Imaging Device Auto Focus Control Using Depth Image Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging devices with Auto Focus (AF) functions face challenges in generating accurate distance image data, particularly in partial AF modes where the focused region may move during image data generation, leading to insufficient depth information for precise auto focus control.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an imaging device with a controller that switches between full AF and partial AF modes, generating first distance image data for the entire image region in full AF mode and second distance image data for a partial region in partial AF mode, allowing for more appropriate and accurate depth information generation and auto focus control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If partial AF mode is used to focus on a specific region, then auto focus control precision for that region is improved, but distance image data becomes insufficient when the focused region moves during image generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically switches between full AF mode and partial AF mode based on whether the focused region moves during image data generation. When movement is detected, it transitions to full AF mode to capture the entire region, ensuring sufficient distance image data. When no movement occurs, it uses partial AF mode for higher precision on the specific region. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the processing range parameter of distance image data generation based on the AF mode. In full AF mode, it processes the entire image region to ensure complete coverage when movement occurs. In partial AF mode, it processes only the specific focused region to maximize precision. This parameter adjustment allows the system to adapt between precision and reliability requirements.
2Area of stationary object
If full AF mode is used to cover the entire image region, then distance image data coverage is improved, but auto focus control precision for specific regions may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the AF mode based on the stability of the focused region. When the focused region remains stable, it switches to partial AF mode to concentrate processing power and achieve higher precision on that specific area. When the focused region moves, it transitions to full AF mode to maintain adequate coverage. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction between coverage and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by processing only the necessary region. Instead of always processing the entire image, it processes only the specific focused region when stable (partial AF mode), reducing computational load and improving precision. When movement occurs, it expands to full AF mode to ensure adequate coverage. This selective processing resolves the contradiction between coverage and precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes: an imaging unit that images a subject image and generates image data; a receiving unit that receives a mode setting to either one of a full AF mode of executing auto focus control by referring to data corresponding to an entire region of an image to be indicated by the image data and a partial AF mode of executing the auto focus control by referring to data corresponding to a partial region of the image to be indicated by the image data; and a controller that, in response to whether the mode is the full AF mode or the partial AF mode, generates first distance image data regarding a depth of the entire region of the image to be indicated by the image data or second distance image data regarding a depth of the partial region of the image to be indicated by the image data.