Multi-Parameter Image Capture for Post-Capture Algorithm Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image capturing devices require users to select image processing algorithms before capturing images, making them more complex to use, especially in varying lighting and imaging conditions, as users need to understand multiple algorithms and their effects.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus and method that automatically detect inputs, such as user selections or physical conditions, to capture multiple images with different parameters for various image processing algorithms, allowing for automatic or user-driven processing after capture.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If users select image processing algorithms before capturing images, then high quality images can be obtained in different lighting and imaging conditions, but the apparatus becomes more difficult for users to use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoiduser operation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically capturing multiple images with different parameters (such as different exposures, focus settings, or flash configurations) before the user needs to make any algorithm selection. This preliminary capture of diverse image data eliminates the need for users to understand or select between complex algorithms later, while still enabling high-quality image processing through subsequent automated algorithm selection based on the captured images

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If multiple image processing algorithms are made available, then high quality images can be obtained in different lighting and imaging conditions, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidalgorithm selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service by automatically selecting and applying the appropriate image processing algorithm based on the captured images and detected physical conditions. The apparatus serves itself by evaluating the captured images against multiple algorithm options and automatically choosing the best match, eliminating the need for user intervention in algorithm selection while maintaining access to multiple processing algorithms for optimal image quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If users need to understand multiple algorithms and their effects, then high quality images can be obtained, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoiduser understanding requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts the complex algorithm selection task from the user's responsibilities and transfers it to the automated system. By taking out the need for user understanding of multiple algorithms and implementing automatic algorithm selection based on captured images and physical conditions, the system maintains high image quality while significantly reducing the operational burden and knowledge requirements for users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS9621796B2Method, apparatus and computer program for capturing images with multiple image capture and image modification
Publication Date: 2017.04.11 NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY
  • US9621796B2 patent drawing
  • US9621796B2 patent drawing
  • US9621796B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The Figures illustrate an apparatus, method, computer program and apparatus wherein the method includes detecting an input; and in response to detecting the input, causing an image capturing apparatus to capture a plurality of images; wherein the image capturing apparatus is configured to have a first set of parameters to capture a first subset of the plurality of images such that the first subset of the plurality of images are configured for use with a first image processing algorithm and the image capturing apparatus is configured to have a second set of parameters to capture a second subset of the plurality of images such that the second subset of the plurality of images are configured for use with a second image processing algorithm.