JP2002521743A - Image identification and delivery system - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract This invention is a method of contacting a rally participant before and after an event, wherein the intended participant (10) is provided with an electronic record of the participant (25). Send an associated invitation (34), create a picture of the participant identified in the electronic record (20), and provide the picture to the participant using the electronic record (28 or 30). A method including each step is disclosed.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to photographic systems, and more particularly to image identification and delivery systems. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Participants in a rally, such as a wedding, who want to order the photos they have taken,
It is common to look at the photos of the rally and order specific photos from them. This approach has the disadvantage that it is not done automatically, and that participants have to look at many pictures other than the one they are in.

[0002] All disclosures and references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a novel system for automatically providing a photograph to a participant in the photograph.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a method of contacting a gathering participant before and after an event, wherein the intended participant is associated with the participant's electronic record. Providing an invitation, creating a picture of the participant identified in the electronic record, and providing the picture to the participant using the electronic record.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a method of contacting a gathering participant before and after an event, wherein an electronic record of the intended participant and the participant and the gathering is provided. Sends an invitation to the intended participant via its electronic record, providing access to the wish list for the intended participant, and using the electronic record to the intended participant. Sell the gift, use the electronic record to update a gift wish list based on past purchases, and use the electronic record and its associated purchase record to
A method is provided that includes the steps of creating a thank-you note.

Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises the steps of creating a photograph of the participant identified by the electronic record and providing the photograph to the participant using the electronic record. Contains. Still further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the photograph is provided to the participant with a thank-you note.

[0006] Moreover, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least part of the communication with the participants is made electronically. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for distributing photos to a gathering participant,
A method is also provided that includes the steps of creating a photograph of the participant identified by the electronic record and providing the photograph to the participant using the electronic record.

[0007] Further according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the step of creating a picture of the participant comprises:
Considering the computer-readable identification means for each individual in association with the participant, wherein the step of providing a photograph uses the identification means to consider the photograph in association with the participant and the electronic record. including. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the step of creating a photograph includes the step of erasing the identification means from the photograph.

[0008] Additionally, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the providing step includes sending the picture over the Internet. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing a picture of participants of an event to these participants, wherein each participant is provided with an identification tag and the participant wearing the identification tag is identified. Take a picture, detect and decode the identification tag, consider the image including the tag in association with at least one alphanumeric code corresponding to the identification tag worn by the participant, and have the alphanumeric code A method is provided that includes steps for a participant to order an image.

Further, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification tag is a color code identification tag. Preferably, ordering the images comprises communicating an alphanumeric code over a computer network. Moreover, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, ordering the images comprises communicating the image data over a computer network.

According to another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of providing a picture of participants of an event to these participants, wherein the picture is taken of the participants and includes at least one participant's face. Is considered in connection with information about the participant's face, and at least by providing the participant's facial features, the participant orders images.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of providing identification information to a user who visits an individual requiring recognition, comprising providing an identification tag to the individual to be recognized and identifying the identification using a camera. Observe the recognition target individual wearing the tag, detect and decipher the identification tag,
A method is also provided that includes utilizing the database to consider the identification tag in association with identification data associated with a known person and providing the identification data to a user.

Preferably, the identification tag is a color-coded tag. Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the step of providing identification data comprises the step of providing an audible input signal to the user. According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, providing the identification data comprises providing a user with a visually perceptible input signal.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of providing recognition information to a user who visits an individual who needs recognition, wherein a camera is used to observe a recognition target individual, and a database is used. , Considering an image provided by a camera in association with identification data for a known person and providing the identification data to a user.

Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, providing the identification data comprises providing an audible input signal to the user. Additionally or alternatively, providing the identification data includes providing a user with a visually perceptible input signal. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system for communicating with participants of a rally before and after an event, wherein an invitation to the intended participant is associated with the electronic record of the participant. A photo-creating device that creates a picture of the participant identified in the electronic record, and a photo distribution device that provides the photograph to the participant using the electronic record. Provided.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system for contacting a gathering participant before and after an event, wherein an electronic record of the intended participant and the gathering is provided. Via an invitation sending device that sends an invitation linked to
A gift database that provides access to gift wish lists to intended participants, transaction software that sells gifts to intended participants using electronic records, and electronic records Also provided is a system that includes the steps of a database input device that updates a gift wish list based on past purchases, and a certification system that creates a thank-you note using electronic records and associated purchase records.

According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes a photo creator for creating a picture of the participant identified by the electronic record, and a photo creator utilizing the electronic record. To a participant. Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the picture is provided to the participant along with a thank-you note.

Preferably, at least part of the communication with the participant is made electronically. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a system for distributing photos to a gathering participant is provided, using a photo creator to create a picture of the participant identified by the electronic record, and using the electronic record. A system is also provided that includes the step of providing a photo to a participant with a photo distribution device.

The photo creator includes an associator for associating the computer-readable identification means for each individual with the participant, and the photo distributing apparatus associates the photograph with the participant using the identification means. It is preferable to consider it. Further, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the photo creator deletes the identification means from the photo.

Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the photo distribution device sends photos over the Internet. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system for providing a photo of an event participant to those photographed with an identification tag, wherein the identification tag is detected and decrypted. A device and a decryption device, a database for associating the image including the tag with at least one alphanumeric code corresponding to the identification tag worn by the participant, and an image distribution device for providing the image upon receiving the alphanumeric code Are also provided.

Preferably, the identification tag is a color-coded identification tag. Moreover, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image distribution device communicates alphanumeric codes over a computer network. Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image distribution device communicates image data over a computer network.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system for providing a picture of participants of an event to the participants, wherein an image including the face of at least one participant is provided with information about the faces of the participants. Also provided is a system that includes a database that associates with an image distribution device that provides an image of the participant upon receiving at least the facial features of the participant.

Further, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system for providing recognition information to a user who visits an individual who needs recognition, comprising: an identification tag worn by the individual to be recognized;
A camera for observing an individual to be recognized wearing an identification tag, a detecting device and a decoding device for detecting and decoding the identification tag, a database for associating the identification tag with identification data relating to a known person, and a user Identification data user to supply
A system is provided that includes the steps of the interface.

Preferably, the identification tag is a color-coded identification tag. Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification data user interface provides an audible input signal to the user. Additionally or alternatively, the identification data user interface provides an input signal that is audibly perceptible to the user.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system for providing recognition information to a user who visits an individual requiring recognition, comprising a camera for observing the individual to be recognized, and an image provided by the camera. There is also provided a system comprising a database for associating identification data with respect to a person and an identification data user interface for providing identification data to a user.

The identification data user interface preferably provides an audible input signal to the user. Additionally or alternatively, the identification data user interface provides a visually perceptible input signal to the user. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the following procedure is performed. a. One individual takes a picture and sends it for development. The picture is scanned and stored in an information base indicating the film number without identifying the individual in the picture. b. If one of the participants in the picture wants to receive the picture, that person calls a specific phone number and keys in the film code. c. The caller can be automatically identified by a conventional "caller identification" function or the like. d. The photo is sent, for example, to the address associated with the telephone used to order the photo. e. This photo fee may be charged to the caller's telephone bill, or any other suitable billing method may be employed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT FIG. 1 is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of an image identification and delivery system constructed and performed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and a preferred mode of the system of FIG. Reference is made to FIG. 2, which is a simplified flowchart. In the system of FIG. 1, a participant 10 has come to an event, such as a wedding, and has been photographed by a photographer 12 with a camera 14. Camera 14 is any known conventional or digital camera capable of taking pictures. It is desirable for the participant 10 to attach an identification tag 16 having a recognizable pattern. Alternatively, tag 16 may be a picture that is printed or otherwise integrated with outer garment 18 of participant 10.

The photographic image 22 is scanned and provided electronically to the identification device 20 or, if the camera 14 is a digital camera, provided electronically by the camera 14. The identification device 20 finds the identification tag 16 in the photographic image 22 and compares the identification tag 16 with the event / participant database 24 to schedule the photographic image 2
The second recipient, for example, the participant 10 is specified. The database 24 stores the identification tag 1
6, including at least one pre-programmed record 25 containing a representation of any known tag 16 used to locate the tag 16 in the image 22 using known methods. Preferably, this record 25 also includes destination information regarding the intended recipient of the image in which the identification tag 16 was found. The destination information includes an e-mail address, a postal address, and other well-known destination information. Record 25 also includes identification means for identifying participant 10 as a participant in one or more events.

Additionally or alternatively, the pattern on the tag 16 may include identification and / or destination information of the participant 10 using encryption techniques such as barcodes known in the art. it can. This information need not be stored in the database 24 if the identification device 20 can decrypt it using decryption techniques known in the art. It is also desirable to provide an image delivery device 26 for delivering the photographic image 22 to one or more addresses indicated in the database 24 for the identification tag 16. The delivery method includes a postal service indicated by reference numeral 30, an e-mail by a network 34 such as the Internet indicated by reference numeral 32, and other known delivery means. Either the identification device 20 or the image delivery device 26 uses known image editing techniques to remove the identification tag from the photographic image 22 as shown in the photo 28 with the tag 16 received by the recipient 10. It is desirable that 16 can be removed.

Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which is a simplified flow diagram of a method of applying an identification tag 16 to a pictorial participant 10 according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. The server 36 has the database 24. In one embodiment, the server 36 electronically sends the invitation 42 to the computer terminal 38 of the participant 10 over the network 34.
Along with it, it sends an image of the printable identification tag 16 or other known file format or software that can be used to print the tag 16 on an adhesive paper typically worn by the printer 40. In another embodiment, the server 36 prints the tags 16 on a printer 44, or the tags 16 are made on a glue that can be worn. The printed invitation 46 is then labeled 48 with the tag 16.
Sent to the participant by the regular flight indicated by. In another embodiment, participant 10
Stores identification and / or destination information, such as via the HTML format of a worldwide web site maintained by server 36 and accessible to participants 10
6 provided. The tag 16 is then selected and sent to the participant 10 and the information received from the participant 10 is stored in the database 24 with the associated tag information, or
Alternatively, it may be encrypted and placed on the tag 16 as described above, or may undergo both.

FIG. 4 is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of another method of applying an identification tag 16 to a participant 10 performed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The computer terminal 50 preferably includes the database 24 at the entrance of the banquet hall. Participant 1
0 enters his / her destination information, which may include unused tags or tags 16 that are otherwise selected from a set of tags specifically created for this participant and the event.
Is stored in the database 24 together with information on Next, the terminal 50 is the printer 5
The tag 16 is printed on an adhesive paper or the like that can be worn in step 2.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are simplified pictorial flow diagrams of a gift system constructed and performed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 performed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. And FIG. 7 which is a simplified flowchart of the preferred mode of operation of the system of FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the server 36 includes the database 24, and further includes a gift database 54 as an auxiliary.
The gift database 54 includes a prepared gift list for one or more events, such as a list of wedding gifts for the bride and groom. The server 36 electronically sends the gift list 56 to the computer terminal 38 of the participant 10 via the network 34. Preferably, the gift list 56 has not been selected and can be sent in HTML or other known formats. Preferably, invitation 58 is sent to participant 10 to provide both a user identification code and an event identification code. The participant 10 selects one or more gifts and sends to the server 36 a gift order including the appropriate user and event identification codes and information for payment or billing. The gift database 54 is updated to reflect the gift order form.

FIG. 6 shows the server 36 that sends a thank-you note to the participant 10 using the destination information from the database 24 based on the gift order from the participant recorded in the gift data 54. In one embodiment, the server 36 sends a thank-you note 60 electronically over the network 34 to the computer terminal 38 of the participant 10. In another embodiment, the server 36 prints a thank-you note 62 on the printer 44 and sends it to the participant 10 via regular mail, as shown at 64.

FIG. 8 illustrates a method performed by a preferred embodiment of the present invention for identifying a participant 10 of FIG. 1, which may be employed instead of or in conjunction with the identification tag 16 described with reference to FIGS. It is explanatory drawing represented by the simplified picture of FIG. The computer terminal 50 preferably has the database 24 at the entrance of the banquet hall. The face of participant 10 is scanned by scanner 66 and encrypted using any known face scanning and encryption system. The participant 10 also inputs his or her destination information, and that information is stored in the database 24 together with the encrypted face information. The identification of the participant 10 is performed as described in FIGS. 1 and 2 except that the participant 10 is identified using the encrypted face information stored in the database 24.

Next, an image identification and configuration system constructed and performed according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Reference is now made to FIG. 9, which is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of a delivery system.
In the system of FIG. 9, the camera 68 is installed at a fixed position such as along a wide sidewalk of an amusement park. Amusement park visitors 70
It is desirable to carry a smart card 72 that stores information identifying the visitor 70 such as his / her own address. The smart card 72 may be any known smart card or tag capable of transmitting communication. The card 72 only needs to be able to receive. A communication unit 74 is also provided to communicate with the card 72 and control the camera 68. To communicate with this unit 74, a computer 76
Is also provided.

A typical operation of the system shown in FIG. 9 will be described. In one embodiment, the card 72
Periodically emits a signal, and when the occupant 70 enters a predetermined range of the camera 68, this signal is received by the unit 72, which activates the camera 68 to take a picture of the occupant. This signal may include information for identifying the visitor 70,
Alternatively, upon receiving a signal from card 72, unit 74 may emit a signal requesting identification information, and card 72 may transmit this information to unit 74. In another embodiment, camera 68 is set to take pictures periodically. Each time the camera 68 takes a picture, the unit 74 emits a signal requesting identification information from all smart cards within range of the camera, and the card 72 within this range emits identification information of the occupant 70. Respond to this by:

The computer 76 stores the photograph taken by the camera 68 together with the identification information received from the card 72, and stores the information in the database 78. These pictures were automatically delivered to the visitors 70 in the same manner as described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, or were selected and paid at an electronic store 80 configured for this purpose. Will be delivered later.

The procedures described with reference to FIGS. 2-7 do not necessarily have to be performed in the order shown, unless otherwise noted, and in fact, other procedures may be used to achieve the same overall result. Clearly, an arrangement may be used. FIG. 10 is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of an image identification and delivery system constructed and performed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, and a simplified flowchart of a preferred mode of operation of the system of FIG. FIG.

In the system of FIG. 10, one or more participants 110 are shown as being photographed by a photographer 112 with a camera 114 at an event such as a welcome party. The camera 114 is any known film-type camera or an electronic camera capable of taking a photograph such as a video photograph or a still photograph. Preferably, each participant 110 wears an identification tag 116. The identification tag 116 may be of any suitable shape, such as a badge, pin, sticker, necklace, or the like, or may be integrated with the outer garment being worn.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification tag 116 comprises a color and pattern coded tag having a code for at least two characteristics such as color and location. desirable. Alternatively, the identification tag 116 may be coded for a greater or lesser number of characteristics, such as color only. However, it is important that the identification tag 116 can be easily detected by an automatic scanner without being influenced by the change in the camera angle and the illumination.

The preferred form of the identification tag 116 is a substantially circular tag with a central circular area 118 surrounded by various colored segments 120 as shown, the coding of which is easy to identify the wearer and It preferably corresponds to the alphanumeric identification code 122 printed on the tag 116. The identification code 122 may be printed on the back of the tag 116 or on a suitable location on the front of the tag, such as the central region 118 or one or more segments 120. The color-coded tags shown in FIG. 10 above are much easier to detect and decipher than conventional bar-coded tags of the same size.

A photographic image 123 taken by the participant 110 with the camera 114 is provided in an electronic form to the identification device 124 directly from the digital camera or via a scanner (not shown) when a film camera is used. Is done. The identification device 124 finds the identification tag 116 in the photographic image 123, decodes the tag, and considers each photographic image 123 in association with the alphanumeric identification code 122 corresponding to each person in the photographic image. It is desirable to employ a technique known in the art. Preferably, the identification device 124 downloads both these images and the alphanumeric identification code associated with each image to the database 125.

The exemplary database 125 includes a pre-programmed, randomly accessible image keyed to an alphanumeric identification code associated with an identification tag worn by each person in each image. Records. According to one preferred embodiment of the present invention, after the event, the identification device 124 downloads the data associated with the images and one or more alphanumeric identification codes corresponding to each image to the database 125, Any participant who wishes to view or obtain a picture of the can access and print it electronically.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a participant may have a computer 130, a printer 132,
This is possible by using a network 134 such as the Internet to enter a web site that provides access to the database 125. Alternatively, the participant may send an e-mail message to a server that provides access to database 125.

If the participant wants to receive the image electronically, the participant seeks his alphanumeric code 122 and email address and all the images associated with the alphanumeric identification code 122 of his identification tag. It can be entered or emailed with the purchase order. If the participant wishes to receive a hardcopy, the participant may communicate with the image delivery device 136 in any suitable manner and provide a mailing address to deliver the hardcopy 128 of one or more images 123. I have you get it.

Obviously, traditional transaction software can be linked with the database 125 and / or the image delivery device 136 to pay for either or both virtual or hard copy images as needed. It is. Reference is now made to FIG. 12, which is a simplified flowchart of one preferred method of detecting and decrypting identification tags 116 according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2, an identification device embodied in a conventional computer such as a PC detects the presence and location of an identification tag 116 in an image 123. The identification tag 116 and the image 123 are both colored.

Next, the image of the identification tag 116 is extracted from the remaining part of the image 123, and the identification tag 116 is decrypted. FIG. 13 illustrates a preferred method of identifying an identification tag according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. At first glance, it can be seen that the method of FIG. 13 employs two separate detection techniques in parallel.

One of these techniques is a pattern recognition technique that converts a color image 123 (FIG. 10) into a gray scale and performs edge detection on the gray scale. Following the edge detection, the detected edge is typically associated with a predetermined shape, such as a circle, corresponding to the overall shape of the identification tag 116. The other technique converts the color image 123 (FIG. 10) from RGB to another color base such as HSV and performs segmentation of the image by color and intensity thresholds. After the segmentation, a search is made as to whether one or more regions of the identification tag 116 have one or more known colors. This known color may be white or any other suitable color.

The results of both detection techniques are ANDed together to provide a relatively rough indication of the presence and location of one or more suspicious identification tags 116 in image 123. The spatial coordinates of the center of each suspicious identification tag 116 is determined. Next, one or more parameters of the identification tag are checked. One such parameter is the relative circumference of the outer diameter of the suspect tag 116 as well as the outer diameter of its central region 118. Another parameter is to check whether all colors found in segment 120 (FIG. 10) are within a set of predetermined colors.

Referring to FIG. 14, which describes a preferred technique for decrypting the identification tag 116. The method of FIG. 14 involves RGB color enhancement of the extracted image of the identification tag 116, followed by conversion from RGB to another color base, such as HSV, and color and intensity threshold extraction. Preferably, it includes segmenting the image and searching for all known colors in segment 120.

If each segment is associated with a known color, a sequence of colors is detected along the circumference of the identification tag 116, preferably at a plurality of radial locations. Once the sequence of colors has been determined with sufficient accuracy, the sequence is fitted to a look-up table to obtain the alphanumeric code 122 (FIG. 10). FIG. 15, which is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of an image identification and delivery system constructed and performed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, and a simplified version of one preferred mode of operation of FIG. FIG. 16 which is a flowchart will be described.

The system of FIG. 15 shows one or more participants 210 being photographed by a photographer 212 with a camera 214 at an event such as a welcome party. The camera 214 is any known film-type camera or an electronic camera capable of taking a photograph such as a video photograph or a still photograph. Unlike the embodiment of FIG. 10, each participant 210 does not need to wear an identification tag. According to the present invention, individual participants are recognized using known conventional face recognition techniques. Some of this known technique is described in the following U.S. Patents, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 4,975,969, 5,012,522, 5,164,992, 5,410,609, 5,430,
809, 5,432,864, 5,524,065, 5,642,431, 5,644,765, 5,715,325, 5,729,
619, 5,787,186, 5,801,763, 5,802,208, 5,805,720, 5,835,616, 5,850,
470, 5,852,669.

The photographic image 223 of the participant 210 photographed by the camera 214 is transmitted from the digital camera directly to the identification device 224 via a scanner (not shown) when a film camera is used. Provided by The identification device 224 includes a technique described in the aforementioned U.S. Patent and uses the system to identify faces in the photographic image 223 and to combine certain features thereof with the image 223 of these faces. It is desirable to employ techniques known in the art for inputting into the database 225. Desirably, the identification device 224 downloads both of these images and predetermined features of the face appearing in each image to the database 225.

The exemplary database 225 includes a record of each pre-programmed, randomly accessible image that is keyed in to certain features of the face appearing in each image. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, after the event, the identification device 224 downloads the image and data corresponding to predetermined features of the face in the image to the database 225, so that the user can view the photograph in the image. Any participant who wants to get it can access and print it electronically.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, to do this, the participant uses a computer 230, a printer 232, and a computer network 234, such as the Internet, to access a web site that provides access to a database 225. Just enter. Alternatively, the participant may send an e-mail message to a server that provides access to database 225.

If the participant wants to receive the image electronically, the participant can
You may enter or email your email address along with an order form that asks for all the images that you see. If the participant wants to receive a hard copy, the participant may communicate with the image delivery device 236 in any suitable manner, provide a mailing address, and have the hard copy 238 of the image 223 delivered. . The image of the participant's face may be input via a scanner (not shown) or a digital camera 240 linked with the computer 230.

In the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 15, the identification device 224 includes a facial image input by a participant via the computer 230 and a number of predetermined facial features stored in the database 225. And consider and make an association between
It is desirable to match the facial features of the participant who ordered the image with one of the facial images shown in the image 223.

Further, there are many alternatives, such as preliminary processing of face image data for extraction of a predetermined feature by the computer 230 and division of the spot color extraction / association function of the identification device 224 into two or more computers. A data flow can also be employed. Conventional transaction software may be associated with the database 225 and / or the image delivery device 236 to enable payment for either virtual or hard copy, or both, as needed.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 17A and 17B, which are simplified pictorial illustrations of an instant personal identification system constructed and performed in accordance with two preferred embodiments of the present invention. In the example of FIG. 17A, the user indicated by reference numeral 300 carries an instant personal identification assembly with a camera 302 that provides an input signal to the identification subsystem 304. The camera 302 is separately installed so as not to be seen normally.

The identification subsystem 304, which operates much like the identification device 124 in the embodiment of FIG. 10, includes an auditory indicator 306 such as an earphone and the user's glasses 31.
2 provides an identification output signal to one or both of the visual indicators 308, such as a "head-up display". The identification output signal may also provide the name of the individual to be identified and other relevant information for that individual.

In the illustrated embodiment, the individual to be “identified” is the identification tag 11 in all respects.
6 has an identification tag 316 similar to that of FIG. The identification subsystem 304 identifies the individual using information on the identification tag 116 by observing the tag with the camera 302. To this end, the identification subsystem 304 preferably uses a database 325 that is similar in all respects to the database 125 of the embodiment of FIG.

Next, the embodiment of FIG. 17B shows an instant personal identification system that does not require the use of the identification tag 116. This system operates based on the face recognition technology described in all of the aforementioned US patents. In the illustrated embodiment, the user indicated at 400 is identified by the identification subsystem 404.
Carry an instant personal identification assembly with a camera 402 that provides an input signal to the user. The camera 402 is separately installed so as not to be seen normally.

This identification subsystem 404, which operates much like the identification device 224 in the embodiment of FIG. 15, includes an audio indicator 406, such as an earphone, and the user's eyeglasses 41.
2 provides an identification output signal to one or both of the visual indicators 408, such as a "heads-up display". The identification output signal may also provide the name of the individual to be identified and other relevant information for that individual.

In the illustrated embodiment, the “identification target” individual does not need to wear an identification tag and is stored in a database 425 that is similar in all respects to the database 225 of the embodiment of FIG. Recognized by the characteristics of this person's face. Referring to FIG. 18 showing another embodiment of the present invention. The system of FIG. 18 shows that one or more participants 110 are photographed by a photographer 112 with a camera 114 at an event such as a welcome party. The camera 114 is any known film-type camera or an electronic camera capable of taking a photograph such as a video photograph or a still photograph.

It is desirable that each participant 110 wears an identification tag 116. The identification tag 116 may be of any suitable shape, such as a badge, pin, sticker, necklace, or the like, or may be integrated with the outer garment being worn. According to one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification tag is preferably comprised of a color and pattern coded tag having a code for at least two characteristics such as color and location. Alternatively, the identification tag may be coded for a greater or lesser number of characteristics, such as color only. However, it is important that the identification tag can be easily detected by an automatic scanner to such an extent that the detection result is not affected by changes in the camera angle and illumination and can be immediately read by an automatic scanner.

The preferred form of the identification tag 116 is a substantially circular tag with a central circular area 118 surrounded by various colored segments 120 as shown, the coding of which is easy to identify the wearer and It preferably corresponds to the alphanumeric identification code 122 printed on the tag 116. The identification code 122 may be printed on the back of the tag 116 or on a suitable location on the front of the tag, such as the central region 118 or one or more segments 120. The color-coded tags shown in FIG. 1 above are much easier to detect and decipher than conventional bar-coded tags of the same size.

A photographic image 123 taken by the participant 110 with the camera 114 is provided in an electronic form to the identification device 124 directly from the digital camera or via a scanner (not shown) when a film camera is used. Is done. The identification device 124 finds the identification tag 116 in the photographic image 123, decodes the tag, and considers each photographic image 123 in association with the alphanumeric identification code 122 corresponding to each person in the photographic image. It is desirable to employ techniques known in the art. The identification device 124 preferably downloads both these images and the alphanumeric identification code associated with each image into the database 125.

The exemplary database 125 includes a record of each pre-programmed, randomly accessible image associated with an alphanumeric identification code associated with an identification tag worn by each person in each image. I have. According to one preferred embodiment of the present invention, after an event, the identification device 124 stores the data associated with the images and the alphanumeric identification code associated with each image in a database 125.
Once downloaded, any participant who wants to get a picture of themselves can dial a specific phone number and enter their code using the phone keypad.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, this can be accomplished by the participant using telephone 130 and telecommunications network 134 to call a particular telephone number and enter an access code to database 125. . The image delivery device 136 detects the telephone number of the caller, and can obtain the destination of the caller using the telephone number database 137.

Conventional transaction software may be associated with the database 125 and / or the image delivery device 136 to enable payment for either or both virtual and hardcopy images as needed. This payment can be made using an appropriate method such as a caller's telephone bill.

Next, an example of a tag will be described. Definition of Preferred Badge An example of a preferred badge is shown in FIG. It is composed of two parts. The first part is a "text area" that can represent the entered information.
The second part corresponds to the "color coded identification means" area. This area is composed of a central "flower" and an additional "trend segment". "Flowers" are # in FIG.
It consists of six color segments numbered from 1 to # 6.
The “trend segment” has the number # 7. Features of the Preferred "Color Coded Identifier" In the illustrated embodiment, the "color coded identifier" has the following properties:

The badge is printed on matt white paper. The circle inside the “flower” is white and is surrounded by a black line with a width of 1 mm. The diameter of the inner circle of “flower” is 10 mm. The outer diameter of a typical "flower" is 30 mm. The outer color of "flower" is a black line with a width of 1 mm.

This badge is printed on white paper with a margin of 7 mm from the outer periphery of “flower”. The segment color is one of the exemplary legal colors described in the table of FIG. Two adjacent segments are not the same color. A representative “trend segment” touches the # 5 segment shown in FIG.

In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter of segment # 7 is 10 mm. Segment # 7 is surrounded by a 1 mm wide black line. The color of segment # 7 is one of the legal colors and is different from the color of segment # 5. Representative camera types and settings are as follows.

Camera type: Nikon coolpix 900 digital camera Image quality: high quality Preferred shooting conditions are as follows. Field of view: 70 cm to 150 cm Representative photographs were taken using a flash.

A typical subject distance is about 2 m. The accredited code consists of 9 digits. The first three digits are constant digits (ie, 898). The next three digits are the decoded numbers corresponding to the numbered segments (# 1 to # 6) described in FIG.

The various features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the description of separate embodiments, may be combined in one embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the description of an embodiment may be provided separately or in any suitable combination. The above-described elements of the present invention can be incorporated into hardware, software, or any combination using conventional techniques.

If necessary, a component of the software of the present invention may be a ROM (read-only memory).
). These software components can generally be incorporated into hardware as needed using conventional techniques. Various features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the description of separate embodiments, may be combined in one embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the description of one embodiment may be provided separately or in any suitable combination.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention should not be limited to the above-described embodiments shown and described. Within the scope of the present invention are combinations of the various embodiments described above, which can be read and configured by those skilled in the art from the foregoing non-prior art,
Some combinations, corrections, and additions are also included.

[Brief description of the drawings]

The present invention will be understood and will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of an image identification and delivery system constructed and performed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a simplified flowchart of a preferred mode of operation of the system of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of a method of applying an identification tag 16 to a participant 10 performed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a simplified pictorial flowchart of another method of applying an identification tag 16 to a participant 10 performed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a simplified pictorial flowchart of a gift system constructed and implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of a gift system constructed and implemented in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a simplified flowchart of a preferred mode of operation of the system of FIGS. 5 and 6 performed by a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a simplified pictorial diagram of another system used for participant identification of FIG. 1 constructed and performed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a simplified pictorial flowchart of an image identification and delivery system constructed and performed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of an image identification and delivery system constructed and performed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a simplified flowchart of a preferred mode of operation of the system of FIG.

FIG. 12 is a simplified flowchart of a preferred method of detecting and decrypting an identification tag according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a simplified flowchart forming part of the method of FIG.

FIG. 14 is a simplified flowchart forming another part of the method of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a simplified pictorial flowchart of an image identification and delivery system constructed and performed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a simplified flowchart of one preferred mode of operation of FIG.

FIG. 17A is a simplified pictorial illustration of an instant personal identification system constructed and performed in accordance with two preferred embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 17B is a simplified pictorial illustration of an instant personal identification system constructed and performed in accordance with two preferred embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 18 illustrates an image identification and configuration constructed and performed according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a simplified pictorial flow diagram of a delivery system.

FIG. 19 is a diagram of a representative tag represented by a picture.

FIG. 20 is a table of representative colors of the tag of FIG. 19;

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of front page (81) Designated country EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE ), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, KE, LS, MW, SD, SL, SZ, UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AE, AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR , BY, CA, CH, CN, CU, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IS , JP, KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, UA, UG, US, UZ, VN, YU, ZA, ZW (72) Inventor Keselbrenner, Michel Israel, 69698 Tel Aviv, Hannota Street 49A F-term (reference) 5C053 FA04 FA07 JA16 JA30 LA01 LA03 LA11 LA14

Claims (42)

[Claims] 1. A method of contacting participants in a rally before and after an event, comprising: sending an invitation to an intended participant in conjunction with an electronic record of the participant; Creating a photograph of the participant identified in the electronic record, and providing the photograph to the participant using the electronic record. 2. A method of contacting a meeting participant before and after an event, the method comprising: providing an intended participant with an invitation linked to an electronic record of the participant and the meeting. Transmitting, via the electronic record, providing the intended participant with access to a gift wish list; using the electronic record, selling a gift to the intended participant; Updating the gift wish list based on past purchases using the electronic record, and creating a thank-you note using the electronic record and the associated purchase record. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising creating a picture of the participant identified by the electronic record, and providing the picture to the participant using the electronic record. 4. The photo is provided to the participant along with the thank-you note.
The method described in. 5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least part of the communication with the participant is made electronically. 6. A method of distributing a photo to a participant in a rally, comprising creating a photo of the participant identified by the electronic record and providing the participant with the photo using the electronic record. A method that includes each step. 7. The step of creating a picture of the participant includes the step of considering computer-readable identification means for each individual in association with the participant, and the step of providing a picture uses the identification means. 7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the step of considering the photograph in connection with the participant and the electronic record. 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the step of creating a photograph includes the step of erasing the identification means from the photograph. 9. The method of claim 6, wherein said providing step includes sending the picture over the Internet. 10. A method of providing a picture of participants of an event to these participants, providing each participant with an identification tag, taking a picture of the participant wearing the identification tag, The identification tag is detected and decoded, and the image including the tag is considered in association with at least one alphanumeric code corresponding to the identification tag worn by the participant. A method including each step of ordering. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein said identification tag is a color code identification tag. 12. The method according to claim 10, wherein ordering an image comprises communicating the alphanumeric code over a computer network. 13. The method of any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein ordering the images comprises communicating the image data over a computer network. 14. A method of providing a picture of participants of an event to these participants, comprising taking a picture of the participants and providing an image containing at least one participant's face with information about the participant's face. A method comprising: associating and discussing, at least providing a participant ordering an image by providing at least a participant facial feature. 15. A method for providing recognition information to a user who visits an individual who needs recognition, comprising: providing an identification tag to an individual to be recognized; and using a camera to recognize the identification target wearing the identification tag. Observing the individual, detecting and decoding the identification tag, using a database to consider the identification tag in association with identification data related to a known person, and providing the identification data to the user. A method that includes 16. The identification tag according to claim 1, wherein the identification tag is a color-coded tag.
5. The method according to 5. 17. The method according to claim 15, wherein providing the identification data comprises providing an audible input signal to the user. 18. The method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the step of providing identification data comprises the step of providing the user with a visually perceptible input signal. 19. A method for providing recognition information to a user who visits an individual who needs recognition, comprising: observing a recognition target individual using a camera; and using a database to provide an image provided from the camera. Is considered in association with identification data for a known person, and providing the identification data to the user. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the step of providing identification data comprises the step of providing an audible input signal to the user. 21. The method of claim 19, wherein the step of providing identification data comprises the step of providing the user with a visually perceptible input signal. 22. A system for communicating with attendees of a rally before and after an event, wherein the invitation sends out an invitation to an intended participant in conjunction with an electronic record of the participant. A system comprising: a transmitting device; a photo creator that creates a picture of the participant identified in the electronic record; and a photo distribution device that provides the photograph to the participant using the electronic record. 23. A system for communicating with attendees of a rally before and after an event, the system comprising: providing an intended participant with an invitation linked to an electronic record of the participant and the rally; An outgoing invitation transmitting device; a gift database that provides access to a gift wish list to the intended participant via the electronic record; and an intended participation utilizing the electronic record. Transaction software that sells gifts to persons, a database input device that updates the gift wish list based on past purchases using the electronic records, and stores the electronic records and purchase records associated therewith. A system that includes the steps of a certification system that creates a thank-you note using it. 24. A photograph creation device for creating a photograph of the participant identified by the electronic record, and a photograph creation device for providing the photograph to the participant using the electronic record. 24. The system of claim 23, comprising: 25. The photographer is provided to the participant with a thank-you note.
System. 26. The system according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein at least a portion of the contact with the participant is electronic. 27. A system for distributing photos to participants in a rally, comprising: a photo-creating device for creating a picture of the participant identified by an electronic record; A system including each step of providing a photograph distribution device for providing the photograph. 28. The photo-creating device comprises a linking device for considering computer-readable identification means for each individual in association with a participant, and wherein the photo distribution device uses the identification means to convert the photograph into 28. The system according to any one of claims 22, 24 and 27, considered in connection with a participant. 29. The system of claim 28, wherein the photo creator deletes the identifying means from the photo. 30. The system of claim 27, wherein the photo distribution device sends the photo over the Internet. 31. A system for providing a photograph of a participant of an event to those photographed with an identification tag on the participant, comprising: a detection device and a decoding device for detecting and decoding the identification tag. A system for associating an image including a tag with at least one alphanumeric code corresponding to an identification tag worn by a participant; and an image distribution device for providing the image upon receiving the alphanumeric code. 32. The system of claim 31, wherein said identification tag is a color coded identification tag. 33. The system according to claim 31, wherein the image distribution device communicates the code through a computer network. 34. The system according to claim 31, wherein said image distribution device communicates image data via a computer network. 35. A system for providing photos of participants of an event to these participants, comprising: a database associating an image including a face of at least one participant with information about the faces of the participants; And an image distribution device for providing an image of the participant upon receiving the facial features of the participant. 36. A system for providing recognition information to a user who visits an individual who needs recognition, comprising: observing an identification tag worn by the individual to be recognized; and an individual to be recognized wearing the identification tag. A detection device and a decoding device that detects and decodes the identification tag, a database that associates the identification tag with identification data related to a known person, and an identification data user interface that supplies the identification data to the user. A system that includes each step. 37. The system of claim 36, wherein said identification tag is a color-coded identification tag. 38. The system according to claim 36, wherein the identification data user interface provides an audible input signal to the user. 39. The system of claim 36 or 37, wherein the identification data user interface provides an audibly perceptible input signal to the user. 40. A system for providing recognition information to a user who visits an individual who needs recognition, comprising: a camera for observing the person to be recognized; an image provided by the camera and identification data for a known person; A system comprising: an associating database; and an identity data user interface for providing the identity data to the user. 41. The system of claim 40, wherein the identification data user interface provides an audible input signal to the user. 42. The system of claim 40, wherein the identification data user interface provides a visually perceptible input signal to the user.