Array-camera motion picture device, and methods to produce new visual and aural effects

Abstract

A system and method for creating visual special effects comprising capturing an image of an object or objects in motion from each of a plurality of cameras aligned in an array, assembling the images from each camera into a series of images in a manner providing a simulation of motion from the perspective along the array with respect to the object or objects within the images when a series of images is displayed in sequence in a motion picture medium.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for producing a visual motion picture special effect comprising the steps of:
 providing an array of cameras deployed along a path, wherein proximate cameras along said path have a view of a common object within a common scene and define first and second time directions;   at a first time, causing a first camera of the said array to capture a first image of the moving object;   at a second time, causing a second camera of the said array to capture a second image of the object, wherein the said second camera is either proximate to the said first camera;   at a third time, causing a third camera of the array to capture a third image of the object, wherein the said third camera is proximate to the said first camera, wherein the said first camera lies along the said path between the said second and third cameras, wherein the said second and third times occur after the said first time;   displaying in a motion picture medium the said third image followed by the said first image followed by the said second image to create a visual motion picture special effect wherein scene time appears to unfold first at one speed in the first time direction and then appears to unfold in the second time direction at a slower speed, and wherein the said visual motion picture special effect simulates a motion picture view of said moving object as if captured from a camera viewpoint which traveled past the said moving object.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein scene time further appears to unfold first at a slowed speed in the first time direction and then appears to unfold in the second time direction at a faster speed, and wherein the said visual motion picture special effect simulates a motion picture view of said moving object as if captured from a camera viewpoint which traveled past the said moving object.