Apparatus for capturing, converting, and transmitting a visual image signal via a digital transmission system

Abstract

An image capture, conversion, compression, storage and transmission system provides a data signal representing the image in a format and protocol capable of being transmitted over any of a plurality of readily available transmission systems and received by readily available, standard equipment receiving stations. In its most comprehensive form, the system is capable of sending and receiving audio, documentary and visual image data to and from standard remote stations readily available throughout the world.

Description

[0001]This application is a divisional application of and claims priority from a non-provisional United States Application entitled Apparatus For Capturing, Converting And Transmitting A Visual Image Signal Via A Digital Transmission System. Ser. No. 09 / 006,073, having a filing date of Jan. 12, 1998; the specification and drawings of which arc hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the Invention[0002]The invention is generally related to image capture and transmission systems and is specifically directed to an image capture, compression and transmission system for use in connection with land line and wireless telephone systems.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION[0003]Embodiments provide an image capture, compression and transmission system that is specifically designed to permit reliable visual image transmission over land line or wireless communications using commercially available facsimile transmission techniques. Embodiments incorporate a camera and signal con...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0003]Embodiments provide an image capture, compression and transmission system that is specifically designed to permit reliable visual image transmission over land line or wireless communications using commercially available facsimile transmission techniques. Embodiments incorporate a camera and signal converter into an integrated unit wherein the converted signal can be transmitted on a real time basis or may be stored in memory for later recall and transmission. Embodiments provide maximum flexibility, with the camera / converter / telephone or other transmission device being designed in a modular configuration wherein any or all of the devices can exist as integrated or independent units.

[0006]Embodiments are useful for applications where immediate transmission of visual images of scenes, people and objects is desirable and sophisticated equipment is not always available for receiving the information. Embodiments also provide a unique and reliable means for transmitting visual data to and from remote locations, such as, by way of example, law enforcement and emergency vehicles and the like.

[0013]In an embodiment, the system is adapted for tagging a collected image, video, audio, and other data such as a GPS information, with geospatial information and real time clock and added text This permits the complete historical data to be transmitted simultaneously with the image signal.

[0014]According to embodiments, is contemplated that a system can be self-contained with an integral power unit such as a disposable battery, rechargeable battery source or the like. Therefore, the system is adapted to power up when in use and power down or “sleep” when not activated, preserving power during idle time. The power systems for the video camera, the video input circuits and converters, the modem or other transmission devices and other high drain components may he isolated and only powered when needed. This also permits use of ancillary tlllletions, such as use as a cellular telephone, to proceed without draining the power source by powering idle components. The processor clock rate may also be slowed down during idle mode to further conserve power.

[0022]Embodiments provide au apparatus for compressing the visual image data in order to minimize the capacity requirements of the data capture and storage system.

Problems solved by technology

Embodiments are useful for applications where immediate transmission of visual images of scenes, people and objects is desirable and sophisticated equipment is not always available for receiving the information.

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