{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854217","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854217","title":"Mobile terminal equipped with a camera and controlling method thereof","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2015-11-11T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":18,"abstract":"A mobile terminal configured to process images, the mobile terminal comprising: a camera configured to capture images; an image sensor configured to acquire an image signal of an object in an image captured via the camera; an infrared sensor configured to detect an infrared signal reflected from the object; a controller configured to utilize the image sensor to: determine whether flicker is generated; and detect information related to a light source contributing to the generated flicker based on the detected infrared signal; and an image processor configured to perform white balance of the acquired image, the white balance performed based on the detected information if flicker is generated, and provides an effective white balancing method according to types of peripheral light sources through flicker analysis based on the image sensor and the infrared sensor."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Mobile Terminal Equipped with a Camera and Controlling Method Thereof patent addresses the pervasive issue of image flicker in mobile photography, a common problem caused by varying light sources. The core innovation lies in a dual-sensor system that combines an image sensor and an infrared sensor to detect and compensate for flicker. The image sensor identifies the presence of flicker, while the infrared sensor gathers information about the light source causing the flicker. This data is then used by an image processor to perform white balance adjustments, ensuring accurate color reproduction and eliminating flicker. \n\nThis technology solves the problem of inconsistent image quality in mobile devices, particularly in environments with artificial or mixed lighting. Traditional white balance algorithms often struggle to compensate for flicker, resulting in images with noticeable brightness and color fluctuations. The dual-sensor approach provides a more robust and reliable solution, delivering consistently high-quality images regardless of the lighting conditions. \n\nThe business value of this technology lies in its potential to enhance the user experience and differentiate mobile devices in a competitive market. By providing a superior image quality, manufacturers can attract consumers who value photography and videography. The technology also opens up new opportunities for advanced image processing algorithms, further improving the capabilities of mobile cameras. \n\nThe market opportunity for this technology is significant, as mobile photography continues to grow in popularity. Consumers are increasingly relying on their smartphones to capture and share photos and videos, creating a demand for higher-quality imaging capabilities. The Mobile Terminal Equipped with a Camera and Controlling Method Thereof patent provides a valuable solution for meeting this demand, positioning it as a key innovation in the mobile industry.","layman_explanation":"The Mobile Terminal Equipped with a Camera and Controlling Method Thereof patent addresses a common problem in mobile photography: image flicker. This occurs when the light source, particularly artificial lighting, fluctuates rapidly, causing inconsistencies in the captured image. Existing solutions, such as standard white balance algorithms, often fail to adequately compensate for this flicker, resulting in photos and videos that appear distorted or unnatural. \n\nThis patent introduces a novel approach by incorporating both an image sensor and an infrared sensor. The image sensor performs the standard task of capturing the image, while the infrared sensor detects the characteristics of the light source, specifically its frequency and intensity. Think of it like having a detective for your camera; the infrared sensor identifies the culprit causing the flicker. \n\nThe information gathered by the infrared sensor is then used to adjust the image processing parameters, effectively eliminating the flicker and ensuring accurate color reproduction. This is similar to adjusting the settings on a TV to get the best picture quality. The technology provides a more robust and reliable solution compared to traditional methods, resulting in higher-quality images and a better user experience. \n\nThis innovation matters because it addresses a real-world problem that affects millions of mobile users. By improving image quality, it enhances the value of mobile devices and opens up new possibilities for applications such as video conferencing and augmented reality. The technology offers a competitive advantage for manufacturers who incorporate it into their products. The invention could be used in video cameras, drones, and security cameras. The patent represents a significant advancement in mobile imaging technology, paving the way for more sophisticated and user-friendly devices. Future development will focus on miniaturization and integration with AI. There are excellent investment implications for imaging and sensor companies.","technical_analysis":"The Mobile Terminal Equipped with a Camera and Controlling Method Thereof patent presents a sophisticated technical solution to the problem of image flicker in mobile devices. The system architecture comprises an image sensor, an infrared sensor, a controller, and an image processor. The image sensor captures the initial image and detects the presence of flicker. The infrared sensor then detects information related to the light source contributing to the flicker, such as its frequency and intensity. \n\nThe controller utilizes the data from both sensors to determine the appropriate white balance adjustments. This involves analyzing the flicker characteristics and identifying the type of light source. The image processor then performs the white balance adjustments based on this information, ensuring that the final image is free from flicker and accurately represents the colors of the scene. \n\nThe implementation of this system requires careful calibration of the image and infrared sensors to ensure accurate and consistent readings. The image processing algorithms must be optimized to efficiently process the sensor data and perform white balance adjustments in real-time. This involves developing algorithms that can accurately detect flicker, identify light sources, and perform white balance adjustments with minimal latency. \n\nThe integration of the infrared sensor is a key innovation of this technology. By providing detailed information about the light source, the infrared sensor enables more precise white balance adjustments compared to traditional systems that rely solely on image sensors. This allows the system to accurately compensate for flicker caused by a wide range of light sources, including fluorescent lights, LED lights, and mixed lighting conditions. The Mobile Terminal Equipped with a Camera and Controlling Method Thereof patent offers a robust and reliable solution for achieving optimal image quality in mobile devices.","business_analysis":"The Mobile Terminal Equipped with a Camera and Controlling Method Thereof patent offers significant business potential in the competitive mobile device market. The core advantage lies in the enhanced image quality achieved through flicker detection and compensation, addressing a common user pain point. The market opportunity is substantial, driven by the increasing reliance on smartphones for photography and videography. Consumers are constantly seeking better image quality, making this technology a valuable differentiator for mobile device manufacturers. \n\nThe competitive advantages of this technology include its dual-sensor approach, which provides more accurate and reliable flicker detection compared to traditional methods. This results in superior white balance performance and improved image quality, giving mobile devices equipped with this technology a competitive edge. The revenue potential is significant, as manufacturers can command higher prices for devices with enhanced camera capabilities. \n\nBusiness models for this technology include licensing the patent to mobile device manufacturers, integrating the technology into proprietary camera systems, and offering it as a software solution for existing devices. Strategic positioning involves targeting the high-end smartphone market, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for superior image quality. ROI projections are favorable, as the technology can lead to increased sales, higher profit margins, and enhanced brand reputation. \n\nThe Mobile Terminal Equipped with a Camera and Controlling Method Thereof patent represents a valuable investment opportunity in the mobile imaging market. Its innovative technology, competitive advantages, and strong market potential make it a compelling asset for mobile device manufacturers, investors, and technology companies.","faqs":null,"topics":["mobile photography","image flicker","white balance","image sensor","infrared sensor","mobile","terminal","equipped"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Flicker-Free Mobile Camera - US-9854217","description":"Eliminate image flicker in mobile photos with this innovative camera system. Dual sensors for perfect white balance. Full patent analysis and claims.","keywords":["mobile photography","image flicker","white balance","image sensor","infrared sensor","mobile camera","patent","patent US-9854217","imaging technology","camera system"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854217","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854217","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Mobile terminal equipped with a camera and controlling method thereof\" (US-9854217). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854217","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854217","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854217","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T01:53:09.056Z"}