Dual Image Sensor Adaptive Exposure Control for HDR and Depth
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current HDR technology requires multiple cameras to accurately identify objects and determine their distance, which can be inefficient and may not perform well in varying light conditions.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device using two cameras with different exposure times to capture images, allowing for accurate object identification and distance measurement by controlling exposure times based on image information and environmental conditions, and alternating between capture modes to optimize image quality and computational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If three or more cameras are used to implement HDR technology and obtain distance information, then object identification accuracy and distance measurement precision are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single image sensor perform multiple functions: it alternates between capturing images for HDR processing and capturing images for stereo depth calculation. By using the same sensor for both purposes at different time intervals, the system eliminates the need for separate cameras for HDR and stereo vision, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor operates in periodic alternating capture modes: first capture mode for HDR images (with different exposure times) and second capture mode for stereo images (with same exposure time). This periodic switching allows the system to gather data for both HDR and depth calculation using a single sensor over time, resolving the contradiction between using multiple cameras and device simplicity
2Measurement precision
If multiple cameras are used for HDR and stereo vision simultaneously, then object identification and distance measurement are improved, but frame rate and processing speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system alternates between first capture mode (HDR with different exposure times) and second capture mode (stereo with same exposure time) in a periodic manner. This time-division multiplexing allows the single image sensor to serve both purposes sequentially, maintaining high frame rates by avoiding the need for multiple simultaneous camera operations while still achieving both HDR and depth measurement goals over time
3Illumination intensity
If exposure time is increased to capture images in dark environments, then image quality in low light is improved, but frame rate and capture speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts exposure time based on the capture mode and environmental conditions. In the first capture mode for HDR, exposure times are varied (including longer exposures) to capture images in different lighting conditions. In the second capture mode for stereo vision, exposure time is kept consistent. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize for image quality in dark environments when needed while maintaining faster capture speeds when lighting conditions permit
Solution Approach 2:
The exposure time parameter is changed based on the capture mode and lighting conditions. The system uses different exposure times for HDR capture to ensure adequate brightness in dark environments, while using consistent exposure times for stereo capture. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing long exposure times specifically when HDR is needed for low-light scenarios
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
Enhances object identification accuracy and distance measurement precision using a multi-camera setup with adaptive exposure control, reducing the need for multiple cameras and improving performance in diverse lighting environments.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor 110 to capture a plurality of images 10
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
Disclosed is an electronic device. The electronic device comprises: a first image sensor and a second image sensor; and a processor which alternately performs a first image capture mode, in which a plurality of captured images are acquired by controlling the respective exposure times of the first image sensor and the second image sensor differently, and a second imager capture mode, in which a plurality of captured images are acquired by controlling the respective exposure times of the first image sensor and the second image sensor identically, identifies an object by using the plurality of captured images acquired in the first image capture mode, and acquires distance information about the identified object on the basis of the plurality of captured images acquired in the second image capture mode.