Camera Module Flash Detection and Gain Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices with image capture capabilities face challenges in incorporating all features of conventional digital cameras due to size and cost constraints, leading to the omission of certain features to meet price targets.
Innovation Solution
A camera module comprising an image sensor array, a gain amplifier, and a flash device indicator, with storage locations for exposure time and gain settings, allowing for efficient image capture and processing, and the ability to differentiate between types of flash devices for optimal image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional digital camera components are included to provide complete image capture features, then image capture capability is improved, but device size increases beyond portable limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential image capture components needed for portable devices, omitting bulkier conventional digital camera components. The camera module includes only the image sensor array, flash device, and minimal processing circuitry, separating these from the main portable device while maintaining full image capture functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system is segmented into a compact camera module that can be integrated into portable devices. The module is further divided into discrete components (image sensor array, flash device, storage locations) that can be independently optimized for size while maintaining overall functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If all digital camera features are included to maintain functionality, then image capture versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs cost-effective components suitable for portable device manufacturing, including standard image sensor arrays and simple flash devices. The design accepts that some components have limited lifecycles or are replaceable, reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera module is designed with universal components that can serve multiple functions. The image sensor array captures images and can potentially serve other sensing purposes, while the flash device provides both illumination and potential other optical functions, reducing the need for dedicated separate components.
3Reliability
If flash device presence is always indicated to ensure accurate image capture, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects and indicates flash device presence without requiring external intervention or complex indicator mechanisms. The processor automatically determines whether the flash device is present based on hardware configuration and adjusts image capture parameters accordingly, eliminating the need for separate indicator systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The flash presence indication functionality is merged into the existing image capture control system. The same processor that controls image capture also determines flash presence and adjusts parameters, combining multiple functions into a single integrated control mechanism rather than using separate indicator systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module comprising an image sensor array, a gain amplifier, an indicator set to indicate whether a first flash device or a second flash device is present, and a plurality of storage locations. The plurality of storage locations is configured to store an exposure time and a gain. The exposure time and the gain are associated with the first flash device in response to the indicator indicating the presence of the first flash device, and the exposure time and the gain are associated with the second flash device in response to the indicator indicating the presence of the second flash device. The image sensor array is configured to capture an image using the exposure time, and the gain amplifier is configured to perform processing on the image using the gain.