Adaptive Multi-Frame Capture for Image Quality and Latency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capture devices face challenges in determining the optimal quantity of frames for multi-frame image capture operations, leading to issues such as reduced image quality due to insufficient frames or increased latency and power consumption with excessive frames.
Innovation Solution
The system dynamically adjusts the quantity of frames during a multi-frame image capture operation by initially determining a first quantity based on ambient lighting conditions and then reevaluating to determine a second quantity after initiating the capture, allowing for real-time adjustments to ensure optimal image quality and resource management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the quantity of frames is set too low, then latency and power consumption are reduced, but image quality deteriorates due to insufficient image features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frame quantity adjustment by monitoring image features (such as motion detection, scene complexity, and focus status) during the multi-frame capture process. The system adaptively determines whether to continue capturing frames or stop early based on real-time analysis, transforming the static frame quantity into a dynamic parameter that optimizes both image quality and latency trade-offs
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where each captured frame is analyzed for quality metrics and scene characteristics. Based on this feedback, the system decides whether additional frames will improve the composite image quality or if the current frames are sufficient, allowing early termination when quality thresholds are met thereby reducing latency
2Manufacturing precision
If the quantity of frames is set too high, then image quality is improved through better image features, but latency and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by capturing only the necessary number of frames required to achieve acceptable image quality rather than always capturing the maximum or predetermined number of frames. The system terminates the capture sequence early when quality thresholds are satisfied, avoiding unnecessary frame captures that would consume additional power
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the frame quantity parameter based on real-time analysis of image features, scene complexity, and processing requirements. By adjusting this parameter adaptively rather than using a fixed value, the system optimizes the balance between image quality improvement and power consumption across different shooting scenarios
3Manufacturing precision
If the quantity of frames is set too high, then image quality is improved through better image features, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of the first captured frame(s) to assess scene characteristics, motion levels, and potential quality issues before committing to capturing additional frames. This preliminary assessment allows the system to make informed decisions about whether more frames are necessary, avoiding unnecessary capture and processing time
4Manufacturing precision
If adaptive frame quantity adjustment is implemented, then image quality and resource management are optimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by autonomously monitoring its own capture process, analyzing image features in real-time, and making decisions about frame quantity adjustment without requiring external intervention or complex external control systems. The processing system serves itself by integrating quality assessment and frame quantity determination within the same device
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a processing system including one or more memories and one or more processors coupled to the one or more memories. The processing system is configured to determine a first quantity of frames for a multi-frame image capture operation, to initiate capture of one or more frames of the multi-frame image capture operation using a camera, and to determine a second quantity of frames for the multi-frame image capture operation after capturing the one or more frames and prior to completing the multi-frame image capture operation. The processing system is further configured to generate a composite image in accordance with the second quantity of frames.