Relief Illusion Patents (Class 353/10)
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Patent number: 6375326Abstract: An image projection device includes a Fresnel lens positioned in an optical path of an illuminated image in such a way that light from the image passes twice through the Fresnel lens, once in each direction. The first optical element may be a planar mirror arranged to reflect light transmitted by said Fresnel lens in the first direction back through said Fresnel lens in the second direction. In addition, a second optical element may be provided for changing a path of light exiting said Fresnel lens in said second direction so that the projected image appears at a location away from the path of light from the image source to the Fresnel lens.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2000Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Inventor: Kenneth J. Myers
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Patent number: 6364490Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the virtual production of an image, with a housing, an image projection device, which produces an image to be displayed. The housing has an observation opening in a wall of the housing with a fresnel lens arranged therein. Imaging optics arranged in the housing for depicting the object onto the fresnel lens. In order to ensure a large range of applications for this device, provision is made that the imaging optics have a concave mirror arranged in the path of light rays between the image projection device and the fresnel lens. The concave mirror lies opposite the fresnel lens and a ray divider is provided therebetween. To increase the illusion effect, a partially translucent mirror (spy mirror) is additionally arranged on the observation side of the fresnel lens.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1999Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Assignee: Vantage Lighting IncorporatedInventor: Detlef Krause
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Patent number: 6353508Abstract: A novel system and method for viewing optical images with enhanced apparent depth is disclosed. The present invention utilizes the combined effects of a polarizing layer and a magnifying layer to achieve the enhanced apparent depth of the images being viewed. In a preferred embodiment, a polarizing layer is used in combination with a Fresnel layer having concentric circles to enhance the apparent depth of the images being viewed.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2000Date of Patent: March 5, 2002Inventor: Douglas Burke
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Publication number: 20010048507Abstract: A method and display are disclosed in which a representation of a 3D model is provided for presentation as a 3D image. The image may be presented under an array of spherical or lenticular microlenses so that different images are presented at different viewing angles. The images are rendered using a set of orthographic projections; this can avoid the need for multiple cameras or the highly computer intensive processing associated with generation of simulated camera images and can also give improved results as compared to prior art multiview images.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2001Publication date: December 6, 2001Inventors: Graham Alexander Thomas, Richard Fawconer Stevens
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Patent number: 6323971Abstract: A system and method for generating a composite display that includes at least one static three dimensional holographic image, and dynamic and/or static two dimensional images. An object hologram includes a three-dimensional object image. A silhouette hologram includes a silhouette image of the object, and can include a diffusion screen. The object hologram overlays the silhouette hologram with the object image substantially aligned with the silhouette image. Static and/or dynamic images can be projected on the diffusion screen or alternative background, forming a composite image that includes dynamic and/or static two-dimensional imagery combined with the static three-dimensional object image. The silhouette image thus provides a background for viewing the object image and occludes the two-dimensional imagery from the view of the object image.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2000Date of Patent: November 27, 2001Assignee: Zebra Imaging, Inc.Inventor: Michael A. Klug
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Patent number: 6204973Abstract: Apparatus for displaying an image suspended in space comprises an object (1) for display, a retroreflector (2) receiving light from the object, a beamsplitter (3) in a path for light from the object to the retroreflector, and a converging lens (4) between the beamsplitter and the retroreflector. The beamsplitter makes an oblique angle to the direction (6) of propagation of the light such that it transmits some light and reflects the rest. Light from the beamsplitter passes through the lens to the retroreflector which reflects it back through the lens to the beamsplitter. This retroreflected light is reflected and/or transmitted by the beamsplitter to form a real image (5) suspended in space. The use of a lens between the beamsplitter and the retroreflector improves image resolution and viewing angle, reduces the area of retroreflector required, and allows low cost bead retroreflectors to be used in high resolution displays.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1999Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: Central Research Labs, Ltd.Inventor: John Holden
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Patent number: 6183089Abstract: A 3-D imaging system for projecting a 3-D panoramic illusion of an object to a viewer has two primary components: a camera having a pair of horizontally spaced anamorphic lenses capable of viewing and capturing a wide angle panoramic view of the object as a 2-D double-squeeze image; and a projector such as a movie projector or CRT for projecting the 2-D double-squeeze image through an image separator layer to the viewer, causing the viewer to perceive the wide angle panoramic view of the object as the 3-D panoramic illusion located in front of the image separator layer. The first anamorphic lens has a red transparent color filter for removing blue light, forming a red color filter image of the object. The second anamorphic lens has a blue transparent color filter for removing red light, forming a blue color filter image of the object. The red and blue color filter images are captured together as the 2-D double-squeeze image.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Inventor: Hossein Tajalli Tehrani
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Patent number: 6183088Abstract: A three-dimensional display system is disclosed which includes a display target that receives a projected image and that rotates about an axis to form a three-dimensional image from the projected image. The display target has front and back surfaces that meet at locations relative to the axis to form tapered edges. Scanning optics directs light to the display target to form the projected image. A controller controls operation of the display target and the scanning optics.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Assignee: Actuality Systems, Inc.Inventors: Andrew G. LoRe, Gregg E. Favalora, Michael G. Giovinco
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Patent number: 6176582Abstract: A system is disclosed for the three-dimensional representation of scenes and/or objects from planar layer images which are obtained from scaled representation planes in the spatial depth of the scenes and/or objects. To this end, a plurality of adjacent representation elements are provided, wherein said elements are perpendicular to the vision direction of an observer or a camera. The representation elements are arranged relative to each other so as to define a flat raster comprising a plurality of lines and columns. Two at least of these adjacent representation elements, in a line and a column of this raster, have different focal distances. The number of different focal distances corresponds to the number of scaled representation planes in the spatial depth. The representation elements having the same focal distance are always associated with the same representation planes. A portion of a planar layer image is placed in the optical axis of each representation element.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2000Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Assignee: 4D-Vision GmbHInventor: Armin Grasnick
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Patent number: 6095652Abstract: A projection system incorporating a screen (2, 14) with a substantially achromatic response in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the screen. The screen (2, 14) comprises a diffraction grating (4), means (5) for attenuating zero order and a diffuse holographic optical element (6). The system further comprises a focusing element with positive optical power. The aggregate optical power of the grating and the holographic optical element is substantially less than that of the focusing element.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: Richmond Holographic Research and Development, Ltd.Inventors: David John Trayner, Edwina Margaret Orr
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Patent number: 6062693Abstract: The invention is intended to provide a three-dimensional image projecting device which is capable of presenting a three-dimensional image observable in a wide visual field without tiring eyes of an observer. A three-dimensional image displayed by three-dimensional image displaying means is projected by a reflection type projecting hologram lens and reflection type hologram acting as optical transferring means and a reflection type hologram lens to produce respective three-dimensional images. These three-dimensional images are formed at the same magnification in the same space to form a continuous image area. For this purpose, reflection type hologram lenses are disposed on the periphery of a circle. Respective three-dimensional images is reflected by the reflection type hologram acting as the optical transferring means, thus an enlarged three-dimensional image can be seen over the respective visual fields.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1997Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shunichi Sato
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Patent number: 6054817Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in a three-dimensional display system. A transformation technique is described wherein deflection coordinates defining the spatial locations of the images written into the display volume are determined by transformation from a coordinate system based on the display volume to a coordinate system based on the one or more electron guns. The application further relates to a technique by which the location of an electron beam within the display volume may be determined. These techniques involve positioning conductive material at various locations such as the screen and the enclosure of the display itself so that the impinging electron beam may be detected and thy the location of the beam in the display volume may be derived. Image enhancing techniques are described in conjunction with the location techniques whereby conductive films are evaporated onto the screen and/or the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1998Date of Patent: April 25, 2000Inventor: Barry George Blundell
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Patent number: 6012816Abstract: Certain optical imaging systems exhibit disparate vertical and horizontal image focal surfaces; at least one of which is tipped with respect to the optical axis. The projection optics which illuminates such systems must provide that the vertical image components focus upon the nominal vertical image surface, while the horizontal image components focus on the disparate horizontal image surface. Because at least one of these image surfaces may be tilted with respect to the projection axis, correction is required to maintain focus over the entire image surfaces and to eliminate keystoning. The system may also require differing vertical and horizontal image magnifications as projected upon the above disparate focal surfaces. This invention describes, inter alia, the techniques for meeting these varied requirements; to project a rectilinear object field such that it forms a final focused rectilinear image in a system having tipped and disparate image planes.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1997Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Inventor: Leo Beiser
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Patent number: 6012815Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for viewing back lit and front lit depth images having different depth image scenes being projected at different viewer orientations. A rotatable frame is mounted to a stand for rotation about an axis, wherein the frame includes at least one viewing port. The frame includes a retainer for securing a depth image to the frame. An interior of the frame may be back lit to illuminate the viewing port. Alternatively, a projection system illuminates a retained depth image with an illuminating light at an angle of less than approximately 45.degree.. The frame is rotated about the axis by a drive assembly to present at least one cycle of information from the depth image to a stationary viewer.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1997Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Inventors: Michael R Bruinsma, Jeffrey P Bruinsma, Jonathan E Forward
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Patent number: 5993005Abstract: A video wall has a plurality of spatial object image display devices, each spatial object image display device including a luminous display screen for providing a first image. The luminous display screen is operably engaged with a video wall computer, which is operatively engaged with at least one video input device such as a video cassette recorder (VCR). The video wall computer acts as a splitter to distribute the output of the VCR to the plurality of spatial object image display devices. Each spatial object image display device also includes a lens operatively spaced apart from the luminous display screen for projecting the first image beyond the lens to appear as a first spatial object. The luminous display screen and the lens of each spatial object image display device are mounted within a housing that surrounds the luminous display screen and the lens, excluding substantially all light from within the housing, except through an aperture in the housing.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1999Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Inventor: Nicholas L. Geranio
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Patent number: 5956180Abstract: An optical viewing system for producing multiple image displays comprises a first screen for displaying a first two-dimensional image on a first electronic display device at a first predetermined distance from an observer and a second screen for displaying a second two-dimensional image on a second electronic display device at a second predetermined distance from the observer. Each of the screens is located at different predetermined locations on an optical viewing path relatively nearer to and farther from the observer. The first two-dimensional image is projected through the second screen, creating a multiple overlaid picture image. The first and second electronic display devices are operable asynchronously without degrading the multiple overlaid picture image. The screen disposed in the optical viewing path at the predetermined location nearer to the observer is partially transparent.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 1996Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Inventors: Robert Bass, John Bass
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Patent number: 5954414Abstract: This invention relates generally to new and improved approaches for displaying volumnetric three-dimensional (3D) images. The basic idea features new optical-mechanical mechanisms enabling creation of volumetric 3D images by successive projection of whole frames of 2D images. This new method projects a series of frames of 2D images, through an optical-mechanical image delivery system, onto a translucent screen which moves periodically and sweeps a space. As viewed from outside the space, the series of 2D images distributed in the space form a volumetric image because of the after-image effect of human eyes. Many viewers can walk around the space and see the image from omni-directions simultaneously without wearing any kind of glasses.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1996Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Inventor: Che-Chih Tsao
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Patent number: 5944403Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the virtual production of an image, with a housing, an image projection device, which produces an image to be displayed. The housing has an observation opening in a wall of the housing with a fresnel lens arranged therein. Imaging optics arranged in the housing for depicting the object onto the fresnel lens. In order to ensure a large range of applications for this device, provision is made that the imaging optics have a concave mirror arranged in the path o light rays between the image projection device and the fresnel lens. The concave mirror lies opposite the fresnel lens and a ray divider is provided therebetween. To increase the illusion effect, a partially translucent mirro (spy mirror) is additionally arranged on the observation side of the fresnel lens.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1997Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Inventor: Detlef Krause
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Patent number: 5886818Abstract: Image compositing apparatus and methodology for the creation, in a defined volume of three-dimensional space, of a composite organization of plural images/visual phenomena, including at least one projected real image, displayed in formats including (a) front-to-rear, (b) side-by-side and (c) overlapping and intersecting, adjacency. The apparatus incorporates different unique arrangements of visual sources, and optical elements including concave reflectors, beam splitters and image-forming/image-transmissive scrim/screen structures. In one important modification of the system, which does not necessarily require compositing, a projected real image is derived from an image-producing data stream containing three-dimensional image cues selected from the group consisting of shading, occlusion, perspective, motion parallax, size vs. depth, light (chroma value) vs. depth and definition vs. depth.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1994Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Assignee: Dimensional Media AssociatesInventors: Susan Kasen Summer, Steve A. Welck, Burkhard Katz, Jon M. Dickinson, Pierre C. Van Rysselberghe
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Patent number: 5883695Abstract: Method and apparatus for producing stereoscopic images for motion picture or TV using a single sensor or camera and a single lens. In carrying out the method of the invention, the camera lens is caused to rotate about an axis defined by the optical path of the incoming image rays. The apex of the cone is defined by the object being rendered. The base of the cone is defined by the image sensor portion of the camera and its circular path remains unchanged during an image rendering session. The lens of the camera, on the other hand, travels in a smaller circular path and the circumference of the path of travel of the lens is increased or decreased depending on the distance from the image to the lens and can change during the image rendering session. Apparatus comprises a frame which is driven by an electro mechanical drive mechanism for moving a camera support body through a conical path.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1997Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Inventor: Eddie Paul
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Patent number: 5813742Abstract: A volumetric display system includes a display member which has a plurality of electrically-responsive optical shutters arranged in a layered relationship. The optical shutters include layers of a liquid crystal which preferably can be formed in geometric shapes which enhance the volumetric display. A projection system projects successive images onto the display member while successive ones of the optical shutters are switched into their translucent state. At any moment in time, all optical shutters except the successive one are maintained in a transparent state.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1996Date of Patent: September 29, 1998Assignee: Hughes ElectronicsInventors: Ronald S. Gold, Jerry E. Freeman
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Patent number: 5803564Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for viewing depth images having different depth image scenes being projected at different viewer orientations. A frame is rotatably mounted to a stand for rotation about an axis, wherein the frame includes at least one viewing port. An interior of the frame is back lit to illuminate the viewing port. The frame includes a retainer for securing a depth image to the frame. The frame is rotated about the axis by a drive assembly to present at least one cycle of information from the depth image to a stationary viewer.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1997Date of Patent: September 8, 1998Inventors: Michael R. Bruinsma, Jeffrey P. Bruinsma, Jonathan E. Forward
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Patent number: 5782547Abstract: An improved transmissive spatial object display provides a background image that appears to observers to have 3-D depth and includes the added advantages of permitting several viewers to observe the display simultaneously so that the background image appears on an accessible screen like that of televisions and computer monitors. A background image display is observed directly through a first Fresnel lens of a two Fresnel lens transmissive spatial object display which lens magnifies the background image display and also provides the front screen of the device. A first partially transparent mirror at 45 degrees separates the two Fresnel lenses permitting the background image display to be viewed solely through the first Fresnel lens. The first Fresnel lens serves the dual function of creating a first spatial object (in combination with the second Fresnel lens) and magnifying the background image.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1996Date of Patent: July 21, 1998Assignee: Videotronic SystemsInventors: Jeffrey Machtig, Steve McNelley
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Patent number: 5678910Abstract: The method and apparatus function to form three-dimensional imagery on plural screen surfaces (2) which are formed by changing planes of imagery. One or more projectors (4) project a plurality of images onto the screen surface from a common axis. The planes of imagery on the screens (2) which are projected by said one or more projectors (4), change at such a speed that, to the eye, the images appear simultaneously in three-dimensional form on said screen surfaces (2).Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1995Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Assignee: Trutan Pty LimitedInventor: Donald Lewis Maunsell Martin
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Patent number: 5639151Abstract: An improved desktop projection display system which effectively utilizes desk top space by producing an image that appears to be at the rear edge of the desk. The display is compact because it uses a transparent-reflective panel (i.e., beamsplitter) to reflect a screen image through the same space occupied by the projection beam. This is achieved by projecting through a transparent-reflective panel, angled at approximately 45 degrees to the projection beam, onto a front projection screen located on the desk surface. An image formed on the front projection screen is then reflected by the transparent-reflective panel creating the appearance to the observer that the reflected front projection screen is positioned toward the rear of the desk surface. This invention greatly improves desktop display ergonomics for large display viewing by providing a sufficient distance between the observer seated at a desk and the display image.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 1996Date of Patent: June 17, 1997Inventors: Steve H. McNelley, Jeffrey S. Machtig
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Patent number: 5556184Abstract: Imaginograph is an image on a screen which is mathematically generalized optical illusion to create psychological three dimensionality. These pictures are the would be "merged images in the brain" produced outside the brain. Rather than creating one picture for the left eye and another for the right, an Imaginograph is already the result of the analyzed signals. Using the property that when one is looking at a flat picture, the brain superimposes the two substantially same images in the left and right eyes and produces the same picture in the brain, Imaginographs are pictures which are formed by superimposing the left and right eye views at the same position as the object of interest in the view, keeping the images of the object of interest in the two pictures in register at all times. The left and right eye views and their projections can be generalized to obtain three dimensional views of non-Euclidean spaces.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1994Date of Patent: September 17, 1996Inventor: Rahim Nader-Esfahani
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Patent number: 5508763Abstract: The projector has an essentially afocal projection system, in particular for the reproduction of three-dimensional images. This system has a system of convex lenses (1) on the side of the object and a Fresnel lens (2) on the side of the image. The lenses are larger than the transverse dimension of the object to be reproduced. By providing a double reflection (3, 4), this projection system is able to generate, in addition to the reproduction of two-dimensional images, a three-dimensional image of a real, three-dimensional object, "positioned in space" and whose sides are correctly aligned for the benefit of an observer. Preferably, a plane mirror (3) is used for this purpose as well as a beam splitter (4) that is inclined by about 45.degree. with respect to the main axis (5) of the system of convex lenses (1).Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1994Date of Patent: April 16, 1996Assignee: SW Stanzwerk Glarus AGInventor: Wolfgang Schulte
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Patent number: 5469295Abstract: A system and method of collecting and displaying images of isolated persons or objects in three dimensions; whereby isolated images of persons or objects (106) are collected on film or video by digitally removing the background and replacing it with black or collecting the image against a black background (107); and the isolated image (106) is projected with polarized light on to a partially reflective and transparent sheet polarizing screen (104) of an orthogonal polarization sense to that of the projected light. The screen stops and reflects the image (105), but the screen is partially-transparent to light polarized parallel to its polarization sense making a real three dimensional physical object (103B) behind the screen visible from a position in front of the screen. The isolated image (105) on the screen (104) in the presence of real physical three dimensional objects (103A) and (103B) appears to be three dimensional.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1994Date of Patent: November 21, 1995Inventor: Douglas Burke
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Patent number: 5457508Abstract: A display device includes a projector and a translucent hemispherical screen disposed in a black box, with the axis of the hemisphere extending perpendicular to a surface on which an image from the projector is cast. A semitransparent mirror is disposed on the opposite side of the image-receiving surface of the hemispherical screen, aslant to the axis of the hemisphere and opposite a viewer. The image of an spherical object projected on the hemispherical screen can be seen in stereoscopic spatial vision. The image viewed through the semitransparent mirror appears as if it was floating in space.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 1994Date of Patent: October 10, 1995Assignee: Dentsu Prox Inc.Inventors: Taku Ichihara, Masami Ikeda, Yeu Murakami
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Patent number: 5329323Abstract: Systems and methods for producing the sensation of 3-dimensional viewing by projecting and displaying a foreground image and a background image onto separate projection screens positioned on a single viewing axis are disclosed. The images are viewed simultaneously and appear as a single image having depth characteristics. The foreground image screen and the background image screen are provided with image transmission, reflection, and absorption characteristics which allow for simultaneous viewing of more than one screen without image "bleed" or excessive loss of image intensity.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1992Date of Patent: July 12, 1994Inventor: Kevin Biles
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Patent number: 5311335Abstract: A laser light show device and method produces a surface projected or suspended holographic image, and includes multiple image projectors. One image projector provides the object image information representing the primary subject. For surface projections, additional background image projectors provide background image information generated using a wobbler plate-reflected beam diffracted through a spherical lens, a beam unidimensionally diffracted through a rotating cylindrical amorphic dipolyhedral lens, and a beam diffracted through multiple diffraction gratings. A suspended holographic image is produced by parabolically focusing multiple images projected onto a spherical image screen.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1992Date of Patent: May 10, 1994Inventor: Allen F. Crabtree
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Patent number: 5255028Abstract: Systems and methods for producing the sensation of 3-dimensional viewing are disclosed. Apparent 3-dimensional images are produced by simultaneously projecting at least two related images onto at least two associated projection screens, creating planes of images with each image plane having its own depth characteristic. Then at least two images are reflected or transmitted simultaneously by ghost glass to viewers who observe a composite image. The composite image provides viewers with the illusion of depth in the form of an apparent 3-dimensional image.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1992Date of Patent: October 19, 1993Inventor: Kevin Biles
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Patent number: 5090789Abstract: A laser light show device and method produces a surface projected or suspended holographic image, and includes multiple image projectors. One image projector provides the object image information representing the primary subject. For surface projections, additional background image projectors provide background image information generated using a wobbler plate-reflected beam diffracted through a spherical lens, a beam unidimensionally diffracted through a rotating cylindrical amorphic dipolyhedral lens, and a beam diffracted through multiple diffraction gratings. A suspended holographic image is produced by parabolically focusing multiple images projected onto a spherical image screen.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1990Date of Patent: February 25, 1992Inventor: Allen E. Crabtree
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Patent number: 5024494Abstract: The disclosure relates to a pointer for a three dimensional display wherein a scanned light beam is displayed upon a rotating display member rotating about a fixed axis for receiving and displaying the scanned light beam on a first surface thereof, fixed points in the display impinging upon the display member to display a harmonic motion along an axis passing through the scanned light beam in response to rotation of the display means. A beam of focussed light, preferably from a laser is modulated to synchronize with rotation of the display member to provide a visible point in the display at a predetermined location therein. A second embodiment provides an encoder, light conducting rod bundle and sensor to determine the three dimensional location of the point denoted by the pointer.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 1990Date of Patent: June 18, 1991Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventors: Rodney D. Williams, Felix Garcia
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Patent number: 4983031Abstract: The image projector apparatus is the display of the two-dimensional; data-storage format by means of an imaging display which employs a moving screen and a matrix transformation thereby creating a three dimensional reconstruction of the object space.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 1988Date of Patent: January 8, 1991Inventor: Dennis J. Solomon
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Patent number: 4974957Abstract: A device for 3-dimensional imaging of laser light effects when said light is imaged on and passes through plural imaging elements resulting in a multi-planer and apparently 3-dimensional image when viewed.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1989Date of Patent: December 4, 1990Inventor: Barney Kaelin
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Patent number: 4962420Abstract: A video information system includes a screen (1) having at least two cells (2-5, 14-16) rotatable in at least one direction and forming a three-dimensional multi-plane screen system changeable in space. Information from at least one projector is fed to two or more cells (2-5). Video information is presented in an in-depth three-dimensionally unfolding space. The system also has the capability of producing simultaneous changes in time, and the screen system can be efficiently combined with scenery attributes. The video information can be fed to the cells of the screen in the form of front or rear projection.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 1988Date of Patent: October 9, 1990Assignee: Teatr Polifonicheskoi DramyInventor: Gennady I. Judenich
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Patent number: 4927238Abstract: A photographic display for depicting a three dimensional visual image including a supporting frame for displaying a photographic image including a height, width and a predetermined thickness. A viewing screen is provided and disposed to extend substantially along the height and width of said supporting frame and being positioned on a first side thereof. The viewing screen includes a plurality of substantially parallel lines having a predetermined width and being separated by clear spaces. A photographic image is provided and disposed to extend substantially along the height and width of said supporting frame and being positioned on a second side thereof, spaced from said first side by said predetermined thickness of the supporting frame.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1988Date of Patent: May 22, 1990Assignee: Nicholas C. TerzisInventors: James A. Green, Nicholas C. Terzis
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Patent number: 4782614Abstract: A display unit comprising a light source, a beam splitter, e.g. in the form of a sheet of titanium coated glass, a layer of retroreflective material, a clear shelf and a flexible stencil so arranged that, in use, light passes through the stencil from the light source and is reflected by the beam splitter, e.g. titanium coated glass, onto the retroreflective screen. The layer of retroreflective material diverts the incident light, e.g. through 180 degrees, so that when a user looks towards the retroreflective material the image appears suspended in space. The stencil is larger than the clear shelf and consequently has an undulant surface which causes the image itself to be undulant and appear in three dimensions. A cranked shaft is attached to the stencil and is rotated by a motor. As the shaft rotates, the undulations in the flexible stencil alter, thereby causing the image to move.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1987Date of Patent: November 8, 1988Assignee: Living Images LimitedInventor: Martin Beacom
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Patent number: 4736214Abstract: A three dimensional image generating system has a multiple adjacent image generating projector aimed at corresponding juxtaposed reflectors, one of which being substantially reflective and the other of which being partially transmissive and partially reflective. A third partially transmissive reflecting member is interposed between the juxtaposed reflectors and a viewing audience. A prop supporting rotatable stage is disposed before the audience and beyond the the third reflecting member. The third reflecting member transmits and reflects to the audience a composite image composed of the three dimensional image generated by the juxtaposed reflectors and the prop image passed through the third reflecting member.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 1985Date of Patent: April 5, 1988Inventor: Robert E. Rogers
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Patent number: 4571041Abstract: A projection arrangement for projecting three-dimensional images of objects into space. The object is illuminated by a source of light, and the light rays reflected from the object are directed so as to be incident on a mirror surface located behind a lens. The mirror surface receives an image from the lens and the combination forms an enlarged three-dimensional image projected into space. The lens can be in the form of a modified Fresnel lens of multiple focal lengths and having spherical zones in the form of strips. The Fresnel lens, which may be used in combination with other optical elements, provides a substantially large field of view suitable for viewing a three-dimensional image of the object by a mass audience. The image projection may be achieved without the use of a screen. The enlarged three-dimensional image appears floating in space visible to unaided eyes of an audience.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 1984Date of Patent: February 18, 1986Inventor: Tad J. Gaudyn
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Patent number: 4509837Abstract: An optical display device for creating the of an object out in space in front of the viewer. The device uses an illuminated object, with a transparent medium in the form of a prism or fluid placed between a beam splitter and a matrix of retroreflectors for deflecting the light rays from the illuminated object back toward the object.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1982Date of Patent: April 9, 1985Inventor: Michiel Kassies
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Patent number: 4492442Abstract: A projection arrangement for projecting three-dimensional images of objects into space. The object is illuminated by a source of light, and the light rays reflected from the object are directed so as to be incident on a mirror surface located behind a lens. The mirror surface receives an image from the lens and the combination forms an enlarged three-dimensional image projected into space. The lens can be in the form of a modified Fresnel lens of multiple focal lengths and having spherical zones in the form of strips. The Fresnel lens, which may be used in combination with other optical elements, provides a substantially large field of view suitable for viewing a three-dimensional image of the object by a mass audience. The image projection may be achieved without the use of a screen. The enlarged three-dimensional image appears floating in space visible to unaided eyes of an audience.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1982Date of Patent: January 8, 1985Inventor: Tad J. Gaudyn
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Patent number: 4414565Abstract: An apparent three dimensional image is produced from a two dimensional image by causing the two dimensional image to appear on a saddle shaped surface. This saddle shaped surface may be a real surface such as a light scattering glass or a surface in space formed by an optical component such as an aspheric lens or lenticular array. The two dimensional image may be produced by a cathode ray tube e.g. a television receiver, a slide or film projector, or a non-emissive display such as a liquid crystal display.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 1981Date of Patent: November 8, 1983Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandInventor: Ian A. Shanks
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Patent number: 4391499Abstract: The image projector as disclosed herein demonstrates an apparatus and method for creating a three-dimensional image. The projector is composed of a plurality of modules which are controllably illuminated to form the desired display. The modules are formed to be illuminated and to pass light from within through their walls and to prevent light from entering their outer walls when said modules are not illuminated.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1982Date of Patent: July 5, 1983Inventor: William C. Whitlock, III
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Patent number: 4261657Abstract: An optical display device for creating the illusion of an object floating in space comprises a lens means having the optical properties of a convex lens, a housing for supporting the lens and an object such that the light path from the object to the lens is greater than the focal length of the lens and means for illuminating the object.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1978Date of Patent: April 14, 1981Inventor: Earl M. Reiback
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Patent number: 4231642Abstract: My invention relates to photographing scenes with a standard motion picture camera in which there is a relative motion between the scene and camera with the purpose of stereoscopic viewing of the motion picture without the need for viewing aids at the eye. The system is compatible with scenes photographed without this relative motion but the reproduction is flat. The 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 scan projector. Projection optics on the projector, project the sequential film frames onto a relatively large circular cylindrical screen having its vertical axis coincident with the projector axis.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 1979Date of Patent: November 4, 1980Inventor: Robert B. Collender
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Patent number: 4176923Abstract: The invention involves theatre size stereoscopic motion pictures without glasses and without restricted viewing zones and which can be photographed with a standard motion picture camera. Relative lateral motion is required between the camera and the scene. The film is run horizontally through a scan projector in which a given scene on the screen is constructed from several adjacent scenes on the film. The scanned stereoscopic picture can be viewed from different perspectives. A central 3-facet scanning projector of small mass and radius projects over a 120.degree. sector onto triangular elemental mirror scanners causing the node of the image of the projection lens to sweep a large radius about the projector center. From the scanner the sweeping optical axis of the projector passes through the rotation axis where the picture is imaged onto a concentric semi-specular screen. Three vertical concentrically moving aerial viewing slits are generated 120.degree.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1978Date of Patent: December 4, 1979Inventor: Robert B. Collender
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Patent number: 4159163Abstract: Optical assemblies are disclosed for use in producing an effect of three-dimensional relief in the projection of a still photograph or motion picture film by means of polarized light, each still photograph or frame of the motion picture film comprising a single, regular, two-dimensional image. In order to produce the effect of three-dimensional relief the projector is provided with an optical assembly consisting of a lens and a beam-splitting polarizing device located inside the lens barrel which results in the projection of two oppositely polarized and laterally separated images of the photograph or each frame of motion picture film. The screen is of the non-depolarizing type and the images are seen in three-dimensional relief when viewed through polarizing spectacles.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1976Date of Patent: June 26, 1979Inventor: Leslie P. Dudley
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Patent number: 4133602Abstract: Apparatus for controlling the interaction of light sources to produce a decodable composite image which image may have three dimensional characteristics and including color filterization and light control biologically producing depth and measurement thereof.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1976Date of Patent: January 9, 1979Inventor: James E. Ihms