Auto-focus System Using Multiple Lenses for Repeated Pattern Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current auto-focus systems face challenges in achieving high focus speed and accuracy, particularly when dealing with repeated patterns, as three-dimensional focusing can fail due to precision issues and two-dimensional focusing requires multiple lens movements, leading to longer focus times.

Innovation Solution

An auto-focus system utilizing multiple lenses with a repeated pattern detection module, which switches between depth-based and contrast-value based focusing approaches. When no repeated pattern is detected, it calculates focus depth using both lenses for quick focusing; when a pattern is detected, it uses multiple lens movements and contrast value calculations to determine the optimal focus position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If three-dimensional focusing is used to calculate depth once for quick focusing, then focus speed is improved, but focusing fails easily when repeated patterns appear in the image

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefocus speedVSAvoidfocusing accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic focusing system that automatically switches between two-dimensional and three-dimensional focusing methods based on image content analysis. When repeated patterns are detected, the system dynamically transitions from depth-based focusing to contrast-based focusing, ensuring reliable operation under varying conditions while maintaining overall system speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the focusing parameter from depth-based to contrast-based depending on image content. By detecting repeated patterns and switching the focusing parameter from depth (3D focusing) to contrast value (2D focusing), the system adapts to different scene conditions, preventing focusing failures while maintaining efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If two-dimensional focusing is used to move the lens multiple times for accurate focusing, then focusing accuracy is improved, but focus time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefocusing accuracyVSAvoidfocus time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary action by analyzing the image for repeated patterns before executing the focusing process. This pre-analysis allows the system to select the appropriate focusing method in advance, avoiding unnecessary multiple lens movements when 3D focusing is sufficient, thereby reducing focus time while maintaining accuracy when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by using only the necessary amount of lens movement based on scene complexity. For simple scenes without repeated patterns, minimal movement (3D focusing) is used. For complex scenes with repeated patterns, the system performs additional contrast-based adjustments, applying exactly the right amount of action needed for each situation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Device complexity

If a single focusing method is used for all scenarios, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different image patterns deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidadaptability to image patterns
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality by designing a hybrid focusing system that incorporates both two-dimensional and three-dimensional focusing capabilities within a single device. The system universally handles different image patterns by selecting the appropriate method, making it adaptable to various scenarios while maintaining manageable complexity through automated method selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8903233B1Auto-focus system using multiple lenses and method thereof
Publication Date: 2014.12.02 ALTEK SEMICON
  • US8903233B1 patent drawing
  • US8903233B1 patent drawing
  • US8903233B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure illustrates an auto-focus system using multiple lenses and method thereof. The system is characterized in using multiple lenses and combining a focus depth based approach and a contrast value based approach to improve focus speed and precision. In particular, the system can avoid the impairment caused by the repeat pattern in the focus depth based approach.