Single-Shot HDR Image Processing for Motion-Resistant LDR Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image processing techniques for converting high dynamic range (HDR) images to low dynamic range (LDR) images are complex, time-consuming, and fail to effectively handle scenes with motion, leading to flatness and visual artifacts, especially when using conventional tone mapping algorithms.
Innovation Solution
A single-shot HDR image processing system that utilizes a simplified mathematical approach to process a single HDR image, generating multiple simulated images with different exposure levels, applying smoothing, gradient computation, and blending to produce an LDR image with enhanced detail and contrast.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional tone mapping algorithms are used to convert HDR images to LDR images, then image contrast and detail are improved, but processing time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the conversion process by using a single-shot HDR image capture with modified camera sensor parameters (dual gain architecture) instead of multi-exposure capture. This allows direct conversion to LDR without complex tone mapping, reducing processing time while maintaining image quality through mathematical transformations applied to the captured HDR data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential information needed for LDR conversion from the HDR image data, using selective processing of specific pixel regions and exposure levels. By taking out only the necessary data elements rather than processing the entire HDR image through complex algorithms, the system achieves faster processing while preserving critical image details.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple LDR images with different exposure levels are captured and combined to create HDR images, then dynamic range is improved, but device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image capture process into two distinct gain modes (first gain for bright regions, second gain for dark regions) that operate simultaneously within a single exposure. This segmentation allows the camera to capture both highlight and shadow details in one shot, achieving HDR capability without the complexity of capturing and aligning multiple separate images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple exposure captures into a single exposure by combining two different gain amplifications within the same time frame. The dual gain architecture merges the bright region capture and dark region capture into one simultaneous operation, simplifying the system while maintaining HDR capabilities.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple successive images are captured for HDR processing, then image detail in different regions is improved, but motion artifacts and alignment issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing all necessary exposure information for both bright and dark regions simultaneously in a single shot before any motion can occur. This preliminary capture of complete dynamic range data eliminates the need for subsequent image alignment and processing, preventing motion artifacts from affecting the final image quality.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 2E
AI summary
A system and method of processing an image may include capturing an image of a scene. Image data having M-bits per pixel of the image may be generated. Multiple sets of simulated image data of the scene may be generated by applying different simulated exposure times to the generated image data. A processed image may be derived from the sets of simulated image data. The image data having M-bits per pixel may be an HDR image, and the processed image may be an LDR image.