Illusion Caused By Mirror Patents (Class 472/63)
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Patent number: 12050310Abstract: An infinity mirror device has a first mirror having a convex first reflective surface, a partially transparent second mirror having a second reflective surface facing the first reflective surface wherein the first and second mirror are spaced apart by a predetermined distance, and a light source disposed in a space between the first and the second mirror.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2021Date of Patent: July 30, 2024Assignee: WISTRON CORPORATIONInventors: Yi-Hsiang Su, Chia Lin Kao
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Patent number: 11058961Abstract: An immersive device that may include Geometric shapes with reflective mirrored interiors. One or more light emitting elements may be configured to emit light into the reflective chamber. A processing unit may be in electrical communication with the light emitting elements. A sound device may be in communication with the processing unit, and the sound device may be configured to output sound to a user within the reflective chamber. An array of sensors, such as: digital camera, microphone, and electrophysiological monitoring devices that may be in communication with the processing unit and are configured to change the experience of the user within the chamber depending upon the signals from the sensors on the user.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2019Date of Patent: July 13, 2021Inventor: Kaleb Matson
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Patent number: 8727897Abstract: A game apparatus 100 of the present invention includes a mount body 200 and a decoration stand 300. A hollow cavity for letting a user play is formed to mount body 200. And the hollow cavity inner wall is mirrors 220. A decoration stand 300 is located on outside the mount body 200, and part or all of the turn board provided on decoration stand 300 is viewable from the hollow cavity of the mount body 200.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2010Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: BLD Oriental Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
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Patent number: 8628426Abstract: The system provides a tristable environment that effects reorientation of horizontal and vertical surfaces at a human scale. The system allows the engagement and disengagement of the effect via movement of the observer without loss of the intensity of the effect. The system also provides a combined vection/motion induced blindness environment at human scale with interactivity available to non-trained participants.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2012Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Assignee: California Institute of TechnologyInventor: Shinsuke Shimojo
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Patent number: 8460119Abstract: The combination of a truly realistic three dimensional real image in color and a second device to produce a repetitive passage of a solid object through the real image creates the illusion of one solid body passing through another. A simple method of accomplishing this is to mount a clock with a pendulum over or under the image and allow a pendulum end to pass periodically through the real image. Other means such as a device running on a circular track could accomplish the same illusory effect. The pendulum end or the device can take various forms as can the real image. In principle the designs are not limited in size. The invention creates an exciting visual and illusory moment of a second object passing through an apparently solid object.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2011Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Inventors: Brooke Schumm, Jr., Brooke Schumm, III
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Patent number: 8328361Abstract: An image projection apparatus includes a projector, a frame, and a partially transparent screen. The frame retains the screen under tension, such that the screen is inclined at an angle with respect to a plane of emission of light from the projector. The screen has a front surface arranged such that light emitted from the projector is reflected therefrom. The projector projects an image such that light forming the image impinges upon the screen such that a virtual image is created from light reflected from the screen, the virtual image appearing to be located behind the screen.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2011Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Musion IP LimitedInventors: Ian O'Connell, James Rock
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Publication number: 20120231893Abstract: The system provides a tristable environment that effects reorientation of horizontal and vertical surfaces at a human scale. The system allows the engagement and disengagement of the effect via movement of the observer without loss of the intensity of the effect. The system also provides a combined vection/motion induced blindness environment at human scale with interactivity available to non-trained participants.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2012Publication date: September 13, 2012Applicant: California Institute of TechnologyInventor: SHINSUKE SHIMOJO
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Patent number: 8177368Abstract: An image projection apparatus includes a projector, a frame, and a partially transparent screen. The frame retains the screen under tension, such that the screen is inclined at an angle with respect to a plane of emission of light from the projector. The screen has a front surface arranged such that light emitted from the projector is reflected therefrom. The projector projects an image such that light forming the image impinges upon the screen such that a virtual image is created from light reflected from the screen, the virtual image appearing to be located behind the screen.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2011Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Musion IP LimitedInventors: Ian O'Connell, James Rock
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Patent number: 8021238Abstract: The mirror image display method is used to suspend the main subject of a decorative or presentation display in mid air. This is accomplished by affixing the flat side of a symmetrically divided main subject flush onto a true first-surface mirror, which makes up one wall of the display body and eliminates the subjects visible seam line.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: Franklin Ralph White
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Patent number: 7980957Abstract: The combination of a truly realistic three dimensional real image in color and a second device to produce a repetitive passage of a solid object through the real image creates the illusion of one solid body passing through another. A simple method of accomplishing this is to mount a clockworks with a pendulum over or under the image and allow a pendulum end to pass periodically through the real image. Other means such as a device running on a circular track could accomplish the same illusory effect. The pendulum end or the device can take various forms as can the real image. In principle the designs are not limited in size. Further, an amusement ride is contemplated by directing a track with a vehicle and a rider in the vehicle at the proper angle toward the real image creating an exciting visual moment passing through the apparently solid object.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2008Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Inventors: Brooke Schumm, Jr., Brooke Schumm, III
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Publication number: 20110049068Abstract: A storage rack is provided that exhibits an optical illusion that some of the items stored in the rack have disappeared in all or in part.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2010Publication date: March 3, 2011Inventor: Anthony B. Potter
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Patent number: 7883212Abstract: An image projection apparatus (100) comprises a projector (106), a frame (108), and a partially transparent screen (110). The frame (108) retains the screen (110) under tension, such that the screen (110) is inclined at an angle with respect to a plane of emission of light from the projector (106). The screen (110) has a front surface arranged such that light emitted from the projector (106) is reflected therefrom. The projector (106) projects an image such that light forming the image impinges upon the screen (11) such that a virtual image is created from light reflected from the screen (110), the virtual image appearing to be located behind the screen (110).Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2004Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventors: Ian O'Connell, James Rock
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Patent number: 7762896Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in connection with a theatrical stage presentation for rendering an actor or object located on the stage visible or invisible at will. The apparatus used to create the illusion includes a strategically located, selectively transparent screen and a large, generally vertically extending mirror. In carrying out the method of the invention, the mirror is controllably moved across the stage at a location intermediate a rear wall and the selectively transparent screen from a first position out of sight of the audience to a second position wherein the mirror is disposed between the rear wall and the selectively transparent screen.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Inventor: John Gaughan
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Patent number: 7749087Abstract: A mirror maze that employs lighting in the floor of the maze to add to the optical illusion provided by the mirror maze effect. The mirror maze includes the traditional array of pillars and mirrors where lines are provided between the pillars, and where the space between some of the pillars includes a mirror along a line between the pillars and the space between some of the pillars is open. In one non-limiting embodiment, light strips are provided along the lines between the pillars, where a pair of light strips is positioned adjacent to each other between the pillars that do not include a mirror, and a single light strip is provided between pillars that do include a mirror, so that the reflection of the light strip provides the appearance of a pair of light strips.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Amazing Mazes, LLCInventor: Darrin S. Elias
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Patent number: 7029152Abstract: A vehicular lighting housing utilizes a combination of a two-way mirror, a strip of LEDs, a one-way mirror spaced from the two-way mirror, and a cover glass such that when the LEDs are illuminated, light reflects back and forth between the two-way mirror and the one-way mirror to present a series of constantly converging light streams forming an endless tunnel of light.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Kuhl Reflections, Inc.Inventor: Larry Kuhl
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Patent number: 6945872Abstract: An apparatus for generating an optical illusion comprising at least one mirror, and placed in front of the mirror a figure that is visible directly as well as via the mirror, the at least one mirror being rotatable about an axis of the apparatus, and while in use, the figure describing a path about the axis of the apparatus in such a way as to be continuously in front of the mirror, the figure during its progress over the path around the axis of the apparatus undergoing a rotation from its body axis as a rate of rotation that depends on its rate of progress over the path.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2004Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Inventor: Leonard De Vogel
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Patent number: 6929552Abstract: An infinity mirror display apparatus, and method of manufacture, which allows private and commercial users to rapidly trade out favored display objects to create different infinity display effects for continued viewer interest and enjoyment. The apparatus comprises a housing having a stationary base member and an easily removable cover which together define an enclosed interior space, at least two reflective surfaces positioned adjacent to the interior space with at least one of the surfaces being partially reflective, and at least one illumination source communicating with the interior space. The cover can be partially or totally removed from the stationary member during display object exchange. The apparatus can be wall-mounted for front and/or side viewing of the infinity mirror effect, or it can be table-mounted with multiple partially reflective surfaces for a full 360° view of the infinity mirror effect created by one or more illuminated display objects.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Inventor: Patrick Allen Hargabus
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Patent number: 6857963Abstract: In order to provide a conjuring tool which is simple in construction and operation, there is provided a conjuring tool for performing a card trick wherein a recessed accommodating portion 32 for accommodating therein a note or card that is inserted thereinto from the outside of the conjuring tool is formed in the interior of the conjuring tool, wherein there are provided an open window portion 12 for allowing the note or card that has been so inserted into the recessed accommodating portion 32 to be viewed from the outside of the conjuring tool via a special plate 20 that has an effect of making a viewer feel a certain degree of depth due to a three-dimensional pattern produced by a moire phenomenon and a film 33 disposed between the note or card so inserted and the special plate 20 and having transparent portions and non-transparent portions, and wherein the film 33 is arranged to move on the note or card.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2004Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Tenyo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toru Suzuki
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Patent number: 6834968Abstract: A teleprompter configured to project an image to a viewer at a viewer location comprises a single-beam teleprompter projector, configured to project an image to a focal plane, and a directional screen, disposed at the focal plane. The directional screen is configured to direct the image to a focal point at the viewer location, and diffuse the image within a limited viewing region surrounding the focal point, such that the apparent brightness of the image to the viewer at the viewer location is increased, and the visibility of the image to persons other than the viewer is reduced. Because the device concentrates the light at the viewer, it can be made much larger than conventional video monitors typically used in speech-prompter settings, while still maintaining very high brightness.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2001Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: Brigham Young UniversityInventors: Justin Peatross, Michael Ware, Robert H. Todd
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Patent number: 6709339Abstract: An infinity mirror display apparatus, and a method for its manufacture, which allows a user to rapidly change out or add to a selection of objects used with mirrors able to cause an infinity mirror effect. The device comprises a housing having a stationary base member and an easily removable cover which together define an enclosed interior space, at least two mirrors positioned adjacent to the interior space with at least one of the mirrors being partially reflective, and at least one display object and one light source also being positioned within the interior space. The cover can be partially or totally removed from the stationary member for display object exchange. Also, the mirror through which an observer views the infinity mirror effect in a displayed object must be partially reflective.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2000Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Inventor: Patrick A. Hargabus
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Patent number: 6705740Abstract: An apparatus that appears to actively track the position of a viewer by producing a red circle about the viewer's image, seen in a security mirror. The red circle appears to translate and rotate to track the viewer's position. Rotational tracking operates independently of the mirror.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2000Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Inventor: Steve Weinreich
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Patent number: 6623366Abstract: A magic trick in which one of two perpendicularly extending subjects vanishes behind a lenticular screen while the other subject remains visible and extends over aligned locations formerly occupied by portions of the one subject. The screen has parallel lenticules. One subject is an upright human figure, living creature or other vertically extending article, printed or live, and adjacent the second subject which is a series of printed horizontal parallel stripes or solid bars/wires forming a background for the first subject. The subjects can form scenery on a stage or be on the inside back cover of a book with the screen mounted across the front.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2002Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Inventor: Lubor Fiedler
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Patent number: 6578299Abstract: An ice fishing hole simulator system for visually simulating an ice fishing experience based about an ice fishing hole. The ice fishing hole simulator system includes a housing having an upper opening, an upper mirror positioned about the upper opening, a tube extending downwardly from the upper mirror, a lower mirror positioned within the bottom portion of the housing opposite of the upper mirror, and a plurality of lights surrounding the tube. The tube is comprised of a translucent material such as plastic or glass. The tube preferably includes a length of clear portion and a length of opaque portion encompassing the tube in a spiraling manner thereby recreating the inner surface appearance of an ice hole created by an ice auger. The upper mirror is comprised of a two-way mirror structure with the reflective surface facing the lower mirror and the viewing surface facing upwardly to allow an individual to look into the simulated ice hole.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2001Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Inventors: Robert L. Burnside, Antonio O. Cuevas, Donald L. Overmore
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Patent number: 6336725Abstract: A kaleidoscopic torus image is produced in the interior of a reflector assembly which is generally wedge shaped and which includes three reflective surfaces. An object cell, in the form of a right circular cylinder, is positional partially within the interior of the reflector assembly and dividing one of the three reflective surfaces into two part reflective surfaces. The torus image appears as a three-dimensional image floating inside the reflector assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1999Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Inventor: Vincent P. Cianfichi, Jr.
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Patent number: 6139160Abstract: A structure capable of generating a virtual polyhedral space includes a plurality of walls, each having a first side edge, a second side edge, and a reflective surface. The walls are disposed adjacent one another, with the first side edge of each wall adjacent the second side edge of an adjacent wall, each wall lying in an associated one of a plurality of planes intersecting at a common apex, thus forming a pyramid shaped structure. So disposed, the walls define an interior space of the structure, with the reflective surfaces of the walls facing the interior space. Each wall further includes a base edge. Together, the base edges of the reflective walls define a base opening of the structure, which provides access to the interior space. The images of optional base coverings form coherent images of a virtual polyhedron in the reflective surfaces of the walls. Three-sided, four-sided, and five-sided embodiments are described.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1999Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Inventor: Sara L. Frucht
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Patent number: 6135601Abstract: An architectural structure capable of generating a virtual polyhedral space includes a plurality of walls, each having a first side edge, a second side edge, and a reflective surface. The walls are disposed adjacent one another, with the first side edge of each wall adjacent the second side edge of an adjacent wall, each wall lying in an associated one of a plurality of planes intersecting at a common apex, thus forming a pyramid shaped structure. So disposed, the walls define an interior space of the architectural structure, with the reflective surfaces of the walls facing the interior space. Each wall further includes a base edge. Together, the base edges of the reflective walls form a support base for supporting the architectural structure on a floor surface. The images of the floor surface in the reflective surfaces of the walls forms a coherent image of a virtual polyhedron. Three-sided, four-sided, and five-sided embodiments are described.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1998Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Inventor: Sara Frucht
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Patent number: 6080067Abstract: A curved container structure has an interior curved reflective surface for reflecting varied and distorted images of objects placed therein or within the near focal range of the reflective surface. A rigid curved structure is metalized on the interior or on the exterior of a transparent structure. A reflective flexible disc has a radial slit with the two sides of the slit overlapping and held together by a temporary binder to form an adjustable cone. A protective cover over the reflective surface is transparent when used on the interior of the container. Objects on a holder are inserted into the curved structure through a main viewing opening or an opposite apex opening. A collar on the holder secures a cord for moving objects hanging therefrom. A rod within a tube may adjustably secure a cord therebetween. One or more cords, such as elasticized cords, may be stretched across or dangled into the viewing opening. A cover, with an attached cord for dangling the object, may be placed over the viewing opening.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1999Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Inventor: Herbert L. Leff
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Patent number: 5951143Abstract: An infinity-projecting light assembly (10) that is housed in an enclosure (12) that encloses a multiplicity of lamps (70) and passive components (74). Within the enclosure (12) is located a convex mirror that is attached to the enclosure's rear panel (34) and a two-way mirror (94) that is attached to the front ledge (26) of the enclosure (12). The mirrored surfaces of the two mirrors face each other which allows the lamps (70) and passive components (74) to be replicated into a descending visual tunnel that terminates at a perceived infinity point. The assembly (20) incorporates an electrical-control circuit that provides the power to light the interior of the enclosure via a decorative translucent panel (118). The circuit also provides power to a music playback unit, the lamps (70), a light dimming unit and a light blinking unit. The light blinking unit can be set to blink in synchrony with the music from the playback unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1997Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Inventor: Danny R. Ginsberg
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Patent number: 5951405Abstract: The present invention concerns an opto-mechanical system and method for obtaining scenographic and decorative effects on surfaces suitable as screens. The system includes a container of liquid, such as water and a movable planar element placed inside said container. An actuator is provided for variably displacing the movable planar element relative to the liquid to generate a variety of movements of waves above the upper face of the movable planar element, while a light source is placed relative to the container to project the movements of the waves onto the surfaces. The movable planar element can also be displaced manually. The system permits the creation of a great variety of wave design patterns due to the displacements of the movable planar element inside the container of liquid.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1998Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Inventor: Helmut Eigenmann
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Patent number: 5871404Abstract: In an illusion apparatus for self viewing, a specific element (usually a dark region) of a display is positioned on or about the line connecting the viewer and the center of curvature of a partially reflective partially transparent, convex mirror. The specific element thus appears in a relatively constant relationship to the viewer's image even as the viewer changes position in relation to the mirror and display.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Inventor: Steve Weinreich
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Patent number: 5855520Abstract: An entertainment system includes a viewing chamber of sufficient size to accommodate a relatively large number of viewers, and a large kaleidoscope having a viewing end opening to the chamber. The kaleidoscope is sufficiently large to enable everyone in the viewing chamber to have an unobstructed view of the kaleidoscope display. The system includes a sound system which is coordinated with the optical display. In one embodiment, the viewing chamber and the kaleidoscope are located in a conventional silo, with the kaleidoscope extending vertically above the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 1997Date of Patent: January 5, 1999Assignee: Kaatskill Kaleidoscope Ventures, LLCInventors: Dean L. Gitter, Kenneth B. Graham
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Patent number: 5835292Abstract: A mirror apparatus includes a flexible mirror mounted in a frame and a shuttle assembly shiftable along a generally upright axis having a cam element for selectively engaging a cam follower coupled with the rear face of the mirror in order to flex the mirror outwardly.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 1997Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignees: Rockwood Industries, Inc., Franklin PharmaceuticalsInventors: William R. Pickett, James D. Parks
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Patent number: 5799939Abstract: A device for decoding distorted images from a sheet which includes a reflecting geometric figure to be placed on the sheet and can include portions of the decoded image being permanently applied to the reflecting surface for combination with decoded distortion images from the sheet to form a complete image. A reflecting surface can be applied onto a beverage can to decode an anamorphic image applied onto a separate sheet. A reflecting canister can be used to decode distorted images and include a removable top to hold images therein and a light source to illuminate distorted images for reflection. A game is described which uses geometric reflecting pieces to decode commands of the game. A teaching game described having a question sheet with a distorted image representing the answer to the question which can be decoded by use of a geometric reflecting device.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1995Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Assignee: Wesleyan Company, Inc.Inventor: Wesley C. Schneider
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Patent number: 5788579Abstract: An illusion mirror light display has a frame with a view opening, a front partially reflective mirror, a second fully reflective mirror, a middle frame member located between the front and second mirrors, one or more light sources installed on the periphery of the middle frame member for displaying a lighting illusion effect which is viewed through the view opening, and retaining members for retaining all of the elements within the frame. When the illusion mirror light display is activated, it provides an illusion effect. The illusion mirror light display also has pressure points for causing the light sources to emit at that location.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1997Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventors: Steve R. Cherry, Bernard F. Mikelis
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Patent number: 5787618Abstract: A display device having an interior area in which multiple images are displayed. The images arise from reflections of one or more externally or internally illuminated patterns located within the apparatus. The device creates an optical illusion whereby multiple images appear to extend a rearward distance that is greater than the thickness of the apparatus. When multiple patterns are employed, the patterns may be spaced from each other and are combined to form the desired image. The apparatus may include one or more spotlights that function to highlight predetermined area(s) within the device. The apparatus may alternatively or in combination employ an isolated light source that illuminates the interior of a light transmitting object located between the reflective surfaces to thereby cause the object and especially the object's side edges to glow with light.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Inventor: Randy J. Mullis
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Patent number: 5782698Abstract: This optical illusion device is of the type which has a sculpted or relief image-forming surface resembling in shape a negative of the object whose image is to appear when the image-forming surface is viewed. The device is improved to yield a more attractive image by providing altered shading to the negative image-forming surface. The contour of the image forming surface is exposed or unframed to provide a free standing contour. The relief of the image-forming surface is altered to control shadowing when illuminated from a predetermined illumination angle. The substrate on which the image-forming surface is provided is similarly sculpted in detail on an opposite side to provide both a visually appealing sculpture as well as a good image providing surface on the negative, and the substrate is mounted for viewing from either side.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1996Date of Patent: July 21, 1998Inventor: Allan Keller
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Patent number: 5558583Abstract: The base member is provided with a coin slot and opening. Plate members to close and open the coin slot and opening are disposed movably in relation to the base member. The plate members are so supported by support members as to be movable between closed and opened positions.When the coin transfer apparatus is used, it is placed on the top of a table with the plate members closed. A coin is set in the coin slot. A handkerchief or the like is put over the apparatus. When the apparatus is lifted off the table top along with the handkerchief, the plate members are opened due their own weight and the coin falls onto the top of the opened plate member through the coin slot. The apparatus covered with the handkerchief are placed onto the table top again, the plate members are closed, and then the handkerchief is taken away from on the apparatus. The audience will be given an illusion that the coin has been transferred from the coin slot to the top of the plate member.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1995Date of Patent: September 24, 1996Assignee: Tenyo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tomoyuki Shimomura
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Patent number: 5549515Abstract: A coin-magic device has a stand on top of which a first coin receiving surface is formed. The device further comprises a tray that is used as placed on the first coin receiving surface to hide the coin. The tray has also a coin receiving surface that is referred to as a second coin receiving surface. Two more coins are placed on the second coin receiving surface. In addition, the device comprises a casing. When the casing is fitted onto the tray and stand, the tray is turned from the first coin receiving surface to the inner wall of the casing and appears as if it were the inner wall of the casing. Therefore, the two coins on the second coin receiving surface of the tray are hidden between the tray and the casing, and the coin on the first coin receiving surface will appear in stead.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1995Date of Patent: August 27, 1996Assignee: Tenyo Co., LtdInventor: Hiroshi Kondo
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Patent number: 5497274Abstract: The present invention is a viewing assembly that can selectively create optical compound corrections in the images reflected from the viewing assembly. The viewing assembly includes a reflective surface coupled to a supporting body in such a manner that the reflective surface conforms to the contour of the supporting body. The contour of the supporting body can then be selectively altered by the viewer of the viewing assembly, thereby changing the shape of the reflective surface and creating desired optical corrections in the viewed reflected images.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 1993Date of Patent: March 5, 1996Assignee: Image Optical CorporationInventors: David B. Soll, Richard E. Feinbloom
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Patent number: 5392161Abstract: An illusion assembly for retaining at least a portion of an item and creating the illusion that the retained portion of the item disappeared. The illusion assembly includes a container having a front transparent area and a rear transparent area. The container includes a retainer assembly defining a retaining space with at least a portion of the item being disposed in the retaining space. At least a portion of the retaining space is disposed between the front transparent area and the rear transparent area in the container. Illusion devices are disposed in the container between the front transparent area and the rear transparent area for creating the illusion of seeing through the front transparent area and through the container and through the rear transparent area without seeing the retainer assembly or the portion of the item stored in the disposed space of the retainer assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 1993Date of Patent: February 21, 1995Assignee: Highland Supply CorporationInventors: Donald E. Weder, James J. Sluss, Jr., Joseph G. Straeter, Charles A. Codding, David A. Weder
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Patent number: 5348220Abstract: A savings box housing comprises a front panel with a transparent window and an opaque rear panel and light-opaque side panels extending from the front to the rear panels. The front and rear panels are disposed symmetrically with respect to a partition located in a plane extending across a central location of the housing interior to divide the housing interior into a front compartment on the window side and a rear compartment on the rear-panel side. A mirror extends over substantially the entire surface of a front side of the partition facing the window.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1993Date of Patent: September 20, 1994Assignee: Tenyo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Mark Setteducati
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Patent number: 5346433Abstract: By a new configuration which more efficiently controls illumination, it is possible to make a mirror dissolve illusion which uses less power than those previously known in the art. A reflector and lamp assembly is provided in front of a partially reflective and partially transparent (one-way) mirror to direct light to a viewer via the one-way mirror. The technique includes use of a backlit wall pattern and a reflective floor surface along with a mirror of reduced density.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1993Date of Patent: September 13, 1994Assignee: Inventures, Inc.Inventor: Steve Weinreich
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Patent number: 5293706Abstract: A folded card-like promotional display device includes first and second panels pivotally movable between a first, closed condition of the device and a second, relatively open condition, and a third panel located between and depending from one of the first and second panels. A first image carried on a first face of the third panel is viewable in the closed condition of the device through a window defined in the first panel. A second image carried on a second, opposite face of the third panel is viewable only in the second, open condition of the device in which both the second image and a reflected image of the first image--the reflected image being seen in a reflective surface carried on the inner face of the first panel--are concurrently viewable. The second image is not viewable through the window or otherwise in the first condition of the device.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 1992Date of Patent: March 15, 1994Inventor: Cliff Wood
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Patent number: 5282765Abstract: The present invention aims at providing a savings box enjoyable to see. A partition is provided in the internal space of a box body to divide the internal space thereof into two spaces. There is formed in the partition a cut to provide a communication between the two spaces. A window is formed in the front plate of the box body which faces the partition and a mirror is provided on the partition. A camouflaging member is provided on the mirror and a compartment is so provided below the camouflaging member to cover the cut. An optical member is provided at an opening in the compartment. A coin is thrown into the compartment from a coin slot formed in the box body. When viewed through the optical member, the coin put in the box body is seen as if it were reduced in size. Although the coins are actually placed in the compartment and reception space, they are seen as if they counted a larger number than the capacity of the compartment. Namely, this savings box is enjoyable to see.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 1992Date of Patent: February 1, 1994Assignee: Tenyo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tooru Suzuki
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Patent number: 5247724Abstract: An anamorphic amusement device particularly suited for use by children while traveling, and who have access to a cup-retaining device normally used to prevent engaged cups containing a liquid from spillage due to upset. The device includes a cup of generally frusto-conical configuration having a reflective outer surface, and a planar orificed mat having an opening corresponding in diameter to that of a medial section of the cup. The device is used by inserting the cup through the orifice and positioning the lower end of the cup in a recess in the cup retaining device which thereby supports the cup and mat in proper relative condition wherein anamorphic images on the upper surface of the mat are viewed as undistorted reflective images on the reflective surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1991Date of Patent: September 28, 1993Inventor: Myrna S. Hoffman
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Patent number: 5224901Abstract: An apparatus and method for displaying an anamorphic illusion utilizes two flat disks, each having different unrecognizable images on their top surfaces. A reflecting surface is positioned perpendicular to the disks. A viewer is able to see a recognizable composite reflected image of the two unrecognizable images by looking at the reflecting surface from any position around the circumference of the apparatus. Rotational motion is imparted to one of the two disks, creating an animated display on the reflecting surface. In another embodiment of the invention, lighting is added above and underneath the disks to illuminate the display and create a vivid and eye-catching attraction under any lighting conditions.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1992Date of Patent: July 6, 1993Assignee: The Walt Disney CompanyInventors: Robert M. Dahl, John A. Werner, Joseph P. Cotter, Edmond J. Haro
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Patent number: 5139455Abstract: A visual toy having a concave reflective surface affixed to a transparent cover to enclose a volume. A color imparting member is movably disposed within the enclosed volume. The concave reflective surface and color imparting member are configured so that substantially the entire portion of the reflective surface visible from any sight line may exhibit the color of the color imparting member.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1991Date of Patent: August 18, 1992Assignee: Fisher-Price, Inc.Inventor: Cheryl A. Israel