CA2123077C - Single lens stereoscopic imaging system - Google Patents
Single lens stereoscopic imaging system Download PDFInfo
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- CA2123077C CA2123077C CA002123077A CA2123077A CA2123077C CA 2123077 C CA2123077 C CA 2123077C CA 002123077 A CA002123077 A CA 002123077A CA 2123077 A CA2123077 A CA 2123077A CA 2123077 C CA2123077 C CA 2123077C
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- image path
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- single image
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B30/00—Optical systems or apparatus for producing three-dimensional [3D] effects, e.g. stereoscopic images
- G02B30/20—Optical systems or apparatus for producing three-dimensional [3D] effects, e.g. stereoscopic images by providing first and second parallax images to an observer's left and right eyes
- G02B30/34—Stereoscopes providing a stereoscopic pair of separated images corresponding to parallactically displaced views of the same object, e.g. 3D slide viewers
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B1/00—Instruments for performing medical examinations of the interior of cavities or tubes of the body by visual or photographical inspection, e.g. endoscopes; Illuminating arrangements therefor
- A61B1/00163—Optical arrangements
- A61B1/00193—Optical arrangements adapted for stereoscopic vision
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B30/00—Optical systems or apparatus for producing three-dimensional [3D] effects, e.g. stereoscopic images
- G02B30/20—Optical systems or apparatus for producing three-dimensional [3D] effects, e.g. stereoscopic images by providing first and second parallax images to an observer's left and right eyes
- G02B30/22—Optical systems or apparatus for producing three-dimensional [3D] effects, e.g. stereoscopic images by providing first and second parallax images to an observer's left and right eyes of the stereoscopic type
- G02B30/24—Optical systems or apparatus for producing three-dimensional [3D] effects, e.g. stereoscopic images by providing first and second parallax images to an observer's left and right eyes of the stereoscopic type involving temporal multiplexing, e.g. using sequentially activated left and right shutters
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/20—Image signal generators
- H04N13/204—Image signal generators using stereoscopic image cameras
- H04N13/207—Image signal generators using stereoscopic image cameras using a single 2D image sensor
- H04N13/211—Image signal generators using stereoscopic image cameras using a single 2D image sensor using temporal multiplexing
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/20—Image signal generators
- H04N13/296—Synchronisation thereof; Control thereof
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/30—Image reproducers
- H04N13/332—Displays for viewing with the aid of special glasses or head-mounted displays [HMD]
- H04N13/341—Displays for viewing with the aid of special glasses or head-mounted displays [HMD] using temporal multiplexing
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/30—Image reproducers
- H04N13/398—Synchronisation thereof; Control thereof
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/10—Processing, recording or transmission of stereoscopic or multi-view image signals
- H04N13/106—Processing image signals
- H04N13/161—Encoding, multiplexing or demultiplexing different image signal components
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/10—Processing, recording or transmission of stereoscopic or multi-view image signals
- H04N13/106—Processing image signals
- H04N13/167—Synchronising or controlling image signals
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/10—Processing, recording or transmission of stereoscopic or multi-view image signals
- H04N13/189—Recording image signals; Reproducing recorded image signals
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/10—Processing, recording or transmission of stereoscopic or multi-view image signals
- H04N13/194—Transmission of image signals
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/20—Image signal generators
- H04N13/204—Image signal generators using stereoscopic image cameras
- H04N13/207—Image signal generators using stereoscopic image cameras using a single 2D image sensor
- H04N13/218—Image signal generators using stereoscopic image cameras using a single 2D image sensor using spatial multiplexing
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/20—Image signal generators
- H04N13/204—Image signal generators using stereoscopic image cameras
- H04N13/239—Image signal generators using stereoscopic image cameras using two 2D image sensors having a relative position equal to or related to the interocular distance
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/20—Image signal generators
- H04N13/286—Image signal generators having separate monoscopic and stereoscopic modes
- H04N13/289—Switching between monoscopic and stereoscopic modes
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/30—Image reproducers
- H04N13/332—Displays for viewing with the aid of special glasses or head-mounted displays [HMD]
- H04N13/334—Displays for viewing with the aid of special glasses or head-mounted displays [HMD] using spectral multiplexing
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N13/00—Stereoscopic video systems; Multi-view video systems; Details thereof
- H04N13/30—Image reproducers
- H04N13/363—Image reproducers using image projection screens
Abstract
A switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths from a single image path. The apparatus comprises a movable member having an opaque portion disposed in the single image path, and a switching device including at least one electromagnet responsive to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus. The electromagnet imposes a force on the movable member, to move the movable member between first and second positions, in which the opaque portion is in first and second locations respectively in the single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of the opaque portion first and second image path portions of the single image path. The first and second image path portions have first and second spaced apart centroids respectively and the sizes of the first and second image path portions and distances between centroids thereof may be adjusted or varied to vary the amount of stereopsis.
Description
SINGLE LENS STEREOSCOPIC IMAGING SYSTEM
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to stereoscopic viewing of an image from a single lens imaging system such as a camera. More specifically, the present invention relates to a high speed switching device for producing stereoscopic images from a single image path.
io Background Simple imaging systems used today are generally two dimensional. A
camera has a single image path, or optical path and produces a two dimensional image. The term "camera" used throughout the specification i5 means any type of singlE: lens imaging system including a single imaging sensor which can produce or reproduce a picture of an object. Such cameras can operate in a wide frequency range extending from sonic frequencies to radio frequencies. Examples of such imaging systems include, but are not limited to, video cameras, film cameras, ultrasound systems and radio 2c antennas.
Stereoscopic optical systems that produce three dimensional views are known. A majority of these systems include two separate cameras that provide separate side by side images and a method of blanking out alternate images from a left and right camera so the viewer sees the alternate images with a left eye followed by a right eye. These systems include active eyewear wherein shuttering occur, at the eyewear itself for viewing a monitor, or passive eyewear where the shuttering occurs at the monitor. In the case of video images, the monitor' is frequently a standard 120 Hz monitor, therefore 3o the emitter signals are syinchronized to shutter alternate left and right lenses of the eyewear quickly at '120 Hz, the same speed as the monitor.
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to stereoscopic viewing of an image from a single lens imaging system such as a camera. More specifically, the present invention relates to a high speed switching device for producing stereoscopic images from a single image path.
io Background Simple imaging systems used today are generally two dimensional. A
camera has a single image path, or optical path and produces a two dimensional image. The term "camera" used throughout the specification i5 means any type of singlE: lens imaging system including a single imaging sensor which can produce or reproduce a picture of an object. Such cameras can operate in a wide frequency range extending from sonic frequencies to radio frequencies. Examples of such imaging systems include, but are not limited to, video cameras, film cameras, ultrasound systems and radio 2c antennas.
Stereoscopic optical systems that produce three dimensional views are known. A majority of these systems include two separate cameras that provide separate side by side images and a method of blanking out alternate images from a left and right camera so the viewer sees the alternate images with a left eye followed by a right eye. These systems include active eyewear wherein shuttering occur, at the eyewear itself for viewing a monitor, or passive eyewear where the shuttering occurs at the monitor. In the case of video images, the monitor' is frequently a standard 120 Hz monitor, therefore 3o the emitter signals are syinchronized to shutter alternate left and right lenses of the eyewear quickly at '120 Hz, the same speed as the monitor.
-2-One use to which three dimensional imaging is now being used is minimal access surgery. In the known systems today dual lenses are provided in an endoscope with left and right cameras to provide left and right images for viewing. A description of existing systems is provided in a G publication entitled "ThrE~e Dimensional Endoscopic Imaging for Minimal Access Surgery" by Mitchell et al, published October 1993, J.R. Coll. Surg.
Edinb.
Other types of stereoscopic optical systems are disclosed in U.S.
lc Patent 4,761,066 to Carter which utilizes a beam splitter. With regard to the viewers, an example of a~ liquid crystal stereoscopic viewer is disclosed by Roese in U.S. Patent 4,021,846. The concept of utilizing a passive eyewear includes lenses with colored filters therein. Such a system is disclosed in U.S. Patent 3,712,199 to Songer.
1=
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with one aspect of the invention there is provided a method for operating a :;witching apparatus in a stereoscopic system for 2c producing stereoscopic image paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path.. The method involves moving a blocking member between first and second locations in the single image path in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to alternately define on opposite sides of the blocking member first and second image path portions of they single image path, the first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively. The method further involves adjustably controlling a range of movement of the blocking member to define adjustable sizes of the first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between the first and second 3o centroids.
Edinb.
Other types of stereoscopic optical systems are disclosed in U.S.
lc Patent 4,761,066 to Carter which utilizes a beam splitter. With regard to the viewers, an example of a~ liquid crystal stereoscopic viewer is disclosed by Roese in U.S. Patent 4,021,846. The concept of utilizing a passive eyewear includes lenses with colored filters therein. Such a system is disclosed in U.S. Patent 3,712,199 to Songer.
1=
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with one aspect of the invention there is provided a method for operating a :;witching apparatus in a stereoscopic system for 2c producing stereoscopic image paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path.. The method involves moving a blocking member between first and second locations in the single image path in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to alternately define on opposite sides of the blocking member first and second image path portions of they single image path, the first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively. The method further involves adjustably controlling a range of movement of the blocking member to define adjustable sizes of the first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between the first and second 3o centroids.
-3-Adjustably controlling may include varying the amount of movement of the blocking member.
The method may further include synchronizing alternately defining the first and second image path portions with the imaging apparatus for receiving light from the first and second image path portions respectively.
Moving a blocking member may involve moving an opaque member by alternately activating first ;end second electromagnets on opposite sides of an io armature composed of ferromagnetic material, the armature being connected to a second end portion of an arm having first and second end portions. The first end portion of the arm may be connected to the opaque member, and the arm may have a fulcrum between the opaque member and the armature such that the arm is rotatable, thereby moving the armature between first and m~ second armature locations adjacent to the first and second electromagnets respectively, to alternately rotate the arm to move the opaque member between the first and second locations. The arm may be rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to the single image path.
2o Synchronizing may include controlling the first and second electromagnets to synchronize the opaque member in the first and second locations with the imaging apparatus for receiving light from the first and second image path portions respectively.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path.
The apparatus may comprise blocking means for blocking a portion of the single image path, mean;> for moving the blocking means between first and 3o second locations in the ;>ingle image path in response to signals received from synchronization mE:ans in communication with imaging means, to alternately define on opposite sides of the blocking means first and second
The method may further include synchronizing alternately defining the first and second image path portions with the imaging apparatus for receiving light from the first and second image path portions respectively.
Moving a blocking member may involve moving an opaque member by alternately activating first ;end second electromagnets on opposite sides of an io armature composed of ferromagnetic material, the armature being connected to a second end portion of an arm having first and second end portions. The first end portion of the arm may be connected to the opaque member, and the arm may have a fulcrum between the opaque member and the armature such that the arm is rotatable, thereby moving the armature between first and m~ second armature locations adjacent to the first and second electromagnets respectively, to alternately rotate the arm to move the opaque member between the first and second locations. The arm may be rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to the single image path.
2o Synchronizing may include controlling the first and second electromagnets to synchronize the opaque member in the first and second locations with the imaging apparatus for receiving light from the first and second image path portions respectively.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path.
The apparatus may comprise blocking means for blocking a portion of the single image path, mean;> for moving the blocking means between first and 3o second locations in the ;>ingle image path in response to signals received from synchronization mE:ans in communication with imaging means, to alternately define on opposite sides of the blocking means first and second
-4-image path portions of the single image path. The first and second image path portions may have first and second spaced apart centroids respectively and the apparatus may Ihave means for adjustably controlling a range of movement of the blocking means to define adjustable sizes of the first and s second image path portions and an adjustable distance between the first and second centroids.
The blocking means may include a movable member having an opaque portion disposed iin the single image path and the movable member to may be rotatable about an axis generally parallel to the single image path.
The opaque portion may include an opaque leaf which may be trapezoidal in shape.
The movable member may include an arm having first and second end is portions, and the opaque portion may be disposed at the first end portion of the arm. The movable member may also include an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, the armature being connected to the secand end portion of the arm and many include a fulcrum on the arm between the opaque portion and the armature, such that the arm is rotatable.
The arm may be rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to the single image path.
The means for moving may include at least one electromagnet or first 2s and second electromagnets on opposite sides of the armature, operable to move the armature fram a first armature location adjacent to the first electromagnet to a second armature location adjacent to the second electromagnet to rotate the arm to move the opaque portion from the first location to the second location. A first damper may be provided on the first 3o electromagnet between the first electromagnet and the armature and a second damper may be provided on the second electromagnet between the second electromagnet and the armature.
The blocking means may include a movable member having an opaque portion disposed iin the single image path and the movable member to may be rotatable about an axis generally parallel to the single image path.
The opaque portion may include an opaque leaf which may be trapezoidal in shape.
The movable member may include an arm having first and second end is portions, and the opaque portion may be disposed at the first end portion of the arm. The movable member may also include an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, the armature being connected to the secand end portion of the arm and many include a fulcrum on the arm between the opaque portion and the armature, such that the arm is rotatable.
The arm may be rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to the single image path.
The means for moving may include at least one electromagnet or first 2s and second electromagnets on opposite sides of the armature, operable to move the armature fram a first armature location adjacent to the first electromagnet to a second armature location adjacent to the second electromagnet to rotate the arm to move the opaque portion from the first location to the second location. A first damper may be provided on the first 3o electromagnet between the first electromagnet and the armature and a second damper may be provided on the second electromagnet between the second electromagnet and the armature.
-5-The means for controlling may include first and second end stops on opposite sides of the opaque portion, the first and second end stops being adjustable in position to selectively limit a range of movement of the movable member.
The apparatus may further include synchronization means for controlling the first and second electromagnets to synchronize the opaque portion in the first and second locations with a viewing apparatus for receiving is light from the first and second image path portions respectively.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path.
1 G The apparatus may comprise a movable member, having an opaque portion disposed in the single image path, a switching device cooperating with the movable member, for mowing the movable member between first and second positions in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an iimaging apparatus, to move the opaque portion ac between first and second locations in the single image path. Such movement alternately defines on opposite sides of the opaque portion first and second image path portions of the single image path, the first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively. The apparatus further includes a limiter for adjustably controlling a range of 25 movement of the opaque portion to define adjustable sizes of the first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between the first and second centroids.
The apparatus may further comprise a two dimensional lens system on 3o the single image path and a camera wherein the opaque portion is positioned between an object viewed by the lens system and the camera.
The apparatus may further include synchronization means for controlling the first and second electromagnets to synchronize the opaque portion in the first and second locations with a viewing apparatus for receiving is light from the first and second image path portions respectively.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path.
1 G The apparatus may comprise a movable member, having an opaque portion disposed in the single image path, a switching device cooperating with the movable member, for mowing the movable member between first and second positions in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an iimaging apparatus, to move the opaque portion ac between first and second locations in the single image path. Such movement alternately defines on opposite sides of the opaque portion first and second image path portions of the single image path, the first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively. The apparatus further includes a limiter for adjustably controlling a range of 25 movement of the opaque portion to define adjustable sizes of the first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between the first and second centroids.
The apparatus may further comprise a two dimensional lens system on 3o the single image path and a camera wherein the opaque portion is positioned between an object viewed by the lens system and the camera.
-6-The opaque portion disposed in the single image path may be located between the lens system and the camera.
The switching device may be operable to move the opaque portion from the first location to the second location within 0.5 milliseconds or less.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths from a single image path. The apparatus is comprises a movable member having an opaque portion disposed in the single image path and a switching device including at least one electromagnet responsive to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an irnaging apparatus. The electromagnet imposes a force on the movable member, to move the movable member between first 15 and second positions, in which the opaque portion is in first and second locations respectively in the single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of the opaque portion first and second image path portions of the single image path, thf~ first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths from a single image path. The apparatus comprises a movable mernber, including an arm having first and second end portions, an opaque portion disposed at the first end portion of the arm and disposed in the single image path and a fulcrum on the arm between the opaque portion and the sE:cond end portion, such that said arm is rotatable.
The apparatus further includes a switching device cooperating with the movable member, for rotating the movable member along an arc between first 3o and second positions in rf;sponse to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to move the opaque portion between first and second locations in the single image path, to alternately _ 7 _ define on opposite sides of the opaque portion first and second image path portions of the single ima~,ge path, the first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a stereoscopic viewing systE:m for viewing an object in a single image path with a camera, comprising a fiNO dimensional imaging lens system on the single image path and a switching device having an opaque leaf positioned on the single image path between the two dimensional imaging lens system and the io camera. The opaque leaf is movable laterally in the single image path from a left position to a right position, to provide a left image perspective and a right image perspective on the single image path to the camera, the left image perspective and the right image perspective being required for stereoscopic viewing. The system further comprises means for moving the opaque leaf 15 between the left position ;end the right position and for retaining the opaque leaf stationary in each position for a sufficient time for the camera to completely view each image perspective. The system further comprises stereoscopic viewing means to view the left image perspective from the camera with one eye of a viewer and to view the right image perspective from ao the camera with the other' eye of the viewer, and synchronization means to synchronize the means for moving the opaque leaf and to control the stereoscopic viewing means so that the viewer sees only the left image perspective with the one eye and only the right image perspective with the other eye. The means for moving the opaque leaf in the switching device 25 comprises two opposing electromagnets on both sides of a magnetic material armature movable betwE;en the electromagnets, the magnetic material armature being connectecl by an arm to the opaque leaf, the arm having a bearing between the armature and the opaque leaf, the electromagnets moving the armature from side to side such that the opaque leaf moves from 3o the left position to the right position.
-The left image pf~rspective and the right image perspective may represent a cross-sectional area greater than one-half the cross-sectional area of the image path blanked at the location of the opaque leaf.
The stereoscopic viewing system may include damping means associated with the electromagnets to ensure fast stopping of the armature with the opaque leaf in thE; left position and the right position. End stops may be positioned adjacent the opaque leaf to provide positive stops for the left position and the right position.
to A switching device according to the present invention has an opaque leaf positioned in the image path between the object and the camera. This opaque leaf is moved laterally at high speed in the image path from a left position to a right position to provide a left image perspective and a right 15 image perspective of the complete image path to the camera. The left image perspective and right imagie perspective provide the stereoscopic viewing and a synchronizer is provided to synchronize with, for example, a vertical retrace in a video system, or a filrn gate mechanism for advancing a frame exposure in a film camera. The synchronizer provides a signal to the stereoscopic 2o viewing system such that the left image perspective is visible to one eye, generally the left eye, and the right image perspective is visible to the other eye of a viewer. In this way a three dimensional or stereoscopic image is achieved. Because the two perspectives see the complete image path, there is no need to refocus or change the optics between perspectives. The 2 s complete image path is seen from both perspectives.
To use the switching device with a video camera, a signal from the camera indicating the frame exposure advancing cycle is used to synchronize the stereoscopic viewing system. The signal from a video camera may be 3o transmitted by telecommunications to different viewers. Alternatively, the signal may be recorded on a VCR, compact disc, or other similar recording means for future viewing and, again, the indication of frame change from the _g_ VCR or projector in the case of a film, may be used to synchronize the stereoscopic viewing arrangement to blank out alternately a left lens and a right lens of the eyewear. The system may also be used for transmission signals, either through cable, satellite or radio media. The receivinc viewer must have a stereoscopic viewing arrangement that is synchronized with the received transmission signals.
The present invention avoids the necessity of requiring two separate imaging systems and needs only a single image path between an image and to a camera. This permits utilizing existing two dimensional endoscopes, microscopes, telescopes ;end the like. It also permits use of video and film cameras with common optical lenses and other energy focusing devices to be incorporated. In the case of a conventional motion picture film camera or video camera, a fixed lens, a zoom lens, a fixed focal length lens or a zoom 15 adaptor lens may all be incorporated in the present system which provides stereoscopic viewing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
2o In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the components of the stereoscopic viewing system according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the switching device including an opaque leaf for laterally moving in an image path between a camera and an object, 3o Figures 3a, 3b and 3c are schematic views showing circular image paths with different sizes of left and right blocking to provide left and right perspectives.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the past it has bE:en necessary to provide two separate optical paths or image paths to provide a stereoscopic view or a three dimensional view.
However, by using a single image path and moving an optical leaf between a left position and a right position at a location in the image path, left and right image perspectives of the image path can be obtained. A single imaging sensor may have one exit pupil but the left and right image perspectives can lc be produced far enough apart to provide three dimensional or stereoscopic viewing.
Referring to Figure 1, a camera 10 has a lens 12 and an optical path 14 to an object 16 illustrated here as a tree. A high speed switching device i5 18 according to the present invention is shown with a movable blocking member such as an optical leaf 30 positioned at a location on the image path 14 that is at an optimal position to blank off the image path at that location and provide left and right image perspectives of the object for the full image path. Thus, the image seen by the camera is the same but from different 2 o perspectives.
The camera 10, which in this drawing is a video camera, provides a signal to a video monitor 2!0. An electronic synchronizer 22 synchronizes the movement of the high speed switching device 18 with the frame movement of 25 the camera 20, which in a video camera is the commencement of the vertical retrace, and then provides a signal to a stereoscopic viewing arrangement, in this case illustrated as liquid crystal glasses 24, so that the left and right eye of a viewer are synchranized to view the left and right image perspectives formed by movement of the high speed switch 18 at the location in the optical 3 o path 14.
Details of the high speed switch 18 are illustrated in Figure 2 wherein the opaque leaf 30 moves laterally in the optical path 14 between end stops 32. The optical leaf 30 blanks off a portion of the complete optical path 14 and when moved from a left position to a right position provides a left image perspective and a right image perspective.
The opaque leaf 30 is supported on the end of an arm 34 which at the other end has an iron armature 36. A fulcrum or bearing 38 is positioned on the arm 34.. In the optimized case the relative lengths of the arm portions is between the opaque leaf 30 and the bearing 38 and between the iron armature 36 and the bearing 38 are chosen so that it represents the center of the mass forming the opaque leaf 30, arm 34 and iron armature 36. This provides a balance for the arm to accelerate, stop and be free of motion in the time period between adjacent video or film image frames. In the video 15 embodiment the time periiod between adjacent frames is approximately 0.5 milliseconds and in the emotion picture embodiment this time is the gate mechanism advancement time, generally slightly more than 0.5 milliseconds.
The bearing 38 is a low friction bearing allowing the arm 34 to move only in the one plane that is perpendicular to the image path 14. No other motions 2o are allowed as they cause aberrations or distortion in the image.
The iron armature 36 is moved by two electromagnets 40 each having dampers 42 to assist in stopping the armature 36 and hence the opaque leaf 30 quickly and without any vibration.
The opaque leaf 3(1 is shown as being trapezoidal in shape and in a preferred embodiment the side face of the trapezoidal shape extends across the diameter or center line of the image path 14 when in either the left position or the right position up against end stops 32. The opaque leaf 30 3o moves in a short space oif time and then remains motionless for a relatively long period when the image exposure is made in both the left position and the right position. For a video camera, this exposure time is 16.7 milliseconds or 33.3 milliseconds at the frame rate. The ratio of 0.5 milliseconds to 16.7 milliseconds defines a 3% duty cycle, or at the frame rate a 1.5% duty cycle.
The switching action has ito occur in this short period and the opaque leaf 30 has to remain stationary without any movement for the exposure time. Motion of the opaque leaf 30 during the exposure time degrades the image quality.
In the embodimE:nt shown the opaque leaf 30 transverses perpendicularly across one-half of the image path 14 from end stop 32 to end stop 33 during the frame advancing time period. Many different types of io materials may be used for the opaque leaf. The defining parameter is that the leaf material is opaquE~ in the wave length of interest. For example, in the light frequencies the leaf must be opaque to light. The switch functions over a broad range of spectrum from sonic through infrared light, ultraviolet and up to high radio frequencies. In fact any frequency that is capable of having a i5 camera produce or reproduce an image. The switching device 18 is placed at a location in the image pai:h 14 typically at or near to the camera lens. In this way the opaque leaf 30 defines a constraining plane within the image path.
In the case of a radio frequency, the camera is an antenna, and in the case of a sonic system, the camera would be a directional microphone, or a horn to 2o receive an ultrasonic beam. In all cases, the opaque leaf 30 divides the image path into a left perspective and a right perspective such that these two perspectives can be viewed by the left and right eyes of a viewer to provide a stereoscopic or three dimensional image.
25 The left image perspective and the right image perspective are seen by alternating frames of the camera 10 and then as shown in Figure 1, a signal passes to a video monitor 20 where the left image perspective and the right image perspective are alternately shown from frame to frame.
3o An electronic synchronization circuit 22, shown in Figure 1, receives a signal from the camera 10 which represents the time between adjacent frames or, in the case of a motion picture, the time that the gate mechanism advances the film from frame to frame, and a signal from the electronic synchronization circuit 22 is passed to the electromagnets 40 of the switching device 18, to produce first the left image perspective and then the right image perspective, to ensure that there is synchronization between the camera frames and the switching device 18. The electromagnet 40 is activated to move the opaque leaf 3CI during the half millisecond that the video or film frame changes and then ensure that the opaque leaf 30 remains motionless during the exposure time of that frame, be it video or film.
lc As shown in Figure 1, the electronic synchronization circuit 22 also provides a signal to the two lenses in liquid crystal shutter glasses 24 similar to the type disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,021,846 to Roese. The different lenses change state from transparent to opaque and it is the electronic synchronization circuit 22 which ensures that the left image perspective of the i= image path is seen by the left eye with the right lens opaque, and the right image perspective of the image path seen by the right eye with the left lens opaque. The lenses switch from being transparent to opaque at the same speed and in synchronizairion with the movement of the opaque leaf and thus in synchronization with the frame movement of the camera 10. Thus the 2c alternating image perspectives on the monitor 20 are arranged to be seen by a viewer's left eye seeing only the left image perspective frames and the right eye only the right image perspective frames.
There are many other mechanisms available to differentiate at a viewers eye between the left image perspective and the right image perspective, and the present invention is not limited to any one type of stereoscopic viewing device.
The location of the end stops 32 shown in Figure 2 may be relocated if 3c one requires greater or less movement of the opaque leaf 30 across the image path 14. Figure 3a illustrates a circular cross-section image path 14 at that location with a left block 50 and a right block 52 to provide a left image perspective and a right image perspective. The trapezoidal shape of the opaque leaf 30 divides the image path 14 at a vertical diameter 54, thus the two blocks 50,52 have the same cross-sectional areas, each a semi circle with a respective centroid. This creates the joining edge of the left block 50 and the right block 52 during the cycling action.
The amount of stereopsis is varied within the image path 14 by changing the movement of the opaque leaf 30 between the end stops 32 to adjust the distance betweE~n the centroids.
i c~
Figure 3b represents less movement of the opaque leaf and the left block 50 overlaps the right block 52 and has an overlap portion 56 such that the sizes of the image path portions are greater but the centroids thereof are closer together. Figure 3c: represents more movement of the opaque leaf and i_=. the left block 50 and right block 52 do not even join, leaving a gap 58, whereby the sizes of the image path portions are smaller but the centroids thereof are further apart. A greater stereopsis is obtained with overlap as shown in Figure 3b but there is less light for viewing. The best light situation occurs with a gap between the blocks 50,52 as shown in Figure 3c, but there 2o is less stereopsis. A preferred embodiment of optical viewing is the arrangement shown in Figure 3a which best balances light and stereopsis.
In the embodiment described herein, it has been indicated that the left image perspective is seen by the left eye of a viewer and the right image perspective is seen by the right eye of the viewer. This arrangement may depend partly upon the location of the opaque leaf of the switching device in the optical path. In certalin situations, the perspectives may be physically or electronically switched, so the viewer sees with the left eye when the optical leaf is blocking a right portion of the image path, and vice versa. The 3o arrangement is made to obtain the desired degree of stereopsis and to obtain the maximum available light without any refocusing.
Whereas the opaque leaf 30 has been shown as being trapezoidal, in other embodiments this shape may be varied. For instance, the opaque leaf 30 may be such that two separate circular image perspectives are formed spaced apart. Whereas 'the image path 14 is shown as being circular, in other embodiments this could be rectangular or almost any shape which is viewed by a camera. In an optical embodiment, the image path 14 or optical path can be scaled larger or smaller as can the switching device 18.
Maximum energy transmission is provided for stereoscopic imaging through the single lens system siince only one-half the image path 14 is blocked io during each cycle as compared to any technique that places energy absorbing devices in seriea with the active half of a transmission path. The opaque leaf 30 blocks a portion of the image path 14 leaving the remainder of the image path open for an image perspective. No additional devices that absorb energy or distort the properties of the energy source are needed, and there is no change necessary for focusing the right or left image perspectives.
The air gaps that are in position between the iron armature 36 and the electromagnets 40 providle fast release of the armature 36 from residual magnetic fields stored in the electromagnets 40 for the next cycle. Electronic 2o waveform control of each electromagnet produces magnetic fields which reduce these residual fields further. The electronic waveform to the electromagnets 40 of the switch mechanism is formed to create high acceleration of the leaf, as required during the frame advancing cycle. The waveform then causes sufficient magnetic force to be produced to hold the 2= armature 36 and hence the opaque leaf 30 in place and stationary during the exposure period. Just before the end of the exposure period, the waveform causes a slight reverse polarization of the magnetic field to overcome residual permanent magnetic effects in magnets thereof.
3o Other changes may be made to the embodiments shown herein without departing from the scope of the present invention which is limited only by the following claims.
The switching device may be operable to move the opaque portion from the first location to the second location within 0.5 milliseconds or less.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths from a single image path. The apparatus is comprises a movable member having an opaque portion disposed in the single image path and a switching device including at least one electromagnet responsive to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an irnaging apparatus. The electromagnet imposes a force on the movable member, to move the movable member between first 15 and second positions, in which the opaque portion is in first and second locations respectively in the single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of the opaque portion first and second image path portions of the single image path, thf~ first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths from a single image path. The apparatus comprises a movable mernber, including an arm having first and second end portions, an opaque portion disposed at the first end portion of the arm and disposed in the single image path and a fulcrum on the arm between the opaque portion and the sE:cond end portion, such that said arm is rotatable.
The apparatus further includes a switching device cooperating with the movable member, for rotating the movable member along an arc between first 3o and second positions in rf;sponse to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to move the opaque portion between first and second locations in the single image path, to alternately _ 7 _ define on opposite sides of the opaque portion first and second image path portions of the single ima~,ge path, the first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a stereoscopic viewing systE:m for viewing an object in a single image path with a camera, comprising a fiNO dimensional imaging lens system on the single image path and a switching device having an opaque leaf positioned on the single image path between the two dimensional imaging lens system and the io camera. The opaque leaf is movable laterally in the single image path from a left position to a right position, to provide a left image perspective and a right image perspective on the single image path to the camera, the left image perspective and the right image perspective being required for stereoscopic viewing. The system further comprises means for moving the opaque leaf 15 between the left position ;end the right position and for retaining the opaque leaf stationary in each position for a sufficient time for the camera to completely view each image perspective. The system further comprises stereoscopic viewing means to view the left image perspective from the camera with one eye of a viewer and to view the right image perspective from ao the camera with the other' eye of the viewer, and synchronization means to synchronize the means for moving the opaque leaf and to control the stereoscopic viewing means so that the viewer sees only the left image perspective with the one eye and only the right image perspective with the other eye. The means for moving the opaque leaf in the switching device 25 comprises two opposing electromagnets on both sides of a magnetic material armature movable betwE;en the electromagnets, the magnetic material armature being connectecl by an arm to the opaque leaf, the arm having a bearing between the armature and the opaque leaf, the electromagnets moving the armature from side to side such that the opaque leaf moves from 3o the left position to the right position.
-The left image pf~rspective and the right image perspective may represent a cross-sectional area greater than one-half the cross-sectional area of the image path blanked at the location of the opaque leaf.
The stereoscopic viewing system may include damping means associated with the electromagnets to ensure fast stopping of the armature with the opaque leaf in thE; left position and the right position. End stops may be positioned adjacent the opaque leaf to provide positive stops for the left position and the right position.
to A switching device according to the present invention has an opaque leaf positioned in the image path between the object and the camera. This opaque leaf is moved laterally at high speed in the image path from a left position to a right position to provide a left image perspective and a right 15 image perspective of the complete image path to the camera. The left image perspective and right imagie perspective provide the stereoscopic viewing and a synchronizer is provided to synchronize with, for example, a vertical retrace in a video system, or a filrn gate mechanism for advancing a frame exposure in a film camera. The synchronizer provides a signal to the stereoscopic 2o viewing system such that the left image perspective is visible to one eye, generally the left eye, and the right image perspective is visible to the other eye of a viewer. In this way a three dimensional or stereoscopic image is achieved. Because the two perspectives see the complete image path, there is no need to refocus or change the optics between perspectives. The 2 s complete image path is seen from both perspectives.
To use the switching device with a video camera, a signal from the camera indicating the frame exposure advancing cycle is used to synchronize the stereoscopic viewing system. The signal from a video camera may be 3o transmitted by telecommunications to different viewers. Alternatively, the signal may be recorded on a VCR, compact disc, or other similar recording means for future viewing and, again, the indication of frame change from the _g_ VCR or projector in the case of a film, may be used to synchronize the stereoscopic viewing arrangement to blank out alternately a left lens and a right lens of the eyewear. The system may also be used for transmission signals, either through cable, satellite or radio media. The receivinc viewer must have a stereoscopic viewing arrangement that is synchronized with the received transmission signals.
The present invention avoids the necessity of requiring two separate imaging systems and needs only a single image path between an image and to a camera. This permits utilizing existing two dimensional endoscopes, microscopes, telescopes ;end the like. It also permits use of video and film cameras with common optical lenses and other energy focusing devices to be incorporated. In the case of a conventional motion picture film camera or video camera, a fixed lens, a zoom lens, a fixed focal length lens or a zoom 15 adaptor lens may all be incorporated in the present system which provides stereoscopic viewing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
2o In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the present invention, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the components of the stereoscopic viewing system according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the switching device including an opaque leaf for laterally moving in an image path between a camera and an object, 3o Figures 3a, 3b and 3c are schematic views showing circular image paths with different sizes of left and right blocking to provide left and right perspectives.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the past it has bE:en necessary to provide two separate optical paths or image paths to provide a stereoscopic view or a three dimensional view.
However, by using a single image path and moving an optical leaf between a left position and a right position at a location in the image path, left and right image perspectives of the image path can be obtained. A single imaging sensor may have one exit pupil but the left and right image perspectives can lc be produced far enough apart to provide three dimensional or stereoscopic viewing.
Referring to Figure 1, a camera 10 has a lens 12 and an optical path 14 to an object 16 illustrated here as a tree. A high speed switching device i5 18 according to the present invention is shown with a movable blocking member such as an optical leaf 30 positioned at a location on the image path 14 that is at an optimal position to blank off the image path at that location and provide left and right image perspectives of the object for the full image path. Thus, the image seen by the camera is the same but from different 2 o perspectives.
The camera 10, which in this drawing is a video camera, provides a signal to a video monitor 2!0. An electronic synchronizer 22 synchronizes the movement of the high speed switching device 18 with the frame movement of 25 the camera 20, which in a video camera is the commencement of the vertical retrace, and then provides a signal to a stereoscopic viewing arrangement, in this case illustrated as liquid crystal glasses 24, so that the left and right eye of a viewer are synchranized to view the left and right image perspectives formed by movement of the high speed switch 18 at the location in the optical 3 o path 14.
Details of the high speed switch 18 are illustrated in Figure 2 wherein the opaque leaf 30 moves laterally in the optical path 14 between end stops 32. The optical leaf 30 blanks off a portion of the complete optical path 14 and when moved from a left position to a right position provides a left image perspective and a right image perspective.
The opaque leaf 30 is supported on the end of an arm 34 which at the other end has an iron armature 36. A fulcrum or bearing 38 is positioned on the arm 34.. In the optimized case the relative lengths of the arm portions is between the opaque leaf 30 and the bearing 38 and between the iron armature 36 and the bearing 38 are chosen so that it represents the center of the mass forming the opaque leaf 30, arm 34 and iron armature 36. This provides a balance for the arm to accelerate, stop and be free of motion in the time period between adjacent video or film image frames. In the video 15 embodiment the time periiod between adjacent frames is approximately 0.5 milliseconds and in the emotion picture embodiment this time is the gate mechanism advancement time, generally slightly more than 0.5 milliseconds.
The bearing 38 is a low friction bearing allowing the arm 34 to move only in the one plane that is perpendicular to the image path 14. No other motions 2o are allowed as they cause aberrations or distortion in the image.
The iron armature 36 is moved by two electromagnets 40 each having dampers 42 to assist in stopping the armature 36 and hence the opaque leaf 30 quickly and without any vibration.
The opaque leaf 3(1 is shown as being trapezoidal in shape and in a preferred embodiment the side face of the trapezoidal shape extends across the diameter or center line of the image path 14 when in either the left position or the right position up against end stops 32. The opaque leaf 30 3o moves in a short space oif time and then remains motionless for a relatively long period when the image exposure is made in both the left position and the right position. For a video camera, this exposure time is 16.7 milliseconds or 33.3 milliseconds at the frame rate. The ratio of 0.5 milliseconds to 16.7 milliseconds defines a 3% duty cycle, or at the frame rate a 1.5% duty cycle.
The switching action has ito occur in this short period and the opaque leaf 30 has to remain stationary without any movement for the exposure time. Motion of the opaque leaf 30 during the exposure time degrades the image quality.
In the embodimE:nt shown the opaque leaf 30 transverses perpendicularly across one-half of the image path 14 from end stop 32 to end stop 33 during the frame advancing time period. Many different types of io materials may be used for the opaque leaf. The defining parameter is that the leaf material is opaquE~ in the wave length of interest. For example, in the light frequencies the leaf must be opaque to light. The switch functions over a broad range of spectrum from sonic through infrared light, ultraviolet and up to high radio frequencies. In fact any frequency that is capable of having a i5 camera produce or reproduce an image. The switching device 18 is placed at a location in the image pai:h 14 typically at or near to the camera lens. In this way the opaque leaf 30 defines a constraining plane within the image path.
In the case of a radio frequency, the camera is an antenna, and in the case of a sonic system, the camera would be a directional microphone, or a horn to 2o receive an ultrasonic beam. In all cases, the opaque leaf 30 divides the image path into a left perspective and a right perspective such that these two perspectives can be viewed by the left and right eyes of a viewer to provide a stereoscopic or three dimensional image.
25 The left image perspective and the right image perspective are seen by alternating frames of the camera 10 and then as shown in Figure 1, a signal passes to a video monitor 20 where the left image perspective and the right image perspective are alternately shown from frame to frame.
3o An electronic synchronization circuit 22, shown in Figure 1, receives a signal from the camera 10 which represents the time between adjacent frames or, in the case of a motion picture, the time that the gate mechanism advances the film from frame to frame, and a signal from the electronic synchronization circuit 22 is passed to the electromagnets 40 of the switching device 18, to produce first the left image perspective and then the right image perspective, to ensure that there is synchronization between the camera frames and the switching device 18. The electromagnet 40 is activated to move the opaque leaf 3CI during the half millisecond that the video or film frame changes and then ensure that the opaque leaf 30 remains motionless during the exposure time of that frame, be it video or film.
lc As shown in Figure 1, the electronic synchronization circuit 22 also provides a signal to the two lenses in liquid crystal shutter glasses 24 similar to the type disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,021,846 to Roese. The different lenses change state from transparent to opaque and it is the electronic synchronization circuit 22 which ensures that the left image perspective of the i= image path is seen by the left eye with the right lens opaque, and the right image perspective of the image path seen by the right eye with the left lens opaque. The lenses switch from being transparent to opaque at the same speed and in synchronizairion with the movement of the opaque leaf and thus in synchronization with the frame movement of the camera 10. Thus the 2c alternating image perspectives on the monitor 20 are arranged to be seen by a viewer's left eye seeing only the left image perspective frames and the right eye only the right image perspective frames.
There are many other mechanisms available to differentiate at a viewers eye between the left image perspective and the right image perspective, and the present invention is not limited to any one type of stereoscopic viewing device.
The location of the end stops 32 shown in Figure 2 may be relocated if 3c one requires greater or less movement of the opaque leaf 30 across the image path 14. Figure 3a illustrates a circular cross-section image path 14 at that location with a left block 50 and a right block 52 to provide a left image perspective and a right image perspective. The trapezoidal shape of the opaque leaf 30 divides the image path 14 at a vertical diameter 54, thus the two blocks 50,52 have the same cross-sectional areas, each a semi circle with a respective centroid. This creates the joining edge of the left block 50 and the right block 52 during the cycling action.
The amount of stereopsis is varied within the image path 14 by changing the movement of the opaque leaf 30 between the end stops 32 to adjust the distance betweE~n the centroids.
i c~
Figure 3b represents less movement of the opaque leaf and the left block 50 overlaps the right block 52 and has an overlap portion 56 such that the sizes of the image path portions are greater but the centroids thereof are closer together. Figure 3c: represents more movement of the opaque leaf and i_=. the left block 50 and right block 52 do not even join, leaving a gap 58, whereby the sizes of the image path portions are smaller but the centroids thereof are further apart. A greater stereopsis is obtained with overlap as shown in Figure 3b but there is less light for viewing. The best light situation occurs with a gap between the blocks 50,52 as shown in Figure 3c, but there 2o is less stereopsis. A preferred embodiment of optical viewing is the arrangement shown in Figure 3a which best balances light and stereopsis.
In the embodiment described herein, it has been indicated that the left image perspective is seen by the left eye of a viewer and the right image perspective is seen by the right eye of the viewer. This arrangement may depend partly upon the location of the opaque leaf of the switching device in the optical path. In certalin situations, the perspectives may be physically or electronically switched, so the viewer sees with the left eye when the optical leaf is blocking a right portion of the image path, and vice versa. The 3o arrangement is made to obtain the desired degree of stereopsis and to obtain the maximum available light without any refocusing.
Whereas the opaque leaf 30 has been shown as being trapezoidal, in other embodiments this shape may be varied. For instance, the opaque leaf 30 may be such that two separate circular image perspectives are formed spaced apart. Whereas 'the image path 14 is shown as being circular, in other embodiments this could be rectangular or almost any shape which is viewed by a camera. In an optical embodiment, the image path 14 or optical path can be scaled larger or smaller as can the switching device 18.
Maximum energy transmission is provided for stereoscopic imaging through the single lens system siince only one-half the image path 14 is blocked io during each cycle as compared to any technique that places energy absorbing devices in seriea with the active half of a transmission path. The opaque leaf 30 blocks a portion of the image path 14 leaving the remainder of the image path open for an image perspective. No additional devices that absorb energy or distort the properties of the energy source are needed, and there is no change necessary for focusing the right or left image perspectives.
The air gaps that are in position between the iron armature 36 and the electromagnets 40 providle fast release of the armature 36 from residual magnetic fields stored in the electromagnets 40 for the next cycle. Electronic 2o waveform control of each electromagnet produces magnetic fields which reduce these residual fields further. The electronic waveform to the electromagnets 40 of the switch mechanism is formed to create high acceleration of the leaf, as required during the frame advancing cycle. The waveform then causes sufficient magnetic force to be produced to hold the 2= armature 36 and hence the opaque leaf 30 in place and stationary during the exposure period. Just before the end of the exposure period, the waveform causes a slight reverse polarization of the magnetic field to overcome residual permanent magnetic effects in magnets thereof.
3o Other changes may be made to the embodiments shown herein without departing from the scope of the present invention which is limited only by the following claims.
Claims (53)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A method for operating a switching apparatus in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path, the method comprising:
a) moving a blocking member between first and second locations in said single image path in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to alternately define on opposite sides of said blocking member first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively; and b) adjustably controlling a range of movement of said blocking member to define adjustable sizes of said first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between said first and second centroids.
a) moving a blocking member between first and second locations in said single image path in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to alternately define on opposite sides of said blocking member first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively; and b) adjustably controlling a range of movement of said blocking member to define adjustable sizes of said first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between said first and second centroids.
2. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein adjustably controlling includes varying the amount of movement of said blocking member.
3. A method as claimed in claim 2, further including synchronizing alternately defining said first and second image path portions with said imaging apparatus for receiving light from said first and second image path portions respectively.
4. A method as claimed in claim 3, wherein moving a blocking member includes moving an opaque member by alternately activating first and second electromagnets on opposite sides of an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, said armature being connected to a second end portion of an arm having first and second end portions, said first end portion of said arm being connected to said opaque member, said arm having a fulcrum between said opaque member and said armature such that said arm is rotatable, thereby moving said armature between first and second armature locations adjacent to said first and second electromagnets respectively, thereby alternately rotating said arm to move said opaque member between said first and second locations.
5. A method as claimed in claim 4, wherein said arm is rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to said single image path.
6. A method as claimed in claim 5, wherein synchronizing includes controlling said first and second electromagnets to synchronize said opaque member in said first and second locations with said imaging apparatus for receiving light from said first and second image path portions respectively.
7. A switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic images paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path, said apparatus comprising:
a) blocking means for blocking a portion of said single image path;
b) means for moving said blocking means between first and second locations in said single image path in response to signals received from synchronization means in communication with imaging means, to alternately define on opposite sides of said blocking means first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively; and c) means for adjustably controlling a range of movement of said blocking means to define adjustable sizes of said first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between said first and second centroids.
a) blocking means for blocking a portion of said single image path;
b) means for moving said blocking means between first and second locations in said single image path in response to signals received from synchronization means in communication with imaging means, to alternately define on opposite sides of said blocking means first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively; and c) means for adjustably controlling a range of movement of said blocking means to define adjustable sizes of said first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between said first and second centroids.
8. An apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein said blocking means includes a movable member, said movable member having an opaque portion disposed in said single image path.
9. An apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein said means for controlling includes first and second end stops on opposite sides of said opaque portion, said first and second end stops being adjustable in position to selectively limit a range of movement of said movable member.
10. An apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein said movable member is rotatable about an axis generally parallel to said single image path.
11. An apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein said means for moving includes at least one electromagnet.
12. An apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein said movable member includes:
a) an arm having first and second end portions, said opaque portion being disposed at said first end portion of said arm;
b) an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, said armature being connected to said second end portion of said arm; and c) a fulcrum on said arm between said opaque portion and said armature, such that said arm is rotatable.
a) an arm having first and second end portions, said opaque portion being disposed at said first end portion of said arm;
b) an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, said armature being connected to said second end portion of said arm; and c) a fulcrum on said arm between said opaque portion and said armature, such that said arm is rotatable.
13. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein said arm is rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to said single image path.
14. An apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein said means for moving includes first and second electromagnets on opposite sides of said armature, operable to move said armature from a first armature location adjacent bo said first electromagnet to a second armature location adjacent to said second electromagnet to rotate said arm to move said opaque portion from said first location to said second location.
15. An apparatus as claimed in claim 14, further including:
a) a first damper on said first electromagnet between said first electromagnet and said armature; and b) a second damper on said second electromagnet between said second electromagnet and said armature.
a) a first damper on said first electromagnet between said first electromagnet and said armature; and b) a second damper on said second electromagnet between said second electromagnet and said armature.
16. An apparatus as claimed in claim 14, further including said synchronization means for controlling said first and second electromagnets to synchronize said opaque portion in said first and second locations with a viewing apparatus for receiving light from said first and second image path portions respectively.
17. An apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein said opaque portion includes an opaque leaf.
18. An apparatus as claimed in claim 17, wherein said opaque leaf is trapezoidal in shape.
19. A switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic imago: paths of variable stereopsis from a single image path, said apparatus comprising:
a) a movable member, having an opaque portion disposed in said single image path;
b) a switching device cooperating with said movable member, for moving said movable member between first and second positions in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to move said opaque portion between first and second locations in said single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of said opaque portion first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively; and c) a limiter for adjustably controlling a range of movement of said opaque portion to define adjustable sizes of said first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between said first and second centroids.
a) a movable member, having an opaque portion disposed in said single image path;
b) a switching device cooperating with said movable member, for moving said movable member between first and second positions in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to move said opaque portion between first and second locations in said single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of said opaque portion first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively; and c) a limiter for adjustably controlling a range of movement of said opaque portion to define adjustable sizes of said first and second image path portions and an adjustable distance between said first and second centroids.
20. An apparatus as claimed in claim 19, wherein said limiter includes first and second end stops on opposite sides of said opaque portion, said first and second end stops being adjustable in position to selectively limit a range of movement of said movable member.
21. An apparatus as claimed in claim 20, wherein said movable member is rotatable about an axis generally parallel to said single image path.
22. An apparatus as claimed in claim 21, wherein said switching device includes at least one electromagnet.
23. An apparatus as claimed in claim 20, wherein said movable member includes a) an arm having first and second end portions, said opaque portion being disposed at said first end portion of said arm;
b) an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, said armature being connected to said second end portion of said arm; and c) a fulcrum on said arm between said opaque portion and said armature, such that said arm is rotatable.
b) an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, said armature being connected to said second end portion of said arm; and c) a fulcrum on said arm between said opaque portion and said armature, such that said arm is rotatable.
24. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein said arm is rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to said single image path.
25. An apparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein said opaque portion includes an opaque leaf.
26. An apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein said opaque leaf is trapezoidal in shape.
27. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein said switching device includes first and second electromagnets on opposite sides of said armature, operable to move said armature from a first armature location adjacent to said first electromagnet to a second armature location adjacent to said second electromagnet to rotate said arm to move said opaque portion from said first location to said second location.
28. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, further including:
a) a first damper on said first electromagnet between said first electromagnet and said armature; and b) a second damper on said second electromagnet between said second electromagnet and said armature.
a) a first damper on said first electromagnet between said first electromagnet and said armature; and b) a second damper on said second electromagnet between said second electromagnet and said armature.
29. An apparatus as claimed in claim 27, further including said synchronizer for controlling said first and second electromagnets to synchronize said opaque portion in said first and second locations with a viewing apparatus for receiving light from said first and second image path portions respectively.
30. An apparatus as claimed in claim 19, further comprising:
a) a two dimensional lens system on said single image path; and b) a camera;
c) wherein said opaque portion is positioned between an object viewed by said lens system and said camera.
a) a two dimensional lens system on said single image path; and b) a camera;
c) wherein said opaque portion is positioned between an object viewed by said lens system and said camera.
31. An apparatus as claimed in claim 30, wherein said opaque portion disposed in said single image path is located between said lens system and said camera.
32. An apparatus as claimed in claim 30, wherein said switching device is operable to move said opaque portion from said first location to said second location within 0.5 milliseconds or less.
33. A switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths from a single image path, said apparatus comprising:
a) a movable member, having an opaque portion disposed in said single image path; and b) a switching device including at least one electromagnet responsive to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, said electromagnet imposing a force on said movable member, to move said movable member between first and second positions, in which said opaque portion is in first and second locations respectively in said single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of said opaque portion first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively.
a) a movable member, having an opaque portion disposed in said single image path; and b) a switching device including at least one electromagnet responsive to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, said electromagnet imposing a force on said movable member, to move said movable member between first and second positions, in which said opaque portion is in first and second locations respectively in said single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of said opaque portion first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively.
34. An apparatus as claimed in claim 33, wherein said movable member includes:
a) an arm having first and second end portions, said opaque portion being disposed at said first end portion of said arm;
b) an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, said armature being connected to said second end portion of said arm; and c) a fulcrum on said arm between said opaque portion and said armature, such that said arm is rotatable.
a) an arm having first and second end portions, said opaque portion being disposed at said first end portion of said arm;
b) an armature composed of ferromagnetic material, said armature being connected to said second end portion of said arm; and c) a fulcrum on said arm between said opaque portion and said armature, such that said arm is rotatable.
35. An apparatus as claimed in claim 34, wherein said arm is rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to said single image path.
36. An apparatus as claimed in claim 34, wherein said switching device includes first and second electromagnets on opposite sides of said armature, operable to move said armature from a first armature location adjacent to said first electromagnet to a second armature location adjacent to said second electromagnet to rotate said arm to move said opaque portion from said first location to said second location.
37. An apparatus as claimed in claim 36, further including:
a) a first damper on said first electromagnet between said first electromagnet and said armature; and b) a second damper on said second electromagnet between said second electromagnet and said armature.
a) a first damper on said first electromagnet between said first electromagnet and said armature; and b) a second damper on said second electromagnet between said second electromagnet and said armature.
38. An apparatus as claimed in claim 36, further including said synchronizer for controlling said first and second electromagnets to synchronize said opaque portion in said first and second locations with a viewing apparatus for receiving light from said first and second image path portions respectively.
39. An apparatus as claimed in claim 38, further including a limiter for controlling the movement of said opaque portion to define the sizes of said first and second image path portions and a distance between said first and second centroids.
40. An apparatus as claimed in claim 39, wherein said opaque portion includes an opaque leaf.
41. An apparatus as claimed in claim 40, wherein said opaque leaf is trapezoidal in shape.
42. An apparatus as claimed in claim 34, wherein said opaque portion includes an opaque leaf.
43. An apparatus as claimed in claim 42, wherein said opaque leaf is trapezoidal in shape.
44. A switching apparatus for use in a stereoscopic system for producing stereoscopic image paths from a single image path, said apparatus comprising:
a) a movable member, including i) an arm having first and second end portions;
ii) an opaque portion disposed at said first end portion of said arm and disposed in said single image path;
iii) a fulcrum on said arm between said opaque portion and said second end portion, such that said arm is rotatable;
and b) a switching device cooperating with said movable member, for rotating said movable member along an arc between first and second positions in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to move said opaque portion between first and second locations in said single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of said opaque portion first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively.
a) a movable member, including i) an arm having first and second end portions;
ii) an opaque portion disposed at said first end portion of said arm and disposed in said single image path;
iii) a fulcrum on said arm between said opaque portion and said second end portion, such that said arm is rotatable;
and b) a switching device cooperating with said movable member, for rotating said movable member along an arc between first and second positions in response to signals received from a synchronizer in communication with an imaging apparatus, to move said opaque portion between first and second locations in said single image path, to alternately define on opposite sides of said opaque portion first and second image path portions of said single image path, said first and second image path portions having first and second spaced apart centroids respectively.
45. An apparatus as claimed in claim 44, wherein said arm is rotatable in a plane generally perpendicular to said single image path.
46. An apparatus as claimed in claim 44, wherein said opaque portion is trapezoidal in shape.
47. An apparatus as claimed in claim 46, further including:
a) a two dimensional lens system on said single image path; and b) a camera;
c) wherein said opaque portion is positioned between an object viewed by said lens system and said camera.
a) a two dimensional lens system on said single image path; and b) a camera;
c) wherein said opaque portion is positioned between an object viewed by said lens system and said camera.
48. An apparatus as claimed in claim 47, wherein said opaque portion disposed in said single image path is located between said lens system and said camera.
49. A stereoscopic viewing system for viewing an object in a single image path with a camera, comprising:
a) a two dimensional imaging lens system on the single image path;
b) a switching device having an opaque leaf positioned on the single image path between the two dimensional imaging lens system and the camera, the opaque leaf being movable laterally in the single image path from a left position to a right position, to provide a left image perspective and a right image perspective on the single image path to the camera, the left image perspective and the right image perspective required for stereoscopic viewing;
c) means for moving the opaque leaf between the left position and the right position and retaining the opaque leaf stationary in each position for a sufficient time for the camera to completely view each image perspective;
d) stereoscopic viewing means to view the left image perspective from the camera with one eye of a viewer and to view the right image perspective from the camera with the other eye of the viewer; and e) synchronization means to synchronize the means for moving the opaque leaf and control the stereoscopic viewing means so that the viewer sees only the left image perspective with the one eye and only the right image perspective with the other eye, characterized in that the means for moving the opaque leaf in the switching device comprises two opposing electromagnets on both sides of a magnetic material armature movable between the electromagnets, the magnetic material armature being connected by an arm to the opaque leaf, the arm having a bearing between the armature and the opaque leaf, the electromagnets moving the armature from side to side such that the opaque leaf moves from the left position to the right position.
a) a two dimensional imaging lens system on the single image path;
b) a switching device having an opaque leaf positioned on the single image path between the two dimensional imaging lens system and the camera, the opaque leaf being movable laterally in the single image path from a left position to a right position, to provide a left image perspective and a right image perspective on the single image path to the camera, the left image perspective and the right image perspective required for stereoscopic viewing;
c) means for moving the opaque leaf between the left position and the right position and retaining the opaque leaf stationary in each position for a sufficient time for the camera to completely view each image perspective;
d) stereoscopic viewing means to view the left image perspective from the camera with one eye of a viewer and to view the right image perspective from the camera with the other eye of the viewer; and e) synchronization means to synchronize the means for moving the opaque leaf and control the stereoscopic viewing means so that the viewer sees only the left image perspective with the one eye and only the right image perspective with the other eye, characterized in that the means for moving the opaque leaf in the switching device comprises two opposing electromagnets on both sides of a magnetic material armature movable between the electromagnets, the magnetic material armature being connected by an arm to the opaque leaf, the arm having a bearing between the armature and the opaque leaf, the electromagnets moving the armature from side to side such that the opaque leaf moves from the left position to the right position.
50. The stereoscopic viewing system according to claim 49 wherein the opaque leaf is trapezoidal in shape.
51. The stereoscopic viewing system according to claim 49 or 50 wherein the left image perspective and the right image perspective represent a cross-sectional area greater than one-half the cross-sectional area of the image path blanked at the location of the opaque leaf.
52. The stereoscopic viewing system according to any one of claims 49 to 51 including damping means associated with the electromagnets to ensure fast stopping of the armature with the opaque leaf in the left position and the right position.
53. The stereoscopic viewing system according to any one of claims 49 to 52 including end stops adjacent the opaque leaf to provide positive stops for the left position and the right position.
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| CA2123077C (en) * | 1994-04-14 | 2001-09-04 | Anthony B. Greening | Single lens stereoscopic imaging system |
-
1994
- 1994-05-06 CA CA002123077A patent/CA2123077C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1995
- 1995-03-21 DE DE69510785T patent/DE69510785T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1995-03-21 JP JP7526588A patent/JPH10502456A/en active Pending
- 1995-03-21 EP EP95912115A patent/EP0755531B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1995-03-21 AU AU19446/95A patent/AU1944695A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1995-03-21 WO PCT/CA1995/000160 patent/WO1995028662A1/en active IP Right Grant
-
1996
- 1996-06-06 US US08/659,379 patent/US5828487A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1998
- 1998-10-05 US US09/166,618 patent/US6151164A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP0755531A1 (en) | 1997-01-29 |
| AU1944695A (en) | 1995-11-10 |
| JPH10502456A (en) | 1998-03-03 |
| DE69510785D1 (en) | 1999-08-19 |
| US6151164A (en) | 2000-11-21 |
| US5828487A (en) | 1998-10-27 |
| CA2123077A1 (en) | 1995-10-15 |
| EP0755531B1 (en) | 1999-07-14 |
| DE69510785T2 (en) | 2000-03-09 |
| WO1995028662A1 (en) | 1995-10-26 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20140506 |