Image-Capturing Device Focus Adjustment via Micro-Lens Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image-capturing devices lack a practical method to synthesize an image focused on a subject at any desired distance from a single photograph, limiting the ability to easily and quickly set the image surface as the subject for image synthesis.
Innovation Solution
An image-capturing device comprising a micro-lens array, a light reception element array, a detection unit for detecting image surface deviation, and an image creation unit that selects and combines received light signals based on the detected deviation to create an image focused at a desired distance, with optional features like focus adjustment and recognition units for specifying subject positions and regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If image synthesis is performed from a single photograph without focus adjustment, then the process is simple, but the image cannot be focused on subjects at desired distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs focus adjustment before image synthesis by detecting the image surface position and adjusting the optical system to match the desired focus distance. This preliminary focus adjustment enables the subsequent image synthesis to produce sharp images at any desired distance from the captured photograph.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the image surface position parameter by detecting the actual image surface position and adjusting it to match the desired focus distance. This parameter adjustment allows the system to synthesize images focused on subjects at different distances from the same captured photograph.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the optical system is adjusted for focus after image capture, then images at desired distances can be obtained, but the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent detects the image surface position and calculates the required adjustment amount before performing the actual focus adjustment. This preliminary calculation optimizes the adjustment process, reducing the time required to achieve proper focus for image synthesis at any desired distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual or iterative focus adjustment with an automated system that uses image surface position detection and calculation to directly determine the required adjustment. This substitution of automated calculation and control for mechanical adjustment significantly reduces the time required for focus setting.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple photographs are taken at different focus distances, then images focused on various subjects can be obtained, but the complexity of the capturing device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection of the image surface position and calculation of the adjustment amount from a single captured photograph. This allows the system to determine the optimal focus adjustment needed to synthesize images at any desired distance, eliminating the need for multiple photographs while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal image synthesis system that can produce focused images at any desired distance from a single photograph by combining image surface position detection, adjustment amount calculation, and optical system adjustment. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple specialized capturing operations.
4Manufacturing precision
If the image surface position is not detected and adjusted, then the device operates simply, but precise control over image focus is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical focus measurement and adjustment mechanisms with an automated system that uses image processing to detect the image surface position and calculates the required adjustment amount. This substitution achieves precise focus control while reducing mechanical complexity through computational methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the imaging system to automatically detect its own image surface position and calculate the necessary adjustment amount without external intervention. This self-service capability achieves precise focus control while minimizing the need for additional complex external measurement devices.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and simple image synthesis focused on any desired photographic subject by detecting image surface deviations and adjusting the optical system, allowing for precise control over image focus and aperture settings.
Implementation Method 1
a micro-lens array in which a plurality of micro lenses are arrayed; a light reception element array having a plurality of groups of light reception elements respectively corresponding to the plurality of micro lenses, and that receives a ray bundle from an optical system via the micro lenses
Data Source
AI summary
An image-capturing device includes: a micro-lens array in which a plurality of micro lenses are arrayed; a light reception element array having a plurality of groups of light reception elements respectively corresponding to the plurality of micro lenses, and that receives a ray bundle from an optical system via the micro lenses and outputs a plurality of received light signals; a detection unit that detects a deviation amount of an image surface by the optical system when the received light signals were obtained; and an image creation unit that selects a portion of the plurality of received light signals on the basis of the deviation amount detected by the detection unit, and creates an image on the basis of that selected portion of the received light signals.