Camera Image Capture Using Buffer Memory for High-Resolution Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital cameras capture images based on low-resolution preview images, which may lead to unwanted images being taken when the subject is in motion, as the user cannot independently select and store high-resolution images at predetermined times.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize a first buffer to store high-resolution images at predetermined times and allow the user to capture and display these images independently of the preview image, using an image sensor, controller, and display to manage image storage and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the camera captures images based on low-resolution preview images, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the image quality deteriorates and unwanted images may be captured when the subject is in motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image capture system into two independent pathways: one for low-resolution preview images displayed on the display unit, and another for high-resolution images captured by the image sensor. This segmentation allows the preview and actual capture to operate independently, enabling the user to view a simple preview while the system simultaneously captures high-resolution images at predetermined times without being constrained by preview resolution limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously capturing and storing high-resolution images at predetermined time intervals before the user makes a final selection. The image sensor captures images continuously in the background while the user views the preview, so when the user decides to capture a specific moment, the desired high-resolution image is already available in the buffer memory, eliminating the need to wait for the next capture cycle.
2Ease of operation
If the camera captures images based on low-resolution preview images, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of capturing the desired moment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the preview function from the capture function, allowing them to operate independently with different resolution requirements. The preview image displayed on the display unit does not constrain the image sensor's capture capability, ensuring that the actual captured image quality and timing reliability are not compromised by preview limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by displaying the captured high-resolution image on the display unit after capture, allowing the user to verify that the desired moment was successfully captured. This feedback mechanism increases reliability by enabling user confirmation and potential re-capture if the timing was incorrect.
3Loss of time
If the camera stores only the currently displayed preview image for capture, then the loss of time is reduced and productivity is improved, but the adaptability to capture images at predetermined times deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary capture actions by continuously acquiring high-resolution images at predetermined time intervals and storing them in buffer memory before the user makes a selection. This preliminary action eliminates waiting time during the capture decision process, as the desired image is already prepared and available for immediate storage or display, while simultaneously maintaining adaptability to capture at different time points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts between continuous capture mode and on-demand capture mode. The image sensor can operate continuously to capture images at predetermined times, and the controller dynamically selects which captured image to store or display based on user input, providing both time efficiency and temporal adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables users to selectively capture and store high-resolution images at desired times, reducing the risk of capturing unwanted images due to subject motion and improving image quality.
Implementation Method 1
the image sensor 103 converts the image of a subject optically received by the lens system 101 into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method thereof are provided, the apparatus including a first memory; a second memory; an image sensor; and a controller configured to obtain, using the image sensor, a plurality of images including a first image and a second image corresponding to at least one object in a first resolution, each of the first image and the second image corresponding to a different time from each other; store, in the first memory, the first image at least temporarily; display, via a display operatively coupled with the controller, the second image in a second resolution; and store, in the second memory, the first image stored in the first memory, in response to an input received in relation with the second image as displayed via the display.