Multi-Scopic Lens Focus Detection Using Axis Position Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The accuracy of focus detection in mirrorless cameras drops when a lens unit with multiple optical axes is mounted, as current image plane phase detection methods assume a single optical axis.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize a sensor capable of generating a signal pair for focus detection, adjusting the focus distance based on a defocus amount, and using an adjustment value derived from the axis position on the sensor through which the multi-scopic lens unit's axis passes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a lens unit with multiple optical axes is used to capture stereoscopic images, then the versatility and functionality of the imaging system is improved, but the measurement precision of focus detection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the focus detection process into separate handling for each optical axis. The processor identifies which optical axis corresponds to which signal pair, and processes focus detection independently for each axis rather than treating all signals as coming from a single axis. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by maintaining stereoscopic imaging capability while restoring focus detection accuracy through axis-specific processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different processing rules to different parts of the signal data based on their origin. Signal pairs from the first optical axis are processed with assumptions appropriate for that axis, while signal pairs from the second optical axis are processed differently. This local quality approach allows the system to maintain accurate focus detection for each optical axis individually while preserving the multi-axis stereoscopic imaging functionality.
2Ease of operation
If image plane phase detection method is used for focus detection, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of focus detection deteriorates when used with multi-scopic lens units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the processor continuously monitors the correlation amounts from signal pairs and adjusts focus detection based on the identified optical axis. The system uses the defocus amount obtained from properly attributed signal pairs to provide accurate feedback for focus adjustment, maintaining both ease of operation and reliability even with multi-scopic lens units.
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
Enhances focus detection accuracy for multi-scopic lens units with multiple optical axes by accurately determining and adjusting the focus distance.
Implementation Method 1
the image plane phase detection method of focus detection currently used mainly in mirrorless cameras assumes that the lens unit has a single optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising a sensor capable of generating a signal pair used in focus detection. The apparatus obtains, based on a defocus amount obtained using the signal pair, a focus distance of a lens unit that is mounted to the apparatus and adjusts a focus distance of the lens unit based on the obtained focus distance. When the lens unit is a multi-scopic lens unit having a plurality of optical systems having different axes, the apparatus obtains the focus distance using an adjustment value obtained based on an axis position that is a position on the sensor through which an axis of the multi-scopic lens unit passes.