Patent Abstract:
A device for storing and displaying at least one still image, wherein the at least one still image can convert to a video display. A method for presenting a still image and then converting the still image to display a video.

Full Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION  
       [0001]     This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/657,647, filed on Feb. 28, 2005, which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS  
       [0002]      FIG. 1A  depicts an embodiment of the invention in still image status.  
         [0003]      FIG. 1B  shows the embodiment of  FIG. 1A  after the still image has been transformed into a video. 
     
    
     DESCRIPTION  
       [0004]     The Image to Video Device (Device) displays at least one image in normal mode. The image can be in any form, including the following: picture, painting or photograph. In one step, e.g., press of a button, remote control or motion detector, the image transforms into a video. The video may include audio. The video may relate to the still image.  
         [0005]     A person skilled in the art would be able to construct the Device using already existing technology for image display devices, video display devices, motion detector devices, etc.  
         [0006]     In one preferred embodiment, the Device can be incorporated into an advertisement display. In such embodiment, the Device could be a store sign or billboard. In one example, shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , the advertisement could be used to promote an upcoming movie and the image  1  could be that of a character in the movie. If powered by a motion detector  2 , the still image  1  of the character could transform into a video  3  of the character when a viewer approaches the advertisement display and activates the motion detector  2 . The video  3  could include sound.  
         [0007]     In one preferred embodiment, at the completion of the video, the Device again displays the still image.  
         [0008]     In another preferred embodiment, the Device can display as a picture frame or poster. In such embodiment, the Device can be hung on a wall or placed on furniture, e.g., desk. In such embodiments, the Device can be in various sizes and styles.  
         [0009]     In another preferred embodiment, the Device can be incorporated into a photo frame. In one example, the Device can display a still image of the family dog. At the push of a button, the image of the dog transforms into a video of the dog running, with barking and other sounds included.  
         [0010]     In one embodiment, the Device can be a postcard suitable for carrying around in one&#39;s pocket, purse or wallet.  
         [0011]     In preferred embodiments, the Device is powered by electricity, including by battery.  
         [0012]     Embodiments also could incorporate and/or be used with memory devices such as memory stick technology and/or memory cards. For example, the Device could have the capability to contain and read a memory stick or memory cards. In such embodiments, the memory devices can be used to change or supplement the images and videos to be displayed in the Device.  
         [0013]     The Device also could be capable of storing more than one video and/or image memory at a time. In such embodiments, the still image displayed in normal mode can change each time the video mode is played. For example, in the family dog embodiment described above, a different still image of the dog can be displayed after the video is played.  
         [0014]     Embodiments also could incorporate and/or be used with LCD technology. Also, the Device can be connected to the Internet via a USB connection or other means.

Technology Classification (CPC): 6