Multi-Camera Module HDR Imaging With RGB and RGBW Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile electronic devices with multi-camera modules face challenges in capturing images with high dynamic range (HDR) due to limitations in field of view and pixel array configurations, which affect image quality and user experience.
Innovation Solution
A mobile electronic device with multiple cameras, each having a distinct field of view and pixel array configuration (RGB or RGBW), where an image processor generates a target image based on selected modes, controlling output speed and bit depth to optimize image capture, including binning and HDR functions to enhance image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single camera with RGB array is used, then the device structure is simple, but the dynamic range and image quality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple camera modules, each with distinct functions. The first camera (RGB array) captures color information in a specific field of view, while the second camera (RGBW array) captures wider field of view and luminance information. This segmentation allows each camera to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall image quality and dynamic range without requiring a single complex camera to handle all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the outputs of multiple camera modules through image processing. The image processor combines the RGB data from the first camera with the RGBW data from the second camera, integrating color information from the narrow FOV camera with luminance and wide FOV information from the second camera. This merging creates a composite image that achieves high dynamic range and superior quality that neither camera could achieve alone.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras with different fields of view are used, then the field of view coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each camera module is designed with local quality optimized for its specific function. The first camera uses an RGB array optimized for color accuracy in a specific field of view, while the second camera uses an RGBW array optimized for wide field of view coverage and luminance capture. This local optimization allows each component to excel at its designated task while the system as a whole achieves comprehensive field of view coverage and adaptability.
3Reliability
If high bit depth and output speed are maintained for all modes, then the image quality is preserved, but the processing load and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by processing only the necessary data at high bit depth and speed. The image processor selectively handles the RGB data from the first camera and RGBW data from the second camera based on the selected mode (still image or video). For video modes, the processor optimizes the balance between bit depth and frame rate, applying high-quality processing only where necessary while reducing processing intensity in other areas, thereby managing energy consumption while preserving image quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile electronic device includes a first camera configured to capture a first image of a subject in a first field of view and including an RGB array, a second camera configured to capture a second image of the subject in a second field of view that is different from the first field of view and including an RGBW array; and an image processor configured to generate a target image using at least one of the first or second images in accordance with a selected mode of a plurality of modes. The plurality of modes includes still image modes and video modes associated with separate, respective combinations of output speed and bit depth such that the image processor is configured to control an output of the second camera to have a different combination of output speed and bit depth based on the selected mode.