Camera exposure convergence method, camera and storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to an exposure convergence method of a camera, the camera and a storage medium. The exposure convergence method of the camera comprises the following steps: responding to the power-on of a main processor of the camera, and obtaining the state of a double-optical filter switcher stored when the camera sleeps last time; the brightness value of the first frame is compared with a day and night switching threshold value, and day and night mode switching of the camera is executed based on the comparison result and the state of the double-optical-filter switcher; determining a target exposure parameter based on the day and night mode, the switching mode of day and night mode switching and the state of the double optical filter switcher; and executing automatic exposure convergence according to the target exposure parameter. According to the method, the influence of the state of the double-filter switcher on day and night switching judgment and rapid exposure convergence can be reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of cameras, and particularly to exposure convergence methods for cameras, cameras, and storage media. Background Technology

[0002] Existing battery-powered network cameras generally adopt a "sleep-wake" mechanism. When the camera is in wake-up mode, it is not much different from network cameras with constant power supply, except for the power supply method. In standby mode, in order to reduce power consumption, it is necessary to power down power-consuming devices such as the main processor containing encoding functions and image sensors, and only power on the control device related coprocessors, passive infrared (PIR) sensors, etc.

[0003] Therefore, during the transition from sleep to wake-up mode, the image sensor and main processor go from being powered off to powered on. Consequently, the exposure parameters for the first frame output by the image sensor have no reference, resulting in overexposure or underexposure issues. If the automatic exposure algorithm is allowed to converge, the target that triggers the PIR sensor may have already moved out of the frame during this time. Therefore, the problem to be solved is to achieve a balance between speed and exposure quality in the first frame output during the camera's transition from sleep to wake-up mode.

[0004] The common approach to solving the above problems is to use an ambient light sensor (hereinafter referred to as a photosensitive component). The sensor's readings are used to assess the ambient light level, allowing the camera to adjust the exposure parameters of the first frame based on this assessment. This allows the first frame to be used for target detection and other algorithms, and recording to begin immediately. However, this method has the following drawbacks. First, there is the issue of first-frame image quality. Due to the difference in spectral response between the photosensitive component and the image sensor, the first-frame exposure parameter settings may be inaccurate, requiring correction with multiple frames. Second, there are hardware cost and reliability issues. Additional photosensitive components and related circuitry increase the bill of materials (BOM) cost, and the need for openings in the product casing increases waterproofing difficulty or reduces the device's waterproof rating.

[0005] Therefore, a technique for achieving rapid exposure convergence without using photosensitive components (i.e., hard photosensitive) is desired. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, an exposure convergence method for a camera is provided, comprising: in response to power-on of the camera's main processor, acquiring the state of the dual filter switcher stored during the camera's last sleep state; comparing the brightness value of the first frame with a day / night switching threshold, and performing day / night mode switching of the camera based on the comparison result and the state of the dual filter switcher; determining target exposure parameters based on the day / night mode, the switching method of the day / night mode, and the state of the dual filter switcher; and performing automatic exposure convergence based on the target exposure parameters.

[0007] According to at least one embodiment of the method disclosed herein, determining target exposure parameters based on day / night mode, day / night mode switching method, and the state of dual filter switcher includes: determining a target mapping table from multiple mapping tables based on day / night mode, day / night mode switching method, and the state of dual filter switcher; and determining target exposure parameters based on the target mapping table.

[0008] According to at least one embodiment of the method of this disclosure, the day and night modes include daytime mode, infrared night vision mode and full-color night vision mode, and the switching method of day and night modes includes forced switching method and automatic switching method.

[0009] According to at least one embodiment of the method of this disclosure, the plurality of mapping tables include a first mapping table, a second mapping table, a third mapping table, a fourth mapping table, and a fifth mapping table, wherein the first mapping table, the second mapping table, and the third mapping table each include a mapping relationship between the brightness value of the first frame and the stable exposure parameters, the fourth mapping table includes a mapping relationship between the infrared lamp level and the stable exposure parameters, and the fifth mapping table includes a mapping relationship between the white light level and the stable exposure parameters.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the method of this disclosure, finding the corresponding mapping table from multiple mapping tables includes: determining the corresponding mapping table as the first mapping table based on the day / night mode switching method being a forced switching method and being forced to switch to daytime mode; determining the corresponding mapping table as the second mapping table based on the day / night mode switching method being a forced switching method and being forced to switch to infrared night vision mode; and determining the corresponding mapping table as the first mapping table based on the day / night mode switching method being a forced switching method and being forced to switch to full-color night vision mode.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the method of the present disclosure, the states of the dual filter switcher include: a first operating state, wherein in the first operating state, the full-transmittance spectral filter of the dual filter switcher is located in the imaging optical path; and a second operating state, wherein in the second operating state, the infrared cutoff filter of the dual filter switcher is located in the imaging optical path.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the method of this disclosure, finding the corresponding mapping table from multiple mapping tables includes: based on the switching mode of day / night mode switching being an automatic switching mode, comparing the brightness value of the first frame with a day / night switching threshold; determining whether to perform day / night mode switching based on the comparison result, wherein, based on the dual filter switcher being in a first working state, determining the corresponding mapping table as a third mapping table, and wherein, based on the dual filter switcher being in a second working state, determining the corresponding mapping table as a first mapping table; and based on the brightness value being less than a predetermined threshold, determining to automatically switch to infrared night vision mode or the full-color night vision mode, wherein, based on the automatic switch to infrared night vision mode, determining the corresponding mapping table as a fourth mapping table, and wherein, based on the automatic switch to full-color night vision mode, determining the corresponding mapping table as a fifth mapping table.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the method of this disclosure, the day-night switching threshold includes a first threshold associated with a first operating state of the dual filter switch and a second threshold associated with a second operating state of the dual filter switch.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment of the method disclosed herein, comparing the brightness value of the first frame with a day / night switching threshold includes: comparing the brightness value of the first frame with a first threshold based on the dual filter switch being in a first operating state; and comparing the brightness value of the first frame with a second threshold based on the dual filter switch being in a second operating state.

[0015] The method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes: storing the current state of the dual filter switch before the main processor is powered down.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the method of this disclosure, the state of the dual filter switcher is stored in an external storage device or the coprocessor of the camera.

[0017] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a camera is provided, including: a coprocessor for storing the state of a dual filter switcher when the camera was in sleep mode last time; and a main processor for performing the following operations when the camera transitions from sleep mode to wake-up mode: obtaining the state of the dual filter switcher from the coprocessor; comparing the brightness value of the first frame with a day / night switching threshold, and performing day / night mode switching of the camera based on the comparison result and the state of the dual filter switcher; determining target exposure parameters based on the day / night mode, the switching method of the day / night mode, and the state of the dual filter switcher; and performing automatic exposure convergence based on the target exposure parameters.

[0018] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which computer-readable instructions are stored, which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the above-described method.

[0019] The camera exposure convergence method, camera, and computer-readable storage medium according to embodiments of the present disclosure can obtain the state of the dual filter switcher when the main processor of the camera is powered on and at the last power-off time. Combined with the switching mode of the current day / night mode switching of the system, the day / night switching threshold and the corresponding exposure table are adjusted, thereby reducing the impact of the state of the dual filter switcher on the day / night switching judgment and rapid exposure convergence. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become clearer from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 A general flowchart of the processor is shown during the transition of the camera from sleep state to wake state;

[0022] Figure 2 A flowchart of an exposure convergence method for a camera according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the operation of a camera according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0024] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a lookup mapping table according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0025] Figure 5 A comparison diagram is shown showing the first frame effect according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and the first frame effect without considering the state of the dual filter switcher; and

[0026] Figure 6 It is a computer-readable storage medium according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this disclosure clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the described embodiments of this disclosure without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0028] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this disclosure shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as "comprising" or "including" mean that the element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Terms such as "connected" or "linked" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. Terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may change accordingly when the absolute position of the described object changes. To keep the following description of the embodiments of this disclosure clear and concise, detailed descriptions of some known functions and components are omitted.

[0029] This disclosure uses flowcharts to illustrate the steps of a method according to embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that the preceding or following steps are not necessarily performed in exact order. Instead, the steps can be processed in reverse order or simultaneously. Furthermore, other operations can be added to these processes, or one or more steps can be removed from them.

[0030] In the specification and drawings of this disclosure, elements are described in singular or plural forms according to embodiments. However, the singular and plural forms are suitably chosen for the presented cases merely for ease of explanation and are not intended to limit the disclosure thereto. Thus, a singular form may include a plural form, and a plural form may include a singular form, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0031] The various embodiments of the principles of this disclosure described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of this disclosure can be implemented in any suitably arranged system or device. In some cases, the actions described in the specification may be performed in a different order and the desired result may still be achieved. Furthermore, the processes depicted in the drawings do not necessarily require a specific order or sequential sequence to achieve the desired result. In certain embodiments, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous.

[0032] To better understand the solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure, the relevant terms and concepts that may be involved in the embodiments of this disclosure will be introduced below. It should be understood that the explanation of the relevant concepts may be limited due to the specific circumstances of the embodiments of this disclosure, but it does not mean that this disclosure is limited to the specific circumstances. The specific circumstances of different embodiments may also differ, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0033] Main processor: In a dual-core encoding chip architecture, this refers to the processor inside the encoding chip used to handle the main functions of the camera (such as detection and recording). In a single-core encoding chip architecture, it refers to the encoding chip itself.

[0034] Secondary processor: In a dual-core encoding chip architecture, this refers to the processor inside the encoding chip used to handle ISP-related processes during fast startup, characterized by fast loading and startup.

[0035] Coprocessor: In battery-powered cameras, this refers to the processor that controls the power-on and power-off of devices such as encoding chips and image sensors. It is an external processor to the encoding chip and is characterized by low power consumption in sleep mode.

[0036] IRCUT: Also known as a dual filter switcher, it consists of an infrared cutoff filter (commonly known as a "red filter"), a full-spectrum filter (commonly known as a "white filter"), and a drive mechanism, and is installed between the lens and the image sensor.

[0037] Currently, to achieve a balance between speed and exposure quality in the first frame output during the camera's transition from sleep to wake-up mode, an ambient light sensor (commonly known as a "hard light sensor") is typically added to adjust the first frame's exposure parameters. This allows the first frame to be used for algorithms such as object detection and to begin recording. However, the hard light sensor method suffers from first frame image quality defects, has high hardware costs, and can reduce device reliability.

[0038] Therefore, a technique for achieving rapid exposure convergence without using an ambient light sensor (i.e., a photosensitive device) is desired.

[0039] The exposure convergence method of the camera provided in the embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 The flowchart shows a general process flow of the processor during the transition of the camera from sleep state to wake state.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, upon detecting the camera's transition from sleep to wake-up mode, the coprocessor powers on the image sensor, main processor, and other components, initiating their operation. The main processor executes object detection and other algorithms on the images acquired from the image sensor. Recording begins when the algorithm detects a target object and stops after a period of time when the image no longer triggers object detection or other algorithms. Then, the coprocessor powers off the image sensor, main processor, and other components, switching the camera back to sleep mode.

[0042] exist Figure 1In the typical workflow of the camera shown, during the transition from sleep to wake-up mode, the image sensor and main processor go from being powered off to powered on. Therefore, the exposure parameters for the first frame output by the image sensor are not referenced, potentially leading to overexposure or underexposure. If the automatic exposure algorithm is allowed to converge, the target triggering the PIR sensor may have already moved out of the frame during this time. Thus, during the wake-up transition, it's impossible to achieve a balance between exposure speed and exposure quality in the first frame output.

[0043] Therefore, in order to achieve fast exposure while ensuring the exposure effect of the first frame when the camera's main processor is powered on, this disclosure proposes a fast exposure convergence method for cameras.

[0044] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating an exposure convergence method for a camera according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Reference will be made below. Figure 2 The following describes in detail the various steps of the camera exposure convergence method according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, the flowchart S200 of the camera exposure convergence method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include the steps shown in processes S2020, S2040, S2060 and S2080.

[0046] In process S2020, in response to the power-on of the camera's main processor, the state of the dual filter switch stored during the camera's last sleep state can be obtained. During this process, the camera switches from sleep state to wake-up state, and the camera's main processor changes from power-off to power-on.

[0047] In some embodiments, the states of the dual filter switcher may include a first operating state and a second operating state. In the first operating state, the full-transmittance spectral filter of the dual filter switcher is located in the imaging optical path, and in the second operating state, the infrared cutoff filter of the dual filter switcher is located in the imaging optical path.

[0048] In some embodiments, the current state of the dual filter switcher can be stored before the main processor is powered down, and the state of the dual filter switcher can be stored in an external storage device or in the camera's coprocessor.

[0049] In process S2040, the brightness value of the first frame can be compared with the day-night switching threshold, and the day-night mode switching of the camera can be performed based on the comparison result and the state of the dual filter switcher.

[0050] In some embodiments, the day and night mode may include a daytime mode, an infrared night vision mode, and a full-color night vision mode, and the switching method for the day and night mode may include a forced switching method and an automatic switching method.

[0051] Therefore, when switching between day and night modes, the following switching methods are available: forced daytime mode, forced infrared night vision mode, forced full-color night vision mode, automatic daytime mode, automatic infrared night vision mode, and automatic full-color night vision mode.

[0052] In process S2060, the target exposure parameters can be determined based on the day / night mode, the switching method of the day / night mode, and the status of the dual filter switcher.

[0053] In some embodiments, determining the target exposure parameters based on the day / night mode, the switching method of the day / night mode, and the state of the dual filter switcher may include: determining a target mapping table from multiple mapping tables based on the day / night mode, the switching method of the day / night mode, and the state of the dual filter switcher; and determining the target exposure parameters based on the target mapping table.

[0054] In some embodiments, the multiple mapping tables may include a first mapping table, a second mapping table, a third mapping table, a fourth mapping table, and a fifth mapping table. The first mapping table, the second mapping table, and the third mapping table may each include the mapping relationship between the brightness value of the first frame and the stable exposure parameters, the fourth mapping table may include the mapping relationship between the infrared lamp level and the stable exposure parameters, and the fifth mapping table may include the mapping relationship between the white light level and the stable exposure parameters.

[0055] In some embodiments, finding the corresponding mapping table from multiple mapping tables may include: determining the corresponding mapping table as the first mapping table based on the day / night mode switching method being a forced switching method and being forced to switch to daytime mode; determining the corresponding mapping table as the second mapping table based on the day / night mode switching method being a forced switching method and being forced to switch to infrared night vision mode; and determining the corresponding mapping table as the first mapping table based on the day / night mode switching method being a forced switching method and being forced to switch to full-color night vision mode.

[0056] In some embodiments, looking up the corresponding mapping table from multiple mapping tables may further include: based on the day-night mode switching method being an automatic switching method, comparing the brightness value of the first frame with the day-night switching threshold; and determining whether to perform day-night mode switching based on the comparison result.

[0057] Specifically, based on the brightness value being greater than the day / night switching threshold, the system automatically switches to daytime mode. Further, based on the dual-filter switcher being in its first operating state, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the third mapping table; and based on the dual-filter switcher being in its second operating state, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the first mapping table.

[0058] Additionally, based on the brightness value being less than the day / night switching threshold, the system automatically switches to either infrared night vision mode or full-color night vision mode. Based on the automatic switch to infrared night vision mode, the corresponding mapping table is designated as the fourth mapping table. Based on the automatic switch to full-color night vision mode, the corresponding mapping table is designated as the fifth mapping table.

[0059] In some embodiments, the day / night switching threshold may include a first threshold associated with a first operating state of the dual filter switch and a second threshold associated with a second operating state of the dual filter switch.

[0060] In some embodiments, comparing the brightness value of the first frame with the day-night switching threshold may include: comparing the brightness value of the first frame with a first threshold based on the dual filter switch being in a first operating state; and comparing the brightness value of the first frame with a second threshold based on the dual filter switch being in a second operating state.

[0061] In process S2080, automatic exposure convergence can be performed based on the target exposure parameters.

[0062] In some embodiments, sensor parameters can be reconfigured based on the obtained target exposure parameters, and then the camera can proceed with its regular processing flow.

[0063] According to the above embodiments of this disclosure, after the camera is woken up, the main processor obtains the state of the dual filter switcher when the camera was in sleep mode last time, and adjusts the day-night switching threshold corresponding to the state of the dual filter switcher in combination with the switching method of the current day-night mode of the camera. Based on the state of the dual filter switcher, the corresponding exposure table is selected, thereby reducing the impact of IR-CUT state on day-night switching judgment and fast exposure.

[0064] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the operation of a camera according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0065] like Figure 3 As shown, during the camera's transition from sleep to wake-up mode, the coprocessor, upon receiving a trigger from the PIR sensor, powers on the main processor and other components. After powering on, the main processor retrieves the state of the dual filter switcher from the coprocessor before the camera's last sleep state. The main processor configures the sensor using fixed exposure parameters. Then, it initializes the ISP and obtains brightness histogram statistics.

[0066] Next, the main processor executes the camera's day / night mode switching. Specifically, after receiving the first frame from the sensor, the main processor compares the brightness value of the first frame with the day / night switching threshold to determine whether to switch to day / night mode. This day / night switching threshold can be selected based on the different states of the dual filter switcher obtained from the coprocessor.

[0067] After the day / night mode switching judgment is completed, the brightness-stable exposure parameter table of the first frame corresponding to the current day / night mode is selected based on the status of the dual filter switcher obtained from the coprocessor and the current day / night mode. The appropriate exposure parameters are selected by comparing the brightness of the first frame with the stored brightness-stable exposure parameter table of the first frame. Automatic exposure (AE) and automatic white balance (AWB) convergence are performed starting from the selected exposure parameters. After the exposure parameter settings take effect, a stable image can be obtained.

[0068] When the camera determines that it needs to enter sleep mode, the main processor transmits the state of the dual filter switcher to the coprocessor, which is still working normally in sleep mode, and the coprocessor saves the data.

[0069] It should be noted that, although Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the state of the dual filter switcher at the time of the last sleep state, obtained by the main processor from the coprocessor, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Since the coprocessor remains active while the camera is in sleep mode, the state of the dual filter switcher can be stored in the coprocessor. Alternatively, the state of the dual filter switcher can be stored in any non-volatile memory while the camera is in sleep mode, as long as it is capable of performing storage functions during camera sleep.

[0070] In addition, Figure 3 In the embodiments of this disclosure shown, the coprocessor is responsible for storing the state of the dual filter switcher, while the main processor is responsible for the state of the dual filter switcher, performs day and night mode switching based on the determination of day and night mode, and obtains the target exposure parameters by looking up a table based on the state of the dual filter switcher, the day and night mode, and the switching method of the day and night mode.

[0071] It should be noted that the operation of the main processor and coprocessor described above is merely an example of this disclosure, i.e., the camera includes a single-core processor (main processor). Alternatively, the operation of the main processor described above can also be performed by a secondary processor, i.e., the camera includes a dual-core processor (main processor and secondary processor).

[0072] As described above, the camera according to the embodiments of this disclosure employs a main processor and a coprocessor to form a photosensitive-free system. Existing battery-powered cameras require photosensitive devices to achieve day / night mode switching and rapid exposure during rapid startup. Using photosensitive devices not only increases BOM costs but also introduces the risk of material inconsistency, leading to increased labor costs associated with factory component assembly and calibration. Therefore, the camera according to the embodiments of this disclosure eliminates the need for photosensitive devices, thus avoiding the aforementioned cost and material inconsistency risks.

[0073] Figure 4 A flowchart of a lookup mapping table according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0074] like Figure 4 As shown, first, it determines whether the day / night mode switching method is automatic. If not, it determines whether the day / night mode switching method is forced. If so, it determines whether the day / night mode switching method is automatic.

[0075] If the day / night mode switching method is determined to be a forced switching method, based on the fact that day / night modes include three types: daytime mode, infrared night vision mode, and full-color night vision mode, it is further determined whether to force a switch to daytime mode, infrared night vision mode, or full-color night vision mode.

[0076] When forced to switch to daytime mode and forced to switch to full-color night vision mode, select the first mapping table, namely the Luma-EV (brightness value - exposure value) table for daytime mode shown in Table 1.

[0077] Table 1. Luma-EV Daytime Mode Table

[0078]

[0079] When forced to switch to infrared night vision mode, select the second mapping table, namely the forced infrared night vision Luma-EV table shown in Table 2.

[0080] Table 2 Forced Infrared Night Vision Luma-EV Table

[0081]

[0082] Given that the day / night mode switching method is determined to be automatic, and considering that day / night modes include three types: daytime mode, infrared night vision mode, and full-color night vision mode, it is further determined whether to automatically switch to daytime mode, infrared night vision mode, or full-color night vision mode.

[0083] Here, automatic switching is performed by comparing the brightness value of the first frame with the day / night switching threshold.

[0084] Based on a brightness value exceeding the day / night switching threshold, the system automatically switches to daytime mode. At this time, the corresponding mapping table needs to be determined based on the status of the dual filter switcher. When the dual filter switcher is in a white state, the third mapping table is selected, namely the Luma-EV table for automatic daytime mode switching upon IR-CUT wake-up from sleep mode (shown in Table 3). When the dual filter switcher is in a red state, the first mapping table is selected, namely the Luma-EV table for daytime mode (shown in Table 1).

[0085] Table 3. Automatic Switching to Daytime Mode Upon Wake-up of IR-CUT "White Screen" During Sleep Mode (Luma-EV)

[0086]

[0087] If the brightness value is less than the day / night switching threshold, the system automatically switches to infrared night vision mode or full-color night vision mode. When automatically switching to infrared night vision mode, the fourth mapping table is selected, namely the automatic infrared night vision level - EV table shown in Table 4.

[0088] Table 4 Automatic Infrared Night Vision Switching Levels - EV Table

[0089]

[0090] When automatically switching to full-color night vision mode, select the fifth mapping table, which is the automatic full-color night vision level - EV table shown in Table 5.

[0091] Table 5 Automatic Full-Color Night Vision Switching Levels - EV Table

[0092]

[0093] Therefore, in the embodiments of this disclosure, based on the two methods of day / night mode switching—forced and automatic switching—and the three day / night modes—day mode, infrared night vision mode, and full-color night vision mode—along with the different states of the dual filter switcher, five mapping tables are established. By looking up the corresponding mapping table, the target exposure parameters are obtained, thereby ensuring the exposure effect of the first frame while achieving rapid exposure convergence.

[0094] Figure 5 A comparison diagram is shown of the first frame effect according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and the first frame effect without considering the state of the dual filter switcher.

[0095] Under the same conditions, when the dual filter switch is in the white filter state, the sensor receives more light; when the dual filter switch is in the red filter state, because infrared light is filtered out, the sensor receives less light than when in the white filter state. Therefore, the state of the dual filter switch affects the amount of light entering the sensor, thus affecting the soft photosensor reading.

[0096] Figure 5 (a) shows the first frame without considering the underexposure caused by the dual filter switcher state, and Figure 5 (b) shows a first frame of normal exposure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] Traditional cameras do not consider the state of the IR-CUT during the last sleep state when waking up. For example... Figure 5 As shown in (a), when the camera is woken up in IR-CUT state with a white film and automatically switches to daytime mode upon wake-up, the first frame image is underexposed (darker) because the amount of light received is less than expected.

[0098] To address the aforementioned underexposure phenomenon, embodiments of this disclosure read the IR-CUT status upon camera wake-up. Given that the acquired IR-CUT status is blank and has switched to daytime mode, the corresponding target exposure parameters are obtained from the third mapping table (Table 3, showing the automatic daytime mode switch Luma-EV table for IR-CUT "blank" status during sleep) upon wake-up. For example... Figure 5 As shown in (b), the first frame obtained has a normal exposure.

[0099] according to Figure 5 The comparison of the first frame results shown illustrates that, without considering the state of the dual filter switcher, issues such as inaccurate day / night mode switching and inaccurate exposure parameter selection may arise. According to this disclosure, by using appropriate day / night switching thresholds and exposure parameter tables for different dual filter switcher states, the impact of varying dual filter switcher states can be effectively reduced.

[0100] Figure 6 It is a computer-readable storage medium according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0101] like Figure 6 As shown, a computer-readable storage medium 600 stores computer instructions 610, which, when executed by a processor, perform one or more steps of the various methods and their additional aspects as described above.

[0102] For example, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 600 may be any combination of one or more computer-readable storage media, such as a computer-readable storage medium containing program code for performing the various methods described above.

[0103] For example, when the program code is read by a computer, the computer can execute the program code stored in the computer storage medium to perform one or more steps of the various methods and additional aspects described above, such as those according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] For example, the computer-readable storage medium may include a memory card of a smartphone, a storage component of a tablet computer, a hard disk of a personal computer, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), flash memory, and other non-transitory readable storage media or any combination thereof.

[0105] The exposure convergence method, camera, and storage medium of the camera according to embodiments of this disclosure eliminate the need for photosensitive devices, thus saving costs and avoiding the risk of material inconsistency. Furthermore, according to the technology of this disclosure, after the main processor is powered on, the stored state of the dual filter switcher is obtained from an external storage medium or a coprocessor, and different day / night switching thresholds are selected based on the state of the dual filter switcher for day / night determination, eliminating the influence of the dual filter switcher state on day / night determination. Additionally, a corresponding exposure parameter table is selected based on the state of the dual filter switcher for configuring the sensor for rapid exposure, eliminating the influence of the dual filter switcher state on rapid exposure.

[0106] It should be noted that the flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of this disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing at least one executable instruction for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than those indicated in the drawings. For example, two consecutively indicated blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0107] In general, the various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuitry, software, firmware, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects can be implemented in hardware, while others can be implemented in firmware or software that can be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. When aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated or described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or represented using certain other images, it will be understood that the blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented as non-limiting examples in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or certain combinations thereof.

[0108] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in a common dictionary shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not as having an idealized or highly formalized meaning, unless expressly defined herein.

[0109] The foregoing description is intended to illustrate the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting it. While several exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, those skilled in the art will readily understand that many modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present disclosure. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the claims. It should be understood that the foregoing description is intended to illustrate the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting it to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An exposure convergence method for a camera, comprising: In response to the power-on of the camera's main processor, the state of the dual filter switch stored during the camera's last sleep state is obtained; The brightness value of the first frame is compared with the day-night switching threshold, and the day-night mode switching of the camera is performed based on the comparison result and the state of the dual filter switcher. The target exposure parameters are determined based on the day / night mode, the switching method of the day / night mode, and the state of the dual filter switcher. as well as Automatic exposure convergence is performed based on the target exposure parameters.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The determination of target exposure parameters based on day / night mode, the switching method of day / night mode switching, and the state of the dual filter switch includes: Based on the day / night mode, the switching method of the day / night mode, and the state of the dual filter switcher, a target mapping table is determined from multiple mapping tables; and The target exposure parameters are determined based on the target mapping table.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The day and night modes include daytime mode, infrared night vision mode, and full-color night vision mode, and the switching methods for the day and night modes include forced switching and automatic switching.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The plurality of mapping tables include a first mapping table, a second mapping table, a third mapping table, a fourth mapping table, and a fifth mapping table. The first mapping table, the second mapping table, and the third mapping table all include the mapping relationship between the brightness value of the first frame and the stable exposure parameters. The fourth mapping table includes the mapping relationship between the infrared lamp level and the stable exposure parameters. The fifth mapping table includes the mapping relationship between the white light level and the stable exposure parameters.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, Looking up the corresponding mapping table from the plurality of mapping tables includes: Based on the fact that the switching method for the day and night mode is the forced switching method and the forced switch is to the daytime mode, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the first mapping table; Based on the fact that the day / night mode switching method is the forced switching method and the forced switch is to the infrared night vision mode, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the second mapping table; and Based on the fact that the day / night mode switching method is the forced switching method and the forced switch is to the full-color night vision mode, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the first mapping table.

6. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The states of the dual filter switcher include: A first operating state, wherein in the first operating state, the full-transmittance spectral filter of the dual filter switcher is located in the imaging optical path; and In the second operating state, the infrared cutoff filter of the dual filter switcher is located in the imaging optical path.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, Looking up the corresponding mapping table from the plurality of mapping tables includes: Based on the fact that the day / night mode switching method is the automatic switching method, the brightness value of the first frame is compared with the day / night switching threshold; Based on the comparison results, it is determined whether to perform the day / night mode switch, wherein: Based on the brightness value being greater than the day / night switching threshold, the system automatically switches to daytime mode. Wherein, based on the dual filter switcher being in the first working state, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the third mapping table, and Wherein, based on the dual filter switcher being in the second operating state, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the first mapping table; and Based on the brightness value being less than the day / night switching threshold, it is determined to automatically switch to the infrared night vision mode or the full-color night vision mode. Specifically, based on the automatic switching to the infrared night vision mode, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the fourth mapping table, and Specifically, based on the automatic switching to the full-color night vision mode, the corresponding mapping table is determined to be the fifth mapping table.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, The day / night switching threshold includes a first threshold associated with the first operating state of the dual filter switch and a second threshold associated with the second operating state of the dual filter switch.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Comparing the brightness value of the first frame with the day-night switching threshold includes: Based on the dual filter switcher being in the first operating state, the brightness value of the first frame is compared with the first threshold; and Based on the dual filter switcher being in the second working state, the brightness value of the first frame is compared with the second threshold.

10. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The current state of the dual filter switch is stored before the main processor is powered down.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The state of the dual filter switcher is stored in an external storage device or in the camera's coprocessor.

12. A camera, comprising: The coprocessor is used to store the state of the dual filter switcher when the camera was in sleep mode last time; and The main processor is configured to perform the following operations when the camera transitions from a sleep state to a wake state: Obtain the state of the dual filter switcher from the coprocessor; The brightness value of the first frame is compared with the day-night switching threshold, and the day-night mode switching of the camera is performed based on the comparison result and the state of the dual filter switcher. The target exposure parameters are determined based on the day / night mode, the switching method of the day / night mode, and the state of the dual filter switcher. as well as Automatic exposure convergence is performed based on the target exposure parameters.

13. A computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon computer-readable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 11.

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