Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for expanding the apparent range of movement of actors during a stage performance, from a stage platform to a background display, or from a background display to a stage platform. The appearance of the live actors on the stage platform and images of the live actors on the background display is the same. Timing, location and movement of the live actors on the stage platform is integrated with images of the actors on the background display. The integration of the live actors and images appears to an audience that an actor has moved from stage platform to the background display, or from the background display to the stage platform.

Abstract: A biometrics system captures and processes a handprint image using a structured light illumination to create a 2D representation equivalent of a rolled inked handprint. A processing unit calculates 3D coordinates of the hand from the plurality of images and maps the 3D coordinates to a 2D flat surface to create a 2D representation equivalent of a rolled inked handprint.

Abstract: A biometrics system captures and processes a handprint image using a structured light illumination to create a 2D representation equivalent of a rolled inked handprint. The biometrics system includes an enclosure with a scan volume for placement of the hand. A reference plane with a backdrop pattern forms one side of the scan volume. The backdrop pattern is preferably a random noise pattern and the coordinates of the backdrop pattern are predetermined at system provisioning. The biometrics system further includes at least one projection unit for projecting a structured light pattern onto a hand positioned in the scan volume on or in front of the backdrop pattern and at least two cameras for capturing a plurality of images of the hand, wherein each of the plurality of images includes at least a portion of the hand and the backdrop pattern.

Abstract: A system for photographing an object and generating a three-dimensional display of the object without the need for the observer to wear special glasses employs a camera having an electronically tunable liquid crystal lens in which the focal plane of the lens may be adjusted by controlling the voltage on the lens. An operator of the camera focuses the camera on the scene to be imaged and the camera records a series of images at closely spaced focal lengths by varying the voltage applied to the lens between the images. The digitally recorded images are then used to generate a display on a multilayer transparent display substrate with pixel addressing capabilities. Each of the recorded images at the differing focal lengths are displayed on one of the layers of the display screen, with the closest focal length recorded being displayed on the top screen, the one most proximate to the observer, and with successive images on other screens. A three-dimensional image is produced.

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

Abstract: A technique, associated system and program code, for retrieving depth information about at least one surface of an object, such as an anatomical feature. Core features include: projecting a composite image comprising a plurality of modulated structured light patterns, at the anatomical feature; capturing an image reflected from the surface; and recovering pattern information from the reflected image, for each of the modulated structured light patterns. Pattern information is preferably recovered for each modulated structured light pattern used to create the composite, by performing a demodulation of the reflected image. Reconstruction of the surface can be accomplished by using depth information from the recovered patterns to produce a depth map/mapping thereof.

Abstract: A projection system that projects a text or subtitle box onto an image minimizes the contrast between the text box and the image. A transition region surrounding the text box minimizes visual disruption to the image onto which the text box is projected. The positions of optical elements of a text projector enable the text box to gradually fade out. The text projector has a lamp that defines an object plane and a light path modifier. The light path modifier is offset from the object plane, toward the lamp to blend the borders of the text box into the image projected by an image projector.

Abstract: A technique, associated system and program code, for retrieving depth information about at least one surface of an object. Core features include: projecting a composite image comprising a plurality of modulated structured light patterns, at the object; capturing an image reflected from the surface; and recovering pattern information from the reflected image, for each of the modulated structured light patterns. Pattern information is preferably recovered for each modulated structured light pattern used to create the composite, by performing a demodulation of the reflected image. Reconstruction of the surface can be accomplished by using depth information from the recovered patterns to produce a depth map/mapping thereof.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems for projecting an image, such as a diffused image, are disclosed herein.

Abstract: Often, during an event, such as a movie, play, concert, opera, etc., viewers of the event attempt to illicitly record the event. Such illicit recording attempts may be interfered with by using emitters that emit radiation that interferes with recording and/or operation of the recording devices. For example, infrared emitters may be used to saturate an event viewing area. The infrared, while non-visible to human viewers, is received and recorded by recorders using charge-coupled devices (CCDs), such as conventional digital cameras, movie cameras, television cameras, telescopes, etc. Other radiation can be emitted based on the type of recorder with which one desires to interfere. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, emitters may also be used to send commands to recorders, such as stop, rewind, eject, etc., to interfere with operation of the recorders.

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

Abstract: A projection system that projects a text or subtitle box onto an image minimizes the contrast between the text box and the image. A transition region surrounding the text box minimizes visual disruption to the image onto which the text box is projected. The positions of optical elements of a text projector enable the text box to gradually fade out. The text projector has a lamp that defines an object plane and a light path modifier. The light path modifier is offset from the object plane, toward the lamp to blend the borders of the text box into the image projected by an image projector.

Abstract: Often, during an event, such as a movie, play, concert, opera, etc., viewers of the event attempt to illicitly record the event. Such illicit recording attempts may be interfered with by using emitters that emit radiation that interferes with recording and/or operation of the recording devices. For example, infrared emitters may be used to saturate an event viewing area. The infrared, while non-visible to human viewers, is received and recorded by recorders using charge-coupled devices (CCDs), such as conventional digital cameras, movie cameras, television cameras, telescopes, etc. Other radiation can be emitted based on the type of recorder with which one desires to interfere. Alternatively, or in addition thereto, emitters may also be used to send commands to recorders, such as stop, rewind, eject, etc., to interfere with operation of the recorders.

Abstract: An image alignment system for rear projection in which a portion of the normally changing pixel pattern contains a pixel reference mark, which appears in each of the side-by-side pixel images projected onto a screen. A camera having a field of view large enough to encompass the pixel reference mark of each of the images on the screen captures the location of the pixel reference marks to enable a computer to determine the coordinates of the each of the pixel reference marks and generate a deviation signal represented of the visual misalignment of the side-by-side images. A drive member controllable by the deviation signal from the computer repositions one of the side-by-side images with respect to the other to thereby align the images to produce a single visually seamless image. The camera and computer can continually monitor both of the pixel reference marks to continually generate a deviation signal so that the side-by-side images can automatically be brought into a single visually seamless image.

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

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

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

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

Abstract: A process of producing animated films which permits greater rapidity in the filming, while at the same time reducing the cost. The process comprises the steps of: a) photographing a single time by a camera a black and white drawing of each of the components of each plane, without background; b) coloring the photographed images by an electronic brush and storing them on a hard disk; c) recovering the different drawings from the hard disk, mixing the different planes of the foreground, creating a movement of animation; d) transferring the resultant images to a videotape; e) directly recording the backgrounds or ambience which are stored on a separate videotape; and f) mixing the images of the two videotapes.

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

Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel composite process photography system and method. A negative lens or a curved mirror is used to produce a miniature virtual image of a scene a short distance from a camera. The camera focusses on the virtual images. Props, models, and pictures are superimposed with the virtual image by positioning them at a distance equal to the distance of the virtual image from the camera and using beam splitters to allow the camera simultaneously view the props and the virtual image. In one embodiment of the invention, the virtual image is formed inside a compact enclosure which also contains beam splitters, lighting means, and supports for the mounting of props, photographs, and models, creating in essence a compact special effects studio in a box.

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

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

Abstract: A photographic camera for producing a composite picture comprises a casing including means for focussing an image of an external object or scene on a first portion of an unexposed photographic medium disposed in an image plane within the casing and a plurality of projection systems for focussing respective static thematic images, illuminated by a flash tube within the casing, on other respective portions of the medium. The flash tube is located within a portion of the casing which is separated from the thematic images by a light-diffusing plate, the light-diffusing plate being located close to the thematic images for illumination thereof. The projection systems have different aperture sizes each related to the distance of the flash tube from the portion of the plate adjacent the thematic image which is focussed on the medium by the respective projection system, whereby uneven illumination of the different thematic images by the flash tube is at least partially compensated at the image plane.

Abstract: A photographic camera for producing a composite picture comprises a casing including means for producing an image of an external object or scene on a first portion of an unexposed photographic medium disposed in an image plane within the casing and a plurality of projection systems for producing respective static thematic images on other respective portions of the medium. The light from each projection system is transmitted freely within the casing to the vicinity of the image plane, and a multi-aperture framing element is provided adjacent the image plane. The light from each projection system and the light from the external object or scene pass through respective apertures of the framing element to fall on respective areas of the medium which are delimited from each other by the apertures of the framing element.

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

Abstract: The invention pertains in general to the art of motion-picture photography and in particular to rear-projection "process" photography, providing a rigid rear-projection screen onto which heavy objects, such as props and actors, may be placed while imagery is projected onto it from the side opposite to the said objects. The screen consists of a rigid sheet on which a light-scattering surface has been established and which rests on pseudotransparent supports, each of which consists of an opaque structural member, a block of transparent material, and three mirrors so arranged to make light detour around the structural member.

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

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

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recording visual images, for example on a cinematograph or video film. A first lens system is used to produce a real image of a subject against a neutral background, and a conventional recording camera is then used to record the real image through a zoom lens. The latter can pan and tilt relative to the first lens system.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for producing a colored-motion picture film from a black-and-white source film. Each frame of the black-and-white film is projected as an image onto a work surface to which colors are applied within selected areas for combination with the projected black-and-white image to provide a color composite. The color composite is then photographed with color sensitive film. The black-and-white film is processed frame-by-frame, preserving registration from one frame to the next (in a sequence) with the colored format which is accordingly modified to a limited extent to produce each composite that is photographed.

Abstract: The method of producing a colored film from an exposed black-and-white picture and especially from an exposed black-and-white motion picture film wherein a black-and-white image is projected onto a surface, opaque pastel colors are applied within selected areas of the projected image and the reflected colored composite, of the opaque pastel colors and the black-and-white image superimposed thereon, is then photographed with color-sensitive film.