Camera Related Patents: Rolling Shutter Reduction Based on Motion Sensors

In general, Apple's invention relates to rolling shutter reduction techniques for generating and applying image segment-specific perspective transforms to already-captured segments (i.e., portions) of images in a video sequence, so as to counter or compensate for unwanted distortions that occurred during the read out of the image sensor. Such distortions may be due to, for example, the use of CMOS sensors combined with the rapid movement of the image capture device. In contrast to the prior art, rolling shutter reduction techniques described in Apple's patent filing may be applied to captured images in real-time or near real-time using positional sensor information and without intensive image processing that would require an analysis of the content of the underlying image data.

Apple's patent FIG. 5 shows exemplary anchor rows and segments on the display of an electronic image capture device and a timeline for the read out of single image frame, in accordance with one embodiment. See patent application 20130044241 for more details. Another camera related patent application surfaced today covering Motion-Based Video Stabilization.

Multi-Wire Cutting for Efficient Magnet Machining

Manufacturing Process Patent: Apple's patent filing covers methods and apparatus for rapidly and efficiently machining rare earth magnets. In particular various embodiments of multi-wire electrical discharge machining and wire saw machines are described that can allow for significant time savings, thereby allowing integration of a wire cutting process into a high volume production scale operation.

Apple's patent FIGS. 4A and 4B show cross-hatched multi-wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) configurations.

Apple never identifies what this is used for. We can only speculate that the magnets used in Apple' Smart Covers begin as a block of magnet material that is then sliced up to exacting measurements for the Smart Cover. To review Apple's invention, see patent application 20130043218. While we're on the topic of Apple's manufacturing processes, there was another invention that came to light covering anodization and plating surface treatments.

Links to other Apple Patent Applications that were Published Today

20130047084 Management of Local and Remote Media Items

This patent relates to iTunes management that's already in the market.

20130044063 Touch Correcting Keyboard

20130046984 Establishing a Secured Communication Session

20130046975 System, Method, and Program for Information Management

20130046734 Consistent Backup of Electronic Information

20130044429 Cooling Arrangement for Small Form Factor Desktop (Old Mac Mini)

20130045684 Audio Transfer using the Bluetooth Low Energy Standard

The patent, to some degree, relates to assistive-listening devices such as a hearing aid.

20130044719 Dynamic Allocation of Host IP Addresses

20130044714 Channel Rank Feedback (LTE based patent)

20130044084 Securing Protected Content during Video Playback

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