Lens Apparatus Machine Learning Control for Seamless Focus and Zoom

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lens control methods face challenges in seamlessly transitioning between control operations due to conditional branching, leading to discontinuous changes in image quality, which can result in a strange viewing experience.

Innovation Solution

A lens apparatus incorporating a machine learning model that generates control signals based on detected states and additional information about the lens apparatus, allowing for continuous and seamless adjustments in control operations, such as focus, zoom, and image stabilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conditional branching control operations are used to switch control methods under specific conditions, then control adaptability is improved, but control continuity deteriorates causing discontinuous image changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol adaptabilityVSAvoidcontrol continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the control parameter from discrete conditional branches to continuous learning model outputs. The machine learning model generates control signals that continuously adapt to different conditions without abrupt transitions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and continuity by using parameter-based adaptive control instead of branching logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical control system based on conditional branching with an intelligent control system using machine learning. The learning model substitutes the traditional control algorithm, enabling seamless transitions between control states through continuous function evaluation rather than discrete decision branches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple control factors are considered simultaneously, then control comprehensiveness is improved, but control complexity increases making synergistic control difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol comprehensivenessVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple control factors and decision-making processes into a single machine learning model. The model simultaneously processes multiple input parameters (focus position, zoom level, lighting conditions, etc.) and generates coordinated control signals, reducing control complexity by integrating分散ed control logic into a unified intelligent system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The machine learning model serves as a universal control mechanism that handles multiple control functions (focus adjustment, zoom control, aperture management) through a single system. This multi-functional approach improves comprehensiveness while managing complexity by using one adaptive controller instead of multiple specialized control algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11762165B2Lens apparatus, image pickup apparatus, control method, and computer-readable storage medium
Publication Date: 2023.09.19 CANON KK
  • US11762165B2 patent drawing
  • US11762165B2 patent drawing
  • US11762165B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lens apparatus includes an optical member, a driving device configured to drive the optical member, a detector configured to detect a state relating to the driving, and a processor configured to generate a control signal for the driving device based on first information about the detected state. The processor includes a machine learning model configured to generate an output relating to the control signal based on the first information and second information about the lens apparatus, the second information being different from the first information.