Multiple aerial imaging by use of infinity mirror and oblique retro-reflector

Abstract

We have realized a new optical system to form multiple aerial images by use of thin optical components. The proposed optical system is based on aerial imaging by retro-reflection (AIRR). The aerial image formed by AIRR is visible over a wide viewing angle without using 3D glasses. In addition to AIRR, we have introduced a technique called infinity mirror in which a mirror and a half mirror are arranged in parallel to form multiple virtual images of a single light source. By combining AIRR and infinity mirror, multiple images are formed in mid-air. By placing a retro-reflector obliquely outside the infinity mirror, our proposed optics improves the brightness of the aerial images by placing.