Programmable light beam shape altering device using programmable micromirrors

• US 20020018284A1
• Filed: 08/09/2001
• Published: 02/14/2002
• Est. Priority Date: 02/07/1996
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Production Resource Group LLC
• Original Assignee: Light and Sound Design Limited
• Inventors: Hewlett, William E.
• Granted Patent: US 6,421,165 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 359/291
• CPC Class Codes: F21W 2131/406 for theatres, stages or film studios
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 26/0833 the reflecting element being a micromechanical device, e.g. a MEMS mirror, DMD G02B26/0825 takes precedence; micromechanical devices in general B81B
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 26/0841 the reflecting element being moved or deformed by electrostatic means
• CPC Class Codes: G09G 2310/0235 Field-sequential colour display
• CPC Class Codes: G09G 3/346 based on modulation of the reflection angle, e.g. micromirrors micromirrors devices per se G02B26/0833
• CPC Class Codes: H04N 5/7458 the modulator being an array of deformable mirrors, e.g. digital micromirror device [DMD]
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 359/90 Methods

Abstract

A digital micromirror device (“DMD”) is used to alter the shape of light that is projected onto a stage. The DMD selectively reflects some light, thereby shaping the light that is projected onto the stage. The control for the alteration is controlled by an image. That image can be processed, thereby carrying out image processing effects on the shape of the light that is displayed. One preferred application follows the shape of the performer and illuminates the performer using a shape that adaptively follows the performer'"'"'s image. This results in a shadowless follow spot.

Claims

1. A light shape altering device, having elements which selectively modify light, located in the path of a light beam and comprising:

a first selective light reflection device, having a plurality of elements, each element defining a portion of an image, and each element being separately controllable between a first state which passes light to a desired object of illumination and a second state which reflects light away from the desired object of illumination; and

a controller which obtains a desired shape and which converts said shape into control signals for said first selective light reflection device, so that said selective light reflective device passes light of a predetermined shape to said desired object of illumination.