Multi-Camera ROI Control Using TOF Distance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with multiple cameras and distance sensors face challenges in maintaining accurate region of interest (ROI) and efficient power consumption due to varying distances to the subject, leading to potential inaccuracies and increased power usage.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device adjusts the operation mode of the distance sensor based on the distance to the subject, reducing power consumption by switching to low-power modes and adjusting the number of zones for distance measurement when the subject is close, and optimizing the light emission period.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the distance sensor operates in high-precision mode continuously, then measurement precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between different operation modes of the distance sensor based on real-time conditions. The processor adjusts the sensor's operating state (first operation mode for high precision, second operation mode for low power) according to the measured distance and subject proximity, making the system adaptable rather than static. This resolves the contradiction by allowing high precision only when necessary while conserving power during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the distance sensor based on shooting conditions. When the subject is close to the camera, the system switches to a second operation mode with reduced measurement zones and lower precision requirements, thereby reducing power consumption. When the subject is far away, it switches to the first operation mode for high precision measurement. This parameter adjustment strategy resolves the contradiction between precision and power consumption.
2Reliability
If the distance sensor measures all zones within its field of view, then measurement completeness is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selectively measuring only the necessary regions (Region of Interest) rather than the entire field of view of the distance sensor. When the subject is close, the system restricts measurement to a smaller ROI that contains the subject, leaving other zones unmeasured. This localized measurement approach maintains reliability for the subject while reducing overall power consumption by activating fewer sensor elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the field of view of the distance sensor into multiple regions, including a Region of Interest (ROI) and other zones. The system selectively activates measurement in the ROI when the subject is close, while deactivating or reducing measurement in other zones. This segmentation allows the system to maintain measurement completeness for the subject area while reducing power consumption by excluding unnecessary zones from active measurement.
3Manufacturing precision
If the camera selects different cameras based on subject distance, then imaging quality is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the distance sensor continuously provides distance information to the processor, which then selects the appropriate camera based on predefined distance thresholds. This automated feedback loop simplifies the system architecture by using sensor data to drive camera selection, avoiding the need for complex manual control interfaces or multiple sensor systems. The feedback-based selection improves imaging quality while keeping the system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the distance sensor serve multiple functions: it not only measures distance for focus control but also provides the basis for camera selection. By using the same sensor data for both autofocus and camera switching decisions, the system achieves multi-functionality without adding separate sensing systems. This universal use of the distance sensor improves imaging quality through appropriate camera selection while avoiding the complexity of multiple dedicated sensors or control systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach ensures high-quality imaging by maintaining accurate ROI and reducing power consumption, particularly when the subject is close, by optimizing the distance sensor's operation.
Implementation Method 1
The distance sensor may measure the distance to a subject using time-of-flight (TOF) technology, which uses the flight time of photons
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device according to various embodiments comprises: a distance sensor; a first camera; a second camera having a different angle of view from the first camera; and a processor, wherein the processor may obtain a photographing request, obtain, from the distance sensor, the distance between a subject included in an angle-of-view area of the distance sensor and the distance sensor in response to the photographing request, determine the first camera to be used for photographing on the basis of the distance to the subject, and photograph the subject on the basis of a region of interest (ROI) of the distance sensor that is set on the basis of the determined angle of view of the first camera and the distance to the subject. Various other embodiments are possible.