Multi-Face Autofocus Bracketing via Face Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital photographing apparatuses fail to focus on multiple faces simultaneously, often resulting in only one face being in focus, especially when subjects are at different distances, and existing AF bracket functions are not effective for multiple people.
Innovation Solution
A digital photographing apparatus and method utilizing a face recognition function to detect multiple faces, set corresponding AF areas, and adjust focuses in a bracket mode to ensure all faces are in focus, by using a face recognition unit, AF area setting unit, and control unit to capture images with the same number of focused areas as detected faces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional face recognition AF function is used to focus on one face, then the focused face is clear, but other faces in the image are not in focus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the focusing task into multiple segments by detecting multiple faces and setting separate AF areas for each face. The control unit then performs separate focus adjustments for each detected face, ensuring that each face receives dedicated focus attention rather than competing for a single focus point.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the traditional single-dimension focus adjustment to multiple dimensions by simultaneously managing multiple AF areas across different spatial positions. Each detected face generates a corresponding AF area, creating a multi-dimensional focusing system that handles faces at various distances and positions in the image frame.
2Area of stationary object
If AF bracket function is used with predetermined focus areas, then focus coverage is expanded, but faces of subjects may not fall within any AF area and remain out of focus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary face detection and recognition before setting AF areas. By detecting faces first and then dynamically positioning AF areas around each detected face, the system ensures that AF areas are precisely placed where needed rather than relying on predetermined fixed positions that may not align with actual subject locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the parameters of AF areas based on detected face positions and distances. Instead of using fixed predetermined areas, the system modifies the position, size, and focus distance parameters of each AF area to match the actual characteristics of detected faces, ensuring accurate focus placement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple AF areas are set for multiple faces, then all faces can be in focus, but device complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the face detection function with the AF area setting function, where the output of face detection directly determines the parameters of AF areas. This integration eliminates the need for separate complex control systems, as the same processing unit that detects faces also manages the focusing operation for each detected face.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting faces and configuring appropriate AF areas without requiring manual intervention. The control unit autonomously manages the entire process from face detection to focus adjustment, reducing the need for additional control mechanisms or user input.
Data Source
AI summary
A digital photographing apparatus and method using a face recognition function for obtaining an image in which a plurality of faces are focused by setting AF areas in the plurality of recognized faces and photographing the faces in a bracket mode based on the set AF areas. The digital photographing apparatus includes: a face recognition unit detecting face information from a real image; an AF region setting unit setting a plurality of AF areas based on the detected face information; and a control unit operating so that an image is captured by adjusting focuses of the set plurality of AF areas.