초록 ▼

The method herein images an object repeatedly moving about an axis. The mod uses signals to track the object's position with respect to the axis while a camera views the object. A reflection is cast from the object toward the camera in such a way that the camera scans both the reflection and the obj

The method herein images an object repeatedly moving about an axis. The mod uses signals to track the object's position with respect to the axis while a camera views the object. A reflection is cast from the object toward the camera in such a way that the camera scans both the reflection and the object. The camera outputs representations of video lines, which depict parts of the object and the reflection. These video lines have known positions relative to a reference plane, which passes through the image plane of the camera. Certain of the video lines are selected. The selected lines come from a chosen position relative to the reference plane and occur within a chosen time of the position signals. The selected video lines are arrayed according to their particular position signals and are used to compile a planar composite image representing the object's outer periphery. The composite image is conformed to a shape resembling the periphery, thereby creating a three dimensional representation of the object.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method of forming a three-dimensional image of an object moving around at least one axis, comprising:producing position signals indicating positions of the object relative to the axis;aiming a camera at the object along a first line sight so that the camera has a first

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method of forming a three-dimensional image of an object moving around at least one axis, comprising:producing position signals indicating positions of the object relative to the axis;aiming a camera at the object along a first line sight so that the camera has a first view of the object;obtaining a second view of the object, the second view taken along a second line of sight generally perpendicular to the first line of sight;directing the second view to the camera;wherein the camera sees the first view and the second view, the camera outputting representations of video lines depicting parts of the first view and parts of the second view;selecting the video lines occurring within predetermined times of the position signals;indicating the video lines selected with identifiers corresponding to the position signals, wherein each indicated video line is associated with a particular position signal;using the indicated lines to form a flat composite image representing the object;providing a three-dimensional shape resembling the object; andfolding the composite image onto the shape.