Stereoscopic Imaging Apparatus Pupil-Split Contrast AF
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stereoscopic imaging apparatuses using phase-difference AF methods face decreased focusing accuracy due to noise, ghosting, and aberrations, especially when the AF area is near the angle of view, and existing systems lack efficient methods to quickly and accurately focus.
Innovation Solution
A stereoscopic imaging apparatus that combines contrast AF and phase-difference AF, using a single optical system with image sensors to pupil-split images in different directions, allowing for selective use of the most suitable AF method based on image quality and aberration, thereby improving focusing accuracy and reducing processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If phase-difference AF method is used to perform focus detection without moving the focusing lens, then focusing speed is improved, but focusing accuracy decreases when noise, ghosting, or aberrations are present
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between phase-difference AF and contrast AF methods based on real-time detection of image quality parameters. When noise, ghosting, or aberrations are detected, the system transitions from phase-difference AF to contrast AF, creating a dynamic adaptation mechanism that maintains both speed and accuracy under varying conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the AF method parameter based on image quality conditions. By monitoring parameters such as noise levels, ghosting detection, and aberration characteristics, the system adjusts the AF method selection, switching between phase-difference and contrast AF to maintain optimal focusing performance
2Loss of time
If phase-difference AF method is used for the entire AF area, then processing time is reduced, but focusing accuracy decreases when AF area is set near the angle of view
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different AF methods to different regions of the AF area based on local image quality characteristics. Areas near the angle of view that exhibit poor image quality due to aberrations are excluded from phase-difference AF processing, while central areas with better quality continue to use the faster phase-difference method, achieving local optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The AF area is segmented into multiple regions based on image quality parameters. The system identifies regions suitable for phase-difference AF and separates them from regions requiring contrast AF, particularly areas near the angle of view where aberrations degrade image quality, thereby maintaining both speed and accuracy
3Measurement precision
If contrast AF is performed on both first and second images, then focusing accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of performing contrast AF on both images, the system applies contrast AF selectively to only the first image when needed. This partial application of the more time-consuming contrast AF method achieves sufficient focusing accuracy without the full processing cost of analyzing both images, optimizing the trade-off between accuracy and time
Data Source
AI summary
A stereoscopic imaging apparatus which uses contrast AF to obviate disadvantages of phase-difference AF, shorten processing time of contrast AF, and improve focusing accuracy. A stereoscopic imaging apparatus including a single photographing optical system, an image sensor for forming a first image which passed through a first region and a second image which passed through a second region, wherein the first region and the second region are pupil-split in a predetermined different direction in the photographing optical system, and a contrast AF controlling part for controlling the positions of a lens in the photographing optical system by using the first image and the second image.