Automated Zoom Lens Control for During-Exposure Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

During-exposure zoom imaging operations in cameras require high user skill, making it difficult for novices to perform effectively, as they need to manually operate the zoom lens during exposure to achieve the desired image composition.

Innovation Solution

An information processing device and method that automatically controls the zoom lens based on the position, size, and type of the subject in the image, determining whether to execute the zoom operation and displaying guide images when necessary, to facilitate proper composition and operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual zoom operation during exposure is performed, then image composition reflecting user intention can be achieved, but user skill requirement increases making it difficult for novices

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEase of during-exposure zoom operationVSAvoidOperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically performs zoom operations during exposure without requiring manual user input. The camera identifies the main subject and autonomously controls the zoom lens to create the desired radial flow effect, making the system serve itself rather than requiring skilled manual operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical zoom operation with an automated control system that uses image processing and algorithmic decision-making. The mechanical zoom lens control is substituted by an electronic control system that automatically determines zoom parameters based on subject analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If automatic zoom control is implemented, then ease of operation improves for novices, but user control over composition may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEase of during-exposure zoom operationVSAvoidUser control flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors the captured image to identify the main subject and adjusts zoom operations based on real-time feedback about subject position, size, and composition. This closed-loop control allows automatic operation while adapting to the specific imaging situation to maintain compositional quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically changes zoom parameters (zoom speed, zoom amount, timing) based on detected subject characteristics and desired composition effects. By adjusting multiple parameters automatically, the system maintains versatility and adaptability without requiring manual user control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10567664B2Information processing device and information processing method
Publication Date: 2020.02.18 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US10567664B2 patent drawing
  • US10567664B2 patent drawing
  • US10567664B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing device including a control unit that, based on a specific subject that is an imaging target of a during-exposure zoom imaging operation, performs control decide control details for a zoom lens in the during-exposure zoom imaging operation.