British Kinematography (1948)

L;(. BOOK REVIEW GRID SYSTEM STEREOSCOPY IN THE KINEMA, by Ivanoff (Moscow). The book recently published in Russia is a textbook on stereoscopy, mentioning all the well-known systems. The book also describes a special stereoscopic system developed by the author in which, broadly speaking, he takes a standard 35 mm. film and instead of using four perforation holes per picture he only uses one perforation hole per frame. In addition, instead of the usual single picture across the film he takes two smaller nearly square pictures which extend into the normal sprocket hole area and are separated by the sound track, which is positioned between the two pictures in the centre of the film (see Fig. 122 in the book). There are no special attachments for the viewer when the film is projected, but the screen employed uses a lenticulated grid system. From other publications available it appears that this system is installed in a small kinema in Moscow having a seating capacity of 200. Apparently, however, the question of sufficient light is important and from latest reports it seems that the Russians have now gone over to using two standard films which are run in synchronism. The Russian proposal is interesting and shows practical results, but, as already mentioned, only for a small kinema. It is very doubtful whether in any larger kinema the amount of light would be sufficient. It is also very interesting to note that as so often happens, Ivanoff's idea is really a re-invention of a previous idea. A comparison of French Patent Specifications Nos. 666361 of Edmond Noaillon filed in 1928 and 885032 of S. Pavlovitch Ivanoff filed in 1940. shows that Noaillon had put the same idea on paper twelve years before Ivanoff. 0. K. Kolb. BRITISH STANDARDS Three British standards specifications of photographic interest have recently been published : B.S.1404 : 1947— Measuring Apparatus for Photographic Processing. — Specifies the types of volumetric measuring apparatus, balances, scales, weights and thermometers, that will give the accuracy required for photographic processing as economically as possible. Recommends preferred types of volumetric measuring apparatus. PERSONAL NEWS of MEMBERS Members are urged to keep their fellow members conversant with their activities through the medium of the Journal. D. W. Aldous, a director of Waldens Films, Ltd., Hon. Technical Secretary of the British Sound Recording Association, has recently opened a sound recording studio in Torquay, to be known as Rosener's Recording Studio. F. A. Cam has been appointed by Sound Equipment, Ltd., to handle the sales of all B.T.H. 35mm. and 16mm. equipment in South Wales, and the West of England. P. J. George, R.A.F., formerly of the Canadian Air Force, is at present in Ismailia. A. J. Pincombe of G. B. Equipments, has been chosen as first chairman of the newly formed Sub-Standard Technical Committee of the K.M.A. E. Sadler, no longer employed by W. Yinten, Ltd.. has joined Newman and Sinclair of Highgate. J. B. Saunders of Unifilm Studio, Ltd., London, has been advised to rest, and for the next six months will be convalescing on his back. Alan Williamson has recently celebrated fiftv vears in the film trade. B.S.1409 : 1947— Letter Symbols for Electronic Valves. — The letter symbols laid down in this standard apply to electrodes and other components of electronic valves, designations of different types of valves and electrical quantities in connection with valve technique. They are intended for use by valve manufacturers and users and in technical literature generally. B.S.77 : 1947— FUm-Strip and Film Slides. — This British Standard applies to 35mm. safety films for use in still-picture projectors and to sub-standard slides. It specifies all essential dimensions, together ' with the arrangement of images, leaders and trailers, and position indicators. The President of the Society has congratulated Sir Michael Balcon on the knighthood conferred upon him in the New Year Honours List. 16mm. KODACHROME OF ROYAL WEDDING The 16mm. Kodachrome record of the Royal Wedding, exhibited in London several days before the run of the 35mm. rival, was made by Yictor S. Piercey and R. H. Hollvman.