Focus Map Generation for Multifocal Image Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photographing apparatuses cannot modify the focus of a subject after photographing, and capturing multiple images at different focal lengths is inefficient, making it difficult to obtain a focused image of all subjects in a field.
Innovation Solution
An electronic apparatus and method that generates a focus map to determine focus values for multiple blocks in a field, continuously captures images based on these values, and stores focus value information to allow post-processing focus adjustment, including grouping or adding focus values to optimize capturing sequences and compensate for global motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple images at different focal lengths are captured, then focus adjustment flexibility is improved, but storage space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The field is divided into multiple blocks, and a focus map is generated indicating focus values for each block. This segmentation allows the system to capture images at different focal lengths only where needed, rather than capturing the entire field at all focal lengths, thereby reducing the total number of images stored while maintaining focus adjustment flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of capturing the entire field at all possible focal lengths (excessive action), the system captures images only at the focus values indicated in the focus map for each block (partial action). This selective capturing approach reduces storage space consumption while still providing sufficient focus adjustment options.
2Productivity
If continuous capturing is performed without stopping, then image coverage is improved, but global motion errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system monitors capturing conditions during continuous image capture and uses feedback to determine when to stop capturing. When global motion exceeds a predetermined threshold, the system stops capturing to prevent motion errors, then resumes capturing when conditions are appropriate. This feedback mechanism maintains image quality while maximizing image coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The capturing process is performed periodically rather than continuously without interruption. The system captures images at intervals, stopping temporarily when global motion is detected, and resuming capturing after a predetermined time period. This periodic action pattern allows the system to maintain both productivity and precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If focus values are added between adjacent focus values, then capturing sequence completeness is improved, but capturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the focus values to be captured based on the difference between adjacent focus values. When the difference is large, the system adds intermediate focus values to ensure completeness. When the difference is small, the system captures only at the original focus values. This parameter change approach ensures capturing sequence completeness while minimizing capturing time.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a method of controlling an electronic apparatus. The method includes: generating a focus map that indicates focus values of a plurality of blocks defined by splitting a field; continuously capturing a plurality of images corresponding to the focus values in the focus map; and storing the plurality of images, focus value information of each of the plurality of images, and focus value information of the field.