Studio Structure Patents (Class 396/1)
  • Patent number: 11778133
    Abstract: A portable photo studio system includes a portable photo studio and an electronic device such as a camera-enabled smartphone. A computer system is provided that interacts with the electronic device. The computer system requests an image capture system. In response, the electronic device captures image data and shares it with the computer system. The computer system then analyzes the image data to identify areas of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: Verily Life Sciences LLC
    Inventors: Angela Park, Jonathan Grossman
  • Patent number: 11431950
    Abstract: Articulating devices and processes for obtaining photographic images with the articulating device generally include providing the articulating device with a directional light reference for use in photographically obtaining an accurate rendition of a subject being photographed. In this manner, an incidental light reference at the subject location is provided prior to capturing an image of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2022
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jeffrey Bisti
  • Patent number: 11175568
    Abstract: The present technology relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program as well as an interchangeable lens that make it possible to easily obtain an image of a plurality of visual points. A communication section receives, when an interchangeable lens including monocular lenses that are plural lenses arranged so as not to overlap with each other in an optical axis direction is mounted on a camera main body that includes an image sensor, known reference positions that are positions on a captured image on which a predetermined imaging target imaged by the image sensor appears, the positions corresponding to predetermined rays of light on monocular images corresponding to figures formed from rays of light focused by the monocular lenses. A reference position calculation section determines unknown reference positions on the basis of the known reference positions. The present technology can be applied to a camera system for capturing an image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: SONY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Katsuhisa Ito, Kengo Hayasaka, Makibi Nakamura
  • Patent number: 11064173
    Abstract: Articulating devices and processes for obtaining photographic images with the articulating device generally include providing the articulating device with a directional light reference for use in photographically obtaining an accurate rendition of a subject being photographed. In this manner, an incidental light reference at the subject location is provided prior to capturing an image of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jeffrey Bisti
  • Patent number: 10976643
    Abstract: A mini boxlike studio comprises a background box including a cover and a box body; a supporting seat including at least one receiving cavity and a plurality of lateral plates around the receiving cavity for receiving assemblies about the studio; one of the plurality of lateral plates of the supporting seat being formed with a plurality of recesses for retaining assemblies used in a studio; wherein in storage, the supporting seat is placed within the background box; and the receiving cavity serves to receive the assemblies of the studio; and wherein in use, one surface of the background box is used as a background of the studio; and the recesses of the supporting seat are used to retain the assemblies of the studio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Inventors: Li-Chieh Cheng, Sz Ying Chen
  • Patent number: 10735636
    Abstract: A method of illuminating a subject during photography is disclosed. The method includes illuminating a background lighting system during a first image capture, illuminating a subject lighting system during a second image capture, and illuminating the background lighting system during a third image capture. The time from the first image capture to the third image capture is less than about 100 milliseconds. Also disclosed is a method for generating a composite mask of a subject, including receiving the three images, determining any movements of the subject between the first and third images, estimating an intermediate position of the subject during the second image, and generating a composite mask at the estimated intermediate position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: Shutterfly, LLC
    Inventor: Keith A. Benson
  • Patent number: 10656370
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a lens module. The lens module includes a lens barrel with an optical aperture, the lens barrel including an outer wall and an inner wall opposite to the outer wall; at least one lens located in the lens barrel; a shading piece located by an object side or/and an image side of the lens. The shading piece includes an upper surface near the optical aperture, a lower surface away from the optical aperture, an outer ring surface connecting to the upper surface and the lower surface and near the inner wall of the lens barrel, and an inner ring surface connecting to both upper surface and lower surface and opposite to the outer ring surface. The inner ring surface is an arc facing an optical axis of the lens module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: AAC Technologies Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Jia Wan
  • Patent number: 10607197
    Abstract: A mobile device camera stand includes a flat, planar base comprising a platform for receiving a document, an adjustable shaft projecting from the base at a first end of the shaft, and a flat, planar cradle having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface connected to a second end of the shaft. The top surface of the cradle receives a mobile device having a camera, and the cradle includes a cutout such that the camera is placed on the cutout such that the cutout does not obstruct the camera, thereby enabling the camera to image the document.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: CAPITAL ONE SERVICES, LLC
    Inventors: John Shi, Corey Lee, Xiaoxue Sherman He, Sudhir Patni, Blake Castle
  • Patent number: 10310361
    Abstract: A personal imaging kiosk includes a portable, free-standing, modular booth including at least one camera configured to capture images of a user seated at the modular booth, and a controller in communication with the at least one camera. Such a controller includes a graphic user interface, and computer software instructions in communication with the graphic user interface and being configured to automatically superimpose a personalized collage of the captured images based on a demonstrative facial reply of the user to media content observed by the user at the modular booth. A facial recognition device is in communication with the controller for capturing the demonstrative facial reply of the user to media content observed by the user at the portable, free-standing, modular booth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Inventor: Amo Mangal Featherstone
  • Patent number: 10310359
    Abstract: A lighting box for photography comprising paneling held in place via a frame that can by quickly assembled and broken down from a small, lightweight carrying case. The lighting box is configured to generate studio-type lighting in a portable configuration via use of natural sunlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Inventor: Michael Desmond
  • Patent number: 10261394
    Abstract: A mobile photography studio for photographing objects. The studio has a main trailer body having an internal volume defined by a roof, a floor, a front wall, a rear wall, and two side walls. A control computer controls an expansion of the sidewalls of the trailer, and optionally the roof, to expand the internal volume of the trailer. A turntable, which is disposed on the trailer floor supports and rotates the object based on commands from the control computer. At least one camera takes photographs of the object on the turntable based on commands from a camera control computer. A plurality of lights illuminate the object on the turntable based on commands from the control computer. The camera control computer controls the camera(s), and stores and processes the photographs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Inventors: George Zilban, Marat Binder
  • Patent number: 10198720
    Abstract: A mobile device camera stand includes a flat, planar base comprising a platform for receiving a document, an adjustable shaft projecting from the base at a first end of the shaft, and a flat, planar cradle having a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface connected to a second end of the shaft. The top surface of the cradle receives a mobile device having a camera, and the cradle includes a cutout such that the camera is placed on the cutout such that the cutout does not obstruct the camera, thereby enabling the camera to image the document.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: CAPITAL ONE SERVICES, LLC
    Inventors: John Shi, Corey Lee, Xiaoxue Sherman He, Sudhir Patni, Blake Castle
  • Patent number: 10155240
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a freestanding landscape waterfall assembly which reduces the weight of the waterfall as compared to conventional cast block waterfalls. In one embodiment, a freestanding landscape waterfall includes a face plate having an elongated aperture, a manifold having an outlet configured to direct water through the aperture, and an engagement feature configured to suspend the face plate such that the elongated aperture is in a horizontal orientation. In another embodiment, a freestanding landscape waterfall assembly includes a freestanding landscape waterfall, an overhead support system configured to suspend the freestanding landscape waterfall, and a catch basin positionable below the freestanding landscape waterfall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Inventor: Richard Sheridan
  • Patent number: 10136787
    Abstract: An image processing method, applied to an image processing apparatus comprising a light source and an image sensor. The image sensing method comprises: acquiring a first image via the image sensor if the light source operates in a first mode; acquiring a second image via the image sensor if the light source operates in a second mode; acquiring a third image via the image sensor if the light source operates in the first mode; generating a combined image based on the first image and the third image; and acquiring a target image after background noise removing based on the second image and the combined image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: PixArt Imaging Inc.
    Inventor: Guo-Zhen Wang
  • Patent number: 9438817
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of a studio arrangement and a method of capturing images and/or video. One embodiment of the disclosure includes a key light source aimed at a subject, and an image capture position that includes an image capture device aimed at the subject. The subject is placed on an elevated platform. The background behind the elevated platform is a reflective material. The studio arrangement achieves a desired effect of a white background where a rear edge of the elevated platform is imperceptible to the image capture device positioned at the image capture position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Baker, Olivier S. Renck
  • Patent number: 9367221
    Abstract: A system and method for sequencing rotatable images are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, an image database contains an at least one image collection comprising a plurality of view sets. The view sets each comprise a parallel sequence of images that depicts the same sequentially formatted subject matter as the other view sets in the image collection, but from a unique common perspective point. A unique view index is assigned to each view set in the at least one image collection, while a unique frame index is assigned to each image within each view set. Using these view and frame indices, the content module allows the user to dynamically and selectively choose the common perspective point at which to view the sequentially formatted subject matter at any step in the sequence of images, thereby providing a 360 degree, selectively rotatable view of the subject matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Ken Lai
  • Patent number: 8837926
    Abstract: Reflective Photography produces prints that make the objects photographed completely unrecognizable. A thin sheet of undulating polyester film is photographed. The objects placed in front and indirectly photographed produce an impressionistic print.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: John Joseph Deering
  • Publication number: 20140086567
    Abstract: An imaging apparatus for imaging an object has an enclosure chassis that defines an enclosed imaging volume and that provides an imaging aperture to a camera apparatus that mounts against the chassis and that further provides at least a first lateral access opening for access to the object. A light-obstructing gasket is coupled to the enclosure chassis and has at least a first foldable lateral access leaf that folds to a first position against the first lateral access opening to block ambient light through the first lateral access opening and that folds away from the first lateral access opening to a second position to allow access to the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventor: Gilbert D. Feke
  • Publication number: 20130266301
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to an air inflatable enclosure comprising of non-supported sheets of triple layer polyethylene, having a thickness between 5-10 mils, and heat welded edges being anchored to the base material (such as earth and the like) for stability. The structure has no poles, metal or fiberglass frame, inflatable ribbing or tubes. With a high tensile strength polyethylene shell, with a thickness between 5-10 mils, provided a low cost, highly stable, lighter, more portable, and more affordable air inflatable enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: Brian Hedenberg
  • Patent number: 8526802
    Abstract: An image capture system that is capable of capturing images of both small and large target objects includes a collapsible frame and at least one image capture device. The frame is free-standing and adapted to support the image capture device over a generally flat surface, on which a target object can also be supported. The image capture device can be activated to capture an image of the target object for subsequent viewing, storage, retrieval, processing, etc. The collapsible frame is constructed of a plurality of structural components adjustably connected together in a unique configuration that enables the entire frame to be transformed between a stored configuration when not in use, and a deployed configuration during use. The stored configuration is substantially more compact than the deployed configuration, which allows the frame to be easily transported between different locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Alex Starns
  • Patent number: 8457480
    Abstract: A photography station operates to capture digital images of a subject with at least one digital camera. The photography station includes foreground lighting and background lighting. The foreground lighting is configured to illuminate the subject, while the background lighting is configured to illuminate a background. The photography station includes a computing device having a setup module operable to perform tests to check a configuration of the photography station, and a photography module operable to capture digital images of the subject with the digital camera. In some embodiments, the tests performed by the setup module include a plurality of initial checking operations and a plurality of background processing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Lifetouch Inc.
    Inventors: Michael John Surma, Richard Lee Swanson, Earl John Adolphi, Brent Peterson
  • Patent number: 8408722
    Abstract: The display stage includes a top and bottom compartments. The top compartment is defined by a translucent horizontal wall having a front end, and top and bottom surfaces extending rearwardly from the front end to a translucent backwall having front and rear surfaces. The bottom compartment is defined by an angular wall extending downwardly from the horizontal-wall front end and has a reflective surface facing the bottom surface of the horizontal wall. A light source behind the compartments provides illumination of an article disposed on the horizontal wall, by directing light at both at the rear surface of the backwall and the reflective surface of the angular wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Berington Van Campen
  • Patent number: 8244117
    Abstract: A photo motion system utilizes a camera mounted photo motion machine in conjunction with a rotating turntable. The photo motion machine uses a vertically moveable carriage which supports a tilt table platform on which a digital camera is mounted. The carriage itself is mounted on columns which extend upward from a moveable, wheeled base member. Once the object to be photographed is properly positioned on the turntable, a computer software program is initiated which simultaneously coordinates the rotation of the turntable, the tilting movement of the camera, the vertical up and down movement of the carriage, the fore and aft movement of the base member, and the photographic image taking timing of the camera to take a series of images at predetermined positions during the movement of the camera on a specific arcuate route of travel around and over the object. The images are ultimately downloaded from the camera and arranged in sequential order to create an animated video.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Jack D. Neith
  • Patent number: 8233785
    Abstract: A photography station operates to capture digital images of a subject with at least one digital camera. The photography station includes foreground lighting and background lighting. The foreground lighting is configured to illuminate the subject, while the background lighting is configured to illuminate a background. The photography station includes a computing device having a setup module operable to perform tests to check a configuration of the photography station, and a photography module operable to capture digital images of the subject with the digital camera. In some embodiments, the tests performed by the setup module include a plurality of initial checking operations and a plurality of background processing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Lifetouch Inc.
    Inventors: Michael John Surma, Richard Lee Swanson, Earl John Adolphi, Brent Peterson
  • Publication number: 20120183284
    Abstract: A photo motion system utilizes a camera mounted photo motion machine in conjunction with a rotating turntable. The photo motion machine uses a vertically moveable carriage which supports a tilt table platform on which a digital camera is mounted. The carriage itself is mounted on columns which extend upward from a moveable, wheeled base member. Once the object to be photographed is properly positioned on the turntable, a computer software program is initiated which simultaneously coordinates the rotation of the turntable, the tilting movement of the camera, the vertical up and down movement of the carriage, the fore and aft movement of the base member, and the photographic image taking timing of the camera to take a series of images at predetermined positions during the movement of the camera on a specific arcuate route of travel around and over the object. The images are ultimately downloaded from the camera and arranged in sequential order to create an animated video.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Jack D. Neith
  • Patent number: 8139262
    Abstract: A terminal 102 creates setting data 400 and inputs setting data 400 into an image output apparatus 101. The image output apparatus 101 sets the initial settings, operation settings, equipment settings, etc. based on the setting data, holds the setting data, and performs various processes based on the set settings and the held setting data. In addition, the image output apparatus 101 performs a media identification process, a media reader switching process, and the like using a media detection means 117, a media reader switching means 118, and the like, and allows only the use of the insertion opening of a predetermined media reader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuhiro Hamashima, Jun Yoshida, Naoji Shibasaki, Yasuko Deushi, Nobuho Mori
  • Publication number: 20120051726
    Abstract: Methods for emulating an example photograph with an imaging system include selecting an example photograph from a database of image profiles each including information related to a photographic setup, including one or more settings for equipment therein, for taking the example photograph, determining, from information in the corresponding image profile, a value for a parameter of a device of the imaging system, and transmitting, to the device, a command signal to set the parameter of the device to the determined value. Search queries of the database may be based on equipment of, or available for use with, the imaging system, to return a set of example photographs achievable with the capabilities of the equipment. A commander device includes a command module to retrieve information from such a database and determine therefrom suitable values for imaging system equipment, and a transmission module to transmit corresponding command signals to imaging system equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: KEVIN J. KING
  • Patent number: 7978883
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (4) for positioning the face of a user relative to an image-capture apparatus (1), the positioning device comprising a picture-taking device (7) arranged to supply horizontally-reversed images, a display screen (5) for displaying the reversed images and connected to the picture-taking device, and means for superposing on the images displayed on the screen at least one positioning reference mark (6) for the user, the positioning reference mark and the displayed images lying substantially in the same plane. The invention also provides a corresponding method and image-capture apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Morpho
    Inventors: Alain Rouh, Gilles Monteilliet, Martin Cottard, Jean-Christophe Fondeur
  • Patent number: 7953316
    Abstract: The invention as presently conceived discloses an apparatus that provides the dual function of protecting the contents of a camera bag as well as providing an elevated platform, specifically for a photographer. The apparatus resembles a conventional step-stool with a single step; however, it has two adjustable straps capable of securing a large camera bag containing multiple cameras and accessories to a bottom surface of the stool. The stool's rigid structure and design protects the bag and its contents from damage. The top of the stool surface is covered with a semi-cushioning, non-stick surface to prevent slippage. When functioning as only a stool, it allows a photographer to have additional height when shooting photographs, or serve as a small chair to sit upon when waiting for a photographic opportunity, or as a small work table to place camera parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Bryan Mamaclay
  • Patent number: 7680401
    Abstract: A portable photography studio includes a carrier for transporting the components of the photography studio. The carrier is made up of a number of panels, several of which are detachable from the other panels. The main components of the photography studio include a pair of reflectors and three light diffusing screens, each of which has an edge attached to one of the panels of the carrier. When in use, the carrier panels may be detached and moved away from one another, allowing for the reflectors and screens to be pivoted about their attached edges and assembled in their proper positions for photographing objects. A background may also be attached to one of the panels and contained within the carrier. When the photographing is completed, the background, screens and reflectors may be pivoted back to their original positions and the carrier panels reassembled to form an enclosure holding all of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Alan Adelstein
  • Patent number: 7668446
    Abstract: The present invention enables a user to photograph and edit a photograph suiting one's taste slowly and while having fun. The automatic photo studio of this invention has a counter for a person to receive a user, a plurality of satellites having a function of receiving operations of a user and a function of showing various displays to the user, and a plurality of studios for photographing a subject. The automatic photo studio further includes a counter system provided in the vicinity of the counter for performing visitor processing and checkout processing to the user, a printer system provided in the vicinity of the counter for printing images based on subject images photographed in the studio, a satellite system provided to the satellite for enabling the user to edit the subject images photographed in the studio, and a studio system provided to the studio for controlling the photo shooting conditions and photo shoot timing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Sega
    Inventors: Shingo Dote, Yuka Nakahara, Shigeru Kanou, Manabu Ohmizu, Keiko Morimoto, Takeshi Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7659938
    Abstract: Nonlinear movement and tilt angle control structure of an image capture device inside a light box includes a nonlinear motion set, a rotation set, a cartridge and a compartment. The nonlinear motion set uses dual guiding rails or a single guiding rail to drive the image capture device from top and side directions. The rotation set rotates the image capture device. The cartridge carries the rotation set and is driven by the nonlinear motion set to perform the nonlinear motion. And, the compartment is configured inside the rotation set to ride and fasten the image capture device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Peng-Cheng Lai
  • Publication number: 20090136221
    Abstract: When a photographer takes a picture of a photographed person (object) who holds his or her own terminal device, the photographer generates photographing information including his or her personal information, photographing conditions, or the like, by a photographic information generating unit (11). A photographic information transmitting unit (13) starts communication for transmission of the generated photographing information. When the communication starts, the photographic information transmitting unit (13) transmits a part or all of the photographer's information to the photographed person's terminal device (2). When a photographing information receiving unit (21) of the photographed person's terminal device (2) receives the photographing information, the information is provided to the photographed person who can confirm that he himself or she herself is about to be photographed or how he or she is going to be photographed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Nobutatsu Nakamura
  • Patent number: 7373210
    Abstract: An effects and recording system is provided which is capable of recording at least one of a received audio signal and a processed audio signal generated by the application of musical effects to the received audio signal. The audio signal may be captured from any device capable of producing an audio signal. The effects and recording system may provide various recording capabilities including auto track selection and arming, automatic signal routing, delayed recording initialization, automatic level setting and panning settings, editing capabilities, and the merging of recorded tracks. Additionally, the effects and recording system may provide various monitoring capabilities, including automatic level, panning, and/or effects or other filtering of signals recorded or monitored via the system, as well as an enhanced mix-down feature, and music mix-down type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Harman International Industries, Incorporated
    Inventors: James D. Pennock, Peter Chaikin, Josh Kapp, John Hanson
  • Publication number: 20070237502
    Abstract: A method for providing a portal for an individual to access a web site for establishing personal relationships. The method includes the step of providing a portal booth to photograph the individual while the individual is in said booth to produce a photographic record of the individual, correlate selected demographic data about the individual with said photographic record, and transmit the photographic record and demographic data to the web site. The method also includes the step of correlating the photographic record and demographic data with an account for the individual at the web site such that other individuals can access the web site and the account to view at least said photographic record of said individual.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: October 11, 2007
    Inventors: Lawrence G. Ryckman, Paul D. Fisher
  • Patent number: 6829432
    Abstract: In this invention, a camera position display portion for displaying the position of a camera at which a to-be-photographed person looks at the time of photographing by the camera, a confirming process display portion for displaying “wait for photographing” to the to-be-photographed person, an end display portion for displaying “end of photographing” to the to-be-photographed person, and an exit display portion for displaying “traveling direction after the end of photographing” to the to-be-photographed person are provided and display of guidance as to the photographing state (the position at which the to-be-photographed person looks, waiting for photographing, end of photographing, traveling direction after the end of photographing) is made for the to-be-photographed person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Yoshinori Misumi, Mikio Suga
  • Publication number: 20040184795
    Abstract: An image pickup apparatus which is capable of optimizing the responsiveness of linear changes in focus to operations of a ring member without sacrificing the operability of the ring member, while using a small-sized, low-cost ring member for manual operations. The rotating operation state of a focus ring 600 is detected by ring rotation sensors 603, 604. A camera microcomputer 116 causes a focus lens 105 to be moved and stopped in an optical axis direction thereof based on results of the detection by the ring rotation sensors 603, 604. The camera microcomputer 116 controls the responsiveness of linear changes in focus to the rotating operation state of the ring member detected by the ring rotation sensors 603, 604 in accordance with at least the depth of focus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Hiroto Okawara
  • Patent number: 6775475
    Abstract: A camera supporting chassis has attached clamp wheel assemblies. The clamp wheel assemblies secure opposing supports, and a camera is attached to the chassis. The chassis carries a brake capable of securing the chassis in place. The clamp wheel assemblies not only secure the chassis to the supports but also permit rollered movement of the chassis along the supports, allowing panning camera shots with the camera attached to the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Ned W. Traver
  • Publication number: 20030206735
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for photographing lustrous objects, including even spectacle frames with highly reflective surfaces such as metal frames, that enables the objects to be photographed more naturally and aesthetically without any reflection on the surface of the camera or lens. The present invention also provides a method for photographing spectacle frames and a method for creating an electronic spectacle frame catalogue using this method. The method is one in which the camera 2 photographs the lustrous object 1. Optical shield members 3, 4, and 5 are placed between the camera body 21 and the lens 22 of the camera 2, and the lustrous object 1 so that a reflection of said camera 2 is not be formed on the photographed image of the lustrous object. In addition, an opening 41, having a size and shape suitable for photographing an image of the lustrous object 1, is provided in the shield member 4 of the lens 22.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Saigo, Noriaki Tamura
  • Patent number: 6643455
    Abstract: An object imaging system, particularly for slaughtered animal carcases or meat pieces, includes an imaging station to which the object (10) is introduced, a camera (20) at the imaging station, and lighting means (30). The imaging station includes a backing member (15) for providing a background for the object (10), and an image capture enclosure (21) which has an open side (22) facing towards the backing member (15), the inside surfaces of the enclosure (21) being non-reflective. The camera (20) is mounted in the enclosure (21) and faces towards the open side (22) and towards the backing member (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: RMS Research Management Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Kurt David Malmstrom
  • Patent number: 6636694
    Abstract: In this invention, a camera position display portion for displaying the position of a camera at which a to-be-photographed person looks at the time of photographing by the camera, a confirming process display portion for displaying “wait for photographing” to the to-be-photographed person, an end display portion for displaying “end of photographing” to the to-be-photographed person, and an exit display portion for displaying “traveling direction after the end of photographing” to the to-be-photographed person are provided and display of guidance as to the photographing state (the position at which the to-be-photographed person looks, waiting for photographing, end of photographing, traveling direction after the end of photographing) is made for the to-be-photographed person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Yoshinori Misumi, Mikio Suga
  • Patent number: 6633650
    Abstract: The image processing apparatus executes predetermined image processing on image data obtained by photoelectrically reading an image photographed on a photographic film through a photographic lens of a camera, and thus obtains the image data for output. The apparatus comprises a unit for obtaining a characteristic of the photographic lens, a unit for developing the characteristic of the photographic lens into a dipping quantity corresponding to a position of the image, and a unit for compensating a marginal light quantity of the image by use of the dipping quantity. The apparatus is capable of compensating a decrease in light quantity of an area peripheral to the image even when the image is photographed through a low-performance lens, and obtaining a high quality image with stability without any darkened peripheral area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoki Takaoka
  • Patent number: 6606453
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for photographing lustrous objects, including even spectacle frames with highly reflective surfaces such as metal frames, that enables the objects to be photographed more naturally and aesthetically without any reflection on the surface of the camera or lens. The present invention also provides a method for photographing spectacle frames and a method for creating an electronic spectacle frame catalogue using this method. The method is one in which the camera 2 photographs the lustrous object 1. Optical shield members 3, 4, and 5 are placed between the camera body 21 and the lens 22 of the camera 2, and the lustrous object 1 so that a reflection of said camera 2 is not be formed on the photographed image of the lustrous object. In addition, an opening 41, having a size and shape suitable for photographing an image of the lustrous object 1, is provided in the shield member 4 of the lens 22.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Saigo, Noriaki Tamura
  • Publication number: 20030026605
    Abstract: In this invention, a camera position display portion for displaying the position of a camera at which a to-be-photographed person looks at the time of photographing by the camera, a confirming process display portion for displaying “wait for photographing” to the to-be-photographed person, an end display portion for displaying “end of photographing” to the to-be-photographed person, and an exit display portion for displaying “traveling direction after the end of photographing” to the to-be-photographed person are provided and display of guidance as to the photographing state (the position at which the to-be-photographed person looks, waiting for photographing, end of photographing, traveling direction after the end of photographing) is made for the to-be-photographed person.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Yoshinori Misumi, Mikio Suga
  • Publication number: 20020127008
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for photographing lustrous objects, including even spectacle frames with highly reflective surfaces such as metal frames, that enables the objects to be photographed more naturally and aesthetically without any reflection on the surface of the camera or lens. The present invention also provides a method for photographing spectacle frames and a method for creating an electronic spectacle frame catalogue using this method. The method is one in which the camera 2 photographs the lustrous object 1. Optical shield members 3, 4, and 5 are placed between the camera body 21 and the lens 22 of the camera 2, and the lustrous object 1 so that a reflection of said camera 2 is not be formed on the photographed image of the lustrous object. In addition, an opening 41, having a size and shape suitable for photographing an image of the lustrous object 1, is provided in the shield member 4 of the lens 22.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Saigo, Noriaki Tamura
  • Patent number: 6411778
    Abstract: A portable photographic studio that is relatively lightweight, easily assembled and disassembled, easily carried and is easily transported in even a compact automobile is provided by the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Lifetouch National School Studios, Inc.
    Inventor: Trygve D. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20020030704
    Abstract: A method of measuring a down-web coordinate is provided. A time-interval, elapsed since a detection of a position-indicating mark applied on a web, is related to a measured velocity. Upon detection of a position-indicating mark, the measured down-web coordinate is synchronised with the indicated down-web coordinate of said mark. The down-web coordinate can be measured in an ascending or a descending mode, depending on a detected roll-orientation information originated from said mark on said web. A selected lane pattern used for registration of the cross web position can be reversed automatically, depending on said roll-orientation information, originated from said mark on said web. A measured down-web starting position of a quality problem area on the web is marked by an ISO-hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: Bruno Alexander Korngold, Antonius Jozef van Hooff, Robert Hendrik Johan Sandifort, Josephus Nicolaas Petrus Verhoeven
  • Patent number: 6300999
    Abstract: An optical apparatus is provided with storage means for storing captured images taken beforehand within a range of directional variability of an optical imaging system. The direction of the optical imaging system is detected and an image obtained in the detected direction is read from the storage means and displayed in place of an image actually being taken by the optical imaging system. When the scene desired to be viewed is not clearly visible or hard to find owing to cloudiness or the like, the user can view a corresponding simulated scene and, based on the simulated scene, can quickly find and view the actual scene. The real or simulated scene can be displayed for a predetermined period of time in response to insertion of a coin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Kowa Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Akio Komatsu, Yutaka Mizukusa
  • Patent number: 6168325
    Abstract: In an electronic picture print system that is activated in response to the deposit of money and provides a printing service in accordance with the control of a user, a printer starts feeding paper upon detection of the deposit of money. While the user is selecting a background frame and taking a picture, the preparations for printing are completed. Therefore, the printing is started immediately in response to a printing instruction, and this reduces the time required for one play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsushi Nagata
  • Patent number: 6088527
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for producing a photographic image sequence showing an apparent movement of a camera in an x-axis direction, with respect to a filmed object, without actual movement of the camera along the x-axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Zbig Vision Gesellschaft fur neue Bildgestaltung mbH
    Inventor: Zbigniew Rybczynski