Abstract: The present invention is a technique for measuring optimum focus position of a lens to include the steps of capturing a digital image in the field of view, digitally compressing the image to provide a compressed file having a file size and providing a focus accuracy parameter derived from the file size of the compressed file. The key point of this invention is the recognition that the compressed file associated with a given image increases monotonically in size as the image is brought into focus. The latter occurs because a focused image has greater information content than an unfocused image. With such a technique, an optimal focus position of a lens can be determined by maximizing a single parameter, the compressed output file size.

Abstract: The present invention is a technique for measuring optimum focus position of a lens to include the steps of capturing a digital image in the field of view, digitally compressing the image to provide a compressed file having a file size and providing a focus accuracy parameter derived from the file size of the compressed file. The key point of this invention is the recognition that the compressed file associated with a given image increases monotonically in size as the image is brought into focus. The latter occurs because a focused image has greater information content than an unfocused image. With such a technique, an optimal focus position of a lens can be determined by maximizing a single parameter, the compressed output file size.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for delivering video from a client to a server over a communication medium with a limited bandwidth. An initial image quality that allows the video to be displayed in real time at the client is determined based on a predetermined frame rate and the limited bandwidth. Video having the initial image quality is transmitted to the client. While transmitting the video to the client, the server receives a message from the client that indicates selection of a second frame rate that is slower than the predetermined frame rate. In response to the message from the client, the server determines a second image quality that allows the video to be displayed in real time at the client based on the second frame rate and the limited bandwidth. The second image quality is higher than the initial image quality. The video with the second image quality is then transmitted to the client. A “snapshot” feature is also provided. A predetermined user input is received at the client.

Abstract: A digital protocol translator including a first protocol circuitry having a first I/O port adapted to communicate using a first digital protocol, the first protocol circuitry including a first controller. The translator further includes a second protocol circuitry having a second I/O port communicating using a second digital protocol different from the first digital protocol, the second protocol circuitry including a second controller in communication with the first controller, such that communications between the first I/O port and the second I/O port are translated between the first protocol and the second protocol. Preferably, the translator further includes a microprocessor and digital memory, where the microprocessor operates under the control of a program stored in the memory.

Abstract: The present serving tray is formed with an underside having a recess therein which is contoured to the shape of a human hand. When the serving tray is used, the server's hand fits comfortably and securely within this contoured recess, thereby obtaining greater control over the serving tray than is possible with serving trays currently in use. The recess of the present serving tray is preferably contoured to conform to the shape, size and preferred position of a particular server's hand.