Abstract: A computer implemented method to present digital images may include storing a digital image in a database and applying a digital image processing technique to the digital image to identify a region of interest of the digital image. The method may also include storing region data that identifies the region of interest of the digital image in the database and receiving a request for information associated with the digital image from a digital device. In response to the request, the method may include providing the digital image and the region data for transmission to the digital device, the digital device configured to adjust a cropping view of the digital image based on the region data to display the region of interest of the digital image.

Abstract: A method for processing video data is performed by a data processing unit (DPU). The method includes obtaining, by the DPU of an edge device, video data; processing the video data to obtain video data chunks and indexing attributes; generating retention and staging metadata based on the video data chunks and the video processing engine outcomes, and the retention and staging metadata specifies retention and staging information associated with the video data chunks; associating the retention and staging metadata with the video data chunks; and storing the retention and staging metadata and the video data chunks in appropriate storages based on the retention and staging metadata.

Abstract: A media capture device (MCD) that provides a multi-sensor, free flight camera platform with advanced learning technology to replicate the desires and skills of the purchaser/owner is provided. Advanced algorithms may uniquely enable many functions for autonomous and revolutionary photography. The device may learn about the user, the environment, and/or how to optimize a photographic experience so that compelling events may be captured and composed into efficient and emotional sharing. The device may capture better photos and videos as perceived by one's social circle of friends, and/or may greatly simplify the process of using a camera to the ultimate convenience of full autonomous operation.

Abstract: There is disclosed a system, method, and computing device for recording a cinematic production. The system may include a video camera, a video recorder that records image signals generated by the video camera on a video recording medium, and a metadata writer. The metadata writer may store metadata relating to operating parameters of the video camera on a metadata storage medium.

Abstract: A method for adjusting predetermined ISO-dependent image processing parameters for images captured by a digital camera includes measuring the exposure deviation in exposure units from an optimal exposure as determined by the camera during an image capture process, deriving an estimated camera sensitivity from the exposure deviation, and adjusting the ISO-dependent image processing parameters for images captured by the camera as a function of the derived estimated camera sensitivity.

Abstract: A remote control system including a relay device capable of moving around a space where an appliance to be controlled is installed, and a communication device that is operated by a user, and communicates with the relay device. The relay device is controlled by the communication device, and includes an imaging unit, a sending unit that sends a captured image to the communication device, and a sending unit that wirelessly sends an instruction signal to the appliance to be controlled. The communication device includes a storage unit that stores data on an image of the space captured in advance, data on a partial area included in the image, and data on at least one of a request for movement to a destination and a request for transmission of an instruction signal, in association with each other.

Abstract: Automatic techniques to tune images based on metadata are described. In one or more implementations, image data and metadata are received that references a geographic location. Responsive to a user input, the image data is processed using one or more tuning parameters that correspond to the geographic location to change one or more visual characteristics of the image data.

Abstract: A binaural listening system comprises first and second listening devices adapted for being located at or in left and right ears, respectively, of a user, the binaural listening system being adapted for receiving a wirelessly transmitted signal comprising a target signal and an acoustically propagated signal comprising the target signal as modified by respective first and second acoustic propagation paths from an audio source to the first and second listening devices. Spatial information is provided to an audio signal streamed to a pair of listening devices of a binaural listening system. The first and second listening devices each comprise an alignment unit for aligning the first and second streamed target audio signals with the first and second propagated electric signals in the first and second listening devices, respectively, to provide first and second aligned streamed target audio signals in the first and second listening devices, respectively.

Abstract: Aspects of the subject matter described herein relate to adaptive retention for backup data. In aspects, space may be needed on a backup storage in order to store additional backup data. In response, an indication that space is needed provided to a retention manager. The retention manager attempts to prune data on the backup storage to free up space on the backup storage. Before deleting a version on the backup storage, the retention manager determines whether deletion conditions are met. The retention manager may apply one or more retention policies in its efforts to free space. The retention manager may manage and free the space such that versions of files already stored are preserved for the longest possible time.

Abstract: A photographing device having a game function which determines win/loss of photographing devices based on information regarding image files, is provided with a first parameter obtaining unit configured to obtain a first parameter regarding a first image file which was generated by the photographing device, a second parameter obtaining unit configured to obtain a second parameter regarding a second image file which is stored in another photographing device, a score calculating unit configured to calculate scores regarding the first image file and the second image file based on the first parameter and the second parameter, respectively, a win/loss determining unit configured to determine win/loss of the photographing device and the other photographing device, and generate win/loss information, a recording unit configured to store the win/loss information, in accumulated manner, as intrinsic information which is intrinsic to the photographing device, and a notifying unit configured to output the accumulated win/

Abstract: A method and a system with which the quality of an image derived from or addressed to a chain of appliances can be modified. Formatted information related to defects of the appliances is employed. The method and system: compile directories of sources of formatted information related to the said appliances, search automatically for the formatted information related to the appliances, and modify the image automatically by image-processing software and/or image-processing components by taking into account the obtained formatted information. The formatted information can be modified as a function of variable characteristics of the image to be processed and/or the appliances. With the method and system it is possible to process images derived from appliances that have diverse origins and that have been commercialized gradually over time. Such a method and system are applicable to processing of photographic or video images and in optical instrumentation, industrial controls, robotics, metrology, etc.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus capable of performing phase difference detection while allowing light to enter an imaging device is provided. The imaging unit (1) includes: an imaging device (10) configured to perform photoelectric conversion on received light and allow light to pass therethrough; a package (31) holding the imaging device (10); and a phase difference detection unit (20) configured to perform phase difference detection on received light which has passed through the imaging device (10). The package (31) has openings (31c, 31c, . . . ). Light which has passed through the imaging device (10) passes through the openings (31c, 31c, . . . ). The light which has passed through the imaging device (10) passes through the package (31) via the openings (31c, 31c, . . . ), and enters the phase difference detection unit (20).

Abstract: An imaging apparatus which can perform phase difference detection while causing light to enter an imaging device is provided. An imaging unit (1) includes an imaging device (10) for receiving light to perform photoelectric conversion, the imaging device (10) being configured so that light passes through the imaging device (10), a phase difference detection unit (20) including a line sensor (24a) for receiving the light which has passed through the imaging device (10) to perform phase difference detection, and a condenser lens (21a), provided between the imaging device (10) and the line sensor (24a), for bending an optical path of the light which has passed through the imaging device (10) to direct the light to the line sensor (24a).

Abstract: An image processing apparatus includes a determining unit that determines whether image capturing conditions concerning super-resolution processing are satisfied for each piece of image data, and an adding unit that adds data corresponding to a result of determination made by the determining unit to each piece of the image data.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method, apparatus or software for processing photographic image data using a photographic recording medium arranged for capturing successive optical images in a series of discrete frames.

Abstract: A system and method for archiving films includes dividing a film feature into N parts. Metadata is digitally stored on each of the N parts of film. The film includes both analog and digital data representing an entire record of the film on a single media for at least one N part. For each N part, the single media may include all the color component images associated with that part.

Abstract: The invention includes a system for imparting at least one characteristic of photographic emulsion to an image. The system includes a light transmissible medium at least partially provided with photographic film emulsion, wherein the photographic film emulsion is capable of being exposed and chemically processed. Furthermore, light that is related to an image is projected through a selected portion of the photographic film emulsion. Moreover, a containment is included for providing the light transmissible medium in a position relative to the projected light, wherein the image is imparted with the at least one quality related to the photographic film emulsion.

Abstract: A method and system with which quality of an image derived from or addressed to a chain of appliances can be modified. Formatted information related to defects of the appliances is employed. The method and system: compile directories of sources of formatted information related to the appliances, search automatically for the formatted information related to the appliances, and modify the image automatically by image-processing software and/or image-processing components by taking into account the obtained formatted information. The formatted information can be modified as a function of variable characteristics of the image to be processed and/or the appliances. With the method and system it is possible to process images derived from appliances that have diverse origins and that have been commercialized gradually over time. Such a method and system are applicable to processing of photographic or video images and in optical instrumentation, industrial controls, robotics, metrology, etc.

Abstract: A method for providing a film image and an image display apparatus for providing the film image are provided. The method includes determining a scheme of an input image signal; if the input image signal is determined to be an interlaced image signal, converting the input image signal into a progressive image signal to generate a converted progressive image signal and converting a scanning rate the converted progressive image signal to generate an image signal having a selected scanning rate; if the input image signal is determined to be a progressive image signal, converting a scanning rate the input progressive image signal to generate the image signal having the selected scanning rate; and converting a color characteristic of the image signal having the selected scanning rate into an image signal having a color characteristic related to a selected type of a film. Accordingly, a general image can be viewed which has a similar effect to when a film image is projected on a screen.

Abstract: A digital camera capable of compensating a portion of a captured image with another image without putting a squeeze on storage capacity. The digital camera has a plurality of image-capturing systems capable of essentially simultaneously capturing images of a single subject at mutually-different angles of view. Information about relevant image data which are items of the other simultaneously-captured image data is imparted as relevant information to at least one item of image data among items of image data captured by the plurality of image-capturing systems. The image data imparted with the relevant information and the relevant image data captured simultaneously with the image data are stored as separate items of data in user memory which serves as storage means.

Abstract: A method for a customer leasing a configured camera system including a camera and services for using such configured camera system and paying for the lease of such configured camera system, includes the steps of providing an electronic database of information describing a plurality of differently configured camera systems which have different features and services that can be selected by the customer via a digital communications network; displaying at the customer's location remote from the electronic database various components of the camera system that can be combined into the configured camera system; the customer selecting desired components and services to provide the configured camera system and completing a lease agreement and providing a payment identifier specifying an account to be debited to pay for the configured camera system; and sending the camera to a designee of the customer and establishing a service user account that specify the selected services that the designee can use.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for triggering directional data capture based on pointing direction are described. In an embodiment, the data captured is an image and a camera is described which includes a sensor for detecting the direction in which the image sensor of the camera is pointing. When the sensed pointing direction is one in which a worthwhile image is likely to be taken, the camera is triggered to capture a new image. The determination of when to capture a new image uses a metric based on the sensed direction and one or more specified trigger conditions.

Abstract: A camera module (200) includes a lens barrel (202), at least one lens (204), a holder (206), and a base (210). The at least one lens is received in the lens barrel. The holder has a first end (212) and a second end (214). The holder further has a cavity (216) defined through the first end and the second end thereof. The first end holds the lens barrel. The second end is provided with at least two supporting protrusions (222) extending therefrom along a direction away from the first end of the holder. The base fixedly contacts with the at least two supporting protrusions. A method for assembling a camera module is also provided.

Abstract: A correction scheme derives correction parameters from an interval between image data in a negative film. In one embodiment, a scanner uses the correction parameters to correct image data scanning.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method, apparatus or software for processing photographic image data using a photographic recording medium arranged for capturing successive optical images in a series of discrete frames.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus comprises: a shooting requesting unit which receives an input indicating that shooting request to a person is made; and a shooting request mode setting unit which sets an angle of view of the image data displayed by the display unit to a predetermined range smaller than an angle of view captured by the imaging unit in response to the input to the shooting requesting unit. The display unit displays a post-view image which is an image data decoded from compressed coded image data in the recording unit within a range of the displayed angle of view set by the shooting request mode setting unit. Thus, the image actually recorded and displayed in the reproducing mode includes larger region of the post-view image. Therefore, the cutoff of heads and legs, etc. of an object at a peripheral region of the image can be compensated.

Abstract: The present invention provides a camera system, which can simplify an ordering procedure. An IC memory comprising a contactless interface is mounted on a camera, or an image recording medium, such as memory card or film. In a case where a customer has carried the camera to a photo lab, image data is read out of the memory card or is acquired by reading the developed film, by an image data acquisition component. Moreover, individual information, order information, account information, and the like, are read out of the IC memory over wireless communication by a reader and writer and are affixed to the image data, whereupon the resulting image data is stored in a database.

Abstract: A masking and unmasking method for a digital still camera directly defines at least one masking area on the image data that is executed with a masking process in a digital still camera. The image data that has been masked can be recovered. Thereby, the inconvenience caused by the need to use an additional application software in a computer to process the image data of the prior art is overcome.

Abstract: In a photographic processing method, an image unit having a plurality of printable image frames is received. The image frames include a data frame having subchannel information. An indicator of the presence of the subchannel information is detected. A bitstream of all of the image frames is generated. Responsive to the indicator, the data frame is extracted from the bitstream and subchannel information is read from the data frame. Fulfillment of image frames of the bitstream is provided in accordance with the subchannel information. If no indicator is detected, then the image frames are fulfilled in accordance with a different, default subchannel.

Abstract: A photographic film with a row of sprocket holes formed along each edge thereof includes one or more sensitometric step wedges of different light intensity values exposed adjacent one of the rows of sprocket holes on the photosensitive emulsion surface of the film. The light intensity values from one or more of the weges are sensed, and a film process may be adjusted in accordance with the sensed values.

Abstract: The image processing method and apparatus capture image data of a photographing scene in which a subject is photographed with a camera, as well as, capture camera information acquired or input in the camera when the subject is photographed, further optionally obtain related information related to the photographing scene, assume the photographing scene by at least one of the camera information and the related information or by a combination with the digital image data and at least one of these information and subject preset image processing depending on the assumed photographing scene. The image processing method and apparatus are capable of obtaining a high quality image such as a high image quality print by assuming a photographing scene and executing optimal gradation control, restoration processing and image quality improvement depending on the assumed photographing scene.

Abstract: In a photography method, a film image is scanned and digitized to provide a digital image. An identifier associated with the film image is read. The identifier points to a group of filter effects. Each filter effect has a preassigned digital modification. The modifications are not remedial for the respective filter effects. One of the filter effects is detected in the digital image. Responsive to the detecting of that filter effect, the preassigned digital modification is applied to the digital image.

Abstract: A lens-fitted photo film unit comprises a main body, a bottom lid, and a photo film. The main body has an exposure chamber with a taking lens. The exposure chamber is provided with a plane mirror disposed in such a manner as to be inclined 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the taking lens. Since the plane mirror reflects light from a subject, a photographic optical path of the light is perpendicularly bent. Subject light forms an image on the photo film disposed in parallel with the optical axis. A side print is exposed in the manufacture on the lateral edge of the photo film. Since the orientation of the photographed image is the same as that of the side print, it is possible to easily confirm the orientation of the photographed image in the development and print processes.

Abstract: A lens-fitted photo film unit is pre-loaded with photo film, and includes a viewfinder adapted for observing an object. A selector button is operable externally, for being shifted to a standard position and a telephoto position. A view region changer lever sets the viewfinder in a standard view field when the selector button is in the standard position, and sets the viewfinder in a telephoto view field when the selector button is in the telephoto position, the telephoto view field being included in the standard view field. An information exposure unit photographically records a telephoto discernment PAR code to an information exposure region in the photo film when the selector button is in the telephoto position. The telephoto discernment PAR code includes at least three dots, for designating production of a pseudo telephoto print from a region in an imaging frame in the photo film corresponding to the telephoto view field.

Abstract: A system and method for sharing digital images over a network, such as the Internet, wherein the first person desires to send images from a first computer to a second person having a second computer that includes a standard email program. The system and method include sending an email request with the images and an address of the second user from the first computer to a server. In response to receiving the email request, the images are stored on the server, and the server creates a standard email message from the email request. The method and system further include inserting at least one link to the stored images into the email message, and transmitting the email message over the network for delivery to the second user. The second user may then receive and open the email message on the second computer using the standard email program and click on the at least one link to display the images.

Abstract: The present invention is related to rendering computer animated video and/or images generally, and to efficiently intersecting rays with an object scene while shading complex object representations. The present invention, generally, includes creating a plurality of representations for the object. After creating the plurality of representations, a plurality of primary positions are established on one of the representations. Shading positions on one or more other representations included in the plurality of representations are then established by reference to the primary positions. These shading positions correspond to the plurality of primary positions and each of these representations has a coarser resolution than the representation with the primary positions. Shading values for the shading positions are the computed and applied to the plurality of primary positions.

Abstract: A display apparatus (18) capable of sequentially displaying a plurality of annotated image prints (36), each image print having encoded audio data (54) made integral to its back surface (46), thereby providing a convenient way to both display image prints and play back audio data associated with image prints. In one aspect, the display apparatus (18) also records audio data for a plurality of image prints and provides a handwritten means to electronically associate a particular image print with its respective audio recording. In other aspects, the display apparatus (18) also includes means for integrating encoded data (54) with the image prints and recording, storing and playing back data corresponding to a portfolio of image prints. There is also a method of capturing images and corresponding audio messages, integrating the audio messages with the back surfaces (46) of image prints made from the images, and displaying the image prints while playing back the corresponding audio messages.

Abstract: A method for specialized photofinishing goods and/or services produced from a one-time-use camera, including providing a label on the one-time-use camera, with at least one area containing first instructional information, that identifies particular photofinishing goods and/or services to be applied to images captured by the one-time-use camera. Subsequently, displaying a second instructional information according to the first instructional information. Finally, capturing a second instructional information onto a film residing in the one-time-use camera and resulting in a latent image, the second instructional information for use by a photofinisher for producing the specialized photofinishing goods and/or services from latent images on the film.

Abstract: A photographic film product is configured and purchased by providing an electronic database of information describing at least one photographic film product that can be configured by a purchaser via a digital communications network; displaying at the purchaser's location remote from the electronic database information describing instructions to enable the purchaser to configure the at least one photographic film product; the purchaser uploading at least one digital image from the purchaser's location remote from the electronic database; the purchaser providing a payment identifier specifying an account to be debited to pay for the configured photographic film product; configuring the photographic film product to include the uploaded digital image; and sending the configured photographic film product to a designee of the purchaser.

Abstract: An optical data recording device has a data recording aperture on the right hand side of a sprocket in apposition opposing to a topside margin of a picture frame taking area of photographic film as positioned behind an exposure opening. A light guide is disposed along a top side of the image tunnel, to produce a data recording light path toward the data recording aperture. At the flash photography, the flash light is partly conducted through a light conducting device toward the data recording light path, so as to record a bit mark on photographic film by use of the flash light. At the photography without flash, external light is taken into the data recording light path, to record a bit mark by use of the external light.

Abstract: The present invention is in the field of photography and is used to measure the sensitometric characteristics of a photographic element, such as a photographic film strip. The present invention relates more particularly to an exposure system that enables the production of a sensitometric control patch and the measurement of the sensitometric characteristics of the photographic element. The exposure system comprises a light energy source servo connected to a management module of the exposure parameters. The exposure system enables the production on the exposed film strip of the unique sensitometric control patch, so that this sensitometric control patch includes gradient of exposure areas that enables all the sensitometric characteristics of the photographic film to be obtained.

Abstract: The present invention is in the photographic field, and is used to measure sensitometric characteristics of a photographic element. The present invention relates more particularly to a method that enables the production of a sensitometric control patch with exposure gradient, placed on a photographic element, and enables the measurement of the sensitometric characteristics of the photographic element. The sensitometric control patch is produced so as to obtain on the exposed photographic film strip, a single sensitometric control comprising a gradient of exposure areas, and enables all the sensitometric characteristics of the film to be obtained. The sensitometric control patch is produced from the nominal sensitometric characteristics of the film, and the instantaneous speed of relative movement of the film in front of the light energy source. The present invention has its application in the photography field and in particular the motion picture field.

Abstract: A digital image processing system for the manufacture of copies of originals on photographic print material includes an input device for the registration of digital image data from an input medium which represent the prints to be produced, especially from a developed photographic film, as well as the accompanying data associated with the image data, a data storage for the temporary storage of the registered and possibly processed image data and the accompanying data, an output device for output of the image data onto an output medium, especially a photographic print material, and a control device, which controls and connects the input device, the data storage and the output device, and administers and controls the data flow between these devices according to the accompanying data associated with the image data.

Abstract: An image processing and manipulation system provides a user the opportunity to customize images exposed on dry process photosensitive film. That is, the system of the present invention permits a user to choose a particular look that is to be associated with exposed images on photosensitive film. The looks can be, but are not limited to, for example, accurate color reproduction, portraiture, brilliant color, black and white, etc. Therefore, with the system of the present invention, a customer is presented with the option of choosing a photographic appearance and or look that the customer desires for planned images. In the system and method of the present invention, an order based on a photographic film selected by the customer and a selected appearance characteristic is associated with the images exposed on the film. A code is assigned to at least a sample of the selected film and/or the order.

Abstract: A photographic and video image system for transforming an image on a frame of a photographic film includes a structure in the overall form of a photographic printer having an image transformation element that transforms an optical image from the film into a video signal, a frame position indicator, which can be a hole or an optical or magnetic signal, is recorded on the film along with aspect information relating to the size of the frame exposed on the film. The frame position indicator and aspect information are detected and used to control a film feeding operation and the optical image to video signal transformation operation. The user of the system can record order information on the film that is used to specify the aspect of the resultant photographic print, as well as the quantity of prints to be made. Such order information can be superimposed as a menu on a displayed video signal at the time the video signal is reviewed prior to producing a photographic print.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a photographic printer and a method of printing in which the printer is interfaced with a defect detection or scanning system that is adapted to inspect photographic paper for defects as it is consumed by the printer. In the system and method of the present invention, when a defect is detected, the printer is enabled to either skip over the defect area or to reprint the affected image. With respect to the defect, when detected, the present invention provides either for the utilization of a defect marker, such as a hole punch, which provides a physical mark on the paper in close vicinity of the defect or an electronic device capable of transmitting the precise location of the defect to the printing section. The hole or electronic signal is recognized by the printer, to enable it to either skip the defective frames or reprint the images.

Abstract: An image processing method including the steps of: acquiring scene information which is previously tagged on to image data supplied from an image data supply source together with the image data; and setting image processing conditions in accordance with the scene information using the image data, and/or setting an image sequence in a plurality of images to be recorded on an index print in accordance with the scene information; and producing the index print on which the plurality of the images are recorded in accordance with the image sequence. The method provides a digital image processing method that is particularly suitable for use with digital photoprinters and which can process image data under optimal conditions that are adapted to specific scenes in images such as the one recorded on films. As a result, the method can produce high-quality prints that reproduce optimal images for various scenes.

Abstract: A camera has a body and a film holder having an exposure frame surrounding an exposure opening. A taking lens system is mounted to the body. The taking lens system has an optical axis. The taking lens system transmits a scene image through the exposure opening. A screener is mounted to the body. The screener is movable, relative to the exposure frame, between a primary position and a plurality of different secondary positions. The screener shadows the exposure frame differently in each secondary position. The exposure frame is unshaded when the screener is in the primary position.

Abstract: The image reading system comprises an image reading device and a computer, which can be connected to the image reading device to operate it. In the image reading device, a film, in which an image is recorded, is regularly intermittently moved, so that the image is read by a line sensor. In a pre-scanning operation, the film is moved with a pitch which is coarser than that of a regular scanning operation, so that a pre-view image is read by the line sensor, and is displayed on a screen of a liquid crystal display device. A control bar, indicated on the screen along with the pre-view image, is operated by handling a track ball and a click button, so that an image quality of the pre-view image is adjusted. Namely, even in a stand-alone mode in which the image reading device is operated independently from the computer, the image quality of the pre-view image can be adjusted.

Abstract: In a photography method, a determination is made that a set of captured images includes one or more encoded captured images having a partial shading encodement. The partial shading is partial shadowing or partial filtering or a combination of the two. The encodement has a predetermined edge pattern and is disposed within a predetermined subarea of an image. An encoded captured image is digitized to provide a digital image having a plurality of pixels. A plurality of pixel templates of an edge pattern and the pixels in the subarea of the digital image are convolved to provide a plurality of template position metrics. Each pixel template has the same shape. Each pixel template is differently located in said subarea. The highest of the template position metrics and a predetermined threshold template position metric value of the edge pattern are compared.