Patent ID: 6700614
Filing Date: 2004-03-02
Classification: G02B,H04N

Abstract:
An autofocus apparatus comprising:an image pickup means for converting the light of an object received through a focus lens system to electric signals and outputting the signals as image data; an A/D converting means for A/D-converting the image data to obtain digital image data; an AF evaluating means for outputting an AF evaluated value obtained by integrating high-frequency components of brightness data in the digital image data; a sampling means for sampling the AF evaluated value obtained by said AF evaluating means while moving the position of said focus lens system; a flash means for illuminating light; and a focus driving means for determining a focus according to a result of the sampling of an AF evaluated value by said sampling means and driving said focus lens system to the focus position; wherein light is flashed in synchronism with the sampling timing of an AF evaluated value, and a quantity of light at each flash is maintained substantially constant.