CN101098409A - Image pickup unit, focusing method therefor, and recording medium - Google Patents
Image pickup unit, focusing method therefor, and recording medium Download PDFInfo
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Abstract
An imaging apparatus achieves a high-speed automatic focus operation and a reduction in power consumption and prevents a miss focus due to an erroneous determination. The imaging apparatus has an automatic focus function, which detects a current position of a focal lens. A limited range near the detected current position of the focal lens is designated as a focus range. A movable range of the focal lens is changed in accordance with the designated focus range.
Description
The application be that January 14, application number in 2005 are 200510068542.3 the applying date, denomination of invention divides an application for the application for a patent for invention of " imaging device, focus method, focusing controlling method ".
Technical field
The present invention relates generally to a kind of imaging technique, and the autofocus system that relates in particular to a kind of imaging device of for example digital camera.
Background technology
Usually, have automatic focus (AF) system such as the electronic imaging device of digital stillcamera, it automatically carries out focusing operation.As self-focusing a kind of method, Japanese patent application publication No. No.39-5265 discloses a kind of control method, and it is known as a kind of soaring formula AF control and is widely used.In soaring formula AF control, obtain the integer value of high fdrequency component or the intensity difference between the adjacent image point from picture signal, wherein picture signal is obtained on single field or frame, is the AF estimated value thereby this integer value that therefore obtains is set, this value representation degree of focus.Because the marginal portion of subject is clearly in focus state, so the AF estimated value is big.On the other hand, in focus state not, the AF estimated value is little.When carrying out AF control, the condenser lens of forming the part of imaging optical system is moved, thereby obtains the AF estimated value continuously, then, when the AF estimated value when being called as the maximum of focus point, these lens stop.
Because imaging device is compared with the imaging device of the video camera of for example dynamically making a video recording, for example the imaging device of digital type static camera requires to focus on accurately usually, therefore, when each the photograph, carry out the AF operation, perhaps in logging mode, always repeat focusing operation.
But, if in taking each time, all use soaring formula control AF, in the range measurement scope of macro mode or the long distance of variable focal length camera take side, the condenser lens amount of movement is big, thereby the problem that has caused time lag, just, shutter lags behind release time, carries out to take photographer this time lag to begin to ask the time up to shooting is actually carried out to produce.
In addition, in the digital stillcamera of zoom lens is installed, wherein the zoom magnification ratio can change by changing focusing distance, can select a kind of in two kinds of coverages, one of them is a macro mode, and it is as a kind of coverage, the distance range that use is nearer than preset distance, and another kind is the normal image pattern, and it uses the distance range far away than above-mentioned preset distance as a kind of coverage.But in macro mode, distance is very little between subject and the condenser lens, and in whole range measurement scope, the amount of movement of condenser lens is big, therefore produces above-mentioned shutter and lags behind release time, and it causes shutter not in the correct problem that discharges constantly.
And, because when each the shooting, by moving of motor-driven condenser lens always as a kind of AF scan operation on whole subject zone, therefore, a large amount of electrical power are consumed, and it causes battery cell to shorten useful life, and wherein this battery uses as power supply usually.In addition, if for example take the image of subject, and have woven wire (wire-netting) betwixt, then the AF estimated value has peak value on woven wire when whole subject zone all is being carried out the AF scan operation, the operation that it leads to errors, and the subject image weakens like this.As the measure that is used to address this problem, Japan postpones publication application No.54-113334 and has proposed a kind of limited field to carry out the technology of focus measurement.In addition, Japan postpones publication application No.2003-230039, and No.2003-262786 and No.9-211298 disclose restriction AF sweep limits, i.e. moving range by motor-driven condenser lens is to the technology of a particular range.
Particularly, Japan postpones publication application No.54-113334 and discloses a kind of such technology, this technology is carried out the focusing detection and localization by the distance range of selecting to want from all distance ranges, but only use the data in the scope of wanting in all scanning areas, these data can prevent wrong mensuration effectively, are reduced and electric power consumption reduces the time that spends in AF operation.Japan postpones publication application No.2003-230039 and discloses a kind of such technology, and this technology is carried out AF scanning and limited focusing range simultaneously when the operation specific button is carried out releasing operation.The technology of this Patent data is restricted to predetermined scope with the AF sweep limits.Japan postpones publication application No.2003-262786 and discloses a kind of such technology, and this technology is divided focusing range and carry out AF scanning on one of focusing range that is divided of appointment.The technology of this Patent data is divided focusing range, and carries out AF scanning on one of focusing range that is divided, thereby only when can not finish focusing operation to one of described focusing range that is divided, carries out AF and scan on other focusing range that is divided.Japan postpones publication application No.9-211298 and discloses a kind of such technology, and the moving range whether this choice of technology and setting divide condenser lens allows district and mobile exclusion area for moving, thereby prevents that condenser lens from moving to mobile exclusion area.
Summary of the invention
Overall purpose of the present invention provides a kind of improved effective imaging device, to eliminate above-mentioned problem.
Of the present invention one more specifically purpose provide a kind of imaging device and a kind of focus method, it realizes the minimizing of high-speed automatic focusing operation and power consumption, and prevents because the mistake that error measurement causes focuses on, thereby improves the convenience of use.
Another object of the present invention is, a kind of imaging device and focusing controlling method are provided, and it realizes the minimizing of high-speed automatic focusing operation and power consumption, and helps to improve the result's that automatic focus operates stability.
In order to satisfy above-mentioned purpose,, comprising: the condenser lens position detecting device that is used to detect the current location of condenser lens according to the invention provides a kind of imaging device with auto-focus function; The focusing range specified device that is used to specify the condenser lens limited range and is focusing range wherein this limited range near the condenser lens current location that the condenser lens locating and detecting device detects; And be used to change according to the condenser lens mobile range changeable device that changes the mobile range of condenser lens by the focusing range of focusing range specified device appointment.
According to above-mentioned the present invention, can realize the minimizing of high-speed automatic focusing operation and power consumption, can prevent that because the mistake that error measurement causes focuses on, they have improved the convenience that uses.Just, the time that AF needs can reduce by specifying the AF sweep limits, and power consumption can reduce by the scope of operating the focusing motor be narrowed down.And then, even when subject has the big degree of depth, also can be at the scope inner focusing of wanting to subject, the wherein big degree of depth provides a plurality of peak values when riseing formula AF.
Can also comprise according to imaging device of the present invention: be used to be stored in the prefocusing operation the result at prefocusing storage device as a result; And the alarm indication device, when having specified focusing range by the focusing range specified device, according to be stored in prefocusing as a result in the storage device at the prefocusing operating result, when not obtaining to focus on, this alarm indication device display alarm signal.
Therefore, can prevent under the focus state of mistake, to carry out shooting effectively.Just, by informing that the user because preceding AF result, limits certain zone under unfocused state, thereby therefore this state of User Recognition can prevent from do not repeating to take under the focus state.
Can also comprise the focusing range display unit that is used to show present focusing range according to imaging device of the present invention.Therefore, can prevent the failure of taking effectively.Just, because focusing range is shown, so can restrain the failure of shooting.In addition, when scope did not limit, this just represented that gamut all is a focal zone, and therefore, can recognize in advance that will increase the time lag in focusing operation.
Can also comprise the focusing range change in location device of the position that is used to change limited focusing range according to imaging device of the present invention, wherein limited focusing range is specified by the focusing range specified device.According to said structure, can realize the minimizing of high-speed automatic focusing operation and power consumption, and can prevent, thereby improve the convenience that uses because the mistake that error measurement causes focuses on.In addition, it can also easily respond the change in location of subject or the variation of shooting condition.
Can also comprise that according to imaging device of the present invention the focusing range of the setting that is used to cancel limited focusing range specifies the cancellation device, wherein limited focusing range is specified by the focusing range specified device.According to above-mentioned structure, can further effectively realize the minimizing of high-speed automatic focusing operation and power consumption, and can prevent that because the mistake that error measurement causes focuses on, it has improved the convenience that uses.In addition, it can respond such situation, that is, wish All Ranges is carried out AF once more.
Can also comprise according to imaging device of the present invention and to be used for the macro mode switching device shifter that between macro mode and general mode, switches, wherein macro mode is used for taking the image of subject in extremely short distance, general mode is used for taking the image of subject in the common distance than this extremely short distance, wherein only when being set to macro mode, the focusing range specified device allows to specify focusing range.Therefore, by between general mode and macro mode, mating screening-mode, can realize the minimizing of high-speed automatic focusing operation and power consumption effectively, wherein macro mode is used for extremely short apart from the photographic images subject, and can prevent that it has improved availability because the mistake that error measurement causes focuses on.Just, in common screening-mode, specify focusing range, can easily respond the variation in the shot object, and can reduce the possibility of taking failure by eliminating.
Can also comprise according to imaging device of the present invention: be used for the macro mode switching device shifter that between macro mode and general mode, switches, wherein macro mode is used for taking the image of subject in extremely short distance, and general mode is used at the image of taking subject than the general mode of extremely short distance; And the device of when focusing range is specified by the focusing range specified device, cancelling the appointment of focusing range automatically.Therefore, by between general mode and macro mode, mating screening-mode, can realize the minimizing of high-speed automatic focusing operation and power consumption effectively, wherein macro mode is used for extremely short apart from the photographic images subject, and can prevent that it has improved availability because the mistake that error measurement causes focuses on.Just, in the on/off switch of macro mode, it is very high to be not only the reformed possibility of coverage, and the reformed possibility of subject is also very high, therefore, if it is eliminated, thereby can forget the cancellation of the scope appointment of being undertaken by the restriction of automatic cancellation scope.The possible performance of therefore taking failure is reduced effectively.
Can also comprise according to imaging device of the present invention: the zoom lens control device that is used to change the focusing distance of imaging len; Be used to change the zoom magnification ratio modifier of the zoom magnification ratio that obtains by zoom lens control device; And comprise the device that when focusing range is specified by the focusing range specified device, is used for cancelling automatically the focusing range appointment.Therefore,, can realize the minimizing of high speed AF operation and power consumption effectively, and can prevent that because the mistake focusing that error measurement causes, it has improved availability by variation corresponding to the zoom position of zoom lens.Just, in this case, the reformed possibility of the shooting condition of subject is very high, and therefore, when carry out the image taking variation under without any situation about changing, may take can failure.Therefore, taking the possible performance of failing is suppressed by the restriction of cancelling scope.
Can also comprise according to imaging device of the present invention: the zoom lens control device that is used to change the focusing distance of imaging len; And the zoom magnification ratio modifier that is used to change the zoom magnification ratio that obtains by zoom lens control device; And be used for according to the device that changes focusing range by the zoom magnification ratio of zoom magnification ratio modifier setting.
Therefore,, can realize the minimizing of high speed AF operation and power consumption effectively, and can prevent that because the mistake focusing that error measurement causes, it has improved availability by variation corresponding to the zoom position of zoom lens.Just, although by making the many operations that focus on motor keep substantially constant, the variation that the shutter that has prevented to cause owing to the zoom magnification change lags behind release time, improved availability, but, also have the possibility that the focus detection scope reduces and may have the problem relevant with the focusing rate.Therefore,, under the degree that focal time does not change greatly, change focus detection, can prevent that the decline of focusing rate from preventing the big leap ahead of focal time in the long distance side simultaneously by in response to zoom position.
Can also comprise according to imaging device of the present invention: enlarge distance and measure choice device again, be used for when when limited scope is carried out focusing operation under by the state of focusing range specified device appointment, by enlarging the range measurement scope, select to carry out whether once more range measurement; And when utilizing limited scope can not obtain focusing, and when the extended distance of expansion distance-measuring device with distance of expansion is measured the choice device permission again, be used to utilize the scope bigger than focusing range to carry out the device of focusing operation once more, wherein focusing range and limited scope are provided with by the focusing range specified device.Therefore, can be flexibly and effectively in response to focal position can not be detected situation.Just, but after recording status is set, carry out the AF operation immediately, can obtain to reduce the effect of shutter hysteresis release time.
In addition, provide a kind of focus method of imaging device according to a further aspect in the invention, it comprises: the condenser lens position probing step that detects the current location of condenser lens; Specifying near the limited range of condenser lens current location is the focusing range given step of focusing range; And detect the focus detection step of focus by mobile focusing lens in corresponding to the scope of focusing range, wherein focusing range is designated in the focusing range given step.
According to above-mentioned invention, can in imaging device, realize the minimizing of high speed AF operation and power consumption effectively, and can prevent that it has improved availability because the mistake that error measurement causes focuses on.
In addition, provide a kind of computer-readable recording medium according to another aspect of the present invention, be used for the executable program of storage computation machine: condenser lens position probing process is used to detect the current location of condenser lens; The focusing range assignment procedure, near the limited range that is used to specify the condenser lens current location is a focusing range; And the focus detection process, detect focus by mobile focusing lens in corresponding to the scope of focusing range, wherein focusing range is designated in the focusing range given step.
According to above-mentioned invention, can in imaging device, realize the minimizing of high speed AF operation and power consumption effectively, and can prevent that it has improved availability because the mistake that error measurement causes focuses on.
In addition, according to a further aspect in the invention, a kind of imaging device is provided, wherein in macro mode and the general mode is selectable, macro mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, general mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, this imaging device comprises: focus control device, this device is used for detecting continuously focus when mobile focusing lens, and stop this condenser lens, thereby carry out the automatic focus operation at the focus place; And scope control device, be used for when when macro mode is taken and satisfied predetermined condition, mobile range by the restriction condenser lens is the scope narrower than whole focusing range, impel focus control device to carry out the automatic focus operation, and this scope has last focus.
According to above-mentioned invention, when in imaging device, selecting macro mode, can realize the high-speed automatic focusing operation, it can alternative switch between macro mode and common screening-mode, wherein macro mode is used for taking the image of subject in extremely short distance, and common screening-mode is used for taking in common distance the image of subject, and can reduce the consumption of electric energy, and, can be implemented in the automatic focus of the subject in the distance range of wanting.
In imaging device according to the present invention, predetermined condition can comprise, automatic focus operates in to be provided with and is performed once at least after the macro mode, and the scope control device comprises be used to device that focusing operation is carried out when satisfying predetermined condition on limited scope.Therefore, can prevent from after macro mode is set, to carry out immediately the failure of the focusing in the automatic focus operation effectively, and can realize effectively the automatic focus operation go up cost time minimizing with and subsequent energy-efficient.
In the imaging device according to above-mentioned invention, the scope control device can comprise: be used for monitoring the device at the focus state of focus control device; And the device that when satisfying predetermined condition, is used on limited scope carrying out focusing operation, wherein predetermined condition comprises based on supervising device and keeps focus state after the last focusing operation.Therefore, special when focus state when the automatic focus operation begins to keep always the preceding, can be implemented in automatic focus operation effectively and go up the reducing of time of cost, and can prevent from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and have the shooting of failure still less.
Imaging device according to above-mentioned invention can also comprise distance-measuring device, and this device is used to measure the distance of subject, and wherein the scope control device comprises: be used to monitor the device of variable in distance, wherein this distance is measured by distance-measuring device; And the device that when satisfying predetermined condition, is used on limited scope, carrying out focusing operation, wherein predetermined condition equates with predetermined value or less than predetermined value, wherein based on the monitoring of the device that is used to monitor, predetermined condition comprises the variation of the distance after the last automatic focus operation.Therefore, especially when according to the prefocusing operation to the variable in distance amount of subject hour, be implemented in automatic focus operation effectively and go up reducing of spended time, and prevent from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and has had the shooting of failure still less.
Imaging device according to above-mentioned invention can also comprise the Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism, this device is used for the Luminance Distribution of measurement image screen, and wherein the scope control device can comprise: the device that is used to monitor the variation of the Luminance Distribution of being measured by the Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism; And be used for when satisfying predetermined condition, at the device of limited scope execution focusing operation, wherein predetermined condition comprises, based on the monitoring of the device that is used to monitor, the variable quantity of the Luminance Distribution after the last automatic focus operation is equal to or less than scheduled volume.Therefore, especially when according in the variation of the Luminance Distribution of preceding automatic focus operation hour, be implemented in automatic focus operation effectively and go up reducing of spended time, and prevent from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and has had the shooting of failure still less.
Imaging device according to aforesaid invention can also comprise a kind of imaging optical system that uses varifocal optical system, changes the zoom magnification ratio, and wherein the scope control device comprises: the device of variation that is used for monitoring the zoom magnification ratio of imaging optical system; And be used for when the zoom magnification ratio changes based on the monitoring of the device that is used to monitor the device that on whole focusing ranges, focusing operation is carried out.Therefore, it is special when the zoom magnification ratio has changed, realized reducing and energy saving of in automatic focus operation spended time effectively, and further prevented from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and has had the shooting of failure still less.
In addition, a kind of imaging device is provided according to a further aspect in the invention, wherein can select one of macro mode and general mode, this macro mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, general mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range longer than preset range, this imaging device comprises: focus control device, this device is used for obtaining the automatic focus estimated value by picture signal continuously, its definition according to subject edge of image part obtains, and stop condenser lens to carry out the automatic focus operation in focus, wherein focus is set to the maximum of automatic focus estimated value; And scope control device, this device is used for when when macro mode is taken and satisfied predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower than whole focusing ranges by the mobile range with condenser lens, so that focus control device is carried out the automatic focus operation, and this scope has last focus.
According to above-mentioned invention, when in imaging device, selecting macro mode, can realize the high-speed automatic focusing operation, wherein use the AF estimated value and have focusing function, and between macro mode and common screening-mode, can select to switch, wherein macro mode is used for taking the image of subject in extremely short distance, common screening-mode is used for taking in common distance the image of subject, and can reduce power loss, and then, can be implemented in the automatic focus of taking in the distance range of wanting on the thing.
In imaging device according to above-mentioned invention, predetermined condition can comprise that automatic focus operates in to be provided with after the macro mode and carry out once at least, and the scope control device comprises and being used for when satisfying predetermined condition, carries out the device of focusing operation on limited scope.Therefore, can prevent after macro mode is set the focusing failure of the automatic focus operation carried out immediately effectively, and can be implemented in the automatic focus operation effectively and go up the minimizing of spended time and energy-efficient afterwards.
In imaging device according to the present invention, the scope control device can comprise: be used for monitoring the device at the focus state of described focus control device; And be used for when satisfying predetermined condition, at the device of limited scope execution focusing operation, this predetermined condition is held based on the device that is used to monitor, and wherein this predetermined condition is included in last focusing operation focus state afterwards.Therefore, special when focus state according to operating in preceding automatic focus when keeping, can be implemented in automatic focus operation effectively and go up the minimizing of spended time, and can prevent from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and have the shooting of failure still less.
Imaging device according to above-mentioned invention can also comprise distance-measuring device, and this device is used to measure the distance of subject, and wherein the scope control device can comprise: the device that is used to monitor the variation of the distance of measuring by distance-measuring device; And when satisfying predetermined condition, be used for device in the enterprising line focusing operation of limited scope, based on the monitoring by the device that is used to monitor, this predetermined condition equates with predetermined value or is littler than predetermined value, and wherein predetermined condition is included in the variation of distance after the last automatic focus operation.Therefore, especially when according to prefocusing operation beginning to the variation of the distance of taking thing hour, be implemented in the minimizing of automatic focus operation spended time effectively, and can prevent from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and has had the shooting of failure still less.
Imaging device according to above-mentioned invention can also comprise the Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism, this device is used for the Luminance Distribution of measurement image screen, and wherein the scope control device comprises: the device that is used to monitor the variation of the Luminance Distribution by the Luminance Distribution measurement device; And be used for when satisfying predetermined condition, device in the enterprising line focusing operation of limited scope, based on assembly monitor by being used to monitor, this predetermined condition equates with predetermined quantity or is littler than predetermined quantity that wherein predetermined condition is included in the last automatic focus operation variation of Luminance Distribution afterwards.Therefore, especially when according in the variation of the Luminance Distribution of preceding automatic focus operation hour, be implemented in the minimizing of automatic focus operation spended time effectively, and can prevent from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and has had the shooting of failure still less.
In the imaging device according to above-mentioned invention, the scope control device can comprise: be used for monitoring the device at the focus state of described focus control device; And be used for when satisfying predetermined condition, device in the enterprising line focusing operation of limited scope, based on monitoring by the device that is used to monitor, this predetermined condition equates with predetermined value or is littler than predetermined value that wherein predetermined condition is included in the last automatic focus operation variation of automatic focus estimated value afterwards.Therefore, especially when according in the variation of the automatic focus estimated value of preceding automatic focus operation hour, realize the minimizing of automatic focus operation spended time effectively, and can prevent from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and has had the shooting of failure still less.
Imaging device according to above-mentioned invention can also comprise a kind of imaging optical system that uses varifocal optical system, wherein varifocal optical system changes the zoom magnification ratio optically, and wherein the scope control device can comprise: be used for monitoring the device in the variation of the zoom magnification ratio of imaging optical system; And be used for when the zoom magnification ratio is changed based on the monitoring of the device that is used to monitor, at whole devices of the enterprising line focusing operation of focusing ranges.Therefore, especially when the zoom magnification ratio is changed, be implemented in the minimizing and the energy-efficient of automatic focus operation spended time effectively, and can prevent from effectively to focus on failure, thereby easier operation is provided and has had the shooting of failure still less.
In addition, according to a further aspect in the invention, a kind of focusing controlling method of imaging device is provided, wherein one of macro mode and general mode are selectable, macro mode wherein is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, general mode wherein is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, this focusing controlling method comprises: when mobile focusing lens, carry out the automatic focus operation by detecting focus continuously, it has formed at least a portion of the imaging optical system of imaging device, and stops condenser lens in focus; And when macro mode being set and satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the narrow scope of the whole focusing ranges of ratio that has at forward focal point by mobile range with condenser lens, and carry out the automatic focus operation, wherein last focus is set to reference point.
According to above-mentioned invention, when in imaging device, selecting macro mode, can realize the high-speed automatic focusing operation, it can optionally switch between macro mode and common screening-mode, macro mode wherein is used for taking subject in extremely short distance, and common screening-mode is used for taking subject in common distance, and can reduce power loss, and then, can be implemented in the automatic focus on the subject in the distance range of wanting.
In addition, according to a further aspect in the invention, a kind of focusing controlling method of imaging device is provided, one of macro mode and general mode can be selected in this imaging device, macro mode wherein is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, general mode wherein is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, this focusing controlling method comprises: obtain the automatic focus estimated value from picture signal continuously, when mobile focusing lens, its definition according to the marginal portion of subject obtains, and this condenser lens has been formed at least a portion of imaging optical system; Control the automatic focus operation by stop condenser lens in focus, wherein focus point is set to the maximum point of automatic focus estimated value; And when macro mode being set and satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower than whole focusing ranges by the mobile range with condenser lens, carry out the automatic focus operation, last focal point settings is as the reference point.
According to above-mentioned invention, when in imaging device, selecting macro mode, can realize the high-speed automatic focusing operation, it uses the AF estimated value and has focusing function, and can selectively switch in macro mode and general mode are taken, wherein macro mode is used for taking subject in extremely short distance, and common screening-mode wherein is used for taking subject in common distance, and can reduce energy loss, and then can be implemented in the automatic focus of the subject in the distance range of wanting.
In addition, according to a further aspect in the invention, a kind of computer-readable recording medium is provided, wherein this medium is used to store and is used to make computer to carry out the program of the focusing controlling method of imaging device, one of macro mode and general mode are selectable in this imaging device, macro mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, general mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, this focusing controlling method comprises: when mobile focusing lens, carry out the automatic focus operation by monitoring focus continuously, it forms at least a portion of the imaging optical system of imaging device, and stops condenser lens in focus; And when macro mode being set and satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower than whole focusing ranges by the mobile range with condenser lens, carry out the automatic focus operation, last focus point is provided as reference point.
And then, according to a further aspect in the invention, a kind of computer-readable recording medium is provided, wherein this medium is used for storing and is used to make computer to carry out the program of the focusing controlling method of imaging device, one of macro mode and general mode are selectable in this imaging device, macro mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, general mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, this focusing controlling method comprises: obtain the automatic focus estimated value from picture signal continuously, when mobile focusing lens, its definition according to subject edge of image part obtains, and wherein condenser lens is formed at least a portion of imaging optical system; By stop condenser lens control automatic focus operation in focus, this focal point settings is the maximum point of automatic focus estimated value; And when macro mode being set and satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower than whole focusing ranges by the mobile range with condenser lens, carry out the automatic focus operation, last focus point is provided as reference point.
Other purpose of the present invention, feature and advantage will become more obvious from the detailed description below in conjunction with accompanying drawing.
Description of drawings
Fig. 1 is the calcspar of profile of the whole system of digital type static camera, and this camera is a kind of imaging system;
Fig. 2 is the schematic plan view of digital type static camera;
Fig. 3 is the schematic elevational view of digital type static camera;
Fig. 4 is the schematic rear view of digital type static camera;
Fig. 5 is when being set to macro mode, the schematic diagram of the display screen of LCD monitor;
Fig. 6 is the schematic diagram of the display screen after carrying out at least one shooting or when partly tripping release-push;
Fig. 7 is the schematic diagram of display screen after the OK switch is pressed;
Fig. 8 is the schematic diagram that the display screen of result of variations is shown after change is provided with scope;
Fig. 9 is the schematic diagram that provides the display screen of alarm in the macro mode;
Figure 10 is in logging mode, the schematic diagram of the display screen when detection mode begins after mains switch is switched on;
Figure 11 is in general mode, when the schematic diagram of the display screen when the wide-angle side is specified focusing range;
Figure 12 is in general mode, when the schematic diagram of the display screen when the long distance side is specified focusing range;
Figure 13 is the calcspar according to the profile of the whole system of a kind of digital type static camera of second embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 14 shows the chart of the relation between a plurality of positions of the condenser lens shown in the inverse of focusing distance and the chart 1;
Figure 15 be after taking an image at least or when shutter release button by on time display screen partly;
Figure 16 is the display screen when camera does not keep focus state;
Figure 17 is the schematic diagram of screen picture after just executing the automatic focus operation;
Figure 18 is the schematic diagram of the screen picture in the state of the variable in distance of subject after carrying out the automatic focus operation;
Figure 19 is by according to brightness data they being divided into the schematic diagram of the piece shown in Figure 17 of three classes;
Figure 20 is by according to luminance data values they being divided into the schematic diagram of the piece shown in Figure 18 of three classes;
Figure 21 is the schematic diagram of these pieces, wherein when subject respectively by Figure 17 with shown in Figure 19ly be changed to Figure 18 and when shown in Figure 20, the brightness kind changes;
Figure 22 is a process chart, and whether this processing is held according to focus state changes the automatic focus sweep limits;
Figure 23 is a flow chart of determining the processing that the focusing among the step S20 of Figure 22 is kept according to the variation of Luminance Distribution;
Figure 24 shows the schematic diagram of the screen of scope, wherein at this scope middle distance measuring transducer measuring distance;
Figure 25 is the flow chart of processing of the step S20 of Figure 22, uses by the distance measurement sensor calculated distance in this step, determines whether focus state is kept;
Fig. 26 is schematic diagrames of the screen picture after just carrying out the automatic focus operation;
Figure 27 is the schematic diagram of the screen picture the state that the distance to subject changes from state shown in Figure 26;
Figure 28 shows the schematic diagram of the distribution of piece, and wherein the value of the contrast of these pieces (contrast) equates with predetermined value among Figure 26 or be bigger than the predetermined value among Figure 26;
Figure 29 shows the schematic diagram of the distribution of piece, and wherein the value of the contrast of these pieces equates with predetermined value among Figure 27 or be bigger than the predetermined value among Figure 27;
Figure 30 is the schematic diagram of the piece of black, and it has and is equal to or greater than 128 contrast value, and wherein when the state of subject when being state shown in Figure 27 by state variation shown in Figure 26, its position changes; And
Figure 31 is the flow chart of a processing, and this processing determines by the quantity that detects piece whether focus state is held, and the contrast value of this piece is equal to or greater than 128, and its position is changed.
Embodiment
Provide description referring now to accompanying drawing according to a kind of imaging device of the first embodiment of the present invention.Imaging device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is a digital type static camera, applies the present invention to it.Fig. 1 is the calcspar of profile of the whole system of digital type static camera, and this camera is a kind of imaging system.Fig. 2 is the schematic plan view of digital type static camera.Fig. 3 is the schematic elevational view of digital type static camera.Fig. 4 is the schematic rear view of digital type static camera.
Digital type static camera shown in Fig. 1 comprises: imaging len system 1; Mechanical shutter 2; Solid-state imaging element (charge) 3; Relevant double sampling (CDS) circuit 4; Automatic gain control (AGC) circuit 5; Mould-number (A/D) transducer 6; Timing generator (TG) 7; CCD interface (CCD-I/F) 8; Memory Controller 9; Show output control part 10, compression processing section 11, YUV conversion portion 12, size is adjusted processing section 13; Media Interface Connector (medium I/F) 14, CPU (CPU) 15; Read-only memory (ROM) 16; Frame memory (SDRAM) 17; Liquid crystal display (LCD) display 18, motor driver 19; Operation part 20; Audio output unit 21; And storage card 22.
CDS circuit 4, agc circuit 5, A/D converter 6 and timing generator 7 are formed the signal processing 31 of front end (F/E) together, and CCD interface 8, Memory Controller 9, demonstration output control part 10, compression processing section 11, YUV conversion portion 12, size adjustment processing section 13, Media Interface Connector (medium I/F) 14 and CPU15 are installed in numeral-signal-processing IC (integrated circuit) 32.Imaging len system 1 is a kind of optical system, and this system is used for fixedly forming on the optical receiving surface of image-forming component 3 at CCD the optical imagery of subject.Mechanical shutter 2 is inserted in the light path between imaging len system 1 and the CCD solid-state imaging element, thereby can open and close the exposure of light path with control CCD solid-state imaging element 3.This CCD solid-state imaging element 3 will incident on the optical receiving surface under the exposure status optical imagery be converted to the signal of telecommunication, and keep optical imagery temporarily, output and switching electrical signals are as view data.CDS circuit 4, agc circuit 5, A/D converter 6 and timing generator 7 are formed signal processing 31 together, and it handles the output signal at the CCD of front end solid-state imaging element 3.CDS circuit 4 is carried out the relevant double sampling of the output image signal of CCD solid-state imaging element 3.Agc circuit 5 is carried out automatic gain control AGC in the relevant double sampling output of CDS circuit 4.A/D converter 6 converts the simulation output of agc circuit 5 to numerical data.
Timing generator 7 is in response to VD (vertical synchronization drive signal) and HD signal (horizontal synchronization drive signal), they are by Digital Signal Processing IC (hereinafter, be called signal processing IC) synchronized signal that provides of 32 CCD interface 8, and be attached to CPU15 providing timing signal, thereby impel the appropriate phase mutually synchronization of these parts to CCD solid-state imaging element 3, CDS circuit 4, agc circuit 5 and A/D converter 6.Signal processing IC 32 is stored DID in frame memory 17, the control of this data based CPU15, and the A/D converter 6 by signal processing 31 provides.The signal processing that 32 couples of DID embodiment of signal processing IC are necessary as compression and YUV conversion or the like, and in frame memory 17 data after the stores processor.This signal processing IC 32 display image data on LCD display 18, this view data is provided by A/D converter 6 or fetches from frame memory 17.In addition, the compression of signal processing IC 32 carries out image data processing, YUV conversion process and size adjustment are handled, and this view data is provided by A/D converter 6 or fetches from frame memory 17.And then signal processing IC 32 is stored DID by Media Interface Connector 14 in storage card 22, and wherein DID is fetched from frame memory 17.
CCD interface 8 receives the DID that the A/D converter 6 by signal processing 31 provides, and stores received data by Memory Controller 9 in frame memory 17.Control according to CPU15, the different types of data of Memory Controller 9 controls are stored in frame memory 17 or are read from frame memory 17, these different types of data comprise original RGB (RAW-RGB) data, yuv data and jpeg data and OSD view data, wherein original RGB data provide by CCD interface 8, yuv data is by 12 conversions of YUV conversion portion, and jpeg data and OSD view data are compressed by compression processing section 11 according to JPEG (JPEG (joint photographic experts group)) method.Show that output control part 10 shows the view data of being read by frame memory 17, and output is used to TV output that causes outside TV (TV) or the like, with display image data.According to the predetermined compression method of for example JPEG method, compression processing section 11 compressing image datas, these data are provided by A/D converter 6 or extract from frame memory 17.According to the Automatic white balance that is provided by CPU15 (AWB) controlling value, 12 pairs of view data of YUV conversion portion are carried out the YUV conversion, and these data are provided by A/D converter 6 or extract from frame memory 17.Size is adjusted the size that view data is adjusted in processing section 13, and these data are provided by A/D converter 6 or extract from frame memory 17.Media Interface Connector 14 is write view data in storage card 22 according to the control of Memory Controller 9 and CPU15, and view data is wherein provided by A/D converter 6 or extracts from frame memory 17.
Just, Memory Controller 9 is provided in frame memory 17 by the view data that is provided by A/D converter 6, and fetches view data from frame memory 17, and by showing output control part 10 display image data on LCD display 18.Memory Controller is also fetched view data from frame memory 17, and implement compression by compression processing section 11 and handle, implement the YUV conversion process by YUV conversion portion 12, adjust processing section 13 by size and implement size adjustment processing, and after handling, write data in the frame memory 17, and and then fetch data and storage card 22, write this data from frame memory 17.The working procedure of ROM16 storage CPU15, data or the like, and CPU15 carries out and the relevant multiple processing of operation of taking a picture according to program of being read by ROM16 and data.Frame memory 17 is the semiconductor memories such as Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM), and stores jpeg data and OSD view data that yuv data that original RGB data, YUV-changed and JPEG-compressed.LCD display 18 is the display devices such as liquid crystal display or analog, and display image data, wherein this view data is provided by A/D converter 6 or fetches from frame memory 17, and provides by demonstration output control part 10, and shows necessary information thereon.
Control based on CPU15, motor driver 19 drive be used to focus on, the lens drive motors (not shown) of the imaging len system 1 of zoom or the like, and the shutter drive motor (not shown) of driving device shutter 2, this mechanical shutter 2 is relevant to timing generator 7 and is used for the shutter on/off operation.Operating unit 20 comprises the release-push that is used to indicate shooting, the mode switch that is used for translative mode and other switch, at least a portion of button, control lever, dial and analog, this operating unit 20 are operated operational order to digital type static camera to be provided to CPU15, instruction and selection instruction are set.Sound and voice that audio output unit 21 produces such as alarm sound, voice announcement etc.Storage card 22 is a kind of small IC storage-type recording mediums, is equipped with the semiconductor non-volatile memory as flash memory, and is used as the removable external record media of digital type static camera.Storage card 22 is for example by being connected with groove in the digital type static camera movably, thereby can be used.Storage card 22 is fetched view data, and wherein this view data is compressed in the frame memory 17 through Memory Controller 9 and according to the JPEG method according to the control of CPU15, and preserves view data as the result who takes.
In addition, in Fig. 2 to Fig. 4, provide a kind of digital type static camera, the inferior LCD18B that it has the LCD monitor 18A at the back side that is positioned at main body and is positioned at the main body end face.LCD monitor 18A and time LCD18B form LCD display 18 shown in Figure 1.The main display image of LCD monitor 18A, inferior LCD18B mainly shows the multiple mark of representing film count, data/time and mode of operation.And shutter release 201 and pattern dial 202 are set on the end face of main body.Wide-angle side (WIDE) ZSW 203, long distance side (TELE) ZSW 204, self-timer/cancellation switch 205, menu switch 206, top/stroboscope switch 207, right switch 208, display switch 209, bottom/macro switch 210, a left side/image check that switch 211 and OK switch 212 all are set on the rear surface of main body, and they form operation part shown in Figure 1 together.Mains switch 101 is positioned at the bottom of the rear surface of main body.When observation during subject, the right lateral surface of main body has storage card/battery cover 102, and it covers such as the holding portion of the storage card 22 of SD card or as the battery cell of power supply.The speculum main unit 107 of the objective lens surface of stroboscope luminous component 103, optical detector 104, distance measuring unit 105, remote control light receiving part 106 and capture lens all is positioned on the front surface of main body.The eyepiece part of optical detector 104, AF indication light-emitting diode (LED) 108 and stroboscope indication LED 109 also are positioned on the rear surface of main body.
Should be noted that above-mentioned part, mainly is circuit part, under CPU15 control, has realized following apparatus: the condenser lens position detecting device, and this device is used to detect the current location of condenser lens; Near the limited range of current location that focusing range specified device, this device are used to specify condenser lens is a focusing range, and wherein the current location of condenser lens is detected by the condenser lens position detecting device; Condenser lens mobile range modifier, this device are used for according to the mobile range that is changed condenser lens by the focusing range of focusing range specified device appointment; At prefocusing storage device as a result, this device is used to be stored in the result of prefocusing operation; And alarm display unit, this device is used for when not obtaining to focus on according to the result in the prefocusing operation, show alarm, wherein when the focusing range specified device is specified focusing range, be stored in prefocusing as a result in the storage device in the result that prefocusing is operated; Focusing range display unit, this device are used to show present focusing range; Focusing range change in location device, this device is used to change the position of limited focusing range, and wherein limited focusing range is specified by the focusing range specified device; Focusing range is specified the cancellation device, is used to cancel the setting of limited focusing range, and wherein limited focusing range is specified by the focusing range specified device; The macro mode switching device shifter is used for switching between macro mode and general mode, and wherein macro mode is used for taking subject in extremely short distance, and general mode wherein is used for taking subject in the common distance than extremely short distance; The macro mode switching device shifter is used for switching between macro mode and general mode, and general mode is used for taking subject in the common distance than extremely short distance; When focusing range is specified by the focusing range specified device, be used for cancelling automatically the device of the appointment of focusing range; Zoom lens control device is used to change the focal length of imaging len; Zoom magnification ratio modifier is used to change the zoom magnification ratio that is obtained by zoom lens control device; When focusing range is specified by the focusing range specified device, be used for cancelling automatically the device of the appointment of focusing range; Zoom lens control device is used to change the focal length of imaging len; Zoom magnification ratio modifier is used to change the zoom magnification ratio that is obtained by zoom lens control device; Be used for changing according to the zoom magnification ratio device of focusing range, wherein the zoom magnification ratio is provided with by zoom magnification ratio modifier; Enlarge distance and measure choice device again, be used for when limited scope is carried out focusing operation under by the state of focusing range specified device appointment,, selecting to carry out whether once more range measurement by enlarging the range measurement scope; And when utilizing limited scope not obtain to focus on by the setting of focusing range specified device, and when the expansion range measurement that enlarges distance is measured choice device again and is allowed to by enlarging distance, be used for carrying out once more the device that utilizes than carry out focusing operation by the big scope of the focusing range of focusing range specified device setting.
To provide the description of the operation of above-mentioned digital type static camera now.Is logging mode by operating mode dial shown in Figure 2 202 with the setting operation pattern, thereby this digital type static camera starts with logging mode, and mode dial 202 wherein is in the operation part shown in Fig. 1 20.When mode dial 202 was set, the mode switch that CPU15 detects in the operation part 20 that is included in Fig. 1 was got to logging mode, and CPU15 Control Driver 19 with the imaging len system of mobile mirror main unit 107 to the position that can carry out shooting.In addition, CPU15 makes power supply be provided to each CCD solid-state imaging element 3, signal processing 31, LCD display 18 or the like, thereby starts the operation of these parts.When these parts are opened, start the operation of mode detector.In mode detector, by imaging len system 1, incident light on CCD solid-state imaging element 3 is converted into the signal of telecommunication, and in this case, by CDS circuit 4 and agc circuit 5, the signal of telecommunication is sent to A/D switch 6 continuously as the analog rgb signal, and this analog rgb signal comprises simulation R, G, B signal.By the YUV switching part 12 among the Digital Signal Processing IC32, each signal that is converted into the digital rgb signal by A/D switch 6 all is converted into YUV signal, and is written in the frame memory 17 by Memory Controller 9.YUV signal is read by Memory Controller 9, and by showing that output control part 10 outputs as TV output, perhaps are sent to LCD display 18 to carry out the demonstration of LCD monitor 18A.General, above-mentioned processing is carried out with 1/30 second interval, and carries out the demonstration of the mode detector that is called electric explorer, and this shows with renewal in per 1/30 second.
In addition, AF estimated value, AE (automatic exposure) estimated value and AWB estimated value are from the digital rgb calculated signals, wherein the AF estimated value shows the degree of focus of screen, AE (automatic exposure) estimated value is the testing result of subject brightness, the AWB estimated value is the testing result of the color of subject, and rgb signal is fetched in the CCD of Digital Signal Processing IC 32 interface 8.These values are read as characteristic by CPU15, and are used as the processing of each AE, AF and AWB.For example, according to the output integer value of high fdrequency component extraction filter and the integer value of the luminance difference between adjacent image point, produce the AF estimated value.Because when in focus state, the marginal portion of subject is clearly, so high fdrequency component is the highest.Utilize this, according to the focus detection of AF the time,, obtain in the AF estimated value of different condenser lenses position and carry out AF control by determining that maximum value position is a focal position.AE estimated value and AWB estimated value are produced by the integer value of R, G and B signal.For example, thus screen is divided into 256 zones calculates each RGB integer value.CPU15 reads the RGB integer value, and in AE, calculates each regional brightness to determine the AE controlling value by Luminance Distribution.In AWB, be determined with the distribution of the AWB controlling value of the match colors of light source based on RGB.The processing of AE and AWB is carried out in mode detector continuously.
When the operation shutter discharges (button) 201, carry out AF operation and rest image recording processing, wherein to operate be the detection of focal position to AF.When pressing shutter release, the rest image enabling signal is extracted the CPU15 from operation part 20, and CPU15 is synchronous with frame frequency by be driven into picture lens combination 1 by motor driver 19, thereby carries out soaring formula (mountain-claimbing) AF.If focusing range is from infinite All Ranges as far as utmost point near point, condenser lens moves to infinite distant place or moves to extremely near position from infinite distant place from extremely near position so, move to the focal position, and CPU15 reads the AF estimated value of the frame that is produced by Digital Signal Processing IC32.Condenser lens is that the focal position is moved to the focal position when being in maximum by definite AF estimated value.After finishing AF, the analog rgb signal of fetching from CCD solid-state imaging element 3 is converted into the digital rgb signal, and is stored in the frame memory 17 by Digital Signal Processing IC32.The digital rgb signal is read once more by Digital Signal Processing IC32, and is converted into yuv data, turns back to frame memory 17 then.
When the rest image imaging, the view data of YUV conversion is sent to compression processing section 11, wherein compresses the processing section and is included in image compression-decompression circuit among the Digital Signal Processing IC32.The yuv data that is sent to compression processing section 11 is compressed, and turns back to frame memory 17.Packed data in frame memory 17 is read by Digital Signal Processing IC32, and is stored in the data storage memory of storage card 22.
To provide description below according to the operation of the digital type static camera of present embodiment.
| Focusing range | Common (∞-30cm) | Microspur (30-1cm) |
| The quantity of wide-angle side |
10 positions | 120 positions |
| The quantity of long distance end focal position | 70 |
250 positions |
It is a kind of pair of rank switches that shutter shown in Figure 2 discharges 201, therefore carries out focusing operation and executive logging operation (shooting) when switch is further pressed at its half opsition dependent.Fig. 6 discharges partly on time display screen of 201 quilts after taking at least one photo or when shutter.In situation shown in Figure 6, focal length approximately is 10cm, and therefore, the mark " zero " of the focal position J1 of indication condenser lens moves to the corresponding approximately position of 10cm.
There are some to realize the method for current condenser lens position probing.For example, by under the situation of step motor drive condenser lens,, carry out the detection of reference point as at the camera reset operation of start-up time.Can detect current location based on the quantity that after reset operation, is applied in the pulse of mobile stepping motor.In addition, resistance board can be used for detecting by the output executing location of resistance board, and this resistance board is represented different resistance according to the position of condenser lens.When pressing OK switch 212 under state shown in Figure 6, near the scope the current focus position is set to be used for the AF sweep limits of next time.Fig. 7 shows the display screen after pressing OK switch 212.By about the scope represented to arrow R1 be set to be used for the AF sweep limits of next time.
Fig. 8 shows the display screen of the result of variations after change is provided with scope.Therefore, change by the L-R button shown in Fig. 4 211, just, a left side/image is checked switch 211 and right switch 208, and the variation of scope is set.Under the state that AF sweep limits shown in Fig. 7 or Fig. 8 is set up, the arrow R1 of screen previous generation Table A F sweep limits moves by pressing L-R button 211.The scope that right arrow R1 represents is set to the sweep limits of next AF.In this state, be pressed fully to carry out shooting operation, before record, carry out the AF operation so if shutter discharges 201.If sweep limits is limited to for example 15 steps, because screen upgraded in per 1/30 second, the time of AF needs can be set to 0.5 second so, thereby has significantly reduced the aperture time hysteresis.In addition, cycle and distance (quantity of rotation) that operation focuses on motor can be reduced, thereby have reduced energy loss.
If press OK switch 212 under Fig. 7 and state shown in Figure 8, the AF sweep limits is cancelled so, and display returns to screen shown in Figure 6.Under the macro mode state, if downward/macro switch 210 is pressed once more, it returns to common screening-mode shown in Figure 10 so.Even sweep limits has been set to Fig. 7 or when shown in Figure 8, the scope setting also can be eliminated and macro mode is closed.In addition, if OK switch 212 is pressed under the state shown in Fig. 5, this state is the initial condition after being set to macro mode, and the alarm screen display is for as shown in Figure 9.This is because focusing operation is not performed after macro mode is set, and prevents that sweep limits is limited in the state of not knowing distance.
To provide a kind of description of AF sweep limits condition of limited in common screening-mode below.If carry out AF scanning,, focus on the needed time cycle to change according to zoom position because many steps between wide-angle side (WIDE end) and long distance end (TELE end) of zoom are very different at gamut.Therefore, when taking mobile object, must consider that shutter hysteresis release time changes according to zoom position.If distance is known substantially, can reduce the AF time to a certain scope by the restriction sweep limits.For example, if the amount of movement of condenser lens remains constant, shutter hysteresis release time can be set to constant, and does not consider zoom position.
Figure 10 shows the display that turns on the power switch when starting mode detector after 101 in logging mode.Zoom position during startup is set to wide-angle side.In the demonstration of the bar B-2 in left side is that the bar shaped of expression zoom position is represented, and is appreciated that it operates in wide-angle side.If when pressing OK switch 212 under the state of the display shown in Figure 10, screen change is a display screen shown in Figure 11.Horizontal bar B1 in the bottom of screen represents the relevant information that focuses on.The current location J1 of mark " zero " expression condenser lens, and arrow R1 represents the sweep limits of next AF.In wide-angle side shown in Figure 11, because only there are 10 somes the focus detection position, therefore 7 points wherein are set to detection range.Because the output of the high pass filter of 7 frames needs the detection range of 7 points,, AF is approximately 0.25 second so scanning the time cycle that needs.In addition, Figure 12 shows zoom and is changed situation into the long distance end.When the zoom magnification change was provided with by ZSW 203 and 204, CPU15 drive motor driver 19 was with mobile zoom lens.When ZSW 203 or 204 was pressed, zoom lens had been required that direction moves, and the mark " ● " that expression zoom position J2 represents moves along zoom bar B2 in response to the shift position of zoom lens shown in Figure 12.
Although need 7 points as the AF scanning element to prevent AF and depend on zoom position sweep time and to change greatly that use 10 points in the present embodiment, this is because if use 7 points, then compared very little with 70 of the gamut of long distance end.When whole zone was scanned, be 70 * 1/30=2.3 second sweep time.On the other hand, if they are limited to 10 points, can be reduced to sweep time 0.33 second.By doing like this, can reduce the AF focus detection operating time, and can realize having the system of littler time lag of difference, wherein time lag since the difference of zoom position produce.And, because can reduce the operation amount of mechanical part, so can reduce power consumption.In addition, because focusing range clearly is presented on the screen,, photographer whether is set to focusing range so can checking the scope of wanting.Because can check in advance at the indication range inner focusing, therefore, make a video recording if pass woven wire, then can not consider to focus in front wire netting, so just can be so that AF seldom fails.In addition, if OK switch 212 is pressed under Figure 11 or state shown in Figure 12, the setting of focusing range is cancelled so, and returns to state shown in Figure 10.
In each above-mentioned example, the quantity of AF focus point is determined, thereby cycle sweep time is about the same.But, a kind of so definite method is arranged, wherein focal length is in the scope of even ratio.For example, if scope is defined as at 50% o'clock that covers whole zone, name a person for a particular job for 5 and be set to focus on the zoom wide-angle side, and 35 points is set on the zoom long distance end.In the above-described embodiments,,, change to the method for the distance range of subject, and, change the method for the mobile range of condenser lens by remaining to the distance range of subject by the moving range of balanced condenser lens for balanced focal time.But, depending on the zoom magnification ratio, the difference of counting between wide-angle side and long distance end is bigger.Therefore, if the zoom magnification ratio changes under the appointed state of focusing range, as Figure 11 or shown in Figure 12, the appointment of focusing range can be cancelled automatically so.
In addition, it can be constructed like this, that is, and and when when the result of performed AF does not obtain to focus on limited narrow sweep limits, even for example need scan gamut for a long time or limit this scope, be provided with whether detect the focal position by expanded scope for scope is set.If scope is set to expandable, even focal time increases, also can be automatically in response to the variation of subject, thereby reduced the possibility of shooting failure.But, when knowing that focus point is present in the scope of setting in advance, then do not need to scan, and will consume unwanted power by expanded scope.In addition,, obtain to focus on, then can not photograph the image of wanting at limited extraneous point if by the scanning gamut.Therefore, preferably, when in scope, not finding focus point, whether can select expanded scope.
Just, such device is provided, under the state that is set up in narrow scope, in the time of can not finding focus point according to the result of focusing operation, this device selects to carry out whether once more range measurement by enlarging the range measurement scope, thereby, if, carry out focusing operation in set close limit in the scope bigger than set scope if focus point can not obtain and enlarge distance to be measured when being allowed to again.Should be noted that imaging device according to the present invention by the system of using a computer, can be implemented as general destination device, rather than only be built into special digital type static camera.For example, a kind of device of carrying out said process can be configured by the program that installation is used to make computer carry out aforesaid operations, wherein can be by carrying out aforesaid operations from the recording medium fetch program such as floppy disk, CD-ROM or the like.Install according to this, program be stored in the computer system such as hard disk or similarly in the medium and be used in practice, wherein computer system is formed said apparatus.And by the program in the registration ftp server, relevant program can be distributed to FTP (file transfer protocol (FTP)) client computer by network, and wherein ftp server is provided on the network such as the internet.This program can be registered in the BBS (BBS) of communication network, thus in network distribution program.Therefore, said process can be realized by executive program under operating system (OS) control.In addition, when this program was transmitted by communication network, said process can be realized by carrying out this program.
(second embodiment)
To provide description according to a second embodiment of the present invention below as a kind of digital type static camera of imaging device.
Figure 13 is the block diagram of profile of the whole system of digital type static camera according to a second embodiment of the present invention.Except the distance measurement sensor 23 that is connected to CPU15, digital type static camera according to a second embodiment of the present invention has the identical structure of digital type static camera with first embodiment shown in Figure 1 according to the present invention.In Figure 13, the part identical with part shown in Figure 1 adopts identical Reference numeral, and in order to simplify description, their description will be omitted.
As shown in figure 13, distance measurement sensor 23 is connected to CPU15.Distance measurement sensor 23 is formed distance-measuring device in conjunction with distance measuring unit shown in Figure 3 105, and this device is used for periodically measuring according to so-called triangulation method the distance of subject.CPU15 monitors the variation of measured value of the distance of subject by distance measurement sensor 23, thereby determines whether to keep focus state.
Parts on digital type static camera according to an embodiment of the invention and Fig. 2 to parts shown in Figure 4 be identical, therefore, will provide identical Reference numeral, and omit description of them.
Should be noted that part shown in Figure 13, mainly is circuit part, device below having realized under the CPU15 control: focus control device, be used for detecting focus point continuously, thereby carry out the automatic focus operation when mobile focusing lens and when focus point stops condenser lens; The scope control device, be used for when at the macro mode photographic images and when satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower by mobile range than whole focusing ranges with condenser lens, make autofocus carry out the automatic focus operation, the narrow scope of the whole focusing ranges of wherein above-mentioned ratio has last focus point; Focus control device, be used for obtaining the automatic focus estimated value from picture signal continuously, and stop condenser lens at focus point, thereby carry out the automatic focus operation, wherein automatic focus estimated value obtains according to the definition of subject edge of image part, and focus point is set to the maximum of points of automatic focus estimated value; The scope control device, be used for when describing photographic images at microspur and satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower by mobile range than whole focusing ranges with condenser lens, make focus control device carry out the automatic focus operation, the narrow scope of the whole focusing ranges of above-mentioned ratio has last focus point; Be used for when satisfying predetermined condition, on limited scope, carry out the device of focusing operation; Be used for monitoring device at the focus state of described focus control device; Be used for when satisfying predetermined condition, produce the device of focusing operation on limited scope, this predetermined condition comprises that the focus state after last focusing operation is kept based on the device that is used to monitor; Be used to monitor the device of variable in distance, this distance is measured by distance-measuring device; Be used for when satisfying predetermined condition, produce the device of focusing operation on limited scope, predetermined condition comprises that based on the monitoring of the device that is used to monitor, the variable in distance after the last automatic focus operation equates with predetermined value or be littler than this predetermined value; The Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism is used for measuring the Luminance Distribution at graphic screen; Be used to monitor the device of the variation of Luminance Distribution, this Luminance Distribution is measured by the Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism; Be used for when satisfying predetermined condition, produce the device of focusing operation on limited scope, this predetermined condition comprises that based on the device that measurement is used to monitor, the Luminance Distribution variation after last automatic focus operation equates with predetermined value or be littler than predetermined value; Be used for monitoring the device of variation of the zoom magnification ratio of imaging optical system; And when the zoom magnification ratio changes based on the monitoring of the device that is used to monitor, the device that is used to make focusing operation on whole focusing ranges, to be performed; Be used for monitoring the device of the automatic focus value of focus control device; And when satisfying predetermined condition, on limited scope, produce the device of focusing operation, this predetermined condition comprises that based on the monitoring of the device that is used to monitor, the variation of the automatic focus estimated value after last automatic focus operation equates with predetermined value or be littler than predetermined value.
To provide the description of the operation of above-mentioned digital type static camera below.Digital type static camera starts in logging mode by operating mode dial shown in Figure 2 202, and this mode dial is provided to operator scheme and is set to logging mode in operation part shown in Figure 1 20.When mode dial is set up, whether the state of CPU15 detecting pattern switch is dispatched to logging mode, wherein this mode switch is included in the operation part 20 of Fig. 1, then CPU15 Control Driver 19 with the imaging len system 1 of mobile mirror main unit 107 to position that shooting can be carried out.In addition, CPU15 makes power supply be provided to each CCD solid-state imaging element 3, signal processing 31, LCD display 18 or the like, thereby starts the operation of these parts.When starting these parts, the operation of mode detector just is activated.In mode detector, be converted into the signal of telecommunication by incident light imaging len system 1, on CCD solid-state imaging element 3, and, in this case, the signal of telecommunication is as the analog rgb signal, be sent to A/D switch 6 continuously by CDS circuit 4 and agc circuit 5, this analog rgb signal comprises simulation R, G and B signal.Each signal that is converted into the digital rgb signal by A/D switch 6 is converted into YUV signal by the YUV conversion portion 12 among the Digital Signal Processing IC32, and is written in the frame memory 17 by Memory Controller 9.YUV signal is read by Memory Controller 9, and it exports as TV by display output control part 10, or sends to LCD display 18 to carry out the demonstration of LCD monitor 18A.Common, above-mentioned processing is performed with per 1/30 second interval, and is performed as the demonstration of the mode detector of so-called electric explorer, upgrades in its per 1/30 second.
In addition, AF estimated value, AE (automatic exposure) estimated value and AWB estimated value are calculated from the digital rgb signal, and the digital rgb signal is taken from the CCD interface 8 among the Digital Signal Processing IC32, wherein the AF estimated value shows the degree of focus of screen, the AE estimated value is the testing result of the brightness of subject, and AWB is the testing result of the color of subject.These values of being read by CPU15 are as characteristic value, and are used to each processing of AE, AF and AWB.For example, extract the output integer value of filter and the integer value of the luminance difference between adjacent image point, produce the AF estimated value according to high fdrequency component.Because the marginal portion of subject is clearly when at the state that is focused, high fdrequency component is the highest.Utilize this, when operating, need control thereby carry out AF as focal position in the AF estimated value of different condenser lenses position by definite maximum position according to the focus detection of AF.AE estimated value and AWB estimated value produce according to the integer value of R, G and B signal.For example, screen is divided into 256 zones, thereby calculates each RGB integer value.CPU15 reads the RGB integer value, and, in AE, calculate each regional brightness to determine the AE controlling value according to Luminance Distribution.In AWB, distribution is determined the AWB controlling value of mating with light source color based on RGB.The processing of AE and AWB is carried out in mode detector continuously.
When the operation shutter discharged (button) 201, the AF operation and the rest image recording processing that detect the focal position were performed.When shutter discharges when being pressed, enter CPU15 from operation part 20 and fetch the rest image commencing signal, and CPU15 is driven into as lens combination 1 by motor driver 19 and carries out soaring formula AF, wherein motor driver and frame frequency are synchronous.If focusing range is from infinite All Ranges as far as utmost point near point, then condenser lens is from moving to the focal position with the near position of pole at infinity or moving to extremely near position from the infinity, and CPU15 reads the AF estimated value of frame, and wherein this estimated value is produced by Digital Signal Processing IC32.Position by definite AF estimated value maximum is the focal position, and condenser lens is moved to the focal position.The analog rgb signal of taking from CCD solid-state imaging element 3 is converted into the digital rgb signal after finishing the AF operation, and is stored in the frame memory 17 by Digital Signal Processing IC32.The digital rgb signal is read once more by Digital Signal Processing IC32, and is converted into yuv data, and is returned to frame memory 17.
When the rest image imaging, the view data of changing through YUV is sent to compression processing section 11, and this part is included in the image compression-decompression circuit among the Digital Signal Processing IC32.The yuv data that sends to compression processing section 11 is compressed, and is returned to frame memory 17.Compressed data in frame memory 17 is read by Digital Signal Processing IC32, and is stored in the data storage memory of storage card 22.
To provide description below according to the operation of the digital type static camera of present embodiment.
When the extremely near scope of 1cm-30cm is set to macro mode and is set to general mode away from the range distance of this extremely near scope,, show the example of the detection position of a plurality of focal positions at preceding described form 1 for zoom position.
According to form 1, when comparing the quantity of the condenser lens position that obtains the AF estimated value between general mode and the macro mode, in wide-angle side, 10 positions are set and 120 positions are set for general mode, and 70 positions are set and 250 positions are set for macro mode for general mode for macro mode.Therefore, the quantity of position that obtains the condenser lens of AF estimated value when the whole macro mode of scanning zone is far longer than those of normal areas.
The quantity reason bigger than general mode of the position of the condenser lens of acquisition AF estimated value can be explained the relation between this formulate lens principal point and the image construction according to Newton formula (1).
Newton formula: Z * Z '=-f * f (1)
Z: the distance from principal point to the subject surface (subject distance)
Z ": the distance from the principal point to the imaging surface (imaging surface distance)
F: focal length
When the distance between principal point and the shooting distance is changed, in order to obtain the ratio between imaging surface variable in distance and the subject variable in distance, Newton formula (1) thus according to carrying out differential apart from Z and obtain formula (2) from the principal point to the subject.
According to from the principal point to the subject, the Newton formula being carried out differential apart from Z:
dZ/dZ’＝f×f/Z×Z (2)
In the microspur zone, because the distance from the principal point to the subject is short, so Z is little, and according to formula (2), when the value of denominator Z * Z diminished, the variation of imaging surface distance became big with respect to the subject distance.Just, even the imaging surface variable in distance is very big because the subject variable in distance is little, so thereby condenser lens must move significantly to be realized focusing on.And if the focal length of lens changes even camera distance is identical, so according to formula (2), it is big that the value of molecule f * f becomes, and the variation of imaging surface distance is big apart from change with respect to subject.Therefore, even the imaging surface distance does not change greatly with the increase of focal length because the subject distance does not almost have to change, so thereby condenser lens must be moved significantly to be realized focusing on.
Figure 14 shows the chart of the relation between the quantity of position of the inverse of focusing distance and the condenser lens shown in the form 1.The inverse that uses focusing distance is because when at infinity focusing on, the bias of condenser lens is minimum.Should be noted that in Figure 14 when at infinity focusing on, the number of pulses that departs from of condenser lens is set to " 0 ".Here, the AF estimated value is calculated based on above-mentioned rgb signal, and because rgb signal obtains when screen updates, if rgb signal obtains at interval at 1/30 second screen updates, it is needed for up to 120 * 1/30=4 second to obtain the AF estimated value of 120 positions.Therefore, problem is, photo opporunity, and just so-called shutter machine for releasing can be missed, thus the state variation of subject.The measure that addresses the above problem is, reduces focal time by limit focusing range (scanning area) under actual conditions, and this actual conditions makes takes pictures and can not miss the camera meeting.For example, if automatic focus scanning is performed by the restriction focusing range, the position that therefore obtains the condenser lens of AF estimated value is 15 positions, and it is 1/8 of 120 positions, and automatic focus scanning was finished in 0.5 second, thereby had reduced time lag.And by doing like this, the operating time that is used to drive the motor of condenser lens reduces, thereby has reduced energy loss.
To provide description below according to the operation of the digital type static camera of present embodiment.
When shown in Figure 4 downwards/when macro switch 210 is pressed, macro mode is set under the mode detector state.Fig. 5 shows when macro mode is set, an example of the display screen of LCD monitor 18A.The quantity of record pixel for example is set to 2048 * 1536.The horizontal bar B1 that is positioned at the bottom of screen represents the current focus position.Just, mark " zero " representative is corresponding to the focal position J1 of the current location of condenser lens.After macro mode was set, focal length was set to 30cm (still, under this state, the automatic focus operation is not also carried out, and position J1 can accurately not mate with focus point) immediately.It is two rank switches that shutter shown in Figure 2 discharges 201, therefore carries out focusing operation at half opsition dependent, and when switch is further pressed, executive logging operation (shooting).Figure 15 is after taking once at least or the display screen of shutter release 201 when partly being pressed.Under situation shown in Figure 15, focus on about 10cm place and produce, therefore, the mark " zero " of the focal position J1 of indication condenser lens is moved to the corresponding approximately position of 10cm.Under this situation, about indicate focus state to be held together to arrow R1 and " zero ".When focus state was held, arrow R1 always was shown, and by about be used as the target of next focusing operation to the scope of arrow R1 indication, wherein this scope is than narrow by whole focusing ranges of bar B1 indication.Just, about represent that to arrow R1 camera is at focus state, and represent the limited range of next focusing operation simultaneously.
Figure 16 shows the display screen when camera does not remain on focus state.This uses the output of distance measuring unit 105 continuous monitorings shown in Figure 3 distance measurement sensor 23 shown in Figure 13 to realize by after carrying out last automatic focus.When soaring the last time formula AF carried out, CPU15 preserved the RAM among the CPU15 of outputing to of distance measurement sensor 23.After this, the subject distance is periodically measured by distance measurement sensor 23, for example, per 0.1 second, and measured value subject information each and that preserve in RAM compares.If the subject variable in distance for example, surpasses 5cm, think that no longer the state at preceding shooting time is held, therefore, can measure focus state and not be held.These are measured benchmark and depend on the position of zoom position and condenser lens, and are being stored in ROM16 as form data before.As shown in figure 16, about not showing, when arrow, in automatic focus operation subsequently, carry out whole focusing range scannings.
As Figure 15 and shown in Figure 16, for by in centimetre distance represent focus point, this distance must by the conversion condenser lens the position obtain.Multiple different conversion method is arranged, for example use equation, perhaps store between the number of positions of the inverse of focal length and condenser lens and be related among the ROM16 as converting form information based on the relation between the number of positions of the inverse of focal length and condenser lens shown in Figure 14.There are some to realize the method for current condenser lens position probing.For example, passing through under the situation of step motor drive condenser lens, the detection of reference point is performed as reset operation in the zero-time of camera.Current location can be detected based on the quantity of pulse, and wherein this pulse is provided to mobile stepping motor after reset operation.In addition, can use resistance board to come executing location to detect by the output of resistance board, different resistance is represented in its position according to condenser lens.Also as shown in Table 1, in the situation of zoom lens, even same distance range stands automatic focus when scanning, many mobile pulses have difference greatly according to zoom position.And when it and then when arriving the long distance end, many lens have lower lens efficiency.Therefore, when zoom position was changed, display was become shown in Figure 16, and when the operation of automatic focus subsequently was performed, automatic focus scanning can be carried out on four corner, and this is considered to focus state and is not held.Therefore, can avoid taking failure according to aforesaid operations.
Figure 17 is the schematic diagram of the screen picture after carrying out the automatic focus operation.Figure 18 is the schematic diagram that arrives the screen picture under the state of variable in distance of subject after automatic focus operation is performed.In the present embodiment, for example, view data is 8 Bit datas, and these data can be represented numerical value 0-255.This view data comprises three main color R, G and B, and brightness data is calculated by following equation.
Shell degree Y=0.3R+0.6G+0.1B (3)
In this case, because view data is 8 Bit datas, so brightness data also is 8 Bit datas.In the present embodiment, as Figure 17 and shown in Figure 180, screen is divided into the piece of vertical 12 * level 16, thereby obtains the brightness data of each divided block.R, G that can be by calculating each piece in the CCD interface 8 shown in Figure 13 and the mean value of B, read the calculated mean value by the CPU15 value and convert mean value to brightness data and obtain brightness data according to this equation (3).
Figure 19 is the schematic diagram of the piece of three classes that piece shown in Figure 17 are divided into according to brightness data.Similarly, Figure 20 is the schematic diagram of the piece of three classes that piece shown in Figure 180 are divided into according to brightness data.The piece that is divided into kind A that is noted as " A " has and is equal to or greater than 184 average brightness value.Similarly, the piece that is divided into kind B that is noted as " B " has and is equal to or greater than 92 and less than 184 average brightness value.The average brightness value of the piece that is divided into kind C that is noted as " C " is than 92 little (just, identical with 91 or littler than 91).Such brightness test example is as every interval is performed for 200 milliseconds in response to the execution timing of automatic exposure (AE) control.CPU15 preserves the data of brightness kind of each piece in RAM, and detects when being performed in each brightness, the data of comparison brightness kind and data in preceding brightness kind.Figure 21 shows the graphic extension of piece, wherein when subject when changing into shown in Figure 18 and 20 shown in Figure 17 and 19, the brightness kind changes.Figure 21 represents that the brightness kind of 28 pieces changes.CPU15 measures, if the quantity of the piece that the brightness kind changes surpasses 10% of total amount, the shooting state will change and focus state is not held.
Figure 22 is the flow chart that whether is held the processing that changes the automatic focus sweep limits according to focus state.At first, when policer operation starts (step S11), measure focusing operation and whether carry out (step S12).The result who whether has carried out focusing operation is stored among the RAM.If focusing operation is performed, be stored about the information of representing the mark that focusing operation is carried out, thereafter, this information is saved up to measuring imaging conditions and changes.Should be noted that operation change is an operator scheme, and no longer is image pickup mode when power-on or playback time, at this moment this information can be deleted.If determined, in step S12, focusing operation is not performed, and monitor screen upgrades (step 13), wait unlatching shutter release 201 (step S14).Do not open if shutter discharges 201, routine turns back to step S13, and monitoring screen is repeated to upgrade up to shutter release 201 unlatchings.Open if shutter discharges 201, mean and need carry out new focusing operation, therefore, automatic focus is performed (step S15) by carry out automatic focus scanning on Zone Full.After this, the above-mentioned information of carrying out about focusing operation is stored (step S16), then, carries out the process (step S17) of taking rest image.After photographic images, routine is returned step S11 to continue policer operation.
On the other hand, if determined, in step S12, focusing operation is performed, and monitoring screen is updated (step S18), and checks by detecting the period of state ground of taking whether focus state is held.Just, after upgrading monitoring screen, produce and be used to measure whether maintained data (step S19) of focus state, then, measure focus state and whether be held (step S20).To be described with reference to Figure 23 subsequently, determine according to the variation of shooting condition whether focus state is held.Whether if measure in step S20, focus state is held, and routine advances to step S21, in step S21, measure shutter release 201 and open.Discharge 201 unlatchings if measure shutter, then on than the sweep limits of common narrow range, carry out automatic focus scanning (step S22).If determined in step S21, shutter discharges 201 not to be had to open, and routine turns back to the process (step S18) of step S18 to repeat to upgrade monitor screen, produces focus state and keeps determination data (step S19), and measure focus state maintenance (step S20).If determined in step S20, focus state is not held, and the information of the execution of indication focusing operation is eliminated (step S23), and routine advances to step S13, in this step S13,, on common Zone Full, carry out the shooting operation of subject according to automatic focus scanning.
Figure 23 is the flow chart that keeps process according to the focusing among the step S20 of variation mensuration Figure 22 of Luminance Distribution.When beginning to monitor, screen upgraded once in per 1/30 second, and carried out automatic exposure (AE) every 200 milliseconds.Because the result's of average R, G and B RGB mean value obtains in automatic exposure control (step S31), so the mean flow rate of each piece is calculated (step S32) by using the RGB mean value that obtains.Then, the Luminance Distribution of brightness familygram indicator collet, wherein each is by dividing screen and produce and being divided into a kind of (step S33) in three kinds.The Luminance Distribution that is divided into the piece of three kinds illustrates with reference to figure 9 to 12.Then, thus current Luminance Distribution is relatively extracted the piece (step S34) that Luminance Distribution changes with last Luminance Distribution.Then, measure a plurality of 10% (the step S35) that whether surpass total amount that the brightness kind changes.If surpass 10%, then measure shooting condition and change (step S36), and the information of indication focus state is eliminated (step S37), this process end then.In focusing operation subsequently, focal position obtains by scanning whole automatic focus sweep limitss.
On the other hand, if measure in step S35, the quantity of the piece that the brightness kind changes is equal to or less than 10% of total amount, and focus state is held (step S38), and the information of the maintenance of indication focus state is set up (step S39), and then, this process finishes.In automatic focus operation subsequently, focal position obtains by near the close limit that only scans current focal position.Near focal position close limit is set to, for example, and 20% of whole automatic focus sweep limitss.As shown in Table 1, under the situation of wide-angle side, because 120 positions are used in automatic focus scanning, so near the close limit focal position is 24 positions.Therefore, this automatic focus scanning is central point in the current location with condenser lens, carries out in the scope of ± 12 positions.Should be noted that preferably, this running parameter of storage in nonvolatile memory, this memory can rewrite in narrow scope.These parameters comprise, obtain the interval of RGB mean value, be used for the threshold value with Luminance Distribution classification, a plurality of of brightness kind changes in distribution or the piece that is used to measure these variations focus on the threshold value of maintenance ratio, and near the ratio of the close limit current focal position.
The front view of camera as shown in Figure 3 has distance measuring unit 105 according to the digital type static camera of present embodiment.Distance measuring unit 105 has two optical units that are arranged side by side, and therefore according to the principle of triangulation method, can calculate the distance of subject based on the output of two optical units.In logging mode, service range measuring unit 105 repeats the range measurement operation by range sensor 23.Figure 24 shows a scope, and in this scope, distance measurement sensor 23 service range measuring unit 105 in screen comes measuring distance.Be converted into the condenser lens position by distance measurement sensor 23 calculated distance.Be stored in the rewritable nonvolatile memory about the distance of distance measurement sensor 23 acquisitions and the data of the corresponding relation between the condenser lens position, based on stored data, CPU15 will convert the condenser lens position to by distance measurement sensor 23 calculated distance.Whether Figure 25 is the process flow diagram of the step S20 of Figure 22, be held so that use is measured focus state by distance measurement sensor 23 calculated distance.The switching of the AF sweep limits after the maintenance of measuring focus state is by the flow chart description of Figure 22.
When beginning to monitor, with the interval much at one, interval that is used to carry out automatic exposure (AE) control, carry out range measurement operation (step S51).Although have the little difference based on the brightness of subject, the range measurement operation can calculate the distance of subject in about 100 milliseconds.The distance of calculating to subject is read (step S52), and obtains (step S53) in the condenser lens position at subject focusing place by the condenser lens position converting form that use is stored in rewritable nonvolatile memory.Then, by service range measuring transducer 23, CPU15 is the current location and the condenser lens position of condenser lens relatively, and wherein the condenser lens position is by the distance calculation (step S54) to subject.In the present embodiment, condenser lens can be known the condenser lens position for example by step motor control by the quantity of count pulse, and wherein the quantity of this pulse is corresponding to the stroke of the condenser lens of from the outset reference position.In addition, do not use stepping motor, the position of condenser lens can be detected according to the resistance value of resistance board, and this resistance board output is corresponding to the resistance value of condenser lens position.
If when the difference current condenser lens position and the condenser lens position that obtained by the distance calculation to subject is bigger than the close limit of automatic focus sweep limits (step S55), wherein calculate apart from service range measuring transducer 23 to subject, then measure focus state and be not held (step S56), therefore, the information of the maintenance of indication focus state is eliminated (step S57) and finishes this process.In focusing operation subsequently, obtain focal position (step S56) by scanning whole automatic focus sweep limitss.Here, as previously mentioned, the close limit of automatic focus sweep limits is employed when focusing on when being held, and corresponding to the sweep limits of 20% position range of whole sweep limitss.In wide-angle side, because four corner comprises 120 positions, wherein 24 positions are corresponding to the close limit of automatic focus sweep limits.Therefore, have greater than the displacement from a position, current location ± 12, mensuration obtains, and focuses on not to be held.On the other hand, if determined, in step S55, from focusing on result that measuring transducer 23 obtains in the scope of a position, current location ± 12 (step S58), then indicate the information of the maintenance of focus state to be set up (step S59), finish this process then.In automatic focus operation subsequently, obtain focal position by near the close limit that only scans current focal position.
Figure 26 is the schematic diagram of the screen picture after just carrying out the automatic focus operation.Figure 27 is the schematic diagram of the screen picture under the state that changes from state shown in Figure 26 of the distance to subject.In the present embodiment, screen is divided into the piece of vertical 12 * level 16, and for the G pixel in each piece, the mean value of the difference between the adjacent image point is obtained.For example, if 150 pixels are included in the piece, because image is made up of R, G and B pixel, so 50 pixels are distributed to the G pixel.For 50 pixels, between adjacent image point, obtain difference, and the difference of suing for peace and being obtained.The result of summation is divided by 50, and wherein 50 is the quantity of pixel, thereby obtains the mean value of the difference of each G pixel of determining.In this case, if the G pixel is 8 Bit datas, then the mean value of the difference of G pixel also is that 8 Bit datas and its maximum are 255.In the CCD interface 8 shown in the figure of the imaging system of Figure 13, obtain the value of G pixel.Here, in other words the value of G pixel, has high contrast there being the different facts to mean that the G component changes greatly between the pixel greatly between pixel.Just, the mean value of difference that obtains the G pixel of each piece is equivalent to obtain the contrast of each piece.Therefore, in the following description, the mean value of the difference of G pixel can be considered to contrast.
Figure 28 shows the distribution of piece, and wherein the value of the contrast of these pieces equates with predetermined value among Figure 26 or be bigger than the predetermined value among Figure 26.Similarly, Figure 29 also shows the distribution of piece, and wherein the value of the contrast of these pieces equates with predetermined value among Figure 27 or be bigger than the predetermined value among Figure 27.In the present embodiment, whether the variation of the state of subject has been moved according to piece is detected, and wherein this piece has and is equal to or greater than 128 contrast value.In Figure 28 and Figure 29, " zero " who provides has the piece that is equal to or greater than 128 contrast value.Under this situation, according to the interval that is used to carry out automatic exposure (AE) control, in the detection of carrying out the contrast of each piece every 200 milliseconds (msec).CPU15 has preserved the information of the position of indicator collet in RAM, and wherein this piece has and is equal to or greater than 128 contrast value, thereby is equal to or greater than 128 the position at the piece of preceding contrast value and compares with having when detecting contrast.Figure 30 shows black block, and wherein these black block have and are equal to or greater than 128 contrast value, and at the state of subject when state shown in Figure 26 is changed into state shown in Figure 27, the position of these black block also changes.Under the situation of Figure 30,34 pieces change.The quantity of the piece that has changed when the position surpasses, for example, 10% o'clock of total amount, CPU15 measures focus state and is not held, and wherein this piece has and is equal to or greater than 128 contrast value.
Whether Figure 31 is the flow chart of process, and wherein this process has by detection and is equal to or greater than 128 the reformed a plurality of quantity of contrast value and position, measure focus state and be held.The switching of the AF sweep limits after the maintenance of measuring focus state illustrates with reference to the flow chart of Figure 22.When beginning to monitor, the mean value of the difference of each piece, just, the contrast of each piece, with the interval detected (step S71) of 200 milliseconds of the basic equal intervals of automatic exposure (AE) control, and have the piece determined (step S72) that is equal to or greater than 128 contrast.Measure based on this, produce the contrast piece figure (step S73) that shows distribution with the piece that is equal to or greater than 128 contrast.Then, current contrast piece figure and contrast piece figure before relatively, and the quantity of count block, wherein these pieces have and are equal to or greater than 128 contrast and its position and change (step S74).Here, measure 10% (the step S75) whether the quantity with the piece that is equal to or greater than 128 contrast surpasses total amount.Obtain if measure, the quantity with the piece that is equal to or greater than 128 contrast surpasses 10% of total amount, measures then that focus state is not held and shooting state changes (step S76).Therefore, the information of the maintenance of indication focus state is eliminated (step S77), finishes this process then.In focusing operation subsequently, obtain the focal position by scanning whole automatic focus sweep limitss.On the other hand, obtain if measure, have the piece that is equal to or greater than 128 contrast the lazy weight total amount 10%, measure then that focus state is held and shooting state changes (step S78).Therefore, the information of the maintenance of indication focus state is set up (step S79), finishes this process then.In focusing operation subsequently, obtain the focal position by near the close limit that only scans the current focus position.
The present invention is not limited among these concrete disclosed embodiment, and, do not depart from the scope of the present invention and can make many variations and modification.
Claims (15)
1. imaging device, wherein one of macro mode and general mode are selectable, macro mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, and general mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, and this imaging device comprises:
Focus control device is used for detecting focus point continuously when mobile focusing lens and when focus point stops condenser lens, thereby carries out the automatic focus operation;
It is characterized in that:
The scope control device, be used for when taking with described macro mode and satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower by mobile range than whole focusing ranges with condenser lens, and making described focus control device carry out the automatic focus operation, wherein narrow than whole focusing ranges scope has last focus point.
2. imaging device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said predetermined condition comprises, described automatic focus is carried out at least once after operating in described macro mode being set, and described scope control device comprises the device that described focusing operation is carried out on described limited range.
3. imaging device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used for monitoring device at the focus state of described focus control device; And
Produce the device of focusing operation when satisfying predetermined condition on described limited range, wherein predetermined condition comprises, the focus state after last focusing operation is held based on the described device of monitoring.
4. imaging device as claimed in claim 1 also comprises the distance-measuring device of the distance that is used to measure subject, and wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used to monitor the device of the variation of the distance of measuring by described distance-measuring device; And
Produce the device of focusing operation when satisfying predetermined condition on described limited scope, predetermined condition comprises, based on the monitoring of the described device by monitoring, the variation of the distance after last automatic focus operation is equal to or less than predetermined value.
5. imaging device as claimed in claim 1 also comprises the Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism that is used for measuring in the Luminance Distribution of picture screen, and wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used to monitor the device of the variation of the Luminance Distribution of measuring by described Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism; And
Produce the device of focusing operation when satisfying predetermined condition on described limited scope, predetermined condition comprises that based on the described assembly monitor by being used to monitor, the variation of the Luminance Distribution after last automatic focus operation is equal to or less than scheduled volume.
6. imaging device as claimed in claim 1 also comprises the imaging optical system that uses varifocal optical system, the change zoom magnification ratio of varifocal optical system optics wherein, and wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used for monitoring device in the variation of the zoom magnification ratio of described imaging optical system; And
When the monitoring zoom magnification ratio based on the described device that is used to monitor has changed, the device that focusing operation is performed on whole focusing ranges.
7. imaging device, wherein one of macro mode and general mode are selectable, this macro mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, and general mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, and this imaging device comprises:
Focus control device, be used for obtaining the automatic focus estimated value from imaging signal continuously, wherein automatic focus estimated value obtains according to the definition of subject edge of image part, and stop described condenser lens at focus point, this focus point is set to the maximum of points of automatic focus estimated value, thereby carries out the automatic focus operation;
It is characterized in that:
The scope control device, when taking with described macro mode and satisfying predetermined condition, mobile range by the restriction condenser lens is the scope narrower than whole focusing ranges, this scope control device makes described focus control device carry out the automatic focus operation, and wherein narrow than whole focusing ranges scope has last focus point.
8. imaging device as claimed in claim 7, wherein said predetermined condition comprises, described automatic focus is carried out at least once after operating in described macro mode being set, and described scope control device comprises, the device that described focusing operation is carried out on described limited scope.
9. imaging device as claimed in claim 7, wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used for monitoring device at the focus state of described focus control device; And
Produce the device of focusing operation when satisfying predetermined condition on described limited scope, predetermined condition comprises that the focus state after last focusing operation is held based on the described device that is used to monitor.
10. imaging device as claimed in claim 7 also comprises the distance-measuring device of the distance that is used to measure subject, and wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used to monitor the device of the variation of the distance of measuring by described distance-measuring device; And
Produce the device of focusing operation when satisfying predetermined condition on described limited scope, predetermined condition comprises, based on the monitoring of the described device of monitoring, the variation of the distance after last automatic focus operation is equal to or less than predetermined value.
11. imaging device as claimed in claim 7 also comprises the Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism that is used for measuring in the Luminance Distribution of image display panel, wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used to monitor the device of the variation of the Luminance Distribution of measuring by described Luminance Distribution measurement mechanism; And
Produce the device of focusing operation when satisfying predetermined condition on described limited scope, predetermined condition comprises that based on the described assembly monitor that is used to monitor, the variation of the Luminance Distribution after last automatic focus operation is equal to or less than scheduled volume.
12. imaging device as claimed in claim 7, wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used for monitoring device in the automatic focus value of described focus control device; And
Produce the device of focusing operation when satisfying predetermined condition on described limited scope, predetermined condition comprises that based on the monitoring of the described device that is used to monitor, the variation of the automatic focus estimated value after last automatic focus operation is equal to or less than predetermined value.
13. imaging device as claimed in claim 7 also comprises the imaging optical system that uses varifocal optical system, wherein varifocal optical system changes the zoom magnification ratio optically, and wherein said scope control device comprises:
Be used for monitoring device in the variation of the zoom magnification ratio of described imaging optical system; And
When having changed based on the monitoring zoom magnification ratio of the described device that is used to monitor, the device that focusing operation is performed on whole focusing ranges.
14. the focusing controlling method of an imaging device, wherein one of macro mode and general mode are selectable, this macro mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, general mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, and this focusing controlling method comprises:
Monitor focus point during by mobile focusing lens continuously and stop condenser lens at focus point, carry out the automatic focus operation, wherein this condenser lens is formed at least a portion of the imaging optical system of described imaging device,
It is characterized in that:
When macro mode being set and satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower by mobile range than whole focusing ranges with condenser lens, make described automatic focus operation be performed, wherein narrow than whole focusing ranges scope has the last focus point of the reference point of being set to.
15. the focusing controlling method of an imaging device, wherein one of macro mode and general mode are selectable, this macro mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance range shorter than preset range, general mode is used for coverage and is set to the distance longer than preset range, and this focusing controlling method comprises:
Obtain the automatic focus estimated value from imaging signal continuously, the definition according to subject edge of image part when mobile focusing lens obtains it, and this condenser lens is formed at least a portion of imaging optical system,
It is characterized in that:
Control the automatic focus operation by stop described condenser lens at focus point, this focus point is set to the maximum of points of automatic focus estimated value; And
When macro mode being set and satisfying predetermined condition, be restricted to the scope narrower by mobile range than whole focusing ranges with condenser lens, described automatic focus operation is performed, and wherein narrow than whole focusing ranges scope has the last focus point of the reference point of being set to.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP2004007154A JP5051812B2 (en) | 2004-01-14 | 2004-01-14 | Imaging apparatus, focusing method thereof, and recording medium |
| JP007154/04 | 2004-01-14 | ||
| JP166442/04 | 2004-06-03 |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNB2005100685423A Division CN100366058C (en) | 2004-01-14 | 2005-01-14 | Imaging apparatus, focusing method, and focus control method |
Publications (2)
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| CN101098409A true CN101098409A (en) | 2008-01-02 |
| CN100581221C CN100581221C (en) | 2010-01-13 |
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| CN200710140736A Expired - Fee Related CN100581221C (en) | 2004-01-14 | 2005-01-14 | Imaging device, focusing method, focusing control method |
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| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JP5051812B2 (en) |
| CN (1) | CN100581221C (en) |
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| CN110381261A (en) * | 2019-08-29 | 2019-10-25 | 重庆紫光华山智安科技有限公司 | Focus method, device, computer readable storage medium and electronic equipment |
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Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CN100581221C (en) | 2010-01-13 |
| JP5051812B2 (en) | 2012-10-17 |
| JP2005202064A (en) | 2005-07-28 |
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