Canon‘s patented image processing apparatus uses machine learning to detect specific areas in captured images and determine light source colors for accurate white balance correction. The technology involves multiple processors and calculation units to enhance image quality. GlobalData’s report on Canon gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

According to GlobalData’s company profile on Canon, E-transaction user interfaces was a key innovation area identified from patents. Canon's grant share as of January 2024 was 36%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Image processing apparatus for white balance correction in photography

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Canon Inc

The granted patent (Publication Number: US11889202B2) discloses an image processing apparatus that includes processors configured to detect specific areas in captured images, determine light source colors based on the colors in the detected areas using machine learning, calculate white balance correction values, and perform white balance correction on the captured images. The apparatus utilizes a first determination unit to determine light source colors based on specific areas and a second determination unit to determine light source colors based on areas other than the specific areas. A third calculation unit then calculates a white balance correction value based on the values determined by the first and second determination units, ensuring accurate color correction in images.

Furthermore, the patent describes a method and a computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing the image processing method. The method involves detecting specific areas in captured images, determining light source colors using machine learning, calculating white balance correction values, and performing white balance correction on the images. The process includes determining light source colors based on specific areas and areas other than the specific areas, ultimately calculating a white balance correction value that combines the values determined from both types of areas. This innovative approach to image processing aims to enhance the accuracy and reliability of white balance correction in images, particularly in scenarios where different light sources and color distributions are present, ensuring high-quality image output.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.