Computational Depth of Field Control via Multi-Focus Image Synthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cameras often fail to achieve the desired depth of field, especially in situations where a wide aperture is not available, and existing digital techniques have limitations in post-processing images to control focal distance after capture.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that involves acquiring multiple images with different focal points using a single or multiple imaging devices, processing these images to construct a new image with a controllable depth of field, allowing users to select desired focus parameters post-capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wide aperture is used to achieve a blurred background effect, then the depth of field is extended, but the camera cannot achieve this because it only has a small shutter opening
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures multiple images at different focal distances before final processing. By pre-capturing data at multiple focus points, the system enables post-processing flexibility to achieve various depth of field effects without requiring complex optical mechanisms in the camera itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/optical depth of field control mechanisms with a computational approach. Instead of using physical lenses or shutters to control focus, the system uses software processing of multiple captured images to synthesize the desired depth of field effect, substituting mechanical complexity with algorithmic processing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a small shutter opening is used to focus the entire image, then the depth of field is extended, but the lighting becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-captures multiple images at different focal distances with adequate exposure settings. By having multiple pre-captured images with different focus points, the system can select or combine them to achieve the desired focus effect without requiring a small shutter opening that would underexpose the image.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple images captured at different focal distances to create a final image with the desired depth of field. By merging data from multiple exposures taken at different focuses, the system achieves both proper lighting and the desired focus control that would be impossible with a single small-aperture shot.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple imaging devices are used to capture images at different focal points, then the depth of field control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single imaging device to pre-capture multiple images at different focal distances by adjusting the focus during the capture phase. This preliminary action of capturing diverse focus data with one device eliminates the need for multiple imaging devices, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining the ability to achieve various depth of field effects in post-processing.
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
Enables users to adjust the depth of field of an image after it has been taken, providing greater control over focus areas and improving image clarity by combining data from multiple images taken with varying focal points.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring multiple images from the same perspective with different focal points
Implementation Method 2
constructing an image using the data of the acquired multiple images according to the selected parameters
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling depth of field of an image by a computer after the image has been taken based on the data acquired while taking the image, including, acquiring multiple images from the same perspective with different focal points, selecting parameters for preparing a displayable image, constructing an image using the data of the acquired multiple images according to the selected parameters; and displaying the constructed image.