{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854152","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854152","title":"Auto-focus system for a digital imaging device and method","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2016-04-27T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["G06V","G06F","G06T","G06T","G06T","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","G06T","G06V","H04N"],"num_claims":19,"abstract":"The present invention relates to an auto-focus system and method based on a sensor, using hierarchical extraction and motion estimation for an image. The auto-focus method may include the steps of: (a) extracting a phase difference image from a sensed image; (b) extracting a robust feature image which satisfies a preset reference with respect to noise and out-of-focus blur, from the phase difference image; and (C) estimating a motion vector for lens shift from the feature image."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Auto-focus System for a Digital Imaging Device and Method patent presents an innovative approach to autofocus technology, focusing on a sensor-based system utilizing hierarchical extraction and motion estimation for images. This system tackles the persistent problem of achieving fast and accurate autofocus, especially in challenging conditions like low light or when capturing fast-moving objects. The key technical approach involves extracting a phase difference image from a sensed image, then extracting a robust feature image that satisfies a preset reference with respect to noise and out-of-focus blur. Finally, the system estimates a motion vector for lens shift from the feature image, enabling rapid and precise lens adjustments.\n\nThe business value of this technology lies in its potential to significantly enhance the user experience in a wide range of digital imaging devices. By improving autofocus speed and accuracy, this system can lead to sharper, more detailed images and videos, resulting in increased customer satisfaction. The adaptability of this invention makes it suitable for integration into smartphones, digital cameras, industrial imaging equipment, and medical devices.\n\nThe market opportunity for this technology is substantial. The demand for high-quality digital imaging is constantly growing, driven by the increasing popularity of smartphones, social media, and professional photography. This innovation offers a competitive edge to companies that adopt it, allowing them to deliver superior imaging performance and capture a larger share of the market. Moreover, the patent's efficient processing methods make it particularly valuable for resource-constrained devices, such as smartphones, where power consumption is a critical concern.\n\nIn essence, the Auto-focus System for a Digital Imaging Device and Method represents a significant advancement in autofocus technology, offering a compelling solution to the challenges of achieving fast and accurate focus in diverse imaging scenarios. Its potential to enhance user experience, improve product performance, and create new market opportunities makes it a valuable asset for companies operating in the digital imaging space.","layman_explanation":"The Auto-focus System for a Digital Imaging Device and Method patent addresses the ongoing challenge of achieving quick and precise focus in digital cameras and imaging devices. Existing autofocus solutions often fall short, particularly in difficult lighting conditions or when capturing moving subjects, leading to blurry images and a less-than-ideal user experience.\n\nThis technology works by employing a sophisticated method of analyzing the incoming image to determine how the lens needs to be adjusted for optimal focus. Instead of relying on traditional contrast or phase detection methods, this system extracts key features from the image in a hierarchical manner. Think of it like a detective carefully examining clues to solve a mystery. The system first looks at the broad picture and then progressively zooms in on the most relevant details. By focusing on robust features that are less susceptible to noise and blur, the system can accurately estimate the necessary lens adjustments.\n\nThis innovation matters because it directly impacts the quality of digital images and the overall user experience. In today's world, where visual content is king, having a camera that can consistently capture sharp, clear images is essential. This technology offers a competitive advantage to manufacturers who incorporate it into their products, enabling them to deliver superior imaging performance and attract a wider customer base. The potential ROI is significant, as improved camera performance can lead to increased sales and brand loyalty. Imagine being able to take stunning photos in low-light conditions or capture fast-action shots without any blur. That's the power of this technology.\n\nLooking ahead, this technology could pave the way for even more advanced autofocus systems. Future applications could include real-time focus tracking for video recording and enhanced autofocus capabilities for medical and industrial imaging. The market adoption timeline will depend on the willingness of manufacturers to invest in and integrate this technology into their products. However, given the clear benefits and the growing demand for high-quality imaging, it is likely that this technology will become increasingly prevalent in the years to come. The investment implications are clear: companies that embrace this innovation are likely to reap significant rewards.","technical_analysis":"The Auto-focus System for a Digital Imaging Device and Method patent details a sophisticated approach to autofocus, leveraging hierarchical extraction and motion estimation to improve performance in digital imaging devices. The technical architecture centers around three primary modules: phase difference image extraction, robust feature image extraction, and motion vector estimation.\n\nPhase difference image extraction involves processing the sensed image to generate a phase difference image. This image provides critical information about the relative phase of different image regions, which is indicative of the degree of defocus. The specific algorithms used for this extraction are not explicitly defined in the patent but likely involve techniques such as Fourier analysis or wavelet transforms to decompose the image into its frequency components and analyze phase variations.\n\nThe robust feature image extraction module is crucial for ensuring accuracy in challenging conditions. This module filters the phase difference image to identify and extract features that are resistant to noise and blur. The patent mentions a 'preset reference' for noise and blur, suggesting a thresholding or filtering mechanism to discard unreliable features. Algorithms such as edge detection (e.g., Canny edge detector) or corner detection (e.g., Harris corner detector) could be employed to identify salient features.\n\nMotion vector estimation utilizes the extracted features to determine the necessary lens shift for achieving optimal focus. This module estimates the magnitude and direction of lens movement required to correct the defocus. Common motion estimation techniques, such as block matching or optical flow, could be used. Block matching involves dividing the image into blocks and searching for the best match in a neighboring region, while optical flow estimates the motion of individual pixels based on temporal changes in image intensity.\n\nThe integration of these modules allows the system to rapidly and accurately adjust the lens, resulting in improved autofocus performance. The hierarchical extraction method enables efficient processing, making the system suitable for resource-constrained devices. The adaptability of the system allows for integration into various digital imaging devices, enhancing their overall imaging capabilities.\n\nFrom a code-level perspective, implementing this system would require careful optimization of the algorithms used for image processing and motion estimation. Libraries such as OpenCV could be used to implement these algorithms efficiently. The system would also need to be calibrated to account for the specific characteristics of the lens and sensor used in the imaging device. Furthermore, the system must be able to quickly process incoming image data to provide a near-instantaneous autofocus experience. The performance characteristics of the system depend on the speed and accuracy of the algorithms used, as well as the processing power of the device. A well-designed system should be able to achieve autofocus in a fraction of a second, even in challenging conditions.","business_analysis":"The Auto-focus System for a Digital Imaging Device and Method patent presents a significant business opportunity within the rapidly expanding digital imaging market. The core value proposition of this technology lies in its ability to deliver faster, more accurate autofocus performance across a wide range of devices, from smartphones and digital cameras to industrial and medical imaging equipment.\n\nThe market opportunity size for advanced autofocus systems is substantial. The global digital camera market is projected to reach billions of dollars in the coming years, while the smartphone camera market is even larger. Within these markets, there is a growing demand for higher-quality imaging capabilities, driven by the increasing popularity of social media, professional photography, and video conferencing. This technology directly addresses this demand by improving the speed and accuracy of autofocus, a critical factor in overall image quality.\n\nThe competitive advantages of this technology stem from its innovative approach to image processing and motion estimation. By extracting robust features from the phase difference image, the system can accurately estimate the necessary lens shift even in challenging conditions such as low light or when capturing fast-moving objects. This results in superior autofocus performance compared to existing systems.\n\nThe revenue potential for this technology is significant. Companies can generate revenue through licensing the patent to other manufacturers of digital imaging devices. They can also integrate the technology into their own products, creating a competitive advantage and driving sales. The business model can be further enhanced by offering software updates and support services to customers.\n\nFrom a strategic positioning perspective, this technology allows companies to differentiate themselves from competitors by offering superior autofocus performance. This can be particularly valuable in the smartphone market, where camera quality is a key selling point. The technology can also be used to target niche markets, such as professional photographers and videographers, who demand the highest levels of imaging performance.\n\nROI projections for this technology are highly promising. By improving autofocus performance, companies can enhance user satisfaction, increase sales, and capture a larger share of the market. The investment in developing and licensing this technology is likely to generate a significant return over time. Furthermore, the patent protection provided by this invention ensures that companies can maintain a competitive advantage for years to come.","faqs":null,"topics":["autofocus system","digital imaging","motion estimation","image processing","patent"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Auto-focus System for Digital Imaging - Patent US-9854152","description":"Explore the Auto-focus System for a Digital Imaging Device and Method patent: sensor-based autofocus using hierarchical extraction and motion estimation for superior image clarity.","keywords":["autofocus system","digital imaging","motion estimation","image processing","patent","patent US-9854152","hierarchical extraction","lens shift","phase difference image","robust feature image"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854152","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-9854152","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Auto-focus system for a digital imaging device and method\" (US-9854152). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854152","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854152","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854152","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T09:42:13.676Z"}