Multi-Camera Distance Estimation and Focus Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-camera systems face challenges in selecting the appropriate camera for image capture, especially when the target object is closer than the minimum object distance, leading to potential focus issues due to inaccuracies in distance calculations.
Innovation Solution
The system determines object distance estimates for multiple cameras and uses camera selection logic to switch between cameras based on distance error information and minimum object distances, ensuring the primary camera is selected appropriately to maintain focus, with the option to lock the secondary camera at a predetermined focus position when the object is near its minimum distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single camera is used for image capture, then the device structure is simple, but the system cannot provide different levels of optical zoom and has limited adaptability to different shooting scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by equipping the device with multiple cameras (wide-angle, telephoto, ultrawide) that can handle different shooting scenarios. Each camera module serves multiple purposes: the wide-angle camera captures landscapes and group photos, the telephoto camera handles zoomed-in shots, and the ultrawide camera provides extreme wide-angle coverage. This universal multi-camera system replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate devices or complex interchangeable lens systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the imaging system into multiple specialized camera segments, each optimized for specific functions. Instead of using a single camera that must compromise on all scenarios, the system segments the imaging task across multiple cameras with different focal lengths and fields of view. This segmentation allows each camera to excel at its designated function while the system as a whole provides comprehensive coverage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras are used to provide different optical zoom levels, then the adaptability to different scenarios is improved, but it becomes difficult to select the proper camera and maintain focus accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the processor continuously monitors distance information from the target object and uses this feedback to determine which camera should be the primary camera. The system calculates the distance to the subject and compares it against threshold values associated with each camera's minimum object distance, dynamically adjusting the primary camera selection to maintain focus accuracy and optimal image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic camera selection where the primary camera is not fixed but changes based on real-time conditions. The system dynamically switches between cameras based on the distance to the target object, ensuring that the camera with the appropriate minimum object distance threshold is always selected as primary. This dynamic adaptation maintains measurement precision across varying shooting scenarios.
3Ease of operation
If the primary camera is selected without considering distance error information, then the camera selection process is simple, but focus accuracy is compromised when the target object is close to the minimum object distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing threshold values for the minimum object distance for each camera type (wide-angle, telephoto, ultrawide). These thresholds are determined in advance during system design and calibration. When a target object is detected, the system compares the calculated distance against these pre-set thresholds to quickly and reliably determine the appropriate primary camera, maintaining both ease of operation and focus accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces distance threshold values as intermediary parameters that mediate between the raw distance measurement and the camera selection decision. These thresholds act as a buffer zone that accounts for distance error information, allowing the system to make robust camera selection decisions even when the target object is close to the minimum object distance. The intermediary thresholds prevent premature switching and maintain focus reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments disclosed herein include techniques for operating a multiple camera system. In some embodiments, a primary camera may be selected from a plurality of cameras using object distance estimates, distance error information, and minimum object distances for some or all of the plurality of cameras. In other embodiments, a camera may be configured to use defocus information to obtain an object distance estimate to a target object closer than a minimum object distance of the camera. This object distance estimate may be used to assist in focusing another camera of the multi-camera system.