Display System

Abstract

Providing an improved system for simulation, interactive display, or immersive environment. Aspects of the invention include displays and simulated systems that use materials made from various arrangements of lenses and other optical materials to achieve visual effects with applications in display systems, virtual reality, immersive environments, as well as in architecture, art, entertainment, display, interactive systems, etc. These materials utilize the refraction and reflection of light and other radiation in the electromagnetic spectrum to achieve the desired visual effects.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62 / 632,526, filed February 20, 2018, and 62 / 693,959, filed July 4, 2018, the entire contents of each of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates generally to improved display systems, and in particular to the use of light-interactive materials to create improved displays suitable for use in simulated or immersive environments. [Background technology]

[0003] Display systems used in conjunction with simulators, virtual reality systems, and augmented reality technologies are known that allow users to interact with at least partially simulated environments. While such conventional systems typically rely on computer monitors or stereoscopic displays and are primarily visual in nature, systems may be augmented with audio or tactile feedback. Popular examples include flight simulator video games in which players pilot virtual aircraft in computer-simulated digital environments.

[0004] Augmented reality (AR) often refers to the combination of real-world objects with computer-generated digital data. Traditionally, AR uses digitally processed video and images augmented with the addition of computer-generated graphics.

[0005] Systems that include the use of cameras to capture and track the position and movement of a user are also known. For example, U.S. Patent No. 8,009,022 describes a system that includes a depth camera that captures the position and movement of a user, a three-dimensional (3D) display device that presents a virtual environment in 3D to the user, and a haptic feedback device that interfaces with the user via a sense of touch by applying one or more of, for example, force, vibration, and movement to the user to provide haptic feedback when the user interacts with virtual objects in the virtual environment.

[0006] As the user moves through the user's physical space, an image of the user is captured by a depth camera. Data from the depth camera is analyzed to correlate the user's position with a location in the virtual environment. If the user's position or movement causes the user's likeness in the virtual environment to touch a virtual object, corresponding haptic feedback is provided to the user. The haptic feedback is provided through the use of a glove coupled to the user's arm, the glove housing multiple electrodes capable of providing light electrical stimulation to the user. When the user makes a movement in the user's physical environment that corresponds to grasping the virtual cylinder, the system can determine that this has occurred and provides haptic feedback to the user's palm and fingers, providing the user with a similar haptic experience as if the user were grasping a physical cylinder in physical space.

[0007] Other forms of interactive or virtual systems include displays that facilitate concealment, camouflage, and other simulated visual effects. This has helped to promote research involving investigations into light and light-bending materials and the effective configuration of optical instruments to achieve desired effects. Many theoretical advances have been made in an attempt to culminate in a model that forms a theoretical framework for a field of study sometimes called transformation optics. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,009,022 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 286,134 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 8,411,363 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] While many systems exist that simulate interesting and informative virtual environments, such systems often prove expensive, requiring sophisticated and powerful processing power, cameras used to track position and movement, and algorithms that match the video data generated or displayed to an expected visual image. Improvements are therefore desirable. It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved system for simulating, interactive display, or immersive environments using cost-effective techniques. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] Aspects of the present invention include displays and simulated systems that use materials made from various arrangements of lenses and other optical materials to achieve visual effects that have applications in display systems, virtual reality, immersive environments, as well as in architecture, art, entertainment, display, interactive systems, etc. These materials utilize the refraction and reflection of light and other radiation in the electromagnetic spectrum to achieve the desired visual effect.

[0011] Materials composed of multiple lenses arranged to refract or reflect one or more of visible light, near-infrared light, near-ultraviolet light, or other forms of light or, more generally, electromagnetic waves are used to achieve desired visual effects, simulated environments, and immersive experiences. An example of such a material is a lenticular lens sheet, which can have a regular or semi-regular pattern of linear or non-linear lenses, intermingled with the lines within the lenses to at least partially reflect or refract light. A typical lenticular plastic sheet has one smooth side, while the other side is a transparent plastic sheet composed of small convex lenses called lenticulars, which allow for the transformation of two-dimensional (2D) images into various optical illusions. Each lenticular acts as a magnifying glass, magnifying and displaying a portion of the image on the underlying, or smooth, side. Other materials that can be used include an array of small spherical lenses, known as a fly's eye lens array, or a screen composed of many small convex lenses. Another example of a material that can be used is a linear prism sheet or an array prism sheet.

[0012] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display system comprising a first lens sheet having a first polarity for receiving an image from a first projector, and a second lens sheet having a second polarity adjacent to the first lens sheet, wherein the first polarity is opposite to the second polarity, and when the first projector projects a first image through the first lens sheet onto the second lens sheet, the first image is visible on the second lens sheet but not on the first lens sheet.

[0013] According to an aspect of the present invention, a protective shield is provided comprising: a transparent body having an outer surface and an inner surface; a first lens sheet having a first polarity disposed over the outer surface; and a second lens sheet having a second polarity disposed adjacent to the inner surface and the first lens sheet, wherein the first polarity is opposite to the second polarity, and when a first projector in communication with a first image source projects an image onto the first lens sheet through the second lens sheet, the image is visible on the first lens sheet but not on the second lens sheet.

[0014] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display system comprising: a first lens sheet having a first polarity that receives a first image from a first projector and a second projector and a second image from the second projector; and a second lens sheet having a second polarity proximate to the first lens sheet, wherein the first polarity is opposite to the second polarity, such that when the first projector projects the first image through the first lens sheet onto the second lens sheet, the first image and the second image are visible on the second lens sheet but not on the first lens sheet, the first image is visible to an observer at a first location relative to the second lens sheet but not the second image, and the second image is visible to an observer at a second location relative to the second lens sheet but not the first image.

[0015] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a display system comprising: a first lens sheet having a first polarity for receiving an image from a first projector; and a plurality of secondary lens sheets each having a second polarity arranged adjacent to one another to form an at least partially enclosed space proximate to the first lens sheet, wherein the first polarity is opposite to the second polarity, the first projector projects an image through the first lens sheet onto an inner surface of at least one of the second lens sheets, and an observer looking at the outer surfaces of any two different ones of the secondary lens sheets from outside the enclosed space observes different views of a virtual decoy image that appears to be formed within the enclosed space.

[0016] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using a lens sheet, comprising the steps of: placing a first lens sheet having a first polarity in proximity to a second lens sheet having a second polarity, the first polarity being opposite to that of the second polarity; and projecting image data representing an object through the first sheet onto the second sheet, wherein when a first projector projects the first image through the first lens sheet onto the second lens sheet, the first image is visible on the second lens sheet but not on the first lens sheet.

[0017] According to an aspect of the present invention, a method for projecting an image onto a transparent display surface is provided. The method includes using a projection device to broadcast an image or video through one lenticular sheet, the lenticules of which extend a greater distance from the first sheet in one parallel direction (e.g., left-right or vertical), and projecting onto a second lenticular sheet having lenticules extending in the opposite polarity (e.g., up-down or vertical), such that the image interlaces on the second sheet, thereby creating an image or video on the second lenticular sheet that remains transparent in areas where the image is not projected. Image elongation due to the proximity of the first sheet to the source of the projection and the distance between the first and second sheets can be offset by adjusting the image in the projection to correct for the elongation so that the image appears as a normal aspect ratio on the second sheet.

[0018] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a passive display system comprising a mat having an image thereon and a double-sided lens sheet having a first polarity disposed adjacent to the mat, wherein a first view of the image is visible to an observer at a first location relative to the double-sided lens sheet, and a second observed view of the image is visible to an observer at a second location relative to the double-sided lens sheet but not the first view, the second location being different from the first location, and the first view being different from the second view.

[0019] The figures illustrate, by way of example only, embodiments of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the principles of the law of refraction as it relates to visible light; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of a lenticular lens sheet, partially in cross section; [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment having a vertical polarizer sheet near the projector, causing the projected video image to be perceived as a bright horizontal stripe with ghost images above and below. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment with a first sheet closer to the projector and a second sheet on which an image is displayed. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment with a first sheet closer to the projector and a second sheet on which an image is displayed. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram of an embodiment in which the decoy image is projected through a projector lens having a lens of opposite polarity to that of the display sheet. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram of an embodiment in which a decoy image is projected onto a display sheet having lenses with opposite polarity on each side. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of two decoy sheets used to project decoy images thereon. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment in which an image is projected onto a set of curved lenses shaped like a half cylinder. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 depicts another embodiment in which the image is projected onto a set of curved lenses shaped like half cylinders. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 depicts another embodiment in which the image is projected onto a set of curved lenses shaped like half cylinders. [Figure 12]FIG. 10 depicts yet another embodiment in which the image is projected onto a set of curved lenses shaped like half cylinders. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment in which an image is projected onto a spherical display. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment in which the display includes multiple surfaces used to display different images viewable from different points. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment in which the display includes multiple surfaces used to display different images viewable from different points. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment in which the display includes multiple surfaces used to display different images viewable from different points. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a display system having two projectors spaced a fixed distance apart, further comprising two lens sheets of opposite polarity disposed therebetween. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a display system having two projectors spaced a fixed distance apart, further including two lens sheets of opposite polarity disposed therebetween. [Figure 19] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a variation of the embodiment of FIG. 4 that further utilizes a mirror. [Figure 20] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of a variation of the embodiment of FIG. 17 or FIG. 18 that further utilizes a mirror. [Figure 21] 1 is a schematic diagram of a virtual reality room that is an example of an embodiment of the present invention, where different users looking at the same wall have different views. [Figure 22] 10 is a schematic diagram of another virtual reality room example of an embodiment of the present invention, where the projectors have polar lenses incorporated into each projector lens; FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a display system having a cylindrical configuration for displaying two different images that are viewable in a viewpoint-dependent manner. [Figure 24] 1 is a schematic diagram of a display system for simulating a 3D object at a location by utilizing viewpoint-dependent fields of view of lens sheets arranged around a space. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system employing pre-distortion to correct distortion artifacts observed in a projected image in an exemplary embodiment of the invention. [Figure 26] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary protective shield according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 27] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary protective shield according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 28] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary protective shield according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 29] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a lenticular lens used to simulate a three-dimensional image. [Figure 30] 1 is a simplified schematic diagram of a vehicle interior having pillars used for displaying images and videos. [Figure 31] FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of components of an exemplary passive display system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a simplified block diagram of the components of a passive display system constructed using the components of FIG. 31 to simulate motion parallax using the viewpoint-dependent properties of the lens sheet. [Figure 33] 10 is a simplified schematic diagram of another double-sided rectilinear lens sheet made by placing two single-sided lens sheets back-to-back. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] As described above, embodiments of the present invention include display systems and simulated environments that use materials made from various arrangements of lenses and other optical materials to achieve unique visual effects with applications in display systems, virtual reality, immersive environments, architecture, art, entertainment, interactive systems, collaborative systems, etc. These materials utilize the refraction and reflection of light and other radiation in the electromagnetic spectrum to achieve the desired visual effects.

[0022] Principles of Refraction It is commonly observed that a ray of light entering a material medium at an oblique angle changes its direction. This phenomenon is called refraction. Refraction generally involves a change in the wave's direction of propagation due to a change in the speed of propagation. In the case of light, refraction occurs when light enters a medium and the speed of light is less than its vacuum speed, c≡3x10 8 This can be traced back to the slowing down of light as it falls from θ to c / n, where n is the refractive index of the medium.

[0023] Figure 1 illustrates an illustration of the law of refraction, also known as Snell's law. An incident ray 106 travels from a first point P1 through a first medium 102, such as air, into a second medium 104. The incident ray 106 is refracted at an interface 110, resulting in a refracted ray 108 arriving at point P2. This is explained by Fermat's principle of least time, which states that light travels along the path that requires the least amount of time from one point to another. Therefore, the angle of incidence θ1 and the angle of refraction θ2 must be such that they minimize the optical path from P1 to P2. If the refractive indices of the first and second media are n1 and n2, respectively, as shown in Figure 1, Snell's law states that n1 sin θ1 = n2 sin θ2.

[0024] As mentioned above, materials composed of a large number of lenses, subsets of which are arranged adjacent to or in close proximity to one another in such a way as to refract visible light, near-infrared light, and / or near-ultraviolet light, are known. A typical example is a lenticular lens sheet. Lenticular lens sheets can be composed of transparent plastic. Furthermore, some lenticular lens sheets can be smooth on one side, while the other side can be composed of small convex lenses called lenticules. These lenticules can make an otherwise ordinary two-dimensional view of a scene appear to have a variety of interesting visual effects. For example, lenticules can act as magnifying glasses.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a lenticular lens sheet, partially in cross section. As shown, lenticular sheet 200 includes multiple lenses or lenticules 202. Images from the lenticular lenses are viewable within a V-shaped viewing region corresponding to viewing angle 204. Viewing angle 204 can be small or large. A small viewing angle 204 makes the images very sensitive to changes, in the sense that a viewer needs to turn their head slightly to see a different set of images. With a lens with a wide viewing angle 204, the viewer can make a relatively large movement or rotation of their head to see a different set of images, so that visible changes are less sensitive to movements in head position or orientation. As a result, narrow viewing angle lenses are good for three-dimensional (3D) effects, while wide viewing angle lenses are good for dynamic prints, such as animations, flips, morphing, or zooms.

[0026] Displays that present three-dimensional images to the viewer without the need for special glasses or other obstructions are often called autostereoscopic. The first autostereoscopic method to be mentioned is the barrier technique, which involves dividing two or more pictures into stripes and aligning them behind a series of vertically aligned opaque bars of the same frequency. It is demonstrated with paintings by G.A. Bois-Clair that appear to change from one picture to another as the viewer walks by.

[0027] Later, physicist Gabriel M. Lippmann used an array of lenses on the surface of a painting, instead of an opaque barrier line, and was able to record a complete spatial image with parallax in all directions. The process utilized an array of small spherical lenses, known as a fly's eye lens array or monolithic lens array, to record and reconstruct the image.

[0028] Some scientists simplified the monolithic lens array by incorporating lenticular lens arrays. A lenticular lens sheet consists of a linear arrangement of thick plano-convex cylindrical lenses. The lens sheet is transparent, with a flat back surface that forms the focal plane. It is optically similar to a parallax barrier screen. Today, there are specific lens designs and mass production techniques for animation, 3D, and large format displays.

[0029] Traditional materials used to make lenticular lens sheets are designed to be as transparent as possible while maintaining their ability to refract light. Higher material transparency is often desirable, and in some applications, such as printing, a higher transmittance ratio can provide clearer, more effective visuals. To allow lenticular lens sheets to be used in many situations, such as those rolled up for shipping or for use in printing presses, the material should also be stable enough to reduce thermally induced distortion. Lenticular sheets are typically made from acrylic, polycarbonate, polypropylene, PVC, and polystyrene. Lenses can be arranged at any density, often commonly measured and expressed in lenses per inch (LPI).

[0030] A typical embodiment of these lens arrangements provides a V-shaped viewing area, as depicted in FIG. 2 and discussed previously. The sensitivity of the image to changes in viewer position depends on the viewing angle 204. A small viewing angle 204 makes the image sensitive to changes in that the viewer needs to turn their head slightly to see a different set of images. With a wide-angle lens 204, the changes are not as sensitive, allowing the viewer to turn their head more to see a different set of images. As a result, narrow viewing angle lenses are well-suited for three-dimensional effects and dynamic prints.

[0031] The material used to make the lenticular lens sheeting is preferably stable so that heat distortion is reduced, while remaining flexible so that it can be used in a printing press and rolled up for shipping.

[0032] Lens sheet manufacturing Sheets of lenticular lenses are typically manufactured using machines or devices custom-made for this purpose. One such device is described in published U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 286,134, filed August 30, 2005, and entitled "Lenticular Lens Pattern-Forming Device for Producing a Web Roll of Lenticular Lens," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The published application describes a method for manufacturing lenticular lenses, and in particular lenses as a lenticular lens web, such that finishing operations, such as lens cutting, lamination, including labeling, and various end uses, can be accomplished or adapted in conjunction with the manufacture of the lens web. The publication also discloses a lenticular pattern-forming device comprising a housing rotatable about a central longitudinal axis. The housing has an outer surface with a groove pattern. The groove pattern includes grooves extending circumferentially and longitudinally on the outer surface, the grooves having approximately equal groove widths. The longitudinally extending grooves are generally parallel to the central longitudinal axis, and the grooves cover the exterior surface of the housing. Additionally, the present invention further includes a method of using the lenticular patterning device to create a lenticular lens web that can be used to make a lenticular image web. The image web can be used to create final products such as wallpaper, banners, labels, etc.

[0033] Some embodiments of the present invention, which will be described later, relate to the use of lenticular lens sheets to achieve improved disguise. For example, one suitable type of lenticular lens sheet is described in U.S. Patent No. 8,411,363, filed October 20, 2009, entitled "Plastic sheets with lenticular lens array," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The patent discloses a lenticular sheet including a first surface having at least two portions, an opposing second surface, and a plurality of lenticular lenses formed on the first surface. Each portion of the first surface includes a number of lenticular lenses per centimeter that differs from the number of lenticular lenses per centimeter on an adjacent portion of the first surface.

[0034] There are several types of materials that can be used to make lenticular lens sheeting. These include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is not amorphous but retains its crystalline nature. PET has excellent clarity, good gas barrier properties, and good oil and solvent resistance. Polypropylene (PP) is also suitable if the pieces are die-cut, laminated, or finished by fabrication. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), made by combining ethylene, produced by refining petroleum, with chlorine, produced from rock salt, can also be used.

[0035] Specific applications and uses of various types of materials incorporating lenses, methods of making such materials, articles of manufacture embodying such materials, and example embodiments of the invention are described.

[0036] Visual concealment and deception are useful in many situations, such as hunting. In hunting, decoys are often set to attract predators of the same type of animal or animals represented by the decoy. Often these decoys are life-size in size, which means that the size of the decoy may be a life-size version of a deer or elk. As such, physical decoys are difficult to obtain in and out of an area.

[0037] However, because the lenticular sheeting is nearly transparent, a background color allows the lenticular sheeting to blend into any environment, in any season, day, or night. Different images can be projected onto a display made from the lenticular sheeting, with a virtually unlimited selection of decoy images to display, thus avoiding the need for different large physical decoys.

[0038] The use of two lens sheets of opposite polarity can be used to create images by interlacing, as described below. Such a technique allows the creation of stand-alone decoys, with a projector broadcasting either a stationary decoy or a video of the decoy grazing.

[0039] In two sheets of opposite polarity, the lenses or lenticulars in the first sheet are arranged along a first particular direction (e.g., horizontal or left-to-right), and in the second sheet of opposite polarity, the lenses or lenticulars are arranged in a second direction (vertically) that is approximately 90 degrees to the first direction (e.g., vertical or up-down).

[0040] One-way projection with interlace effect 3 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment having a vertically polarized sheet 305 near a projector 301, which causes the projected video image to be perceived as bright horizontal stripes 303, with ghost images above and below the stripes 303. The vertical polarization of the sheet 305 results in horizontal alignment of the stripes 303.

[0041] As shown, adding a second horizontal polarizing sheet 307 so that sheet 305 is between projector 301 and second sheet 307 allows the projected video image to be displayed correctly on second sheet 307.

[0042] The lenses in the second sheet 307 extend in the opposite polarity (i.e., horizontal polarity), thereby creating a video image 309 on the second sheet 307 that remains transparent in areas where the image 309 is not projected. Using a black background to record the target or decoy creates a transparent background around the image being portrayed.

[0043] The first sheet 305 and the second sheet 307 can be used on a protective shield. When used on a protective shield, the body of the object holding the protective shield in place (such as a police officer or a tripod holding the shield in an experimental installation) is hidden from the viewer when behind the shield. Furthermore, the location of the video image 309 on the shield is viewpoint dependent.

[0044] Projector 301 can be a large 2000 lumen or larger projector, or a handheld 200 lumen portable battery-powered projector, and similar effects will be observed. Newer short-throw projectors with internal memory and battery power can be used, thus creating a system usable by national or military forces, where a video image on a shield displays the likeness of a non-threatening person or object, obscuring one or more security personnel or soldiers behind it.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the exemplary material may be on the front of a military vehicle and may be used to depict a regular sports utility vehicle (SUV) or farm vehicle or animal on the material to deceive the enemy.

[0046] In a variation of the above, as will be described later, a projector such as projector 301 can simply broadcast an image or video of a tank (e.g., an M1 Abrams tank) or soldiers on it to create a realistic decoy.

[0047] Another related application or embodiment using any of the above techniques is to project lenticular images or videos onto a material that matches one of the two polarities and frequency of the lenses in the sheet, which allows for standalone three-dimensional images or videos on one or more display sheets.

[0048] 4, a first viewer 402 and a second viewer 410 are on opposite sides of a projector 408. A first sheet 406 is closer to the projector 408 than a second sheet 404, on which a decoy image is presented. Both viewer 402 and viewer 410 are able to see the decoy image on the second lens sheet 404. As shown, the first lens sheet 406 and the second lens sheet 404 have opposite polarities.

[0049] Figure 5 shows a similar embodiment, slightly different from that shown in Figure 4, in which the polarity of the corresponding lens sheets is reversed. In Figure 5, a first viewer 502 and a second viewer 510 are on opposite sides of a projector 508. The first sheet 506 is closer to the projector 508 than the second sheet 504, on which a decoy image is presented. Both viewers 502 and 510 are able to see the decoy image on the second sheet 504. Additionally, the first sheet 506 and the second sheet 504 have opposite polarities, as indicated using parallel vertical and horizontal lines, respectively.

[0050] Figures 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, and 13 illustrate embodiments that can be used for decoys such as the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, and in displays such as those depicted in Figures 21 and 22.

[0051] 6 illustrates an embodiment in which a decoy image is projected through a projector lens having a lenticular lens of opposite polarity to that of the display sheet. A projector 606 having a projector lenticular lens 608 projects a decoy image onto a display sheet 604. A first viewer 602 and a second viewer 610 are on opposite sides of the projector 606. The display sheet 604 and projector lens 608 have opposite polarities. In the depicted example, the projector lens 608 has a horizontal polarity, while the sheet 604 has a vertical polarity.

[0052] In a related alternative embodiment, the polarity can be reversed so that lens 608 can have a vertical polarity while sheet 604 can have a horizontal polarity, allowing both viewer 602 and viewer 610 to see the decoy image.

[0053] 7 depicts an embodiment in which a decoy image is projected onto a display sheet having lenses with opposite polarities on each side. A projector 706 having a projector lens 708 projects the decoy image onto a display sheet 704. However, in this embodiment, the projector lens 708 does not have a polar lens. A first viewer 702 and a second viewer 710 are on opposite sides of the projector 706. The display sheet 704 has lenses with opposite polarities on each side. Viewer 702 is able to see the decoy image, but viewer 710 may or may not be able to see the decoy image depending on the polarity and viewing angle.

[0054] In an embodiment with a second projector on the side of viewer 702, if the image includes a background landscape and a decoy foreground image, the background landscape is visible on both sides, while the decoy image is only visible on the opposite side, i.e., by viewer 702. On the side where the decoy image is visible, the background is only visible from tight angles behind the decoy image, while the background is visible over a very wide angle on the opposite side (visible by viewer 710), but the decoy image is not visible on that side.

[0055] This ability to see an image from one projector on both sides occurs only when two lens sheets of opposite polarity are very close to or touching each other.

[0056] Furthermore, in embodiments with a second projector on the viewer 702 side, so that the image from one projector can be seen on both sides, it is also necessary to set the polarity so that the side showing only the background has lenses arranged vertically (top and bottom), while the side showing both the decoy image and the background (within a tight viewing angle) has lenses arranged horizontally (left and right).

[0057] Using these techniques, military soldiers can place decoy soldiers around a defensive position to create the perception of greater force for the adversary. If combat were to occur, the adversary would have many more targets to choose from, thereby protecting the real soldiers. If the decoy is shot, the bullet may penetrate the material and remain there, causing the decoy to emerge unharmed, thereby drawing further fire away from the real soldiers.

[0058] A simplified embodiment of the above scenario is illustrated schematically in Figure 8, which depicts two decoy sheets 802, 804. To create the illusion of much greater force than actually exists, decoy sheets 802, 804 are used, each having a decoy image 808 of a soldier projected onto it from projector 806.

[0059] Although the images can be viewed on either the smooth side or the lens side of the material on the second sheet 804 that interlaces the images, better or even optimal results occur when the images are viewed on the lens side facing the viewer 810, as shown. This can be improved with anti-reflective coatings on the smooth side, and these anti-reflective coatings on the lens side can also improve results. The smooth side facing the projector is also perceived better if the viewer is on the side of the projector 806 because the smooth side helps reflect the image towards the projector side.

[0060] Projector 806 may be on the side of viewer 810 facing away from the viewer onto material (such as one of decoy sheets 802, 804) further away from the viewer relative to projector 806. The material on sheet 804 closest to projector 806 needs to be shorter than sheet 802 to allow viewer 810 to see beyond sheet 804 and see the decoy on sheet 802.

[0061] An improvement is that lenses are manufactured with opposite polarities on both sides of each sheet, so that there is no smooth side on either sheet; i.e., one sheet has lenses extending up and down on both sides, while the second sheet has lenses extending left and right on both sides, the opposite of the first sheet. These polarities are interchangeable between the two sheets, as long as they are opposite each other.

[0062] Larger decoy sheet material can be used to broadcast images of larger objects such as armored vehicles and tanks, etc. Larger decoy sheet material can be attached to small golf carts, or larger material can be attached to balloons to broadcast images of attack helicopters.

[0063] By placing very large decoy sheets around a facility, with minimal cost to create and operate these decoys, one has large still or moving representations of vehicles, soldiers, and aircraft that can fool an enemy into believing that there is a much larger defensive or offensive force around the facility.

[0064] Other exemplary embodiments include a curved lens set shaped like a cylinder with lenses on one or both sides. In one particular embodiment, on the side of the cylinder facing the projector, the lenses are arranged with a first polarity, while on the opposite side, the lenses are arranged with the opposite polarity relative to the first lens set. This creates a depth of field, allowing portions of the image to be seen on the right side of the curved surface, and as the viewer moves around to the left, the viewer can see portions of the image that were not visible from the right side. Both lenses may curve in the same direction, or the first lens may be flat, as described in more detail below. The curved surface may be concave, such as in new televisions and IMAX screens, which helps reduce reflections on screens with lenses.

[0065] In a related embodiment, lenses of opposite polarity are fabricated into the same piece of material, so that on one side of the material, the lenses extend up and down, and on the other side, the lenses extend left and right. No other lenses are needed to obtain an interlaced image on this combined lens material, and because there is no separation between the two lenses to accommodate distortion, no distortion is needed to fixate the image or video on the material. This single piece of material can be fabricated as a flat sheet, curved, or any geometric shape, provided the projection screen can have some curved or angled viewable surface, such as a cube or pyramid. More than one projector may be needed to project onto the shaped screen surface to provide an image or video across a partial shape of the material or across the complete shape of the material.

[0066] Irregular shape of lens sheet 9 depicts an embodiment in which an image, which may be a decoy image, is projected onto a set of curved lenses shaped like a cylinder. A projector 906 projects an image onto a cylindrical display sheet 904, which has a front half that is the opposite polarity to the back half, as shown. In the depicted embodiment, the front half is horizontally polarized, while the back half, onto which the object in the image is initially projected, is vertically polarized. A viewer 902 views the image formed on the front half of the cylindrical display sheet 904.

[0067] FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment in which an image, which may be a decoy image, is projected onto a set of curved lenses shaped like a half cylinder. A projector 1006 projects an image onto a semi-cylindrical display sheet 1004, whose lenses are of opposite polarity to those of a second sheet 1005 that is closer to the projector 1006, as shown. While a flat second sheet 1005 is shown in FIG. 10, in other embodiments, the sheet 1005 may be curved. A first viewer 1002 views an image formed on the front half of the cylindrical display sheet 1004. A second viewer 1008 also views the same image formed on the semi-cylindrical display sheet 1004 if the sheet 1005 did not obstruct the viewer 1008's view of the sheet 1004.

[0068] 11 depicts another embodiment in which an image, which may be a decoy image, is projected onto a set of curved lenses shaped like a half cylinder. A projector 1106 projects the image onto a semi-cylindrical display sheet 1104 formed by placing two semi-cylindrical display sheets together whose lenses are of opposite polarity, as indicated by the vertical and horizontal lines.

[0069] A first viewer 1102 sees an image formed on the outside of the semi-cylindrical display sheet 1104. A second viewer 1108 also sees the same image on the inside of the semi-cylindrical display sheet 1104. As previously mentioned with reference to FIG. 7, being able to see an image from a single projector with a background and decoy foreground on both sides of the display sheet 1104 only occurs when the two lens sheets comprising the display sheet 1104 are of opposite polarity and are in close proximity to or touching each other. Furthermore, in embodiments with a second projector on the viewer's side, being able to see an image from one projector on both sides also requires setting the polarity so that the side showing only the background has lenses arranged vertically (top and bottom), while the side showing both the decoy image and the background (within a tight viewing angle) has lenses arranged horizontally (left and right).

[0070] 12 depicts another embodiment in which an image, which may be a decoy image, is projected onto a curved lens sheet consisting of a set of curved lenses shaped like a half cylinder. A projector 1206 with a polarized projector lenticular lens 1207 projects the image onto a cylindrical display sheet 1204.

[0071] The lenses on the display sheet 1204 and the projector lenticular lenses 1207 have opposite polarities. A first viewer 1202 sees an image formed on the front half of the cylindrical display sheet 1204. A second viewer 1208 also sees the same image formed on the semi-cylindrical display sheet 1204.

[0072] In alternative embodiments discussed below, the display may be of different shapes and may even have a three-dimensional structure with multiple viewing surfaces.

[0073] 13 depicts a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment in which a viewer 1302 views an image projected from a projector 1306 onto a spherical display 1304. As shown, the viewer 1302 is on one side of the spherical display 1304, while the projector 1306 is on the opposite side of the spherical display 1304. The rear hind sphere of the spherical display 1304 facing the projector 1306, or at least a portion thereof, has the opposite polarity of the front hind sphere (or at least a portion thereof) of the display 1304 on which the image appears.

[0074] 14 depicts a schematic diagram of another embodiment in which multiple projectors are included and viewers see different images depending on their viewpoint. A first viewer 1402 sees an image projected from a first projector 1410 onto a display surface 1406. A second viewer 1412 sees another image projected from a second projector 1404 onto another display surface 1408. There is lens material between the projector 1404 and the display surface 1408, with the polarity opposite that of the display surface 1408. Similarly, there is lens material between the projector 1410 and the display surface 1406, with the polarity opposite that of the display surface 1406. Alternatively, the projector lenses could have lenticular lenses of opposite polarity, such that the polarity of the projector lenticular lenses on projector 1404 is opposite that of the display surface 1408, and the polarity of the projector lenticular lenses on projector 1410 is opposite that of the display surface 1406.

[0075] FIG. 15 depicts a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment in which images or video are displayed on multiple sides of a display. One or more projectors 1520, 1514 may be used. Projector 1520 projects an image onto display 1506. Different sides of display 1506, such as side 1504 and side 1508, can display different images. Display 1506 may be generally polyhedral in shape, and in particular may be tetrahedral as shown. Projector 1514 projects an image onto display 1516. As shown, different sides of display 1516 can display different images. Viewers 1502, 1510 and viewers 1512, 1518 can see the images in their field of view projected onto display 1506 and display 1516, respectively. As will be appreciated, there is a lens sheeting of opposite polarity (not shown) between the projector and the surface on which the image is imaged. Alternatively, the projector lens has lenticular lenses of opposite polarity, just as described above.

[0076] FIG. 16 depicts a complex-shaped display using multiple projectors for many potential applications, such as advertising, art, and architecture. An exemplary composite display 1608 displays images projected from below, above, or the sides of its surface. The display 1608 may be polyhedral in shape. Projections may also emanate from within the display 1608. Thus, viewers 1602, 1612 may view a variety of images on the many surfaces 1618 of the display 1608, as projected by projectors 1604, 1606, 1610, 1614, and 1616. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that there may be lens sheeting of opposite polarity (not shown) between the projectors and the surface on which the images are projected. Alternatively, the projector lenses may have lenticular lenses of opposite polarity, as described above with reference to FIG. 15.

[0077] Two-way projection display system In another exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 17 and 18, a display system includes two projectors positioned a first fixed distance away from each other to project their respective images toward each other. Two lens sheets of opposite polarity are positioned a second fixed distance between the projectors. Because the lens sheets are positioned between the projectors, the second distance is shorter than the first distance.

[0078] In the particular embodiment of display system 1700 depicted in Figures 17 and 18, a projector 1712 connected to a computer 1718 and another projector 1710 connected to another computer 1720 are positioned facing each other approximately 12 feet apart. This distance can vary, and the particular distance of 12 feet mentioned above is merely an example. A first lens sheet 1704 and a second lens sheet 1708, with their respective lenses arranged in opposite polarities, are positioned between the two projectors 1712, 1710 approximately 2 feet apart. This distance can vary, and the particular distance of 2 feet mentioned above is merely an example.

[0079] In operation, as shown in FIG. 17, when projecting image 1722 from computer 1720 using projector 1710, the projected image 1706 first passes through lens sheet 1708 closest to projector 1710 and interlaces onto lens sheet 1704, as shown.

[0080] At the same time, as shown in FIG. 18, when projecting image 1714 from computer 1718 using projector 1712, the projected image 1707 first passes through lens sheet 1704 closest to projector 1712 and interlaces onto lens sheet 1708 further away, as shown.

[0081] As can be seen, in the particular depicted arrangement, user 1702 in Figure 17 is able to see an image on lens sheet 1704, but is unable to see the same image 1706 on lens sheet 1708. Similarly, user 1724 in Figure 18 is able to see image 1707 on lens sheet 1708, but is unable to see the same image on lens sheet 1704.

[0082] An interesting application of the above embodiment as depicted in Figures 17 and 18 is simultaneous video broadcasting. The projected video sequence or movie will behave in the same manner as an image. That is, user 1702 will be able to see the video sequence projected onto lens sheet 1704, but user 1702 will not be able to see the video on lens sheet 1708 from his or her location. Similarly, user 1724 will be able to see the video projected and interlaced onto lens sheet 1708, but will not be able to see the video sequence on lens sheet 1704 from his or her location.

[0083] The inventors of the present invention have found that when a lens sheet is placed two feet away, if a viewer changes their viewing angle or viewpoint, the image will move on the lens sheet, providing a unique element of depth for the viewer. The shifted image viewed will be different for a second viewer, and similarly different for each person on the same side of the lens sheet. This effect is more apparent when the image or video is in horizontal polarity. A second video or movie playing on the opposite side in vertical polarity will be slightly different due to the perceived movement up and down relative to the changing viewing distance between the viewer and the lens. That is, as the viewer moves closer, the image will rise on the lens relative to the viewer's distance.

[0084] The above findings have led to new uses for the embodiments of Figures 17 and 18, and have identified uses for the holodeck embodiment of Figures 21 or 22, which illustrate an immersive experience room that provides multiple people with different perspectives.

[0085] The depth and perspective of the elements arise from two lens sheets 1704, 1708 of opposite polarity with some gap or distance (e.g., 2 feet) between them. This is also true with a single projector broadcasting through both lens sheets set apart from each other (with a gap of several inches or feet), with the larger gap between the lenses resulting in more movement as the viewer's perspective changes.

[0086] When two lens sheets are held together, the image is motionless from the viewer's point of view. Furthermore, using two projectors from either side will cause each lens to show a ghost image from the nearest projector on top of the image or movie from the second one.

[0087] A denser arrangement of lenses on a lens sheet, which may have different angles, such as in cylindrical sheet 904 of FIG. 9, increases video clarity and viewing angle and reduces the light bands and prismatic (rainbow) effect seen when a larger arrangement of lenses is used.

[0088] Display system with mirror 19 depicts another display system that is an example of an embodiment of the present invention. The display system includes a projector 1910 and a mirror 1904 disposed between a first lens sheet 1902 and a second lens sheet 1906. This arrangement allows for a more compact display system that accommodates all components. Such an arrangement allows components behind the lens sheet 1902, such as the projector 1910, to be hidden (around a corner) from the viewer 1908.

[0089] Lens sheet 1902 and projector 1910 can be replaced with a projector having a projector lens or projector lens cover thereon. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the projector lens or cover will have the opposite polarity of lens sheet 1906 to allow for interlacing of the projected sub-images. Lens sheet 1906 can also utilize different geometries, as discussed in connection with previously described embodiments.

[0090] In the above embodiment, when a video image is projected from projector 1910, aspect ratio distortion can be observed in the displayed image on lens sheet 1906. This can be due to the distance between the two materials, creating a longer distance in the mirror reflection. To correct for such distortion, the horizontal to vertical ratio of the projected video can be changed, as described below.

[0091] In yet another variation, exemplary of another embodiment of the present invention, a display system as depicted in Figure 20 uses multiple projectors 2022, 2026, each connected to a corresponding image source 2024, 2028, and a mirror 2016 between lens sheets 2014 and 2018. This allows for dual viewing in a manner similar to the embodiment of Figures 17 and 18.

[0092] Viewer 2012 sees images or video from projector 2026 without seeing images from projector 2022, while viewer 2020 sees images or video from projector 2022 without seeing images from projector 2026. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, lens sheet 2014 and lens sheet 2018 have opposite polarities.

[0093] Viewpoint-Dependent View, Holodeck, and Immersion Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is an immersive virtual reality (VR) system, which is known to allow a user to interact in a virtual environment, where entities are confined to the virtual world. Movies and scientific literature have suggested several VR interfaces that enhance a user's presence in a virtual environment (VE), such as the holodeck from the popular television series Star Trek™. Some of these immersive environments have given rise to research into displays that do not allow users to distinguish between virtual and real.

[0094] In an embodiment of the present invention, as the viewer moves, the image or video on the lens sheet display changes, but is based solely on the viewer's location relative to the lens sheet display.

[0095] Companies such as Microsoft work with Holodeck-type rooms to immerse people in simulated environments within the room, resulting in video on the walls that is projected at the correct perspective for the viewer's location within the environment. A typical approach assumes a single user, targets the first person whose head is tracked by a camera, and the image or video is moved or spatially translated relative to the person's head to maintain the correct perspective. In other words, a video camera tracks the first person's head and alters the environment for the correct perspective of this viewer.

[0096] This allows the first person to get the correct perspective, while any other person in the room who is not near the first person will get an unrealistic perspective - the other person's perspective will be off or incorrect if they are not near the first person.

[0097] Example embodiments of the present invention do not track the viewer. Rather, it is the properties of the lens sheet material, when utilized in the manner depicted and described herein, that result in different viewpoints depending on the viewer's location. In stark contrast to existing VR systems, tracking of the user's movements is avoided. One of the most intuitive ways to move through such scenarios and our real world is through actual walking.

[0098] This is important in realistic looking 3D objects, holographic-like displays, or virtual or augmented reality.

[0099] Using exemplary materials of embodiments of the present invention, such as the lenticular lens sheet described above, multiple users can experience the same virtual reality environment using multiple projectors in a virtual reality room that provide unique perspectives that are only visible from specific observation points, broadcasting from the other side of a wall to an observer, without a camera tracking a single user. The projectors may be inside the room, for example, on the ceiling, or suspended above a person, or in other areas within the room. The projectors broadcast images onto a lenticular material placed on or in front of a wall, which may be transparent, translucent, or a solid wall. If the wall is transparent, the projector can be placed behind the wall.

[0100] Each user will have a viewpoint-dependent view that depends on the viewer's physical location and orientation, which changes as each user moves around the room, as well as the many different projector scenes, due to the nature of lenticular lenses that allow them to create 3D images.

[0101] This is depicted in Figure 21. The virtual reality room in Figure 21 depicts different users 2102, 2104 viewing the same wall 2110 made from a lenticular lens sheet. Projectors 2106, 2106 project or broadcast onto the walls of the virtual reality room. User 2102 views image 2112, while user 2104 views image 2114 on the same wall 2110. Image 2112 and image 2114 can be perceived as 3D images.

[0102] In Figure 21, as shown, the projectors 2106, 2108 may be behind a transparent wall 2110, with a lens sheet in front of the projector and a second lens sheet of opposite polarity on the wall 2110. The transparent wall 2110 may be made from glass or Plexiglas. The projectors 2106, 2108 may also be placed in a room with a lens in front of the projector and a second lens of opposite polarity on the wall, which may be either clear, transmissive, or solid. Mirror reflection techniques may also be used, as previously described for Figures 19 and 20.

[0103] A new projector can be developed for the display system, as shown in FIG. 22. As shown, FIG. 22 depicts different users 2202, 2204 viewing a transparent or translucent wall 2210 made from a lenticular lens sheet. Projectors 2206, 2208 project onto the wall 2210 of a virtual reality room. User 2202 views image 2214, while user 2204 views image 2212 on the same wall 2210. These new projectors 2206, 2208 have polarized lenticular lenses built into their respective projector lenses, thereby eliminating the need for a first sheet placed in front of the projector and thus allowing the projector to project an image or video directly onto a second sheet in the form of wall 2210 with the opposite polarity. An improvement could be to have a second sheet with lenses of the same polarity manufactured on either side of the sheet, or to place two sheets with the same polarity together. Mirror reflection techniques can also be used as previously described with respect to FIGS.

[0104] In experiments, using lenses of different sizes between the first lens and a second one of opposite polarity still worked, but the larger polarity of the lens when used on the first lens closest to the projector could be perceived on the second lens when the lenses are closer to each other.

[0105] In an alternative exemplary embodiment, two lenses of opposite polarity are placed close together or on top of each other to create a translucent screen for either front or rear projection, viewable on either side.

[0106] In one exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 23, a cylindrical structure is used to display two different images or video streams, one front-left and one front-right, on the same lenticular lens sheet 2304a. A pair of projectors 2302a and 2302b, which may be smaller 200-lumen portable projectors, is used. A first viewer 2306 and a second viewer 2308 are located at different positions relative to the cylindrical display 2304, which has a first lens sheet 2304a and a second cylindrical sheet 2304b, and therefore see different images or videos. The two lens sheets 2304a and 2304b have opposite polarities. The lens sheet 2304b first receives the projected images from the projectors 2302a and 2302b, and then the images are interlaced on the lens sheet 2304a. Viewer 2306 views the images or video projected from projector 2302a, and viewer 2308 views the images or video projected from projector 2302b.

[0107] The embodiment demonstrates that as a viewer moves from one side of the cylinder to the other, they see two different views. The same image or movie can be seen on both the left and right sides, with the correct perspective for the viewer, such as looking to the left of a person on the left and the right of the same person on the right, creating a simulated three-dimensional effect. This technique of using two or more projectors to create multiple views that are dependent on the viewer's location also works on asymmetric (flat) lenses.

[0108] A photograph with a plain black background, when projected, will not show the black background on the material or sheet 2304a. This aspect is important when simulating a decoy onto a material, such as a soldier, as the background will not give away that it is a decoy.

[0109] Note that the image projected onto lens sheet 2304a is above the bottom of the subsequent light-bending material (sheet 2304b closest to projectors 2302a, 2302b). Once this feature is pointed out, it can be very confusing for the viewer to understand the optical principles involved, which adds to the desired pytophan holographic display effect.

[0110] Both projectors 2302a, 2302b are from the same manufacturer. Projector 2302b includes a short throw lens that allows it to get much closer to the material on sheet 2304b to achieve the same size image as projector 2302a.

[0111] In a lower level variation of the embodiment depicted in Figure 23, only one projector can be used with one image of a person taken from the front to simulate a holographic effect without the need for multiple projectors. While the image seen is static, as the viewer moves from left to right (more so on a lens sheet with horizontal polarization) or towards the distance (more so on a lens sheet with vertical polarization), the image appears to be a three-dimensional (3D) object due to the viewer's movement and the way the image follows the viewer on the material.

[0112] Multiple large pieces of lens sheeting can be used to create life-size renderings of images. For example, Figure 24 depicts a system 2400 for simulating a soldier in military uniform using the viewpoint dependency of lens sheeting material.

[0113] A projector 2402 projects a video or image sequence through a first lens sheeting 2404. In the depicted embodiment, the viewing angle is increased using five large pieces of secondary lens sheeting 2406, 2408, 2410, 2412, 2414, each of opposite polarity to lens sheeting 2404.

[0114] A black background can be used to hide the background while photographing the person in military uniform, so that only the person is shown on the material. Even as the viewer 2416 walks around to different angles, the viewer 2416 will perceive the virtual decoy soldier 2418 as a military guard observing the area.

[0115] If the virtual decoy soldier 2418 is intended to appear to be guarding a location and firing a gun, it is desirable for the enemy to target the virtual decoy 2418 instead of the real or actual combatant. One advantage to the illustrated system 2400 is that bullets pass straight through the lens sheeting material and have no effect on the material or the video projection. The virtual decoy soldier will still appear to be guarding, and the enemy will continue to attempt to hit the virtual decoy soldier until the projector is hit. The projector can be shielded and placed out of the line of fire using mirror reflection techniques.

[0116] The projector 2402 can be implemented using a small, battery-powered, portable 200-lumen projector. An internal 5 GB memory on the projector 2402 can store the video or image sequence to be projected. This eliminates the need for an external device such as a computer, which results in fewer pieces of hardware and a smaller size, which is important for soldiers who may have to carry these virtual decoys. In one specific embodiment, the projector 2402 was rated for an estimated battery life of up to 1.5 hours, and often achieved nearly 2 hours. The projector also included two built-in 2.5-watt speakers.

[0117] One of the problems when viewing these demonstrations is the reflections caused by the pieces of lens sheeting 2406, 2408, 2410, 2412, 2414. This can be overcome with an anti-reflective coating, but even the addition of a simple insect screen will mitigate much of the reflection without overly distracting the projected image.

[0118] Advantageously, a soldier can both hide behind a set of lens sheets for concealment and project different images onto the sheets towards the viewer for deception, as long as the soldier is not between the projector and the primary or secondary lenses.

[0119] In the depicted embodiment of Figure 24, each of the five pieces of material 2406, 2408, 2410, 2412, 2414 are all horizontal polarities so that when a soldier moves to that side of the material, they can see the table below, the walls behind and above, or the window below. This provides insight into the optimal polarity to use with a soldier hiding behind it (vertical), so that the background above the material does not appear abnormal.

[0120] In some situations, it may be desirable to display a virtual soldier on a protective shield rather than simply allowing it to hide and reveal the background afterwards. Opening a door lets the person on the other side know something is coming through the door. To stop enemy soldiers from making an aggressive reaction, such as trying to grab their gun, they can project their soldier, the gatekeeper, or someone familiar onto the shield. This gives the first person extra time to observe the room in extreme safety and distinguish between friendly and dangerous people. This may also apply to soldiers accidentally making noises outside, stepping on a branch, and drawing attention to their location. Drawing an animal, such as a dog or raccoon, on the material will trick the viewer into thinking that something non-threatening made the noise, keeping one or more soldiers behind it hidden.

[0121] In another embodiment, small polar lenses, with the opposite polarity to the visible lens sheet, can be placed directly on top of the projector lens. This requires a lens sheet with very fine lenses.

[0122] The many different applications of the exemplary embodiment of a display system using the techniques shown and demonstrated, as well as the combination of multiple viewpoint projections to provide 3D holographic video or images onto a protective shield or virtual military decoy, have many uses in civilian and military applications. It is readily apparent that the invention described herein has a wide range of potentially commercial applications, such as advertising, entertainment, architecture, communications, social interaction, home security, and law enforcement.

[0123] Distortion-free decoys using pre-distortion. It can be observed that in many of the exemplary embodiments described above, the image on the second lens sheet contains distortions or artifacts seen by the intended observer. These distortions can be reduced, minimized, or eliminated using suitable compensatory pre-distortion at the source of the image (e.g., a computer) before the image is projected by the projector.

[0124] An exemplary embodiment for reducing distortion is shown in Figure 25. An image source 2508 in the form of a laptop computer provides a pre-distorted image 2510 to a projector 2502.

[0125] Image 2510 is made much wider on the computer, so that logo image 2506 appears correct when viewed on the material or lens sheet 2504. Note that pre-distortion image 2510 appears oval or elliptical, while corrected image 2506 is circular as intended.

[0126] This is due to the inherent distortion in the system of Figure 25, which distorted a transparent circular image, but now has the effect of undistorting a pre-distorted elliptical image 2510 instead. In this example, mirror reflection techniques are used to provide a compact setting for photographic images.

[0127] Protective Shield Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a protective shield. FIG. 26 depicts a protective shield 2600a having a transparent shield body 2602a. In an embodiment where there is little handling distance between the person holding the shield using the handles 2608a, 2610a and the transparent shield body 2602a, a first piece of lens sheet material 2604a on the transparent protective shield body contacts or is very close to a second lens sheet 2612a of the opposite polarity at the vertical center of the shield body 2602a, so no correction is required for aspect ratio and the projector 2606a can be much closer to the material. However, this may create a gray background zone that appears behind the decoy or projected image and can be seen from the front if a black background is used to filter out the background during filming. This gray background only appears in the center of the shield between the two handles 2608a and 2610a, where the two pieces of lens sheeting 2604a, 2612a are closest to each other. A projector with a shorter throw distance may be much closer, for example, by installing a longer handle, to achieve the same effect.

[0128] The reason the material on the safety shield shows the background so well is that the lens polarity is vertical, and this up / down polarity hides people (vertical humans) back while preserving horizontal elements such as table edges, wall edges, and window frames. The lens sheet refracts what is horizontal and hides what is vertical.

[0129] In the protective shield 2600b shown in FIG. 27 having handles 2608b, 2610b and a transparent shield body 2602b, a first piece of lens sheeting 2604b is formed on the transparent shield body 2602b itself, while a second lens sheet 2612b of opposite polarity is formed on the projector lenticular lenses of projector 2606b. Projector 2606b may be much closer to lens sheeting 2604b. Projector 2606b is a short-throw projector and may be much closer in distance. This configuration eliminates the gray background that may be present in FIG. 26 because there is sufficient distance between the lenses, allowing the actual background color behind the person holding the shield to be displayed.

[0130] In the protective shield 2600c shown in FIG. 28 having handles 2608c, 2610c and a transparent shield body 2602c, a first piece of lens sheeting 2604c is formed on the transparent shield body 2602c itself, while second lens sheets 2612c, 2616c of opposite polarity (of material 2604c) are formed on the projector lenticular lenses of projectors 2606c, 2614c, respectively. The projectors 2606c, 2614c may be much closer to the lens sheeting 2604c. The projectors 2606c, 2614c may be short-throw projectors, and the distance may be much closer, for example, by attaching longer handles 2608c, 2610c, to achieve the same effect. This configuration eliminates the gray background that may be present in FIG. 26 because there is sufficient distance between the lenses, allowing the actual background color behind the person holding the shield to be displayed.

[0131] To project a larger image on this vertical polarity, the video was rotated 90 degrees in the computer, and then the projector was rotated 90 degrees to correct for the aspect ratio on this projector. Most other projectors are 16:9 (16 width x 9 height). By rotating the projector 90 degrees, it is possible to use the longer side (16 units long) as the height and the shorter side (9 units long) as the width.

[0132] Other uses of simulated 3D images Lenticular lenses can be used to create a simulated three-dimensional image of a particular image that appears to be placed behind and facing the rear of the sheeting. The image is not physically displayed directly behind the sheeting, rather the lens creates an optical effect or optical illusion that causes the image to appear beyond the lens or rear of the sheeting to the viewer.

[0133] Figure 29 depicts an arrangement used to create a display with a simulated three-dimensional effect. A lens sheet 2630 consisting of several lenticular lenses 2634 is used to create a display with a simulated 3D effect. The lenticular lenses 2634 receive light from a specially crafted image 2632 coming from a projector, which has previously passed through a lenticular lens of opposite polarity to be corrected with pre-distortion as shown in Figure 25. As shown in the exemplary embodiment depicted in Figure 29, the projected specially crafted image will ultimately utilize a lenticular printing effect done on a printed lenticular sheet with a lenticular image or video printed against the back side 2636 behind the smooth back side 2636 of the sheet 2630 to simulate movement.

[0134] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a projection device or projector may be used to project an image or video sequence through a first lenticular lens sheet and a second lenticular lens sheet, the first lenticular lens sheet including a plurality of lenticular or convex lenses extending in the same parallel direction, e.g., left and right, to give the sheet a first polarization.

[0135] A second lenticular sheet containing another plurality of lenticular lenses or convex lenses can be placed or arranged at a greater distance from the first sheet, with the lenses of the second sheet extending above and below with an opposite polarity to those of the first, giving the second sheet a second polarity opposite to that of the first sheet.

[0136] The image projected through the first sheet may be stretched due to the proximity of the first sheet to the source of the projection. The distance between the first and second sheets can be compensated for by adjusting the image or video in the projection to correct for the stretch so that the image on the second sheet appears in its normal aspect ratio.

[0137] Other uses - see-through effect In one particular embodiment, the projector can allow the projected image to be viewed on a background of any color. In vehicles, windshield pillars have been widened to meet crash test requirements as well as to accommodate air bags. These wide pillars have in turn created large blind spots within the vehicle.

[0138] 30 depicts a simplified diagram of the interior of a vehicle 2700 having a windshield 2710 and pillars 2702. A short-throw projector 2704 on the interior ceiling of the vehicle broadcasts images and video onto a first sheet 2706, which may be close to the lens of the projector 2704 and not in the driver's field of view, which is then projected onto a second sheet 2708 covering the pillars 2702.

[0139] As can be seen, in a similar manner to that depicted, another short-throw projector 2716 can be disposed near the first short-throw projector 2704, projecting first onto a seat 2718 and then onto another seat 2720 on the opposite side of the interior of the vehicle 2700.

[0140] The images and video broadcast on the seat 2708 are captured by one or more cameras (not shown) mounted on the vehicle 2700 that record the external environment. This provides the driver of the vehicle 2700 with a video view as if through the solid pillar 2702.

[0141] As can be seen in FIG. 30 , the combined view of the visible portion of triangular object 2712 seen through windshield 2700, as well as an image 2714 of an otherwise unseen portion of object 2702 that is blocked from the driver's view by pillar 2702 but that is captured by camera and displayed on seat 2708, creates the illusion of the driver looking through a solid pillar 2702.

[0142] Currently, special reflective materials are required to allow images or videos to reflect the image so that it is visible rather than obscured. White is the most typically used color. However, this has the drawback of limiting the visibility of the vehicle's interior. Using the technique described in FIG. 30, any color can be used on the pillar 2702 behind the second seat 2708.

[0143] Jaguar Land Rover Limited demonstrated broadcasting video of what is directly ahead of the vehicle onto the hood of one of its off-road vehicles, as if the driver could see through the vehicle's hood, to provide a more unobstructed view for increased safety. The demonstration, which the company called the Discovery Vision Concept, used a forward-facing camera to capture images, which were then projected onto the bottom of the windshield, allowing the driver to simulate looking through the hood. A drawback of this approach is that the hood color must fall within a narrow range for optimal image / video reflection from the projector in daylight.

[0144] By using exemplary techniques of the present invention, such as that depicted in Figure 30, the hood color can be any color and still retain good reflectivity for the driver to view images or videos in daylight. Similar applications of this technique can be employed in aircraft cockpits, ship bridges, and airport control towers.

[0145] Broadcasting an image or video onto a wall typically requires a white, blank, or retroreflective surface. A variation of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 30, can be utilized via one or a series of projectors so that large images or videos can be displayed on interior or exterior walls, roofs, floors, or other backgrounds of any color.

[0146] Broadcasting an image from a projector onto a transparent surface often does not produce desirable results. Typically, there is a ghost-like image displayed on the transparent surface. By utilizing the techniques of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention just described, improved images can be displayed on glass. A second lens sheet can be disposed on the glass to produce a much better image or video sequence with minimal ghosting.

[0147] In a variation of the above, instead of needing a dedicated screen or television or monitor to present on, the boardroom can be designed using windows as display screens as needed.

[0148] In a related application, very large-scale video images can be displayed across a hotel with many windows, which can enable inexpensive mega-screen advertising by placing many small projectors outside or inside the hotel.

[0149] Passive Display Systems Many of the exemplary embodiments described above used one or more projectors to generate the images or video displayed on the lenticular lens sheet. However, the inventors have discovered other embodiments that use still or passive images to simulate the motion parallax effect, i.e., the change in the perceived image of an object over time as the observer moves. In these exemplary embodiments, still photographs, artwork, logos, images, paintings, as well as video display screens can be used.

[0150] Figure 31 depicts a simplified diagram of components of an exemplary passive display system according to an embodiment of the present invention for simulating motion parallax using the viewpoint-dependent properties of a lens sheet. Picture frame 3102 has an edge 3104 that is approximately 1 cm above an image mat 3108. Double-sided lenticular lens sheet 3106, not necessarily drawn to scale, depicts vertically polarized lenticular lenses. A single-sided lens sheet, as depicted in Figure 2, is a typical lenticular lens sheet, where one side has a smooth, flat surface while the other side contains convex lenses. A double-sided lenticular lens sheet contains lenticular or convex lenses on both sides.

[0151] Ideally, the lenticular lens sheet 3106 would be manufactured as one integral piece. However, two lenticular lens sheets can be arranged or positioned back-to-back along the dotted line shown in FIG. 31 to form the lenticular lens sheet 3106. An adhesive can be used to adhere the backs of the two lens sheets together. The adhesive is preferably a transparent, permanent adhesive. However, in some specific embodiments, the adhesive can be water. When two single-sided lenticular lens sheets are used, corresponding ones of the lenses, such as lenses 3110a, 3110b, etc., in each sheet are aligned with the same polarity, i.e., vertically to simulate side-to-side movement or horizontally to simulate up-and-down movement.

[0152] Figure 32 depicts a lenticular lens sheet 3106 placed on top of a picture frame 3102. The lens sheet 3106 is positioned approximately 1 cm above a mounting plate or image mat 3108. This distance can be varied for a greater or lesser effect as desired. Viewers 3204 from different viewpoints 3206, 3208, 3210 perceive one of three locations of the animal images alternating on the mat 3108 through the lens sheet 3106 depending on their lateral viewpoint. If the lens sheet is configured in a horizontal polarity, the image will move up or down depending on changing the distance or height of the viewer 3204.

[0153] The effect is similar on video display screens such as smartphones, tablets, computer monitors, television screens, etc., should the lens sheet be lifted away from the screen similar to the depiction in FIG.

[0154] The two lenticular lenses 3110a, 3110b (or one double-sided lens) can be bent towards the viewer in the middle, so that the middle is at a greater distance from the image and therefore there is more perceived motion in the middle relative to the sides of the image, or they can be bent inwards towards the middle, so that there is more perceived motion on the sides relative to the middle.

[0155] Lenses with different LPI ("lenses per inch" or "lines per inch") produce different frequencies of movement. While the two lens sheets depicted in Figures 31 and 32 are of the same LPI, in other embodiments the LPI may differ from each other to create different visual effects.

[0156] 33 depicts another double-sided linear lenticular sheet 3300, similar to lenticular sheet 3106 but with horizontal polarization, created by placing two linear lenticular sheets back to back. In this arrangement, a close-up of an object will appear in the correct location, but at a certain distance d, the object viewed at location 3310 will appear as a mirror image.

[0157] Due to the polarity, the effect is to reflect light ray 3304 by the back-to-back lenses 3306 into reflected light ray 3308, causing light ray 3304 to converge at location 3310. In this way, objects extending with the same polarity can be removed or reduced from view, particularly those within the zone where the viewed object begins to appear as a mirror image. While FIG. 33 shows back-to-back lenses 3306 extending horizontally, lenses 3306 can also extend vertically (as shown in lens sheet 3106) or even at an angle, while opening as before to achieve a similar effect. In other embodiments, a lens sheet similar to lens sheet 3300 including lenses 3306 can be curved.

[0158] Having thus described embodiments of the present invention by way of example only, the invention as defined by the appended claims should not be limited to the specific details set forth in the above description of exemplary embodiments, as many variations and substitutions are possible without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0159] (Appendix 1) a first lens sheet having a first polarization for receiving an image from a first projector; a second lens sheet having a second polarity adjacent to the first lens sheet; Equipped with a display system, wherein the first polarity is opposite to the second polarity, and when the first projector projects a first image through the first lens sheet onto the second lens sheet, the first image is visible on the second lens sheet but not on the first lens sheet. (Appendix 2) 10. The display system of claim 1, wherein the first lens sheet is smaller than the second lens sheet. (Appendix 3) 3. The display system of claim 2, wherein the first lens sheet is closer to the first projector than the second lens sheet. (Appendix 4) 4. The display system of claim 3, wherein the first projector comprises a projector lens, and the first lens sheet is formed over the projector lens. (Appendix 5) a second projector connected to a second image source, the second projector proximate the second lens sheet, the second projector projecting a second image through the second lens sheet onto the first lens sheet in an opposite direction; 10. The display system of claim 1, wherein the second image is visible on the first lens sheet but not on the second lens sheet. (Appendix 6) The display system described in Appendix 1, further comprising a mirror arranged in proximity to the first lens sheet and the second lens sheet, wherein the first image projected by the first projector passes through the first lens sheet, is reflected by the mirror, and is displayed on the second lens sheet. (Appendix 7) further comprising a mirror disposed proximate to the first lens sheet and the second lens sheet; the first image projected by the first projector passes through the first lens sheet, is reflected by the mirror, and is displayed on the second lens sheet; The display system of claim 5, wherein the second image projected by the second projector passes through the second lens sheet, is reflected by the mirror, and is displayed on the first lens sheet. (Appendix 8) 10. The display system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first lens sheet and the second lens sheet is curved. (Appendix 9) 2. The display system of claim 1, wherein the first polarity is horizontal and the second polarity is vertical. (Appendix 10) 2. The display system of claim 1, wherein the first polarization is vertical and the second polarization is horizontal. (Appendix 11) 2. The display system of claim 1, wherein the first lens sheet having the first polarity comprises parallel-arranged lenticular lenses aligned in a first direction, and the second lens sheet having the second polarity comprises parallel-arranged lenticular lenses aligned in a second direction, the first direction and the second direction being oriented at 90 degrees or 270 degrees to each other. (Appendix 12) 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one of the first lens sheet and the second lens sheet is cylindrical in shape. (Appendix 13) 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the at least one of the first lens sheet and the second lens sheet is spherical in shape. (Appendix 14) 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one of the first lens sheet and the second lens sheet is polyhedral in shape. (Appendix 15) a first lens sheet having a first polarity; a second lens sheet having a second polarity adjacent to the first lens sheet; Equipped with when the first polarity is opposite to the second polarity and a first projector and a second projector project a first image and a second image, respectively, through the first lens sheet onto the second lens sheet, the first image and the second image are visible on the second lens sheet but not on the first lens sheet; a display system wherein at a first location relative to the second lens sheet, the first image is visible to a viewer but the second image is not visible, and at a second location relative to the second lens sheet, the second image is visible to the viewer but the first image is not visible, the second location being different from the first location. (Appendix 16) 16. The display system of claim 15, wherein the first lens sheet is smaller than the second lens sheet. (Appendix 17) 17. The display system of claim 16, wherein the first lens sheet is closer to the first projector than the second lens sheet. (Appendix 18) 18. The display system of claim 17, wherein the first projector comprises a projector lens, and the first lens sheet is formed over the projector lens. (Appendix 19) 16. The display system of claim 15, further comprising at least one of the first projector and the second projector. (Appendix 20) 20. The display system of claim 19, comprising both the first projector and the second projector. (Appendix 21) a transparent body having an outer surface and an inner surface; a first lens sheet having a first polarity disposed over the outer surface; a second lens sheet having a second polarity and disposed adjacent to the inner surface and the first lens sheet, the first polarity being opposite to the second polarity; A protective shield, characterized in that when a first projector in communication with a first image source projects an image onto the first lens sheet through the second lens sheet, the image is visible on the first lens sheet but not on the second lens sheet. (Appendix 22) 22. The protective shield of claim 21, wherein the image is visible on the exterior surface but not on the interior surface. (Appendix 23) 22. The protective shield of claim 21, further comprising at least a first handle attached to the interior surface, the second lens sheet being in physical contact with a portion of the interior surface. (Appendix 24) 24. The protective shield of claim 23, wherein the first projector is attached to the first handle, the projector comprising a projector lenticular lens, and the second lens sheet is formed over the projector lenticular lens of the first projector. (Appendix 25) 25. The protective shield of claim 24, further comprising a second handle, a second projector attached to the second handle, the second projector also comprising a projector lenticular lens, and a third lens sheet formed over the projector lenticular lens of the second projector, the third lens sheet also having an opposite polarity to the first lens sheet. (Appendix 26) a first lens sheet having a first polarization for receiving an image from a first projector; a plurality of second lens sheets each having a second polarity arranged adjacent to one another to form an at least partially enclosed space adjacent to the first lens sheet; Equipped with a display system, wherein the first polarity is opposite to the second polarity, the first projector projects an image through the first lens sheet onto the inner surface of at least one of the second lens sheets, and an observer from outside the enclosed space looking at the outer surfaces of any two different ones of the second lens sheets observes different views of a virtual decoy image that appears to be formed within the enclosed space. (Appendix 27) 27. The display system of claim 26, wherein the first lens sheet is smaller than the second lens sheet. (Appendix 28) 28. The display system of claim 27, wherein the first lens sheet is closer to the first projector than the second lens sheet. (Appendix 29) 29. The display system of claim 28, wherein the first projector comprises a projector lens, and the first lens sheet is formed over the projector lens. (Appendix 30) 27. The display system of claim 26, wherein each of the lens sheets of the plurality of secondary lens sheets is rectangular in shape. (Appendix 31) 27. The display system of claim 26, wherein the second polarization is horizontal. (Appendix 32) 27. The display system of claim 26, wherein the plurality of secondary lens sheets consists of five. (Appendix 33) 27. The display system of claim 26, wherein an object disposed in the enclosed space is hidden from the view of the observer. (Appendix 34) placing a first lens sheet having a first polarity adjacent to a second lens sheet having a second polarity, the first polarity being opposite to that of the second polarity; projecting image data representing an object through the first lens sheet onto the second lens sheet; Including, A method of using a lens sheet, wherein when a first projector projects a first image through the first lens sheet onto the second lens sheet, the first image is visible to a viewer on the second lens sheet but not on the first lens sheet. (Appendix 35) 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the first lens sheet is smaller than the second lens sheet, and wherein the step of positioning includes disposing the first lens sheet closer to the first projector than the second lens sheet. (Appendix 36) 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the first projector comprises a projector lens, and wherein the disposing step includes forming the first lens sheet over the projector lens. (Appendix 37) 35. The method of claim 34, wherein an image displayed on the second lens sheet appears distorted, the method further comprising pre-distorting the image data representing the object such that an image projected onto the second lens sheet does not appear distorted. (Appendix 38) 35. The method of claim 34, wherein providing the image data representing the object includes capturing a digital photographic image of the object against a black background. (Appendix 39) 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the second lens sheet is disposed over a structure that blocks a portion of the object from the viewer, and the first image visible to the viewer corresponds to the portion of the object that is blocked from the viewer, such that the first image not blocked by the structure and the visible portion form an integrated view of the object to the viewer. (Appendix 40) a mat having an image thereon; a double-sided lens sheet having a first polarity adjacent to the mat; Equipped with A passive display system, characterized in that at a first location relative to the double-sided lens sheeting, a viewer can see a first view of the image, and at a second location relative to the double-sided lens sheeting, the viewer can see a second observed view but cannot see the first view, the second location being different from the first location, and the first view being different from the second view. (Appendix 41) 41. The passive display system of claim 40, wherein the double-sided lens sheet comprises a first single-sided lenticular lens sheet and a second single-sided lenticular lens sheet, each lens sheet having a smooth back surface, the first single-sided lenticular lens sheet and the second single-sided lenticular lens sheet being arranged back-to-back. (Appendix 42) 42. The passive display system of claim 41, further comprising a picture frame, wherein the distance between the mat and the double-sided lens sheet is about 1 cm. (Appendix 43) 43. The passive display system of claim 42, wherein the distance is variable and changing the distance causes a change in at least one of the first field of view and the second field of view. (Appendix 44) 44. The passive display system of claim 43, wherein the distance varies depending on the LPI of the lens sheet. (Appendix 45) 44. The passive display system of claim 43, wherein the LPI of the first single-sided lens sheet is different from the LPI of the second single-sided lens sheet. (Appendix 46) 44. The passive display system of claim 43, wherein the distance varies depending on the lens angle. [Explanation of symbols]

[0160] 102 First Medium 104 Second Medium 106 Incident ray 108 Refracted Rays 110 Boundary 200 lenticular sheets 202 Lenticular 204 viewing angle 301 Projector 303 Stripe 305 Vertical polarity sheet, first sheet 307 Second horizontal polarity sheet 309 Video Images 402 First Viewer 404 Second Lens Sheet 406 First lens sheet 408 Projector 410 Second Viewer 502 First Viewer 504 Second Sheet 506 First Sheet 508 Projector 510 Second Viewer 602 First Viewer 604 Display Sheet 606 Projector 608 Projector Lenticular Lens 610 Second Viewer 702 First Viewer 704 Display Sheet 706 Projector 708 Projector Lens 710 Second Viewer 802 Decoy Sheet 804 Decoy Sheet 806 Projector 808 Decoy Images 810 viewers 902 viewers 904 Cylindrical Display Sheet 906 Projector 1002 First Viewer 1004 Semi-cylindrical display sheet 1005 Second Sheet 1006 Projector 1008 Second Viewer 1102 First Viewer 1104 Semi-cylindrical display sheet 1106 Projector 1108 Second Viewer 1202 First Viewer 1204 Cylindrical display sheet 1206 Projector 1207 Polarized Projector Lenticular Lens 1208 Second Viewer 1302 viewers 1304 Spherical Display 1306 Projector 1402 First Viewer 1404 Second Projector 1406 Display surface 1408 Display surface 1410 First Projector 1412 Second Viewer 1502 viewers 1504 Side 1506 Display 1508 Side 1510 viewers 1512 viewers 1514 Projector 1516 Display 1518 viewers 1520 Projector 1602 viewers 1604 Projector 1606 Projector 1608 Composite Display 1610 Projector 1612 viewers 1614 Projector 1616 Projector 1618 Surface 1700 Display System 1702 users 1704 First lens sheet 1706 images 1707 images 1708 Second lens sheet 1710 Projector 1712 Projector 1714 images 1718 Computer 1720 Computer 1722 images 1724 users 1902 First lens sheet 1904 Mirror 1906 Second lens sheet 1908 viewers 1910 Projector 2012 viewers 2014 Lens Sheet 2016 mirror 2018 Lens Sheet 2020 viewers 2022 Projector 2024 Image Source 2026 Projector 2028 Image Source 2102 users 2104 users 2106 Projector 2108 Projector 2110 Wall 2112 images 2114 images 2202 users 2204 users 2206 users 2208 users 2210 Wall 2212 images 2214 images 2220 users 2302a Projector 2302b Projector 2304 Cylindrical Display 2304a First lens sheet, lenticular lens sheet 2304b Second cylindrical sheet 2306 First Viewer 2308 Second Viewer 2400 System 2402 Projector 2404 First lens sheet material 2406 Piece 2408 Piece 2410 Piece 2412 Piece 2414 Piece 2416 viewers 2418 Virtual Decoy Soldier 2502 Projector 2504 Lens sheet 2506 Correction images, logo images 2508 Image Source 2510 preliminary distortion image 2600a Protective Shield 2600b protective shield 2600c protective shield 2602a Shield body 2602b Shield body 2602c Shield body 2604a Lens sheet material 2604b Lens sheet material 2604c Lens sheet material 2606a Projector 2606b Projector 2606c Projector 2608a Handle 2608b Handle 2608c Handle 2610a Handle 2610c handle 2612a Second lens sheet 2612b Second lens sheet 2612c Second lens sheet 2614c Projector 2616c Second lens sheet 2630 Lens Sheet 2632 images 2634 Lenticular Lens 2636 rear side 2700 vehicles 2702 Pillar 2704 Projector 2704 First short throw projector 2706 First Sheet 2708 Second Sheet 2710 Windshield 2712 Object 2714 images 2716 Short Throw Projector 2718 sheets 2720 ​​sheets 3102 Picture frames 3104 Edge 3106 Double-sided lenticular lens sheet 3108 Image Mat 3110a Lenticular Lens 3110b Lenticular Lens 3204 viewers 3206 viewpoints 3208 viewpoints 3210 viewpoints 3300 Double-sided linear lens sheet 3304 Ray of light 3306 Lens 3308 Ray of light 3310 Location

Claims

1. a transparent body having an outer surface and an inner surface; a first lens sheet disposed over the outer surface, the first lens sheet having a lens or lenticular arrangement along a first direction; a second lens sheet disposed adjacent to the inner surface and the first lens sheet, the second lens sheet having lenses or lenticulars arranged along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction; a first projector having a projector lens, the second lens sheet being formed over the projector lens; 1. A protective shield, wherein when a first projector in communication with a first image source projects an image onto the first lens sheet through the second lens sheet, the image is visible on the first lens sheet but not on the second lens sheet.

2. 10. The protective shield of claim 1, wherein said image is visible on said exterior surface but not on said interior surface.

3. 10. The protective shield of claim 1, further comprising at least a first handle attached to said interior surface, said second lens sheet being in physical contact with a portion of said interior surface.

4. 4. The protective shield of claim 3, wherein said first projector is attached to said first handle.

5. 5. The protective shield of claim 4, further comprising a second handle, a second projector attached to the second handle, the second projector also comprising a projector lenticular lens, a third lens sheet formed over the projector lenticular lens of the second projector, and an arrangement of lenses or lenticules of the third lens sheet along a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

Images