Directional Camera Triggering to Eliminate Repetitive Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera devices that automatically capture images based on conditions like light changes or time intervals face challenges in efficiently avoiding repetitive images, especially when processing capabilities are modest, leading to high processor and power consumption, and ineffectiveness in varying lighting conditions.
Innovation Solution
A directional capture device that uses a direction sensing module to determine the pointing direction of the camera and triggers image capture based on specified metrics, such as changes in direction, to ensure that images are unique and representative, thereby minimizing repetitive captures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If image processing techniques are used to delete or hide identical or very similar images, then the number of repetitive images is reduced, but processor and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using a direction sensor to detect the pointing direction of the camera before capturing an image. The system determines whether to capture an image based on whether the current pointing direction differs from previous directions, thereby preventing repetitive image captures before they occur. This approach avoids the need for post-capture image processing to identify and delete duplicates, thus reducing processor and power consumption while still eliminating repetitive images.
2Loss of information
If image processing techniques are used to compare large numbers of images, then repetitive images can be identified, but computational feasibility decreases for devices with modest processing capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential characteristic of image content by using pointing direction as a proxy for image uniqueness. Instead of comparing actual image data (which would require complex processing), the system extracts and compares only the directional information. This simplification makes the system computationally feasible for devices with modest processing capabilities while still effectively identifying and preventing repetitive captures.
3Extent of automation
If automatic image capture is triggered based on light level changes or time intervals, then images are captured automatically, but many repetitive or non-informative images are taken
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the pointing direction of the camera and using this information to control image capture. The system compares the current pointing direction with previously captured directions and only triggers image capture when a significant directional change is detected. This feedback mechanism ensures that automatic capture produces informative, non-repetitive images while maintaining high automation, eliminating the need for manual review of captured images.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for triggering directional data capture based on pointing direction are described. In an embodiment, the data captured is an image and a camera is described which includes a sensor for detecting the direction in which the image sensor of the camera is pointing. When the sensed pointing direction is one in which a worthwhile image is likely to be taken, the camera is triggered to capture a new image. The determination of when to capture a new image uses a metric based on the sensed direction and one or more specified trigger conditions.