System and method for capturing and grouping motion video segments

#The present invention relates to digital device for recording motion images, and, more particularly, to a system and method for capturing and grouping motion video segments.

#Current digital cameras can connect to a host computer by means of a docking unit in order to transfer images to the host computer (e.g., PC). These files can include still image files (e.g. JPEG files) as well as motion video files (e.g. QuickTime files). One example is the Kodak EasyShare DX3600 digital camera, which is sold with an optional docking unit. The camera captures digital still images and motion video segments and stores the images using Flash EPROM memory. The still images and motion video files can be downloaded from the camera to the host computer using the docking unit. If the user configures the EasyShare software on the host computer to provide auto transfers, then, when the user presses the button on the EasyShare docking unit, the still and motion video files are transferred from the camera to a folder on the host computer's hard drive and are erased from the Flash EPROM memory in the digital camera.

#A problem with the prior art is that, while transferring images from the camera to the computer's hard drive (via the docking unit) occurs automatically, the motion video files are not easily viewable on the user's home television. Furthermore, the motion video files take up considerable space on the user's computer hard drive and can be lost if the hard drive crashes.

#The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

#FIG. 1A is an external view of a digital camera in accordance with the present invention.

#FIG. 1B is an external view of the digital camera and docking unit.

#The following is a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, reference being made to the drawings in which the same reference numerals identify the same elements of structure in each of the several figures.

#Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a digital camera 300 is adapted to capture motion video images and still images and includes a viewable image display 332, such as a color LCD, an Organic Light Emitting Display (OLED), or the like. Digital camera 300 preferably has a generally substantially flat shape. Digital camera 300 preferably further includes a dual hinge assembly that allows a screen cover 301 to open and close, like a book, and support the camera/screen in an upright position for image capture and display. The primary cover hinge moves freely but is dampened, the secondary hinge has a locking mechanism that is engaged and disengaged in the full open and full closed positions. The inside surface of the cover preferably includes a non-slip rubber coating to assist in protecting the screen from shock and provides a more secure, non-slip support when used as a stand.

#Digital camera 300 records images on a solid-state Flash EPROM memory card. This enables the camera to be small in size and low in power consumption. The camera operates as a normal still/video digital camera to capture normal still and video image files. The camera also includes several special modes, which are possible because solid-state memory is used for image storage. These modes include a time-lapse mode, where instead of capturing 30 images per second, the images are captured at a much slower rate (e.g., 1 image per second) for example to show a sunrise or flower blossom opening. The images can then be played back at a faster rate, such as 30 images per second. The modes can also include a “slow motion” mode where the images are captured at a higher than normal rate (e.g., 120 images per second) and played back at a slower rate. These modes can be triggered by a significant change in the scene, such as by rapid motion, turning on the lights, etc. When used in the trigger mode, the camera is turned on to capture images at a regular rate (e.g. an image every second) but the images are not recorded until there is a significant change between two captured images, such as due to motion (e.g., a subject entering the room with the camera).