Multi-Camera Zoom Selection Using Obstruction-Robust TOF Ranging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices may select suboptimal cameras for image capture due to inaccurate distance measurements from range sensors affected by foreign materials or users, leading to degraded image quality.
Innovation Solution
Implement a method that uses signals from range sensors to select the optimal camera despite interference from foreign materials or users by employing signal processing techniques to accurately determine distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If range sensor is used to measure distance for camera selection, then automated camera selection is enabled, but measurement accuracy deteriorates when sensor is obstructed by foreign materials or users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer between the range sensor and camera selection logic. This intermediary analyzes the raw distance signal, detects anomalies caused by obstructions, and applies correction algorithms to compensate for measurement errors, thereby maintaining both automation and accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the measured distance is continuously monitored and validated. When obstruction is detected through signal analysis, the system adjusts camera selection decisions based on corrected distance estimates, creating a closed-loop control that maintains measurement reliability despite sensor obstruction
2Productivity
If range sensor signal is used directly for camera selection, then processing speed is maintained, but image quality deteriorates due to inaccurate distance measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of the range sensor signal to detect obstruction conditions before final camera selection is made. By pre-processing the distance measurement data and identifying anomalies early in the decision pipeline, the system can apply corrections without significantly delaying the overall camera selection process
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its camera selection strategy based on the quality and reliability of the distance measurement. When obstruction is detected, the system transitions to using corrected distance estimates or alternative selection criteria, allowing it to maintain both speed and image quality under varying conditions
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
Ensures high-quality image capture by reliably selecting the appropriate camera based on corrected distance measurements, even when range sensors are obstructed.
Implementation Method 1
detecting Time of Flight (TOF) sensor information relating to the scene, determining depth information of the scene based on the TOF sensor information
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device and method for providing an image are provided. The electronic device may comprise; a plurality of cameras; a range sensor including a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit; and at least one processor functionally connected to the plurality of cameras and the range sensor. The at least one processor can be configured to: confirm a range corresponding to a zoom magnification for acquiring an image; acquire one or more signals corresponding to one or more areas of the light-receiving unit, on the basis of light having been emitted from the light-emitting unit and the received in the one or more areas of the light-receiving unit; confirm one or more first peaks of the one or more signals; acquire one or more first distances on the basis of the one or more first peaks; confirm whether there is a distance greater than or equal to a designated first distance corresponding to the confirmed range from among the one or more first distances; confirm, on the basis of the confirmation that there is a distance greater than or equal to the first distance, whether a maximum value of the one or more first peaks is less than a first value, and determine a camera for acquiring the image from among the plurality of cameras, on the basis of whether there is distance greater than or equal to the first distance ane/or whether the maximum value of the one or more first peaks is less than the first value.