Showing papers on "Digital camera published in 2004"

System and method for decoding and analyzing barcodes using a mobile device

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method for decoding barcodes using mobile device. Generally, the barcode image is acquired via a digital camera attached to the mobile device. After the barcode image has been acquired, software located on the mobile device enhances the barcode image and subsequently decodes the barcode information. The barcode information is then transmitted to a server via a wireless network. The server processes the barcode information and transmits media content related to the barcode back to the mobile device.

Method and system for detecting and classifying objects in images, such as insects and other arthropods

Abstract: A color-based imaging system and method for the detection and classification of insects and other arthropods are described, including devices for counting arthropods and providing taxonomic capabilities useful for pest-management. Some embodiments include an image sensor (for example, a digital color camera, scanner or a video camera) with optional illumination that communicates with a computer system. Some embodiments include a color scanner connected to a computer. Sampled arthropods are put on a scanner to be counted and identified. The computer captures images from the scanner, adjusts scanner settings, and processes the acquired images to detect and identify the arthropods. Other embodiments include a trapping device and a digital camera connected by cable or wireless communications to the computer. Some devices include a processor to do the detection and identification in the field, or the field system can send the images to a centralized host computer for detection and identification.

System and method for focusing a digital camera

Abstract: A method of focusing a digital camera module with an image sensor including capturing an image of a test target with the digital camera module, determining a focus quality of the image with the image sensor, outputting a signal related to the focus quality of the image from the digital camera module to a focusing station external to the digital camera module, and determining whether a position of a lens from the image sensor within the digital camera module should be altered to improve a focus quality of subsequently captured images.

Method and system for automated production of autostereoscopic and animated prints and transparencies from digital and non-digital media

Abstract: A method and system for automated production of stereoscopic and animated images and hardcopies can utilize a light-sensitive lenticular material employing a conventional or non-conventional photographic emulsion or an instant-developing material. An automated printer can produce autostereoscopic and animated hardcopies in multiple formats from digital and non-digital sources, including single images, stereopairs, and multiple-image sets of negatives, transparencies, or prints. The printer, which includes a projection device and a material plate that can rotate around two perpendicular axes, can utilize software to automate viewing angle calculation, printer control, multiple-image alignment, distortion correction, and image processing and conversion. A digital camera can capture stereoscopic and animated images and record them digitally or on photographic film. A non-digital camera can record stereoscopic and animated images directly onto light-sensitive lenticular material employing a conventional or non-conventional photographic emulsion or an instant-developing material. The printer and cameras can utilize autostereoscopic monitors to preview parallax.

Motion detector camera

Abstract: A motion detector camera includes a camera mechanism mounted inside a housing, a motion detector exposed on a surface of the housing, and a controller for controlling the camera mechanism in response to signals received from the motion detector. The camera can include an activity counter mounted to the housing. The controller activates the camera mechanism when the controller receives a triggering signal from the motion detector, or the controller activates the activity counter and does not activate the camera mechanism when a triggering activity occurs. The camera can include digital camera electronics. A camera support can be used to removably mount the camera to an object such as a tree.

Digital camera with built-in lens calibration table

Abstract: A digital camera that automatically corrects dust artifact regions within acquired images by compiling a dust map includes an optical system for acquiring an image with a corresponding dust calibration table for such optical system, including a lens assembly and an aperture stop, in which the corresponding dust calibration map can reside. A transformation between the dust map and the specific lens calibration table, enables the use for a single dust map in multiple instances of lenses and focal length, without the need to recalibrate the digital camera for each instance.

Automobile security defence alarm system with face identification and wireless communication function

Abstract: An automobile alarm system includes: (1) a face identification and discrimination system, which consists of low-light, visible light, infrared light, and thermo-luminescence camera and/or digital camera device for photograph of inside and outside of automobiles, and face identification and discrimination hardware and software system for testing whether a mask or facial adornments or whether his/her face is directed at the camera; (2) redundancy device and/or redundancy function modules, anti-interference system for communication and anti-destructive detection system; (3) a automobile status recorder, which can record the statuses on the inside and outside of the automobile before, during and after an emergent event picked up by the camera; (4) a multi-functional burglar, anti-destructive and anti-hijacking alarm for automobiles, which can transmit a radio image to a remote equipment for reporting an incident. This invention can also be used for every supervision systems.

Digital camera having system for digital image composition and related method

Abstract: A digital camera is provided, comprising an image system having a unique combination of features that aid in generating creative, high-quality images. The system presents a variety of overlays, each having prescribed attributes, e.g., ranging in size, opacity, and functionality, and from iconic overlays to full-scale overlays having varied opacity. The overlays can be used as an aid in composing a live image for digital capture, either as a constant or intermittent presence on the view-screen of the camera. In an exemplary embodiment, the camera can create a composite photograph in which a live image and the overlay are combined together. In an independent aspect, the camera can include an auto-compositing feature that aids in creating images free of improperly exposed regions. Thus, a photographer can create and combine images “on location” in a unique manner.

Home picture/video display system with ultra wide-band technology

Abstract: A new display system and method is described, utilizing a cellular telephone (figure 5, element 510) having digital camera capability and a television linked directly over a UWB wireless signal (figure 5, element 525) forming a UWB wireless video pico-net. The system utilizes a digital camera unit (figure 5, element 540) to capture picture or video images for UWB transmission directly to the television acting as a pico-net host controller, either independently or together with the cellular telephone operating as a pico-net child. The display system comprises and one or more remote devices (figure 5, element 510) an a host display (figure 5, element 550) communicating on a UWB wireless network (figure 5, element 525). The host display comprises a display for presentation of the picture or video images and a UWB transceiver for processing image data from the picture or video images, for selectively sending and receiving the image data based on a request from the child. The one or more remote devices comprise a digital camera for capturing the pictur or video images and another UWB transceiver as used in the host display. The host display (figure 5, element 550) has a generally larger display for improved presentation of the captured picture or video images useful and amusing for group, party, wedding, and conference viewing, or simply for enhanced personal enjoyment. For picture or video image sharing, the system further facilitates downloading the current picture or video images from the host display television (figurer 5, element 550) to a requesting cellular telephone or digital camera equipped with the UWB transceiver. The UWB display system provides sufficient bandwidth to support numerous such download requests simultaneously, while utilizing a transmission technology having minimal power consumption.

Virtual sensor design

Abstract: We present a virtual digital camera sensor, whose aim is to simulate a real (physical) image capturing sensorTo accomplish this task, the virtual sensor operates in two steps First, it accepts a physical description of agiven scene and simulates the entire process of photon sensing and charge generation in the sensor device This process is affected by noise, mostly photon noise Second, it adds to the image the noise that results from the electronic circuitry We present a model for the different sources of noise relative to each sensor-based image formation step, and use measurements of real digital camera images to validate the model

Method and apparatus for a digital camera scrolling slideshow

Abstract: A digital camera and related methods enable a scrolling slideshow of captured images across a display screen. The display screen can be the digital camera's display screen or an external display screen (e.g., a TV screen or a computer monitor) driven by the digital camera. The number of images scrolled across a display screen can be adjusted for ease and efficiency of viewing based on user preference. The camera provides controls for image scrolling including speed adjustment, forward scrolling, reverse scrolling, scroll pausing, and scroll resuming. The camera permits images to be locked in place on the display screen during the scrolling slideshow, which provides for easy comparison with other images that continue to scroll across the display screen. When an image is locked, scrolling images appear to scroll to a position behind the locked image.

Digital camera and digital camera system

Abstract: In a collaborating work, it is to provide a digital camera in which camera information about each camera is displayed on a monitor of a master camera and a memory status of each memory card in use is also displayed and further, when monitoring a video from a slave camera, a size of a display screen can be manually set and in a digital camera system at collaborating work, a first digital camera is provided with camera information about each digital camera, a total memory capacity, a total sum of shot-taken frame numbers, a total remaining memory capacity or a display device indicating a total sum of remaining frame numbers. Camera information is information that is required to be set when instructing a shooting work or a storage work or to specify a second digital camera.

Techniques for modifying image field data

Abstract: Techniques for modifying data of an image that can be implemented in a digital camera, video image capturing device and other optical systems are provided to correct for image shading variations appearing in data from a two-dimensional photo-sensor. These variations can be caused by imperfect lenses, non-uniform sensitivity across the photo-sensor, and internal reflections within a housing of the optical system, for example. In order to correct for these variations, a small amount of modification data is stored in a small memory within the camera or other optical system, preferably separate correction data for each primary color. The modification data is generated on the fly, at the same rate as the image data is being acquired, so that the modification takes place without slowing down data transfer from the image sensor.

Evaluation of High Dynamic Range Photography as a Luminance Mapping Technique

Abstract: The potential, limitations, and applicability of the High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography technique is evaluated as a luminance mapping tool. Multiple exposure photographs of static scenes are taken with a Nikon 5400 digital camera to capture the wide luminance variation within the scenes. The camera response function is computationally derived using the Photosphere software, and is used to fuse the multiple photographs into HDR images. The vignetting effect and point spread function of the camera and lens system is determined. Laboratory and field studies have shown that the pixel values in the HDR photographs can correspond to the physical quantity of luminance with reasonable precision and repeatability.

Apparatus for and method of taking and viewing images of the skin

Abstract: A self-contained, portable apparatus and corresponding method for capturing, displaying and analyzing images of a person includes a housing for containing a digital camera, a light source capable of providing at least two different wavelengths of light, a touch-screen display and a computer for controlling the camera, the light source and the display. The apparatus selectively captures and displays a plurality of digital images using different wavelengths of illuminating light. The light source may include a plurality of flashes and filters, some of which may be adjustable to adjust the angle of incidence of the illuminating light on the subject. Preferably, the apparatus is self-serve, allowing any person to capture, review and analyze the images. To that end, the apparatus may provide a moving image and verbal instructions to a user to aid in positioning themselves relative to the camera. Instruction may further be provided by text or internet connection for using the apparatus and/or interpreting the captured images. An intuitive graphic user interface with thumbnail images is employed. Focus control, zoom and synchronized side-by side comparison of images are available.

System and method for decoding barcodes using digital imaging techniques

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method for decoding barcodes from images acquired using a mobile device. Generally, the barcode image is acquired via a digital camera attached to the mobile device. After the barcode image has been acquired, the image is sent to a server via a wireless network which enhances the barcode image and subsequently decodes the barcode information. The server processes the barcode information and transmits media content related to the barcode back to the mobile device.

Digital camera and method for in creating still panoramas and composite photographs

Abstract: Digital cameras and methods that help a user accurately align sequential photographs to create large panoramas and composite photographs derived from a sequence of smaller photographs. This effectively creates a higher resolution, or larger, photograph from a zigzag series of photographs using a low resolution camera. An algorithm running on the camera guides a user through the image-taking procedure, allowing him or her to select if a panoramic or composite photograph is to be taken, and optionally the number of images (width and height) needed to create the final image. The algorithm displays indicia, such as marks or a shadow (transparent) image, that are overlaid and moved over the live image during the image-taking process to help align the subsequent image to be taken with the previously recorded image.

Wildlife-sensing digital camera with instant-on capability and picture management software

Abstract: An outdoor, battery powered digital camera includes a passive infrared motion detector that allows the camera to be left unattended, as the detector automatically triggers the camera to take a picture upon sensing the presence of a moving animal. To prolong the life of the battery, the camera goes into a power-saving sleep mode between pictures. To enable the camera to instantly take a picture upon suddenly being awakened by the motion detector, the exposure setting of the camera is periodically checked, adjusted and stored so that the camera can use that fairly recent exposure setting, or one near it, to take an instant picture rather than wasting excessive time adjusting the exposure when the animal first appears. In some cases, the camera is used in conjunction with picture management software.

Mechanism for ergonomic integration of a digital camera into a mobile phone

Abstract: An ergonomic clamshell housing for a mobile device with a camera comprises a housing with a hinge mechanism that pivotally connects a display section to a camera section. The hinge mechanism allows the display and camera sections to rotate relative to each other between at least a first folded position and a second folded position. When in the first folded position, the display and camera sections are folded in a side-by-side relation such that the display and camera lens face each other. When in the second folded position, the display and camera sections are folded in a side-by-side relation such that the display and camera lens face away from each other.

Continuous burst mode digital camera

Abstract: A camera has a continuous full-resolution burst mode wherein a sequence of full-resolution images is captured, is image processed by a pipeline of dedicated hardware image processing engines, is zoomed by a zoom engine, is compressed by a compression engine, and is stored into nonvolatile storage as a sequence of discrete files. The capturing of images and the storing of files continues at a rate of at least three frames per second until the user indicates burst mode operation is to stop or until nonvolatile storage becomes filled. Although the camera has a buffer memory into which raw sensor data is placed before image processing, the number of images that can be captured in a single burst is not limited by the size of the buffer memory. The cost of a consumer market camera having continuous burst mode capability is therefore reduced by reducing the required amount of buffer memory.

Customizing a digital camera

Abstract: A method for customizing a digital camera for at least one particular user is disclosed. The digital camera includes a reprogrammable memory for storing firmware which controls the operation of the digital camera and a camera graphical user interface responsive to the firmware stored in the reprogrammable memory. The method includes providing customization software executed external to the digital camera which can access a plurality of firmware components having different camera features. A user selects desired camera features to cause the customization software to access the corresponding firmware component(s). The selected corresponding firmware component(s) are provided to the digital camera and the reprogrammable memory is reprogrammed to store the corresponding firmware component(s) to thereby customize the digital camera.

Image display device

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image display device which can display on a single screen both of an photographed image and a map most closely related to the image in a linked relationship SOLUTION: The display device includes a hard disk (HDD) 101 for storing a file of the image photographed by a digital camera equipped with a GPS function, a map database 103 for storing data about a plurality of maps having different creation dates, a map selector 105 for selecting one of the maps stored in the database 103 and having a creation date most close to the photographed date of an image file selected by the user, and a display processor 107 for processing the data of the image file and the map image data selected by the map selector 105 to display both the photographed image and the map image in a desired form COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Digital cameras with luminance correction

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed to improve quality of images that may be blurred or underexposed (e.g., because of camera shake, taken in dim lighting conditions, or taken of high action scenes). The techniques may be implemented in a digital camera, digital video camera, or a digital camera capable of capturing video. In one described implementation, a digital camera includes an image sensor, a storage device, and a processing unit. The image sensor captures two images from a same scene which are stored on the storage device. The processing unit enhances the captured images with luminance correction.

Apparatus for communicating over a network images captured by a digital camera

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for communicating over a network images captured by a digital camera (18), such as a digital camera (18) without an on-board network interface. The apparatus includes a housing separate from the digital camera having a processing unit with memory for storage of images, a camera interface card (12) received in a memory card slot of the digital camera (18), and a cable (16) or wireless connection (31) coupling the camera interface card to the processing unit (14) for data communication. The apparatus emulates a memory card to the digital camera (18), such that the digital camera's electronics operate with the memory of the processing unit (14) through the camera interface card (12), as if such memory was on a memory card located hi slot of the digital camera (18). Images captured by the digital camera (18) are transferred, via the camera interface card (12) and cable (16), to memory of the processing unit (14), and the digital camera (18) can access images stored in memory of the processing unit (14). The processing unit (14) has a wireless data network interface (30) and Ethernet communication interface (32), whereby captured images stored in memory of the processing unit (14) are queued hi real-time for network transfer, and subsequently transferred via one of the network communication interfaces, to a computer system, such as an web site or file server, at a network destination address configurable in the processing unit (14). Data may be inputted by the user before and/or after image capture for association with images prior to their network transfer. The housing for the processing unit may be shaped like a motor drive unit and attached to the bottom of the camera (18), or worn by the user of the camera (18) in the form of a belt pack or backpack.

Digital camera zooming based on unified CFA image processing steps

Abstract: A unified camera image processing system that performs zooming and full color image reconstruction for single-sensor digital cameras is introduced. Compact and low-cost single-sensor solutions often lack optical zooming capabilities and thus depend on digital techniques. However, the computational power required for high-quality output using traditional techniques is generally too prohibitive to implement in such devices. The proposed scheme employs a small number of reusable, low-complexity operations and a consistent color model throughout to achieve high-quality zoomed output that is practical for hardware implementation. The high-level system components are color filter array (CFA) zooming, CFA interpolation (demosaicking) and demosaicked image postprocessing. The resulting output is consistently superior to other methods.

Automatic thresholding for digital hemispherical photography

Abstract: This paper proposes an automatic thresholding method for the discrimination of sky and canopy elements in color hemispherical photographs taken with a digital camera (Nikon Coolpix 950). The exposu...

Imaging apparatus and image processing method therefor

Abstract: A digital camera (1) has a CPU (30) and an image processing apparaatus (25). The image processing apparatus (25) acquires a contour from an image acquired by shooting a whiteboard (2) as a shooting target by using a Roberts filter. The image processing apparatus (25) detects straight lines to be candidates which form the image of the whiteboard (2) from the acquired contour, and acquires the rectangular shape of the whiteboard (2). The image processing apparatus (25) acquires projection parameters indicating the relationship between the image of the whiteboard (2) and the real whiteboard (2) from vertex positions of the quadrangle, and performs projection transformation of the image of the whiteboard (2).