Abstract: A technique of using an electronic device to change light into the facsimile of an image. Signals are generated, indicative of the image shape. An array of electro optical devices are transformed based on the image signals, and those devices are used to transform the light characteristics.

Abstract: The present invention provides a holographic screen having high durability and high diffraction efficiency due to a modulated refractive index structure having a large refractive index change ?n. The holographic screen includes a diamond-like carbon (DLC) layer (22). The DLC layer has a modulated refractive index structure including a plurality of regions with a relatively high refractive index (n1) and a plurality of regions with a relatively low refractive index (n2) such that light projected from a projector onto the screen is deflected in the direction toward a observer and light coming from an object behind the screen is allowed to pass through the screen to travel toward the observer.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating an image comprises a projection means, which is designed to generate an image on a projection area, a detection means, which is designed to generate a detection means signal in dependence on a position or change of position of the projection means, and a control means, which is designed to control the image generated by the projection means based on the detection means signal. A method for generating an image comprises detecting a position or change of position of a projection means via a detection means, generating a detection means signal by the detection means in dependence on the position or change of position and controlling the image generated by the projection means on a projection area based on the detection means signal.

Abstract: A method for the optical projection of profiles on the work surface (1) of a machine (100) for automatic cutting of flat articles (2) includes the following operation steps: positioning of a flat article (2) on the work surface; definition of a profile (3, 3A) on the flat article (2) by the projection, on the latter, of a first light beam (4); orientation by rotation, with respect to an axis orthogonal to the surface (1), and positioning of the profile (3, 3A) on the flat article (2), and selection of the profile; definition of the profile (3, 3A) on the flat article by the permanent optical projection thereon of a second light beam (5), and contemporary deactivation of the first light beam (4). The invention further proposes a machine for automatic cutting of flat articles with two projectors as required by the method.

Abstract: The invention relates to a machine tool or production machine in which the tool/machine has a display unit (4, 5) for visually displaying operating sequences and/or parameters of the tool/machine, whereby the display unit (4, 5) is provided in the form of a projection display (4). Compared to prior art display units or control panels, the inventive display unit provides a user of a machine tool or production machine with an improved ability to view and input information.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided to controllably reduce power of a laser projection display (LPD). Light is scanned from a laser onto a viewing surface to produce an image thereon, and power used by the laser is reduced used while scanning at least a portion of the viewing surface.

Abstract: In a method for projecting at least one optical projection onto at least one projection surface a monitoring zone that contains and/or surrounds a first projection surface is scanned with the aid of a working laser beam, which is not hazardous for the human eye, by the positioning the working laser beam on various scanning positions located in the monitoring zone, and a measured signal for light from the working laser beam that is reflected from the scanning positions is acquired. The measured signal is compared with the reference signal. Depending on the result of this comparison, the optical projection is projected onto the first projection surface by means of a projection laser beam, which has a greater radiant power than the working laser beam. With the aid of the working laser beam, a second optical projection is projected onto a second projection surface that is located outside of the monitoring zone.

Abstract: A laser light source includes: a laser array in which plural emitters are arranged; and a submount having first and second surfaces facing in opposite directions. The laser array is provided on the first surface. A distance between the first surface and the second surface of the submount varies along an array arrangement direction of the laser array.

Abstract: An optical projection and capture system includes an image sensor integrated with an optical projection device. Additionally, the integrated device may be coupled with a laser pointer to deliver interactive presentations. The laser pointer may be pulsed to improve identifying and tracking a laser light spot on a projected image. These applications may be extended to rear projection systems for gaming and interactive graphics.

Abstract: A system and method of mapping and/or projecting images onto a three-dimensional architecture.

Abstract: A role playing projector system projects an image such that a person may engage in role playing as though they are within the projected image. The system has a number of slides and a projector capable of sequentially projecting the image on each of the slides onto a display surface. The image on each one of the slides is pre-distorted such that when the projector is placed at a predetermined angle to the display surface, the images are projected on the display surface without distortion to a viewer. Thus, a person may engage in role playing in front of the projected images without casting a shadow on the projected images.

Abstract: A laser light source apparatus includes a first laser array light source that emits first-wavelength light, and a second laser array light source that emits second-wavelength light, the second wavelength being different from the first wavelength. The first laser array light source includes a first fundamental wave laser array that produces first fundamental wave light having a first original wavelength, and a first wavelength conversion element that wavelength-converts the first fundamental wave light into the first-wavelength light. The second laser array light source includes a second fundamental wave laser array that produces second fundamental wave light having a second original wavelength different from the first original wavelength, and a second wavelength conversion element that wavelength-converts the second fundamental wave light into the second-wavelength light.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for projecting a three dimensional image. A projection system may include a holding tank for storing a reservoir containing a projection medium and a projector including a plurality of valves for projecting the medium from the holding tank. The projection system may also include an illumination device for illuminating the projected medium and a receiving mechanism for receiving the projection medium after illumination. The projection system may also include imaging data computation apparatus for computing layered imaging data, communication and control tools for communicating the layered imaging data to the projector in order to control valves for dispersing the projection medium, and an illumination control unit that controls an illumination device for illuminated the dispersed medium.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for illuminating and imaging an object, wherein the illumination of the object is controlled by means of feedback based on the light intensity obtained from the object using one method of illumination, such as to provide a modified illumination that will result in a more uniform reflectance from the object.

Abstract: A system and method of interacting with a display. The method comprises recognizing a disturbance in a display zone of a projected image and displaying a selected state in response to the recognized disturbance. The method further includes recognizing a gesture which interrupts a light source and is associated with an action to be taken on or associated with the displayed selected state. An action is executed in response to the recognized gesture. The system includes a server having a database containing data associated with at least one or more predefined gestures, and at least one of a hardware and software component for executing an action based on the at least one or more predefined gestures.

Abstract: A system for displaying images on a basketball goal is disclosed. The system comprises a basketball backboard comprising at least a portion of a laminated panel that appears frosted. An electrical source is electrically coupled to the laminated panel such that the electrical source is configured to transmit a voltage to the laminated panel to render it clear. A projector is configured to project an image onto the laminated panel when the laminated panel appears frosted. A controller is configured to transmit signals to the electrical source and the projector. The signals relay information to activate and deactivate the electrical source and the projector.

Abstract: A laser projector includes a laser, scanning mirrors projecting a laser line image on a surface, a computer including an algorithm controlling a speed of the laser line image, and a computer screen having a user interface. The user interface includes a throttle control which modifies the speed control algorithm permitting an operator to reduce the maximum speed of the projected laser line image using the throttle control, thereby improving the visibility of the laser line image. For example, a method of improving the visibility of a projected laser line image includes projecting a laser line image on a surface to determine the visibility of the laser line image and decreasing the maximum scanning speed of the projected laser line image if the visibility of the laser line image is insufficient.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for providing a two dimensional image that will be perceived by the human visual perception system as a three dimensional image is disclosed. The system and apparatus preferably employ a transparent rear projection screen onto which an image of the at least one object to be displayed is projected. The at least one object moves at perceptual speed and preferably has highlights, comprising specular highlights, ambient lighting, shadows and reflections, consistent with its display location so that the human visual perception system perceives the displayed image as a three dimensional one. The method preferably comprises surveying the display site to identify important light sources and objects and to gather a reflection map which are both used to create the final displayed image.

Abstract: A real environment during which a feedback between the position of the information and the projection thereof ensues with means for image processing and/or pattern recognition. The feedback ensues in such a manner that the information is positioned at a predetermined position in the real environment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a toy that makes character movement realistic, A transparent LCD screen that is visible from the front of the room is disposed within the room so as to be in contact with the walls, ceiling and floor thereof. An internal body such as a chair and an external body such as a tree, fence or kennel are arranged at the front and rear of the LCD screen. A girl character and an animal character are displayed on the LCD screen. A user is able to enjoy the game while viewing the character of the LCD screen, internal body, and external body.

Abstract: Display apparatus such as a see-through head-mounted display (HMD) through which a viewer could capture a scene while seeing an object through the apparatus is disclosed. In the display apparatus, a liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) panel with a color filter attached to the LCOS panel is utilized. Accordingly, the compactness, light weight and low cost requirements can be met.

Abstract: An optical system for vehicle operating monitoring is disclosed. The optical system includes at least one illuminator that illuminates a profile of a vehicle operator and an imager in optical communication with a reflector that captures a reflected image of the vehicle operator profile from the reflector. A method is also disclosed.

Abstract: An image display optical system which achieves a small size and display at a wide angle of view as well as maintains a required level of optical performance and allows suppression of occurrence of various aberrations at the same time. The optical system includes a first optical element and a second optical element in order from the side of an exit pupil of the optical system to the side of a display device. A combined negative optical power is provided by an emergent surface of the second optical element and an incident surface of the first optical element, and the optical system forms an intermediate image with the displaying luminous flux in the first optical element.

Abstract: A projection type video display apparatus in which a display device transmits light emitted from a light source to project a video written into the display device is characterized by comprising person detection means for detecting a person who exists within a projected video area, and control means for changing the state of the projected video when the person detection means detects the person.

Abstract: A system for projecting a virtual image within an observer's field of view comprises a support element, a transparent element mounted on the support element and suitable for being placed in front of the observer's eyes, the transparent element comprising a first face and a second face, an image display device suitable for forming an additional image, and a projection and focusing device for projecting the additional image in a manner such as to present it superimposed on the image of the outside world. The display device comprise light-emitting devices disposed on one of the faces of the transparent element, and the projection and focusing device comprise optical elements associated with respective emitting devices and arranged on the other face. Each of the optical elements creates a virtual image of the emitting device associated therewith. The virtual images of the emitting devices together form the additional image.

Abstract: A laser projection system scans an output laser light beam onto an object to detect features. A high-sensitivity optical feedback system receives and detects a feedback beam of the output beam light diffusely reflected from the object. The feedback light and projected output beam share the same beam path between beam-steering mirrors of the projector and the object. The laser projection system has light suppression components to control stray scattered light, including ambient light, from being detected. A computer of the laser projection system calculates fiducial points on the object from detected features to align the projection system with the object without using targets. This feature detection is used in a process to guide assembly and fabrication on or to the object, and to verify the accurate placement of parts and fabrication steps in place after they are assembled or processed. In one form, the detected feature is a light spot on the object produced by a second light source.

Abstract: A method displays an output image on an object. A set of unique markers are fixed to the object at predetermined locations. An input image of the object and the markers is acquired with a camera in a fixed physical relationship to a projector. A pose of the projector with respect to the markers is determined from the image. Then, one or more output images related to the object can be projected onto the object, at predetermine locations, according to the pose of the projector and the unique markers.

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.

Abstract: A method of displaying an image on a work piece positioned on a movable work surface. A method of processing a work piece, as well as a method of displaying an image on a moveable work surface, is also provided. A system for machining a work piece in accordance with one or more images projected onto the work piece is also provided.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for projecting a three dimensional image. A projection system may include a holding tank for storing a reservoir containing a projection medium and a projector including a plurality of valves for projecting the medium from the holding tank. The projection system may also include an illumination device for illuminating the projected medium and a receiving mechanism for receiving the projection medium after illumination. The projection system may also include imaging data computation apparatus for computing imaging data, communication and control tools for communicating the imaging data to the projector in order to control valves for dispersing the projection medium, and an illumination control unit that controls an illumination device for illuminated the dispersed medium.

Abstract: The projection display device stores, in a frame memory, a shot image of a test pattern for cases where the obstacle is not represented in the region of the projection; compares, at a comparison unit, a shot image of the test pattern for the case where the obstacle is represented in the region of the projection, with the stored shot image of the test pattern in order to detect an obstacle present in the region of the projection; generates, at an image-mask enlargement-processing unit, an image mask section having a region larger than the region of the detected obstacle; and effects, at a luminance control unit, a control to reduce the luminance in the image mask section.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing both day vision simulations and night vision simulations includes a projector that seamlessly provides both night and daytime training modes. The projector includes two independent light sources, with an embedded night vision filter affixed inside the projector proximate one of the light sources to achieve the night training mode. The operator will select one light source according to the mode desired (daytime training mode or nighttime training mode). Each light source may easily be selected, and the light paths from both of the light sources may have a common path when exiting the projector for efficient operation between modes.

Abstract: Given a situation where a projected laser line appears to have terminated or faded as it intersects with a work-surface (e.g., a wall), a fan-out redirecting means is used to capture and redirect energy radiating above and parallel to, or radiating away from the given work-surface area, where the captured energy is from a line projector mounted to the surface. The radiation capturing and redirecting means aims the captured energy at a greater angle towards the work-surface so that the redirected light is thereafter reflected back to a user to give the perception that a line of enhanced intensity or reborn existence is being created on the work-surface or on a reflective overlayer placed against the work-surface. The radiation capturing and redirecting means may include one or both of optically refractive means and optically reflective means (e.g., lens and mirrors) for performing the capturing and/or redirecting functions.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for imperceptibly embedding structured light patterns in projected color images for display on planar and non-planar surfaces are disclosed. According to one method, an image exposure period for detecting an embedded structured light patterns in a projected image is selected based on analysis of pixel polarities for different pixel intensities of a pixel color. Pixel intensities for the color are varied in the user image so that pixel polarities encode the structured light patterns during image exposure period. The user image is projected with the structured light patterns onto the surface. Depth information is continuously acquired and used to adjust display of the user image.

Abstract: A display device is provided for generating an image which is perceivable, by a viewer (M) of an object located in an object plane (O), as being superimposed on the object, said device comprising an image generating device (1) for generating the image in an image plane (B) and a superimposing unit (7), wherein the image generating device (1) and the superimposing unit (7) are mounted on a support device (12), which is placeable on the head of the viewer (M), and the image generating device (1) comprises a focusing unit (3) by which the distance from the image plane (B) to the support device (12) is changeable and which includes a lens (4) having a variable refractive index as well as a control unit (6) for adjusting the refractive index of the lens (4), wherein, when the support device (12) is placed on the head of the viewer (M), the superimposing unit (7) effects superposition of the generated image on the object for the viewer (M) and the control unit (6) adjusts the refractive index of the lens (4) such t

Abstract: A collimator is compact and uses power efficient light emitting diodes as the illumination source to generate a test image in collimated space. The collimator provides a test image across a wide field of view, which is useful for calibration of optical devices that have a wide field of regard. An optical projection system in the collimator utilizes an array of light emitting diodes, whose light is converged by a Fresnel lens, through a holographic diffuser plate, onto a target plate bearing the test pattern to be projected out into collimated space through a converging lens. An alignment structure provides translation of the target plate along the main axis of the collimator and provides rotational freedom about two axes (vertical and horizontal) via a gimbal structure mounted on the translation mechanism.

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: A method for displaying a series of images on a projection screen as a function of a position of a presenter in front of the projection screen. First, the width of the screen is divided into a number of segments of selected widths. The positions of each of the segments is stored in a memory. The position of the presenter is compared with the stored segments to identify the segment currently occupied by the presenter.

Abstract: An image display system includes: an image projector including a mirror optical element for forming an exit pupil for viewing an image at a viewing location; a viewer eye position detector for generating a signal representing the position of a viewer's eyes relative to the location; and a control system responsive to the signal for providing relative motion between the viewer and the image projector to maintain the viewer's eyes at the exit pupil.

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: A system, apparatus and method of displaying information for foveal vision and peripheral vision are provided. The system, apparatus and method generate a composite display image fully viewable with foveal vision and peripheral vision. The system, apparatus and method detect, either through gesture or speech recognition, an area on the composite display image a user is focusing on with foveal vision and display the area in a resolution higher than the resolution in which the rest of the composite display image is displayed.

Abstract: A system, device within a system, and a method for enhancing visual perception in a two-dimensional image is disclosed, providing the induction of retinal disparity in the viewer by a device with which the two-dimensional image is viewed. With fusion of the retinally disparate images of the two-dimensional image, the viewer experiences the enhancement of his or her visual perception in the two dimensional image, which includes enhancement of depth perception and enhancement in clarity perception.

Abstract: A system, device, and method for enhancing depth perception in a two-dimensional image is disclosed providing the induction of retinal disparity in the eyes of the viewer by the placement of a visually identifiable object in front of the two-dimensional image. Upon fusion of such retinal disparity in the viewer, the viewer experiences the enhancement depth perception in the two dimensional image.

Abstract: A projection apparatus that includes a light source optically coupled to an integrating tunnel to output light into the integrating tunnel through a first and a second medium from a direction nonparallel to the output direction of the integrating tunnel. The first and second mediums having different indices of refraction to facilitate reflection of the output light from the light source off a reflective surface of the integrating tunnel and propagating the reflected light substantially towards an output end of the integrating tunnel.

Abstract: A screen (which may be a display or electronic display) for projection that has embedded in the screen other active display technologies, such as LEDs, LCDs, etc., or the screen itself is a hybrid of translucent surfaces with a low-resolution display. This display will have two faces such that the alphanumeric information appears from left to right on both sides of the projected image.

Abstract: An image projection lighting device is disclosed having a processor and communications port. The communications port may receive a contrast command. The processor may modify contrast of image data in response to the contrast command to form contrast modified image data. The communications port may receive a black level command. The processor may modify image data in response to the black level command to form modified image data having a modified black level. Modified black level image data may be created by adding or subtracting an offset to the image data.

Abstract: An image projection lighting device is disclosed having a processor and communications port. The communications port may receive a contrast command. The processor may modify contrast of image data in response to the contrast command to form contrast modified image data. The communications port may receive a black level command. The processor may modify image data in response to the black level command to form modified image data having a modified black level. Modified black level image data may be created by adding or subtracting an offset to the image data.

Abstract: The invention concerns an interactive audio-visual system between a local scene and a remote scene, comprising at least a device (1) for producing images of the local scene and a device (2) for reproducing the image of the remote scene in an image plane (1). The image sensing device (1) comprises at least a camera (12) and a mirror (11) capable of reflecting on said camera (12) the parallel rays derived from the local scene and perpendicular to the image plane (1). Preferably, the mirror (11) is concave and has a focal point and the camera (12) is located in the proximity of the focal point of said mirror (11).

Abstract: The present invention provides an image projecting device for projecting projecting light corresponding to image information by projecting means. The image projecting device includes at least scanning monitoring means for monitoring entrance of an entering object into a projecting area on which the projecting light is projected. The scanning monitoring means monitors at least a part of outer edges of the projecting area on which the projecting light from the projecting means is projected.

Abstract: Featured is a portable planetarium device suitable for use in projecting clear bright images of stars, planets, and other celestial objects onto a curved viewing surface. The portable planetarium devices of the invention comprise a point light source generators, a light dispersing lens assembly, and an opaque enclosure having transparent domains surrounding the light dispersing lens assembly. Also featured is a portable point light source comprising a light source, a light collection element and a light conducting conduit suitable for use in providing high intensity light with a small cross-sectional area.