Patent Application
20190318674
The present invention relates to visual effects and, more particularly, to a system of producing visual effects.
Unique visual effects are desirable. Certain visual effect systems include an illuminated object (such as a neon or an LED light) inside a semi-reflective mirror structure. As a result, they are static or simply twinkle.
As can be seen, there is a need for an enhanced system of producing visual effects.
In one aspect of the present invention, a system of producing visual effects comprises: an enclosure comprising a plurality of sidewalls each comprising a reflective inner surface facing one other, wherein at least one of the plurality of sidewalls is a first semi-reflective sidewall; and a digital video display positioned to direct digital video imagery through the semi-reflective sidewall and into the enclosure, wherein light of the digital video imagery reflects off the reflective inner surfaces of plurality of sidewalls.
These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims.
The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.
The present invention includes a video and semi-reflective mirror configuration that creates unique visual effects. By utilizing the qualities of semi-reflective mirrors, the present invention allows video to be part of an infinity effect, endlessly reflecting and repeating on itself while creating the illusion of vast depth. The video source is placed behind the semi-reflective mirror which creates an uninterrupted infinity effect without any unwanted physical obstructions.
Referring now to the
In certain embodiments, the plurality of sidewalls 13 includes six sidewalls 13 forming a cuboid shape. The plurality of sidewalls 13 may further include a second semi-reflective sidewall 16 opposite the first semi-reflective sidewall 22. The plurality of sidewalls 13 may further includes a base 12, a top wall 14, a first side wall 18, and a second sidewall 20 each having either a semi-reflective inner surface or a fully reflective inner surface and a non-reflective outer surface 30
As mentioned above, the digital video display 10 is positioned to direct digital video imagery through the first semi-reflective sidewall 22. For example, the digital video display 10 may be directly coupled to the outer surface of the semi-reflective sidewall 22. Alternatively, the digital video display 10 may be separate from the enclosure and facing towards the first semi-reflective sidewall 22. The digital video display 10 may include, but is not limited to Light Emitting Diode displays, projectors, Plasma displays, or other types of video imaging devices.
The enclosure 11 of the present invention may include multiple configurations. For example, the enclosure 11 may include an entrance 24, such as an opening in one of the plurality of walls 13, for a user 40 to walk in and view the reflective imagery 28 as well as reflections of themselves 42. As illustrated in
When projecting digital video imagery into the enclosure 11, a hall of mirror effect occurs with reflections layering onto other reflections to create the illusion of repeating content through depth. Additionally, with the digital video display 10 on the exterior of the enclosure 11, the digital video display 10 does not interrupt the effect. User's 40 then can view the effect either by being inside it (in large formats) or through the second semi-reflective sidewall 16 which acts as a window to the hall of mirrors while still contributing to the reflections itself.
A method of making the present invention may include the following. Create an enclosed or semi-enclosed shape with mirror surfaces facing inward. This shape can be fabricated any number of ways, using glass or plexiglass. At least one surface is semi-reflective. Any standard video technology may work. The video screen is placed near the exterior surface of a semi-reflective side of the mirrored enclosure 11.
The geometry of the enclosure 11 creates different effects. By displaying video content using this technique, the present invention creates a visual effect that is compelling to look at. The present invention may be utilized for: Promotional Reasons; Home decor; Artistic Expression; In-Camera Video Effects; and the like. The present invention may be used to create pop-up marketing installations, artistic use, store displays, photo booths, windows, trippy home decoration, and more.
It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.
This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application No. 62/621,647, filed Jan. 25, 2018, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62621647 | Jan 2018 | US |
