Camera Control System Switching Autofocus to Extended Depth of Field
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera systems in electronic devices face limitations in focusing modes, particularly in balancing depth of field and power efficiency, especially in rapid shooting and low-power modes, where autofocus systems can be slow and battery-intensive, and fixed focus systems may not provide optimal image quality across varying distances.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that dynamically switches between autofocus and extended depth of field (EDoF) modes based on user settings, device conditions, and operational modes, using software algorithms to process and enhance image focus, thereby optimizing focusing speed and power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If autofocus system is used, then image focusing speed is improved, but power consumption increases and shooting speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic focusing system that switches between autofocus and fixed focus modes based on shooting conditions. The system dynamically adjusts the focusing strategy: using autofocus when speed is critical and fixed focus when power conservation is prioritized, thereby resolving the contradiction between focusing speed and power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the focusing parameter (from dynamic autofocus to static fixed focus) based on operational mode. By adjusting the focusing mode parameter according to shooting requirements, the system optimizes both power consumption and focusing performance for different scenarios
2Use of energy by moving object
If fixed focus system is used, then power consumption is reduced, but depth of field optimization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic focusing architecture that can switch between fixed focus and autofocus modes. This allows the system to maintain low power consumption during normal operation while adapting to use autofocus when specific depth of field requirements demand it, thereby achieving both power efficiency and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The focusing system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in fixed focus mode for power-saving scenarios and switch to autofocus mode when adaptability is needed. This multi-functional design allows a single system to satisfy both power consumption requirements and depth of field optimization needs
3Manufacturing precision
If autofocus system is used in rapid shooting mode, then image quality is improved, but shooting speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic or conditional autofocus activation rather than continuous autofocus operation. By strategically applying autofocus only when needed between rapid shots or under specific conditions, the system maintains image quality while preserving high shooting speed through intermittent focusing actions
Solution Approach 2:
The focusing system dynamically adjusts its operation intensity based on shooting mode. In rapid shooting mode, it optimizes the balance between quality and speed by reducing autofocus frequency or range while maintaining adequate focus, thereby achieving both acceptable image quality and high productivity
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method in an electronic device provide for controlling a camera, wherein the camera can selectively operate in a first focus mode and in a second focus mode. The first focus mode is initially selected. In response to detecting a state of the electronic device, the second focus mode is selected. The first focus mode can be an autofocus mode. The second focus mode can be an extended depth of field mode, wherein software processing is used to extend the focus range of the camera. The detected state of the electronic device can be a previous user selection, a low power mode, or a continued request for taking photographs following taking a photograph in the autofocus mode.