Camera ROI Line Readout for Faster AF Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face challenges in efficiently capturing and processing images, particularly when dealing with regions of interest, due to delays in Auto Focus (AF) operations and image processing caused by the rolling shutter method, which exposes pixel lines sequentially regardless of the region's location.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device employs a first image sensor with pixel lines that are exposed and read out sequentially, allowing for the identification of a region of interest and performing image processing using first and second line data to obtain a frame, potentially using a global shutter method for improved control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the rolling shutter method is used to expose pixel lines sequentially, then the image sensor can capture the entire frame, but the Auto Focus operation and image processing experience delays due to sequential reading of pixel lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image sensor into multiple pixel lines and processes them in segments. Instead of waiting to read all pixel lines before processing, the system reads and processes pixel lines as they become available, enabling parallel processing operations. This segmentation allows AF calculations to begin with available data rather than waiting for the complete frame, reducing the time loss in AF operations while maintaining overall processing productivity.
2Loss of time
If the rolling shutter method is used to expose pixel lines sequentially, then the image sensor can capture the entire frame, but the image processing is delayed regardless of the region's location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary image processing operations on pixel lines as they are read out, before the entire frame is captured. By initiating processing operations early with the available pixel line data, the system reduces the overall processing delay. This preliminary action includes performing calculations for AF and other image processing tasks that can be executed incrementally, thereby reducing time loss without compromising the final image quality through the use of complete frame data when available.
3Loss of time
If pixel lines are read out sequentially in the rolling shutter method, then the entire frame can be captured, but regions of interest experience unnecessary delays due to their position in the pixel line sequence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality processing by identifying regions of interest within the frame and prioritizing or accelerating processing for those specific areas. Instead of treating all pixel lines uniformly, the system applies different processing strategies to different regions, allowing faster processing for important regions while maintaining comprehensive capture of the entire frame. This approach reduces the effective delay for regions of interest without sacrificing the ability to capture and process the complete image when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is provided. include a first camera module including a first image sensor. The electronic device may include at least one processor including a processing circuit. The electronic device may include a memory storing instructions. The electronic device may identify a first coordinate of a region of interest on the first image sensor. The electronic device may obtain a first control signal for obtaining image data including the region of interest. The electronic device may obtain first line data from a first pixel line including at least part of the region of interest, based on the first coordinate, among pixel lines of the first image sensor, in response to the first control signal. The electronic device may perform first image processing by using the first line data. The electronic device may obtain second line data from a second pixel line different from the first pixel line among the pixel lines of the first image sensor. The electronic device may perform second image processing by using the first line data and the second line data to obtain a first frame.