Digital Camera Remaining Picture Count Algorithm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital still cameras face complexity and inaccuracies in calculating the remaining picture count due to variable image file sizes based on subject matter, compression levels, and resolution, leading to user dissatisfaction and processing load issues.
Innovation Solution
A digital still camera employing a novel algorithm that determines the remaining picture count by using a predetermined decrement number for each image file and a lookup table to adjust the count based on available memory space, ensuring accurate and reliable display of remaining pictures across various picture modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a predetermined estimated maximum image file size is used to calculate remaining picture count, then the calculation is simple, but memory space is wasted when the count reaches zero
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates and stores decrement numbers for different image file sizes in a lookup table during the camera design phase. This preliminary action allows the camera to quickly retrieve and apply the appropriate decrement number during operation, avoiding complex real-time calculations while maintaining accurate remaining picture count tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mathematical calculation algorithms with a simpler lookup table-based system. Instead of performing complex divisions and estimations during camera operation, the system substitutes these calculations with pre-computed values stored in memory, significantly reducing processing complexity while maintaining accuracy.
2Reliability
If a predetermined estimated minimum image file size is used to calculate remaining picture count, then memory space is fully utilized, but the user may be disappointed when the camera cannot take a picture despite showing remaining count
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter used for remaining picture count calculation from a fixed minimum file size to a dynamic decrement number that reflects the actual average file size of previously captured images. This parameter change allows the system to adapt to varying image characteristics while providing accurate remaining count information to users.
3Measurement precision
If complex algorithms are used to calculate remaining picture count based on variable image file sizes, then accuracy is improved, but processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs complex calculations of average image file sizes and determines appropriate decrement numbers during the preliminary design phase, storing these values in a lookup table. During actual camera operation, the system simply retrieves and applies these pre-calculated values, dramatically reducing processing load and energy consumption while maintaining high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the complex calculation logic by pre-computing decrement numbers for various image file sizes and storing them in a lookup table. This copy allows the system to achieve accurate remaining picture count tracking without performing the computationally intensive calculations during camera operation.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a digital still camera includes: an image sensor for receiving light and generating output signals representative of an image of an object or a scene of interest; a processing circuit connected to the image sensor for processing the output signals from the image sensor; and a control circuit connected to the processing circuit for successively generating a plurality of image files and for determining a remaining picture count after each image file is generated based on one of a plurality of predetermined decrement numbers corresponding to an actual image file size of each image file.