Dynamic Focus Detection Area Selection for Image Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image tracking devices experience update delays and incorrect matching when tracking fast-moving targets, leading to unreliable image recognition due to fixed similarity threshold values that do not adapt to changing camera-target distances.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with multiple imaging units, a detection unit, and a recognition unit that adjusts the similarity threshold value based on the history of differences between image information and a reference image, allowing for dynamic focus adjustment and accurate image tracking by updating the reference image when the target's distance changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a fixed similarity threshold value is used for image matching, then the matching process is simple and fast, but the tracking reliability deteriorates when the target distance changes causing update delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the similarity threshold value changeable rather than fixed. The threshold is dynamically adjusted based on the distance between the camera and the tracking target. When the target is far away, a larger threshold is used; when close, a smaller threshold is used. This dynamic adjustment maintains tracking reliability across varying distances while preserving processing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of similarity threshold based on object distance. By linking the threshold value to the distance parameter, the system adapts the matching criteria to the current viewing conditions. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to maintain both speed (through automated threshold selection) and reliability (through distance-appropriate threshold values).
2Speed
If the reference image is updated frequently to track fast-moving targets, then the tracking responsiveness improves, but the risk of mistaken matching increases due to insufficient similarity verification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the similarity threshold parameter based on distance to balance responsiveness and accuracy. For fast-moving targets that are typically farther away, a larger threshold allows more flexible matching, improving responsiveness. For closer targets, a smaller threshold ensures stricter verification, preventing mistaken matches. This dynamic parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction between speed and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the matching criteria based on real-time distance information. This dynamic approach allows the system to respond quickly to fast-moving targets when they are distant while maintaining strict matching standards when targets are close, thus balancing responsiveness and matching accuracy.
3Device complexity
If a single imaging unit is used, then the device structure is simple, but the image recognition reliability deteriorates when the target approaches the camera causing size changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the imaging system multi-functional by incorporating both a first imaging unit for capturing images and a second imaging unit for measuring object distance. This universal approach allows the system to perform both image capture and distance measurement functions, enabling reliable tracking even when the target approaches the camera by compensating for size changes using distance information.
Solution Approach 2:
The second imaging unit acts as an intermediary that provides distance information to compensate for the limitations of the first imaging unit. By introducing this intermediate measurement capability, the system can maintain reliable image recognition despite changes in target size caused by approaching the camera.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus includes a first imaging unit, a second imaging unit, a light measurement calculator, a holding unit, a detection unit, a recognition unit, a selection unit, and a focus adjustment controller. The second imaging unit is configured to acquire first image information, second image information, and third image information. The selection unit is configured to select the at least one of focus detection areas using a recognition result of the recognition unit. The focus adjustment controller is connected to the selection unit and is configured to perform a focus adjustment control using a focus adjustment state in a focus detection area selected by the selection unit. The changing unit is connected to the recognition unit and is configured to change the predetermined range based on the first determination and the second determination.