Abstract: There is provided an image processing device to enable a user to experience a VR space in a floating state, the image processing device including: a wall configured to form a water storage space; and an image generating unit configured to generate a stereoscopic view image to be displayed on the wall toward an inside of the water storage space.

Abstract: A system (10) for displaying at least one virtual object includes a secondary screen (20) for displaying the virtual object, a primary screen (30), an optical element for overlaying images displayed on the secondary screen (20) with images displayed on the primary screen (30), and a pointing surface combined with the primary screen (30) for detecting the contact of one or more physical pointing elements. A device (90) for manipulating at least one virtual object includes calculation elements for generating images of the virtual object displayed on the system (10) from information output from the system (10) in accordance with the actions of the operator (100).

Abstract: A focus adjusting seat includes a base seat, at least one guide bar, a driving device and an image sensor adjusting seat. The base seat includes a bottom plate and a front plate connected to the bottom plate and having a lens installation hole. Two ends of the at least one guide bar are disposed on the bottom plate, respectively. The driving device is disposed on the bottom plate and has an output screw. The image sensor adjusting seat includes a bottom seat and an image sensor installation part connected to the bottom seat and facing toward the lens installation hole. The bottom seat has a screwed part screwed to the output screw and at least one guide groove movably assembled with at least one guide bar. The driving device is adapted to adjust a relative position between the image sensor adjusting seat and the lens installation hole.

Abstract: A method for projecting imagery onto a plurality of non-coplanar surfaces includes: viewing one or more mattes on a display; projecting, from a projector device operatively coupled to the display, a projected image of the one or more mattes on the three-dimensional surface; adjusting on the display the size, shape, position, orientation, or any combination thereof, of a first matte of the one or more mattes; viewing adjustments to the first matte on the display; and projecting the adjustments to the first matte so that edges of the projected image of the first matte are aligned with surface edges of at least one of the non-coplanar surfaces.

Abstract: In a computerized film (digital camera action) production system, a virtual director module takes responsibility for creating sets, and enabling cinematography by creating a synthetic parallax matching of a “set” image to what would have existed before a camera in real motion about the physical location represented. This overcomes failures typical of “green screen” technology in dealing with such conditions as shallow depth of field and low light. Computer generated, synthetic sets from a 3D animator may be projected behind real actors during or after filming. Sythetic sets are seen through a virtual camera as photo-realistic because they are skinned with textures, and structured geometrically, to match reality represented by actual still photography of a physical environment, such as buildings, walls, streets, landscapes, props, and the like.

Abstract: An image processing apparatus includes a first image pick-up unit, a projecting unit that projects imaging light, an optical unit that transmits part of light entering from a first image pick-up direction and guides the part of the light to the first image pick-up unit while reflecting part of the imaging light projected from the projecting unit and outputting the reflected light in the first image pick-up direction, and reflects part of light entering from a second image pick-up direction and guides the part of the light to the first image pick-up unit while transmitting part of the imaging light projected from the projecting unit and outputting the part of the imaging light in the second image pick-up direction, and an attenuating unit that is movably placed between two positions.

Abstract: A file system for a stage lighting system that maintains the different files associated with the stage lighting system. Each of the files that can represent an effect are maintained within the system within a configuration file. The configuration file can be updated on each start of the system so that the system can maintain information indicative of current configuration files. A test mode can also be entered in which a pre-formed show can be tested against the current state of the configuration files.

Abstract: A movie anti-piracy system with sensing and reporting is provided. A movie projector projects a light image to reflect off of a screen, while an infrared energy projection source generates an infrared energy pattern which is reflected off the screen (or otherwise projected) in the same field of view as the light images reflecting from the screen. Infrared energy sensors are positioned in the seating area of the theater. The infrared sensors provide sensed signals respectively to a sensor response controller. The controller is responsive to the sensor signals to provide an infrared status (and other data) signal output to a control center. The control center responds to the infrared status and other data signals, from one or a plurality of theaters, and provides for reporting of information (such as security compliance, attendance, etc.) to one or multiple reporting sites (such as movie distribution studios, etc.).

Abstract: A method for controlling a depth of field when filming a scene. A rear-projection screen behind a subject in a foreground is provided. An image is projected onto the rear-projection screen to act as a background for the scene. The scene is filmed including the foreground and the background. A varying degree of focus is applied to a plurality of objects in the image as a function of a degree of focus of each of the objects for an intended distance between each of the objects and the subject.

Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for generating a visual image that is made to appear to be situated behind an architectural structure, such as a wall of a building, and is viewed through windows thereof. The image appears as an oversize object relative to the actual object. The system and method include an image recorder and/or a pre-recorded image, an image display apparatus, and a mask. Sound can be provided as required to complete the illusion. The image can be a still image or a moving image. In some embodiments, two viewers can see the image from opposite sides of the structure, each perceiving the image as being on the side opposite to the viewer. The system includes a video capture device and a display and an optional audio system for showing the person whose image is being projected the giant image as seen and heard by a viewer.

Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for generating a visual image that is made to appear to be situated behind an architectural structure, such as a wall of a building, and is viewed through windows thereof. The image appears as an oversize object relative to the actual object. The system and method include an image recorder and/or a pre-recorded image, an image display apparatus, and a mask. Upon being projected, the image of interest is masked so that illumination falls on one or more regions of a display surface, and no illumination reaches the architectural structure outside the display region(s). Sound can be provided as required to complete the illusion. The image can be a still image or a moving image. In some embodiments, two viewers can see the image from opposite sides of the structure, each perceiving the image as being on the side opposite to the viewer.

Abstract: An illumination obscurement device for controlling the obscurement of illumination from a light source which is optimized for use with a rectangular, arrayed, selective reflection device. In a preferred embodiment, a rotatable shutter with three positions is placed between a light source and a DMD. The first position of the shutter is a mask, preferably an out of focus circle. This out of focus circle creates a circular mask and changes any unwanted dim reflection to a circular shape. The second position of the shutter is completely open, allowing substantially all the light to pass. The third position of the shutter is completely closed, blocking substantially all the light from passing. By controlling the penumbra illumination surrounding the desired illumination, DMDs can be used in illumination devices without creating undesirable rectangular penumbras.

Abstract: The present invention provides a matte process employing an improved backing screen having particular application for use in composite photography. In particular, the present invention relates to color difference composite photography, whether still, motion picture, video, solid state digital electronic or electrophotographic imaging, in which foreground and background scenes are separately recorded and subsequently combined using known “blue screen” or special color background techniques to form a single image. The present invention includes a biaxially stretchable fabric of synthetic fibers treated with a dye formulation, including fluorescence which is reactive to the visible spectrum, to achieve any of a variety of specific spectral loci and luminances, for the purpose of providing a precise chromatic actinic stimulus response for a silver halide photographic film, or similar response for electronic imaging devices.

Abstract: A floating segmented conglomerate backing screen for use in underwater composite photography. A plurality of buoyant pads of an essentially hexagonal shape have surfaces exhibiting specific chrominance and luminance properties as required for a traveling matte process. The individual segments are deployed onto a liquid surface of a finite area in a quantity sufficient to substantially cover the liquid surface in its entirety, in an edge-to-edge, floating, conglomerate relationship. The floating raft created by the segments permits egress and ingress for people and equipment directly through the raft and likewise permits the escape of air rising from below the surface. When appropriately illuminated from either below or above the surface, or both, the chrominance and luminance of the raft is such that an essentially monochromatic backing field is provided for traveling matte processes.

Abstract: A theater includes an audience seating area, a stage and at least three projection screens. Multiple film projectors simultaneously project a three dimensional film onto the three projection screens. Three dimensional film elements appear to move seamlessly from one projection screen to the next. In a live action show, actors, stage sets and show action equipment appear to interact with the three dimensional film. The filmed set blends with the stage sets to give dimension and a feeling of depth to the viewing audience. The audience cannot easily distinguish between the real elements and filmed elements thereby intensifying the theater experience.

Abstract: A process for displaying an animated likeness of the face of a character, includes the steps of (a) providing a face screen having a three-dimensional representation of the face of the character; (b) making a projectable image of the face of the character with an image recorder while projecting the image on the face screen with a projector; (c) obtaining a presentation registration of the image and the face screen through a process selected from the group consisting of (i) altering the projectable image, (ii) adjusting at least one component of face screen position, image recording means position, projector position, focal length and lighting while making the projectable image, and (iii) combinations thereof; and (d) subsequently projecting the image on the face screen at the presentation registration whereby an animated likeness of the face of the individual is presented. An apparatus for carrying out the process is also provided.

Abstract: A performance or show production system and method allows a performer to control and interact with an on-stage display or screen. The on-stage screen is used to create a virtual extension of the stage. Images displayed on the screen may include video playback and real-time generated, texture mapped graphics. The system includes a media production system for producing visual images, a display system for displaying the visual images, a tracking system for tracking the position of the performer on the stage and for producing a position indication, and a control system for controlling the production of visual images by the media system as a function of the position of the entertainer on the stage.

Abstract: A motion picture film composition method can be provided in which when a first motion picture film on which a first picture is imaged and a second motion picture on which a second picture is imaged are combined, the first motion picture film is converted into a video signal and processed in accordance with predetermined video signal processing to form an intermediate film and a mask film necessary for film composition, and a latent image obtained by superposing the intermediate film and the mask film and another latent image obtained by superposing the second picture film and the mask film are imaged for double exposure to combine the first motion picture film and the second motion picture film with high accuracy so that a combined motion picture film in which the second picture is superposed on the first picture can be made easily.

Abstract: A multiplanar image display system having a plurality of display units disposed to expose, by transmission through and reflection by transparent panels, displayed images to a viewing end of an image chamber. The images overlap along a common viewing axis to create an illusion of a three-dimensional display. The transparent panels and a primary display unit are disposed along, and secondary display units are displaced from, the viewing axis. The transparent panels and the display units are angled to each other and to the viewing axis. The display units are adjustably mounted; and the distances separating the overlapping images, and thereby the amount of parallax, are controllable as a function of the distances between the display units and their associated reflecting transparent panels.

Abstract: The method comprises taking a negative picture of a stage and any objects, scenery, characters or other props thereon, recording and storing said negative, creating, recording and storing complementary and/or additional theatrical effects to be superimposed on the original effects resulting from the recording of the first negative, and producing carrier plates intended for projection and comprising the data corresponding to said recordings. An apparatus for implementing the method essentially comprises a first, optical assembly (18) acting both as a photographing apparatus and as a projection apparatus, a second, recording/storing apparatus (13-14), and a third, projection plate-creating assembly (17).

Abstract: This invention relates to a system for monitoring the movements of people in an office or other environment. Each room to be monitored has within it a sensor responsive to signals transmitted by identifiers worn by the people whose movements are being tracked. The identifier signals give the identity of the person allocated that identifier. The sensors are themselves polled periodically by a computer to generate time-stamped records of who was within range of which sensor. When an event is to be recalled, other time-stamped audio or video records of what was said or done in each monitored room are scanned for that record which was being generated at the time of the event in question.

Abstract: A swimming pool producing surrounding visual effects utilizes large picture generating surfaces adjacent to water-containing surfaces for displaying large images emulative of remote swimming environments. The pool has controllable water currents for in-place swimming or diving in one or more directions. These controlled water currents and the large images are coordinated by a computer for producing a virtual underwater environment in which picture scenes evolve and water-currents flow as a function of swimmer activity. A large apparent swimming area can therefore be produced. For added realism, the pool may include sound-generating devices and parametric weather machines to accurately emulate natural environments and also produce spectacular special effects for the swimming or diving subject and for possible observers thereof.

Abstract: A dimensional transformation apparatus and related method for creating visual effects for use in live and prerecorded entertainment. The system engages an elastic projection screen with a three-dimensional object that corresponds to visual effects to be projected. By application of vacuum between the screen and the object, the screen is conformed in skintight relation to the features of the three dimensional object. An actuator, which includes a pneumatic piston, motivates the three-dimensional object to selectively engage and disengage the projection screen, and may be sequenced with projected animation corresponding to the three-dimensional object so as to create multi-dimensional special effects. A control mechanism, including a computer and timing system, digitally controls and sequences projection, dimensional transformation of the screen and background lighting and sound effects.

Abstract: A front projection composite photography system using a pair of perpendicular reflex screens combines two projected background scenes with a staged scene in a single camera shot for a versatile range of special effects. Complementary mattes are used outside the projectors and camera for either soft or hard edged merging into overall projected background scenes. A camera-projector housing cabinet includes all elements compactly except for stage reflex screens which are externally located in a small studio room. A lens permits use of a small secondary reflex screen used with a larger primary screen behind a movable stage setup. The camera, two projectors and respective associated three half mirrored transparent beam splitters provide registration adjustments for registration of all composite picture portions for immediate observation through the camera viewfinder so the film will be properly aligned and so that a complex composite picture may be produced with a single camera take.

Abstract: A sliding mirror mechanism is positionable in a first position to operatively engage a registration device to permit reticle masking for multi image photographs and in a second position to operatively cooperate with a rotary shutter to expose a strip of film to make the photograph. An interchangeable flip mirror shutter mechanism, operatively combinable with the registration device, can be substituted for the sliding mirror mechanism. In a first position, the mirror of the flip mirror shutter mechanism cooperates with the registration device to compose the image to be photographed and in a second position exposes the strip of film to make the photograph. Each of a pair of film boxes is keyed to the camera and removably retained by a pivoting lever. An independent pivotally mounted direct drive motor associated with each film box selectively urges rotation of a reel attached driven wheel with a drive wheel.

Abstract: A process for producing a traveling matte by first converting a first picture including a foreground and a background image to an electronic form into computer memory. Then, converting a second background picture to electronic form and storing it into computer memory. The computer is then used to subtract one stored picture from the other to arrive at a difference image. The shade of the difference image is then changed to a uniform black color, thereby creating an electronic male matte having only black and white regions, which is stored in the computer memory. The computer is then used to change all black regions of the male matte to white regions and all white regions of the male matte to black regions, thereby creating a female matte, which is stored in computer memory. Finally, the stored male and female mattes are converted from electronic form to a photographic material, such as film.

Abstract: The device includes a camera having first and second imaging mediums. Polarized illumination is directed toward the camera from a screen mounted behind the foreground object. The foreground object blocks some polarized light from reaching the camera. Unpolarized light illuminates the foreground object, and the light reflects from the foreground object to the camera. A prism in the camera reflects polarized light to the first imaging medium and transmits the orthogonal components from the foreground object to the second imaging medium. The image received by the first imaging medium is combined with a background scene, and the image received by the second imaging medium is added to the combined image of the first imaging medium and the background scene.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of using the fundamental property of semiconductors to combine two or more photographic images into a single photographic image, the method involving the use of ultraviolet light to cause areas of a transparent semiconductor to become reflective and opaque so that portions of a projected background image can't pass through those parts of the semiconductor while portions of an appropriate foreground image reflect from them, thereby creating a composite image.

Abstract: The invention pertains to the art of photography and provides a method of making the optical mattes that are used in making composite photographs. The method consists of transforming an image of an object photographed against an illuminated background into a luminous silhouette of the object on a dark background, diminishing the luminosity contrast within the said silhouette, and recording the result on black-and-white film. The invention includes apparatus necessary to carry out the method.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for creating traveling mattes in which a first image is photographed and then sensed. The first image is then electronically processed followed by the steps of photographing on the same film a successive image and simultaneously transmitting to a light valve an electronic signal to produce a high-contrast negative image corresponding to the first image so that the successive image is combined with the first image.

Abstract: A composite cinematography system and method in which two identical images are projected towards two separate reflective screens, respectively, with a camera being disposed in the reflective path of one of the screens. The reflection from the other screen is directed into the reflective path and masking means are provided for masking selected complimentary portions of the images on both of the reflecting means to create a special effect. A lens system is provided which forms a reduced focused image of at least one of the images at a location along its respective reflective path and means are disposed in the latter reflective path approximate to the reduced focused image for superimposing an additional image onto the reduced focused image to form a composite image for photographing by the camera.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method of producing a photograph of a mobile subject such as a vehicle, in which method a camera is mounted for linear translational movement along a support in a direction parallel with the path of movement of the subject. A motion transmitting operative connection is established between the subject and the camera such that for a linear translational displacement of the subject in said direction there will be a corresponding linear translational displacement of the camera in said direction along said support. The motion transmitting connection may comprise a mechanical connection e.g. via Bowden cable, or an electrical or electronic servo arrangement. To produce a photograph, the subject is displaced linearly in said one direction while making a photographic exposure in the camera, so that the period of the exposure lies within the period of corresponding movement of the camera along said support.

Abstract: Apparatus and method is disclosed herein for producing a pair of identical images on the same piece of film except for the appearance of the background which becomes black behind one of the images and clear behind the other. The apparatus includes a background screen reflecting polarized light and a motion picture camera having an image duplicating device carried before the lens thereof comprising a beam split element for optically conducting a pair of images simultaneously through filters via front surface mirrors and prisms to a recording film strip. One filter is of neutral density so that a half frame on the film strip records a black image on a clear background while the other filter is a polarizing filter producing a clear image on a black background on the other half of the film strip frame.

Abstract: A reverse blue screen process for travelling matte cinematography, which comprises the formation of travelling mattes by pre-coating models or other foreground subjects utilized in composite cinematography with one or more phosphor materials which are invisible upon exposure to visible light, but which emit light of predetermined wavelengths upon excitation by ultraviolet light, and exposing the models through appropriate filters to produce mattes of the predetermined portions of the models coated with the phosphorescing materials, by thus reversing the conventional blue screen process for travelling matte cinematography and exposing an illuminating foreground subject against an opaque background rather than an opaque foreground subject against an illuminated background, it is possible for the first time to successfully matte finely detailed models or other foreground subjects displaying specular reflectance in a single film process.

Abstract: This invention relates to an optical method of inserting a subject image into a background image to create a composite image by projecting the background image onto a light-reflecting countermatte of the subject image and causing the subject image to appear in the non-reflective part of the countermatte. The invention includes an apparatus for carrying out the method.

Abstract: A camera for taking a plurality of exposures upon a continuous length of film includes a film transport/registration sprocket mounted directly to the shaft of a first stepper motor for incremental rotation thereby. The film transport/registration sprocket engages sprocket holes along the edges of the film for transporting the film through the camera and registering the film relative to an aperture plate assembly. Guide rollers are provided to guide a portion of the film past the aperture plate assembly through which the film can be exposed. The aperture plate assembly includes an aperture frame which supports a removable aperture mask for selecting the area of film to be exposed. A shutter disk is mounted to a shaft for rotation by a second stepper motor in order to expose the film. A pressure plate controlled by the shutter disk shaft urges the film against registration pins within the aperture frame which engage the sprocket holes in the film during each exposure.

Abstract: A stand for photographic apparatus for use in filming has a main frame rotatable about a first verticle axis, and a circular support mounted on the frame for rotation about a second horizontal, diametric axis. The circular support includes an inner and an outer ring, one ring being rotatable relative to the other about a third axis through the center of the circular support: the three axes being perpendicular to one another. The circular support carries, a camera mounting on one side arranged so that a camera will be positioned with its lens axis along the third axis, and a projector mounting on the other side of the circular support arranged so that a projector's projection axis is positioned perpendicular to the lens axis.

Abstract: A housing which is adjustable for height and within which is placed an object to be projected onto a screen also contains a light source and a reflecting system, the light emitted by the source being reflected onto the object. The top face of the housing is pierced in order to permit the passage of the luminous flux through an optical system which is placed above the housing and cooperates with a camera for photographing the projected image of the object on the screen. Adjustable means are provided for optical coupling between the camera and the assembly consisting of optical system and housing.

Abstract: To record a composite picture on a film, a projection objective inserted between a movable transparency support and a pair of large-diameter planoconvex field lenses produces an aerial image of a slide, mounted on the support, in the region of the field lenses, preferably just beyond the more rewardly positioned field lens. A varifocal objective disposed to the rear of the field lenses has a stationary front component fully illuminated by the diverging light cones from all the points of the aerial image, this varifocal objective forming part of a zoom camera enabling the magnification ratio between the slide and its image on the camera film to be varied in a range of at least 6:1.

Abstract: A system for registering images produced by projectors on a screen or other viewing surface is described herein. Two or more projectors are used with a laser attached to one of the projectors. The laser emits a reference point on the screen and a light-sensitive sensor such as a diode array or TV camera is connected to the other projector to allow a determination of the reference point. One motion system is connected to one of the projectors and the laser and another motion system is connected to the other projector and the sensor. A computer is coupled to both motion systems, the laser and the sensor so that the computer will cause the projectors to move so that the images produced by the projectors are always registered and are believable to an observer.

Abstract: A composing machine in which successive original documents have selected portions thereof masked. The unmasked portions of each original document are displayed and reproduced, in registration with one another, forming a composite copy from the unmasked portions of each original document.The foregoing abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: A front projecting system comprising a single lens which is used for photographing an object and also for projecting at the same time a transparency or image on a screen background located behind the object. With such a novel front projecting apparatus, many of the alignment problems associated with prior art dual lens front projection systems are eliminated and because of the exact registration between the object image and its shadow cast on the background, dark edge outlines (or object shadows) are also eliminated.

Abstract: To record a composite picture on a film, a projection objective inserted between a movable transparency support and a pair of large-diameter planoconvex field lenses produces an aerial image of a slide, mounted on the support, in the region of the field lenses, preferably just beyond the more rearwardly positioned field lens. A varifocal objective disposed to the rear of the field lenses has a stationary front component with a natural entrance pupil fully illuminated by the diverging light cones from all the points of the aerial image, this varifocal objective forming part of a zoom camera enabling the magnification ratio between the slide and its image on the camera film to be varied in a range of at least 6:1.

Abstract: A special polarizing beam splitting unit is employed in a composite photography system which utilizes an autocollimating screen having the capability of reflecting light with virtually no scatter or dispersion. A projector projects a background subject image onto the autocollimating screen, the image traversing first a path along an axis generally parallel to the plane of the autocollimating or projection screen and then by means of the polarizing beam splitting unit via a path extending along an axis normal to the plane of the projection screen. The subject is positioned between the polarizing beam splitting unit and the projection screen. A source of fill light is directed onto the subject through a washout suppression screen containing a polarizing filter oriented so that its plane of polarization is perpendicular to that of the polarization filter contained in the beam splitting unit. The suppression screen also includes an absorbing filter for attenuating visible blue light.

Abstract: A combination physical and projected display system for merchandising furniture and the like, includes an article support platform at least partly surrounded by panels serving as projecting screens. Furniture articles or the like positioned on this platform are complemented by selected background images rear-projected onto the screens by projectors positioned behind the panels.