Showing papers on "Image file formats published in 2002"

Lossless data embedding for all image formats

Abstract: Lossless data embedding has the property that the distortion due to embedding can be completely removed from the watermarked image without accessing any side channel. This can be a very important property whenever serious concerns over the image quality and artifacts visibility arise, such as for medical images, due to legal reasons, for military images or images used as evidence in court that may be viewed after enhancement and zooming. We formulate two general methodologies for lossless embedding that can be applied to images as well as any other digital objects, including video, audio, and other structures with redundancy. We use the general principles as guidelines for designing efficient, simple, and high-capacity lossless embedding methods for three most common image format paradigms - raw, uncompressed formats (BMP), lossy or transform formats (JPEG), and palette formats (GIF, PNG). We close the paper with examples of how the concept of lossless data embedding can be used as a powerful tool to achieve a variety of non-trivial tasks, including elegant lossless authentication using fragile watermarks. Note on terminology: some authors coined the terms erasable, removable, reversible, invertible, and distortion-free for the same concept.

Method for monitoring internet dissemination of image, video and/or audio files

Abstract: An automated monitoring service downloads image files (including, e.g., graphic and video files) and audio files from various Internet sites, and checks these files for the presence of embedded digital watermark data. When found, such data is decoded and used to identify the proprietor of each watermarked file. The proprietors are alerted to the results of the monitoring operation, often apprising such proprietors of unknown distribution of their image/video/audio properties.

Method and apparatus for archiving and visualizing digital images

Abstract: A computer based, digital image management system that visually presents an entire archive in a manner that facilitates easy, non-textual, searching for specific images. In one embodiment, the system includes two elements: a file management methodology and a graphical user interface. The file management method utilizes reference files that contain multiple properties (metadata) relating to each image file. Image files are grouped into a multiplicity of collections based on user-defined associations of the properties. The graphical user interface visually represents the groups of image files on 2-dimentional or 3-dimensional graphic metaphors. In addition, the graphical interface uses multiple display variables such as icons, mnemonics, size, movement, color, and luminance to signify relationships between groups, and/or communicate key properties of individual or groups of images.

Method and system for automatic creation of multilingual immutable image files

Abstract: An improved translation system is provided that allows users to view screen objects of a user interface in different languages even though the screen object's visual elements are stored in an immutable image file (e.g., .gif or bitmap). To accomplish this, a method and system automatically generate a number of immutable image files, each containing text in different languages. These files are then made available to users so that they may select a preferred language in which to view the screen objects of the user interface.

Apparatus and method for controlling a camera connected to a network

Abstract: A camera control apparatus provides an end user with environment to easily remote-control a video camera via a general network such as the Internet. When the camera control apparatus receives a file-transfer request described in the format of the network from an external device connected to the apparatus, it handles the characters in a character string of a file name of the request as a camera-control characters. As a result, if the character string includes a description corresponding to the format for camera control, the camera control apparatus controls the camera in accordance with the description to perform image sensing, and transfers the obtained video image as the content of an image file requested by the external device as the file-transfer request originator.

Computer system with enhanced user interface for images

Abstract: A computer system and method are presented that enhance a user experience when viewing images displayed on the computer. The system includes a user interface for the computer that displays a number of thumbnail images that are small representations of image files existing on the computer. The thumbnail images are arranged in alignment with one another, such as at the bottom of a viewing window. An enlarged preview image is positioned adjacent the thumbnail images. The enlarged preview image corresponds to a selected thumbnail image and is a larger representation of an image file corresponding with the selected thumbnail image. A control is displayed in the window that enables the user to iterate through the thumbnail images in at least one direction. As the user iterates through the thumbnail images, the enlarged preview image changes correspondingly.

VTK CISG Registration Toolkit An Open Source Software Package for Affine and Non-rigid Registration of Single- and Multimodal 3D Images

Abstract: Voxel-based image registration using Normalised Mutual Information (NMI) has been shown to register single- and multi-modal 3D images accurately without any user interaction [1,5,4]. Our group has proposed both an affine and a non-rigid registration algorithm based on NMI, and has validated these algorithms on a range of medical applications like brain, breast, and cardiac data [7, 8, 6, 2, 3]. We present a publicly available software package that incorporates these algorithms in a user-friendly command-line and graphical interface including a visualisation tool for 3D image pairs in order to analyse registration results. Beside the pure usage of registration algorithms, the software can be easily adjusted to specific environments (e.g. including other image file formats) and can be modified for specific applications.

Apparatus and method for encoding digital image data in a lossless manner

Abstract: A method of losslessly compressing and encoding signals representing image information is claimed. A lossy compressed data file and a residual compressed data file are generated. When the lossy compressed data file and the residual compressed data file are combined, a lossless data file that is substantially identical to the original data file is created.

System and method for universal remote access and display of diagnostic images for service delivery

Abstract: Systems and methods for enabling universal remote access and display of diagnostic images acquired by diagnostic imaging equipment, independent of the identity of the vendor that manufactured the equipment. One system includes a local area network; a scanner capable of sending objects formatted in accordance with a communications protocol, each object incorporating at least one image frame; and a data capture device connected to the local area network and programmed with data capture software to capture an object originating from the scanner in response to that scanner being specified as an object of diagnosis. This system further includes a communications channel, e.g., a virtual private network, for connecting the data capture device to a central service facility. The preferred communications protocol is DICOM. In response to an instruction from the service center, the data capture device on the LAN captures image files from a malfunctioning scanner and forwards them to the service center for diagnosis.

Method and apparatus for processing photographic images

Abstract: A method of processing images includes the steps of retrieving a source image file including pixel data, creating a destination image file buffer, mapping the pixel data from the source image file to the destination image file buffer, and outputting pixel data from the destination image file buffer as a destination image file. The step of mapping pixel data from the source image file to the destination image file buffer can include the step of interpolating the source image pixel data to produce pixel data for the destination image file buffer. Border pixel data can be added to the source image file to improve the efficiency interpolation step. The source image file can be a panoramic projection image file, and can include pixel data from a plurality of images. An apparatus for processing images in accordance with the method is also provided.

Video searching method, apparatus, and program product, producing a group image file from images extracted at predetermined intervals

Abstract: A video displaying method of displaying, on a display unit, contents of video files. Each of the video files is composed of a plurality of images. The video displaying method includes the steps of extracting, from one of the video files, a plurality of images at predetermined intervals from the images composing the video file; displaying the extracted images on the display unit; in response to a selection of one image from the displayed images, reproducing the video file including the selected image beginning at a position of the selected image in the video file; and displaying the reproduced video file on the display unit.

Integration of a multimedia teaching and reference database in a PACS environment.

Abstract: In one radiology department, a computerized authoring and editing environment was developed and integrated with the picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) for creation of image-based electronic teaching files to replace a collection of printed film images. This multimedia database and authoring environment allows physicians to create reference databases for teaching and research directly from clinical cases being reviewed on PACS diagnostic workstations. The database engine allows users to generate stand-alone CD-ROMs (compact disks, read-only memory) and World Wide Web–based teaching files. The system is fully compliant with the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) standard and supports a large number of standard multimedia image file formats. The focus of the development was on convenience and ease of use of a generic system adaptable to all users. The software was integrated on the PACS workstations to allow users to add new cases to the database at any time and anywhere i...

Recording apparatus and reproducing apparatus

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus capable of retrieving a moving image file and a still picture file associated therewith efficiently. The apparatus produces a still picture file including still picture data extracted from moving image data, produces a moving image file including the moving image data and information (for example, a file name) associated with the still picture file, and records the moving image file and the still picture file on a recording medium to which random access can be effected.

Image recording method and system, image transmitting method, and image recording apparatus

Abstract: An input apparatus reads a patient ID from an ID card and transmits it to a computer. On the basis of the patient ID, the computer obtains corresponding patient information containing a photograph of the patient's face and the patient's name, from a medical database, and then transmits the patient information to the digital camera together with the patient ID. The digital camera displays the patient information on the liquid crystal monitor to enable confirmation of the patient, who is a subject to be photographed. After the patient has been confirmed, the patient ID is filled in a header part of an image file for the image photographed using the digital camera, and the image file is transmitted to the medical database or the like. Thus, when identification information on the subject is recorded in connection with the photographed image, the input of the identification information is simplified, and the correspondence between the subject identification information input before photographing and the subject to be photographed can be easily confirmed. Further, the digital camera obtains locational information from a car navigation apparatus. The locational information is classified into added-to-image information added to the subject image (GPS information indicative of latitude, longitude, and altitude) and display information associated with the added-to-image information (the place name corresponding to the GPS information). The digital camera stores the location information obtained in a non-volatile memory and displays the display information (place name) of the locational information on the liquid crystal monitor of the camera. Subsequently, after photographing has been completed, the added-to-image information (GPS information) of the locational information stored in the non-volatile memory in connection with the image. Thus, if additional information input from an external device is recorded in connection with the subject image, the camera can be used to easily check what added-to-image information is used, whether or not the added-to-image information is correct as information to be added to the subject image, and the like.

Flexible memory management for video and still image data in a digital camera

Abstract: The memory of a digital camera is flexibly managed. When memory is available the camera will use it to capture the highest possible quality and highest possible resolution images. The user is allowed to specify a decrease and increase to the quality and compression settings of the image through the camera's user interface, effecting the size of the image file in memory. (always within the bounds of what can be supported by the amount of image data actually captured by the camera). The user specified settings are applied by the camera to the image data at a later time (e.g. only when the image data is finally downloaded to the host pc). In addition, the camera can store more data even after the memory is full. In one embodiment, the user can input through the camera's user interface an increase in the quality (e.g., resolution/compression level or other such parameters) of an image or video file, after capturing and reviewing it, even after other data are subsequently captured on the camera. This can be done by storing data at a high quality setting when memory is available, and re-storing the data at a lesser quality if additional memory is not available. If memory is not available to store any additional data, and the user still attempts to capture additional data, data already stored on the device (and/or the attributes of the additional data) can be adjusted in order to make room for permanent storage of additional data on the camera.

Method and apparatus for encoding photographic images

Abstract: A method of encoding images comprising the steps of retrieving a source image file including pixel data, transforming the source image file pixel data into a destination data set of pixel data representative of a modified partial equi-rectangular projection, and outputting the pixel data from the destination data set as a destination image file. The source image file can include an annular source image file. An apparatus for encoding images in accordance with the method is also provided.

Method and system for transforming an image of a biological surface

Abstract: Provided is a method of transforming an image of a biometric surface comprising the steps of sensing (201) a biometric surface to provide biometric image data, receiving data relating to a plurality of parameters for use in transforming image data, different parameters for resulting in differently transformed image data for a same biometric image data, transforming (204) the biometric image data in accordance with the received data to provide transformed biometric image data in a format relating to the received data, and providing (205) the transformed biometric image data as output image data having the format, wherein the transformed biometric image data is different for different parameters enabling provision of images of a same biometric surface having different image formats. There is further provided a biometric imaging device for executing the above described method, as well as memory for storing data, relevant to the above-described method.

High dynamic range image editing

Abstract: A high dynamic range image editing system for editing an image file having pixels spanning a first range of light intensity levels in an image editing system that only displays differences in the light intensity levels of pixels within a second range of light intensity levels that is less than the first range of light intensity levels, without reducing the range of light intensity levels in the image file.

Image data management method and system using network

Abstract: A method for managing an original image data file uploaded from a terminal of a client and a system for materializing the method. The method includes storing the original image data file in a database; generating a preview image data file by using the original image data file, wherein the preview image data file has a predetermined file size smaller than that of the original image data file; storing the preview image data file in the database; and linking the preview image data file with the original image data file. The system includes a storage device a storage device, an image management device, a retrieval device and an image process device. The storage device stores information of a client, original image data files and preview image data files each linked with corresponding one of the original image data files. The image management device generates a preview image data file by using a corresponding original image data file. The retrieval device reads out an original image data file from the storage device, on the basis of search data externally provided. The image process device provides an image selection page to the client terminal and generates the search data for the preview image data file selected by the client.

Two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus and the method thereof and identification system using the same

Abstract: The present invention provides a two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus and the method thereof. Said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus has the ability of displaying images, and capturing images, and comprises: a flat display panel 2, which is non-transparent when said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus displays images and is transparent when said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus captures images (the image of the user can pass through said flat display panel 2 ); a background light source module 4 located at the backside of said flat display panel 2, which is turned on when said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus displays images and is turned off when said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus captures images; a flat display controller 14, which is used to receive image files from a main controller 8 and display said image files on said flat display panel 2; an image capturer 6 located at the backside of said flat display panel 2, which is turned off when said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus displays images and is activated to capture image of the user when said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus captures images; and a main controller 8 used to control the image display and image capture of said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus, which transmits pre-stored image files to said flat display controller 14 and controls said background light source module 4 to open when said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus displays images and turns on said background light source module 4 and activates said image capturer 6 when said two-in-one image display/image capture apparatus captures images.

Method and apparatus for creating medical teaching files from image archives

Abstract: A method for retrieving medical images from at least one image archive and creating at least one teaching file; the method including the steps of retrieving at least one medical image from the image archive; storing the at least one medical image in a database; generating a database record for the teaching file; generating the teaching file; saving the teaching file into the database; and generating at least one index of the teaching file.

Image-based rendering for 3D viewing

Abstract: An image-based rendering system and method is disclosed for displaying 3D images of a subject (e.g. an object or scene). A compressed image file having multiple corrected and calibrated images of a subject from various viewpoints from along a trajectory about the subject is generated. Prior to selected viewpoints of the object being displayed, the compressed image file is at least partially transcoded to a randomly accessible format such that individual or multiple images may be extracted for immediate display or further processing. One or more final extracted images are optionally used in interpolation, morphing, or stitching algorithms before display to a viewer.

Face recognition in a digital imaging system accessing a database of people

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for building up a database of known faces, the database of known faces allows the names of the people captured in an image to be added to the meta-data of the image file. The digital imaging device will ask the user to identify unknown people captured in an image.

System and apparatus for remotely printing certified documents

Abstract: A communication system for remotely and securely printing certified checks via the Internet includes a customer communication device operative to initiate communication with a web server which is in communication with a system bank capable of creating an image file of the certified check which is securely encrypted and transmitted back to the customer via the Internet.

Digital data monitoring and logging in an itv system

Abstract: An ITV system that monitors and stores data (Fig. 1) related to digital video broadcasts. Such data may include digital sound files, image files, subscription data, software programs, television program information, ITV advertising content, and the like. The monitoring system (113) stores information about a pre-determined set of data that is being monitored in a digital video stream, in one or more log files. The log files may then be used to generate a plurality of user defined reports. The reports may be used by broadcasters, cable operators, and content providers, and the like to establish general auditing and billing services.

Internet photo system using digital photo kiosk and management system thereof

Abstract: PURPOSE: An Internet photo system using a digital photo kiosk and a method for managing the same are provided to utilize a stored video image again a necessary case by storing a video photographed in a digital photo kiosk in a web server as an image file CONSTITUTION: If a user who wishes to use an Internet photo system connects to a web server using a client connected to the Internet and inputs a member ID and a password(S302), the web server checks whether the user is a member or not based on the inputted ID and password(S304,S306) If the user is a member, a video image to be edited is searched(S308) The member who searched a corresponding video image edits the video image into one's wanted format(S310) If the member selects a photo mix for performing a reduction/enlargement of a video image and performing a synthesis of the video image and a background screen, the member selects an available video from a background screen DB and performs a synthesis of the video and the video image(S312,S314) The member judges whether the video image is output by a printer connected to a client or a service to the web server is requested(S324) In the case that video image is output by the printer, the edited video image is printed and output(S326)

Device and program for processing stereoscopic image data, and recording medium

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a means for facilitating correction and editing of a stereo image by correcting the inclinations and positional deviations of both left and right eye images from the both left and right eye images picked up by stereo photography and simultaneously editing both left and right eye images. SOLUTION: This means has: a read means for reading stereoscopic image data composed of photographed left and right eye image data; a correcting means for correcting the inclinations and positional deviations of both left and right eye images formed from the stereoscopic image data read by the read means; a stereoscopic display range trimming means for trimming the range of both left and right eye images for displaying a stereoscopic image by using a stereoscopically displaying means; and an image format converting means for converting the left and right images which are corrected by the correcting means and trimmed by the stereoscopic display range trimming means into an image format that can be displayed on a prescribed stereoscopically displaying means and outputting the left and right images as stereoscopic image data. COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Image generation apparatus, image file generation method, image verification apparatus and image verification method

Abstract: An image generation apparatus includes an image file generating unit operable in one of first, second and third modes, wherein (a) if the first mode is selected, the image file generating unit generates a first image file including image data and first verirfication data used to verify whether the image data is falsified or not, (b) if the second mode is selected, the image file generating unit generates a second image file including the image data, additional information of the image data and second verification data used to verify whether the additional information is falsified or not, and (c) if the third mode is selected, the image file generating unit generates a third image file including the image data, the additional information, the first verification data and the second verification data. A selector is adapted to select one of the first, second and third modes, and a verification data generating unit is adapted to generate the first verification data using secret information and the image data and to generate the second verification data using the secret information and the additional information, and the additional information includes information relating to the image data.