Three-Dimensional Optical Display Unit

Philip Pressel

doi:10.1117/12.956903

22 December 1978 Three-Dimensional Optical Display Unit

Philip Pressel

Proceedings Volume 0162, Visual Simulation and Image Realism I; (1978) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.956903
Event: 22nd Annual Technical Symposium, 1978, San Diego, United States

Abstract

This paper presents a method to visually display, in true three dimensions, light spots representing objects or targets. They can move in three spatial directions within a specified volume as directed by incoming electronic information. Spots of light positionable in the X and Z directions are flashed onto an oscillating screen moving in the Y direction. If the flashing of spots is synchronized with the position of the screen, the spots, generated by a cathode ray tube (CRT), can be made to appear stationary in space. The spots are flashed onto the screen through an optical system consisting of mirrors, a collimating lens, and a focusing lens. The translucent screen and focusing lens oscillate together in a direction perpendicular to the planes of the screen and focusing lens. Since the screen and focusing lens move together, the focal distance is held constant. A key to the method is the mechanical drive system for the reciprocating motion of the screen and lens. The drive provides: (1) theoretically perfect rigid body dynamic balancing to minimize vibration, shock, and noise; (2) simple and low power mechanical drive system, offering continuous unidirectional rotation; (3) constant inertial load; (4) harmonic motion, providing for simple data inputs; and (5) low friction losses.

Citation Download Citation

Philip Pressel "Three-Dimensional Optical Display Unit", Proc. SPIE 0162, Visual Simulation and Image Realism I, (22 December 1978); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.956903

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available