Abstract: The invention relates to a display device for displaying visual information, comprising: at least one image-forming element; at least one light source for generating a light beam, which in cooperation with the image-forming element produces an illuminated image; optical means for processing the light beam and/or illuminated image; and a projection surface for receiving the illuminated image, wherein the image-forming element is flat and the projection surface forms at least a part of a cylinder wall.

Abstract: A visual and audio system for theaters includes a spherical screen having a desired radius of curvature while having a surface reflectivity of 5-50%, and a projector located at a focal point of the spherical screen. The curvature radius of the spherical screen corresponds to the projection distance of the projector. The image projected from the projector at the focal point of the spherical screen is reflected from the spherical screen in a horizontal direction. Accordingly, viewers can view images projected on the screen corresponding to 5-50 time the brightness of images viewed on conventional theaters screens. Central speakers are arranged at the focal point of the spherical screen, so that viewers perceive the sound effect as coming directly from the spherical screen. This visual and audio system can be effectively used in theaters for stereoscopic moves, theaters for high resolution images, and theaters for viewing of images at a higher brightness such as sports arenas, and restaurant theaters, etc.

Abstract: A compact real-image projection apparatus is used for a portable device (140). An optical projector (110) emits light that is capable of forming an image. A collapsible screen (120) has a collapsed surface area no larger than substantially the surface area of a side of the portable device and an expanded surface area capable of receiving the light emitted from the optical projector (110). A retractable connecting member (150) is coupled between the screen (120) and the optical projector (110) and has at least a stowed position and an extended position. The extended position is configured to hold the screen (120) and the optical projector (110) relative to one another such that the light emitted from the optical projector forms a real image on the screen.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for providing a control system that controls at least one of a plurality of display units. In one embodiment, the control system includes a remote control circuit capable of activating a remote signal for moving the display unit between one of a first, a second and a third positions and another one of the first, the second and the third positions. The control system further includes a local display unit movement control circuit coupled to the display unit, and a transmitter coupled to the local display unit movement control circuit. The transmitter is configured to transmit a light beam capable of being reflected from a reflective surface near the transmitter to make a reflected light beam, and a receiver coupled to the local display unit movement control circuit.

Abstract: A method and system for projecting an image. An image projection system may include a sensor configured to detect the presence of an observer within a proximity of a medium, e.g., screen, window. In response to the sensor detecting the presence of an observer within a proximity of the medium, one or more portions of the medium may be switched from a transparent state to a substantially translucent state. At a substantially concurrent time as switching the one or more portions of the medium to a substantially translucent state, an image may be projected onto such portion(s). Hence, an image may be displayed in response to detecting an observer within the proximity of the medium.

Abstract: In a rear projector for projecting an image from behind a screen, its screen size is variable. In order to permit flexible adaptation to the variation in the screen size, the projector is constructed to permit easy adjustment of a detection device for detecting an image display position or a position indicated on the screen.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a compact integrated front projection display system. The system comprises a frame having first and second portions and a foldable arm having first and second ends. The second end of the arm is connected to the first portion of the frame. The arm is moveable between a storage position and a projection position. The system also includes a retractable projection screen disposed on the second portion of the frame and a projection head mounted on the first end of the moveable arm.

Abstract: A reflective projection screen has in a first aspect a plurality of reflective elements. The upper surface of the reflective elements is either coated or textured to interfere with reflection of light from the upper surface to an adjacent reflective element. In a second aspect of the invention, a screen is provided that reflects light in the vertical direction like a plane surface, while reflecting light in the horizontal direction back toward the light source. In a third aspect of the invention, a projection system projects a three-dimensional image.

Abstract: A compact real-image projection apparatus is used for a portable device (140). An optical projector (110) emits light that is capable of forming an image. A collapsible screen (120) has a collapsed surface area no larger than substantially the surface area of a side of the portable device and an expanded surface area capable of receiving the light emitted from the optical projector (110). A retractable connecting member (150) is coupled between the screen (120) and the optical projector (110) and has at least a stowed position and an extended position. The extended position is configured to hold the screen (120) and the optical projector (110) relative to one another such that the light emitted from the optical projector forms a real image on the screen.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus is provided that includes a projection screen located on a wall of a workspace. The apparatus also includes a frontal-view camera located behind the projection screen. The frontal view camera captures a frontal-view image of the workspace through a hole in the projection screen. Additionally, the apparatus includes a projector to project an image of an individual outside the workspace onto the projection screen, such that the hole is located within a face of the image of the individual.

Abstract: An overhead projection system includes an overhead projector support assembly extending outwardly from a generally vertical support surface in a generally horizontal disposition. A display screen having a display surface is mounted on the support surface beneath the projector support assembly. A projector is mounted on the projector support assembly and is aimed to project images onto the display surface of the display screen. Preferably, the projector support assembly includes a governor in the form of a damper and spring arrangement to control downward pivotal movement of the projector support assembly when a load is placed on the projector support assembly and to return the projector support assembly to its generally horizontal disposition when the load is removed.

Abstract: A high-reliability display system is disclosed. The display system includes a plurality of projection channels. Each projection channel projects a substantially mutually exclusive portion of an image onto a display area. A controller determines the content and size of each portion that each projection channel projects onto the display area so that the image substantially fills the display area during normal conditions. When one of the projection channels is inoperative, the controller adjusts the portions of the image that are projected by the operative projection channels to optimize the image on the display area.

Abstract: A visual workstation for use by a viewer includes a dome having an open front end and a truncated spherical inner dome surface. A work surface is disposed in front of and adjacent the dome front end. The work surface defines a viewer area on a side of the work surface opposite the dome. The viewer area is sized and configured to receive the viewer and is positioned relative to the spherical inner dome surface such that the viewer, when located in the viewer area, may view the spherical inner dome surface. A projector is disposed between the viewer area and the dome. The projector is operative to project a truncated spherical projection onto the inner dome surface.

Abstract: Disclosed is a visual and audio system for theaters including a spherical screen having a desired radius of curvature while having a surface reflectivity of 5-50%, and a projector located at a focal point of the spherical screen. The curvature radius of the spherical screen corresponds to the projection distance of the projector. The image projected from the projector at the focal point of the spherical screen is reflected from the spherical screen in a horizontal direction. Accordingly, viewers can view images projected on the screen corresponding to 5-50 times the brightness of conventional cases. Central speakers are arranged at the focal point of the spherical screen, so that viewers perceive the sound effect as coming directly from the spherical screen. This visual and audio system can be effectively used in theaters for stereoscopic movies, theaters for high resolution images, and theaters for viewing of images at a higher brightness such as theaters for sports broadcasts, and restaurant theaters, etc.

Abstract: Provision of a projector used for a planetarium which is capable of reducing electrical power consumption and size. The projector comprises a light source 1 constituted by an array of a plurality of light emitting diodes L for emitting illumination light. The emitted illumination light passes through a condenser lens 2 to impinge onto a original projection plate 3 provided with a light-permeable pattern P, and then a transmitted image is projected through a projection lens onto a dome screen.

Abstract: Ultra-wide field-of-view images are projected onto a spherical or near-spherical screen that wraps around viewers to provide a visually immersive effect. Images are acquired using a novel lens system in conjunction with standard high-resolution video or film cameras. Acquired images are then relayed onto a curved screen using a correspondingly configured, projection lens system coupled with a standard high-resolution video or film projector. A unique screen design complements the image format to provide a complete end-to-end imaging and projection system. The resulting system allows the images to be projected onto a spherical or curved screen, using a single projector and a “fisheye” or “omni” projection format, from a projection point which is approximately one radii behind the radial center of the spherical or near-spherical screen, providing a total projection distance of one screen diameter from the screen surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a projection monitor, and in particular to a projection monitor having a darkroom casing capable of preventing a penetration of a foreign material and any leakage of light and easily assembling reflection mirrors which guide the image projected by the engine to a screen.

Abstract: An integrated front projection system has a housing assembly, a projection assembly, and an expansion assembly. The housing assembly includes a frame having a front surface that provides a front projection screen and contains other modular components. In addition, a projection assembly with a movable arm may be included, having a storage position and a projection position, and to which the front projection head may be coupled. According to one aspect, the projection assembly is modularized and has a plurality of easily replaceable component modules coupled to the housing and which operate together to project an image onto the front projection screen. According to another aspect, the integrated front projection system further has an expansion assembly coupled to the housing. The expansion assembly includes an expansion slot formed in the housing and electrically coupled to a display controller in the projection assembly and expansion modules coupled to the expansion slot.

Abstract: Disclosed are a projector and the protector thereof having superior safety and practicality. The projector for projecting an image on a screen comprises sensors for performing detection in an area to be subjected to detection that is a local space. The local space is located on the outside of a projection space area which projecting light passes through, and extends along an outer edge of the projection space area. When the sensors detect an object in the area to be subjected to detection, a general controller of the projector turns off a power source of a lamp unit that is a light emitting source, and thus the general controller causes the projector to stop projecting. This prevents damage to the eyes of a person who carelessly looks into a projection lens.

Abstract: Eliminating occurrence of non-uniform vertical line patterns observable in image display apparatus with its associative projector device having its pixel structure in the horizontal direction. To this end, rear projection image display apparatus includes a screen including a lenticular lens sheet having its light incidence surface on which lenticular lenses (8) are periodically provided and a light exit surface having a substantially flat surface (9) at or near the focal position of each lenticular lens (8) on the light incidence surface. The lenticular lens sheet has a light absorption layer (10) provided in a region different from the focal position. The apparatus also includes a projector device having a periodical pixel structure for projecting an optical image onto the screen, such as liquid crystal display panels or the like.

Abstract: An overhead projection system includes an overhead projector support assembly extending outwardly from a generally vertical support surface in a generally horizontal disposition. A display screen having a display surface is mounted on the support surface beneath the projector support assembly. A projector is mounted on the projector support assembly and is aimed to project images onto the display surface of the display screen. Preferably, the projector support assembly includes a governor in the form of a damper and spring arrangement to control downward pivotal movement of the projector support assembly when a load is placed on the projector support assembly and to return the projector support assembly to its generally horizontal disposition when the load is removed.

Abstract: An image display system a projector for emitting projection light for generating an image on a light-backscattering projection surface. The wavelengths of the projection light lie in one or more discrete wavelength regions in the visible spectrum and the projection surface is covered on the projector side by an optical filter which passes only light with wavelengths corresponding to those of the projection light.

Abstract: A projection apparatus for the enlargement of photos and sketches constructed integrally within a small tent so that it may be used without requiring a darkened room for projecting. The tent is placed upon a suitable table and has an opening on one side for accessing its interior. The projection system requires that the photo or sketch be traced onto a clear plastic sheet which is then placed onto a transparent platform located somewhere between a miniature lamp and the projection surface. When the lamp is turned on, an enlarged shadow of the traced image is seen on the projection surface and is then traced onto it. Varying the projected enlargement is achieved buy sliding the lamp holder up and down a linear slide.

Abstract: An integrated front projection display system having a planar projection screen formed on a front surface of a rigid frame, the screen including means for reflecting light from the screen in a preselected spatial distribution. A movable arm is hingedly connected at a first end to the rigid frame, the arm being movable between a storage position and a projection position, the arm further comprising means for moving the arm between said storage and projection positions and for retaining the arm at each of said positions. A projection head is mounted on a second end of the movable arm such that it does not substantially obstruct the view of the projection screen when the arm is in the projection position.

Abstract: A front projection display system that integrates an optical engine, having control and power supply electronics, and a dedicated projection screen to provide a compact video display device. The projection engine is coupled to a high gain projection screen, having an optimized reflection pattern to give optimum optical performance in ambient H& and viewing angle sensitive environments. Components of the projection engine are modularly placed in a retractable arm pivotally connected to the screen. The arm offers precise registration to the screen apparatus and thus repeatably precisely aligns optically and mechanically to the screen. The projection wall system has an open projection position and a closed storage position. Use of a radically offset projection head having matching keystone correction features allows the arm to protrude above the head of the presenter and offer a sharp and unobtrusive projection zone.

Abstract: An overhead projector mounting system is provided that is configured to support a projector in a ceiling of a room. The system includes a housing having an opening through which an image generated by the projector is transmitted. Preferably, the system includes a mirror to reflect the image generated by the projector toward a viewing surface in the room.

Abstract: Miniature devices which incorporate data displaying features, incorporating an information processing and display system, which includes devices for the representation of textural and pictorial information and data, and which is adapted to project images onto a remote display surface. Also disclosed is a method for utilizing miniature information processing devices which incorporate projectors for projecting data onto remote surfaces.

Abstract: A system is provided for mounting a head-up display in a cockpit of an aircraft, the cockpit including a front region and a back region, the head-up display including a computer adapted to process flight information, an optical unit adapted to project an image corresponding to the flight information processed by the computer, and a combiner adapted to display the image projected by the optical unit. The system comprises a frame with a front region and a back region, the frame including an optical unit interface for mounting the optical unit and a combiner interface for mounting the combiner, wherein the frame is adapted to be movably coupled to the cockpit such that the frame may be moved in a generally vertical direction between a plurality of positions relative to the cockpit.

Abstract: A built-in kitchen which has a projector that projects an image and a screen onto which the image from the projector is projected. The projector projects a cooking assisting image such as recipe on the screen so that a cook can get cooking information through the projected image while staying in a working position.

Abstract: The invention provides a projector that includes a stand type screen apparatus and an image projection device. The stand type screen apparatus includes a base table, a projecting device installing unit turnably mounted on the base table for detachably installing the image projecting device, a support leg turnably mounted on the base table and a screen holding unit holding the screen and turnably mounted on the support leg. With this arrangement, the size of a rear projection type projector is reduced, an installation space is decreased and portability is enhanced.

Abstract: An optical projection system is disclosed. The optical projection system comprises a projection screen and a plurality of viewing stations. Each viewing station includes a beamsplitter, a projector including a lens, wherein the projector is directed at the beamsplitter, and a mechanical apparatus. The mechanical apparatus is adapted to optimize a quality of an image on the projection screen as seen by an observer looking at the beamsplitter. Projectors at different viewing stations are capable of projecting different images onto the projection screen.

Abstract: A simulator system in which a visual display assembly is arranged to present an image to be viewed on a display surface and a viewing station is positioned in front of the display surface such that a person looking from a predetermined eyepoint defined within the viewing station can see the display surface through a viewing window defined by the viewing station. The viewing station is displaceable relative to the visual display assembly between first and second positions to adjust the position of the display surface relative to the viewing window when viewed from the eyepoint. During displacement of the viewing station between the two positions, the viewing station is rotated about the eyepoint. The actuator is arranged such that the rate of rotation of the viewing station increases with distance from the first and second positions to a maximum when the viewing station is in an intermediate position.

Abstract: There is therefore provided according to a presently preferred embodiment of the present invention, a compact and ergonomic computer workstation with a high resolution, wide angle projected display. In an exemplary embodiment, the workstation appears generally to resemble a desk with a deep surface that separates a desk section and a display section including a large projection screen. The desk section includes a desk module with a work area that is preferably shallow and wide with enough surface to accommodate computer input devices and work tools. The work area ends at a barrier between the desk and display sections and is isolated from the display mechanically. The display section includes a preferably self contained projection module consisting of a frame and sub modules of projectors, stands, integral milTors and coordinating mounting hardware that position a group of projectors below the eye line and direct the light output to a front viewing screen.

Abstract: The invention relates to a light detecting system for detecting light projected from a projector. When the projector is initiated, it will project a picture image forward. The light detecting system comprises a frame positioned at a predetermined position in front of the projector, a detecting device movably installed on the frame for detecting the picture image, a driving device installed on the frame for moving the detecting device, and a control device connected with the driving device and the detecting device for controlling the driving device to move the detecting device to various sampling positions on the frame and to control the detecting device to detect the picture image at each of the sampling positions.

Abstract: In a rear projector with a housing on whose front side is arranged a screen for displaying a video picture, with a brightness-modulated and color-modulated R-G-B light source for emitting a light bundle, with a deflecting device for scanning this light bundle, wherein the light bundle is deflected by the deflecting device over a total angle &agr; with respect to vertical scanning, and with a deflecting mirror which is located in the housing and arranged at an angle &dgr;, wherein the light bundle exiting from a real or virtual vertex of the total deflection angle &agr; is deflected onto the screen by the deflecting mirror, the virtual or real vertex located in front of the deflecting mirror lies at a location where the smallest angle &bgr; of the light bundle to the surface of the screen during deflection is less than 20° and the angle &dgr; is given by δ ≤ 45 ⁢ ° - α 4 + β

Abstract: A front projection display system that integrates an optical engine, having control and power supply electronics, and a dedicated projection screen to provide a compact video display device. The projection engine is coupled to a high gain projection screen, having an optimized reflection pattern to give optimum optical performance in ambient light and viewing angle sensitive environments. Components of the projection engine are modularly placed in a retractable arm, pivotally connected to the screen. The arm offers precise registration to the screen apparatus and thus repeatably precisely aligns optically and mechanically to the screen. The projection wall system has an open projection position and a closed storage position. Use of a radically offset projection head having matching keystone correction features allows the arm to protrude above the head of the presenter and offer a sharp and unobtrusive projection zone.

Abstract: A developed film is illuminated to project its image onto a rear projection screen. A transparent case with a clear liquid filled therein is arranged, and the film is accommodated in the case. A writable transparent or translucent sheet is arranged over a front side of the rear projection screen.

Abstract: For the production of a photographic print of an original present in electronic format, optical representations (D) are produced from sequentially changing strip-shaped portions of the original by way of an electro optical, pixel wise operating converter device (3) and these optical representations (D) are projected onto a strip-shaped exposure region (E) on the copy material (P), whereby the strip-shaped exposure region (E) and the copy material (P) are moved relative to one another and at an essentially constant speed in a direction transverse to the longitudinal extent of the strip-shaped exposure regions (E), so that successively the image information of the whole original is exposed onto the total available surface of the copy material (P).

Abstract: An establishment for viewing an image can display an image which is projected on the image display device located outside the opening of the compartment of the establishment by the image producing device. The close scenery component is disposed between the compartment and the image display device such that the scenery component hides the edge of the image which is displayed on the image display device so as to allow parallax or perspective parallax to be produced between the image and the close scenery component. Hence, the image is given depth, high reality, and a sense of perspective, and the spectators have illusion as if they are seeing the real scenery from the opening.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A bubble-shaped display screen is adapted to fit over a "fish-eye" portal to a modular playground compartment, and may either replace or augment the transparent portal window. A projection device projects video images into the display screen. The display screen and projection device may be contained within an encapsulating enclosure which readily attaches to the modular playground compartment over an existing portal, allowing retro-fitting of existing playground structures. A beam-splitter and mirrors permit the projected video image to be viewed on either of two display screens mounted on either end of the enclosure encapsulating the projection device, permitting children within the playground structure and individuals outside the playground structure to view the same image.

Abstract: A visual display system, such as a flight simulation system, includes a number of display screens and a number of associated video projectors which project predetermined video images on the display screens in response to control signals provided by an operator. In one embodiment, the display screens are circumscribed by an imaginary sphere having a predetermined radius and centered about the design eye of the visual display system. The design eye is generally positioned in a predetermined fixed relation to the operator such that the distortion of the displayed video image is reduced. In another embodiment, the video projectors are mounted in a linear side-by-side relationship on a rear side of the display screens, thereby reducing the overall size of the visual display system.

Abstract: A projection television display screen has a plurality of mountings affixed to a cabinet. The plurality of mountings provide rigid screen suspension in a vertical plane while permitting differential lateral movement of the screen relative to the mountings.

Abstract: A picture projection/reflection device, particularly for use in a grave marker to optimize the observation of a remembrance picture or informative display. The device consists of a housing (2) for dimming the ambient light (7), and has a light inlet opening (10) at least partially blocked by a light filtering diffuser (6), and a light outlet opening (11) provided with a reflecting member such as a mirror (1). The picture (5) to be projected is at the inlet opening. The device is suitable for grave markers, street furniture, advertising media and the like.

Abstract: A screen simulator arrangement includes spaced apart screen and one or more mirror means; said screen means is formed with a plurality of spaced apart transparent portions therein; said mirror means is formed or provided with a plurality of holes or openings therein; said screen and said mirror means are fixedly located relative to each other; the transparent portions of said screen means and the holes or openings of said mirror means are substantially out of register one with the other. An inner screen surface of said screen means and a reflective surface of said mirror means generally face inwardly towards each other, said transparent portions of said screen means and said holes or openings of said mirror means being so out of register one with the other, such that screen portions of said screen means are in substantial alignment/register with holes or openings in said mirror means.

Abstract: A multi-sensory presentation structure for presenting a show composed of live action combined and superimposed with projected images includes a projector and a beam splitter formed of either a sheet of glass or a sheet of flexible film. The projector forms a still and/or moving image on the splitter which is superimposed on live action on a stage. The splitter can be undulated, shifted or pivoted back and forth toward the audience and/or the projector to provide very realistic visual effects. Preferably the projector is disposed above an area between the stage and the audience. The show is further enhanced by using speakers and olfactory devices to provide aural and olfactory stimuli to the audience coupled with the visual presentation.

Abstract: An ultra-wide angle liquid crystal projector system comprising a light source, a liquid crystal panel, a curved screen, and a projection lens for projecting in accordance with light emitted by the light source an image formed on the liquid crystal panel onto the curved screen. The projection lens has a curvature of field substantially conforming to the shape of the curved screen and an angle of projection of at least 120 degrees. The projection lens is disposed with respect to the curved screen so that a distance from an exit surface of the projection lens to the curved screen is less than 3 meters.

Abstract: A dash mounted microfiche reader and support is provided for attaching a portable microfiche reader to the dashboard of a vehicle. The reader includes an adjustable miniature lens assembly and a mirror unit that swings open for operation. A slide out housing for the reader is pivotally mounted on a leveling tray that is detachably mounted to the dashboard of the vehicle. A microfiche index is used to support the fiche during use.

Abstract: A projection system for a theatre in the round having a plurality of moving image projectors. The projectors can be either film projectors or television-type projectors. They project in an essentially cylindrical surface which is viewed by people at a viewing location. A lens is associated with each moving image projector, the lens having an optical axis located at or above a top edge of the viewable portion of the cylindrical surface. A source of moving images is associated with each lens, the center of which source is located above the optical axis of the associated lens such that moving images are projected by each lens downwardly toward a portion of the essentially cylindrical surface in an essentially distortion-free manner.

Abstract: A rear view projection apparatus for viewing from a rear screen side the images projected onto the screen front side. This apparatus comprises a projector, a screen made of a transparent plastic material, a base having a recess for the screen, a projector support cantilevered from the base, and a retractable screen support having an extender scissors unit for raising the screen for use or for lowering the screen into the recess for storage.