Multi-Component Image Auto-Exposure for Fluorescence Detail
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional auto-exposure algorithms fail to adequately account for both visible light and non-visible light components in multi-component images, leading to overexposure or underexposure of fluorescence content, which results in lost details.
Innovation Solution
A dual auto-exposure management algorithm that separately determines gains for visible light and non-visible light components, merging these settings to ensure proper exposure for both types of content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional auto-exposure algorithms adjust exposure parameters to reach a target luminance based on visible light content, then visible light image quality is improved, but fluorescence content becomes overexposed or underexposed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the auto-exposure process into separate handling for visible light components and non-visible light (fluorescence) components. The system determines exposure parameters independently for each component type, allowing optimal exposure for both without compromise. This resolves the contradiction by preventing fluorescence washout while maintaining visible light quality through component-specific exposure control.
2Ease of operation
If a single auto-exposure parameter setting is used for multi-component images, then processing simplicity is maintained, but both image components cannot be properly exposed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic auto-exposure parameter adjustment where the system automatically determines separate exposure parameters for visible light and fluorescence components based on the actual image content. The processor dynamically calculates component-specific luminance values and adjusts exposure parameters in real-time, maintaining ease of operation while achieving precise exposure control for both components.
3Illumination intensity
If exposure parameters are optimized for visible light content, then overall image brightness is improved, but fluorescence signal becomes saturated or lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality control by treating visible light and fluorescence components differently in the exposure process. The system determines separate luminance values and exposure parameters for each component type, allowing the visible light to be optimized for brightness while the fluorescence component receives appropriate exposure to prevent saturation. This resolves the contradiction through component-specific quality optimization.
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
Ensures that both visible light and fluorescence content are properly illuminated, preventing saturation or washout, thereby enhancing image clarity and detail.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor configured to capture the visible light and the non-visible light
Implementation Method 2
a fluorescence imaging agent that fluoresces in response to the non-visible light
Data Source
AI summary
An illustrative apparatus may obtain an image frame captured by an image capture system in accordance with an auto-exposure parameter set to a first setting. The image frame may include a first image component associated with visible light and a second image component associated with non-visible light. The apparatus may determine a first auto-exposure gain based on the first image component and may determine a second auto-exposure gain based on the second image component. Based on the first and second auto-exposure gains, the apparatus may determine a second setting for the auto-exposure parameter. The second setting may be configured to be used by the image capture system to capture a subsequent image frame. Corresponding apparatuses, systems, and methods for managing auto-exposure of multi-component image frames are also disclosed.