Dynamic Pre-Capture Interval Control for Storage Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image capture apparatuses with pre-capture functions record all image data generated during the pre-capture period unconditionally, leading to significant storage medium capacity consumption and inappropriate intervals for moving subjects.

Innovation Solution

An image capture apparatus and control method that dynamically control the number and interval of image data pieces recorded during the pre-capture period by determining the recording period based on the difference between the first and second shooting instructions, allowing for user-specific adjustments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If all image data pieces generated during the pre-capture period are recorded unconditionally, then the user can obtain more pre-captured images, but the capacity of the recording medium is consumed significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of pre-captured imagesVSAvoidrecording medium capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of the pre-capture recording period based on user behavior patterns. The control unit adjusts the length of the pre-capture recording period adaptively by analyzing the relationship between the start of pre-capture and the user's actual shooting timing, thereby optimizing the balance between capturing desired images and conserving storage capacity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of pre-capture recording period length based on statistical analysis of user shooting patterns. By calculating the average time difference between pre-capture start and actual shooting, the system dynamically adjusts the recording period parameter to match user behavior, reducing unnecessary storage consumption while maintaining capture effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If image data is generated at a constant interval during the pre-capture period, then the system operation is simple, but the interval may not be appropriate for a moving subject

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem operation simplicityVSAvoidadaptability to moving subject
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamic adjustment to the pre-capture interval by analyzing subject movement characteristics. When motion detection indicates a moving subject, the system adaptively shortens the pre-capture interval to capture motion more effectively, whereas for stationary subjects the original constant interval is maintained, thus achieving adaptability while preserving operational simplicity for static scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12219244B2Image capture apparatus and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2025.02.04 CANON KK
  • US12219244B2 patent drawing
  • US12219244B2 patent drawing
  • US12219244B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image capture apparatus with a pre-capture function for generating still image data pieces at a predetermined interval during a pre-capture period between detection of a first shooting instruction and detection of a second shooting instruction, is disclosed. The apparatus determines, within the pre-capture period, a period in which one or more pre-captured still image data pieces are to be recorded in association with a still image data piece generated in response to the detection of the second shooting instruction. The period is determined based on a difference between (i) a time of the detection of the first shooting instruction, or a shooting time of an image data piece selected by a user from among the pre-captured still image data pieces, and (ii) a time of the detection of the second shooting instruction.