Image Signal Processor Scene Classification for Multi-Camera Stitching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image capture systems face challenges in effectively processing and combining images with overlapping fields-of-view, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies in generating panoramic images due to incomplete or inaccurate alignment of image capture devices.
Innovation Solution
The system employs an image signal processor to obtain image processing information, perform scene classification, and generate processed images by correcting for color lens shading and automatic white balance, while also using local motion estimation and compensation to align and merge images from multiple cameras with overlapping fields-of-view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If images from multiple cameras with overlapping fields-of-view are captured and combined, then panoramic image coverage is improved, but alignment accuracy deteriorates due to incomplete or inaccurate alignment of image capture devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical alignment methods with image signal processing-based motion estimation. Instead of relying on precise physical alignment of multiple cameras, the system uses processors to estimate motion between frames and compensate for misalignment through digital image processing, thereby achieving accurate stitching without requiring perfect mechanical positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from fixed mechanical parameters (camera positions and orientations) to dynamic processing parameters (motion estimation vectors, blending weights). By continuously estimating motion parameters between frames and adjusting processing accordingly, the system adapts to capture device movement and maintains alignment accuracy despite physical misalignment
2Manufacturing precision
If image signal processing is used to correct color lens shading and perform automatic white balance, then image quality is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a unified image signal processing pipeline that performs multiple functions (color lens shading correction, automatic white balance, motion compensation, and image blending) through integrated processors. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex subsystems into a coordinated processing flow, managing complexity through functional integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary image signal processing operations (color lens shading correction and automatic white balance) on individual images before they are combined. By pre-processing each image to correct color and shading issues independently, the system simplifies the subsequent stitching operation and ensures consistent color accuracy across the panoramic output
3Measurement precision
If local motion estimation and compensation is applied to align images, then stitching accuracy is improved, but computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies motion estimation and compensation locally to different regions or blocks of images rather than processing entire images globally. By dividing the image into segments and estimating motion independently for each segment, the system achieves high stitching accuracy at boundaries while reducing overall computational requirements through localized processing
Data Source
AI summary
Image analysis includes obtaining, from an image signal processor, image processing information corresponding to a previously processed image, obtaining scene classification information for an input image based on the image processing information, generating a processed image by processing the input image based on the scene classification information, and outputting the processed image. The image processing information includes automatic white balance correction information and obtaining the scene classification information includes obtaining the scene classification information based on the automatic white balance correction information.