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This invention describes an improved method for combining optical and digital zoom features in a digital camera by using more of the image capture device to maintain higher resolution at greater magnifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes a methodology for having integral surface sensors covering an entire digital camera body provide a customizable and configurable user interface for camera controls. Digital cameras are said to rely on a fixed set of user controls such as shutter release and flash control. A camera was created where the entire body is a pressure and position sensor.

The article presents information on an invention which incorporates a light source into a digital camera lens system to provide for field adjustment of image capture device tilt. This invention will help one determine the current orientation of the image capture device within a digital camera. An imaging device such as a charge coupled device is used to capture images by placing it at the focal plane of the lens.

The article presents information on an invention which incorporates a light source into a digital camera lens system to provide a reference signal to determine the current position of each moving lens group within a zoom lens. A method for determining the position of the moving lens groups is presented. There are several ways to produce the reference light source such as the use of light emitting diode on the end of the lens just outside the front lens element.

The article deals with an invention for moving the lens-elements groups of a digital camera to perform the zoom and focus functions. Low resistance ferrofluid bearing was incorporated in the actuator of the camera lens system to allow precise movement of lens elements. The motions of the lens-element groups are continuous over the range of wide-to-tele zoom and macro-to-infinity focus. The lens systems created by the invention is configured using a system of concentric cylinders.

Presents a research disclosure describing a mechanical method for powering a digital camera or recharging its battery. Importance of energy in the operation of a digital camera; Ways of charging the battery of a digital camera; Use of a microgenerator to either power the digital camera or charge its battery.

Describes a methodology for an integrated projection device capable of displaying digital images in a large format. Integral display device offered by many digital cameras; Two possible embodiments in order to accomplish the method; Advantages of the method.

Suggests the idea of a multiple mode image capture device to reduce heating in camera. Errors introduced in the image capture process; Instances when image capture devices dissipate considerable heat; Decrease of the shot noise in the capture system.

The article focuses on a machine that takes images of cylindrical specular surfaces using line scan cameras and proper lighting. The machine inspects defects smaller than forty microns, which an un-aided human eye will find difficult to detect. Brewster's Angle is used to enable detection of surface defects, including bumps, scratches and dimples. The machine allows quick imaging of many different lengths and diameter cylinders/rollers by assembling a camera, light and laser to a gantry type structure.

Presents information on a low cost variable power optical system for digital camera. Mechanism of camera lens system; Methods for changing the optical focus or zoom of a digital camera; Mechanism of the prism-like movable zoom/focus element and the lens wheel approach.

Focuses on the multiple rate adjustment process of lens elements for rapid focus and zoom in camera lens. Significance of the position of lens elements to the degree of optical magnification and precision of focus in the camera; Functions of a coarse pitch lead screw; Advantages of the use of multiple actuators for the lens elements over traditional systems.

Describes a methodology creating a single well-exposed image from multiple sequential digital images taken in low ambient light. Source of supplemental light in low-light photography applications using digital cameras; Details of the methodology.

Describes a methodology for controlling the illuminating of individual zones within a scene. Features of camera light sources; Use of array light source to provide uniform and adaptive scene lighting; Manipulation of the level of each light source to reduce the light impinging on highly reflective surfaces.

Describes a methodology for creating a low cost and effective strobe flash or scene illuminator by utilizing the existing optical viewfinder of a digital camera to focus the flash on the subject. Information on the traditional source of supplemental light in low-light photography applications; Operation of using optical viewfinder to zoom a light source.

Describes a method for digital cameras having wireless links to communicate with other similarly enabled digital cameras to augment the onboard strobe flash capability by using the second camera's flash as a slave strobe. Details of the method; Advantages of the method.

Discusses a methodology for using integrated inductive means to charge the camera batteries. Information on digital cameras; Description of typical battery chargers for cameras; Advantages of using inductive power transfer to charge batteries inside the device.

Presents techniques which describe a methodology for crating an array light source integrated with a digital camera lens zoom mechanism to create uniform scene illumination. Factor which digital cameras rely to provide supplemental light in low light photography; Changes to camera illuminations recommended; Advantages of such changes.

Discusses the use of phase change material to improve heat conduction in digital cameras. Errors introduced to digital image capture process; Effect of phase change materials on the shot noise in the capture system; Information on the capabilities of phase change materials.

Examines the reduction of image capture device heating in cameras. Addition of shot noise generated by high device temperatures; Techniques used to reduce the amount of image capture device usage during non-image capture times; Mechanisms that may be employed to route the image to the appropriate image cap device.

Presents information on an instantaneous cooling of image capture device used to minimize noise. Use of digital image capture devices by digital cameras; Errors introduced in this image capture process; Reduction of the shot noise associated with high temperatures.