Abstract: Previously-produced motion picture films are enhanced for theatrical exhibition, at double the frame rate at which they were originally produced. Synthesized images are interpolated between each of the images of the original film. These interpolated images are generated through the use of computer software that analyzes the actual horizontal and vertical displacement of each pixel of every image of the original motion picture, so the interpolated images accurately depict the exact image that would have been captured, if the original motion picture had been produced at double the actual frame rate of production. This enhancement technique can also be used selectively for certain scenes or sequences of a motion picture, and not for other scenes or sequences of the same motion picture. The invention uses the 70 mm film format, and picture information can be added to films originally produced in the 35 mm format, if necessary.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing and exhibiting high-quality three-dimensional (3-D) motion pictures. Stereoscopic images are placed side by side on a strip of motion picture film, such images having been anamorphically compressed to fit into the 70 mm or other film format used for presentation. These images are then reciprocally expanded to produce the aspect ratio of the original images as photographed. A single strip of motion picture film is used and images intended to be seen through the left or right eye of the viewer of such films are slightly different, to create the 3-D effect. To minimize the amount of light projected onto the screen, projection is accomplished by use of a projector capable of accomplishing pulldown between frames in five milliseconds of less and equipped with a single 0-bladed shutter at high frame rates, specifically 48 frames per second or higher. The method described here allows for screen sizes considerably larger than those currently in use for theatrical 3-D presentation.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for showing motion picture films at a frame rate higher than that in which the films were originally shot. This method uses computer software originally designed to generate cinematic images for a slow-motion effect to produce images for interpolation between each of the discrete images of an existing motion picture. The resulting film contains twice as many images as the film did when originally photographed, with a computer-generated “in between” image placed between each pair of successive images in the original film. These new transitional images simulate the appearance of motion that would have been captured by a camera, if twice as many discrete images had been photographed than actually were photographed in the original production. This method is especially suited to presentation of motion picture films on large theatrical screens. The method disclosed can be used for modification of films, by adding computer-generated images to only certain scenes or sequences of film action.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for automatically realigning a machine element to a predetermined position after an interruption of power to a drive mechanism coupled to the machine element. After the termination of power, the apparatus measures a displacement of the machine element during a predetermined period of time; and this displacement is stored in a nonvolatile memory. When power is restored to the drive mechanism, the apparatus is operative to automatically move the machine element back through a distance equal to the stored displacement. Consequently, the machine element realigns to the position it had before the power interruption.