Abstract: A data processing apparatus includes a central control section, an image analysis section, a RAM (Random Access Memory), an external memory section and a user operation input section. The central control section is connected to the image analysis section, the RAM and the external memory section via a bus. Based on image data prepared by an image input section, the image analysis section performs a process of specifying where on the display screen of a display section a portion specified by the image input section lies.

Abstract: In a method of preventing false acceptance in a system for checking fingerprints, a latent fingerprint on the sensor (1) is detected by the location of a currently recorded fingerprint being compared with the location of a previously recorded fingerprint. If the location essentially corresponds, the recorded fingerprint is considered as originating from a latent fingerprint, and the fingerprint is rejected. Otherwise, the fingerprint is considered as originating from an actual finger on the sensor.

Abstract: Each unit pixel has a photodiode PD, an amplifying MOS transistor T1 having its gate connected to the cathode of the photodiode PD, and a MOS transistor T2 having its source connected to the node between the photodiode PD and the gate of the MOS transistor T1. Forming only two MOS transistors other than a photodiode PD functioning as a photoelectric converter helps improve the open-area ratio.

Abstract: An ultra-high speed image sensor is a frame transfer type. A charge corresponding to an intensity of a incident ray is generated at an element of a charge transfer path corresponding to each window. The generated charge is transferred on the charge transfer path by voltages applied from the charge transfer electrodes to. Each of the charge transfer electrodes to has a larger size in a charge transfer direction at portions corresponding to the window than that at portions covered with the intercepting film.

Abstract: A image reading device is activated by the light interference of a light path. The image reading device comprises at least a image sensing element, a picture and a image changing mechanism such as a picture conveying module, picture rotating module, a hole or a soft button with picture in the inner side. The user may use finger or other objects to interfere the image generated in the image sensing element. By detecting the changes of the image, a predetermined activation process of the image reading device is therefore started.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for detecting or inspecting defects on a polishing pad for use in performing chemical mechanical polishing of a wafer. The apparatus for detecting the defects on the pad comprises a pad driving device for loading the pad thereon and moving the pad, at least one camera installed to face the pad for converting an image of the pad into an electrical signal and outputting the converted electrical signal, a digital image data acquisition device for converting the electrical signal transmitted from the camera into a digital signal, and an image data processing unit for processing the image data and detecting the defects on the pad.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of video-camera systems, such as a video conferencing systems, and more particularly to video camera targeting systems that locate and acquire targets using an input characterizing a target and a machine-classification system to assist in target acquisition responsively to that input. In some embodiments, the characterization and classification are employed together with one or more inputs of other modalities such as gesture-control. In one example of the system in operation, an operator is able to make pointing gestures toward an object and, simultaneously speak a sentence identifying the object to which the speaker is pointing. At least one term of the sentence, presumably, is associated with a machine-sensible characteristic by which the object can be identified. The system captures and processes the voice and gesture inputs and re-positions a PTZ video camera to focus on the object that best matches both the characteristics and the gesture.

Abstract: A light source section for emitting light intended to be irradiated onto a photographic film that is serving as an original to be read is formed from a total of five types of LED, namely, the LEDs 72R and 74R for emitting light in the R wavelength region, the LEDs 76G and 78G for emitting light in the G wavelength region, and the LED 80B for emitting light in the B wavelength region arranged in one row for each type of LED and packed densely together on an aluminum substrate. The emission spectrums of each of the LEDs 72R, 74R, 76G, 78G, and 80B are different from each other. The film type is then detected and the turning on and off and the emission intensity of each LED are controlled so that the spectral characteristics of light emitted from the light source section in accordance with an LED emission pattern determined on the basis of the spectral absorption characteristics of the film match the spectral characteristics of reading light suitable for reading the film.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an imager has an array of photodetectors, each of which accumulates charge during an integration period as a result of light detected during the integration period, the array having a charge capacity which increases during the integration period. A charge capacity controller coupled to the imager adjusts how the imager increases the charge capacity of the array based upon the brightness distribution detected by the imager during at least one previous integration period.

Abstract: A system and method for use in testing and calibrating both electronic and traditional photographic devices. An illuminator with solid-state emitters and having independent control of both output spectral characteristics and power level enable the system and method to accurately test and calibrate the desired equipment.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus, method and computer program for processing documents using color marking. The apparatus includes a color scanner, a memory and a processor. The color scanner creates an image of each document. The memory stores one or more document processing instructions associated with the presence or absence of one or more color swatches within the image. The processor is coupled to the color scanner and the memory. In addition, the processor controls the color scanner, determining whether one or more color swatches are present or absent in the image and executing the document processing instructions associated with the presence or absence of the one or more color swatches.

Abstract: Aspects for locating chip-level defects through emission imaging of a semiconductor device are described. The aspects include providing a semiconductor device for inspection within an emission imaging system. Emission detection from a frontside and backside of the semiconductor device substantially simultaneously is then performed in the emission imaging system, wherein the emissions detected indicate potential defects within the semiconductor device.

Abstract: A method and system for enabling user interaction with computer software running in a computer system via an interface surface and a sensing device. The interface surface contains information relating to the computer software and coded data indicative of a text field. When placed in an operative position relative to the interface surface, the sensing device senses indicating data indicative of the text field and generates movement data indicative of the sensing device's movement relative to the interface surface. The indicating data and movement data are received in the computer system and the text field is identified from the indicating data. The computer software is operated at least partly in reliance on the movement data, and in accordance with instructions associated with the text field.

Abstract: A sensing device for sensing region identity data and generating movement data when the sensing device is moved relative to a region of a surface, the region identity data being indicative of an identity of the region, the movement data being indicative of the movement of the sensing device relative to the region, the surface having disposed upon it coded data indicative of at least one region associated with the surface, the sensing device including: region identity sensing means configured to sense the region identity data using at least some of the coded data; motion sensing means configured to generate the movement data; and communications means configured to communicate the region identity data and the movement data to a computer system.

Abstract: A system and method for enabling remote conferencing between conference participants involves the use of one or more forms that support interaction with a computer system or network. Each form is printed on sheet material such as paper and includes coded data that allows it to be used to interact with the computer system via a sensing device operated by a user. The system and method can be employed by geographically distributed participants to communicate graphical ideas via a shared ‘whiteboard’ using interactive surface media while engaged in a telephone conference. Every time a participant adds a modification or a new diagram to the whiteboard, the other participants can be provided with a printed copy of the updated page.

Abstract: A method and system for enabling user interaction with computer software running in a computer system. The user is provided with an interface surface containing information relating to the computer software and including coded data indicative of at least one interactive element relating to the computer software. A sensing device in the form of an optically sensing stylus contains identifying data indicative of an identity of the user. When the user writes with the stylus, or uses it as a pointer, an operative end of the stylus is brought into contact with the interface surface. The sensing device senses indicating data indicative of the at least one interactive element using at least some of the coded data. The computer system receives the identifying data and the indicating data from the sensing device. The interactive element is identified in the computer system using the indicating data, and user data is identified using the identifying data.

Abstract: Briefly stated, the operating depth of field for a bar code scanner, preferably a laser scanner, is increased by placing a cubic phase mask (CPM) in the scanning beam. The masked beam is then scanned and reflected off a bar code and received by a photodetector. The received signal is then processed to recover the original unperturbed representation of the bar code pattern. The processed signal has an increased depth of field over an unmasked scanner signal.

Abstract: Accuracy and speed of biometric identity verification are significantly improved by use of multiple simultaneous scans of biometric features of a user, such as multiple fingerprints, using multiple scanners (40, 50) of smaller size than would be needed to accommodate all of the fingerprints in a single scanner (30), and using multiple parallel processors (42, 52), or a single higher speed processor, to process the fingerprint data more efficiently. Obtaining biometric data from multiple user features by use of multiple scanners increases verification accuracy, but without the higher cost and slower processing speed that would be incurred if a single large scanner were to be used for improved accuracy.

Abstract: A linear pixel-array processing systems uses a combination of digital and analog signal processing techniques to calibrate the gain and offset of each pixel in the analog domain. A plurality of fixed gain and offset values are applied in the analog domain to adjust the gain and offset of each pixel at high speeds (on the order of 25–50 MHz). By adjusting the gain and offset in the analog domain, the dynamic range of pixel conversion is improved such that the conversion range is fully utilized (over 90%, on the order of 95%–99%). The gain and offset values are determined with an algorithmic calibration routine that corrects for non-ideal effects in the signal path. A single processing channel can be multiplexed to process multiple pixel arrays to provide for a cost effective solution. In higher speed systems, the single processing channel can be extended to multiple processing channels for improved throughput.

Abstract: A low-noise active pixel circuit is disclosed that efficiently suppresses reset (kTC) noise by using a compact preamplifier consisting of a photodetector and only four MOSFETs of identical polarity, in conjunction with ancillary circuits located on an imager's periphery. The supporting circuits help the simplified pixel circuit to synchronously acquire (i.e., take a snapshot) an image across an imaging array, read the signal with low noise, and efficiently reset the pixel with low noise.

Abstract: Pixels in an array of image sensor pixels contain photo-sensors and circuits having inputs connected to the photosensors. The circuits have feedback loops for reducing fixed pattern noise in the array. Output from each pixel is used to latch a multibit counter value supplied by a global counter. Each feedback loop preferably includes a pair of alternately-toggling switching transistors to minimize unwanted charge injection. An image sensor according to the invention can be used for, e.g., motion sensing.

Abstract: An image sensing device of this invention corrects sensitivity nonuniformity of an image sensing element. This image sensing device has an image sensing element (5) having a two-dimensional matrix of pixels, a first multiplier circuit (18) for multiplying the output from the image sensing element (5) output via an A/D converter (7) by horizontal linear correction data, a second multiplier circuit (19) for multiplying the product of the first multiplier circuit by vertical linear correction data, a selector (16) for selecting horizontal linear correction data, and a selector (17) for selecting vertical linear correction data. The device switches the selectors (16, 17) in accordance with the position (horizontal and vertical addresses) of the pixel of interest.

Abstract: There is provided an image inputting apparatus which allows various processing while minimizing originals to be reset in an original feeder. The image inputting apparatus is provided with a scan processing command for operating only an image reading section and a feed processing command for operating only an original feeder section with respect to an external control unit such as a computer. When the external control unit issues the feed processing command, an image input control section of the image inputting apparatus receiving the command recognizes that the command is a command for controlling the original feeder section and instructs an original feeder monitoring control section to feed the original. Receiving the instruction, the original feeder monitoring control section controls the original feeder section to feed one original onto a platen.

Abstract: A document image capture (scanning) system and control method are described for scanning and processing document images received live from a camera. A motion detector detects image motion between two image frames. When the image is stationary, image processing (such as OCR) is carried out automatically and made available to the operator. In one form, when movement is detected, the image processing results are discarded until the image is newly stationary, whereupon new image processing is carried out on the new image. In another form, the degree of movement is evaluated; if the movement is small, then at least some of the previous image processing results are re-used by re-mapping on to the new image.

Abstract: An image read/write head (A) includes a support (7) for supporting at least one of paired platen rollers (P1, P2) and a detector (2) for detecting at least one of a document (D) and a recording paper (K). Therefore, an image processing apparatus incorporating the image read/write head (A) can be easily manufactured. The image read/write head (A) further includes a reflection preventing member (6) for collectively surrounding the plurality of light receiving elements (3) and the plurality of drive IC chips (80). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the plurality of light receiving elements from receiving scattering light or disturbing external light.

Abstract: An improved method and device for capturing image data benefits from having a single central processor execute the operating system, and the image capture, decode and processing programs. A method for capturing of image data comprises transmitting image data from an imager, assembling the image data, assigning a memory address to the assembled image data and transferring the assembled image data into system memory. This method is capable of central processing whereby the capturing of image data is executed via the main processor without having to invoke a dedicated processor or incorporate external components, such as additional PCBs, external digital signal processing or external data storage. Additionally, an imaging device comprises an image builder module that receives image data from the imager bus and assembles the data, and a transfer controller that initiates the image builder module and controls the transfer of image data into and out of memory.

Abstract: A carrier device for a contact image sense optical scanner. The carrier device incorporates a pair of magnets with identical poles facing each other or a fluid filled sealed chamber for exerting an equal pressure on a scanning module within the scanner and maintaining close contact with a document platform throughout a scanning operation.

Abstract: A reflected or transmitted light scanner includes an illumination device for illuminating image material, a carrier for holding the image material, and a recording device for recording the light transmitted through the image material and for pixel by pixel conversion of the light into electric signals that can be used to generate original image signals in several colors as well as a defect signal. The reflected or transmitted light scanner further comprises a memory device for storing the image and defect signals, pixel by pixel; a computing device for generating low-pass signals from the image signals; a memory device for storing the low-pass signals, pixel by pixel; and a correction device for selecting between the image signal and the low-pass signal, or a combination of image signal and low-pass signal, for each pixel, in dependence upon the value or the position of the defect signal for the respective pixel.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved Wavefront Coding imaging apparatus and methods composed of optics, a detector, and processing of the detected image. The optics are constructed and arranged to have the characteristic that the transverse ray intercept curves form substantially straight, sloped lines. The wavefront coding corrects for known or unknown amounts of “misfocus-like” aberrations by altering the optical transfer function of the imaging apparatus in such a way that the altered optical transfer function is substantially insensitive to aberrations. Post processing then removes the effect of the coding, except for the invariance with regard to aberrations, thereby producing clear images.

Abstract: The present invention employs an instruction button for inputting an instruction to simultaneously executing registration, in a full-text-search database, of a document scanned by one scanning operation and subjected to OCR processing, and registration of the document in a designated folder contained in a database of a folder tree structure. This single instruction button enables the user to simultaneously register read images in a folder, and text data resulting from OCR processing executed on the read images.

Abstract: A method and system for enabling user interaction with computer software running in a computer system. The user is provided with an interface surface containing information relating to the computer software and including coded data indicative of at least one interactive element relating to the computer software. A sensing device in the form of an optically sensing stylus contains identifying data indicative of an identity of the user. When the user writes with the stylus, or uses it as a pointer, an operative end of the stylus is brought into contact with the interface surface. The sensing device senses indicating data indicative of the at least one interactive element using at least some of the coded data. The computer system receives the identifying data and the indicating data from the sensing device. The interactive element is identified in the computer system using the indicating data, and user data is identified using the identifying data.

Abstract: An image acquisition system has a computer and one or more imaging devices coupled thereto. Each imaging device has a device memory and is capable of capturing and storing a digital image in its memory. An image device manager is implemented in software on the computer to control imaging device operation. The image device manager presents a user interface (UI) within the familiar graphical windowing environment. The UI has a context space pertaining to a particular imaging context (e.g., scanning, photography, and video). The UI also has a persistently-visible imaging menu positioned within the context space that lists options particular to the imaging context. The image acquisition system also includes a set of application program interfaces (APIs) that enable applications to manage loading and unloading of imaging devices, monitor device events, query device information properties, create device objects, capture images using the devices, and store or manipulate the captured images.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for analyzing properties of a surface by taking an image scene with a camera, wherein at least two images are taken with an illumination with directed and/or diffused light, wherein the image information of the single images is converted into digital signals, and subsequently a three-dimensional image is determined from the digital signals in computer-aided manner. Further, the image relates to an image-taking device for performing this method, comprising a video camera and a lighting appliance being associated with the video camera, the lighting appliance comprising a first lighting system generating diffused light and a second lighting system generating directed light, and a controller through which the first and the second lighting systems are controllable electronically and independently from one another.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide methods, computer software products and systems for detecting pixel stutter of a scanner. In one embodiment, a numeric count of stuttered pixels in both the x (row) and y (column) directions and a graphic display of the stuttered pixels overlaid on the image data are provided by the invention. The y-direction stutter count provides the estimate of pixel stutter from pure statistical data variations.

Abstract: Pixels in an array of image sensor pixels contain photo-sensors and circuits having inputs connected to the photosensors. The circuits have feedback loops for reducing fixed pattern noise in the array. Output from each pixel is used to latch a multibit counter value supplied by a global counter. Each feedback loop preferably includes a pair of alternately-toggling switching transistors to minimize unwanted charge injection. An image sensor according to the invention can be used for, e.g., motion sensing.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes an image reading unit for reading image information of an original resting on an original resting portion, wherein, at the time of reading, the image reading unit moves along the original resting portion, and a flat cable electrically connecting the image reading unit to the main body of the image reading apparatus to transmit the image information read by the image reading unit to the main body of the image reading apparatus, wherein the width direction of the flat cable includes a component in a direction perpendicular to the original resting surface.

Abstract: An image capturing system is installable in a room opposite a writing surface. The image capturing system is adapted to take visual images of the writing surface and identify information written thereon.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing corrected values of gain and level coefficients of a set of correction coefficients for a scanning detector array, such as an IR detector array, comprising a plurality of detector channels is described. First values of the gain and level coefficients can be modified using at least one frame of image data collected by the scanning detector array from out-of-focus multiple-temperature imagery. Updated values of the gain and level coefficients can be determined using a scene-based non-uniformity correction (SBNUC) routine applied to scene data corresponding to focused scene imagery. The SBNUC routine can be applied iteratively such that updated values of gain and level coefficients converge to stable values.

Abstract: A system and method for using specially printed paper and a handheld device to supplement, or replace, large displays and user interfaces commonly required for efficient use of computing devices. The paper is encoded with location information and a message. The message is distributed redundantly across the page, may be arbitrarily large, and may contain security information. In one embodiment, the device uses a single sensor to read the encoded message and location information, and to measure the relative motion of the device. After scanning the specially printed paper, a user may then raise the device, place it on any convenient flat surface, and continue to slide, exploring areas outside of the printed copy.

Abstract: The method for evaluating schlieren in glassy or crystalline optical materials includes irradiating a test sample of the optical material with light and producing a shadow image of the test sample on a projection screen. The shadow image of the test sample is received in an electronic image receiving device, such as a digital camera, and is compared with another shadow image of schlieren obtained with a comparison sample by means of interferometry. Then the optical material of the test sample is evaluated with the help of the comparison results.

Abstract: An image acquisition system has a computer and one or more imaging devices coupled thereto. Each imaging device has a device memory and is capable of capturing and storing a digital image in its memory. An image device manager is implemented in software on the computer to control imaging device operation. The image device manager presents a user interface (UI) within the familiar graphical windowing environment. The UI has a context space to a particular imaging context (e.g., scanning, photography, and video). The UI also has a persistently-visible imaging menu positioned within the context space that lists options particular to the imaging context. The image acquisition system also includes a set of application program interfaces (APIs) that enable applications to manage loading and unloading of imaging devices, monitor device events, query device information properties, create device objects, capture images using the devices, and store or manipulate the captured images.

Abstract: There is provided a sensitivity correction method in which shading can be eliminated regardless of a type of a photographic film. A film carrier is moved to a position where a vertical direction center of a first correction plate, having a uniform spectral reflection characteristic, is coincident with an optical axis. Transmitted light from the first correction plate is detected by a linear CCD, and shading data for a positive is acquired. The film carrier is moved to a position where a vertical direction center of a second correction plate, having a spectral reflection characteristic substantially identical to that of a base portion of a negative film, is coincident with the optical axis. Transmitted light from the second correction plate is detected by the linear CCD, and shading data for a negative is obtained.

Abstract: A method and system which provide for automated note completion. In one embodiment, the method is characterized by sensing a presence of a first provider; detecting at least one incomplete provider note; and presenting the at least one incomplete provider note to the first provider. In another embodiment of the method, the sensing a presence of a first provider is characterized by accepting an identifier associated with the first provider. In another embodiment of the method, the accepting an identifier associated with the first provider is characterized by accepting user input of the identifier via either a keyboard, a touch-screen reader, a graphical user interface, or a biometrics identifier. In another embodiment of the method, the detecting at least one incomplete provider note is characterized by checking at least one database for flagged-incomplete notes associated with the at least one provider.

Abstract: A sensing device for sensing region identity data and generating movement data when the sensing device is moved relative to a region of a surface, the region identity data being indicative of an identity of the region, the movement data being indicative of the movement of the sensing device relative to the region, the surface having disposed upon it coded data indicative of at least one region associated with the surface, the sensing device including: region identity sensing means configured to sense the region identity data using at least some of the coded data; motion sensing means configured to generate the movement data; and communications means configured to communicate the region identity data and the movement data to a computer system.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes a photoelectric transducer which reads an image of a document and outputs an analog image signal, an A/D converter which converts the analog signal to a digital image signal, and an offset level detecting circuit which determines an average value of output levels from picture elements in a predetermined range of the photoelectric transducer. Further, there is an offset setting unit which provides an offset in the analog image signal before the A/D conversion on the basis of the average value, a first comparing device which compares the average value to a predetermined target value, and an adjusting device which adjusts a size of the predetermined range of the photoelectric transducer on the basis of the result of the comparison.

Abstract: A method for generating, in a non-contact range finding and measurement system, a template structure representative of the surface of an observed object, and for utilizing the template structure to synthesize data points in corrupted regions of an image of the object.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for enabling instruction of a computer to perform tasks, the method including the steps of: providing a user with at least one form printable on a surface to provide one or more first viewable information zones relating to one or more available commands and one or more second viewable information zones relating to one or more objects; receiving, in a computer system, indicating data from a sensing device operated by the user regarding movement of the sensing device relative to the surface, said movement including a stroke of part of the sensing device on or relative to said surface; determining, in the computer system and from the indicating data, if the stroke substantially links one or more of said first viewable information zones with one or more of said second viewable information zones, and thereby interpreting the stroke as designating (i) a respective one or more of said available commands and (ii) a respective one or more of said objects; and applying in the com

Abstract: A product for electronic transmission of handwritten information, a user unit for recording and sending the information, and a computer program for controlling a user unit are disclosed. The product may include at least one writing area for the handwritten information and an address area indicating an address to which the handwritten information is to be sent. A position-coding pattern in the form of a plurality of symbols may be reproduced in the writing area, an arbitrary position area of a predetermined size of the position-coding pattern unambiguously defining a position on the product. The address area may include an address-coding pattern with a plurality of symbols, an arbitrary address portion of a predetermined size of the address-coding pattern unambiguously defining part of the address.

Abstract: A process for detecting a complementary DNA fragment is performed utilizing a DNA micro-array, a radiation image storage panel containing a stimulable phosphor, and a spacer sheet having plural openings.

Abstract: A method for composition and transmission of an electronic mail message including: printing a document to facilitate composition and transmission of the electronic mail message; composing the electronic mail message on the document utilizing a sensing device adapted to read coded data in the document; transmitting interaction data from the sensing device to a computer system, the interaction data representing interaction of the sensing device with the coded data to allow the message to be electronically captured in the computer system; and transmitting the message to at least one recipient address.