Imaging Device Zoom Tracking Control Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
During autofocus operations in imaging devices with zoom lenses, the focusing accuracy can be compromised due to interruptions in autofocus control when zoom tracking is performed, leading to increased control time.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device adjusts its zoom tracking control criteria based on whether autofocus is being executed, using the current or previous position of the focus lens, and varying the control based on focal length changes and evaluation values to minimize disruptions and maintain accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If zoom tracking control is performed based on current focus lens position during autofocus, then control time is reduced, but focusing accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the zoom tracking control adaptive based on autofocus state. The control unit dynamically switches between two modes: using current focus lens position when autofocus is not executing, and using previous position before autofocus when autofocus is executing. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by optimizing the control strategy according to real-time operational state, thereby maintaining focusing accuracy while minimizing control time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter (reference position for zoom tracking) based on the autofocus execution state. When autofocus is executing, the system uses the focus lens position before autofocus as the reference; when autofocus is not executing, it uses the current position. This parameter change strategy allows the system to maintain focusing accuracy during autofocus while reducing overall control time.
2Measurement precision
If autofocus is interrupted to perform zoom tracking control, then zoom tracking accuracy is improved, but control time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by storing the focus lens position before autofocus execution. This pre-stored position is then used as the reference for zoom tracking control during autofocus, eliminating the need to interrupt autofocus to perform zoom tracking. The preliminary capture of position data enables continuous autofocus operation while maintaining accurate zoom tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by allowing autofocus to proceed without interruption while zoom tracking control is performed using the previously stored position. Both autofocus and zoom tracking operations occur simultaneously, with the focus lens continuously adjusting for focus while the zoom tracking unit operates independently using the pre-captured position reference, thereby eliminating time loss from interruptions.
3Productivity
If zoom tracking control is performed during autofocus execution, then operational efficiency is improved, but focusing accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the reference position selection into two distinct cases: one for when autofocus is executing and another for when it is not. This segmentation allows each case to use the most appropriate reference position, thereby maintaining focusing accuracy in both scenarios while enabling continuous operational efficiency. The control unit segments the decision-making process based on autofocus state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter (reference position) based on the autofocus execution state to maintain focusing accuracy while improving operational efficiency. By using different reference positions for different operational states, the system achieves both high focusing accuracy and continuous operational efficiency without compromising either parameter.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device acquires a focal length of an imaging lens; and in performing of zoom tracking control to change a state of the focus lens of the imaging lens according to the acquired focal length, in a case where a change of the acquired focal length is detected, varies a criterion in the zoom tracking control depending on whether autofocus is being executed or not.