CA2298483A1 - A passive image stabilizer and animation display system - Google Patents
A passive image stabilizer and animation display system Download PDFInfo
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- CA2298483A1 CA2298483A1 CA 2298483 CA2298483A CA2298483A1 CA 2298483 A1 CA2298483 A1 CA 2298483A1 CA 2298483 CA2298483 CA 2298483 CA 2298483 A CA2298483 A CA 2298483A CA 2298483 A1 CA2298483 A1 CA 2298483A1
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- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
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Abstract
The invention is a novel and improved method of illuminating and displaying stationary images, so as to create the illusion, to an observer in a state of relative motion, that the image or images being viewed are those of an optically focused, singular image or animation sequence. The invention of the novel animation display system, consists of a combination of; image re-digitization process specifications as well as design specifications for the associated, parallax light filtering system. Application of the inventions methods and design specifications, permit the invention to simulate the effect of modern day video or motion pictures. It is the application of two key processes that produces a stable image or the illusion of animation. First image frames are re-digitized or re-pixilated, in-order to counteract the blurring effects of viewing discrete images in motion, particularly when viewed at close range. Secondly, to allow an observer to view a longitudinal scan of an appropriate series of pixels in a predetermined sequence, a plurality of parallax scanning filters are used to mask the images. The scanning filters allow the viewer to apply the concepts of persistent vision and to perceive the re-formatted imagery as an optically focused, singular image or animation sequence.
Description
A PASSIVE IMAGE STABILIZER AND ANIMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
s 1. Field of the Invention The invention relates to the principals of visual persistence and the associated to systems of processing and illuminating a sequence of static images, so as to create a singular image or an animation sequence, when viewed in a state of motion. The invention has numerous practical applications including, subways, vehicular tunnels, moving sidewalks, escalators, elevators, theme attraction rides etc..
is 2. Description of Prior Art.
The conventional media format used to display an animation sequence has 2o been a video player or motion projector, where the viewer is stationary and the images are in motion. In a conventional animation scenario, the viewer is a stationary or passive observer, placed in front of a series of moving pictures.
By inverting the relationships, the viewer's perception changes to one where the viewer has an active and realistic sensation of actually moving through the 2s animation. This sensation is caused as a result of physically moving past the sequence static of images.
The general concept of moving the observer while the images remain static has been attempted in several prior instances. In order to remove the visual blurring so effect that is inherent to observing a static image while in a state of relative motion, all prior art forms have applied some form of intermittent lighting, relying on the principles of "persistence of vision". Most of the prior efforts to improve image clarity have focused primarily on attempts to refine complex and expensive systems of stroboscopic light sources in order to apply said principles.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 917,587 (Good - April 1909) and 4,179,198 (Brachet - Dec s 1979) use an electro-mechanical means of triggering the illumination of each image. These employ a mechanical device attached to the train, which periodically closes an electrical circuit, triggering the illumination of the image within the image display panel.
io U.S. Pat. No. 978,854 (Czerniewski) uses a purely mechanical means of triggering the illumination of the image. A "shoe" attached to the moving vehicle lifts a shutter attached to the subway wall beside the train. A mechanism then permits light to momentarily illuminate the image within the image display panel mounted on the subway wall.
is U S. Pat. Nos. 3,951,529 (Gandia) and 4,383,742 (Brachet) use a determination of the vehicle's speed to trigger image illumination. The former assumes that the train travels at a predetermined speed each time it passes a section of track while the latter measures the train's speed by a radar type 2o speed detector. Many image display panels are triggered to illuminate their images simultaneously.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,694,062 (Koenig) and 3,704,064 (Sollogoub) use the light from within the vehicle to trigger image illumination. A light detector associated with each image display panel, monitors the light intensity coming from the passing 2s vehicle. When the light shining on the image display panel is of great enough intensity the image is briefly illuminated.
U.S. Pat. No. 978,854 (Czerniewski), previously referred to, uses a stationary miniature image mounted within the image display panel. Light is shone 3o through the miniature image and is magnified through various lenses and directed onto the back of a semi-transparent projection screen by a series of reflectors. The light source is attached to the moving vehicle. All the other patents mentioned above use a large size, back or front lit, image mounted as part of the image display panel.
s The mechanical illumination triggering devices, referred to above, 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 io 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.
is U.S. Pat. No. 3,653,753 (Mitchell), uses a plurality of shutters comprising linear light sources. The vertical line of light appears through the transparency and traverses the width of the image, presenting the image in successive segments as the relative position of observer, image and light change. When there is effective relative movement between the viewer and the transparencies, the 20 light appears to sweep across each transparency, progressively illuminating linear adjacent segments of each image; thus the viewer perceives a motion picture composed of the progressively illuminated image segments.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,653,753 (Mitchell} dispenses with mechanical illumination 2s triggering devices by providing a consistent light source and addresses issues that relate to the depth of the display system, which are relevant, in practical applications of the theories. However, as the width of the projected image increases so must the depth of the reflective panel.
3o What is not addressed in any of the prior arts are issues arising from the display of consecutive discrete images in relation to a requirement for a smooth transition from frame image to consecutive frame image - frame roll over. This is an inherent function required in-order to produce a realistic simulation of pure motion.
s In today's environment practical implementation of a solid theory requires conformity with public safety issues. The use of traditional peculide transparencies poses a significant fire hazard rendering the implementation of the concept unacceptable by today's fire standard requirements .
U.S. Pat. No. 5,390,436 (Ashall) presents a lighting system that allows for a flat io even distribution of light, while occupying a relatively shallow depth of box.
The edge lit illuminated display system has a transparent medium having first and second opposing surfaces and at least one edge operable with a light source for illuminating the first and second surfaces. A matrix of dots on each of the surfaces is arranged to allow interaction of light between the surfaces.
is The matrix of dots on at least one of the surfaces substantially covers the entire surface for providing an even increased illumination throughout the surface, wherein when a graphic image is supported over the surface the graphic image is evenly illuminated. The illumination and profile of this patent is highly suitable for the application of the proposed patent. Its major drawback is that 2o the lighting substrate is highly flammable and therefore unsuitable in public transport environments.
Summary of Invention The invention is a novel system for displaying static or moving images to observers while in motion. The system stabilizes fixed, altered images that are moving past the observer by a method of a parallax filter system. The system takes advantage of recent developments in digital image technology.
The system allows the viewer to observe a stable image when the device is observed at sufficient speed. It uses principles of slit scan image production and the quantum characteristics of human conciseness (i.e.: persistence of vision). Unlike film images the system delivers a constant image more akin to s television or a flatbed film-editing table. The system relies on the phenomena of moving light over time.
In order for a human brain to perceive a visual signal, 9 photons must hit any individual retinal cell, this amount of light is actually quite small but must be io delivered over a period of not less than 1130 of a second for the brain to register it. If in this time period several cells are hit with sufficient light (9 photons each) the brain perceives the pattern not in sequence but as a whole, as if they were stimulated simultaneously and not in any sequence. Beyond 1130 of a second the brain starts to recognize a linear or time structured is sequence along with a pattern.
Video or film sequences are converted or re-digitized and re-printed to sheets or rolls of translucent film by way of suitable print technology such as electrostatic or thermal ink jet. The width of the print substrate corresponds to 2o the desired image projection height, where as length of the print substrate is determined as a function of, the desired time span of the animation and the rate of speed at which the viewer is moving. The printed sheets or rolls of film are positioned between a flat light source and series of parallax scanning filters.
Image reprocessing and use of a parallax scanning filters allow for the 2s presentation of a singular image or seemingly animated sequence of images, without the requirement of any moving or mechanical parts or stroboscopic lights.
Objects of the Invention s It is therefore an objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that does not require electronic or mechanical moving parts. Designs that eliminate the requirement of electronic or mechanical systems remove issues associated with critical timing and mechanical wear problems.
io It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides an instantaneous transition between illuminated images and sections or periods of darkness, such that the principles of persistence of vision can be applied.
is It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a method of elongating images through economic computer re digitization so that when stretched as a result of being viewed while in a state of motion are reconstructed through interpretation of the mind of the viewer, in zo their original proportions.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a method of producing an uninterrupted smooth roll over of images with a frame rate in excess of 40 frames per second, through economic 2s computer re-digitization. Manipulation of the images, so as to create a smooth roll over effect necessitates the re-formatting of image pixilation. At the time of previous patents such re-digitization would have required image processing that would have rendered the patents uneconomical. To date no prior art incorporates this particular objective.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a parallax-scanning filter that facilitates the desired mental process of decoding the re-digitized pixels. The filter directs the focus of the viewer to the correct order of pixels to be interpreted and simultaneously s eliminate inappropriate visual information.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a system that will operate while in a state of relatively slow motion, such that when applied to a moving walk way with a velocity of 2 mph io or more the system will still meet the objective of 40 frames per second which is greater than film (24 frames per second) NTSC video (29.97 frames per second) or PAL video (25 fps).
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system is that addresses the confined environment of a subway tunnel system, such that the system can applied practically in environments where the distance between the moving vehicle and the images is minimal.
2o It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a formula for rearranging millions of pixel locations, It is the computational capabilities of today's central processing units (CPU's) that make this large scale pixel re-arrangement possible, such a task would be almost impossible without the assistance of modern computers.
2s It is a further objective of the invention to provide a method of creating a one to one relationship between source image pixels and dots printed per image (1 pixel = 1 or more printed dots) so as to avoid the possibility of losing pixel information between source image and printed re-digitized image.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that addresses current fire and smoke emission safety requirements. To date no prior art incorporates this particular objective.
s It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that addresses methods of constructing appropriate display units and their effective installation methods.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system io that addresses issues that relate to preexisting mounting obstructions that may occur along the path on installation of said image display units.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that addresses issues that relate to non-linear paths of display unit installation.
is It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that is economical to manufacture, operate and maintain.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system 2o that provides a novel and intriguing form of animation. Should one view the printed images the transition from sequence to sequence makes no apparent sense. It is only when the sequence of images is viewed, (while in a state of motion) through the parallax scanner that the illusion of a comprehensive set of animated images forms in the mind of the viewer. It is the mind that creates a 2s recognizable sequence of images by assembling the pixels into a clear image that becomes meaningful, in essence the imagery does not exist until the viewer sees it in his minds eye.
Brief Description of Drawings Fig 1 is a side elevation of a subway tunnel representing a set of display units and a subway train;
Fig 2 is a plan view of the representation shown in Fig 1;
Fig 3 is a cross section of the representation shown in Fig 1:
io Fig 4 is perspective drawing of a typical display unit;
Fig 5 is a plan view indicating the plurality of discrete views afford an observer by virtue of his specific direction of travel and location along the path of travel as it relates to the construction dimensions of a given display unit;
is Fig 5A is a further extension of the representation shown in Fig 5;
Fig 6 is a schematic of the pixel dimensions of 2 singular yet typical video or digital frame images;
Fig 7 is a schematic illustration of Fig 6 where each discrete frame image represented in Fig 6 is divided into 4 equal vertical slices;
Fig 8 is a schematic illustration of Fig 7, where each pixel on the horizontal 2s axis of the frame images represented in Fig 7 is stacked vertically on top of itself by a factor of 4;
Fig 9 is flow chart for determining the reallocation pixel position from an image source file to a print image output file;
Fig 10 is a schematic illustration of what a print image would look like after applying the process specified in the flow chart represented in Fig 9.
Fig 11 is a perspective illustration of two typical display units (where x has a s value of 4), which illustrates Fig 10 in a perspective view.
Detailed Description of the Invention to The present invention describes a Passive Display System for illuminating and animating a series of re-formatted images, creating a focused and continuous motion picture, visible to an observer while in a state of relative motion with respect to the series of images. The preferred application is one where the re formatted images are stationary and the observer is in a state of relative is motion.
There are numerous applications for the present invention, where an observer may find him or herself in a state of relative motion with respect to the illumination of a series of images . These applications include but are not limited to, the following examples; subways systems, moving sidewalks, railway systems, light rapid transit systems, shuttles systems, vehicular tunnels, personal transport systems, elevator shafts, walkways, theme park rides and illuminated displays with content that pertains to , advertising, entertainment or that of an informational basis.
2s While it is an object of the present invention to describe a Passive Display System that is adaptable to numerous day-to-day applications and environments, the patent will present the example of rail system such as that of a subway tunnel.
Fig 1 shows a side elevation of a typical installation. Fig 2 shows a plan view of a typical installation, and Fig 3 shows a cross sectional view of a typical installation. A vehicle 10 (a subway train in this case) travels through a tunnel 14. On the wall of the tunnel 14 adjacent to the train 10 are supported a s plurality of display units 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F etc. illuminating a series of reformatted images contained therein as shown in Fig 4. The continuity of the movement moves progressively past display units 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F etc. in the direction of the arrow A.
to The construction of each discrete display unit numbered 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F etc., is comprised of a plurality of vertical "T" shaped baffles , as depicted in Fig 4 by the reference B6, B7, B8 and whose quantity shall be referred to by the value defined by the variable "x". Baffles B6, B7, BB...Bx are held in place by bottom rail Br and top rail Tr. Baffles B6, B7, B8...Bx are is assembled so as to create a longitudinal aperture, A5, A6, A7, A8, at the front center of the baffle box, where the aperture width is defined to be Aw. The purpose of the slit is to reveal only a small and appropriate amount of the actual image to the viewer at the appropriate and precise moment. The depth of the baffles is defined to be Bd. The width of the shutter is defined to be Sw.
2o Fig 4 shows the printed substrate, Pi situated between the back of the baffles B6, B7, B8 , and in front of the illumination panel Ip 6.
The lighting substrate provides an even plane of light by which to illuminate the print substrate. In order to address fire safety concerns related to public 2s transit system environments (which include a requirement for the product to be self extinguishing), the lighting substrate must be manufactured from a product that will meet the typical fire safety requirements. In order to meet general fire safety requirements, the invention specifies that the light substrate be manufactured with resin packages which conform with or are similar to the 3o properties provided by GE structured plastics, polycarbonate product number DL4634. When the DL4634 light substrate is treated using a method described by U.S. Pat. No. 5,390,436 (Ashall) the invention provides a slim profile lighting substrate with a depth of .375 inches and a set of fire related properties that conform to typical fire safety requirements.
s Similar fire safety requirements apply equally to the print substrate. In order to meet these fire safety requirements the invention specifies that the print substrate be manufactured with a resin package, which conforms with or is similar to the properties provided by GE structured plastics, polycarbonate product number Fr 60. The polycarbonate material is not a suitable substrate to for electrostatic or thermal print technologies, therefore the invention specifies that the print substrate be first treated on one side with a coating that will all allow thermal and other types of ink to adhere to the substrate.
Fig 5 shows a plan view of the display unit referred to in Fig 4 and the pixel is imagery that would come into the line of sight to a viewer traveling along the path and direction of arrow A. As the observer advances in the direction of arrow A, the observer will first be permitted to see through the first aperture A1, of baffle box 1 at point 1. What is revealed to the observer first, is the right hand side of the image pixels contained in the forth slice -2d of baffle box 1.
2o As the observer continues in direction A, from point 1 through to point 4, the location of aperture A1, will allow the observer to view a longitudinal scan that advances from right to left across the forth image slice -2D contained in baffle box 1.
2s As the observer continues to travel along the path of A, past point 4, the aperture A1, will cause the left hand side of the forth image slice -2D in baffle box 1 to disappear from view. As the forth image slice -2D in baffle box 1 passes out of the observers line of sight, the contents of the right hand side of the third image slice -1C of Ballast box 1 comes simultaneously into the 3o viewers line of sight. As the observer travels from point 4 to point 5, the positioning of aperture A1, will permit the observer to view a longitudinal scan that advances, from right to left, across the first third (on the print substrate) of slice -1C in Ballast box 1. Upon reaching line of sight 5 and continuing on to the 7t" line of sight , the observer will scan the remaining two thirds of slice -1C
in Ballast box 1 still through aperture A1. At this same view point 5, aperture s A2 will simultaneously commence revealing a longitudinal scan of the image pixels contained in slice -1D in Ballast Box 2.
From viewpoint 5 through 10 the observer will be exposed to imagery revealed through 2 apertures A1 and A2. The two apertures will simultaneously reveal to longitudinal scans of pixel imagery from two different and discrete image slices.
The roll over of image pixel scans from 2 discrete yet different image slices continues to be revealed in a staggered pattern.
As the observer arrives at a point 10 (as shown in Fig 5A) along the path of A, is the viewer is finally permitted to see through 3 apertures A1, A2, and A3, to view the contents of three image slices, the beginning of the last third of image slice OC of Ballast box 2, the beginning of the middle third of image slice OD
of Ballast box 3 and the beginning or right hand side of the first third (which in reality is the last third on the actual print substrate) of image slice 1A of Ballast 2o box 1. Once again the observers longitudinal scan always moves across the image pixilation from right to left.
The configuration of the display unit's baffle boxes and apertures, sequence the image slices in a fashion that is similar to a juggler, who begins with 1 ball 2s in the air and then adds a second and third etc. Once all the balls are in play, the balls appear to be in a constant state of fluid rotation, despite the reality that the balls rest momentarily while being caught by the juggler.
Image slices revealed to the observer between positions 1 through 10 are 3o blacked out in anticipation of the moment where a full compliment of apertures is reached. This is analogous to keeping the curtains of a stage closed until the juggler has had a chance to get all of his balls in the air.
Point 10 exposes a view point of image pixels positioned along the longitudinal s axis that lies 2 third of the distance from the right hand side of image slice OC
of Ballast box 2, image pixels positioned along the longitudinal axis that lies 1 third of the distance from the right hand side of image slice OD of Ballast box 3 and image pixels positioned along the longitudinal axis that lies on the right hand side of image slice 1A of Ballast box 1. The longitudinal axis of image to pixels located in each image slice of each exposed baffle box lies progressively further, from the right of a given image slice, in each progression of the image slice pattern. For example:
Series 1 (OC-Box 2, OD-Box3, 1 A-Box 1 ), is Series 2 (OD-Box 3, 1 A-Box 1,1 B-Box2), Series 3 ( 1 A-Box 1, 1 B-Box2, 1 C-Box 3), Series 4 (1 B-Box 2,1 C-Box 3 ,1 D-Box 4) Series 5 ( 1 C-Box 3,1 D-Box 4, 2A-Box 2).
Series 6 {1 D-Box 4, 2A-Box 2, 2B-Box 3) etc.
From this point forward the observer is permitted to look through a maximum of three apertures at any one time. In the same instant that the left most aperture closes imagery from view, a new aperture, to the right of the previous grouping of three, will open. The constant rotation of longitudinal image pixels results in 2s a smooth and continuous roll over of imagery as shown by the overlapping image sections illustrated below the path of travel indicated by line A.
In this optically focused view the baffle shutters from instantaneous transition transitions between dark and light, consistent with the principles of persistent 3o vision, yet without the requirement of a stroboscopic light, . Principles of the Phi phenomenon cause the human brain to make sense of the scanned pixel images so that mind forms a pattern comprised of focusing on the pixel images scanned first in image slice 1A followed by pixel images scanned from image slice 1 B, 1 C, 1 D, 2A, 2B, 2C etc.. Despite the fact that images are scanned from right to left the human brain assembles the images in the same manner, s that allows a passenger, looking through an open window of a moving car, to clearly see an object, normally obscured from view, behind a picket fence.
Due to the speed of the vehicle and the principles of persistent vision, the object appears as it would if there were no picket fence at all, yet as the passenger passes the picket fence the object is revealed from right to left, to assuming the passenger is traveling from left to right.
The specific arrangement of static images slices derived from, a series of discrete video or digital image frames which alter slightly from image frame to image frame and the principles of persistent vision cause the human brain to is perceive the illusion that the overall image appears to be in state of fluid motion as opposed to stationary. The specific arrangement of static images slices, simulates the specific imagery that would be observed, if one were to capture the imagery viewed at each and every discrete line of sight, while passing the picket fence and if the object behind the picket fence was a cat in motion as opposed to a stationary bush. The observer will therefore perceive the compliment of image pixelation and baffle apertures, as a continuously illuminated sequence of animation.
The location of optimal focal point A is located at a distance that is equal to the 2s baffle depth Bd, multiplied by x, the number of discrete image slices that appear (printed) on the substrate within a given baffle box. In this example the variable x is represented by the number 4. At the specific optimal focal point arrow A, the roll over from image to image is equal and consistent. Points closer or further away, produce imagery where the spacing or time transition so between perceived groupings of discrete image frames such as 1 A,1 B, 1 C 1 D
and 2A, 2B,2C,2D become increasingly compressed or stretched out, causing the horizontal axis of the image frames to appear slightly compressed as one moves toward the display unit or stretched out if one moves further away from the display unit.
s It is the desired focal point divided by the selected baffle depth that determines the value of x. Therefore if the desired optimum focal point lies at a point that is 4 times the depth of the baffle box, the value of x is determined to be 4.
Image slices 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D, (which represents in bodily form, a discrete to frame image) are seen by the observed over a distance of travel which is significantly less than the width of their physical locations. They are perceived however, to be located over a distance equal to the distance between their actual outer physical locations. In other words, at the optimal focal point, they are perceived to be stretched over a distance which is x times an original image is frame width. A single image frame, or its pixel width, would therefore have to be compressed by a factor of x. The compressed image would then be sliced into x number of longitudinal sections and placed in their appropriate locations in order to produce the desired animation sequence.
Fig 6 shows a schematic illustrating the typical pixel properties of two 2o representative, discreet digital or video image frames F1 & F2, typically found in a series of consecutive, video or digital frame images, normally making up an animation or video sequence. Each image, has a typical singular frame image pixel height H1 of 480 pixels and a typical singular frame image pixel width of 720 pixels.
Fig 7 is a schematic illustration of the same two, typical digital or video frame images, where each individual frame is divided longitudinally along the horizontal axis into "x" number of vertical image slices and where each vertical image slice is of equal integer pixel width.
In Figs 7 and 8, the variable "x", is assumed to be set to the value 4. It is preferable that variable x be an integer, such that when the frame image pixel width W1 is divided by variable "x" the resultant number shall also be a resulting integer. Fig 6 illustrates that if "x" is set to 4, image frame F1 shall s result in 4 equal image partitions or slices numbered 1A, 1 B, 1C and 1 D, each having a resulting image slice width of 180 pixels.
It is a requirement of the display system that each discrete frame image be compressed by a factor of x along the horizontal axis. As each digital frame to image contains a fixed number of horizontal pixels, digital compression of these discrete pixels would necessitate an amalgamation of pixels and thereby a loss or distortion of pixel or image data. To avoid loss of image information, it is preferable to multiply or stack along the y-axis each and every pixel upon itself by a factor of x, as opposed to dividing or compressing each pixel located on is the x-axis. The resulting image effectively has the properties of an image compressed along the horizontal axis and enlarged by a factor of x. In this application the quantity of pixel information is increased by a factor of x as opposed to reduced or compressed by a factor of x, thereby maintaining the integrity of the original image frame resolution or clarity.
Fig 8 illustrates the effect of multiplying pixels on the y-axis of a singular frame image by a factor of x set to 4, where the resultant image height is 1920 pixels .
The perceived desired height of the animation is equal to the actual physical 2s height of the illuminated print substrate. It is preferable that the animation sequence occupies the full height of passenger vehicle window. Therefore if the vehicle window has a height of 24 inches the preferred width, applying a typical video image frame aspect ratio of 2:3, would be 36 inches. When the resulting pixel height, of an effectively compressed digital image, results in 1920 pixels and assuming the desired image print height is 24 inches, the resultant pixels per inch of printed image will be 80 pixels per inch (1920/24).
In order to maintain a minimum of ratio of 1 printed dot to 1 pixel of image information, it is a requirement of !he invention that an electrostatic or thermal inkjet printer be set ideally to a 80 dots per inch or what is referred to in the industry as 80 DPI or a multiple thereof. It is a requirement of the system that to maintain original image resolution, printer DPI must be set to a multiple of the image pixel height multiplied by the variable x, divided by the desired image height (480 pixels * x124).
As shown in Fig 5, the apertures in each baffle box reveal longitudinal pixel to information in a specific sequence. In order to reveal longitudinal pixel information such that an observer may perceive the illusion that slice 1A is followed by 1 B and so on, the image slices must first be relocated according to the flow chart process shown in Fig 9.
File A = Digital image source file File B = Print output file Sw - Slice pixel width F - Total # of horizontal pixels in File A
W - an image slice pixel displacement 2o X - compression factor, # of slices or # of baffle boxes per image Y - horizontal pixel position in File A
Z - horizontal pixel position in File B
Applying a computer program that follows the flow chart will produce a 2s sequence of images as depicted by Fig 10.
While several particular embodiments of this inventions are described above, it will be understood, of course, that the invention is not to be limited thereto, since many modifications may be made. It is contemplated, therefore, by the so appended claims, to cover any such modifications as fall within the spirit and scope of this invention.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
s 1. Field of the Invention The invention relates to the principals of visual persistence and the associated to systems of processing and illuminating a sequence of static images, so as to create a singular image or an animation sequence, when viewed in a state of motion. The invention has numerous practical applications including, subways, vehicular tunnels, moving sidewalks, escalators, elevators, theme attraction rides etc..
is 2. Description of Prior Art.
The conventional media format used to display an animation sequence has 2o been a video player or motion projector, where the viewer is stationary and the images are in motion. In a conventional animation scenario, the viewer is a stationary or passive observer, placed in front of a series of moving pictures.
By inverting the relationships, the viewer's perception changes to one where the viewer has an active and realistic sensation of actually moving through the 2s animation. This sensation is caused as a result of physically moving past the sequence static of images.
The general concept of moving the observer while the images remain static has been attempted in several prior instances. In order to remove the visual blurring so effect that is inherent to observing a static image while in a state of relative motion, all prior art forms have applied some form of intermittent lighting, relying on the principles of "persistence of vision". Most of the prior efforts to improve image clarity have focused primarily on attempts to refine complex and expensive systems of stroboscopic light sources in order to apply said principles.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 917,587 (Good - April 1909) and 4,179,198 (Brachet - Dec s 1979) use an electro-mechanical means of triggering the illumination of each image. These employ a mechanical device attached to the train, which periodically closes an electrical circuit, triggering the illumination of the image within the image display panel.
io U.S. Pat. No. 978,854 (Czerniewski) uses a purely mechanical means of triggering the illumination of the image. A "shoe" attached to the moving vehicle lifts a shutter attached to the subway wall beside the train. A mechanism then permits light to momentarily illuminate the image within the image display panel mounted on the subway wall.
is U S. Pat. Nos. 3,951,529 (Gandia) and 4,383,742 (Brachet) use a determination of the vehicle's speed to trigger image illumination. The former assumes that the train travels at a predetermined speed each time it passes a section of track while the latter measures the train's speed by a radar type 2o speed detector. Many image display panels are triggered to illuminate their images simultaneously.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,694,062 (Koenig) and 3,704,064 (Sollogoub) use the light from within the vehicle to trigger image illumination. A light detector associated with each image display panel, monitors the light intensity coming from the passing 2s vehicle. When the light shining on the image display panel is of great enough intensity the image is briefly illuminated.
U.S. Pat. No. 978,854 (Czerniewski), previously referred to, uses a stationary miniature image mounted within the image display panel. Light is shone 3o through the miniature image and is magnified through various lenses and directed onto the back of a semi-transparent projection screen by a series of reflectors. The light source is attached to the moving vehicle. All the other patents mentioned above use a large size, back or front lit, image mounted as part of the image display panel.
s The mechanical illumination triggering devices, referred to above, 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 io 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.
is U.S. Pat. No. 3,653,753 (Mitchell), uses a plurality of shutters comprising linear light sources. The vertical line of light appears through the transparency and traverses the width of the image, presenting the image in successive segments as the relative position of observer, image and light change. When there is effective relative movement between the viewer and the transparencies, the 20 light appears to sweep across each transparency, progressively illuminating linear adjacent segments of each image; thus the viewer perceives a motion picture composed of the progressively illuminated image segments.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,653,753 (Mitchell} dispenses with mechanical illumination 2s triggering devices by providing a consistent light source and addresses issues that relate to the depth of the display system, which are relevant, in practical applications of the theories. However, as the width of the projected image increases so must the depth of the reflective panel.
3o What is not addressed in any of the prior arts are issues arising from the display of consecutive discrete images in relation to a requirement for a smooth transition from frame image to consecutive frame image - frame roll over. This is an inherent function required in-order to produce a realistic simulation of pure motion.
s In today's environment practical implementation of a solid theory requires conformity with public safety issues. The use of traditional peculide transparencies poses a significant fire hazard rendering the implementation of the concept unacceptable by today's fire standard requirements .
U.S. Pat. No. 5,390,436 (Ashall) presents a lighting system that allows for a flat io even distribution of light, while occupying a relatively shallow depth of box.
The edge lit illuminated display system has a transparent medium having first and second opposing surfaces and at least one edge operable with a light source for illuminating the first and second surfaces. A matrix of dots on each of the surfaces is arranged to allow interaction of light between the surfaces.
is The matrix of dots on at least one of the surfaces substantially covers the entire surface for providing an even increased illumination throughout the surface, wherein when a graphic image is supported over the surface the graphic image is evenly illuminated. The illumination and profile of this patent is highly suitable for the application of the proposed patent. Its major drawback is that 2o the lighting substrate is highly flammable and therefore unsuitable in public transport environments.
Summary of Invention The invention is a novel system for displaying static or moving images to observers while in motion. The system stabilizes fixed, altered images that are moving past the observer by a method of a parallax filter system. The system takes advantage of recent developments in digital image technology.
The system allows the viewer to observe a stable image when the device is observed at sufficient speed. It uses principles of slit scan image production and the quantum characteristics of human conciseness (i.e.: persistence of vision). Unlike film images the system delivers a constant image more akin to s television or a flatbed film-editing table. The system relies on the phenomena of moving light over time.
In order for a human brain to perceive a visual signal, 9 photons must hit any individual retinal cell, this amount of light is actually quite small but must be io delivered over a period of not less than 1130 of a second for the brain to register it. If in this time period several cells are hit with sufficient light (9 photons each) the brain perceives the pattern not in sequence but as a whole, as if they were stimulated simultaneously and not in any sequence. Beyond 1130 of a second the brain starts to recognize a linear or time structured is sequence along with a pattern.
Video or film sequences are converted or re-digitized and re-printed to sheets or rolls of translucent film by way of suitable print technology such as electrostatic or thermal ink jet. The width of the print substrate corresponds to 2o the desired image projection height, where as length of the print substrate is determined as a function of, the desired time span of the animation and the rate of speed at which the viewer is moving. The printed sheets or rolls of film are positioned between a flat light source and series of parallax scanning filters.
Image reprocessing and use of a parallax scanning filters allow for the 2s presentation of a singular image or seemingly animated sequence of images, without the requirement of any moving or mechanical parts or stroboscopic lights.
Objects of the Invention s It is therefore an objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that does not require electronic or mechanical moving parts. Designs that eliminate the requirement of electronic or mechanical systems remove issues associated with critical timing and mechanical wear problems.
io It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides an instantaneous transition between illuminated images and sections or periods of darkness, such that the principles of persistence of vision can be applied.
is It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a method of elongating images through economic computer re digitization so that when stretched as a result of being viewed while in a state of motion are reconstructed through interpretation of the mind of the viewer, in zo their original proportions.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a method of producing an uninterrupted smooth roll over of images with a frame rate in excess of 40 frames per second, through economic 2s computer re-digitization. Manipulation of the images, so as to create a smooth roll over effect necessitates the re-formatting of image pixilation. At the time of previous patents such re-digitization would have required image processing that would have rendered the patents uneconomical. To date no prior art incorporates this particular objective.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a parallax-scanning filter that facilitates the desired mental process of decoding the re-digitized pixels. The filter directs the focus of the viewer to the correct order of pixels to be interpreted and simultaneously s eliminate inappropriate visual information.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a system that will operate while in a state of relatively slow motion, such that when applied to a moving walk way with a velocity of 2 mph io or more the system will still meet the objective of 40 frames per second which is greater than film (24 frames per second) NTSC video (29.97 frames per second) or PAL video (25 fps).
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system is that addresses the confined environment of a subway tunnel system, such that the system can applied practically in environments where the distance between the moving vehicle and the images is minimal.
2o It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that provides a formula for rearranging millions of pixel locations, It is the computational capabilities of today's central processing units (CPU's) that make this large scale pixel re-arrangement possible, such a task would be almost impossible without the assistance of modern computers.
2s It is a further objective of the invention to provide a method of creating a one to one relationship between source image pixels and dots printed per image (1 pixel = 1 or more printed dots) so as to avoid the possibility of losing pixel information between source image and printed re-digitized image.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that addresses current fire and smoke emission safety requirements. To date no prior art incorporates this particular objective.
s It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that addresses methods of constructing appropriate display units and their effective installation methods.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system io that addresses issues that relate to preexisting mounting obstructions that may occur along the path on installation of said image display units.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that addresses issues that relate to non-linear paths of display unit installation.
is It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system that is economical to manufacture, operate and maintain.
It is a further objective of the invention to provide an animation display system 2o that provides a novel and intriguing form of animation. Should one view the printed images the transition from sequence to sequence makes no apparent sense. It is only when the sequence of images is viewed, (while in a state of motion) through the parallax scanner that the illusion of a comprehensive set of animated images forms in the mind of the viewer. It is the mind that creates a 2s recognizable sequence of images by assembling the pixels into a clear image that becomes meaningful, in essence the imagery does not exist until the viewer sees it in his minds eye.
Brief Description of Drawings Fig 1 is a side elevation of a subway tunnel representing a set of display units and a subway train;
Fig 2 is a plan view of the representation shown in Fig 1;
Fig 3 is a cross section of the representation shown in Fig 1:
io Fig 4 is perspective drawing of a typical display unit;
Fig 5 is a plan view indicating the plurality of discrete views afford an observer by virtue of his specific direction of travel and location along the path of travel as it relates to the construction dimensions of a given display unit;
is Fig 5A is a further extension of the representation shown in Fig 5;
Fig 6 is a schematic of the pixel dimensions of 2 singular yet typical video or digital frame images;
Fig 7 is a schematic illustration of Fig 6 where each discrete frame image represented in Fig 6 is divided into 4 equal vertical slices;
Fig 8 is a schematic illustration of Fig 7, where each pixel on the horizontal 2s axis of the frame images represented in Fig 7 is stacked vertically on top of itself by a factor of 4;
Fig 9 is flow chart for determining the reallocation pixel position from an image source file to a print image output file;
Fig 10 is a schematic illustration of what a print image would look like after applying the process specified in the flow chart represented in Fig 9.
Fig 11 is a perspective illustration of two typical display units (where x has a s value of 4), which illustrates Fig 10 in a perspective view.
Detailed Description of the Invention to The present invention describes a Passive Display System for illuminating and animating a series of re-formatted images, creating a focused and continuous motion picture, visible to an observer while in a state of relative motion with respect to the series of images. The preferred application is one where the re formatted images are stationary and the observer is in a state of relative is motion.
There are numerous applications for the present invention, where an observer may find him or herself in a state of relative motion with respect to the illumination of a series of images . These applications include but are not limited to, the following examples; subways systems, moving sidewalks, railway systems, light rapid transit systems, shuttles systems, vehicular tunnels, personal transport systems, elevator shafts, walkways, theme park rides and illuminated displays with content that pertains to , advertising, entertainment or that of an informational basis.
2s While it is an object of the present invention to describe a Passive Display System that is adaptable to numerous day-to-day applications and environments, the patent will present the example of rail system such as that of a subway tunnel.
Fig 1 shows a side elevation of a typical installation. Fig 2 shows a plan view of a typical installation, and Fig 3 shows a cross sectional view of a typical installation. A vehicle 10 (a subway train in this case) travels through a tunnel 14. On the wall of the tunnel 14 adjacent to the train 10 are supported a s plurality of display units 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F etc. illuminating a series of reformatted images contained therein as shown in Fig 4. The continuity of the movement moves progressively past display units 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F etc. in the direction of the arrow A.
to The construction of each discrete display unit numbered 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F etc., is comprised of a plurality of vertical "T" shaped baffles , as depicted in Fig 4 by the reference B6, B7, B8 and whose quantity shall be referred to by the value defined by the variable "x". Baffles B6, B7, BB...Bx are held in place by bottom rail Br and top rail Tr. Baffles B6, B7, B8...Bx are is assembled so as to create a longitudinal aperture, A5, A6, A7, A8, at the front center of the baffle box, where the aperture width is defined to be Aw. The purpose of the slit is to reveal only a small and appropriate amount of the actual image to the viewer at the appropriate and precise moment. The depth of the baffles is defined to be Bd. The width of the shutter is defined to be Sw.
2o Fig 4 shows the printed substrate, Pi situated between the back of the baffles B6, B7, B8 , and in front of the illumination panel Ip 6.
The lighting substrate provides an even plane of light by which to illuminate the print substrate. In order to address fire safety concerns related to public 2s transit system environments (which include a requirement for the product to be self extinguishing), the lighting substrate must be manufactured from a product that will meet the typical fire safety requirements. In order to meet general fire safety requirements, the invention specifies that the light substrate be manufactured with resin packages which conform with or are similar to the 3o properties provided by GE structured plastics, polycarbonate product number DL4634. When the DL4634 light substrate is treated using a method described by U.S. Pat. No. 5,390,436 (Ashall) the invention provides a slim profile lighting substrate with a depth of .375 inches and a set of fire related properties that conform to typical fire safety requirements.
s Similar fire safety requirements apply equally to the print substrate. In order to meet these fire safety requirements the invention specifies that the print substrate be manufactured with a resin package, which conforms with or is similar to the properties provided by GE structured plastics, polycarbonate product number Fr 60. The polycarbonate material is not a suitable substrate to for electrostatic or thermal print technologies, therefore the invention specifies that the print substrate be first treated on one side with a coating that will all allow thermal and other types of ink to adhere to the substrate.
Fig 5 shows a plan view of the display unit referred to in Fig 4 and the pixel is imagery that would come into the line of sight to a viewer traveling along the path and direction of arrow A. As the observer advances in the direction of arrow A, the observer will first be permitted to see through the first aperture A1, of baffle box 1 at point 1. What is revealed to the observer first, is the right hand side of the image pixels contained in the forth slice -2d of baffle box 1.
2o As the observer continues in direction A, from point 1 through to point 4, the location of aperture A1, will allow the observer to view a longitudinal scan that advances from right to left across the forth image slice -2D contained in baffle box 1.
2s As the observer continues to travel along the path of A, past point 4, the aperture A1, will cause the left hand side of the forth image slice -2D in baffle box 1 to disappear from view. As the forth image slice -2D in baffle box 1 passes out of the observers line of sight, the contents of the right hand side of the third image slice -1C of Ballast box 1 comes simultaneously into the 3o viewers line of sight. As the observer travels from point 4 to point 5, the positioning of aperture A1, will permit the observer to view a longitudinal scan that advances, from right to left, across the first third (on the print substrate) of slice -1C in Ballast box 1. Upon reaching line of sight 5 and continuing on to the 7t" line of sight , the observer will scan the remaining two thirds of slice -1C
in Ballast box 1 still through aperture A1. At this same view point 5, aperture s A2 will simultaneously commence revealing a longitudinal scan of the image pixels contained in slice -1D in Ballast Box 2.
From viewpoint 5 through 10 the observer will be exposed to imagery revealed through 2 apertures A1 and A2. The two apertures will simultaneously reveal to longitudinal scans of pixel imagery from two different and discrete image slices.
The roll over of image pixel scans from 2 discrete yet different image slices continues to be revealed in a staggered pattern.
As the observer arrives at a point 10 (as shown in Fig 5A) along the path of A, is the viewer is finally permitted to see through 3 apertures A1, A2, and A3, to view the contents of three image slices, the beginning of the last third of image slice OC of Ballast box 2, the beginning of the middle third of image slice OD
of Ballast box 3 and the beginning or right hand side of the first third (which in reality is the last third on the actual print substrate) of image slice 1A of Ballast 2o box 1. Once again the observers longitudinal scan always moves across the image pixilation from right to left.
The configuration of the display unit's baffle boxes and apertures, sequence the image slices in a fashion that is similar to a juggler, who begins with 1 ball 2s in the air and then adds a second and third etc. Once all the balls are in play, the balls appear to be in a constant state of fluid rotation, despite the reality that the balls rest momentarily while being caught by the juggler.
Image slices revealed to the observer between positions 1 through 10 are 3o blacked out in anticipation of the moment where a full compliment of apertures is reached. This is analogous to keeping the curtains of a stage closed until the juggler has had a chance to get all of his balls in the air.
Point 10 exposes a view point of image pixels positioned along the longitudinal s axis that lies 2 third of the distance from the right hand side of image slice OC
of Ballast box 2, image pixels positioned along the longitudinal axis that lies 1 third of the distance from the right hand side of image slice OD of Ballast box 3 and image pixels positioned along the longitudinal axis that lies on the right hand side of image slice 1A of Ballast box 1. The longitudinal axis of image to pixels located in each image slice of each exposed baffle box lies progressively further, from the right of a given image slice, in each progression of the image slice pattern. For example:
Series 1 (OC-Box 2, OD-Box3, 1 A-Box 1 ), is Series 2 (OD-Box 3, 1 A-Box 1,1 B-Box2), Series 3 ( 1 A-Box 1, 1 B-Box2, 1 C-Box 3), Series 4 (1 B-Box 2,1 C-Box 3 ,1 D-Box 4) Series 5 ( 1 C-Box 3,1 D-Box 4, 2A-Box 2).
Series 6 {1 D-Box 4, 2A-Box 2, 2B-Box 3) etc.
From this point forward the observer is permitted to look through a maximum of three apertures at any one time. In the same instant that the left most aperture closes imagery from view, a new aperture, to the right of the previous grouping of three, will open. The constant rotation of longitudinal image pixels results in 2s a smooth and continuous roll over of imagery as shown by the overlapping image sections illustrated below the path of travel indicated by line A.
In this optically focused view the baffle shutters from instantaneous transition transitions between dark and light, consistent with the principles of persistent 3o vision, yet without the requirement of a stroboscopic light, . Principles of the Phi phenomenon cause the human brain to make sense of the scanned pixel images so that mind forms a pattern comprised of focusing on the pixel images scanned first in image slice 1A followed by pixel images scanned from image slice 1 B, 1 C, 1 D, 2A, 2B, 2C etc.. Despite the fact that images are scanned from right to left the human brain assembles the images in the same manner, s that allows a passenger, looking through an open window of a moving car, to clearly see an object, normally obscured from view, behind a picket fence.
Due to the speed of the vehicle and the principles of persistent vision, the object appears as it would if there were no picket fence at all, yet as the passenger passes the picket fence the object is revealed from right to left, to assuming the passenger is traveling from left to right.
The specific arrangement of static images slices derived from, a series of discrete video or digital image frames which alter slightly from image frame to image frame and the principles of persistent vision cause the human brain to is perceive the illusion that the overall image appears to be in state of fluid motion as opposed to stationary. The specific arrangement of static images slices, simulates the specific imagery that would be observed, if one were to capture the imagery viewed at each and every discrete line of sight, while passing the picket fence and if the object behind the picket fence was a cat in motion as opposed to a stationary bush. The observer will therefore perceive the compliment of image pixelation and baffle apertures, as a continuously illuminated sequence of animation.
The location of optimal focal point A is located at a distance that is equal to the 2s baffle depth Bd, multiplied by x, the number of discrete image slices that appear (printed) on the substrate within a given baffle box. In this example the variable x is represented by the number 4. At the specific optimal focal point arrow A, the roll over from image to image is equal and consistent. Points closer or further away, produce imagery where the spacing or time transition so between perceived groupings of discrete image frames such as 1 A,1 B, 1 C 1 D
and 2A, 2B,2C,2D become increasingly compressed or stretched out, causing the horizontal axis of the image frames to appear slightly compressed as one moves toward the display unit or stretched out if one moves further away from the display unit.
s It is the desired focal point divided by the selected baffle depth that determines the value of x. Therefore if the desired optimum focal point lies at a point that is 4 times the depth of the baffle box, the value of x is determined to be 4.
Image slices 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D, (which represents in bodily form, a discrete to frame image) are seen by the observed over a distance of travel which is significantly less than the width of their physical locations. They are perceived however, to be located over a distance equal to the distance between their actual outer physical locations. In other words, at the optimal focal point, they are perceived to be stretched over a distance which is x times an original image is frame width. A single image frame, or its pixel width, would therefore have to be compressed by a factor of x. The compressed image would then be sliced into x number of longitudinal sections and placed in their appropriate locations in order to produce the desired animation sequence.
Fig 6 shows a schematic illustrating the typical pixel properties of two 2o representative, discreet digital or video image frames F1 & F2, typically found in a series of consecutive, video or digital frame images, normally making up an animation or video sequence. Each image, has a typical singular frame image pixel height H1 of 480 pixels and a typical singular frame image pixel width of 720 pixels.
Fig 7 is a schematic illustration of the same two, typical digital or video frame images, where each individual frame is divided longitudinally along the horizontal axis into "x" number of vertical image slices and where each vertical image slice is of equal integer pixel width.
In Figs 7 and 8, the variable "x", is assumed to be set to the value 4. It is preferable that variable x be an integer, such that when the frame image pixel width W1 is divided by variable "x" the resultant number shall also be a resulting integer. Fig 6 illustrates that if "x" is set to 4, image frame F1 shall s result in 4 equal image partitions or slices numbered 1A, 1 B, 1C and 1 D, each having a resulting image slice width of 180 pixels.
It is a requirement of the display system that each discrete frame image be compressed by a factor of x along the horizontal axis. As each digital frame to image contains a fixed number of horizontal pixels, digital compression of these discrete pixels would necessitate an amalgamation of pixels and thereby a loss or distortion of pixel or image data. To avoid loss of image information, it is preferable to multiply or stack along the y-axis each and every pixel upon itself by a factor of x, as opposed to dividing or compressing each pixel located on is the x-axis. The resulting image effectively has the properties of an image compressed along the horizontal axis and enlarged by a factor of x. In this application the quantity of pixel information is increased by a factor of x as opposed to reduced or compressed by a factor of x, thereby maintaining the integrity of the original image frame resolution or clarity.
Fig 8 illustrates the effect of multiplying pixels on the y-axis of a singular frame image by a factor of x set to 4, where the resultant image height is 1920 pixels .
The perceived desired height of the animation is equal to the actual physical 2s height of the illuminated print substrate. It is preferable that the animation sequence occupies the full height of passenger vehicle window. Therefore if the vehicle window has a height of 24 inches the preferred width, applying a typical video image frame aspect ratio of 2:3, would be 36 inches. When the resulting pixel height, of an effectively compressed digital image, results in 1920 pixels and assuming the desired image print height is 24 inches, the resultant pixels per inch of printed image will be 80 pixels per inch (1920/24).
In order to maintain a minimum of ratio of 1 printed dot to 1 pixel of image information, it is a requirement of !he invention that an electrostatic or thermal inkjet printer be set ideally to a 80 dots per inch or what is referred to in the industry as 80 DPI or a multiple thereof. It is a requirement of the system that to maintain original image resolution, printer DPI must be set to a multiple of the image pixel height multiplied by the variable x, divided by the desired image height (480 pixels * x124).
As shown in Fig 5, the apertures in each baffle box reveal longitudinal pixel to information in a specific sequence. In order to reveal longitudinal pixel information such that an observer may perceive the illusion that slice 1A is followed by 1 B and so on, the image slices must first be relocated according to the flow chart process shown in Fig 9.
File A = Digital image source file File B = Print output file Sw - Slice pixel width F - Total # of horizontal pixels in File A
W - an image slice pixel displacement 2o X - compression factor, # of slices or # of baffle boxes per image Y - horizontal pixel position in File A
Z - horizontal pixel position in File B
Applying a computer program that follows the flow chart will produce a 2s sequence of images as depicted by Fig 10.
While several particular embodiments of this inventions are described above, it will be understood, of course, that the invention is not to be limited thereto, since many modifications may be made. It is contemplated, therefore, by the so appended claims, to cover any such modifications as fall within the spirit and scope of this invention.
Claims (22)
1. A passive display system comprised of a plurality of consecutive housing units, being mounted in a substantially horizontal line where said plurality of consecutive housing units contain:
a plurality of consecutive vertical apertures;
a plurality of consecutive "T" shaped baffles;
said "T" shaped baffles being positioned adjacent to one another so as to form said vertical apertures;
a plurality of consecutive sheets of translucent print substrate;
said sheets of translucent print substrate having an image printed thereon and positioned directly behind said "T" shaped baffles;
a plurality of consecutive illumination panels;
said illumination panels being positioned directly behind said sheets of translucent print substrate, which contain thereon printed images;
a plurality of consecutive light fixtures;
said consecutive light fixtures being mounted in a manner to illuminate said consecutive illumination panels.
a plurality of consecutive vertical apertures;
a plurality of consecutive "T" shaped baffles;
said "T" shaped baffles being positioned adjacent to one another so as to form said vertical apertures;
a plurality of consecutive sheets of translucent print substrate;
said sheets of translucent print substrate having an image printed thereon and positioned directly behind said "T" shaped baffles;
a plurality of consecutive illumination panels;
said illumination panels being positioned directly behind said sheets of translucent print substrate, which contain thereon printed images;
a plurality of consecutive light fixtures;
said consecutive light fixtures being mounted in a manner to illuminate said consecutive illumination panels.
2. A display system as claimed in 1, where the width of the baffle (Sw)is minimally less than the desired height of the image (Dh) multiplied be the desired aspect ratio divided by x, where x is equal to the desired focal distance divided by depth of the "T" shaped baffle (Bd). (SW<DH
* X or SW<DH * (Fd/Bd))
* X or SW<DH * (Fd/Bd))
3. A display system as claimed in 1, where in the unit is a passive construction, substantially requiring no mechanical moving parts.
4. A display system as claimed in 1, where in the unit is a passive construction, requiring no stroboscopic lights.
5. A display system as claimed in 1, wherein the formation and positioning of the baffles provide an instantaneous transition between illuminated images and sections or periods of darkness, such that the principles of persistence of vision can be applied.
6. A display system as claimed in 1, wherein the formation and positioning of the vertical apertures provide a plurality of vertical lines of sight to the plurality of images contained upon the plurality of translucent print substrate sheets.
7. A display system as claimed in 1 where in the positioning and dimension of "T" shaped baffles creates a parallax-scanning filter.
said parallax scanning filter produces a longitudinal scan of image pixels located between adjacent baffles through the center aperture, when viewed in state of relative motion;
Said parallax scanning filter facilitates the desired mental process of decoding the re-digitized pixels;
Said parallax scanning filter directs the focus of the viewer to the correct order of pixels to be interpreted;
Said parallax scanning filter simultaneously eliminates inappropriate visual information.
said parallax scanning filter produces a longitudinal scan of image pixels located between adjacent baffles through the center aperture, when viewed in state of relative motion;
Said parallax scanning filter facilitates the desired mental process of decoding the re-digitized pixels;
Said parallax scanning filter directs the focus of the viewer to the correct order of pixels to be interpreted;
Said parallax scanning filter simultaneously eliminates inappropriate visual information.
8. A display system as claimed in 1, where the composition, construction and positioning of the lighting panel provides a sufficient source of illumination to the translucent print substrate.
9. A display system as claimed in 1, where the image contained upon the print substrate is a plurality of elongated subsets of singular image frames arranged in mutually parallel relationship, in a horizontal array;
said elongated image frame subsets being constructed in their preferred embodiment, through economic computer re-digitization;
each elongated image frame subset being a vertical subset of a single complete image frame;
each elongated image frame subset being of equal pixel width;
where said elongated image frame subsets are positioned dis-congruently, relative to their original position in the image frame source.
said elongated image frame subsets being constructed in their preferred embodiment, through economic computer re-digitization;
each elongated image frame subset being a vertical subset of a single complete image frame;
each elongated image frame subset being of equal pixel width;
where said elongated image frame subsets are positioned dis-congruently, relative to their original position in the image frame source.
10. The arrangement of claim 7, wherein the print location of elongated image frame subsets are determined by the process described in the flowchart contained in fig 9;
said rearrangement of image frame subsets produces an uninterrupted smooth roll over from image frame transition to image frame transition;
wherein file A = the digital image source file, file B = print output file, Sw = slice pixel width, F - the total number of horizontal pixels in file A, W = an image subset pixel displacement, X = the compression factor and/or number of discrete image subsets per discrete image frame, Y = the horizontal pixel position in file A and Z =
the horizontal pixel position in file B
said rearrangement of image frame subsets produces an uninterrupted smooth roll over from image frame transition to image frame transition;
wherein file A = the digital image source file, file B = print output file, Sw = slice pixel width, F - the total number of horizontal pixels in file A, W = an image subset pixel displacement, X = the compression factor and/or number of discrete image subsets per discrete image frame, Y = the horizontal pixel position in file A and Z =
the horizontal pixel position in file B
11. A display system as claimed in 1, wherein the relative location of the apertures, the depth of the baffles and the physical print location of consecutive elongated image frame subsets converge, to construct a longitudinal view which sweeps/scans across the re-pixelated imagery to reveal a continuous flow of deliberately sequenced, image frame subsets, which causes the mind to perceive the imagery as a view into another place in time, similar to a video or motion picture, or alternatively a stationary singular image frame similar to an image in a photo magazine.
12. A display system as claimed in 1, wherein the relative dimension and location of the apertures and "T" shaped baffles produce a sequence of viewable image frames wherein the resulting frame rate is in excess of 40 fps (frames per second) ;
wherein said frame rate of 40 fps is greater than film (24 fps), NTSC video (29.97 fps) or PAL video (25 fps).
wherein said frame rate of 40 fps is greater than film (24 fps), NTSC video (29.97 fps) or PAL video (25 fps).
13. A display system as claimed in 1, wherein said system successfully operates in an environment where the observer is in a state of relatively slow motion.
14. A display system as claimed in 1, wherein said system can be applied to a moving walkway with a velocity of 2 mph or more;
wherein said system will continue to reveal in excess of 40 frames per second.
wherein said system will continue to reveal in excess of 40 frames per second.
15. A display system as claimed in 1, wherein said system conforms to confined installation environments; wherein distances between mounting surfaces and moving observers are substantially minimal.
16. The method, wherein lose of pixel information while transferring pixel information from the digital image source to the print image substrate is avoided;
wherein, there exists a one to many or a one or one relationship between source image pixels and dots printed per image (1 pixel = 1 or more printed dots);
wherein the print setting, referred to as DPI, (dots per inch), is set to the digital image pixel height (H), multiplied by x representing the desired focal distance (Fd) divided by depth of the "T" shaped baffle (Bd), divided by the desired image height (Dh);
wherein the resulting formula is DPI = H * X / Dh, where X=Fd/Bd;
wherein, substituting for X, the resulting formula defines DPI = H *
(Fd/Bd) / Dh;
wherein, there exists a one to many or a one or one relationship between source image pixels and dots printed per image (1 pixel = 1 or more printed dots);
wherein the print setting, referred to as DPI, (dots per inch), is set to the digital image pixel height (H), multiplied by x representing the desired focal distance (Fd) divided by depth of the "T" shaped baffle (Bd), divided by the desired image height (Dh);
wherein the resulting formula is DPI = H * X / Dh, where X=Fd/Bd;
wherein, substituting for X, the resulting formula defines DPI = H *
(Fd/Bd) / Dh;
17. A method that addresses current fire and smoke emission safety requirements wherein all structural components are constructed from an essentially non-combustible or self-extinguishing material;
wherein, the structural components are in their preferred embodiments, lightweight metals such as aluminum extrusions;
wherein, the print substrate is a specially coated polycarbonate, which in its preferred embodiment emulates the same flammable properties of GE Structured plastics product description number FR60 or FR80;
wherein, the lighting substrate of the illumination panel is a specially coated polycarbonate, which in its preferred embodiment emulates the same flammable properties of GE
Structured plastics product description number DL4634;
wherein, the treatment of the polycarbonate light substrate emulates the specifications of U.S. Pat. No. 5,390,436 (Ashall).
wherein, the structural components are in their preferred embodiments, lightweight metals such as aluminum extrusions;
wherein, the print substrate is a specially coated polycarbonate, which in its preferred embodiment emulates the same flammable properties of GE Structured plastics product description number FR60 or FR80;
wherein, the lighting substrate of the illumination panel is a specially coated polycarbonate, which in its preferred embodiment emulates the same flammable properties of GE
Structured plastics product description number DL4634;
wherein, the treatment of the polycarbonate light substrate emulates the specifications of U.S. Pat. No. 5,390,436 (Ashall).
18. A method of enhancing image brightness as a result of increasing lumen output of the illumination panel, wherein a light enhancing film is applied to the entire back panel of the display unit housing;
wherein a light enhancing film is applied to the vertical edges of the illumination panel;
Wherein a light enhancing film may be applied in close proximity to the outer circumference of a suitable fluorescent light source;
wherein the lumen output of the fluorescent light source is concentrated through a linear aperture of the fluorescent and such aperture is not obstructed from entering the lighting substrate as a result of applying the light enhancing film about the circumference of the bulb;
wherein the light enhancing film has substantially similar or improved qualities over 3M's LEF film (LEF=Light Enhancement Film)
wherein a light enhancing film is applied to the vertical edges of the illumination panel;
Wherein a light enhancing film may be applied in close proximity to the outer circumference of a suitable fluorescent light source;
wherein the lumen output of the fluorescent light source is concentrated through a linear aperture of the fluorescent and such aperture is not obstructed from entering the lighting substrate as a result of applying the light enhancing film about the circumference of the bulb;
wherein the light enhancing film has substantially similar or improved qualities over 3M's LEF film (LEF=Light Enhancement Film)
19. A method of manufacturing and constructing display unit housings and components referred to in claim 1.
said methods of manufacturing and construction being economical to manufacture, operate and maintain.
said methods of manufacturing and construction being economical to manufacture, operate and maintain.
20. A method of effectively installing display units described in claim 1.
21. A method of addressing installation issues that relate to preexisting mounting obstructions that may occur along the installation path and mounting surfaces of said image display units referred to in claim 1.
22. A method to address issues that relate to non-linear paths or mounting surfaces of display unit installation referred to in claim 19.
Priority Applications (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2298483 CA2298483A1 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2000-02-16 | A passive image stabilizer and animation display system |
| US12/105,373 US20080316210A1 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2008-04-18 | Signage display system and process |
| US12/960,915 US20110175919A1 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2010-12-06 | Signage display system and process |
| US13/620,289 US8860755B2 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2012-09-14 | Signage display system and process |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2298483 CA2298483A1 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2000-02-16 | A passive image stabilizer and animation display system |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2298483A1 true CA2298483A1 (en) | 2001-08-16 |
Family
ID=4165313
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2298483 Abandoned CA2298483A1 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2000-02-16 | A passive image stabilizer and animation display system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2298483A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2003041038A1 (en) * | 2001-11-05 | 2003-05-15 | Train Russell H | Animation display process and assembly |
| US7365746B1 (en) | 2003-05-05 | 2008-04-29 | Mirage Motion Media Inc. | Signage display system and process |
| CN113870741A (en) * | 2021-10-13 | 2021-12-31 | 东南大学 | Moire pattern visual illusion's circulation animation effect view device |
-
2000
- 2000-02-16 CA CA 2298483 patent/CA2298483A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8860755B2 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2014-10-14 | Zmi Holdings Ltd. | Signage display system and process |
| WO2003041038A1 (en) * | 2001-11-05 | 2003-05-15 | Train Russell H | Animation display process and assembly |
| US7365746B1 (en) | 2003-05-05 | 2008-04-29 | Mirage Motion Media Inc. | Signage display system and process |
| CN113870741A (en) * | 2021-10-13 | 2021-12-31 | 东南大学 | Moire pattern visual illusion's circulation animation effect view device |
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