Camera Focus Depth Determination via Autofocus Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing devices face challenges in accurately determining the relative depth of objects within a camera's field of view, making it difficult to focus on the appropriate image or identify the primary object of interest, especially when objects are at varying distances from the camera.
Innovation Solution
The computing device captures a series of images at different focus settings during the autofocus process, utilizing the depth information from each image to determine the relative depth of objects and render an augmented reality by overlaying information about recognized objects, with elements displayed at corresponding depths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the camera captures images at multiple focus settings to determine depth, then depth determination accuracy is improved, but the time required for autofocus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary capture of multiple images at different focus settings during the autofocus process. By capturing these images in advance as part of the autofocus sequence, the depth information is obtained without requiring additional time beyond the normal autofocus operation. The processor then analyzes these pre-captured images to determine depth, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and time.
2Measurement precision
If the device processes multiple images captured at different focus settings, then depth information accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor extracts depth information by analyzing focus characteristics of specific objects across multiple images captured at different focus settings. By isolating and analyzing only the relevant focus-related features rather than processing entire images comprehensively, the system achieves accurate depth determination while minimizing processing complexity. This selective extraction approach resolves the contradiction between precision and complexity.
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 method allows for accurate determination of object depths and enhanced user experience by providing relevant information about objects in the field of view, improving focus accuracy and user interface clarity.
Implementation Method 1
capture a plurality of images with a camera... each image captured with a different setting for the camera, such as during an autofocus process
Data Source
AI summary
A computing device can capture a plurality of images using a camera of the device, each image being captured with a different focus setting of the camera. In some embodiments, the capturing the plurality of images can be performed during an autofocus process of the camera. The device can determine depth information, such as a position of relative depth, for each of the plurality of images based on the state of the camera when each image was captured. Depth information for any object(s) in focus in a respective one of the plurality of images can be determined to correspond to the depth information for the respective image.