Image Sensor IDT Conversion Coefficient Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current image sensing apparatuses lack the capability to output imaging parameters necessary for Input Device Transform (IDT) processing, which is required to convert image data into a uniform color response independent of the imaging conditions, leading to variations in color impressions when presenting images.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus and image sensing apparatus that obtain imaging conditions and generate conversion information for de-gamma processing and color balance correction, recording this information with the image data to enable conversion into a predetermined color response function independent of the image sensing apparatus.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional imaging parameters are used for color conversion, then the image data can be processed with basic exposure information, but the color response varies depending on imaging conditions and image sensing apparatus individual differences

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolor response uniformityVSAvoidimaging parameters for IDT processing
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The image sensing apparatus performs preliminary calculation of IDT conversion coefficients based on imaging parameters (exposure time, F-number, ISO sensitivity) and records them in association with image data. This preliminary action ensures that the conversion coefficients are prepared in advance, eliminating the need for manual input and ensuring accurate color conversion when the image is later processed by an external apparatus.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces conversion information (IDT conversion coefficients) as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between conventional imaging parameters and the required ACES color response. This intermediary contains the specific parameters (exposure time, F-number, ISO sensitivity) needed for accurate color conversion, enabling external apparatuses to perform precise IDT processing without requiring complex manual parameter input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If manual input of IDT parameters is required, then processing can be performed in external apparatus, but user operation complexity increases and color conversion accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIDT processing operationVSAvoidIDT conversion coefficient accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The image sensing apparatus automatically performs the calculation and recording of IDT conversion coefficients based on its own imaging parameters, making the system self-sufficient. This eliminates the need for manual parameter input by users, significantly improving ease of operation while ensuring that accurate conversion coefficients are always available for precise color conversion in external apparatuses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9413974B2Information processing apparatus, image sensing apparatus, control method, and recording medium for conversion processing
Publication Date: 2016.08.09 CANON KK
  • US9413974B2 patent drawing
  • US9413974B2 patent drawing
  • US9413974B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus obtains a sensed image, and information representing imaging conditions used when the image was sensed. Based on the information representing the imaging conditions, the information processing apparatus generates conversion information corresponding to a conversion coefficient used in at least one of de-gamma processing and color balance correction processing for converting the sensed image into an image corresponding to a predetermined color response function. The information processing apparatus records the generated conversion information in association with the sensed image.