Infrared Cut Filter Position Detection Using Image Data Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image pickup apparatuses face challenges in detecting abnormalities in the insertion and removal states of infrared cut filters, such as being stopped mid-operation or displaced, due to increased power consumption and size issues when using detection units like photo-interrupters and encoders.
Innovation Solution
An image pickup apparatus with a hardware processor and memory that determines the position of the infrared cut filter based on image data, using a filter driving mechanism with a stepping motor and gear to detect abnormalities without a dedicated position detecting component, allowing for low power consumption and a compact configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a detection unit such as a photo-interrupter or encoder is provided to detect the position of the infrared cut filter, then the position detection accuracy is improved, but the power consumption increases and the device size becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the position detection function from dedicated detection units (photo-interrupters, encoders) and relocates it to the image sensor by analyzing image data. This eliminates the need for separate detection components, thereby reducing power consumption and device size while maintaining position detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor is given a dual function: it not only captures images but also detects the position of the infrared cut filter by analyzing image data. This multi-functionality approach eliminates the need for dedicated position detection units, reducing overall system complexity, power consumption, and size.
2Measurement precision
If a detection unit such as a photo-interrupter or encoder is provided to detect the position of the infrared cut filter, then the position detection accuracy is improved, but the device configuration becomes more complex and larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the position detection function from dedicated detection units and relocates it to the image sensor. This simplifies the device configuration by removing unnecessary components while maintaining the essential detection capability through image data analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor performs multiple functions including both image capture and position detection. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by eliminating dedicated position detection units and their associated circuitry, resulting in a more compact and simpler overall configuration.
3Reliability
If the infrared cut filter is inserted or removed during operation, then the image quality is improved under different lighting conditions, but the filter may become stopped mid-operation or displaced due to shake or impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the image sensor continuously monitors the position of the infrared cut filter by analyzing image data. When the filter is detected to be in an abnormal position (stopped mid-operation or displaced), the system can detect this state and take corrective action, ensuring reliable operation despite shake or impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary position verification by analyzing image data before and during filter insertion/removal operations. This allows the system to detect potential abnormalities early and prevent incomplete operations, ensuring the filter reaches its intended position even under shake or impact conditions.
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 detection of abnormal insertion/removal states of the infrared cut filter, ensuring stable image capture even under shake or impact conditions, without the need for additional position detecting components, thus maintaining low power consumption and a small configuration.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor configured to photoelectrically convert an optical image formed by the optical system and to output image data
Data Source
AI summary
An image pickup apparatus includes an optical system, an image sensor configured to photoelectrically convert an optical image formed by the optical system and to output image data, an infrared cut filter movable between a first position at which the infrared cut filter is inserted into an optical path of the optical system and a second position at which the infrared cut filter is removed from the optical path of the optical system, and a control unit configured to determine, based on the image data, whether or not the infrared cut filter is located at a position different from each of the first position and the second position.