Auto-Focus Controller for Moving Image Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital imaging devices face challenges in performing auto-focus (AF) operations during the capture of moving images, as they often result in image flickering or noise, and conventional still cameras cannot support AF during moving image capture.
Innovation Solution
A digital imaging method and apparatus that includes a controller to determine the suitability of the lens for AF operations based on lens information, allowing for appropriate AF operations during moving image capture by either performing continuous AF or disabling it, and enabling manual focus operations using a focus-lens drive manipulator or focus ring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If high-speed AF operation is performed during moving image capture, then focus adjustment speed is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to AF noise and flickering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the AF operation mode adjustable based on shooting conditions. The system dynamically switches between continuous AF operation (for still subjects) and single-shot AF operation (for moving subjects) based on detection results, allowing optimal performance without harmful effects in each scenario
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the AF system by adjusting the frequency and timing of AF operations based on subject movement detection. When movement is detected, the system reduces AF operation frequency to eliminate noise and flickering, while maintaining focus accuracy through selective AF execution
2Measurement precision
If AF operation is performed during moving image capture, then focus accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs subject movement detection functionality that automatically determines whether AF operation should be executed, eliminating the need for complex manual control mechanisms. The controller autonomously decides on AF execution based on detection results, maintaining focus accuracy while simplifying the overall control structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs subject movement detection before executing AF operation during moving image capture. This preliminary detection allows the system to pre-determine the appropriate AF execution strategy, simplifying the control process while ensuring focus accuracy is maintained when needed
3Object-affected harmful factors
If gentle AF operation is performed during moving image capture, then image quality is improved by preventing flickering, but AF operation effectiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts AF operation intensity based on subject movement detection. When no movement is detected, gentle continuous AF maintains focus without flickering. When movement is detected, the system switches to single-shot AF with appropriate timing, ensuring effectiveness while preventing harmful effects in each scenario
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes AF operation parameters (frequency, timing, duration) based on subject movement detection results. This allows the system to maintain gentle operation parameters that prevent flickering during static scenes, while switching to more effective parameters when subject movement requires stronger focus adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
A digital imaging apparatus and method by which an auto-focus (AF) operation may be effectively performed during capture of a moving image. The apparatus performs the AF operation during the capture of the moving image when it is determined that a lens is appropriate for capturing the moving image based on received lens information and stops the AF operation during the capture of the moving image when it is determined that the lens is inappropriate for capturing the moving image. When the lens inappropriate for capturing the moving image is mounted, the AF operation may be performed using an additional switch or a manual-focus (MF) operation may be performed.