HDR Pixel Blending for Single-Shot Dynamic Range Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional digital photography systems are limited by the dynamic range of the capturing image sensor, which can be addressed through high-dynamic range (HDR) photography by capturing multiple exposures and merging them to create an image with a larger dynamic range.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for blending pixels based on their attributes, such as intensity and color, to generate high-dynamic range images, using a scalar to combine brighter and darker pixels, with options for automatic and user-controlled blending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple exposures are captured and merged to create HDR images, then the dynamic range is improved, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image processing task by dividing the sensor array into multiple independently controllable regions or pixels, each capable of capturing different exposure levels simultaneously. This allows the system to capture multiple exposures without requiring sequential processing, thereby reducing processing complexity while maintaining improved dynamic range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring different pixels or regions with different exposure settings before capturing the scene. This allows all exposure variations to be captured in a single shot, eliminating the need for post-capture merging operations and significantly reducing processing complexity while achieving HDR效果.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple exposures are captured sequentially, then the dynamic range is improved, but the time required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple exposure capabilities into a single camera shot by utilizing spatial division of the sensor array. Different pixels or regions simultaneously capture different exposure levels, and these are combined into a single HDR image without requiring sequential capture, thereby eliminating time loss while achieving improved dynamic range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from temporal multiplexing (sequential exposures over time) to spatial multiplexing (simultaneous exposures across different spatial locations on the sensor). This dimensional change allows all exposure variations to be captured at the same moment, eliminating the time required for sequential capture while maintaining improved dynamic range.
3Device complexity
If traditional single exposure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the dynamic range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each pixel or sensor region multi-functional by enabling it to operate with different exposure settings simultaneously. This allows a single sensor array to perform multiple exposure functions without requiring additional specialized equipment, maintaining system simplicity while achieving improved dynamic range through the universal capability of each sensor element.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for high-dynamic range images. In use, a first pixel attribute of a first pixel is received and a second pixel attribute of a second pixel is received. Next, a scalar based on the first pixel attribute and the second pixel attribute is identified. Finally, the first pixel and the second pixel are blended, based on the scalar, wherein the first pixel is brighter than the second pixel. Additional systems, methods, and computer program products are also presented.