WO2001063354A1

WO2001063354A1 - High-volume image production rig assemblies

Info

Publication number: WO2001063354A1
Application number: PCT/US2001/005698
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bo Lorentzen; David C. Falstrup
Original assignee: EVOX PRODUCTIONS
Current assignee: EVOX PRODUCTIONS
Priority date: 2000-02-25
Filing date: 2001-02-22
Publication date: 2001-08-30
Anticipated expiration: 2002-08-25

Abstract

A rig assembly (2) for use in high-volume image production preferably includes a camera (30) and a computer-controlled motorized turntable (38, 48). The rig assembly may be adapted to accept standardized mannequins (100) in a preselected registered orientation. The mannequin may be dressed with clothing and/or fashion items, and a plurality of photographs taken with the camera as the turntable rotates to different positions. In a preferred embodiment, a mechanism (210) is provided to ensure that the fashion item rotates substantially uniformly as the turntable rotates. In an alternate embodiment, the camera may be attached to a motorized assembly (16, 26) controlled by a computer (36), allowing for remotely-directed movement of the camera.

Description

DESCRIPTION

HIGH-VOLUME IMAGE PRODUCTION RIG ASSEMBLIES

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The field of invention is photographic imaging. In the new economy, significant numbers of goods are sold on-line through the Internet. Typically, a seller of goods places photographs of these goods on a web site, so that shoppers can view them and make a purchasing decision. It is often desirable to provide shoppers with the ability to view the goods from a number of angles. This is particularly important in the area of clothing sales, where aesthetics are at least as important as functionality, and those aesthetics can easily vary as the clothing item is viewed from different angles. In order to show the clothing item from a variety of angles, it must be photographed from a variety of angles. Further, it may be desired to provide the shopper with the ability to rotate the clothing item in three dimensions, increasing the number of angles at which that clothing item must be photographed to provide a reasonably smooth rotation. Typically, to show a clothing item from several angles, it is photographed on a model or a mannequin from several angles in order to provide a realistic idea of how the item will look when worn.

However, there are a number of problems associated with the photography of clothing items for use in on-line catalogs. The first is the sheer number of goods that must be photographed. A typical retailer selling clothing items over the Internet may sell hundreds, if not thousands, of separate clothing items and accessories for men, women and children. A retailer would prefer that each of these items is visible on its web page, necessitating a large volume of photographs to capture all of these items. Of course, not every photograph may be used, requiring an even larger volume of shots to obtain a number of usable photographs. A second problem is the number of shots required to obtain a variety of photographs of each clothing item at a number of different angles. To shoot each item a number of times at a number of separate angles requires an enormous volume of photographs and a correspondingly large amount of time to take those photographs. The time of a professional photographer is valuable and expensive, so obtaining the requisite number of photographs to allow a shopper to view a clothing item from a variety of angles is a significant cost for the retailer to absorb. A third problem is the lack of consistency that necessarily results from certain human involvement in the photographic process. For example, a photographer cannot obtain a series of shots at the same height relative to a clothing item without using a tripod. Even if the photographer uses a tripod, a human model being photographed wearing a clothing item cannot realistically maintain the same pose as he or she rotates full circle in front of the camera or as the camera rotates around him or her, thereby causing discontinuities between the different views of the clothing items and causing a discontinuity in a three-dimensional rotation of the clothing item.

To facilitate on-line shopping over the Internet, increase sales and increase customer satisfaction, it would be desirable to provide a "virtual mannequin" onto which different clothing items could be placed, alone or in combination. For example, customer confidence in a purchase of a shirt and a pair of pants could be increased by placing images of both the shirt and the pants on a virtual mannequin to determine whether they match and how they look together. To implement a virtual mannequin, digital images of the clothing items must be obtained. However, many of the same difficulties described above also arise in attempting to implement a virtual mannequin concept, including nonstandardized human models and physical mannequins, and nonstandardized photographic methods.

Thus, there is no simple or standard way to photograph clothing items to allow those clothing items to be viewed from a plurality of angles or to be rotated in three dimensions.

SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An object of a preferred embodiment is to provide for cost-effective and efficient high-volume photographic imaging. In one aspect of a preferred embodiment, a rig assembly includes a frame to which a motorized turntable is attached.

In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the rig assembly includes a camera attached to a camera stand which may be moved relative to the motorized turntable. In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the camera may be secured at a substantially fixed distance from the motorized turntable. That fixed distance is determined based on the fashion item being photographed, and is preferably the same for each distinct kind of item being photographed.

In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, a computer is attached to the turntable to control its motion. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, the computer is attached to the camera to control its shutter.

In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the rig assembly is adapted to accept a standard male mannequin and a standard female mannequin on the turntable. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, each standard male mannequin is substantially identical in size, and each standard female mannequin is substantially identical in size. These standard mannequins are adapted for use in photographing clothing and fashion items for digitization, whereby those digitized images are suitable for placement on a virtual mannequin.

In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, a mannequin base is adapted to accept a mannequin in only one orientation. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, pins extend from the mannequin base in a selected configuration to accept a mannequin onto the mannequin base in only one orientation. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, the mannequin base is aligned with an appropriate registration mark on the turntable. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, different registration marks may be used with different series of standard mannequins. Such registration of standard mannequins on the turntable is useful in standardizing photographic angles such that a virtual mannequin can be utilized with the resultant photographs.

In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the rig assembly is adapted to accept smaller fashion items, such as shoes, on the turntable. Preferably, an upper interface spike and a plurality of lower interface spikes secure the fashion item on the turntable. Alternately, a support rig comprising a plurality of thin, clear, vertically-extending supports may be placed on the turntable, and a fashion item may in turn be placed on the supports. In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, a mechanism is provided to ensure that the fashion item rotates substantially uniformly. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, that mechanism includes a disc having substantially the same width as the turntable, driven by a drive shaft coupled to both the disc and the turntable. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, a horizontal support is provided along which the upper pin may slide to ensure that the center of gravity of the object passes through the axis of rotation of the turntable. In a further aspect of a preferred embodiment, a rod extends from a support through the disc in the axis of rotation of the turntable, and rotatably connects to the horizontal support. A stabilizer rod preferably extends from the horizontal support to the disc to provide added stability.

In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, legs are attached to the frame in proximity to the turntable, the legs having the same size and same orientation as the legs of a standard mannequin, to facilitate the photography of socks and shoes in such an orientation that those images may be easily placed on a virtual mannequin in a suitable computing environment.

In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, a swingaway lighting arm is mounted on the frame, and may be swung downward into place to provide lighting as required.

In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, a plurality of rig assemblies may be operated in conjunction with one another, each rig assembly photographing a different fashion item at the same scale and orientation. Such standardization facilitates the implementation of a virtual mannequin concept.

In an alternate embodiment, the camera is attached to a motorized assembly such that it can move along a substantially vertical direction and along a substantially horizontal direction. In another aspect of an alternate embodiment, the motorized assembly is connected to the computer, which can thereby move the camera to different locations for photographic imaging.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a side view of a rig assembly.

FIG. 2 is a top view of the frame. FIG. 3 is a front view of the camera stand. FIG. 4 is a front view of the turntable.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the rig assembly configured to accept a mannequin. FIG. 6 is a side view of the upper interface assembly.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a mannequin base. FIG. 7A is a front view of a mannequin support post.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the rig assembly configured to accept smaller fashion items. FIG. 8A is a front view of a fashion item support post.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the upper rotational assembly used in the rig assembly of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a cross-section view of the crossbar that is preferably included in the upper rotational assembly. FIG. 1 1 is a top view of the turntable of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a cross-section view of the turntable rail. FIG. 1 3 is an end view of the turntable platform. FIG. 14 is a side view of the turntable platform. FIG. 15 is a top view of the turntable platform. FIG. 16 is a detail view of the mannequin legs attached to the rig assembly of

FIG. 8.

FIG. 1 7 is a side view of the mannequin legs attached to the rig assembly of FIG. 8.

FIG. 18 is a front view of the swingaway lighting arm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The disclosure of the copending patent application entitled "Scalable Systems and Methods for High Volume Image Production," inventors David C. Falstrup and Roger Howard, filed simultaneously with the present application, is hereby incorporated by reference.

Referring to FIG. 1 , a side view of a rig assembly 2 may be seen. The rig assembly 2 includes a frame 4 on which other components are mounted. Referring to FIG. 2, a top view of the frame 4 may be seen. In a preferred embodiment, the frame 4 includes a central rail 6 having a lateral support 8 attached at each end. The lateral supports 8 provide lateral stability to the frame 4. Preferably, the central rail 6 and the lateral supports 8 are hollow steel members having a substantially square cross-section, which may be referred to as square tubes or square pipes. By utilizing hollow members, the frame 4 may be constructed to have significant durability while reducing its overall weight. Of course, the central rail 6 and the lateral supports 8 may take other forms, such as solid beams, hollow rectangular members or I-beams, as long as those forms provide adequate structural strength and stability. The length of the central rail 6 is dependent on the particular application of the rig assembly 2, as is the length of the lateral supports 8. When clothing and fashion items are being photographed on the rig assembly 2, the central rail 6 is preferably approximately twenty feet long, and the lateral supports 8 are preferably approximately two feet long. The lateral supports 8 need not be the same length as one another, and indeed may advantageously be different lengths, depending on the distribution of weights and centers of gravity of items mounted on the frame 4. Further, additional lateral supports 8 may be attached to the central rail 6 if required for additional stability. It is also contemplated that the lateral supports 8 may be omitted from the frame 4, if other support structures as disclosed below provide adequate lateral support for the rig assembly 2.

Referring back to FIG. 1 , two or more levelers 10 preferably extend from each lateral support 8. In a preferred embodiment, each leveler 10 is located at or near the end of one of the lateral supports 8. In a preferred embodiment, each leveler 10 includes a bolt or similar device which screws into the lateral support 8, having at the free end of the bolt a substantially flat piece adapted to rest on a surface. The distance between the substantially flat piece and the frame 4 may be adjusted by screwing the bolt into or out of the frame 4, and by adjusting each leveler 10, the frame 4 may be rendered substantially level when placed on a surface that is not itself level.

A camera assembly 12 is connected to the central rail 6 of the frame 4. In a preferred embodiment, the camera assembly 12 includes a camera stand 14 attached to a camera stand collar 16. In a preferred embodiment, the camera stand 14 extends upward substantially vertically from the camera stand collar 16. Referring to FIG. 3 as well, the camera stand collar 16 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the central rail 6 to pass through the camera stand collar 16 such that the camera assembly 12 can travel along the central rail 6. The interior dimensions of the camera stand collar 16 are larger than the corresponding exterior dimensions of the central rail 6 passing through it. Preferably, one or more wheel mechanisms 18 are attached to the camera stand collar 16 to facilitate motion of the camera assembly 12 along the central rail 6. Advantageously, one wheel mechanism 18 is placed at each end of the camera stand collar 16 to evenly accept the load of the camera assembly 12. Further, the one or more wheel mechanisms 18 are preferably positioned on or adjacent the interior upper surface of the camera stand collar 16, such that the wheel mechanisms engage the upper surface of the central rail 6. Each wheel mechanism 18 preferably includes an axle 20 and a plurality of wheels 22.

The shape of the camera stand collar 16 may be altered if the central rail 6 is not a square hollow beam, and construction of such an altered shape is within the skill of one having ordinary skill in the art. In a preferred embodiment, the camera stand collar 16 is secured in place with one or more bolts threaded through the camera mount collar 16 such that the bolt or bolts can be tightened against the central rail 6, preventing motion of the camera mount collar 16 relative to the central rail 6 after it has been moved to its desired location. Other securing means and structures are contemplated, such as but not limited to a plurality of holes in the camera stand collar 16 accommodating bolts or pins also inserted through corresponding holes in the central rail 6, or one or more clamps holding the camera mount collar 16 fixed to the central rail 6 or to an external structure that does not move relative to the central rail 6. In a preferred embodiment, a camera mount 24 is attached to a camera mount collar 26, which in turn is connected to the camera stand 14. The camera mount collar 26 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the camera stand 14 to pass through the camera mount collar 26 such that the camera mount collar 26 and the camera mount 24 can travel up and down along the camera stand 14. The interior dimensions of the camera mount collar 26 are larger than the corresponding exterior dimensions of the camera stand 14 passing through it. Preferably, one or more bolts 28 extend through the camera mount collar 26 for tightening against the camera stand 14 in order to hold the camera mount 24 in place. Advantageously, a plurality of holes (not shown) may be provided in the camera stand 14 spaced in a manner corresponding to the spacing of the bolts 28 such that the bolts 28 may be placed through those holes in order to securely hold the camera mount 24 in place. In a preferred embodiment, the camera mount 24 is an L-shaped steel plate, wherein one arm of the L-shape provides a substantially horizontal surface for attaching a camera 30, and the other arm of the L-shape is attached to the camera mount collar 26, preferably by welding. Of course, other means of attachment are within the scope of the invention. In a preferred embodiment, the camera 30 is a digital camera capable of direct connection to a computer 36. Advantageously, the camera 30 is a Sony DKC-ST5 with a CPU drive, having a Pentax-D lens model #VCL-1205bys, which is a 12.5-63mm zoom lens. However, it is within the scope of the invention that the camera 30 is a standard film camera, images from which are scanned into the computer 36 after processing. The camera mount 24 preferably includes a tripod head 25 for convenient positioning of the camera thereon using a standard tripod screw. Advantageously, the tripod head 25 is a Bogen 3039 tripod head. The camera 30 is preferably attached to the camera mount 24 via a standard-sized tripod screw (not shown). As is known to those of ordinary skill in the art, cameras are typically fixed to tripods or other mounting apparatus by a screw or bolt having a standard diameter and pitch that is inserted into the camera 30 and tightened. Of course, other means or structures could be used to secure the camera 30 to the camera mount 24, such as C-clamps or VELCRO^® brand adhesion products. In a preferred embodiment, the camera stand 14 is horizontally offset from the camera stand collar 16 such that the camera 30 is substantially aligned with the central rail 6. Thus, the camera stand 14 is preferably attached to a side wall 32 of the camera stand collar 16 in order to achieve such alignment.

The camera 30 is preferably electronically connected to a computer 36, which is shown schematically. The connection between the camera 30 and the computer 36 may be over a wire, or wireless. The camera stand 14 is constructed to be tall enough to support the camera 30 in a stable manner at the maximum height at which the camera 30 will be used. Advantageously, the camera stand is substantially eight feet tall. Preferably, one or more camera stand supports 34 extend from the camera stand collar 16 in a direction perpendicular to the central rail 6. In a preferred embodiment, two camera stand supports 34 are utilized, extending from opposite sides of the camera stand collar 16. Preferably, the camera stand supports 34 are hollow steel members having a substantially square cross section substantially three inches on a side, each camera stand support 34 extending substantially two feet outward from the central rail 6. Of course, the cross-section, size, and length of the camera stand supports 34 may vary so long as the rig assembly 2 is properly supported. Further, it is within the scope of the invention that the camera stand supports 34 have different lengths. In a preferred embodiment, a leveler 10 is located at or near the end of each camera stand support 34 located further from the central rail 6. These levelers 10 are preferably as described above. Optionally, diagonal members (not shown) may extend diagonally downward from the camera stand 14 to the camera stand supports 34, thereby increasing the stability of the camera stand 14. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, a turntable assembly 38 is connected to the central rail 6. In a preferred embodiment, the turntable assembly 38 includes a turntable stand 40 connected to a turntable collar 42. In a preferred embodiment, the turntable stand 40 extends upward substantially vertically from the turntable collar 42. The turntable collar 42 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the central rail 6 to pass through the turntable collar 42 such that the turntable assembly 38 can be moved along the central rail 6. The interior dimensions of the turntable collar 42 are larger than the corresponding exterior dimensions of the central rail 6 passing through it. In a preferred embodiment, the turntable collar 42 is secured in place with one or more bolts threaded through the turntable collar 42 such that the bolt or bolts can be tightened against the central rail 6, preventing motion of the turntable collar 42 relative to the central rail 6 after it has been moved to the desired location. Other securing means and structures are contemplated, such as but not limited to a plurality of holes in the turntable collar 42 accommodating bolts or pins also inserted through corresponding holes in the central rail 6, or one or more clamps holding the turntable collar 42 fixed to the central rail 6 or to an external structure that does not move relative to the central rail 6.

In a preferred embodiment, the turntable stand 40 is hollow and has an open- ended top end, such that the turntable stand 40 has a substantially square cross section. A turntable insert 44 is shaped to slide into the turntable stand 40. Preferably, the turntable insert 44 is a hollow steel tube having a cross-section corresponding to the interior of the turntable stand, and having exterior dimensions smaller than the corresponding interior dimensions of the turntable stand 40. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of holes (not shown) are provided in both the turntable stand 40 and the turntable insert 44 positioned relative to one another such that a bolt 46 may be inserted through a hole in the turntable stand 40 as well as a hole in the turntable insert 44 in order to hold the turntable insert 44 at a given height relative to the turntable stand 40. A plurality of bolts 46 may be inserted in different holes in order to provide greater stability, if desired.

A turntable 48 is attached to the turntable insert 44 by structure that allows the turntable 48 to rotate relative to the turntable insert 44. Such attachment structure is well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art. A motor and control electronics (not shown) are associated with the turntable 48, and provide for motorized rotation of the turntable 48. In a preferred embodiment, the turntable 48 and the motor and control electronics associated with it are a Kaidan Incorporated model MDT-19, the details of using which are known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Another turntable 48 could be constructed or purchased, if desired, as long as that turntable 48 is capable of smooth and motorized rotation under local or remote control. For example, the turntable 48 may be rotated by means such as but not limited to direct drive through a shaft extending through a motor, or coupling between the motor and the turntable 48 through belts or gearing. The turntable 48 is capable of smooth rotation through a full circle, and is preferably capable of continuous rotation in a single direction without the need to reset to a starting position. In a preferred embodiment, the turntable 48 has a substantially flat surface. However, the surface of the turntable 48 need not be flat for all applications. Preferably, one or more turntable assembly supports 50 extend from the turntable collar 42 in a direction perpendicular to the central rail 6. In a preferred embodiment, two turntable assembly supports 50 are utilized, extending from opposite sides of the turntable collar 42. Preferably, the turntable assembly supports 50 are hollow steel members having a substantially square cross section substantially three inches on a side, each turntable assembly support 50 extending substantially two feet outward from the central rail 6. Of course, the cross-section, size, and length of the turntable assembly supports 50 may vary so long as the rig assembly 2 is properly supported. Further, it is within the scope of the invention that the turntable assembly supports 50 have different lengths. In a preferred embodiment, a leveler 10 is located at or near the end of each turntable assembly supports 50 located further from the central rail 6. These levelers 10 are preferably as described above.

The rig assembly 2 may be configured to accept a standard mannequin 100. This configuration of the rig assembly 2 is shown in FIG. 5. A mannequin support assembly 102 is connected to the central rail 6. In a preferred embodiment, the mannequin support assembly 102 includes a mannequin support post 104 and a mannequin support collar 106. The mannequin support collar 106 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the central rail 6 to pass through the mannequin support collar 106 such that the mannequin support assembly 102 can be moved along the central rail 6. The interior dimensions of the mannequin support collar 106 are larger than the corresponding exterior dimensions of the central rail 6 passing through it.

In a preferred embodiment, the mannequin support post 104 extends upward substantially vertically from the mannequin support collar 106. In a preferred embodiment, the mannequin support post 104 is a hollow steel post, shaped such that it has a substantially square cross section.

The mannequin support assembly 102 also preferably includes a mannequin support arm 108 attached to a mannequin support arm collar 1 10. The mannequin support arm collar 1 10 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the mannequin support post 104 to pass through the mannequin support arm collar 1 10 such that the mannequin support arm 108 can be moved up and down along the mannequin support post 104. In a preferred embodiment, the mannequin support arm collar 1 10 is secured in place with one or more bolts threaded through the mannequin support arm collar 1 10 such that the bolt or bolts can be tightened against the mannequin support post 104, preventing motion of the mannequin support arm collar 1 10 relative to the mannequin support post 104 after it has been moved to the desired location. Other securing means and structures are contemplated, such as but not limited to a plurality of holes in the mannequin support post 104 accommodating bolts or pins also inserted through corresponding holes in the mannequin support arm collar 1 10, or one or more clamps holding the mannequin support arm collar 1 10 fixed to the mannequin support post 104 or to an external structure that does not move relative to the mannequin support post 104.

The mannequin support arm 108 is preferably substantially horizontal, and is preferably substantially parallel to the central rail 6 and located above the central rail 6. While the mannequin support arm 108 is preferably movable up and down along the mannequin support post 104, it is within the scope of the invention that the mannequin support arm 108 be fixed to the mannequin support post 104, such as by welding. Further, it is also within the scope of the invention to provide a unitary mannequin support post 104 which is bent to form a substantially horizontal arm substantially parallel to and above the central rail 6.

In a preferred embodiment of a rig assembly 2 configured to accept a standard mannequin 102, an upper interface assembly 1 12 is attached to and extends downward from the mannequin support arm 108. Preferably, the upper interface assembly 1 12 is attached to the end of the mannequin support arm 108 opposite to the end of that is attached to the mannequin support arm collar 1 10. However, the upper interface assembly 1 12 may be attached to other locations along the mannequin support arm 108, if desired. Further, it is within the scope of the invention to connect the upper interface assembly 1 12 to a collar capable of traveling along the mannequin support arm 108. Referring as well to FIG. 6, the upper interface assembly 1 12 includes an upper interface pin 1 14. In a preferred embodiment, the upper interface pin 1 14 is vertically adjustable. The upper interface assembly 1 12 preferably includes a pin sleeve 1 16 and a securing bolt 1 18 as well as the upper interface pin 1 14. The pin sleeve 1 16 is preferably substantially vertically-oriented, and is preferably hollow and open-ended such that the upper interface pin 1 14 can freely slide up and down within it. The securing bolt 1 18 is threaded through a hole (not shown) in the pin sleeve 1 16 such that its distal end may be tightened against the upper interface pin 1 14 to secure it in place at a selected location. Other structures known to one of ordinary skill in the art could instead be used to secure the upper interface pin 1 14 in place, if desired. It is within the scope of the invention for the upper interface pin 1 14 to be fixed, in which case the upper interface assembly 1 12 may simply consist of the upper interface pin 1 14 welded to or otherwise fixed to the mannequin support arm 108. The upper interface pin 1 14 is located above the turntable 48, and is preferably positioned to be substantially aligned with the axis of rotation of the turntable 48. Turning to FIG. 7, a mannequin base 120 may be seen. The mannequin base 120 is placed on top of and secured to the surface of the turntable 48. The mannequin base 120 may be secured to the turntable 48 via clamps, bolts or other structure, or may simply be secured to the turntable 48 as a result of its own weight and the friction between the mannequin base 120 and the surface of the turntable 48. In a preferred embodiment, the mannequin base 120 includes a plurality of lower interface pins 122. The mannequin 100 has a plurality of holes (not shown) in its feet or other areas corresponding to the configuration of the lower interface pins 122. Thus, the mannequin 100 may be placed on the lower interface pins 122. Additionally, a hole (not shown) in the head or other area of the mannequin 100 is placed to correspond to the location of the upper interface pin 1 14. Preferably, the upper interface pin 1 14 is long enough, and the corresponding hole in the head of the mannequin 100 is deep enough, to allow the mannequin 100 to be slid upward onto the upper interface pin 1 14 far enough to allow for easy placement of the lower interface pins 122 into the corresponding holes in the feet of the mannequin 100. The plurality of lower interface pins 122 are preferably configured such that the mannequin 100 may only be inserted into them in one single position. That is, the mannequin 100 is registered on the lower interface pins 122 such that the starting point of the mannequin 100 during the photographic process is always substantially the same. The importance of accurate registration of the mannequin 100 is described in greater detail below. In a preferred embodiment, the mannequin base 120 includes a sleeve 180 and a securing bolt 182 for each lower interface pin 122. Each sleeve 180 is preferably hollow and open-ended such that a lower interface pin 122 can freely slide up and down within it. The securing bolt 182 is threaded through a hole (not shown) in the sleeve 180 such that its distal end may be tightened against the lower interface pin 122 to secure it in place at a selected location. Other structures known to one of ordinary skill in the art could instead be used to secure the lower interface pin 122 in place, if desired.

It is within the scope of the invention to provide only one single lower interface pin 122 having a size and shape such that the mannequin 100 held between the upper interface pin 144 and the single lower interface pin 122 cannot spin freely. For example, a single lower interface pin 122 having a complex cross- section adapted to fit tightly within a correspondingly-shaped hole in a foot or other portion of the mannequin 100 could provide for rotation of the mannequin 100 without allowing the mannequin to spin freely or uncontrollably relative to the upper interface pin 1 14 and the single lower interface pin 122. A complex cross section of the single lower interface pin 122 could easily provide for mannequin registration as well, by providing a complex asymmetric cross section onto which the mannequin can only be placed in one position.

In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of different mannequin bases 120 may be provided for different types of standard mannequin 100. For example, the mannequin base 120 utilized with a male mannequin 100 preferably has a different configuration of lower interface pins 122 than the mannequin base 120 utilized with a female mannequin 100 or a child mannequin 100. Certain angles and poses may be considered more flattering for one gender than another, or for adults rather than children, leading to the provision of different mannequin bases 120 configured to register different types of mannequins in different starting positions. An image of the starting position is contemplated to be the first image of the clothing item that a viewer, such as a shopper viewing the image over the Internet, will see, so it is important that the first image is the best image from a marketing standpoint. In order to achieve the desired registration for each individual type of mannequin 100, the corresponding mannequin base 120 must itself be registered properly on the surface of the turntable 48 in a consistent and replicable way. In a preferred embodiment, the surface of the turntable 48 is marked with registration guides along which a selected edge of the mannequin base 120 must be placed. However, it is within the scope of the invention to provide positive structure for ensuring correct registration of the mannequin base 120 on the turntable 48.

Alternately, the mannequin base 120 may be an integral part of the turntable 48. Further, the mannequin base 120 could be dispensed with, and the lower interface pins 122 could instead be attached directly to the turntable 48, either permanently or removably. Referring to FIG. 7A, one or more mannequin support assembly supports 124 preferably extend from the mannequin support collar 106 in a direction perpendicular to the central rail 6. In a preferred embodiment, two mannequin assembly lateral supports 124 are utilized, extending from opposite sides of the mannequin support collar 106. Preferably, the mannequin assembly lateral supports 124 are hollow steel members having a substantially square cross section substantially three inches on a side, each mannequin assembly lateral supports124 extending substantially two feet outward from the central rail 6. Of course, the cross-section, size, and length of the mannequin assembly lateral supports 124 may vary so long as the rig assembly 2 is properly supported. Further, it is within the scope of the invention that the mannequin assembly lateral supports 124 have different lengths. In a preferred embodiment, a leveler 10 is located at or near the end of each mannequin assembly lateral supports 124 located further from the central rail 6. These levelers 10 are preferably as described above. Preferably, two A-frame members 125 extend diagonally downward from the mannequin support post 104 to the mannequin assembly lateral supports 124, as shown in FIG. 7A. The A-frame members 125 serve to increase the stability of the mannequin support post 104.

The rig assembly 2 may also be configured to accept smaller fashion items, such as shoes or purses. The rig assembly 2 configured to accept smaller items is shown in FIG. 8. A fashion item support assembly 200 is connected to the central rail 6. In a preferred embodiment, the fashion item support assembly 200 includes a fashion item support post 202 and a fashion item support collar 204. The fashion item support collar 204 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the central rail 6 to pass through the fashion item support collar 204 such that the fashion item support assembly 200 can be moved along the central rail 6. The interior dimensions of the fashion item support collar 204 are larger than the corresponding exterior dimensions of the central rail passing through it. In a preferred embodiment, the fashion item support collar 204 is secured in place with one or more bolts threaded through the fashion item support collar 204 such that the bolt or bolts can be tightened against the central rail 6, preventing motion of the fashion item support collar 204 relative to the central rail 6 after it has been moved to the desired location. Other securing means and structures are contemplated, such as but not limited to a plurality of holes in the central rail 6 accommodating bolts or pins also inserted through corresponding holes in the fashion item support collar 204, or one or more clamps holding the fashion item support collar 204 fixed to the central rail 6 or to an external structure that does not move relative to the fashion item support collar 204.

In a preferred embodiment, the fashion item support post 202 extends upward substantially vertically from the fashion item support collar 204. In a preferred embodiment, the fashion item support post 202 is a hollow steel post, shaped such that it has a substantially square cross-section. Preferably, one or more fashion item support assembly supports 270 extend from the fashion item support collar 204 in a direction perpendicular to the central rail 6. Referring also to FIG. 8A, in a preferred embodiment, two fashion item support assembly supports 270 are utilized, extending from opposite sides of the fashion item support collar 204. Preferably, the fashion item support assembly supports 270 are hollow steel members having a substantially square cross section substantially three inches on a side, each fashion item support assembly support 270 extending substantially two feet outward from the central rail 6. Of course, the cross-section, size, and length of the fashion item support assembly supports 270 may vary so long as the rig assembly 2 is properly supported. Further, it is within the scope of the invention that the fashion item support assembly supports 270 have different lengths. In a preferred embodiment, a leveler 10 is located at or near the end of each fashion item support assembly support 270 located further from the central rail 6. These levelers 10 are preferably as described above. Preferably, two A-frame members 271 extend diagonally downward from the fashion item support post 202 to the fashion item support assembly supports 270. The A-frame members 271 serve to increase the stability of the fashion item support post 202. The fashion item support assembly 200 also preferably includes a support arm 206 attached to a support arm collar 208. The support arm collar 208 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the fashion item support post 202 to pass through the support arm collar 208 such that the support arm collar 208 can be moved up and down along the fashion item support post 202. In a preferred embodiment, the support arm collar 208 is secured in place with one or more bolts threaded through the support arm collar 208 such that the bolt or bolts can be tightened against the fashion item support post 202, preventing motion of the support arm collar 208 relative to the fashion item support post 202 after it has been moved to the desired location. Other securing means and structures are contemplated, such as but not limited to a plurality of holes in the fashion item support post 202 accommodating bolts or pins also inserted through corresponding holes in the support arm collar 208, or one or more clamps holding the support arm collar 208 fixed to the fashion item support post 202 or to an external structure that does not move relative to the support arm collar 208. The support arm 206 is preferably substantially horizontal, and is preferably substantially parallel to the central rail 6 and located above the central rail 6. While the support arm 206 is preferably moveable up and down along the fashion item support post 202, it is within the scope of the invention that the support arm 206 be fixed to the fashion item support post 202, such as by welding. Further, it is also within the scope of the invention to provide a unitary fashion item support post 202 which is bent to form a substantially horizontal arm substantially parallel to and above the central rail 6.

In a preferred embodiment of a rig assembly 2 configured to accept smaller fashion items, an upper rotational assembly 210 is attached to and extends downward from the support arm 206. Preferably, the upper rotational assembly 210 is attached to the end of the support arm 206 opposite to the end that is attached to the support arm collar 208. However, the upper rotational assembly 210 may be attached to other locations along the support arm 206, if desired. Further, it is within the scope of the invention to connect the upper rotational assembly 210 to a collar capable of traveling along the support arm 206. Referring as well to FIG. 9, the upper rotational assembly 210 includes a sleeve 21 1 attached to the support arm 206, and a rod 212 attached to and extending substantially vertically downward from the sleeve 21 1 . The rod 212 is free to rotate within the sleeve 21 1. The upper rotational assembly 210 is positioned above the turntable assembly 38 such that the rod 212 is substantially aligned in the axis of rotation of the turntable 48. The rod 212 preferably passes through and is affixed to a disk 214. In a preferred embodiment, the disk 214 is a thin lightweight disk that has a diameter substantially the same as that of the turntable 48. The disk 214 is preferably composed of a transparent or translucent material, in order to minimize any interference with lighting of the fashion item being photographed. In a preferred embodiment, the rod 212 is affixed to the disk 214 via two flanges 216 attached to the rod 212, between which the disk 214 is pressed to create a pressure fit between the flanges 216 and the disk 214, and thus between the rod 212 and the disk 214. However, the rod 212 may be attached to the disk 214 by any other means known to those of ordinary skill in the art, such as friction fitting or adhesives.

In a preferred embodiment, the rod 212 is hollow and open-ended at the end opposite from the end connected to the sleeve 21 1. An adjustment piece 218 is adapted to slide into the rod 212 to allow for adjustment of the upper rotational assembly 210 to accept different sizes and configurations of fashion items. The adjustment piece 218 may thus be moved up and down relative to the rod 212. Preferably, the adjustment piece 218 is secured to the rod 212 with a securing nut 220 when the adjustment piece 218 has been moved to its desired position; the securing nut 220 is threaded through a hole (not shown) in the rod 212 and is tightened against the adjustment piece 218 to lock it in place and substantially prevent its movement. The end of the adjustment piece 218 that is not secured to the rod 212 is connected to a crossbar 222. The crossbar 222 is preferably substantially horizontal. Referring also to FIG. 10, the crossbar 222 preferably has a cross-section open at the bottom. A slider 224 is adapted to slide horizontally back and forth along the interior of the crossbar 222. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of grooves 226 are provided in the crossbar 222 along which rails 228 on the slider 224 ride, providing the capability for the slider 224 to slide along the interior of the crossbar 222. Preferably, the grooves 226 and the rails 228 have dimensions similar enough to allow for such sliding, and also to provide adequate friction to hold the slider 224 in place during normal usage after the slider 224 has been moved to a desired location. However, the slider 224 may instead be configured to ride along the outer surface of the crossbar 222, if desired. In a preferred embodiment, an upper interface spike 230 extends downward from the slider 224. The upper interface spike 230 preferably has a pointed tip adapted to hold the upper end of a fashion item in place, as will be discussed in greater detail below. More than one upper interface spike 230 may be provided, depending on the nature of the item to be photographed. For example, larger items or items having an unusual center of gravity may be held in place with a plurality of upper interface spikes 230 to enhance the stability of the item.

Referring back to FIG. 9, the upper rotational assembly 210 preferably includes a stabilizer rod 234 attached to the upper surface of the crossbar 222 and extending through the disk 214. The stabilizer rod 234 is not attached to the disk 214 but rather is free to move up and down or to rotate relative to the disk; otherwise, the height of the crossbar 222 could not be adjusted. The stabilizer rod 234 provides additional stability to the crossbar 222 and thereby enhances the control of the fashion item to be photographed. The stabilizer rod 234 preferably includes a pin 236 or similar structure at its end opposite from its attachment to the crossbar 222, the pin 236 being larger than the diameter of the stabilizer rod 234 to prevent the stabilizer rod 234 from falling out of the hole in the disk 214. Thus, the pin 236 also limits the vertical motion of the crossbar 222 and the adjustment piece 218, and obviates the need to provide a separate structure or means for preventing the adjustment piece 218 from inadvertently falling out of the rod 212.

Referring to FIG. 8 as well, the upper rotational assembly 210 also preferably includes a drive wheel 238 which is affixed to a drive shaft 240. The drive shaft 240 is preferably driven by a turntable friction wheel 242 that is in contact with the turntable 48, such that as the turntable 48 rotates, the turntable friction wheel 242 rotates as well, thereby rotating the drive shaft 240 as well. The rotary motion of the drive shaft 240 imparts the same rotary motion to the drive wheel 238, which is in contact with the disk 214. Thus, the drive wheel 238 imparts rotation to the disk 214, such that the disk 214 rotates at substantially the same rate as the turntable 48. Near its upper end, the drive shaft 240 is preferably connected to the sleeve 21 1 by a shaft stabilizer 241 . The drive shaft 240 is free to rotate relative to the shaft stabilizer 241 , which holds the drive shaft 240 in place. The drive shaft 240 is similarly attached near its other end to another fixed component of the turntable assembly, such as the turntable stand 40, with a structure such as the lower stabilizer 243. The drive shaft is free to rotate relative to the lower stabilizer 243. Such support of the drive shaft 240 is provided to hold the drive shaft 240 in a fixed position such that the turntable friction wheel 242 is pressed against the turntable 48 and the drive wheel 238 is pressed against the disk 214.

Turning to FIG. 1 1 , the turntable 48 utilized in the rig assembly 2 configured to accept smaller fashion items is shown. In a preferred embodiment, a turntable rail 244 is attached to the surface of the turntable 48. The turntable rail 244 may be detachable from the turntable 48, or may be permanently affixed to the turntable 48 if the rig assembly 2 in which the turntable 48 is used is dedicated to the photography of smaller fashion items. The turntable rail 244 preferably has a cross-section open at the top. A turntable slider 246 is adapted to slide horizontally back and forth along the interior of the turntable rail 244. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of grooves 248 are provided in the crossbar 222 along which rails 250 on the turntable slider 246 ride, providing the capability for the turntable slider 246 to slide along the interior of the turntable rail 244. Preferably, the grooves 246 and the rails 250 have dimensions similar enough to allow for such sliding, and also to provide adequate friction to hold the turntable slider 246 in place during normal usage after the turntable slider 246 has been moved to the desired location. However, the turntable slider 246 may instead be configured to ride along the outer surface of the turntable rail, if desired. In a preferred embodiment, one or more lower interface spikes 252 extend upward from the turntable slider 246. Advantageously, two lower interface spikes 252 are provided for supporting a fashion item to be photographed.

Turning to FIGS. 1 3-1 5, a turntable platform 254 is also provided. The turntable platform 254 may be used in certain photographic applications where the upper interface spike 230 and the lower interface spikes 252 cannot advantageously be used. For example, if it is desired to photograph a shoe from the front, the upper interface spike 230 may not be conveniently able to lower enough to interface with the shoe; further, the structure and center of gravity of the shoe may make it difficult to position and hold the shoe with the interface spikes. The turntable platform 254 is preferably not permanently mounted to the turntable 48, but rather may be used when needed, then removed.

The turntable platform 254 has a base 256 having an aperture 258. The aperture 258 is sized larger than the turntable rail 244, such that the turntable platform 254 can be placed on the surface of the turntable 48 without the need to remove the turntable rail 244. The aperture 258 may be open-ended, such that the base 256 has a U-shaped configuration. A plurality of supports 260 extend upward from the base 256. In a preferred embodiment, four supports 260 are provided, each taking the shape of thin rectangles. However, other shapes and configurations of supports 260 are contemplated, such as a plurality of clear plastic or glass rods. Preferably, the supports 260 are constructed of a transparent or translucent material at their upper portion 262; that is, the portion of the support 260 closest to the item resting on it. The use of such a translucent or transparent material allows for easier cleanup of a photograph if it is desired to remove the turntable and surrounding hardware from the photograph digitally, by airbrushing, or by other means. In a preferred embodiment, the base 256 is partly or entirely covered in reflective material to improve the lighting directed toward the underside of the item being photographed on the turntable platform 254.

In a preferred embodiment, a leg assembly 400 is also included in the rig assembly 2 configured to accept smaller fashion items, as can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 16-1 7. The leg assembly 400 includes a receiver plate 402 connected to a leg post 404. In a preferred embodiment, the receiver plate 402 is preferably substantially U- shaped such that it can be securely attached to the upper surface and the sides of the support arm 206. The interior dimensions of the receiver plate 402 are larger than the corresponding exterior dimensions of the support arm 206. Preferably, the receiver plate 402 can be moved along the support arm 206 to enable placement of the leg assembly 400 in various locations along the length of the support arm 206. In a preferred embodiment, the receiver plate 402 is secured in place with one or more bolts threaded through the receiver plate 402 such that the bolt or bolts can be tightened against the support arm 206, preventing motion of the receiver plate relative to the support arm 206 after it has been placed in the desired location.

Other securing means and structures are contemplated, such as but not limited to a plurality of holes in the support arm 206 accommodating bolts or pins also inserted through corresponding holes in the receiver plate 402, or one or more clamps holding the receiver plate 402 fixed to the support arm 206 or to an external structure that does not move relative to the support arm 206.

The leg post 404 extends substantially vertically upward from the receiver plate 402. Preferably, the leg post 404 is a hollow steel beam having a square cross section; however, other cross sections of the leg post 404 are within the scope of the invention. The leg assembly 400 also includes a crossbar collar 406 and a leg crossbar 408 attached to the crossbar collar 406. The crossbar collar 406 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the leg post 404 to pass through the crossbar collar 406 such that the crossbar collar 406 can be moved up and down along the leg post 404. In a preferred embodiment, the crossbar collar 406 is secured in place with one or more bolts threaded through the crossbar collar 406 such that the bolt or bolts can be tightened against the leg post 404, preventing motion of the crossbar collar 406 relative to the leg post 404 after it has been moved to the desired location. Other securing means and structures are contemplated, such as but not limited to a plurality of holes in the leg post 404 accommodating bolts or pins also inserted through corresponding holes in the crossbar collar 406, or one or more clamps holding the crossbar collar 406 fixed to the leg post 404 or to an external structure that does not move relative to the crossbar collar 406.

The leg crossbar 408 is preferably substantially perpendicular to the support arm 206 and is preferably located above the support arm 206. The leg crossbar 408 is preferably a hollow steel beam having a substantially square cross section; however, other cross-sections of the leg crossbar 408 are within the scope of the invention. In a preferred embodiment, two pairs of mannequin legs are connected to the leg crossbar 408: a pair of male mannequin legs 410 and a pair of female mannequin legs 412. Preferably, one pair is located on one side of the support arm 206 and the other pair is located on the other side of the support arm 206, the particular configuration is not important. The male mannequin legs 410 preferably begin below the knee, and are the same size and are oriented the same way as the legs of a standard male mannequin 100 relative to the camera 30. Similarly, the female mannequin legs 412 preferably begin below the knee, and are the same size and are oriented the same way as the legs of a standard female mannequin 100 relative to the camera 30. In a preferred embodiment, the male mannequin legs 410 and the female mannequin legs 412 are made of molded fiberglass. The orientation of the legs is preferably performed in part by the molding of the fiberglass and in part by the shape and construction of the transition structure 414. It is within the capabilities of one of ordinary skill in the art to construct transition structure 414 to hold a set of male mannequin legs 410 in such an orientation and to construct transition structure 414 to hold a set of female mannequin legs 412 in such an orientation. Thus, the feet of the male mannequin legs 410 are in the same position relative to the camera 30 as when captured on a standard mannequin 100 in a rig assembly 2 configured to accept a mannequin 100. Similarly, the feet of the female mannequin legs 412 are in the same position relative to the camera 30 as when captured on a standard mannequin 100 in a rig assembly 2 configured to accept a mannequin 100. After the image is captured, the shoes and/or socks thus photographed can be cut out of the image and pasted onto an image taken of a mannequin 100, and the shoes and/or socks will match the mannequin 100 in scale and orientation. Preferably, the camera 30 uses the same focal length to shoot the male mannequin legs 410 and the female mannequin legs 412 as used to shoot the mannequin 100 in a rig assembly 2 configured to accept a mannequin.

The transition structure 414 attached to the male mannequin legs 410 is also attached to a leg collar 416, and the transition structure 414 attached to the female mannequin legs 412 is attached to a different leg collar 416. Each leg collar 416 is preferably hollow and open-ended, allowing the leg crossbar 408 to pass through the leg collar 416 such that each leg collar 416 can be moved along the leg crossbar 408. In a preferred embodiment, each leg collar 416 is secured in place with one or more bolts threaded through each leg collar 416 such that the bolt or bolts can be tightened against the leg crossbar 408, preventing motion of each leg collar 416 relative to the leg crossbar 408 after movement to the desired location. Other securing means and structures are contemplated, such as but not limited to a plurality of holes in the leg crossbar 408 accommodating bolts or pins also inserted through corresponding holes in each leg collar 416, or one or more clamps holding each leg collar 416 fixed to the leg crossbar 408 or to an external structure that does not move relative to each leg collar 416.

The rig apparatus 2 disclosed above is adapted for use in high-volume image processing. The rig apparatus 2 is particularly useful for capturing images of an item of clothing or a fashion item from different angles. These images are preferably transmitted to a computer 36 for storage and editing, and can be played in succession to allow a person viewing the images to see a dynamic representation of the clothing item or fashion item that was imaged. Further, it is an objective of the invention to enable the collection of different images of clothing and fashion items that can then be placed together on a virtual mannequin at the proper scale and orientation. To better explain the use of the rig apparatus 2, a description of the process will be given for a shirt and for a shoe, these fashion items being exemplary and in no way limiting of the kinds of fashion items that may be photographed by the rig apparatus 2.

Beginning with the shirt, it is placed on a mannequin 100. Several different types of standard mannequin 100 may be used. For example, an image production company may utilize standard male mannequins 100, standard female mannequins 100, and standard child mannequins 100. Each standard mannequin 100 of each type is substantially identical. For example, each standard male mannequin 100 is substantially identical to other standard male mannequins 100. If the shirt is a men's shirt, it will be placed on a standard male mannequin 100; if it is a women's shirt, it will be placed on a standard female mannequin 100; if it is a child's shirt, it will be placed on a standard child mannequin 100.

The use of standard mannequins 100 facilitates the creation and use of "virtual mannequins," which are representations of actual mannequins stored in and displayed by a computer. On a web site selling clothing and fashion items, a shopper may place different clothing items on a virtual mannequin to evaluate them alone or in combination with other items. Thus, it is desirable to provide a number of images of clothing items for placement on a virtual mannequin, thus allowing the shopper to evaluate a large number of combinations of clothing. In order to allow for placing a wide range of clothing onto a single virtual mannequin, each mannequin 100 onto which, for example, a men's clothing item is placed to be photographed must be the same standard size, or else the clothing items will not have a realistic scale relative to one another when placed on the virtual mannequin, thus degrading its utility. Further, the mannequin 100 must be photographed from a known set of angles, so that the virtual mannequin can be viewed from different virtual angles to see the clothing items from different angles. If the clothing items were shot from different angles, the resultant images will not properly correspond to one another, degrading the utility of the virtual mannequin. Thus, it is important to be able to match different images captured at different times at a later time in a post- production environment. The use of standard calibrated mannequins 100 and mannequin bases 120, with turntable registration, enables such image matching. The dressed mannequin 100 is placed on the appropriate mannequin base 120. If the shirt is a men's shirt, it will be placed on a standard male mannequin 100, which will in turn be mounted on a male mannequin base 120. The configuration of the lower interface spikes 252 of the male mannequin base 120 matches the configuration of the holes provided in the feet of the standard male mannequin 100. The configuration of the lower interface spikes 252 of the male mannequin base 120 preferably do not match the configuration of the holes provided in the feet of the standard female mannequin 100 or the standard child mannequin 100. Thus, the male mannequin base 120 ensures that a male mannequin 100 only is placed on that base, and that the male mannequin 100 is thus registered in a specific direction and a specific pose. Of course, it is within the scope of the invention to provide a single unisex and age-indifferent mannequin base 120 into which all mannequins 100 may be placed, if desired. The mannequin 100 is a precision manufactured item, preferably having a calibrated hole at the highest point of its head, and a calibrated hole in each foot. The mannequin 100 is preferably mounted in the rig assembly 2 by sliding the mannequin 100 upward onto the upper interface pin 1 14, then gently lowering it down onto the lower interface spikes 252 of the mannequin base 120. As discussed above, the surface of the turntable 48 includes registration guides (not shown) along which a selected edge of the mannequin base 120 is placed. In a preferred embodiment, different registration guides are provided for male, female and child mannequins 100 to provide for different starting orientations for each mannequin. However, a single registration guide may be provided if desired. The registration guide may simply be a mark on the turntable 48 made with tape or a marker, or may take the form of an actual structure, construction of which would be within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art. The dressed mannequin 100 is thus registered in the proper orientation on the turntable 48. The mannequin base 120, in conjunction with the upper interface pin 1 14 and the registration guides on the turntable 48, allows for the mounting and removal of a mannequin 100 quickly, and in a calibrated predictable position. By provided a calibrated predictable position for the mannequin 100 in the rig assembly 2, that position can be replicated as many times as desired. Thus, a number of images of different clothing items and fashion items can be taken, then combined together later on a virtual mannequin. The camera 30 is placed at a height suitable for photographing the shirt by adjusting the camera mount 24 along the camera stand 14, as described above. The camera 30 is placed at a distance from the turntable 48 suitable for photographing the shirt by adjusting the camera stand 14 along the central rail 6, as described above. For enhanced consistency between shirts to be photographed, it is preferred that the camera 30 is placed at the same height and at the same distance from the turntable 48 every time a shirt is photographed. It is preferred that each different item photographed with the rig assembly 2 has a standard height from the camera 30 and a standard distance between the camera 30 and the turntable 48. In other words, it is important that the rig assembly 2 provide from repeatable accurate positioning of the camera 30 relative to the mannequin 100 and the central rail 6, such that different images taken at different times with the rig assembly 2 can later be combined.

After the camera 30 has been properly positioned, and the mannequin 100 fitted with the shirt has been restrained between the mannequin base 120 and the upper interface assembly 1 12, the computer 36 controls the photography process. In a preferred embodiment, the camera 30 and the turntable assembly 38 are both connected to a computer 36, through a wire or over wireless means. The category of item being photographed is preferably selectable in the computer 36. That is, the computer 36 preferably includes software having a list of standard camera settings for use with a number of separate clothing items. When the shirt item, for example, is selected, the computer 36 transmits the corresponding camera settings to the camera 30, thereby adjusting the camera 30. It is contemplated that those settings may vary for each different exposure taken, in which case the computer 36 transmits the appropriate settings to the camera 30 before each exposure.

The number of different images to be taken is then determined. This may be accomplished in several different ways. First, the computer 36 preferably includes a list of standard exposure angles for use with a number of different clothing items. When the shirt item, for example, is selected, software in the computer 36 preferably looks up the list of exposures and angular increments corresponding to the shirt item. The computer 36 then uses that list to control the camera 30 and the turntable 48 accordingly. It is also within the scope of the invention to input the number of different photographs desired into the computer 36, which divides that number into three hundred sixty degrees to obtain an angular increment. For example, if ten photographs are desired, then the angular increment is thirty-six degrees, and one photograph will be taken at each thirty-six degree increment of motion of the turntable 48. Of course, the angular measurement may be determined and calculated in radians or other units instead of degrees, if so desired. It is also within the scope of the invention to customize a series of image captures, if desired; for example, instructing the computer 36 to take the first image at a given orientation of the turntable 48 at a particular exposure, then rotate a number of degrees in a given direction in a particular number of steps, taking a photograph at each step.

The first photograph is preferably then taken by the camera 30 under the command of the computer 36. The computer 36 then issues a command to the turntable assembly 38 for the turntable 48 to initiate rotation at a given speed. The turntable 48 may rotate either clockwise or counterclockwise, but it is preferred that the rotation be consistent across a plurality of shirts and mannequins to increase the consistency of the resultant photographs. After the turntable 48 has rotated the appropriate angular increment, the computer 36 transmits a command to the turntable assembly 38 for the turntable 48 to cease rotation. The computer 36 then transmits a command to the camera 30 to take a photograph of the shirt. In a preferred embodiment, the camera 30 transmits the photograph in digital form to the computer 36, where it is preferably displayed on a monitor for review by an operator. The computer 36 then issues a command to the turntable assembly 38 to restart rotation of the turntable 48. The turntable 48 then rotates another angular increment, and the computer 36 then issues another command to the turntable assembly 38 to cease rotation of the turntable 48. Another photograph is taken as described above. This process of rotation and photography continues until all of the desired photographs have been taken. At that point, the computer 36 does not issue any further commands to the turntable assembly 38. The operator may then remove the mannequin 100 from the rig assembly 2 and replace it with another mannequin 100. It is preferred to photograph different items of the same type of clothing or fashion item sequentially, as it reduces the amount of time needed for moving and repositioning the camera 30.

While the preferred embodiment allows the computer 36 to stop the turntable 38 each time a photograph is to be taken, it is within the scope of the invention to allow the turntable 38 to rotate without stopping for photographs. If the turntable 38 is not stopped for photographs, the computer 36 simply issues a command to the camera to take a photograph each time the turntable 38 rotates through the angular increment.

Turning to the process of photographing a shoe, the shoe is aligned between the upper rotational assembly 210 and the turntable 48 such that its center of gravity passes substantially through the axis of rotation of the turntable 48. The upper interface spike 230 and the lower interface spikes 252 are adjusted to hold the shoe accordingly, so the upper interface spike 230 is not necessarily itself aligned coaxially with either the axis of rotation of the turntable 48 or any of the lower inter ace spikes 252. Further, none of the lower interface spikes 252 are necessarily aligned coaxially with the axis of rotation of the turntable 48. The photography process begins as described above. As the turntable 48 rotates, it preferably causes the disk 214 to rotate via the drive shaft 240, as described above. Thus, the disk 214 rotates at substantially the same speed as the turntable 48, which is preferred because such speed correspondence prevents the upper end of the shoe from turning at a different rate from the lower end of the shoe, which would tend to cause the shoe to fall out, as well as cause oscillation in the angles of photography of the shoe that would disrupt the ability to show successive images to create the impression of smooth motion of the shoe around an axis. Thus, as described above, a number of images are taken of the shoe from different predetermined angles, thus allowing the images to be viewed at a later time in a way that simulates motion of the shoe on a display screen. The function of the male mannequin legs 410 and the female mannequin legs 412 may thus be better appreciated. In a preferred embodiment, shoes or socks may be placed on the male mannequin legs 410 and photographed. By registering the male mannequin legs 410 with the legs of a standard male mannequin 100, a virtual mannequin may be dressed with shoes in a computer environment. That is, the camera 30 takes a picture of the shoes on the male mannequin legs 410, which is digitized and stored. That image, in the same scale and orientation as the feet of the standard male mannequin 100, can be placed onto a virtual mannequin dressed with pants or shorts, for example, in order to determine how the shoes look with other clothes.

In a preferred embodiment, lighting is provided separately from the frame 4. Arrangement of the lights to provide proper lighting for clothing and other fashion items photographed by the rig assembly 2 depends to an extent on the desired artistic and/or commercial effect sought and on the characteristics of the item being photographed. Proper arrangement of the lights can thus be somewhat complex, and attachment of such lights to the central rail 6 does not provide substantial assistance in positioning the lights. However, lights may be attached to the central rail 6 of the rig assembly 2, if desired. Advantageously, the lights used are Kino Flo lamps, model Fix-480-4 series, in 2 and/or 4 foot styles, having Kino Flo ballasts, model Bal- 400, "4 Bank Select."

In a preferred embodiment, lighting is used to allow for accurate high-volume automated masking. In the prior art, light at a particular color frequency was used for masking, which is not preferred here because the items of clothing to be photographed may include that color, and because colored light would affect the perception of colors present in the clothing or fashion item photographed. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the masking color is white, at a slightly higher exposure than the actual clothing item or fashion item being photographed. That is, by flooding slightly more light onto the background than the object being photographed, the background can be made "hotter" than the object being photographed. That hotter area can be identified with software, such as PHOTOSHOP^®, and eliminated digitally. Thus, the clothing or fashion item photographed can be isolated from the background.

In a preferred embodiment, a swingaway light assembly 300 is provided, as shown in FIG. 18. The swingaway light assembly 300 provides for background lighting in the rig assembly 2 configured to photograph smaller fashion items, such as shoes. The swingaway light assembly 300 includes a swing arm 302, which is preferably configured to possess a shallow V shape with a first leg 306 and a second leg 308 preferably having substantially equal lengths. One or more lights 304 are attached to the first leg 306. Attachment of the lights 304 to a structure such as the first leg 306 is known to those of ordinary skill in the art. A counterweight 310 is attached to the second leg 308. Preferably, the counterweight 310 may be relocated to different locations on the second leg 308. The swing arm 302 is attached to the support arm 206 through a hinge 312, allowing the swing arm 302 to move relative to the support arm 206. The weight of the counterweight 310 and its position on the second leg 308 are selected to balance the weight of the light or lights 304, allowing the swingaway light assembly 300 to be easily rotated upward to take the light or lights 304 out of the way, or to allow them to be lowered into position to provide more light as required. The hinge 312 is preferably located at or near an edge of the support arm 206, such that the first leg 306 can extend substantially vertically downward when the swingaway light assembly 300 is in a position for the use of the light or lights 304. In a preferred embodiment, the support arm 206 is strengthened with a plurality of L-plates 316 bolted or welded in place around the support arm 206 at the location of the hinge 312.

In an alternate embodiment, the camera stand collar 16 and the camera mount collar 26 are motorized, and are controlled by the computer 36. In this alternate embodiment, the computer 36 can control the height of the camera 30 by moving the camera stand collar 16 up or down along the camera stand 14, and can control the distance between the camera 30 and an item to be photographed, such as a mannequin 100, by moving the camera mount collar 26 along the central rail 6 of the frame 4. By automating the motion of the camera 30, greater efficiency can be achieved, as well as greater consistency between photographs. For example, if a shirt is to be photographed on a standard male mannequin 100, that information is preferably entered into the computer 36, which then relates that information to photographic control data stored within the computer 36 (for example, in a relational database). That photographic control data preferably includes camera height and camera distance from the standard male mannequin 100 for that specific type of shot. The computer 36 then sends analog or digital commands to the camera stand collar 16 and the camera mount collar 26 in order to position the camera 30 at that stored camera height and distance from the standard male mannequin 100. In a preferred embodiment, several different rig assemblies 2 may be operated simultaneously in an overall photography process. Thus, a rig assembly 2 configured to accept a standard mannequin 100 may be operated at the same time as a separate rig assembly 2 configured to accept a smaller fashion item, thus allowing for faster photography of numerous items, and reducing the amount of time spent reconfiguring the rig assemblies 2. When multiple rig assemblies 2 are used, one that is configured to accept a mannequin 100 can simply be left in that configuration for a lengthy duration, as can one that is configured to accept smaller fashion items. While the preferred embodiment has been described in terms of a number of items attached to the frame 4, such as the camera assembly 14 and the turntable assembly 38, it is contemplated that these items need not be connected to the frame 4. It is within the scope of the invention to provide those items in substantially the same relationship to one another as described above, even if those items are not attached, directly or otherwise, to the frame 4.

As will be apparent from the disclosure above, the presence of a number of collars and other adjustable items makes the rig assembly very flexible, allowing it to be used for a number of applications and uses. While the preferred embodiment has been described in terms of photographic imaging of clothing, shoes and fashion items used with a standardized mannequin, it will be apparent that the rig assembly 2 may be used in a number of other applications where a high volume of photographs is required, where an ability to view an object from multiple perspectives on line is desired, or where the ability to photograph an object and accessories for that object separately and retain the same scale is desired.

A preferred embodiment of a rig assembly for photographic imaging, and many of its attendant advantages, has thus been disclosed. It will be apparent, however, that various changes may be made in its form and components without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the embodiment hereinbefore described being merely a preferred or exemplary embodiment thereof. Therefore, the invention is not to be restricted or limited except in accordance with the following claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

What is Claimed is:

1 . A rig assembly for photographic imaging, comprising: a frame having a central rail; a camera assembly attached to and moveable along said central rail, said camera assembly comprising a camera stand and a camera movably attached thereto; a computer electronically connected to said camera; and a turntable assembly attached to and moveable along said central rail.

2. The rig assembly of claim 1 , wherein said central rail is a hollow steel tube having a substantially square cross-section.

3. The rig assembly of claim 1 , wherein said computer controls camera focus, exposure timing, and exposure duration.

4. The rig assembly of claim 1 , wherein said camera is adapted to photograph objects placed on said turntable and transmit those photographs to said computer.

5. The assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a mannequin support assembly attached to and moveable along said central rail.

6. The rig assembly of claim 5, wherein said turntable assembly includes a turntable having one or more registration guides.

7. The rig assembly of claim 6, further comprising a mannequin base adapted to receive a standard mannequin, said mannequin base aligned with at least one of said registration guides.

8. The assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a fashion item support assembly attached to and moveable along said central rail.

9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein said fashion item support assembly comprises a fashion item support post attached to and moveable along said central rail, and a support arm attached to and moveable along said fashion item support post, said support arm parallel to said central rail.

10. The assembly of claim 9, further comprising an upper rotational assembly attached to said support arm.

1 1. A method for high-volume photographic imaging with a rig assembly having a camera and a turntable assembly, comprising the steps of: selecting a standard mannequin; providing a mannequin base registering with said standard mannequin; placing said mannequin onto said registered mannequin base; registering said mannequin base with one or more registration guides on a turntable provided as part of the turntable assembly; connecting the camera to a computer; inputting to the computer the type of clothing item to be photographed; providing camera settings from said computer to the camera; photographing the mannequin; transmitting the photographic data from the camera to said computer; transmitting a signal from said computer to the turntable to initiate turntable motion; transmitting a signal from said computer to the turntable to cease turntable motion; photographing the mannequin again; and transmitting the photographic data from the camera to said computer.

12. A method for high-volume photographic imaging with a rig assembly having a camera and a turntable assembly, comprising the steps of: selecting a fashion item to photograph; providing an upper rotation assembly above the turntable assembly; holding said fashion item between the turntable assembly and said upper rotation assembly; connecting the camera to a computer; inputting to the computer the type of fashion item to be photographed; providing camera settings from said computer to the camera; photographing the fashion item; transmitting the photographic data from the camera to said computer; transmitting a signal from said computer to the turntable to initiate turntable motion; transmitting a signal from said computer to the turntable to cease turntable motion; photographing the fashion item again; and transmitting the photographic data from the camera to said computer.