Abstract: Provided is an information processing apparatus including an input section that inputs a comment to be added to image information or document information, a selecting section that selects a type of the comment among plural types which are set in advance, based on a content of the comment input by the input section, a generating section that generates a pattern graphic corresponding to the type of the comment selected by the selecting section, and an adding section that adds the pattern graphic generated by the generating section to a position which is designated in the image information or the document information.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a rollable flexible display device. The rollable flexible display device including a display panel that displays an image and rolls or unrolls like a scroll, a sensing circuit that performs sensing to detect rolled and unrolled portions of the display panel and outputs sensed values, and a device adjusting part that adjusts the operating conditions of the display panel based on the sensed values sent from the sensing circuit.

Abstract: Various methods, apparatuses, and systems for providing a delayed geotag using GPS devices are described. The GPS device includes a wireless receiver configured to receive satellite state data and satellite range measurements from a plurality of satellites, a communications interface in communication with a media device, and a position engine configured to calculate a geotag. The GPS device can be configured to receive satellite range measurements from one or more satellites at a first point in time when the satellite state data for a minimum number of the satellites is unavailable, and to calculate the satellite state data at that time using satellite state data received at a second, later point in time. The satellite state information at the first point in time is calculated using an algorithm to extrapolate the satellite state data back to the first point in time when the satellite range measurements were made.

Abstract: A magnetic head according to one embodiment includes outer portions each having a tape bearing surface and an array of transducers selected from a group consisting of readers and writers; a central portion positioned between the outer portions, the central portion having a tape bearing surface and an array of transducers selected from a group consisting of readers and writers; wherein outer edges of the tape bearing surfaces of the outer portions are non-skiving, wherein an inner edge of each of the tape bearing surfaces of the outer portions is adapted for skiving air from the magnetic medium when the magnetic medium travels in a direction from the central portion towards the respective outer portion.

Abstract: A digital camera system includes a print medium having a first surface delimiting an area in which images are printed, and a second surface pre-treated to be magnetically sensitive; a photo-width printhead integrated with a digital camera, the photo-width printhead for printing digital images on the first surface of the print medium; and a magnetic recorder for recording information associated with said digital images on the second surface of the print medium at the same time the printhead prints the digital images onto the printing area.

Abstract: A digital camera system includes a print medium having a printing area and a magnetically-sensitive area, and a digital camera. The digital camera includes a photo-width printhead for printing digital images on the printing area of the print medium, and a magnetic recorder for recording information associated with the digital images on the magnetically-sensitive area of the print medium at the same time as the printhead prints the associated digital images onto the printing area.

Abstract: A digital camera system includes a print medium having a printing area and a magnetically-sensitive area, and a digital camera. The digital camera includes a photo-width printhead for printing digital images on the printing area of the print medium, and a magnetic recorder for recording information associated with the digital images on the magnetically-sensitive area of the print medium at the same time as the printhead prints the associated digital images onto the printing area.

Abstract: An image scanning system comprises: an image-capturing device that captures an image of a scan original and outputs image signals; an image processing circuit that executes image processing on the image signals; an image signal output device that outputs the image signals having undergone the image processing; a calculation device that calculates an estimated length of required time to complete image signal output after a scan instruction with regard to the scan original is issued; and a calculation result output device that outputs calculation results obtained at the calculation device.

Abstract: A digital camera is provided having a photo width printhead for printing digital images on a printing surface of magnetically sensitive print media, and a magnetic recorder for recording information associated with the digital images on a magnetic recording surface of the print media at the same time as the printhead prints the associated digital image onto the printing surface.

Abstract: A method for a customer leasing a configured camera system including a camera and services for using such configured camera system and paying for the lease of such configured camera system, includes the steps of providing an electronic database of information describing a plurality of differently configured camera systems which have different features and services that can be selected by the customer via a digital communications network; displaying at the customer's location remote from the electronic database various components of the camera system that can be combined into the configured camera system; the customer selecting desired components and services to provide the configured camera system and completing a lease agreement and providing a payment identifier specifying an account to be debited to pay for the configured camera system; and sending the camera to a designee of the customer and establishing a service user account that specify the selected services that the designee can use.

Abstract: A hand-held camera comprising an electronic image sensor for sensing an image, a photo-width printhead for printing the image onto print media, the photo-width printhead having an array of inkjet nozzles, each nozzles having micro electromechanical system (MEMS) actuator for ejecting ink, a receptacle adjacent the printhead for receiving a cartridge containing a roll of the print media, the print media having a magnetic recording surface, a magnetic recorder for recording associated information on the magnetic recording surface and a battery for powering the electronic image sensor, the photo-width printhead and the magnetic recorder; wherein during use, the photo-width printhead operates on less than 10 Watts.

Abstract: A housing cover of an image photographing apparatus has a main body mounting therein a deck for recording and reproducing information on an image input through a camera unit and a circuit board. A housing is openably hinged on one side of the deck to mount and separate an image recording medium to and from the deck. A door encloses an outside of the housing and is formed on one side of an outer casing of the main body. The door includes a groove part engaged with the housing by a plurality of screws. The groove part is provided with a hand grip for concealing the screws exposed to the outside and forming a grip part for a user to grip. Accordingly, gripability for carriage and use, and an aesthetic appearance of the image photographing apparatus are improved.

Abstract: An image reading device is provided in which processing of magnetic information and image reading can be carried out efficiently, and parts can be arranged highly efficiently in terms of space. By conveying an APS film in a pull-out direction, magnetic information is read by a magnetic head, and an image frame is prescanned by a line CCD. Next, the APS film is conveyed in a take-up direction, and fine scanning is carried out by the line CCD and magnetic information is written by a magnetic head. In this way, because writing of magnetic information can be carried out during conveying for fine scanning, processing time can be shortened. Moreover, because a distance between the magnetic head and the line CCD is not restricted, the magnetic head and the line CCD can be disposed at positions which are efficient in terms of space.

Abstract: A photographic film product is configured and purchased by providing an electronic database of information describing at least one photographic film product that can be configured by a purchaser via a digital communications network; displaying at the purchaser's location remote from the electronic database information describing instructions to enable the purchaser to configure the at least one photographic film product; the purchaser uploading at least one digital image from the purchaser's location remote from the electronic database; the purchaser providing a payment identifier specifying an account to be debited to pay for the configured photographic film product; configuring the photographic film product to include the uploaded digital image; and sending the configured photographic film product to a designee of the purchaser.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a camera including a writer adapted to couple information to a film in use in the camera, the information relating to an ISO rating setting for a particular image captured by the camera. The invention also relates to photographic processing system, comprising reading means to identify from magnetic information stored on a film to be processed the ISO rating setting at which images on the film were captured and a developer stage to receive the film to be developed. The photographic processing system also includes a control unit to select a development time for the film in dependence on the identified ISO rating setting. The invention enables optimisation of image quality to be achieved.

Abstract: An audio photograph or picture 2 made of a photograph or picture material 6 having an image area 12 for providing at least one photographic or picture image and further having an audio system 4 embedded within the photograph or picture material 6. The audio system 4 comprises a recording system for recording and storing audio information and a playback system for playing audio information. The components of the audio system 4 are made from ultra-thin, compact, and flexible materials, and these components are made paper-thin.

Abstract: A photographic and video image system for transforming an image on a frame of a photographic film includes a structure in the overall form of a photographic printer having an image transformation element that transforms an optical image from the film into a video signal, a frame position indicator, which can be a hole or an optical or magnetic signal, is recorded on the film along with aspect information relating to the size of the frame exposed on the film. The frame position indicator and aspect information are detected and used to control a film feeding operation and the optical image to video signal transformation operation. The user of the system can record order information on the film that is used to specify the aspect of the resultant photographic print, as well as the quantity of prints to be made. Such order information can be superimposed as a menu on a displayed video signal at the time the video signal is reviewed prior to producing a photographic print.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a photographic printer and a method of printing in which the printer is interfaced with a defect detection or scanning system that is adapted to inspect photographic paper for defects as it is consumed by the printer. In the system and method of the present invention, when a defect is detected, the printer is enabled to either skip over the defect area or to reprint the affected image. With respect to the defect, when detected, the present invention provides either for the utilization of a defect marker, such as a hole punch, which provides a physical mark on the paper in close vicinity of the defect or an electronic device capable of transmitting the precise location of the defect to the printing section. The hole or electronic signal is recognized by the printer, to enable it to either skip the defective frames or reprint the images.

Abstract: An image processing method including the steps of: acquiring scene information which is previously tagged on to image data supplied from an image data supply source together with the image data; and setting image processing conditions in accordance with the scene information using the image data, and/or setting an image sequence in a plurality of images to be recorded on an index print in accordance with the scene information; and producing the index print on which the plurality of the images are recorded in accordance with the image sequence. The method provides a digital image processing method that is particularly suitable for use with digital photoprinters and which can process image data under optimal conditions that are adapted to specific scenes in images such as the one recorded on films. As a result, the method can produce high-quality prints that reproduce optimal images for various scenes.

Abstract: A photographic system includes a photographic film having a film ID number thereon; a receipt provided with the photographic film, the receipt being imprinted with a uniform resource locator for acquiring an image on the film via the Internet, and an associated password; a scanner for scanning the film after processing to generate a digital image; means for associating the film ID number with the digital image; a digital image storage device for storing the digital image, a web server connected to the digital image storage device, having means for accessing the digital image using the uniform resource locator; a database accessible by the web server having stored therein the film ID number and the associated password; and wherein the means for accessing the digital image is password protected and accessible by use of the password.

Abstract: A film cleaning apparatus and method includes a cleaning member with at least one self-loading cleaning surface or pad mounted directly over the film, such that when assembled, the cleaning surface or pad applies a force onto the film. The cleaning member of the present invention is preferably provided upstream of a magnetic head with respect to a direction of travel of the film in an imaging apparatus. The cleaning member of the present invention contacts the film with a sufficient load or force to clean the film and preferably, the opposing magnetic tracks of the film, prior to the film passing the magnetic heads or reaching the magnetic head area.

Abstract: A film cleaning apparatus and method includes a cleaning member with at least one self-loading cleaning surface or pad mounted directly over the film, such that when assembled, the cleaning surface or pad applies a force onto the film. The cleaning member of the present invention is preferably provided upstream of a magnetic head with respect to a direction of travel of the film in an imaging apparatus. The cleaning member of the present invention contacts the film with a sufficient load or force to clean the film and preferably, the opposing magnetic tracks of the film, prior to the film passing the magnetic heads or reaching the magnetic head area.

Abstract: A robot apparatus is provided with a photographing device for photographing subjects and a notifying device for making an advance notice of photographing with the photographing device. In addition, in a control method for the robot apparatus, an advance notice of photographing subjects is made and then photographs of the subjects are taken. As a result, a picture can be prevented from being taken by stealth, regardless of user's intention, and thus the user's privacy can be protected.

Abstract: An audio photograph or picture 2 made of a photograph or picture material 6 having an image area 12 for providing at least one photographic or picture image and further having an audio system 4 embedded within the photograph or picture material 6. The audio system 4 comprises a recording system for recording and storing audio information and a playback system for playing audio information. The components of the audio system 4 are made from ultra-thin, compact, and flexible materials, and these components are made paper-thin.

Abstract: A camera incorporates a photo film support plate, which supports a back of photo film. The photo film has a magnetic recording area. An opening is formed in the photo film support plate. A magnetic head projects forwards from inside the opening, for recording information to and/or reading information from the magnetic recording area. A head base plate is mounted on a rear face of the photo film support plate to cover the opening, for supporting the magnetic head. Adhesive agent is applied to the periphery of the head base plate, and hardened for securing the head base plate to the photo film support plate. A pair of recesses are formed in a rear face of the head base plate in a vicinity of the periphery. The adhesive agent is disposed to extend from a front face of the head base plate to a surface of the recesses, which enlarge a contact area between the adhesive agent and the head base plate.

Abstract: A camera is used for recording information related to deterioration of image used for image processing in at least one selected from a photographic film, a film cartridge and a recording medium, provided with an information specifying unit which specifies at least one of image quality deterioration information related to image quality deterioration of the photographic image caused by a photographic lens of the camera and image quality deterioration correction information for correcting the image quality deterioration. An information recording unit records at least one of the image quality deterioration information and the image quality deterioration correction information, or at least one of the image quality deterioration information and the image quality deterioration correction information in combination with photographing information as related information.

Abstract: A photographic camera system includes a photographic camera that can successively expose a photographic film in different frame sizes and an automatic printer for automatically printing the processed photographic film exposed with those different frame sizes. The camera varies the aspect of an exposure opening in the camera body and the film is fed for a length corresponding to the selected aspect by detecting a hole located in a marginal area of the film. The photographic camera magnetically or optically records at a location away from the hole an aspect information signal indicative of the selected aspect of the exposed frame on the photographic film, and the automatic printer automatically prints the photographic film using the magnetically or optically recorded aspect information signal detected from the photographic film.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the life cycle of an electronic apparatus of the type that creates an output data record such as an exposed photographic film, or a digital data, sound or image file, includes a sensor in the electronic apparatus for monitoring the operation and condition of the apparatus to produce operational data; means in the electronic apparatus for appending the operational data to the data record; a data record utilization device that receives and operates on the data record; and a digital processor in the data record utilization device having a software agent that retrieves the operational data from the data record, processes the operational data and produces a message related to the life cycle of the product.

Abstract: A dual film image capture, electronic image capture camera is capable of electronic information editing after each substantially simultaneous film and electronic exposure, and it magnetically records the information adjacent each one of the exposed film frames after completed exposure of the entire film length.

Abstract: A method is provided for recording metadata elements using a predetermined portion of a photographic filmstrip. The method comprising the steps of recording a primary data field including the entire set of data elements using a first share of the predetermined portion; and recording at least two secondary data fields on a second share of the predetermined portion; wherein at least one of the secondary data fields contains less than all of the metadata elements associated with an image.

Abstract: In a camera which reproduces information recorded at a magnetic recording part of each frame of a film, a reproducing circuit is arranged to make a discrimination, without being affected by noises, between the presence and absence of information recorded on the film and to lessen errors of reproduction of information, a noise removing filter is arranged to have a variable passband, and a passband switch-over circuit is arranged to vary the passband of the filter between a passband to be set in making the discrimination between the presence and absence of information recorded on the film and a passband to be set in performing a decoding action on the information recorded on the film.

Abstract: An electronic image display apparatus includes an image sensor arranged to obtain an electronic image, an external memory arranged to store electronic image information related to identification information which identifies a photographic film loaded in the apparatus, a reproducing circuit arranged to reproduce the identification information recorded at a magnetic information recording part of the photographic film loaded, and a display device arranged to display, on the basis of the identification information stored in the external memory and reproduction information reproduced by the reproducing circuit, the electronic image information related to the identification information. The electronic image display apparatus is thus arranged to let the user know, without fail, what picture is taken on which of films by displaying an electronic image recorded on each film, even in a case where there are many exposed or partially exposed films.

Abstract: A photographic camera system includes a photographic camera that can successively expose a photographic film in different frame sizes and an automatic printer for automatically printing the processed photographic film exposed with those different frame sizes. The camera varies the aspect of an exposure opening in the camera body and the film is fed for a length corresponding to the selected aspect by detecting a hole located in a marginal area of the film. The photographic camera magnetically or optically records at a location away from the hole an aspect information signal indicative of the selected aspect of the exposed frame on the photographic film, and the automatic printer automatically prints the photographic film using the magnetically or optically recorded aspect information signal detected from the photographic film.

Abstract: A camera adapted to APS is equipped with an optical zooming feature and a feature of entering a demand of electronic zooming by which information regarding a zooming ratio readable to make a print from a frame of a negative film at a print magnification corresponding to a demanded zooming ratio by a printer is recorded on the film loaded therein.

Abstract: A digital camera loaded with a removable memory card storing image files and a print order file, in a wireless mode, sends the files to a computer via a handy phone set, and prepares a directory information file in which the files are virtually positioned in a preselected layer, so that the directory structure of the memory card can be reconstructed. The camera then accesses the handy phone set to send the files to the computer. The computer reconstructs the original directory structure and file names based on the directory information file and then prints out the image data of the image files in accordance with the print order file. The computer produces prints in the same manner as when directly reading the image data from the memory card.

Abstract: In an apparatus adapted to a photographic film having a magnetic recording part, a magnetic recording device continuously records magnetic information on an area of the photographic film extending from a leader part thereof to inside an image recording area thereof.

Abstract: A camera includes a magnetic head member arranged to read magnetic information recorded in each of a plurality of frames on a film, a transport member for transporting the film, a speed detecting circuit for detecting transport speed information indicative of a speed of at least one frame which is being transported by the transport member, a level detecting circuit for detecting a signal output level of magnetic information read out from the at least one frame by the magnetic head member, and a storage element for storing the transport speed information detected by the speed detecting circuit and the signal output level detected by the level detecting circuit. The camera is thus arranged to permit inspection of the magnetic information reproducing capability of the camera by detecting the transport speed information and the signal output level.

Abstract: A photographic film, which is accommodated in a cartridge provided with a storing element for storing printing information, is separated from the cartridge. An identification mark for having the film and the cartridge correspond to one another is applied to the film. The printing information stored in the storing element is read by a first reading device. The printing information read by the first reading device and the identification mark are stored in correspondence with each other. The printing information corresponding to the identification mark applied to the film is read by second reading device. In accordance with the printing information read by the second reading device, an image recorded on the photographic film is printed onto a photographic printing paper in a state in which the cartridge and the photographic film are separated from each other.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recording an information on magnetic recording tracks, called camera tracks, formed on a photographic negative film while relative movement is caused between the photographic negative film and a magnetic head. When the magnetic head is located in an information recording region of the camera tracks, a signal of the information representing photographing conditions of each image frame such as the aspect ratio of each frame, exposure amount at the time of photographing, information on a light source, etc., is output to the magnetic head via a modulator and a recording current amplifier. When the magnetic head is located in an non-recording region of the camera tracks, direct current having a magnitude substantially equal to the optimal recording current of the magnetic head or alternating current having the frequency which is not less than 5 times the frequency of the signal is output to the magnetic head via the modulator and the recording current amplifier.

Abstract: A camera and a printing apparatus are provided, which are able to produce a high-quality photographic print with the optimum density for a human subject within a short period of time. When a human subject taking switch 14 is turned on to receive an instruction for the camera user to take a human subject photograph, that is, when an instruction for a camera user to take a human subject photograph is inputted, a magnetic recording circuit 28 controls the magnetic head so as to write, in synchronism with winding of the film, information indicative of human subject photography, i.e. the subject is one or more persons (human subject information) and other information (photographic information, date and time information, and the like) in a magnetic information-recording section 21 on the film.

Abstract: A film unit has image capture media and a radio-frequency identification transponder affixed to the image capture media. The image capture media can be photographic film.

Abstract: It is an object of this invention to provide a film image read apparatus which allows a monitor to reproduce a film image in accordance with the intention of the photographer. To achieve this object, there is provided an apparatus including an information read circuit for reading predetermined information, other than image information, which is recorded on a film, an image read circuit for reading an illuminated film image, a metering circuit for metering the illuminated film image, a switching circuit for switching metering areas of the metering means for the film image, and a control circuit for controlling the switching means to switch the metering areas for the film image in accordance with the read information.

Abstract: A photographic system includes a photographic film having a unique identification code thereon. An identification tag is included with the photographic film; the identification tag bears a uniform resource locator that includes the unique identification code, and an associated password. The film is scanned after processing to generate a digital image and the unique identification code is associated with the digital image and stored in a digital storage device. A web server connected to the digital image storage device includes a resource identified by the uniform resource locator for accessing the digital image. A database accessible by the web server contains the unique identification code and the associated password wherein the resource is password protected and accessible by use of the password.

Abstract: A camera with a magnetic recording device that may record optional data on a magnetic recording layer of a photo filmstrip while the photo filmstrip is advanced by one frame after each exposure. The optional data is print number data designating the number of copies to print from a picture frame and/or caption data designating a content and a language of a caption to print with a picture frame. The optional data is selectable by photographers for each picture frame by operating a multi-operation button when the camera is put in a mode set-up standby stage upon a shift switch being turned on by pushing a shift button. The multi-operation button is virtually divided into four sections. The camera is put in a print number setting mode when one of the sections that is provided with a mark indicating the print number setting mode, is pressed in the mode set-up standby stage.

Abstract: A magnetic recording and regenerating unit for photographic film and a camera, which feed photographic film coated with a magnetic recording layer, records magnetic information in the magnetic recording layer, and regenerates magnetic information from the magnetic recording layer. In the magnetic recording and regenerating unit for a camera, the number of turns of a coil wound around a core included in a magnetic head is small. Thus, one magnetic head is able to record and regenerate magnetic information. The number of turns of the coil is determined so as to output a regenerated waveform which does not enable reading of the magnetic information but permits determination of whether any magnetic information is recorded or not. Whether any magnetic information is recorded or not is determined based on the output voltage from a smoothing circuit, a peak hold circuit, etc. which receive signals output from the magnetic head via an amplifier.

Abstract: A thermal processing kiosk for processing thermal film provides multiple processing options for a user. The kiosk includes a user control in the form of a touchscreen to permit the user to enter processing instructions and/or information. The thermal kiosk is adapted to accept exposed film for processing and printing in accordance with the processing instructions. In one feature of the invention, a user can prepay for processing of the film at the time of purchase of the film. The pre-paid status can be provided on the film by a marker or identifier on the cassette or the film. This helps to simplify the user interaction at the kiosk when the user submits the exposed film to the kiosk for processing. In further features of the invention, the processing flow in the thermal kiosk can be adapted to provide for rapid processing and the kiosk can include a display to permit a user to preview images prior to printing.

Abstract: It is an object to prevent an abuse of a print-out copy image as much as possible even if an image which was optically recorded in a film is printed out. For example, it is an object to enable information of an author to be obtained as much as possible so long as a copy image is used. To accomplish the objects, an image processing apparatus of the invention has optical reading means for optically reading a film and generating image data, magnetic reading means for magnetically reading the film and generating predetermined additional information, adding means for adding the predetermined additional information to the image data so that it is hard to be discriminated by the human eyes, and output means for outputting the image data to which the predetermined additional information was added.

Abstract: This invention proposes an optical controller for dividing a predetermined source light into a plurality of optical paths, projecting the light of each of the optical paths onto corresponding optical shutters, and opening and closing the optical shutters so that the light of each of the optical paths is shut off, transmitted or adjusted for quantity of light, whereby the source light can be used further efficiently.

Abstract: A camera includes a number-of-prints designating device which selectively designates number of prints for each frame of an image recording medium, and a display device which makes it possible to know whether a frame of the image recording medium for which number of prints is to be selectively designated by the number-of-prints designating device is an exposed frame or an unexposed frame.

Abstract: A camera for use with a film having a magnetic track extending along a longitudinal side of each image frame thereof is equipped with a magnetic recording head and a magnetic reproducing head located on one side of the magnetic recording head remote from a built-in film drive motor in close proximity to one side of the camera where a film winding spool or a film cartridge is located.