Method and apparatus for use in producing autostereoscopic images

Abstract

Apparatus such as a camera for producing autostereoscopic images from convergent optical assemblies and imaging devices including (in a preferred embodiment of FIG. 11) curved reflecting surfaces. Light from the object field represented by rays R1, R2 and R3 enters the camera through a horizontally long but vertically narrow slot 210. The light is split into reflected and transmitted components by semi-transparent mirror 211. Two horizontal apertures 212 and 213, one in each component beam, prevent unwanted vignetting. A plane mirror 214 folds the reflected component from mirror 211 so that it is approximately parallel to the transmitted component. A curved reflector assembly 215 which typically comprises a series of curved reflectors side by side horizontally creates one or more intermediate images of the object field at a retroreflective screen 216, which is arranged to move in its own plane during exposure of the film and receives both the transmitted and reflected components of light. Following the return of each ray by the retro-reflector substantially down its original path, the two component rays are recombined by semi-transmitting mirror 211 and pass through the camera's shutter mechanism shown here to consist of two moving sheets 217. Three mirrors 218, 219 and 220 fold the optical path to the lenticular screen and emulsion 221. Imaging of the object field is achieved by providing mirrors 219 and 220 with the necessary curvature. The optimum viewing distance of the final picture may be independently defined by use of a weak field lens 222.