Panoramic Image Alignment via Motion Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Panoramic photography requires sophisticated user operation and precise alignment of images, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming, especially without auxiliary devices or additional hardware.
Innovation Solution
A method that utilizes a motion estimation mechanism to recognize camera movement by comparing real-time input images with previous images, determining when to photograph each picture based on preset threshold values, and allowing for manual or automatic operation to align images accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual operation with auxiliary devices (tripod, rotation angle detector) is used to achieve precise alignment in panoramic photography, then manufacturing precision and reliability improve, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the camera's own image sensor and processor to detect movement and determine photographing timing, eliminating the need for external auxiliary devices like tripods or rotation angle detectors. The camera serves itself by using its captured images to guide the panoramic photography process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement devices (rotation angle detectors, tripods) with an electronic image-based movement detection system. The processor analyzes image data to determine camera movement and timing, substituting mechanical systems with electronic/optical methods.
2Manufacturing precision
If sophisticated manual operation is required for panoramic photography to achieve accurate alignment, then manufacturing precision improves, but ease of operation and productivity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The camera automatically detects its own movement by analyzing the relationship between sequentially captured images and autonomously determines the optimal timing for photographing, eliminating the need for user expertise in manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sequentially captured images to detect camera movement and adjust photographing timing. The processor continuously monitors image data and uses this feedback to automatically control the photographing process, making operation simple for users.
3Manufacturing precision
If sequential image capture with manual alignment is used, then manufacturing precision improves, but loss of time and productivity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously captures images in sequence while automatically detecting movement and determining photographing timing, eliminating the need for manual intervention between shots. This continuous automated process significantly reduces the time required compared to manual panoramic photography.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera autonomously manages the entire panoramic photography process including sequential image capture, movement detection, and timing determination, eliminating the time users would spend on manual alignment operations.
4Reliability
If auxiliary devices are used to detect rotation angle and control photographing, then reliability and manufacturing precision improve, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The camera uses its own image sensor and processor to detect movement and control photographing, eliminating the need for external auxiliary devices. This self-contained approach maintains reliability while dramatically simplifying operation and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical rotation angle detection devices with an electronic image-based movement detection system. The processor analyzes image data to determine camera movement and timing, providing reliable operation without requiring auxiliary mechanical devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for photographing a panoramic image including the steps of recognizing movement of a corresponding photographing apparatus by comparing a current real-time input image with a previous image through a motion estimation mechanism with exposure compensation, determining a time to photograph each next picture by determining whether movement in a photography direction reaches a preset threshold value, and photographing each next picture by manual or automatic operation at the determined time.