Camera

Abstract

The utility model aims to provide a camera which can realize stable operation even under the condition that the camera is miniaturized. The camera of the utility model comprises a housing; an opening provided in the housing, the opening allowing the subject light to enter the imaging lens, the opening being disposed at a position overlapping the center of the housing in the width direction; and a shutter button that is provided on a rear surface and that is disposed at a position at which at least a part of the shutter button overlaps a position at which the opening is projected onto the rear surface, when the front surface is the side on which the opening is provided in the housing and the rear surface is the side facing the front surface in the optical axis direction of the imaging lens.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology of the utility model relates to a camera. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 describes a digital camera comprising an imaging element for converting an image of a subject into an electrical signal, an electronic viewfinder arranged on the back of the digital camera for displaying an image of a light beam of the subject image formed on the imaging element, and a release button for starting shooting. The digital camera is characterized in that the release button is arranged on a surface that is roughly parallel to the screen of the electronic viewfinder and on the right side of the electronic viewfinder when viewed from the back of the camera.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes an imaging device including an imaging device body and a shutter operation unit provided in the imaging device body and movable along the optical axis of a photographing lens, for operating the shutter by this movement.

[0004] Patent document 3 describes a camera device comprising: a slender shell forming an outer shell; an imaging element assembled in the shell; an imaging optical system assembled in the shell and guiding the subject image to the imaging element; and a shutter button provided in the shell and performing a shooting action, wherein the shell portion held by the hand of a photographer who takes pictures using the camera device and the shutter button are located at a position displaced in the long side direction of the shell, and the objective lens closest to the subject in the imaging optical system is provided on the same surface as the surface of the shell on which the shutter button is provided and at a position on the opposite side of the portion of the shell that is held by clamping the shutter button near the shutter button.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-087629

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-024999

[0007] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-159606

[0008] Conventional cameras are designed to be held by gripping the camera housing with the fingers and palm. This allows the user to hold the camera with the palm of their hand, in addition to gripping the camera housing with their fingers. This stabilizes the camera's posture, minimizing the effect of pressing the shutter button with their finger.

[0009] On the other hand, consider miniaturizing a camera (for example, making it small enough to fit in an adult's palm). In this case, it becomes difficult to support the camera housing with the palm of the hand, and it must be held with the fingers. Furthermore, pressing the shutter button requires moving one of the fingers gripping the camera housing. As a result, miniaturizing the camera can sometimes make the camera's position unstable when pressing the shutter button. Utility Model Content

[0010] One embodiment of the technology according to the present invention provides a camera that can achieve stable operation even when the camera is miniaturized.

[0011] A first aspect of the technology of the present invention is a camera comprising: a housing;

[0012] an opening portion provided in the housing and allowing subject light to enter the photographic lens, the opening portion being arranged at a position overlapping with the center in the width direction of the housing; and

[0013] The shutter button is arranged on the back surface when the side on which the opening is provided on the housing is set as the front surface and the side opposite to the front surface in the optical axis direction of the photographic lens is set as the back surface, and is configured at a position where at least a portion of the shutter button overlaps with the position where the opening is projected on the back surface.

[0014] A second aspect of the technology of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein the opening is arranged at a position overlapping with the center of the housing in a height direction perpendicular to the width direction.

[0015] A third aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein a peripheral area is provided on at least a portion of the periphery of the opening on the front surface.

[0016] The dimension of the peripheral area in the width direction of the housing is shorter than the total width of the opening, or

[0017] A dimension of the peripheral region in a height direction perpendicular to the width direction of the housing is shorter than a total height of the opening.

[0018] A fourth aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the third aspect, wherein the size of the peripheral area on both sides of the opening in the width direction is shorter than the total width of the opening, or

[0019] On both sides of the opening in the height direction, the size of the peripheral area is shorter than the total height of the opening.

[0020] A fifth aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the fourth aspect, wherein the peripheral areas on both sides of the opening in the width direction are shorter than the total width of the opening, and

[0021] On both sides of the opening in the height direction, the size of the peripheral area is shorter than the total height of the opening.

[0022] The sixth aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein a peripheral area is provided on the front surface at least partially around the opening, and a portion of the peripheral area overlaps with the shutter button in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0023] A seventh aspect according to the technology of the present invention is the camera according to the sixth aspect, wherein peripheral areas are provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or the height direction of the housing.

[0024] An eighth aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein peripheral areas allowing fingers to hold the housing are provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or the height direction of the housing.

[0025] A ninth aspect according to the technology of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein the peripheral edge of the opening protrudes on the front surface.

[0026] A tenth aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein, when a surface connecting the front and back surfaces of the housing is defined as a side surface,

[0027] When the housing is viewed from the side, the peripheral edge of the opening protrudes more on the lower side in the height direction of the housing than on the upper side.

[0028] An eleventh aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein a projected area of the opening is 20% or more of a projected area of the housing when the housing is viewed from the front.

[0029] A twelfth aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein a ratio of a maximum height to a maximum width of the housing when the housing is viewed from the front is 1.0 to 1.2.

[0030] A thirteenth aspect of the technology of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein a finger rest portion is formed on the shutter button.

[0031] A fourteenth aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the thirteenth aspect, wherein the finger rest portion is a recessed portion recessed toward the front side.

[0032] A fifteenth aspect according to the technology of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein the shutter button is provided so as to be pressable from the rear side toward the front side.

[0033] A sixteenth aspect of the technology of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein the housing is accommodated in a sphere having a radius of not less than 1 cm and not more than 10 cm.

[0034] A seventeenth aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the fifteenth aspect, wherein the housing is housed within a sphere having a radius of 1 cm or more and 3 cm or less.

[0035] An eighteenth aspect of the technology of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein a display unit for confirming a subject image is not provided on the housing.

[0036] The 19th mode involved in the technology of the present invention is a camera involved in the 1st mode, wherein the front and back of the shell and the parts of the two side surfaces connecting the front and back except the opening and the shutter button are composed of curved surfaces protruding outward.

[0037] A 20th aspect of the present invention is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein at least a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the housing including a center of a lower surface is formed of a flat surface.

[0038] Utility model effect

[0039] The technology of the present invention provides a camera that can achieve stable operation even when the camera is miniaturized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1 This is a front view showing an example of the structure of a camera according to the embodiment.

[0041] Figure 2 It is a rear view showing an example of the structure of the camera according to the embodiment.

[0042] Figure 3 It is an external perspective view showing an example of the structure of a camera according to the embodiment.

[0043] Figure 4 It is a side view showing an example of the structure of a camera according to the embodiment.

[0044] Figure 5 It is a plan view showing an example of the structure of a camera according to the embodiment.

[0045] Figure 6 This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between the shutter button and the opening according to the embodiment.

[0046] Figure 7 It is a front view showing an example of the arrangement of openings according to the embodiment.

[0047] Figure 8 This is a front view showing an example of the relationship between the sizes of the opening and the surrounding area according to the embodiment.

[0048] Figure 9 It is a conceptual diagram showing the relationship between the projected area of the housing and the projected area of the opening according to the embodiment.

[0049] Figure 10 This is an external perspective view showing an example of a mode in which a camera according to an embodiment is housed in a sphere.

[0050] Figure 11 This is an external perspective view showing an example of how the camera according to the embodiment is used.

[0051] Figure 12 This is a side view showing an example of how the camera according to the embodiment is used.

[0052] Figure 13 This is an external perspective view showing an example of how the camera according to the embodiment is used.

[0053] Figure 14 This is an external perspective view showing an example of how the camera according to the embodiment is used.

[0054] Figure 15 It is a side view showing an example of the structure of a camera according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] An example of an embodiment of a camera according to the technology of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0056] In the following description, for the sake of convenience, three arrows, X, Y, and Z, are used to represent the front-back direction (also called the depth direction), width direction, and height direction of the camera 10. First, the height direction is represented by arrow Y, and the direction of arrow Y of the portion indicated by arrow Y is set as the upper direction of the camera 10, and the opposite direction is set as the lower direction. The width direction is represented by arrow X perpendicular to arrow Y, and the direction indicated by arrow X is set as the right direction of the camera 10, and the opposite direction is set as the left direction. Regarding the front-back direction, the direction perpendicular to arrow Y and arrow X is represented by arrow Z, and the direction indicated by arrow Z is set as the front direction of the camera 10, and the opposite direction is set as the rear direction. That is, in the camera 10, along the optical axis L (reference Figure 3) The direction toward the subject is the front direction. In addition, the meaning of the usage side such as upper side, lower side, left side, right side, front side and rear side is the same as the usage direction.

[0057] More specifically, the width direction and height direction of the camera 10 will be described with reference to the imaging element 30. Figure 1 As shown, an imaging element 30 is provided within the housing 12. The imaging element 30 is an image sensor such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor. The imaging element 30 has an imaging surface with a plurality of pixels 32 arranged two-dimensionally. The pixels 32 are light-receiving elements such as photodiodes. Each pixel 32 on the imaging surface has a pixel selection line arranged along the horizontal direction HZ, and a signal readout line arranged along the vertical direction VT for reading the signal from the selected pixel 32.

[0058] Here, the direction along the vertical direction VT in the image pickup element 30 is set as the height direction in the camera 10 (ie, Figure 1 The direction along the horizontal direction HZ in the imaging element 30 is set as the width direction in the camera 10 (ie, the arrow Y direction in the image sensor 30). Figure 1 (arrow X direction in the figure).

[0059] As an example, Figure 1 As shown, camera 10 is an imaging device for capturing an image of a subject. In camera 10, for example, a user presses a shutter button to capture an image of the subject. Camera 10 can capture still or moving images including an image of the subject. Camera 10 is smaller than a typical digital camera or instant camera (e.g., the size that fits in the palm of an adult's hand), making it easy for the user to operate. Camera 10 is an example of a "camera" within the scope of the present invention.

[0060] The camera 10 includes a housing 12. In addition to the imaging element 30, the housing 12 also contains electronic components for realizing the imaging function of the camera 10. The housing 12 is a rounded pattern as a whole, and the details will be described later. That is, the outer peripheral surface of the housing 12 is mainly composed of a curved surface, and the appearance is roughly oval. An opening 16 is provided in the housing 12. The opening 16 allows the subject light to be incident on the photographic lens 20. Figure 1In the example shown, opening 16 exposes lens unit 18 to the outside. Lens unit 18 includes an imaging lens 20 and a retaining frame 18A that holds imaging lens 20. Exposing lens unit 18 includes both direct exposure and covering with a cover member or the like within a range that does not affect the imaging of the subject. Housing 12 is an example of a "housing" within the scope of the present invention, imaging lens 20 is an example of a "photographic lens" within the scope of the present invention, and opening 16 is an example of an "opening" within the scope of the present invention.

[0061] Furthermore, when the side of the housing 12 provided with the opening 16 is defined as the front surface 12A of the housing 12, a speaker section 24 and a flash section 26 are provided on the front surface 12A. The speaker section 24 outputs various operation sounds (e.g., electronic sounds simulating the sound of pressing a shutter button) from a sound source (not shown) provided inside the housing 12. Figure 1 In the example shown, sound is outputted through the three through-holes 24A. In addition, in the flash unit 26, light is emitted toward the subject from a light source (not shown) provided inside the housing 12. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the light source is covered by a cover member 26A provided on the housing 12 .

[0062] An indicator 14 is provided on the upper portion of the housing 12. The housing of the indicator 14 is formed of a translucent material, so that light from a light source provided inside the indicator 14 is emitted to the outside. The indicator 14 can emit light according to the operating state of the camera 10. For example, when the camera 10 is communicating with the outside, the indicator 14 emits light at a predetermined interval and color. Figure 1 In the example shown, the indicator 14 is a portion that protrudes upward from the housing 12. When the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the indicator 14 has a trapezoidal shape.

[0063] Furthermore, a power button 15 is provided on the upper surface 14A of the indicator 14. The power button 15 is provided on the upper surface 14A of the indicator 14 along the left-right direction ( Figure 1 The power button 15 can be pressed several times (e.g., three times) to turn on the power of the camera 10. The power button 15 can be pressed and held for several seconds (e.g., three seconds) to turn off the power of the camera 10.

[0064] Furthermore, a lower surface 12E is formed at the bottom of the housing 12. At least a portion of the area including the center of the lower surface 12E is flat. This allows the camera 10 to be placed on a table, for example. Here, a flat surface includes a completely flat surface and a surface with sufficient flatness to support the housing 12. The lower surface 12E is an example of a "lower surface" within the meaning of the present invention.

[0065] As an example, Figure 2 As shown, when the side of the housing 12 opposite the front face 12A is defined as the back face 12B (i.e., the side of the housing 12 opposite the front face 12A in the optical axis direction of the taking lens 20 is defined as the back face 12B), a shutter button 28 is provided on the back face 12B. The shutter button 28 is configured to be pressable toward the front face 12A. As described above, when the user presses the shutter button 28, the camera 10 captures an image of a subject. The shutter button 28 is an example of a "shutter button" within the meaning of the present invention.

[0066] Furthermore, in general digital cameras, a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) for confirming the subject image is often mounted on the back surface (i.e., the surface opposite to the subject). However, in this embodiment, a display unit for confirming the subject image is not provided on the back surface 12B of the camera 10. Furthermore, it is also possible to provide a display unit for other purposes (e.g., a display unit indicating the remaining battery level) on the back surface 12B instead of providing a display unit for confirming the subject image.

[0067] A receiver 29 is provided on the back surface 12B of the housing 12. Receiver 29 is a terminal for establishing an electrical connection with an external device. For example, receiver 29 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal. Receiver 29 is used to charge the camera 10 battery and facilitate wired communication between the camera 10 and the external device.

[0068] As an example, Figure 3 As shown, the housing 12 has a spherical appearance as a whole. Furthermore, the indicator 14 protrudes from the upper portion of the housing 12 in a trapezoidal shape. A right side surface 12C is formed on the right side of the housing 12, serving as a surface connecting the front surface 12A and the back surface 12B. The right side surface 12C is formed into a curved surface.

[0069] Furthermore, the front surface 12A of the housing 12 is curved. Furthermore, on the curved front surface 12A, the periphery of the opening 16 protrudes from the front surface 12A. In other words, the opening 16 protrudes from the front surface 12A of the housing 12. Figure 3 In the example shown, the opening 16 is a circular opening, and a slope is formed along the periphery thereof from the opening 16 to the front surface 12A.

[0070] As an example, Figure 4As shown, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side (here, from the right side), the amount by which the periphery of the opening 16 protrudes from the front face 12A is greater on the lower side of the opening 16 than on the upper side of the opening 16. Specifically, the amount t1 of protrusion of the periphery of the lower side of the opening 16 is longer than the amount t2 of protrusion of the periphery of the upper side of the opening 16. That is, t1>t2. Thus, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, the opening 16 faces upward. Moreover, the opening 16 exposes the lens unit 18 including the photographic lens 20 to the outside, and the photographic lens 20 is also set to face upward. That is, when the housing 12 is placed on a horizontal plane, the subject side of the optical axis L is tilted upward relative to the horizontal direction. Thus, when shooting is performed with the camera 10 placed, shooting can be performed at an elevation angle.

[0071] Furthermore, a finger-hanging portion 28A is formed on the shutter button 28 provided on the back surface 12B. The finger-hanging portion 28A makes it easier for the user to place his finger on the shutter button 28, thereby making it easier to grasp the position of the shutter button 28 and to press the shutter button 28. Figure 4 In the example shown, the shutter button 28 has a recessed portion 28A1 formed toward the front surface 12A of the housing 12, serving as a finger rest portion 28A. In this case, the user's finger rests on the shutter button 28 by partially retaining it in the recessed portion 28A1. The finger rest portion 28A is an example of a "finger rest portion" within the meaning of the present invention, and the recessed portion 28A1 is an example of a "recessed portion" within the meaning of the present invention.

[0072] The recess 28A1 is merely an example, and the user's finger may be hooked on the shutter button 28 by the finger hook portion 28A. For example, the finger hook portion 28A may be a rib or protrusion provided on the shutter button 28, or the finger hook portion 28A may be realized by forming the surface of the shutter button 28 from a material having a greater coefficient of friction than the housing 12.

[0073] As an example, Figure 5 As shown, when viewed from above, housing 12 has a rounded shape. Specifically, front surface 12A (excluding opening 16 and its periphery) and back surface 12B (excluding finger rest 28A of shutter button 28) have outwardly convex curved surfaces. Furthermore, on the right side of housing 12, right side surface 12C connecting front surface 12A and back surface 12B also has an outwardly convex curved surface. Furthermore, on the left side of housing 12, left side surface 12D connecting front surface 12A and back surface 12B also has an outwardly convex curved surface.

[0074] Next, the positional relationship between the opening 16 and the shutter button 28 in the housing 12 will be described. Figure 6As shown in FIG. 1 , the shutter button 28 is arranged on the back surface 12B of the housing 12 at a position where at least a portion of the shutter button 28 overlaps with the position where the opening 16 is projected onto the back surface 12B. Figure 6 In the example shown, projection area 16A, which is the virtual projection of opening 16 onto rear surface 12B, partially overlaps with shutter button 28. Here, virtual projection of opening 16 refers to projecting the area defined by the outer edge of opening 16 from front surface 12A to rear surface 12B along the front-to-back direction of housing 12. Specifically, the upper portion of projection area 16A partially overlaps with the lower side of shutter button 28. In other words, opening 16 and shutter button 28 are positioned relatively close together in the height direction of housing 12.

[0075] While the example in which projection area 16A partially overlaps shutter button 28 has been described herein, this is merely an example. For example, projection area 16A and shutter button 28 may completely overlap, or the shutter button 28 may be included within projection area 16A, or the shutter button 28 may include projection area 16A. Furthermore, the manner in which projection area 16A and shutter button 28 overlap is not particularly limited; for example, the lower portion of projection area 16A may partially overlap the upper portion of shutter button 28.

[0076] Next, the configuration of the opening 16 on the front surface 12A of the housing 12 will be described. As an example, Figure 7 As shown, opening 16 is positioned so as to overlap with center P1 of the width direction of front face 12A of housing 12. In other words, when viewing housing 12 from the front, center P1 is imaginarily included within opening 16. Here, center P1 in the width direction is the midpoint of the maximum width W on front face 12A of housing 12. Center P1 is an example of the "center of the width direction of the housing" within the meaning of the present invention.

[0077] Furthermore, the opening 16 is located on the front face 12A of the housing 12 at a position that overlaps with the center P2 in the width and height directions. In other words, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the center P2 is hypothetically included within the opening 16. Here, the center P2 in the width and height directions is the intersection of the line that bisects the maximum width W on the front face 12A of the housing 12 and the line that bisects the maximum height H on the front face 12A of the housing 12. The center P2 is an example of the "center of the housing in the height direction" within the meaning of the present invention.

[0078] Thus, by arranging the opening 16 at a position overlapping with the center P1, the opening 16 is arranged near the center in the width direction. Furthermore, by arranging the opening 16 at a position overlapping with the center P2, the opening 16 is arranged near the center in the width direction and the height direction.

[0079] As an example, Figure 8 As shown, on the front face 12A of the housing 12, a peripheral region 40 is provided around the opening 16. The peripheral region 40 is the region extending from the outer edge of the opening 16 to the outer edge of the housing 12. The peripheral region 40 is an example of a "peripheral region" within the scope of the present invention. The peripheral region 40 includes an upper peripheral region 42 and a lower peripheral region 44. Specifically, when viewing the housing 12 from the front, the upper peripheral region 42 is provided above the opening 16 in the height direction. Furthermore, when viewing the housing 12 from the front, the lower peripheral region 44 is provided below the opening 16 in the height direction. Furthermore, the dimension h2 of the upper peripheral region 42 is shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16 in the height direction, and the dimension h3 of the lower peripheral region 44 is shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16 in the height direction. The total height h1 of the opening 16 is the maximum distance of the opening 16 in the height direction. Thus, on both sides of the opening 16 in the height direction, the size of the peripheral region 40 is shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16 .

[0080] In addition, while the example described herein is one in which the dimensions of the peripheral regions 40 on both sides of the opening 16 in the height direction are shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16, this is merely an example. For example, only the dimension h2 of the upper peripheral region 42 may be shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16, or only the dimension h3 of the lower peripheral region 44 may be shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16.

[0081] Furthermore, the peripheral region 40 includes a right peripheral region 46 and a left peripheral region 48. Specifically, when viewing the housing 12 from the front, the right peripheral region 46 is located to the right of the opening 16 in the width direction. Furthermore, when viewing the housing 12 from the front, the left peripheral region 48 is located to the left of the opening 16 in the width direction. Furthermore, the dimension w2 of the right peripheral region 46 is shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16 in the width direction, and the dimension w3 of the left peripheral region 48 is shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16 in the width direction. Here, the total width w1 of the opening 16 is the maximum distance of the opening 16 in the width direction. Thus, on both sides of the opening 16 in the width direction, the dimensions of the peripheral region 40 are shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16.

[0082] In addition, while the example described herein is one in which the dimensions of the peripheral regions 40 on both sides of the opening 16 in the width direction are shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16, this is merely an example. For example, the dimension w2 of only the right peripheral region 46 may be shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16, or the dimension w3 of only the left peripheral region 48 may be shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16.

[0083] Furthermore, while the example described herein is one in which the size of the peripheral region 40 in the height direction is shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16, and the size of the peripheral region 40 in the width direction is shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16, this is merely an example. For example, the size of the peripheral region 40 in the height direction alone may be shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16, and the size of the peripheral region 40 in the width direction alone may be shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16.

[0084] As an example, Figure 9 As shown, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the projection area S2 of the opening 16 ( Figure 9 The area of the region indicated by the oblique hatching shown in FIG. 1 is set as the projected area S1 ( Figure 9 The projection area of the opening 16 refers to the area formed by the outer edge of the opening 16 when the opening 16 is projected onto an imaginary plane having the direction along the Z direction as the normal direction. Furthermore, the projection area of the housing 12 refers to the area formed by the outer edge of the housing 12 when the housing 12 is projected onto an imaginary plane having the direction along the Z direction as the normal direction. In this way, compared with a general digital camera, the size of the opening 16 occupies a larger proportion relative to the housing 12.

[0085] When viewing the housing 12 from the front, the ratio of its maximum height H to its maximum width W is 1.0 to 1.2. In other words, the relationship H / W = 1.0 to 1.2 is satisfied in the housing 12. Thus, compared to typical digital cameras, the aspect ratio of the housing 12 when viewed from the front is closer to 1, rather than being horizontally long.

[0086] As an example, Figure 10 As shown, the housing 12 of the camera 10 is sized to fit within an imaginary sphere B having a radius r. Here, the radius r is between 1 cm and 10 cm, and further between 1 cm and 3 cm. Furthermore, "fitting within the sphere B" means that the housing 12 can be positioned within the sphere B without contacting the spherical surface formed by the sphere B.

[0087] Furthermore, the volume of the housing 12 of the camera 10 is 4,190 cm3 Below, and the volume of the housing 12 is 113cm 3 Below, the volume of the housing 12 is further 4.19 cm 3 the following.

[0088] Next, an example of how the camera 10 according to this embodiment is used will be described.

[0089] As an example, Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the user holds the camera 10 by pinching the housing 12 from the front and back with their fingers. Specifically, the index finger F1 and the middle finger F2 are brought into contact with the housing 12 from the front 12A side toward the back 12B side, and the thumb F3 is brought into contact with the housing 12 from the back 12B side toward the front 12A side. Figure 11 and Figure 12 In the example shown, the index finger F1 is placed against the upper peripheral area 42, and the middle finger F2 is placed against the lower peripheral area 44. On the front surface 12A of the housing 12, the index finger F1 and the middle finger F2 are placed against the opening 16. In particular, the middle finger F2 is placed against the lower peripheral area 44, supporting the opening 16 from below. Meanwhile, on the back surface 12B, the user's thumb F3 is placed against the shutter button 28. In this way, the peripheral area 40 functions as an area capable of holding the housing 12.

[0090] As described above, the shutter button 28 is provided so as to be pressable toward the front surface 12A. When taking a picture with the camera 10, the user presses the shutter button 28 toward the front surface 12A (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 12 (see arrow in the figure). Here, when viewing the housing 12 from the side, the shutter button 28 is positioned so as to overlap with the upper peripheral area 42 in the height direction. Specifically, when viewing the housing 12 from the side, the corresponding area 50 corresponding to the shutter button 28 overlaps with the upper peripheral area 42. This arrangement allows the index finger F1, which abuts the upper peripheral area 42, to receive the force acting on the housing 12 from the rear surface 12B by pressing the shutter button 28 from the front surface 12A. This reduces the rotational moment generated in the housing 12 by the force acting on the housing 12 associated with the pressing operation.

[0091] And, in Figure 13 In the example shown, the middle finger F2 is placed against the right peripheral area 46, and the index finger F1 is placed against the left peripheral area 48. On the front surface 12A of the housing 12, the user's index and middle fingers F1 and F2 are holding the opening 16. Meanwhile, on the back surface 12B, the user's thumb F3 is placed against the shutter button 28. In this way, the peripheral area 40 functions as an area where the user can hold the housing 12.

[0092] While the example described here uses the index finger F1 and middle finger F2 to hold the housing 12 from the front face 12A, this is merely an example. For example, the housing 12 may be held from the front face 12A using the middle finger F2 and ring finger. Furthermore, other fingers may be used, not just three fingers.

[0093] In other words, in the technology of the present invention, a method for holding the camera 10 is provided in which the index finger F1 corresponds to the upper peripheral area 42, the middle finger F2 corresponds to the lower peripheral area 44, and the thumb F3 corresponds to the shutter button 28, or the middle finger F2 corresponds to the upper peripheral area 42, the ring finger corresponds to the lower peripheral area 44, and the thumb F3 corresponds to the shutter button 28.

[0094] And, in Figure 14 In the example shown, the user grips the camera 10 by gripping the housing 12 from above and below with their fingers. Specifically, the user places their index finger F1 against the housing 12 from the upper surface 14A, and their thumb F3 against the housing 12 from the lower surface 12E. Meanwhile, the user places their middle finger F2 against the shutter button 28 on the rear surface 12B. In this case, the upper surface 14A and lower surface 12E function as areas where the user can hold the housing 12. This holding method is suitable for selfies.

[0095] While the example described here uses the index finger F1 and thumb F3 to hold the housing 12 from the top and bottom, this is merely an example. For example, the middle finger F2 may contact the housing 12 from the top surface 14A, while the thumb F3 may contact the housing 12 from the bottom surface 12E. Furthermore, the housing 12 may be held upside down.

[0096] In other words, in the technology of the present invention, a method for holding the camera 10 is provided in which the thumb F3 corresponds to the lower surface 12E of the housing 12, the middle finger F2 or the ring finger corresponds to the upper surface 14A of the housing 12, and the index finger F1 corresponds to the shutter button 28, or the index finger F1 corresponds to the upper surface 14A of the housing 12, the thumb F3 corresponds to the lower surface 12E, and the middle finger F2 corresponds to the shutter button 28.

[0097] In addition, although the camera 10 is described as being operated with one hand, the technology of the present invention is not limited thereto. Of course, the camera 10 may be held or operated by the user's two hands.

[0098] As described above, the camera 10 according to this embodiment includes: an opening 16 positioned so as to overlap with the widthwise center P1 of the housing 12; and a shutter button 28 positioned so as to overlap with the projection of the opening 16 onto the rear surface 12B (i.e., projection area 16A). This arrangement, compared to, for example, a case where the opening 16 and shutter button 28 are located at the end of the housing 12, suppresses the generation of rotational torque in the housing 12 by pressing the shutter button, thereby achieving stable operation of the camera 10. For example, even when the camera is miniaturized to a size suitable for palm-sized use, stable camera operation is possible.

[0099] For example, consider a horizontally long housing (i.e., the width of the housing is longer than the height) like a typical digital camera. In this case, consider a case where the housing has an opening 16 at an end in the width direction, and the shutter button 28 is also located at an end in the width direction of the housing. In this case, when the shutter button 28 is pressed, a rotational moment may be generated on the housing 12 due to the force applied relative to the center of gravity of the housing. As a result, the housing may tilt or move during shooting, potentially causing jitter in the captured image. In this configuration, the opening 16 is located at a position overlapping with the center P1 in the width direction of the housing 12. Furthermore, the shutter button 28 is also located on the back surface 12B at a position overlapping with the projection area 16A. As a result, even when the shutter button 28 is pressed during shooting, the rotational moment due to the force acting on the housing 12 is reduced, thereby achieving stable operation of the camera 10.

[0100] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the opening 16 is arranged at a position overlapping the center P2 in the height direction of the housing 12. Thus, the opening 16 and the shutter button 28 are arranged near the center of the front face 12A of the housing 12 in the height direction of the housing 12, thereby achieving more stable operation.

[0101] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, a peripheral region 40 is provided around the opening 16 on the front surface 12A. Furthermore, either the dimension w2 of the right peripheral region 46 or the dimension w3 of the left peripheral region 48 is shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16. Alternatively, either the dimension h2 of the upper peripheral region 42 or the dimension h3 of the lower peripheral region 44 is shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16.

[0102] Thus, the size of peripheral area 40 becomes shorter than the size of opening 16. When shooting with camera 10, the user cannot cover opening 16, through which subject light enters, with a finger. Therefore, the user holds peripheral area 40, which is provided around opening 16, with a finger. However, if peripheral area 40 is narrow, stable operation of camera 10 becomes difficult. In this configuration, as described above, opening 16 is positioned overlapping with the center of housing 12, and shutter button 28 is positioned overlapping with projection area 16A. This allows stable operation of camera 10 even with a narrow peripheral area 40.

[0103] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, both the dimension w2 of the right peripheral region 46 and the dimension w3 of the left peripheral region 48 are shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16. Alternatively, both the dimension h2 of the upper peripheral region 42 and the dimension h3 of the lower peripheral region 44 are shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16. Thus, even with a housing 12 having a narrow peripheral region 40, this configuration, with the opening 16 positioned overlapping the center of the housing 12 and the shutter button 28 positioned overlapping the projection area 16A, enables stable operation of the camera 10. Furthermore, for example, since the opening 16 is positioned near the center of the housing 12 in either the width or height directions when viewed from the front, this contributes to improved design of the camera 10.

[0104] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, both the dimension w2 of the right peripheral region 46 and the dimension w3 of the left peripheral region 48 are shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16, and both the dimension h2 of the upper peripheral region 42 and the dimension h3 of the lower peripheral region 44 are shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16. Thus, even with a housing 12 having a narrow peripheral region 40, this configuration, with the opening 16 positioned overlapping the center of the housing 12 and the shutter button 28 positioned overlapping the projection area 16A, enables stable operation of the camera 10. Furthermore, for example, since the opening 16 is positioned near the center of the housing 12 in both the width and height directions when viewed from the front, this contributes to improved design of the camera 10.

[0105] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, a peripheral region 40 is provided around at least a portion of the opening 16 of the front face 12A. Within the peripheral region 40, an upper peripheral region 42 overlaps with a region 50 corresponding to the shutter button 28 in the height direction. Consequently, when the shutter button 28 is pressed from the rear face 12B, the housing 12 is held from the front face 12A, which is opposite the direction in which the shutter button 28 is pressed. This allows for stable operation. In other words, the rotational moment of the housing 12 is suppressed when the shutter button 28 is pressed, enabling stable operation.

[0106] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, peripheral regions 40 are provided on both sides of the opening 16 on the front face 12A of the housing 12 in the height or width direction. For example, an upper peripheral region 42 and a lower peripheral region 44 are provided around the opening 16. The upper peripheral region 42 and the lower peripheral region 44 function as areas where the housing 12 can be held with the index finger F1 and the middle finger F2, respectively. Furthermore, the housing 12 can be held on the back face 12B by placing the thumb F3 on the shutter button 28. This allows the housing 12 to be held at two locations on the front face 12A and one location on the back face 12B, for a total of three locations. As a result, stable operation of the camera 10 is achieved.

[0107] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the periphery of the opening 16 protrudes from the front surface 12A of the housing 12. Since the periphery of the opening 16 protrudes from the front surface 12A, it is possible to prevent fingers from getting caught on the taking lens 20 provided in the opening 16. Furthermore, since the portion protruding from the front surface 12A is the opening 16, the user can easily determine the position of the opening 16.

[0108] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, when viewing the housing 12 from the side, the protrusion amount t1 on the lower side of the periphery of the opening 16 is greater than the protrusion amount t2 on the upper side. This makes it easier to support the protruding portion of the opening 16 from below, thereby achieving stable operation of the camera 10.

[0109] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the projected area S2 of the opening 16 is at least 20% of the projected area S1 of the housing 12. Thus, when the opening 16 occupies a large proportion of the housing 12's area, the area available for holding the housing 12 is reduced. Consequently, in cameras 10 where the opening 16 occupies a large proportion of the area when viewed from the front, it becomes difficult for the user to operate the camera 10 stably. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is positioned overlapping the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is positioned overlapping the projected area 16A. Consequently, even in cameras 10 where the opening 16 occupies a large proportion of the area, stable operation of the camera 10 is possible.

[0110] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the ratio of the maximum height H to the maximum width W of the housing 12 is 1.0 to 1.2. With a housing 12 of this size, the area available for holding the housing 12 is reduced compared to the horizontally or vertically elongated housings of typical digital cameras. Therefore, in cameras 10 where the ratio of the maximum height H to the maximum width W of the housing 12 is 1.0 to 1.2, it is difficult for the user to operate the camera 10 stably. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is positioned overlapping the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is positioned overlapping the projection area 16A. This allows for stable operation of the camera 10, even in cameras 10 where the ratio of the maximum height H to the maximum width W of the housing 12 is 1.0 to 1.2.

[0111] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the shutter button 28 is provided with a finger rest 28A for the user to rest their finger on. This makes it easier for the user to determine the position of the shutter button 28 and to press it. In particular, when the camera 10 is sized to fit in the palm of the user's hand, it can be difficult to visually determine the position of the shutter button 28. Even in this case, the position of the shutter button 28 can be confirmed with the user's finger, making it easier for the user to operate the shutter button 28.

[0112] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the finger hook portion 28A is formed as a recessed portion 28A1 recessed toward the front surface 12A. This causes the shutter button 28 to be recessed toward the inside of the housing 12, making it easier to hook the finger thereon.

[0113] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the shutter button 28 is configured to be pressable from the rear surface 12B toward the front surface 12A. Pressing the shutter button 28 toward the front surface 12A of the housing 12 may generate a rotational moment within the housing 12. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is positioned overlapping the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is positioned overlapping the projection area 16A. This suppresses the generation of a rotational moment within the housing 12, enabling stable operation.

[0114] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the housing 12 is housed within a sphere B with a radius of at least 1 cm but less than 10 cm. In a compact camera 10 whose housing 12 fits within a sphere B with a radius of at least 1 cm but less than 10 cm, the area available to the user for holding the housing is reduced. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is positioned overlapping the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is positioned overlapping the projection area 16A. This allows stable operation of the camera 10, even when the housing 12 is housed within a sphere B with a radius of at least 1 cm but less than 10 cm.

[0115] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the housing 12 is housed within a sphere B with a radius of at least 1 cm and no more than 3 cm. In a compact camera 10 whose housing 12 fits within a sphere B with a radius of at least 1 cm and no more than 3 cm, the area available to the user for holding the housing is reduced. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is positioned overlapping the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is positioned overlapping the projection area 16A. This allows stable operation of the camera 10, even when the housing 12 is housed within a sphere B with a radius of at least 1 cm and no more than 3 cm.

[0116] Furthermore, the camera 10 of this embodiment does not include a display unit for confirming the subject image. This allows the camera 10 to be compact without a display unit. On the other hand, the lack of a display unit prevents the subject image from being confirmed using the camera alone. Even in this case, the camera 10's stable operation makes it easy to obtain images with minimal shake, eliminating the need for repeated shots for caution.

[0117] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the front 12A, back 12B, and right and left sides 12C and 12D connecting the front and back sides 12A and 12B of the housing 12, excluding the opening 16 and the shutter button 28, are formed as outwardly convex curved surfaces. This makes it easier for the user to hold the housing 12 when the user wraps it around their hand, compared to a case where the housing 12 is flat, making it easier for the user to hold the housing 12.

[0118] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the lower surface 12E of the outer peripheral surface of the housing 12 is formed as a flat surface. This allows the camera 10 to be placed. This placement is useful, for example, when using the camera 10 as a fixed-point camera or taking selfies.

[0119] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the shutter button 28 is positioned so as to overlap with the upper peripheral region 42 in the height direction when the housing 12 is viewed from the side. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, the corresponding region 50 of the shutter button 28 may overlap with the lower peripheral region 44. Furthermore, when the housing 12 is viewed from above, the corresponding region 50 of the shutter button 28 may overlap with the right peripheral region 46 or the left peripheral region 48.

[0120] (Variation)

[0121] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates an example in which the shutter button 28 is positioned so as to overlap with the upper peripheral region 42 in the height direction when viewing the housing 12 from the side, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. In this modified embodiment, an upper peripheral region 42 and a lower peripheral region 44 are provided in the height direction of the housing 12. Furthermore, the upper peripheral region 42 and the lower peripheral region 44 overlap with the corresponding region 52 of the shutter button 54.

[0122] As an example, Figure 15 As shown, peripheral regions 40 are provided on both sides of the opening 16 in the height direction. Specifically, an upper peripheral region 42 and a lower peripheral region 44 are provided around the opening 16 in the height direction. Furthermore, a shutter button 54 is provided on the back surface 12B of the housing 12. Furthermore, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, the shutter button 54 is positioned so as to overlap with the upper peripheral region 42 and the lower peripheral region 44 in the height direction. Specifically, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, a corresponding region 52 corresponding to the shutter button 54 overlaps with the upper peripheral region 42. Furthermore, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, a corresponding region 52 corresponding to the shutter button 54 overlaps with the lower peripheral region 44.

[0123] With this arrangement, the force acting on the housing 12 from the rear surface 12B side due to pressing the shutter button 54 can be received from the front surface 12A side by the index finger F1 abutting the upper peripheral region 42. Furthermore, the force acting on the housing 12 from the rear surface 12B side due to pressing the shutter button 54 can be received from the front surface 12A side by the middle finger F2 abutting the lower peripheral region 44. This reduces the rotational moment generated in the housing 12 due to the force acting on the housing 12 associated with the pressing operation.

[0124] As described above, in the camera 10 according to this modified example, the upper peripheral area 42 and the lower peripheral area 44 surrounding the opening 16 on the front face 12A overlap in height with the corresponding area 52 of the shutter button 54. Consequently, when the shutter button 54 is pressed from the rear face 12B, the housing 12 is held from the front face 12A, which is opposite the direction in which the shutter button 54 is pressed. This allows for stable operation. In other words, the rotational moment of the housing 12 is suppressed when the shutter button 54 is pressed, enabling stable operation.

[0125] Furthermore, in the above-described modified embodiment, the shutter button 54 is arranged at a position overlapping with the upper peripheral region 42 and the lower peripheral region 44 in the height direction when the housing 12 is viewed from the side. However, the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the housing 12 is viewed from above, the shutter button 54 may be arranged at a position overlapping with the right peripheral region 46 and the left peripheral region 48 in the width direction.

[0126] In the above embodiment, the housing 12 is described as having a substantially oval shape with rounded corners, but the technology of the present invention is not limited thereto. The housing 12 may be spherical, spindle-shaped, or quadrilateral.

[0127] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an upper peripheral region 42, a lower peripheral region 44, a right peripheral region 46, and a left peripheral region 48 are provided around the opening 16 of the housing 12. However, the technology of the present invention is not limited thereto. The peripheral region 40 may be any one, two, or three of the upper peripheral region 42, the lower peripheral region 44, the right peripheral region 46, and the left peripheral region 48.

[0128] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the indicator 14 is provided on the upper portion of the housing 12 of the camera 10 , but the technology of the present invention is not limited thereto. The shape of the indicator 14 is not particularly limited, and the indicator 14 may not be provided.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the shutter button 28 is described as a physical button, but the technology of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the shutter button 28 may be displayed on a touch screen display.

[0130] The above-mentioned records and illustrated contents are detailed descriptions of the parts involved in the technology of the present invention, and are only examples of the technology of the present invention. For example, the description of the above-mentioned structure, function, action and effect is an example of the structure, function, action and effect of the parts involved in the technology of the present invention. Therefore, it is of course possible to delete unnecessary parts, add new elements or replace the above-mentioned records and illustrated contents without departing from the scope of the main purpose of the technology of the present invention. In addition, in order to avoid trouble and facilitate understanding of the parts involved in the technology of the present invention, the description of technical common sense that does not need to be specially explained when implementing the technology of the present invention is omitted in the above-mentioned records and illustrated contents.

[0131] In this specification, "A and / or B" has the same meaning as "at least one of A and B." That is, "A and / or B" can mean only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. Furthermore, in this specification, when three or more items are linked together using "and / or," the same concept as "A and / or B" applies.

[0132] All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, or technical standard were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0133] Regarding the above-mentioned embodiment, the following contents are further disclosed.

[0134] Note 1

[0135] A camera comprising: a housing;

[0136] an opening provided in the housing and allowing subject light to enter the photographic lens, the opening being arranged at a position overlapping with the center of the housing in the width direction; and

[0137] The shutter button is provided on the back surface when the side on which the opening is provided is set as the front surface and the side opposite to the front surface in the optical axis direction of the photographic lens is set as the back surface, and is arranged at a position at which at least a portion overlaps with a position where the opening is projected onto the back surface.

[0138] Note 2

[0139] The camera according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the opening is arranged at a position overlapping with a center of the housing in a height direction perpendicular to the width direction.

[0140] Note 3

[0141] The camera according to Supplementary Note 1 or 2, wherein a peripheral area is provided in at least a portion of the periphery of the opening in the front surface.

[0142] The size of the peripheral area in the width direction of the housing is shorter than the total width of the opening, or

[0143] A dimension of the peripheral region in a height direction of the housing that is perpendicular to the width direction is shorter than a total height of the opening.

[0144] Appendix 4

[0145] The camera according to Supplementary Note 3, wherein the size of the peripheral area on both sides of the width direction of the opening is shorter than the total width of the opening, or

[0146] On both sides of the opening in the height direction, the peripheral region has a size shorter than the total height of the opening.

[0147] Appendix 5

[0148] The camera according to Supplementary Note 4, wherein the size of the peripheral area on both sides of the opening in the width direction is shorter than the total width of the opening, and

[0149] On both sides of the opening in the height direction, the peripheral region has a size shorter than the total height of the opening.

[0150] Appendix 6

[0151] The camera according to Supplementary Notes 1 to 5, wherein a peripheral area is provided on at least a portion of the periphery of the opening on the front surface, and a portion of the peripheral area overlaps with the shutter button in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0152] <Note 7>

[0153] The camera according to Supplementary Note 6, wherein the peripheral area is provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or the height direction of the housing.

[0154] Appendix 8

[0155] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 7, wherein peripheral areas capable of holding the housing with fingers are provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or the height direction of the housing.

[0156] <Note 9>

[0157] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8, wherein a peripheral edge of the opening protrudes on the front surface.

[0158] <Note 10>

[0159] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 9, wherein, when a surface connecting the front surface and the back surface of the housing is defined as a side surface,

[0160] When the housing is viewed from the side, the peripheral edge of the opening portion protrudes more on the lower side in the height direction of the housing than on the upper side.

[0161] <Note 11>

[0162] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10, wherein a projected area of the opening is equal to or greater than 20% of a projected area of the housing when the housing is viewed from the front.

[0163] <Note 12>

[0164] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 11, wherein a ratio of a maximum height to a maximum width of the housing when the housing is viewed from the front is 1.0 to 1.2.

[0165] <Note 13>

[0166] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 12, wherein a finger rest portion is formed on the shutter button.

[0167] <Note 14>

[0168] The camera according to Supplementary Note 13, wherein the finger rest portion is a recessed portion recessed toward the front side.

[0169] <Note 15>

[0170] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 14, wherein the shutter button is configured to be pressable from the rear side toward the front side.

[0171] <Note 16>

[0172] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 15, wherein the housing is accommodated in a sphere having a radius of not less than 1 cm and not more than 10 cm.

[0173] <Note 17>

[0174] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 16, wherein the housing is accommodated in a sphere having a radius of not less than 1 cm and not more than 3 cm.

[0175] <Note 18>

[0176] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 17, wherein the housing is not provided with a display unit for confirming the subject image.

[0177] <Note 19>

[0178] The camera according to any one of Notes 1 to 18, wherein the front surface, the back surface, and the side surfaces connecting the front surface and the back surface of the housing other than the opening and the shutter button are formed of curved surfaces convex outward.

[0179] <Note 20>

[0180] The camera according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 19, wherein at least a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the housing including a center of a lower surface is formed of a flat surface.

[0181] Explanation of symbols

[0182] 10-Camera, 12-Casing, 12A-Front, 12B-Back, 12C-Right side, 12D-Left side, 12E-Lower surface, 14-Indicator, 14A-Top surface, 15-Power button, 16-Opening, 16A-Projection area, 18-Lens unit, 18A-Holding frame, 20-Photographic lens, 24-Speaker, 24A-Through hole, 26-Flash unit, 26A-Cover, 28, 54-Shutter button, 28A-Finger rest, 28A1-Recess, 29-Receiving unit, 30-Image sensor, 32-Light Diode, 40-peripheral area, 42-upper peripheral area, 44-lower peripheral area, 46-right peripheral area, 48-left peripheral area, 50, 52-corresponding areas, B-sphere, F1-index finger, F2-middle finger, F3-thumb, L-optical axis, P1, P2-center, S1, S2-projection area, W-maximum width, h1-total height, h2, h3-size, r-radius, t1, t2-protrusion, w1-total width, w2, w3-size, VT-vertical direction, HZ-horizontal direction, X, Y, Z-arrows.

Claims

1. A camera, characterized in that: have: case; an opening provided in the housing and allowing subject light to enter the photographic lens, the opening being arranged at a position overlapping with the center in the width direction of the housing; and The shutter button is provided on the back surface, and is arranged at a position where at least a portion of the shutter button overlaps with a position where the opening is projected onto the back surface, when the side on which the opening is provided is set as the front surface and the side opposite to the front surface in the optical axis direction of the photographic lens is set as the back surface.

2. The camera according to claim 1, wherein The opening is arranged at a position overlapping with the center of the housing in a height direction perpendicular to the width direction.

3. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A peripheral area is provided on the front surface at least partially around the opening. The dimension of the peripheral area in the width direction of the housing is shorter than the total width of the opening, or The dimension of the peripheral region in the height direction of the housing, which is perpendicular to the width direction, is shorter than the total height of the opening.

4. The camera according to claim 3, characterized in that On both sides of the opening in the width direction, the size of the peripheral area is shorter than the total width of the opening, or At both sides of the opening in the height direction, the peripheral region has a size shorter than the total height of the opening.

5. The camera according to claim 4, characterized in that On both sides of the opening in the width direction, the size of the peripheral area is shorter than the total width of the opening, and At both sides of the opening in the height direction, the peripheral region has a size shorter than the total height of the opening.

6. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A peripheral area is provided on the front surface at least partially around the opening, and a portion of the peripheral area overlaps with the shutter button in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

7. The camera according to claim 6, characterized in that The peripheral areas are provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or the height direction of the housing.

8. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A peripheral area for holding the housing with fingers is provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or the height direction of the housing.

9. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The peripheral edge of the opening protrudes on the front surface.

10. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that When the surface connecting the front surface and the back surface on the housing is set as a side surface, When the housing is viewed from the side, the peripheral edge of the opening protrudes more on the lower side than on the upper side in the height direction of the housing.

11. The camera according to claim 1, wherein When the housing is viewed from the front, a projected area of the opening is equal to or greater than 20% of a projected area of the housing.

12. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that When the housing is viewed from the front, a ratio of a maximum height to a maximum width of the housing is 1.0 to 1.

2.

13. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A finger-resting portion is formed on the shutter button.

14. The camera according to claim 13, wherein: The finger-holding portion is a recessed portion recessed toward the front side.

15. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The shutter button is provided so as to be pressable from the rear side toward the front side.

16. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The shell is contained in a sphere with a radius of at least 1 cm and not more than 10 cm.

17. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The shell is contained in a sphere with a radius of at least 1 cm and not more than 3 cm.

18. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The housing is not provided with a display unit for confirming the subject image.

19. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The front surface, the back surface, and the side surfaces connecting the front surface and the back surface of the housing, excluding the opening and the shutter button, are formed of curved surfaces convex outward.

20. The camera according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that At least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the housing including the center of the lower surface is formed of a flat surface.

Images