Tilting Patents (Class 355/39)
  • Patent number: 11721051
    Abstract: A computer system for selecting image products includes a display for displaying digital images, and for displaying representations of image products. Digital images are composited into the displayed representations to form digitally composited image product views. Programming controls displaying the composited image product views separately from the unselected representations. One or more of the displayed composited image product views are selected and assembled or fabricated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: KODAK ALARIS INC.
    Inventors: Kathleen A. Mahoney, Ronald S. Cok
  • Patent number: 10001770
    Abstract: A processing program generation method for generating a processing program (PR) for a work machine on the basis of use-results information for a tool (4) attached to a work machine (2), wherein the use-results information for each part of the tool (4) is obtained, a target use part of the tool (4) is set on the basis of the obtained use-results information, and the processing program (PR) is generated in a manner such that a workpiece (W) is processed using the set target use part of the tool (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: MAKINO MILLING MACHINE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hitoshi Sato, Yasunori Masumiya, Naohito Toida, Yuki Tanigawa
  • Patent number: 9883061
    Abstract: An image reading device includes first and second image reading platforms that are separated from each other with a separation member, an image reading element movable between positions facing the first and second image reading platforms, a pair of sliding members that is slideable in a direction according to the movement of the image reading element on a pair of sliding paths that extends in the direction and is disposed so as to be spaced apart from each other in another direction intersecting with the direction and that is provided so as to at least partially overlap with the first and second image reading platforms; and a pair of protrusions disposed on parts of the pair of sliding paths positioned on both sides of the separation member in the another direction and that protrudes further toward the pair of sliding members from the first and second image reading platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: Oki Data Corporation
    Inventor: Taishi Takeda
  • Patent number: 9779284
    Abstract: A system and method for preserving privacy of evidence are provided. In the method, an encrypted first image is generated by encrypting a first image acquired at a first location with a symmetric cryptographic key that is based on first information such as a license plate number extracted from the first image and first metadata associated with the first image, such as a time at which the first image was acquired. When a link is established between a second image and the first image, for example, through visual signature matching, the symmetric cryptographic key can be reconstructed, without having access to the first image, but based instead on the first metadata and information extracted from the second image. The reconstructed symmetric cryptographic key can then be used for decryption of the encrypted image to establish evidence that the license plate number was indeed extracted from the first image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: Conduent Business Services, LLC
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Meunier, Saghar Estehghari, Herve Poirier
  • Patent number: 8699002
    Abstract: A laser irradiation device and a method of manufacturing an organic light emitting diode display device using the same. The laser radiation device prevents the scattering of the laser light into portions of the donor substrate that correspond to non-transmissive regions of a mask pattern. To reduce the scattering, the mask pattern is designed so that 1) non-transmissive regions of a surface of the mask pattern that faces the laser source have a reflective layer, 2) the surface of the mask pattern that faces the laser source is oriented to have a certain angle with respect to the laser beam axis, and 3) a surface of the mask pattern that faces the donor substrate has an anti-reflective layer. Each of these design aspects of the mask pattern prevents laser light from being scattered and prevents irradiating portions of the donor substrate that corresponds to a non-transmissive region of the mask pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seung-Mook Lee, Tae-Min Kang, Do-Young Kim, Beom-Joon Kim
  • Patent number: 8422788
    Abstract: Tilt is reduced or eliminated in captured digital images. Edges in a first image are detected. Angles corresponding to the detected edges are determined. A dominant angle is selected from the determined angles. The first image is rotated according to the selected dominant angle to generate a second image. The second image is a de-tilted version of the first image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Denis Demandolx, Sing Bing Kang
  • Patent number: 8174678
    Abstract: A lithographic apparatus includes an illumination system to condition a radiation beam; a patterning device support to support a patterning device, the patterning device capable of imparting the radiation beam with a pattern in its cross-section to form a patterned radiation beam; a substrate table constructed to hold a substrate, and a projection system to project the patterned radiation beam in a scanning exposure along a scanning direction onto a target portion of the substrate. The illumination system is configured to form in a plane of the patterning device a slit shaped image. The slit shaped image has a curved shape with a slit curvature in the scanning direction, with a length in the scanning direction and a width perpendicular to the scanning direction. The slit shaped image is configured to create a curved pattern image portion of the patterned radiation beam in an image plane of the projection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: ASML Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Sven Gunnar Krister Magnusson, Martin Jules Marie-Emile De Nivelle, Frank Staals, Wim Tjibbo Tel
  • Patent number: 7361905
    Abstract: A substrate processing apparatus comprises a chamber. The chamber includes a container and an upper lid for closing an upper opening of the container. On the upper side of the chamber, an elevator for vertically moving the upper lid is disposed integrally with the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiharu Tanaka, Itsushi Iio
  • Patent number: 7196811
    Abstract: A printing control system has a contents provider and a printout service provider connected via a network. The contents provider comprises a device for generating viewing screens, a device for generating a conditions settings screen from printout information and service information obtained from a printout service provider, a device for generating a confirmation screen for setting the conditions, and a device for transmitting the contents selected with the viewing screen, and the printout service provider comprises a device for transmitting the service information, and a device for generating printing data from the contents provided from the contents provider. This provides contents providers with contents providing means other than downloading data, and users with services for various printing forms other than home-use printers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kikuo Naito, Akihiro Masukawa, Kenji Kasai, Toshiyuki Noguchi, Shinji Fukunaga, Atsushi Furuta, Kosuke Ito
  • Patent number: 7142317
    Abstract: A printing control system has a contents provider and a printout service provider connected via a network. The contents provider comprises a device for generating viewing screens, a device for generating a conditions settings screen from printout information and service information obtained from a printout service provider, a device for generating a confirmation screen for setting the conditions, and a device for transmitting the contents selected with the viewing screen, and the printout service provider comprises a device for transmitting the service information, and a device for generating printing data from the contents provided from the contents provider. This provides contents providers with contents providing means other than downloading data, and users with services for various printing forms other than home-use printers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kikuo Naito, Akihiro Masukawa, Kenji Kasai, Toshiyuki Noguchi, Shinji Fukunaga, Atsushi Furuta, Kosuke Ito
  • Patent number: 6943866
    Abstract: A system and method of backprinting image prints in which an order is received specifying one or more recipients and, for each specified recipient, a set of one or more images associated with that recipient. For each recipient specified by the order, the images associated with the recipient are separated into at least one printable unit of images, and, for each printable unit, each image in the printable unit is printed on a first side of an image print. Backprinting information is backprinted on the other side of one or more of the image prints. The backprinting information can be received from a user and backprinted onto one or images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Shutterfly, Inc.
    Inventors: Jarret L. Redd, Daniel R. Baurn
  • Patent number: 6940581
    Abstract: An image medium is attached in an image input unit of a printing system, and an image to be printed and its number of prints are set through an operation panel. As contents of an order is determined, a credit card is inserted in an ID reading unit, and the printing system identifies a customer, and registers the order, then settles a payment. If the payment is done in cash, the printing system issues a magnetic card and the like on which a number is recorded for the customer to verify. The printing system has a plurality of container boxes for storing the printed material related to the customer's order by separating and keeping the printed material for each customer. A host unit verifies the properness of the person who comes to receive the prints by his/her credit card or the magnetic card and the like, and opens a corresponding outlet among the container boxes, so that the customer can receive his/her prints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuo Miyaji, Shigekazu Fukada, Syusuke Mogi
  • Patent number: 6884554
    Abstract: Compensating for semiconductor wafer tilt by rotating the semiconductor wafer and averaging the resulting semiconductor wafer tilts detected is disclosed. The semiconductor wafer has an asymmetrical topography. A first leveling tilt of the semiconductor wafer is detected using a leveling sensor of a stepper. The semiconductor wafer is then effectively or actually rotated, such as by forty-five degrees, ninety-degrees, or one-hundred-eighty degrees. A second leveling tilt of the semiconductor wafer is then detected, again using the leveling sensor of the stepper. The first and the second leveling tilts are averaged to yield an average leveling tilt. The average leveling tilt is then compensated for, by, for instance, oppositely tilting the semiconductor wafer in an effective or actual manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Wei Chen
  • Patent number: 6718070
    Abstract: A subject inclination detector provided with: a display for displaying on a screen a subject image comprising a plurality of pixels; a pixel specifier for a user to specify a first pixel from among the pixels; a calculator for defining a pixel group constituting a circumference of an area including the specified first pixel, and calculating deviations in pixel value between adjoining pixels of the pixel group; and a detector for selecting a second pixel and a third pixel based on the calculated deviations, and detecting an inclination of a straight part of the subject based on the selected second and third pixels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Minolta Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshihiro Hamamura
  • Publication number: 20030180639
    Abstract: In a lithographic projection apparatus, modified control of a moveable component within the apparatus is provided to improve control of the position and velocity of a point on the component that is set apart from the center of mass of the component. The force required to provide the center of mass of the component with the acceleration required for the point on the component is determined. The force in a given direction is corrected by an amount proportional to the product of the velocity of the point in an orthogonal direction and the angular velocity about an axis perpendicular to the two orthogonal directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Applicant: ASML NETHERLANDS B.V.
    Inventor: Robertus Johannes Marinus De Jongh
  • Patent number: 6529260
    Abstract: A support assembly (12) for an exposure apparatus (10) includes a frame assembly (34), an elevator assembly (36) and a pivot assembly (38) for supporting at least one subassembly above an isolation base (32). The elevator assembly (36) selectively lifts the frame assembly (34) and the subassembly relative to the isolation base (32). Further, the pivot assembly (38) allows a portion of the frame assembly (34) and the subassembly to be rotated relative to the isolation base (32). As a result of this design, the subassemblies of the exposure apparatus (10) can be removed relatively easily for service and adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventor: Michael R. Sogard
  • Patent number: 6480261
    Abstract: The present invention overcomes many of the disadvantages of prior lithographic microfabrication processes while providing further improvements that can significantly enhance the ability to make more complicated semiconductor chips at lower cost. A new type of programmable structure for exposing a wafer allows the lithographic pattern to be changed under electronic control. This provides great flexibility, increasing the throughput and decreasing the cost of chip manufacture and providing numerous other advantages. The programmable structure consists of an array of shutters that can be programmed to either transmit light to the wafer (referred to as its “open” state) or not transmit light to the wafer (referred to as its “closed” state). The programmable structure can comprise or include an array of selective amplifiers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Pixelligent Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Gregory D. Cooper, Richard M. Mohring
  • Patent number: 6473152
    Abstract: An image printing apparatus is provided with a plurality of support legs having height-adjusting screws for providing a substantially horizontal support on an inclined installation surface, whereby a flow path is formed to exchanged atmosphere and heat through a gap formed between a lower surface portion and an installation surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masahiko Yokota
  • Patent number: 6417913
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6373575
    Abstract: A paper classification apparatus includes a heater for heating paper or a solvent supply unit for supplying a solvent to the paper, a detector, a computer, and a selector guide. The detector detects the reflection density of the paper after being heated or supplied with the solvent. The computer compares the detected reflecting density of the paper with a predetermined reference value stored in a memory. The selector guide classifies the paper on the basis of a comparison result of the reflection density. This apparatus can classify plain paper having an image formed with an ordinary image forming material, plain paper having an image formed with an erasable image forming material, and thermosensible paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Satoshi Takayama, Shigeru Machida
  • Patent number: 6292252
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for producing a photographic picture on a copy material, whereby an exposure arrangement with a projection optics is provided for the production of the photographic picture which includes a mirror matrix with individually movable mirrors, whereby the exposure arrangement includes a wide-band light source, for example a halogen light source, whereby a filter arrangement is positioned in the light beam between the light source and the mirror matrix in order to filter out or let pass specific spectral regions or specific amounts of light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignees: Gretag Imaging AG, Gretag Imaging Trading AG
    Inventors: Beat Frick, Jürg Fenner
  • Patent number: 6292253
    Abstract: An in-line index printing system includes a sensor that determines the average density value of a photographic frame, a programmable light source and a video camera. The average density value calculated by the sensor is used to set the current levels supplied to a set of red, green, and blue LEDs to produce light that compensates for the exposure and color characteristics of the photographic frame. The film is illuminated by the light produced by the programmable light source and the video camera captures an image of a frame on the film. The image is digitized, and stored in a memory of a computer where it can be manipulated, if desired to enhance the color. The images from the frames can be printed on a color laser printer, a CRT printer, or transmitted over a computer network, such as the Internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Digital Now, Inc.
    Inventors: William George Reed, Virginia Lee Aldrich, John Oliver Renn
  • Publication number: 20010009456
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Publication date: July 26, 2001
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20010008441
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for printing photographic proofs from an image storage medium containing at least one recorded image or shot. The process comprises in addition to the steps of printing photographic proofs the steps of recording data which identifies the at least one shot on the image storage medium, that can be read when reprinting; printing the data on at least one first medium; and arranging the at least first medium on the proof corresponding to the at least one identified shot, the at least first medium being removable from the proof corresponding to the at least one shot so as to be affixed to a second medium intended to order a reprint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Thierry Vachette
  • Patent number: 6222612
    Abstract: A process and device for the output of electronic image signals on light-sensitive recording material is disclosed. A two-dimensional, transmissive display element, in particular a liquid crystal display (LCD), is controlled by the image signals and the beam of at least one light source passes therethrough in the direction of the light-sensitive recording material. During video output, the display element is arranged so near to the recording material that a sharp picture is produced on the recording material without having to position additional focusing, optical means between the display element and the recording material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: AGFA-Gevaert AG
    Inventors: Ulrich Klüter, Josef Auer
  • Patent number: 6181409
    Abstract: A method of providing information on the back side of a developed photographic medium having an image carrying layer on the front side. The method comprises machine reading code on the developed imaging carrying layer on the front side of the photographic medium. In the method, information is printed on the back side of the developed photographic medium with a printer, based on the machine read code. An apparatus, which can execute a method of the invention, for providing information on a back side of a developed photographic medium having an image carrying layer on the front side, has a reader to read machine readable code in the developed imaging carrying layer on the front side of the photographic medium. The apparatus further has a printer communicating with the reader so as to print information on the back side of the developed photographic medium based on the machine read code. The method may include printing and developing the photographic medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Lee M. Calhoun
  • Patent number: 5984445
    Abstract: The improved back printing apparatus for recording a back print on a non-exposed surface of a light-sensitive material to be subjected to wet photographic processing comprises a charging section to be charged with an ink which is heat-fusible but solid at ordinary temperatures and which is not water-soluble; a melting section for melting the ink; and a print head from which the ink melted in the melting section is jetted to record the back print. Using this back printer, one can produce sharp back prints of high quality without causing any adverse effects on the light-sensitive material A and yet good handling properties are assured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignees: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd., Fuji Photo Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoyuki Morita, Tomoya Norinobu
  • Patent number: 5966199
    Abstract: An index print includes a recording sheet having positive images corresponding to respective images on an image recording medium and being right-side-up or up-side-down on the recording sheet. The index print further includes eye-readable means on the recording sheet which relate to the positive images. The invention is characterized in that the eye-readable means is positioned relative to the positive images to permit at least a portion of the eye-readable means to be read without being up-side-down on the recording sheet when viewing the positive images right-side-up on the recording sheet, whether the positive images are recorded right-side-up or up-side-down on the recording sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Joseph Anthony Manico, Thomas Richard Roule, William Davis Loveland, Barton Anthony Pricola
  • Patent number: 5936709
    Abstract: An information card on which calculation information on photo-processing prices in accordance with orders and/or photo-printing information is recorded, wherein the information card is an index print. A photo-finishing method, a photo-finishing apparatus, a reprinting method, a reprinting apparatus, an information card preparation apparatus and a photo-printing apparatus are provided which employ the index print.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yuji Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 5926255
    Abstract: A photographic film and printing method and apparatus for the film are disclosed. The apparatus comprises reading means which reads an ID number at the time of print with film processing of the photographic film having the ID number printed thereon; print data entering means which enters print data about the exposure amount; storage means which associates and stores the ID number and the print data so that the print data obtained at the time of the print with film processing is saved; exposure controlling means which reads the ID number of said photographic film, retrieves the print data which corresponds to the ID number from said storage means, and automatically controls the exposure amount based on said print data when said photographic film is reprinted. As a result, the quality of the photographic film can be maintained constant without operator's help in either case of the print with film processing and the reprint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsutomu Kimura
  • Patent number: 5926253
    Abstract: An apparatus for exposing index prints, in which a plurality of images recorded on a photographic film are displayed on an image display device and a photographic printing paper is exposed by light transmitted through the image display device so that an index print is prepared on the photographic printing paper such that the plurality of images are arranged in a matrix. The apparatus includes a system for setting the number of frames displayed on the image display device and exposure magnification of the images displayed on the image display device; dividing a plurality of image frames of the photographic film every predetermined number of frames to be displayed on the image display device; displaying, on the image display device, the plurality of image frames of the photographic film every predetermined number of the divided image frames; and exposing the divided plurality of image frames on the photographic printing paper at predetermined intervals in accordance with display of the image display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kaoru Uchiyama, Toshio Itoh, Eiichi Kito, Toshiyuki Hiroishi
  • Patent number: 5898476
    Abstract: In a photographic film having a substantially transparent magnetic layer, and a sequence of longitudinally spaced image frames, the improvement comprising:at least one longitudinal magnetic track in said magnetic layer located on a side of each image frame, said track having a fixed length L; anda pair of data blocks recorded on said track, each said data block having a length which is less than L/2 and being recorded respectively at the beginning and end of said track with an unrecorded space between said data blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Thomas D. Carr, How J. Tsao, Peter J. Mojsej
  • Patent number: 5864387
    Abstract: An in-line index printing system includes a sensor that determines the average density value of a photographic frame, a programmable light source and a video camera. The average density value calculated by the sensor is used to set the current levels supplied to a set of red, green, and blue LEDs to produce light that compensates for the exposure and color characteristics of the photographic frame. The film is illuminated by the light produced by the programmable light source and the video camera captures an image of a frame on the film. The image is digitized, and stored in a memory of a computer where it can be manipulated, if desired to enhance the color. The images from the frames can be printed on a color laser printer, a CRT printer, or transmitted over a computer network, such as the Internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Assignee: Creative Products Unlimited, Inc.
    Inventors: William George Reed, Virginia Lee Aldrich, John Oliver Renn
  • Patent number: 5801856
    Abstract: A secure photographic system includes: a photographic film bearing an image and indicia representing a desired digital image security feature relating to the image; a scanner for scanning the image on the film to generate a digital image; means for detecting the indicia on the film to generate a security feature control signal; and digital image processing means responsive to the security feature control signal and the digital image for applying the desired digital image security feature to the digital image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Omid A. Moghadam, Majid Rabbani, Kevin A. Townsend
  • Patent number: 5767945
    Abstract: A method of making more visible some characteristic to be included in a hard copy of a recorded image includes reading a variable visible characteristic within a predefined area of the recorded image to determine the visible composition of the variable characteristic. At least one stored variation of the variable characteristic is selected, based on the visible composition of the read variable characteristic, from a plurality of stored variations of the variable characteristic. The selected stored variation of the variable characteristic will have greater visibility within a predefined area of the hard copy, which corresponds to the predefined area of the recorded image, than the variable characteristic within the predefined area of the recorded image. The selected one or more characteristics are included in the predefined area of the hard copy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Roger Alan Fields, William Clark Atkinson
  • Patent number: 5767947
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the production of individual prints and index prints from films which contain recorded data regarding the circumstances surrounding the exposure of the individual pictures stored on the film. Recorded data on the film is read, the data being associated with an individual picture and concerning a desired print format for the individual picture. The recorded data is preferably stored magnetically, but may also be stored optically. The system produces an individual print of the individual picture having a format based on the read data. The system also identifies, by modification of an image of the individual picture formed on the index print, the region of the film printed on the individual print and of the regions not printed, based on the read data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Agfa Gevaert Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hans-Georg Schindler, Hans-Juergen Rauh, Lothar Prause
  • Patent number: 5767946
    Abstract: An improvement of microfilm camera with a marking device in which an image of a document is photographed on a roll film mounted in a cassette using a slit exposure system and a two-dimensional digital image of a mark is recorded on the roll film. The microfilm camera comprises: an image taking lens for forming the image of the document on the roll film; a mark taking lens having an optical axis inclined in the length side direction of the roll film with respect to that of the image taking lens; and a digital image generator for generating a one-dimensional digital image extending in the width side direction of the roll film and formed by said mark taking lens at or in close vicinity of the image forming position of the image taking lens. The two-dimensional image of the mark is recorded on the film by changing the one-dimensional digital image synchronously with traveling of the film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kiyoji Nakamura, Hiroyuki Okabayashi, Mutsumi Ashizawa, Ushio Anayama, Shinichi Shidara, Hajime Tachibana
  • Patent number: 5760877
    Abstract: Process for preparing film strips for subsequent orders, the film strips belonging to a customer order. Each film strip includes a number of numbered masters which are fed into a preparation station. There, they are glued to a carrier belt and coiled into a film roll, which can be used at subsequent processing stations. Customer-specific order data regarding the desired number of copies of specific masters and, where applicable, the desired copy format, are entered via an input unit in the preparation station and stored onto a carrier medium which is compatible with the subsequent processing stations. In the process, the customer-specific order data are entered before the film strips are fed in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Assignee: Gretag Imaging, AG
    Inventor: Jurg Kunz
  • Patent number: 5757466
    Abstract: A method is provided for a customer to provide a message, design or other visible information to be printed upon prints during processing of photographic film supplied by the customer. The process involves scanning an annotated surface containing the visible information, creating a reproducible file containing the visible information and printing the visible information from the file onto a photographic print during the photofinishing processing. The customer information may be directly written or otherwise connected with a photofinishing envelope in which the film is forwarded to the photofinisher. The envelopes or messages may be scanned and the envelopes saved for return to the customer with the finished prints and negatives. If the envelopes are scanned at the time of removing the film, the reproducible file may be electronically stored and retrieved during printing of the photographic prints on which the information is to be printed. Various alternative steps in the process are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: J. Kelly Lee, Dana Whitney Wolcott
  • Patent number: 5757468
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for printing sound code icons on photographic prints produced from filmstrips having images with varying orientation, size and or format. A sound-on-print print gate includes a pair of selectable LED icon printers for printing a binary coded sound icon on either edge of the photographic print depending on normal or inverted image orientation. The icon printers are mounted for translational movement lengthwise of the print paper, the positioning being determined by the format of the print: panoramic, normal or HDTV aspect ratios. A computer controlled system is disclosed which determines the orientation, size and format and positions the icon printers in response thereto at the print gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventors: David Lynn Patton, Stephen John Rowan, Cynthia Sue Bell
  • Patent number: 5748285
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a photographic printing apparatus and method in which an image is printed on the front of a print paper and a respective frame number is printed on the back of the print paper at a predetermined position for a plurality of frames of a negative film. The present invention accounts for situations in which the frame number fails to be retrieved from location data existing on the negative film. This is achieved by examining and computing information for a group of data assigned before and after the particular frame in question.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshiro Akira
  • Patent number: 5748284
    Abstract: An index print includes a recording sheet having positive images corresponding to respective images on an image recording medium and being right-side-up or up-side-down on the recording sheet. The index print further includes eye-readable means on the recording sheet which relate to the positive images. The invention is characterized in that the eye-readable means is positioned relative to the positive images to permit at least a portion of the eye-readable means to be read without being up-side-down on the recording sheet when viewing the positive images right-side-up on the recording sheet, whether the positive images are recorded right-side-up or up-side-down on the recording sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Joseph Anthony Manico, Thomas Richard Roule, William Davis Loveland, Barton Anthony Pricola
  • Patent number: 5737062
    Abstract: A film loading and unloading mechanism sends out a film from a cartridge in which a film with a magnetic recording portion is contained and rewinds the film. A magnetic information reading and writing mechanism reads information recorded in the magnetic recording portion of the film and may write change information in the magnetic recording portion. An image reading mechanism reads image information recorded in the film. An output device outputs both types of information. The magnetic data recorded on a film with a magnetic recording portion is read, and displayed on the monitor screen, allowing bit error and damage of magnetic data to be checked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tohru Yoshikawa
  • Patent number: 5734461
    Abstract: A photographic image exposing apparatus capable of surely cutting off light leaked from an exposing head to avoid deterioration of quality of an image after projected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignee: Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masazumi Ishikawa, Toru Tanibata
  • Patent number: 5726736
    Abstract: A method of labeling photographic paper during photofinishing processing includes making a print having a print image portion and an adjacent label image portion, placing a code on the photographic paper to denote placement of a line of perforation to separate the print image portion and label image portion, exposing the label image portion with labeling information, generating an image on the label image portion, detecting the code for placing the line of perforation on the photographic paper, and forming the line of perforation at the detected location to separate the print image portion and the label image portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Curtis Edward DeWolff, Brian Keith Gallipeau, Thomas Eldred Lambdin
  • Patent number: 5715034
    Abstract: An index print preparation and feeding apparatus comprising: a means for preparing index prints for a film; an order identifying means for identifying order information of the film; a means for storing a multiplicity of the index prints; a collating means which has a first identifying mechanism for recognizing the order information of the index print and a second identifying mechanism for recognizing the order information on a DP bag or film placed, and which collates the order information recognized by the first and the second mechanisms; and a means for feeding the index print to the feeding position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yuji Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 5703673
    Abstract: When images are photographed by using a photographic film at which a magnetic recording layer is provided, photographic information regarding the entire film and photographic information regarding respective image frames can be magnetically recorded. A method and an apparatus are provided for the recording or for printing the photographic information which is magnetically recorded. In a case in which a printing area is limited, magnetically-recording of or printing of non-prior information is limited so that prior information is printed on the printing area prior to the non-prior information. For example, the information regarding an image frame is printed on the printing area of the back surface of the photographic printing paper prior to the information regarding the entire film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kanji Tokuda
  • Patent number: 5696576
    Abstract: A magnetic track on a photographic film is provided with a record region in which a renewal code or a flag indicating that a processing for an order to be completed is recorded. When print order information is renewed, the renewal code or the flag is renewed or cleared. As a result, it can be automatically judged whether the print order information recorded in the magnetic track is the same as one at the time of a previous order, and a processing at a laboratory can be automatically carried out. The print order information is classified into plural types of information including information to be rewritten for every order and information not to be rewritten for every order. At a laboratory, the print order information to be rewritten for every order is automatically deleted or reset before returning the photographic film to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeyoshi Itoh, Toru Nishimura
  • Patent number: 5689326
    Abstract: A photographic printing apparatus includes an exposing device (5) for printing an image of a photographic film (2) on printing paper (3), a supplementary information exposing device (6) for printing supplementary information, such as a date, time and place of photographing, on part of the printing paper (3), and ND filters (31) or a liquid crystal panel (45, 46) for suppressing light projected to a selected region within a print region when the image of the photographic film (2) is printed on the printing paper (3). The supplementary information exposing device (5) prints the supplementary information in the selected region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Junji Yamada, Toru Tanibata
  • Patent number: 5661543
    Abstract: A photosensitive material feed mechanism for the exposure station of an auto-printer in which a forward end of a lith plate is formed with a guide structure without a need for an increased number of parts in a manner that a photosensitive material may be smoothly fed into the exposure station with a forward end of photosensitive material being guided by the above-mentioned guide structure when the mechanism is initially loaded with photosensitive material. A greeting card kit serving as the exposure station of the auto-printer includes a basic frame, upper and lower guide plates fixed to the basic frame, and a douser exposed externally of the greeting card kit. The lith plate is formed with a character zone exposure window and a picture zone exposure window in addition to the previously mentioned guide structure and is capable of being withdrawably inserted into the greeting card kit through the externally exposed douser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignees: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd., Fuji Photo Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mamoru Ogasawara, Sinobu Ono, Shuji Tahara