Image Capturing Apparatus Exposure Control for Moving Subjects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image capturing apparatuses face challenges in maintaining image quality of moving subjects due to prolonged exposure times, particularly when using digital ND filters, which often result in blurred images.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing apparatus with an imaging device that adjusts exposure time for each row of pixels and controls light exposure based on the presence of moving subjects, using different processes depending on the brightness and movement of the subject, to optimize image clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If digital ND filter is used to control exposure, then exposure control is achieved, but exposure time becomes relatively long causing moving subject blur
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device is divided into multiple scanning units that scan different regions of the photographic subject simultaneously. Each scanning unit can have independently controlled exposure time, allowing regions with moving subjects to use shorter exposure times while other regions use longer exposure times, thus preventing blur in moving subjects while maintaining overall image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The exposure time is made dynamic and adaptable by determining the type of photographic subject (moving or stationary) and adjusting the scanning method accordingly. For moving subjects, the system dynamically reduces exposure time to prevent blur, while for stationary subjects, it maintains longer exposure times for optimal image quality
2Manufacturing precision
If exposure time is increased for better image quality, then image quality improves, but moving subject blur increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image capturing process is segmented into multiple scanning operations with different exposure times. The determination unit identifies regions containing moving subjects and applies appropriate exposure time settings to each region, thereby eliminating blur in moving subjects while maintaining high image quality in stationary regions
Solution Approach 2:
Different exposure time settings are applied to different regions of the image based on the local characteristics of the photographic subject. Regions with moving subjects receive shorter exposure times to prevent blur, while regions with stationary subjects receive longer exposure times for optimal image quality, achieving local optimization of image characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing apparatus includes: an image capturing unit that includes an imaging device in which pixels are arranged in a two-dimensional array and that outputs an image signal obtained by image capturing of a photographic subject by the imaging device; an image processing unit that generates a captured image based on the image signal; and a CPU that performs an exposure control process to determine whether an image of a moving subject is included in the captured image, that controls the amount of exposure of the imaging device by performing a first process in a case where the determination unit determines that an image of a moving subject is included in the captured image, and that controls the amount of exposure of the imaging device by performing a second process in a case where the determination unit determines that no moving-subject image is included in the captured image.