Projected Image Combined With Real Object Patents (Class 353/28)
  • Patent number: 7889153
    Abstract: A projection surface on which a predetermined projection image is projected is provided; a writing surface on which an image can be drawn directly in a superimposing manner with a projection image displayed on the projection surface is provided; and a photography part photographing an image drawn on the writing surface by means of an image-pickup part comprising two-dimensionally-disposed pixels is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Kitaguchi, Tomofumi Kitazawa, Saburo Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20110019155
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for projecting a tangible image of data characterizing an object onto a surface of the object itself. Three-dimensional measurements of the object are obtained, the measurements are processed for projection, and a tangible image is projected onto the object, the image conveying information based on the three-dimensional measurements. The image may be projected concurrently with performance of measurements. In an exemplary dental context, information derived in part from three-dimensional measurements of a tooth or replica may be projected onto the actual tooth or replica. In interactive application, a work piece is be measured during the course of fabrication, and three-dimensional information, derived from contemporaneous non-contact measurement, is projected onto the work piece in order to direct the user with the formation of the work piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: OPTIMET, OPTICAL METROLOGY LTD.
    Inventors: Yitzhak Daniel, Kalman Wilner, Freddy Paz
  • Patent number: 7874681
    Abstract: An interactive image projecting device that projects an image onto a display surface and controls the projected image based upon movement of the image projecting device or the detection of another image. The image projecting device includes a projector that generates an image from a control unit. The device includes a position indicating emitter that generates a position indicator and an image sensor that is operable to detect the position indicator from either the device including the image sensor or a position indicator from another device. Based upon the sensed position indicator from another device, the control unit operates to modify the image projected from the device such that the image from a first device can interact with an image from a second device. The first and second devices each have a wireless transceiver such that the devices can communicate with each other during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Huebner
  • Publication number: 20110013147
    Abstract: A method for creating an interactive display in which users/players can form the projection screen. The method includes providing granular display material, such as a layer of sand in a container, and storing a guide image and a display image in memory of a control system. Then, a projector is first operated to project the guide image on an upper surface of the display material. After a sculpting period or in response to a user or operator provided trigger, the method includes second operating the projector to project the display image on the upper surface which has been sculpted by the user into a 3D projection surface or screen during the first operating step. The projected guide image may include an outline of an object, and the display image may include an image element that is mapped to the location of the outlined object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Thomas Fraiser LaDuke
  • Publication number: 20110001935
    Abstract: Methods and systems for projecting an image on an object or objects in a performance area are described. Special visual effects may be created using these methods and systems. Information about the object(s) and performance area is acquired and used to process the visual effects. Using this information, images can be tailored to project various colors of light or specific images onto the objects or performers within a performance area by determining the objects' exact shape and adjusting the image accordingly. Continuous information acquisition can be employed to create images that change with the movements of performers and appear to interact in substantially real time with performers, audiences, or objects in the performance area. Multiple information acquisition devices can be used, as well as multiple projection devices, to create complex and interesting special effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: Spotless, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Reale, Alex Tejada
  • Publication number: 20100328615
    Abstract: Transmission-type screens are placed corresponding to a display board at a front area of the display board, on which an article is placed. Each of the screens transmits and projects a projector image luminous flux projected from a backside of the screens to a front side of the screens. When the projector image luminous flux is projected from the backside of the screens, each of inner circumferences which defines a space including an image projecting space for leading the projector image luminous flux to the backside of the screens without obstruction. A display shelf might have a projector and a computer. The projector projects the projector image luminous flux. The display shelf might have a reflecting mirror which lead the projector image flux to the screens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: TOSHIBA TEC KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Ikeda, Hiroki Mochizuki, Masanori Takeuchi, Makoto Nozawa, Yun Wang
  • Patent number: 7843641
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for inspecting transparent materials. An optical inspection apparatus comprises a prism, a mirror, and a light source. The prism has a first end, a first side, and a second side. The first side is opposite the second side, the first end is located between the first side and the second side, the first end has an angled surface, and the prism is capable of bending light. The first side is around parallel to the second side. The mirror is on the angled surface. The mirror is capable of redirecting light entering the prism on the first side along a directed line of sight to the second side along a line of sight to a viewer. The light source is attached to another surface on the first end. The light source is capable of transmitting light through the prism along the directed line of sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Steven John Miener, Kevin Lee Brown
  • Patent number: 7806533
    Abstract: An optical system comprises a first image capture device for capturing an image of an observation area, a first display device, a semi-reflecting plate, a concave mirror disposed facing the first display device, and a second display device for displaying a background image. A light beam is scattered by the first display device through the semi-reflecting plate and then reflected by the mirror and the semi-reflecting plate in order to display an aerial image between the semi-reflecting plate and the observation area. A projector projects a light beam toward one of the display devices. The first image capture device is adapted to capture the image of the observation area via said one display device. A alternating control device alternates capture of an image of the observation area by the first image capture device and projection of the light beam projected by the projector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: France Telecom
    Inventors: Olivier Boute, Olivier Gachignard
  • Publication number: 20100214135
    Abstract: A dynamic projected user interface includes a light source for generating a light beam and a spatial light modulator for receiving and dynamically modulating the light beam to create a plurality of display images that are respectively projected onto a plurality of keys in a keyboard. An optical arrangement is disposed in an optical path between the light source and the spatial light modulator for conveying the light beam from the light source to the spatial light modulator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Steven N. Bathiche, Adrian R.L. Travis, Neil Emerton, Timothy A. Large, David Stephen Zucker
  • Patent number: 7778942
    Abstract: A transmissive display unit that displays thereon product information on a product displayed in a showcase unit. A control unit controls a display of the product information on the transmissive display unit and a sales processing of the product, with an interactive function. A memory unit stores therein the product information. An operating unit inputs instruction information to the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Hirohisa Naito
  • Publication number: 20100195057
    Abstract: A projection system for displaying information which may include an electronic device and a projector connected to the electronic device. The electronic device and projector can be positioned on an article of clothing and/or an outdoor recreational product to project information therefrom. The article of clothing and/or outdoor recreational device may include a screen to enhance the projected information. The projector may be in connection with a power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: The North Face Apparel Corp.
    Inventors: Jeff Nash, Winston Shih
  • Patent number: 7768527
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a hardware-in-the-loop simulation system and method for computer vision. An embodiment of the disclosed system comprises a software simulation and a hardware simulation. The software simulation includes a virtual scene and an observed object that are generated by virtual reality software. The virtual scene images are obtained at different viewpoints. The hardware simulation includes the virtual scene images being projected onto a screen by a projector, wherein the projected scene images are shot by a camera, and where in the direction of the camera is controlled by a pan-tilt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Beihang University
    Inventors: Guangjun Zhang, Suqi Li, Zhenzhong Wei, Zhen Liu
  • Publication number: 20100188474
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a visual-collaborative system enabling geographically distributed groups to engage in face-to-face, interactive collaborative video conferences. In one aspect, a visual-collaborative system (400) comprises a display screen, a camera system, and a projector. The display screen (402) has a first surface (410) and a second surface (416), and the camera system is positioned to capture images of objects through the display screen. The projector (404,602,702) is positioned to project images onto the first surface that can be observed by viewing the second surface. The wavelengths of light used to produce the projected images are different from with the wavelengths of light used to capture images.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventors: Ian N. Robinson, Kar-Han Tan
  • Patent number: 7762672
    Abstract: A data presentation apparatus having a function to generate a pointer image pointing a position in a presentation image is provided and includes: an image transmission section that transmits an image data of the presentation image to a terminal; a receiver that receives a control signal to determine a display position of the pointer image in the presentation image, the control signal being transmitted from the terminal; and an image generation section that generates an image data of a composite image based on the control signal, the composite image including the presentation image and the pointer image displayed in the presentation image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Fujinon Corporation
    Inventors: Junichi Yokoyama, Naoki Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 7762669
    Abstract: A system for improving the resolution of a display device by using human visual characteristics wherein an image can be displayed at a more improved resolution than an actual physical resolution, thereby achieving the same effect as that where the resolution is physically improved. An image signal corresponding to one frame is separated into a first image signal and a second image signal, and a first image and a second image are formed based on the first image signal and the second image signal. The first image and the second image are respectively displayed at a first location and a second location. As a result, a viewer can view the image with an improved resolution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: In Ho Choi, Sam Nyol Hong, Young Joong Kim, Hee Sool Koo
  • Publication number: 20100133850
    Abstract: Systems and methods for electric power generation are provided. The systems may include a wind turbine electric generator, a fixture, a battery, a processor, and a power grid. The wind turbine electric generator having a wind rotor, a plurality of blades and an electric generator. An image may be displayed on the blades to generate a dynamic image effect with the rotation of the blades around a central axis of rotation. The electric generator may be coupled to and driven by the wind rotor to generate an electrical current. The processor may be coupled to the wind turbine electric generator, the fixture, the battery, and the grid, and configured to transmit a first fraction of the electrical current to the fixture, transmit a second fraction of the electrical current to the battery, and transmit a third fraction of the electrical current to the grid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Marvin Winkler
  • Patent number: 7710643
    Abstract: An image projection system that communicates an image into the air includes screen material particles, a screen generation device, a delivery device and a light projecting system. The screen generation device disperses the screen material particles from the screen generation device at a targeted screen location, thereby forming a projection screen. The delivery device launches the screen generation device from a launch location to the targeted screen location in the air. The light projecting device projects light from a projection location onto the screen to form the image on the screen so as to be visible from an observation location of a viewer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Alion Science and Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Mitchell-Dignan, John A. Santini, Barry E. Mapen
  • Publication number: 20100066978
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to systems and methods for providing image projection and entertainment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Powell, Sam Ingraldi
  • Patent number: 7679643
    Abstract: A remote instruction system includes a control portion. The control portion transmits a first image to a remote terminal and controls a projection portion to project a first annotation image onto a subject according to an instruction issued from the remote terminal on the basis of the first image, and the control portion transmits a second image to the remote terminal and controls the projection portion to project a second annotation image onto the subject according to the instruction issued from the remote terminal on the basis of the second image, the first image being captured by a first image capturing portion provided for capturing the first image of the subject, the second image being captured by a second image capturing portion provided for zooming a given area of the subject to capture the second image, when the given area in the first image is selected from the remote terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jun Shingu
  • Publication number: 20100033682
    Abstract: A high dynamic range scenographic image and video projection system and method involving the projection of an image of an object or collection of objects onto the object, 2D or 3D, in such a manner than projected image elements are positioned substantially on the actual image of the object. The projection enhances or otherwise alters the hue, contrast, brightness, saturation, luminance, and/or other visible features of the object. Visual and not-visual features may be projected onto the object or the area around the object to enhance or disguise the object as well as the surroundings of the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas F. LaDuke, Richard Bradley Turner, Steven T. Kosakura, Bryan Lee Jolley
  • Publication number: 20100026960
    Abstract: A scanning beam overlay projection system displays an image on a projection surface by scanning a light beam in a raster pattern. Reflective spots on the projection surface reflect light back to the projection system when illuminated by the light beam. A photodetector in the projection system detects the reflected light, and timing circuits determine where in the raster pattern the reflective spots are located. The image can be scaled and warped to correlate tagged points within the image with the locations of the reflective spots on the projection surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: MICROVISION, INC.
    Inventor: Randall B. Sprague
  • Patent number: 7641345
    Abstract: A projection apparatus for generating a moving star field and a cloud-like effect comprises a means for generating a cloud-like effect using at least one non-coherent light source, a means for generating a moving star field using at least one coherent light source and a means for regulating and supplying electric power. The means for generating cloud-like effect using at least one non-coherent light source comprises at least one pair of condenser lenses and an interferential filter wheel rotated by a motor, disposed between at least one pair of condenser lenses. The means for generating the moving star field using a coherent light source comprises a grating wheel rotated by a motor and a diffractive optical element disposed between the at least one coherent light source and the grating wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Bliss Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Randy E. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090303447
    Abstract: A projection assembly and projection method for accurately reproducing animated and live characters, objects, and effects. The projection assembly uses a high precision robotic mirror system to achieve very high levels of image resolution, brightness, and contrast. The assembly includes a projector receiving an input image stream, and a mirror assembly is positioned proximate to the projector outlet. The mirror assembly uses positionable mirrors to reflect the projected images onto a display surface at positions that define an animation pattern on the display surface for the projected image or character. The assembly includes a motor controller assembly positioning the mirrors based on position data defining the animation pattern. The projected images may be provided in a projection area that is a fraction of the size of the display surface, such that the resolution and output light of the projector are concentrated on the display surface within this projection area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: RICHARD B. TURNER, DAVID F. BARNETT, THOMAS E. BRENTNALL, III
  • Publication number: 20090292614
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to systems and methods for providing image projection and entertainment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Mark A. Reichow, Thomas Frasier LaDuke, Steve Kosakura, R. Christopher Biggs
  • Publication number: 20090273759
    Abstract: A projection image display apparatus includes: an image light generator; a projection optics including a reflection mirror; and a polarization adjusting device adjusting image light to light polarized in a direction substantially orthogonal to a vertical plane along with a traveling direction of the image light reflected by the reflection mirror.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: SANYO ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Naoyuki Ikeda, Ryoko Kubo, Keiji Yuyama, Nobuyuki Ohsumi
  • Publication number: 20090276734
    Abstract: A surface computing device is described which has a surface which can be switched between transparent and diffuse states. When the surface is in its diffuse state, an image can be projected onto the surface and when the surface is in its transparent state, an image can be projected through the surface and onto an object. In an embodiment, the image projected onto the object is redirected onto a different face of the object, so as to provide an additional display surface or to augment the appearance of the object. In another embodiment, the image may be redirected onto another object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Stuart Taylor, Shahram Izadi, Daniel A. Rosenfeld, Stephen Hodges, David Alexander Butler, James Scott, Nicolas Villar
  • Publication number: 20090237617
    Abstract: A projection apparatus comprises a projection unit which forms a picture corresponding to an input image signal and projects the formed picture onto an object, a specifying unit which specifies a region in the picture projected by the projection unit, and a projection control unit which causes the region of the picture projected by the projection unit to be limited according to the region specified by the specifying unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Atsushi INOSHITA
  • Publication number: 20090195753
    Abstract: The system contains a plurality of laser projectors. An image of a marking is projected in a synchronized form by the plurality of laser projectors. A computer network provides communication with the laser projectors. A central workstation communicates with the laser projectors through the computer network. The central workstation coordinates the image projected by the laser projectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: William J. Dill, Paul E. Jennerjohn, Paul G. Solecki, Reynold R. Panergo, James C. Vanavery, Lindsey M. Caton, Pamela J. Manzer, David A. Lindley
  • Patent number: 7562985
    Abstract: A mirror assembly (18) for displaying an image (15) in conjunction with the reflection (14?) of a viewer comprises a mirror (2), which is equipped with a reflective polariser (13), arranged to reflect light (3) incident on its viewing side and transmit light (4) incident on its non-viewing side, where the reflected light (3) and transmitted light (4) may be of different polarization. The image (15) is displayed by a device (5) located on the non-viewing side and focused by a focusing element, e.g. one or more lenses (12, 12a), onto an image plane. The image plane may be located between the mirror (2) and viewer (14), so that a perceived image (15?) appears to stand out from the mirror (2). Alternatively, the image plane may be located so that the perceived image (15?) forms a background in which the viewer's reflection (14?) is immersed. The mirror assembly (1) may further comprise one or more detectors (19) for obtaining a silhouette (21) of the viewer (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Hubertus M. R. Cortenraad, Anthonie H. Bergman, Jan B. A. M. Horsten, Marc J. R. Op De Beeck
  • Patent number: 7562983
    Abstract: A three-dimensional image display device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the device uses a curved transmissive screen and reflectors to minimize the space associated with the device when increasing the size of the three-dimensional image. By placing a physically driven background screen over the projected image and screen, excessively diffused reflection of the Fresnel lenses is eliminated. High-resolution real-time video images are provided as three-dimensional images by realizing three-dimensional images with enhanced perspective as if they are floating in space. According to one embodiment of the invention, a distortion of the three-dimensional image is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignees: Kwangwoon University Research Institute for Industry Cooperation
    Inventors: Eun-Soo Kim, Sun-Joo Jang
  • Publication number: 20090168027
    Abstract: A projection system that prevents projection light on a presenter and provides a gesture based interface for visual enhancements is disclosed. The system may include a projector camera system comprising a computer communicating an image to a projector, the projector projecting the image on a screen, a stereo camera unit mounted approximately in the plane of the screen or at the projector and directed toward the presenter and communicating with the computer, and software that interprets the stereo camera data to distinguish and manipulate foreground and background features. The foreground feature may be the presenter relative to the screen or to the audience and room, or the presenter's hand relative to the presenter. The invention employs imaging stereo camera algorithms and techniques developed for foreground/background segmentation, image manipulation, and gesture recognition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Wesslund Dunn, Gregory Joseph Dunn, Boaz Super, Tianli Yu
  • Publication number: 20090153804
    Abstract: A software apparatus for the user-friendly, desktop-based authoring, creation, management, and publication of a personal, enhanced audiovisual presentation comprising a software program which automatically captures and encodes the audiovisual presentation recorded by the user using the webcam, allows the user to edit an application-imported textual resume and synchronize parts of the textual resume with segments of the recorded audiovisual presentation, assigns a URL to the completed enhanced audiovisual presentation, and. A computer teleprompter especially adapted for use with the disclosed apparatus for desktop-based recording of an enhanced audiovisual presentation comprising a front enclosure with an opening, a webcam mount, a webcam position adjustment knob attached to the webcam mount, a lower mirror, and a beam splitter mirror with a transmission-to-reflection ratio that is adapted for use with a webcam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Hernan Giraldo, Robert Malli
  • Publication number: 20090153811
    Abstract: A method is described for multiple persons operating lasers to cooperatively project a pointillistic graphical image onto a remote surface. The visibility of the projected image depends on aiming the lasers with accurate relative displacements. Invariant features of the specific remote landscape where the image is to be projected are used as guideposts for maintaining these displacements. A set of transparent images is distributed to the laser operators, designating for each a spot to illuminate, superimposed on a scaled representation of the background landscape. In the preferred embodiment, each transparent image is used as a reticle, mounted into a monocular at its internal focal plane with the designated illumination spot centered on-axis. A laser is also rigidly attached to the monocular, with their optical axes parallel. Each operator aims his/her laser by visually sighting through the monocular so as to align transparent and direct views of the target landscape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Mark Stephen Braiman, Dusten Joseph Blake
  • Publication number: 20090128783
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an ocular-protection projector device, wherein the projector is additionally equipped with an image-capture unit. When the projector projects information onto a screen, the image-capture unit captures the human-shape image of a user. An image-processing unit, which is arranged inside the projector or an external electronic device, receives the human-shape image, creates a human-shape black mask, and outputs the human-shape black mask via the projector onto an area of the screen corresponding to the user's position. Thereby, the present invention can effectively protect the user's eyes from the harm of intense light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Yueh-Hong Shih, Hei-Tai Hong, Chun-Yuan Cheng
  • Publication number: 20090124382
    Abstract: An interactive image projection system and method provides for projection of an interactive image on a projection surface. A copy of the image is broadcast by two projectors onto the projection surface in registration with one another to form a single projection copy on the surface. Sensors on the surface detect a position on the projection surface of an object manipulatable by a user and a computing device connected to the object generates an output in response thereto. The projectors are configured such that any shadow cast by the object in the path of a projection from one projector is at least partially eliminated by the projection of the other projector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventors: David Lachance, Ernest Yale
  • Publication number: 20090115969
    Abstract: A system employed in a projector for protecting eyes when the projector is in use, includes an initialization module, a light emitting-receiving device, a time-measuring module, a comparison module, and an image-outputting device. The initialization module is configured for initializing a standard time value. The light emitting-receiving device is configured for emitting a light and receiving a reflection of the light. The time-measuring module is configured for measuring time elapsed between emitting the light and receiving the reflection to generate a time-cost value. The comparison module is configured for comparing the standard time value with the time-cost value to generate a signal. The image-outputting device is configured for outputting an eye-protective image or a general image corresponding to the signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: SHENG-HUNG CHEN
  • Patent number: 7517090
    Abstract: A device using a low-cost plastic curved mirror and several combinations of methods for reducing aberrations to improve a real image projection system is provided, so as to reduce ghost and astigmatism phenomenon. The real image projection system includes a curved mirror having two different optical surfaces of revolution, one on a convex surface and the other on a concave surface. The real image projection system may include at least a curved reflector positioned in a tilted configuration, and an optical axis of the reflector does not coincide with a viewing axis. A beampath between a target source and the curved reflector neither passes through a beamsplitter nor is reflected thereby. The real image projection system may further include a circular polarizer for circularly polarizing a light beam in a primary light path between the mirror and the real image, eliminating ghost image caused by outside light sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Provision Interactive Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Vrachan, Curtis L. Thornton
  • Publication number: 20090091710
    Abstract: An interactive image projecting device that projects an image onto a display surface and controls the projected image based upon movement of the image projecting device or the detection of another image. The image projecting device includes a projector that generates an image from a control unit. The device includes a position indicating emitter that generates a position indicator and an image sensor that is operable to detect the position indicator from either the device including the image sensor or a position indicator from another device. Based upon the sensed position indicator from another device, the control unit operates to modify the image projected from the device such that the image from a first device can interact with an image from a second device. The first and second devices each have a wireless transceiver such that the devices can communicate with each other during operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Huebner
  • Publication number: 20090091711
    Abstract: An image projection kit and a imagery content distribution system and method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Ricardo Rivera
  • Publication number: 20090079942
    Abstract: An automatic vision display apparatus has a flight object having a floating gas filled therein to fly, flying along a vertical wall surface and including a screen mounted at an opposite side to the vertical wall surface; a propulsion unit mounted at a predetermined position of the flight object and moving the flight object; a control unit mounted to the flight object and controlling the propulsion unit; a projector projecting an image on the screen of the flight object at a distance from the flight object; an adjusting unit adjusting an image projecting direction of the projector; and a main control unit controlling the projector to project the image and controlling the adjusting unit so that the projector tracks a movement of the flight object to project an image. According to the invention, it is possible to project an image while automatically tracking the screen of the flight object being flying.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventors: Sung-Ha Lee, Sung-Chul Kang, Sang-Chul Ahn, Bong-Seok Kim, Seung-Yong Oh
  • Publication number: 20090073391
    Abstract: An image display apparatus which displays an image as a transmitted projection image includes: a tread-board of a step which has a first projection surface and transmits a projection image projected on the first projection surface; and a cross-board of the step which has a second projection surface and transmits a projection image projected on the second projection surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi HASEGAWA
  • Publication number: 20090073390
    Abstract: A projector comprising a light engine, a detector, and a control unit is disclosed. The light engine comprises a light source and generates a projection beam based on the light from the light source. The space which the projection beam passes through is defined as a projection area, and a security area is defined by the projector to include or overlap the projection area. The detector detects whether a living organism is in the security area or not. When the detector detects a living organism in the security area, the detector generates a warning signal and transmits the warning signal to the control unit. After receiving the warning signal, the control unit directs the projector to enter a security mode to protect the living organism from being hurt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Applicant: CORETRONIC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chin-Ku Liu
  • Patent number: 7500755
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a half mirror for allowing light incident from the rear to pass through to the front and reflecting light incident from the front toward the front, a display section placed at the rear of the half mirror, an image pickup section for picking up an image of the user and generating user image data, an image data retention section for retaining a plurality of pieces of attachment member image data, an image combining section for combining the attachment member image data selectively read from the image data retention section and the user image data to generate combined image data, and an image display control section for displaying the combined image data on the display section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignees: Pioneer Corporation, Pioneer Design Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Ishizaki, Wataru Takahashi, Kuniko Ushiro, Yuki Nagai
  • Publication number: 20090059175
    Abstract: A display arrangement having a user-facing side, the display arrangement comprising a display device and a data reader device for reading data from a data carrier associated with an item, including item identification data. The display arrangement has a database interface for accessing a database, which stores content data in correspondence with item identification data. The display device is responsive to item identification data being read by the data reader device from a data carrier to display content data on the user-facing side. The user-facing side includes a mirror, and a user sees both a reflection from the mirror and the displayed image when the user is in front of the user-facing side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: The Big Space Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert Le Quesne, Richard Lockard
  • Publication number: 20090051879
    Abstract: The method and system focuses a projected image with a multiple rotationally symmetric aspheric surfaces and an ellipsoidal reflector-relay onto or in a user's eye. The image is projected from the first elliptical foci and is focused on the eye at the second foci. A peripherally mounted outboard projector unit uses three lenses and a substantially flat projector surface. Alternatively, an inboard mounted projector unit uses two lenses with non-rotationally symmetric aspheric surfaces and a biconic projector surface (organic light emitting diode (OLED) or curved silicon). The image projector-lens system and the ellipsoid pupil relay are correctly positioned on the head of the user by a head mount system which may be goggles, eye glasses worn by the user, or screens or shields depending from a head piece or helmet worn by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventors: Anthony Vitale, James A. Carer, III
  • Patent number: 7494224
    Abstract: A lecture presentation system includes a display screen and a projector for projecting an image onto the display screen. The display screen has image-receiving strip members linked to one another for receiving the image projected from the projector and an open space between each two adjacent strip members. Another lecture presentation system disclosed by the present invention includes a display screen for displaying an image. The display screen is formed of strip-like LCDs (liquid crystal displays) coupled to one another and respectively spaced from one another by an open space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventor: William Lin
  • Publication number: 20090025750
    Abstract: A method of removing a deposition from an optical element of an apparatus. The method includes providing a hydrogen comprising gas in at least a part of the apparatus, providing nitrogen radicals in the part of the apparatus for generating hydrogen radicals from the hydrogen comprising gas, and contacting the optical element with at least part of the hydrogen radicals to removal the deposition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Applicant: ASML NETHERLANDS B.V.
    Inventors: Maarten Marinus Wilhelmus Van Herpen, Antonius Theodorus Kempen, Wouter Anthon Soer
  • Publication number: 20090027622
    Abstract: A projection system that projects coherent light rays from a coherent light (e.g., laser) source onto an inner reflective surface of a three-dimensional viewing space is disclosed. A relatively compact and low-power laser light image can thereby be formed and seen by an observer from inside the viewing space. Raster scanning or simultaneous projection onto large solid angles of said viewing space are possible. Useful and entertaining information can also be displayed, optionally as dynamic and moving images, onto the projection screen as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Applicant: LALLEY BROTHERS SCIENTIFIC LLC
    Inventors: Marc Lalley, Matthew Lalley
  • Patent number: 7481539
    Abstract: A software apparatus for the user-friendly, desktop-based authoring, creation, management, and publication of a personal, enhanced audiovisual presentation comprising a software program which automatically captures and encodes the audiovisual presentation recorded by the user using the webcam, allows the user to edit an application-imported textual resume and synchronize parts of the textual resume with segments of the recorded audiovisual presentation, assigns a URL to the completed enhanced audiovisual presentation, and. A computer teleprompter especially adapted for use with the disclosed apparatus for desktop-based recording of an enhanced audiovisual presentation comprising a front enclosure with an opening, a webcam mount, a webcam position adjustment knob attached to the webcam mount, a lower mirror, and a beam splitter mirror with a transmission-to-reflection ratio that is adapted for use with a webcam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventors: Hernan Giraldo, Robert Malli
  • Publication number: 20080316432
    Abstract: Methods and systems for projecting an image on an object or objects in a performance area are described. Special visual effects may be created using these methods and systems. Information about the object(s) and performance area is acquired and used to process the visual effects. Using this information, images can be tailored to project various colors of light or specific images onto the objects or performers within a performance area by determining the objects' exact shape and adjusting the image accordingly. Continuous information acquisition can be employed to create images that change with the movements of performers and appear to interact in substantially real time with performers, audiences, or objects in the performance area. Multiple information acquisition devices can be used, as well as multiple projection devices, to create complex and interesting special effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: Spotless, LLC
    Inventor: Alex Tejada