Optical Device Focus Detection Point Selection via Line of Sight

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical devices face challenges in accurately selecting a focus detection point due to erroneous detection based on object size, color, and brightness, and variability in line of sight detection among individuals, leading to difficulties in reflecting the photographer's intention for focus point selection.

Innovation Solution

An optical device with multiple focus detection points that includes a first detection unit for object images, a second detection unit for user line of sight, a mode selection unit, and a priority determination unit to determine the focus detection point based on selected photographing modes, ensuring user intention is reflected in focus point selection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If object detection function is used to select ranging point, then ranging point selection is automated, but erroneous detection occurs depending on object size, color, and brightness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveranging point selection automationVSAvoidranging point detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a sight line detection function as an intermediary mechanism to mediate between automatic object detection and manual ranging point selection. When object detection fails or produces erroneous results, the system uses sight line detection to determine the observer's intended target, thereby resolving the contradiction between automation and accuracy by providing a fallback mechanism that reflects user intention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If sight line detection function is used to select ranging point, then ranging point selection reflects user intention, but detection accuracy varies among individual observers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveranging point selection intuitivenessVSAvoidline of sight detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic switching mechanism that allows the system to flexibly transition between object detection mode and sight line detection mode based on detection results and user input. This dynamic approach enables the system to adapt to different observation conditions and individual user characteristics, maintaining high accuracy across varied scenarios by selecting the most appropriate detection method.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple detection functions are combined, then ranging point selection comprehensiveness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveranging point selection flexibilityVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple detection functions (object detection and sight line detection) into a unified ranging point selection system that serves multiple purposes. The same detection mechanisms are used across different photographing modes (automatic, sight line detection mode, manual setting mode), reducing the need for separate specialized systems and managing complexity through multi-functional design.

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

4Measurement precision

If touch panel is used for ranging point selection, then manual selection precision is improved, but user operation convenience deteriorates due to line of sight movement requirement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveranging point selection precisionVSAvoidranging point selection convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors both sight line position and touch input, providing real-time confirmation and adjustment capabilities. The sight line detection provides feedback on the current target, while touch input allows precise adjustment, and the system provides visual feedback on the selected ranging point, creating a closed-loop interaction that improves both precision and convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9445005B2Optical device capable of selecting focus detection point, method of controlling the same, and storage medium
Publication Date: 2016.09.13 CANON KK
  • US9445005B2 patent drawing
  • US9445005B2 patent drawing
  • US9445005B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical device capable of selecting a focus detection point from a plurality of focus detection points for focus detection, such that the selection is performed while causing a user's intention to be reflected thereon. The optical device performs focus detection at a focus detection point selected from focus detection points in a predetermined photographing range. A face area is detected from an object image in the photographing range. The line of sight of a user is detected in the photographing range. A photographing mode is selected from a plurality of photographing modes. The priorities of face detection and sight line detection are determined according to the selected photographing mode. A focus detection point at which the focus detection is performed is determined according to the priorities.