Patent: Invention to eliminate need for dedicated AF sensor

[swrightgfx]

Hello all,

I wasn't sure where to put this, as it could apply to both EOS and consumer or mirrorless devices.

Anyway, attached is a patent application for what seems to be a new method for phase detection autofocus, not requiring an AF sensor within target of a half mirror, quick return mirror, etc. From my understanding, the want to do away with a dedicated AF sensor for phase detection and instead incorporating it into the sensor would be either to save space and reduce the size of future entry-level SLRs, or as a method for a future mirrorless to knock over the competition. (As far as I know, the Nikon 1 is the only mirrorless to feature a form of phase detection at a sensor level, albeit "hybrid" with contrast detection.)

Thoughts?

EDIT: Notice the focus on video and the allowance for switching between pixel skipping and binning.

 

[psolberg]

as you said, the nikon 1 has been doing that for quite some time.

The same info can be found in the Nikon 1 brochure.

http://chsvimg.nikon.com/lineup/acil/pdf/Nikon1_Lineup.pdf

"The phase-detection AF, embedded in the newly developed sensor, will track and capture fast-moving subjects in sharp, crystal-clear focus."

phase detection can be inacurate but fast, contrast detection is acurate but slower. future AF systems will surely incorporate the speed of phase detect with accuracy of contrast.

 

[NormanBates]

I just found this thread
kudos