Multi-Camera Image Processing for Real-Time Depth Preview

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices cannot perform real-time image displaying or video capturing using depth information for image processing.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device with multiple cameras and an image processor that enables real-time image processing by synthesizing and applying depth information to images, allowing for real-time image previewing and capturing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If image processing is performed through after-treatment using depth information, then depth-dependent blurring effect is achieved, but real-time image displaying or video capturing cannot be performed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedepth information accuracyVSAvoidreal-time processing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies depth information to the preview image in real-time before the actual image capture. The image processor obtains depth information from multiple images, applies it to the preview image to generate a depth-dependent blurring effect, and displays the processed preview image immediately. This preliminary application of depth information enables real-time visualization without waiting for after-treatment processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Loss of information

If depth information is obtained through autofocus scanning, then depth map is generated, but processing time is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedepth information completenessVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs autofocus scanning to obtain depth information for the preview image, which may involve processing more data than strictly necessary for final capture. The image processor uses the obtained depth information immediately for real-time preview processing, accepting the time cost of comprehensive depth scanning in exchange for complete depth information and realistic depth effects in the preview.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP3210376B1Electronic device and method for processing image
Publication Date: 2025.11.26 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3210376B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3210376B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B
  • EP3210376B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

Electronic devices and methods for processing images are provided. The method includes obtaining a first image and a second image through a first image sensor, extracting depth information from at least one third image obtained through a second image sensor, applying the extracted depth information to the obtained first image and displaying the first image, and applying the extracted depth information to the obtained second image.