Verfahren zum Korrigieren von Bildverwischungen

DETECTION SYSTEM OF A MOVING TARGET

Un sistema de detección de un objeto en movimiento que detecta un objeto en movimiento en una zona monitoreada tiene una cámara de vigilancia y una parte de análisis de imagen. La imagen del campo visual de la cámara de vigilancia se puede controlar mediante una señal externa. Cuando la imagen del campo visual de la cámara de vigilancia es una imagen predeterminada del campo visual que incluye un área monitoreada, la parte de análisis de imagen analiza una imagen capturada por la cámara de vigilancia y detecta un objeto en movimiento que aparece en la imagen.

Устройство для определения направления и дальности до источника сигналов

Устройство для определения направления и дальности до источника сигналов, содержащее первую антенну, первый и второй микробарометры, а также пять аналого-цифровых преобразователей (АЦП), подключенных к персональной электронно-вычислительной машине (ПЭВМ), отличающееся тем, что дополнительно содержит блок системы единого времени и блок связи с абонентами, подключенные к ПЭВМ, последовательно соединенные первый усилитель, первый фильтр, второй усилитель, первый пороговый блок и схему ИЛИ, последовательно соединенные вторую антенну, третий усилитель, второй фильтр, четвертый усилитель и второй пороговый блок, последовательно соединенные третью антенну, пятый усилитель, третий фильтр, шестой усилитель и третий пороговый блок, последовательно соединенные седьмой усилитель, четвертый фильтр, восьмой усилитель, пятый фильтр, четвертый пороговый блок и первую схему И, последовательно соединенные первый цифро-аналоговый преобразователь (ЦАП) и первый калибратор, последовательно соединенные второй ЦАП и второй калибратор, последовательно соединенные третий ЦАП и третий калибратор, последовательно соединенные четвертый ЦАП и четвертый калибратор, последовательно соединенные пятый ЦАП и первый формирователь, последовательно соединенные шестой ЦАП и второй формирователь, последовательно соединенные первый таймер, вторую схему И и первый счетчик, последовательно соединенные девятый усилитель, шестой фильтр, десятый усилитель, седьмой фильтр, пятый пороговый блок и третью схему И, последовательно соединенные седьмой ЦАП и пятый калибратор, последовательно соединенные восьмой ЦАП и третий формирователь, последовательно РОССИЙСКАЯ ФЕДЕРАЦИЯ (19) RU (11) (13) 165 997 U1 (51) МПК G01V 1/00 (2006.01) G01S 3/00 (2006.01) ФЕДЕРАЛЬНАЯ СЛУЖБА ПО ИНТЕЛЛЕКТУАЛЬНОЙ СОБСТВЕННОСТИ (12) ТИТУЛЬНЫЙ (21)(22) Заявка: ЛИСТ ОПИСАНИЯ ПОЛЕЗНОЙ МОДЕЛИ К ПАТЕНТУ 2016119496/28, 20.05.2016 (24) Дата начала отсчета срока действия патента: 20.05.2016 (45) Опубликовано: 10.11.2016 Бюл. № 31 1 6 5 9 9 7 R U (57 ...

Image capturing apparatus, image capturing device, image capturing method, and program

Provided is an image-capturing apparatus including: an image-capturing device where pixels covered with first filters blocking light other than light in a first wavelength range among wavelength ranges obtained by two-dividing a specific wavelength range and second filters blocking light other than light in a second wavelength range are disposed based on a predetermined rule; a light-blocking filter being detachably disposed in an optical path of subject light toward the image-capturing device and blocking the light in the first wavelength range; a focus-alignment determination unit performing focus-alignment determination through phase-difference detection based on a signal generated by the image-capturing device when the light-blocking filter is inserted into the optical path; an image-generation unit generating an image based on a signal generated by the image-capturing device; and a controller controlling insertion/detachment of the light-blocking filter with respect to the optical path based on necessity of the focus-alignment determination.

Control device, control method, program, and control system

A control device, a control method, a program, and a control system, whereby more intelligent imaging operation more useful for a user can be realized particularly in event of performing automatic imaging operation using a subject detection result within an imaged image, as an imaging operation. Control relating to imaging operation is performed according to a positional relation between an edge region set as an edge portion region of an image frame, and a subject detected within the image frame. Control relating to automatic imaging operation can be performed based on a determination reference that is a positional relation between the edge region and a detected subject, and more intelligent automatic imaging operation more useful for a user can be realized.

Method for focusing

A camera and a method for selecting a focus region in a camera view have a plurality of focus regions that are defined in the camera view. A focus distance of the camera is repeatedly set to focus at different distances by setting a lens distance of the camera to different lens distance values. A focus value is determined for each focus region at the set lens distance value. A function for a plurality of focus regions is estimated based on a plurality of determined focus value and lens distance value pairs. A local maximum point of the function is calculated for each focus region for which a function has been estimated, where the local maximum point has a lens distance value. Focus regions are grouped, rated and selected based on the lens distance value of the local maximum point of the focus regions and spatial distances between the focus regions.

Imaging device and plate spring

Disclosed herein is an imaging device including: a lens block on which a lens is installed and which is turnable in a pan direction parallel to a horizontal direction; a support member supporting the lens block; and a plate spring secured to the support member and pressing the lens block toward the support member side by elastic force.

Focusing device and camera

A focusing device including: an optical system that includes a focusing lens; an image sensor that captures a subject image formed via the optical system and outputs an image signal containing a plurality of color components; an edge detection unit that detects an edge in correspondence to each color component among the plurality of color components contained in the image signal; a differential value calculation unit that calculates a differential value of an edge strength of the edge detected by the edge detection unit, in correspondence to the each color component; and a decision-making unit that determines a moving direction along which the focusing lens is to move for purposes of focus adjustment of the optical system based upon the differential value calculated by the differential value calculation unit.

Imaging apparatus

An imaging apparatus includes an imaging sensor, a reticle, a focus detection unit, a spectroscopic member, and a diffusion coefficient controller. The imaging sensor is configured to receive light from a lens unit. The reticle is capable of changing a diffusion coefficient. The focus detection unit is configured to detect a focus state of an imaging surface based on a signal from the imaging sensor. The spectroscopic member is configured to split the light from the lens unit to the reticle and the focus detection unit. The diffusion coefficient controller is configured to change the diffusion coefficient of the reticle. The diffusion coefficient controller controls a diffusion coefficient of a portion of the reticle corresponding to a defocus range to be higher than a diffusion coefficient of a portion of the reticle corresponding to a focusing range according to the focus state detected by the focus detection unit.

Strip panorama

A technology is described for generating a strip panorama. The method can include selecting panoramas grouped together for a road to combine into the strip panorama. Side view images can be extracted from the plurality of panoramas. Another operation is computing depth maps for side view images using stereo matching. Depth histograms can be generated for depth map columns of the depth maps. The depth histograms can have column-depth alignment scores computed by multiplying corresponding depth values from at least two related depth histogram maps. A further operation can be aligning related side view images using the column-depth alignment scores. The aligned side view images can be stitched while maximizing a stitching score.

Imaging system for hollow cone spray

An imaging system to collect image data relating to a conical liquid film and its hollow conical spray emanating from an injector with a central spray axis includes a light source for emitting light into the film and spray generated by the injector; and a detector array located downstream from the injector along the central spray axis for panoramically detecting instantaneously for the entire film and spray the emitted light which has interacted with the spray to produce the image data.

Arranging Secondary Images Adjacent to a Primary Image

A method includes determining a target layout in which secondary images ( 504 ) are placed along an edge ( 506, 508 ) of a primary image ( 502 ), dividing each of the secondary images ( 504 ) into one of a horizontal group and a vertical group according to the target layout and dimensions of each of the secondary images ( 504 ), dividing any of the secondary images ( 504 ) in the horizontal group into one of a top group ( 706 ) and a bottom group ( 708 ) according to the target layout and a width of each of the secondary images ( 504 ) in the horizontal group, dividing any of the secondary images ( 504 ) of the vertical group into one of a left group and a right group according to the target layout and a height of each of the secondary images ( 504 ) in the vertical group, and placing each of the secondary images ( 504 ) adjacent to an edge ( 506, 508 ) of the primary image ( 502 ) according to an assigned group of each secondary image ( 504 ).

Circuits and Methods for Calibrating Actuator Displacement

Embodiments of the present invention include circuits and methods for calibrating position displacement in a voltage controlled actuator. In one embodiment, a calibration circuit comprises an actuator having a control terminal for receiving a programmable control voltage to set a displacement, a switch that selectively decouples said programmable voltage from said control terminal and couples a reference current to said control terminal when the control terminal is decoupled from said control voltage, a comparator that senses a voltage difference between said control voltage and said control terminal, and a timer coupled to an output of the comparator. The timer measures a time period required to increase the control terminal voltage. The capacitance of the actuator may be determined and used to calibrate the position of the actuator.

Image-pickup element, and image-pickup apparatus and camera system having the same

An image-pickup element includes an image-pickup pixel configured to photoelectrically convert light from an image-pickup lens to generate an image of an object, and a first focus detection pixel and a second focus detection pixel configured to receive light having passed through part of an area of an exit pupil of the image-pickup lens, and an electrode part of the first focus detection pixel and an electrode part of the second focus detection pixel are arranged at ends of a photoelectrical conversion part that are opposite to each other in a pupil diving direction of the first focus detection pixel and the second focus detection pixel.

Enclosure for image capture systems with focusing capabilities

Embodiments of the invention describe an enclosure for an image capture system that includes an image capture unit and a solid state die to provide focusing capabilities for a lens unit of the image capture unit. The enclosure may electrically couple the solid state die to the image capture unit and/or other system circuitry. The enclosure may further serve as EMI shielding for the image capture system.

System and method for splicing images of workpiece

A computer is connected to a measurement machine. The computer receives an area selected by a user of a three-dimensional model of a workpiece which is put on the measurement machine. A first size of the selected area is calculated corresponding to resolution values of various images of the workpiece captured by a charge-coupled device (CCD). The computer calculates a number of the images which are necessary to create a complete bitmap, of a certain second size, by splicing together the various images. Coordinate values of the pixel points of the various images are calculated according to a splicing type desired and set by the user. The computer puts the pixel points into a mapping relationship according to the coordinate values of the pixel points, to create the complete bitmap.

Focus controller

A focus controller includes an evaluation value generating unit and a control unit. An evaluation value generating unit obtains a first evaluation value based on a first signal output from a pixel part of an imaging unit by scanning the pixel part in a first direction and obtains a second evaluation value based on a second signal output from the pixel part by scanning the pixel part in a second direction different from the first direction. When a first movement direction of a focus lens based on the first evaluation value and a second movement direction of a focus lens based on the second evaluation value are in the same direction, the control unit performs an auto focus operation in order to move the focus lens in the movement direction determined as the same direction.

Touch-type portable terminal

A touch type portable terminal is disclosed, whereby a user is prevented from viewing a wrong auto focusing area by indicating an indicator in response to changes in view angle of lenses during auto focusing operation.

Focus detection sensor and optical apparatus using the same

A focus detection sensor includes a line sensor comprised of a pair of sensor arrays in which a plurality of pixels are arranged. The sensor arrays include a pixel of a first type having an arrangement for transferring charges generated by a photoelectric conversion device to a corresponding memory device and causing the memory device to integrate the charges during a charge accumulation period, and a pixel of a second type having an arrangement for integrating, in the pixel, the charges generated by the photoelectric conversion device during the charge accumulation period without transferring the charges to the memory device until the end of the charge accumulation period, and transferring the charges to the corresponding memory device when the charge accumulation period has ended. An accurate charge accumulation result can be obtained by a simple arrangement.

Focus detector, and lens apparatus and image pickup apparatus including the same

A focus detector for detecting a defocus amount of an image pickup optical system based on a displacement amount between two images formed by two beams divided from the image pickup optical system and passed through two pupil areas, the focus detector including: two lenses; two phase difference sensors for photoelectrically converting two subject images formed by the two lenses into two image signals; a correlation computing unit for dividing the two image signals based on a reference number-of-pixels to compute an image displacement amount for each divided area; a waveform coincidence computing unit for computing a coincidence degree of the two image signals in the each divided area in which the image displacement amount is computed by the correlation computing unit; and a defocus computing unit for computing a defocus amount based on the coincidence degree of the two image signals computed by the waveform coincidence computing unit.

System and Method for Measuring Accuracy of Focus

A reliable and repeatable accuracy of focus measurement device to measure the focus accuracy of cameras. The measurement device includes a frame having a substantially planar front face with a focusing target located thereon, and at least one depth-of-field ruler coupled to the frame with a transverse axis falling within a front face plane and a long axis that is angularly adjustable with respect to the front face plane. 1. An accuracy-of-focus measurement device for measuring a depth-of-field of a camera , the measurement device comprising:a frame having a substantially planar front face including a focusing target;a sighting face operatively coupled to the frame and configured to enable a plane of the image sensor of the camera to be aligned substantially parallel with the front face plane;at least one depth-of-field ruler coupled to the frame and having a transverse axis falling within a front face plane and a longitudinal axis.2. The measurement device of claim 1 , further comprising a rigid rectangular base attached to the frame and sighting face to provide parallel alignment between the frame and sighting face at a pre-determined distance behind the front plate.3. The measurement device of claim 2 , further comprising a mounting hole in the rigid rectangular base to enable the measurement device to be attached to a mobile mounting platform.4. The measurement device of claim 1 , wherein the depth-of-field ruler includes at least one notch formed at a pivot line for coupling against the frame claim 1 , to align the pivot line within the front face plane.5. The measurement device of claim 1 , wherein the depth-of-field ruler is divided into a plurality of ruler segments with magnets on joining corners of the ruler segments to join the ruler segments of the depth-of-field ruler together magnetically.6. The measurement device of claim 5 , further comprising a backing rib attached to a back surface of each ruler segment and extending past an end of each ruler ...

Number Of Pixels In Detector Arrays Using Compressive Sensing

A method and apparatus using the techniques of compressive sensing, which has so far been applied mostly to improving a single-pixel detector into an effectively N-pixel detector, for improving a P-pixel detector array into an effectively P×N-pixel detector array.

DISPLAY APPARATUS AND METHOD

A display apparatus includes a control unit for displaying a first content in a first area of a display screen, and a multi-contents generation unit for generating a plurality of second contents, wherein the control unit divides a second area of the display screen into a plurality of areas, and the plurality of second contents are respectively displayed in areas of the second area. 1. A display apparatus , comprising:a control unit for displaying a first content in a first area of a display screen; anda multi-contents generation unit for generating a plurality of second contents, wherein:the control unit divides a second area of the display screen into a plurality of areas, andthe plurality of second contents are respectively displayed in areas of the second area.2. The display apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of second contents comprise a thumbnail image.3. The display apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of second contents comprise a motion picture.4. The display apparatus of claim 1 , wherein:the plurality of second contents displayed in the respective areas of the second area comprise a plurality of thumbnail images, andthe control unit reproduces a plurality of motion pictures corresponding to the plurality of thumbnail images.5. The display apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the control unit sequentially reproduces the plurality of second contents that are displayed in the respective areas of the second area.6. The display apparatus of claim 1 , wherein:the plurality of second contents displayed in the respective areas of the second area comprise a plurality of thumbnail images, andthe control unit reproduces a plurality of motion pictures corresponding to the plurality of thumbnail images in the respective areas of the second area.7. The display apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the control unit reproduces a first motion picture of the plurality of motion pictures in a first subarea of the respective areas of the second area until a frame ...

CAMERA MODULE

The present invention relates to a camera module having an auto focus function, the module including a lens unit having at least one lens, a barrel into which the lens unit is inserted, and connected by a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) actuator, and an image sensor discretely positioned from the lens unit to convert light having passed the lens unit to an electrical signal, where the VCM actuator includes a gap of a reference distance position value which is a position of an object catering to a lens focal length according to the camera module, and information on a focus-met lens position value, and adjusts an initial position of the lens by using the gap of reference distance position value of the lens position value during operation of the camera module. 1. A camera module , characterized by: a camera module having an auto focus adjustment function , the camera characterized by: a lens unit including at least one lens; a barrel into which the lens unit is inserted , and connected by a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) actuator; and an image sensor discretely positioned from the lens unit to convert light having passed the lens unit to an electrical signal , where the VCM actuator includes a gap of a reference distance position value which is a position of an object catering to a lens focal length according to the camera module , and information on a focus-met lens position value , and adjusts an initial position of the lens by using the gap of reference distance position value of the lens position value during operation of the camera module.2. The camera module of claim 1 , characterized in that the VCM actuator includes a VCM actuator driver for driving the VCM actuator claim 1 , where the VCM actuator driver includes the gap of reference distance position value or the information on the lens position value.3. The camera module of claim 2 , characterized in that the VCM actuator includes a magnet forming a magnetic flux claim 2 , a coil discretely positioned from the magnet claim 2 ...

MEMS ACTUATOR MOUNTED CAMERA MODULE HAVING SAG COMPENSATION AND SAG COMPENSATION METHOD USING THE SAME

The present invention relates to a micro-electromechanical (MEMS) actuator mounted camera module having sag compensation and a sag compensation method using the same, the camera module including a MEMS actuator mounted with a lens; a MEMS actuator moving unit outputting electrostatic capacity information corresponding to position of the lens changed by displacement move and outputting a displacement move signal to the MEMS actuator for controlling the displacement moving force; a memory unit stored with reference signal information corresponding to a maximum displacement move in the displacement move; and a signal compensation unit calculating a step range corresponding to the displacement move of the MEMS actuator based on the electrostatic capacity information outputted from the MEMS actuator moving unit and the reference signal information stored in the memory unit and compensating the displacement moving force of the MEMS actuator based on the calculated step range. 1. A micro-electromechanical (MEMS) actuator mounted camera module having sag compensation , the camera module comprising: a MEMS actuator mounted with a lens to output a displacement moving force for displacement drive of the lens based on electrostatic force for adjustment of a focal distance between the lens and an image sensor; a MEMS actuator moving unit outputting electrostatic capacity information corresponding to position of the lens changed by displacement move and outputting a displacement move signal to the MEMS actuator for controlling the displacement moving force; a memory unit stored with reference signal information corresponding to a maximum displacement move in the displacement move; and a signal compensation unit calculating a step range corresponding to the displacement move of the MEMS actuator based on the electrostatic capacity information outputted from the MEMS actuator moving unit and the reference signal information stored in the memory unit and compensating the ...

Auto Exposure Techniques for Variable Lighting Conditions

Systems, methods, and a computer readable medium for performing auto exposure (AE) techniques that are beneficial in variable lighting conditions—and particularly applicable to handheld and/or mobile videoconferencing applications—are disclosed herein. Handheld and/or mobile videoconferencing applications—unlike their fixed camera counterparts—are often exposed to a wide variety of rapidly changing lighting and scene conditions, and thus face a difficult trade-off between adjusting exposure parameter values too frequently or not frequently enough. In personal electronic devices executing such handheld and/or mobile videoconferencing applications, it may be desirable to: use a small, centered, and center-weighted exposure metering region; set a relatively low brightness target value; and adjust the camera's exposure parameter values according to a distance-dependent convergence speed function. The use of such techniques, in conjunction with a relatively large stability region, may also improve the quality of a video encoder's temporal predictions—and thus video quality—in videoconferencing applications. 1. A method comprising:using an image sensor to capture an image representative of a scene;defining an exposure metering region over a desired area of the image;calculating a weighted average value for the exposure metering region;comparing the weighted average value to a predetermined range of acceptable values; andadjusting an exposure parameter for the image sensor based at least in part on the comparison of the weighted average value to the predetermined range of acceptable values.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the exposure metering region comprises a rectangular region.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the width of the exposure metering region subtends a central angle of no more than 35 degrees claim 2 , and wherein the height of the exposure metering region subtends a central angle of no more than 35 degrees.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the longer ...

CORRECTING OPTICAL DEVICE AND IMAGE PICKUP APPARATUS

A correcting optical device according to an aspect of the present invention in which, when image shake is not corrected, a restricting member is caused to engage an engaging portion, to restrict translational movement of a movable member, and in which, when the image shake is corrected, the restricting member is caused to disengage the engaging portion, to cause the movable member to be in a state capable of the translational movement, the restricting member being provided at the rotary member, the engaging portion being provided at the movable member. A driving unit drives the movable member in a direction in which the movable member moves translationally with respect to a fixed member in a plane perpendicular to an optical axis of a correcting lens, so that the correcting lens corrects the image shake, and drives the rotary member in a direction in which the rotary member rotates around the optical axis. 1. A correcting optical device configured to correct image shake using a correcting lens on one hand and to restrict movement of the correcting lens when the image shake is not corrected on another hand , the correcting optical device comprising:a fixed member that rotatably supports a rotary member in a plane that is perpendicular to an optical axis of the correcting lens;a movable member where the correcting lens is supported so as to be movable translationally with respect to the fixed member in the plane that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the correcting lens; anda driving unit that is disposed between the movable member and the rotary member,wherein, on the one hand, the driving unit drives the movable member in a direction in which the movable member moves translationally with respect to the fixed member in the plane that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the correcting lens, so that the correcting lens corrects the image shake, andwherein, on the other hand, the driving unit drives the rotary member in a direction in which the rotary member ...

BACKSIDE ILLUMINATION IMAGE SENSOR, OPERATING METHOD THEREOF, IMAGE PROCESSING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PROCESSING IMAGE USING THE SAME

A backside illumination image sensor is provided. The backside illumination image sensor includes a plurality of different types of pixels, each pixel including a photodiode configured to accumulate photogenerated charges corresponding to light incident on a backside of a semiconductor substrate and a transfer transistor configured to transfer the photogenerated charges to a floating diffusion node; and a plurality of transfer lines disposed at a front side of the semiconductor substrate, the plurality of transfer lines connected to a gate of the transfer transistor of a respective one of the pixels, wherein transfer control signals respectively transmitted through the transfer lines produce different effective integration times in the pixels. 1. A backside illumination image sensor comprising: a photodiode configured to accumulate photogenerated charges corresponding to light incident on a backside of a semiconductor substrate, and', 'a transfer transistor configured to transfer the photogenerated charges to a floating diffusion node; and, 'a plurality of different types of pixels, each pixel including,'}a plurality of transfer lines disposed at a front side of the semiconductor substrate, the plurality of transfer lines respectively, connected to gates of the transfer transistors of the pixels,wherein transfer control signals respectively transmitted through the transfer lines produce different effective integration times in the pixels.2. The image sensor of claim 1 , wherein the different effective integration times are adjusted by a command generated by an image signal processor.3. The image sensor of claim 2 , wherein the image signal processor is implemented in a separate chip.4. The image sensor of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of different types of pixels include a white pixel claim 1 , a blue pixel claim 1 , a red pixel and a green pixel.5. The image sensor of claim 4 , wherein the white claim 4 , blue claim 4 , red and green pixels have a same effective ...

IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD, AND PROGRAM

Provided are an apparatus and method for executing sensitivity difference correction processing of an image signal, which is generated by a single plate-type image sensor through a color filter. The sensitivity difference correction is executed for Gr and Gb signals included the image signal, for example, an RGB signal, which is generated by the single plate-type image sensor through the color filter. A pixel value of a color filter unit which has the same color as a correction target pixel and is present in surroundings of the correction target pixel is acquired. An additional value is calculated by adding a difference between weighted mean pixel values “a” and “b” of two kinds of pixel groups “A” and “B” classified according to positions of pixels to the pixel value of the correction target pixel in which the weighted mean values correspond to distances of the pixel groups from the correction target pixel. A mean value of the pixel value of the correction target pixel and the additional value is calculated as a corrected pixel value of the correction target pixel. 1. An image processing apparatus comprising:a sensitivity difference correction processing unit that receives a photoelectric conversion signal and executes sensitivity difference correction processing, the photoelectric conversion signal being output by an image sensor based on incident light being incident through a color filter,wherein the sensitivity difference positive processing unit: acquires a pixel value of a color filter unit which has a same color as a correction target pixel and is present in surroundings of the correction target pixel; calculates an additional value by adding a difference between weighted mean pixel values “a” and “b” of two kinds of pixel groups “A” and “B” classified according to positions of the pixels to the pixel value of the correction target pixel, the weighted mean pixel values corresponding to distances of the pixel groups from the correction target pixel; and ...

ELECTRONIC APPARATUS AND METHOD OF OPERATING ELECTRONIC APPARATUS THROUGH TOUCH SENSOR

An electronic apparatus has a touch sensor provided with a first touching zone including at least a second touching zone and a third touching zone, the second and third touching zones being allocated with different functions. The electronic apparatus is controlled to perform a specific function assigned to a specific touching zone that is the second or the third touching zone when there is a first touch input at first through the specific touching zone and continuously perform the specific function even if there is a second touch input that follows the first touch input, through either the second or the third touching zone that is not the specific touching zone, as long as there is a continuous touch input through the first touching zone from the first to the second touch input with no intermission. 1. An electronic apparatus comprising:a touch sensor;a controller to perform:a process of controlling a first operation so as to be performed in response to a first action that is carried out while a touched state of the touch sensor is substantially maintained after a first zone of the touch sensor is touched after an untouched state of the touch sensor;a process of controlling a second operation so as to be performed in response to a second action that is carried out due to a second zone of the touch sensor being touched after an untouched state of the touch sensor;a process of controlling the second operation so as not to be performed due to the second zone being touched while a touched state of the touch sensor is substantially maintained after the first zone is touched after an untouched state of the touch sensor; anda display section to display an image related to the second operation,wherein the controller controls the display section so as not to display the image related to the second operation due to the first zone being touched after an untouched state of the touch sensor.2. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1 , herein the display section includes a ...

MULTISTEP CORRECTION FOR ANGLE CONSISTENT ARTIFACTS IN RADIAL SAMPLED DATASETS

This document discloses, among other things, a method for removing a bullseye artifact from a radial image generated using magnetic resonance and using a swept frequency pulse. 1. A method comprising:receiving image data including a radial sampled projection of an object;calculating, using a processor, a first corrected data set using the image data and using a first ratio, the first ratio based on an average projection of the image data and based on a filtered average projection of the image data; andcalculating a second corrected data set using the first corrected data set and using a second ratio, the second ratio based on an average projection of the first corrected data set and a filtered average projection of the first corrected data set.2. The method of wherein calculating the second corrected data set includes using an inverse of the second ratio.3. The method of wherein calculating the second corrected data set includes multiplying using a weighting factor.4. The method of further including repeating at least one of calculating the first corrected data set or calculating the second corrected data set.5. The method of further including iteratively calculating the first corrected data set and calculating the second corrected data set.6. The method of wherein determining the filtered average projection includes using a low pass filter.7. The method of wherein receiving image data includes receiving magnetic resonance data generated using SWIFT protocol.8. The method of further including using the second corrected data set to generate a corrected image.9. The method of further including printing the corrected image using a printer or displaying the corrected image using a display.10. A system comprising:a memory configured to receive image data corresponding to a radial projection of an object; anda processor coupled to the memory, the processor configured to calculate a first corrected data set and calculate a second corrected data, wherein the first corrected ...

AV SYSTEM

An AV system that executes image recognition of an identification mark provided on headphones in a seat side shot image taken with a camera calculates the coordinate position of the identification mark in the shot image, decides from the coordinate position of the identification mark as to which one of a plurality of seats a user wearing the headphones sits on, and transmits audio data which corresponds to video data to be displayed on the display screen facing the seat, as to which a decision is made that the user sits on, to the headphones to be produced as audio output. 1. An AV system comprising:a plurality of display units with their display screens being directed to a plurality of seats adjacent to each other;a camera unit for shooting the seats to which the display screens face;an image recognizing unit for executing image recognition of an identification mark provided on an audio output device in a shot image taken with the camera unit, and for calculating a coordinate position of the identification mark in the shot image;a deciding unit for deciding from the coordinate position of the identification mark calculated by the image recognizing unit as to which one of the plurality of seats a user wearing the audio output device sits on;an AV reproducing unit for reproducing video data and audio data; andan audio communication unit for transmitting, from among the audio data reproduced by the AV reproducing unit, the audio data which corresponds to the video data to be displayed on the display screen facing the seat as to which the deciding unit decides that the user sits on, to the audio output device the user wears to be produced as audio output.2. The AV system according to claim 1 , further comprising:a plurality of identification marks provided on the audio output device at places on a plane perpendicular to the face direction of the user, whereinthe image recognizing unit executes image recognition of the plurality of identification marks provided on the ...

IMAGE PICKUP APPARATUS AND PROCESSING METHOD FOR RESULT OF IMAGE PICKUP

The present invention is applied to an image pickup apparatus for which, for example, a CMOS solid-state image pickup element is used. One screen image is divided into a plurality of blocks, and a motion is detected for each of the blocks to control the exposure time of the block. 1. A solid-state image device , comprising:a first substrate including a pixel unit having a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix for outputting a pixel signal;a second substrate including at least either a motion detection unit detecting a motion amount of the pixel signal in each block including at least one or more pixels or a control unit forming on the second substrate and controlling exposure time of each block based on a result of the detection by the motion detection unit; anda connect unit connecting the pixel unit and the motion detection unit.2. The solid-state image device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit controls claim 1 , based on the result of the detection by the motion detection unit claim 1 , the exposure time of each block such that the exposure time decreases as the motion amount increases.3. The solid-state image device according to claim 1 , wherein the pixel unit outputs the results of the pixel of the blocks simultaneously and parallelly thereby to output the results of the pixel of the optical image claim 1 , and the motion detection unit processes the results of the pixel of the blocks outputted from the pixel unit individually to detect the motion amount for each block.4. The solid-state image device according to claim 1 , wherein the motion detection unit includes an average value calculation circuit configured to cumulatively add the results of the pixel of each block in a frame to calculate an average value claim 1 , and an interframe difference calculation circuit for calculating an interframe difference value of the average values of each block calculated by the average value calculation circuit and detecting the motion amount based on the ...

COMBINED VIDEO DISPLAY AND CAMERA SYSTEM

A combined video display and camera system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system comprises a video display, and a camera placed behind the video display such that the camera is able to view through the video display. The video display has a first mode, where the video display displays an image, and a second mode, where it does not display an image. In the second mode, the video display provides a clear view through itself to the camera. The camera also has a first mode where the camera is not capturing an image, and a second mode, where the camera is capturing an image. The modes are configured in such a manner that the first and second modes of the video display and the camera are substantially coincidental. Also, the first and second modes of the video display and the camera alternate continuously at a rate faster than what an observer can perceive. 1a video display, and the video display has a first mode and a second mode,', 'the first mode of the video display is a mode where the video display displays an image,', 'the second mode of the video display is a mode where the video display does not display an image and provides a clear view through the video display to the camera,', 'the camera has a first mode and a second mode,', 'the first mode of the camera is a mode where the camera is not capturing an image, and', the first modes of the video display and the camera are substantially coincidental,', 'the second modes of the video display and the camera are substantially coincidental,', 'the first modes and the second modes of the video display and the camera alternate continuously at a rate faster than an observer can perceive., 'the second mode of the camera is a mode where the camera is capturing an image, configured such that'}], 'a camera placed behind the video display in an orientation that allows it to view through the video display, wherein'}. A video display and camera system, comprising: The present application is a continuation of patent ...

Remote Shutter for a Camera or Other Imaging Device

Described is a system, computer readable medium, and multifunctional device for remotely triggering a visual recording device. The system can include a computer, a mobile device including a camera, and a multifunctional device that can remotely trigger the camera through a first wireless connection. The system's mobile device can further include a computer readable medium for storing an application configured to operate the camera through an Application Programming Interface. The application can further execute instructions for receiving an input from a multifunctional device and remotely triggering a camera coupled to the mobile device based on the input received from the multifunctional device through the first connection. The multifunctional device and the computer can further be adapted to transmit and receive images and videos automatically based on users' preferences. Furthermore, the multifunctional device can include a data interface and a rechargeable power source that can be recharged through the data interface. 1. A system for remotely triggering a visual recording device , the system comprising:a mobile device comprising a camera; anda multifunctional device comprising a user interface;wherein the multifunctional device is adapted to remotely trigger the camera through a first connection.2. The system for remotely triggering a visual recording device according to claim 1 , further comprising a computer adapted to receive data comprising images claim 1 , videos claim 1 , or both from the multifunctional device through a second connection.3. The system for remotely triggering a visual recording device according to claim 2 , wherein the computer is adapted to receive the data based on a user's preferences stored on the mobile device.4. The system for remotely triggering a visual recording device according to claim 1 , wherein the multifunctional device is adapted to automatically receive images claim 1 , video claim 1 , or both from the mobile device based ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A CAMERA MODULE TO COMPENSATE FOR THE LIGHT LEVEL OF A WHITE LED

A method and an apparatus enabling use of a light source emitting a light of changing intensity and changing spectrum as a flash with a camera module having a white-balance routine and an exposure routine, wherein an initial value representative of a color spectrum emitted by the light source is transmitted to the camera module, the light source is turned on, and the camera module is signaled to scan a plurality of images of the scene while the light source is turned on, allowing the white-balance and exposure algorithms to be employed with each image scanned to refine the first initial value to refine the degree of compensation employed in correcting a color and a light level in the last one of the images of the plurality of images scanned. 1. A method of taking a picture of a scene with an electronic device , the electronic device including a camera module having an image scanning element and a flash source , the camera module being operable in an ambient light mode in which the image scanning element is controlled to capture and white balance a succession of images , and in a flash illumination mode in which the image scanning element is controlled to capture and white balance a single image , the camera module having stored therein a pre-determined white-balance routine that includes an initial limit region of a chromaticity chart , the initial limit region of the chromaticity chart overlying a portion of a blackbody radiation curve , the flash source having an optical spectrum lying outside the initial limit region of the chromaticity chart , the method comprising:a) detecting that the flash source will illuminate the scene;b) modifying the initial limit region as a function of the optical spectrum of the flash source, to obtain a modified limit region;c) defining a reference white region within the modified limit region, the reference white region excluding any portion of the black body radiation curve; and i) energizing the flash source to illuminate the ...

CAMERA VIEWFINDER WITH CONTINUOUS VARIABLE ADJUSTABLE COLOUR TEMPERATURE

A viewfinder of an electronic camera includes a colour display monitor that is adapted to display a scene captured by an image sensor arrangement of the camera. The colour temperature of the viewfinder is continuously variable adjustable between a minimum and a maximum value. The colour temperature adjustment of the viewfinder does not affect the colour temperature of a video signal produced by the camera that is recorded or transmitted. 1. Viewfinder of an electronic camera including a colour display monitor , adapted to display a scene captured by an image sensor arrangement of the camera , characterised in that the colour temperature of the viewfinder is continuously variable adjustable between a minimum and a maximum value , wherein the colour temperature adjustment of the viewfinder does not affect the colour temperature of a video signal produced by the camera that is recorded or transmitted.2. Viewfinder according to claim 1 , wherein the colour temperature can be adjusted by maintaining constant the gain for one primary colour component of a video signal and varying the gains for the other primary colour components of the video signal.3. Viewfinder according to claim 2 , wherein the gain for the green colour component is maintained constant.6. Camera having a viewfinder according to one of the preceding claims. The invention pertains to a camera viewfinder, in particular to a colour viewfinder, having a continuously variable adjustable colour temperature.Colour temperature is a characteristic of visible light that has important applications in lighting, photography, videography, publishing, manufacturing, astrophysics, and other fields. The colour temperature of a light source is the temperature of an ideal black-body radiator that radiates light of comparable hue to that light source. The temperature is conventionally stated in units of absolute temperature, Kelvin (K).Higher colour temperatures (5,000 K or more) are called cool colours (bluish white); ...

METHODS AND ARRANGEMENTS FOR PROCESSING IMAGE DATA

An image can be encoded to define one or more spatial regions that are detectable by a suitably-equipped mobile device (e.g., a smartphone), but are imperceptible to humans. When such a mobile device senses one of these regions, it takes an action in response (e.g., rendering an associated tone, playing linked video, etc.). The mobile device may send an excerpt of captured imagery to a cloud processor, which responds with an estimate of the viewing angle by which the image was captured. The mobile device can perform further operations (e.g., re-sampling, watermark decoding) based on this viewing angle estimate. A great variety of other features and arrangements are also detailed. 1. A method practiced using a user's camera-equipped portable computer system , including the acts:processing imagery of a subject captured by the user's camera-equipped portable computer system, to produce processed image data corresponding to spatial excerpt of the captured imagery, the spatial excerpt comprising less than all of a captured image frame;sending the processed image data corresponding to the spatial excerpt to a remote processor;receiving from the remote processor an estimate of a viewing angle of the camera relative to the subject; andfurther processing image data corresponding to the captured image frame, in accordance with said estimate of the viewing angle received from the remote processor.2. The method of in which the spatial excerpt consists of a 32×32 region of pixels.3. The method of in which the spatial excerpt consists of a region from the center of the captured image frame.4. The method of in which the further processing of the image data comprises resampling the image data in accordance with the estimate of the viewing angle received from the remote processor.5. The method of in which the spatial excerpt includes a steganographic signal by which the remote system can estimate the viewing angle.6. An article of manufacture including a computer-readable medium ...

TURBULENCE COMPENSATED IMAGE PRODUCTION

Turbulence compensated image data is produced by adapting the settings of a deformable mirror () or other adaptable optical element that is used to in the formation of images of an object. A series of images produced by the camera () is captured with different adaptations the deformable mirror (). Turbulence is estimated from the series of images. Compensated image data is computed, by compensating the turbulence in at least one image after the at least one image has been captured by the camera, by using the estimated turbulence and a turbulence compensation computation algorithm. The compensated image data may be computed using a maximum likelihood estimation of the image data given an expression for the likelihood of the object parameters that are representative of compensated image data and aberration parameters due to turbulence given the captured images and the adaptations to the deformable mirror () at the times that the images were captured 24. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor executable instructions are configured to make the processor perform said steps without feedback about the current turbulence of the atmosphere claim 1 , registering the series of images using a series of adapted settings of the optical element () that are selected at random or following a predetermined pattern.3. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor-executable instructions are configured for estimating turbulence using a phase diversity technique.4. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor-executable instructions are configured for carrying out the step of compensating turbulence using a compressive sensing technique.5. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor-executable instructions are configured for carrying out the step of compensating turbulence using an interpolation technique.644. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor-executable instructions are configured for making the adaptive optical ...

IMAGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING MOTION-COMPENSATED HIGH-DYNAMIC-RANGE IMAGES

Electronic devices may include image sensors. Image sensors may be used to capture images having rows of long-exposure image pixel values that are interleaved with rows of short-exposure image pixel values. The long-exposure and short-exposure values in each interleaved image frame may be interpolated to form interpolated values. A combined long-exposure image and a combined short-exposure image may be generated using the long-exposure and the short-exposure values from the interleaved image frames and the interpolated values from a selected one of the interleaved image frames. The combined long-exposure and short-exposure images may each include image pixel values from either of the interleaved image frames in a non-motion edge region and image pixel values based only on the image pixel values or the interpolated values from the selected one of the interleaved images in a motion or non-edge region. High-dynamic-range images may be generated using the combined long-exposure and short-exposure images. 1. A method of using an image sensor and processing circuitry in an electronic device to generate a motion-compensated high-dynamic-range image of a scene containing a moving object , the method comprising:with the image sensor, capturing first and second images, wherein the first and second images each include long-exposure image pixel values and short-exposure image pixel values;with the processing circuitry, generating an interpolated long-exposure image from the first image;with the processing circuitry, generating an interpolated short-exposure image from the first image;with the processing circuitry, generating a long-exposure image that includes image pixel values from the first image, the second image, and the interpolated long-exposure image;with the processing circuitry, generating a short-exposure image that includes image pixel values from the first image, the second image, and the interpolated short-exposure image; andwith the processing circuitry, ...

METHOD OF ECONOMIZING POWER IN IMAGE PICKUP SYSTEM AND IMAGE PICKUP SYSTEM USING THE METHOD

A method of operating an image pickup system includes generating a first control signal in response to a long duration exposure mode selectively input by a user, setting circuits to process image data associated with modes other than long duration exposure mode to a standby mode in response to the first control signal, generating a second control signal when the standby mode has been established, opening a shutter in response to the second control signal, and performing a long duration exposure to accumulate a charge corresponding to an optical signal incident on an image sensor of the image pickup system when the shutter is open. 1. An image pickup system comprising:an image sensor that detects an optical signal incident on the image sensor and converts the optical signal to an electric signal;a signal processor that generates image data by processing the electric signal output from the image sensor; anda controller that switches the signal processor to a standby mode, when a long duration exposure is performed.2. The image pickup system of claim 1 , further comprising: a switch unit that selects the long duration exposure.3. The image pickup system of claim 1 , wherein when the signal processor is switched to the standby mode claim 1 , power supplied to the signal processor is blocked.4. The image pickup system of claim 1 , wherein when the long duration exposure is performed claim 1 , the controller is configured to further block power supplied to at least one circuit unit included in the image sensor.5. The image pickup system of claim 1 , wherein when the long duration exposure is performed claim 1 , the controller is configured to further block current flowing through a column signal line connected to an output terminal of a pixel array included in the image sensor.6. The image pickup system of claim 1 , wherein when the long duration exposure has completed claim 1 , the controller is configured to further switch the signal processor from the standby mode to ...

DISPLAY DEVICE AND DISPLAY SYSTEM

Provided is a display device that processes images in a set cycle, creates image data for each frame or field and that has: a receiver that receives transmitted data from an imaging device that encodes image data as packets, creates transmission data and transmits said transmission data; a display processing unit that generates a display signal for display from the transmitted data; a measuring unit that measures the reception timing of specific packets among the transmitted data; a determination unit that determines the reception state of the specific packets and, based on the results of this determination, determines whether or not to use the received timing; and a processing unit that uses the reception timing and phase regulates the display signal if the determination unit determines to use the reception timing. 1. A display device comprising:a reception unit that receives transmission data from an image capturing device that performs an image capturing process with a predetermined cycle to create image capturing data in each frame or field, packetizes the image capturing data to create the transmission data, and performs a transmission process of the transmission data;a display processing unit that performs a display process of creating a display signal for display from the transmission data;a measurement unit that measures a reception timing of a specified packet of the transmission data;a determination unit that determines a reception state of the specified packet, and determines whether to use the reception timing based on a result of the determination; anda processing unit that performs a phase adjustment process of the display signal using the reception timing when the determination unit determines the reception timing to be used.2. The display device according to claim 1 , wherein the determination unit determines claim 1 , as the reception state of the specified packet claim 1 , whether the specified packet has been retransmitted.3. The display device ...

IMAGING DEVICE AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING IMAGING DEVICE

An imaging device that captures an image using an imaging section includes a control section that controls a signal modulation process that decreases or increases a signal level of an image signal acquired by the imaging section during an exposure period from a start of exposure to an end of exposure when the imaging section captures an image, and a blur correction section that performs a blur correction process on the image signal subjected to the signal modulation process. 1. An imaging device that captures an image using an imaging section , the imaging device comprising:a control section that controls a signal modulation process that decreases or increases a signal level of an image signal acquired by the imaging section during an exposure period from a start of exposure to an end of exposure when the imaging section captures an image; anda blur correction section that performs a blur correction process on the image signal subjected to the signal modulation process.2. The imaging device as defined in claim 1 ,the control section controlling the imaging section so that the signal modulation process that gradually decreases or increases the signal level of the image signal is performed during the exposure period.3. The imaging device as defined in claim 1 ,the control section controlling the imaging section so that the signal modulation process that decreases or increases the signal level of the image signal in a stepwise manner is performed during the exposure period.4. The imaging device as defined in claim 1 ,the control section controlling the signal modulation process that decreases a number of zero points of an amplitude spectrum of a point spread function in a usage frequency range.5. The imaging device as defined in claim 1 ,the control section controlling an optical system of the imaging section so that the signal modulation process that decreases or increases the signal level of the image signal is performed during the exposure period.6. The imaging ...

Sensor aided image stabilization

Techniques described herein provide a method for improved image and video stabilization using inertial sensors. Gyroscopes, accelerometers and magnetometers are examples of such inertial sensors. The movement of the camera causes shifts in the image captured. Image processing techniques may be used to track the shift in the image on a frame by frame basis. The movement of the camera may be tracked using inertial sensors. By calculating the degree of similarity between the image shift as predicted by image processing techniques with shift of the device estimated using one or more inertial sensor, the device may estimate the portions of the image that are stationary and those that are moving. Stationary portions of the image may be used to transform and align the images. For video stabilization, the realigned images may be combined to generate the video. For image stabilization, the realigned images may be either added or averaged to generate the de-blurred image.

INERTIAL SENSOR AIDED STATIONARY OBJECT DETECTION IN VIDEOS

Techniques described herein may provide a method for improved stationary object detection utilizing inertial sensor information. Gyroscopes and accelerometers are examples of such inertial sensors. The movement of the camera causes shifts in the image captured. Image processing techniques may be used to track the shift in the image on a frame-by-frame basis. The movement of the camera may be tracked using inertial sensors. By calculating the degree of similarity between the image shift as predicted by image processing techniques with motion of the device estimated using an inertial sensor, the device can estimate the portions of the image that are stationary and those that are moving. 1. A method for identifying a stationary portion , the method comprising:obtaining a sequence of images using a camera;detecting a shift associated with at least one of a plurality of portions of an image;detecting a motion using a sensor mechanically coupled to the camera;deriving a projected shift for the image based on the detected motion of the camera using the sensor;comparing the derived projected shift with the shift associated with the at least one of the plurality of portions of the image; andidentifying the at least one of the plurality of portions of the image as the stationary portion of the image by identifying that the shift associated with the at least one of the plurality of portions is most similar to the derived projected shift.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein detecting the shift associated with the at least one of the plurality of portions of the image comprises:associating, from the image, the at least one of the plurality of portions of the image with a same relative location from the sequence of images to generate a sequence of portions from the sequence of images; anddetermining the shift associated with the at least one of the plurality of portions of the image using deviations in a plurality of pixels in the sequence of portions from the sequence of images.3. ...

SENSOR AIDED VIDEO STABILIZATION

Techniques described herein provide a method for improved image and video stabilization using inertial sensors. Gyroscopes, accelerometers and magnetometers are examples of such inertial sensors. The movement of the camera causes shifts in the image captured. Image processing techniques may be used to track the shift in the image on a frame-by-frame basis. The movement of the camera may be tracked using inertial sensors. By calculating the degree of similarity between the image shift as predicted by image processing techniques with shift of the device estimated using one or more inertial sensor, the device may estimate the portions of the image that are stationary and those that are moving. Stationary portions of the image may be used to transform and align the images. For video stabilization, the realigned images may be combined to generate the video. For image stabilization, the realigned images may be either added or averaged to generate the de-blurred image. 1. A method for stabilizing a video , the method comprising:obtaining a sequence of images using a camera; identifying a plurality of portions of the image;', 'detecting a shift associated with at least one of the plurality of portions of the image;', 'detecting a motion using a sensor mechanically coupled to the camera;', 'deriving a projected shift for the image based on the detected motion of the camera using the sensor;', 'comparing the derived projected shift with the shift associated with the at least one of the plurality of portions of the image;', 'identifying the at least one of the plurality of portions of the image as a stationary portion of the image by identifying that the shift associated with the at least one of the plurality of portions is most similar to the derived projected shift; and', 'transforming the image using the shift associated with the stationary portion of the image; and, 'transforming an image from the sequence of images from the video, wherein transforming the image ...

ELECTRONIC CAMERA

An electronic camera comprises an image processing unit that performs image quality adjustment using a plurality of adjustment parameters, an information acquisition unit that acquires from an external device first image quality adjustment information including a parameter group for use with the image quality adjustment and an image quality adjustment algorithm that applies the parameter group, and a control unit that controls the image processing unit so that it performs image quality adjustment while applying the parameter group included in the first image quality adjustment information that has been acquired to the image quality adjustment algorithm included in the first image quality adjustment information that has been acquired. 1. An electronic camera , comprising:an image processing unit that performs image quality adjustment using parameter groups;an information recording unit that records first image quality adjustment information including a first parameter group for use with the image quality adjustment, and a first image quality adjustment algorithm that applies the first parameter group;an information acquisition unit that acquires, from an external device, second image quality adjustment information including a second parameter group that is different from the first parameter group, and a second image quality adjustment algorithm that applies the second parameter group; anda control unit that controls the image processing unit so that it performs image quality adjustment while applying the first parameter group to the first image quality adjustment algorithm or image quality adjustment while applying the second parameter group to the second image quality adjustment algorithm.2. An electronic camera according to claim 1 , wherein each of the first image quality adjustment information and the second image quality adjustment information further includes icon information that specifies the image quality adjustment claim 1 , a title of the image quality ...

IMAGE CAPTURE APPARATUS

An image capture apparatus comprises an image sensor which photo-electrically converts an object image formed by an imaging lens, the image sensor including a first pixel group having a first light-receiving area, and a second pixel group which is discretely arranged in the first pixel group and configured by dividing a light-receiving area substantially equal in area to the first light-receiving area into a second light-receiving area and a third light-receiving area different in area from the second light-receiving area, and control means for integrally controlling the second light-receiving area of the second pixel group and the first light-receiving area of the first pixel group. 1. An image capture apparatus comprising:an image sensor which photo-electrically converts an object image formed by an imaging lens, said image sensor including a first pixel group having a first light-receiving area, and a second pixel group which is discretely arranged in the first pixel group and configured by dividing a light-receiving area substantially equal in area to the first light-receiving area into a second light-receiving area and a third light-receiving area different in area from the second light-receiving area; andcontrol means for integrally controlling the second light-receiving area of the second pixel group and the first light-receiving area of the first pixel group.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said image sensor includes a color filter with a Bayer arrangement claim 1 , and the second pixel group is arranged at positions of two green pixels forming the Bayer arrangement.3. The apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein said control means integrally controls the third light-receiving area of one pixel in the second pixel group and the third light-receiving area of another pixel in the second pixel group that is arranged adjacent to said one pixel.4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising focus detection means for detecting a focus ...

IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS AND IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS CONTROL METHOD

An image capturing apparatus has either one of a first display mode for continuously displaying a captured image on an image display unit and a second display mode for not displaying the captured image on the image display unit and displays an image according to the detection result on the image display unit when the second display mode is set. 1an image capturing unit configured to capture an image of an object;a display control unit configured to display the image captured by the image capturing unit on an image display unit;a detection unit configured to detect a specific object from the image captured by the image capturing unit; anda mode setting unit configured to set either one of a first display mode for continuously displaying the captured image on the image display unit by the display control unit, and a second display mode for not displaying the captured image on the image display unit, whereinthe display control unit displays an image according to the detection result obtained by the detection unit on the image display unit when the second mode is set by the mode setting unit.. An image capturing apparatus comprising: This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 12/797,424 filed Jun. 9, 2010 that claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2009-142720 filed Jun. 15, 2009, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.1. Field of the InventionThe present invention relates to an image capturing apparatus having a display mode for not displaying a captured image on an image display unit during a standby state before a photograph is taken.2. Description of the Related ArtA conventional image capturing apparatus such as a digital camera is capable of continuously displaying an image signal from an image sensor on a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like during a standby state before a photograph is taken. Therefore, a user performs framing while confirming a field angle displayed on the LCD and can press a ...

SOLID-STATE IMAGE PICKUP DEVICE

A solid-state image pickup device includes a column ADC realizing higher precision and higher-speed conversion. Converters converts a signal of each pixels output via a corresponding vertical read line to a digital value by sequentially executing first to N-th (N: integer of three or larger) conversion stages. In the first to (N−1)th conversion stages, each converter determines a value of upper bits including the most significant bit of a digital value by comparing the voltage at a retention stage with a reference voltage while changing the voltage at a retention node. In the N-th conversion stage, each converter determines a value of remaining bits to the least significant bit by comparing the voltage at the retention node with the reference voltage while continuously changing the voltage at the retention node in a range of the voltage step in the (N−1)th conversion stage or a range exceeding the range. 1. A solid-state image pickup device comprising:an imaging unit in which a plurality of pixels each including a photoelectric conversion element for converting a light signal to an electric signal are disposed in a matrix, and signals of pixels in a selected row are output via a plurality of vertical read lines disposed for columns while sequentially scanning the pixels row by row; anda plurality of converters provided in correspondence with the vertical read lines,wherein each of the converters has a retention node for retaining a signal of a pixel which is output via a corresponding vertical read line and converts the signal retained by the retention node to a digital value by sequentially executing first to N-th (N: integer of three or larger) conversion stages,wherein, in the first conversion stage, each of the converters determines a value of one or plural upper bits including the most significant bit of the digital value by comparing the voltage at the retention node with a reference voltage while changing the voltage at the retention node by a predetermined ...

WATERPROOF CAMERA

A waterproof camera includes an image pickup section, a display section that displays image data, a mode setting section that sets a semi-underwater mode in which both objects under water and above water are simultaneously photographed, and a display control section that limits a display range of the display section when the semi-underwater mode is set, wherein the mode setting section controls the position of a photographing lens or the like to adjust a focus balance of at least one of under water and above water, and the display control section displays both object images under water and above water within a limited display range of the display section. 1. A waterproof camera comprising:an image pickup section having a photographing lens and an image pickup device;a focusing section that achieves focus on an object image formed on an image pickup plane of the image pickup device by moving the photographing lens or the image pickup device in an optical axis direction of the photographing lens;a semi-underwater photographing mode setting section for setting a semi-underwater photographing mode in which photographing is performed by simultaneously accommodating an object image above water which is an above water side and an object image under water which is an underwater side on the image pickup plane; anda focus control section that controls focusing position by the focusing section when the semi-underwater photographing mode is set so as to obtain a focus position corresponding to a distance from the image pickup section to the object in consideration of a refractive index under and above the water.2. The waterproof camera according to claim 1 , wherein the focusing control section controls claim 1 , when the semi-underwater photographing mode is set claim 1 , so as to realize a focus position corresponding to a distance obtained by correcting the distance from the image pickup section to the object above water acquired through focusing by the focusing section on ...

IMAGING DEVICE AND SUBJECT DETECTION METHOD

An imaging device includes a first detection part which detects one or more subjects in an image captured by the image capturing part capturing an image continuously; a second detection part which follows the one or more subjects detected; and a system control part which includes a setting part setting a part of the image as a limited region, and causes, after the first detection part detects the one or more subjects in the captured image, the second detection part to follow and detect a subject in an image captured subsequently to the captured image, and causes the first detection part to detect a subject in the limited region. 120-. (canceled)21. An imaging device comprising:an image capturing part to capture frames of an image continuously;a first detection part to detect one or more subjects in the image captured by the image capturing part;a second detection part to follow and detect the one or more subjects detected by the first detection part; anda control part to cause, after the first detection part detects the one or more subjects in a first region of a first frame of the image, the second detection part to follow and detect the one or more subjects in a second and subsequent frames of the image,include a setting part to set a part of the image as a limited region which is smaller than the first region of the image,cause the first detection part to perform subject detection in the limited region while shifting the limited region in position over the second and subsequent frames of the image.22. An imaging device according to claim 21 , wherein the first detection part performs the subject detection in a single limited region in each subject detection operation.23. An imaging device according to claim 21 , wherein the setting part sets the limited region sequentially such that a previously set limited region overlaps with a newly set limited region.24. An imaging device according to claim 21 , wherein the setting part sets the limited region according to a ...

TRACKING APPARATUS AND TRACKING METHOD

The tracking target subject specifying unit specifies a tracking target subject in image data. The first tracking position detection unit detects first characteristic information from the image data and set a first candidate tracking position based on the first characteristic information. The second tracking position detection unit detects second characteristic information from the image data and detect a second candidate tracking position based on the second characteristic information. The reference information acquisition unit acquires reference information. The control unit decides a true tracking position based on two determinations. 1. A tracking apparatus comprising:a tracking target subject specifying unit configured to specify a tracking target subject included in input image data;a first tracking position detection unit configured to detect first characteristic information from the image data and set, as a first candidate tracking position, the position of the tracking target subject in the image data in accordance with the first characteristic information;a second tracking position detection unit configured to detect characteristic information different from the first characteristic information as second characteristic information from the image data and detect, as a second candidate tracking position, the position of the tracking target subject in the image data in accordance with the second characteristic information;a reference information acquisition unit configured to acquire, as reference information, characteristic information which is present at the first candidate tracking position and which is of the same kind as the second characteristic information; anda control unit configured to decide a true tracking position in accordance with a determination on whether the second characteristic information and the reference information characteristically correspond to each other and a determination on whether the distance between the first candidate ...

Electronic camera with self-adjusting flash and image-capture sensitivity

An electronic camera includes: an image-capturing unit with variable image-capturing sensitivity, which captures an image of a subject through a photographic lens; a brightness detection unit that detects subject brightness; an exposure calculation unit that executes an exposure calculation by using the image-capturing sensitivity set at the image-capturing unit and the detected subject brightness; a flash quantity calculation unit that calculates a main flash quantity for a flash unit that illuminates the subject when capturing an image thereof; and a sensitivity adjusting unit that adjusts the image-capturing sensitivity so as to achieve optimal exposure with a main flash quantity within a flash quantity control range of the flash unit when the main flash quantity calculated by the flash quantity calculation unit is outside the flash quantity control range. And if the image-capturing sensitivity has been adjusted by the sensitivity adjusting unit, the exposure calculation unit re-executes the exposure calculation. 19-. (canceled)10. An electronic camera , comprising:an image-capturing unit with variable image-capturing sensitivity, which captures an image of a subject through a photographic lens;a brightness detection unit that detects a subject brightness;a first calculation unit that calculates an ambient light over/under extent by using an image-capturing sensitivity set for the image-capturing unit, an exposure time length set for an image-capturing operation, an aperture value set for the image-capturing operation and the subject brightness having been detected;a reflected light detection unit that detects reflected light from a main subject when a flash unit, which executes a main flash to illuminate the subject during the image-capturing operation and executes a preliminary flash emission to illuminate the subject before the image-capturing operation, executes the preliminary flash emission;a second calculation unit that calculates a main flash quantity ...

FLASH SYSTEM FOR MULTI-APERTURE IMAGING

A method and a system for forming an image of a scene are provided. The method includes capturing an image of the scene by exposing an image sensor to radiation from one part of the EM spectrum using one aperture and to radiation from another part of the EM spectrum using another aperture having a different size than the first aperture. Simultaneously with capturing the image, the scene is illuminated with radiation from the second part of the EM spectrum. The image is then formed on the basis of image data generated by the radiation from the first part of the EM spectrum and image data generated by radiation from the second part of the EM spectrum. 1. Method of forming an image of a scene , the method including the steps of:capturing a first image of the scene by exposing an image sensor to radiation from a first part of the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum using at least a first aperture and to radiation from a second part of the EM spectrum using at least a second aperture having a different size than the first aperture;forming the image of the scene on the basis of image data of the first image generated by the radiation from the first part of the EM spectrum and on the basis of image data of the first image generated by radiation from the second part of the EM spectrum.wherein, simultaneously with capturing the first image, the scene is illuminated with the radiation from the second part of the EM spectrum.2. Method according to claim 1 , wherein the scene is illuminated with the radiation from the second part of the EM spectrum according to predetermined one or more illumination parameters claim 1 , and wherein claim 1 , previously to capturing the first image claim 1 , the one or more illumination parameters are predetermined by:without the scene being illuminated with the radiation from the second part of the EM spectrum, capturing a second image of the scene by exposing the image sensor to the radiation from the first part of the EM spectrum using at least the ...

Auto focus device and a method therefor

The present invention relates to an autofocus device, and to a method therefor, whereby the delay necessary for auto focus can be reduced according to circumstances and a clear image of a subject can be obtained in a timely fashion by suitably adjusting the precision and speed of autofocus, as auto focus settings are differently applied in accordance with the photography mode when autofocus is being implemented in a camera. To this end, the autofocus method according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a step of inputting a photography mode for a subject; a step of deciding which auto focus setting corresponds to the input photography mode; a step of determining the lens step with the highest focal value among lens steps set according to the distance of the subject and the lens on the basis of the auto focus setting decided upon; and a step of moving the lens to the determined lens step.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RENDERING A DISPLAY TO COMPENSATE FOR A VIEWER'S VISUAL IMPAIRMENT

A system and method is provided for rendering on a display of an electronic device a pre-corrected image of an original image to compensate for a visual impairment of a user of the device, such that the pre-corrected image when displayed on the display would be perceived by the user to be in better optical focus than the user would perceive a display of the original image. The method includes receiving hardware characteristics of the display, receiving at least one parameter describing the visual impairment of the user, receiving at least one parameter describing the conditions under which the display is seen by the user, calculating a pupil function, calculating a Point Spread Function (PSF), calculating a pre-corrected image corresponding to at least a portion of the original image to compensate for the visual impairment of the user, and rendering on the display the pre-corrected image. 129.-. (canceled)30. A computer-implemented method for rendering on a display of an electronic device a pre-corrected image of an original image to compensate for a second-order visual impairment of a user of the device such that the pre-corrected image when displayed on the display would be perceived by the user to be in better optical focus than the user would perceive a display of the original image , comprising:receiving hardware characteristics of the display;receiving at least one parameter describing the visual impairment of the user, wherein the parameter is at least one from the group consisting of: a sphere parameter, a cylinder and axis parameters, and a near point of accommodation, or another mathematically-equivalent set of parameters representing the visual impairment of the user;receiving at least one parameter describing the conditions under which the display is seen by the user;calculating, using the at least one parameter describing the visual impairment of the user, a Point Spread Function (PSF), or another mathematically-equivalent representation of an imaging ...

IMAGE PROCESSING DEVICE, IMAGING DEVICE, AND IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD

An image processing device includes: a luminance saturation position detection unit which detects a luminance saturation position to produce a light source image; a flare model production unit which produces a flare model image based on the light source image and optical characteristics data of the optical system; a flare position setting unit which sets, as a flare position, a predetermined image position in the captured image and located near the luminance saturation position and on a side of an optical axis relative to the luminance saturation position; a flare model luminance adjustment unit which produces the estimated flare image by adjusting luminance gain of the flare model image, based on a relationship between a luminance value of the captured image at the flare position and a luminance value of the flare model image at the flare position; and an unnecessary light subtraction unit which subtracts the estimated flare image from the captured image. 1. An image processing device which reduces an unnecessary light component in an image captured through an optical system including a diffractive optical element , said image processing device comprising:a flare image estimation unit configured to produce an estimated flare image that appears around a bright object in the captured image; andan unnecessary light subtraction unit configured to subtract the estimated flare image from the captured image,wherein said flare image estimation unit includes:a luminance saturation position detection unit configured to detect a luminance saturation position to produce a light source image, the luminance saturation position being an image position in the captured image at which a luminance value is greater than a predetermined value;a flare model production unit configured to produce a flare model image based on the light source image and optical characteristics data of the optical system;a flare position setting unit configured to set, as a flare position, a predetermined ...

Image synthesizing apparatus, image recording method, and recording medium

An image capturing unit 1 acquires a plurality of images being temporally continuous. Based on external operations from a key input unit 4 , a control unit 9 selects an image serving as reference of synthesis, from the plurality of images acquired by the image capturing unit 1 . An image processing unit 10 compares the reference image selected by the key input unit 4 with other images acquired by the image capturing unit 1 , and detects an image with a difference value being higher than a predetermined threshold value as a result of such comparison. The image processing unit 10 sets a synthetic rate, based on the image thus detected. A synthesis unit 11 generates a single image by executing synthesis of the plurality of acquired images including the image serving as reference, by using the synthetic rate that is set by the image processing unit 10.

SOLID-STATE IMAGING DEVICE

A solid-state imaging device includes pixels, vertical signal lines, a high-order AD converter configured to convert M bits, a low-order AD converter, and first and second selection circuits. The first selection circuit is configured to output, in a normal mode, voltage of the selected vertical signal line and to output correction voltage in a correction mode. The high-order AD converter calculates 2residual voltage values each corresponding to a difference between a signal voltage value and each of 2threshold voltage values; outputs, in the normal mode, a high-order bit digital value corresponding to the maximum one of the 2threshold voltage values in a range below the signal voltage value, and outputs voltage having a residual voltage value corresponding to the maximum threshold voltage value; and outputs, in the correction mode, voltage having a residual voltage value corresponding to a selected threshold voltage value. 1. A solid-state imaging device comprising:a plurality of pixels arranged in rows and columns;a plurality of vertical signal lines each connecting pixels in each of the columns;a high-order AD converter configured to convert M bits;one or more low-order AD converters;a first selection circuit corresponding to the high-order AD converter; anda second selection circuit corresponding to the high-order AD converter,wherein the first selection circuit selects, in a normal mode, one of the vertical signal lines to output voltage of the selected one of the vertical signal lines, and output correction voltage in a correction mode, [{'b': 2', '2, 'sup': M', 'M, 'calculates residual voltage values each corresponding to a difference between a signal voltage value obtained based on output of the first selection circuit and each of threshold voltage values,'}, {'b': 2', '2, 'sup': M', 'M, 'outputs, in the normal mode, a high-order bit digital value corresponding to a maximum one of the threshold voltage values in a range below the signal voltage value, and ...

IMAGING APPARATUS

An imaging apparatus includes a determining unit operable to determine whether a subject indicated by a feature quantity information extracted by an extracting unit is a same face indicated by a feature quantity information stored in a storing unit as the registration candidate, and a display unit operable to display a screen for prompting a user to perform an operation concerning registration in accordance with number of times the determining unit determines that the subject indicated by the feature quantity information extracted by the extracting unit is the same subject indicated by the feature quantity information stored in the storing unit as the registration candidate. 1. An imaging apparatus which can be set to a single shooting mode and a continuous shooting mode , comprising:an imaging unit operable to capture a subject to generate image data;an extracting unit operable to extract feature quantity information indicative of a feature of the subject from the image data generated by the imaging unit;a storing unit operable to store the feature quantity information extracted by the extracting unit as a registration candidate;a determining unit operable to determine whether a subject indicated by the feature quantity information extracted by the extracting unit is a same subject indicated by the feature quantity information stored in the storing unit as the registration candidate; anda display unit operable to display a screen for prompting a user with a user's operation concerning registration, in accordance with number of times the determining unit determines that the subject indicated by the feature quantity information extracted by the extracting unit is the same subject indicated by the feature quantity information stored in the storing unit as the registration candidate, whereinthe determining unit varies a method for counting number of times the determining unit determines that the subject indicated by the feature quantity information extracted by the ...

SWITCHER SYSTEM, AND VIEW FINDER

Relating to a switcher system that is capable of reducing time and trouble of setting video equipment. According to the present invention, there is provided a switcher system having a switcher and a plurality of view finders. The switcher outputs a digital video signal having a tally signal superimposed thereon. Each of the view finders has an external digital video input unit, which receives input of the digital video signal, and a tally display control unit, which controls tally display based on the tally signal superimposed on the digital video signal. 1. A switcher system comprising a switcher and a plurality of view finders , wherein:the switcher outputs a digital video signal having a tally signal superimposed thereon; and an external digital video input unit that receives input of the digital video signal; and', 'a tally display control unit that controls tally display based on the tally signal., 'each of the view finders has2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the switcher has:a digital video input unit that receives input of a plurality of digital video signals;a video selecting unit that selects one of the digital video signals received by the digital video input unit;a signal superimposing unit that superimposes the tally signal, which has an identifier, on the digital video signal selected by the video selecting unit; anda digital video output unit that outputs the digital video signal having the tally signal superimposed thereon.3. The system according to claim 2 , wherein the identifier corresponds to an identifier of a video camera that outputs the digital video signal.4. The system according to claim 2 , wherein:each of the view finders has a storage unit that stores an identifier thereof; andthe tally display control unit turns on the tally display when the identifier of the tally signal coincides with the identifier stored in the storage unit.5. The system according to claim 2 , wherein:the switcher further has a control signal input unit ...

APPARATUS, METHOD, AND PROGRAM FOR SELECTING IMAGE DATA USING A DISPLAY

An image recording apparatus includes an image capturing unit configured to capture an image of a subject, a recording unit configured to record one of still image data and video image data captured by the image capturing unit on a storage medium in the form of an image file, a generating unit configured to generate a management file used for managing the image file recorded on the storage medium, and a registering unit configured to register an identifier of the image file recorded on the storage medium in the management file on a capture date basis in the order of capture time. 1. An image playback apparatus comprising:an arranging unit to arrange sequentially a plurality of thumbnail images of image files on a capture date basis; anda display control unit to control display of the plurality of thumbnail images, wherein the thumbnail images having different capture dates are displayed separately.2. The image playback apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the display control unit is to arrange the thumbnail images having a same capture date in lines, andwhen a last line of the lines is available for arranging the thumbnail images having the same capture date and there is no further unarranged thumbnail image having the same capture date, not to display in the last line the thumbnail images having a capture date different from the same capture date.3. The image playback apparatus according to claim 2 ,wherein the display control unit, when a location of the last line is available for arranging the thumbnail images having the same capture date and there is no further unarranged thumbnail image having the same capture date, is not to display in the last line the thumbnail images having a capture date different from the same capture date and to leave the location blank.4. The image playback apparatus according to claim 3 ,wherein the display control unit is to display a position of a currently displayed page within a plurality of pages.5. The image playback apparatus ...

Zoom lens and image pickup apparatus including the same

A zoom lens includes a negative lens unit having a negative refractive power and a positive lens unit having a positive refractive power arranged in order from an object side to an image side. For focusing from infinity to a closest distance, the negative lens unit moves towards the image side and the positive lens unit moves towards the object side. Predetermined mathematical conditions are satisfied to obtain high optical performance over the entire focusing range.

WIRELESS HANDSET INTERFACE FOR VIDEO RECORDING CAMERA CONTROL

Video recording where an input image signal is received with one or more optical sensor disposed in a hands-free video recorder. The input image signal is processed into an encoded video data stream with one or more processor disposed in the hands-free video recorder. First frames of the video data stream are relayed over a wireless communication link to a cellular-enabled wireless telephony handset and presented on a display screen of the handset along with a graphical user video control interface. Video control commands are wirelessly sent to the recorder in response to receiving a first input through the video control interface. Second frames of the video data stream are directed by the video control commands to at least one of a plurality of destinations. 1. A video recording method , the method comprising:receiving an input image signal with one or more optical sensor disposed in a hands-free video recorder;processing the input image signal into an encoded video data stream with one or more processor disposed in the hands-free video recorder;wirelessly relaying first frames of the video data stream over a wireless communication link to a cellular-enabled wireless telephony handset;presenting the first frames of the video data stream on a display screen of handset;presenting a graphical user video control interface on the display screen;wirelessly transmitting one or more first video control commands to the recorder in response to receiving a first input through the video control interface; andcontrolling a destination of second frames of the video data stream by directing the second frames to at least one of a plurality of destinations based on the one or more first video control commands.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein directing second frames of the video data stream to at least one of a plurality of destinations further comprises selecting between at least two of:storing the second frames in a storage medium disposed in the recorder as a recorded video ...

INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, IMAGING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD, AND PROGRAM

An information processing apparatus includes a control unit configured to perform control for selecting settings for an imaging operation of an imaging unit based on surrounding sound obtained by a sound obtaining unit and an image generated by the imaging unit. 1. An information processing apparatus comprising:a control unit configured to perform control for selecting settings for an imaging operation of an imaging unit based on surrounding sound obtained by a sound obtaining unit and an image generated by the imaging unit.2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:a first determination unit configured to determine an object generating sound based on the surrounding sound obtained by the sound obtaining unit; anda second determination unit configured to determine an object included in the image based on the image generated by the imaging unit,wherein the control unit is configured to select the settings based on a determination result by the first determination unit and a determination result by the second determination unit.3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 ,wherein the control unit is configured to select the settings based on a comparison result between a first object as the object determined by the first determination unit and a second object as the object determined by the second determination unit.4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3 ,wherein the control unit is configured to select a first parameter as a parameter relating to the settings based on the first object, select a second parameter as a parameter relating to the settings based on the second object, and select the settings with the use of any of the first parameter and the second parameter based on whether or not the first object coincides with the second object.5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4 ,wherein the control unit is configured to select the settings with the use of the first ...

METHOD OF ADJUSTING DIGITAL CAMERA IMAGE PROCESSING PARAMETERS

A method for adjusting predetermined ISO-dependent image processing parameters for images captured by a digital camera includes measuring the exposure deviation in exposure units from an optimal exposure as determined by the camera during an image capture process, deriving an estimated camera sensitivity from the exposure deviation, and adjusting the ISO-dependent image processing parameters for images captured by the camera as a function of the derived estimated camera sensitivity. 1. A method for adjusting predetermined ISO-dependent image processing parameters for an image captured by a digital camera , comprising:measuring the exposure deviation in exposure units from an optimal exposure as determined by the camera during an image capture process;generating an estimated camera sensitivity from the exposure deviation; andadjusting the ISO-dependent image processing parameters for images captured by the camera as a function of the derived estimated camera sensitivity; andprocessing the image using the adjusted parameters to create an adjusted image.2. The method of wherein generating the estimated camera sensitivity includes generating the estimated camera sensitivity from the exposure deviation and the ISO setting preset in the camera.3. The method of wherein generating an estimated camera sensitivity from the exposure deviation comprises rounding the estimated camera sensitivity to the nearest ISO setting for which the predetermined ISO-dependent parameters are available.4. The method of wherein generating an estimated camera sensitivity from the exposure deviation comprises rounding the estimated camera sensitivity to one of the nearest larger and smaller ISO setting values for which the predetermined ISO-dependent parameters are available.5. The method of wherein generating an estimated camera sensitivity from the exposure deviation comprises generating the estimated camera sensitivity as a combination of the two nearest ISO values.6. The method of wherein ...

IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD, AND COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM

An image processing apparatus includes an image acquiring unit that acquires an image; an information acquiring unit that acquires image information indicative of a content of the image; and a correcting unit that corrects the image based on the image information such that some of warping of the image is left. 1. An image processing apparatus comprising:an image acquiring unit configured to acquire an image;an information acquiring unit configured to acquire image information indicative of a content of the image; anda correcting unit configured to correct the image based on the image information such that some of warping of the image is left.2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the correcting unit corrects the image such that a horizontal direction component of the warping is completely or nearly completely eliminated while a predetermined proportion of a vertical direction component of the warping is left when the image information indicates that the content of the image is a person.3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the correcting unit corrects the image such that a horizontal direction component of the warping is eliminated more than a vertical direction component of the warping.4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising an input unit configured to receive the image information claim 1 ,wherein the information acquiring unit acquires the image information via the input unit.5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising an analyzing unit configured to generate the image information by analyzing the image claim 1 ,wherein the information acquiring unit acquires the image information generated by the analyzing unit.6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the analyzing unit generates the image information indicating that the content of the image is a person when the analyzing unit determines that the image contains two or ...

ELECTRONIC APPARATUS

An electronic apparatus includes an internal recording medium. An internal recording medium records data. An abnormality detecting portion detects an abnormality of the electronic apparatus at a predetermined timing. A diagnosis portion diagnoses a state of the electronic apparatus. In a case where the abnormality is detected by the abnormality detecting portion, the diagnosis portion is caused to execute a diagnosis on the electronic apparatus, and a diagnosis result and data recorded in the internal recording medium are recorded in an external recording medium. 1. An electronic apparatus , comprising:an internal recording medium which records data;an abnormality detecting portion which detects an abnormality of the electronic apparatus at a predetermined timing; anda diagnosis portion which diagnoses a state of the electronic apparatus, wherein in a case where the abnormality is detected by said abnormality detecting portion, said diagnosis portion is caused to execute a diagnosis on the electronic apparatus, and a diagnosis result and data recorded in said internal recording medium are recorded in an external recording medium.2. An electronic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined timing is when a power source of the electronic apparatus is one of turned on and turned off.3. An electronic apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a notifying portion which notifies the abnormality when the abnormality is detected by said abnormality detecting portion.4. An electronic apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein said notifying portion notifies by at least one of a sound output and a light emission.5. An electronic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the diagnosis result includes at least one of: information associated with a date and a time when the abnormality is detected; information associated with a temperature of the electronic apparatus; and information associated with a battery remaining amount. The disclosure of Japanese ...

Imaging apparatus

An imaging apparatus includes an image sensor that exposes a subject image by reading lines sequentially to generate an image; a detector that detects an angular velocity of a shake of the imaging apparatus; a controller that: (i) determines the detected angular velocity as an angular velocity for correction when the detected angular velocity is equal to or less than a predetermined angular velocity and, determines the predetermined angular velocity as the angular velocity for correction when the detected angular velocity is larger than the predetermined angular velocity; and (ii) corrects to reduce an influence of a shake to the image generated by the image sensor by image processing based on the determined angular velocity for correction.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING AN IMAGE IN A USER DEVICE

A method of photographing an image is provided. The method includes displaying a preview image in a photographing mode; receiving a plurality of setting values for an option; receiving a request for photographing; and performing a continuous photographing by sequentially changing the plurality of the setting values in response to the request for photographing. 1. A method of photographing an image , the method comprising:displaying a preview image in a photographing mode;receiving a plurality of setting values for an option;receiving a request for photographing; andperforming a continuous photographing by sequentially changing the plurality of the setting values in response to the request for photographing.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the option includes a focus claim 1 , an exposure claim 1 , a zoom claim 1 , a white balance claim 1 , a brightness claim 1 , and an film speed (ISO).3. The method of claim 1 , wherein receiving the plurality of the setting values comprises:sequentially receiving a touch input that selects the plurality of setting values for the option in the preview image.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein performing the continuous photographing further comprises:performing a first photographing based on a setting value of a highest priority among the plurality of the setting values and storing a first image data based on the first photographing; andperforming a second photographing based on a setting value of a next highest priority among the plurality of the setting values and storing a second image data based on the second photographing, when the first photographing is completed.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:activating a mode for entering the plurality of the setting values.6. A method of photographing an image claim 1 , the method comprising:displaying a preview image in a photographing mode;activating a multi-focus mode;sequentially receiving a plurality of touch inputs on the preview image;setting a plurality of focuses ...

Focus adjusting apparatus and focus adjusting method

There are provided a focus adjusting apparatus and method in which a look of an image plane can be improved when an object area to be focused in the image plane is judged and focused prior to image-taking preparation operation. A first operation for determining the object area to be focused is performed prior to the image-taking preparation operation, and a second operation for performing the focus adjusting operation is performed at the time of the image-taking preparation operation.

AUDIO PROCESSING APPARATUS, AUDIO PROCESSING METHOD AND IMAGING APPARATUS

A processor combines a first predicted signal generated based on an audio signal in an interval preceding a noise detection interval, and a second predicted signal generated based on an audio signal in an interval succeeding the noise detection interval, based on the ratio between the periodicity of the audio signal in the interval preceding the noise detection interval, and the periodicity of the audio signal in the interval succeeding the noise detection interval. The processor replaces the audio signal in the noise detection interval with the combined signal. 1. An audio processing apparatus comprising:an obtaining unit configured to obtain an audio signal; anda processor configured to process the audio signal;wherein the processor detects a period which contains noise in the audio signal,wherein the processor generates a first predicted signal based on an audio signal in a period preceding the detected period, and generates a second predicted signal based on an audio signal in a period succeeding the detected period,wherein the processor combines the first predicted signal and the second predicted signal based on a ratio between a periodicity of the audio signal in the period preceding the detected period, and a periodicity of the audio signal in the period succeeding the detected period, andwherein the processor replaces the audio signal in the detected period with the combined signal.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processor does not replace the audio signal in the detected period with the combined signal if the periodicity of the audio signal in the period preceding the detected period claim 1 , and the periodicity of the audio signal in the period succeeding the detected period are lower than a predetermined threshold.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processor replaces the audio signal in the detected period with the second predicted signal if the periodicity of the audio signal in the period preceding the detected ...

Imaging device

This imaging device comprises: a storage unit that sequentially stores a plurality of frame images based on an imaging signal from an imaging sensor for capturing images of a subject light and also stores a still image corresponding to any of the plurality of frame images; a movie image generation unit that generates slow-motion movie images to be played back at a second frame rate lower than a first frame rate indicative of the number of frame images stored in the storage unit in a unit of time, on the basis of the plurality of frame images stored in the storage unit; and an image stabilization amount calculation unit that uses, as a reference, the frame image corresponding to the still image from among the plurality of frame images, to calculate an image stabilization amount for the slow-motion movie images.

IMAGING APPARATUS AND DISPLAY CONTROL METHOD IN IMAGING APPARATUS

An imaging apparatus includes: a first display panel mounted on an apparatus casing so as to display images or data in a direction towards a user; a second display panel mounted on the apparatus casing so as to display images or data in a direction towards a subject; an imaging processor that performs a photoelectric conversion on incident light from the subject direction to obtain image signals; a person detector that detects whether or not a person is present in the subject direction; and a controller that allows images or data based on the image signals obtained by the imaging processor to be displayed on the first display panel and controls an operation of displaying the images or data based on the image signals obtained by the imaging processor on the second display panel in accordance with at least the detection results of the person detector. 1. An imaging apparatus comprising:a first display panel that is mounted on an apparatus casing so as to display images in a direction towards a user;a second display panel that is mounted on the apparatus casing so as to display said images in a direction towards a subject;an imaging processor that performs a photoelectric conversion on incident light from the subject direction to obtain image signals;a person detector that detects whether or not a person is present in the subject direction; anda controller that allows said images based on the image signals obtained by the imaging processor to be displayed on the first display panel and controls an operation of displaying the images based on the image signals obtained by the imaging processor on the second display panel in accordance with at least the detection results of the person detector,wherein when the presence of a person is detected by the person detector and it is determined that a state of the person is appropriate for viewing of the second display panel by the person, the controller performs a control such that the images based on the image signals obtained ...

IMAGING SYSTEM AND CONTROL METHOD FOR IMAGING SYSTEM

An imaging system of the present invention comprises a lens unit having a barrel section that contains a photographing optical system, and an operating section provided on the barrel section, and a camera body having an imaging section for converting a subject image formed by the photographing optical system into electrical signals, and a display section for displaying the subject image based on the electrical signals, wherein the lens unit has a transmission section for transmitting information relating to the operation section, and the camera body has a receiving section for receiving information relating to the operating section that has been transmitted from the transmission section, and an association section for displaying the information relating to the operation section that has been received by the receiving section on the display section, and associating information relating to the operating section with functions of the camera body. 1. An imaging system , comprising:a lens unit having a barrel section that contains a photographing optical system, and an operating section provided on the barrel section; anda camera body having an imaging section for converting a subject image formed by the photographing optical system into electrical signals, and a display section for displaying the subject image based on the electrical signals, wherein the lens unit has a transmission section for transmitting information relating to the operation section; the lens unit has a transmission section for transmitting information relating to the operation section,', 'and the camera body has', 'a receiving section for receiving information relating to the operating section that has been transmitted from the transmission section, and', 'an association section for displaying the information relating to the operation section that has been received by the receiving section on the display section, and associating information relating to the operating section with functions of the ...

IMAGING DEVICE

An imaging device includes: a lens optical system including a first region and a second region having different optical properties; an imaging element including first pixels and second pixels; an arrayed optical element which is provided between the lens optical system and the imaging element, allows light passing through the first region to enter the first pixels, and allows light passing through the second region to enter the second pixels; a signal processing unit configured to generate object information using pixel values obtained from the first pixels and the second pixels; and a diffractive optical element provided between the arrayed optical element and the lens optical system and including a diffraction grating symmetrical about an optical axis of the lens optical system. 1. An imaging device comprising:a lens optical system including at least a first region and a second region having different optical properties;an imaging element including at least first pixels and second pixels which light passing through the lens optical system enters;an arrayed optical element which is provided between the lens optical system and the imaging element, allows light passing through the first region to enter the first pixels, and allows light passing through the second region to enter the second pixels;a signal processing unit configured to generate object information using first pixel values obtained from the first pixels and second pixel values obtained from the second pixels; anda diffractive optical element provided between the arrayed optical element and the lens optical system and including a diffraction grating symmetrical about an optical axis of the lens optical system.2. The imaging device according to claim 1 ,wherein the lens optical system includes (i) a diaphragm having an opening in a region including the optical axis and (ii) an optical element provided near the diaphragm and including at least the first region and the second region.3. The imaging device ...

Application of MEMs Pixels in Display and Imaging Devices

MEMS shutters are applied in displays and imaging devices. In a display, sensors may detect light from a light source that is back-reflected by a MEMS shutter and/or ambient light that enters through the MEMS shutter. The sensors may be used to monitor performance of the light source and/or ambient lighting conditions. In an imaging device, MEMS shutters may be applied to selectively block light to prevent overexposed areas within an image. 2. The display of comprising a second light modulator configured to modulate light transmitted by the MEMS light modulator.3. A method for calibrating display comprising a MEMS light modulator and a light source claim 1 , the method comprising:closing at least one shutter of a MEMS light modulator;illuminating the at least one shutter with light from the light source; anddetecting light reflected by the at least one shutter.4. The method of comprising controlling the light source based at least in part on the detected light.5. The method of comprising controlling transmission of light by the MEMS light based at least in part on the detected light.6. The method of wherein the display comprises a second light modulator configured to modulate light transmitted by the MEMS light modulator claim 3 , the method comprising controlling the second light modulator based at least in part on the detected light.7. The method of wherein the light source is a spatially variable light source claim 3 , and wherein detecting light reflected by the at least one shutter comprises detecting a spatially-varying pattern of light.8. The method of comprising estimating a light field at the spatial based on the detected spatially-varying pattern of light.9. The method of comprising refining an estimated light field based on the detected spatially-varying pattern of light.10. The method of wherein the estimated light field is at the MEMS light modulator.11. The method of wherein the estimated light field is at the MEMS light modulator.12. An image capture ...

IMAGING DEVICE

The imaging device includes an optical system, imaging unit, and control unit. The optical system is configured to include a focus lens. The imaging unit is configured to capture a left-eye subject and a right-eye subject via the optical system. A image captured by the imaging unit includes a left-eye image for the left-eye subject and the right-eye image for the right-eye subject. The control unit is configured to generate a first AF evaluation for the left-eye image and a second AF evaluation for the right-eye image. The control unit generates a third AF evaluation value on the basis of the first AF evaluation value and the second AF evaluation value. The control unit controls the drive of the focus lens on the basis of the third AF evaluation value. 1. An imaging device , comprising:an optical system configured to include a focus lens;an imaging unit configured to capture a left-eye subject and a right-eye subject via the optical system, a image captured by the imaging unit including a left-eye image for the left-eye subject and a right-eye image for the right-eye subject; anda control unit configured to generate a first AF evaluation for the left-eye image and a second AF evaluation for the right-eye image, generate a third AF evaluation value on the basis of the first AF evaluation value and the second AF evaluation value, and control the drive of the focus lens on the basis of the third AF evaluation value.2. The imaging device according to claim 1 , wherein:the control unit controls the drive of the focus lens on the basis of the third AF evaluation value generated on the basis of the product of the first AF evaluation value and the second AF evaluation value.3. The imaging device according to claim 2 , wherein:the control unit controls the drive of the focus lens on the basis of the third AF evaluation value corresponding to the square root of the product.4. The imaging device according to claim 3 , wherein:the control unit drives the focus lens in the ...

IMAGE-BASED MOTION SENSOR AND RELATED MULTI-PURPOSE CAMERA SYSTEM

An image-based motion sensor includes a camera system and a processing system. The camera system is arranged for generating an image output including a plurality of captured images. The processing system is arranged for obtaining a motion sensor output by processing the image output, wherein the motion sensor output includes information indicative of at least one of a motion status and an orientation status of the image-based motion sensor. For example, information indicative of the orientation status of the image-based motion sensor may includes roll, pitch, and yaw related motion information, and information indicative of the motion status of the image-based motion sensor may includes speed, acceleration and displacement information. 1. An image-based motion sensor , comprising:a camera system, arranged for generating an image output including a plurality of captured images; anda processing system, arranged for obtaining a motion sensor output by processing the image output, wherein the motion sensor output includes information indicative of at least one of a motion status and an orientation status of the image-based motion sensor.2. The image-based motion sensor of claim 1 , wherein the motion sensor output includes information indicative of the orientation status of the image-based motion sensor claim 1 , and the information indicative of the orientation status includes roll claim 1 , pitch claim 1 , and yaw related motion information.3. The image-based motion sensor of claim 1 , wherein the motion sensor output includes information indicative of the motion status of the image-based motion sensor claim 1 , and the information indicative of the motion status includes speed claim 1 , acceleration and displacement information.4. The image-based motion sensor of claim 1 , wherein the processing system comprises:a global motion estimation block, arranged for generating global motion information according to the image output; anda processor, arranged for determining ...

CAPTURE DEVICE MOVEMENT COMPENSATION FOR SPEAKER INDEXING

Embodiments of the invention compensate for the movement of a meeting capture device during a live meeting when performing speaker indexing of a recorded meeting. In one example, a first position of a capture device is determined. A second position of the capture device is determined after the capture device has been moved from the first position to the second position. The movement data associated with movement of the capture device from the first position to the second position is determined. The movement data is outputted and used in speaker indexing of the recorded meeting. 116-. (canceled)17. A method for detecting movement of a capture device for speaker indexing , comprising:detecting movement of the capture device by an accelerometer at the capture device;determining an amount of translational movement of the capture device by the accelerometer; andoutputting the amount of translational movement determined by the accelerometer.18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising:measuring a first azimuth of the capture device by a magnetometer at the capture device when movement of the capture device is detected by the accelerometer;measuring a second azimuth of the capture device by the magnetometer when the accelerometer detects the movement of the capture device has stopped; anddetermining an amount of azimuthal movement between the first azimuth and the second azimuth.19. The method of claim 18 , further comprising:determining an amount of azimuthal movement of the capture device by the accelerometer;outputting the amount of azimuthal movement determined by the accelerometer when the amount of azimuthal movement determined by the magnetometer is not substantially equal to the amount of azimuthal movement determined by the accelerometer; andoutputting the amount of azimuthal movement determined by the magnetometer when the amount of azimuthal movement determined by the magnetometer is substantially equal to the amount of azimuthal movement determined by the ...

CAMERA MODULE AND METHOD FOR INSPECTING HORIZONTALITY OF OBJECT AND THE CAMERA MODULE

Exemplary embodiments of a camera module are proposed, the camera module including an image sensor photographing a object image, a memory unit stored with a look-up table recorded with pixel number of the object image corresponding to a length of the object, and an image signal processor detecting a pixel number of the object image photographed by the image sensor, reading out a length of a object corresponding to the detected pixel number from the memory unit and inspecting horizontality of the image sensor and the object. 1. A camera module comprising: an image sensor photographing an object image; a memory unit stored with a look-up table recorded with pixel number of the object image corresponding to a length of the object; and an image signal processor detecting a pixel number of the object image photographed by the image sensor , reading out a length of an object corresponding to the detected pixel number from the memory unit and inspecting horizontality of the image sensor and the object.2. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the look-up table is recorded claim 1 , in a state of the camera module and the object being horizontally positioned claim 1 , with the pixel number of object image that is extracted in correspondence with the length of the object from the object image photographed by the image sensor of the camera module.3. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the image signal processor determines that the camera module and the regular polygonal object are not mutually horizontal claim 1 , in a case a length of a side is different from a length of a facing side claim 1 , in case of the object being in a shape of a regular polygon.4. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the image signal processor determines a tilt degree of the camera module and the regular polygonal object claim 1 , in a case there is a degree of difference in between the lengths of sides of the regular polygonal object.5. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the image signal ...

Image capturing apparatus and focus detection method

An image capturing apparatus performs focus detection based on a pair of image signals obtained from an image sensor including pixels each having a pair of photoelectric conversion units capable of outputting the pair of image signals obtained by independently receiving a pair of light beams that have passed through different exit pupil regions of an imaging optical system. In the focus detection, an f-number of the imaging optical system is acquired, the pair of image signals undergo filtering using a first filter formed from an summation filter when the f-number is less than a predetermined threshold, or using a second filter formed from the summation filter and a differential filter when the f-number is not less than the threshold, and focus detection is performed by a phase difference method based on the pair of filtered image signals.

METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR SELECTING AN IMAGE CAPTURED ON AN IMAGE CAPTURE DEVICE

A method of selecting an image captured on an image capture device () is disclosed. A captured image is displayed on a display () associated with the image capture device (). A viewer image of a viewer viewing the captured image displayed on the display () is captured using the image capture device (). The captured image and the viewer image are compared to identify at least one common feature in the captured image and the viewer image. The captured image is selected if the at least one common feature is identified in both the captured image and the viewer image. 1. A method of selecting an image captured on an image capture device , said method comprising:displaying a captured image on a display associated with the image capture device;capturing, using the image capture device, a viewer image of a viewer viewing the captured image displayed on the display;comparing the captured image and the viewer image to identify at least one common feature in the captured image and the viewer image; andselecting the captured image if the at least one common feature is identified in both the captured image and the viewer image.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one common feature is a human face.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the common feature is a personal identifier.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the common feature is one or more of shape claim 1 , material claim 1 , texture or colour of a dress or clothing apparel of the viewer.5. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising updating metadata associated with the selected image.6. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising selecting additional images associated with the selected image.7. The method according to claim 6 , further comprising updating metadata associated with the additional images.8. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising transmitting the selected image to one or more recipients.9. The method according to claim 6 , further ...

IMAGE CAPTURING DEVICE AND IMAGE CAPTURING METHOD

A first state where an image is captured with a predetermined exposure in which an aperture of a diaphragm is a first aperture and a shutter speed is a first shutter speed is changed to a second state where an image is captured with the predetermined exposure in which the aperture of the diaphragm is a second aperture larger than the first aperture and the shutter speed is a second shutter speed higher than the first shutter speed, and a focal point is adjusted. The second aperture is set to be as large as possible within a range of maintaining the predetermined exposure. 1. An image capturing device , comprising:an image capturing section that captures an image by light passing through a lens;a diaphragm adjusting section that adjusts an aperture of a diaphragm at the time of image capturing in the image capturing section;a shutter speed adjusting section that adjusts a shutter speed at the time of image capturing in the image capturing section;a display section that displays an image captured by the image capturing section; anda state controlling section that changes a first state to a second state by giving instructions to the diaphragm adjusting section and the shutter speed adjusting section while the image captured by the image capturing section is displayed on the display section, and adjusts a focal point of the lens in the second state, whereinthe first state is a state where the image is captured with a predetermined exposure in which the aperture of the diaphragm is a first aperture and the shutter speed is a first shutter speed, andthe second state is a state where the image is captured with the predetermined exposure in which the aperture of the diaphragm is a second aperture larger than the first aperture and the shutter speed is a second shutter speed higher than the first shutter speed.2. The image capturing device according to claim 1 , wherein the state controlling section causes a change in the shutter speed to precede a change in the diaphragm ...

Image pick-up apparatus to pick up static image

An image pick-up apparatus that is capable of correcting shading due to a closing travel operation of a shutter by a simple process. An image pick-up device picks up the image formed. A shutter unit opens and closes a substantially rectangular aperture corresponding to image pick-up area of the image pick-up device by means of a plurality of rotating shutter blades. The shutter blades travel in mutually opposite directions perpendicular to a long side of the aperture while keeping edges of the shutter blades facing the aperture are parallel to the long side so that edge portions that cover a center area of the aperture start shading the aperture before edge portions that cover four corner areas of the aperture start shading the aperture.

IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, IMAGE PROCESSING METHOD, IMAGE PICKUP APPARATUS, AND DISPLAY DEVICE

An image processing apparatus generates a plurality of parallactic images having a relationship that the magnitude of an amount of image shift between parallactic images increases with an increase of a defocus amount, generates, through plural selections of the generated parallactic images permitting a repeated same selection, a series of parallactic images in which the selected parallactic images are arranged in a selection order; repeatedly applies interpolation processing to each pair of adjacent parallactic images included in the series of parallactic images to generate a plurality of interpolation images; and arranges the interpolation images between the adjacent parallactic images to output the interpolated parallactic images as an output image of a moving image. 1. An image processing apparatus comprising:an input unit which inputs an image obtained by an image pickup unit in which pixels that receive light passing through different pupil areas of a focusing optical system are arranged;a parallactic image generation unit which generates a plurality of parallactic images having a relationship in which a magnitude of an amount of image shift between the parallactic images increases with an increase in a magnitude of a defocus amount;a parallactic image series generation unit which, through a plurality of selections of the generated parallactic images permitting a repeated same selection, generates a series of parallactic images in which the selected parallactic images are arranged in a selection order;an interpolation processing unit which repeatedly applies interpolation processing to each pair of adjacent parallactic images included in the series of parallactic images to generate a plurality of interpolation images and arranges the generated interpolation images between the adjacent parallactic images to output the interpolated images; andan output unit which outputs an output of the interpolation processing unit as an output image of a moving image.2. The ...

Interactive Electronic Device

An interactive electronic device includes an image capture module, a response module and a processing module. The image capture module is configured to capture an image. The response module is configured to output a control signal according to a pattern contained in the image. The processing module is electrically connected to the image capture module and the response module and configured to drive the interactive electronic device according to the control signal. 1. An interactive electronic device , comprising:an image capture module configured to capture an image;a response module configured to output a control signal according to a pattern contained in the image; anda processing module electrically connected to the image capture module and the response module and configured to drive the interactive electronic device according to the control signal.2. The interactive electronic device according to claim 1 , further comprising at least an accessory claim 1 , wherein the image capture module is configured to capture an image of each accessory claim 1 , each accessory comprises at least a pattern thereon functioning as a representative of the associated accessory.3. The interactive electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein the image capture module is configured to identify the pattern contained in the image and accordingly generate identification data claim 1 , the processing module is configured to output the control signal according to the identification data.4. The interactive electronic device according to claim 3 , wherein the image capture module comprises:a storage unit configured to store with a plurality of characteristic data;an image capture unit configured to capture the image; anda processing unit electrically connected to the storage unit and the image capture unit and configured to identify at least a characteristic of the image, compare the characteristic(s) with the characteristic data and accordingly generate the identification data.5. The ...

ELECTRONIC CAMERA

An electronic camera includes an imager. An imager repeatedly outputs an electronic image corresponding to an optical image captured on an imaging surface. A displayer displays the electronic image outputted from the imager, in parallel with a process of the imager. An adjuster adjusts an imaging condition based on the electronic image outputted from the imager when a specific key is transitioned to a first operation state. A recorder records the electronic image outputted from the imager under the imaging condition adjusted by the adjuster, in response to transition of the specific key to a second operation state. A stopper stops the imager and/or the displayer during a period of non-operation of the specific key when a battery voltage falls below a first reference value. 1. An electronic camera , comprising:an imager which repeatedly outputs an electronic image corresponding to an optical image captured on an imaging surface;a displayer which displays the electronic image outputted from said imager, in parallel with a process of said imager;an adjuster which adjusts an imaging condition based on the electronic image outputted from said imager when a specific key is transitioned to a first operation state;a recorder which records the electronic image outputted from the imager under the imaging condition adjusted by said adjuster, in response to transition of said specific key to a second operation state; anda stopper which stops said imager and/or said displayer during a period of non-operation of said specific key when a battery voltage falls below a first reference value.2. An electronic camera according to claim 1 , further comprising:a shielder which shields an incident light on said imaging surface;a driver which drives said shielder in association with a process of said recorder; anda restrictor which restricts a process of said driver when the battery voltage falls below a second reference value smaller than the first reference value.3. An electronic camera ...

IMAGE PICKUP APPARATUS, IMAGE PICKUP METHOD, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM

An image pickup apparatus includes an image pickup element to obtain an image of a subject using a plurality of pixels which are classified into a plurality of pixel groups and are arranged in a matrix pattern, a controller to apply a reset signal to start exposure of a pixel on a pixel group basis in sequence, to read out pixel values of the plurality of pixel groups on the pixel group basis in sequence according to the reset signal applying order, and to control the image pickup element such that each of the pixel groups has a same exposure time, and a storage unit to store the pixel values read out on the pixel group basis in sequence. 1. An image pickup apparatus comprising:an image pickup element to obtain an image of a subject using a plurality of pixels which are classified into a plurality of pixel groups and are arranged in a matrix pattern;a controller to apply a reset signal to start exposure of a pixel on a pixel group basis in sequence, to read out pixel values of the plurality of pixel groups on the pixel group basis in sequence according to the reset signal applying order, and to control the image pickup element such that each of the pixel groups has a same exposure time; anda storage unit to store the pixel values read out on the pixel group basis in sequence.2. The image pickup apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:a compression unit to compress the read-out pixel values on the pixel group basis,wherein the storage unit stores the pixel values which are compressed on the pixel group basis.3. The image pickup apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the compression unit compresses the read-out pixel values using a near-lossless compression algorithm.4. The image pickup apparatus of claim 2 , wherein:each of the pixel groups comprises different color groups; andthe compression unit compresses the read-out pixel values on a color group basis in each of the pixel groups.5. The image pickup apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising:an image processing unit to ...

IMAGE PICKUP APPARATUS, IMAGE PICKUP METHOD, AND MACHINE-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM

An image pickup apparatus and method are provided. The method includes performing a first and second reset operations with respect to a charge accumulated in first and second pixel lines, respectively, of an image pickup device, each of the first and second pixel lines having a plurality of pixels; traveling a light shielding member on the first and second pixel lines, respectively when first and second respective exposure times elapse from the first and second reset operations, respectively; outputting the charge accumulated in the first and second pixel lines, respectively, as first and second pixel data, respectively, after the light shielding member travels on the first and second pixel lines, respectively; and computing a first calibration value for the first pixel line and a second calibration value for the second pixel line based on the first and second pixel data and the first and second exposure times. 1. An image pickup apparatus comprising:an image pickup device comprising a first pixel line and a second pixel line, each of which has a plurality of pixels;a first resetting part for performing a first reset operation with respect to a charge accumulated in the first pixel line;a second resetting part for performing a second reset operation with respect to a charge accumulated in the second pixel line;a travel control part for traveling a light shielding member above the first pixel line when a first exposure time elapses from the first reset operation, and traveling the light shielding member above the second pixel line when a second exposure time elapses from the second reset operation;a pixel data output part for outputting the charge accumulated in the first pixel line as first pixel data for a current photographing operation after the light shielding member travels above the first pixel line, and outputting the charge accumulated in the second pixel line as second pixel data for the current photographing operation after the light shielding member ...

IMAGING SYSTEM

An imaging system comprises an image sensing apparatus including a pixel array, a row selection unit, and a readout unit; and a supply unit including a plurality of A/D converting units, and a transfer unit. The supply unit supplies a power supply voltage to an A/D converting unit which, of the plurality of A/D converting units, receives signals from the pixels in the pixel array by means of the transfer unit, and does not supply a power supply voltage to an A/D converting unit which, of the plurality of A/D converting units, receives no signals from the pixels in the pixel array by means of the transfer unit, in a 1-line period. The readout unit A/D-converts the signals from the pixels in the pixel array using the A/D converting unit supplied with the power supply voltage by the supply unit, and outputs a digital image signal. 1. (canceled)2. An imaging system comprising: a pixel array in which a plurality of pixels are arrayed in a row direction and a column direction,', 'a row selection unit configured to select one row in the pixel array,', 'a plurality of A/D converting units provided according to respective columns of the pixel array, and', 'a transfer unit configured to transfer signals of a plurality of pixels in the row selected by the selection unit to the plurality of A/D converting units in 1-line period from when the row selection unit selects one row until the row selection unit selects the next row; and, 'an image sensing apparatus configured to sense an object to acquire an image signal and including'}a controller configured to control such that the A/D converting unit to which signals of pixels of the same column are transferred by the transfer unit is changed for each 1-line or for each frame period including the 1-line, in a case that the transfer unit transfers signals of the plurality of pixels to the plurality of A/D converting units.3. The system according to claim 2 , wherein said controller controls such that the A/D converting units to ...

SOLID-STATE IMAGING DEVICE AND IMAGING DEVICE

A solid-state imaging device includes a plurality of AD conversion units respectively provided in a plurality of columns and each configured to convert a pixel signal converted by unit pixels provided in an associated column into digital data of N bits, and a plurality of data storage units respectively provided in the columns. The data storage units each include N flip-flop circuits. The solid-state imaging device further includes data switching units each configured to switch between a first state in which the digital data converted by the AD conversion unit is stored in the data storage unit of the associated column, and a second state in which the N flip-flop circuits in each of the data storage units are serially connected. 1. A solid-state imaging device , comprising:a plurality of unit pixels that each converts incident light into a pixel signal, the unit pixels being arranged in rows and columns;a plurality of AD conversion units respectively provided in a plurality of columns and each configured to convert the pixel signal converted by the unit pixel located in an associated column into digital data of N bits, N being an integer not smaller than 2; anda plurality of data storage units respectively provided in the plurality of columns,wherein the data storage units each include N flip-flop circuits respectively corresponding to bits of the digital data of N bits,the solid-state imaging device further comprising:a plurality of data switching units each configured to switch between:a first state in which the digital data of N bits converted by the AD conversion unit is stored in the data storage unit of the associated column; anda second state in which the N flip-flop circuits included in each of the data storage units are serially connected.2. The solid-state imaging device according to claim 1 ,wherein the data switching units are configured to switch among the first state, the second state, and a third state in which the data storage units respectively ...

IMAGE DISPLAY DEVICE

According to the present invention, there is provided an image display device for displaying acquired image information including: an information acquisition section for acquiring image information and information associated with the image information by communication from an external device; an adjustment section for executing image quality adjustment processing in relation to display of the image information; and a setting section for setting details of the image quality adjustment processing, based on the information. Therefore, details of the image quality adjustment processing may easily be set automatically in an appropriate manner. 1. An image display device for displaying acquired image information , comprising:an information acquisition section for acquiring image information and exchangeable image file format (Exif) information associated with the image information by a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) communication from an external device;an adjustment section for executing image quality adjustment processing in relation to display of the image information;a setting section for setting details of the image quality adjustment processing, based on the Exif information; anda detection section for detecting ambient brightness of the image display device for each of a plurality of colors, wherein:the adjustment section executes, as the image quality adjustment processing, noise reduction processing for reducing noise by making a correction to the image information;the setting section sets a degree of the correction in the noise reduction processing, based on information on ISO speed contained in the Exif information;the adjustment section executes, as the image quality adjustment processing, white balance adjustment processing in displaying the image information; andthe setting section sets a degree of correction in the white balance adjustment processing, based on a result of the detection in the detection section.2. An image display device for ...

IMAGE STABILIZATION APPARATUS, CONTROL METHOD THEREFOR, OPTICAL APPARATUS AND IMAGE CAPTURING APPARATUS

An image stabilization apparatus comprises: an image stabilization unit that reduces image blur due to a shake by moving a driven unit; a calculation unit that estimates the shake based on a position of the driven unit and a driving force applied to the driven unit and that calculates a translational shake correction amount based on the estimated shake; and a driving unit that drives the driven unit of the image stabilization unit based on the translational shake correction amount. When the driven unit is at a position away from a center of a range of movement of the driven unit, the calculation unit sets the translational shake correction amount to be smaller than that when the driven unit is at the center of the range of movement. 1. An image stabilization apparatus comprising:an image stabilization unit that reduces image blur due to a shake by moving a driven unit;a calculation unit that estimates the shake based on a position of the driven unit and a driving force applied to the driven unit and that calculates a translational shake correction amount based on the estimated shake; anda driving unit that drives the driven unit of the image stabilization unit based on the translational shake correction amount,wherein when the driven unit is at a position away from a center of a range of movement of the driven unit, the calculation unit sets the translational shake correction amount to be smaller than that when the driven unit is at the center of the range of movement.2. The image stabilization apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the calculation unit includes an estimator using a Kalman filter, and when a moving amount of the driven unit is large, the calculation unit multiplies the estimated shake by a gain smaller than that when the moving amount of the driven unit is small.3. The image stabilization apparatus according to claim 2 ,wherein when movement characteristics of the driven unit is represented by a driving thrust by the driving unit based on a mass ...

IMAGE CAPTURE APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD FOR SAME

The present disclosure relates to an image capture apparatus and a control method for the same, with which a moving picture captured for a specific length of time before or after the capture of a still picture can be recorded during still picture capture. The image capture apparatus has a first image stabilization mode and a second image stabilization mode in which a shake component not corrected in the first image stabilization mode can be corrected, and has an image stabilization function that performs image stabilization on the basis of shake of the image capture apparatus. The image stabilization function performs image stabilization without using the second image stabilization mode when the moving picture is buffered, which allows stable image stabilization to be utilized during the capture of a recorded moving picture. 1. An image capture apparatus having an image capture mode in which a moving picture captured for a specific length of time before or after capture of a still picture is also recorded along with the still picture , the apparatus comprising:a memory unit that buffers a specific time component of a continuously captured moving picture; andan image stabilization control unit that performs image stabilization with an image stabilization unit according to shake of the apparatus, the image stabilization control unit having a first image stabilization mode and a second image stabilization mode in which a shake component not corrected in the first image stabilization mode can be corrected,wherein the image stabilization control unit performs image stabilization without using the second image stabilization mode when the specific time component being buffered by the memory unit.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein image shake caused by rotational shake is corrected in the first image stabilization mode claim 1 , and in the second image stabilization mode claim 1 , image shake caused by translational shake in a direction orthogonal to the ...

SOLID-STATE IMAGING APPARATUS

A solid-state imaging apparatus comprising a plurality of pixels generating a photoelectric conversion signal, a column amplifying unit corresponding to columns of the pixels, for outputting a first and second signals generated by amplifying the photoelectric conversion signal at a smaller first gain and larger second gain respectively, an analog to digital converter () for converting the first and second signals from an analog signal to a digital signal, a comparing unit () for inputting the digital signal from the analog to digital converter, level-shifting into the same gain level the first and second signals converted by the analog to digital converter, and thereafter detecting a gain error between the level-shifted first and second signals, and a correction unit () for correcting the first and second signals based on the gain error. 1. A solid-state imaging apparatus comprising:a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix for generating a signal by a photoelectric conversion;a column amplifying unit arranged corresponding to each of columns of the pixels, for outputting a first signal generated by amplifying the signal from the plurality of pixels at a first gain, and for outputting a second signal generated by amplifying the signal from the plurality of pixels at a second gain larger than the first gain;an analog to digital converter for converting the first and second signals from an analog signal to a digital signal;a comparing unit for receiving the digital signal from the analog to digital converter, level-shifting into the same gain level the first and second signals, and thereafter detecting a gain error between the level-shifted first and second signals; anda correction unit for correcting the first and second signals based on the gain error.2. The solid-state imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe comparing unit detects the gain error when the second signal is in a signal level lower than a saturation start signal level.3. The solid-state ...

CAMERA MODULE AND METHOD FOR DRIVING THE SAME

The present invention relates to a camera module and a method for driving the camera module, the module including: a photographing unit controlling a shutter speed to photograph an image in response to an inputted control signal; a display unit displaying the image; and a controller outputting a first shutter speed control signal to the photographing unit to allow an average brightness of two or more particular areas to become a set reference brightness, in a case the two or more particular areas in a plurality of divided areas in the display unit are selected. 1. A camera module , the camera module comprising: a photographing unit controlling a shutter speed to photograph an image in response to an inputted control signal; a display unit displaying the image; and a controller outputting a first shutter speed control signal to the photographing unit to allow an average brightness of two or more particular areas to become a set reference brightness , in a case the two or more particular areas in a plurality of divided areas in the display unit are selected.2. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the controller outputs a second shutter speed control signal to the photographing unit to allow a brightness (luminance) of an entire preview image to become the reference brightness claim 1 , in a case the two or more particular areas in a plurality of divided areas in the display unit are not selected.3. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the controller outputs a first shutter speed control signal to the photographing unit to decrease a shutter speed of the photographing unit in response to a difference between the brightness of the particular area and the reference brightness claim 1 , in a case the brightness of the particular area is lower than the reference brightness.4. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the controller outputs a first shutter speed control signal to the photographing unit to increase the shutter speed of the photographing unit in response to ...

IMAGING DEVICE

An imaging device includes an image data interface unit that outputs the first image data according to a pixel signal from a solid-state imaging device, an image data reading unit that reads image data from a storage unit and outputs the read image data as second image data, an image synthesizing unit that outputs third image data in which the first image data is synthesized with the second image data, an evaluation value generating unit that generates an evaluation value based on image data, a first image data selecting unit that inputs selected image data to the evaluation value generating unit, an image data writing unit that stores input image data in the storage unit via the data bus, a second image data selecting unit that inputs selected image data to the image data writing unit, and a display unit that displays an image corresponding to the third image data. 1. An imaging device , comprising:an image data interface unit that outputs image data according to a pixel signal input from a solid-state imaging device as first image data;an image data reading unit that reads image data stored in a storage unit via a data bus, and outputs the read image data as second image data;an image synthesizing unit that generates and outputs third image data in which image data based on the first image data is synthesized with image data based on the second image data;an evaluation value generating unit that generates an evaluation value based on input image data;a first image data selecting unit that selects any one of image data based on the first image data, image data based on the second image data, and the third image data as image data to be input to the evaluation value generating unit;an image data writing unit that stores input image data in the storage unit via the data bus;a second image data selecting unit that selects any one of the image data based on the first image data, the image data based on the second image data, and the third image data as image data to be ...

Method of Manufacturing Plurality of Optical Devices

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a method of manufacturing, on a waver scale, a plurality of optical devices comprises the steps of providing a wafer scale spacer with a plurality of holes arranged in a hole pattern at the positions of camera modules, providing a wafer scale substrate with an infrared (IR) filter that is patterned to comprise a plurality of IR filter sections, the IR filter sections being arranged in an IR filter pattern that is such that radiation paths through the substrate and onto the camera modules go through the IR filter sections, and stacking the substrate and the spacer on each other with the holes and the filter sections being aligned. 1. A method of manufacturing , on a wafer scale , a plurality of optical devices being camera modules with a sensor module or being optical modules for camera modules with a sensor module , the optical devices each defining an optical path , the method comprising the steps of:providing a first wafer scale substrate comprising a pattern of lenses and comprising a wavelength selective filter that is patterned to comprise a plurality of filter sections,providing a wafer scale spacer with a plurality of holes arranged in a hole pattern that corresponds to the pattern of lenses;stacking the first substrate and the spacer on each other with the holes and the lenses being aligned, and with the filter sections being arranged and dimensioned so that the respective optical path traverses the respective filter section, the step of stacking yielding a wafer scale stack, andseparating the wafer scale stack into the optical devices.2. The method according to claim 1 , comprising claim 1 , prior to the step of separating the wafer scale stack claim 1 , the further step of providing a second wafer scale substrate and stacking the second wafer scale substrate and the spacer on each other.3. The method according to claim 2 , wherein the second wafer scale substrate is a transparent optical substrate with an ...

IMAGE STABILIZATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A method and systems of stabilizing a sequence of infrared (IR) images captured using an infrared (IR) imaging system, includes: generating edge information representations of selected captured IR images in said sequence; for each generated edge information representation, generating a second representation having a reduced amount of information compared to the edge information representation; determining displacements between captured IR images in relation to previous IR images in said sequence based on a comparison between said second representations; generating a stabilized sequence of IR images by shifting said captured IR images based on said determined displacements. 1. A method of stabilizing a sequence of infrared (IR) images captured using an infrared (IR) imaging system , the method comprising:generating edge information representations of selected captured IR images in said sequence;for each generated edge information representation, generating a second representation having a reduced amount of information compared to the edge information representation;determining displacements between captured IR images in relation to previous IR images in said sequence based on a comparison between said second representations of IR images; andgenerating a stabilized sequence of IR images by shifting said captured IR images based on said determined displacements.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: i) identifying pixels comprising edge information;', 'ii) generating an edge map, wherein the pixels identified as comprising edge information are assigned pixel values that differ from the pixel values of the remaining pixels;', 'i) generating a data collection representing the distribution of the first and/or second pixel values in the edge map;, 'for each of a first and a second IR imagethus resulting in a first data collection representing the distribution of the first and/or second pixel values in the first edge map, and a second data collection representing ...

CAMERA MODULE AND AUTO FOCUSING METHOD OF CAMERA MODULE

A camera module and an auto focusing method of the camera module are provided, the camera module including a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) including a rotor including a lens distanced from a reference plane, in a case no driving signal is applied, a posture detection sensor determining a posture of the VCM; an ISP (Image Signal Processor) generating a driving signal for driving the VCM using an optimum focus value of the lens calculated by an auto focus algorithm in response to a posture of the VCM determined by the posture detection sensor, an image sensor changing lens-passed light to a digital signal, and a controller controlling the VCM, the posture detection sensor, the image signal processor and the image sensor. 1. An auto focusing method of a camera module , the method comprising:determining a posture of a rotor, in a case a driving current is not applied;determining a non-driving section of the rotor where the rotor is not driven even if a driving current is applied in response to the posture of the rotor, and determining a driving section of the rotor where driving is started by the driving current; andskipping an auto focusing of the non-driving section and performing an auto focusing of the driving section.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , at the step of determining the posture of the rotor claim 1 , the rotor is brought into contact with a reference plane by elasticity force claim 1 , in a case no driving current is applied.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , at the step of determining the posture of the rotor claim 1 , the posture of the rotor is directed by a gyro sensor.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , at the step of determining the posture of the rotor claim 1 , the posture of the rotor is any one of a down posture where a lens mounted at the rotor faces downwards claim 1 , a side posture where an optical axis of the lens is side by side with a ground claim 1 , and an up posture where the lens is opposite to the ground.5. ...