swim through will occur, either on an image at a time or on a "ham slice" projection basis.

Abstract: This invention utilizes a series of two-dimensional photographs of successive cross-sections of an object. The photographs are arranged on a film strip in the order in which the successive sections appear in the object. The film strip is transparent and is intermittently illuminated as the successive frames of the film strip move across an optical path. A projection screen in the optical path is moved with respect to the optical path so that as each successive photograph is illuminated, that photograph is projected onto the screen at a successive position and so that each photograph as projected on the screen appears more remote from an observer than the preceding one. Thus there is formed on the screen a series of images which appear to an observer having persistence of vision to be a composite three-dimensional imgage. The illuminating means may omit the illumination of certain photographs of the series, so that only selected photographs are reproduced on the screen.

Abstract: Stereo pairs suitable for motion picture projection are derived from conventionally taken motion picture film by selection of frames and rearrangement thereof in side by side relationship upon a continuous strip of motion picture film. The pairs so prepared may be incorporated into film containing conventionally photographed stereo frames to provide a compatible system for 3-dimensional motion picture projection.

Abstract: Optical assemblies are disclosed for use in producing an effect of three-dimensional relief in the projection of a still photograph or motion picture film by means of polarized light, each still photograph or frame of the motion picture film comprising a single, regular, two-dimensional image. In order to produce the effect of three-dimensional relief the projector is provided with an optical assembly consisting of a lens and a beam-splitting polarizing device located inside the lens barrel which results in the projection of two oppositely polarized and laterally separated images of the photograph or each frame of motion picture film. The screen is of the non-depolarizing type and the images are seen in three-dimensional relief when viewed through polarizing spectacles.

Abstract: My invention relates to photographing scenes with standard motion picture photographic equipment where multiple views of a subject are photographed while the subject rests on a moving turntable and the stationary camera has its optical axis pointed at the turntable rotation axis or where the subject is stationary and the camera effectively moves in an arc about an axis located between the camera and scene.The surface of the processed film (or other appropriate media) is arrayed in a vertical plane and constrained to move horizontally around a portion of a circle. Film images are scanned by a light source and radially projected in a direction away from a vertical rotation axis. Concentric with the vertical axis are the semi-specular screen of radius R and the scanning projector circle of radius close to R/3. The screen reflects projected light in a horizontal plane and scatters projected light in a vertical plane.

Abstract: A system for projecting and exhibiting motion pictures creating for the viewer illusory impressions of depth and participation. The system employs a single projector equipped with an anamorphic lens. In preferred embodiment the projector, using a standard 35 mm anamorphic film, projects onto a deeply curved screen. The arrangement is such that the system uniquely functions to produce good image focus over the entire surface of the screen to which the image is applied, lending a viewer a decidedly improved depth of perception.

Abstract: An apparatus for producing a simulated three-dimensional psycho-image from a conventional two-dimensional image comprises a screen of transparent material having integral, alternate layers of materials with varying optical properties which enhance image contrast and provide an image bisection to produce an illusion of a three dimensional scene without the need for supplemental viewing glasses or similar devices. Alternate embodiments simulate Fresnel lens performance and provide color conversion.

Abstract: An optical viewing system and method is described, whose operating principles are based on two psycho-physiological characteristics of the human visual system. One of these characteristics is the time delay between the arrival of a light stimulus or image on the retina of the eye and its recognition or interpretation at the visual cortex. The other characteristic is the non-achromatism of the eye. The first of these characteristics manifests itself in the so-called Pulfrich illusion, a moving object being apparently displaced from its actual path when viewed by an observer with a neutral filter in front of one eye, as differential visual time-lag results from the difference in brightness of the two retinal images. The second characteristic manifests itself in the so-called chromostereoscopic effect which, under certain conditions, creates the illusion that differently colored objects, although actually at the same distance from an observer, are at different distances from him.

Abstract: A mannequin comprising a head part and a torso part adjustably joined together. In the torso part a sound moving picture projector is mounted to project facial images on a film in a light beam upwardly through the neck into the head as the film is moved through the projector. Simultaneously sound from a track on the film is picked up, amplified and audibly reproduced. The sound and facial images are correlated to simulate a speaking person. The head part has a face piece with well defined forehead, nose, cheeks and chin but only smooth areas for eyes and mouth which is molded of transparent plastic and surface coated as a rear projection screen. Means in the head receive the light beam from the projector and transmit onto the rear projection screen so that the projected facial features correspond in location to the facial features on the face piece.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for aiding a photographer in determining, coordinating and adjusting numerous variables which bear on the quality of a stereoscopic picture employing a lenticular screen. The variables may include, depending upon the photographic method employed and the scene to be photographed, the desired size of the stereoscopic picture, the resolving power and lenticule width of the lenticular screen, the number and size of two-dimensional picture negatives which are taken and included in the stereoscopic picture, the distance between adjacent camera vantage points from which the negatives are taken, the camera focal length, the distance from the camera to the nearest element or object of the photographed scene, the distance from the camera to the farthest element or object of the scene, and the distance from the camera to an element or object -- the "key subject matter" -- in the scene which is to lie in the plane of the stereoscopic picture.