Patent ID: 7295243
Filing Date: 2007-11-13
Classification: G02B,H04N

Abstract:
1. An autofocus apparatus comprising: an image pickup means for converting 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 a 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 the AF evaluated value by said sampling means and driving said focus lens system to the focus position, wherein the illuminating light is flashed in synchronism with a sampling timing of the AF evaluated value.