Abstract: A control system, computer-readable storage medium and method of preventing occlusion of and minimizing shadows on the driver's face for driver monitoring. The system includes a steering wheel, a plurality of fiberscopes arranged evenly spaced around the steering wheel, and one or more video cameras arranged at remote ends of the plurality of fiberscopes. Distal ends of the fiberscopes emerge to a surface of the steering wheel through holes that are perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the steering wheel. Each of the distal ends of the fiberscopes includes a lens. The system includes a plurality of light sources and an electronic control unit connected to the one or more video cameras and the light sources.

Abstract: One or more first sensors may be configured to sense seismic signals and one or more second sensors may be configured to sense electromagnetic crosstalk signals. The second sensors are not responsive to the seismic signals. The data from the first and second sensors may be recorded as first data and second data, respectively. The first data may be modified based on the second data to remove the electromagnetic crosstalk noise form the seismic data.

Abstract: A system for selectively activating infrared lights in a vehicle cabin includes a controller comprising a processor and a non-transitory computer readable memory, two or more infrared illumination sources positioned within the vehicle cabin, the two or more infrared illumination sources communicatively coupled to the controller, an imaging device communicatively coupled to the controller and a machine-readable instruction set stored in the non-transitory computer readable memory of the controller. The machine-readable instruction set causes the system to perform at least the following when executed by the processor: receive image data from the imaging device, determine a location of an occupant in the vehicle cabin based on the image data, and activate a first infrared illumination source of the two or more infrared illumination sources that corresponds to the location of the occupant in the vehicle cabin.

Abstract: A rapid and simple LED display light box includes a base, a support rod and a top supporting element. One end of the support rod can be fixed to the base while the other end thereof is connected to the top supporting element. An LED light bar can be arranged on the base and/or the top supporting element. The LED light bar can be lightened by a storage battery system under the places without power facilities. The light source with the LED light bar supports multiple mounting modes and can meet requirements of various brightness. The structure is firm, assembly is rapid, and collection is simple.

Abstract: A method for collaborating with other mobile devices (OMDs) in flash which is applied in a mobile device pre-captures an image of a subject taken by the mobile device, and analyzes the pre-captured image for optimal lighting. If lighting is not optimal, the mobile device calculates additional flash positions and identifies nearby OMDs in close proximity to the flash positions. User of the mobile device can make a selection of one or more nearby OMDs through a user interface, and the mobile device can request each OMD to move to a flash position and generate a synchronized flash when the mobile device is capturing the image. The image so taken and images from different camera angles can then be shared.

Abstract: A method for generating diffuse reflection light and a diffuse reflection lamp are provided. The diffuse reflection lamp comprises a reflective plate (10), a connector (20) and a dragging device (40). The reflective plate (10) is removably fixed on the lamp by the connector (20) to reflect the light from the lamp. One end of the dragging device (40) is connected with the reflective plate (10), and the other end is connected with the connector (20); or the dragging device (40) hoops around the outer edge of the reflective plate (10). Therefore, the reflective plate (10) is elastically bended toward and formed into a curved arc surface to collect the diffuse reflection light.

Abstract: A softbox for being mounted on a light exit of a light source includes support structure extending outwardly and forwardly from the light exit; plural gradually reflective side walls which can be mounted on the support structure; and one or more diffusors arranged between the side walls, wherein the one or more diffusors are, in use, centrally arranged in front of the light exit and inclined in such a manner that a lateral light intensity distribution is more homogeneous at an exit of the softbox, than at an entry of the softbox.

Abstract: An assemble-free fast deployable light modifier with a back side light source mount is an umbrella shaped light modifier providing an extremely soft diffusive light; with attached light diffusers, it uniquely easily and quickly opens from the vertex of its hemisphere to the inside of it, and folds in hands promptly; having optical fibers increases a number of light source sensor triggering. Any assembling or disassembling operations are not required. With the features mentioned above it is the fastest deployable light modifier.

Abstract: A softbox for being mounted on a light exit of a light source includes support structure extending outwardly and forwardly from the light exit; plural gradually reflective side walls which can be mounted on the support structure; and one or more diffusors arranged between the side walls, wherein the one or more diffusors are, in use, centrally arranged in front of the light exit and inclined in such a manner that a lateral light intensity distribution is more homogeneous at an exit of the softbox, than at an entry of the softbox.

Abstract: A photographic device including a formable portion comprising a reflective surface, wherein said formable portion is for retainably forming the reflective surface into a plurality of shapes, and wherein the reflective surface is for reflecting light from a photographic light source; and a base portion coupled to the formable portion, wherein the base portion is configured for coupling the photographic device to an object.

Abstract: A photographic system and integrated methods thereof that makes use of four frames and light heads on robotic brackets, which can be positioned automatically using a mechanical gantry device. The lights can be positioned, rotated and adjusted automatically in response to a user input selection based on a desired photographic result selected at a user interface.

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.

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.

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 front light source aimed at a background, an image capture position located between the background and the front light source, an elevated platform positioned between the image capture position and the background, and at least one rear light source positioned between the elevated platform and the background. A subject can be photographed and/or filmed on the elevated platform to achieve a desired effect of a substantially seamless background where a rear edge of the elevated platform is imperceptible to an image capture device positioned at the image capture position.

Abstract: A control system for controlling power states of a controlled device, such as a lighting device, a special effects device and an in-scene device, in a photographic image-acquisition setting. The control system is configured to detect one or more camera body signals generated as a function of actuation of one or more camera body controls by a user. The control system generates a first power state change signal in response to the detected camera body signal(s) and transmits the power state change signal to the remote device so as to cause the remote device to operate at a first power state. The control system also implements a preset delay and causes the remote device to change from the first power state to a second power state in response to expiration of the preset delay.

Abstract: A control system for communicating with a controlled device, such as a lighting device, a special effects device and an in-scene device, in a photographic image-acquisition setting using a camera body. The control system is configured to detect a preset pattern of actuation of one or more camera body controls by a user. In response to detecting of the preset pattern, the control system either communicates a power state change signal to the controlled device or causes the camera body to enter into a controlled device control mode that changes the functionality of one or more camera body controls from a camera body functionality to a controlled device control functionality, or both. Such a system can allow a photographer to control a controlled device while remaining at the camera body.

Abstract: A photographic system and integrated methods thereof that makes use of four frames and light heads on robotic brackets, which can be positioned automatically using a mechanical gantry device. The lights can be positioned, rotated and adjusted automatically in response to a user input selection based on a desired photographic result selected at a user interface.

Abstract: A system for controlling a motorized track light system constrained to travel along a track has a control unit coupled to a motor that causes the track light system to move along the track, a plurality of stop sensors strategically disposed along the track, a sensor activation device located on the track light system, the sensor activation device positioned to interface with the stop sensors, and a light sensor for detecting ambient light of a preset level. The system detects a preset level of ambient light, initiating power to the motor of the track light system, moving the lights along the track until the activation device interfaces with a first of the plurality of stop sensors, stopping movement of the track light system along the track for a preset period of time, and at the end of the preset time period, the electrical power is restored to the motor moving the track light assembly along the track to the next of the plurality of stop sensors.

Abstract: An imaging system to collect image data relating to a conical liquid film and its hollow conical spray emanating from an injector with a central spray axis includes a light source for emitting light into the film and spray generated by the injector; and a detector array located downstream from the injector along the central spray axis for panoramically detecting instantaneously for the entire film and spray the emitted light which has interacted with the spray to produce the image data.

Abstract: A control system for controlling power states of a controlled device, such as a lighting device, a special effects device and an in-scene device, in a photographic image-acquisition setting. The control system is configured to detect one or more camera body signals generated as a function of actuation of one or more camera body controls by a user. The control system generates a first power state change signal in response to the detected camera body signal(s) and transmits the power state change signal to the remote device so as to cause the remote device to operate at a first power state. The control system also implements a preset delay and causes the remote device to change from the first power state to a second power state in response to expiration of the preset delay.

Abstract: A control system for communicating with a controlled device, such as a lighting device, a special effects device and an in-scene device, in a photographic image-acquisition setting using a camera body. The control system is configured to detect a preset pattern of actuation of one or more camera body controls by a user. In response to detecting of the preset pattern, the control system either communicates a power state change signal to the controlled device or causes the camera body to enter into a controlled device control mode that changes the functionality of one or more camera body controls from a camera body functionality to a controlled device control functionality, or both. Such a system can allow a photographer to control a controlled device while remaining at the camera body.

Abstract: A three-dimensional imaging system to reduce detected ambient light comprises a wavelength stabilized laser diode to project imaging light onto a scene, an optical bandpass filter, and a camera to receive imaging light reflected from the scene and through the optical bandpass filter, the camera configured to use the received imaging light for generating a depth map of the scene.

Abstract: A system for capturing images of an object includes an image capture booth, one or more lights coupled to the image capture booth, a platter coupled to the image capture booth, and a hanger coupled to the image capture booth. The image capture booth includes panels that enclose a space for imaging objects. The lights illuminate at least a portion of the space. The platter and the hanger each support objects for imaging of the objects in the image capture booth.

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.

Abstract: An imaging system to collect image data relating to a conical liquid film and its hollow conical spray emanating from an injector with a central spray axis includes a light source for emitting light into the film and spray generated by the injector; and a detector array located downstream from the injector along the central spray axis for panoramically detecting instantaneously for the entire film and spray the emitted light which has interacted with the spray to produce the image data.

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.

Abstract: An image extracting apparatus is provided which can automatically finish a captured image of a person to provide an easy-to-view picture. It includes an image input unit supplied with a captured color image of the person to output it as digital data, a flesh-color region extraction unit supplied with the digital image data to detect a flesh-color region in the image, an object-image detection unit to detect an object image from the detected flesh-color region, and a trimming unit to trim the detected object image. On the assumption that a region extending from the top end of a certificate picture to the head top of a person is an overhead region A, a region extending from the head top to the jaw is a face region B and a region extending from the jaw to the bottom end of the certificate picture is a chest region C, the trimming unit trims the image so that the dimensional ratio between these regions A, B and C is 1:0.4 to 0.8:0.1 to 0.26.

Abstract: A method of photographing an object (50,52) and associated photographic apparatus are disclosed. A camera (60), a light source (40) and a collapsible background unit (10,90) are provided, wherein the collapsible background unit (10,90) comprises an enclosure with an illuminating wall (18,95) that is translucent. The light source (40) and the background unit (10,90) are arranged relative to each other so that light from the light source (40) is directed into the interior of the enclosure, at least some of said light being transmitted to the exterior of the enclosure through the illuminating wall (18,95). The object (50,52) and the camera (60) are arranged externally of the enclosure such that the illuminating wall (18,95), or an additional translucent component (74) interposed between the illuminating wall (18,95) and the object (50,52), constitutes a background for the object (50,52). A photograph of the object (50,52) is then taken using the camera (60).

Abstract: A plurality of lighting units are positioned forwardly of the driver seat in the cabin of a vehicle for applying infrared radiations in respective directions to the vehicle driver seated on the driver seat. The intensities of the emitted infrared radiations are controlled according to respective basic controlled variables depending on the illuminance in the vehicle cabin. The position and orientation of the face of the vehicle driver are recognized from an image captured of the vehicle driver by an imaging device, and the basic controlled variables are corrected according to the recognized position and orientation, thereby adjusting the intensities of the infrared radiations emitted from the lighting units and a balance of the infrared radiations emitted from the lighting units. Thereafter, the illuminance in the vehicle cabin and the recognized position and orientation change, then corrective coefficients for the basic controlled variables are updated depending on the changes.

Abstract: A device and a process are provided for uniformly lighting an operating area for performing the lighting of an operating area (2) of a bed (30) by means of a lighting unit (3) such that a selected lighting field (13) is lighted uniformly. The image signals of a camera (7) are sent to an image processing unit (17), in which the image signals are analyzed and the individual lighting elements (6) are switched via the control unit (18). A lighting situation is acquired in the process for initializing and operating this lighting system and a lighting field (13) of interest is selected. The image signals are analyzed during the operation and sent to the control unit (18) in order to switch the lighting elements (6) such that uniform lighting is obtained in the first lighting field (13).

Abstract: A photographic device including a formable portion comprising a reflective surface, wherein said formable portion is for retainably forming the reflective surface into a plurality of shapes, and wherein the reflective surface is for reflecting light from a photographic light source; and a base portion coupled to the formable portion, wherein the base portion is configured for coupling the photographic device to an object.

Abstract: A softbox for a spotlight includes a device for mounting the softbox to the spotlight such that in operation, the spotlight shines through the softbox. For limiting the emerging angle of the light shining through the softbox, a light control grid is mounted at the light emitting aperture of the softbox. For mounting the light control grid to the light emitting aperture of the softbox, a frame surrounds the light emitting aperture of the softbox. The control grid for being mounted to the softbox is manufactured by fixing adjacent strips of a light absorbing material to one another.

Abstract: An illumination device for a video presenter includes a light source and an optical lens. The light source radiates light beams incident on a stage where an object to be photographed is placed and arranged inclined at an acute angle with respect to a surface of the stage. The optical lens is arranged between the light source and the stage and inclined to be more parallel to the stage than the light source.

Abstract: A system and method for producing realistic backgrounds in studio photography is provided. The system comprises a background screen lit from behind by a light source. The background screen comprises a graphic screen upon which a high resolution image is printed. A filter screen behind the graphic screen is positioned substantially parallel to the graphic screen and separated from the graphic screen by a predetermined distance. The photography subject is placed in front of the graphic screen and pictures are taken. The diffusion of light through the filter screen onto the graphic screen results in highly realistic background images.

Abstract: An illumination and/or imaging system including a dome, a crown, and multiple light sources for illuminating an object. The multiple light sources can include dome lights, diffuse on-axis sources, diffuse off-axis sources, medium-angle direct light sources and low-angle direct light source. The medium- and low-angle sources can illuminate the object from one direction or from multiple directions simultaneously.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating and viewing an image of an item (95) against a reflective surface (94) with a light source (85), a camera (97) and operational electronics (98) installed on a single, common circuit board (99) located with a plane thereof along an exterior upright wall (102?) of a closed optics compartment (102). The light source faces a window element (103) of the closed optics compartment with a first light guide part (86) and directs light further into the optics compartment by means of a second light guide part (86?) located on the other side of the window element and aligned with the first light guide part (86). An optical unit is located in the optics compartment and comprises a light path extender (89, 90, 91), a light source input region, a lens unit (93), and at least one image detection output region.

Abstract: A plurality of LED's, or electro luminescent strips, are disposed to project illumination to and thru, or towards, a diffuser; resulting in at least a portion of generated diffuse illumination being directed towards and upon the cylindrical surface of an article or part when disposed at an article illumination location. The article illumination location is established so that a centerline through the article is co-linear with a center line of the diffuse illumination projecting from, or reflected from, the diffusers. A housing may be provided for the LED's, electro luminescent strips and diffusers; or they may be otherwise arranged to coact to provide diffuse illumination directed towards the cylindrical surface of the part or other article.

Abstract: An illumination controller for controlling an illumination device that irradiates an object to be photographed with illumination light. The illumination controller includes an introducing unit that introduces ambient light emitted to the object from a light source other than the illumination device; a processing unit that processes the ambient light introduced by the introducing unit to have a same characteristic as that of the illumination light; and an irradiation controlling unit that controls the ambient light processed by the processing unit so as to irradiate the object therewith as illumination, from a same path as the irradiation path of the illumination light.

Abstract: An image acquiring and transforming apparatus having a uniform light source is provided. The image acquiring and transforming apparatus includes a housing, a compensatory light source, an image acquiring unit and a light uniforming member. The light uniforming member is dome shaped. The dome shaped light uniforming member has an inner wall configured with a light reflective surface adapted for uniforming a light illuminated thereon. The compensatory light source is disposed inside the housing. The compensatory light source, the light uniforming member and the image acquiring unit are disposed in the housing in that order. When the compensatory light source projects a light onto the light uniforming member, the light is uniformly reflected to uniformly illuminate an object positioned at a predetermined position. In such a way, the image acquiring unit can clearly acquire the image of the object, and transform the acquired image into a digital file for saving.

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.

Abstract: A durable, portable for the lighting or imaging professional includes at least a first collapsible frame adapted to support a light modifying flag or a light modifying net. The collapsible frame includes first and second rigid frame components 22, 24 carrying fixed hinge pins 38 that connect to first and second foldable frame components. The collapsible frame defines frame components with frame ends and the kit includes at least one light modifying flexible material segment with frame end receiving portions. The collapsible frame has a first erected size and the flexible material segment has a second size not greater than said first size so that the collapsible frame, when erected, permits a user to place the flexible material flag or net under tension upon the frame.

Abstract: A Light box for optical module test is disclosed. The light box is designed to have at least a light source, a beam splitting unit, an optical filtering module and two optical fibers. The optical filtering module is formed with a plurality of filters and arranged between the light source and the beam splitting unit to generate a variety of color temperatures of the light beam from the light source before the light beam enters the beam splitting unit. Thereafter, the light beam is uniformly divided by the beam splitting unit into a first light beam and a second light beam which are transmitted via the optical fibers, respectively, and projected onto a test chart.

Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a dome. The dome can have a truncated four-sided pyramid shape. The system can comprise a crown adapted to be operatively coupled to an apex portion of the dome. The system can comprise a plurality of light sources adapted to illuminate an object.

Abstract: An optical communication system includes a first optical device including a transmission optical switch and a controller coupled to the transmission optical switch, and a second optical device coupled to the first optical device via each of a first fiber and a second fiber. The transmission optical switch is configured to operate in one of a first mode associated with the first fiber and a second mode associated with the second fiber based on control signals generated by the controller. Moreover, the controller is configured to perform a non-revertive switching operation on the transmission optical switch based on the satisfaction or the non-satisfaction of a predetermined condition or a plurality of predetermined conditions.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for illumination and photographic capture of a subject includes a base, a linear drive unit carried on the base, a light bar configured to produce a band of illumination and connected to the drive unit, and system controls operatively connected to the drive unit and light bar to achieve controlled linear movement of the light bar and progressive illumination of the subject with the band of light. A method for illumination and photographic capture of the subject includes establishing a band of light projecting across one direction of the subject, powering the band of light at a controlled speed through a second direction to progressively illuminate the subject; and making a photographic exposure of the subject with a camera while progressively illuminating the subject with said band of light.

Abstract: A video presenter of the invention includes a table with a top surface on which an object is to be positioned; a pivot member disposed at a side of the table; an arched or arc-shaped support arm rotatably coupled with the pivot member and extended therefrom; and, a camera head rotatably coupled with an end of the arched or arc-shaped support arm.

Abstract: An automated studio and control system for taking photographs is disclosed that alleviates many exposure problems and simplifies variables with which the photographer must deal in order to achieve consistent high quality photographs. The studio includes a multi-light portrait lighting system, a subject location verification system and a system for varying backgrounds, all of which are tied to an integrated control system and synchronized to a camera.

Abstract: A photographing assisting apparatus is used when a subject is photographed using a photographing apparatus. The photographing assisting apparatus has a planar light source that, while in a state covering a to-be-photographed area on the subject, shines light on the to-be-photographed area on the subject and that is translucent in the direction pointing from the to-be-photographed area on the subject to the photographing apparatus, and a support portion that supports the photographing apparatus such that the distance between the subject and the photographing apparatus is kept fixed. The photographing assisting apparatus permits the subject to be illuminated with more evenly distributed brightness and permits a given illumination condition of the subject to be obtained stably.

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.

Abstract: A bevel inspection module for capturing images of a substrate is provided. The module includes a rotational motor, which is attached to a substrate chuck and is configured to rotate the substrate chuck thereby allowing the substrate to revolve. The module further includes a camera and an optic enclosure, which is attached to the camera and is configured to rotate, enabling light to be directed toward the substrate. The camera is mounted from a camera mount, which is configured to enable the camera to rotate on a 180 degree plane allowing the camera to capture images of at least one of a top view, a bottom view, and a side view of the substrate. The module yet also includes a backlight arrangement, which is configured to provide illumination to the substrate, thereby enabling the camera to capture the images, which shows contrast between the substrate and a background.