Patent ID: 7667175
Filing Date: 2010-02-23
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. An auto focus unit that brings an optical image of an object into focus on an imaging device, said imaging device having a light-receiving surface, a plurality of pixels being arranged on said light-receiving surface, each individual said pixel generating a pixel signal according to the intensity of light received by said pixel, said imaging device being capable of mixing a plurality of said pixel signals, said auto focus unit comprising: a controller that varies the number of said pixel signals to be mixed by said imaging device according to the brightness of a partial or entire optical image of said object captured by said imaging device; a receiver that receives a mixed signal, which is generated by mixing the number of said pixel signals determined by said controller; and a lens driver that moves a focus lens so that said optical image is brought into focus on said light-receiving surface, in accordance with the mixed signal.