U.S. patent application number 12/641802 was filed with the patent office on 2010-09-02 for signage display system and process.
This patent application is currently assigned to Mirage Motion Media Inc.. Invention is credited to RUSSELL H. TRAIN.
Application Number | 20100220100 12/641802 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35241889 |
Filed Date | 2010-09-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100220100 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TRAIN; RUSSELL H. |
September 2, 2010 |
SIGNAGE DISPLAY SYSTEM AND PROCESS
Abstract
The invention is a novel display system, for signage and the
like. An apparatus and process is provided for displaying a static
source image in a manner that it is perceived as an animated
sequence of images when viewed by an observer in relative motion to
the apparatus. The source image is sliced or fractured to provide a
plurality of image fractions of predetermined dimension. The
fractions are redistributed in a predetermined sequence to provide
an output image, which is placed in a preferably illuminated
display apparatus provided with a mask. An observer in relative
motion to the display apparatus, sequentially views a predetermined
selection of image fractions through the mask, which are perceived
by the observer as a changing sequence of images. Applying the
concepts of persistence of vision, the observer perceives the
reconstructed imagery as live action animation, a traveling
singular image or a series of static images, or changing image
sequences, from a plurality of lines of sight.
Inventors: |
TRAIN; RUSSELL H.;
(Etobicoke, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KATTEN MUCHIN ROSENMAN LLP;(C/O PATENT ADMINISTRATOR)
2900 K STREET NW, SUITE 200
WASHINGTON
DC
20007-5118
US
|
Assignee: |
Mirage Motion Media Inc.
Mississauga
CA
|
Family ID: |
35241889 |
Appl. No.: |
12/641802 |
Filed: |
December 18, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12105373 |
Apr 18, 2008 |
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12641802 |
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10837751 |
May 4, 2004 |
7365746 |
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12105373 |
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60467584 |
May 5, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
345/473 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09F 19/22 20130101;
G09F 2019/221 20130101; G06T 13/80 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/473 |
International
Class: |
G06T 15/70 20060101
G06T015/70 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 15, 2002 |
CA |
PCT/CA02/01246 |
Claims
1. A process for treating a plurality of still images for use in
providing an animated display comprising: providing a plurality of
source image frames, wherein each frame has an x-axis and a y-axis;
fracturing of each said source image frames along said x-axis to
provide a plurality of image fractions of a predetermined
dimension; distributing said image fractions of each source image
frame in a predetermined sequence along the x-axis to provide an
output image.
2. An apparatus for treating a plurality of still images for use in
providing an animated display comprising: providing a plurality of
source image frames, wherein each frame has an x-axis and a y-axis;
fracturing of each said source image frames along said x-axis to
provide a plurality of image fractions of a predetermined
dimension; distributing said image fractions of each source image
frame in a predetermined sequence along the x-axis to provide an
output image.
3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the image fractions
are sequentially arranged to form an output image, which is
substantially planar; and the apparatus is further provided with a
mask, comprising a plurality of alternating opaque and transparent
members, which is substantially planar and is substantially
parallel to said output image; and a source of illumination is
provided.
4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein the opaque and
transparent members of said mask are in parallel arrangement with
each other.
5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein the transparent
members are slits.
6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein the transparent
members are lenses.
7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein the said output
image and said mask are planar and are substantially parallel to an
expected trajectory of relative motion of an observer.
8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein the source of
illumination is natural light.
9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein the source of
illumination is artificial light.
10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the source image
frames are selected from motion picture film, videotape,
photographic images and computer and traditional animation
works.
11. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein a plurality of
masks are provided in substantially parallel arrangement to each
other.
12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein said mask is
further provided with a plurality of opaque baffles, said baffles
having a dimension which is as least partially perpendicular to the
mask.
13. The process as claimed in claim 1 wherein the plurality of
image fractions are of equal dimension.
14. The process as claimed in claim 1 wherein said image fractions
are placed in a vertical orientation in sequence along a horizontal
axis and the placement of said image fractions to provide an output
image is determined by the formula: O.sub.(x+y-1)y=I.sub.x,y where
O.sub.n,m=output frame n, fraction m, and I.sub.x,y=input image x,
fraction y.
15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein said image
fractions comprise a plurality of output image frames having a
width, and each said opaque member and transparent member has a
width, and the mask and output frame are separated by a
predetermined dimension, and an observer of the apparatus has a
known optimal dimension from the apparatus, wherein the width of
each output image frame is equal to the sum of the widths of one
opaque member and one transparent member.
16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 15 wherein the optimal
dimension of the observer from the apparatus is determined by the
formula: D v = D p D o .times. D m ##EQU00003## where D.sub.v is
the distance of observer from the apparatus, D.sub.p is a perceived
width of the output image, D.sub.o is the width of the output
frame, and D.sub.m is the predetermined dimensions separating the
mask and the output frame.
17. The process as claimed in claim 13 wherein the number of said
fractions is determined by the formula: F=D.sub.p.times.A where F
is the number of image fractions optimally required, D.sub.p is the
dimension of a perceived output image, and A is the number of
transparent members per unit of measure used for D.sub.p.
18. A signage display system for the treatment of a plurality of
still images to provide a perceivably changing visual display,
comprising: a plurality of source image frames, wherein each frame
has a vertical and horizontal axis; vertically slicing each of said
source image frames along said horizontal axis to provide a
plurality of image slices of equal width; distributing said image
slices to a display substrate in a predetermined sequence; placing
a mask comprising of alternating opaque and transparent members in
parallel orientation to the display substrate such that a portion
of the image slices are selectively visible to an observer in
relative movement substantially parallel to the display substrate
and mask.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/105,373, filed Apr. 18, 2008, which is a
continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/837,751, filed May 4, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,365,746, issued
Apr. 29, 2008, entitled "SIGNAGE DISPLAY SYSTEM AND PROCESS" both
of which incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] The applicant claims priority benefit under Title 35, United
States Code of U.S. of Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/467,584
filed May 5, 2003 and entitled "SIGNAGE DISPLAY SYSTEM AND
PROCESS".
[0003] The entire subject matter of U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 60/371,424 filed Apr. 11, 2002 and entitled "ANIMATION
DISPLAY SYSTEM" is incorporated by reference. The applicant claims
priority benefit under Title 35, United States Code of United
States of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/371,424 filed
Apr. 11, 2002 and entitled "ANIMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM".
[0004] The entire subject matter of U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 60/330,962 filed Nov. 5, 2001 and Entitled "ANIMATION
DISPLAY SYSTEM" is also incorporated by reference. The applicant
claims priority benefit under Title 35, United States Code of
United States Of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/330,962
filed Nov. 5, 2001 and entitled "ANIMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM".
[0005] The entire subject matter of the Applicant's co-pending
Canadian Patent Application Serial Number 2,298,483 filed Feb. 16,
2000 and entitled "A PASSIVE IMAGE STABILIZER AND ANIMATION DISPLAY
SYSTEM" is also incorporated by reference.
[0006] The entire subject matter of the Applicant's co-pending PCT
Application Number PCT/CA02/01246 filed Aug. 15, 2002 and entitled
"ANIMATION DISPLAY PROCESS AND ASSEMBLY" is incorporated by
reference. The applicant claims priority benefit under Title 35,
United States Code of United States of PCT Application Number
PCT/CA02/01246 filed Aug. 15, 2002 and "entitled ANIMATION DISPLAY
PROCESS AND ASSEMBLY".
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0007] This invention relates to a process and apparatus for
providing an image display, wherein a static image is perceived as
an animated sequence of images when viewed by an observer in
relative motion. The apparatus has applicability, for example, as a
signage display unit for viewing by an observer on pedestrian
walkways, moving sidewalks, escalators, elevators, subways,
vehicular tunnels, theme park rides and the like.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0008] It is known by persons skilled in the art that the display
of an animation sequence may be produced in motion pictures and the
like by projecting and illuminating in an intermittent, sequential
manner a plurality of discrete images. Conversely, a stationary
image sequence may be provided wherein the observer is in relative
motion. In both instances, the principles of the phenomenon of
"persistence of vision" create an effect of animation.
[0009] The general concept of having the observer move, while the
images remain static has been applied in several prior instances,
with varying degrees of success. In order to create a condition
where the principles of persistence of vision can be applied, all
prior art forms have applied some form of intermittent lighting.
Most of the prior efforts to improve image quality have focussed
primarily on attempts to refine complex and expensive systems of
stroboscopic light sources in order to apply these principles.
[0010] Mechanical illumination triggering devices have inherent
mechanical wear problems because of the high triggering rates and
thus do not provide a practical solution to the problem. In
addition to issues associated with maintenance and trouble free
operation of mechanical parts there is a secondary and more
pronounced issue, the requirement of reliable and timely triggering
of image illumination. In order that the observer clearly see the
image, each successive image must be illuminated at exactly the
same position relative to the observer. If this process is not
precise, the integration of the images will seem blurred.
[0011] In most recent inventions, the use of a stroboscopic light
sources appear to have been the predominant approach to satisfying
the requirement for an intermittent light source. Earlier
inventions however, did provide a simpler solution to the
problem.
[0012] Joseph Antoine Ferdinand Plateau invented the
Phenakistiscope (a.k.a. Fantoscope) in 1932. It is basically a disc
fixed at its center so that it can spin freely. Around the edges
are regularly spaced slits, and in conjunction with each slit is an
image drawn in a sequential stage of movement.
[0013] The German inventor Stampfer developed the Phenakistiscope
separately, but at the same time; he dubbed it the Stroboscope.
Many other versions and refinements followed, including a model
designed by Stampfer with two fixed discs, one with a series of
images, and the other with an equal number of slits or apertures
centered in front of each image. Both disks rotated about a
horizontal axis and a random distance between the two discs
separated the image in the aperture.
[0014] In 1834, William George Horner invented the Zoetrope, an
adaptation of the Stroboscope, where the axis of image rotation was
transferred from a horizontal to vertical, thereby providing a
substantially horizontal direction of relative image movement,
while still viewed in a substantially vertical plane. A distance
equal to the random diameter of the cylinder separated the image
and apertures.
[0015] Unlike stroboscopic systems, both the Stroboscope and the
Zoetrope employed a consistent and constant light source. In order
to provide an intermittent view, an opaque plane with a series of
equally spaced vertical slits or apertures were placed between the
viewer and the constantly illuminated image.
[0016] To perceive an entire image through the narrow width of the
aperture, both devices rely on the principles of parallax, which in
turn applies the geometry and properties of the isosceles
triangles. In essence, as an image proceeds into view, a
longitudinal scan of the image is provided to the viewer which
progress across the width of the image. The same properties apply
when the device is constructed in a linear context where, the
images and apertures are arranged in a vertical plane similar to
the Stroboscope, while advancing the images and apertures along a
horizontal plane similarly to a circular Zoetrope. This, in itself,
is not a novel thought but offers a more practical arrangement
where the viewer is considered to be the object in a state of
relative motion.
[0017] Use of a linear arrangement of a Stroboscope, to effect
persistence of vision, avoids the mechanical triggering issues and
is therefore preferable to the use of a stroboscopic light
source.
[0018] The widespread commercial application of a practical
animation display system, based on the concepts of linear
Stroboscope or Zoetrope, suitable for most environments where the
viewer is in motion, would desirably first address the number of
issues of commercial importance: the elimination of multiple image
frames being revealed simultaneously, the ability to affect the
range of possible viewing angles, the ability to adjust
inappropriate frame rates particularly under conditions of
relatively slow movement and the ability to adjust inappropriate
image aspect ratios.
[0019] It is therefore an object of the present invention to
address at least some of these drawbacks.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0020] It is an aspect of the invention to provide a process and/or
apparatus for treating a plurality of still images for use in
providing an animated display comprising: [0021] (a) providing a
plurality of source image frames, wherein each frame has an x-axis
and a y-axis; [0022] (b) fracturing of each said source image
frames along said x-axis to provide a plurality of image fractions
of a predetermined dimension; [0023] (c) distributing said image
fractions of each source image frame in a predetermined sequence
along the x-axis to provide an output image.
[0024] It is an aspect of this invention to provide for the
fracturing of static images such that when viewing the fractured
images through a mask, and at a particular distance, the images
appear substantially whole and when provided with relative motion
between the invention and the viewer, a plurality of fractured
images is presented such that the viewer perceives an animated
display.
[0025] It is a further aspect of the invention to provide an
animated display that requires for its operation only a light
source (including natural light), and relative motion between the
invention and the viewer.
[0026] It is a further aspect of this invention to provide an
animated display where the relative velocity between the invention
and the viewer is not constrained.
[0027] These and other similar aspects and/or objects are realized
in an embodiment of the invention comprising of a plurality of
fractured images arranged in a particular order, a mask that
includes substantially opaque sections and apertures, and a light
source (including natural light) which illuminates the display
either from the front, behind, or sides.
[0028] Further aspects, objects and advantages of the invention
will become apparent from consideration of the drawings and
descriptions thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0029] In order that the invention may be better understood,
preferred embodiments will now be described by way of example only
with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0030] FIG. 1a) is a perspective view of a single image viewed
through a mask;
[0031] FIG. 1b) is a schematic top view of a single image viewed
through a mask from various angles;
[0032] FIG. 2a) is a perspective view of a single image that is
fractured then distributed for viewing through a mask creating a
reformed image;
[0033] FIG. 2b) is a schematic top view of a single image that is
fractured then distributed for viewing through a mask creating a
reformed image;
[0034] FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of a sequence of images that
are fractured then distributed;
[0035] FIG. 4a) is a schematic top view of a sequence of fractured
images for viewing through a mask creating an animation;
[0036] FIG. 4b) is a perspective view of a sequence of fractured
images for viewing through a mask creating an animation;
[0037] FIG. 5 is a schematic top view of a sequence of fractured
images for viewing through a flat mask creating two reformed
images;
[0038] FIG. 6 is a schematic top view of a sequence of fractured
images for viewing through a non-flat mask creating one reformed
image and one blocked image;
[0039] FIG. 7a) is a schematic top view of a sequence of fractured
images for viewing through a non-flat mask creating an animation in
one direction and blocked animation from the opposite
direction;
[0040] FIG. 7b) is a perspective schematic view of a sequence of
fractured images for viewing through a non-flat mask creating an
animation in one direction and blocked animation from the opposite
direction;
[0041] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of examples of alternative
masks;
[0042] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an example of an
embodiment of an apparatus to display fractured images through a
mask;
[0043] FIG. 10 shows various front views, perspective views and
cross-sectional views of examples of alternative embodiments of
apparatus.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0044] The purpose of the invention is to present an animated
display without the need for the following: electronics (other than
that required for a light source, if needed); moving parts within
the apparatus; any kind of stroboscopic lighting; special apparatus
to be worn or held by the viewer or mounted on the viewer's
vehicle. The benefit is to provide a self-contained animated
display in any situation where there is illumination (or the
animated display can be self-illuminated) and there is relative
movement between the animated display and the viewer and the
distance between the viewer and the animated display is generally
known.
[0045] Other attempts to accomplish this have had drawbacks, such
as: a minimum relative speed of the viewer or of the apparatus must
be maintained; motion is required to see an image at all; there is
blurring and distortions of the image due to the motion; or the
size of the apparatus is inappropriate for commercial use. This
invention resolves these issues.
[0046] To provide relative motion, either the viewer or the
invention can be in motion. For example, the viewer might walk past
the display apparatus or view it from a moving vehicle, or the
apparatus could be mounted on a vehicle or somehow otherwise made
to move. If the apparatus is substantially circular, it could
rotate on a horizontal axis thereby presenting animation to viewers
on all sides. The above examples describe horizontal movement.
Other directions are possible. Examples of these alternative
embodiments are viewers on escalators (diagonal movement), viewers
on elevators (vertical movement) or a circular invention rotating
on a vertical axis (stationary viewer).
[0047] The invention involves primarily of a sequence of fractured
static images (hereafter referred to as "output image") being
viewed through a mask. The mask includes substantially opaque areas
and apertures between these areas. These apertures can either be
gaps in the mask (openings such as slits), substantially
transparent, or some sort of optical device. Examples of optical
devices include, but are not limited to, magnifying lenses,
lenticular lenses, fiber optics or prisms. It is preferable that
the opaque sections and apertures run in parallel lines and
perpendicular to the direction of motion. However, other angles and
shapes may also function. Examples of these alternative embodiments
include, but are not limited to, straight lines at 45 degree angles
to the direction of motion, "S" shapes, or arcs.
[0048] The output image must be selectively visible from behind the
mask. One alternative embodiment is to illuminate the output image.
This illumination might be natural light or artificial light and
the output image may be illuminated from the front, rear or
sides.
[0049] It is preferable to have the same size and shape for each
opaque section and for each aperture in the mask.
[0050] When viewers observe the display apparatus, they only see
the predetermined portions of the output image behind the mask that
the apertures expose. In a simplified demonstration, FIG. 1a shows
how viewing an image 20 through a mask 40, the aperture 410 allows
only a selected portion 300 of the image to be exposed.
[0051] When viewing the apparatus, the angle at which the viewer's
line of sight intersects the display is different for each
aperture. This phenomenon is fundamental to the functioning of the
invention. The viewer sees a different part of the output image
behind the mask due to the variation of these angles.
[0052] In a simplified demonstration, FIG. 1b shows how the viewer
50 sees different portions of the image 20 through the aperture 410
in the mask 40 based on the viewer's position and the angle of the
line of sight.
[0053] If an image is broken up and distributed in such a way that
each portion 300 is exposed by a different aperture, the viewer can
then perceive a substantially reassembled image.
[0054] FIG. 2a) shows how image 10 is fractured into fractions 100
and then distributed into selected locations creating output image
20. Now when the viewer 50 looks at the invention, the fractions
100 are reformed in the viewer's perception 30 when observed
through the aperture 410 in the mask 40.
[0055] FIG. 2b) is a top view of FIG. 2a). The angles of the lines
of sight cause the viewer 50 to see the specific fractions 100 due
to their placement in the output image. The perceived image 30 is
substantially whole.
[0056] Taking another input image and breaking it up as above, but
placing it in a sequential position relative to the next adjacent
aperture, will cause the viewer to first see the first image and
then the next image when there is movement of the distance of one
aperture. By breaking up a series of input images and repeatedly
applying the process above, the viewer will perceive an animation
of the input images.
[0057] The animation to be displayed in the invention should
include originally of a series of still images such as sequential
images or a series of otherwise unrelated still images (hereafter
referred to as "input image"). The source of these input images
might be, but are not limited to, motion picture films, videos,
still photographic images or computer and traditional animation and
graphics. Input images may include textual information, either on
its own or in combination with other types of images.
[0058] The invention requires a series of input images to be
specially manipulated and altered. Each input image is fractured
into segments of the size and shape of the image that can be viewed
through a single aperture of the mask. These segments are called
fractions. These fractions are placed inside of output frames. In
the preferred embodiment, each output frame is the same size as the
input frame. To animate the input images in a left to right
fashion, the fractions should be redistributed as follows: the
first fraction of the first input image is placed in the first
position of the first output frame; the second fraction of the
first input image is placed in the second position of the second
output frame; the third fraction of the first input image is placed
in the third position of the third output frame; and this process
continues until there are no more fractions. Then, the first
fraction of the second input image is placed in the first position
of the second output frame; the second fraction of the second input
image is placed in the second position of the third output frame;
and once again, this process continues until there are no more
fractions. This process of placing fractions of the input frames
continues until there are no more input images.
[0059] FIG. 3 shows the redistribution of the fractions 100 of a
series of input images 10. The formula for determining where each
fraction is placed onto output frame 20 when the movement is left
to right from the user's perspective is as follows:
O.sub.n,m=Output Frame n, fraction m
I.sub.x.y=Input Image x,fraction y
O.sub.(x+y-1).y=I.sub.x.y
[0060] The formula for determining where each fraction is placed
when the movement is right to left from the user's perspective is
as follows:
Q=Number of Input Images
R=Number of fractions
O.sub.(Q-X+y).y=I.sub.x.y
[0061] The above formulas relate to where fractions are placed in a
vertical orientation. This is an optimal situation when the
relative movement is horizontal. However the apertures (and
therefore the fractions) can be on any angle and are not restricted
to straight lines.
[0062] In examining FIG. 3 once again, left to right horizontal
movement with a vertical mask would result in fractions 100 being
redistributed as follows:
I.sub.1,1->O.sub.1,1
I.sub.1,2->O.sub.2,2
I.sub.1,3->O.sub.3,3
I.sub.2,1->O.sub.2,1
I.sub.2,2->O.sub.3,2
I.sub.2,3->O.sub.4,3
I.sub.3,1->O.sub.3,1
I.sub.3,2->O.sub.4,2
I.sub.3,3->O.sub.5,3
I.sub.4,1->O.sub.4,1
I.sub.4,2->O.sub.5,2
I.sub.4,3->O.sub.6,3
I.sub.5,1->O.sub.5,1
I.sub.5,2->O.sub.6,2
I.sub.5,3->O.sub.7,3
[0063] By examining the formulas above and FIG. 3, it will become
apparent that the number of output frames is always greater than
the number of input images. Therefore the combined surface area of
the output frames is greater than the combined surface area of the
input images.
[0064] Once again, examining the formulas above, it is apparent
that there are some fractions in output frames that have no
corresponding fractions imported from input images. This is
identified in FIG. 3 as negative space 110. An embodiment can fill
these negative space fractions with a solid color. Another
embodiment would take fractions from the first and last of the
series of input images and simply repeat them in the corresponding
positions in the output frames where there are no input fractions.
This creates a "freeze frame" leading into and out of the
animation.
[0065] Whereas it might seem as if it is impossible to see a whole
image through a mask in this fashion, the viewer will perceive a
substantially whole image. This is a result of the "Phi
phenomenon". The Phi phenomenon is a result of human instinct. The
human brain strives to make meaning from what it perceives. Even
though the mask creates gaps between the visible parts of the
image, the Phi phenomenon explains the fact that the viewer's brain
recreates the whole image to make sense from what it sees. Despite
the mask, the viewer is still able to perceive what was
intended.
[0066] "Persistence of vision" is another phenomenon that comes
into play with the invention. It allows for the illusion of the
mask disappearing altogether. With persistence of vision, the brain
retains an image for a brief amount of time after seeing it. For
example a motion picture projector projects an image approximately
24 times a second with gaps in between each image. However, to the
moviegoer, there is smooth animation. An image is held for a brief
moment to cover the gap until the next image appears. With the
invention, when there is relative movement, the brain holds the
image until the following image "fills in the gap" for the viewer.
Consequently the mask perceptively disappears.
[0067] A note regarding FIG. 4a) through to 7b): the widths of the
depicted images and masks are exaggerated in order to present
clearer visualizations of how the invention works. In practice,
those widths would be substantially smaller.
[0068] In FIG. 4a) the viewer's 50 direction of travel is from left
to right DTR. As the viewer moves, the angle of views remain the
same, but the perceived image 30 changes due to the invention
presenting different images as fractioned above. This figure
assumes horizontal perpendicular movement left to right and a
vertical mask.
[0069] FIG. 4b) is a front view similar to FIG. 4a). The viewer 50
moves from left to right and perceives a different image 30 in each
position. A progression of such images creates animation.
[0070] It is possible to adjust where the perceived image appears
to the viewer. For example, it might be useful to have the
perceived image appear just ahead of viewer instead of at a
perpendicular 90 degree angle to the viewer's direction of travel.
FIG. 4a) shows how the viewer 50 is not looking directly at the
invention. The angle of view is slightly ahead of the movement.
[0071] The way to adjust the position of the perceived image is to
vary the relative placement of the mask and of the output image in
relation to one another. If the centers of the apertures in the
mask line up with the centers of the output frame, the perceived
image will appear perpendicular to the viewer. By adjusting one of
the centers slightly forward the perceived image will shift and
appear in front of the viewer. By adjusting one of the centers
slightly backwards, the perceived image will shift and appear
behind the viewer.
[0072] It is important to know where the placement of the perceived
image will be if any of the field of vision masking techniques
described above are to be applied. When the viewer looks at the
perceived images in the invention, it is possible that the viewer
will see more than one perceived image at the same time. Such
multiple simultaneously perceived images occur because the width of
the viewer's field of vision may be greater than the width of a
single perceived image. All multiple perceived images animate
simultaneously when there is relative motion and each perceived
image represents a different time period in the animation.
[0073] FIG. 5 demonstrates how the viewer 50 has a field of vision
greater than that of one perceived image. Therefore the perceived
image 31 includes more than one image simultaneously.
[0074] An alternative embodiment is to restrict the viewer's line
of sight to less of the output image. Consequently the viewer's
attention will not be distracted by the plurality of perceived
images. This embodiment uses baffles such as masking bars or
triangles or any other such shape having a dimension perpendicular
to the mask to block the viewer's line of sight to the output image
in order to only reveal the images intended to be displayed.
[0075] FIG. 6 demonstrates how the viewer 50 perceives only one
image 32 due to the field of vision being blocked by "T" shaped
baffles 41.
[0076] Another embodiment is to place the sequence of output frames
onto a semi-circular or arc-shaped backing. The shape of the
backing limits the viewer's line of sight restricting the view of
output images other than the ones intended to be displayed.
[0077] The invention also works when relative movement is in both
directions of the axis of motion, therefore creating a
bidirectional invention. If the input images are fractured in a
left to right arrangement, the viewer observing the invention when
the relative direction is right to left will see animation in
reverse. When the direction of movement is unknown, animation that
works in both directions is advised. For example, animation that is
depicting motion that is highly directional (for example, a profile
of a cyclist in motion) is not advised should the viewers'
directions of travel to the invention be both directions. However,
animation that is depicting, for example, a rotating product would
work well in situations where the direction of motion (on the axis
appropriate for the apertures) is unconstrained.
[0078] It is possible to adjust the invention to display animation
in one direction only, whereby the viewer traveling from one
direction perceives animation while the viewer traveling from the
opposite direction perceives no animation, therefore creating a
unidirectional invention. This is achieved by adjusting either the
shape of the mask or of the output image itself. The purpose of
these alternative embodiments is to restrict the field of vision of
the viewer. This is similar to the statements above in regards to
reducing the number of perceived images. However the intent is
different.
[0079] FIG. 7a) shows an alternative embodiment for the mask. By
using a triangular masks 42 with angles calculated as a result of
the perceived image size and of the direction of viewing, any angle
upon which the viewer views the output image that is not intended
is blocked. Therefore when the viewer is moving in the opposite
direction, there is no image or animation perceived. An alternative
to using triangles is to use masking flat bars at a predetermined
angle to block the viewer's view at angles outside the scope of
what is intended.
[0080] FIG. 7a) is a top view showing an embodiment where the field
of vision is restricted using triangular masks 42. A viewer 50
observing the invention from left to right direction of travel DTR
is given a clear view and therefore perceives images 30 creating
animation. A person moving in a relative motion in the opposite
direction (right to left direction of travel DTL) perceives no
image 37 and no animation. FIG. 7b) is a front view of FIG.
7a).
[0081] An alternative embodiment is to use two masks. These masks
run parallel to each other. The viewer is now seeing the output
image through two masks. The mask facing the viewer is as
previously described. The second mask, located behind the first
mask and ahead of the output image, is substantially similar to the
first mask except that the apertures have greater width. The
centers of the apertures of the two masks can be offset to adjust
the viewing angle and therefore create a unidirectional
invention.
[0082] Examples of variations to the mask are, but not limited to:
flat shapes mounted on the side of the mask facing the viewer; flat
shapes mounted on the side of the mask away from the viewer; flat
shapes mounted to the output image; triangular shaped objects
mounted on the mask facing the viewer; triangular shaped objects
mounted on the mask away from the viewer. The angles of the
triangles can be adjusted for the appropriate effect. Another
alternative is to vary the thickness of the mask. The apertures in
a thick mask can be cut to angles other than right angles to adjust
the angle of viewing.
[0083] FIG. 8 shows various embodiments of masks. Bidirectional
mask shapes include, but are not limited to: upside down "T's" 41;
semi-circles 43; triangles 44; thick masks 45. Unidirectional
baffle shapes include, but are not limited to: right triangles 42A
or left triangles 42B; "L's" 46A or reversed "L's" 46B; left angles
47A or right angles 47B; parallel masks offset to the left 48A or
offset right 48B.
[0084] Adjustments can also be made to the output image to create
directionality of viewing. By putting each output frame on an
angled backing or surface, the line of sight of the viewer can be
restricted therefore creating a unidirectional invention. Angled
backings may be, but not limited to, a series of semi circles or a
series of triangles.
[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the entire width of a single
input image in the animation should fit in the width of the output
frame. The width of one output frame equals the combined width of
one opaque plus one aperture of the mask. The choice is to either
adjust the mask so that the output frame matches the input image
width or to change the width of the input image to match the output
frame. This can be done photographically, digitally or with any
other image manipulation method.
[0086] Alternative embodiments may have the width of the output
frame vary from the width as dictated by the mask. The result of
making the size of the output frame smaller is that the perceived
image will not track perfectly or keep in perfect sync with the
viewer in motion. When the size of the output frame is exactly that
dictated by the mask, the perceived image remains at the same angle
to the viewer therefore corresponding with the viewer's motion.
When the size of the output frame is smaller, the perceived image
falls behind the viewer in motion. When the size of the output
frame is greater, the perceived image moves ahead of the viewer in
motion.
[0087] There is a natural tendency for the perceived image to
appear magnified on an axis perpendicular to the direction of the
apertures of the mask. The further the viewer is from the
invention, the wider the perceived image appears. Specifically,
when the viewer is at a distance two times from a known position,
the perceived image will appear two times greater on the axis
perpendicular to the direction of the predominance of the apertures
in the mask.
[0088] The reason for this expansion of the perceived image relates
to the number of apertures that is visible to the viewer. When the
viewer moves to a greater distance away from the apparatus, the
angles remain the same, however the distance between the leftmost
and rightmost fractions is much greater thereby appearing to
stretch the perceived image in the horizontal dimension only.
[0089] It is possible to adjust the apparent width of the perceived
image by adjusting the distance between the mask and the output
image. By moving the mask closer to the output image, the perceived
image will appear larger on the axis perpendicular to the
predominant direction of the mask when the viewer remains at the
same distance from the invention. When the distance between the
mask and output image is increased, the perceived image appears
smaller when the viewer remains at the same distance from the
apparatus. The size of the perceived image on the axis of the
predominant direction of the mask remains constant no matter what
distance there is between the mask and the output image and between
the viewer and the apparatus.
[0090] A formula for determining the ideal distance of the viewer
from the apparatus is as follows:
D.sub.v=Distance of the viewer from the apparatus
D.sub.p=Dimension of the perceived image in the direction
perpendicular to the mask
D.sub.o=Dimension of the output frame
D.sub.m=Dimension of the separation between the mask and the output
image
D v = D p D o .times. D m ##EQU00001##
For example, if the width of the perceived image appears correct at
a viewer's distance of 10 feet from the apparatus when the distance
from the output image to the mask is two inches, by decreasing the
distance from the output image to the mask to one inch, the
perceived image width will double in size on the axis perpendicular
to the apertures in the mask.
[0091] Altering the output frame sizes as described earlier also
affects the perceived width of the animation. When the output frame
is smaller than the size dictated by the mask, the perceived image
appears smaller in the direction perpendicular to the predominant
direction of the mask. When the output frame is larger than the
size dictated by the mask, the perceived image appears larger in
the direction perpendicular to the predominant direction of the
mask.
[0092] As a result of this expansion in the perceived image, it is
important to determine the optimal distance the viewer will be from
the invention. This distance will result in the magnification
factor. Using the magnification factor, the correct aspect ratio
(the horizontal width and the vertical height) should be matched to
the input aspect ratio by altering the output image in the same
direction as the mask. Most often the height is expanded to adjust
the aspect ratio size so that it matches the aspect ratio size of
the original image input.
[0093] The formula for determining the dimension of the output
image in the predominant direction of the mask is:
D.sub.d=dimension of the perceived image in the direction of the
mask
D.sub.p=dimension of the perceived image in the direction
perpendicular to the mask
I.sub.d=dimension of the original input images in direction of the
mask
I.sub.p=dimension of the original input images in the direction
perpendicular to the mask
D d = D p .times. I d I p ##EQU00002##
For example, if the input images are 24 inches wide and 18 inches
high and at the distance the viewer is from the invention, the
viewer perceives an output image that is 48 inches wide, therefore
the height should be magnified to 36 inches. This is assuming
horizontal movement and apertures running vertically.
[0094] Another factor that should be adjusted, once knowing the
optimal distance of the viewer from the invention, is the number of
fractions to fracture the input images.
[0095] To determine the number of fractions an input image needs to
be fractured into, the dimension of the perceived image in the
direction perpendicular to the mask should first be determined.
Then one should calculate the number of mask apertures that are
contained in that distance should be calculated. These factors will
result in the number of fractions the input images need to be
fractured into.
[0096] The formula for determining the number of fractions is as
follows:
F=Number of fractions an input image needs to be fractured into
D.sub.p=Dimension of the perceived image in the direction
perpendicular to the mask
A=The number of apertures per unit of measure used D.sub.p
F=D.sub.p.times.A
For example, the perceived image is to be displayed 36 inches wide
by 24 inches high, and the mask has 10 apertures per linear foot.
According to the above formula, in this example Dp is 3 feet and A
is 10/foot, the result for F is 30 fractions. Once again this is
assuming horizontal movement and vertical apertures.
[0097] If the input image is fractured in a number of fractions
that does not match what the formula above determines, then one
side of the image the viewer perceives will come from one input
image and another side of the perceived image will come from
another input image. If the two sides of the perceived image come
from input images that are not sequential, the intervening parts
will come from intervening input images from the input sequence.
The result of this is perceived images that are incongruent.
[0098] Animation typically has a frame rate. For example, typical
NTSC video shows images at the rate of 30 frames per second. The
invention will work with all of the standard frame rates that
exist.
[0099] To determine the perceived frame rate of animation of the
invention, the number of apertures that a viewer passes by as a
result of relative motion should be determined. For example, if
there are 10 apertures per linear foot and the viewer's relative
motion is three feet per second, the resulting perceived frame rate
is 30 frames per second. By adjusting the size of the frames of the
mask (and of the output image) thereby changing the number of
apertures per linear foot, or by adjusting the rate of the viewer's
relative motion, the frame rate can be controlled.
[0100] An alternative method of decreasing the perceived frame rate
is to multiply the input images. By duplicating the input images
(doubling each input image), the perceived frame rate would slow
down to half speed. By tripling the input images, the perceived
frame rate would slow down to one-third speed.
[0101] An example of an apparatus embodiment for the invention is
shown in FIG. 9.
[0102] The front mask 400 includes opaque sections interspersed
with clear apertures. The masks may be manufactured utilizing any
suitable manner, including: applying the opaque sections directly
onto the front or the back of a transparent material (such as glass
or plastic); applying opaque sections onto a substrate which can
then be mounted onto the front or the back of a transparent
material or mounted in between two layers of clear material;
vertical strips of opaque materials such as metal. The opaque
sections may be applied by printing, photographic processes,
silk-screening, painting, etching, or other suitable means.
[0103] The output image 200 may comprise of printed or
photographically applied images on a substrate, such as used in
typical rear-light signs.
[0104] The light source 60 shows fluorescent tubes, but may include
any type of artificial light source available, and may be
positioned behind, in front, or anywhere around the output
image.
[0105] Alternative shapes of apparatus embodiments of the invention
are shown in FIG. 10. Examples of shapes shown are: horizontal 70,
vertical 71, diagonal 72, triangular 73, arched or curved 74, but
other forms are possible. There are no limitations as to the widths
or heights of these apparatus embodiments.
[0106] An alternative embodiment is a circular apparatus 75A and
75B which may rotate and therefore allowing the viewer to be
stationary while perceiving animation. Another example which
permits the viewer to be stationary while perceiving animation is
by mounting the apparatus onto any type of moving vehicle such as,
but not limited to, a truck 76.
[0107] An alternative embodiment is applying a second order of
static images onto the front surface of the opaque sections of the
mask.
[0108] In an alternative embodiment, the output image can be
combined with other output images and mounted onto a substrate that
is then placed on a roller type apparatus 77A (top view 77B).
Consequently the substrate 200 (hence the output images) can be
changed via a cranking mechanism or motor, and possibly controlled
by a remote control or a timer.
[0109] One advantage of the invention is that an image can be
perceived when there is no relative motion between the viewer and
the invention. This improves upon prior art that requires motion in
order for an image to be perceived).
[0110] A further embodiment 78A (top view 78B) is to place the
output image onto a continuous substrate 200, then by having the
substrate (hence the output image) moving at a constant speed, the
animation is perceived by the viewer through mask 400 without the
need for relative motion between the viewer and the invention.
[0111] Some applications for the above apparatus embodiments may be
for advertising, entertainment, or to provide information.
[0112] While the present invention has been described for what are
presently considered the preferred embodiments, the invention is
not so limited. To the contrary, the invention is intended to cover
various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within
the spirit and scope of the appended claims. The scope of the
following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so
as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures
and functions.
* * * * *