Camera Support Patents (Class 396/419)
  • Patent number: 5598237
    Abstract: An image capture apparatus is operable in a hand-held condition and in a stabilized non-hand-held condition. The image capture apparatus includes means for automatically determining which condition the image capture apparatus is to be operated in and means for preventing operation of the image capture apparatus in the stabilized non-hand-held condition when it is to be operated in the hand-held condition. In preferred embodiments of the invention, at least one slower shutter speed or one longer focal length is prevented from being used when the image capture apparatus is to be operated in the hand-held condition. As such, the recordation of poor quality images is prevented because camera conditions which can lead to "camera shake" defects are locked out when the camera is to be operated in the hand-held condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Dale F. McIntyre, Kenneth M. Haas
  • Patent number: 5587740
    Abstract: A kiosk providing postcards at scenic attractions that includes a digital camera fixed to the housing in predetermined orientation with respect to the scenic attraction to provide an artistically composed image of that attraction that may be printed on a postcard after payment by a user. A marker plate and display allow a user to superimpose himself or herself within the image and to review that composition prior to creating and paying for the postcard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: James M. Brennan