Auto-focus Lens System Optimizing In-focus Object Count
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional auto-focus techniques in digital imaging devices are less effective for scenes with multiple objects at varying distances, as they typically focus on a single subject, leading to suboptimal sharpness and arrangement of in-focus objects.
Innovation Solution
The system determines a preferred focal configuration by evaluating which configuration results in a greater number and better arrangement of in-focus objects within a field of view, using a combination of distance sensors, evaluation circuitry, and selection circuitry to adjust the lens system's focus accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional auto-focus techniques focus on a single subject, then the focus distance can be determined, but the number and arrangement of in-focus objects in complex scenes with multiple objects at varying distances is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scene into multiple objects at different distances and evaluates each object's contribution to the overall image quality. Instead of treating the scene as a single focus target, the system identifies individual objects, determines their distances, and evaluates multiple focal configurations to select the one that optimizes the number and arrangement of in-focus objects across the entire scene.
2Device complexity
If a fixed-focus lens is used, then the device structure is simple, but the lens can only precisely focus on a single depth, resulting in gradual sharpness decrease on either side of the focus distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a variable focus lens system that can dynamically adjust its focal distance based on scene analysis. The lens transitions from a static fixed-focus state to a dynamic auto-focus state, where the focal configuration is continuously optimized based on detected object distances and the evaluated preference for different focal settings.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional imaging devices use variable focus lens with auto-focus functionality, then focus distance can be adjusted for different objects, but the responsiveness and efficiency are insufficient for complex scenes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary evaluation of multiple focal configurations before final focus adjustment. The system pre-calculates which focal configuration would result in the greatest number and best arrangement of in-focus objects, then directly implements that configuration rather than iteratively adjusting focus, thereby improving responsiveness and efficiency in complex scenes.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques and mechanisms for determining a configuration of the lens system. In an embodiment, respective distances from a reference are determined for each of a plurality of objects that are observable via the lens system. Based on the object distances, counts of in-focus objects are determined, each for a corresponding focal configuration of the lens system. Each such count of in-focus objects represents a total number of objects that are (or would be) in focus during the corresponding focal configuration, wherein a respective one of the plurality of objects is at a near depth of field of the corresponding focal configuration. In another embodiment, a preference of one focal configuration over another focal configuration is determined based on the counts of in-focus objects.