Abstract: An over head projector including an image inputting device for inputting an image data of a manuscript; a projecting optical system for projecting the image data onto a screen by a first magnification; and an image data magnifying device for dividing a plurality of character image data from the image data of the manuscript into one or more groups of character image data which each group fits a displaying area having a predetermined size, to magnify the character image data by a second magnification, and for transmitting the magnified character image data by each group of character image data onto the projecting optical system.

Abstract: A search apparatus includes a device for transporting a long recording medium and positioning a desired image on the recording medium in a predetermined position, and a device for moving a carrier, supporting the recording medium, in the width direction thereof. The apparatus is provided with a detection device for detecting the reference position of the carrier, and when the carrier is moved, the moving distance of the carrier is measured without failure after the reference position has been detected. Movement of the carrier is controlled on the basis of the measurement value.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus is capable of being switched between an observation state in which an image on a recording medium is projected onto a screen and observed and a read state in which the image is projected onto a reading unit and read. The apparatus includes a projecting lens provided in a lower portion of the apparatus to project the image, a rockable first reflecting member provided in an upper portion of the apparatus to reflect the image light from the projecting lens and, a second reflecting member provided in opposition to the screen to guide the image light reflected by the first reflecting member to the screen. A third reflecting member is provided below the second reflecting member to guide the image light reflected by the first reflecting member to the reading unit. The observation state and the read state are switched by the rocking motion of the first reflecting member.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for preparing photographic film units having image frame associated encoded data. The method has the steps of: providing a filmstrip having a plurality of image frames and encoded data relating to individual image frames; reading the encoded data; locating the image frames; identifying data units; correlating individual data units and individual image frames; and rerecording data units on the filmstrip in physical association with respective image frames.

Abstract: When a film cartridge storing a developed film including a magnetic layer is mounted in an electronic viewer, the film is pulled out from the cartridge, and a forward end of the film is wound around a winding axis. A film transport is controlled in accordance with a detection signal generated by a frame detector every detection of the frame, so that a film image of the film can be observed. At the same time, the viewer reads out magnetic information recorded in the magnetic layer, which corresponds to each film image. Contents of the magnetic information are displayed on an LCD of the viewer. As a result, a user can observe his desirable film image and the contents of the magnetic information corresponding the desired film image.

Abstract: A control method of a microfilm image reader is provided for reducing the amount of image data to be transferred from a scanner to a host computer, making the transfer time short and hence lengthening the free time of a bus, reducing the storage capacity needed for storing the image data, and simplifying the operation procedure by omitting the process of eliminating the black frame portion when printed out. The host computer supplies the scanner with a window parameter containing a range of reading area, and the scanner detects only an image area from all the reading area to transfer image data of the detected image area to the host computer together with attribute information containing the size of the image area. The attribute information may be managed by a header system, and data on a print position of the target image may be contained in the attribute information.

Abstract: Microfiche reader characterized in that it comprises a light source (13) consisting of a high brightness electroluminescent diode assembly (33), arranged on a supporting surface (31) capable of focusing the light flux (14) produced by the diodes onto the element of the optical arrangement of the apparatus.

Abstract: A film carrier is provided with a roll carrier for supporting a roll film and a sheet carrier for supporting a sheet film, and is arranged to use either one of the carriers as selectively positioning it in a projection optical path. In the film carrier, the sheet carrier is moved to a first retracting position not to interfere with the roll carrier outside the projection optical path when the roll carrier is located on the projection optical path. In contrast, the roll carrier is moved to a second retracting position not to interfere with the sheet carrier outside the projection optical path when the sheet carrier is located on the projection optical path. The sheet carrier and the roll carrier at the first and second retracting positions are arranged so that at least parts thereof overlap vertically.

Abstract: Film image display method and apparatus adapted to display image frames on film normally stored in a cartridge in a user selected sequence. The film carries a magnetic recording layer and the apparatus is programmed to allow the user to view image frames and hear sound recorded in association with the frames in a pre-determined viewing sequence, that may be user-determined. The viewing sequence is different from the chronological sequence of frames on the film. The apparatus and method also records data on the film which identifies the viewing sequence. Sound may be recorded in association with frames in the viewing sequence during user selection of the viewing sequence. When viewed later, the recorded sequence data is read from the film and used to control the sequence in which the film images are displayed.

Abstract: A printed material reader that searches for a desired frame by using blips provided on a printed material, and that prevents search errors due to variances in blip lengths. Before a search of a desired frame, the lengths of the blips adjacent to all the frames on the printed material are detected, and the permissible ranges for the blips are determined from a frequency histogram reflecting relative distributions of the blip lengths detected. The blips whose length fall within permissible ranges are counted to search for a desired frame on the microfilm.

Abstract: An image projecting apparatus for projecting an image recorded in a microfilm incorporated in a cartridge on a screen, for example, is furnished with a loading device which has a container storing a plurality of cartridges detachably attached thereto. The cartridges in the container are sequentially loaded at a prescribed position of a roll film carrier by a loading mechanism of the loading device and subjected to screening of a microfilm for retrieval of a desired image. The cartridge containing the microfilm which had undergone the screening is extracted from the prescribed position and returned to the container by a discharge mechanism. The discharge mechanism returns the cartridge loaded at the prescribed position via a path independent of the path used by the loading mechanism for moving the cartridge.

Abstract: A slide projector assembly provided with novel slides which may be drawn upon and/or associated with a sound track specific to the slide being projected. The slides may be blank or have line drawings in which cases the slides may be drawn upon. In addition slides, either of the type set forth above, or of a more or less conventional photographic slide design, may be provided with unique machine readable slide identification means. A housing, which includes slide projection means, is also provided with slide identification reading means so that when a slide is placed in the slide receiving means of the slide projection means a recognition signal will be transmitted. This signal will be received by an audio recording and playback means which may initiate either the playing of a sound track or may set a flag at the beginning of a sound track which is to be recorded.

Abstract: A completely passive adapter for scanning transparent images in a reflective scanner. Mirrors are used to capture light from a lamp that is internal to the scanner and to reflect that light thought a transparent image along the light path required by internal scanner optics. For larger images, a lens is added to capture additional light. Different embodiments of the adapter accommodate variation in angles of optical paths and offset between the light source path and the light detection path. Embodiments are provided having two tilted mirrors, two mirrors plus an optical wedge, four mirrors, and seven mirrors. An optional graduated density optical filter may be added to compensate for nonuniform illumination.

Abstract: A stop-motion mechanism utilizes rotational means for rotating a shaft having a thread with an alternating series of helical portions and arc portions. A follower is mounted for motion having a longitudinal component, and is adapted to engage the thread formed on the rotatable shaft. When the shaft is rotated, the follower thus moves in an intermittent fashion which is characterized by alternating periods of motion having a longitudinal component and pauses in motion.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in projecting a picture image onto a remote surface includes a frame assembly, a stage assembly, and a support assembly. The frame assembly receives a light source and a light pipe through which light from the light source is transmitted and cooled, the stage assembly supports a plurality of discrete transparencies, and the support assembly supports a projecting lens and a reflecting mirror. The stage assembly includes a stage glass for supporting discrete transparencies. The stage glass is rectilinearly displaceable so as to permit any discrete point of the stage glass to be positioned above a light source.

Abstract: The microfilm storage and retrieval system (MegaSAR) of the present invention puts microfilm images on line in a document imaging system. A MegaSAR could be connected to a PC lan base document imaging system with specialized software. A remote user then has the ability to retrieve images of the stored microfilm.

Abstract: A transparency changer attachment for an overhead projector includes hinged horizontal and vertical portions that are located over the projector cover glass and down the projector side, respectively. Transparencies are automatically sequentially fed by pick and retard rollers from a single cassette-loaded transparency stack in the vertical portion to belts and rollers located marginally of a viewing area defined in the horizontal portion, to bring them into registration with the cover glass for projection, and then return them to the single stack. A microprocessor circuit controls the stack side from which the next transparency is picked and to which it is returned, according to selection made by the user. The cassette is keyed to assure correct transparency orientation at loading. A sensor reads individual transparency identifying information to initiate rapid cycling to a particular next desired transparency.

Abstract: An image projecting apparatus is disclosed which is provided with a film carrier part for retaining a microfilm, a screen for allowing an image recorded on the film to be projected thereon, and an optical image rotating mechanism disposed in a projected light path extending from a light source to the screen and adapted to rotate the image recorded on the film and consequently allow the image to be projected in a desired posture on the screen. The operator, even when the image on the film is projected in a rotated state, is enabled to move the film in a prescribed direction in accordance with the angle of the rotation of the image produced by the optical image rotating mechanism by keeping an eye on the image projected on the screen and, at the same time, manipulating a key corresponding to the direction in which the image is desired to be observed or to the direction identical to the direction in which the image is desired to be moved.

Abstract: An information retrieval apparatus for retrieving desired information in an information recording medium by driving the information recording medium and detecting a mark put on the driven information recording medium has a drive controller for controlling the drive of the information recording medium in accordance with measurement of an interval of marks of the information recording medium measured at the start of retrieval of the information recording medium.

Abstract: A module interposed between a slide tray and a projector provides a user selected random presentation of sequentially ordered slides. The module bottom simulates the tray bottom to align gates of the module and projector. The module top simulates the tray bottom to align gates of the tray and module. A microcontroller controls a lifter foot to keep unwanted slides from dropping into the module gate until the tray had been rotated by a hub assembly to the next desired slide position. The lifter foot then acts to lower a slide through the module to the lifter foot and projector, and return it after projection.

Abstract: A microfilm storage and retrieval system for storing plural microfilm cartridges in a storage rack and for selectively retrieving a desired cartridge. Plural microfilm cartridges are stored two-dimensionally in a rack having an open front face at which a carrier for taking out and returning the cartridges is disposed. An image reader is arranged behind the rack. A cartridge delivery port is provided through the rack, so that each cartridge is taken out from the rack into the space in front of the rack and then delivered through the delivery port to the image reader arranged behind the rack to read the images of the microfilm. In a preferred embodiment, the selected microfilm cartridge is turned to change its posture or orientation ready to be loaded into a cartridge loading port of the image reader in a space behind the rack intermediately of the delivery passage.

Abstract: A microfilm map reader is provided and consists of a housing removably attachable to a sun visor of a motor vehicle. A collapsible microfilm slide projector is built into the housing and has an translucent screen. A microfilm slide with a map thereon is insertable into the projector so that a person within the motor vehicle can read the map on the slide that is projected and enlarged onto the translucent screen.

Abstract: An overhead projector for transparencies is provided, and includes a conventional top glass or other transparent plate. The overhead projector also includes a conventional optical system including a projection light path. An additional glass or the like plate is supported above the top conventional glass plate and supports a transparency for projection. A masking member is provided either above or below the transparency. The masking member is movable to cover portions of the transparency while uncovering other portions thereof to project selected portions of the transparency at any given time. In addition an arrow or other message carrying unit is provided which may be above or below the transparency, and which is movable to direct attention to a particular area of the transparency.

Abstract: A reader printer for copying image information from a microfilm having a multiplicity of image frames recorded therein, frame marks for retrieval affixed thereon opposite the image frames, and batch marks for retrieval affixed thereon opposite the leading image frames of batches of image frames. When one of the batches of image frames is designated, the information contained in all the image frames in the batch is recorded sequentially from the last through the first of the image frames. The positioning of each of the image frames included within the designated batch at a prescribed location of the projected light path is accomplished by detecting the frame marks with a sensor, memorizing the positional relationship of the frame marks prior to the operation of print copying, and selectively imparting a motion to the microfilm based on the memorized data of position. The sensor is disposed at a position deflecting from the projected light path.

Abstract: An aperture card which carries image information in a microfilm mounted on a rectangular paper sheet is widely used as it can conveniently record and control a large volume of image information separately. The aperture card carries a microfilm which records retrieval information corresponding to images of the microfilm at a position peripheral to the images. As such structure of this invention aperture card permits automatic recording of the retrieval information concurrently with the preparation and duplication of the cards, this invention can realize the preparation/duplication system for the aperture cards at a lower cost than before. As the printer suitable for the aperture card can read the retireval information recorded on the microfilm and record them in characters or punches, it can reduce the cost of the system due to the abbreviation of the manufacturing processes and increase the memorandum capacity on paper. The printer may be applicable to automatic punch systems.

Abstract: In apparatus for displaying map information, at least two maps of the same terrain but of different scale from one another are provided on a movable platform so that a portion of one of the images can be selected and displayed through an optical lens projection system of fixed magnification onto a projection screen and displaying through the optical lens projection system a portion of the selected portion of the one of the map images on the projection screen to examine the display of the other map image in that detail permitted by the scale of the other of the map images at the fixed magnification.

Abstract: A microfilm searching and reading device for selectively taking out a cartridge containing a target image from one or more microfilm cartridge stacks. The device comprises a framework defining at least one storing space extending substantially vertically for storing a stack of cartridges in a manner such that the cartridges are stacked one above another, a scanner for receiving a selected microfilm cartridge and having an image reader and an actuator for winding and rewinding the microfilm, a carrier for taking out the selected cartridge and for guiding the same to the scanner, and a restoring mechanism for putting the selected cartridge, after the target image has been read by the microfilm reader, in the lowermost or uppermost position of the storing space. The device further comprises a memory for storing the location of the restored cartridge, and a controller for controlling the carrier, the scanner and the restoring mechanism.

Abstract: In a random access retrieval apparatus having disc/radial selection and path length compensation systems a bearing and guide means permitting and transmitting high speed linear, angular and rotational motion among a rotating shaft, a frame and a driven element. A first bearing element mounted on a shaft for rotational movement therewith and linear movement there along, a second bearing element supporting the frame for angular motion relative to the shaft and first bearing element and for linear movement with the first bearing element and relative to the shaft.

Abstract: An information projecting apparatus for selecting one of a plurality of cartridge each containing an information recording medium therein and projecting the information of the recording medium in the selected cartridge has cartride storing device for storing the plurality of cartridges therein, cartridge conveying device for conveying the cartridge selected from the cartridge storing device to a first position or a second position, feeding device for feeding to a projecting portion the recording medium of the cartridge placed at the first position or the second position, and optical device for projecting the information of the recording medium placed at the projecting portion.

Abstract: A projection apparatus for selecting one of a plurality of cartridges each of which stores an information recording medium and for projecting information of the information recording medium stored in a selected one of the cartridges includes a first cartridge reception member for holding the cartridge in a first position, a second cartridge reception member for holding the cartridge in a second position, an optical system for projecting information of the information recording medium onto a predetermined position, a detector for detecting the presence/absence of the cartridge in the first and second cartridge reception members, and a retrieval control circuit for controlling the first and second cartridge reception members to cause the optical system to project the information of the information recording medium of the cartridge first detected by the detector.

Abstract: A projection-type display device for producing a faithful colored synthesized image based on equating the luminous intensity distributions and light patterns produced by three twisted nematic liquid crystal light valves for three primary color images. Each light valve includes a twisted nematic liquid crystal composition which is twisted to the right or left depending on the number of times that color light is reflected. Each light valve may include an active switching matrix arranged in mirror-like symmetry with light shield layers also arranged symmetrically.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a projector having an arrangement of polarizers and liquid crystal cells aligned on the axis of light in the order a first color polarizer colored in red, a first twisted nematic liquid crystal cell, a second twisted nematic liquid crystal cell, a second color polarizer colored in a green, a third twisted nematic liquid, a neutral polarizer and Guest-Host type colored in blue. Since, according to this, a polarizer having inferior color characteristics can be replaced by a Guest-Host type liquid crystal cell, the excitation purity and the scope of color reproduction are improved. Further, since the mixture of color is additive, the brightness of the reproduced color is also much improved.

Abstract: A shape measuring apparatus is disclosed.

Abstract: An image projection apparatus detects whether or not a film sheet such as a microfiche is clamped between a pair of transparent members upon energization of the apparatus, performs index frame projection when the film sheet is clamped therebetween, and performs ejection when the film sheet is not clamped therebetween, thereby preventing damage to the film sheet and the jam state.

Abstract: A microprocessor-controlled microfiche viewer which is adaptable for displaying microfiche having any format. The viewer calls up selected microfiche images in either a sequential mode or a random mode. In the sequential mode a carrier table follows a default sequence, and is cued by a keyboard control, by a dual-tone audio cueing signal that is received over a telephone line or from a tape player, or by a digital signal from an RS-232 port. In the random mode, particular images are selected by moving the carrier table in desired directions with directional keys, or by providing the coordinates of an image to the microprocessor. Image coordinates are entered manually at the keyboard, by dual-tone audio signals from a telephone line or a tape player, or by data from the RS-232 port.

Abstract: A high-density rapid random - access retrieval apparatus for retrieving micrographic and data images stored on plural windowed discs. The apparatus is comprised of a disc/radial selection mechanism which moves axially of a cartridge containing a stack of closely spaced discs. Each disc has a clear window disposed on a radius thereof and a plurality of windows containing micrographic and/or data images disposed along other radil. When the disc/radial selection mechanism has moved to a selected disc, the radial component rotates the disc until the radius upon which the desired image is located is aligned with the clear windows in the other discs. The optical system includes lens and reflecting surfaces. At one end of the system is a projection means and at the other end lies its receiving means. Elements of the system are vertically adjustable so that the line of sight of the system is projected through any selected image bearing window.

Abstract: A portable microform reader 10 comprising a foldable frame 12. The frame includes a view screen 14 and a microform holder 18. A microform 38 is illuminated by a light package 80 and an image of a portion of the microform 38 is projected through pick up lens 48. A fiber optic cable 22 carries the image from the objective lens 48 to a focusing lens 52 which projects a magnified image onto the view screen 14. Pickup lens assembly 20 is moved manually to view different areas of the microform.

Abstract: A device for supplying masks to be used in a chamber having a wall, comprises an opening formed in the wall of the chamber, and a rotatable shelf disposed in the opening and for carrying thereon the masks. The rotatable shelf is coupled, by way of a rotational shaft, to a portion of the wall adjacent to the opening and the rotational shelf has a mask carrying portion which is rotationally movable, about the rotational shaft, through the opening to and from the inside of the chamber and from and to the outside of the chamber.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for storing and handling slides for their selective projection. The device comprises at least one storage rack (6) for slides, and means for displacing (18, 27) the racks under the control of a data processing machine (3), so that any selected slide (31) may appear in front of an extraction window (7). According to the invention, a plurality of circular storing racks (6) are stacked according to a common vertical axis, and the means for displacing the unit of racks comprise a reversible motor (27) permitting a vertical displacement of the unit of racks, and a motor (18) permitting a rotation of the unit of racks about the axis of said shaft. The data processing machine controls the extraction and the reinsertion of a slide in accordance with a memorized sequence selected previously by the user and with the instantaneous position of the unit of racks.

Abstract: An automated photograph slide storage and retrieval system adapted for use with photograph slides having a magnetic stripe with information characteristic of the slide encoded thereon. The system includes a storage and retrieval device and a terminal. The storage and retrieval device includes a plurality of magazines in which the photograph slides are stored at indexed locations, a pick mechanism for retrieving selected photograph slides from the magazines, a read head, and a computer for controlling the magazines and pick mechanism. Data representative of the indexed locations at which the photograph slides are stored is maintained within electronic memory of the terminal. Information representative of selected slides to be retrieved from or stored within the storage and retrieval device is entered into the terminal through a keyboard. In response, the terminal provides command signals to the computer of the storage and retrieval device thereby causing the selected slides to be stored or retrieved.

Abstract: A lamina retrieval device for storing microfiche, holograms and other flat, sheet-like materials. A stack of laminae are retained in a cage formed by a plurality of guides, with the guides being so mounted as to retain the laminae in an angularly displaced disposition, with each lamina in a group of laminae being angled with respect to an adjacent lamina. To allow for the removal of a lamina, the guides may be formed as split pins so that part of each pin is movable to form an opening in the cage. The device can include fingers for holding a stack of laminae apart to allow removal of the desired lamina. Removal is accomplished in one embodiment through an airflow.

Abstract: A microfiche carrier has a lower transparent plate supporting a microfiche thereon and changeable over into a horizontal posture and an inclined posture, an upper transparent plate openable and closable relative to the lower transparent plate and urging the microfiche against the lower transparent plate, a posture changing device for changing the posture of the lower transparent plate, and a movable member holding the upper transparent plate and the lower transparent plate and movable along a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A high-density rapid random-access retrieval apparatus for retrieving micrographic and data images stored on plural windowed discs. The apparatus is comprised of a disc/radial selection mechanism which moves axially on a cartridge containing a stack of closely spaced discs. Each disc has a clear window disposed on a radius thereof and a plurality of windows containing micrographic and/or data images disposed along other radii. When the disc/radial selection mechanism has moved to a selected disc, the radial component rotates the disc until the radius upon which the desired image is located is aligned with the clear windows in the other discs. The optical system includes lens and reflecting surfaces. At one end of the system is a projection means and at the other end lies its image receiving means. Elements of the system are vertically adjustable so that the line of sight of the system is projected through any selected image bearing window.

Abstract: A microfilm reader with a lens holder moved independently of a lighting unit at right angles in relation to the beam path by means of a drive unit. This renders it possible to correctly position any of a plurality of lenses arranged side by side in the lens holder in relation to the frame to be projected. Given that the lighting unit and the lens holder are capable of moving independently of each other, it is furthermore possible to shift the lighting unit into a position above the respective frame to be projected to obtain an image that is optimally illuminated.

Abstract: The subject matter of the invention is constituted by a projection apparatus for the projection of transparencies on to a screen. The transparencies are articulated together. One at a time the rows of transparencies are located between a light source and a lens, same being moved along the row of transparencies in order to project the transparencies in order on the screen. When the transparencies of one row have been projected, the chain is moved through one step in order to place the next row of transparencies in place of the former one in between the light source and the lens. The invention furthermore relates to a particularly convenient design by which a number of transparency rows may be chained together with articulating joints therebetween.

Abstract: A visual presentation projection apparatus for creating dramatic visual presentations from a single transparency which simultates motion and therefore gives the viewer the feeling of moving within a scene includes illumination means for directing a beam of light through a transparency, optical means for projecting the image disposed on the transparency, and means for moving the transparency within the path of light projected by the illumination means during projection, the movement of the transparency permitting continuous selection and projection of various portions of the transparency on a viewing surface, the portion to be projected being randomly selectable.

Abstract: An intelligent interface arrangement is provided for controlling and sensing operation of one or more random access slide projectors from a host computer or intelligent terminal. The interface arrangement includes a first microprocessor controlled communication section and a second microprocessor controlled receiver section. One of the receiver sections is provided for each slide projector to be controlled. The communication section bidirectionally communicates with the host over a first communication interface and bidirectionally communicates with the receiver section over a second communication bus structure. The receiver section communicates with the controlled slide projector over a control bus including predetermined signal points in the slide projector and keyboard control lines.

Abstract: A microfiche card storage and retrieval system comprising a carousel for storing microfiche cards, card transport means for inserting and retracting microfiche cards from said carousel, said card transport device having an extended position in the plane of its movement, a card load-unload chute disposed above said carousel and defining a card-receiving chute in the plane of movement of said card transport device, the card-receiving chute comprising stop means across the chute to prevent a card from inadvertently being moved into the storage and retrieval system, means for retracting said stop means, means adjacent one edge of said chute for limiting the height of the chute to prevent oversized cards from being inserted through the chute into the storage and retrieval system, and means opposite the insert side of said chute for guiding a microfiche card moved by said transport means into said chute.

Abstract: A storage and retrieval system for use with microfiche cards having a carousel for storing the cards, a slot for loading and unloading the storage system, a card transport device utilizing a pair of fingers to grasp an edge of the card and straighten the edge of the card and retract the card from the storage trays, a card separating device for separating cards adjacent the selected card in the storage tray to permit the picker finger access to said edge, and card guidance means for guiding the card back to the storage tray and for detecting any bowing or buckling movement of the card during the return of the card to its storage position. The buckling detecting device comprising a light-receiving detecting device for signalling the control mechanism of the storage and retrieval system.

Abstract: Random access slide projector apparatus is provided for the random access presentation of slide programs. The random access apparatus is responsive to an encoded program tape or to input signals from a local or remote keyboard. The encoded program tape includes predetermined slide address signals as burst format signals corresponding to desired slide positions in the slide tray. The random access apparatus decodes the encoded slide address signals and generates appropriate control outputs to move the slide tray to the desired programmed slide position and project the desired slides. The random access apparatus also provides for the recording of slide address signals in accordance with keyboard entries to prepare random access program tapes. The program tape includes one track for the recording of encoded slide address signals and a second synchronized track for narrative program information to accompany the slide program.