A Three-Channel High-Resolution-TV Image-Generation System

This paper discusses the development of a three-channel high-resolution image-generation system consisting of a matrix of three TV cameras capable of operating with the output of a single wide-(140° FOV) angle optical probe. The TV cameras are capable of correcting the geometric errors of the optical probe, the television display, and the display optics as well as the internal scanning errors of the cameras themselves from an external control panel. The cameras achieved an overall geometric error of less than 0.25% and exhibited a stability of 0.1% for a 24-hr. period. The three video images, in conjunction with a suitable matrix of displays, are capable of presenting a continuous visual scene 140 wide and 45 high, with a resolution of 2400 TV lines per picture width. This program also included a three-channel special-effects generator capable of electronic generation of fog, haze, clouds, and electronic sky for the upper portion of the scene above the model board and operation under day, dusk, and night conditions. The unit also has the capability to enhance cultural lighting which can be accomplished without any change in the model lighting or camera operation. The unit allows for dynamic flight characteristics such as roll, pitch, yaw, and flight above and below clouds across the entire matrix of video scenes displayed.