WO2004092998A2

WO2004092998A2 - Digital album and methods of use

Info

Publication number: WO2004092998A2
Application number: PCT/US2004/010886
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tareq A. Risheq
Original assignee: Tr Marketing, Inc.
Priority date: 2003-04-08
Filing date: 2004-04-07
Publication date: 2004-10-28
Also published as: US20040201871A1; US7079293B2; WO2004092998A3

Abstract

A photographic print or document face-down onto scanner glass (48) when digital album (420) is in an open state the user then may close the digital album by angularly rotating first section (421) to ward the second section (441) via hinge elements (472a) and (472b) in closed state, inner surface (425) of first section (421) preferably is substantially flush with housing (442) of the second section (441) hinge element (472a) and (472b) preferably are disposed substantially within respective recesses (477a) and (477b) such that the hinge elements are substantially flush with battery housing (476).

Description

DIGITAL ALBUM AND METHODS OF USE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority of: U.S. patent application Serial No. 10/410,701, filed April 8, 2003; U.S. provisional patent application Serial No. 60/530,776, filed December 17, 2003; and U.S. patent application Serial No. 10/808,823, filed March 24, 2004, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a digital album, and more specifically, a digital album having a hard drive and scanner configured to scan photographic prints or documents, save the prints or scanned documents as digital images, transfer digital images to and from external mediums, and view digital images individually or in a slideshow format, all-in-one device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Photographs are an important piece of memorabilia in the lives of many people. Photographic prints relating to childhood, weddings, vacations and other occasions are commonly placed in photo albums, whereby each photo album may be dedicated to a specific occasion.

[0004] A conventional photo album holds a plurality of conventional photographic prints, i.e., those recorded on photographic paper. However, as the number of photographic prints in an album becomes substantial, the size of the photo album may become bulky and storage may become a problem. Moreover, if individual photographic prints are not stored in photo albums, simply locating a desired photo print or group of photos may prove to be a difficult task amid a large collection of prints. [0005] Photo scanners have proven to be a popular means for converting conventional photographic prints into digital images, thereby enabling storage of the images on a hard drive. Advantageously, a person then may discard the conventional photographic print, if desired, thereby eliminating the need to store a large number of individual prints. Moreover, a person can easily locate the digital image, e.g., using identification information associated with the image. [0006] However, the scanning of photographic prints can be a complex process, generally involving coupling the scanner to a computer, selecting desired settings, and then saving the images from the scanner to a hard drive of the computer. If it is desired to display the scanned digital images in a slideshow format, then additional connections, software and/or hardware may be required. [0007] There exists a need for a digital album that is capable of scanning conventional photographic prints, storing the photographic prints as digital images, and displaying the digital images in a slideshow format that preferably is analogous to a display format associated with a conventional photo album. The use of such an all- in-one digital album is expected to reduce the burden experienced by a user in scanning and storing images, as well as creating, editing and viewing a desired photo album.

[0008] U.S. Patent No. 4,888,648 to Takeuchi et al . (Takeuchi) describes an electronic album configured to record, store and display images. In one embodiment, an image reader is configured to convert photographs, pictures or documents into electric signals to obtain corresponding image information that is stored in an image memory and displayed on a display. Index information associated with each image allows a particular image to be retrieved from the memory and displayed on the display. The device also has a keyboard and editor that allows a user to edit stored images. [0009] Additionally, the device described in the Takeuchi patent comprises a disk reader configured to read image information from an image recording medium, e.g., a magnetic disk, and convert the image information into digital signals configured to be displayed on the image display. Furthermore, image information associated with an image may be uploaded to another equipment using an external interface.

[0010] The electronic album described in the Takeuchi patent has several drawbacks. First, it is unclear whether flat display 9 may be provided in a closed position during the scanning of a photographic print, i.e., in a position enclosing the print and reducing ambient light during the scanning process. Assuming that the flat display is not provided in such a closed position, then it is expected that a relatively poor scan quality will result since the print is not protected from ambient light. However, assuming that the flat display is closed during the scanning process, then an image may not be viewed on flat display 9 until the display is returned to an upright viewing position. Accordingly, it is expected that either a poor image quality will result, or the user must inconveniently close flat display 9 every time a photo is scanned and then open the display merely to view the image . [0011] Another drawback associated with the device of the Takeuchi patent is the bulky size of the electronic album. It is expected that the device may not be easily transported, and therefore, may not be well-suited for use in certain household applications. Moreover, it would be desirable to use an electronic photo album in conjunction with modern technologies, such as USB ports, firewire ports, and infrared data association (IrDA) ports, thereby facilitating transfer of information between mediums . [0012] In view of these drawbacks of previously known systems, it would be desirable to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album having a hard drive and built-in scanner to allow a user to scan, store and view individual photos, photo album slideshows, or scanned documents without the need for complex or expensive peripheral devices .

[0013] It further would be desirable to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album that is configured to scan conventional photographic prints and documents, and then save the prints or documents as digital images, in addition to being configured to download existing digital images from any number of origin mediums . [0014] It also would be desirable to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album that is configured to upload scanned digital images to any number of external destinations or storage destinations. [0015] It also would be desirable to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album having editing capabilities and slideshow functionalities.

[0016] It still further would be desirable to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album having several automated features for ease of use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide apparatus arid methods for a digital album having a hard drive and built-in scanner to allow a user to scan, store and view individual photos, photo album slideshows or scanned documents without the need for complex or expensive peripheral devices. [0018] It is also an object of the present invention to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album that is configured to scan conventional photographic prints or documents, and then save the prints or documents as digital images, in addition to being configured to download existing digital images from any number of origin mediums .

[0019] It is a further object of the present invention to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album that is configured to upload scanned digital images to any number of external destinations or storage destinations. [0020] It is also an object of the present invention to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album having editing capabilities and slideshow functionalities .

[0021] It is still a further object of the present invention to provide apparatus and methods for a digital album having several automated features for ease of use . [0022] These and other objects of the present invention are accomplished by providing a digital album comprising a hard drive and a scanner configured to scan photographic prints. The digital album allows a user to save the photographic prints as digital images on the hard drive, or another medium, and then view individual images or play photo album slideshows comprising a plurality of digital images. Additionally, a user may upload digital images from an external medium to the hard drive of the digital album, and then view those images and/or include them in a playlist associated with a slideshow.

[0023] In a first embodiment of the present invention, the digital album comprises a frame having a screen configured to display one or more digital images. The frame is coupled to a scanner housing, wherein the scanner housing encloses a scanner configured to scan a photographic print. The scanner housing in turn is coupled to a computer housing, the computer housing preferably enclosing a hard drive (hereinafter, the term "hard drive" may generally be used to refer to a unit that stores and provides access to data) , a CD/DVD/RW drive, and a microprocessor and memory coupled to the microprocessor. In this embodiment, the computer housing is configured to serve as a support stand for the frame, thereby enabling viewing of images on the screen at a convenient viewing angle . [0024] The digital album preferably further comprises an auto-feed scan mechanism comprising a slot formed in a lateral surface of the scanner housing. When a leading edge of a photographic print is inserted into the slot, the auto-feed scan mechanism pulls the print into the scanner housing and into a position suitable for scanning. In a preferred embodiment, the scanner automatically begins to scan the print once the print is completely pulled into the scanner housing via the auto- feed scan mechanism. A digital image corresponding to the print then is automatically displayed on the screen. [0025] A user then may save the digital image to the hard drive or the CD/DVD/RW drive of the digital album, or alternatively, the user may save the digital image to an external destination or storage destination.

Additionally, a user may choose to edit a digital image, either before or after saving the image. Saved digital images may be added to a playlist, whereby a plurality of images associated with the playlist may be viewed in a slideshow format in a predetermined sequence.

[0026] Additionally, digital images may be uploaded from an external medium to the hard drive of the digital album. Uploaded images then may be viewed individually on the screen of the digital album and/or included in a playlist.

[0027] Advantageously, according to one aspect of the present invention, a user may scan photographic prints and save the prints as digital images in a substantially automated manner. Additionally, a user may view scanned images individually or in a photo album slideshow format on the screen, all-in-one device, and without the need for complex or expensive peripheral devices and attachments . [0028] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the auto-feed scan mechanism of the digital album is omitted. In this embodiment, the frame and the scanner housing may be at least partially separated, and a photographic print may be manually inserted into a position facing the scanner.

[0029] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the digital album comprises a scanner housing enclosing a scanner, and further comprises a conventional laptop computer disposed in a conventional laptop computer housing. In this embodiment, a screen coupled to the scanner housing serves as a display for use with the laptop computer, and also serves to display scanned images and slideshows. [0030] When a digital album of the present invention is used in conjunction with a conventional laptop computer, the scanner housing may employ the auto-feed scan mechanism described hereinabove to automatically pull a photographic print into the scanner housing for scanning. Alternatively, the digital album may employ a top cover, which may be opened to manually insert a photographic print onto a scanner glass for scanning the print . [0031] In yet a further alternative embodiment of the invention, a digital album having first and second sections is provided. The first section comprises a frame having a screen configured to display a digital image, and the second section comprises a housing, wherein the scanner is disposed within the housing, and the housing further encloses a hard drive, microprocessor and memory coupled to the microprocessor. [0032] At least one hinge element is employed to permit angular rotation of the first section with respect to the section. In one embodiment, two hinge elements are provided, while in another embodiment, a central hinge is provided. In the latter embodiment, the central hinge allows circumferential and angular rotation of the first section with respect to the second section.

Accordingly, a user may view digital images in a open state, similar to a conventional laptop, or a compact state, in which the screen is configured to face in an upward direction away from the second section. In any of the embodiments, a removable cover may be configured to be coupled to the digital album, or a support stand may ^• be coupled to the digital album to permit varying levels of upright stability. [0033] In a further alternative embodiment, first and second hinge mechanisms are provided. In this embodiment, the first and second hinge mechanisms each comprises a plurality of linkages configured to permit angular rotation of the first section with respect to the second section. [0034] In yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention, the digital album comprises first and second sections that are detachable from one another. The second section preferably comprises a scanner mechanism, while the first section comprises a display screen and several modular components and ports. When the second section is coupled to the first section, scanning operations may be performed. When the sections are detached, the first section can still display digital images, show slideshows, and so forth. [0035] Further, although certain illustrative embodiments discuss scanning of photographic prints, the present invention is equally suitable for scanning any document, for example, in a business, personal or governmental environment .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0036] Further features of the invention, its nature and various advantages will be more apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, in which: [0037] FIGS. 1A-1B are, respectively, front and rear perspective views of a digital album provided in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of components of a scanner that may be used in conjunction with the digital album of FIGS. 1A-1B;

[0039] FIGS. 3A-3C are, respectively, a rear view showing various internal components of the digital album of FIGS. 1, a rear view showing details of an auto-feed mechanism, and a photographic print configured to be inserted into the auto-feed mechanism of FIG. 3B;

[0040] FIG. 4 is a rear view showing various internal components and connections associated with a computer of the digital album of FIGS. 1A-1B;

[0041] FIG. 5 is a schematic depicting various electronic connections associated with the digital album of FIGS. 1A-1B;

[0042] FIGS. 6A-6B are, respectively, side views depicting a swivel mechanism and hinge mechanism for use in conjunction with the digital album of FIGS. 1A-1B; [0043] FIGS. 7A-7B are schematic views depicting the digital album of FIGS. 1A-1B in landscape and portrait configurations, respectively; [0044] FIG. 8 depicts an illustrative configuration of control buttons of the digital album of the present invention;

[0045] FIG. 9 is a flowchart describing one exemplary operational sequence of a digital album in accordance with principles of the present invention; [0046] FIG. 10 is a flowchart depicting various mediums that may be used in conjunction with a digital album of the present invention; [0047] FIGS. 11A-11B are front perspective views of an alternative digital album of the present invention in closed and open modes, respectively;

[0048] FIGS. 12A-12C are, respectively, a rear view showing internal components of the digital album of FIGS. 11A-11B, a rear view of the frame of FIG. 12A, and a detailed view of a loading tray of FIG. 12B; [0049] FIGS. 13A-13B are schematic views showing a further alternative digital album provided in accordance with principles of the present invention in closed and open states, respectively;

[0050] FIGS. 14A-14C are, respectively, schematic views showing yet a further alternative digital album in a closed state, a conventional laptop usage mode, and an open state configured to receive a photographic print for scanning;

[0051] FIGS. 15A-15B describe a further alternative embodiment of a digital album of the present invention; [0052] FIG. 16 describes use of a removable cover in connection with the digital album of FIGS. 15A-15B; [0053] FIGS. 17A-17B are, respectively, perspective views of a digital album having a support stand in uncovered and covered state; [0054] FIGS. 18A-18B are, respectively, an alternative digital album of the present invention in an open state and a compact state, and a schematic depicting a central hinge that may be used to transition between the open and compact states;

[0055] FIGS. 19A-19B are, respectively, front and rear perspective views of an alternative digital album of the present invention in an open state;

[0056] FIGS. 20A-20B are, respectively, front and rear perspective views of the digital album of FIGS. 19A-19B in a compact state; and

[0057] FIG. 21 is an illustration of an alternative digital album of the present invention having modular features .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0058] Referring now to FIGS. 1A-1B, a first embodiment of a digital album provided in accordance with principles of the present invention is described. Digital album 20 comprises frame 22 having screen 23, scanner housing 30, and computer housing 42. Scanner housing 30 is coupled to frame 22, while computer housing 42 is coupled to scanner housing 30, preferably via swivel mechanism 36, as depicted in FIG. IB. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, other modes of coupling the scanner housing to the computer housing may also be used.

[0059] Computer housing 42 houses various electronic components for performing functional operations of digital album 20, as described hereinbelow with respect to FIGS. 4-5. Also, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, computer housing 42 serves as a support stand for frame 22, thereby facilitating viewing of digital images on screen 23. Specifically, computer housing 42 and scanner housing 30 may be positioned at a desired angle with respect to one another, thereby allowing digital album 20 to stand by itself in an upright position, as depicted in FIG. IB. [0060] To further facilitate support of digital album 20 in an upright position, computer housing 42 preferably comprises at least one non-skid pad 56, as shown in FIG. IB. Additionally, frame 22 preferably comprises at least one non-skid pad 57 for stability in a landscape configuration, and further comprises at least one non- skid pad 58 for stability in a portrait configuration (see FIG. 7 hereinbelow) . [0061] Referring still to FIG. 1A, frame 22 of digital album 20 preferably further comprises infrared data association (IrDA) port 24, which is configured to enable infrared data communication between digital album 20 and an exterior device, such as a personal computer, laptop computer, personal digital assistant (PDA) , printer, or the like.

[0062] Digital album 20 further comprises auto-feed scan slot 35, which is disposed in a lateral surface of scanner housing 30, as depicted in FIG. IB. Auto-feed scan slot 35 may be an external component of auto-feed scan mechanism 25 of FIG. 3B, which is configured to receive photographic prints and automatically pull the prints into scanner housing 30 for scanning, as described in detail hereinbelow with respect to FIGS. 3. [0063] Referring now to FIG. 2, components relating to a preferred scanner mechanism of digital album 20 are described in greater detail. In FIG. 2, screen 22 of FIG. 1A is omitted for clarity. Scanner 27 of digital album 20 preferably comprises lamp 28 and charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor array 29, each of which is disposed on sliding bar 38. CCD sensor array 29 preferably is a light-sensitive integrated circuit that stores and displays data associated with a photographic print by converting each pixel of the print into an electrical charge, wherein each electrical charge has an intensity associated with a color in the color spectrum. Ribbon cable 39 relays the electrical charges to memory 46b of computer 40 (see FIG. 5) as the image is scanned.

[0064] Scanner 27 preferably further comprises track 31, drive motor 32, screw feed 33, and carriage 34, which is coupled to sliding bar 38. When a signal is sent to drive motor 32 to begin the scanning process, rotation of drive motor 32 is translated into longitudinal movement of carriage 34 via screw feed 33. The longitudinal movement of carriage 34 in turn enables longitudinal movement of sliding bar 38, guided by track 31, to facilitate scanning of a photographic print. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various modifications may be made to scanner 27, for example, by varying the drive mechanisms employed, without departing from the scope of the present invention. [0065] Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C, features of an auto-feed scan mechanism that may be used in conjunction with digital album 20 are described in greater detail. FIG. 3B provides an enlarged view of a corresponding region of FIG. 3A, to better illustrate components of auto-feed scan mechanism 25. It should be noted that, in FIG. 3B, frame 22 and computer housing 42 have been removed for purposes of illustration.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 3B, auto-feed scan mechanism 25 preferably comprises slot 35, optical sensor 71, drive motor 72, which is coupled to reduction gear assembly 74, and at least one pinch roller 73. As shown in FIGS. 3A- 3B, auto-feed scan slot 35 is disposed in a lateral surface of scanner housing 30, while the other components of auto-feed scan mechanism 25 are disposed within scanner housing 30.

[0067] Optical sensor 71 is configured to provide feedback to microprocessor 46a of computer 40 (see FIG. 5) to notify the microprocessor as to when leading edge 67 of photographic print 66 has passed through slot 35. In response to instructions received from microprocessor 46a, drive motor 72 is actuated to cause rotation of gear assembly 74. At this time, pinch roller 73, which is coupled to gear assembly 74, is actuated to pull photographic print 66 into slot 35 and position print 66 so that front side 68 of the print is facing CCD array 29 of scanner 27 of FIG. 2.

[0068] A second optical sensor (not shown) , coupled to microprocessor 46a, may be employed to facilitate proper positioning of photographic print 66 with respect to scanner 27. Additionally, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that any number of gearing mechanisms and pinch rollers may be employed to facilitate actuation of auto-feed scan mechanism 25. [0069] Referring now to FIG. 4, components associated with computer 40 and computer housing 42 are described in greater detail. Computer 40 preferably comprises hard drive 45, motherboard 46 comprising microprocessor 46a and memory 46b (see FIG. 5) , and CD/DVD/RW Drive 47, each of which is housed within computer housing 42 having vent holes 43, as depicted in FIG. 4. A user may access CD/DVD/RW drive 47 via drive opening 41, which is coupled to a lateral surface of computer housing 42. [0070] Computer housing 42 preferably comprises at least one support leg 55 having non-skid pad 56, and more preferably, comprises first support leg 55a separated a distance apart from second support leg 55b, as illustratively depicted in FIG. 4. Computer housing 42 preferably is coupled to power-in port 51a, which in turn is configured to be coupled to power input wire 51. Computer housing 42 further is coupled to USB data port 52a and firewire data port 53a, which are configured to be coupled to USB wire 52 and firewire 53, respectively. [0071] In a preferred embodiment, at least one of ports 51a, 52a and 53a is disposed between first and second legs 55a and 55b, as shown in FIG. 4. Alternatively, the ports may be coupled to any other suitable surface of computer housing 42.

[0072] Referring now to FIG. 5, a schematic of a preferred electronic configuration of digital album 20 is shown, whereby solid lines are indicative of power transfer, and dashed lines are indicative of data transfer. As depicted in FIG. 5, power may be supplied to various components of digital album 20 via power input 51 and/or battery 49.

[0073] USB wire 52 and firewire 53 are configured to transfer data from digital album 20 to external mediums via ports 52a and 53a, respectively, as well as receive data from the external mediums. As will be described hereinbelow with respect to FIG. 10, data may be received from one or more origin mediums 111, such as a computer or digital camera, and data also may be transferred from computer 40 to any number of storage destinations 114 and/or external media destinations 116.

[0074] Referring still to FIG. 5, and as described in part hereinabove, optical sensor 71 provides feedback to microprocessor 46a to notify the microprocessor as to when leading edge 67 of photographic print 66 has passed through slot 35. In response to data instructions received from microprocessor 46a, drive motor 72 is actuated to enable the photographic print to be pulled into an area in front of scanner 27. Scanner 27 then may be automatically actuated to scan the photographic print. Digital image data associated with the scanned print may be saved to hard drive 45, CD/DVD/RW drive 47, another internal destination 115, or any one of storage destinations 114 and/or external destinations 116 of FIG.

10.

[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 6, different means for coupling scanner housing 30 to computer housing 42 are described. In FIG. 6A, swivel mechanism 36 of FIG. IB is employed as the means for coupling, thereby permitting a user to rotate frame 22 with respect to computer housing 42. In a preferred embodiment, swivel mechanism 36 enables rotation of frame 22 between first and second positions, illustratively depicted FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, respectively. In the first position, digital image 77 playing on screen 23 may be viewed in a landscape orientation, as shown in FIG. 7A. In the second position, digital image 77 playing on screen 23 may be viewed in a portrait orientation, as shown in FIG. 7B . As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, image 77 may be converted from a landscape orientation to a portrait orientation to fill the entire screen, as illustratively depicted, when frame 22 is rotated from the first position to the second position, or vice versa. [0076] Referring to FIG. 6B, in an alternative embodiment, hinge mechanism 37 may be employed as the means for coupling scanner housing 30 to computer housing 42, in lieu of swivel mechanism 36. When hinge mechanism 37 is employed, angle α, formed between a main axis of scanner housing 30 and a main axis of computer housing 42, may be adjusted to vary a viewing angle of screen 23, or to increase upright stability of digital album 20. [0077] Referring now to FIG. 8, a preferred configuration of control buttons 26 of FIG. 1A is described. Control buttons 26 preferably are coupled to frame 22, as shown in FIG. 1A, and electronically coupled to microprocessor 46a of computer 40. In one embodiment, memory 46b may store a plurality of preset commands corresponding to a predefined function of digital album 20. Microprocessor 46a may be configured to receive data from control buttons 26, match the data against the plurality of preset commands in memory 46b, and cause digital album 20 to perform the predefined function that corresponds to the input command.

[0078] Control buttons 26 preferably comprise menu button 61, fast-forward button 62, play/pause button 63, rewind button 64, and enter button 65, as shown in FIG.

8. Buttons 61, 62 and 64 are depicted as being configured to perform a plurality of functions based on the number of times a user pushes the button. [0079] For example, in one method of use, a user may view a slideshow, i.e., by creating a playlist comprising a plurality of digital images (see FIG. 9) . While viewing the slideshow, a user may push fast-forward button 62 three times and then press enter button 65 once. Microprocessor 46a recognizes the input, and compares the input against the plurality of preset commands in memory 46b. Once microprocessor 46a recognizes the match, the microprocessor instructs digital album 20 to forward to the end of the slide show. [0080] It will be understood by one skilled in the art that control buttons 26 may be used to perform any number of functions associated with digital album 20, and are not intended to be limited by the illustrative functions depicted in FIG. 8. Similarly, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that control buttons 26 may be coupled to digital album 20 at a different location, or at a remote location, e.g., using a remote control. Further, it will be understood by one skilled in the art that control buttons 26 may comprise any number of buttons that are arranged in any number of configurations, and are not intended to be limited by the exemplary configuration depicted herein. [0081] Referring now to FIG. 9, a flow diagram is provided to illustrate one exemplary manner in which digital album 20 of FIG. 1 may be used. As described hereinabove, digital album 20 advantageously may be used to scan conventional photographic prints, then display, save, edit, organize and/or transfer digital images, among other functions described herein.

[0082] In a first step, shown in block 80, a user performs preliminary operations, such as connecting power-in wire 51 into input port 51a. The user then turns the unit on, e.g., by pressing a conventional power button (not shown) .

[0083] In a next step, shown in block 82, a user may place a photographic print into auto-feed scan slot 35 of FIG. IB. As described hereinabove, optical sensor 71 of FIG. 3B is actuated when it recognizes that leading edge 67 of photographic print 66 is inserted at least partially into slot 35. Optical sensor 71 relays this data to microprocessor 46a, which in turn causes actuation of drive motor 72, gear assembly 74 and pinch roller 73. This causes the photographic print to be loaded within an area inside of scanner housing 30, and in a position facing CCD sensor array 29 of scanner 27. [0084] In an alternative method step, described hereinbelow with respect to alternative digital album 120 of FIGS. 11-12, a user may "open" the digital album by at least partially separating frame 122 from scanner housing 130. The user then may manually insert the photographic print into tray 171 (see FIGS. 12A-12C) . This step, shown in block 84, may be used in lieu of step 82, depending on which digital album is used. [0085] When the photographic print is properly positioned facing the CCD array of the scanner, scanner 27 preferably is automatically actuated, e.g., using a sensor (not shown) , and the photographic print is scanned, as shown in block 86. Alternatively, a series of prompts may be provided on screen 23, and a user may actuate control buttons 26, in response to the prompts, to begin the scanning process. Once the photographic print is scanned, a digital image corresponding to the print is automatically displayed on screen 23, as represented by block 87.

[0086] When the digital image is displayed, a user may perform a wide range of functions, e.g., save, edit, send to personal computer, etc. For simplicity, only two options are illustrated in the flowchart of FIG. 9. Block 88 depicts a "save" option that a user may select, for example, in response to prompts automatically provided on screen 23. If the user desires to discard of the digital image, then the image is not saved (block

92) .

[0087] If a user chooses to save a displayed image, the user may first be asked to select an image format (block 94) . Exemplary image formats are represented by object-based image group 112 and pixel-based image group 113 of FIG. 10. Object-based image formats may include, for example, TXT, DWG, CDR, DOC or other formats, while pixel-based formats may include, for example, BMP, JPG, GIF, TIFF or other image formats.

[0088] As illustratively depicted by block 110 of FIG. 10, when a scanned or uploaded image is displayed on screen 23, a user may choose to format the displayed image, and then save the displayed image to a desired destination. Accordingly, once a user selects a desired format , the user then may be prompted to provide a desired destination (block 95 of FIG. 9) . Several illustrative destinations are shown in FIG. 10, including a variety of storage destinations 114, internal destinations 115 and external destinations 116. The image may be saved to external destinations, such as a computer, an internet storage site, a personal digital assistant (PDA) or other destination by way of USB wire 52, firewire 53, or by using infrared data communication via IrDA port 24.

[0089] Once the user has selected a storage destination, the user may be asked to enter identification information associated with the image (block 96) . The identification information, such as a name or date associated with the image, is used to facilitate retrieval of the image from the storage destination. [0090] Referring still to FIG. 9, at any time that an image is displayed on screen 23, a user may choose to edit the image (block 90) . Editing software, for example, Adobe® Photoshop®, may be provided on computer 40 of digital album 20, or may be accessed using CD/DVD/RW drive 47 or another drive. Alternatively, the editing software may be provided on an external computer (not shown) or drive that is electronically coupled to digital album 20. Editing functions that may be performed include, for example, formatting the size of the image, changing a resolution associated with the image, red eye reduction, or otherwise varying the size, shape or content of the image (block 91) . As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, a user may choose to edit an image at any time before or after the image is saved to any one of destinations 114-116 of FIG. 10, i.e., editing functions 90-91 may be performed before or after the saving functions depicted in blocks 94-96. [0091] After an image has been saved (blocks 94-96) , a user may decide to add the saved image to a playlist (block 97) . The user may add the digital image to an existing playlist, or create a new playlist and add the image to the new playlist (block 98) . Exemplary playlists may include "Vacation," "Childhood," "Wedding," "Christmas," and "All Pictures," although any number of possibilities exist. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, each playlist may be organized, for example, so that a plurality of images may be displayed in a desired photo album sequence (block 99) . In this sequence, a slideshow may be viewed using navigational commands associated with control buttons 26 (see FIG. 8) . [0092] Once a playlist has been organized in a desired manner, the playlist may be saved to any one of storage destinations 114-116 of FIG. 10, in a manner similar to that described hereinabove with respect to saving an individual image. Therefore, in the flowchart of FIG. 9, functions performed in blocks 102 and 103 may correspond to functions described hereinabove with respect to block 95.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, a user may choose to save an image directly from digital album 20 to an internet storage location. For example, the user may subscribe to a service that allows subscribers to pay a small monthly fee for purposes of accessing internet data storage space . The internet storage service may be operatively coupled to digital album 20, e.g., using a DSL line, a cable line, or by satellite hookup. A user of digital album 20 may be prompted for authentication information associated with the internet storage site, such as a username and password. Once the authentication information is verified, the user may conveniently store large files directly from digital album 20 to the internet storage site.

[0094] It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the enumerated lists depicted in FIG. 10 are merely for purposes of illustration, and other mediums not specifically enumerated herein may be used in conjunction with digital album 20 of the present invention. [0095] Additionally, for simplicity, several other operational method steps that may be used in conjunction with digital album 20 have been omitted from the flow diagram of FIG. 9. For example, at any time during operation, at least one digital image may be uploaded to hard drive 45 of digital album 20, for example, via USB line 52, firewire 53 or IrDA port 24. The images may be uploaded from any number of origins 111, as illustratively enumerated in FIG. 10. Uploaded images are displayed on screen 23 (block 110 of FIG. 10) , and may be formatted and saved as individual images on hard drive 45 and/or added to playlists associated with digital album 20, as described hereinabove. Also, at any time during operation, one or more saved photos may be deleted from hard drive 45 or deleted from a playlist. [0096] An "eject" button (not shown) may be provided, thereby allowing a user to eject photographic print 66 from auto-feed scan slot 35. The eject button may be operatively coupled to drive motor 72 of auto-feed scan mechanism 25, such that drive motor 72 causes a rotation of pinch roller 73 that causes the photographic print to be ejected from scanner housing 30.

[0097] Referring now to FIGS. 11-12, digital album 120 of an alternative embodiment of the present invention is substantially the same as digital album 20 of FIGS. 1-10, with a main exception that auto-feed scan mechanism 25 is omitted. Also, in the embodiment of FIGS. 11-12, scanner housing 130 and frame 122 of digital album 120 are configured to be at least partially separated in an "open" mode, as depicted in FIG. 11B. In the open mode, a hinge (not shown) , which may be used to couple scanner housing 130 to frame 122, enables a partial separation between upper portion 133 of frame 122 and upper portion 131 of scanner housing 130, as depicted in FIG. 11B. In the open mode, a user may manually insert a photographic print, as described hereinbelow. [0098] Referring now to FIGS. 12, alternative digital album 120 further comprises foam backing 170 and tray 171. Foam backing 170 and tray 171 preferably are disposed on a reverse side of screen 123, i.e., a side of screen 123 that is not externally visible to a user in a closed mode. Tray 171 preferably surrounds three of the four sides of foam backing 170, as shown in FIG. 12B, so that a user may load a photographic print into tray 171 manually. As shown in FIG. 12C, tray 171 comprises groove 175 in which the photographic print may be placed for subsequent scanning. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, at least one textual or graphic instruction (not shown) may be provided in an instruction manual or disposed on digital album 120 to instruct a user of a proper manner in which to insert the photographic print into scanning tray 171. [0099] Once a photographic print is properly positioned within tray 171, a user may return digital album 120 to the closed mode, depicted in FIG. 11A, for example, by manually moving upper portion 133 of frame 122 towards upper portion 131 of scanner housing 130. Once digital album 120 is returned to the closed mode, an optical sensor (not shown) may detect that a photographic print has been loaded into tray 171. The optical sensor may relay a message to the microprocessor to begin the scanning process. Scanner 127 of FIG. 11B, which preferably is substantially identical to scanner 27 of FIG. 2, then scans the photographic print. [0100] In a preferred embodiment, the scanning process automatically begins when the optical sensor detects the photographic print in tray 171. Alternatively, once digital album 120 is returned to the closed mode, a prompt may be provided on screen 123, for example, to instruct the user to press one or more of buttons 126 to actuate scanner 127.

[0101] When the scanning process is complete, digital album 120 preferably automatically displays a digital image corresponding to the scanned photo on screen 123 (block 110 of FIG. 10) . Then, the digital image may be formatted and saved to one or more destinations 114-116 of FIG. 10. Additionally, the image may be edited, added to a playlist, etc., as set forth hereinabove. [0102] Referring now to FIGS. 13, yet a further alternative embodiment of the present invention is described. Digital album 220 of FIGS. 13 is similar to digital album 20 of FIGS. 1-10, with a main exception that conventional laptop computer housing 242 is used in lieu of computer housing 42, and conventional laptop computer 240 having keyboard 260 is employed instead of computer 40. Except as otherwise noted, components of digital album 220 correspond to like numbers of digital album 20, e.g., auto-feed scan slot 235 of FIGS. 13 corresponds to auto-feed scan slot 35 of FIG. IB. [0103] Digital album 220 comprises power-in port 268 and at least one storage drive 267, e.g., for use with a CD or DVD. Digital album 220 also preferably comprises a USB port, firewire port and irDA port, as described hereinabove, and may comprise any other ports associated with a conventional laptop computer, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art. [0104] Digital album 220 comprises a closed state, which may be used for storage, as shown in FIG. 13A, and an open state, which is used during operation, as shown in FIG. 13B. Hinge mechanism 237 preferably is used to allow digital album 220 to transition between the open and closed states, and latch mechanism 269 may be employed to secure frame 222 to computer housing 242 in the closed state.

[0105] In the embodiment of FIGS. 13, frame 222 having screen 223 is, in effect, the same entity as scanner housing 230. Accordingly, frame 222 houses a scanner and related components that preferably are provided in accordance with scanner 27 of FIG. 2. Similarly, digital album 220 comprises an auto-feed scan mechanism similar to auto-feed scan mechanism 25 of FIGS. 3. Accordingly, digital album 220 is configured to automatically receive and scan photographic prints.

[0106] Digital album 220 may operate in accordance with any of the methods set forth hereinabove with respect to FIGS. 1-10. For example, digital album 220 may transfer data to, and upload data from, any of the mediums illustratively depicted in FIG. 10. [0107] Advantageously, in the embodiment of FIGS. 13, a user may operate a conventional laptop computer and, if desired, automatically scan and save images to a hard drive of the laptop computer, without the need for an additional scanner and other peripheral devices. Keyboard 260 may be used to perform the functions associated with control buttons 26, and therefore may be used to view, edit, add images to playlists, play the playlists, and so forth, as generally set forth hereinabove .

[0108] Referring now to FIGS. 14, a further alternative embodiment of the present invention is described. Digital album 320 of FIGS. 14 is similar to digital album 120 of FIGS. 11-12, and components of digital album 320 correspond to like numbers of digital album 120, except as noted hereinbelow. [0109] Digital album 320 comprises computer housing 342, scanner housing 330, and top cover 377. In a preferred embodiment, latch mechanisms 369 and 379 releasably secure computer housing 342 to scanner housing 330 and scanner housing 330 to top cover 377, respectively. [0110] Conventional laptop computer 340 is disposed within computer housing 342, which is coupled to power-in port 368 and access drive 375. Digital album 320 also preferably comprises a USB port, firewire port and irDA port, as described hereinabove, and any other ports associated with a conventional laptop computer, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0111] Scanner housing 330 is coupled to screen 323 on a first surface, and further is coupled to scanner glass 327 on an opposing surface, as depicted in FIGS. 14B-14C, respectively. Scanner housing 330 houses a scanner that preferably is provided in accordance with scanner 27 of FIG. 2. Scanner housing 330 preferably comprises auxiliary access drive 367. It should be noted that, in the embodiment of FIGS. 14, the auto-feed scan mechanisms associated with digital albums 20 and 220 are omitted. [0112] In a first mode, depicted in FIG. 14B, digital album 330 is configured to be used in accordance with a conventional laptop computer using keyboard 360 and display screen 323. In an alternative mode, a photographic print may be scanned by placing the print face-down on scanner glass 327, closing top cover 377 having foam layer 370, and actuating the scanner. [0113] As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, scanned images may be saved on a hard drive associated with computer 340. Moreover, digital album 320 is intended to operate in accordance with any of the methods set forth hereinabove with respect to digital albums 20, 120 and 220.

[0114] Referring now to FIGS. 15A-15B, still a further alternative digital album is described. Digital album 420 is similar to the above-described digital albums, with a main exception that scanner 427 (see FIG. 15B) is disposed within housing 442, as opposed to being disposed in a separate scanner housing.

[0115] Specifically, referring to FIG. 15A, digital album 420 comprises first section 421 and second section 441. First section 421 comprises frame 422 having screen 423, which is configured to display at least one digital image. Screen 423 may be disposed on outer surface 424 of first section 421, as depicted in FIG. 15A, or alternatively may be disposed on inner surface 425 of first section 421.

[0116] Second section 441 comprises housing 442, scanner glass 480, and frame 449 disposed to surround scanner glass 480, as shown in FIG. 15A. Second section 441 preferably comprises CD/DVD/RW drive opening 443, at least one USB data port 452, and modem port 453. However, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art, other ports may be provided, including, for example, a firewire data port, a floppy drive, and the like. [0117] Battery housing 476 having battery 475 disposed therein (see FIG. 15B) also is provided. Battery housing 476 may be manufactured as an integral portion of housing

442, or alternatively, may be manufactured as a separate component that is attached to housing 442. Power/recharge port 451 may be disposed in a lateral surface of battery housing 476, as depicted in FIGS. 15A- 15B, or alternatively may be disposed in a lateral surface of housing 442.

[0118] Battery housing 476 preferably comprises first and second recesses 477a and 477b for receiving hinge elements 472a and 472b, respectively. Hinge elements 472a and 472b may be rigidly connected to first section 421, or may be formed as an integral component of first section 421, as depicted in FIGS. 16-17 hereinbelow. Hinge elements 472 and 472b are configured to rotate about pivots 473a and 473b, respectively, to permit angular rotation of first section 421 with respect to second section 441 for purposes of opening and closing digital album 420, as described hereinbelow. [0119] Referring to FIG. 15B, internal components of second section 441 are described. Housing 442 is configured to enclose hard drive 445, motherboard 446 having a microprocessor and memory, CD/DVD/RW drive 447 and fan 461. Each of these components preferably are disposed near a bottom portion of housing 442, i.e., away from scanner glass 480. [0120] Housing 442 further is configured to enclose scanner mechanism 427. The scanner and related components preferably are provided in accordance with scanner 27 of FIG. 2, as described in detail hereinabove. The scanner and related components preferably are disposed just beneath scanner glass 480, and more preferably are disposed above the hard drive, motherboard, and CD/DVD/RW drive. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the above-mentioned internal components may be arranged in any manner suitable for performing the functions described hereinbelow.

[0121] In a first mode, a user may place a photographic print or document face-down onto scanner glass 480 when digital album 420 is in an open state, as depicted in FIG. 15A. The user then may close the digital album by angularly rotating first section 421 towards second section 441 via hinge elements 472a and 472b. In a closed state, inner surface 425 of first section 421 preferably is substantially flush with housing 442 of second section 441. In the closed state, hinge elements 472a and 472b preferably are disposed substantially within respective recesses 477a and 477b, such that the hinge elements are substantially flush with battery housing 476.

[0122] In the closed state, a user may scan the photo or document, for example, by pressing one or more control buttons 426 to actuate scanner 427. Alternatively, an optical sensor (not shown) , disposed beneath scanner glass 480, may detect the photo or document, and then automatically initiate the scanning process by providing a prompt on screen 423. A user may respond to such screen prompts by pressing one or more buttons 426, or by touching screen 423 manually or using a stylus (not shown) . Additionally, a keypad may be displayed on screen 423 to allow a user to type information manually or using a stylus. [0123] When the scanning process is complete, digital album 420 preferably automatically displays a digital image corresponding to the scanned photographic/ print or document on screen 423. The digital image may be saved to one or more destinations 114-116, as described in FIG. 10 hereinabove. Additionally, the image may be edited, added to a playlist, etc., as generally set forth hereinabove .

[0124] Digital album 420 preferably is configured to be a handheld device, having an overall area that is slightly greater than a maximum area of scanner glass 480. When the device is configured to be handheld, a user may simply scan a photo or document, and then have a corresponding digital image readily stored within the device itself, and/or transported to another medium. If desired, other digital photos and documents may be uploaded to digital album 420, as generally described hereinabove with respect to digital albums 20 and 120. [0125] Referring now to FIG. 16, a removable cover for use with digital album 420 of FIGS. 15A-B is described. In FIG. 16, removable cover 465 comprises body 466 having first and second ends, and further comprises first and second clips 467a and 467b coupled to the first end of body 466. Clips 467a and 467b are configured to be removably inserted into corresponding sockets 461a and 461b of digital album 420' of FIG. 16. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, sockets 461a and 461b are disposed beneath hinge elements 472a and 472b of FIGS. 15A-B, respectively. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, first ends 469 of clips 467a and 467b are configured to be inserted into sockets 461a and 461b, respectively, and then snap into place in a secure state. Second ends 468 of the clips are configured to cause the clips to rotate with respect to body 466, thereby allowing a user to position body 466 over screen 423 to cover the screen. Clips 461a and 461b may be disengaged from the sockets by applying an appropriate force in an opposing direction. As will further be apparent to one skilled in the art, greater or fewer clips 467 may coupled to removable cover 465.

[0126] Referring now to FIGS. 17A-17B, an alternative embodiment of digital album 420' of FIG. 16 is described. The digital album of FIGS. 17A-17B is substantially similar to digital album 420', with the main exception that support stand 490 is coupled to a rear surface of housing 442 of second section 441. Support stand 490 may be coupled to housing 442 using a hinge mechanism (not shown) , for example, similar to hinge mechanism 37 of

FIG. 6B hereinabove. The hinge mechanism employed may be adjusted to vary a viewing angle of screen 423, or to increase upright stability of the digital album. [0127] Referring now to FIGS. 18A-18C, an alternative embodiment of digital album 420 of FIG. 15 is described. Digital album 520 comprises first section 521 and second section 541. First section 521 comprises frame 522 having screen 523, which is configured to display at least one digital image. Second section 541 comprises housing 542, scanner glass 580, and frame 549 disposed to surround scanner glass 580, as shown in FIG. 18A. [0128] Second section 541 preferably comprises power/recharge port 551, CD/DVD/RW drive opening 543, and at least one USB data port, modem port, and/or other desired communicating ports, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art. [0129] Housing 542 is configured to enclose hard drive 545, motherboard 546 having a microprocessor and memory, CD/DVD/RW drive 547 and fan 561. Each of these components preferably are disposed near a bottom region of housing 542, i.e., away from scanner glass 580, as described hereinabove with respect to FIG. 15. [0130] Housing 542 further is configured to enclose scanner mechanism 527. The scanner and related components preferably are provided in accordance with scanner 27 of FIG. 2, as described in detail hereinabove. The scanner and related components preferably are disposed just beneath scanner glass 580, and more preferably are disposed above the hard drive, motherboard, and CD/DVD/RW drive, as described with respect to FIG. 15 hereinabove. Housing 542 of second section 541 further encloses battery 575. [0131] Digital album 520 of FIGS. 18A-18C further comprises central hinge 585, which is shown in greater detail in FIG. 18C. Central hinge 585 is coupled between first section 521 and second section 541. Central hinge 585 has base 588, which preferably is disposed in a recessed section of second housing 542. Central hinge 585 is configured to cause first section 521 to rotate circumferentially approximately 180 degrees with respect to second section 541. Central hinge 585 further comprises hinge element 589, which is configured to permit first section to transition between open and compact states, as will be described in greater detail hereinbelow. [0132] In a first mode, digital album 520 is configured to achieve an open state, as shown in FIG. 18A. In operation, a user may place a photographic print or document face-down onto scanner glass 580. The user then may close the digital album by angularly rotating first section 521 towards second section 541 via hinge element 589 of FIG. 18C.

[0133] In the closed state, a user may scan a photographic print or document, for example, by pressing one or more control buttons 526 to actuate scanner 527. Alternatively, as described hereinabove, an optical sensor (not shown) , disposed beneath scanner glass 580, may detect the photo or document, and then automatically initiate the scanning process by providing a prompt on screen 523. [0134] When the scanning process is complete, digital album 520 preferably automatically displays a digital image corresponding to the scanned photo on screen 523. The digital photo may be saved to one or more destinations 114-116, as described in FIG. 10 hereinabove. Additionally, the image may be edited, added to a playlist, etc., as generally set forth hereinabove. An on-screen keypad may be provided on screen 523 to facilitate navigation and/or entering of information, either manually or using a stylus. [0135] Advantageously, in the embodiment of FIGS. 18A- 18C, a user may view digital images on screen 523 when the digital album is in an open state, as depicted in

FIG. 18A, or may view digital images when the album is in a compact state, as depicted in FIG. 18B. To transition between the open state and the compact state, a user first causes base 588 to rotate circumferentially, approximately 180 degrees with respect to housing 542. Then, the user angularly rotates first section 521 towards second section 541 via hinge element 589, until the first section is substantially flush with the second section, as shown in FIG. 18B. Latch mechanism 558 of first section 521 is configured to engage region 559 of second section 541, thereby causing a secure attachment between first section 521 and second section 541 in the compact state. [0136] In the compact state, screen 523 faces in an upward direction, permitting a user to view photos or documents that were scanned using scanner 527. A stylus (not shown) may be provided to facilitate navigation in either the open state and/or the compact state. As described hereinabove, a user may be provided with prompts on screen 523 to facilitate viewing, editing, uploading, storing or performing other functions associated with the digital photos or documents. [0137] Referring now to FIGS. 19-20, a further alternative embodiment of the present invention is described. In FIGS. 19A-19B, digital album 620 comprises first section 621 and second section 641. First section 621 comprises frame 622 having screen 623, which is configured to display at least one digital image. Second section 641 comprises housing 642, scanner glass 680 and, optionally, frame 649 disposed to surround scanner glass 680, as shown in FIG. 19B.

[0138] Second section 641 preferably comprises power/recharge port 651, CD/DVD/RW drive opening 661, and at least one data port, such as a USB or firewire port, as well as a modem port, and/or other desired communicating ports, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art . [0139] Housing 642 is configured to enclose a CD/DVD/RW drive, hard drive, motherboard having a microprocessor and memory, and a fan. CD/DVD/RW drive 547, hard drive 545, motherboard 546 having a microprocessor and memory, and fan 561 of FIG. 18A may be used in the embodiment of FIGS. 19-20.

[0140] Housing 642 further is configured to enclose a scanner mechanism (not shown in FIGS. 19-20) . The scanner and related components preferably are provided in accordance with scanner 27 of FIG. 2, as described in detail hereinabove. The scanner and related components preferably are disposed just beneath scanner glass 680, and more preferably are disposed above the hard drive, motherboard, and CD/DVD/RW drive, as described with respect to FIG. 15 hereinabove. Housing 642 of second section 641 further encloses a battery, such as battery 575 of FIG. 18A.

[0141] Digital album 620 of FIGS. 19-20 further comprises hinge mechanisms 685 and 695. Hinge mechanisms 685 and 695 are configured to permit the digital album to transition between open and compact states, as will be described in greater detail hereinbelow. [0142] Hinge mechanisms 685 and 695 preferably are identically configured. As shown in FIG. 19B, hinge mechanism 685 comprises plurality of linkages 686-688. Linkage 687 is moveable with respect to linkages 686 and 688. Linkages 686 and 687, and linkages 687 and 688 may be coupled together using pivoting pins, screws, or the like, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art, to permit angular rotation of first section 621 with respect to second section 641. A frictional fit may be employed to ensure that digital album 620 remains in an open state, or may hold incremental positions. When a user wishes to change the angular positioning of first section 621 with respect to second section 641, manual force may be used to overcome the frictional resistance provided by the pivot pins, screws, or other means employed. [0143] In a first mode, digital album 620 is configured to achieve a fully or partially open state, as shown in FIGS. 19A-19B. In operation, a user may place a photographic print or document face-down onto scanner glass 680. The user then may close the digital album by rotating first section 621 towards second section 641 via hinge mechanisms 685 and 695. At this time, i.e., in the closed state, foam backing 630 will be substantially flush with scanner glass 680, while upper lip 629 of first section 621 may be substantially flush with recess 659 of second section 641. [0144] In the closed state, a user may scan a photographic print or document, for example, by pressing one or more control buttons 626 to actuate the scanner. Alternatively, as described hereinabove, an optical sensor (not shown), disposed beneath scanner glass 680, may detect the photo or document, and then automatically initiate the scanning process by providing a prompt on screen 623. A cable (not shown) may be coupled between first section 621 and second section 641 to enable the transfer of data therebetween.

[0145] When the scanning process is complete, digital album 620 preferably automatically displays a digital image corresponding to the scanned photo on screen 623. The digital photo may be saved to one or more destinations 114-116, as described in FIG. 10 hereinabove. Additionally, the image may be edited, added to a playlist, etc., as generally set forth hereinabove. An on-screen keypad may be provided on screen 623 to facilitate navigation and/or entering of information, either manually or using a stylus. As described hereinabove, a user may be provided with prompts on screen 623 to facilitate viewing, editing, uploading, storing or performing other functions associated with the digital photos or documents. [0146] In the compact state, a user may position digital album 620 in an upright position, as shown in FIGS. 20A-20B. Support member 663 may be coupled to rear surface 647 of second section 641 using any techniques that are known in the art, such as a hinge mechanism. Alternatively, support member 663 may be detachable from second section 641, such that support member 663 is attached for upright viewing, as shown in FIGS. 20A-20B, but detached for flat viewing or scanning, as described with respect to FIGS. 19A-19B.

[0147] Referring now to FIG. 21, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is described. Digital album 720 preferably functions in a manner similar to the above-described embodiments, however, the album itself has a modular design. For example, first section 721 having frame 722 and screen 723 is detachable from second section 741 having scanner mechanism 742. [0148] Scanner mechanism 742 comprises scanner glass 745, which is surrounded by housing 744. The interior components of scanner mechanism 742 preferably are similar to the components of scanner 27 of FIG. 2, as described hereinabove .

[0149] First section 721 may be coupled to second section 741 using any techniques that are known in the art, for example, a latch mechanism (not shown) . Advantageously, a user may selectively remove second section 741, e.g., to replace second section 741 with an alternative scanner mechanism, or to reduce the profile of the digital album in a viewing state .

[0150] First section 721 may comprise small mechanical contacts (not shown) configured to mate with corresponding contacts on second section 741, thereby effecting data transfer between the two sections when engaged. However, data may also be transferred by other known means .

[0151] In the embodiment of FIG. 21, first section 721 also preferably comprises detachable battery 736, power- in port 729, memory card slot 734, at least one USB port 733, and removable CD/DVD/RW drive 738, which is configured to be inserted into slot 739. First section 721 still further comprises removable hard drive 725, which also is configured to be inserted into a side slot (not shown in FIG. 21) .

[0152] Further, a motherboard having a microprocessor and memory, such as motherboard 46 of FIG. 5, is disposed in first section 721 and configured to communicate with the above-described components. Accordingly, first section 721 may comprise several modular components, and is configured to be self-sufficient such that it may display images, perform slideshows, upload/download data to a computer, and so forth, while second section 741 having scanner mechanism 742 is completely detached. Advantageously, this reduces the profile of the album when scanning operations are not involved. [0153] It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that still further modular components, or communication ports, may be coupled to first section 721, or other combinations of modules and ports may be employed, as desired. [0154] While preferred illustrative embodiments of the invention are described above, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the invention. The appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications that fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS :

1. A digital album for viewing at least one digital image, the digital album comprising: a frame having a screen configured to display a digital image; a scanner housing coupled to the frame; a scanner disposed within the scanner housing, the scanner configured to scan at least one photographic print; and a computer housing enclosing a hard drive, a microprocessor and a memory coupled to the microprocessor, wherein the computer housing is configured to serve as a support stand for the frame .

2. The digital album of claim 1 wherein the hard drive is configured to store a digital image associated with the photographic print.

3. The digital album of claim 1 wherein the hard drive is configured to store at least one photo album playlist comprising a plurality of digital images.

4. The digital album of claim 1 wherein the digital album is configured to download data from at least one origin medium.

5. The digital album of claim 1 wherein the digital album is configured to upload data to at least one destination medium.

6. The digital album of claim 1 wherein the computer housing comprises a first support leg separated a distance apart from a second support leg.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 further comprising at least one data port disposed between the first support leg and the second support leg, the data port selected from the group consisting of a USB port, a firewire port, and a power-in port.

8. The digital album of claim 6 further comprising at least one non-skid pad disposed on the first support leg and the second support leg.

9. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising at least one non-skid pad disposed on at least one lateral surface of the frame.

10. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising a swivel mechanism that couples the computer housing to the scanner housing.

11. The digital album of claim 10 wherein the swivel mechanism allows the screen to be transported between a first orientation configured to display a digital image in a landscape configuration and a second orientation configured to display a digital image in a portrait configuration.

12. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising a hinge mechanism that couples the computer housing to the scanner housing.

13. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising an auto-feed scan mechanism, the auto-feed scan mechanism comprising a slot disposed in a lateral surface of the scanner housing, wherein the slot is configured to receive a photographic print .

14. The digital album of claim 13 further comprising: an optical sensor disposed inside the scanner housing, the optical sensor coupled to the microprocessor; a drive motor; and at least one pinch roller coupled to the drive motor, the pinch roller configured to pull a photographic print into the scanner housing when the drive motor is actuated based on a response provided by the optical sensor.

15. The digital album of claim 1 wherein the scanner housing and the frame are configured to be at least partially separated to allow a user to position a photographic print at a location between the frame and the scanner.

16. The digital album of claim 15 further comprising a tray having a groove into which the photographic print may be placed.

17. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of control buttons coupled to the frame and electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

18. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising a USB data port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the USB data port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

19. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising a firewire data port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the firewire data port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

20. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising an infrared data associated port coupled to the frame, wherein the infrared data association port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

21. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising a power-in port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the power-in port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

22. The digital album of claim 1 further comprising a battery disposed within the computer housing.

23. The digital album of claim 1 further comprises a CD/DVD/RW drive electronically coupled to the microprocessor .

24. A digital album for viewing at least one digital image, the digital album comprising: a frame having a screen configured to display a digital image; a scanner housing coupled to the frame, the scanner housing enclosing a scanner configured to scan a photographic print; an auto-feed scan mechanism comprising a slot disposed in a lateral surface of the scanner housing, wherein the slot is configured to receive the photographic print ; and a computer housing enclosing a hard drive, a microprocessor and a memory coupled to the microprocessor.

25. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising: an optical sensor disposed inside the scanner housing, the optical sensor coupled to the microprocessor; a drive motor; and at least one pinch roller coupled to the drive motor, the pinch roller configured to pull a photo into the scanner housing when the drive motor is actuated based on a response provided by the optical sensor.

26. The digital album of claim 24 wherein the computer housing is configured to serve as a support stand for the frame .

27. The digital album of claim 26 wherein the computer housing comprises a first support leg separated a distance apart from a second support leg.

28. The digital album of claim 27 further comprising at least one data port disposed between the first support leg and the second support leg, the data port selected from the group consisting of a USB port, a firewire port, and a power-in port.

29. The digital album of claim 24 wherein the hard drive is configured to store a digital image associated with the photographic print .

30. The digital album of claim 24 wherein the hard drive is configured to store at least one photo album playlist comprising a plurality of digital images.

31. The digital album of claim 24 wherein the digital album is configured to download data from at least one origin medium.

32. The digital album of claim 24 wherein the digital album is configured to upload data to at least one destination medium.

33. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising a swivel mechanism that couples the computer housing to the scanner housing.

34. The digital album of claim 33 wherein the swivel mechanism allows the screen to be transported between a first orientation configured to display a digital image in a landscape configuration and a second orientation configured to display a digital image in a portrait configuration.

35. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising a hinge mechanism that couples the computer housing to the scanner housing.

36. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising a plurality of control buttons coupled to the frame and electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

37. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising a USB data port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the USB data port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

38. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising a firewire data port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the firewire data port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

39. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising an infrared data associated port coupled to the frame, wherein the infrared data association port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

40. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising a power-in port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the power-in port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

41. The digital album of claim 24 further comprising a battery disposed within the computer housing.

42. The digital album of claim 24 further comprises a CD/DVD/RW drive electronically coupled to the microprocessor .

43. A digital album for viewing at least one digital image, the digital album comprising: a frame having a screen configured to display a digital image; a computer housing enclosing a hard drive, a microprocessor and a memory coupled to the microprocessor; and a scanner housing coupled to the frame, the scanner housing enclosing a scanner configured to scan a photographic print, wherein the scanner housing and the frame are configured to be at least partially separated to allow a user to position a photographic print at a location between the frame and the scanner.

44. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising a tray having a groove into which the photographic print may be placed.

45. The digital album of claim 43 wherein the computer housing is configured to serve as a support stand for the frame .

46. The digital album of claim 45 wherein the computer housing comprises a first support leg separated a distance apart from a second support leg.

47. The digital album of claim 46 further comprising at least one data port disposed between the first support leg and the second support leg, the data port selected from the group consisting of a USB port, a firewire port, and a power-in port.

48. The digital album of claim 43 wherein the hard drive is configured to store a digital image associated with the photographic print.

49. The digital album of claim 43 wherein the hard drive is configured to store at least one photo album playlist comprising a plurality of digital images.

'50. The digital album of claim 43 wherein the digital album is configured to download data from at least one origin medium.

51. The digital album of claim 43 wherein the digital album is configured to upload data to at least one destination medium.

52. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising a swivel mechanism that couples the computer housing to the scanner housing.

53. The digital album of claim 52 wherein the swivel mechanism allows the screen to be transported between a first orientation configured to display a digital image in a landscape configuration and a second orientation configured to display a digital image in a portrait configuration.

54. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising a hinge mechanism that couples the computer housing to the scanner housing.

55. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising a plurality of control buttons coupled to the frame and electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

56. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising a USB data port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the USB data port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

57. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising a firewire data port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the firewire data port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

58. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising an infrared data associated port coupled to the frame, wherein the infrared data association port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

59. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising a power-in port coupled to the computer housing, wherein the power-in port is electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

60. The digital album of claim 43 further comprising a CD/DVD/RW drive electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

61. A method for viewing at least one digital image using a digital album, the method comprising: providing a digital album comprising a frame having a screen, a scanner disposed within a scanner housing, wherein the scanner housing is coupled to the frame, and a computer housing coupled to the scanner housing; positioning a photographic print in a position facing the scanner; scanning the photographic print ; displaying a digital image associated with the photographic print on the screen; saving the digital image; and subsequently viewing the digital image on the screen.

62. The method of claim 61 wherein positioning a photographic print in a position facing a scanner further comprises: providing an auto-feed scan mechanism comprising a slot disposed in a lateral surface of the scanner housing; and automatically pulling the photographic print into the slot .

63. The method of claim 62 wherein automatically pulling the photographic print into the slot further comprises : sensing a leading edge of the photographic print ; actuating a drive motor coupled to at least one pinch roller; and causing the pinch roller to pull the photographic print into a position facing the scanner.

64. The method of claim 61 wherein positioning a photographic print in a position facing a scanner further comprises: at least partially separating an upper portion of the scanner housing from an upper portion of the frame ; and manually inserting the photographic print to a position facing the scanner.

65. The method of claim 61 further comprising the step of editing the digital image prior to the step of saving the digital image .

66. The method of claim 61 further comprising the step of editing the digital image after the step of saving the digital image .

67. The method of claim 61 wherein saving the digital image further comprises selecting an image format .

68. The method of claim 61 wherein saving the digital image further comprises selecting an image destination.

69. The method of claim 68 wherein selecting an image destination further comprises saving the digital image to at least one internal destination of the digital album.

70. The method of claim 69 wherein the internal destination is a hard drive.

71. The method of claim 69 wherein the internal destination is a CD/DVD/RW drive.

72. The method of claim 68 wherein selecting an image destination further comprises saving the digital image to at least one external destination.

73. The method of claim 72 wherein the external destination is a computer.

74. The method of claim 72 wherein the external destination is an internet storage site.

75. The method of claim 61 wherein saving the digital image further comprises entering identification information associated with the digital image.

76. The method of claim 61 further comprising adding the digital image to a photo album playlist, the photo album playlist comprising a plurality of digital images .

77. The method of claim 76 further comprising saving the photo album playlist to a desired medium.

78. The method of claim 77 further comprising playing a slideshow associated with the photo album playlist on the screen of the digital album.

79. The method of claim 78 further comprising actuating control buttons coupled to the frame to control a manner in which the slideshow is played.

80. The method_o of claim 61 further comprising uploading digital images to the digital album from at least one origin medium.

81. A digital album for viewing at least one digital image, the digital album comprising: a frame having a screen configured to display a digital image; a scanner disposed within the frame, the scanner configured to scan at least one photographic print; and a computer housing enclosing a hard drive, a microprocessor and a memory coupled to the microprocessor.

82. The digital album of claim 81 wherein the hard drive is configured to store a digital image associated with the photographic print.

83. The digital album of claim 81 wherein the hard drive is configured to store at least one photo album playlist comprising a plurality of digital images.

84. The digital album of claim 81 wherein the digital album is configured to download data from at least one origin medium.

85. The digital album of claim 81 wherein the digital album is configured to upload data to at least one destination medium.

86. The digital album of claim 81 further comprising an auto-feed scan mechanism, the auto-feed scan mechanism comprising a slot disposed in a lateral surface of the frame,- wherein the slot is configured to receive a photographic print .

87. The digital album of claim 86 further comprising: an optical sensor disposed inside the frame, the optical sensor coupled to the microprocessor; a drive motor; and at least one pinch roller coupled to the drive motor, the pinch roller configured to pull a ■ photographic print into the frame when the drive motor is actuated based on a response provided by the optical sensor.

88. The digital album of claim 81 further comprising a keyboard electronically coupled to the microprocessor.

89. The digital album of claim 81 further comprising at least one storage drive.

90. The digital album of claim 81 further comprising a hinge mechanism disposed between the frame and the computer housing, the hinge mechanism configured to transition the digital album between an open state and a closed state.

91. The digital album of claim 90 further comprising a latch mechanism configured to secure the frame to the computer housing in the closed state.

92. A digital album for viewing at least one digital image, the digital album comprising: a first section comprising a frame having a screen configured to display a digital image; and a second section structurally coupled to the first section, wherein the second section comprises a housing and a scanner disposed within the housing, wherein the housing further encloses a hard drive, a microprocessor and a memory coupled to the microprocessor .

93. The digital album of claim 92 wherein the screen is configured to be disposed on an inner surface of the first section.

94. The digital album of claim 92 wherein the screen is configured to be disposed on an outer surface of the first section.

95. The digital album of claim 92 further comprising at least one hinge element coupled between the first section and the second section to permit rotation of the first section with respect to the second section.

96. The digital album of claim 95 wherein two hinge elements are coupled between the first section and second section to permit angular rotation of the first section with respect to the second section.

97. The digital album of claim 95 wherein a central hinge is coupled between the first section and the second section, the central hinge comprising a base configured to permit circumferential rotation of the first section with respect to the second section.

98. The digital album of claim 97 wherein the central hinge further comprises at least one hinge element configured to permit angular rotation of the first section with respect to the second section.

99. The digital album of claim 98 wherein the screen is configured to face in an upward direction away from the second section in a compact state.

100. The digital album of claim 99 further comprising at least one latch mechanism configured to secure the first section to the second section in the compact state.

101. The digital album of claim 92 wherein the scanner is configured to scan at least one photographic print .

102. The digital album of claim 92 wherein the scanner is configured to scan at least one document.

103. The digital album of claim 92 wherein the hard drive is configured to store at least one digital image associated with a photographic print or a document.

104. The digital album of claim 92 wherein the digital album is configured to download data from at least one origin medium.

105. The digital album of claim 92 wherein the digital album is configured to upload data to at least one destination medium.

106. The digital album of claim 92 further comprising a removable cover configured to selectively cover the screen of the digital album.

107. The digital album of claim 106 wherein the removable cover comprises at least one clip configured to be removably inserted into a corresponding socket of the digital album.

108. The digital album of claim 92 further comprising a support stand coupled to the housing of the second section, the support stand configured to permit varying levels of upright stability of the digital album.

109. A method for viewing at least one digital image using a digital album, the method comprising: positioning a photographic print or document in a position facing a scanner disposed within a housing of a digital album, wherein the digital album comprises a first section having a screen configured to display a digital image, and a second section, comprising the housing, that is coupled to the first section; scanning the photographic print or document ; and displaying a digital image associated with the photographic print or document on the screen.

110. The method of claim 109 further comprising: saving the digital image; and subsequently viewing the digital image on the screen.

111. The method of claim 109 further comprising the step of editing the digital image.

112. The method of claim 110 wherein saving the digital image further comprises selecting an image format .

113. The method of claim 110 wherein saving the digital image further comprises selecting an image destination.

114. The method of claim 109 further comprising uploading at least one digital image to the digital album from at least one origin medium.

115. The method of claim 109 further comprising: providing at least one hinge element coupled between the first section and the second section; and causing angular rotation of the first section with respect to the second section.

116. The method of claim 109 further comprising providing a central hinge coupled between the first section and the second section.

117. The method of claim 116 further comprising : providing the digital album in an open state; circumferentially rotating the first section with respect to the second section via the central hinge; angularly rotating the first section with respect to the second section via the central hinge; and causing the screen to face in an upward direction, away from the second section, in a compact state.

118. The method of claim 117 further comprising employing a latch mechanism to secure the first section to the second section in the compact state.

119. Apparatus suitable for viewing at least one digital image, the apparatus comprising: means for scanning a photographic print or document to generate a digital image, the means for scanning disposed within a housing; means for storing information associated with the digital image, wherein the means for storing is disposed within the housing; means for viewing the digital image; and means for structurally coupling the housing to the means for viewing.

120. A digital album for viewing at least one digital image, the digital album comprising: a first section comprising a frame having a screen configured to display a digital image; and a second section comprising a housing and a scanner disposed within the housing, wherein the first section further comprises a microprocessor and a memory coupled to the microprocessor.

121. The digital album of claim 120 wherein the first second and the second section are configured to be detachable from one another.

122. The digital album of claim 120 wherein the digital album is configured to perform scanning operations when the first section is structurally coupled to the second section.

123. The digital album of claim 122 wherein the scanner is configured to scan at least one photographic print .

124. The digital album of claim 122 wherein the scanner is configured to scan at least one document.

125. The digital album of claim 120 further comprising a removable hard drive configured to be selectively engaged with the first section.

126. The digital album of claim 125 wherein the hard drive is configured to store at least one digital image associated with a photographic print or a document .

127. The digital album of claim 120 wherein the digital album is configured to download data from at least one origin medium.

128. The digital album of claim 120 further comprising a removable CD/DVD/RW drive configured to be selectively engaged with the first section.

129. A digital album for viewing at least one digital image, the digital album comprising: a first section comprising a frame having a screen configured to display a digital image; and a second section structurally coupled to the first section, wherein the second section comprises a housing and a scanner disposed within the housing, wherein the first section is coupled to the second section using at least one hinge mechanism comprising a plurality of linkages.

130. The digital album of claim 129 wherein the digital album comprises first and second hinge mechanisms configured to permit angular rotation of the first section with respect to the second section.

131. The digital album of claim 130 wherein the digital album has a closed state in which the first section is substantially flush with the second section to facilitate scanning operations.

132. The digital album of claim 129 wherein the housing further encloses a hard drive, a microprocessor and a memory coupled to the microprocessor.

133. The digital album of claim 129 further comprising at least one support member coupled to the second section, wherein the support member is configured to permit upright viewing of the digital album.

134. The digital album of claim 133 wherein the support member is detachable from the second section.

135. The digital album of claim 129 wherein the scanner is configured to scan at least one document .

136. The digital album of claim 129 wherein the digital album is configured to download data from at least one origin medium.

137. The digital album of claim 129 wherein the digital album is configured to upload data to at least one destination medium.