CN1514297A - Camera and its range finding method - Google Patents
Camera and its range finding method Download PDFInfo
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- CN1514297A CN1514297A CNA2003101034740A CN200310103474A CN1514297A CN 1514297 A CN1514297 A CN 1514297A CN A2003101034740 A CNA2003101034740 A CN A2003101034740A CN 200310103474 A CN200310103474 A CN 200310103474A CN 1514297 A CN1514297 A CN 1514297A
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Abstract
Provided is a convenient camera for satisfying precision of focusing and time lag by a photographer even in a scene where the precision of the focusing is important and in a scene requiring a higher speed, and to provide a range-finding method of the camera. The camera performs the focusing of a photographing lens 16 by a first auto-focusing method on the basis of the contrast of an image signal of an object 10 obtained through the photographing lens 16. The camera performs the focusing of the photographing lens 16 by a second auto-focusing method according to the range-finding result of a range-finding part 14 having a pair of optical systems different from the photographing lens 16. The range-finding part 14 enables range-finding of a plurality of points in a photographic screen. In the case that a main object and the other objects are judged to be in a prescribed distance range with a CPU 11 from a plurality of range-finding results, the focusing in which the second auto-focusing method is prior is performed.
Description
Technical field
The present invention relates to the improvement to the automatic focus technology of so-called digital camera, this digital camera obtains the subject image by phtographic lens by imaging apparatus (imager), and it is carried out electronical record.
Background technology
In general, the automatic focus of digital camera (AF) is to adopt the imager AF that exists already, on one side this imager AF changes the focal position of camera lens, Yi Bian judgement focuses on from the contrast of the resulting image of imaging apparatus.But this pattern must obtain the view data in a plurality of focal positions in the timing of taking, and prolongs the tendency that shutter discharges time lag thereby exist.Therefore, by distance measuring equipment (the outer light AF) Xiang Bingyong that this method and other optical system are constituted, as the technology of the countermeasure of head it off, known have a following technology (for example, with reference to patent documentation 1, patent documentation 2 and patent documentation 3).
The spy opens 2001-141985 communique [0034], Fig. 2
The spy opens 2001-249267 communique [0039]～[0041], Fig. 1
Patent documentation 3
Te Kaiping 11-23955 communique [0006]～[0009], Fig. 1
Summary of the invention
The advantage of above-mentioned imager AF is, even on the stop position of phtographic lens, have error, control the focal position because comprise this error, though, also can cancel the FEEDBACK CONTROL after the error because temperature or humidity or posture difference etc. cause the lens location characteristic and designed differently originally.
But, as mentioned above, owing to before focusing on, need to consume the considerable time, when the time in the very dark occasion of the depth of focus, above-mentioned patent documentation 1 and patent documentation 2 described cameras are ignored aforesaid lens position error, and only the result according to outer light AF carries out focal point control (LD).
In addition, above-mentioned patent documentation 3 described cameras switch according to distance.
, existing when the depth of focus is very dark, the scene that hope more correctly focuses on also has when the depth of focus is very shallow, wishes to eliminate to discharge the scene that time lag is photographed, and switches effectively surely so only just differ according to distance.Therefore, if can more correctly carry out the preferential switching of Focus priority or time lag, just can provide the camera that makes the user satisfied more according to scene.
In view of the above problems, the object of the present invention is to provide a kind of camera and distance-finding method thereof of easy to use, function admirable, this camera and distance-finding method thereof can be according to different scenes, adopt optimum focus method, no matter focusing accuracy is taken seriously the scene of wanting, or high speed had the scene of requirements at the higher level, can both satisfy cameraman's focusing precision or to the requirement of time lag.
That is the 1st invention is a kind of camera with following focusing mode: the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens; The 2nd automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens, it is characterized in that, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, and has selecting arrangement, and this selecting arrangement can be according to above-mentioned a plurality of range finding results, when judging that main subject and other subject are in the distance range of regulation, can select to carry out the focusing of above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
In addition, the 2nd invention is a kind of camera with following focusing mode: the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens; The 2nd automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens, it is characterized in that, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, and has switching device shifter, and this switching device shifter is according to above-mentioned a plurality of range finding results' range distribution, switch above-mentioned the 1st automatic focus pattern and above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus pattern, and find range.
And then the 3rd invention is characterised in that to have: multipoint ranging apparatus, before taking, utilize phtographic lens optical system in addition, and a plurality of points in the image frame are found range, obtain the distance of main subject and the position in picture; Control device, by above-mentioned multipoint ranging apparatus, when judging that above-mentioned main subject is in when not having in the distance of difference with other subject, just carry out the focus control of above-mentioned phtographic lens according to above-mentioned range finding result, when judge above-mentioned main subject be in away from other subject apart from the time, according to contrast, carry out focus control by the resulting subject image of above-mentioned phtographic lens.
The 4th invention is a kind of camera that has zoom lens in phtographic lens, it is characterized in that having: multipoint ranging apparatus, utilize the optical system different with above-mentioned phtographic lens, and the distance of a plurality of points in the picture is measured; Contrast formula focalizer, according to contrast by the resulting camera of above-mentioned phtographic lens, the decision focal position; The zoom position pick-up unit is used to detect the zoom position of above-mentioned phtographic lens; Determination device, according to above-mentioned zoom position, and by the relation of distance between resulting main subject of above-mentioned multiple point distance measurement result and background, whether decision makes above-mentioned contrast formula focalizer action.
The 5th invention is a kind of camera with following focusing mode: the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens; The 2nd automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens, it is characterized in that, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame, above-mentioned a plurality of points are found range, also have: derivator is used to obtain the differentiated data of above-mentioned picture signal; Selecting arrangement is selected when above-mentioned differential information is higher than the grade of regulation, to carry out the focusing of above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
In addition, the 6th invention is a kind of camera with following focusing mode: the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens; The 2nd automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens, it is characterized in that, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to above-mentioned a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame, also has: judgment means, detect the contrast information in the above-mentioned image frame, and judge the size of this contrast; Switching device shifter according to the result of above-mentioned judgment means, switches the 1st automatic focus pattern and the 2nd automatic focus pattern.
The 7th invention is a kind of distance-finding method of camera, this camera is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by above-mentioned phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern, it is characterized in that, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, according to above-mentioned a plurality of range finding results, when judging that main subject and other subject are in the distance range of regulation, select to carry out the focusing of above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
The 8th invention is a kind of distance-finding method of camera, this camera is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by above-mentioned phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern, it is characterized in that, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, and has a range distribution according to above-mentioned a plurality of range finding results, switch above-mentioned the 1st automatic focus pattern and above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus pattern, and the step of finding range.
The 9th invention is characterised in that to have: before taking, utilize phtographic lens optical system in addition, a plurality of points in the image frame are carried out multiple point distance measurement, obtain the step of the distance of main subject and the position in picture; According to above-mentioned multiple point distance measurement, when judging that above-mentioned main subject is in when not having in the distance of difference with other subject, just carry out the focus control of above-mentioned phtographic lens according to above-mentioned range finding result, when judge above-mentioned main subject be in away from other subject apart from the time, according to contrast, carry out the step of focus control by the resulting subject image of above-mentioned phtographic lens.
The 10th invention is a kind of distance-finding method that has the camera of zoom lens in phtographic lens, it is characterized in that having: utilizes the optical system different with above-mentioned phtographic lens, be used to measure the step of multiple point distance measurement of the distance of the interior a plurality of points of picture; Decide the step of focal position according to contrast by the resulting photographs of above-mentioned phtographic lens; Detect the step of the zoom position of above-mentioned phtographic lens; According to above-mentioned zoom position, and by the relation of distance between resulting main subject of the result of above-mentioned multiple point distance measurement and background, whether decision is used in the step of the contrast formula focalizer action of the above-mentioned focal position of decision.
The 11st invention is a kind of distance-finding method of camera, and this method has: according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, and the step of carrying out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern; Range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens, the step of carrying out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern, it is characterized in that, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame, above-mentioned a plurality of points are found range, also have: the step of obtaining the differential information of above-mentioned picture signal; When being higher than the grade of regulation, above-mentioned differential information selects, with the step of the focusing of carrying out above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
The 12nd invention is a kind of distance-finding method of camera, and this camera carries out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern; Range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern, it is characterized in that, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame, above-mentioned a plurality of points are found range, also have: detect the contrast information in the above-mentioned image frame, and judge the step of the size of this contrast; According to above-mentioned judged result, switch the step of above-mentioned the 1st automatic focus pattern and above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus pattern.
The camera that the 1st invention relates to is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by above-mentioned phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the range finding result of distance measuring equipment, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens.And then above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame.According to above-mentioned a plurality of range finding results, when judging that main subject and other subject are in the distance range of regulation,, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization by selecting arrangement.
The camera that the 2nd invention relates to is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by above-mentioned phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the range finding result of distance measuring equipment, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens.And then above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, according to above-mentioned a plurality of range finding results' range distribution, utilizes switching device shifter to switch above-mentioned the 1st automatic focus pattern and above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus pattern and finds range.
The camera that the 3rd invention relates to, before taking, multipoint ranging apparatus utilizes the optical system beyond the phtographic lens, and a plurality of points in the image frame are found range, and by this multipoint ranging apparatus, obtains the distance of main subject and the position in picture.And then, by above-mentioned multipoint ranging apparatus, when judging that above-mentioned main subject is in when not having in the distance of difference with other subject, just by control device, carries out the focus control of above-mentioned phtographic lens according to above-mentioned range finding result.On the other hand, when judge above-mentioned main subject be in away from other subject apart from the time, according to contrast, carry out focus control by control device by the resulting subject image of above-mentioned phtographic lens.
In addition, have the camera of zoom lens in the phtographic lens that the 4th invention relates to, utilize the optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens,, the distance of a plurality of points in the picture is measured by multipoint ranging apparatus.According to contrast, utilize contrast formula focalizer to decide focal position, and utilize the zoom position pick-up unit to detect the zoom position of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the resulting camera of above-mentioned phtographic lens.And then, according to above-mentioned zoom position, and the relation of distance between main subject that obtains by above-mentioned multiple point distance measurement result and background, utilize determination device, whether decision makes above-mentioned contrast formula focalizer action.
The camera that the 5th invention relates to is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the range finding result of distance measuring equipment, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens.And then above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can carry out the range finding of above-mentioned a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame, obtains the differentiated data of above-mentioned picture signal by derivator.When above-mentioned differential information is higher than the grade of regulation, select by selecting arrangement, to carry out the focusing of above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
The camera that the 6th invention relates to is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the range finding result of distance measuring equipment, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens.And then above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to above-mentioned a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame, detects the contrast information in the above-mentioned image frame, by judgment means, judges the size of this contrast.According to the result of above-mentioned judgment means,, switch the 1st automatic focus pattern and the 2nd automatic focus pattern by switching device shifter.
The distance-finding method of the camera that the 7th invention relates to, contrast according to the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the range finding result of distance measuring equipment, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens.And then, above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, according to above-mentioned a plurality of range finding results, when judging that main subject and other subject are in the distance range of regulation, select to carry out the focusing of above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
The distance-finding method of the camera that the 8th invention relates to, contrast according to the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the range finding result of distance measuring equipment, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens.And then above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, and according to above-mentioned a plurality of range finding results' range distribution, switches above-mentioned the 1st automatic focus pattern and above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus pattern.
The distance-finding method of the camera that the 9th invention relates to before taking, utilizes phtographic lens optical system in addition, a plurality of points in the image frame is carried out multiple point distance measurement, and obtain the distance of main subject and the position in picture.And then, according to above-mentioned multiple point distance measurement, when judging that above-mentioned main subject is in when not having in the distance of difference with other subject, just carries out the focus control of above-mentioned phtographic lens according to above-mentioned range finding result.On the other hand, when judge above-mentioned main subject be in away from other subject apart from the time, according to contrast, carry out focus control by the resulting subject image of above-mentioned phtographic lens.
The control method of the camera that the 10th invention relates to, have zoom lens in the phtographic lens of camera, utilize the optical system different with above-mentioned phtographic lens, distance to a plurality of points in the picture is carried out multiple point distance measurement, and according to the contrast by the resulting photographs of above-mentioned phtographic lens, the decision focal position.In addition, behind the zoom position that detects above-mentioned phtographic lens, according to above-mentioned zoom position, and by the relation of distance between the resulting above-mentioned main subject of result of above-mentioned multiple point distance measurement and background, whether decision is used in the contrast formula focusing mode action of the above-mentioned focal position of decision.
The distance-finding method of the camera that the 11st invention relates to, contrast according to the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the range finding result of distance measuring equipment, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens.Above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to above-mentioned a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame, in addition, also obtains the differential information of above-mentioned picture signal.And then, when being higher than the grade of regulation, above-mentioned differential information selects, to carry out the focusing of above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
The distance-finding method of the camera that the 12nd invention relates to, contrast according to the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the range finding result of distance measuring equipment, carry out the focusing of above-mentioned phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern with a pair of optical system that is different from above-mentioned phtographic lens.Above-mentioned distance measuring equipment can be found range to above-mentioned a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame, and detects the contrast information in the above-mentioned image frame, judges the size of this contrast.And then, according to above-mentioned judged result, switch above-mentioned the 1st automatic focus pattern and above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus pattern.
The present invention is according to the distance of subject and the relation of the distance of other subject, carries out the switching of above-mentioned relative importance value.
Description of drawings
Fig. 1 is the inner structure block scheme of the camera that relates to of expression the 1st embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 2 (a) is an exemplary plot that is in the scene in the landscape as the personage of main subject; (b) be an exemplary plot that is in the scene of the situation more mixed and disorderly as the personage of main subject than the scene of this figure (a); (c) be an exemplary plot of the main subject scene that is in picture one end.
Fig. 3 is the key diagram about the range measurement principle of the outer light formula distance measuring equipment that plays an important role in the present invention.
Fig. 4 is the key diagram about active formula multipoint ranging apparatus.
Fig. 5 (a) is sensitive lens 12a and 12b and sensor array 13a and 13b, and the position of phtographic lens 16 and imaging apparatus 17 concerns synoptic diagram; (b) be the outward appearance skeleton view of the camera that relates to of the 1st embodiment.
Fig. 6 is the range distribution synoptic diagram.
Fig. 7 is the flow chart illustration according to the range finding action of the camera of the 1st embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 8 is the sequential chart that the range finding of the camera of explanation the 1st embodiment is moved.
Fig. 9 is the process flow diagram of explanation according to the range finding action of the camera of the 2nd embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 is the step S3 of explanation in the process flow diagram of Fig. 7, and change is used to obtain the process flow diagram of main subject distance and the 1st example of the determination step of the difference of other distance.
Figure 11 be the focal length of expression zoom lens when looking in the distance (Tele) and wide-angle (Wide), the graph of a relation of the 1/L reciprocal of focusing sendout and distance.
Figure 12 is the step S3 of explanation in Fig. 7 process flow diagram, and change is used to obtain the process flow diagram of main subject distance and the 2nd example of the determination step of the difference of other distance.
Figure 13 is illustrated in the scene of Fig. 2 (a), utilizes the characteristic synoptic diagram of view data of the sensor array gained of outer light AF.
Figure 14 (a) is illustrated in the scene of Fig. 2 (b), utilizes the characteristic synoptic diagram of view data of the sensor array gained of outer light AF, and Figure 14 (b) is the differentiated data characteristic synoptic diagram of the view data of (a).
Figure 15 is the process flow diagram of explanation about the range finding action of the camera of the 3rd embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 16 is the summary section of the camera architecture that relates to of expression the 4th embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 17 is the exemplary plot of picture 40 of the photometry sensor 38 of Figure 16.
Symbol description
1: picture; 1a: zone; 2,10: subject; 2a, 2b: personage; 2c: background; 3a, 3b, 12a, 12b: sensitive lens; 4a, 4b, 13a, 13b: sensor array; 11:CPU; 11a: switch; 14: distance measuring equipment; The 14a:A/D converting means; 14b: range finding arithmetic unit; 16: phtographic lens; 17: imaging apparatus; 18: analog/digital (A/D) converting means; 19: image processing apparatus; 21: the zoom pick-up unit; 22: recording medium; 23: light source
Embodiment
Following with reference to accompanying drawing, embodiments of the present invention are described.
At first, with reference to Fig. 2, the present invention is carried out summary description.
Fig. 2 (a) is the exemplary plot that the personage as main subject is in the scene among the landscape, Fig. 2 (b) is an exemplary plot that is in the scene of the situation more mixed and disorderly than the scene of this figure (a) as the personage of main subject, and Fig. 2 (c) is an exemplary plot of the main subject scene that is in picture one end.
Under the situation of scene shown in Fig. 2 (a), in picture 1, because the distance of subject is separated fully with landscape, the theme that the cameraman wants to emphasize is undoubtedly this personage 2a.Therefore, can think, must carry out focus control completely this personage 2a.So adopt the imager AF pattern that not influenced by temperature or humidity or posture difference to focus on.
But, on one side because imager AF moves camera lens, Yi Bian the contrast of process decision chart picture, so the startup of camera lens, stop suitable elapsed time, existence makes this elongated shortcoming of time lag.Such focusing might not be satisfied in the scene shown in Fig. 2 (b).
That is,, can think that the cameraman is not to indivedual personages, other personages or background is felt interest really yet to such scene, not only wish 2a to the personage, also wish personage 2b or background 2c etc. is focused on.This situation takes place during in occasions such as small-sized party or dinner partys through regular meeting, the image photography of this moment is a purpose, not as good as once happy its values of record of commemorating is higher, and hope just can be finished it at short notice.In addition, to such scene, even the position near background is focused on no problem, as mentioned above, even there is error in camera lens control (LD), but it if distance slightly a little further, can not perceiveed concerning the personage mostly yet yet.
Under such situation,, can lose valuable shutter opportunity mostly if the time that personage's cost is surpassed more than necessity focuses on.If background is a static landscape etc., also reluctantly can, but the scene shown in Fig. 2 (b) for example in the scene that has a plurality of personages etc., if the time that consumes is too much, will make crew's posture or expression depart from cameraman's intention fully sometimes.
Therefore, under the situation shown in Fig. 2 (b), just make the focusing of time priority in the present invention.
Secondly, with reference to Fig. 3, the range measurement principle of the outer light formula distance measuring equipment that plays an important role is in the present invention described.
Among Fig. 3 (a),, dispose a pair of sensitive lens 3a and 3b leaving subject 2 apart from being the position of L.Distance between the principal point of this sensitive lens 3a and 3b is only left base length B, and the image of subject 2 is directed to each sensor array 4a and 4b.According to the range of triangle principle, the light from subject 2 that obtains like this is imaging under the state of relative position difference x of initial point having with the optical axis.Can obtain distance L according to this x.
Image on the optical axis of Fig. 3 (a) expression sensitive lens 3a, incide the x position on the sensor array 4b, but when find range in the position that the optical axis from sensitive lens 3a has been offset the θ angle, if the focal length of sensitive lens is f, if utilize the picture signal of the position of f * tan (θ), by same consideration method (L=B * f/x), also can obtain the distance of the point that departs from optical axis.
In a word, owing to can have some point distance measurements, shown in Fig. 3 (b), can obtain the range data of the some spots 5 in the picture in the orientation of sensor array.Distance measuring equipment with this function is called as multipoint ranging apparatus.
In addition, as multipoint ranging apparatus, also can utilize known active formula multipoint ranging apparatus.For example, as shown in Figure 4, a plurality of LED4c throw by light projector lens 3c, its reflected signal light by sensitive lens 3b via optical position detecting element 4d by sensitization, measure its incoming position, equally also can carry out multiple point distance measurement.
Secondly, the 1st embodiment of the present invention is described.
Fig. 1 is the block scheme of the inner structure of the camera that relates to of expression the 1st embodiment of the present invention.
In Fig. 1, the structure of the digital camera that the 1st embodiment of the present invention relates to has: microprocessor (CPU) 11; A pair of sensitive lens 12a and 12b; Pair of sensors array 13a and 13b; Distance measuring equipment 14; Phtographic lens 16; Imaging apparatus 17; Analog/digital (A/D) converting means 18; Image processing apparatus 19; Zoom pick-up unit 21; Storage medium 22; Light source 23.
Above-mentioned CPU11 is the operation control device of the global procedures of this camera of control, has the function of selecting arrangement and control device.On this CPU11, be connected with and be used to switch 11a that imaging program is begun.CPU11 judges the ON operation of cameraman to switch 11a, and a series of imaging program is begun.
A pair of sensitive lens 12a and 12b receive the image from subject 10, are imaged onto on pair of sensors array 13a and the 13b.And then the image from subject 10 of imaging on pair of sensors array 13a and 13b outputs to distance measuring equipment 14 after being transformed to electric signal (after, be called " picture signal ").
Have A/D converting means 14a and range finding arithmetic unit 14b in the structure of distance measuring equipment 14, promptly so-called passive measurement distance device.A/D converting means 14a in the distance measuring equipment 14 is the image signal transformation from the sensor array 13a and 13b input a digital signal, outputs to range finding arithmetic unit 14b.And then range finding arithmetic unit 14b utilizes above-mentioned range of triangle principle according to this digital signal, calculates the distance between 10 from the camera to the subject, that is the subject distance.And above-mentioned distance measuring equipment 14 is equivalent to " distance measuring equipment " described in the patent request scope.
And then, by CPU11,, phtographic lens 16 is carried out focus control according to the subject distance that obtains through above-mentioned computing.That is by CPU11, according to the subject distance of calculating gained at range finding arithmetic unit 14b, controls lens drive unit (LD device) 20 carries out the focusing of phtographic lens 16.
In addition, zoom pick-up unit 21 also is the zoom position pick-up unit that is used to detect the zoom position of above-mentioned phtographic lens 16.Utilize this zoom pick-up unit 21, detect by lens driving apparatus 20 how many phtographic lenses 16 moved on earth on optical axis, that is detect zoom position.Thereby,, according to by above-mentioned zoom pick-up unit 21 resulting zoom positions, and, carry out focus control from the picture signal of above-mentioned distance measuring equipment 14 by CPU11.
After the focus control of phtographic lens 16 is finished, carry out exposure actions.Imaging apparatus 17 is made of CCD etc., by the image from subject 10 of phtographic lens 16 imagings, is transformed to the electric signal of image, outputs to A/D converting means 18.And imaging apparatus 17 is equivalent to " imaging apparatus " described in the patent request scope.
A/D converting means 18 outputs to image processing apparatus 19 after the image signal transformation from imaging apparatus 17 is digital signal.In addition, image processing apparatus 19 is according to the digital signal of being imported, and after correction of color of having carried out image or gray scale etc., picture signal compressed.And then, the image recording after the compression in recording medium 22, is finished exposure actions.
And light source 23 is made of flasher etc.According to the difference of photography scene, can from this light source 23 will expose with or the fill-in light of the usefulness of finding range etc. project on the subject 10.
At this moment, sensitive lens 12a and 12b and sensor array 13a and 13b, and the position of phtographic lens 16 and imaging apparatus 17 relation exist the relation shown in Fig. 5 (a).
That is, utilize sensor array 13a and 13b and imaging apparatus 17, can detect the image of same subject 10.In addition, the output of sensor array 13a and 13b be used to calculate subject apart from the time, by with being imaged on diverse location, the subject image of position shown in the with dashed lines among this figure for example, replace imaging to use the image of the subject 10 of position shown in the solid line in the figure, shown in Fig. 3 (b), also can detect the subject 2 subject distance in addition in the photographic picture.
Fig. 5 (b) is the outward appearance skeleton view of the camera that relates to of this 1st embodiment.
In Fig. 5 (b), on camera 30, be provided with the shutter release button 11b that is used to operate above-mentioned switch 11a.In addition, at the about central portion in the front of camera 30, be provided with above-mentioned phtographic lens 16.And then, above phtographic lens 16,, be provided with sensitive lens 12a and 12b according to the relation of the position shown in Fig. 5 (a).In Fig. 5 (b),, be provided with light source 23 light-emission window 23a in the right side of above-mentioned sensitive lens 12a and 12b.
To aforesaid outer light formula AF, as two of the people, utilize a pair of sensitive lens 12a and 12b and sensor array 13a and 13b, detect the subject distance by the range of triangle principle, according to this subject distance, carry out the focusing of phtographic lens 16.
On the other hand, the AF by phtographic lens 16 utilizes imaging apparatus to export is called as imager AF.This imager AF is by lens driving apparatus 20, make the change in location of phtographic lens 16 on one side, detect on one side the contrast of the subject image that is imaged on the imaging apparatus 17, judge the position that makes contrast become the highest phtographic lens 16, with it as the focal position.
That is, with above-mentioned outer light formula AF such decide the AF of focal position to compare based on subject distance, above-mentioned imager AF carries out focus control according to different principles.
To such imager AF, even when in the position control of phtographic lens 16, producing error, if less error can detect the focal position under the state of having considered this error.But shown in Fig. 2 (c), if when being in beyond the central portion in the photographic picture 1 as the personage 2a of main subject, it is quite difficult wanting the focus of phtographic lens 16 is promptly aimed at personage 2a.
That is, in order to determine main subject, be respectively the buildings 2d of personage 2a and background subject is carried out after above-mentioned contrast judges, also must judge on earth which subject as mainly subject is more appropriate, for example, must judge which subject is in right opposite.At this moment, just need be taken into temporarily, and judge its contrast, so will consume many times corresponding to the image on the focal position of each subject.
With respect to this, outer light formula AF detects from sensor array 13a shown in Fig. 5 (a) and the picture signal of 13b, based on the parallax of sensitive lens 12a and 12b, will produce the deviation of subject picture signal, by detecting this deviation, determine the distance of subject then.That is, owing to only after having determined the focal position, just drive phtographic lens 16, so it focuses on used time ratio imager AF weak point.
In addition, because distance to the subject beyond the main subject, as long as by switching in employed subject picture signal in the subject distance operation, and with the location independent of main subject, therefore, can detect the range distribution of the subject in the very wide zone shown in the zone 5 of Fig. 3 (b).
Fig. 6 is the exemplary plot of the range distribution obtained by method as mentioned above.
If obtain this range distribution, can detect main subject apace and where be present on earth.
Secondly, with reference to the process flow diagram of Fig. 7, basic consideration method of the present invention is illustrated as the 1st embodiment.
At first, at step S1, a plurality of points in the picture are found range by outer ligh-ranging device.For example, to the scene as shown in Fig. 2 (b), owing to the distribution that can obtain as shown in Figure 6, thereby, at step S2, nearest distance is selected as main subject distance L.
Secondly,, the point of expression minimum distance (main subject position) is compared with the distance of other point, judge whether its difference is very big at step S3.At this moment,, then transfer to step S4, for example,,, carry out the preferential focusing of speed as snapshot to the scene as shown in Fig. 2 (b) if difference is very little.To such scene,, comprise that so the photography of background will become problem if will make the personage become pinpointed focus.
In addition, be example with regard to the scene of Fig. 2 (b), before the personage, also there is subject, according to different situations, also be very important concerning the cameraman.Therefore, might not be only personage's focus as most important focus, even how many point tolerances is arranged, also preferentially focus on by the time.After this, transfer to step S9, finish shooting.
On the other hand, at above-mentioned steps S3,, just transfer to step S5 if widely different.To the scene as shown in Fig. 2 (a), between the distance of main subject 2a and background very big-difference is arranged.That is different with the scene shown in Fig. 2 (b), the cameraman also is indifferent to background, can think that it attentively concentrates on the personage.In the case, because focus is aimed at the condition that this personage just becomes good shooting fully, therefore continue to carry out the sequential of imager AF, this imager AF can comprise the camera lens error in interior optimum focusing.
But, owing to when in the whole zone of lens driving, carrying out Contrast Detection, can form a large amount of losses of time, at step S5, lens driving (LD) to the lens location front that is equivalent to main subject distance L.After this, at step S6, begin to detect contrast.
And then, at step S7, the lens location when detecting the contrast maximum.At this moment, when also not reaching maximum, transfer to step S8, lens location is finely tuned, so that survey optimal focus position.
Carry out above-mentioned steps S6～S8 so repeatedly, till finding that contrast becomes maximum position.And then, become maximum position if reach contrast, just focus in this position, at step S9, carry out and take.
As mentioned above, according to the 1st embodiment, shown in Fig. 2 (a), when cameraman's care concentrates on the scene of a subject (being the personage herein), even spended time also can focus on the personage, and shown in Fig. 2 (b), as party or the sort of snap scene of dinner party, owing to carry out the preferential focus control of speed, therefore can not miss shutter opportunity.
Fig. 8 is the sequential chart that the range finding of the camera of explanation the 1st embodiment is moved.
At first, utilize outer light formula distance measuring equipment to find range, carry out camera lens control (LD) according to its result.In the scene shown in Fig. 2 (a), further begin degree of comparing from here and detect, the lens location when becoming peak value in order to obtain contrast carries out camera lens control and Contrast Detection (during the Δ t) repeatedly.
But,, do not carry out this Contrast Detection in the scene shown in Fig. 2 (b).Thereby, can enter shooting with the time that is equivalent to shorten Δ t.In addition, though shown in Fig. 2 (b) such composition, under the situation of wishing the personage is focused on fully, also can use known technology such as locking focus, carry out image photography.
Secondly, describe with regard to the 2nd embodiment of the present invention.
This 2nd embodiment is the zoom position that adds phtographic lens in the process flow diagram of above-mentioned Fig. 7, becomes effective embodiment of the camera with long focal telescopic lens.
That is, to long focus zoom lens, influence photography, so under such photography scene, adopt imager AF preferential because the slight error of amasthenic lens can become very big error.In addition, in the scene shown in Fig. 2 (b), because wish background or atmosphere are on every side included in picture more, therefore more considerations are photographed with the wide-angle side of zoom lens, so, consider zoom position and subject position, as snap photography, it should be judged to be shutter preferential photography scene on opportunity, the line focusing of going forward side by side.
At this moment, with reference to the process flow diagram of Fig. 9, the range finding action according to the camera of the 2nd embodiment of the present invention is described.
At first,, utilize the zoom pick-up unit 21 among Fig. 1, judge zoom position at step S11.Secondly, at step S12, carry out multiple point distance measurement according to outer ligh-ranging.Thereby, at step S13, obtain range distribution, then,, determine main subject distance L at step S14.
But, need not be as above-mentioned the 1st embodiment, the subject of expression minimum distance is used as main subject, even distance priority or system of selection that too close subject is ignored as mixed and disorderly subject in accordance with regulations also can be used the present invention.
Obtain the deviation of inverse of the distance of the each point that obtains so then.Because this deviation can wait with standard deviation and judge, therefore this standard deviation is compared at step S15.
At this moment, if judge that σ is very little,, judge that whether zoom position is in the wide-angle side just transfer to step S16.Its result if zoom position is in the wide-angle side, transfers to step S17, and the sign of carrying out imager AF is made as 0.On the other hand,,, or judge that at step S16 zoom position is not during in the wide-angle side, transfer to step S18, the sign of execution imager AF is made as 1 when standard deviation is very big at above-mentioned steps S15.
Secondly, at step S19, the main subject distance L of being tried to achieve from above-mentioned steps S14 is considered the error of camera lens control to ∞ side (remote side), and this error that staggers focuses on, and important background is considered into.And then, at step S20, the sign (imager sign) that carries out imager AF is judged.
At this moment,, then transfer to step S24, do not carry out imager AF and enter quick photography if the imager sign is not 1.But, if imager AF execute flag is, then entering imager AF program at 1 o'clock, this imager AF can consider the FEEDBACK CONTROL of camera lens rest position error.
That is, at step S21, utilize image by phtographic lens, begin to detect contrast.Secondly,,, then transfer to step S23, after camera lens is done little moving slightly, transfer to step S21 if the contrast of process decision chart picture is not maximum at step S22.That is the Contrast Detection of step S20～S23 repeatedly is till the contrast of process decision chart picture is maximum.
When the contrast of the image that obtains like this is maximum, stop lens driving (LD), carry out at step S24 and take.
As mentioned above, according to the 2nd embodiment, increase the zoom position of phtographic lens, in the wide-angle side, the possibility of carrying out snap photography is very high as if zoom position, therefore carries out the preferential focusing of speed.But, when main subject away from background or for look in the distance the photography situation the time, will pay attention to the photography of focus precision.
In a word, according to the 2nd embodiment, just can provide easy to use and camera function admirable, this camera has increased the consideration to zoom position, can judge photography state automatically, and selects optimum focus method.
In addition, in the process flow diagram of above-mentioned Fig. 9, utilize standard deviation to judge the deviation of the distance of each subject, but also can be the step S3 in the process flow diagram of Fig. 7, that is obtain the determination step of main subject distance and the difference of other distance, change to algorithm as shown in figure 10.At this moment, be illustrated in the example that has increased zoom information in this decision method.
In general, focus on the 1/L existence reciprocal proportionate relationship as shown in figure 11 of sendout and distance.But to the focal length of zoom lens, in the situation of look in the distance (Tele) with under the situation of wide-angle (Wide), because the depth of focus, as shown in same figure, when sending LD, the distance range that they can cover but has nothing in common with each other same.That is, when looking in the distance (T), have only Δ 1/L
TWidth can cover focus, and, but can cover wideer Δ 1/L to the situation of wide-angle (W)
WWidth.
After considering such relation, in the process flow diagram of Figure 10, the switching of step S33 is very necessary.
At step S31, calculate the mean value of the inverse distance of all each points of obtaining by multiple point distance measurement, be designated as 1/L
AVSecondly, at step S32, obtain above-mentioned mean value 1/L
AVAbsolute value with the difference of the 1/L reciprocal of main subject distance is designated as Δ 1/L.If both differences are very big, then main subject is away from background, and it is the scene shown in Fig. 2 (a) as can be known.On the other hand, if above-mentioned difference is very little, then main as can be known subject and other subject are approaching.That is it is the scene shown in Fig. 2 (b) as can be known.But, if wide-angle, because the subject depth of field is very dark, though so not approaching, but main subject and background also can focus on simultaneously.
Consider such relation,, carry out branch and judge at step S33.That is, judge whether zoom position is look in the distance (T).At this moment, when zoom position when looking in the distance, transfer to step S34, otherwise transfer to step S35.
And then, at step S34, at above-mentioned steps S32 resulting Δ as a result 1/L and setting Δ 1/L
TCompare.Its result if Δ 1/L is bigger, then transfers to step S36, if Δ 1/L is less, then transfers to step S37.
Similarly, at step S35, at above-mentioned steps S32 resulting Δ as a result 1/L and setting Δ 1/L
WCompare.Its result if Δ 1/L is bigger, then transfers to step S36, if Δ 1/L is less, then transfers to step S37.
At step S36, when the difference of judging distance when very big, so step S37 with regard to decidable apart from difference for very little.According to such result of determination, judge if carry out the branch of the step S3 in Fig. 7 process flow diagram, just can differentiate the sight of Fig. 2 (a) or Fig. 2 (b), thereby can determine to adopt imager AF or outer light formula AF.
In addition, step S3 in Fig. 7 process flow diagram obtains main subject distance and the difference of other distance and the determination step of judging, but also can replace this determination step, and utilize the judgement shown in the process flow diagram of Figure 12, carry out according to the number that is included in the subject in the predetermined distance scope.
That is, at first at step S41, judge whether zoom position is look in the distance (T).At this moment, if zoom position is to look in the distance, then transfers to step S42, otherwise transfer to step S43.
At step S42,, establish and be included in the Δ 1/L reciprocal that switches distance the 1/L reciprocal of main subject distance
TScope in the number of point distance measurement be n.Similarly, at step S43,, establish and be included in the Δ 1/L reciprocal that switches distance the 1/L reciprocal of main subject distance
WScope in the number of point distance measurement be n.
And then, at step S44, in all point distance measurements of multiple point distance measurement, whether judge at above-mentioned steps S42 or the resulting n of step S43 greater than 50%.At this moment, if it greater than 50%, then transfers to step S45, the difference of distance is judged as very little.On the other hand, be lower than at 50% o'clock, transferring to step S46, the difference of distance is judged as very big.
Also can scene be judged according to this result.
As mentioned above, because by utilizing simple calculating or decision method relatively, can obtain the relation of the distance of main subject and other subject simply, therefore can judge scene apace, reliably the automatic focus pattern of the preferential or Focus priority of switch speed can provide and can not miss the shutter AF camera on opportunity.
Secondly, the 3rd embodiment of the present invention is illustrated.
In the above-described embodiment, just judge the photography scene, but be not limited in this by the distribution of distance.For example, shown in Fig. 2 (c), when there is main subject 2a in the end at picture 1, can think that background also is important subject,, also can make it switch to the AF of outer light AF mode of priority even the distance of background is far.When so using, in the process flow diagram of Fig. 7, between step S3 and S5, also can insert the branch of the position of judging subject, be designed to just be branched off into the state of step S4 when if main subject is positioned at the end.
In addition, also can be on the basis of the position of the distribution of distance or subject, and then, increase judgement to the photography scene also according to the state of the picture signal of picture.
That is to the scene of Fig. 2 (a) and Fig. 2 (b), the view data that is obtained by the sensor array of outer light AF is respectively shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14 (a).That is at Fig. 2 (a), at Fig. 2 (b), owing to there are various subjects, therefore can there be all shades in the shade that background is just dull.Under the situation of such view data, have the fierce feature that rises and falls, for differentiating this feature,, ask its so-called differentiated data if calculate the amount of contiguous data, the part that changes will produce very big data, can obtain the chart data shown in Figure 14 (b).
Shown in Figure 14 (b), be merely or very chaotic by analyzing the number that this differentiated data surpasses setting, can judging in the picture.
Figure 15 is the process flow diagram of the following range finding action of explanation camera, and this range finding action utilizes the view data that is obtained by outer ligh-ranging etc., judges the scene of photographing, and switches between light AF and the imager AF outside.
That is, at first at step S51, utilize outer light AF sensor picture signal.Secondly,, utilize the testing result of above-mentioned steps S51, carry out multiple point distance measurement at step S52.And then, at step S53, according to the result of above-mentioned steps S52, the data of expression minimum distance as main subject distance.
At step S54, at the point of above-mentioned steps S53 gained distance as main subject.At follow-up step S55, calculate differential value as the feature of this 3rd embodiment.
Secondly, at step S56, as mentioned above, analysis surpasses counting of ormal weight, and will count and the value n that stipulates
0Relatively.Study carefully its result, if less than the value n that stipulates
0, transfer to step S57, otherwise transfer to step S61.
At step S57, phtographic lens is driven to the front of the lens location that is equivalent to main subject distance L, then, at step S58, begins to detect contrast.And then, at step S59, the lens location when detecting the contrast of sening as an envoy to and becoming maximum.At this moment, when also not reaching maximum, transfer to step S60, lens location is finely tuned, to survey optimal focus position.
Carry out above-mentioned steps S58～S60 so repeatedly, the position when finding contrast maximum.And then, if reach the maximum position of contrast, just focus in this position, at step S62, carry out and take.
In addition,, utilize outer ligh-ranging, focus in distance L at step S61.After this, transfer to step S62, carry out and take.
That is, between the focusing of the later outer light AF of the later imager AF of above-mentioned steps S57 or step S61, switch.That is the image that peak value is a lot of during differential can be thought to exist various subjects, and they are taken in as important subject as mixed and disorderly scene.Otherwise to peak value scene seldom, main subject adopts the AF of Focus priority as most important subject.
As mentioned above, according to this 3rd embodiment,, therefore can select the AF pattern of the most suitable scene situation owing to utilize the image distribution state in the picture to carry out the scene differentiation.
, the contrast of subject state changes, and not only can utilize the sensor array or the imaging apparatus output of outer ligh-ranging, and can utilize the exposure adjustment of camera to judge with sensor with photometry.
Multiple digital camera utilizes the CCD control that exposes, but also has camera as shown in figure 16, and being provided with in this camera can be at the lower instantaneous photometry sensor that carries out photometry of brightness.
Figure 16 is the broad cross-section map of the camera architecture that relates to of expression the 4th embodiment of the present invention.
In Figure 16, this camera is equipped with phtographic lens 31 in the place ahead of camera body 30.Play on the optical axis at rear from this phtographic lens 31, be provided with half-reflecting mirror 32.
At the rear of this half-reflecting mirror 32, dispose CCD39 as imaging apparatus, on the other hand, above half-reflecting mirror 32, dispose screen 33 and pentaprism 34.Thereby, reflected by half-reflecting mirror 32 from the subject image of 31 incidents of phtographic lens, project on the screen 33, and then, by pentaprism 34, just can observe with cameraman's eyes 35.
Between above-mentioned screen 33 and pentaprism 34, be provided with outer light optical system 37.In addition, by pentaprism 34,, dispose photometry sensor 38 in the position that can monitor the subject image.This photometry sensor 38 is split into a plurality of parts, for example, makes it carry out photometry to a plurality of points in the picture 40 as shown in figure 17.
Utilize the photometry sensor that constitutes like this,, also can measure the Luminance Distribution of picture integral body even without the such strong resolving power of CCD.
The present invention can utilize such photometry sensor degree of comparing to judge, and the AF mode switch that can be applied to form thus.
The effect of invention
As mentioned above, because according to the present invention, can adopt optimum focus method according to different scenes, Therefore the scene that focusing accuracy is had important requirement focuses on the pattern of high precision int, and right Rapidity has the scene of requirements at the higher level, then focuses on the minimum pattern of time lag, thereby can provide Make camera and the distance-finding method thereof of the satisfied easy to use and function admirable of cameraman.
Claims (16)
1. camera with following focusing mode: the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens; The 2nd automatic focus pattern, the range finding result according to the distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens carries out the focusing of described phtographic lens, it is characterized in that,
Described distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, and has a selecting arrangement, this selecting arrangement can be according to described a plurality of range finding results, when judging that main subject and other subject are in the distance range of regulation, carry out the focusing of described the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
2. camera with following focusing mode: the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens; The 2nd automatic focus pattern, the range finding result according to the distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens carries out the focusing of described phtographic lens, it is characterized in that,
Described distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, and has switching device shifter, and this switching device shifter switches described the 1st automatic focus pattern and described the 2nd automatic focus pattern, and finds range according to described a plurality of range finding results' range distribution.
3. camera is characterized in that having:
Multipoint ranging apparatus before taking, utilizes phtographic lens optical system in addition, and a plurality of points in the image frame are found range, and obtains the distance of main subject and the position in picture;
Control device, by described multipoint ranging apparatus, when judging that described main subject is in when not having in the distance of difference with other subject, just carry out the focus control of described phtographic lens according to described range finding result, when judge described main subject be in away from other subject apart from the time, according to contrast, carry out focus control by the resulting subject image of described phtographic lens.
4. camera that has zoom lens in phtographic lens is characterized in that having:
Multipoint ranging apparatus utilizes the optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, and the distance of a plurality of points in the picture is measured;
Contrast formula focalizer obtains the contrast of camera by described phtographic lens, and according to this contrast decision focal position;
The zoom position pick-up unit is used to detect the zoom position of described phtographic lens;
Determination device, according to described zoom position, and the relation of distance between main subject that obtains by the multiple point distance measurement result and background, whether decision makes described contrast formula focalizer action.
5. camera as claimed in claim 4 is characterized in that,
Even described zoom position is in the wide-angle side, and according to the multiple point distance measurement result, main subject distance and back pitch be not from not simultaneously, described determination device does not make described contrast formula focalizer action yet, but focuses on according to described multiple point distance measurement result.
6. camera with following focusing mode: the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens; The 2nd automatic focus pattern, the range finding result according to the distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens carries out the focusing of described phtographic lens, it is characterized in that,
Described distance measuring equipment can be found range to described a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame,
Also have:
Derivator is used to obtain the differentiated data of described picture signal;
Selecting arrangement is selected when described differential information is higher than the grade of regulation, to carry out the focusing of described the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
7. camera with following focusing mode: the 1st automatic focus pattern, according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens; The 2nd automatic focus pattern, the range finding result according to the distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens carries out the focusing of described phtographic lens, it is characterized in that,
Described distance measuring equipment can be found range to described a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame,
And have:
Judgment means is used to detect the contrast information in the described image frame, and judges the size of this contrast;
Switching device shifter according to the result of described judgment means, switches the 1st automatic focus pattern and the 2nd automatic focus pattern.
8. camera as claimed in claim 7 is characterized in that,
Described judgment means is judged the contrast in the described image frame according to the output of described the 1st automatic focus pattern.
9. camera as claimed in claim 7 is characterized in that also having:
Light measurer is divided into a plurality of zones with photographic picture, and respectively photometry is carried out in each regional brightness,
Described judgment means can be judged the contrast in the described image frame according to the photometry information in the measured a plurality of zones of described light measurer.
10. the distance-finding method of a camera, this camera is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern, it is characterized in that
Described distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, according to described a plurality of range finding results, when judging that main subject and other subject are in the distance range of regulation, selects to carry out the focusing of described the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
11. the distance-finding method of a camera, this camera is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern, it is characterized in that
Described distance measuring equipment can be found range to a plurality of points in the image frame, and has the range distribution according to described a plurality of range finding results, switches above-mentioned the 1st automatic focus pattern and above-mentioned the 2nd automatic focus pattern, and the step of finding range.
12. the control method of a camera is characterized in that, has following step:
Before taking, utilize phtographic lens optical system in addition, a plurality of points in the image frame are carried out multiple point distance measurement, obtain the step of the distance of main subject and the position in picture;
The focus control step, according to described multiple point distance measurement, when judging that described main subject is in when not having in the distance of difference with other subject, just according to described range finding result, carry out the focus control of described phtographic lens, when judge described main subject be in away from other subject apart from the time, according to the contrast of the subject image that obtains by described phtographic lens, carry out focus control.
13. a distance-finding method that has the camera of zoom lens in phtographic lens is characterized in that, has following step:
Utilization is different from the optical system of described phtographic lens, is used to measure the step of multiple point distance measurement of the distance of a plurality of points in the picture;
Obtain the contrast of camera by described phtographic lens, and determine the step of focal position according to this contrast;
Be used to detect the step of the zoom position of described phtographic lens;
According to described zoom position, and by the relation of distance between resulting main subject of described multiple point distance measurement result and background, the contrast formula whether decision is used in the described focal position of decision focuses on the step of action.
14. the distance-finding method of camera as claimed in claim 13 is characterized in that,
Be used to determine the step of whether carrying out described action, in the wide-angle side, and according to the multiple point distance measurement result, main subject distance and back pitch be not from not simultaneously at described zoom position, do not make described contrast formula focus on action, but focus on according to described multiple point distance measurement result.
15. distance-finding method with camera of following step: according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by described phtographic lens, the step of carrying out the focusing of described phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern; According to the range finding result of the distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, the step by the 2nd automatic focus pattern is carried out the focusing of described phtographic lens is characterized in that,
Described distance measuring equipment can be found range to described a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame,
Also have:
Be used to obtain the step of the differential information of described picture signal;
When being higher than the grade of regulation, described differential information selects, with the step of the focusing of carrying out described the 2nd automatic focus mode prioritization.
16. the distance-finding method of a camera, this camera is according to the contrast of the subject picture signal that obtains by phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens by the 1st automatic focus pattern, range finding result according to distance measuring equipment with a pair of optical system that is different from described phtographic lens, carry out the focusing of described phtographic lens by the 2nd automatic focus pattern, it is characterized in that
Described distance measuring equipment can be found range to described a plurality of points according to the picture signal of a plurality of points in the image frame,
And have:
Detect the contrast information in the described image frame, and judge the step of the size of this contrast;
According to the result of described judgement, switch the step of the 1st automatic focus pattern and the 2nd automatic focus pattern.
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| CN100414338C (en) * | 2005-04-15 | 2008-08-27 | 索尼株式会社 | Autofocus device and method |
| CN100420972C (en) * | 2005-04-15 | 2008-09-24 | 索尼株式会社 | Autofocus device and method |
| CN1928692B (en) * | 2005-09-07 | 2011-02-16 | 卡西欧计算机株式会社 | Camera apparatus having a plurality of image pickup elements |
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| JPH0743605A (en) * | 1993-08-02 | 1995-02-14 | Minolta Co Ltd | Automatic focusing device |
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| JP2004157456A (en) | 2004-06-03 |
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