Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method for administering a live, online, interactive shopping event. The method may comprise providing a web page on an interface of a host device through which at least one potential buyer and an event host may interact, representing the at least one potential buyer by an avatar displayed within the web page, displaying an image of an item being sold within the web page, displaying a live video stream provided by the event host within the web page, wherein the live video stream is displayed to the at least one potential buyer, and providing for the at least one potential buyer to at least one of view, discuss, and purchase the item being sold within the web page, the purchasing process being initiated by an action taken by the at least one potential buyer on the web page.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to automatically detect the presence of a substance on a test swipe by capturing a background image of the test swipe; applying one or more test chemicals to a test swipe; adjusting the temperature of the test swipe to a predetermined temperature range; capturing an in-situ image of the test swipe after the application of chemical at the predetermined temperature range; subtracting the background image from the in-situ image; generating a difference value from the two images; and searching a known database to identify the substance.

Abstract: A system for acquiring multiple images of objects, the system includes: four longitudinal transferor that comprise multiple tunnels through which the objects propagate to four imaging areas; wherein the four longitudinal transferor utilize gas pressure differentials to convey the electrical circuits through the tunnels; wherein at least one longitudinal transferor has a movable portion that when placed in a certain position exposes at least a substantial portion of at least one tunnel; three rotation modules configured to rotate objects about a longitudinal axis of the objects; wherein each rotating is located between two longitudinal transferor; and imager, configured to obtain, in each of the four imaging areas, an image of the objects.

Abstract: A system for carrying out transactions (10) includes customer stations (18) and a service provider station (14). The system is operated in a building (12) or other facility in which a service provider operates the service provider station in a secure room (36). Audio and video communications are established between customers at the customer stations and the service provider at the service provider station. Items are exchanged between customers and the service provider through carriers (26) transmitted through a pneumatic tube system (22). A video material presentation device (50) provides promotional or other video material which is presented on displays at the customer stations. Video material is presented to customers when the customer terminal is not in communication with the service provider terminal. The customer stations are readily installed and configured in the transaction facility to maximize the floor space available for other purposes.

Abstract: To be able to scan the sprocket holes of a film with improved precision by means of a film scanner, in which a correction signal is generated for compensating picture steadiness errors, it is proposed that the light source generates light in the infrared range, and that the scanning sensor(s) is (are) sensitive in the infrared range.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention provides an automatic control system that includes an optical image capture device as part of an imaging system. In another aspect, the invention provides an imaging system that can control a flame generation system utilizing an optical image capture device in connection with a computer system, including software (and corresponding algorithms), and related apparatus as necessary. The system can be used to control various aspects of flame generating equipment such as flares, burners, pilots and other combustion equipment. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of flames, for example, can be carried out. In another aspect, the invention provides a specific methodology for using the inventive image sensing control system.

Abstract: Provided are systems and methods for providing expedited production of compact multi-angle video. Methods include capturing video content of a moving video subject and a background portion that is proximate the moving video subject as digital video data and generating a motion video data file from multiple sequentially numbered transparent background still image data files that correspond to the digital video data.

Abstract: Disclosed is a magnification device for use by blind and/or low vision individuals. The device includes an X-Y table upon which an item to be magnified can be placed. A stationary camera arm and a pivotal monitor arm are oriented over the X-Y table. The monitor arm includes a video monitor pivotally mounted at its distal end. The camera arm also includes two laterally disposed lighting arms. A series of controls are provided along a lower edge of the monitor via a mounting bracket.

Abstract: An interactive display system is introduced herein. The interactive display system includes a mirror and a display unit. The display unit is built in the mirror, for providing auxiliary showing an image of a user in front of the display system. The image of the user can be automatically enlarged or shrunk and displayed on the display unit when the user moves forward to or away from the interactive display system.

Abstract: Some embodiments include a virtual window system and method. In some embodiments a virtual window system may include an image capturing device to capture a high definition video image of an outdoor view and to transmit a signal corresponding to the video image; and at least one virtual window display positioned at an indoor location, to receive the signal from the image capturing device and, based on the signal, to display a high definition virtual, window-like, view corresponding to the outdoor view.

Abstract: A method of generating one or more new spatial and chromatic variation digital images uses an original digitally-acquired image which including a face or portions of a face. A group of pixels that correspond to a face within the original digitally-acquired image is identified. A portion of the original image is selected to include the group of pixels. Values of pixels of one or more new images based on the selected portion are automatically generated, or an option to generate them is provided, in a manner which always includes the face within the one or more new images. Such method may be implemented to automatically establish the correct orientation and color balance of an image. Such method can be implemented as an automated method or a semi automatic method to guide users in viewing, capturing or printing of images.

Abstract: A vision system for inspecting an object includes a vision tunnel having a housing with a plurality of panels to define a cavity therebetween. A lighting zone is disposed adjacent the housing, the lighting zone including a light source and a light shield which cooperate to illuminate the object disposed in the lighting zone, while blocking at least a portion of an ambient light. A sensor is disposed in the cavity of the housing to scan the object disposed in the lighting zone.

Abstract: A vehicle operating system that assists a vehicle operator with locating a control input of a vehicle device so as to minimize operator distraction when operating the vehicle device. The system includes a camera having a first perspective view of the control input, a display readily observed by the operator, and a processor configured to process a signal from the camera to determine a hand position of a hand approaching the control input and output a display signal having a second perspective view of the control input that is dependent on the operator's hand position relative to the control input. The second perspective view corresponds to that of a virtual camera attached to the operator's forearm or wrist, and so provides a perspective view that is substantially fixed relative to the hand.

Abstract: Hoppers and similar loading systems have an integrated imaging system for still and/or video capture, display and/or networked transmission. The imaging system allows real time capture, display and/or transmission live paintball play action from the point of view of the player. Images can be transmitted to team mates in proximity with a corresponding imaging system and/or to off field personnel. Such image transmission from the perspective of the hopper held by the player permits coordination of on field activities among the team members or by an off field coach. In tournament play, the real time video transmission can be broadcast through the off field systems for display to a local audience or streamed to an internet audience. Recordable media within each hopper system permit the recorded images to be stored for later analysis.

Abstract: An inspection system (200) is for inspecting power generation equipment (202) and includes a remote receiving device (134) which receives images captured and transmitted by an inspection apparatus (100). A recording device (142) records the images thereby providing a permanent record of the inspection. The inspection apparatus (100) comprises: a flashlight assembly (102) including a power supply (110), an elongated housing (104) having first and second ends (105,107), a lens body (120) coupled to the first end (105), and a lens cover (114) covering the lens body (120). The inspection apparatus (100) further includes an imaging system (122) having a camera (130), such as a wireless video camera, which is disposed within the lens body opening (121), an illumination assembly (106) which generally surrounds the camera (130), and a protective cover (116) for the illumination assembly (106). An associated method is also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods having corresponding apparatus and computer-readable media comprise: capturing an image of a shape projected upon a display surface; and determining a first rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape, comprising generating a rectangular bounding box containing the shape, dividing the rectangular bounding box vertically into first and second sections, determining a second rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape in the first section of the bounding box, determining a third rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape in the second section of the bounding box, dividing the rectangular bounding box horizontally into third and fourth sections, determining a fourth rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape in a third section of the bounding box, and determining a fifth rectangle that is the largest inscribed rectangle for the shape in the fourth section of the bounding box.

Abstract: Disclosed are product processing systems and methods for monitoring, inspecting and controlling baking, cooking and routing processes, and the like. Products are placed on and moved by a conveyor. Images of the moving products are generated, such as by an image acquisition system. The images are processed by a symbol generation system. Symbols are then displayed on selected moving products based upon predetermined criteria. The systems and methods may be used to process oven-cooked or oven-baked products to identify (via the projected symbols) products that are defective or otherwise unacceptable. The product processing systems may be used to process packages or items having barcodes or other identifying labels to display routing or other identifying information on the moving products.

Abstract: An automatic angle-adjustable display device and an angle-adjustable method are provided. The automatic angle-adjustable display device includes a screen, three wireless transmitting and receiving sensors, an angle adjustment mechanism and a control unit. The wireless transmitting and receiving sensors are respectively disposed at first, second and third positions of the screen. In response to a control signal issued from the control unit, the angle adjustment mechanism is driven to adjust the viewing angle of the screen with respect to the viewer. The angle-adjustable method includes steps of triggering the wireless transmitting and receiving sensors to emit these wireless signals, measuring first, second and third distances between the first, second and third positions of the screen and the viewer according to the reflected wireless signals, and adjusting the viewing angle of the screen with respect to the viewer according to these distance differences.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for displaying image data direction of a terminal displays direction information in case of displaying an object photographed through a camera installed in a terminal thus to maximize efficiency value of image information and utilize a multiplexing format including direction in an image as a basis data format. To achieve the purpose of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for displaying image data direction of a terminal in accordance with the present invention comprising a direction sensor for detecting direction of a photographing object in a conventional terminal and a direction displaying apparatus for encoding and packetizing the converted digital direction signal.

Abstract: A control system to control an operating room lamp to generate light to illuminate a surgical site includes an image signal input to receive an image signal from a video camera to capture an image of a surgical site and a control signal output to emit to the operating room lamp a control signal to control at least either a direction or an intensity or a spectral characteristic of the light or a size or shape of the area illuminated by the light. The control system is configured to recognize a hand area of medical personnel and to generate the control signal depending on the image signal and to emit it to the control signal output.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for determining the position of an industrial robot (1, 81) relative to an object (M, 82) as well as correspondingly equipped industrial robots (1, 81). In one of said methods, a 2D camera (17) that is mounted on the industrial robot (1) is moved into at least two different positions, an image (20, 30) of an object (M) that is stationary relative to the surroundings of the industrial robot (1) is generated in each of the positions, the images (20, 30) are displayed, a graphic model (16) of the object (M) is superimposed on the images (20, 30), points (21A, 22A, 31A, 32A) of the graphic model (16) are manually assigned to corresponding points (21A, 21B, 31A, 31B) in the two images (20, 30), and the position of the industrial robot (1) relative to the object (M) is determined on the basis of the points (21A, 22A, 31A, 32A) of the model (16) assigned to the corresponding points (21B, 22B, 31B, 32B).

Abstract: Systems and methods for using a patient display is described. The described system includes a medical imaging system. The medical imaging system includes a gantry, a patient display, and a computer. The gantry at least partially circumscribes a patient viewing area. The patient display is viewable from the patient viewing area. The patient display is communicatively coupled to the computer. The computer is programmed to receive scan protocol instructions and control the patient display according to the predetermined scan protocol. It is further programmed to prompt the patient, using the patient display, to perform a bodily action that facilitates the scan and to provide the patient with at least one of entertainment and distraction using the patient display.

Abstract: Hair-cutting systems with a visualization device are disclosed in present invention. The air-cutting systems include a video camera and a lighting device attached to an electrical hair-cutting clipper. Such hair-cutting systems are designed for use by an individual in cutting his or her own hair, and also for use by one person to cut the hair of another.

Abstract: An integrated photonics module includes at least one light source and a MEMS scanner coupled to and held in alignment by an optical frame configured for mounting to a host system. According to some embodiments, the integrated photonics module may include a plurality of light sources and a beam combiner coupled to the optical frame. According to some embodiments, the integrated photonics module includes a selective fold mirror configured to direct at least a portion of emitted light toward the MEMS scanner in a normal direction and pass scanned light through to a field of view. The selective fold mirror may use beam polarization to select beam passing and reflection. The integrated photonics module may include a beam rotator such as a quarter-wave plate to convert the polarization of the emitted light to a different polarization adapted for passage through the fold mirror. The integrated photonics module may include one or more light detectors.

Abstract: A method and an illumination device is provided for optical contrast enhancement of an object through a spatially and/or temporally modulated illumination of the object by way of at least one light projection unit, wherein the spatial and/or temporal modulation of the illumination of the object is determined using a set of image data associated with the object.

Abstract: A digital pen is provided with an optical system with at least one sensor for capturing images of a patterned surface and at least one light source for illuminating the patterned surface when images are captured by the at least one sensor. In order to solve the problem that the sensor is sometimes blinded by specularly reflected light when the digital pen is used on a glossy surface, the optical system is adjustable between at least two image capturing states in which images are captured with a different geometrical arrangement of the at least one sensor and the at least one light source. As a supplement or alternative, the digital pen may illuminate the patterned surface with linearly polarized light having a first polarization direction and further be provided with a linear polarizer in front of the image sensor, which polarizer has a second different polarization direction, preventing specularly reflected light from reaching the sensor.

Abstract: A method for obtaining an image of a sample having an external surface enclosing an inside, a light signal being emitted from within the inside, the method comprising: (a) providing two positioning images each comprising the external surface of the sample, (b) providing a light-emission image comprising data related to the light signal emitted from within the inside of the sample, (c) detecting a landmark pattern integral with the sample, (d) defining a transformation from the detected landmark position, (e) obtaining a referenced light-emission image by applying the transformation onto the light-emission image.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for displaying content on a television in standby mode, comprising a storage for storing face data of one or more users and for storing preference data associated to the face data, said preference data indicating preferences of the user, a display for displaying content, a standby indicator for indicating that the television is in standby mode, wherein in case that the television is in standby mode activating a front camera for capturing an image of a user, and activating a recommendation device for searching the attribute data of content currently available and for selecting in case that the captured image corresponds to one of the store face data at least one content to be displayed having attribute data matching the associated stored preference data. The present invention further relates to a method for displaying content on a television in standby mode.

Abstract: A method for presenting a thermal image within a visible light image includes the steps of: identifying an outline of each object of interest within the visible light image; and, selecting an area of the visible light image, whose edge corresponds to the outline of each object of interest, in which to present the thermal image. An alternative method includes the steps of: identifying an area of interest within the thermal image; and selecting another area, separate from the area of interest, from which to remove a portion of the thermal image in order to display the visible light image therein. The visible light and thermal images are captured by a system that includes a visible light camera module and an infrared camera module. The visible light and thermal images are displayed on a display of the system, and selections are made via an interactive element of the system.

Abstract: A method for facilitating a reduction in image artifacts is provided. The method includes receiving data regarding a scan of an object, reconstructing a plurality of images using the received data to form a three-dimensional image space, determining an orientation for a maximum intensity pixel operation, locating the maximum intensity pixels within a plurality of ray paths in accordance with the determined orientation, and filtering around each maximum intensity pixel along each ray path.

Abstract: A video display device includes: a connection detecting module configured to detect whether a shutter glasses is connected to the device; a generation module configured to generate a second frame, which is alternately displayed with a first frame included in a video content, by adding an irregular pattern to an image viewed in a predetermined color when the connection detecting module detects that the shutter glasses is connected; a display unit configured to display the video content; a video display controller configured to control the display unit to alternately display the first frame and the second frame; and a shutter glasses controller configured to control the shutter glasses to close shutters in synchronization with the time for displaying the second frame.

Abstract: A color measuring device includes a lighting arrangement (10) for a measurement field (MF) of a measurement object (MO) to be measured, a pick-up arrangement (20) for detecting the measurement light reflected back from the measurement field and for converting it into corresponding electric signals, an electronic circuit (200) for controlling operation of the color measuring device and for processing and evaluating the electric signals, and a display (D) for displaying measurement results. The lighting arrangement (10) has a lamp ring (11) with three identical lamp groups (L1, L2, L3), mutually offset an angle of preferably 120°, each with, for example, 10 light sources (Ln) with different radiation characteristics in the form of light-emitting diodes for illuminating the measurement field (MF) from a predefined range of angles of incidence. The pick-up arrangement (20) has a digital camera (22) which creates an image of the measured measurement field (MF) made up of image pixels.

Abstract: An image-enhanced parking enforcement system utilizes cameras or other imaging modality to capture, record and/or report instances of parking infractions corresponding to a controlled parking space. In one embodiment, a metering device monitors allotted times for lawful utilization of the parking space and identifies instances of meter expiration; at least one detector monitors utilization status of the parking space; and the cameras or other imaging modality captures images corresponding to the parking space when the meter has expired and the space is occupied.

Abstract: Method, device, system and framework for enabling token and point level operations on language independent paper documents through camera phone interface. Image descriptors from snapshots of document captured by the phone can be extracted by phone itself and transmitted to server. In another implementation, the descriptors are extracted by receiving server. The server is connected to database of high-quality images of the same document and matched high-quality patch is sent back to phone for user's viewing and manipulation. Modifications and annotations of high-quality patch are transmitted to database and stored. Motion detection is combined with image recognition to provide high quality images of regions of document being viewed by sweeping the phone.

Abstract: A money transfer system with imaging. The system includes a first money transfer terminal and an imaging device. The imaging device is configured to acquire a first set of imaging information of a user. The system also includes a host computer system, configured to receive at least a portion of the first set of financial transaction information and at least a portion of the first set of imaging information. The system also includes a previous transaction database, an external database, and a decision maker terminal. The system also includes a second money transfer terminal and a second imaging device. The second imaging device is configured to acquire a second set of imaging information of the second user.

Abstract: A visual aid display apparatus 1 includes, an image capturing section 50 for image capturing of a subject; an image processing section 60 for processing the image, information obtained from the image capturing section 50 so that the image information can be displayed, a display device for displaying the video of image information having been subjected to processing, an ocular optical system for providing video by leading to the eye the light coming from the display device, and a control section 70 for providing control in such a way that the video of the image information having been subjected to image processing can be displayed on the display area of the display section 10. The video of the external world and the image-processed image of the display area A can be viewed simultaneously by an observer on the display section 10.

Abstract: An event ticket that includes a main body portion, a video screen associated with the main body portion, memory associated with the main body portion and printing on the main body portion indicating the event information. The content to be played on the video screen is stored in the memory.

Abstract: An apparatus has two optical portions, for capturing imagery from two directions. One portion captures imagery from the user (e.g., the user's retina), and the other captures imagery from another subject. In one arrangement, each optical portion has its own image sensor, and the two portions operate at the same time to capture imagery. Information derived from the imagery of the user (e.g., a hash) can be used—in consultation with a database—to attempt to identify the user. Such an image hash can be steganographically embedded into the subject-related image information. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed.

Abstract: A method for digitally augmenting or enhancing a food product such as the surface or top of a cake or other edible object. The method includes generating an augmentation media file based on a projection surface of the food product such as a digital movie or image that is mapped to the 3D topography of projection surface and that is projected on the food product using a properly aligned projector. Interactivity is provided by having the method include determining a modification or change of the 3D topography of the projection surface and, based upon the modification, generating a modified augmentation media file and operating the projector to use the modified augmentation media file to project a modified projected image on the food product. The method further provides interactivity by detecting a user interaction with the projection surface and generating a modified augmentation media file based on this tracked interaction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and arrangement for extending viewing capability of a user who is looking through a transparent sheet. The transparent sheet can be, for example, a lens of goggles, an eye shield of a breathing mask, a visor of a helmet, or a windscreen of a vehicle. The arrangement comprises a receiver device (101) adapted to receive electromagnetic radiation, e.g. infrared radiation, that is outside the visual spectral region. The arrangement comprises a converter device (102) adapted to produce an electrical signal (111) at least partly on the basis of information carried by the received electromagnetic radiation. The arrangement comprises a transparent sheet (103) that has an electrically switchable diffractive optical area (104) adapted to display information carried by the electrical signal.

Abstract: An imaging system suitable for use in a vehicle includes an imaging sensor having a two-dimensional array of photosensing elements, an image processor for processing image data captured by the imaging sensor, and a display for displaying images responsive to the image processor. The array has a plurality of sub-arrays, with each of the sub-arrays having a first pixel sensing primarily a first color, a second pixel sensing primarily a second color, a third pixel sensing primarily a third color and a fourth pixel sensing primarily infrared radiation. The image processor processes the output of the fourth pixel to determine an infrared component of the imaged scene and subtracts the infrared component from the outputs of the first, second and third pixels to obtain a more accurate or true color response for the pixels and to limit or avoid infrared color wash-out.

Abstract: A celestial direction finding system. The system includes an inclinometer, at least one camera for imaging both the daytime sky and the nighttime sky and a computer programmed with a sun, moon and star catalog and algorithms for automatically determining directions based on positions of celestial bodies imaged by at least one camera and incline positions measured by the inclinometer. In a preferred embodiment all of the above features are combined in a single battery operated miniature celestial direction finding module. Geographical positions of nearby objects can be determined with the addition of a rangefinder and knowledge of the geographical position of the camera. The geographical position of the system in preferred embodiments can be determined with the addition of a GPS unit.

Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus and method of deducing a user's intention using motion information. The user's intention deduction apparatus includes a speech intention determining unit configured to predict a speech intention regarding a user's speech using motion information sensed by at least one motion capture sensor, and a controller configured to control operation of detecting a voice section from a received sound signal based on the predicted speech intention.

Abstract: An inspection camera (1) for use in concealed spaces that enables the correct orientation of a camera image to be readily determined. The inspection camera (1) comprises a camera assembly (2) having a camera (22), a handle (3) spaced apart from the camera (22), and a bendable shaft (4) comprising coil-wound tempered steel cable (41) having a longitudinal axis and having a handle-mounting ferrule (42) connected to one end of the cable (41) and a camera assembly-mounting ferrule (43) connected to another end of the cable (4). The handle-mounting ferrule (42) and handle (3) are keyed together and the camera assembly-mounting ferrule (43) and camera assembly (2) are keyed together such that the camera (22) is not rotatable relative to the handle (3) about the longitudinal axis so that an orientation of the camera (22) within a confined space can be determined based on how the handle (3) is oriented.

Abstract: A video monitoring system is proposed, which is used to mask objects in a monitored scene that involve the privacy of an individual. Such objects include vehicle license plates or the person himself. An unmasking occurs when proof of legitimacy is entered. In a modification, a combination of a stationary camera and a moving camera also permits the masking of individual objects in the monitored scene.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes systems and methods for conducting remote business transactions between a client and an entrepreneur that include generating records including video verification of some or all aspects of the remote business transaction. According to one aspect of the system, the client sends a plurality of items to the recipient. Upon reception of these items, the recipient creates an inventory of the items, including video verification of the inventory. Such video verification is included in a stored electronic record of the remote business transaction. Via any suitable telecommunications network, this electronic record, including the video verification of the transmitted inventory, is accessible by the client.

Abstract: Within a digital acquisition device with a built in flash unit, the exposure of an acquired digital image is perfected using face detection in the acquired image is provided. Groups of pixels that correspond to plural images of faces are identified within a digitally acquired image, and corresponding image attributes to the group of pixels are determined. An analysis is performed of the corresponding attributes of the groups of pixels. It is then determined to activate the built-in flash unit based on the analysis. An intensity of the built-in flash unit is determined based on the analysis. Alternatively based on similar analysis, a digital simulation of the fill flash is performed on the image.

Abstract: Within a digital acquisition device with a built in flash unit, the exposure of an acquired digital image is perfected using face detection in the acquired image is provided. Groups of pixels that correspond to plural images of faces are identified within a digitally acquired image, and corresponding image attributes to the group of pixels are determined. An analysis is performed of the corresponding attributes of the groups of pixels. It is then determined to activate the built-in flash unit based on the analysis. An intensity of the built-in flash unit is determined based on the analysis. Alternatively based on similar analysis, a digital simulation of the fill flash is performed on the image.

Abstract: A system and method for analyzing a forensic sample. A forensic sample is illuminated nondestructively with light of a first wavelength ?1. A first image of the forensic sample is imaged using light emitted at a second wavelength ?2, the second wavelength filtered by a multi-conjugate tunable filter. A second image of the forensic sample is imaged using the light emitted from the sample at a third wavelength ?3, different from ?2, the third wavelength filtered by a multi-conjugate tunable filter. A calculated image of the forensic image is then created from the first image and the second image. The disclosure also provides for obtaining a processed image by applying a chemometric technique to the calculated image and for identifying the sample as a known forensic material by searching a reference database for a match to either the calculated image or the processed image.

Abstract: Provided are a method of determining a brightness value of a target area on an optical image, and a computer-readable recording medium including a program for executing the method on a computer. Target brightness values of a plurality of target areas in an optical image are accurately compared with each other by plotting a graph with brightness values depending on positions within a subject.