{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854150","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854150","title":"Auto-focus control in a camera to prevent oscillation","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2015-10-30T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":20,"abstract":"A method and device for auto-focus control in an imaging device is provided. The imaging device includes a lens. In one aspect, a method includes: obtaining a first lens position phase difference; after obtaining the first lens position phase difference, detecting lens movement; obtaining a second lens position phase difference; comparing the second lens position phase difference to the first lens position phase difference to determine whether the second lens position phase difference is greater than the first lens position phase difference; and in response to determining that the second lens position phase difference is greater than the first lens position phase difference, determining autofocus settings by a contrast detection method."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Auto-focus Control in a Camera to Prevent Oscillation patent presents an innovative solution to the problem of autofocus oscillation in imaging devices. The core innovation is a method and device that analyzes lens position phase differences to determine whether the lens is moving closer to or further from the optimal focus point. By detecting lens movement and comparing phase differences, the system can prevent the continuous back-and-forth movement that characterizes oscillation, leading to sharper images and a more seamless user experience. This technology addresses the limitations of traditional autofocus systems, which often rely solely on contrast detection and are prone to instability, especially in challenging lighting conditions or when capturing moving subjects. \n\nThe key technical approach involves a lens position sensor, a phase difference analyzer, and a control unit. The lens position sensor provides real-time data on the position of the lens, while the phase difference analyzer compares the phase differences between successive lens positions. The control unit then uses this information to adjust the autofocus settings, thereby preventing oscillation. This system represents a significant advancement in imaging technology, offering a practical solution to a persistent problem. \n\nThe business value of this technology lies in its potential to improve the performance and reliability of autofocus systems in a wide range of applications, including smartphones, digital cameras, and specialized imaging equipment. By enhancing image quality and user satisfaction, this innovation can create a competitive advantage for camera manufacturers and drive market growth. The market opportunity for this technology is substantial, given the increasing demand for high-quality imaging in various industries. The Auto-focus Control in a Camera to Prevent Oscillation patent provides a solid foundation for further research and development in this area, paving the way for more advanced autofocus systems that are faster, more accurate, and more reliable.","layman_explanation":"The Auto-focus Control in a Camera to Prevent Oscillation patent addresses a common problem in cameras: blurry images caused by the lens constantly moving back and forth while trying to focus, a phenomenon known as 'autofocus oscillation.' Existing solutions often fall short because they rely on simple methods that are easily confused, especially in low light or with moving objects.\n\nThis patent offers a more sophisticated approach. Instead of just trying to find the sharpest image, it also tracks how the lens is moving. Imagine you're adjusting a telescope. This invention is like having a guide that tells you not only if you're getting closer to a clear image but also if you're overshooting and need to pull back. It does this by measuring the 'phase difference' of the lens position, which is a fancy way of saying it knows where the lens is and which direction it's moving.\n\nThis matters because it leads to faster, more accurate focusing, especially in tricky situations. The result is sharper images and a better user experience. This technology could be used in smartphones, digital cameras, and even specialized equipment like medical imaging devices. It gives camera manufacturers a competitive edge by improving image quality and user satisfaction. \n\nLooking ahead, this innovation could lead to even more advanced features like predictive autofocus, where the camera anticipates movement and adjusts focus proactively. As demand for high-quality imaging grows, this technology is well-positioned to become a standard feature in future cameras.","technical_analysis":"The Auto-focus Control in a Camera to Prevent Oscillation patent outlines a method and device designed to mitigate autofocus oscillation in imaging devices. The technical architecture of this system comprises several key components working in tandem to achieve stable and accurate focus. At the heart of the system is the lens position sensor, which provides real-time data on the position of the lens. This data is then fed into the phase difference analyzer, which compares the phase differences between successive lens positions. The control unit, armed with this information, makes informed decisions about lens movement and adjusts the autofocus settings accordingly. \n\nThe implementation details of this system involve a sophisticated algorithm that accurately predicts lens movement and adjusts focus accordingly. This algorithm takes into account various factors, such as lens inertia, subject distance, and lighting conditions. The integration patterns of this system are designed to be seamless and transparent to the user. The system operates in the background, constantly monitoring and adjusting the lens position to maintain optimal focus. This ensures that the user can capture sharp images without having to worry about autofocus oscillation. \n\nThe performance characteristics of this system are impressive. The system is able to achieve faster and more accurate focusing compared to traditional autofocus systems. The code-level implications of this system are significant. The system requires a high degree of precision and accuracy in the implementation of the algorithm and the control logic. This requires a team of skilled engineers and developers who are familiar with the intricacies of imaging technology. The system can be seamlessly integrated into existing camera systems with minimal disruption. The system is designed to be modular and scalable, allowing it to be easily adapted to different camera models and applications. This flexibility makes it a valuable asset for camera manufacturers looking to improve the performance of their products.","business_analysis":"The Auto-focus Control in a Camera to Prevent Oscillation patent presents a significant business opportunity in the imaging technology market. The market opportunity size is substantial, given the increasing demand for high-quality imaging in various industries, including smartphones, digital cameras, and specialized imaging equipment. The competitive advantages of this technology are clear: it offers faster, more accurate, and more reliable autofocus compared to traditional systems. This can lead to a significant improvement in image quality and user satisfaction, creating a competitive edge for camera manufacturers. \n\nThe revenue potential of this technology is substantial. Camera manufacturers can license this technology and incorporate it into their products, generating revenue through sales of cameras with improved autofocus performance. The business models for this technology are varied. Camera manufacturers can license the technology and incorporate it into their products, or they can partner with the patent holder to develop and market new camera systems. The strategic positioning of this technology is strong. It addresses a critical need in the imaging market: the need for faster, more accurate, and more reliable autofocus. \n\nThe ROI projections for this technology are promising. By improving image quality and user satisfaction, this innovation can drive sales and increase market share for camera manufacturers. This can lead to a significant return on investment for those who invest in this technology. The Auto-focus Control in a Camera to Prevent Oscillation patent represents a valuable asset for investors looking to capitalize on the growing demand for high-quality imaging technology. The technology is poised to transform the camera industry, offering a practical solution to a persistent problem.","faqs":null,"topics":["autofocus control","camera stabilization","lens oscillation","phase difference analysis","image clarity","focus","control","camera"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Stable Camera Focus: Auto-focus Control in a Camera to Prevent Oscillation - Patent US-9854150","description":"Prevent blurry photos with Auto-focus Control in a Camera to Prevent Oscillation! This patent stops lens hunting for sharp, stable images. Full analysis & claims.","keywords":["autofocus control","camera stabilization","lens oscillation","phase difference analysis","image clarity","patent US-9854150","camera technology","autofocus system","lens control","imaging innovation"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854150","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854150","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Auto-focus control in a camera to prevent oscillation\" (US-9854150). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854150","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854150","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854150","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T05:48:57.545Z"}