Imaging Device Zoom Control via Angular Velocity Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capturing apparatuses fail to perform appropriate zoom control, as zoom magnification is determined solely by momentary angular velocity, not considering the nature of the panning operation.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus determines the user's operation state based on changes in angular velocity, selecting from predefined zoom states to adjust zoom magnification accordingly, ensuring appropriate zoom control during panning operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If zoom magnification is determined solely by momentary angular velocity, then the zoom control responds quickly to panning operations, but the zoom control is inappropriate because it does not consider the nature of the panning operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static zoom control (fixed zoom magnification based only on current angular velocity) to dynamic zoom control that adapts to changing panning conditions. The system continuously monitors angular velocity over time and adjusts zoom magnification dynamically based on the detected panning state (acceleration, constant velocity, deceleration), making the zoom control responsive and appropriate to the user's actual panning behavior.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the angular velocity sensor to continuously monitor panning motion and feed this information back to the zoom control mechanism. The system detects changes in angular velocity, determines the panning state, and adjusts zoom magnification accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures that zoom control is both responsive (quick to react) and appropriate (matches the nature of panning operation).
2Device complexity
If zoom magnification is changed based on very value of determined panning speed, then the zoom control is simple to implement, but appropriate zoom control is impossible because it does not account for panning operation characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the continuous panning operation into distinct states: acceleration phase, constant velocity phase, and deceleration phase. Each state is detected based on angular velocity changes and is associated with a specific zoom magnification. This segmentation allows the system to implement adaptive zoom control without excessive complexity, as each state has a predefined zoom response.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by monitoring angular velocity as a parameter and using its rate of change to determine panning state. The system changes the zoom magnification parameter based on detected angular velocity patterns, enabling adaptive zoom control that responds to different panning characteristics while maintaining relatively simple implementation through parameter-based decision making.
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
This approach enables effective zoom control that matches the user's panning speed and operation, improving usability by maintaining a clear view of the subject during high-speed panning and zooming.
Implementation Method 1
the panning operation is detected based on an output from an angular velocity sensor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present technology relates to an image capturing apparatus, a method, and a program for performing appropriate zoom control. An angular velocity detection unit detects an angular velocity of movement of an image capturing apparatus. An operation determination unit determines an operation state of a user based on the angular velocities at a plurality of times. A zoom control unit performs zoom control based on the operation state. As described above, by using angular velocities at a plurality of times, it is possible to identify the operation state in more detail and to perform appropriate zoom control depending on the user's operation state. The present technology can be applied to a digital camera, a digital still camera, a multifunctional mobile phone and the like.