Digital image processing

Abstract

A digital camera has a microprocessor, which has installed therein an encryption algorithm. The algorithm has associated with it, a unique camera identification number (UCIN), the UCIN being recognisable by a remotely held decryption key. The decryption key is typically held by an authorised image processor who, on receipt of the camera, decrypts the images and publishes, distributes or prints the decrypted images as instructed by the camera owner. After the images have been processed, the authorised image processor may update the encryption algorithm and return the camera to the owner for re-use typically the camera will be provided at very low cost and a charge made to the owner for each image processing order made.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.