Abstract: A portable, compact Fax Camera Device comprised of a still electronic camera circuitry and an image sensor especially adapted for facsimile, with integrated facsimile communication device, this invention is designed and built specifically for the acquisition and communication of facsimile images in such aspects as resolution, aspect ratios, optical design, mounting capability, tight integration of facsimile circuitry, and capability of receiving facsimile images. The Fax Camera allows easy capturing of fax images from books without the need for photocopying, easy photography type capture of real world objects, as well as convenient regular page image capture and transmission. For regular page and book images, the invention is equipped with collapsible mounting device constructed to allow easy and accurate focus and provides a frame for predetermined size documents. The invention also includes a display device to allow viewing and editing of captured fax images.

Abstract: A retractable video teleconferencing apparatus for a video monitor having an optical axis. An optical assembly includes a housing mounted to the video monitor; a track for moving the housing between a retracted position and a forward position in which the housing is positioned forward of the video monitor; a beamsplitter hingedly attached to the housing and movable between a first position in which the beamsplitter is positioned across the optical axis at an angle relative thereto, whereby optical images directed toward the display along the optical axis are at least partially reflected by the beamsplitter, and a second position in which the beamsplitter is retracted into the housing; and a video camera located in the housing and positioned relative to the beamsplitter for receiving the partially reflected images and for generating a video signal corresponding to the partially reflected images. The beamsplitter, in the first position, is mounted at a 45.degree. angle relative to the optical axis.