Image recorder having automatic alignment method and apparatus

Abstract

An image recorder for providing a CRT image and apparatus to store the image on a film disposed on a film plane. The relative position, intensity and focus parameters of the image are measured during an initial startup of the image recorder, wherein the position, intensity and focus parameters of the CRT and the image thereon are automatically aligned to assure enhanced performance. The apparatus according to the present invention provides an alignment mask disposed in the CRT plane, and the CRT parameters are measured by observation of the light collected through the alignment mask from the CRT and processing the corresponding light intensity signals. The light sensing device provides a signal which is processed typically by a microprocessor controlled geometry engine to derive a set of correction data which is based on a prototype array of initialized data values. The correction data provide signals which are combined with uncorrected CRT deflection signals to provide a corrected signal. The parameters corrected by the apparatus and method according to the present invention include x and y position, focus and relative picture intensity over the surface of the screen (vignette). The above-listed parameters are used alone and in combination to provide image centering, image scaling and pincushion correction, correction for non-orthogonality between the x and y deflection coils, image rotation and correction for nonlinear second and third order effects. The set of data can also be deliberately distorted to provide image precompensation such as keystone (trapezoid) and spherical corrections as well as vignette compensation such that, when the final image is projected or displayed, a true (nondistorted) image results.