Sequential Focus Control for Multi-Subject Image Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital camera systems cannot effectively bring multiple subjects within a captured image into focus simultaneously, leading to blurriness and limitations in photographing multiple subjects.
Innovation Solution
A control device and non-transitory computer-readable storage medium that include a focus control unit to sequentially bring multiple subjects into focus and a recording control unit to record these images, allowing for the capture and storage of images with multiple subjects in focus, utilizing a digital camera and server system for data exchange and image combination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the camera focuses on one subject at a time using conventional auto-focus, then the focused subject is sharp, but other subjects within the field of view remain blurry
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging process is segmented into multiple sequential focusing operations. The focus control unit divides the capture process into discrete steps, bringing each subject into focus one at a time while keeping the imaging unit stationary. This segmentation allows multiple subjects to be captured sharply by combining individually focused images.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary identification of multiple subjects within the field of view before the actual imaging. The focus control unit pre-determines the focusing sequence and adjusts the imaging lens accordingly before each subject is captured, ensuring that all subjects are prepared for sharp capture in advance.
2Reliability
If the camera uses a fixed focal point for infinity focus, then distant subjects are sharp, but nearby subjects become blurry and vice versa
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static infinity focus to dynamic multi-distance focusing. The focus control unit dynamically adjusts the focal position of the imaging lens based on the identified subjects' distances, enabling the camera to adaptively focus on subjects at various distances rather than being fixed at infinity.
Solution Approach 2:
The focal distance parameter is changed sequentially for each subject. The focus control unit modifies the lens focal position parameter to match the distance of each identified subject, allowing the system to capture subjects at different distances with appropriate focus settings.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the camera manually switches between focus points for multiple subjects, then multiple subjects can be captured, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The focus control unit automatically performs focus switching without requiring manual user intervention. The system identifies multiple subjects itself and autonomously determines the focusing sequence and focal positions, eliminating the need for users to manually adjust focus settings between subjects.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from subject identification to control the focusing process. The focus control unit receives information about identified subjects and their positions, then automatically adjusts the imaging lens focal point accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that simplifies operation.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a control device including a focus control unit configured to perform control so as to sequentially bring multiple subjects within a captured image into focus, and a recording control unit configured to perform control in response to a trigger from a user so as to record, onto a storage medium, captured images of the multiple subjects sequentially brought into focus by the focus control unit.