Automatic flicker correction in an image capture device

Abstract

The disclosure describes flicker detection and correction techniques to improve the quality of captured imagery, such as video or still images. In particular, this disclosure describes flicker correction techniques that compare different image frames to detect flicker. In some embodiments, the comparison involves summing intensity values associated with rows within the frames and comparing the row sums to generate a difference signal. Detection and correction of flicker may be performed using a first derivative of the difference signal. The first derivative of the difference signal can be used in a variety of ways to detect and correct flicker.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to image capture devices, and more particularly, to flicker correction within image capture devices. Background technique [0002] Image capture devices, such as digital video cameras or digital still cameras, are used in different applications and environments. Image capture devices should be able to produce high quality images under a variety of lighting conditions. For example, an image capture device should be able to operate effectively in environments lit by natural light, such as outdoor environments, and in environments lit by incandescent or fluorescent lights, such as indoor environments. [0003] However, in indoor environments, fluctuations in the intensity of indoor lighting may degrade the quality of captured images. The fluctuations are a function of the alternating current (AC) electrical power frequency of the indoor lighting source. Solid-state image capture devices, such as complementary metal-oxide-s...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0005] Flicker may occur when the image capture device is used in an environment where the lighting source operates at a different frequency than expected

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