Multi-Sensor Image Acquisition for Consistent White Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image sensors in a device capture images with different white points due to variations in resolution, focal length, field of view, and manufacturing tolerances, leading to inconsistent color representation across multiple sensors.
Innovation Solution
An image acquisition apparatus and method that applies common illumination information to multiple image sensors using a processor to estimate and overlay individual illumination information, allowing for color conversion and white balancing across sensors with varying focal lengths and fields of view, potentially utilizing a multispectral sensor for additional wavelength bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image sensors with different resolutions, focal lengths, and fields of view are used in one device, then the device can capture images with different perspectives and details, but the images output from the image sensors have different white points and represent different colors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting illumination parameters (color temperature, spectral power distribution) to standardize the white balance across multiple image sensors with different specifications. The system measures and adjusts illumination parameters to compensate for variations in sensor characteristics, thereby achieving consistent color representation despite differences in resolution, focal length, and field of view.
2Loss of information
If images from multiple image sensors are captured simultaneously, then comprehensive scene information is obtained, but color consistency cannot be maintained due to different white points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously measuring the actual illumination conditions and sensor responses, then using this information to adjust white balance settings in real-time. The system incorporates feedback loops that monitor color consistency across sensors and automatically compensate for deviations, ensuring uniform color output while maintaining comprehensive scene information from multiple sensors.
3Measurement precision
If standard white balance techniques are applied to each image sensor individually, then each sensor's color accuracy is optimized, but overall color consistency across the device is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the white balance processing across multiple image sensors by establishing a unified illumination model that considers all sensors simultaneously. Instead of treating each sensor independently, the system combines information from multiple sensors to create a common white balance solution, integrating their responses under shared illumination conditions to achieve both individual accuracy and overall consistency.
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 color consistency and accurate white balancing across images captured by multiple sensors, improving color representation and reducing variations due to illumination differences.
Implementation Method 1
Image sensors receive light incident from an object and photoelectrically convert the received light into an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
An image acquisition apparatus includes: a sensor unit including a plurality of first image sensors that are based on a wavelength band of 380 nm to 780 nm; and at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to: acquire common illumination information from an image output from at least one of the plurality of first image sensors, and color-convert an image output from each of the plurality of first image sensors based on the common illumination information.