You can freely build on The First Digital Camera's Core Technology

What this patent covers

This patent describes the essential components of an early electronic still camera. It uses a solid-state device, like a Charge-Coupled Device (CCD), to capture an optical image and turn it into electrical signals. These signals are then processed quickly to separate them and slow down their rate. Finally, this slower stream of digital information is recorded onto a non-volatile medium, like magnetic tape, for later playback on a television. Claim 1 outlines extracting discrete signals, separating them, slowing their rate, and recording them. Claim 4 adds the step of converting these signals into multi-bit digital words in real-time before storage and slower retrieval.

What is now free to use

All 1 claims of US 4131919 are in the public domain. Specifically:

The 1 dependent claim add narrowing limitations and are also free.

What is NOT covered

Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.

• Does not cover cameras that capture analog video signals instead of discrete digital signals.

• Does not cover recording methods that are not on a non-volatile medium like magnetic tape.

• Does not cover systems that do not involve a solid-state light-responsive device.

• Does not cover displaying the image on anything other than a conventional television receiver.

• Does not cover image capture using film.

Who is building on this today

While this patent is foundational, the direct lineage to modern digital cameras is complex. However, the core principles of CCD/CMOS sensors, digital signal processing, and digital storage are universal across all digital imaging devices manufactured by companies like Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Apple.

Products built on expired version of this technology

How to cite this patent in your documentation

Eastman Kodak Co. US Patent 4131919. Electronic still camera. Granted 1978, expired 1997. Now in the public domain.

Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.

PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.