Autofocus Scan Range Adaptation via Device Tilt Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional autofocus systems in portable computing devices are slow and power-intensive, leading to delayed image capture and poor user experience due to inefficient autofocus scan range algorithms that require multiple iterations to achieve satisfactory focus settings.
Innovation Solution
The system determines the tilt angle of the device using sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes to select and adjust autofocus scan range algorithms, allowing for quick and accurate focus settings by associating tilt angles with specific focal length settings and adjustment increments, and using object recognition to optimize autofocus settings based on distance and motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional autofocus scan range algorithms are used with multiple iterations to obtain satisfactory focus settings, then focus accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases and image capture time is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by using sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope) to predict the subject's distance and motion direction before actual autofocus scanning begins. This preliminary estimation allows the system to pre-select an appropriate scan range, reducing the number of iterations needed and thereby lowering power consumption while maintaining focus accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical trial-and-error autofocus scanning system with a sensor-based predictive system. Instead of relying solely on iterative mechanical lens adjustments, the system uses accelerometers and gyroscopes to calculate focus settings, substituting physical scanning with computational prediction, which reduces power consumption and capture time.
2Measurement precision
If conventional autofocus scan range algorithms perform multiple iterations to achieve satisfactory focus, then focus accuracy is improved, but image capture time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by using sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope) to predict the subject's distance and motion direction before actual autofocus scanning begins. This preliminary estimation allows the system to pre-select an appropriate scan range, reducing the number of iterations needed and thereby reducing image capture time while maintaining focus accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation of the autofocus scan range based on real-time sensor data. The system continuously monitors device motion and subject distance, dynamically adjusting the scan range to match current conditions. This dynamic approach prevents unnecessary iterations and reduces image capture time while preserving focus accuracy.
3Reliability
If autofocus systems use multiple iterations to obtain satisfactory focus settings, then focus reliability is improved, but processing capability is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical trial-and-error autofocus scanning system with a sensor-based predictive system. Instead of relying solely on iterative mechanical lens adjustments, the system uses accelerometers and gyroscopes to calculate focus settings, substituting physical scanning with computational prediction, which reduces processing capability consumption while maintaining focus reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by using its own motion sensors to autonomously determine focus parameters without requiring external input or multiple verification iterations. The autofocus system leverages the device's inherent sensor capabilities to self-calculate the optimal focus setting, reducing processing overhead while maintaining reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly reduces power consumption and processing time, enabling faster and higher-quality image capture by adapting autofocus settings based on device orientation and object distance, thereby enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
obtain tilt angle data representing a tilt angle of the portable computing device relative to an axis
Implementation Method 2
determine the tilt angle of the device using sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of determining a tilt angle of a portable computing device using a sensor indicating gravitational pull on the device; determining the tilt angle of a camera of the device; identifying a tilt angle range from a plurality of predetermined tilt angle ranges; determining a first focal length setting using a first array that associates the tilt angle range with the first focal length setting; determining an adjustment increment using a second array that associates the adjustment increment with the tilt angle range; and determining a second focal length setting of the camera using the adjustment increment according to an autofocus scan range algorithm. A portable computing device including a processor; a camera; and a memory device including instructions operable to be executed by the processor to perform a set of actions, enabling the portable computing device to perform the method.