Underwater Patents (Class 348/81)
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Patent number: 8155510Abstract: A universal underwater enclosure has a spherical shell having a hollow in which a camera, camcorder, or other device can be inserted, a lens attached to the shell that can be opened to insert a device, and glove assemblies extending into the hollow for manipulation of a device placed therein. The glove assemblies have fingers and not full gloves, reducing the dimensions of the enclosure—thereby minimizing buoyancy. A mounting system attaches to a device's tripod mount receptor, fixes the device, and allows it to be adjusted in three dimensions. A pressure equalization system relieves stress on the enclosure, which exhibits neutral buoyancy. A flash mounted on the shell operates independently of any device. Modular lens pods replace the lens to accommodate various other lenses. The glove assemblies have perimeter lips secured to the shell by fasteners and a bezel around teardrop-shaped cut-out holes in the shell. The fingers allow access to all of a device's controls.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: SalamanderSkinz, LLCInventors: Peter Ghali, Jay Huntington
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Patent number: 8149275Abstract: A fixed-position buoy for observing and monitoring the surface of a predetermined area of water, including a flotation device; an imaging device operable for obtaining images of the surface of the predetermined area of water; memory for storing the images of the surface of the predetermined area of water; one or more communications devices operable for transmitting a signal representing the images of the surface of the predetermined area of water to a remote location; and a tether and a mooring attached to the flotation device, the tether and the mooring operable for securing the flotation device.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2009Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.Inventor: Michael Harper
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Publication number: 20120075458Abstract: An image-capturing device includes an image-capturing unit that generates image data, a color information acquisition unit that obtains color information from the image data, a determination unit that determines whether the image data have been generated by underwater photography or onshore photography, an underwater color balance reference setting unit that sets an underwater color balance reference that serves as a color correction reference when color correction is performed on image data picked up underwater, an underwater color correction data calculation unit that calculates underwater color correction data on the basis of the color information and the underwater color balance reference in a case where the determination unit determines that the image data have been generated by underwater photography, and a color correction unit that performs color correction on the image data generated by underwater photography on the basis of the underwater color correction data.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP.Inventor: Tatsuya Kino
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Publication number: 20120048171Abstract: The invention relates to an unmanned underwater vehicle having at least one sensor unit (7) which can be used to acquire sensor information (8) relating to objects in the area surrounding the underwater vehicle (1). The invention also relates to a method for operating the unmanned underwater vehicle (1). In order to sense structures and contours of objects under water as quickly and accurately as possible, the invention provides for the at least one sensor unit (7) to be arranged such that it can be moved in a tangential direction (12) of the underwater vehicle, that is to say tangentially with respect to the longitudinal axis (14) of the underwater vehicle (1) or an axis running parallel to the longitudinal axis, and can be positioned in the circumferential direction (12) by a positioning device (13) to which the sensor information (8) can be specified.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: Atlas Elektronik GmbHInventor: Jörg KALWA
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Publication number: 20120050520Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method to prevent biofouling of underwater optical systems using ultraviolet light generated from within a pressure vessel and through an optics window, without removing the optical systems from the water and without disbursement of chemicals into the water.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Matthew D. Thoren, Andrew M. Piper
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Patent number: 8120651Abstract: A video capture assembly is provided with a video recording device disposed inside a protective case. A device interface inside the case is coupled to a video input connector that protrudes outside said case. An image sensor is coupled via a flexible cable to the video input connector.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Motocam 360, L.L.C.Inventor: Timothy James Ennis
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Patent number: 8120650Abstract: A video fishing rod with underwater observation gear as fishing equipment, allowing surveillance of the bait and fish around it, and includes a video monitor attachable to the fishing pole, miniature submersible video camera attached close to the end of the fishing line for transmitting video images up to the monitor via the same fishing line without the use of a video cable.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Inventor: Vadim Laser
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Patent number: 8115822Abstract: An image capturing apparatus includes an image capturing unit configured to capture an image of a subject and generate a captured image of the subject, a feature value extracting unit configured to extract a feature value of the captured image, a scene candidate determining unit configured to determine a scene candidate of a subject scene included in the captured image on the basis of the extracted feature value, and a scene determining unit configured to determine that the scene candidate is the subject scene included in the captured image when the scene candidate determining unit continuously determines scene candidates of an identical kind for a scene determining period taken for determining the subject scene included in the captured image.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2009Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Yuko Mimura, Yuji Shimizu
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Patent number: 8106945Abstract: An intelligent fishing tackle comprises a fishing line, a sinker module, a microprocessor system module and a hook module, in which the sinker module is connected on the fishing line and includes a camera module used for capturing a underwater image, the microprocessor system module judges a fishing object according to the underwater image and determines whether a control signal is generated, and the hook module is connected on the fishing line and switched to a fishing processing state according to the control signal. Whether to capture the fishing object can be judged directly under the water or the water image is transmitted to the shore for a rodster to decide whether to capture the fishing object.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2007Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Inventor: Chien Tu Tseng
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Patent number: 8106944Abstract: Described are a method and an apparatus for color-corrected underwater imaging. A range to an underwater object to be imaged is determined and control values are selected according to the range. Control values are predetermined for a number of ranges according to an optimization of a color quality factor for each range based on the spectra of the optical sources used for illumination and the wavelength-dependent optical transmission of the water for the range. The optical power of each optical source is controlled according to a respective one of the selected control values. Advantageously, an acquired image requires no color correction as the adaptive illumination compensates for the wavelength-dependent losses in the light propagation path from the optical sources to the object and from the object to the imaging device.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2007Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Iuliu Vasilescu, Alexander Bahr, Carrick Detweiler, Daniela Rus
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Publication number: 20110292202Abstract: A photographing device includes a pressure sensor that detects a pressure received by the photographing device; a detection unit that detects whether the photographing device is placed in the water or in the air; and a storage unit that stores image information. A controller of the photographing device starts an operation of generating time-series pressure data on the basis of an output of the pressure sensor when a first state, in which the photographing device is placed from the air into the water, is detected. The controller stops the operation of generating the time-series pressure data when a second state, in which the photographing device is placed from the water into the air, is detected, associate the image file stored in the storage unit from the first state to the second state with the time-series pressure data, and store again the image file in the storage unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2011Publication date: December 1, 2011Inventor: Takaomi TANAKA
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Publication number: 20110292201Abstract: An underwater scouting camera comprising: an outer cover, a door, a memory storage, a battery, and an internal housing which includes a flash, a shutter, a display frame, and a sonar sensor. When the sonar sensor emits a pulse in order to detect any fish, upon detection the flash and the shutter trigger to take a digital picture that may be saved on a memory device. After the picture is taken, the date and time appear on the display frame, and a notification is transmitted to a personal handheld device. The scouting camera allows a user to remotely track fish without having to continuously monitor the underwater scouting camera.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2010Publication date: December 1, 2011Inventors: WAYLON WESTPHAL, Wade Westphal
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Patent number: 8044999Abstract: An image enhancer that includes a laser for emitting an optical signal toward an object in a turbid medium, a modulator for modulating laser intensity of the optical signal, an RF source for driving the modulator and for providing a reference signal, an optical detector for detecting the modulated optical signal that is reflected from the object, the optical detector converting the reflected optical signal into an electrical signal, the electrical signal having RF and DC components, an I/Q demodulator for mixing the RF component of the electrical signal with the reference signal and producing in-phase and quadrature phase signal components that can be digitized and processed such that both contrast and range images of the object are produced.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2007Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Linda J. Mullen, Alan E. Laux, Brandon Cochenour
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Patent number: 8035734Abstract: A self-balancing remote sensing device, and a system comprised of the remote sensing devices and one or more base stations, is provided for remotely monitoring both terrestrial and maritime environments. Specifically, a spherically-shaped self-balancing remote sensing device having one or more cameras and various sensors is provided, which may ascend and descend within the water column as desired, by altering its buoyancy, while maintaining proper orientation of the camera and sensors. Further, the remote sensing system comprised of the devices and base stations is provided, wherein the devices and base stations may form an ad hoc network, thereby greatly extending the range and coverage of the system. The devices, due to their small size, may be quickly and easily deployed using various vehicles, including flight vehicles, land-based vehicles, water craft, and subsurface water vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2010Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Inventor: Kenneth R Jones
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Publication number: 20110242309Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-lens monitoring system for bed elevation around a pier according to the present invention comprises a container, a holder, a plurality of photographing units, and a processing module. The container is disposed on the pier; the holder is disposed inside the container; and the plurality of photographing units are disposed on the holder for photographing the bed under water and producing a monitoring image. The processing module is used for activating one of the plurality of photographing units for photographing the bed under water. The processing module also analyzes the monitoring image, gives the elevation variation of the bed, and transmits the elevation variation of the bed to a remote monitoring unit for real-timely monitoring and recording. During the monitoring process, the processing module will change activating one of the plurality of photographing units according to the monitoring image, and hence the electrical power can be saved.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2010Publication date: October 6, 2011Applicant: NATIONAL APPLIED RESEARCH LABORATORIESInventors: WEN-YI CHANG, TENG-YI YU, JIHN-SUNG LAI, WHEY-FONE TSAI, FRANCO LIN, LUNG-CHENG LEE, YU-HUI LIAO, HO-CHENG LIEN, CHIN-HSIUNG LOH
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Patent number: 8027576Abstract: The invention comprises a method of and apparatus for coupling a lens port to a housing for an underwater camera. The method comprises the steps of providing an inwardly castellated ring and a co-operating outwardly castellated ring, the rings comprising part of or being positioned one on the housing and the other on the lens port. At least one of the rings is rotatable and the outwardly castellated ring can be passed through the inwardly castellated ring. Rotating at least one ring holds the outward castellations against the inward castellations to thereby hold the lens port to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2009Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Assignee: Nauticam International LimitedInventor: Yuk Shing Lai
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Publication number: 20110228074Abstract: A digital image capture device for use in capturing underwater digital images, comprising a watertight housing; an image sensor for capturing a digital image; an optical system for imaging a scene onto the image sensor; a means for sensing a pressure outside the watertight housing; and a processor. The processor performs the steps of determining a sensed pressure; capturing a digital image of a scene using the image sensor; using the sensed pressure to determine an indication of whether the digital image capture device is being operated underwater and selecting an underwater photography mode or a normal photography mode accordingly; processing the captured digital image according to the selected photography mode; and storing the processed digital image in a processor accessible memory.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2010Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventors: Kenneth A. Parulski, Thomas E. Madden, John R. Fredlund, Kevin E. Spaulding
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Publication number: 20110228075Abstract: A digital image capture device for use in capturing underwater digital images, comprising: a watertight housing; an image sensor for capturing a digital image; an optical system for imaging a scene onto the image sensor; a means for setting the digital image capture device to operate in an underwater photography mode or a normal photography mode; and a processor. The processor performs the steps of: capturing a digital image of a scene using the image sensor; controlling a color reproduction of the captured digital image responsive to whether the digital image capture device is operating in an underwater photography mode or a normal photography mode; and storing the captured digital image in a processor accessible memory.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2010Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventors: Thomas E. Madden, Kenneth A. Parulski, John R. Fredlund, Kevin E. Spaulding
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Patent number: 8013932Abstract: A waterproof electronic recording device with a display panel is disclosed. In an embodiment, a housing of the electronic recording device is cylindrical in shape with an electronic display module having a display panel disposed at a back end of the housing. A latch encloses the electronic display module and the display panel is disposed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing in a waterproof configuration. In another embodiment, the latch is hingedly connected to the housing, and a lock is provided to connect the latch to the housing in a waterproof configuration.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2008Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Inventor: Raymond Chan
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Publication number: 20110211061Abstract: A hermetically sealed digital electronic camera that is designed to operate both on land and underwater to great depths, and method of making same. The present invention is a camera which is hermetically sealed by being totally encapsulated, preferably by being cast in plastic, with no seals, holes, joints, penetrating pins, wires or other objects. Wireless means are used for communicating information, electrical power and control signals. The invention is impervious to atmospheric contamination and absolutely incapable of leaking under water to great depths and pressures. In an alternate embodiment camera optics are not encapsulated but are immersed in water when the encapsulated digital camera is placed in water.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2011Publication date: September 1, 2011Applicant: TESSERA INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventor: Philip Kossin
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Patent number: 7991274Abstract: The present invention provides a waterproof camera cover that is comparatively easy to attach to and remove from a camera, and that enables comparatively simple operation of the camera. A holder 3 is housed inside a pouch 4. It is possible to place a camera 2 in a holder 3 or take it out of the holder 3 via a first opening section 35 and a second opening section 42. A through hole 311 of the holder 3 is formed at a position facing a lens 21 of the housed camera 2. The second opening section 42 can be opened and closed, and in a closed state the second opening section 42 is waterproof. The second through hole 43 of the pouch body 4 is arranged at a position facing the first through hole 311. A transparent body 5 is arranged at a position facing a lens 21 of the camera 2. The first and second through holes 311 and 43 are closed off by the transparent body 5 so as to be watertight.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2007Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Ogram Design Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takashi Kawakami
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Publication number: 20110162252Abstract: A fishing-rod assembly is provided for real-time observation of under-water fish behavior while fishing. The fishing-rod assembly includes a fishing rod or pole which supports a fishing line having a fish hook, a video camera, and a monitor for displaying video images of fish behavior in proximity to the fish hook. Also provided is a method for observing underwater fish activity while fishing. The method comprises focusing an underwater camera on an end of a fishing line, and displaying video images of fish activity at the end of the fishing line.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2009Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventors: Jay Smith, Anson Sims
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Publication number: 20110115898Abstract: An imaging apparatus, including, an imaging section, a gain adjustment section to adjust gain values of an R component or a B component, an information obtaining section to obtain information about a first photographing environment of the image after an adjustment, a first judgment section to judge whether the first photographing environment in the obtained information and a second photographing environment to which the gain adjustment section is to adjust the gain values of the R component or the B component, are different from each other, a gain re-adjustment section to re-adjust at least one of the gain values of the R component and the B component to be suppressed when judged that the first photographing environment and the second photographing environment are different from each other, and an image recording section to record an image obtained by performing a color adjustment by using a re-adjusted gain value.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2010Publication date: May 19, 2011Applicant: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.Inventor: Naotaka HIKOSAKA
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Publication number: 20110090330Abstract: A video capture system is disclosed, in particular for fishing, including a transmitter unit and a receiver unit connected by a cable transmission line. The transmitter unit has a telecamera and a transmit driver of the video signal captured by the telecamera and is adapted to be connected to the fishing line of a fishing rod near the hook of the fishing line to film the fish when it approaches the bait. The receiver unit is adapted to be arranged near the user and includes a receive driver of the video signal with suitable video outputs adapted to be connected to a display device to display the images filmed by the telecamera.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2009Publication date: April 21, 2011Inventor: Nazario Luzi
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Patent number: 7929847Abstract: A user-configurable waterproof camera case includes a housing for sealingly holding different models of camera therein, an actuating shaft extending through an opening of the housing, a probe-carrying member connected to an inner end of the actuating shaft, and an adjustable probe carried by the probe-carrying member at a position engageable with an on/off button or a shutter button of the camera.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2009Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Sanwa Technologies LimitedInventor: Wai Lam William Yim
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Patent number: 7920163Abstract: A hermetically sealed digital electronic camera that is designed to operate both on land and underwater to great depths, and method of making same. The present invention is a camera which is hermetically sealed by being totally encapsulated, preferably by being cast in plastic, with no seals, holes, joints, penetrating pins, wires or other objects. Wireless means are used for communicating information, electrical power and control signals. The invention is impervious to atmospheric contamination and absolutely incapable of leaking under water to great depths and pressures. In an alternate embodiment camera optics are not encapsulated but are immersed in water when the encapsulated digital camera is placed in water.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2006Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Tessera International, Inc.Inventor: Philip Kossin
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Publication number: 20110074945Abstract: An imaging apparatus includes an imaging unit for capturing a subject and generating image data of the subject, an operation input unit for receiving inputs of operation signals containing a release signal for instructing the imaging unit to shoot, an acceleration detector for detecting an acceleration of the imaging apparatus, a state detector for separately detecting a case in which the imaging apparatus is overland, a case in which the imaging apparatus is underwater and a photographer shoots while swimming, and a case in which the imaging apparatus is underwater and the photographer shoots while changing a water depth, and a control unit for performing operation control depending on an input into the operation input unit and/or into the acceleration detector according to a state detection result by the state detector.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Inventors: Yuko Watanabe, Yoko Saito, Tomoko Kobayashi, Koichi Shintani
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Patent number: 7889982Abstract: The method and apparatus for a submersible electronic device provides an electronic device such as, for example, a digital camera (100), PDA, computer, or the like, which may comprise a user interface, a body (101), and an electronic assembly disposed within the body, the device being characterized in that the housing is completely filled with a perfluorocarbon (PFC) liquid, or a hydrofluoroether (HFE), or a perfluoropolyether (PFPE), or an aqueous coolant composition comprising a mixture of an alkylene glycol (such as propylene glycol), de-ionized water, and a corrosion inhibitor (such as benzotriazole). A method of introducing any of the aforementioned liquids into the device includes submersion into the liquid inside a vacuum chamber (150) so that air pockets are removed to provide total liquid dispersion into device cavities, and the like. The device is then sealed and removed from the chamber (150).Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2007Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Inventor: David J. Vondracek
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Publication number: 20110013012Abstract: In a method for ascertaining the deformation of a fuel assembly in a pressurized-water reactor, the fuel assembly is placed in a measurement station located inside a flooded pool. The measurement station has a holding apparatus for accommodating and fixing the fuel assembly and also a camera which can be moved at least approximately parallel to its bearing axis. Digital images of the fuel assembly are recorded and stored using the camera in various axial positions, in which in each case one selected structural element of the fuel assembly is located, with the position of the fuel assembly in the recorded image depending on the deformation of the fuel assembly. Each recorded image is segmented using methods of digital image processing, and the selected structural element is identified by comparison with a virtual image of the structural element.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2010Publication date: January 20, 2011Applicant: AREVA NP GMBHInventors: Wolfgang Hummel, Timo Feller
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Patent number: 7871205Abstract: A base, securely attachable to any type of watertight housing for an underwater camera without causing rotational displacement during its use for underwater photography, includes an elongated main body and a holder plate disposed on the main body which is transversely movable. The base has a protrusion for preventing transverse motion of a pedestal or a leg structure on the housing. A pair of set screws is provided in addition to a fixing screw that is passed through a fixing hole through the base main body to fasten the base to the camera housing. The base main body has a fixing hole for the fixing screw and a pair of elongated holes for passing the set screws so as to be transversely movable. The holder plate has an elongated hole for passing the fixing screw so as to be transversely movable and screw holes for engaging the set screws.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2009Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: INON, Inc.Inventor: Akihide Inoue
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Publication number: 20110007145Abstract: In an image capturing apparatus having a plurality of shooting modes, the shooting mode can be switched to a shooting mode sharing a pre-determined relationship, with a simple operation. Specifically, whether the currently set shooting mode has been associated with other shooting modes is determined when a pre-determined operation input is detected. If the currently set shooting mode is associated with other shooting modes, the shooting mode is switched to one of the other shooting modes sharing the pre-determined relationship with the current shooting mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2010Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Soichiro Shigeeda
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Patent number: 7869620Abstract: The present invention is a processing method to increase the detection of objects below the surface of the water comprising the steps of: acquiring image data in separate spectral regions simultaneously and converting the image data into intensity value arrays for each spectral region, transforming the intensity value arrays into two-dimensional discrete wavelet transform arrays for each spectral region, and subtracting in a pair wise manner the two-dimensional discrete wavelet transform arrays thereby obtaining images showing an object below the surface of the water.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2007Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Inventors: Kadayam S. Thyagarajan, Richard H. Patterson
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Patent number: 7862394Abstract: Apparatus includes a buoyant structure having a central vertical axis when floating in water and having at least one feature to reduce a rotation of the buoyant structure about the central vertical axis when floating in the water. The apparatus further includes an electronic camera assembly coupled to the buoyant structure. The electronic camera assembly is configured to generate an electronic image signal. The apparatus further includes a tubular structure coupled to the buoyant structure and configured to remain under the surface of the water. The tubular structure includes a watertight compartment and an electronic circuit assembly disposed within the watertight compartment. The electronic circuit assembly is coupled to receive the electronic image signal and is configured to generate an optical image signal representative of the electronic image signal. The apparatus further includes a fiber optic cable configured to carry the optical image signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2009Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Ultra Electronics Ocean Systems, Inc.Inventors: Roger C. Larson, Nicholas L. Flacco, Gregory B. Hunter
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Patent number: 7845303Abstract: A remotely operated underwater vehicle includes a case to which is attached a camera for transmitting video to a remotely located base station. A tether having four pairs of twisted wire operably connects the underwater vehicle, and the camera to the base station. Video is transmitted from the camera to the base station on a pair of twisted wire.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2009Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventor: Calvert T. Hawkes
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Publication number: 20100295933Abstract: The present invention discloses a watertight monitoring device and comprises: fixing frame, a watertight cover, an image-capturing module, an upper cover, at least an adjustment tab, at least a plastic film, a front cover, and a rear cover; wherein the fixing frame has an outer surface provided with a recess having at least a through hole, the plastic film having an end coupled with the bottom edge of the adjustment tab and an opposite end passing sequentially through the aperture of the watertight cover and the through hole of the recess on the outer surface of the fixing frame and coupled with the adjustment rod of the image-capturing module, wherein the projecting portion of the adjustment tab can be pushed along the outer surface of the monitoring device so that the adjustment tab is moved in the arc direction, and the plastic film thus driving the adjustment rod of the image-capturing module so as to adjust functions of the image-capturing module.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2009Publication date: November 25, 2010Applicant: VTC ELECTRONICS GROUPInventors: Ming-Feng Hsieh, Wen-Chi Wang, Julian Lin
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Patent number: 7826729Abstract: An underwater camera assembly including a through hull housing having a passage extending therethrough. A flexible camera insert is positioned within the passage of the through hull housing and has a first end with a viewing window secured thereto, and a first sealing region for sealing the passage in a water tight manner.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2008Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Airmar Technology CorporationInventors: Robert M. Cullen, Stephen G. Boucher
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Publication number: 20100259606Abstract: An imaging device includes an imaging unit configured to capture an image of a subject and obtain image data, a setting unit configured to set at least two shooting modes including an underwater shooting mode and a normal shooting mode, and a control unit configured to set a different initial value of a control amount of white balance according to whether a shooting mode set by the setting unit is the underwater shooting mode or the normal shooting mode, calculate the control amount of white balance based on the set initial value and the image data obtained by the imaging unit, and perform white balance control on the image data obtained by the imaging unit based on the calculated control amount.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2010Publication date: October 14, 2010Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Reiji Hasegawa
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Patent number: 7804518Abstract: A method for enhancing underwater imaging affected by image degradation effects, the method comprising: acquiring at least one image of an underwater scene using an imaging device; determining information regarding distances of parts of the scene relative to the imaging device; and reconstructing an image of the underwater scene using a physics-based mathematical model, compensating image characteristics influenced by distance-dependent underwater degradation effects including veiling light, using the information on the distances of parts of the scene from the imaging device, and compensating distance-dependent underwater degradation effects relating to the distance of illumination sources from the scene.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2005Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: Technion Research and Development Foundation Ltd.Inventors: Yoav Schechner, Nir Karpel
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Patent number: 7801425Abstract: An underwater camera housing provided with an adaptive mechanical control arrangement for use with a broad range of camera brands and models. The camera housing is preferably formed of front and rear housing sections that are molded of clear transparent plastic and arranged to be moved between an open position for mounting a camera within the housing and a closed position in which the housing provides a watertight enclosure for protecting and communicating with a camera. The housing is provided with a truncated hemispherical lens through which a camera views scenes to be photographed to reduce distortion and not foreshorten viewing angle and a flat window and optional diffuser for providing controlled artificial illumination to a scene.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2008Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Optikos CorporationInventors: Stephen J. Fantone, Stephen D. Fantone, Peter M. Nielsen
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Publication number: 20100235018Abstract: An unmanned apparatus for use in traversing and inspecting at least a portion of an elongated structure. The unmanned apparatus includes at least one structural member defining a recess sized and configured to receive the portion of the elongated structure. In one aspect, the unmanned apparatus includes a clamping mechanism coupled to the structural member, wherein the clamping mechanism is capable of detachably attaching the unmanned apparatus to the elongated structure. A locomotion system is actuated while the unmanned apparatus is attached to the elongated structure causing the unmanned apparatus to traverse at least a portion of the elongated structure. The unmanned apparatus includes a plurality of cameras and/or at least one sensor capable of providing information regarding the structural integrity of the interior and/or exterior of the elongated structure. A method of inspecting and traversing at least a portion of the elongated structure is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: SEATREPID INTERNATIONAL, LLCInventor: Robert D. Christ
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Patent number: 7796809Abstract: A remote 3-D imaging system which uses a novel angular relationship to establish the relationship of the image features to the system, which is displayed by virtue of calculations. In addition to static surfaces, moving surfaces may be studied and corrections due to turbidity and platform position are also easily compensated for. A pre-test module is also included which predicts and has the ability to re-adjust the instrumentation to the test conditions as predicted by a hybrid Monte Carlo model. The instant system may also contain a plurality of sensing systems based on light, including traditional reflective or elastic scattering and novel fluorescent or non elastic scattering still and video imaging systems, including time-gated systems.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: University of South FloridaInventors: Kendall L. Carder, Phillip N. Reinersman
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Patent number: 7760994Abstract: An image capturing apparatus (210) for capturing an image (214) of a scene (12) that is within a fluid (16) includes an apparatus frame (228), a capturing system (230), and a control system (236). The capturing system (230) captures the image (214). The control system (236) adjusts a color content of the captured image (214) based on at least one of a separation distance (SDist) between the image capturing apparatus (210) and a subject (20) of the scene (12); an apparatus depth (AD) of the image capturing apparatus (210) below a fluid surface (21); a subject depth (SDep) of the subject (20) below the fluid surface (21); or a fluid type of the fluid (16). Additionally, the image capturing apparatus (210) can include a depth sensor (234) that provides an apparatus depth signal that corresponds to the apparatus depth (AD) of the image capturing apparatus (210).Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2006Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Mark Takita
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Publication number: 20100134319Abstract: An underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2010Publication date: June 3, 2010Inventors: Mark Rhodes, Derek Wolfe, Brendan Hyland
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Patent number: 7707958Abstract: A propulsion system is provided for an underwater vehicle such as a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV). Two propellers are independently driven by motors, while the orientation of the propellers is simultaneously controlled by a third motor. A means is provided for reprogramming the control electronics that can be disabled when the vehicle is underwater. The control electronics also provides that all signals including video are transmitted to a base station without requiring coaxial cable.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2009Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Inventor: Calvert T. Hawkes
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Patent number: 7710465Abstract: An image capturing apparatus (210) for providing an image (214) of a scene (12) that is within a fluid (16) includes an apparatus frame (228), a capturing system (230), and a control system (236). The capturing system (230) captures a captured image (614A). The control system (236) adjusts a color content of the captured image (614A) based on a clarity of the fluid (16). The image capturing apparatus (210) can include a clarity sensor (227) that provides a clarity signal that corresponds to the clarity of the fluid (16) near the image capturing apparatus (210). Moreover, the image capturing apparatus (210) can include an illumination system (724) that generates a generated light beam (726) that can be adjusted to compensate for the light that is attenuated by the fluid (16).Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Mark Takita
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Publication number: 20100079589Abstract: An imaging apparatus incorporating a plurality of scene modes is provided with: an automatic appropriate mode determining portion that, while shooting of a moving image is in progress, automatically determines at least one scene mode appropriate for a shooting scene of the moving image; and a scene mode comparison portion that compares a currently selected scene mode with the at least one scene mode automatically determined by the automatic appropriate scene mode determining portion, and that thereby confirms whether or not the currently selected scene mode corresponds to any one of the at least one scene mode automatically determined by the automatic appropriate scene mode determining portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Applicant: SANYO ELECTRIC CO., LTD.Inventors: Masahiro YOSHIDA, Tomoki OKU, Kazuma HARA, Makoto YAMANAKA
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Patent number: 7679674Abstract: Providing a camera housing which is suitably used to house a camera with a liquid crystal monitor having a touch panel and is capable of preventing the touch panel from being broken. The camera housing includes, an external operation unit provided outside the camera housing, a contact member provided inside the camera housing for operating the touch panel by contacting the touch panel, and an elastic member provided between the external operation unit and the contact member for transmitting pressing force which is applied on the external operation unit to the contact member.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Akio Nishizawa
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Patent number: 7660057Abstract: Areas 11—1a, being in contact with an O-ring 13, of an outer peripheral surface of a taking lens 11—1 and an area 12a, being in contact with the O-ring 13, of an inner surface of a lens frame 12 are formed in taper shapes having slopes with respect to an optical axis of the taking lens 11—1 in a section taken along a plane including the optical axis. The O-ring 13 is disposed in contact with the areas 11—1a and 12a, which are formed in the taper shapes, of both of the outer peripheral surface of the taking lens 11—1 and the inner surface of the lens frame 12. Also, the O-ring 13 is pressed in directions of arrows P and P? by the outer peripheral surface of the taking lens 11—1 and the inner surface of the lens frame 12.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2009Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Fujinon CorporationInventors: Naoki Sasaki, Takeshi Yamada
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Patent number: 7653292Abstract: A photographing apparatus that performs photographing with a camera main body accommodated in a waterproof housing includes a touch panel disposed in overlapping relationship with a display unit of the camera main body. The camera main body is operated by the touch panel, and, when photographing is performed with the camera main body accommodated in the waterproof housing, the operation of operation buttons of the waterproof housing operate corresponding operation buttons of the camera main body.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2006Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Mitsuo Yamaguchi, Tetsuro Fukumoto, Kazunori Kusayanagi, Kazunori Takagi, Ryoko Amano
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Patent number: 7653291Abstract: The present invention relates to a water proof case for a digital camera. The water proof case for a digital camera according to the present invention comprises a housing having an inner space to accommodate the digital camera, an upper and a lower transparent films formed, respectively, on an upper and a lower sides of the housing, a first attaching member formed on an upper surface of the housing at a side of the upper transparent film, a corrugated header extended from the housing at a side of the first attaching member, a cover connected to the housing at the side of the first attaching member and positioned at a back of the corrugated header, a second attaching member formed on an upper surface of the cover, and a light tube unit heat-fused to the upper transparent film.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2006Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Inventor: Myeong-Hwan Yeom