Camera Focus Control for In-Camera VFX Display Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-camera VFX techniques fail to appropriately control the focus distance when capturing images focused on a background image displayed by a display apparatus, leading to inadequate visual effects.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus and method that dynamically adjust the focus distance of an image capture apparatus based on the distance to a display apparatus, ensuring the image capture apparatus remains in-focus at a predetermined distance, and controlling blur effects on both the display and captured images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the focus distance is set to a farther area than the display apparatus, then the background image can be captured with focus, but the image capture apparatus cannot maintain proper focus on the display apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic focus distance adjustment by continuously monitoring the distance between the image capture apparatus and the display apparatus. The control unit dynamically changes the focus distance of the image capture apparatus based on real-time distance information, allowing the system to adapt to varying distances and maintain proper focus on the display apparatus while capturing background images at farther distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the control unit receives distance information about the display apparatus and uses this information to adjust the focus distance. This closed-loop feedback ensures that the focus distance is continuously optimized based on the actual distance between the capture apparatus and the display, resolving the contradiction between focusing on distant background images and maintaining focus on the display apparatus.
2Measurement precision
If the focus distance is controlled to match the display apparatus distance, then the display apparatus remains in-focus, but the background image blur effect is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the focus treatment between the display apparatus and the background image. The control unit sets the focus distance to match the display apparatus distance, ensuring sharp focus on the display, while simultaneously controlling the background image to have appropriate blur effects. This localized focus control maintains VFX quality by creating realistic depth of field characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the focus distance parameter dynamically. When the distance to the display apparatus changes, the control unit modifies the focus distance parameter accordingly. This parameter adjustment enables the system to maintain proper focus on the display while creating appropriate blur effects in the background image, thereby preserving VFX quality without compromising focus accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the focus distance is extended beyond the display apparatus, then background images can be captured with depth, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a control unit that performs multiple functions: it monitors the distance to the display apparatus, determines appropriate focus distances, and controls the focus mechanism. This multi-functional control unit handles various focus scenarios (close-up, distant background, varying distances) through a unified system, expanding the focus distance range without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the control unit pre-establish the relationship between display apparatus distance and focus distance. The system proactively adjusts the focus distance based on anticipated distance changes, allowing the image capture apparatus to maintain versatility across different focusing scenarios while keeping the control logic organized and manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A control apparatus for controlling an image capture apparatus is disclosed The apparatus (i) if the target focus distance is longer than a first distance that is a distance between the image capture apparatus and a display apparatus provided in a captured area of the image capture apparatus, controls a focus distance of the image capture apparatus such that the image capture apparatus is in-focus at a second distance determined based on the first distance, and (ii) if the target focus distance is shorter than or equal to the first distance, controls the focus distance of the image capture apparatus such that the image capture apparatus is in-focus at the target focus distance.