Eugene L Foster

Title: Eugene L. Foster and His Figure Animation Patent

Introduction

Eugene L. Foster is an inventor associated with Monterey Park, California, and The Walt Disney Company. His patent work describes a technique for animating a figure’s facial expression with a projected image.

Latest Patents

Foster is credited with 1 patent: “Figure with Back Projected Image Using Fiber Optics.” The invention uses a coherent fiber-optic bundle to carry an image from a remote source, such as a motion-picture projector, into a figure’s head. A wide-angle lens with an extremely short focal length projects the image onto the face. An internal adjustment system helps maintain focus and alignment, while a motion device allows the head to move freely in different directions without disrupting the image.

Career Highlights

The patent highlights Foster’s work on combining fiber optics, image projection, and mechanical movement to create an animated figure. Its design addresses the challenge of keeping a projected facial image properly focused and registered as the figure’s head moves.

Collaborations

Foster’s listed coworker is Gordon E. Liljegren. The available information identifies their association but does not specify the nature of their collaboration.

Conclusion

Eugene L. Foster’s patent presents a method for animating a figure’s face by integrating fiber-optic image transfer, adjustable projection, and unrestricted head movement.