CA2021189A1 - Method and apparatus for 3-dimensional viewing - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for 3-dimensional viewingInfo
- Publication number
- CA2021189A1 CA2021189A1 CA 2021189 CA2021189A CA2021189A1 CA 2021189 A1 CA2021189 A1 CA 2021189A1 CA 2021189 CA2021189 CA 2021189 CA 2021189 A CA2021189 A CA 2021189A CA 2021189 A1 CA2021189 A1 CA 2021189A1
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- subject
- light gathering
- observer
- viewing
- image
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
A method for producing an image of a subject which when viewed by an observer creates an appearance of 3-dimensional form. The method comprises the step of:
recording a pair of two dimensional images of the subject with camera means, the camera means including separated left and right light gathering means, each light gathering means having focussing means, and at least one of the light gathering means being adjustable such that the axes of focus of the two light gathering means may intersect at a point approximately central to the subject and at a selected distance away from the camera means.
The method further includes the step of viewing the pair of two dimensional images so recorded with means enabling the observer to simultaneously view with his left eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the left light gathering means and with his right eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the right light gathering means and including means to substantially prevent the observer viewing with his left eye the image gathered by the right light gathering means and viewing with his right eye the image gathered by the left light gathering means and wherein the two images of the subject are relatively located so that the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 degrees to 15 degrees.
Apparatus for recording and viewing the two-dimensional images is also disclosed.
A method for producing an image of a subject which when viewed by an observer creates an appearance of 3-dimensional form. The method comprises the step of:
recording a pair of two dimensional images of the subject with camera means, the camera means including separated left and right light gathering means, each light gathering means having focussing means, and at least one of the light gathering means being adjustable such that the axes of focus of the two light gathering means may intersect at a point approximately central to the subject and at a selected distance away from the camera means.
The method further includes the step of viewing the pair of two dimensional images so recorded with means enabling the observer to simultaneously view with his left eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the left light gathering means and with his right eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the right light gathering means and including means to substantially prevent the observer viewing with his left eye the image gathered by the right light gathering means and viewing with his right eye the image gathered by the left light gathering means and wherein the two images of the subject are relatively located so that the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 degrees to 15 degrees.
Apparatus for recording and viewing the two-dimensional images is also disclosed.
Description
~:TEIOD AND APPARATlJS FOR 3--DIMENSIONAL VIEWING
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for producing imaqes which create an appearance of 3-dimensional form when viewed by an observer. It particularly relates to a manner of recording visual images and viewing the recorded images so that the observer perceives a sense of depth or three-dimensional effect.
The invention may be applicable to photography, both still and motion-picture and also to visual image reproduction by electronic means such as by use of a video display screen or monitor. However, the scope of the invention should not be considered to be limited to such applications but may be adapted to any means whereby a two-dimensional image is or may be produced.
. :.-In this specification, a two-dimensional image refers to an image reproduced upon or in relation to a substantially flat surface or a surface of a medium by which it is reproduced, in which the image has no inherent depth observable by conventional means. It is intended to encompass images where the surface upon or in relation to which the image is produced is planar or curved. The images produced in the usual way by photography, cinematography and upon video display screens or monitors, for example television is intended to fall within the definition of two-dimensional images.
It has long been recognised that two-dimensional images of real scenes or objects fail to provide the viewer with a full sense of reality because such images do not exhibit a sense of depth, or three-dimensional effect. Particularly in the field of photography, a .: . ; .
, number of attempts have been made to reproduce the image in a manner so as to give the observer a perception of depth in the image. In one prior art attempt two monochrome copies of an image were superimposed, but in contrasting colours, such as red and green. The image was viewed through a pair of spectacles, with differently coloured lenses corresponding to the colours of the two superimposed images. This attempt created a perception of a three-dimensional image but this was at the expense of loss of a full coloured image and picture quality when reviewed without spectacles. ;;~
A further attempt relied upon simulation of the primary manner by which human beings perceive depth. It is well known that perception of depth results from bi-focal vision, the process by which a person's two laterally spaced eyes observe a scene from slightly different angles. The brain integrates these images into one image which retains a sense of depth in the scene.
In a process known as stereo-photography, two photographs of a subject are obtained from film simultaneaously exposed by two cameras laterally spaced, preferably by a distance which corresponds substantially to the distance between the eyes of an observer. The axis of focus of each lens of the two cameras is directed parallel toward the subject to be photographed.
Alternatively, the photog~aphs are obtained from film exposed in a special camera which incorporates two laterally spaced lenses, the axes of which again are directed parallel towards the subject to be photographed.
The photographs are viewed by placing the pair of ~ ~ `
photographs in a viewer in which the photograph taken by the left lens or camera (as observed by the photographer) is positioned on the left of the viewer and the photograph taken by the right lens or camera is positioned on the right of the viewer. The left eye of the observer is directed to the left photograph and the right eye is directed to the right photograph. While the method does give some perception of depth and enables full colour photography (and indeed has experienced several periods of popularity during the past 100 years), it suffers from certain deficiencies. The parallel stereo cameras record two overlapping parallel images. The overlap area of each of those images in the stereo image is observed by straight ahead (parallel) observation by an observer.
Looking straight ahead, an observer can only focus on the image directly in front of each eye, therefore image size is strictly limited to a very small field of view.
Further, the method involves a contradiction in the visual process in that while the eyes are directed towards the horizon or infinity by being forced to look straight ahead, the eye~focus is reduced to a few centimetres.
A still further method which has been attempted to provide perception of depth within an image is true three-dimensional imaging by holographic means. This method has not yet been developed to be available for general use.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method of recording two dimensional images of a subject and viewing the images of the subject to convey to the viewer a perception of depth or three-dimensions and :
which substantially alleviates the deficiencies of previous systems outlined above.
In accordance with the present invention there is provided a method for producing an image of a subject which when viewed by an observer creates an appearance of ~- -3-dimensional form comprising the steps of: recording a . - -:: :.
pair of two dimensional images of said subject with camera .,:
means, said camera means including separated left and right light gathering means, each light gathering means having focussing means, and at least one of said light gathering means being adjustable such that the axes of focus of the two light gathering means may intersect at a point approximately central to the subject and at a selected distance away from the camera means; and viewing the pair of two dimensional images so recorded with means enabling the observer to simultaneously view with his left eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the left light gathering means and with his right eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the right light gathering means and including means to substantially prevent the observer viewing with his left eye the image gathered by the right light gathering means and viewing with his right eye the image gathered by the left light gathering means and wherein the two images of the subject are relatively located so that the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 aegrees to 15 degrees.
Further in accordance with the present invention there is provided camera means for recording a pair of two dimensional images of a subject, said camera means including two separated light gathering means, each light gathering means having focussing means and an axis of focus, the axis of focus of at least one light gathering means being adjustable such that the said axes of focus may intersect at a point central to the subject and at a selected distance away from camera means, and further including means for recording a two dimensional image of the subject as viewed by each respective light gathering . ~ .
means.
In one form the camera means may include a centre hinged open sided light rigid frame (hereinafter called a binocular parallax frame) for mounting two, preferably identical cameras wherein the orientation of the two sides of the frame may be relatively adjustable about the centre such that the axes of the lenses of the cameras may converge in the vicinity of a preferred central point of the subject image and an image of the subject may be made upon film within each camera.
Also in accordance with the present invention there is provided viewing means for observing a pair of two dimensional images of a subject obtained by a camera means including a left positioned light gathering means and a right positioned light gathering means, comprising means enabling an observer to view simultaneously with his left eye an image of the subject gathered by the left light gathering means and to view with his right eye an image of the subject gathered by the right light gathering means and including means to substantially prevent the & ' ~
:
observer viewing with his left eye the image gathered by the right light gathering means and viewing with his right eye the image gathered by the left light gathering means and wherein the pair of two dimensional images of the subject are relatively located so that the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 degrees to 15 degrees.
In accordance with one aspect of the invention two images (eg. photographs or transparencies) may be derived from film held in a pair of preferably identical still cameras mounted in separated relationship upon a binocular parallax frame. The cameras preferably are directed towards a subject such that the axes of focus of their resp ctive lenses intersect at the approximate centre of the subject and the cameras are operated to expose film contained therein. The two cameras are preferably operated simultaneously but they may be operated sequentially where the subject is still. Preferably the settings for aperture and shutter speed of each camera are substantially indentical during exposure. The two images may be viewed simultaneously through a viewer (herein called a Binoptic viewer) such that the image derived from the right positioned camera (as observed by the photographer) may be located on the left side of the viewer (as observed by the observer ) while that derived from the left camera may be placed on the right side of the viewer. Preferably the observer views the images through lenses mounted at the eye piece to provide magnification of the images. The Binoptic viewer may include means such that vision of the left positioned image is substantially obscured from the observer's left eye and vision of the right image is substantially obscured from the right eye.
Preferably the two images are mounted side by side relative to an observer's eyes. It will be appreciated that provision may be made in the Binoptic viewer for illuminating the images. In one form illumination may be provided by backlight where the images are transparencies or by front light where the images are photographs or prints. In another form an electric light, prism or other suitable light source may be provided.
In accordance with another aspect of the method of the present invention the two images may be positioned adjacent one another but their positions may be reversed so that each image is located on a side opposite to that of the camera taking that image. Thus if the camera on the left hand side of the binocular parallax frame is called "A" and that on the right "B", then the image from camera "A" is positioned on the right and that from camera "B" is positioned on the left.
The two images may be mounted with respect to the eye pieces of the Binoptic viewer such that the lines of sight of the observer's eyes will intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 to 15 when he/she looks at the centre of the images. In a preferred embodiment of the Binoptic viewer, the included angle may be approximately 10.
The images when reversed relative to the camera positions may be viewed with the aid of dual controlled aperture mask, herein called a Binoptic Mask. The sinoptic Mask may be adapted for viewing the pair of images by the viewer and may be designed to be worn about the head. The Binoptic mask may be adapted to direct the vision of each eye to the respective image on the opposite side, while substantially preventing viewing the image on the same side. The Binoptic Mask may include vision obscuring means, aperture means permitting and directing vision of the user and support means. Preferably, the vision obscuring means is adjustable relative to a respective aperture means to enable the user to adapt the Binoptic Mask to his own use. The support means may take the form of a frame not unlike a spectacle frame and including arms to support the Binoptic Mask upon the user's head.
With the aid of the Binoptic Mask the right eye of the observer may have unencumbered vision of the left image but vision of the right image may be substantially obscured. Similarly the left eye may view the right image but may not view the left image.
In a further application the method of the present invention may be adapted to moving images. In one such application the still cameras may be replaced by video or cine cameras. The video or cine cameras may be mounted on the binocular parallax frame or may be positioned relative to one another in any suitable manner such that the axes of focus of the cameras intersect approximately of the center of the subject. Images captured by the video cameras may be recorded on two video tape recorders incorporating circuitry to enable synchronised playback.
In one preferred embodiment, image recording may be by _g_ !,~,, . , " . ~ .' . ~ . .
means of a video camera incorporating a binocular lens system. The lens system may include a horizontally converging drive unit. The converging drive unit may be linked to the focusing system associated with the lens system such that the point of convergence of the axes of the two lenses may be adjusted to correspond to the distance of focus. In one preferred embodiment of the camera, the lens system may operate as one unit, so that the camera may require only one set of controls.
Preferably, the only separate control mechanisms requi~ed externally in relation to the camera may be the converging control with focussing being performed automatically. The video camera may include a binocular configuration for its electronic viewfinder.
Images representing a 3-dimensional field (still or moving) could also be generated by means of a suitably programmed computer. The computer may be programmed to generate video signals representing a pair or respective pairs of 2 dimensional images which when viewed by an observer in accordance with the principles of the present invention creates an impression of 3-dimensional form.
The computer may be programmed to generate the 2 dimensional images from data representing a 3-dimensional field, held in its memory. The two dimensional images generated may correspond to views of the field which could be "seen" at a selected distance from the field by two spaced viewing axes which intersect at a point approximately central to the field.
Recording may be performed upon a single video tape, with both images being recorded simultaneously, thus O ~ . , . .. . ~ . . . . , . :. :
.. , . ., . ,~. ~
;; ~ - , . : , ~ ~ .. . .
facilitating synchronisation during playback.
Moving images may be reproduced upon one or more display systems, preferably having high resolution capability. The display systems may comprise cine and/or video projectors and associated display screens such as a pair of display screens mounted parallel and adjacent each other. The screens may be viewed using the Binoptic Mask in a similar manner to that described previously.
~ . :
As a result of using the invention the observer may be able to perceive a full colour three-dimensional image, free of peripheral "image ghosting" or distortion.
As the two images may be crossed the perceived image may result from converging lines of sight as occurs in human binocular vision. Further, because of the converged point of focus, the image is not directly in front of each eye.
Therefore the image size is unlimited as is distance to subject. As well the natural binocular line of sight is directed to the subject, and the eye focus is directed to the subject. This contrasts with the contradiction observed earlier in relation to stereo photography where line of sight is directed to infinity but focus is directed to a few centimetres.
In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided an integrated cine camera comprising two lens systems with electronically linked shutter releases such that films may be exposed substantially simultaneously through said lenses and such that the axis of focus of at least one lens may be adjusted relative to the axis of focus of the other lens such that the respective axes of focus intersect approximately in the centre of the ,., ., . . . , -,:
..: : ~ . . : .
:, : . .:
,:-, . , subject. Preferably two films are utilized with respective film advances synchronized. The respective lens systems may be relatively hinged so that the axis of each can be directed to the centre of the subject.
Preferably, each lens element can be located in at least two positions, a close separation being utilized for photographing in the close up range and greater separation for more distant photography.
Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
Figure 1 is an elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the binocular parallax frame according to the invention.
Figure 2 is a plan view of the binocular parallax frame of figure 2.
Figure 3 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of a Binoptic Viewer according to the invention.
Figure 4 is a front elevation of the Binoptic Viewer of figure 3.
Figure 5 is a rear elevation of the Binoptic Viewer of figures 3 and 4.
Figure 6 is a section of the Binoptic Viewer through the section line indicated in Figure 4.
Figure 7 is a side elevation of the Binoptic Viewer.
:: :
Figure 8 is a projection of a Binoptic Mask according to the invention.
Referring first to Figure 1, there is shown a drawing of the binocular parallax frame 1 according to one : "
aspect of the invention comprising a left sub-frame 2 and a right sub-frame 3. The two subframes are substantially 'C' shaped and pivotally connected by axles 4 adjacent ~;
their free ends. Pressure may be applied or released between the two subframes 2 and 3 at their pivotal connection by tightening or loosening respectively threaded wing nuts 5 on axles 4. Respective camera mounting frames 6 and 7 are attached by threaded screws 8 to subframes 2 and 3 respectively and clamped by wing nuts 9. Single lens reflex cameras 10 and 11 are mounted upon camera mounting frames 6 and 7 by standard camera mounting screws 12.
In figure 2 there is shown a plan view of the binocular parallax frame of figure 1. Threaded screws 8 attaching camera mounting frames (not shown) are mounted in slots 13 in subframes 2 and 3 to enable the separation of cameras 10 and 11 to be adjusted by the user.
By loosenin~ wing nuts 5, subframes 2 and 3 may be relatively rotated about axles 4 as indicated by the arrows in figure 2 so that the axes of the lenses of the cameras 10 and 11 will intersect at the centre of the subject to be photographed.
Referring to Figure 3 a Binoptic Viewer 14 includes eye portion 15 with nose cut-out 16 and transparency mounting slot 17.
In Figure 4 the Binoptic Viewer is shown conveniently made from two symmetrical sections 18 and 19 with lenses 20 and 21 mounted within the eye portion 15. -In Figure 5 a translucent sheet 22 is shown to provide backlight to illuminate evenly transparencies located in mounting slot 17.
Referring to Figure 6, it can be seen that light rays may enter the Binoptic Viewer through translucent -sheet 22 and illuminate photographic transparencies 23 and 24 installed within mounting slot 17. Lines of sight 25 of an observer at the eyepiece 15 are directed by lenses 20 and 21 at the transparencies 23 and 24 at a converging angle of substantially 10. Transparencies 23 and 24 are mounted transversely to the respective lines of sight. Partitions 26 prevent the left eye observing the right transparency, and vice versa.
Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a Binoptic Mask 27 including support arms 28 and mask frame 29. Mask frame 29 supports two vision obscuring plates 30 slidably mounted within the mask frame 29. While wearing the Binoptic Mask on observer's vision straight ahead may be at least partly obscured by vision obscuring plates 30.
The opening 32 may be adjusted by adjustment tabs 31 to direct an observer's vision to say, two video screen (not shown) so that the left eye sees the right video screen but not the left screen while the right eye sees the left :.
screen but not the right screen.
Finally, it is to be understood that various alterations, modifications and/or additions may be introduced into the constructions and arrangements of ;
parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the invention.
. ~",'
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for producing imaqes which create an appearance of 3-dimensional form when viewed by an observer. It particularly relates to a manner of recording visual images and viewing the recorded images so that the observer perceives a sense of depth or three-dimensional effect.
The invention may be applicable to photography, both still and motion-picture and also to visual image reproduction by electronic means such as by use of a video display screen or monitor. However, the scope of the invention should not be considered to be limited to such applications but may be adapted to any means whereby a two-dimensional image is or may be produced.
. :.-In this specification, a two-dimensional image refers to an image reproduced upon or in relation to a substantially flat surface or a surface of a medium by which it is reproduced, in which the image has no inherent depth observable by conventional means. It is intended to encompass images where the surface upon or in relation to which the image is produced is planar or curved. The images produced in the usual way by photography, cinematography and upon video display screens or monitors, for example television is intended to fall within the definition of two-dimensional images.
It has long been recognised that two-dimensional images of real scenes or objects fail to provide the viewer with a full sense of reality because such images do not exhibit a sense of depth, or three-dimensional effect. Particularly in the field of photography, a .: . ; .
, number of attempts have been made to reproduce the image in a manner so as to give the observer a perception of depth in the image. In one prior art attempt two monochrome copies of an image were superimposed, but in contrasting colours, such as red and green. The image was viewed through a pair of spectacles, with differently coloured lenses corresponding to the colours of the two superimposed images. This attempt created a perception of a three-dimensional image but this was at the expense of loss of a full coloured image and picture quality when reviewed without spectacles. ;;~
A further attempt relied upon simulation of the primary manner by which human beings perceive depth. It is well known that perception of depth results from bi-focal vision, the process by which a person's two laterally spaced eyes observe a scene from slightly different angles. The brain integrates these images into one image which retains a sense of depth in the scene.
In a process known as stereo-photography, two photographs of a subject are obtained from film simultaneaously exposed by two cameras laterally spaced, preferably by a distance which corresponds substantially to the distance between the eyes of an observer. The axis of focus of each lens of the two cameras is directed parallel toward the subject to be photographed.
Alternatively, the photog~aphs are obtained from film exposed in a special camera which incorporates two laterally spaced lenses, the axes of which again are directed parallel towards the subject to be photographed.
The photographs are viewed by placing the pair of ~ ~ `
photographs in a viewer in which the photograph taken by the left lens or camera (as observed by the photographer) is positioned on the left of the viewer and the photograph taken by the right lens or camera is positioned on the right of the viewer. The left eye of the observer is directed to the left photograph and the right eye is directed to the right photograph. While the method does give some perception of depth and enables full colour photography (and indeed has experienced several periods of popularity during the past 100 years), it suffers from certain deficiencies. The parallel stereo cameras record two overlapping parallel images. The overlap area of each of those images in the stereo image is observed by straight ahead (parallel) observation by an observer.
Looking straight ahead, an observer can only focus on the image directly in front of each eye, therefore image size is strictly limited to a very small field of view.
Further, the method involves a contradiction in the visual process in that while the eyes are directed towards the horizon or infinity by being forced to look straight ahead, the eye~focus is reduced to a few centimetres.
A still further method which has been attempted to provide perception of depth within an image is true three-dimensional imaging by holographic means. This method has not yet been developed to be available for general use.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method of recording two dimensional images of a subject and viewing the images of the subject to convey to the viewer a perception of depth or three-dimensions and :
which substantially alleviates the deficiencies of previous systems outlined above.
In accordance with the present invention there is provided a method for producing an image of a subject which when viewed by an observer creates an appearance of ~- -3-dimensional form comprising the steps of: recording a . - -:: :.
pair of two dimensional images of said subject with camera .,:
means, said camera means including separated left and right light gathering means, each light gathering means having focussing means, and at least one of said light gathering means being adjustable such that the axes of focus of the two light gathering means may intersect at a point approximately central to the subject and at a selected distance away from the camera means; and viewing the pair of two dimensional images so recorded with means enabling the observer to simultaneously view with his left eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the left light gathering means and with his right eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the right light gathering means and including means to substantially prevent the observer viewing with his left eye the image gathered by the right light gathering means and viewing with his right eye the image gathered by the left light gathering means and wherein the two images of the subject are relatively located so that the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 aegrees to 15 degrees.
Further in accordance with the present invention there is provided camera means for recording a pair of two dimensional images of a subject, said camera means including two separated light gathering means, each light gathering means having focussing means and an axis of focus, the axis of focus of at least one light gathering means being adjustable such that the said axes of focus may intersect at a point central to the subject and at a selected distance away from camera means, and further including means for recording a two dimensional image of the subject as viewed by each respective light gathering . ~ .
means.
In one form the camera means may include a centre hinged open sided light rigid frame (hereinafter called a binocular parallax frame) for mounting two, preferably identical cameras wherein the orientation of the two sides of the frame may be relatively adjustable about the centre such that the axes of the lenses of the cameras may converge in the vicinity of a preferred central point of the subject image and an image of the subject may be made upon film within each camera.
Also in accordance with the present invention there is provided viewing means for observing a pair of two dimensional images of a subject obtained by a camera means including a left positioned light gathering means and a right positioned light gathering means, comprising means enabling an observer to view simultaneously with his left eye an image of the subject gathered by the left light gathering means and to view with his right eye an image of the subject gathered by the right light gathering means and including means to substantially prevent the & ' ~
:
observer viewing with his left eye the image gathered by the right light gathering means and viewing with his right eye the image gathered by the left light gathering means and wherein the pair of two dimensional images of the subject are relatively located so that the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 degrees to 15 degrees.
In accordance with one aspect of the invention two images (eg. photographs or transparencies) may be derived from film held in a pair of preferably identical still cameras mounted in separated relationship upon a binocular parallax frame. The cameras preferably are directed towards a subject such that the axes of focus of their resp ctive lenses intersect at the approximate centre of the subject and the cameras are operated to expose film contained therein. The two cameras are preferably operated simultaneously but they may be operated sequentially where the subject is still. Preferably the settings for aperture and shutter speed of each camera are substantially indentical during exposure. The two images may be viewed simultaneously through a viewer (herein called a Binoptic viewer) such that the image derived from the right positioned camera (as observed by the photographer) may be located on the left side of the viewer (as observed by the observer ) while that derived from the left camera may be placed on the right side of the viewer. Preferably the observer views the images through lenses mounted at the eye piece to provide magnification of the images. The Binoptic viewer may include means such that vision of the left positioned image is substantially obscured from the observer's left eye and vision of the right image is substantially obscured from the right eye.
Preferably the two images are mounted side by side relative to an observer's eyes. It will be appreciated that provision may be made in the Binoptic viewer for illuminating the images. In one form illumination may be provided by backlight where the images are transparencies or by front light where the images are photographs or prints. In another form an electric light, prism or other suitable light source may be provided.
In accordance with another aspect of the method of the present invention the two images may be positioned adjacent one another but their positions may be reversed so that each image is located on a side opposite to that of the camera taking that image. Thus if the camera on the left hand side of the binocular parallax frame is called "A" and that on the right "B", then the image from camera "A" is positioned on the right and that from camera "B" is positioned on the left.
The two images may be mounted with respect to the eye pieces of the Binoptic viewer such that the lines of sight of the observer's eyes will intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 to 15 when he/she looks at the centre of the images. In a preferred embodiment of the Binoptic viewer, the included angle may be approximately 10.
The images when reversed relative to the camera positions may be viewed with the aid of dual controlled aperture mask, herein called a Binoptic Mask. The sinoptic Mask may be adapted for viewing the pair of images by the viewer and may be designed to be worn about the head. The Binoptic mask may be adapted to direct the vision of each eye to the respective image on the opposite side, while substantially preventing viewing the image on the same side. The Binoptic Mask may include vision obscuring means, aperture means permitting and directing vision of the user and support means. Preferably, the vision obscuring means is adjustable relative to a respective aperture means to enable the user to adapt the Binoptic Mask to his own use. The support means may take the form of a frame not unlike a spectacle frame and including arms to support the Binoptic Mask upon the user's head.
With the aid of the Binoptic Mask the right eye of the observer may have unencumbered vision of the left image but vision of the right image may be substantially obscured. Similarly the left eye may view the right image but may not view the left image.
In a further application the method of the present invention may be adapted to moving images. In one such application the still cameras may be replaced by video or cine cameras. The video or cine cameras may be mounted on the binocular parallax frame or may be positioned relative to one another in any suitable manner such that the axes of focus of the cameras intersect approximately of the center of the subject. Images captured by the video cameras may be recorded on two video tape recorders incorporating circuitry to enable synchronised playback.
In one preferred embodiment, image recording may be by _g_ !,~,, . , " . ~ .' . ~ . .
means of a video camera incorporating a binocular lens system. The lens system may include a horizontally converging drive unit. The converging drive unit may be linked to the focusing system associated with the lens system such that the point of convergence of the axes of the two lenses may be adjusted to correspond to the distance of focus. In one preferred embodiment of the camera, the lens system may operate as one unit, so that the camera may require only one set of controls.
Preferably, the only separate control mechanisms requi~ed externally in relation to the camera may be the converging control with focussing being performed automatically. The video camera may include a binocular configuration for its electronic viewfinder.
Images representing a 3-dimensional field (still or moving) could also be generated by means of a suitably programmed computer. The computer may be programmed to generate video signals representing a pair or respective pairs of 2 dimensional images which when viewed by an observer in accordance with the principles of the present invention creates an impression of 3-dimensional form.
The computer may be programmed to generate the 2 dimensional images from data representing a 3-dimensional field, held in its memory. The two dimensional images generated may correspond to views of the field which could be "seen" at a selected distance from the field by two spaced viewing axes which intersect at a point approximately central to the field.
Recording may be performed upon a single video tape, with both images being recorded simultaneously, thus O ~ . , . .. . ~ . . . . , . :. :
.. , . ., . ,~. ~
;; ~ - , . : , ~ ~ .. . .
facilitating synchronisation during playback.
Moving images may be reproduced upon one or more display systems, preferably having high resolution capability. The display systems may comprise cine and/or video projectors and associated display screens such as a pair of display screens mounted parallel and adjacent each other. The screens may be viewed using the Binoptic Mask in a similar manner to that described previously.
~ . :
As a result of using the invention the observer may be able to perceive a full colour three-dimensional image, free of peripheral "image ghosting" or distortion.
As the two images may be crossed the perceived image may result from converging lines of sight as occurs in human binocular vision. Further, because of the converged point of focus, the image is not directly in front of each eye.
Therefore the image size is unlimited as is distance to subject. As well the natural binocular line of sight is directed to the subject, and the eye focus is directed to the subject. This contrasts with the contradiction observed earlier in relation to stereo photography where line of sight is directed to infinity but focus is directed to a few centimetres.
In yet another aspect of the invention there is provided an integrated cine camera comprising two lens systems with electronically linked shutter releases such that films may be exposed substantially simultaneously through said lenses and such that the axis of focus of at least one lens may be adjusted relative to the axis of focus of the other lens such that the respective axes of focus intersect approximately in the centre of the ,., ., . . . , -,:
..: : ~ . . : .
:, : . .:
,:-, . , subject. Preferably two films are utilized with respective film advances synchronized. The respective lens systems may be relatively hinged so that the axis of each can be directed to the centre of the subject.
Preferably, each lens element can be located in at least two positions, a close separation being utilized for photographing in the close up range and greater separation for more distant photography.
Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
Figure 1 is an elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the binocular parallax frame according to the invention.
Figure 2 is a plan view of the binocular parallax frame of figure 2.
Figure 3 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of a Binoptic Viewer according to the invention.
Figure 4 is a front elevation of the Binoptic Viewer of figure 3.
Figure 5 is a rear elevation of the Binoptic Viewer of figures 3 and 4.
Figure 6 is a section of the Binoptic Viewer through the section line indicated in Figure 4.
Figure 7 is a side elevation of the Binoptic Viewer.
:: :
Figure 8 is a projection of a Binoptic Mask according to the invention.
Referring first to Figure 1, there is shown a drawing of the binocular parallax frame 1 according to one : "
aspect of the invention comprising a left sub-frame 2 and a right sub-frame 3. The two subframes are substantially 'C' shaped and pivotally connected by axles 4 adjacent ~;
their free ends. Pressure may be applied or released between the two subframes 2 and 3 at their pivotal connection by tightening or loosening respectively threaded wing nuts 5 on axles 4. Respective camera mounting frames 6 and 7 are attached by threaded screws 8 to subframes 2 and 3 respectively and clamped by wing nuts 9. Single lens reflex cameras 10 and 11 are mounted upon camera mounting frames 6 and 7 by standard camera mounting screws 12.
In figure 2 there is shown a plan view of the binocular parallax frame of figure 1. Threaded screws 8 attaching camera mounting frames (not shown) are mounted in slots 13 in subframes 2 and 3 to enable the separation of cameras 10 and 11 to be adjusted by the user.
By loosenin~ wing nuts 5, subframes 2 and 3 may be relatively rotated about axles 4 as indicated by the arrows in figure 2 so that the axes of the lenses of the cameras 10 and 11 will intersect at the centre of the subject to be photographed.
Referring to Figure 3 a Binoptic Viewer 14 includes eye portion 15 with nose cut-out 16 and transparency mounting slot 17.
In Figure 4 the Binoptic Viewer is shown conveniently made from two symmetrical sections 18 and 19 with lenses 20 and 21 mounted within the eye portion 15. -In Figure 5 a translucent sheet 22 is shown to provide backlight to illuminate evenly transparencies located in mounting slot 17.
Referring to Figure 6, it can be seen that light rays may enter the Binoptic Viewer through translucent -sheet 22 and illuminate photographic transparencies 23 and 24 installed within mounting slot 17. Lines of sight 25 of an observer at the eyepiece 15 are directed by lenses 20 and 21 at the transparencies 23 and 24 at a converging angle of substantially 10. Transparencies 23 and 24 are mounted transversely to the respective lines of sight. Partitions 26 prevent the left eye observing the right transparency, and vice versa.
Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a Binoptic Mask 27 including support arms 28 and mask frame 29. Mask frame 29 supports two vision obscuring plates 30 slidably mounted within the mask frame 29. While wearing the Binoptic Mask on observer's vision straight ahead may be at least partly obscured by vision obscuring plates 30.
The opening 32 may be adjusted by adjustment tabs 31 to direct an observer's vision to say, two video screen (not shown) so that the left eye sees the right video screen but not the left screen while the right eye sees the left :.
screen but not the right screen.
Finally, it is to be understood that various alterations, modifications and/or additions may be introduced into the constructions and arrangements of ;
parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the invention.
. ~",'
Claims (10)
1. A method for producing an image of a subject which when viewed by an observer creates an appearance of 3-dimensional form comprising the steps of: recording a pair of two dimensional images of said subject with camera means, said camera means including separated left and right light gathering means, each light gathering means having focussing means, and at least one of said light gathering means being adjustable such that the axes of focus of the two light gathering means may intersect at a point approximately central to the subject and at a selected distance away from the camera means; and viewing the pair of two dimensional images so recorded with means enabling the observer to simultaneously view with his left eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the left light gathering means and with his right eye the two dimensional image of the subject gathered by the right light gathering means and including means to substantially prevent the observer viewing with his left eye the image gathered by the right light gathering means and viewing with his right eye the image gathered by the left light gathering means and wherein the two images of the subject are relatively located so that the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 degrees to 15 degrees.
2. A method according to claim 1 wherein the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle of substantially 10 degrees.
3. Camera means for recording a pair of two dimensional images of a subject, said camera means including two separated light gathering means, each light gathering means having focussing means and an axis of focus, the axis of focus of at least one light gathering means being adjustable such that the said axes of focus may intersect at a point central to the subject and at a selected distance away from camera means, and further including means for recording a two dimensional image of the subject as viewed by each respective light gathering means.
4. Viewing means for observing a pair of two dimensional images of a subject obtained by a camera means including a left positioned light gathering means and a right positioned light gathering means, comprising means enabling an observer to view simultaneously with his left eye an image of the subject gathered by the left light gathering means and to view with his right eye an image of the subject gathered by the right light gathering means and including means to substantially prevent the observer viewing with his left eye the image gathered by the right light gathering means and viewing with his right eye the image gathered by the left light gathering means and wherein the pair of two dimensional images of the subject are relatively located so that the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle within the range of 5 degrees to 15 degrees.
5. Viewing means according to claim 4 wherein the lines of sight of the observer intersect at an included angle of substantially 10 degrees.
6. Viewing means according to claim 4 or 5 wherein said images comprise photographs supportably retained within said viewing means and illuminated by illumination means.
7. Viewing means according to claim 4 or 5 wherein said images comprise transparencies supportably retained within said viewing means and said transparencies are illuminated by external light passing through a translucent panel on the side of the transparencies opposite that from which the observer views said transparencies.
8. Viewing means according to claims 4 or 5 comprising a mask worn on the head by the observer and including vision directing means to direct the observer's vision.
9. Viewing means according to claim 8 wherein said vision directing means are slidably adjustable.
10. Apparatus to facilitate substantially simultaneous recording of a pair of two dimensional images of a subject comprising a centre hinged, rigid frame mounting a pair of substantially identical cameras upon respective sides of the frame and wherein the orientation of the two sides of the frame is relatively adjustable about a centre hinge to direct the axes of the lenses of the cameras to converge upon a central point of the subject.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2021189 CA2021189A1 (en) | 1990-07-13 | 1990-07-13 | Method and apparatus for 3-dimensional viewing |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2021189 CA2021189A1 (en) | 1990-07-13 | 1990-07-13 | Method and apparatus for 3-dimensional viewing |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2021189A1 true CA2021189A1 (en) | 1992-01-14 |
Family
ID=4145480
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2021189 Abandoned CA2021189A1 (en) | 1990-07-13 | 1990-07-13 | Method and apparatus for 3-dimensional viewing |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2021189A1 (en) |
-
1990
- 1990-07-13 CA CA 2021189 patent/CA2021189A1/en not_active Abandoned
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