17934494. Adaptive-Flash Photography, Videography, and/or Flashlight Using Camera, Scene, or User Input Parameters simplified abstract (Apple Inc.)

Adaptive-Flash Photography, Videography, and/or Flashlight Using Camera, Scene, or User Input Parameters

Organization Name

Apple Inc.

Inventor(s)

Bosheng Zhang of Sunnyvale CA (US)

Angelo M Alaimo of San Jose CA (US)

Kathrin Berkner Cieslicki of Los Gatos CA (US)

Paul M Hubel of Mountain View CA (US)

Frederic Cao of San Jose CA (US)

Bryan Dang of San Francisco CA (US)

Adaptive-Flash Photography, Videography, and/or Flashlight Using Camera, Scene, or User Input Parameters - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17934494 titled 'Adaptive-Flash Photography, Videography, and/or Flashlight Using Camera, Scene, or User Input Parameters

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes a light source module that includes an array of illumination elements and a projecting lens. The module can adjust the illumination elements and the lens to control the emitted light field. The controller for the module determines the light field pattern based on various parameters.

• The light source module includes an array of illumination elements and a projecting lens.
• The module can receive or generate a control signal to adjust the illumination elements and the lens.
• The adjustment of the illumination elements and lens allows for control of the emitted light field.
• The controller for the module determines the light field pattern based on parameters such as field of view, illumination sensitivity model, depth, ambient illumination, and reflectivity of objects.
• The controller also considers configured illumination priorities, including ambient preservation, background illumination, and direct/indirect lighting balance.

Potential Applications

• Lighting systems for photography or videography, where precise control of the light field is important.
• Smart lighting systems for homes or commercial buildings, where the lighting can be adjusted based on the environment and user preferences.
• Automotive lighting systems, where the light field can be optimized for visibility and safety.
• Projection systems, where the light field can be adjusted to enhance image quality and clarity.

Problems Solved

• Lack of precise control over the emitted light field from a light source module.
• Difficulty in adjusting the light field based on the characteristics of the illuminated scene and the imaging device.
• Inefficient use of ambient illumination and background lighting.
• Limited ability to balance direct and indirect lighting.

Benefits

• Enhanced control over the emitted light field, allowing for precise lighting effects.
• Improved image quality and clarity in photography, videography, and projection systems.
• Energy efficiency through optimized use of ambient illumination and background lighting.
• Flexibility in balancing direct and indirect lighting for desired lighting effects.

Original Abstract Submitted

A light source module includes an array of illumination elements and an optional projecting lens. The light source module is configured to receive or generate a control signal for adjusting different ones of the illumination elements to control a light field emitted from the light source module. In some embodiments, the light source module is also configured to adjust the projecting lens responsive to objects in an illuminated scene and a field of view of an imaging device. A controller for a light source module may determine a light field pattern based on various parameters including a field of view of an imaging device, an illumination sensitivity model of the imaging device, depth, ambient illumination and reflectivity of objects, configured illumination priorities including ambient preservation, background illumination and direct/indirect lighting balance, and so forth.