US20200147511A1

US20200147511A1 - Devices and methods for holographic screen suspension systems

Info

Publication number: US20200147511A1
Application number: US16/678,865
Authority: US
Inventors: David Richardson; Ryan Richardson
Original assignee: Prism Holograms LLC
Current assignee: Prism Holograms LLC
Priority date: 2018-11-09
Filing date: 2019-11-08
Publication date: 2020-05-14
Also published as: US11097199B2; US20200147512A1

Abstract

The present disclosure provides devices and methods for holographic screen suspension systems. These systems can allow for a smooth reflection surface of the screen that is void of wrinkled or non-uniform surfaces.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 62/758,463, filed Nov. 9, 2018, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Live performance hologram illusions, also known as “Pepper's Ghost Illusion,” are a desired and crowd-pleasing spectacle for concerts, theme or amusement parks, business motivational speakers, celebrity presenters and the like.
Pepper's ghost is an illusionary technique used by magicians, by ride or attraction designers, and others to produce a 3D illusion of a latent or ghost-like image by reflecting a hidden image source onto a semi-transparent screen. Using a simple piece of plate glass and special lighting techniques, Pepper's ghost systems can make objects appear and disappear within a scene or room. In turn, the achieved result is a reflected image or object that appears to the audience as if it were in 3D space.
Generally, main components of such a system include, for example, (i) a bounce screen or an image source; (ii) a semi-transparent and reflective screen angled at about 45 degrees directly above or below the bounce screen; and (iii) a backdrop or stage to create the space for the illusion. The bounce screen is usually hidden on the ground or above the audience. The bounce screen can either receive an image from a projector, or forego the projector and be replaced with an LED, LCD or TV-like display system.
Conventionally, such systems employ at least one “ratchet strap” for securely engaging a screen. Generally, such ratchet straps connect the main structure (usually stage trusses) to the screen. The transparent screen is grabbed onto by two sandwiching members referred to as “screen brace”. The screen brace can be two extruded rectangular bars of aluminum. Such orientation or configuration allows for multiple points along the screen brace to be independently or asymmetrically adjusted via the ratchet straps as they may be tightened or loosened independent of each other. Tightening or loosening of ratchet straps may be achieved by a friction ratcheting knuckle, which often results in wrinkling or creasing of the screen as the screen is tightened or loosened.
In order to achieve a smooth reflection surface for the screen that is void of wrinkled or non-uniform surfaces alternative securing mechanisms are disclosed herein.
These and other objects, features, and characteristics of the present disclosure, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification.

SUMMARY

The foregoing needs are satisfied by the present disclosure, which provides for devices and methods for holographic screen suspension systems. The devices and methods provided can allow even and symmetric tension across the screen which can be used in entertainment and other setting to provide a unique visual display for an audience.
In some embodiments, the system can include a main structure, a screen brace configured to couple to a screen, a first set of pulleys operatively connected to the main structure and a second set of pulleys operatively connected to the screen brace, the first set of pulleys being aligned in series along the main structure in a first linear axis and the second set of pulleys being aligned in series along the screen brace in a second linear axis, where the pulleys of the first set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the second set of pulleys along the first linear axis and second linear axis.
In some embodiments, the system can include a first main structure, a second main structure, a first screen brace configured to couple to a screen, a second screen brace configured to couple to the screen, a first set of pulleys operatively connected to the first main structure, a second set of pulleys operatively connected to the first screen brace, a third set of pulleys operatively connected to the second main structure and a fourth set of pulleys operatively connected to the second screen brace, the first set of pulleys being aligned in series along the first main structure in a first linear axis and the second set of pulleys being aligned in series along the first screen brace in a second linear axis, where the pulleys of the first set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the second set of pulleys along the first linear axis and second linear axis, and the third set of pulleys being aligned in series along the second main structure in a third linear axis and the fourth set of pulleys being aligned in series along the second screen brace in a fourth linear axis, where the pulleys of the third set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the fourth set of pulleys along the third linear axis and fourth linear axis.
These and other objects, features, and characteristics of the present disclosure, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The devices and methods of the present disclosure can be described in conjunction with the appended drawings which are provided to illustrate but not to limit the disclosed devices and methods. Like designations in the drawings denote like elements.

FIG. 1 depicts a front view of a holographic screen suspension system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 depicts a front view of a portion of a pulley mechanism employed in a holographic screen suspension system according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure provides devices and methods for holographic screen suspension systems.

Definitions

As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
The use of the term “or” in the claims and the present disclosure is used to mean “and/or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or the alternatives are mutually exclusive.
Use of the term “about”, when used with a numerical value, is intended to include +/−10%. By way of example but not limitation, if a distance is identified as about 10 millimeters, this would include 9 to 11 millimeters (i.e., plus or minus 10%).
Use of the term “set” refers to a grouping of two or more. For example, a set of pulleys would include two or more pulleys.
Various aspects of the novel systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein are described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. This disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to any specific structure or function presented throughout this disclosure. Rather, these aspects are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Based on the teachings herein, one skilled in the art would appreciate that the scope of the disclosure is intended to cover any aspect of the novel systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed herein, whether implemented independently of, or combined with, any other aspect of the disclosure. For example, an apparatus may be implemented, or a method may be practiced using any number of the aspects set forth herein. In addition, the scope of the disclosure is intended to cover such an apparatus or method that is practiced using other structure, functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to or other than the various aspects of the disclosure set forth herein. It should be understood that any aspect disclosed herein might be implemented by one or more elements of a claim.
Although particular aspects are described herein, many variations and permutations of these aspects fall within the scope of the disclosure. Although some benefits and advantages of the preferred aspects are mentioned, the scope of the disclosure is not intended to be limited to particular benefits, uses, and/or objectives. The detailed description and drawings are merely illustrative of the disclosure rather than limiting, the scope of the disclosure being defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The devices and methods of the present disclosure, including the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, are directed to systems for securely engaging a screen.
In some embodiments, the system can include a main structure, a screen brace, and a plurality of pulleys. In some embodiments, the plurality of pulleys can include a first set of pulleys and a second set of pulleys. In some embodiments, the plurality of pulleys can include a first plurality of pulleys that include a first set of pulleys and a second set of pulleys and a second plurality of pulleys that include a third set of pulleys and a fourth set of pulleys.
In some embodiments, the system can include a main structure, a screen brace configured to couple to a screen, a first set of pulleys operatively connected to the main structure and a second set of pulleys operatively connected to the screen brace, the first set of pulleys being aligned in series along the main structure in a first linear axis and the second set of pulleys being aligned in series along the screen brace in a second linear axis, where the pulleys of the first set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the second set of pulleys along the first linear axis and second linear axis.
In some embodiments, the system can include a first main structure, a second main structure, a first screen brace configured to couple to a screen, a second screen brace configured to couple to the screen, a first set of pulleys operatively connected to the first main structure, a second set of pulleys operatively connected to the first screen brace, a third set of pulleys operatively connected to the second main structure and a fourth set of pulleys operatively connected to the second screen brace, the first set of pulleys being aligned in series along the first main structure in a first linear axis and the second set of pulleys being aligned in series along the first screen brace in a second linear axis, where the pulleys of the first set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the second set of pulleys along the first linear axis and second linear axis, and the third set of pulleys being aligned in series along the second main structure in a third linear axis and the fourth set of pulleys being aligned in series along the second screen brace in a fourth linear axis, where the pulleys of the third set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the fourth set of pulleys along the third linear axis and fourth linear axis.
Referring to FIG. 1, an illustrative example of a front view of a holographic screen suspension system 100 according to an example embodiment is shown. The holographic screen suspension system 100 includes a first main structure 101, a first plurality of pulleys 102 (which includes a first set of pulleys attached to the first main structure and a second set of pulleys attached to the screen brace 103), screen brace 103, transparent screen 104, and bounce screen 106. In addition, holographic screen suspension system 100 includes a different second main structure 109, a second plurality of pulleys 108 (which includes a third set of pulleys attached to the second main structure and a fourth set of pulleys attached to the second screen brace 112) and a second screen brace 112, where the second plurality of pulleys 108 and second main structure 109 are opposite the first main structure 101 and first plurality of pulleys 102. The holographic screen suspension system 100 also includes a first cable or rope 111 and a second cable or rope 113. Also depicted is a a projected image or hologram 105.
The first plurality of pulleys 102 can be a series of pulleys that are symmetrically or asymmetrically installed across the first main structure 101 and first screen brace 103. As shown in FIG. 1, the first plurality of pulleys 102 can include a first set of pulleys adjacent to the first main structure 101 and a second set of pulleys adjacent to the first screen brace 103, wherein the first set of pulleys and second set of pulleys are diametrically opposite and misaligned or offset with each other. The first set of pulleys and the second set of pulleys may be misaligned such that rotational axis of each pulley in the first set of pulleys is misaligned with the rotational axis of each pulley in the second set of pulleys. The rotational axis of each pulley in the first set of pulleys can be orthogonal to a linear axis of the first main structure 101, and the rotational axis of each pulley in the second set of pulleys can be orthogonal to a linear axis of the first screen brace 103.
Similar to the first plurality of pulleys 102 configuration discussed above with respect to the first main structure 101 and first screen brace 103, the second plurality of pulleys 108 can be similarly oriented and configured with respect to the stage (not shown and the second main structure 109, which are on the opposing end of the transparent screen 104. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the second plurality of pulleys 108 can include a third set of pulleys attached to the second main structure 109 and a fourth set of pulleys attached to the second screen brace 112, wherein the third and fourth sets are diametrically opposite and misaligned or offset with each other. The third set of pulleys and the fourth set of pulleys may be misaligned such that rotational axis of each pulley in the third set of pulleys is misaligned with the rotational axis of each pulley in the fourth set of pulleys. The rotational axis of each pulley in the third set of pulleys can orthogonal to a linear axis of stage (not shown) or second main structure 109, and the rotational axis of each pulley in the second set of pulleys can be orthogonal to a linear axis of the second screen brace 112.
Still referring to FIG. 1, each of first and second plurality pulleys 102, 108 can include a groove around the circumference of each pulley that is configured to engage with and receive therein a metal cable or rope 111, 113. Metal cable or rope 111 (first metal cable or rope), 113 (second metal cable or rope) can then be interwoven between the first or second screen brace 103, 112 and the first or second main structure 101, 109, respectively, such that the metal cable or rope alternates between the respective screen brace and main structure. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the ends of the metal cables or ropes 111, 113 can be tensioned and then attached or anchored to the respective main structure 101, 109 with a mechanism in the path of the metal cables or ropes 111, 113 between the last pulley of the system 100 to apply tension to the metal cables or ropes 111, 113. As a result, the metal cables or ropes 111, 113 can be retracted or shortened near an anchor point and an even, symmetrical tension can applied to connection points along screen braces 103, 112 where the first set and third set of pulleys are installed, respectively. The first and second plurality of pulleys 102, 108 can be stitched, alternatively soldered onto the respective screen braces and main structures.
Next, referring to FIG. 2, a front view of a pulley mechanism employed in the holographic screen suspension system according to an example embodiment is illustrated. Each of the first plurality of pulleys 102 is either coupled or affixed to main structure 101 (first set of pulleys) or screen brace 103 (second set of pulleys). As illustrated, each of the pulleys are coupled to each other via metal cable or rope 111. The metal cable or rope 111 engages circumference of a pulley thereby forming an angle A° or B° as shown. Further, at least a portion of the plurality of pulleys 102 illustrated in FIG. 2 can be configured to independently move horizontally or vertically along the same plane of transparent screen 104 or along the linear axis of the main structure 101 or screen brace 103 (horizontally) or orthogonally thereto. Such configurations can alter the relative angle of the plurality of pulleys 102, therefore changing the leverage of the two pulleys as shown by the changed angles C° and D° when pulley 102-A is moved by pulley position adjuster to move horizontally along the main structure 101.
For example, as shown in FIG. 2, pulley 102-A can be offset from its respective of center of rotation due to independent horizontal or vertical movement. The pulley 102-A, for example, may be offset from its respective center of rotation resulting in angles C° and D°, which are different from angles A° and B°, the offset angle being formed by the metal cable or rope 111 as it passes around pulley 102-A. According to a non-limiting example embodiment, one skilled in the art would appreciate that such pulley mechanism may be switched or interchanged with screen brace 103 or installed on both, screen brace 103 and main structure 101. Further, one skilled in the art may appreciate that FIG. 2 is referenced with respect to the first plurality of pulleys 102; however, similar configuration may also be applicable to the second plurality of pulleys 108 and respective second main structure 109 and second screen brace 112.
According to an alternative example embodiment, only one of the first plurality of pulleys or second plurality of pulleys illustrated in FIG. 1 can be installed in a system of the present disclosure. One side may have screen brace 103 or 112 directly or indirectly bolted, welded, or braced to main structure 101 or 109, respectively, and the alternate side may have a plurality of pulleys and metal cable or rope 111 or 113 installed. Additionally, one skilled in the art may appreciate that pluralities of pulleys 102, 108 can each independently be replaced with loops, discs, or circular or semi-circular components that may or may not spin or rotate about their rotational axis, but which allow for a metal cable or rope to pass therethrough to provide tension. Similarly, one of skill in the art can understand that the metal cable or rope can be any cable or rope of any suitable material and is not limited to a metal cable or rope.
It should be understood that while the exemplary embodiments and disclosure discuss the provision of pulleys along a first or second main structure and a first or second screen brace (a first and second set of pulleys or third and fourth set of pulleys, respectively), additional pairs of sets of pulleys can be located on the other sides of a screen and configured as disclosed herein by attachment to main structures and screen braces to provide tension to the screen along all four sides.
One skilled in the art would appreciate that holographic foil may have issues of wrinkling as tension is applied to it. With independent adjustability, a technician can adjust each assembly until all or most wrinkles are gone from the screen. One skilled in the art would appreciate that the devices and methods of the present disclosure are directed to attaching and tensioning the holographic foil.
Pulleys
In any of the foregoing embodiments, each pulley of any of the first, second, third and fourth set of pulleys can comprise a groove configured to receive a cable or rope therein. In some embodiments, the cable or rope can be alternately received in the groove of each pulley of the first set of pulleys and second set of pulleys. In some embodiments, a first cable or rope can be alternately received in the groove of each pulley of the first set of pulleys and second set of pulleys and a second cable or rope can be alternately received in the groove of each pulley of the third set of pulleys and the fourth set of pulleys.
In some embodiments, a set of pulleys can include two or more pulleys. By way of example, but not limitation, a set of pulleys can include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or more pulleys. By way of further example, but not limitation, a set of pulleys can include at least 2, at least 5, at least 8, at least 10, at least 12, at least 15, at least 20 or more pulleys. One of skill in the art can determine the number of pulleys needed based on the size of the screen and desired adjustability of the system.
In any of the foregoing embodiments, structural elements such as loops, discs, or circular or semi-circular components that may or may not spin or rotate about a rotational axis can be used in place of the pulleys. The foregoing disclosure, to the extent it can apply to other structural elements, can be applied to such elements. By way of example but not limitation, a system can include a first set of loops and a second set of loops instead of the first set of pulleys and the second set of pulleys. In such an embodiment, the first set of loops and second set of loops can be offset relative to one another along the first linear axis and second linear axis and configured to receive a cable or rope and a cable or rope can alternately pass through each of the first set of loops and the second set of loops.
Main Structures
The main structure 101 can support and hold up the screen and tensioning system. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the main structure (including the first or second main structure) can be any suitable structure for suspension of a screen. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the main structure (including the first or second main structure) can be a truss/stage system. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the main structure (including the first of second main structure) can be a building support system or frame. In some embodiments, the building support system or frame can be made from metal, wood or plastic. In some embodiments, a main structure can be a stage. For example, a screen brace can be attached to a stage.
In some embodiments, where the system includes a first set of pulleys and a second set of pulleys, the system can further include an additional main structure operatively connected to an additional screen brace configured to couple to the screen. In such embodiments, the screen can be fixably attached to the additional screen brace. By way of example, but not limitation, the screen can be fixably attached to the additional screen brace by bolts, bracing or welding.
Screen Braces
In any of the foregoing embodiments, the screen brace (including the first or second screen brace) can provide attachment points for the suspension system and can hold the screen or holographic foil. In some embodiments, the screen brace can include two metal rectangular tubes between which the screen or foil can be sandwiched and that apply significant pressure between the tubes to hold the screen during tension.
Cables or Ropes
In any of the foregoing embodiments, the system can include a cable or rope. In some embodiments, where a first, second, third, and fourth set of pulleys are used, the system can include a first cable or rope and a second cable or rope.
Screens
In any of the foregoing embodiments, the system can further include a screen. In some embodiments, the screen can be coupled to the screen brace. In some embodiments, the screen can be coupled to the first screen brace and second screen brace. In some embodiments, the screen can be a holographic foil. The holographic foil can be a material that is capable of reflecting an image from a bounce screen or image source. In some embodiments, the holographic foil is made of a semi- or near-transparent foil. In some embodiments, the holographic foil can be transparent mylar, clear plastic or a transparent crystallized material.
Adjustment
In any of the foregoing embodiments, at least a portion of the pulleys can be moved horizontally or vertically along the linear axis with which they are associated. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first set of pulleys or the second set of pulleys are configured to independently move horizontally along the first linear axis or second linear axis, respectively, or to independently move vertically in a plane formed by the main structure and the screen brace. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the pulleys of the third set of pulleys or the fourth set of pulleys are configured to independently move horizontally along the third linear axis or fourth linear axis, respectively, or to independently move vertically in a plane formed by the second main structure and the second screen brace. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first set of pulleys or the second set of pulleys are configured to independently move horizontally along the first linear axis or second linear axis, respectively, or to independently move vertically in a plane formed by the main structure and the screen brace and at least a portion of the pulleys of the third set of pulleys or the fourth set of pulleys are configured to independently move horizontally along the third linear axis or fourth linear axis, respectively, or to independently move vertically in a plane formed by the second main structure and the second screen brace.
Structural devices and designs for incorporating such adjustability are known in the art. By way of example, but not limitation, the set of pulleys can be attached to a main structure or screen brace by means of a linear channel that can enable horizontal movement of the pulleys or adjustable brackets can be used. As disclosed previously, such devices and designs can also apply to other structural elements that can be used in place of the pulleys.
Tensioning Mechanisms
In any of the foregoing embodiments, the cable or rope (including the first cable or rope and second cable or rope) can be attached to the main structure at an anchor point (a first anchor point on the first main structure for the first cable or rope or a second anchor point on the second main structure for the second cable or rope). In some embodiments, the system further includes a tensioning mechanism operatively connected to the cable or rope and configured to apply tension to the cable or rope. In some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is positioned between the nearest pulley of the first set of pulleys and the second set of pulleys and the anchor point. In certain aspects, where there is a first cable or rope and a second cable or rope attached to the first main structure and the second main structure, respectively, at a first anchor point and a second anchor point, respectively, the system can further include a first tensioning mechanism and a second tensioning mechanism, where the first tensioning mechanism is operatively connected to the first cable or rope and positioned between a nearest pulley of the first set of pulleys and second set of pulleys and the first anchor point, and the second tensioning mechanism is operatively connected to the second cable or rope and positioned between a nearest pulley of the third set of pulleys and fourth set of pulleys and the second anchor point.
The tensioning mechanism can be any suitable device for providing tension to the cable or rope (including the first cable or rope and second cable or rope). By way of example, but not limitation, the tensioning mechanism can be a pneumatic air cylinder, a spring or a winch. For example, a pneumatic air cylinder can be pressurized to contract which can provide tension to the pulleys with the net effect being a constant tension on the cable or rope even if the cable or rope stretches or elongates due to fatigue or temperature variations.
Bounce Screens/Image Sources
In any of the foregoing embodiments, the system can further include a bounce screen. In some embodiments, the bounce screen can be positioned at a 45° angle relative to screen. By way of example, the bounce screen can be positioned at an angle relative to the screen of from about 0° to about 90°, about 10° to about 80°, about 20° to about 70°, about 30° to about 60°, about 40° to about 50°, about 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80° or 90°. One skilled in the art would appreciate that such angle may be increased or decreased in order to achieve the desired image reflection. When in this configuration, the reflected image on the holographic foil appears to be suspended in 3D (three-dimensional) space to the audience. In some embodiments, the system can include a bounce screen and an image source.
In any of the foregoing embodiments, the system can further include an image source that is configured to provide the source image such that reflection off of the screen or holographic foil is achieved. By way of example, but not limitation, the image source can be one or more projectors configured to project onto a bounce screen, such as LED, LCD (liquid crystal display), and OLED (organic light-emitting diode) type displays. In some embodiments, a physical object can be illuminated and the screen or holographic foil will reflect the image of the physical object. By way of example, but not limitation, the physical object can be a person.
Methods
In some embodiments, a method for suspending a screen can include coupling a screen to a system of any of the foregoing embodiments. In some embodiments, the method can further include applying tension to the cable or rope, or if a first cable or rope and a second cable or rope are provided, applying tension to the first cable or rope and second able or rope. In some embodiments, the method can further include adjusting at least one pulley horizontally or vertically to reduce or increase an angle between the at least one pulley and an adjacent pulley to alter the leverage of the pulleys.
In some embodiments, a method for minimizing or eliminating wrinkles in a screen can include the steps of providing a system of the present disclosure according to any of the foregoing embodiments which includes a screen. The method can further include applying tension to a cable or rope; and adjusting one or more of the pulleys in the system to alter the leverage of the pulleys (or alternative structural element). Where a first cable or rope and a second cable or rope is used, tension can be applied to both the first cable or rope and the second cable or rope. In some embodiments, one or more pulleys of the first set of pulleys or second set of pulleys and one or more pulleys of the third set of pulleys and the fourth set of pulleys can be adjusted to alter the leverage of the pulleys (or alternative structural elements).
While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features of the disclosure as applied to various implementations, it will be understood that those skilled in the art may make various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or process illustrated without departing from the disclosure. The foregoing description is of the best mode presently contemplated of carrying out the disclosure. This description is in no way meant to be limiting, but rather should be taken as illustrative of the general principles of the disclosure. The scope of the disclosure should be determined with reference to the claims.
While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive. The disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Variations to the disclosed embodiments and/or implementations may be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed disclosure, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims.
It should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to include any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the disclosure with which that terminology is associated. Terms and phrases used in this application, and variations thereof, especially in the appended claims, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing, the term “including” should be read to mean “including, without limitation,” “including but not limited to,” or the like; the term “comprising” as used herein is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, un-recited elements or method steps; the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least;” the term “such as” should be interpreted as “such as, without limitation;” the term ‘includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to;” the term “example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof, and should be interpreted as “example, but without limitation;” adjectives such as “known,” “normal,” “standard,” and terms of similar meaning should not be construed as limiting the item described to a given time period or to an item available as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompass known, normal, or standard technologies that may be available or known now or at any time in the future; and use of terms like “preferably,” “preferred,” “desired,” or “desirable,” and words of similar meaning should not be understood as implying that certain features are critical, essential, or even important to the structure or function of the present disclosure, but instead as merely intended to highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment. Likewise, a group of items linked with the conjunction “and” should not be read as requiring that each and every one of those items be present in the grouping, but rather should be read as “and/or” unless expressly stated otherwise. Similarly, a group of items linked with the conjunction “or” should not be read as requiring mutual exclusivity among that group, but rather should be read as “and/or” unless expressly stated otherwise. Also, as used herein “defined” or “determined” may include “predefined” or “predetermined” and/or otherwise determined values, conditions, thresholds, measurements, and the like.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system for securely engaging a screen, comprising:

a main structure;

a screen brace configured to couple to a screen;

a first set of pulleys operatively connected to the main structure; and

a second set of pulleys operatively connected to the screen brace,

wherein the first set of pulleys is aligned in series along the main structure in a first linear axis and the second set of pulleys is aligned in series along the screen brace in a second linear axis, and

wherein the pulleys of the first set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the second set of pulleys along the first linear axis and second linear axis.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cable or rope attached to the main structure at an anchor point, wherein each pulley of the first set of pulleys and the second set of pulleys comprises a groove configured to receive the cable or rope therein, and wherein the cable or rope is alternately received in the groove of each pulley of the first set of pulleys and each pulley of the second set of pulleys.

3. The system of claim 2, further comprising a tensioning mechanism operatively connected to the cable or rope and positioned between the anchor point and a nearest pulley of the first set of pulleys and second set of pulleys to the anchor point, wherein the tensioning mechanism is configured to apply tension to the cable or rope.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the tensioning mechanism is selected from the group consisting of a pneumatic air cylinder configured to apply tension to the cable or rope, a spring and a winch.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the pulleys of the first set of pulleys or the second set of pulleys are configured to independently move horizontally along the first linear axis or second linear axis, respectively, or to independently move vertically in a plane formed by the main structure and the screen brace.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a screen coupled to the screen brace.

7. A system for securely engaging a screen, comprising:

a first main structure;

a second main structure;

a first screen brace configured to couple to a screen;

a second screen brace configured to couple to the screen;

a first set of pulleys operatively connected to the first main structure;

a second set of pulleys operatively connected to the first screen brace;

a third set of pulleys operatively connected to the second main structure; and

a fourth set of pulleys operatively connected to the second screen brace,

wherein the first set of pulleys is aligned in series along the first main structure in a first linear axis, the second set of pulleys is aligned in series along the first screen brace in a second linear axis, the third set of pulleys is aligned in series along the second main structure in a third linear axis and the fourth set of pulleys is aligned in series along the second screen brace in a fourth linear axis,

wherein the pulleys of the first set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the second set of pulleys along the first linear axis and second linear axis, and

wherein the pulleys of the third set of pulleys are offset relative to the pulleys of the fourth set of pulleys along the third linear axis and fourth linear axis.

8. The system of claim 7, further comprising a first cable or rope attached to the first main structure at a first anchor point and a second cable or rope attached to the second main structure at a second anchor point, wherein each pulley of the first set of pulleys and the second set of pulleys comprises a groove configured to receive the first cable or rope therein, wherein each pulley of the third set of pulleys and the fourth set of pulleys comprises a groove configured to receive the second cable or rope therein, wherein the first cable or rope is alternately received in the groove of each pulley of the first set of pulleys and each pulley of the second set of pulleys, and wherein the second cable or rope is alternately received in the groove of each pulley of the third set of pulleys and the fourth set of pulleys.

9. The system of claim 8, further comprising a first tensioning mechanism operatively connected to the first cable or rope and positioned between the first anchor point and a nearest pulley of the first set of pulleys and second set of pulleys to the first anchor point and a second tensioning mechanism operatively connected to the second cable or rope and positioned between the second anchor point and a nearest pulley of the third set of pulleys and fourth set of pulleys to the second anchor point, wherein the first tensioning mechanism is configured to apply tension to the first cable or rope and the second tensioning mechanism is configured to apply tension to the second cable or rope.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the first tensioning mechanism and second tensioning mechanism are each independently selected from the group consisting of a pneumatic air cylinder configured to apply tension to the first cable or rope or second cable or rope, respectively, a spring and a winch.

11. The system of claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the pulleys of the first set of pulleys or the second set of pulleys are configured to independently move horizontally along the first linear axis or second linear axis, respectively, or to independently move vertically in a plane formed by the first main structure and the first screen brace.

12. The system of claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the pulleys of the third set of pulleys or the fourth set of pulleys are configured to independently move horizontally along the third linear axis or fourth linear axis, respectively, or to independently move vertically in a plane formed by the second main structure and the second screen brace.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein at least a portion of the pulleys of the third set of pulleys or the fourth set of pulleys are configured to independently move horizontally along the third linear axis or fourth linear axis, respectively, or to independently move vertically in a plane formed by the second main structure and the second screen brace.

14. The system of claim 7, further comprising a screen coupled to the first screen brace and the second screen brace.

15. The system of claim 1, further comprising an additional main structure operatively connected to an additional screen brace configured to couple to the screen.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the additional screen brace is fixably attached to the additional main structure.

17. The system of claim 15, further comprising the screen coupled to the screen brace and to the additional screen brace.

18. The system of any one of claims 6, 14 and 17, wherein the screen is a holographic foil.