Abstract:
In one feature of the invention, an imaging apparatus is provided for recording images on a medium, the medium having an exterior surface with information recorded thereon in the form of optically detectable markings. The imaging apparatus has a body having a medium holding chamber for positioning the medium and an electronic image capture system. The electronic image capture system has an imager having an imaging area that converts light incident on the imaging area into an electronic signal and a first optical path forming an image of the scene on at least a portion of the imaging area. A light source provides light in the holding chamber to illuminate the markings. A second optical path has a light entry area positioned in the medium holding chamber to receive light that is reflected by the markings. The second optical path conducts the reflected light from the entry area to an exit area of the second optical path. The exit area is positioned to direct light from the second optical path to form an image of the markings on at least a part of the imaging area. A controller captures an electronic signal representative of the image of the markings. The controller is adapted to analyze the electronic signal to determine the information encoded in the markings.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
         [0001]    This invention relates, in general, to imaging apparatii incorporating at least one electronic image capture system. More specifically, the invention relates to an imaging apparatus that is adapted to record images on a medium disposed in the imaging apparatus.  
         BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    It is a well established practice in the field of image capture to record a captured representation of a scene onto a medium that is separable from the apparatus that is used to capture the image. One example of such an apparatus is a camera that records images on a separate photosensitive element such as a photographic filmstrip, roll, or plate. Another example of such an apparatus is an electronic camera that captures images and stores the images as electronic signals on a separable medium which may be, for example, a magnetic medium such as an analog video tape, digital video tape and/or magnetic disk, or optical medium such as a Compact Disk, and Digital Video Disk, and/or an electronic medium such as a compact memory card and/or flash memory card.  
           [0003]    One problem, however, that exists in the use of an imaging apparatus that record images on separable mediums is the problem of identifying which of a plurality of separable mediums contains a particular image. This challenge becomes particularly difficult to solve where the plurality of mediums store images in a manner that prevents easy viewing of the images stored thereon. This frequently occurs where the images are stored inside a film cartridge or where the images are stored in an electronic form. Thus, what is needed is a method and apparatus that associates images with the recording medium upon which the image is recorded.  
           [0004]    Another problem that exists is that the characteristics of the medium itself often dictate the way in which the image is captured, processed, and stored. Thus, it is important that an image capture apparatus that uses separable mediums can determine the characteristics of the medium that will be used to store the images so that the image capture apparatus can adapt the image capture, processing and/or storage functions to conform to the characteristics of the medium.  
           [0005]    To solve both of these problems, photographic films and other forms of separable image recording mediums have been developed that contain external markings that can be used to uniquely identify the mediums and to identify the characteristics of the contents of the mediums. For example, in the Advanced Photo System® (APS®), a film cartridge is provided that has external markings comprising a unique film cartridge identification number. This film cartridge identification number is read during film processing and the film cartridge identification number can later be used to identify which roll of APS film a particular image is recorded on. The APS film cartridge also has marking areas which permit a user to manually record markings on the cartridge that can be used to identify the cartridge. Further, the APS film cartridge has markings indicating the type of film stored therein and image storage capacity of the film contained within the cartridge. Similarly, other forms of film such as the 35 mm format, are adapted with a housing having an area to receive user markings identifying the contents of the roll and having manufacturer recorded markings thereon indicating the type of film stored therein.  
           [0006]    Other forms of image recording mediums such as magnetic, optical and electronic mediums are also adapted with areas that can contain markings that identify the medium and the characteristics of the medium. These areas can comprise areas that are adapted to receive manual or machine recorded markings and areas that have pre-recorded markings such as a bar code.  
           [0007]    Various ways are known to convey the information contained in such markings to an imaging apparatus. In some imaging apparatuses, an operator of the imaging apparatus is required to manually enter information contained in the markings. This however, is often inconvenient particularly where the user of the imaging apparatus must rapidly change mediums because of photographic circumstances or for other reasons. Accordingly, automatic methods for conveying medium identification markings are preferred.  
           [0008]    A number of proposals have been made to provide an imaging apparatus such as a camera that automatically detects markings on a separable medium used to record images. For example, commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,166 entitled “HYBRID CAMERA WITH IDENTIFICATION MATCHING OF FILM AND ELECTRONIC IMAGE” filed in the name of Fellegara et al., describes one embodiment of a hybrid film electronic camera that has a film cartridge identification sensor. The sensor reads an optically encoded cartridge identification code provided on the film cartridge as the film cartridge is loaded into the camera. The sensor is stationary but positioned at an entry way of a film storage chamber to confront the film cartridge as the film cartridge is inserted into the camera. The bar code is read as the film cartridge is scanned past the sensor during the insertion of the cartridge into the camera.  
           [0009]    The &#39;166 patent describes another embodiment wherein a cartridge identification sensor is provided on the main body of the camera in a manner permitting the camera operator to scan a film cartridge over the sensor prior to inserting it into the film chamber. In still another embodiment, the &#39;166 patent describes providing a detachable wand with the cartridge identification sensor located on one end of the wand thereby allowing the camera operator to scan the film cartridge with the wand to enter the cartridge identification data. In each of these useful embodiments, film identification data is obtained from the film cartridge by scanning the cartridge past a stationery scanner or by using a moving scanner to scan a film cartridge.  
           [0010]    In a further embodiment of the &#39;166 patent, it is proposed to position the film cartridge in front of the electronic imager of the hybrid camera described therein and to capture an electronic image of the markings on the film cartridge using the electronic imager. The electronic image is then analyzed to determine the information content of the markings. In this embodiment, no scanning is necessary however, it is necessary to essentially take a photograph of the film cartridge to be put into the camera. It will be appreciated this method requires that the film be positioned at a location that is substantially apart from the electronic imager used to capture the image of the film so that all of the markings on the film cartridge can be captured in one image.  
           [0011]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,561,284 entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR READING FILM INFORMATION FOR CARTRIDGE” filed in the name of Kiyonaga et al. also shows an apparatus and method that uses an electronic imager to form an image of one bar code recorded on an APS like film cartridge having information encoded in two separate bar codes. In accordance with the method shown therein, a window is provided that exposes the imager to only one bar code at a time. An actuator is provided that moves the window so that the next bar code can be scanned without interference from the first bar code. It will be appreciated however, that it is difficult to provide such a system for use in an imaging apparatus in that the provision of a separate imager solely for use in reading film information and the use of a moving window adds cost, complexity and size to an imaging apparatus.  
           [0012]    In commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,212,508 entitled “REMOTE PHOTO-ELECTRIC INTERFACE IN CAMERA” filed in the name of Koenig, an apparatus is shown for electrically interfacing a mechanical camera component to an electrical camera component. In this useful apparatus, a mechanical camera component has a sensing area associated therewith. The sensing area contains optically detectable information. The apparatus comprises a device for directing radiant energy to and from the sensing area. Radiant energy is incident on at least a portion of the optically detectable information contained in the sensing area. Detecting devices optically couple to the directing device for photo detecting radiant energy received from the optically detectable information. The detecting device provides an electrical output for receipt by an electrical camera component. The operational status of the mechanical camera component is determinable by the output of the detecting device and the camera is controlled in response thereto. What is shown in the &#39;508 patent among other things, is optically detecting markings on a film cartridge that indicate the type of film recorded in the cartridge. In this useful method and apparatus, a separate photo detector is provided for each piece of optically detected information. Where substantial amounts of information must be obtained, such as where unique cartridge identification numbers are provided in a bar code format, such a system would require a very large number of photo detectors creating increased complexity and integration challenges that must be solved.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0013]    It is therefore a general object of the present invention to provide an imaging apparatus for recording images on a separable medium having markings thereon and to obtain information from the markings on the medium while the medium is installed in the imaging apparatus. It is a more specific object of the present invention to provide an imaging apparatus that can obtain information from markings on a medium stored therein that can later by used to identify the medium. It is still another object of the present invention to provide an imaging apparatus that can obtain information that is encoded on a medium stored therein to determine the characteristics of the medium.  
           [0014]    In one feature of the invention, an imaging apparatus is provided for recording images on a medium, the medium having an exterior surface with information recorded thereon in the form of optically detectable markings. The imaging apparatus has a body having a medium holding chamber for positioning the medium and an electronic image capture system. The electronic image capture system has an imager having an imaging area that converts light incident on the imaging area into an electronic signal and a first optical path forming an image of the scene on at least a portion of the imaging area. A light source provides light in the holding chamber to illuminate the markings. A second optical path has a light entry area positioned in the medium holding chamber to receive light that is reflected by the markings. The second optical path conducts the reflected light from the entry area to an exit area of the second optical path. The exit area is positioned to direct light from the second optical path to form an image of the markings on at least a part of the imaging area. A controller captures an electronic signal representative of the image of the markings. The controller is adapted to analyze the electronic signal to determine the information encoded in the markings.  
           [0015]    In another feature of the present invention an imaging apparatus is provided for recording images on a medium having an exterior surface with information recorded thereon in the form of optically detectable markings. The imaging apparatus has a body with a medium holding chamber for positioning the medium within the imaging apparatus. An electronic image capture system is provided. The electronic image capture system has an imager with an imaging area for converting light incident on the imaging area into an electronic signal and a lens system for focusing light from a photographic scene onto at least a portion of the imaging area. A selectably actuatable light source provides light in the holding chamber to illuminate the location of the markings when the medium is held in the holding chamber. An optical path is provided and is aligned with the markings. The optical path has a light entry area positioned to receive light that is reflected by the markings. The optical path conducts reflected light from the entry area to an exit area of the optical path. The exit area of the optical path is positioned to direct light from the light path to form an image on at least a portion of the imaging area of the imager. A controller actuates the light source and captures an electronic signal from the part of the imaging area of the imager on which the image is formed. The controller is adapted to analyze the electronic signal to determine the information encoded in the markings.  
           [0016]    In still another feature of the present invention, these objectives are met by a camera for recording images on film and electronically, the film being housed in a container having an exterior surface with information recorded thereon in the form of optically detectable markings. The camera has a film image capture system for capturing images of a scene on the film. The film is held in a holding chamber which positions the film container so that the film can be used by the film image capture system. An electronic image capture system is also provided. The electronic image capture system has an imager with an imaging area that converts light incident on the imaging area into an electronic signal and a lens system for focusing light from the scene onto at least a portion of the imaging area. A selectably actuatable light source directs light onto the markings. A set of optical fibers each having an entry area for receiving light through which light within a prescribed angular range can be accepted and an exit area for directing received light out of each fiber is provided. Each optical fiber has a pathway for conveying substantially all of the light from each entry area to each exit area. A chamber connector is located in the film holding chamber. The chamber connector distributes the entry areas of the set of optical fibers to confront areas of the exterior surface of the film container having markings thereon. An imaging locator positions the exit area of the set of optical fibers so that light from the exit area is projected onto at least a part of the imager to form an image of the markings on the imager. A controller activates the light source and causes the imager to capture an electronic signal representing the image of the markings. The controller is adapted to analyze the electronic signal and to determine therefrom the information encoded in the markings.  
           [0017]    In a further embodiment of the present invention, what is provided is a method of using a scene imager in a camera to determine the information content of markings on a medium contained in a chamber of the camera. In accordance with this method, a light is applied to the medium in an area confronting the markings. An image of the light that is reflected by the markings is extracted from the chamber and conveyed to the imager. An image is formed on the imager that is representative of the markings. The image formed on the imager is converted into an electronic signal. The information content of the markings is determined based upon analysis of the electronic signal. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0018]    The invention will be described in greater detail below with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein:  
         [0019]    [0019]FIG. 1 shows a camera in accordance one embodiment of the present invention with a lens cover in a closed position.  
         [0020]    [0020]FIG. 2 shows a front view of the camera of FIG. 1 with the lens cover illustrated in an extended position.  
         [0021]    [0021]FIG. 3 shows a top view of the camera illustrated in FIG. 1.  
         [0022]    [0022]FIG. 4 shows a side view of the camera illustrated in FIG. 2.  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 5 shows a back view of the camera illustrated in FIG. 1 with the lens cover in a closed position.  
         [0024]    [0024]FIG. 6 shows a top view of a schematic representation of the camera of FIG. 1 with a film cartridge installed and an optical path comprising a flexible path disposed therein to convey an image of the markings from the holding chamber to the imager  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 7 shows a schematic representation of the embodiment of FIG. 6 in accordance with the cross-section indicated in FIG. 6 and with a film medium loaded therein.  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 8 shows an enlargement of the embodiment of FIG. 6 in schematic form.  
         [0027]    [0027]FIGS. 9 and 10 diagrammatically show the formation of a spatially coherent image on the imager based upon the use of an optical path that transmits a coherent image from the medium holding chamber to the imager.  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 11 shows a front view of one embodiment of an arrangement of the light path and imager of the present invention with an imaging locator that positions the light path to project an image of markings on a film medium onto an electronic imager in a portion of the image that is also used to record and capture images from a scene.  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 12 shows a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 9 with the light path, imager and electronic optical system of the present invention arranged so light from the light path is projected to form an image of markings on a film medium on an electronic imager in a portion of the imager that is also used to record and capture images from a scene.  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 13 shows a front view of another embodiment of the present invention wherein an imaging locator positions an optical path over a portion of an imager that is not used to capture images from a scene.  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 14 shows a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 11 of with an optical path, imager and electronic optical system of the present invention arranged in a position that is directly over the portion of the imager that is not used to capture images from a scene.  
         [0032]    [0032]FIGS. 15 and 16 show the images formed on an imager where a non-coherent optical path is used to transfer light to the imager.  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 17 shows one embodiment of a film cartridge containing the identification code in a geometric format that is distributed latitudinally about a film cartridge.  
         [0034]    [0034]FIG. 18 shows an adaptation of a chamber locator and an optical path the present invention adapted to convey an image of the markings from the film cartridge of FIG. 17 to the imager.  
         [0035]    [0035]FIG. 19 shows a front schematic view of an alternate embodiment of a camera in accordance with the present invention having an optical path that uses mirrors to convey an image of the markings to the imager.  
         [0036]    [0036]FIG. 20 shows a side schematic view of an alternate embodiment of a camera in accordance with the present invention having a optical path that uses mirrors to convey an image of the markings to the imager.  
         [0037]    [0037]FIG. 21 shows a top schematic view of an alternate embodiment of a camera in accordance with the present invention having an optical path comprising an arrangement of optical elements to convey an image of the markings to the imager and a flexible optical path conveying an image of the scene to the imager.  
         [0038]    [0038]FIG. 22 shows a flow diagram of a method in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0039]    One embodiment of an imaging apparatus  6  in accordance with the present invention is shown in FIG. 1. With this embodiment, imaging apparatus  6  comprises a hybrid camera  8  having a main camera body  10  on which a sliding lens cover  12  is attached. A silver halide optical system  14  and a first optical path  16 , are located behind the sliding lens cover  12 , and both are exposed to see light when sliding lens cover  12  is extended as illustrated in FIG. 2. An electronic flash unit  18  is preferably located on a top edge of the sliding lens cover  12 , such that the extension of the lens cover  12  places electronic the flash unit  18  in a position sufficiently distant from the silver halide optical system  14  and the first optical path  16  to prevent the occurrence of red eye in photographic and digital images captured by the camera. Other flash arrangements can be used including but not limited to flip up flash and offset stationary flash arrangements.  
         [0040]    In the illustrated embodiment, a separate optical viewfinder  20  is provided adjacent to lens cover  12 . Alternative forms of viewfinders such as those that incorporate or use elements of either the silver halide optical system  14  and/or first optical path  16  may be readily employed. The optical viewfinder  20  includes a masking device, for example, a segmented liquid crystal display (LCD) or mechanical mask that is used to match the images viewed by the camera operator through optical viewfinder  20  to a corresponding image format or aspect ratio selected by the camera operator. In a preferred embodiment, the optical viewfinder  20  provides several different aspect ratios including a full VGA aspect ratio corresponding to an aspect ratio such as 3:4 of the first optical path  16 ; and high definition television (HDTV) aspect ratio corresponding to the aspect ratio such as 7:4, of the silver halide optical system  14 ; or such as an HDTV aspect ratio corresponding to a ratio of 16:9; a classic film aspect ratio, such as 10:7; and a panoramic aspect ratio such as 20:7. The HDTV, classic, and panoramic aspect ratios are the same as those used for the Advanced Photo System (APS) cameras introduced in 1996. Other aspect ratios can also be used.  
         [0041]    A top view of the camera body  10  is illustrated in FIG. 3. An LCD status unit  22  is provided on top of the camera body  10  to display various camera status data to the camera operator. LCD status unit  22  can be made using any number of display technologies including liquid crystal display technology and organic light emitting display technologies. The location of LCD status unit  22  in not critical. LCD status unit  22  is roughly partitioned into three areas: an area for displaying information specific to film images, an area for displaying information specific to electronically captured images; and a general information area that displays information related to both film images and electronically captured images. In addition to the status unit  22 , various operator controls are provided on top of the camera body  10  including an image capture mode selector switch  23 , a shutter button  24 , a zoom control switch  25 , a picture taking mode selector switch  26 , a flash mode selector switch  28 , a timer mode selector switch  30 , and an image format selector switch  32 . As illustrated, image capture mode selector switch  23  allows for setting of digital, hybrid or film. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many features in the invention would be applicable to cameras where only digital and hybrid modes are provided, or only digital and film or only hybrid and film, or only hybrid modes. In the embodiment shown, the LCD status unit  22  is mounted on hinge support element  34  that is coupled to lens cover  12  such that LCD status unit  22  is tilted toward a camera operator when 4  the lens cover  12  is extended during image capture operation as shown in FIG. 4. LCD status unit  22  can be located in other areas of camera body  10 .  
         [0042]    A color main screen display unit  36  is provided on the back of main camera body  10  is illustrated in FIG. 5 and is preferably recessed from the back surface of the main camera body  10  for protection. Color main screen display unit  36  can comprise any of a number of display technologies including LCD and Organic Light Emitting Diode displays. A main screen operator control unit  38  is provided adjacent to the color main screen display unit  36  and includes an edit switch  40 , an exit switch  42  and a directional switch unit  44 . Directional switch unit  44  is preferably a four directional thumb pad segmented into four different individual directional switches including an up directional switch  46 , a down directional switch  50 , a right directional switch  48  and a left directional switch  52 . It will be understood, however, that other types of directional switch units, for example, track balls, pressure pads, etc., can be readily employed to enter directional signals. The main screen operator control unit  38  is utilized in conjunction with elements of graphical user interfaces displayed in the color main screen display unit  36  to control various camera functions that will be described in greater detail below.  
         [0043]    As illustrated in FIG. 5, the main camera body  10  is also provided with a memory card door  54 , a battery compartment door  56  and a film chamber door  58 . The memory card door  54  is provided to protect memory card interface  92  located in the main camera body  10 . The battery compartment door  56  and film chamber door  58  are provided in the bottom of the main camera body  10  in a conventional manner to provide access to an internal chamber film cartridge holding chamber  64  and a battery compartment (not shown).  
         [0044]    The operation of camera  8  will now be described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7 and  8 . FIG. 6 shows the overall system architecture of camera  8 . While FIG. 7 shows a schematic representation of the embodiment of FIG. 6 in 4  accordance with the cross-section indicated in FIG. 6. FIG. 8 shows a partial enlargement of the embodiment of FIG. 6 in schematic form. The basic system components of the system architecture include a silver halide image capture system  60 , a digital image capture system  80 , and a controller  100 . As is shown in FIG. 6, silver halide image capture system  60  includes silver halide optical system  14 , a shutter system  62 , film cartridge holding chamber  64 , which is adapted to hold a film cartridge  66 . A conventional film drive (not shown) advances photographic film  68  from a film cartridge  66  located in film cartridge holding chamber  64  through a film gate  70  and into a winding chamber  72 . Photographic film  68  is wound about winding spool  74  located in winding chamber  72 . The film drive (not shown) also works in reverse in a conventional manner to rewind exposed photographic film  68  from winding spool  74  back into the film cartridge  66  located in film cartridge holding chamber  64 .  
         [0045]    Digital image capture system  80  comprises first optical path  16 , imager  82 , image processor  84  and memory  86 . In the embodiment shown, first optical path  16  comprises an arrangement of lens elements  17 . An optional separable medium  88  such as a memory card is provided and stored in medium holding chamber  90 . An interface  92  engages separable medium  88  disposed in medium holding chamber  90 .  
         [0046]    A controller  100  is provided to control the operation of electronic flash unit  18 , silver halide image capture system  60  and digital image capture system  80 . Controller  100  receives input from image capture mode selector switch  23 , shutter button  24 , zoom control switch  25 , picture taking mode selector switch  26 , flash mode selector switch  28 , timer mode selector switch  30  and image format selector switch  32 . Based upon the condition of these inputs, controller  100  selects a mode of operation, determines whether to capture an image using the silver halide image capture system  60 , the digital image capture system  80 , or both and then executes an image capture sequence in accordance with a selected mode and in a time period defined in relation to the depression of the shutter button  24 . Controller  100  can be used to control other components of the camera. Controller  100  can be provided in the form of a microprocessor or microcontroller. Controller  100  can be centrally located or can be provided as multiple components of equivalent function in distributed locations within camera body  10 .  
         [0047]    When controller  100  is instructed to capture an image using silver halide image capture system  60 , controller  100  operates shutter system  62  to permit light from a scene to pass through silver halide optical system  14  and strike photographic film  68  to form an image thereon. Following a suitable exposure period, shutter system  62  is again closed and controller  100  causes the film drive to advance photographic film  68  by one frame provided there is sufficient photographic film  68  in film cartridge  66  to permit this or unless otherwise instructed. Silver halide optical system  14  is variably focusable. Controller  100  can control the movement of silver halide optical system  14  in order to focus silver halide optical system  14 . In this regard, the camera of FIG. 1 can be adapted with a conventional optical or sonic range finder (not shown) to identify distance from the camera to the subject in order to select an appropriate focus distance and further adapted to cause silver halide optical system  14  to move to the appropriate focus position prior to the initiation of an image capture sequence.  
         [0048]    During a digital image capture sequence, controller  100  transmits a signal to image processor  84  of digital image capture system  80  and causes image processor  84  to drive imager  82  to capture an electronic representation of the image formed on imager  82  by light passing through first optical path  16 . In the embodiment shown, first optical path  16  has a combination of optical elements  17  such as an arrangement of one or more refractive elements, diffractive elements and/or reflective elements or any combination thereof focus light from the scene onto imager  82 . First optical path  16  can be fixed focus or variably focused.  
         [0049]    Imager  82  is configured so as to capture, for each image capture event, one or more electronic signals representing the image formed on a light sensitive area of imager  82 . The type of imager  82  used may vary. However, it is highly preferred that imager  82  is one of several solid state imagers available. One highly popular type of solid-state imager commonly used is a charge coupled device (CCD). Several possible CCD types are available. The first of these, the frame transfer CCD allows charge generation due to photo activity and then shifts all of the image charge into a light shielded common non-photo sensitive area. This area is then clocked out to provide a sampled electronic image. The second type, the intraline transfer CCD, also performs shuttering by shifting the charge that shifts the charge to an area above or below each image line so that there are as many storage areas as there are imaging lines. The storage lines are then shifted out in an appropriate manner. Each of the CCD images has both advantages and disadvantages. However, all will work in this application. Image processor  84  has separate components that actuate the CCD so as to drive an image from the CCD. It is also possible to use an electronic imager  82  manufactured with CMOS technology. This type of imager is attractive for use, since it is manufactured easily by readily available solid-state processes. In addition, the processing used to form CMOS imagers allow peripheral circuitry to be integrated onto the same semi-conductor die. For example, a CMOS sensor can include clock drivers and other circuitry necessary to obtain image information from the CCD. An electronic imager  82  comprising a charge injection device can also be used. The charge injection device differs from the others mentioned above in that the charge is not shifted out of the device to be read. Reading is accomplished by shifting charge within the pixel. This allows a non-destructive read of any pixel in the array. If the device is externally shuttered, then the array can be read repeatedly without destroying the image. Shuttering can be accomplished by an external shutter or without an internal shutter, by injecting the charge into the substrate for recombination. Preferably, the digital image capture system  80  captures a three color image. It is highly preferred that imager  82  comprises a single imager having a three or four color filter. However, multiple monochromatic imagers and filters can be used. Suitable three-color filters are well known to those of skill in the art and are normally incorporated with the imager to provide an integral component.  
         [0050]    The electronic representation of the image that is captured by imager  82  is processed by image processor  84  to form an electronic signal, typically a digital signal, which can then be conveniently stored in an internal memory  86 . The electronic signal representing the image can also be recorded in a separable medium  88 . In the embodiment of FIG. 6, separable medium  88  comprises a digital memory card such as a compact flash card, which is stored in a medium holding chamber  90 . Image processor  84  communicates the signal representing the image to the separable medium  88  by way of interface  92  Separable medium  88  can take the form of an electronic memory as described, or any other form of electronic, magnetic, or optical mediums that can receive and store an electronic signal representing an image. Interface  92  is adapted to store and/or optionally retrieve data from separable medium  88 . Controller  100  can optionally be used to perform the functions of image processor  84 .  
         [0051]    As is shown in FIGS. 6, 7, and  8  film cartridge holding chamber  64  incorporates a chamber connector  110 . In the embodiment of FIGS. 6, 7, and  8  chamber connector  110  receives a plurality of optical fibers  120  and positions one end of each of these fibers approximate to the area of the film cartridge  66  having external markings. The plurality of optical fibers  120  have an exit area  122  positioned by chamber connector  110  proximate to the markings  102  on film cartridge  66 . Optical fibers  120  have a light entry area  124  that is positioned to receive light from a light source  126 . Light source  126  can be an electric light bulb, light emitting diode or other electrically powered light emitting structure that provides light A. Other light sources can be used, as long as they provide sufficient light. For example, ambient light can be optically captured and directed to illuminate markings  102 . The flow of light A to markings  102  can be selectively disabled by controller  100 . For example, controller  100  can prevent electrical power from flowing to a light source  126  comprising a light emitting diode. Similarly, a conventional shutter arrangement can be provided to selectively block ambient light from reaching markings  102 . The shutter arrangement can be manually operated or operated by controller  100 . Light A enters optical fibers  120  through entry area  124  and passes through the plurality of optical fibers  120  and emerges from exit area  122 . Light A illuminates the area of film cartridge  66  containing the markings  102 .  
         [0052]    A second optical path  128  is used to convey an image of the markings to imager  82 . Second optical path  128  can take many forms, including but not limited to a light pipe bundle comprising for example, an array of individual light pipes or an array of individual waveguides, an arrangement of one or more reflective elements, an arrangement of one or more refractive elements, or an arrangement of one or more diffractive elements or some combination thereof.  
         [0053]    In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6, 7 and  8 , second optical path  128  comprises a set of optical fibers  130  such as a bundle of optical fibers, an array of liquid light pipes, or an array of hollow light pipes that use either reflection or total internal reflection to convey light from one end of each fiber to another end of each fiber. The set of optical fibers  130  is joined to chamber connector  110 . Each optical fiber in the set of optical fibers  130  has a light entry area  132  and a light exit area  134 . The arrangement of entry areas  132  of the set of optical fibers  130  creates an entry face  136  for second optical path  128  and the arrangement of exit areas  134  creates an exit face  138  for second optical path  128 . In the embodiment shown, each one of the light entry areas  132  is positioned by chamber connector  110  over an area confronting the markings  102  and the distribution of light entry areas  132  within entry face  136  is defined so as to provide uniform coverage of the area containing markings  102 . However other distributions can be used. Light that is reflected from markings  102 , passes into entry areas  132  with an intensity that varies in accordance with the amount of light that is reflected or absorbed by markings  102 .  
         [0054]    The density of light entry areas  132  at entry face  136  is sufficient to distinctly capture picture elements from the area of film cartridge  66  having markings  102  to permit an image of markings  102  to be formed on the imager  82  with sufficient clarity as to permit the information in the markings to be recovered from the image. Further, the distribution of and location of entry areas  132  is defined so as to provide some minimal degree of redundancy so that the failure of one single fiber in the set of optical fibers  130  will not impair the ability of the set of optical fibers  130  to form a meaningful image of markings  102  on imager  82 . The reflected light entering the entry areas  132  of the set of optical fibers  130  is indicated by reference character B in FIG. 8. This reflected light B travels through the set of optical fibers  130  until it reaches exit areas  134 . In the embodiment shown, imaging connector  140  targets each of the exit areas  134  so that the light emerging from exit areas  134  strikes imager  82  in an area in which imager  82  is photo sensitive.  
         [0055]    In this embodiment, second optical path  128  is a spatially coherent optical path in that there is a precise relationship between the image received at entry face  136  and the image formed by the light exiting from exit face  138 . In this embodiment, second optical path  128  is made coherent by using a coherent set of optical fibers  130 . In a coherent set of optical fibers  130 , the entry area  132  of each of the optical fibers is arranged at entry face  136  in a pattern. Each exit area  134  of the set of optical fibers  130  is arranged at exit face  138  so that there is a known spatial relationship between the pattern of entry areas  132  at entry face  136  and the pattern of exit areas  134  at exit face  138 .  
         [0056]    [0056]FIG. 9 shows the effect of using a coherent second optical path  128 . As is shown in FIG. 9, second optical path  128  is has an entry face  136  positioned in film cartridge holding chamber  64  having a film cartridge  66  disposed therein. Film cartridge  66  has a first set of markings  142  thereon within a first marking area  144 . Light A is transmitted onto first marking area  144  and a portion of light A is reflected. Entry face  136  of second optical path  128  receives any reflected light B that enters entry face  136  from a cone of acceptance defined as a projected space in front of the entry face  136  within which light that enters entry face  136  can propagate through second optical path  128 . Reflected light B is transferred by second optical path  128  and exits second optical path  128  at exit face  138 . Because second optical path  128  provides a precise relationship between the image entering entry face  136  and the image exiting exit face  138 , an output image  146  having an appearance that generally conforms to the appearance of first set of markings  142  in first marking area  144  is formed on imager  82 . FIG. 10 shows the effect of using second optical path  128  to convey light reflected by a second film cartridge  147  having a second set of markings  148  in a second marking area  150 . As can be seen in FIG. 10, the image  152  formed on imager  82  has an appearance that generally conforms to the appearance of second set of markings  148  in second marking area  150 . As can also be seen in FIG. 10, the aspect ratio, scale, or orientation of the image at entry face  136  and the aspect ratio of the image formed by exit face  138  can differ, so long as the imaging information contained within the image  152  has an appearance that is not distorted to prevent the interpretation of markings  102 .  
         [0057]    [0057]FIGS. 11 and 12 show detail regarding one embodiment of the optical interface between imager  82  and second optical path  128 . In FIGS.  11  and  12 , imager  82  is capable of capturing images that are projected onto an image capture area  154  and, accordingly, first optical path  16  is adapted to project light C from the scene to form an image in image capture area  154 . Typically first optical path  16  will be adapted to maximize the portion of image capture area  154  on to which light C from the scene is projected. This maximizes the image resolution of the captured image formed by light C. Where this is done, reflected light B that exits from exit face  138  of second optical path  128  also uses a portion of image capture area  154  in forming image  156 . Accordingly, it is useful to ensure that imager  82  does not attempt to capture images of scenes when image  156  is being projected onto image capture area  154 . This can be accomplished by disabling the source of light A whenever an the initiation of an image capture sequence is initiated, by preventing scene image capture whenever image  156  is being formed on imager  82  or by using other electrical, optical and/or mechanical techniques to prevent reflected light B from striking imager  82  during scene image capture. Alternatively, a combination image can be captured that contains both an image  156  representing the markings and an image representing the scene. The combination image can be stored or further processed to remove or modify the appearance of image  156  in the combination image.  
         [0058]    It is also useful to ensure that second optical path  128  and imaging connector  140  are not positioned to interfere with the flow of light C, from digital optical system  14  onto imager  82  during image capture. Accordingly, in the embodiment or FIGS. 11 and 12, imaging connector  140  is positioned outside the path of light from the scene C. Thus, in this embodiment, reflected light B is projected from second optical path  128  onto the image capture area  154  to form a coherent reflected light image  156  in the image capture area  154  of imager  82 . To ensure that image  156  is not blurred, a lens system  158  can be provided which focuses the light from exit face  138  onto the image capture area  154 .  
         [0059]    [0059]FIGS. 13 and 14 show an alternative embodiment that can be used in circumstances where the imager  82  has an image capture area  154  that is larger than a scene image capture area  160  that represents the maximum portion of the image capture area  154  upon which first optical path  16  forms an image based on light from the scene C. In this embodiment, the image capture area  154 , is portioned into a marking image capture area  161  and a scene image capture area  160 . Imaging connector  140 , positions exit face  138  of second optical path  128  so that light from exit face  138  confronts the image capture area of imager  82  directly or with minor separation. This forms a reflected light image  163  on marking image capture area  161 . To the extent that exit face  138  is positioned proximate to the image capture area, the need for lens system  158  is reduced. An advantage of this embodiment is that imaging connector  140  can comprise an adhesive that adheres exit face  138  of second optical path  128  to the imager  82 . The adhesive embodiment of imaging connector  140  can hold the exit face  138  directly against the imager  82  or can allow some separation. Where separation is allowed, it is preferred that such an adhesive is transparent.  
         [0060]    Under certain circumstances, it may be difficult or prohibitively expensive to provide a second optical path  128  that is spatially coherent. Accordingly, in another embodiment of the present invention, second optical path  128  is arranged in a manner that does not provide a precise relationship between the image received at the entry face  136  and the image that exits exit face  138 . An example of such a second optical path  128  is a plurality of optical fibers  130  in which the precise relationship of each of the optical fibers in the set of optical fibers  130  is not maintained so that the arrangement of optical fibers ends in chamber connector  110  matches the arrangement of optical fibers at the imaging connector  140 .  
         [0061]    Two examples of this are shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. 15, shows a first set of markings  164  on a first electronic medium  162  such as a compact flash card. First electronic medium  162  is positioned so that the first set of markings  164  confront entry face  136  of second optical path  128 . Light from a source (not shown) reflects from the first set of markings and the reflected light enters entry face  136  of second optical path  128 . However, the image  178  that is formed on imager  82  is comprised of a pattern of image elements  192  that do not have an appearance that matches the appearance of markings  164  on first electronic medium  162 . Similarly, as is shown in FIG. 16, where a second electronic medium  172  having a second set of markings  174  is positioned into scene image capture area  160 , light reflected from second marking area  176  passes through the set of optical fibers  130  form an image  182  on imager  82  comprising a different pattern of image elements  194  forming a non-coherent image of second set of markings  174 . In this embodiment, although a coherent image is not formed on imager  82 , each pattern of markings, e.g.  164  or  174 , within the marking area  166  forms a unique pattern of image elements, e.g.  192  and  194 , on imager  82 . Thus, in this embodiment, it becomes possible to develop an association between a pattern of image elements formed on an imager by a non-coherent second optical path  128 , and the pattern of light entering entry face  138 . In application, the association can be developed by using a calibration process to compare the pattern of image elements formed on imager  82  to a set of calibration markings or by selectively applying a light source to the entry area  132  of each of the set of optical fibers and observing which portions of the imager  82  become illuminated. Where this is done, an associating look up table can be assembled from which the information that is recorded in the markings based can be determined upon which elements of imager  82  are illuminated. Alternatively, image processor  84  can be adapted so that it assembles a pattern of non-coherent image elements formed on imager  82  into a digital representation of a coherent image that accurately represents the markings on the medium. Using this digital representation, the information contained in the markings can be determined.  
         [0062]    [0062]FIG. 17 shows an alternative arrangement of markings on a film cartridge  200 . In this arrangement, film cartridge  200  has a bar code  202  that begins at a bar code start position  204  and extends to a bar code end position  206 . When film cartridge  200  is inserted into the camera of FIG. 18, a chamber connector  210  is provided in the chamber  212 . It will be appreciated from FIG. 18 that in this embodiment, chamber connector  210  distributes particular ones of the set of optical fibers  130  in a pattern that matches the pattern of bar codes  202  and extends from the bar code start position  204  to the bar code end position  206 . It will further be appreciated that using the methods of the present invention, a chamber connector  210  can be defined to match any anticipated pattern of bar codes  202  or any other pattern of markings.  
         [0063]    [0063]FIGS. 19 and 20 show respectively, another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a second optical path  218  comprises an arrangement of reflective surfaces such as mirrors. As is shown in FIG. 19, a film cartridge  66  is positioned in film cartridge holding chamber  64 . However, in this embodiment, imaging gate  224  is provided in holding chamber  64 . Film cartridge  66  has a pattern of markings  222  in a marking area  166 . Light A is supplied to marking area  166 . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 19 this light is provided by a light source  214 . As is shown in FIG. 19, light source  214  is positioned behind a mirror  226 . Mirror  226  is half silvered allowing source light A to pass through mirror  226  and radiate on to pass through half silvered mirror  226  and through imaging gate  224  to strike marking area  222 . In this embodiment, marking area  166  has text markings  222  enclosed. Reflected light B from marking area  166  returns to half silvered mirror  226  and is reflected to redirecting mirror  228 . Redirecting mirror  228  deflects the reflected light B from mirror  226  to form an image on imager  82 . Where necessary, either mirror  226  or redirecting mirror  228  can have a curved surface to optically focus the image from marking area  166  onto imager  82 . Alternatively, refractive or diffractive optical elements can be incorporated to modify reflected light B to enhance the focus of the image formed by light B by imager  82 .  
         [0064]    The markings on a medium container may take the form of handwriting or machine written symbols, only one example of which is shown in FIGS. 19 and 20. Further, the information that is obtained from a medium can take the form of metadata that is to be associated with an image in the form of data or, a separate image that itself is meant to be associated with each captured image to facilitate identifying the storage medium upon which the image is recorded. While various embodiments described above have described the use of an optical path to detect markings on a film cartridge, such techniques are equally applicable for use in detecting markings that are optically encoded on other forms of media, such as separable medium  88 . Further, such systems can be incorporated in an imaging apparatus  6  such as a digital camera, kiosk, personal computer or other device having a scene imager and a separable image storage medium.  
         [0065]    In the embodiments shown above, imager  82  has been shown as receiving light C from a scene from a first optical path  16  that comprises a combination of optical elements  17  while light B reflected by markings on a separable medium has been shown as being conveyed to imager  82  by way of second optical path  128 . It will be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, camera geometry or other factors may make it useful to reverse this arrangement. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 21, imager  82  is directed toward markings  102  and captures a reflected light image of markings  102  by way of a second optical path  128  comprising an arrangement of refractive lens elements that focuses reflected light B from markings  102  onto imager  82 . Alternatively, in this embodiment, second optical path  128  can comprise an arrangement of diffractive lens elements. First optical path  16  comprises a set of optical fibers  230  such as are described above. This allows imager  82  to be used to capture both an image of the markings and images of the scene. It will be appreciated that first optical path  16  can provide light from the scene to imager  82  using any of the other described and claimed embodiments of second optical path  128  such as, for example, an arrangement of reflective surfaces such as mirrors.  
         [0066]    [0066]FIG. 22 shows a method in accordance with the present invention, for using a scene imager in an imaging apparatus to determine the information content of markings on a medium contained in a chamber of the apparatus. In accordance with this method a medium is stored in the chamber in the apparatus (step  300 ) a light is then applied to the markings (step  302 ) light that is reflected by the markings is then extracted from the chamber (step  304 ) reflective light is conveyed to the scene imager (step  306 ) and an image is formed on the imager that is representative of the markings (step  308 ).  
         [0067]    The image on the imager is then converted into an electronic signal (step  310 ). This image is then analyzed to determine the information content of the markings. (step  312 ) The information content of the markings can be determined by analyzing patterns within the image so as to identify characters or machine code symbols. Further, certain hand written codes and signals can be interpreted. Finally, as noted above, a simple image of the markings can be captured and properly processed. Where a color image of the markings is obtained, a polychromatic light is provided on to the markings and processing can be performed to ensure color fidelity and focus with the image of the markings then used as metadata which travels with each image recorded on the medium so as to enable identification of the medium upon which the image is recorded.  
         [0068]    In accordance with this method, this can be formed in an iterate manner in that an attempt can be made read machine readable bar codes, then failing this attempt, an attempt can be made to use character recognition to identify machine or man written characters on the markings, and, to the extent that no information can be obtained in this way, a simple image can be captured and processed to provide a visual indication of the appearance of the medium upon which the image is recorded.  
       Parts List  
       [0069]    [0069] 6  image apparatus  
         [0070]    [0070] 8  camera  
         [0071]    [0071] 10  camera body  
         [0072]    [0072] 12  lens cover  
         [0073]    [0073] 14  silver halide optical system  
         [0074]    [0074] 16  first optical path  
         [0075]    [0075] 17  lens elements  
         [0076]    [0076] 18  electronic flash unit  
         [0077]    [0077] 20  optical viewfinder  
         [0078]    [0078] 22  LCD status unit  
         [0079]    [0079] 23  image capture mode selector switch  
         [0080]    [0080] 24  shutter button  
         [0081]    [0081] 25  zoom control switch  
         [0082]    [0082] 26  picture taking mode selector switch  
         [0083]    [0083] 28  flash mode selector switch  
         [0084]    [0084] 30  timer mode selector switch  
         [0085]    [0085] 32  image format selector switch  
         [0086]    [0086] 34  hinge support element  
         [0087]    [0087] 36  color main screen display unit  
         [0088]    [0088] 38  main screen operator control unit  
         [0089]    [0089] 40  edit switch  
         [0090]    [0090] 42  exit switch unit  
         [0091]    [0091] 44  directional switch  
         [0092]    [0092] 46  up directional switch  
         [0093]    [0093] 48  right directional switch  
         [0094]    [0094] 50  down directional switch  
         [0095]    [0095] 52  left directional switch  
         [0096]    [0096] 54  memory card door  
         [0097]    [0097] 56  battery compartment door  
         [0098]    [0098] 58  film chamber door  
         [0099]    [0099] 60  silver halide image capture system  
         [0100]    [0100] 62  shutter system  
         [0101]    [0101] 64  film cartridge holding chamber  
         [0102]    [0102] 66  film cartridge  
         [0103]    [0103] 68  photographic film  
         [0104]    [0104] 70  film gate  
         [0105]    [0105] 72  winding chamber  
         [0106]    [0106] 74  winding spool  
         [0107]    [0107] 80  digital image capture system  
         [0108]    [0108] 82  imager  
         [0109]    [0109] 84  image processor  
         [0110]    [0110] 86  memory  
         [0111]    [0111] 88  separable medium  
         [0112]    [0112] 90  medium holding chamber  
         [0113]    [0113] 92  interface  
         [0114]    [0114] 100  controller  
         [0115]    [0115] 102  markings  
         [0116]    [0116] 110  chamber connector  
         [0117]    [0117] 120  optical fibers  
         [0118]    [0118] 122  exit area  
         [0119]    [0119] 124  entry area  
         [0120]    [0120] 126  light source  
         [0121]    [0121] 128  second optical path  
         [0122]    [0122] 130  set of optical fibers  
         [0123]    [0123] 132  entry area  
         [0124]    [0124] 134  exit area  
         [0125]    [0125] 136  entry face  
         [0126]    [0126] 138  exit face  
         [0127]    [0127] 140  imaging connector  
         [0128]    [0128] 142  first set of markings  
         [0129]    [0129] 144  first marking area  
         [0130]    [0130] 146  output image  
         [0131]    [0131] 147  second film cartridge  
         [0132]    [0132] 148  second set of markings  
         [0133]    [0133] 150  second marking area  
         [0134]    [0134] 152  image  
         [0135]    [0135] 154  image capture area  
         [0136]    [0136] 156  image  
         [0137]    [0137] 158  lens system  
         [0138]    [0138] 160  scene image capture area  
         [0139]    [0139] 161  marking image capture area  
         [0140]    [0140] 162  first electronic medium  
         [0141]    [0141] 163  reflected light image  
         [0142]    [0142] 164  markings on first electronic medium  
         [0143]    [0143] 166  marking area  
         [0144]    [0144] 168  coherent image of first markings  
         [0145]    [0145] 172  second electronic medium  
         [0146]    [0146] 174  second set of markings  
         [0147]    [0147] 176  second marking area  
         [0148]    [0148] 178  image  
         [0149]    [0149] 182  image  
         [0150]    [0150] 188  non-coherent image of first set of markings  
         [0151]    [0151] 192  image elements of non-coherent image of first set of markings  
         [0152]    [0152] 194  image elements of non-coherent image of second set of markings  
         [0153]    [0153] 200  film cartridge  
         [0154]    [0154] 202  barcode  
         [0155]    [0155] 204  bar code start  
         [0156]    [0156] 206  bar code end  
         [0157]    [0157] 210  chamber connector  
         [0158]    [0158] 212  chamber  
         [0159]    [0159] 214  light source  
         [0160]    [0160] 218  second optical path  
         [0161]    [0161] 222  markings  
         [0162]    [0162] 224  imaging gate  
         [0163]    [0163] 226  mirror  
         [0164]    [0164] 228  redirecting mirror  
         [0165]    [0165] 230  light pipe  
         [0166]    [0166] 300  store medium step  
         [0167]    [0167] 302  apply light step  
         [0168]    [0168] 304  extract reflected light step  
         [0169]    [0169] 306  convey reflected light to image step  
         [0170]    [0170] 308  form image step  
         [0171]    [0171] 310  convert image step  
         [0172]    [0172] 312  analyze image step