U.S. patent application number 11/472728 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-28 for system and method for increasing efficiency and quality for exposing images on celluloid or other photo sensitive material.
This patent application is currently assigned to Cedar Crest Partners, Inc.. Invention is credited to Craig Mowry.
Application Number | 20060290887 11/472728 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37595821 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060290887 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mowry; Craig |
December 28, 2006 |
System and method for increasing efficiency and quality for
exposing images on celluloid or other photo sensitive material
Abstract
In one embodiment, a system is provided for increasing image
information storage capacity within available media involving a
film camera capture. The system comprises a strip of photographic
emulsion bearing media having at least two surfaces, and wherein
two of the at least two surfaces are provided with emulsion. A
camera is provided that has a lens, wherein the camera exposes
aspects of a lens gathered image on the two surfaces of the
photographic emulsion bearing media, and further wherein at least
light is gathered and relayed by a lens image relaying device. A
processor is further provided for processing the photographic
emulsion bearing media, and an imaging device is included for
providing electronic image data representing image information from
the photographic emulsion bearing media.
Inventors: |
Mowry; Craig; (Southampton,
NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OSTROLENK FABER GERB & SOFFEN
1180 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS
NEW YORK
NY
100368403
US
|
Assignee: |
Cedar Crest Partners, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
37595821 |
Appl. No.: |
11/472728 |
Filed: |
June 22, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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60693011 |
Jun 22, 2005 |
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60696829 |
Jul 6, 2005 |
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60701424 |
Jul 22, 2005 |
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60702910 |
Jul 27, 2005 |
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60711345 |
Aug 25, 2005 |
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60710868 |
Aug 25, 2005 |
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60712189 |
Aug 29, 2005 |
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60727538 |
Oct 16, 2005 |
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60732347 |
Oct 31, 2005 |
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60739142 |
Nov 22, 2005 |
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60739881 |
Nov 25, 2005 |
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60750912 |
Dec 15, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
352/92 ; 396/210;
396/310 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G03B 21/20 20130101;
G03B 1/00 20130101; G03C 5/04 20130101; H04N 5/253 20130101; G03B
17/17 20130101; G03B 15/00 20130101; G03C 5/08 20130101; G02B 5/223
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
352/092 ;
396/210; 396/310 |
International
Class: |
G03B 21/50 20060101
G03B021/50 |
Claims
1. A system for increasing image information storage capacity
within available media involving film camera capture including: a
strip of photographic emulsion bearing media having at least two
surfaces, and wherein two of the at least two surfaces are provided
with emulsion; a camera having a lens, wherein the camera exposes
aspects of a lens gathered image on at least two surfaces of said
emulsion bearing recording media, and further wherein at least
light is gathered and relayed by said lens; a lens image relaying
device wherein at least some of the light gathered by the lens is
relayed to one or more image capture devices; a film processor for
processing the film stock bearing emulsion on the two surfaces; and
an imaging device for providing electronic image data from the
processed emulsion bearing recording media.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the emulsion bearing recording
media includes celluloid.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the imaging device is a
scanner.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the camera records the two
surfaces of the emulsion bearing recording media as a function of
multiple film gates within said camera, each receiving diverted
aspects of the lens image.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the camera is operable to expose
a first complete surface of the film stock, and, thereafter, the
second complete surface of the film stock, in sequence.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the camera exposes at least one
frame of emulsion exposed on the first surface, and, thereafter,
exposes at least frame of emulsion exposed on the second surface
prior to additional exposing of the first surface.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the camera exposes both surfaces
of the film stock simultaneously.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the camera transports the film
stock from a magazine containment, wherein the stock is
repositioned for horizontal exposure of a selectable amount of
emulsion, in part as a function of the film gates.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein each of the film gates are offset
relative to the path of the lens gathered image as initially
relayed.
10. The system of claim 8, wherein the magazine containment
provides the film stock initially vertically to the camera,
relative to the lens.
11. The system of claim 8, wherein the magazine containment is
positioned above the lens relative to the entire camera.
12. The system of claim 8, wherein the magazine containment
provides the film stock horizontally to the camera.
13. The system of claim 8, wherein the magazine containment
provides a portion of the film stock to the camera for exposure,
and the portion of the film stock is returned to the magazine
containment following exposure.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein the camera provides aspects of
the lens image for electronic capture at least while the film
capture aspects of the camera are engaged, to transport and expose
the emulsion bearing media.
15. The system of claim 14, wherein the electronic capture occurs
at a selectively different frame rate from the at least one film
capture occurring within at least one film gate.
16. The system of claim 1, wherein the two surfaces of the film
stock selectively are provided with images for recording within the
emulsion at selectively different frame rates.
17. The system of claim 4, wherein said film stock gates function
at least in part to position the film stock for exposure to aspects
of the lens image, including a variable exposure area selectable by
a user.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the user is further provided
options of exposing aspects of images derived from the lens image
as variably sized images, relative to at least the amount of
emulsion exposed or ratio of the exposure area, and at least in
part as a function of at least one of the film gates.
19. The system of claim 4, wherein the gates function in part to
position the film stock for recording key frame images to be used
in affecting a selectable plurality of other images, wherein the
other images include images related to an electronic capture.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein the final selectable frame rate
of the electronic capture includes one of twenty-four frames per
second and final images affected by image information related to
the key frame images also are provided at a frame rate including
one of twenty-four frames per second.
21. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one of the two
surfaces of the film stock receive aspects of the lens gathered
image that have been independently varied, including by optical or
electronic means.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the at least one of the two
surfaces of the film stock receive aspects of the lens gathered
image that have been affected by separate focusing impositions,
including those imposed optically.
23. An expandable emulsion photographic system including: an
expandable recording medium having photographic emulsion; a film
camera that includes: a film gate; at least one optical element; a
recording medium expanding device; a film processor; and a
recordable medium containment, wherein the expanding device is
operable to manage the expandable medium, and further wherein the
expanding device is operable to expand the expandable medium to
position the emulsion relative to the optical elements for
providing an initially captured lens image for latent image storage
within a selectively optimal quantity of the emulsion.
24. The system of claim 23, wherein the expandable medium expands
prior to photographic exposure of the emulsion.
25. The system of claim 23, wherein the expanding device includes a
convex or a concave semi-circular restriction element that
restricts the expanded shape of the expandable medium relative to
the optical elements.
26. The system of claim 23, wherein the expandable medium expands
during photographic processing of the emulsion.
27. The system of claim 23, wherein the expandable medium expands
at least during light transmission, for projection or electronic
scanning, through the emulsion following said processing.
28. The system of claim 23, wherein the emulsion is contained
within or on the expandable medium.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is based on and claims priority to
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/692,502, filed on
Jun. 21, 2005 and entitled "METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR
EXPOSING IMAGES ON BOTH SIDES OF CELLOID OR OTHER PHOTO SENSITIVE
BEARING MATERIAL," U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
60/692,501, filed on Jun. 21, 2005 and entitled "METHOD, SYSTEM AND
APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING EXPANDABLE OR ELASTIC PHOTOGRAPHIC FILM TO
INCREASE IMAGE QUALITY," U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
60/693,011, filed on Jun. 22, 2005 and entitled "FILM SHEATH
ASSEMBLY SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR USE IN DIGITAL FILM
SIMULATION," U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/696,829,
filed on Jul. 6, 2005 and entitled "METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS
FOR CAPTURING VISUALS AND/OR VISUAL DATA AND SPECIAL DEPTH DATA
RELATING TO OBJECTS AND/OR IMAGE ZONES WITHIN SAID VISUALS
SIMULTANEOUSLY," U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/701,424,
filed on Jul. 22, 2005 and entitled "METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS
FOR INCREASING QUALITY OF FILM CAPTURE," U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/702,910, filed on Jul. 27, 2005 and
entitled "SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CAPTURING AND SCREENING
VISUALS FOR MULTI-DIMENSIONAL DISPLAY," U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/711,345, filed on Aug. 25, 2005 and
entitled "SYSTEM, METHOD APPARATUS FOR CAPTURING AND SCREENING
VISUALS FOR MULTI-DIMENSIONAL DISPLAY (ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURE),"
U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/710,868, filed on Aug. 25,
2005 and entitled "A METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR INCREASING
QUALITY OF FILM CAPTURE," U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
60/712,189, filed on Aug. 29, 2005 and entitled "A METHOD, SYSTEM
AND APPARATUS FOR INCREASING QUALITY AND EFFICIENCY OF FILM
CAPTURE," U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/727,538, filed
on Oct. 16, 2005 and entitled "A METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR
INCREASING QUALITY OF DIGITAL IMAGE CAPTURE," U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/732,347, filed on Oct. 31, 2005 and
entitled "A METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR INCREASING QUALITY AND
EFFICIENCY OF FILM CAPTURE WITHOUT CHANGE OF FILM MAGAZINE
POSITION," U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/739,142, filed
on Nov. 22, 2005 and entitled "DUAL FOCUS," U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/739,881, filed on Nov. 25, 2005 and
entitled "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VARIABLE KEY FRAME FILM GATE
ASSEMBLAGE WITHIN HYBRID CAMERA ENHANCING RESOLUTION WHILE
EXPANDING MEDIA EFFICIENCY," U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
60/750,912, filed on Dec. 15, 2005 and entitled "A METHOD, SYSTEM
AND APPARATUS FOR INCREASING QUALITY AND EFFICIENCY OF (DIGITAL)
FILM CAPTURE," the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated
by reference. This application further incorporates by reference in
its entirety U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/447,406, entitled
"MULTI-DIMENSIONAL IMAGING SYSTEM AND METHOD," filed on Jun. 5,
2006, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/408,389, entitled
"SYSTEM AND METHOD TO SIMULATE FILM OR OTHER IMAGING MEDIA" and
filed on Apr. 20, 2006, the entire contents of both of which are as
if set forth herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to image capture and
screening, and, more particularly, to improving efficiency of film
use and quality in digital film simulation.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] As digital image capture, storing and projection increases
in efficiency, data processing capability and quality, film is and
has been limited by the capture, storage and screening means
employed by the familiar approaches and known products.
[0006] In prior art, three-dimensional screening systems, such as
IMAX or the like, provide an illusion of an enhanced visual
experience beyond conventional two-dimensional screening, the
present invention provides a new aesthetic and technical range of
options. However, visuals are captured in a two-dimensional,
different aspect or display ratio that a screening system
displaying the visuals utilizes. Further, the present invention
provides opportunity for film capture to provide more final images
per foot of initial stock used, while further providing the
simultaneous option of significantly more information per image
resulting from the film captures, without requiring additional film
stock footage to achieve this result.
[0007] Preferably, an approach to double-sided emulsion is
provided, thereby enabling optics within a camera to relay
selective portions of a captured lens image that are selectively
maintained, altered in focus, exposure or capture lens position or
the like, on both sides of a strip of double-sided emulsion or
length of film. The double-sided emulsion approach enables twice
the image storing efficiency of the film, and increases image
capture (e.g., recording) ability without requiring increased
materials (e.g., film stock). Further, the double-sided emulsion
enables a capture of secondary images, such as differently focused,
exposed or slightly differently positioned capture lens images, for
recording on opposite sides of a strip, or joined strips of colloid
or other emulsion bearing or embodying materials. Further,
horizontal positioning of the film stock, and use off the film
captures optionally as key frames, for use in affecting multiple
final images digitally, allows the present invention to not only
provide more recordable media without increasing overall film stock
footage, but the resulting image information, (including quality
and resolution) from this stock per image is increased optionally
dramatically over conventional images captured in familiar film
stock gauge sizes, (such as 35 mm and 16 mm.)
[0008] As described in the above-identified pending patent
applications, such altered versions of a capture lens' images may
also be recorded on a single side of conventional (e.g., color
negative) film by way of offset film gates and/or offset image
lay-down areas within the camera. Such recording of conventional
film allows for subsequent delineation of different versions of the
same lens image, such as recorded on conventional film, by digital
or other means in post production applications and during use of
various effects, as known in the art.
SUMMARY
[0009] In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a system
for amplifying available media for film camera capture including a
strip of film stock having at least two surfaces, and wherein two
of the at least two surfaces are provided with emulsion. The system
further comprises a camera having a lens, wherein the camera
records a lens image on the two surfaces of the film stock, and
further wherein the camera records the lens image by gathering at
least light in the lens. Moreover, a film processor for processing
the film stock bearing emulsion on the two surfaces is provided,
and an imaging device for imaging both surfaces of the film stock
is provided. The imaging device images both surfaces of the film
stock as at least one imaged derived from the initial strip of film
stock, wherein the media for film capture is amplified as a
function of at least the imaging device, the film processor and the
strip of film stock.
[0010] In another embodiment, the present invention comprises an
expandable emulsion photographic system. The system includes an
expandable medium having photographic emulsion and a film camera.
The film camera includes a film gate, at least one optical element,
an expanding device, a film processor, and a film containment. The
expanding device is operable to manage the expandable medium, and
the expanding device is operable to expand the expandable medium to
position the emulsion relative to the optical elements for
providing an initially captured lens image for latent image storage
within a selectively optimal quantity of the emulsion.
[0011] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent from the following description of the invention
that refers to the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0012] For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is
shown in the figures a form which is presently preferred, it being
understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the
precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. The features and
advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the
following description of the invention that refers to the
accompanying figures, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates an example configuration, including a
camera, of an example embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a partially exaggerated configuration of
a double-sided emulsion film stock;
[0015] FIG. 3, illustrates a modified configuration of the camera
shown in FIG. 1;
[0016] FIGS. 4A-44E and 5A-5C illustrate some selected potential
configurations of camera aspects of the present invention; and
[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates a left side elevational view illustrating
a selectively convex configuration for augmenting overall image
recording emulsion area and potentially increasing image
quality.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0018] The present invention preferably provides a an aesthetic and
technical range of options to increase the efficiency and quality
of for exposing images on celluloid or other photo sensitive
material, not previously available in the prior art. Unlike prior
art systems, in one embodiment, visuals are captured in a similar
or the same, three-dimensional aspect or display ratio, providing
ratio, as a screening system that is used for display utilizes
designed to manifest images on displays or screens of similar
shape, (non flat display surfaces). For example, a bubble-shaped
portion of emulsion material is exposed by an expandable emulsion
exposure system, and film media product(s) are provided with a
curvature and spherical shape that is similar to that of the
screening system on which the visuals are to be displayed. This
reduces a need for typical prior art optical impositions and
conversions (e.g., distortions) of visual data for recording and
screening from two-dimensional filmed images and images screened
from film.
[0019] As used herein, the term, "recording," refers, generally, to
including an image initially stored as latent image captured within
photographic emulsion.
[0020] Also as used herein, the term, emulsion bearing surface
refers, generally to film stock containment media, such as
celluloid, where an option for coating two surfaces with
photographic emulsion, occurring on opposite sides of the media,
exists.
[0021] Further, as used herein, the term, "imaging device" refers,
generally, to any device capable of capturing, sampling and/or
digitizing an image. A non-limiting example of an imaging device,
is a scanner.
[0022] Moreover, as used herein, a "capture lens image" refers,
generally, to a visual gathered by the camera lens and relayed for
subsequent image capture(s). Alternatively, a "captured lens image"
may refer to light relating to a visual gathered by the camera lens
and relayed for subsequent image capture(s).
[0023] Also as used herein, the term, "emulsified" means,
generally, to include media which has been coated with or contains
photographic emulsion, initially unexposed emulsion.
[0024] In a preferred embodiment, an increase in the quality of a
filmed (e.g., on emulsified material) image that is captured via
the photo chemical process, typically employed during the recording
of much material in film and television. Preferably, the methods
and systems described herein are not limited to motion media, as
still photography quality is also vastly increased with regard to
image quality, without a need to change the size of equipment, for
example to compensate for gauge size of film, or the like.
[0025] In a preferred embodiment, a 16 millimeter ("mm") film
camera (as known in the art) is employed for the capture of
visuals, selectively of a quality near, at or beyond that of a
conventional 35 mm film camera and film recording means, at image
origination. As is apparent to one skilled in the art, any gauge
size film and camera may be utilized to benefit from the teachings
herein. Moreover, as described in greater detail below, either
variable film or other storage medium, a camera, or both are
features of the present invention and utilized to avail a user of
the benefits taught herein.
[0026] In a preferred embodiment, a film camera incorporates optics
and film management that enhance typical prior art film cameras.
For example, the camera (and film) maximize quality and efficiency
by providing a new sequence of events and approaches as each frame
of unexposed film (or other emulsified material) moves into a film
gate for exposure, by way of light related from a capture lens.
[0027] In one embodiment, prior to exposure, film undergoes an
expansion process, such as by way of a film surface affecting
device that, for example, is globe-shaped, and that makes contact
with the film from the side of the film that is reverse to the side
having emulsion for exposure. The device may push beyond the film
plane that is typically maintained during exposure, thereby
expanding the emulsion selectively toward the optics. In an
alternative embodiment, a second device expands the emulsion in the
opposite direction relative to the film plane, and expands the film
plane to be three-dimensional, instead of film that is
two-dimensional, as typically used in prior art film cameras.
[0028] The optics of the camera and used for relaying the lens
image may, in one embodiment, involve a device to surround the area
of emulsion that has been expanded to a three-dimensional,
spherical surface with visual data. Alternatively, an image may be
exposed on to the spherical emulsion surface by way of moving
optics, such as for exposing new image data onto the emulsion
surface as aspects of the optical system (e.g., lenses, mirrors or
the like) move during an exposure process. Variations in optics are
many, and in various embodiments, the sphere or semi-spherical
shape of the expanded emulsion may be convex or concave, relative
to the image capture and relaying optics and system. Therefore,
various embodiments, as will become apparent to one skilled in the
art, are envisioned herein.
[0029] Selectively, a lens image may be affected, such as by
distortion, for proper dispersal of the lens image over the maximum
available surface area of the expanded emulsion or other
photosensitive material or recording media. In such a
configuration, correcting optics may be subsequently employed to
reconfigure stored (or recorded) visuals for desired display,
aspect ratio, 2 dimensional display systems and related options
geared to potential final display intentions. As known in the art,
such optical image conversion approaches include anamorphic lens
systems, which record a visual which is first distorted, and
thereafter "undistorted" by optics designed to adjust for the
initial distortion imposed for proper recording onto media with a
different aspect ratio than the full, undistorted scene capture
through the camera lens.
[0030] In a preferred embodiment, a device releases a compressed
amount of gas, such as oxygen, to expand or otherwise inflate a
surface of the pre-positioned film. Air preferably allows for fast,
intermittent "inflation" of the film surface, like a balloon,
without making physical contact with the film which can potentially
mark or damage the film. This is analogous to a balloon, which is
provided with words and/or images on its surface that are revealed
until the balloon is inflated.
[0031] The size of the intended maximum area of exposable emulsion,
which may be a coating or embodiment of the expandable surface
itself as an aspect of the elastic or variable material, is not
revealed and/employed until the air (or other penetrating object in
an alternative embodiment) expands the surface to something similar
or identical, to the expansion of the surface experienced when the
emulsion was first incorporated or coated onto it. In the "air
puff" configuration, a selectively air-tight seal between the
compressed air means and the film gate (or film surface) may be
employed for controlled, consistent expansion of the expandable
film, emulsion, or other photosensitive bearing material.
[0032] With the camera, a transparent surface in the ideal shape of
the emulsion for exposure might be involved, to contain the
inflated emulsion surface, for example, in an identical size and
position for each subsequent exposure, for image continuity.
[0033] Continuing with reference to an embodiment using an air puff
expanding configuration, after exposure and release of the
compressed air being applied to the "film," the emulsion surface
would selectively recede, retract and/or shrink back into its
smaller, contained size which allowed it to be contained discreetly
within the smaller confines of the film media, or selected gauge
size, such as 16 mm. Optionally, secondary physical affecting means
to replace the expanded stock to the initial, unexpanded size and
configuration may be employed.
[0034] The film may then be advanced by the camera with the next
expandable frame positioned for "inflation" to the
three-dimensional shape and size for the next exposure of light
related and/or positioned on the emulsion by way of the camera's
selectively stationary or moveable optics arrangement.
[0035] In three-dimensional screening approaches, (including single
two dimensional image captures presented on screens that are not
flat,) such as IMAX or similar approaches which provide the
illusion of an enhanced visual experience beyond conventional
two-dimensional screening, the present invention may provide a new
aesthetic and technical range of options relying less, or not at
all, on optical distortion of captured and/or displayed images to
achieve a desired aesthetic effect. Namely, capture of a visual in
nearly if not the same three-dimensional aspect, or display ratio,
as the eventual screening means will utilize. For example, the
"bubble" of emulsion exposed by the present expandable emulsion
exposure system, and film media product(s), may be selectively
similar in curvature and spherical shape to that of the eventual
screen on which the visuals will be displayed, reducing need for
familiar extreme optical impositions and reconverting (distorting)
of visual data for recording and screening from two-dimensional
filmed images, and images screened from film.
[0036] Also, as noted above with regard to currently pending patent
applications to the inventor of the present patent application,
double-sided emulsion is provided that increases recording ability
without increasing the need for additional media by footage,
(including film stock,) and associated costs, or to capture
secondary images (such as differently focused, exposed or slightly
differently positioned capture lens images) for recording on
opposite sides of a strip, or joined strips of colloid or other
emulsion bearing (or embodying) materials.
[0037] Preferably, emulsion bearing or embodying film, whether of
celluloid, plastic or other expandable or selectively elastic
material, is provided. Further, such elastic type of "film" is
selectively able to record latent photographic images on both sides
of the surface, with each side being selectively expandable. Thus
the elasticity of the "film" is selectively able to occur in two
directions, relative to the normal film plane, or normal flat
surface of the "film" when not in the expanded position. Such
position selectively appears a bubble, or selectively spherical
expansion of the emulsion.
[0038] Further, a camera is preferably provided that is capable of
recording visuals relayed through an optical system onto
selectively a three-dimensional, or bubble-like emulsion
surface(s). Further, devices are provided to record on both sides
of selectably unexpanded "film" within the camera, thereby
involving multiple film "gates" or image lay-down zones within the
camera.
[0039] Moreover, the camera is selectively able to relay altered
versions of the lens image (or other captured visual) to each
separately exposed side of the emulsified material. This feature is
useful for recording on a single side relative to the normal film
plane, for example whether the single side is exposed or film
repositioned to allow for the reverse side to also be exposed. The
altered image versions may have different focusing priorities of
the relayed lens image, may have different exposure times or f-stop
(iris) settings during exposure, or may have offset lens captures,
in case a plurality of lenses is used, of the scene being
photographed. Other possible imposed variations of differences
selectively imposed on the captured visuals relative to each other
are envisioned herein.
[0040] Through horizontal recording of visuals on film stock and
the option of such images serving only as key frames for enhancing
final images selectively, smaller equipment and gauge sized film,
photochemical or other recording media is provided to capture
enhanced quality visuals, including to selectively capture visuals
that embody the same or different versions of captured lens
image(s), for selective secondary effects and/or aesthetic options
not previously available in the prior art. Without an increase in a
size of film stock or equipment, an increased number of visuals and
of an increased emulsion surface area may be capture and stored,
relative to typical prior art cameras and film stock familiar to
the gauge size utilized. Further, additional options include that
images recorded within film stock may provide information to affect
final images of potentially much more image information, (affecting
also quality and resolution,) while still not requiring additional
media, (such as motion picture film stock,) in accomplishing the
goals (individually or in tandem,) of additional provided overall
images or increased image quality within final images derived from
the film captures.
[0041] Moreover, an entirely new film stock product is provided by
teachings herein, as well as equipment used to expose, manage and
screen the film stock. This is possible, even though the gauge size
and film configuration, whether recording on one or both sides of
the film stock, can be unlike conventional film stock. For example,
typical sprocket holes, familiar gauge sizes and other conventional
aspects of film capture and screening may selectively not be
involved in a new film "format" and imaging system, respective
devices and methods as disclosed herein. Filmed images destined for
digitizing for example, a preferred aspect of the present
invention, render sprocketed film transport potentially
unnecessary, other electronic means providing both transport and
image registration selectably.
[0042] Moreover, the teachings herein involve an expansion of media
in an opposite (concave) direction relative to the lens image.
Furthermore, optics providing for maximum emulsion area exposed, in
essence from the "inside" of the balloon (instead of exposing the
outside of the expanded balloon).
[0043] Relative to the double emulsified film stock and image
capture, subsequent, second "gate" can be provided for exposing the
reverse side of the stock, (also bearing emulsion,) which may be a
selectively photosensitive or other media capable of recording
image information. This may result in the same or selectively
altered versions of a single lens (or double lens, offset 3D
scenario) onto both sides of a single film strip, selectively
simultaneously or exposing in a staggered, or offset manner.
Intermittent motion of the film to subsequent frames for exposure
might best occur after a "frame" has been exposed on each side of
the double sided film, in the double sided configuration,
selectively.
[0044] In yet another embodiment, a motion picture film camera is
provided. The motion picture camera preferably captures visuals
through a single, initial capture lens. Within the camera, the lens
image may be selectively diverted and or divided (e.g., split), to
allow for two separate relayings of all or part of the initial lens
image.
[0045] In one embodiment, a mirror which may be operable to move,
relays the lens image during a period of time selectively to
additional lens elements for focusing, particularly in case
focusing has not already been accomplished prior to the mirror
diversion of the captured lens image/light.
[0046] In this embodiment, a first film "gate" to which a image is
relayed is positioned offset relative to a typical position of a
film gate. In one embodiment, the offset is approximately 90
degrees, or perpendicular to the typical position of a film gate.
Thus, the mirror or other mirroring element(s) relays the captured
lens image to a second gate during a predefined period of time.
This second capture gate may also be offset, relative to a typical
film gate position, and may also perpendicular, for example, to a
typical prior art film gate position. However, it is possible in an
alternative embodiment that the second capture gate is positioned
directly opposite of the first offset gate.
[0047] The above-described embodiment preferably allows for
mirrored or other image diversion elements to provide a full lens
image to one gate and then the other for exposure of motion picture
film, or other imaging means, (including, for example, charge
coupled devices ("CCD") for electronic capture, or other electronic
digitizing elements). In the embodiment using motion picture film,
all or a portion of the lens image (e.g., if beam splitting is
employed in lieu of full image diversion by mirrors or other
elements) is relayed to the two film gates, positioned parallel to
each other and selectively placed in direct or close contact. This
allows a single strip of motion picture film, or celluloid, which
may be provided with double-sided emulsion to travel through a
single or modified double gate apparatus, for simultaneous or
staggered exposure of the emulsion on the two primary surfaces of
the single strip of celluloid or other emulsion coated medium.
[0048] Additionally, positioned downstream of the selective image
diverter, a CCD may receive intermittently all, or intermittently
or continually a portion of the original lens image as well, to
allow for video assist viewing, or related similar monitor
(electronic) viewing of images being captured for film or other
media recording by the present camera and invention. Further, such
electronic recording of the lens image may provide image
information for additional digital image applications, related to
the film captured images; including the option of allowing one of
the capture media to provide key frame data at a selectably slower
frame rate during capture than the other, whose image data may
inform other aspects of final image data allocation and
management.
[0049] A modified approach to using celluloid film may be employed
by the teachings herein. For example, two strips of conventional
film may be selectively joined or positioned. The celluloid strips
may be thin and separated by an opaque layer or piece celluloid or
other material. This minimizes an amount of material and weight
necessary for color negative film, and reduces the capture of a
maximum number and film frames of a selected gauge size, such as 35
mm.
[0050] One advantage of the embodiment that includes a mirrored
diversion, as described above, is that a single strip of modified
celluloid may capture twice as much overall image information by
employing offset film gate(s) to allow for both sides of the
celluloid to be exposed from visuals (light) captured through a
single lens.
[0051] Another advantage is that, in the embodiment including two
gates, which may be positioned in parallel or opposite to each
other, is that a captured lens image may be selectively relayed as
is for recording the unmodified lens image to each of the "gates"
or respective sides of the celluloid having different emulsion.
Alternatively, the lens image may undergo selective secondary
effects or modifications, such as additional optics providing
different focusing priorities or other camera setting variations,
for relaying the captured lens image multiple times.
[0052] In one embodiment, a capture lens is positioned at a
selected focal length, for example five feet from the camera plane
focusing selection, might relay a visual (e.g., an image) which is
relayed for a period of time to a focusing optic unit, preferably
within the camera housing, for recording onto film (or other
recording means) as a "near focused" visual. Thereafter, the mirror
or other relaying devices may relay the lens image to a different
focusing optic set up, to allow for that period of time for
relaying of the lens image to undergo optical variation by way of a
different focusing priority, such as "infinity." Alternatively, the
same optics may be used that is selectively reset for another
setting. This preferably allows for background focus, or background
clarity in lieu of foreground clarity. Thus, in such a
configuration, a single strip of celluloid might record twelve 35
mm frames of film focused for "five feet" from the camera gate on
one side of the film, while twelve frames of film (visuals) are
recorded on the other emulsified side of the celluloid set with the
infinity focusing priority. Naturally, 24 frames per second, twelve
or virtually any other number of visuals per second might be
recorded in this way, on both sides of the media having
emulsion.
[0053] Further, as images are preferably recorded horizontally, the
selected emulsion width (and thus overall emulsion area related to
each visual captured) need not be the same on both sides of the
stock; variably wide film gates and differing optic configurations
may allow also for this option. Further, the frame rates between
images recorded by one film gate and the other, also need not be
identical, depending on the objectives for the image versions
captured on the respective sides of the strip of film stock
relative to the final images for selectively display.
[0054] The example of multiple focus versions may be used for a
special screening effect, such as three-dimensional effect or
simply enhanced depth of field effects. Alternatively, the
dual-sided film (celluloid) might simple be utilized to increase
the material efficiency of the film capture process. Thus, for
example, the amount of film stock by foot can be reduced, for
example, by half for the same amount of image information captured.
One benefit example of this result is a reduced weight of overall
media necessary on a shoot, but that is only one example of many
potential benefits of the increased efficiency. Other variations
between the different relayings of the same lens image may allow
for additional effects to be imposed on the visuals, such as
different exposure settings, including how long the visuals are
exposed to the film or other capture means, or how much light is
let through, (iris or f-stop setting) variations, or the like, for
selective other post production effects and applications provided
by the present invention means and options.
[0055] Other configurations and/or embodiments may allow for the
offset multiple gates embodiment to be provided as two film gates
exposing only one surface of typical motion picture film, as
opposed to the embodiment described above including a double-sided
emulsion celluloid. In such a configuration, two gates may record,
for example, altered versions of the same lens image (such as
differently focused) on a single strip of celluloid each gate
recording only on every other frame of the film. In post
production, digital or other means to automatically delineate
between the different recordings on the film or other media of the
same lens image and subjected selectively to different secondary
applications prior to being recorded in the emulsion. For example,
different focusing priorities may be provided by differently set
focusing optic(s) that may allow for a single strip of film to
provide media allowing for distinct post production options that
are applicable and unique to the teachings herein.
[0056] The ability to selectively capture the same or altered
versions of a single captured lens image selectively on one or more
surfaces of single-sided or double sided emulsified celluloid
provides unique options that increase recording efficiency and
provide additional post production and/or special effects options
not otherwise possible using a typical, prior art motion picture
camera and system.
[0057] Moreover, using a mirror and/or beam splitter to divert a
lens image provides for different versions of a single lens image
for film emulsion recording, or electronic recording including such
options as digital CCD and the like, familiar to digital
origination of visuals, such as with the CINE ALTA and other high
definition digital cinema systems. Different media working in
tandem to capture such versions is another provided option and
range of configurations possible within the present invention.
Thus, differently exposed or focused versions of the same lens
image are recorded either simultaneously or selectively staggered
over time. An option of recording visuals on one or both sides of a
single strip of specially prepared celluloid (such as provide with
double-sided emulsion) is further provided by the selective lens
image diversion and dual film gate, as described herein.
[0058] Typical prior art projection may not be necessary to acquire
an emulsion record of a lens image. For example, a single strip of
celluloid which is manufactured to be easily "split" or separated
into thinner (e.g., half the normal thickness of motion picture
film) halves or sides, selectively separated by another layer such
as an opaque protector (to ensure one side's exposure does not
affect the other's emulsion or recording) may provide two celluloid
records of a single lens image, utilizing no more celluloid that is
conventional with normal 24 frames per second with 35 mm
filming.
[0059] Preferably, emulsion is scanned and digitized for post
production and subsequent work. Film origination on thinner, even
possibly not projectable strips,(or thinner strips joined to form a
more conventional width stock selectably with emulsion on two sides
rather than the conventional one,) in no way compromises the
integrity of the images captured in the emulsion(s). Thus, if a
digital inter-negative approach is planned for a film, for example,
the origination on atypical thin halves, such as in the dual-sided
film emulsion configuration herein is fine, with the camera
negative(s) simply providing a record for digitizing, and
"projectable" film versions, (if final projection is not digital)
come from subsequent printing of digitized versions of the camera
negative(s) onto more conventional and projectable (for example)
film print celluloid, such as typical release print stock.
[0060] Yet another feature includes a film containment unit
familiar to film cameras, such as a "magazine," which is operable,
for example, with conventional movie film cameras. The
above-identified double-sided film, or celluloid which features
and/or embodies photo-sensitive material on both of its respective
surfaces (e.g., front and back) might be configured in a special
magazine to allow for use in conventional film cameras.
[0061] In a PANA VISION camera, for example, a "disposable," or
selectively reusable magazine might be provided, though this does
not preclude a permanent or reloadable magazine application. In the
reusable but not user reloadable configuration, for example, 1,000
feet of 35 mm film, may be configured within the magazine housing
in a familiar "continual loop" scenario. Of course, one skilled in
the art will recognize that any length of film and/or gauge size is
applicable. This reusable or reloadable magazine is similar to
typical prior art audio cassettes, that when turned over by a user,
has tape that is positioned at the beginning once it has run fully
through the length contained in the cassette, all tape having run
over the magnetic head.
[0062] Instead of "replaying," the magazine described herein allows
for "re-recording," onto the same celluloid or other emulsion or
photo sensitive storage strip or media, by way of returning the
stock to the same film gate, (in a selectably one gate film camera
configuration. However, before "replaying," either manually or
automatically, the film may be turned 180 degrees, (or otherwise
manipulated to maintain unexposed emulsion to the gate until both
sides are exposed,) to simply allow for the reverse side of photo
sensitive "film" or other material to play through the entire
length of the unexposed media contained in the magazine. This
configuration enables running the entire length of the contained
film twice, exposing the reverse side of the special, double
emulsified media with two equally or selectively equal photo
sensitive "sides" capable of recording latent, or other selected
visuals capable of being stored by such media.
[0063] In a manual configuration, a compartment on the magazine,
such as a pivoting door, may be opened by a user after the film
stops or has otherwise reached its full usage length. A pin or
other device selectively attached to the end, or other place on the
film stock, might be "turned," selectively with a roller of other
stabilizing device lowered to hold and maintain the integrity of
the flipped film (or media) and to avoid the essential "loop" or
turn just accomplished tram interfering with the proper running of
the full length of film again, without jamming, interruption
slowing or other undesired issues occurring. Such a "turn" of the
film and configuration of the magazine's film contained, for
running the length again in this loop configuration, may be
accomplished selectively automatically as well, in a variety of
known mechanical ways.
[0064] Preferably, the magazine is not different from typical prior
art magazines in that the film loop which protrudes from the
magazine, such as provided in PANA VISION cameras, is provided for
easy loading. In the disposable configuration, the entire magazine
can be sent for processing, wherein the two-sided film is separated
or split after being processed and provided to the user as two
processed strips of exposed film, approximately half the thickness
of normal, familiar celluloid. Alternatively, the two-sided film
processed after the splitting, or, the material is immediately
digitized to avoid a need to handle the celluloid beyond the
processor's plant. In yet another alternative, the "half" thickness
strips of exposed motion picture film may be married to another
piece of celluloid or material, in order to return the visuals to
the customer on a film stock product similar to that of normal film
stock thickness. In this alternative, the media is combined with
another transparent film, celluloid, or material thereby using the
original camera negative.
[0065] In yet another alternative, the media might be immediately
"duped" or copied onto normal thickness film stock, thereby
allowing the camera negative information on to typical prior art
film stock quickly after processing due to potential issues with
the thinner than usual originating media, or film.
[0066] Thus, as described above, typical, prior art film cameras
using a modified magazine can allow for the typical length of film
stock to provided double the recording media using the same amount
weight and expense as in typical, prior art media.
[0067] The present invention is now further described with
reference to the figures, in which like reference numerals
represent like elements.
[0068] FIG. 1 illustrates an example configuration of an example
embodiment, wherein a commonly "top" placed film magazine
containment (similar to the PANAFLEX film camera systems) is
coupled with a modified film camera threading and multi-gate film
transport mechanism. As lens image 102 enters the camera through
lens 104, image diversion or beam splitting module 106 provides all
or a selected ratio of the lens image's overall light to at least
two capture modules, including film gates 114 and 116. Film stock
108 enters the camera in this configuration from a top-of-camera
vertical magazine position, though this magazine position is not
essential and in fact a horizontal configuration would avoid film
repositioning modules' necessity. Though, in the top, vertical
magazine configuration of the camera aspect of the system, film
stock 108 is turned, or repositioned, selectively 90 degrees, by
film management and repositioning module (such as film transport
roller(s)) 110, for providing stock 108 to two film gates 114 and
116, occurring on opposite sides of a single film containment or
"strip," of selectively the same thickness and dimension as
conventional photographic film media (such as typical 16 mm and 35
mm film stock.)
[0069] Image diversion means, such as mirrors 112 and 122, convey
respective aspects of the lens image for recording onto stock 108
within gates 114, 116. The film now being provided horizontally
enables images to be recorded of variable width, unlike vertically
provided motion picture film stock or the like, which is limited by
the width of the 35 mm or 16 mm stock, for example. Gates 114, 116
preferably have selective image dimension varying means, thereby
allowing for selectively image width to be 2:35 to 1, (in one
possible screen ratio option,) relative to film stock's 108
available emulsion recording areas height.
[0070] Film stock 120 represents a return of the exposed media to
the magazine containment, (on top of the camera in this scenario,)
after film repositioning module 118 (such as a film transport
roller or similar mechanism) returns film stock 120 selectively
90.degree. for proper positioning return to the selectively
conventional film stock magazine.
[0071] Film stock 108 may, alternatively, be provided and film
stock 120 returned in a reversed order. In this alternative, film
stock 108 thus providing the film to gates 114, 116 and film stock
120 being the return of exposed stock to the magazine containment,
such as in optional configurations.
[0072] Moreover, the present dual sided stock 108 configuration may
be replaced in yet another alternative by dual gates 114, 116
positioned respectively for exposing two distinct strips of film by
two separate distinct, potentially, although not necessarily in
separate and distinct magazine containments. In such a
configuration image diversion means 112 and 122 would be eliminated
or modified to provide aspects of lens image 102 to gates 114, 116,
repositioned to expose the separate rolls of film, as the rolls are
individually transported into respective gates 114, 116 at the same
or different frame rates, depending on the aesthetic goal choice,
including, for example, whether key frames are being generated,
whether there are multi-focal versions of the lens image being
captured, or the like.
[0073] Film stock 108, 120 is preferably configured as a single
strip of recordable media, including latent image storage within
film emulsion, wherein emulsion is provided on both surfaces, and
may indeed be a single emulsion bearing celluloid or other strip
(or other shape) containment. Stock 108, 120 may also optionally be
two thinner such strips combined, selectively separated by a
selectively opaque or other divider which may not necessarily
provide additional opacity between the emulsion layers, opposite
each other.
[0074] Further, as indicated in the figures, an electronic
capturer, including a video assist and potentially other digital
capture device in case such a device not also function in the
typical video assist role, may be provided as aspects of the lens
image as well, either continually or in a selectively staggered or
semi-staggered order relative to the lens image being diverted to
other capture devices.
[0075] Moreover, film camera gates 114, 116 need not occur directly
opposite of the other. Selectively, one gate 114 or 116 may receive
the relayed lens image at a distance that is offset from the other
gate, allowing for horizontal or vertical gate configurations.
Alternatively, in a conventionally fed film configuration, such as
in the PANAVISION pull-down, vertical stock camera configuration,
gate 114 and/or 116 engages the stock 108 vertically, selectively
recording relayed (e.g., diverted) original lens image as
conventionally recorded vertical captures. Alternatively, optically
turned images selectively can provide for larger images, for
horizontal recording involving one or more gates 114, 116, on one
side of the stock 108. In yet another alternative, such optically
turned, for recording on vertically provided stock 108, (or
horizontally recorded, selectively wide captures by way of variable
image size film gates 114, 116,) allow for images of extreme
potential resolution and overall information to be recorded
horizontally within film stock, (90 degrees offset regular to
convention motion picture image capture,) allowing selectively for
as many frames per second to be captured as desired as such, though
providing for the critical option of fewer than 24 frames per
second and as few as one per second or even fewer, to provide key
frame resolution and other image information in tandem with a
secondary image capture means, such as an 24 fps electronic image
capture derived from the same lens image selectively. Therein, one
image capture approach may in tandem inform the other, toward final
visuals that are improved in quality over typical, prior art film
capture.
[0076] For example, images captured at 24 frames per second, for
example digitally (though not limited by any selected capture and
image storage option), may provide relevant information about
position of image aspects as they vary between the much more data
rich, selectively, filmed (or otherwise captured, potentially an
alternate electronic capture means for example,) at a slower rate.
Such key frames information allocation within final images, for
example, 24 per second final images, may be at least improved or
required in the digital inferring, including the options of
existing digital morphing means between images, the other image
capture data record in one aspect to inform final images in the
reallocation of the potentially far more data rich, and including
otherwise selective image origination medium aspects, such as color
response of film relative to electronic capture, key frame
information as its aspects shifted in position as seen through the
camera lens, for example, between available recorded key frames.
This includes the option of camera configurations involving the
creation of high resolution, horizontally recorded filmed images
capable of providing, for example, 15 k, 20 k or higher based on
emulsion area for imparting to final images, selectively informed
by more frequent captures per second provided by a separate
selectively less data intensive capturing device receiving aspects
of the same lens image selectively. Selectively, even an electronic
video assist capturing device may provide such information in
certain configurations, allowing existing and conventional film
camera lens image relaying means to such a capture device to serve
both an "off line" and an "on line" purpose.
[0077] FIG. 2 illustrates a partially exaggerated configuration of
a double-sided emulsion film stock. The example shown in FIG. 2 is
specific to the stock in the two-strips of thinner stock "married"
to become a selectively usual thickness of a selected film stock
gauge size, as that stock is "split" for separate use, be that
photochemical processing, or selectively, digitization of images
within the stock already processed. Further, another configuration
of the double sided stock innovation would selectively maintain the
stock as a single unit, with emulsion having been coated respective
to opposite sides; in such a configuration, photochemical
processing system aspect and film digitization or other scanning
system aspects, would be modified selectively to manage the
existence of distinct images on both sides of the emulsion
containment strip. In such a configuration, it is potentially
necessary that the digitization means be a reflective scanning
approach, as with images being maintained on both sides 204 and 208
of the strip, projecting light through would not provide a single
discernable image likely. Further, in such a singly maintained
strip configuration of the double-sided emulsioned stock, a
selectively opaque dividing layer 206 between the processed
emulsions may be selectively included, to allow for reflective
image scanning, without bleed through of images on the opposite
side of said film stock strip.
[0078] As exaggerated cross section of film stock 202 is
transported in FIG. 2, at a selective stage during management of
the film stock after exposure of said stock, the option of film
affecting modules 210, 212 dividing the once married strips of
stock that together comprise selectively a conventional film stock
width; along with selective other aspects that may need be
incorporated such as potential opaque dividing layer within film
stock 206.
[0079] Distinct and divided film stock strips 214 and 216 then are
transported for further use by the system, for example by further
film transport aspects, including options such as film transport
rollers or other means, 218 and 220. These distinct,
thinner-than-conventional strips of stock are thus now available
potentially for digitizing or other image conveying means involving
light being transmitted through the processed stock, unlike the
scenario where the two emulsions are maintained throughout on one
strip, or containment aspect.
[0080] Further important is the optional configuration and
versatility of the present invention to record within the separate
side emulsions of the present invention, selectively different
image sizes, one emulsion relative to the other. For example,
should a key frame relating to, for example, foreground action
captured by the camera lens be primary and more important
creatively than other lens information aspects, this key frame may
selectively occupy, for example, much more emulsion than for
example, smaller (and thus lesser image resolution and quality)
film captures potentially captured on the opposite side at the same
or a different image capture frame rate. To maintain equal length
of the emulsions relative to their captures of the lens image
information, selectively a key frame capture may, for example,
occupy three times as wide and emulsion length as, for example,
differently focused or optically affected aspects of the lens image
capture being relayed to emulsion on the opposite side of the
strip, during capture.
[0081] FIG. 3, illustrates a modified configuration of the camera
shown in FIG. 1, wherein the addition of optic aspects 316 and 334
selectively allow for distinct versions of the aspects of the
original lens image relayed to them, to be further relayed on to
their respective film gates 322 and 324 for recording within stock
338. As described in pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/447,406 relating to multidimensional image capture and
screening, herein is illustrated the distinct capture within film,
(and important to mention other capture devices such as electronic
ones may certainly replace the film capture aspects,) of
selectively focused or otherwise optically affected versions of the
lens image, on opposite sides of a double emulsioned film stock.
Further, said optional recording of images of different overall
size, including those of different dimension is maintained, as is
the option of recording on opposite sides at selectively different
frame rates, depending on the aesthetic objectives of the
application intent of the present invention, for which there are a
number of possibilities, including multidimensional imaging,
increased resolution of film capture images selectively involving
key frame captures within emulsion selectively larger size on said
emulsion than conventionally captured 35 mm, 16 mm or other gauge
size captures.
[0082] Again, in the instance of two strips being transported from
two distinct rolls for exposure to aspects of a single lens image,
(or two lenses' images working in tandem to capture the same scene
for a selected purpose related to the present invention,) the
option of different frame rate exposure and transport is more
versatile, unless (in one example instance) available emulsion is
wasted on at least one side to maintain the image captures'
consistency relative to their placement on the film strip overall,
relative to the time around which the lens image was relayed and
captured. Such as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/408,389, magnetic stripe or visual coding means may also provide
image capture reference, especially in the case of film which is
later divided and managed separately, for selectively automatic
referencing and cross referencing of each distinct image capture
within the emulsions; and further selective with regards to every
film image capture in relation to at least on related electronic
image capture selectively having originated through the same
original camera lens.
[0083] FIGS. 4A-44E and 5A-5C illustrate some selected potential
configurations 402, 404, 406, 408, 410, 502, 504 and 506,
respectively, of camera aspects of the present invention, relative
to single gate and multiple gate, and single emulsioned and double
emulsioned (2 sided stock capable of storing images on both sides
of a celluloid or other containment strip,) and including
selectively electronic image capture means through the same
camera(s) for selected production purposes, including aesthetic
image objectives and post production image manipulation and
management options.
[0084] FIG. 6 illustrates a left side elevational view illustrating
a selectively convex configuration for augmenting overall image
recording emulsion area and potentially increasing image quality,
(including aspects such as resolution). Herein, both a potential
modified film camera capture and transport gate and potential
modified projection unit film gate and also potential modified
telecine or datacine or other image scanning means specifically
relating to such a unit's target scan area of film stock being
transported relative to a selectively fixed scanning components, in
this instance related to the scanning of motion picture film but
not limited to such media, providing the broader application
potential of "digital scanning" or more broadly, "visual scanning,"
herein.
[0085] In the preferred demonstration of the variable or
"expandable" film stock, the film camera configuration will be
utilized, not foregoing the application of the film affecting
means, purpose and benefit relative to the other modified system
aspects listed, including projection and image scanning (or
digitalization).
[0086] Continuing with reference to FIG. 6, camera gate
configuration 610 provides an emulsion bearing, selectively
expandable strip or film containment into position (or receives it
via other film transporting components) for film expansion
affecting device 606 to affect, once intermittent transport has
rested selectively. Herein, the preferred use of air or other
compressed gas selectively, allow for a selectively strong
affecting force to alter the shape and size of the surface area of,
for example, a typical 35 mm film frame (though in no way limited
to affecting conventionally sized or shaped media, such as film
stock and frames.) Alternate means may include a literal object of
the desired expansion shape and size selectively, for example, to
physically "push" or move the still frame or expandable celluloid,
plastic or other medium, into expansion perimeter component 608
selectively, providing the benefit of a spherical or other three
dimensional shape to the emulsion layer. Selectively, the emulsion
itself may be originally provided in a more dense layer onto
unexpanded media, or selectively coated onto the stock during an
expansion of the medium to embody the emulsion, during creation of
the film stock.
[0087] Expansion perimeter component 608 also represents
alternatively, in the compressed air configuration, a transparent
of otherwise light transmissible form, (such as glass or plastic or
material related to lensing and such light transmissible imaging
products.) This form would restrict the maximum expansion of such
three-dimensional film stock, or other media, and selectively
maintain a consistent size and shape to the images during exposure,
to the camera lens image for example. (Also, such means may provide
similar consistent image management and reproduction means during
later aspects of the system, including selectively the mentioned
film processing stage(s) and selective film scanning or digitizing
stage(s.)
[0088] Light 604 provides the lens image by way selectively of
optics uniquely provided and positioned to get, for example, the
most image quality advantage from the larger, selectively spherical
emulsion layer (during exposure.) During projection of images
resulting from film stock 602, light 604 is transmitted through the
exposed and expandable stock, or images resulting therefrom.
[0089] Furthermore, expanded film frames provided by way of the
stock and camera configuration(s) described herein may not
necessarily be exposed at conventional media recording frame rates,
such as 24 fps. Again, in a camera where key frames are morphed
between a lesser number of images per second, or further informed
by a secondary image capture of the lens image at a higher frame
rate, (such as a digital capture unit providing 24 images per
second to an electronic recording means,) the expanded film
emulsion captures might be exposed as few times as 1 per second, or
potentially even slower (or slightly faster, etc.) Therein, the
attributes that one seeks from the increased film emulsion area are
provided, namely the color and discreet image capture impression
and aesthetic of film, and also including among such attributes the
potentially very high overall image information (and thus
selectively resulting resolution and data size of digitized images
from such key frames, including frames that may have expandability
when coupled with such cameras with intermittent expansion
affecting means, of a selectable type.
[0090] Further, whether convex of concave, or otherwise altered to
use three dimensions to provide a modified recording surface,
including ones such as film emulsion, the present invention
provides in this aspect a system that address selectably aesthetic
and image quality issues, alone or in tandem. The increased surface
area of the film emulsion, which when initially coated must be done
so to provide typical overall emulsion density, for example, in the
expanded position of each selected frame of the specialized stock.
The "aesthetic" issues, include for example, the option of exposing
images typically provided to a two dimensional storage surface,
within a three dimensional altered surface (such as one including
photographic emulsion,) for subsequent display on screen(s) which
may be similar to, exact in dimension to, or aesthetically related
to the spherical or otherwise "expanded" shape and size of the
storage medium, such as film stock with emulsion, when at the full
selected, and potentially variable, expansion shape during image
capture, by way of this variable recording media (such as
expandable or "elastic" film stock,) aspect of the present
invention.
[0091] Thus, as described herein, an augmentation of recording
media without altering film gauge size or quantity in film capture
is provided.
[0092] Although the present invention has been described in
relation to particular embodiments thereof, many other variations
and modifications and other uses will become apparent to those
skilled in the art. It is preferred, therefore, that the present
invention not be limited by the specific disclosure herein.
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