Hybrid Autofocus Device Using Segmented Focusing Areas
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Solution Overview
Problem
The hybrid autofocus method in cameras is limited in utilizing focusing areas, restricting the full advantages of phase detection and contrast detection methods.
Innovation Solution
A focus adjustment device that includes multiple focus detection units, a judgment unit, and a focus adjustment unit, allowing for focus adjustment based on the positional relationship between different focusing areas, enabling the combination of phase detection and contrast detection methods for enhanced focusing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If hybrid autofocus method is used combining phase detection and contrast detection, then focus adjustment accuracy is improved, but the number of usable focusing areas is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The image plane is divided into multiple first focusing areas for phase detection and a second focusing area for contrast detection. The judgment unit evaluates the positional relationship between these segmented areas, allowing hybrid AF to be applied selectively where appropriate while maintaining other AF methods in other regions, thus increasing the overall number of usable focusing areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically determines whether to apply hybrid AF based on the positional relationship between focusing areas. When the relationship meets predetermined criteria, hybrid AF is activated for enhanced accuracy; otherwise, alternative AF methods are used, providing adaptability across different focusing area configurations.
2Measurement precision
If hybrid autofocus method is used combining phase detection and contrast detection, then focus adjustment accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The judgment unit performs a preliminary assessment of the positional relationship between focusing areas before executing focus adjustment. This preliminary action determines whether hybrid AF should be applied, allowing the system to quickly decide on the appropriate method and avoid unnecessary processing time associated with hybrid AF when it is not suitable.
Solution Approach 2:
Hybrid AF is applied partially only in situations where the positional relationship between focusing areas satisfies predetermined conditions. This selective application ensures that the time-consuming hybrid method is used only when necessary for improved accuracy, while simpler and faster AF methods are used in other cases, optimizing overall processing time.
Data Source
AI summary
A focus adjustment device includes: a first focus detection unit that detects a focus adjustment state for a subject image in a first focusing area; a second focus detection unit that detects a focus adjustment state in a second focusing area through a method different from a method adopted by the first focus detection unit; a judgment unit that makes a judgment as to whether or not the first focusing area and the second focusing area have a specific positional relationship; and a focus adjustment unit that executes focus adjustment based upon focus detection results obtained via the first focus detection unit and focus detection results obtained via the second focus detection unit when the judgment unit decides that the first focusing area and the second focusing area have the specific positional relationship.