Electronic Camera Shutter Mechanism for High Dynamic Range Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image formats and devices struggle to capture high dynamic range images due to limited contrast ratios, requiring multiple exposures that need to be aligned, often necessitating the use of a tripod and requiring significant knowledge of exposure settings.
Innovation Solution
An electronic camera method and apparatus that captures multiple exposures using a mechanical and electronic shutter to allow light to reach an image sensor for varying exposure periods, with pixel data read out after the shutter is closed, allowing for the creation of high dynamic range images without the need for new hardware, using modified firmware to control the camera.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple images are acquired at different exposure levels to obtain HDR images, then the dynamic range capability is improved, but the device complexity and operation difficulty increase due to the need for tripods and precise exposure setting knowledge
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system automatically performs the complex tasks of capturing multiple exposures at different levels, aligning them, and combining them into HDR images without requiring user intervention for tripod setup or exposure parameter selection. The system serves itself by integrating these functions into automated firmware operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system integrates multiple functions into a single device operation: it captures multiple exposures, performs alignment, combines images, and generates HDR output all through one automated process, eliminating the need for separate equipment like tripods and external alignment tools.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple images are acquired at different exposure levels, then the HDR capability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring significant knowledge of exposure settings
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system automatically determines and executes the appropriate exposure settings for multiple captures without requiring user knowledge. The firmware handles the entire process of selecting exposure levels, capturing images, and processing them into HDR format, making the system self-sufficient and user-friendly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the scene analysis and sensor data to automatically adjust exposure parameters for each capture, ensuring optimal HDR results without user intervention. The firmware monitors and adjusts settings based on real-time conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple images are acquired at different exposure levels, then the HDR capability is improved, but the loss of time increases due to the sequential capture and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous operation by overlapping the capture and processing operations. While one exposure is being captured, previous exposures are being processed and aligned, minimizing idle time and creating a continuous workflow that reduces overall acquisition time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary alignment and processing operations on previously captured images while subsequent exposures are being taken, preparing data in advance to minimize post-capture processing time and maintain continuous operational flow.
4Speed
If pixel data is read out during the exposure period, then the processing speed is improved, but the image quality deteriorates due to potential misalignment and smearing artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sensor into separate regions: one area captures the image data while another area simultaneously reads out previous exposure data. This spatial segmentation allows parallel operations without interfering with each other, maintaining both speed and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary memory buffer or dual-region sensor structure that temporarily holds image data during the transition between exposure and readout phases, preventing data loss or smearing while enabling continuous processing.
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 easy acquisition of high dynamic range images by allowing multiple exposures to be combined seamlessly, reducing the complexity of exposure settings and eliminating the need for a tripod, while maintaining image quality and user transparency.
Implementation Method 1
allowing light to reach an image sensor for a first exposure period
Data Source
AI summary
A method for capturing multiple sets of image data with an electronic camera having a shutter and an electronic shutter for selectively allowing light to reach an image sensor comprises opening the shutter and the electronic shutter, allowing light to reach the image sensor for a first exposure time, closing the electronic shutter, reading out pixel data captured during the first exposure time, allowing light to reach the image sensor for a second exposure time, and, reading out pixel data captured during the second exposure time. The method may be used to obtain multiple differently exposed images of a scene for combination into a high dynamic range image.