Camera Bokeh Ratio Measurement Using Siemens Star Charts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack a standardized method to quantify and compare the optical bokeh effect in cameras integrated or connected to information handling systems, such as webcams, which affects the ability to focus on a subject while blurring the background effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for determining the bokeh ratio by capturing an image of a Siemens star chart at the bokeh point, measuring the diameters of the star chart and blur circle, and calculating their ratio, using a computer-implementable approach with applications like Difference of Gaussian filtering to objectively assess bokeh.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If no standardized measurement method is used, then bokeh evaluation remains subjective and inconsistent, but implementing a standardized method increases measurement complexity and requires specific test procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the subjective bokeh evaluation into an objective measurement by changing the parameter from qualitative visual assessment to quantitative blur circle diameter measurement. The bokeh ratio is calculated as the ratio of the blur circle diameter to the star chart image diameter, providing a standardized parameter that can be consistently measured and compared across different cameras.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a star chart as an intermediary object to facilitate bokeh measurement. The star chart with its specific pattern serves as a standardized test target that produces a measurable blur circle when out of focus, acting as a mediator between the camera lens and the measurement process. This intermediary enables consistent and repeatable measurements without requiring complex analysis of actual subject images.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bokeh is not quantified, then camera comparison is difficult and subjective, but quantifying bokeh requires specialized measurement procedures and calculations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/subjective process of visually comparing bokeh effects with an automated image processing approach. Software algorithms automatically detect the blur circle in captured images, calculate its diameter, and compute the bokeh ratio, eliminating the need for manual visual assessment and making camera comparisons more accessible and consistent.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a standardized star chart pattern as a copyable test target that can be reproduced consistently across different measurement sessions and locations. This standardized pattern ensures that the measurement conditions remain constant, allowing for reliable comparison of bokeh characteristics across different camera models and configurations.
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
Provides a standardized and objective measure of bokeh, allowing for consistent comparison and evaluation of bokeh effects across different cameras, enhancing the focus and blur capabilities of information handling system cameras.
Implementation Method 1
determining a focal point of the camera; determining a bokeh point based on the focal point; capturing an image by the camera of a star chart at the bokeh point
Data Source
AI summary
Described are methods and systems that determine bokeh ratio of a camera, such as a webcam in an information handling system. A focal point and bokeh point are determined for the camera. An image of a Siemens star chart (star chart) is captured by the camera at the bokeh point. The diameter of the captured image of the star chart and diameter of blur circle in the image of the star chart are measured. The ratio of the diameter of the blur circle to the diameter of the captured image of the star chart is correlated to the bokeh ratio of the camera.