Autofocus Calculator Using Contrast Fitting for Vision Measuring Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autofocus systems in vision measuring apparatuses are inefficient in calculating the in-focus position, leading to prolonged autofocus times.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that includes an obtaining unit, a first calculator, and a driver, which manually takes object images while moving the focal position, calculates the in-focus position using contrast information, and moves the focal position to the calculated position based on user input, reducing autofocus time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional autofocus scanning is performed to calculate the in-focus position, then measurement accuracy is ensured, but autofocus time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary manual focusing by the user to capture a manually-taken object image group at different focal positions before automated autofocus. This preliminary action provides initial contrast information that guides the subsequent automated focusing process, reducing the search range and time required for precise in-focus position calculation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical scanning methods with computational image processing. Instead of mechanically scanning through multiple focal positions to find the in-focus point, the system uses contrast information from manually-taken images and applies fitting algorithms to calculate the in-focus position, significantly reducing autofocus time while maintaining accuracy
2Productivity
If manual focusing is performed to obtain initial contrast information, then autofocus speed is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows the user to perform simple manual focusing operations to capture images at different focal positions, and the automated processing algorithms then handle the complex tasks of contrast calculation, fitting, and in-focus position determination. This self-service approach enables users to contribute to the focusing process with minimal effort while the system handles the computational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The manually-taken object image group serves as an intermediary between manual user operation and automated autofocus processing. These images contain contrast information that bridges the gap between simple manual focusing and complex automated calculation, enabling the system to achieve high-speed autofocus while maintaining ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes: an obtaining unit configured to obtain a manually-taken object image group, the manually-taken object image group including a plurality of object images, the plurality of object images being generated by taking images of an object while moving a focal position of an image pickup device manually; a first calculator capable of calculating, based on pieces of contrast information on the plurality of object images in the obtained manually-taken object image group, a first in-focus position of the image pickup device relative to the object by performing fitting using a predetermined function; and a driver capable of moving, based on an autofocus instruction input by a user, the focal position of the image pickup device to the calculated first in-focus position.