Exhibiting Patents (Class 352/40)
  • Patent number: 7304714
    Abstract: A system that determines a projector's true state in an automatic projection sequence. The system includes a projector in a primary display system, having a lamp for displaying visual information; and a sensor to determine the state of the lamp in the primary display system. Additionally, an interface to a secondary display system is included for sending an operational signal to the secondary display system, wherein the secondary display system operates subject to a predetermined state of the primary display system as determined by the state of the lamp in the primary display system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Gary L. Peterson, Leslie G. Moore, William A. Orfitelli
  • Patent number: 7277154
    Abstract: This system comprises vertical platter devices (4) including a support tower (43), vertical platters (41, 42) with as many removable rings (5) for winding the film projected in the corresponding theatre, a sprocket (46) for eventual pulling of the film (3), free-turning rollers (47) for guiding the film (3), a tension roller (6) and push buttons (9) to control the operation of the vertical platters (41,42) and the sprocket (46). The system further includes auxiliary devices (7) for cutting and/or splicing the film (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Tecnoprojet, S.L.
    Inventor: Josep Maria Queralto Bonell
  • Patent number: 7236227
    Abstract: A method for enabling seamless transitions for a cinema presentation package, wherein the cinema presentation package includes pre-shows, trailers, live events, and main features, the steps include determining the requirements of specific protocols corresponding to the cinema presentation that will affect transitioning between the pre-shows, trailers, live events, and main features. Transition behaviors have to be identified between the pre-shows, trailers, live events, and main features that form the cinema presentation package. Flexibility exists in displaying the cinema presentation package, and yet the pre-shows, trailers, live events, and main features are displayed according to the specific protocols and transition rules associated with the specific protocols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Anthony Whyte, David S. Jones, Jeffrey S. Loewenguth, Leslie G. Moore, Paul Tomblin
  • Patent number: 7199857
    Abstract: A projector automation system for controlling one or more controlled systems having functionality that is responsive at least in part to automation control signals. The automation system interacts with a digital projector having a control port and a film projector having a cue sensor that generates cue signals. A film-based cinema automation component receives the cue signals and generate at least some of the automation control signals to the one or more controlled systems. A second cinema automation component has a first interface coupled to the control port of the digital projector and the first cinema automation system. The second cinema automation component includes means for generating at least some of the automation control signals to the one or more controlled systems either autonomously, semi-autonomously, or in response to commands from an external scheduling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Regal CineMedia Corporation
    Inventors: Robert F. Paige, Thomas J. Schmidt, Christopher H. Thieste
  • Patent number: 7184120
    Abstract: A system and method of screening films. The method includes the first step of displaying a movie print with multiple soundtracks on a display screen. A plurality of screening rooms, each with a view of the display screen, is provided. Separate audio signals from each soundtrack is generated and one or more of the audio signals is transmitted to one or more of the screening rooms. A system for screening films includes a display; a plurality of screening rooms, wherein each screening room includes a view of the display; a movie playback system; and, a sound distribution system coupled to receive audio signals from the movie playback system and to distribute the audio signals to the plurality of screening rooms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: NT Audio Visual Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom McCormick, Leo O'Donnell, Shawn Jones
  • Patent number: 7154579
    Abstract: A system for fragrance sensory stimulation synchronized to a multimedia source connected to an audiovisual display is disclosed. A fragrance generator processes fragrance information from the audiovisual source into a flagrance signal, and a fragrance control system accepts the fragrance signal as an input and generates a control signal and a controlled airflow. In turn, a fragrance delivery system with a plurality of fragrance chemicals in communication with the controlled airflow selectively volatilizes the fragrance chemicals so that a short burst of fragrance is delivered to a user. In certain embodiments, the fragrance delivery system comprises an indexing turret containing a plurality of ports, each containing one fragrance chemical. In another preferred embodiment, a multi-port micro-valve or an array of such valves contains an absorbent material impregnated with a fragrance in each port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventors: Raymond K. Selander, Clint Dee Winton Brooks, Lewis Michael Popplewell
  • Patent number: 7144114
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Inventor: Susannah Lawrence
  • Patent number: 7106411
    Abstract: Methods of and equipment for converting existing standard motion picture theatres to one having highly immersive, large fields of view are addressed. Aspects of the methods including moving motion picture screens closer to the audience and employing different projection equipment to avoid or minimize appearance of unrealistic or non-natural image artefacts. Alternative sound systems too are detailed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Imax Corporation
    Inventors: Steven Charles Read, Brian John Bonnick, George Eric Jacques
  • Patent number: 7097307
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Susannah Lawrence
  • Patent number: 7043019
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for displaying a copy-deterrent pattern (104) within a digital motion picture in order to discourage recording of the motion picture using a video camera or other sampling recording device. A copy-deterrent pattern (104) could be, for example, one or more symbols, a random pattern, a digital watermark or a text message (106). The copy-deterrent pattern (104) comprises a plurality of pixels within each frame of the digital motion picture, and the displayed pixel intensities are modulated at a temporal frequency using modulation characteristics deliberately selected to be imperceptible to human observers while simultaneously producing objectionable aliasing in any copy made using a video camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Babak Tehranchi, Paul W. Jones
  • Patent number: 7034916
    Abstract: A method is described for scheduling a playlist from digital content supplied to a server in a multi-screen digital cinema theater. The playlist includes digital content stored in the server and that is subsequently projected in the digital cinema theater. The method includes: (a) generating and displaying a table of playlists currently available for scheduling; (b) generating and displaying a schedule table showing a schedule view for each screen as an elongated timeline bar representing a time dimension. The method further includes: (c) selecting a playlist from the table of playlists and specifying a scheduled start time and a selected screen; and (d) updating the schedule table by inserting the selected playlist as an elongated element into the elongated timeline bar for the selected screen, whereby the updated schedule table is used to schedule the selected playlist for the selected screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Walter C. Bubie, Curtis R. Cates, David S. Jones, Paul Tomblin, Michael E. McCrackan, William A. Orfitelli
  • Patent number: 7030956
    Abstract: An optical intensity modulation having a periodicity in the temporal domain is applied on an optical state of an original display image, being displayed on a projection screen or a display screen, that takes into account a human temporal frequency contrast sensitivity characteristics, so that an optical state variation that is independent of the original display image would appear in an image recorded by capturing the display image using an image capturing apparatus, while the optical state variation in the display image being directly viewed remains imperceptible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Tomohiro Nishi, Michihiro Ohnishi
  • Patent number: 6972829
    Abstract: A system and method of screening films. The method includes the first step of displaying a movie print with multiple soundtracks on a display screen. A plurality of screening rooms, each with a view of the display screen, is provided. Separate audio signals from each soundtrack is generated and one or more of the audio signals is transmitted to one or more of the screening rooms. A system for screening films includes a display; a plurality of screening rooms, wherein each screening room includes a view of the display; a movie playback system; and, a sound distribution system coupled to receive audio signals from the movie playback system and to distribute the audio signals to the plurality of screening rooms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: NT Audio Visual Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom McCormick, Leo O'Donnell, Shawn Jones
  • Patent number: 6912039
    Abstract: A method for scheduling motion picture and promotional content for an audience at an exhibitor site includes the steps of: assembling an electronic play list (62) for the motion picture and for related promotional content. The play list (62) identifies at least one time slot (64) for presentation of the promotional content. An ad auction entry (32) is posted, soliciting a bid from an advertisement provider for purchase of the time slot (64). In response to a received bid, an advertisement is provided for the time slot (64) so that the advertisement can be downloaded from a networked advertisement provider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: David L. Patton, John R. Fredlund, Dale F. McIntyre, Carlo V. Hume, Michael E. McCracken, Arthur J. Cosgrove, Glenn L. Kennel, Rohan S. Khaleel
  • Patent number: 6829033
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed allow assigning programs for presentation in a digital cinema system. In one embodiment, a scheduler 180 is implemented to generate a schedule in accordance to which decoding modules 140 control playback of data for presentation in the digital cinema systems. The decoding module 140 may operate in an automatic mode and/or manual mode. In automatic mode, the decoding module 140 controls playback based on the schedule, without user intervention. In manual mode, the decoding module 140 cues the user at the appropriate times to control playback based on the schedule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: QUALCOMM Incorporated
    Inventors: Jesse Hose, Michael Mitrani, Roger Olmstead
  • Patent number: 6819395
    Abstract: A transport stream with embedded projector configuration data 208 being carried along with the video for use in digital cinema projector setup. The embedded configuration data consists of sub-packets 304 of setup data information for such parameters as gamma tables, color management system information, relative luminance level, format and range of the sampled data, 3D/2D presentation information, frame rate, image size, aspect ratio, font tables, and language provision. This approach assures that the projector 404 is setup properly and also permits on-the-fly changes to the projector's parameters, which may be used for artistic effects in the movie.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventor: William B. Werner
  • Patent number: 6812994
    Abstract: A method is described for scheduling a playlist from digital content supplied to a server in a multi-screen digital cinema theater, where the playlist includes components of the content stored in the server and represents a digital entity that is subsequently projected in the digital cinema theater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Walter C. Bubie, Curtis R. Cates, David S. Jones, Paul Tomblin, Michael E. McCrackan, William A. Orfitelli
  • Publication number: 20040109137
    Abstract: A method is described for scheduling a playlist from digital content supplied to a server in a multi-screen digital cinema theater, where the playlist includes components of the content stored in the server and represents a digital entity that is subsequently projected in the digital cinema theater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Walter C. Bubie, Curtis R. Cates, David S. Jones, Paul Tomblin, Michael E. McCrackan, William A. Orfitelli
  • Patent number: 6700640
    Abstract: In a digital cinema system comprising a decoder and an auditorium manager, where the auditorium manager configured to sequence the presentation of scheduled programs, a method of cueing a theatre automation system is claimed. A cue command is received from the decoder. The cue command is configured to a format acceptable by the theatre automation system. The cue command is then relayed to the theatre automation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Qualcomm Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven A. Morley, Juan Faus, Jesse Hose, Jason Reich
  • Publication number: 20030202156
    Abstract: An apparatus for selectively positioning a first projector and a second projector to project an image through a single projection aperture. The apparatus comprises a first rail system, extending longitudinally along a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis; a first platform, translationally slidable in the second axis on at least a portion of the first rail system; a second rail system, disposed on the first platform, a second platform, adapted for mounting the first projector and translationally slidable along the first axis on the second rail system; and a third platform, adapted for mounting the second projector and translationally slidable in the second axis on at least a portion of the first rail system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: William G. Connelly, David L. Kung
  • Patent number: 6624874
    Abstract: An apparatus for optically embedding hidden data in a source image, wherein the hidden data is updateable in real-time, the apparatus includes (a) optical masks bearing a data image and an encoding carrier image either or both of which may be updated in real-time; (b) optical components for convolving, the data image with the encoding carrier image to produce a spatially dispersed data image; and (c) optical beam combiner for combining the spatially dispersed data image with the source image to produce a source image containing embedded hidden data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Joseph F. Revelli, Jr., Chris W. Honsinger, Paul W. Jones, Lawrence A. Ray
  • Patent number: 6525801
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to enable to obtain moving picture data of a desired bit rate at a high speed without re-coding when the multi-screen image is generated by synthesizing a plurality of moving picture data. When a layout designating means (502) designates the arrangement of moving pictures, a bit-rate deciding means (503) instructs a frame-type deciding means (505) to decide a bit rate of the synthesized multi-screen, and a degree-of-importance deciding means (504) decides an assignment rate of the frame rate, the frame-type deciding means (505) decides a frame type of the moving picture data acquired by a data acquiring means (501) and asks a synthesizing means (506) to synthesize the screen. The multi-screen generated by the synthesizing means (506) is streamed onto the network via a data transmitting means (507).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoko Matsuzawa, Shinji Nojima
  • Publication number: 20030033600
    Abstract: Monitoring apparatus and methods for monitoring the reaction of people to a performance use two or more monitoring devices of different types. Output signals from the monitoring devices are combined to produce at least one crowd reaction signal indicative of the reaction of those people to the performance. Particularly appropriate types of monitoring device are described, as is automatic performance generating apparatus, such an automatic DJ, adapted to use crowd reaction signals to modify performances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: David Trevor Cliff, Timothy Alan Heath Wilkinson
  • Publication number: 20020122155
    Abstract: In a digital cinema system comprising a decoder and an auditorium manager, where the auditorium manager configured to sequence the presentation of scheduled programs, a method of cueing a theatre automation system is claimed. A cue command is received from the decoder. The cue command is configured to a format acceptable by the theatre automation system. The cue command is then relayed to the theatre automation system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Inventors: Steven A. Morley, Juan Faus, Jesse Hose, Jason Reich
  • Publication number: 20020067464
    Abstract: A motion artifact reduction system (10) includes a series of cinematic feature image frames (IFm+1,IFm+1) captured at an incoming frame rate. The motion artifact reduction system (10) also has a processor (12) operable to determine whether an object (O) having a first location (Om) in a first image frame (IFm) is sufficiently displaced from a location (Om+1) in a second image frame (IFm+1) corresponding to the first location (Om). The processor (12) is also operable to interpolate data from the first image frame (IFm) and the second image frame (IFm+1) to create a third image frame (OFn+1) including the interpolated data. The processor (12) is also operable to insert the third image frame (OFn+1) between the first image frame (IFm) and the second image frame (IFm+1) to form a new series (OFn,, OFn+1, and OFn+2) in response to the determination that object (O) has been sufficiently displaced between image frames (IFm, IFm+1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: William B. Werner
  • Patent number: 6393134
    Abstract: A digital cartoon or animation creation process, alternately describable as digital rotoscoping. Images are obtained in digital format by set-up steps (32, 44), image capture steps (34-36 and 46), and image storage (38, 48). The rotoscoping process (10) includes an image to line art rendering sub-process (14) which optionally may be followed by a specialized line art rendering sub-process (16) or a coloring sub-process (18). The line art rendering sub-process (14) includes a series of filters, particularly including a high-pass filter (68) using a gaussian blur convolution matrix. The specialized rendering sub-process (16) has particular use for carrying image regions having particularized detail through into final images in a manner that such detail is not lost, and the coloring sub-process (18) permits creation of colorized final images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Phoenix Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicole H. Tostevin, Mark R. Moran, Justin L. Gardner, Noel M Marrero, Robert A. Cook
  • Publication number: 20020054273
    Abstract: A cartridge holding a liquid scent for a liquid scent dispenser having a reservoir holding the liquid scent. An evaporation barrier at least partly surrounds the reservoir and isolates the reservoir from open air and an evaporation site member at least partly breaches the evaporation barrier and has an open air access, wherein the liquid scent evaporates away from the cartridge in molecular form toward open air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: David A. Martin
  • Patent number: 6384893
    Abstract: A system for automating the control of movie display electronics in a cinema. The system includes a cinema controller which receives as input information regarding start times of movies and the contents of corresponding film reels. The content of the film reel contains a plurality of elements of varying durations and formats. Using the input information, the controller determines the times of play of the different elements and sends the appropriate signals to the appropriate digital cinema processor to perform format changes, sound level changes, etc. in the projection room without operator intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Inc.
    Inventors: James Salvatore Mercs, Ara James Derderian
  • Patent number: 6242150
    Abstract: A 70 mm motion picture film (80 in FIG. 3) is provided which can be projected by a standard 70 mm motion picture projector onto widely available theater projection screens, where the film results in a projected image (90) having a width-to-height (E/F) aspect ratio of 2.4 to 1, instead of the previous 2.2 to 1 aspect ratio, with the projected image having the same height as previously. The new 70 mm film has film frames (82) that each occupies over 95% of the horizontal distance (M) between the two rows of perforations (60, 62), and preferably 99% of the distance between the rows of perforations. Sound is produced by a disk controlled by a timing track (96) that lies between one row of perforations (60) and an edge (106) of the film strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Clearvision 2000, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard H. Vetter
  • Patent number: 6220730
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Light & Sound Design, Ltd.
    Inventors: William Hewlett, Nigel Evans
  • Patent number: 6061462
    Abstract: A digital cartoon or animation creation process, alternately describable as digital rotoscoping. Images are obtained in digital format by set-up steps (32, 44), image capture steps (34-36 and 46), and image storage (38, 48). The rotoscoping process (10) includes an image to line art rendering sub-process (14) which optionally may be followed by a specialized line art rendering sub-process (16) or a coloring sub-process (18). The line art rendering sub-process (14) includes a series of filters, particularly including a high-pass filter (68) using a gaussian blur convolution matrix. The specialized rendering sub-process (16) has particular use for carrying image regions having particularized detail through into final images in a manner that such detail is not lost, and the coloring sub-process (18) permits creation of colorized final images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Phoenix Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicole H. Tostevin, Mark R. Moran, Justin L. Gardner, Noel M. Marrero, Robert A. Cook
  • Patent number: 5959717
    Abstract: A combination film projector and video projector for showing a single composite motion picture, and a motion picture audience monitoring system. The video projector is used to provide image content for a video display subarea on the projected film image. Thus, all of the light output of the video projector is focused on a substantially smaller subarea of the screen. Uses of the combination of both a film projector and video projector include theft deterrence and special effects. Another aspect includes a motion picture audience monitoring system including a camera and/or microphone directed at the audience and coupled to an analysis system. The audience monitoring system can be used to obtain demographic information about the attending audience. The system can be used in conjunction with a pattern recognition system to determine such information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Jerry Chaum
  • Patent number: 5898475
    Abstract: A method of dispensing fragrances includes selecting a fragrance dispenser apparatus having have a plurality of fragrance dispensers each having a fragrance release portion positioned for dispensing a fragrance to a predetermined area and having a source of pressurized gas connected to each fragrance dispenser and a gas pressure control mechanism connected between the source of pressurized gas in each of the plurality of fragrance dispensers and connected for receiving dispensing signals to selectively control the release of a pressurized gas, such are air, to individual fragrance dispensers for selectively dispersing different fragrances. Each selected fragrance dispenser is positioned adjacent the end of a pressurized gas tube and has a housing having an absorbent material therein supporting a fragrance absorbed in the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: David A. Martin
  • Patent number: 5579064
    Abstract: A method is described for producing Cinemascope-type motion picture images that have a large aspect ratio (e.g. 2.35 to 1), which enables their high quality projection using moderately priced projection lenses, which produces a steadier projected image, and which increases the life of the release print while reducing its cost. A scene is photographed in the prior art manner, using an anamorphic lens to produce 50% horizontally compressed anamorphic camera film frame images (aspect ratio of about 1.175 to 1). During processing to produce a release print, another anamorphic lens is used to produce 36.5% vertically compressed anamorphic release print film frame images (aspect ratio of 1.85 to 1) of the camera film images. An anamorphic projection lens is used in a motion picture theater to horizontally expand the projected images by about 27% (to an aspect ratio of 2.35 to 1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventor: Richard Vetter
  • Patent number: 5096286
    Abstract: A method is disclosed whereby a motion picture projector is equipped to operate at two or more different speeds, such as 24 and 30 frames per second. It is envisioned that different parts of a motion picture may be recorded at different frame rates, to variably impart a highly intense effect upon the audience, expanding the parameters of creative control for the producer of the film. In operation, the method described facilitates switching between these different frame rates, both during the presentation of a single motion picture and between pictures. Cue signals recorded onto the film actuate the change in speed. The projector is automatically set to switch operation into a different speed, and the frames of the film that will be shown during the transitional period are prepared to give the audience the impression of a smooth transition between speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Inventor: Robert C. Weisgerber
  • Patent number: 4560260
    Abstract: A method is described for producing and projecting a theater quality entertainment motion picture, by photographing and then projecting the motion picture on a screen, which creates an unusually vivid impression of realism. The film frames have a resolution of over 40 line pairs per milimeter, and each frame has an area of at least 0.36 square inch, which creates more than 10 million pixels per frame on the film and on the screen. The illumination level on the screen is at least 15 foot lamberts. The film frames are photographed and projected at a predetermined constant rate of more than 50 frames per second, such as 60 fps. The high resolution and light level, combined with the unusually high frame rate, has been found to produce an unusually vivid impression of realism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1985
    Assignee: Showscan Film Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas Trumbull
  • Patent number: 4477160
    Abstract: A method is described for producing and projecting a theater quality entertainment motion picture, by photographing and then projecting the motion picture on a screen, which creates an unusually vivid impression of realism. The film frames have a resolution of over 40 line pairs per milimeter, and each frame has an area of at least 0.36 square inch, which creates more then 10 million pixels per frame on the film and on the screen. The illumination level on the screen is at least 15 foot lamberts. The film frames are photographed and projected at a predetermined constant rate of more than 50 frames per second, such as 60 fps. The high resolution and light level, combined with the unusually high frame rate, has been found to produce an unusually vivid impression of realism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Assignee: Showscan Film Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas Trumbull
  • Patent number: 4378148
    Abstract: A motion picture apparatus and preferably a motion picture projector. A rotary disc shutter is actuated by an electric drive and comprises a shutter sector. A claw mechanism controlled by the electric drive provides for transport of a film and the motion of the film is controlled by a solenoid having associated a solenoid plunger suitable for disengaging the claw transport mechanism after a frame transport phase. A position pulse generator provides a shutter position pulse depending on the position of the shutter sector. An output memory element connected to the electromagnet solenoid controls the energization of the electromagnet and in turn is connected to a switch and to the position pulse generator. Preferably additional memories are provided for performing functions such as controlling the advance and the reverse motion or providing for a timer or individual frame operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1983
    Assignee: Agfa-Gevaert AG
    Inventors: Norbert Burgermann, Alois Rieder, Horst Rossbach
  • Patent number: 4227782
    Abstract: A photographic projection apparatus for use with a film unit which has a plurality of images formed in a plurality of arcuate rows thereon supports the film unit between a light source and an optics system, both of which move along an arcuate path corresponding in shape to that of the arcuate rows of images on the film unit. The film unit is intermittently moved in a direction normal to the scan of the image rows so as to provide a sequential scan of the images in successive rows whereupon the images are projected onto a screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1980
    Assignee: Polaroid Corporation
    Inventor: Philip R. Norris
  • Patent number: 4158487
    Abstract: My invention relates to photographing scenes with standard motion picture photographic equipment where multiple views of a subject are photographed while the subject rests on a moving turntable and the stationary camera has its optical axis pointed at the turntable rotation axis or where the subject is stationary and the camera effectively moves in an arc about an axis located between the camera and scene.The surface of the processed film (or other appropriate media) is arrayed in a vertical plane and constrained to move horizontally around a portion of a circle. Film images are scanned by a light source and radially projected in a direction away from a vertical rotation axis. Concentric with the vertical axis are the semi-specular screen of radius R and the scanning projector circle of radius close to R/3. The screen reflects projected light in a horizontal plane and scatters projected light in a vertical plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1979
    Inventor: Robert B. Collender
  • Patent number: 4110017
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method for generating a low-frequency sound program for play during the performance of a motion picture film to produce a physical effect on the theater audience. Rather than to use random low-frequency noise or some other low-frequency source which is unrelated to the audible sound program, the low-frequency program is derived by shifting down in frequency a selected portion of the audible sound program. The final low-frequency program contains frequency components below 40 Hz, at least 50% of the total energy of which is derived from the shifted-down audible program. By so harmonically relating the audible and low-frequency programs, the audio/visual and vibrational sensations are perceived in a less disjointed fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1977
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1978
    Assignee: Warner Bros. Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. McCormack, Albert P. Green
  • Patent number: 4089597
    Abstract: My invention relates to photographing scenes with standard motion picture photographic equipment in which there is a relative motion between the scene and camera with the purpose of stereoscopic viewing of the motion picture or stationary reproduction without the need for viewing aids at the eyes. The system is compatible with scenes photographed without this relative motion, where with the reproduction is viewed in conventional two dimensions.The surface of the processed film (or other appropriate media) is arrayed in a vertical plane and constrained to move horizontally around a segment of a circle of radius 2R. At the center of the film circle is a film motion compensator which can be a multi faceted mirror drum of radius R. The film is rapidly scanned about the center of this circle by a light source directed through the film and toward the center of the mirror drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1976
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1978
    Inventor: Robert Bruce Collender
  • Patent number: 3973839
    Abstract: A special effects system for simulating physical sensations in an audience during the presentation of a motion picture. Relatively high intensity, very low frequency random noise is acoustically coupled to a theater space to produce psychological and physiological sensations, much as earthquake movements, in the audience. The special effects are controlled by a control sub-channel which is either frequency multiplexed onto a conventional optical audio track or, in a magnetic stripe film format, the control sub-channel is placed on an accompanying optical track. The presence and amplitude of two control frequencies in the sub-channel are detected and logically combined, providing four separate digital function control signals and two analog control signals which are variable in amplitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1974
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1976
    Assignee: MCA Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Stumpf, Waldon O. Watson, Robert J. Leonard
  • Patent number: 3967888
    Abstract: Image display from a continuously moving image carrier with the aid of a repeatedly advanced and reset optical compensator is improved by omitting the traditional compensator bias spring and resetting the compensator with electric power pulse doublets. A substantially constant driving torque may be provided for the compensator in proportion to a damping term of the compensator equation of motion. An electric bias may alternatively or additionally be provided for biasing the compensator during image display against the direction of advance motion. Decelerating power may selectively be applied to the compensator to prevent or correct overshooting in the advance direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1970
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1976
    Assignee: Bell & Howell Company
    Inventors: Joseph H. Lancor, Jr., deceased, Leonard A. Ferrari
  • Patent number: RE30278
    Abstract: A special effects system for simulating physical sensations in an audience during the presentation of a motion picture. Relatively high intensity, very low frequency random noise is acoustically coupled to a theater space to produce psychological and physiological sensations, much as earthquake movements, in the audience. The special effects are controlled by a control sub-channel which is either frequency multiplexed onto a conventional optical audio track or, in a magnetic stripe film format, the control sub-channel is placed on an accompanying optical track. The presence and amplitude of two control frequencies in the sub-channel are detected and logically combined, providing four separate digital function control signals and two analog control signals which are variable in amplitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1980
    Assignee: MCA Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Stumpf, Waldon O. Watson, Robert J. Leonard