Image-Capturing Apparatus Focus Lens Dynamic Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image-capturing apparatuses using the Depth From Defocus (DFD) method face challenges in achieving high focus accuracy, which limits the speed and precision of focusing on objects.
Innovation Solution
An image-capturing apparatus that includes a focus lens, an image sensor, an image processor, and a controller, which calculates the in-focus position by analyzing first and second image data captured at different focus lens positions, and selects appropriate point spread functions to refine the focus accuracy, adjusting the focus lens movement based on predetermined ranges to optimize focus precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the Depth From Defocus (DFD) method is employed to increase focusing speed, then the speed of focusing on an object is improved, but the focus accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the focus lens moveable to capture images at multiple positions, and by dynamically adjusting the moving amount of the focus lens based on calculation results. The system transitions from static single-position imaging to dynamic multi-position imaging, enabling both speed improvement through efficient sampling and accuracy improvement through iterative refinement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the image processor to calculate the in-focus position based on captured images, then feeding this calculation result back to the lens driver to adjust the focus lens position. The system continuously monitors focus accuracy through image analysis and adjusts the lens position accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that resolves the contradiction between speed and accuracy.
2Device complexity
If the focus lens is moved by a fixed moving amount to capture images for DFD calculation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the focus accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the focus lens moving amount dynamic rather than fixed. The lens driver adjusts the moving amount based on the calculated in-focus position and predetermined ranges, allowing the system to adapt to different focusing scenarios. This dynamic adjustment enables higher accuracy without requiring complex additional hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of focus lens moving amount based on calculation results and predetermined ranges. By adjusting this parameter dynamically, the system optimizes focus accuracy for different object distances and scenarios without increasing device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple point spread functions are selected and used for calculation, then the focus accuracy is improved, but the processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by selecting only the necessary number of point spread functions based on the specific focusing scenario rather than using all available functions. This selective approach maintains high focus accuracy while minimizing processing time by avoiding unnecessary calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the number and selection of point spread functions used in calculations based on the focusing requirements and calculation results. This parameter optimization balances processing time and accuracy by using more functions when needed and fewer when sufficient.
Data Source
AI summary
An image-capturing apparatus of the present disclosure includes a focus lens, an image sensor that captures an object image formed via the focus lens and generates image data, and an image processor that calculates a value relating to an in-focus position in a state of setting resolution of an object distance according to a first moving amount of the focus lens based on (i) first image data generated by the image sensor when the focus lens is at a first position and (ii) second image data generated by the image sensor when the focus lens is moved from the first position by a first moving amount and located at a second position.