Camera

Abstract

To provide a camera allowing stable operation even when the camera is down-sized.SOLUTION: A camera includes: a housing; an opening provided in the housing and allowing subject light to enter a photographing lens, the opening disposed at a position overlapping with a center in a width direction, of the housing; and a shutter button, when a side on which the opening is provided in the housing is a front face and a side opposite to the front face in an optical axis direction of the photographing lens is a back face, provided on the back face and arranged at a position at least partially overlapping with a position of the opening projected on the back face.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The technology of this disclosure relates to cameras. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a digital camera equipped with an image sensor that converts a subject image into an electrical signal, an electronic viewfinder provided on the back of the digital camera that displays an image formed by focusing a light beam of the subject image on the image sensor, and a release button that starts shooting, characterized in that the release button is located on a plane approximately parallel to the screen of the electronic viewfinder and to the right of the electronic viewfinder when viewed from the back of the camera.

[0003] Patent document 2 describes an imaging device that includes an imaging device body and a shutter operation unit that is provided on the imaging device body and is movable along the optical axis direction of a photographing lens, and that operates the shutter by this movement.

[0004] Patent document 3 describes an imaging device that includes an elongated housing that forms the exterior, an imaging element incorporated in the housing, an imaging optical system incorporated in the housing and directing a subject image to the imaging element, and a shutter button provided on the housing to perform an imaging operation, wherein a part of the housing that is held by the hand of an photographer who takes an image with the imaging device and the shutter button are located at points displaced in the longitudinal direction of the housing, and an objective lens of the imaging optical system that is located closest to the subject is provided on the same surface of the housing on which the shutter button is provided, and on the opposite side of the part of the housing that is held near the shutter button and sandwiches the shutter button. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-087629 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2005-024999 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2009-159606 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The camera described in the prior art is a type of camera that is held by gripping the camera body with fingers and the palm of the hand, and therefore the camera's posture is stable because the camera body can be held by gripping it with the fingers and supporting it with the palm of the hand, and the action of pressing the shutter button with a finger has little effect on the posture of the camera.

[0007] On the other hand, consider the case where cameras are made smaller (for example, to a size that fits in the palm of an adult's hand). In this case, it is difficult to support the camera body with the palm of the hand, and the camera is held by pinching it with the fingers. The operation of pressing the shutter button is then performed by moving one of the fingers that is pinching the camera body. As a result, when the camera is made smaller, the camera's posture may become unstable when the shutter button is pressed.

[0008] One embodiment of the technique disclosed herein provides a camera that allows stable operation even when the camera is miniaturized. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A first aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is a camera comprising a housing, an opening provided in the housing to allow subject light to enter the taking lens, the opening being positioned at a position overlapping with the center of the width of the housing, and a shutter button provided on the back surface at a position that at least partially overlaps with the position of the opening projected onto the back surface, when the side of the housing on which the opening is provided is defined as the front surface and the side opposite the front surface in the direction of the optical axis of the taking lens is defined as the back surface.

[0010] A second aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which the opening is disposed at a position overlapping with the center of the housing in a height direction perpendicular to the width direction.

[0011] A third aspect of the technology disclosed herein is a camera according to the first aspect, in which a peripheral area is provided around at least a portion of the opening on the front side, and the dimension of the peripheral area in the width direction of the housing is shorter than the overall width of the opening, or the dimension of the peripheral area in the height direction perpendicular to the width direction of the housing is shorter than the overall height of the opening.

[0012] A fourth aspect of the technology disclosed herein is a camera according to the third aspect, in which the dimensions of the peripheral region on both sides of the width of the opening are shorter than the overall width of the opening, or the dimensions of the peripheral region on both sides of the height of the opening are shorter than the overall height of the opening.

[0013] A fifth aspect of the technology disclosed herein is a camera according to the fourth aspect, in which the dimensions of the peripheral area on both sides of the width of the opening are shorter than the total width of the opening, and the dimensions of the peripheral area on both sides of the height of the opening are shorter than the total height of the opening.

[0014] A sixth aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is a camera according to the first aspect, in which a peripheral area is provided around at least a portion of the opening on the front, and a portion of the peripheral area overlaps with the shutter button in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0015] A seventh aspect of the technique of the present disclosure is the camera according to the sixth aspect, in which peripheral areas are provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or height direction of the housing.

[0016] An eighth aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which peripheral areas that allow the housing to be held with fingers are provided on both sides of the opening in the width or height direction of the housing.

[0017] A ninth aspect of the technique of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which the periphery of the opening protrudes on the front surface.

[0018] A tenth aspect of the technology disclosed herein is a camera according to the first aspect, in which when the surface connecting the front and back of the housing is considered a side surface and the housing is viewed from the side, the amount of protrusion of the peripheral edge of the opening is greater on the lower side than on the upper side in the height direction of the housing.

[0019] An eleventh aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, wherein the projected area of ​​the opening is 20% or more of the projected area of ​​the housing when viewed from the front.

[0020] A twelfth aspect of the technique of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which the ratio of the maximum height to the maximum width of the housing is 1.0 to 1.2 when viewed from the front.

[0021] A thirteenth aspect according to the technique of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which a finger grip is formed on the shutter button.

[0022] A fourteenth aspect of the technique of the present disclosure is the camera according to the thirteenth aspect, in which the finger grip portion is a recess that is recessed toward the front side.

[0023] A fifteenth aspect of the technique of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which the shutter button can be pressed from the rear side toward the front side.

[0024] A sixteenth aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which the housing fits within a sphere having a radius of 1 cm to 10 cm.

[0025] A seventeenth aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is a camera according to the fifteenth aspect, wherein the housing fits into a sphere with a radius of 1 cm or more and 3 cm or less.

[0026] An eighteenth aspect of the technique of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which the housing is not provided with a display unit for checking a subject image.

[0027] A 19th aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is a camera according to the first aspect in which the front, back, and both side surfaces connecting the front and back of the housing are formed of curved surfaces that convex outward, except for the opening and the shutter button.

[0028] A twentieth aspect of the technique of the present disclosure is the camera according to the first aspect, in which at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the housing, including the center of the lower surface, is configured as a flat surface. Effect of the Invention

[0029] The technology disclosed herein provides a camera that allows stable operation even when the camera is miniaturized. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view showing an example of the configuration of a camera according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of the camera according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is an external perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a camera according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating an example of the configuration of the camera according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a top view illustrating an example of the configuration of the camera according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] 5 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between a shutter button and an opening according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a front view showing an example of an arrangement of openings according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a front view showing an example of a relationship in size between an opening and a peripheral region according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 9] 5A and 5B are conceptual diagrams showing the relationship between the projected area of ​​a housing and the projected area of ​​an opening according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is an external perspective view showing an example of a manner in which a sphere fits into the camera according to the embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing an example of a usage mode of a camera according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a side view showing an example of a usage mode of the camera according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing an example of a usage mode of a camera according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing an example of a usage mode of a camera according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating an example of the configuration of the camera according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0031] An example of an embodiment of a camera according to the technology of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] In the following description, for convenience of explanation, the front-rear direction (also called the depth direction), width direction, and height direction of the camera 10 are indicated by three arrows, X, Y, and Z. First, the height direction is indicated by arrow Y, and the direction indicated by arrow Y is the upward direction of the camera 10, and the opposite direction is the downward direction. The width direction is indicated by arrow X perpendicular to arrow Y, and the direction indicated by arrow X is the rightward direction of the camera 10, and the opposite direction is the leftward direction. The front-rear direction is indicated by arrow Z perpendicular to arrows Y and X, and the direction indicated by arrow Z is the forward direction of the camera 10, and the opposite direction is the backward direction. That is, the direction toward the subject along the optical axis L (see FIG. 3) in the camera 10 is the forward direction. In the following description, expressions using sides such as upper side, lower side, left side, right side, front side, and rear side have the same meaning as expressions using directions.

[0033] More specifically, the width direction and height direction of the camera 10 will be described with reference to the imaging element 30. As an example, as shown in FIG. 1, the imaging element 30 is provided inside 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 on which a plurality of pixels 32 are two-dimensionally arranged. The pixels 32 are light receiving elements such as photodiodes. On the imaging surface, a pixel selection line is wired to each pixel 32 along the horizontal direction HZ, and a signal readout line for reading out a signal of the selected pixel 32 is wired along the vertical direction VT.

[0034] Here, the direction along the vertical direction VT in the imaging element 30 is defined as the height direction in the camera 10 (i.e., the direction of the arrow Y in FIG. 1), and the direction along the horizontal direction HZ in the imaging element 30 is defined as the width direction in the camera 10 (i.e., the direction of the arrow X in FIG. 1).

[0035] As an example, as shown in FIG. 1, camera 10 is an imaging device that captures an image of a subject. With camera 10, for example, a user presses a shutter button to capture an image of the subject. With camera 10, still images or videos including an image of the subject can be obtained. Camera 10 is small in size (for example, small enough to fit in the palm of an adult's hand) compared to general digital cameras or instant cameras, and can be easily handled by a user. Camera 10 is an example of a "camera" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0036] The camera 10 includes a housing 12. The housing 12 houses an image sensor 30 and electronic components for realizing the image capturing function of the camera 10. The housing 12 has a rounded design as a whole, as will be described later in detail. That is, the outer periphery of the housing 12 is mainly curved, and the housing 12 has a substantially egg-shaped appearance. The housing 12 is provided with an opening 16. The opening 16 allows subject light to enter the photographing lens 20. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the opening 16 exposes the lens unit 18 to the outside. The lens unit 18 includes the photographing lens 20 and a holding frame 18A that holds the photographing lens 20. Here, exposing the lens unit 18 includes a state in which the lens unit 18 is directly exposed, and also includes a state in which the lens unit 18 is covered by a cover member or the like to an extent that does not affect the image capturing of the subject. The housing 12 is an example of a "housing" according to the technology of the present disclosure, the photographing lens 20 is an example of a "photographing lens" according to the technology of the present disclosure, and the opening 16 is an example of an "opening" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0037] In addition, when the side of the housing 12 on which the opening 16 is provided is defined as the front surface 12A of the housing 12, a speaker unit 24 and a flash unit 26 are provided on the front surface 12A. In the speaker unit 24, various operation sounds (for example, electronic sounds simulating the sound of a shutter being released) are output from a sound source (not shown) provided inside the housing 12. In the example shown in FIG. 1, sound is output through three through holes 24A. In addition, in the flash unit 26, light is emitted from a light source (not shown) provided inside the housing 12 to a subject. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the light source is covered by a cover member 26A provided on the housing 12.

[0038] An indicator 14 is provided on the upper part of the housing 12. The exterior of the indicator 14 is made of a translucent material, and emits light from a light source provided inside the indicator 14 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 preset emission interval and in a preset emission color. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the indicator 14 is a part that protrudes upward from the housing 12. When the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the indicator 14 has a trapezoidal shape.

[0039] Furthermore, a power button 15 is provided on the top surface 14A of the indicator 14. The power button 15 is provided on the top surface 14A of the indicator 14 along the left-right direction (the X direction shown in FIG. 1). The camera 10 can be turned on by pressing the power button 15 several times (e.g., three times). The camera 10 can be turned off by pressing and holding the power button 15 for several seconds (e.g., three seconds).

[0040] Further, a bottom surface 12E is formed on the lower part of the housing 12. At least a part of the area including the center of the bottom surface 12E is configured as a flat surface. This allows the camera 10 to be placed on a desk or the like. Here, a flat surface includes a completely flat surface, and includes a surface having a flatness sufficient to allow the housing 12 to be placed thereon. The bottom surface 12E is an example of a "bottom surface" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0041] As an example, as shown in FIG. 2, when the side of the housing 12 opposite the front face 12A is the back face 12B (i.e., when the side facing the front face 12A in the optical axis direction of the photographing lens 20 is the back face 12B), a shutter button 28 is provided on the back face 12B. The shutter button 28 can be pressed towards the front face 12A. As described above, when the user presses the shutter button 28B, an image of the subject is captured by the camera 10. The shutter button 28 is an example of a "shutter button" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0042] Also, in general digital cameras, a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) for checking the subject image is often mounted on the back surface (i.e., the surface opposite the subject). On the other hand, in this embodiment, a display unit for checking the subject image is not provided on back surface 12B of camera 10. It should be noted that, even though a display unit for checking the subject image is not provided, a display unit for other purposes (e.g., a display unit showing the remaining battery level) may of course be provided on back surface 12B.

[0043] Furthermore, a reception unit 29 is provided on the rear surface 12B of the housing 12. The reception unit 29 is a terminal that receives an electrical connection with an external device, and is, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) terminal. Through the reception unit 29, the battery of the camera 10 is charged, and wired communication between the camera 10 and the external device is performed.

[0044] 3, the housing 12 has a spherical appearance as a whole. The indicator 14 protrudes in a trapezoidal shape from the upper part of the housing 12. The right side of the housing 12 is formed with a right side surface 12C that connects the front surface 12A and the back surface 12B. The right side surface 12C is formed in a curved shape.

[0045] Moreover, the front surface 12A of the housing 12 has a curved shape. 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 rises from the front surface 12A of the housing 12. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the opening 16 is a circular opening, and a slope is formed along the periphery from the opening 16 to the front surface 12A.

[0046] As an example, as shown in FIG. 4, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side (here, when viewed from the right side), the amount by which the periphery of the opening 16 protrudes from the front surface 12A is greater on the lower side of the opening 16 than on the upper side of the opening 16. Specifically, the amount of protrusion t1 of the periphery on the lower side of the opening 16 is longer than the amount of protrusion t2 of the periphery on the upper side of the opening 16. That is, t1>t2. As a result, the opening 16 faces upward when the housing 12 is viewed from the side. The opening 16 exposes the lens unit 18 including the photographing lens 20 to the outside, and the photographing lens 20 is also set to face upward. That is, when the housing 12 is placed on a horizontal surface, the subject side of the optical axis L is inclined upward with respect to the horizontal direction. As a result, when imaging is performed with the camera 10 placed, imaging can be performed with an elevation angle applied.

[0047] In addition, a finger hook portion 28A is formed on the shutter button 28 provided on the back surface 12B. The finger hook portion 28A makes it easier for the user's finger to hook on the shutter button 28, making it easier to grasp the position of the shutter button 28 and press the shutter button 28. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the shutter button 28 is formed with a recess 28A1 recessed on the front surface 12A side of the housing 12 as the finger hook portion 28A. In this case, a part of the user's finger fits into the recess 28A1, so that the user's finger hooks on the shutter button 28. The finger hook portion 28A is an example of a "finger hook portion" according to the technology of the present disclosure, and the recess 28A1 is an example of a "recess" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0048] It should be noted that recess 28A1 is merely one example, and it goes without saying that finger hook 28A may be used as long as the user's finger hooks on shutter button 28. For example, finger hook 28A may be a rib or protrusion provided on shutter button 28, or finger hook 28A may be realized by forming the surface of shutter button 28 from a material having a higher friction coefficient than housing 12.

[0049] As an example, as shown in Fig. 5, when the housing 12 is viewed from above, the housing 12 has a rounded shape. Specifically, the front surface 12A (excluding the opening 16 and its periphery) and the rear surface 12B (excluding the finger hook portion 28A of the shutter button 28) have an outwardly convex curved shape. In addition, on the right side of the housing 12, a right side surface 12C connecting the front surface 12A and the rear surface 12B also has an outwardly convex curved shape. Furthermore, on the left side of the housing 12, a left side surface 12D connecting the front surface 12A and the rear surface 12B also has an outwardly convex curved shape.

[0050] Next, the positional relationship between the opening 16 and the shutter button 28 in the housing 12 will be described. As an example, as shown in FIG. 6, on the rear surface 12B of the housing 12, the shutter button 28 is arranged at a position that at least partially overlaps with the position of the opening 16 projected onto the rear surface 12B. In the example shown in FIG. 6, a projection area 16A in which the opening 16 is virtually projected onto the rear surface 12B and the shutter button 28 partially overlap. Here, virtually projecting the opening 16 refers to projecting an area defined by the outer edge of the opening 16 from the front surface 12A to the rear surface 12B along the front-rear direction of the housing 12. Specifically, an upper part of the projection area 16A overlaps a lower part of the shutter button 28. In other words, the opening 16 and the shutter button 28 are arranged together at relatively close positions in the height direction in the housing 12.

[0051] Note that, here, an example in which the projection area 16A and the shutter button 28 partially overlap has been described, but this is merely one example. For example, the projection area 16A and the shutter button 28 may completely overlap, the shutter button 28 may be included within the projection area 16A, or the shutter button 28 may include the projection area 16A. Also, the overlapping manner between the projection area 16A and the shutter button 28 is not particularly limited, and for example, the lower part of the projection area 16A and the upper part of the shutter button 28 may overlap.

[0052] Next, the arrangement of the opening 16 on the front surface 12A of the housing 12 will be described. As an example, as shown in Fig. 7, the opening 16 is arranged at a position overlapping with a center P1 in the width direction on the front surface 12A of the housing 12. In other words, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the center P1 is virtually included within the range of the opening 16. Here, the center P1 in the width direction is the midpoint of the maximum width W on the front surface 12A of the housing 12. The center P1 is an example of the "center of the housing in the width direction" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0053] Furthermore, the opening 16 is disposed at a position overlapping with a center P2 in the width direction and height direction on the front surface 12A of the housing 12. In other words, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the center P2 is virtually included within the range of the opening 16. Here, the center P2 in the width direction and height direction is the intersection point between the bisector of the maximum width W on the front surface 12A of the housing 12 and the bisector of the maximum height H on the front surface 12A of the housing 12. The center P2 is an example of the "center of the housing in the height direction" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0054] In this way, the opening 16 is disposed at a position overlapping with the center P1, so that the opening 16 is disposed near the center in the width direction. Furthermore, the opening 16 is disposed at a position overlapping with the center P2, so that the opening 16 is disposed near the center in the width direction and the height direction.

[0055] As an example, as shown in FIG. 8, a peripheral area 40 is provided around the opening 16 on the front surface 12A of the housing 12. The peripheral area 40 is an area from the outer edge of the opening 16 to the outer edge of the housing 12. The peripheral area 40 is an example of the "peripheral area" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The peripheral area 40 includes an upper peripheral area 42 and a lower peripheral area 44. Specifically, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the upper peripheral area 42 is provided above the opening 16 in the height direction. Also, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the lower peripheral area 44 is provided below the opening 16 in the height direction. The dimension h2 of the upper peripheral area 42 is shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16 in the height direction, and the dimension h3 of the lower peripheral area 44 is shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16 in the height direction. Here, the total height h1 of the opening 16 is the maximum value of the distance of the opening 16 in the height direction. In this way, the dimension of the peripheral region 40 on both sides of the opening 16 in the height direction is shorter than the overall height h1 of the opening 16.

[0056] Note that, although an embodiment in which the dimensions of the peripheral region 40 on both sides of the opening 16 in the height direction are shorter than the overall height h1 of the opening 16 has been described here, this is merely one example. For example, only the dimension h2 of the upper peripheral region 42 may be shorter than the overall height h1 of the opening 16, or only the dimension h3 of the lower peripheral region 44 may be shorter than the overall height h1 of the opening 16.

[0057] The peripheral region 40 includes a right peripheral region 46 and a left peripheral region 48. Specifically, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the right peripheral region 46 is provided on the right side of the opening 16 in the width direction. When the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the left peripheral region 48 is provided on the left side of the opening 16 in the width direction. The dimension w2 of the right peripheral region 46 is shorter than the overall width w1 of the opening 16 in the width direction, and the dimension w3 of the left peripheral region 48 is shorter than the overall width w1 of the opening 16 in the width direction. Here, the overall width w1 of the opening 16 is the maximum value of the distance of the opening 16 in the width direction. In this way, the dimension of the peripheral region 40 is shorter than the overall width w1 of the opening 16 on both sides of the opening 16 in the width direction.

[0058] In the above description, the dimensions of the peripheral region 40 on both sides of the opening 16 in the width direction are shorter than the overall width w1 of the opening 16, but this is merely one example. For example, only the dimension w2 of the right peripheral region 46 may be shorter than the overall width w1 of the opening 16, or only the dimension w3 of the left peripheral region 48 may be shorter than the overall width w1 of the opening 16.

[0059] Further, here, an embodiment has been described in which the dimension of the peripheral region 40 in the height direction is shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16 and the dimension of the peripheral region 40 in the width direction is shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16, but this is merely one example. For example, only the dimension of the peripheral region 40 in the height direction may be shorter than the total height h1 of the opening 16, or only the dimension of the peripheral region 40 in the width direction may be shorter than the total width w1 of the opening 16.

[0060] As an example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the projected area S2 of the opening 16 (the area of ​​the region indicated by the diagonal hatching in FIG. 9) is set to 20% or more of the projected area S1 of the housing 12 (the area of ​​the region indicated by the dotted hatching in FIG. 9). That is, S2 / S1×100≧20(%). Here, the projected area of ​​the opening 16 is the area of ​​the outer edge of the opening 16 when projected onto a virtual plane having a normal direction along the Z direction. Also, the projected area of ​​the housing 12 is the area of ​​the outer edge of the housing 12 when projected onto a virtual plane having a normal direction along the Z direction. Thus, the size of the opening 16 occupies a large proportion of the housing 12 compared to a general digital camera.

[0061] When housing 12 is viewed from the front, the ratio of maximum height H to maximum width W of housing 12 is set to 1.0 to 1.2. That is, housing 12 satisfies the relational expression H / W=1.0 to 1.2. In this way, the aspect ratio of housing 12 when viewed from the front is set to be closer to 1 than that of a typical digital camera, rather than being wider than horizontal.

[0062] 10, as an example, the housing 12 of the camera 10 is sized to fit within a virtual sphere B having a radius r. Here, the radius r is set to be 1 cm or more and 10 cm or less, and further, the radius r is set to be 1 cm or more and 3 cm or less. Moreover, fitting within the sphere B means that the housing 12 can be placed inside the sphere B without contacting the spherical surface of the sphere B.

[0063] The volume of the housing 12 of the camera 10 is 4,190 cm 3 The volume of the housing 12 is 113 cm 3 Furthermore, the volume of the housing 12 is 4.19 cm 3 It is stated as follows.

[0064] Next, an example of how the camera 10 according to this embodiment is used will be described. As an example, as shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the user holds the camera 10 by pinching the housing 12 with his / her fingers from the front and back. Specifically, the index finger F1 and the middle finger F2 are placed on the housing 12 from the front 12A side toward the rear 12B side, and the thumb F3 is placed on the rear 12B side toward the front 12A side. In the example shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the index finger F1 is placed on the upper peripheral area 42, and the middle finger F2 is placed on the lower peripheral area 44. On the front 12A of the housing 12, the index finger F1 and the middle finger F2 pinch the opening 16. In particular, the middle finger F2 is placed on the lower peripheral area 44 so as to support the opening 16 from below. On the other hand, on the rear 12B, the user places the thumb F3 on the shutter button 28. In this way, the peripheral area 40 functions as an area in which the housing 12 can be held.

[0065] As described above, the shutter button 28 can be pressed toward the front surface 12A. When capturing an image using the camera 10, the user presses the shutter button 28 toward the front surface 12A (see the arrow in FIG. 12). Here, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, the shutter button 28 is disposed at a position overlapping the upper peripheral region 42 in the height direction. That is, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, the corresponding region 50 corresponding to the shutter button 28 and the upper peripheral region 42 overlap. With this arrangement, the force acting on the housing 12 from the rear surface 12B side by pressing the shutter button 28 can be received from the front surface 12A side by the index finger F1 abutting the upper peripheral region 42. This can reduce the rotational moment generated in the housing 12 due to the force acting on the housing 12 accompanying the pressing operation.

[0066] 13, the user places the middle finger F2 on the right peripheral region 46 and the index finger F1 on the left peripheral region 48. On the front surface 12A of the housing 12, the user pinches the opening 16 between the index finger F1 and middle finger F2. On the other hand, on the back surface 12B, the user places the thumb F3 on the shutter button 28. In this way, the peripheral region 40 functions as a region that allows the user to hold the housing 12.

[0067] In the above description, the case 12 is held from the front side 12A by the index finger F1 and the middle finger F2, but this is merely an example. For example, the case 12 may be held from the front side 12A by the middle finger F2 and the ring finger. Of course, other fingers may be used in addition to the three fingers.

[0068] In other words, the technology disclosed herein provides a method of holding camera 10 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 in which 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.

[0069] 14, the user holds the camera 10 by pinching the housing 12 with his / her fingers from above and below. Specifically, the index finger F1 touches the upper surface 14A of the housing 12, and the thumb F3 touches the lower surface 12E of the housing 12. Meanwhile, on the back surface 12B, the user touches the shutter button 28 with his / her middle finger F2. In this case, the upper surface 14A and the lower surface 12E function as areas that allow the user to hold the housing 12. This holding method is suitable for self-portrait photography.

[0070] In the above description, the case 12 is held from above and below by the index finger F1 and the thumb F3, but this is merely an example. For example, the middle finger F2 may be placed on the top surface 14A of the case 12, and the thumb F3 may be placed on the bottom surface 12E of the case 12. The case 12 may also be held upside down.

[0071] In other words, the technology disclosed herein provides a method of holding camera 10 in which thumb F3 is placed on underside 12E of housing 12, middle finger F2 or ring finger is placed on top side 14A of housing 12, and index finger F1 is placed on shutter button 28, or in which index finger F1 is placed on top side 14A of housing 12, thumb F3 is placed on underside 12E, and middle finger F2 is placed on shutter button 28.

[0072] Although the above description has been given of an example of the use of camera 10 in which it is operated with one hand, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. Needless to say, camera 10 may be held or operated with both hands of the user.

[0073] As described above, camera 10 according to this embodiment has opening 16 arranged at a position overlapping center P1 in the width direction of housing 12, and shutter button 28 arranged at a position overlapping opening 16 projected onto rear surface 12B (i.e., projection area 16A). This, for example, suppresses the generation of a rotational moment in housing 12 due to the operation of pressing the shutter button, compared to a case in which opening 16 and shutter button 28 are located at the end of housing 12, and realizes stable operation of camera 10. For example, even if the camera is miniaturized to a size that fits in the palm of the hand, the camera can be operated stably.

[0074] For example, consider a horizontally long housing (i.e., the width of the housing is longer than the height of the housing) like a general digital camera. In this case, consider a case where an opening 16 is provided at an end in the width direction of the housing, and furthermore, a shutter button 28 is provided at an end in the width direction of the housing. In this case, when the shutter button 28 is pressed, a rotation moment may be generated with respect to the housing 12 due to the force applied when pressing the shutter button 28 with respect to the center of gravity of the housing. Therefore, the housing may tilt or move during image capture, and the image obtained by image capture may be blurred. In this configuration, the opening 16 is disposed at a position overlapping the center P1 in the width direction of the housing 12. Furthermore, the shutter button 28 is also disposed at a position overlapping the projection area 16A on the rear surface 12B. As a result, even if the shutter button 28 is pressed during image capture, the rotation moment caused by the force acting on the housing 12 is reduced, and stable operation of the camera 10 is realized.

[0075] Furthermore, in camera 10 according to this embodiment, opening 16 is disposed at a position overlapping center P2 in the height direction of housing 12. As a result, opening 16 and shutter button 28 are disposed at positions close to the center of front surface 12A of housing 12 in the height direction of housing 12 as well, realizing more stable operation.

[0076] In addition, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, a peripheral region 40 is provided around the opening 16 on the front surface 12A. Either the dimension w2 of the right peripheral region 46 or the dimension w3 of the left peripheral region 48 is shorter than the overall 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 overall height h1 of the opening 16.

[0077] In this way, the size of the peripheral area 40 is shorter than the size of the opening 16. When taking a picture with the camera 10, the opening 16 through which the subject light enters cannot be covered with a finger, so the user holds the peripheral area 40 provided around the opening 16 with his or her fingers. However, if the peripheral area 40 is narrow, it is difficult to stably operate the camera 10. As described above, this configuration includes the opening 16 arranged at a position overlapping with the center of the housing 12 and the shutter button 28 arranged at a position overlapping with the projection area 16A. This allows the camera 10 to be stably operated even if the peripheral area 40 is narrow.

[0078] In addition, 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 overall 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 overall height h1 of the opening 16. In this way, even if the peripheral region 40 is a narrow housing 12, this configuration has the opening 16 arranged at a position overlapping the center of the housing 12 and the shutter button 28 arranged at a position overlapping the projection region 16A, so that the camera 10 can be operated stably. In addition, for example, when viewed from the front, the opening 16 is arranged near the center of the housing 12 in the width direction or height direction, which contributes to improving the design of the camera 10.

[0079] In addition, 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 overall 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 overall height h1 of the opening 16. In this way, even if the peripheral region 40 is narrow in the housing 12, this configuration includes the opening 16 arranged at a position overlapping with the center of the housing 12 and the shutter button 28 arranged at a position overlapping with the projection region 16A, so that the camera 10 can be operated stably. In addition, for example, the opening 16 is arranged near the center of the housing 12 in the width direction and the height direction when viewed from the front, which contributes to improving the design of the camera 10.

[0080] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, a peripheral area 40 is provided at least partially around the opening 16 on the front surface 12A, and an upper peripheral area 42 of the peripheral area 40 overlaps with a corresponding area 50 of the shutter button 28 in the height direction. This allows the housing 12 to be held from the front surface 12A side, which faces the direction in which the shutter button 28 is pressed, when the shutter button 28 is pressed from the rear surface 12B side, thereby allowing stable operation. In other words, the rotational moment of the housing 12 is suppressed when the shutter button 28 is pressed, allowing stable operation.

[0081] In addition, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, peripheral areas 40 are provided on both sides in the height direction or width direction around the opening 16 on the front surface 12A of the housing 12. For example, an upper peripheral area 42 and a lower peripheral area 44 are provided around the opening 16. The upper peripheral area 42 and the lower peripheral area 44 function as areas where the housing 12 can be held with the index finger F1 and the middle finger F2, respectively. Also, on the back surface 12B, the housing 12 can be held by placing the thumb F3 on the shutter button 28. As a result, the housing 12 can be held at two points on the front surface 12A side and one point on the back surface 12B side, so that a total of three points can be held. As a result, the camera 10 can be operated stably.

[0082] Furthermore, in camera 10 according to this embodiment, the periphery of opening 16 protrudes from front surface 12A of housing 12. Because the periphery of opening 16 protrudes from front surface 12A, it is possible to prevent a finger from getting caught on photographing lens 20 provided in opening 16. Furthermore, because the part protruding from front surface 12A is opening 16, it becomes easy for the user to grasp the position of opening 16.

[0083] In addition, in camera 10 according to this embodiment, when housing 12 is viewed from the side, the amount of protrusion t2 on the lower side of the periphery of opening 16 is greater than the amount of protrusion t1 on the upper side. This makes it easier to support the protruding portion of opening 16 from below, thereby achieving stable operation of camera 10.

[0084] In addition, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, when the housing 12 is viewed from the front, the projection area S2 of the opening 16 is set to 20% or more of the projection area S1 of the housing 12. In this way, when the ratio of the area of ​​the opening 16 to the housing 12 is large, the area available for holding the housing 12 is small. Therefore, in a camera 10 in which the ratio of the area of ​​the opening 16 is large when viewed from the front, it is difficult for a user to stably operate the camera 10. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is arranged at a position overlapping with the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is arranged at a position overlapping with the projection area 16A. As a result, even in a camera 10 in which the ratio of the area of ​​the opening 16 is large, it is possible to stably operate the camera 10.

[0085] In addition, in the camera 10 according to the present 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. In the case of a housing 12 of such a size, the area available for holding the housing 12 is smaller than that of a typical digital camera having a horizontally or vertically long housing. Therefore, in a camera 10 in which 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 a user to stably operate the camera 10. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is disposed at a position overlapping with the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is disposed at a position overlapping with the projection area 16A. As a result, even in a camera 10 in which the ratio of the maximum height H to the maximum width W of the housing 12 is 1.0 to 1.2, it is possible to stably operate the camera 10.

[0086] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the shutter button 28 is formed with a finger hook 28A on which the user can hook their finger. This makes it easy for the user to grasp 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 may be difficult to visually grasp the position of the shutter button 28 because it fits in the palm. Even in this case, the user can confirm the position of the shutter button 28 with their finger, making it easy for the user to operate the shutter button 28.

[0087] In addition, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the finger hook portion 28A is a recess 28A1 recessed toward the front surface 12A. As a result, the shutter button 28 is recessed toward the inside of the housing 12, making it easy to hook a finger thereon.

[0088] Furthermore, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the shutter button 28 can be pressed from the rear surface 12B toward the front surface 12A. When the shutter button 28 is pressed toward the front surface 12A of the housing 12, a rotational moment may be generated in the housing 12. As described above, this configuration includes the opening 16 arranged at a position overlapping with the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 arranged at a position overlapping with the projection area 16A. This prevents a rotational moment from being generated in the housing 12, and achieves stable operation.

[0089] In addition, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the housing 12 fits into a sphere B having a radius of 1 cm to 10 cm. In a small camera 10 in which the housing 12 fits into a sphere B having a radius of 1 cm to 10 cm, the area available for the user to hold the housing is small. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is disposed at a position overlapping with the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is disposed at a position overlapping with the projection area 16A. This allows the camera 10 to be stably operated even in the case of a camera 10 in which the housing 12 fits into a sphere B having a radius of 1 cm to 10 cm.

[0090] In addition, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the housing 12 fits into the sphere B with a radius of 1 cm to 3 cm. In a small camera 10 in which the housing 12 fits into the sphere B with a radius of 1 cm to 3 cm, the area available for the user to hold the housing is small. In this configuration, as described above, the opening 16 is disposed at a position overlapping with the center of the housing 12, and the shutter button 28 is disposed at a position overlapping with the projection area 16A. This allows the camera 10 to be stably operated even in the case of a camera 10 in which the housing 12 fits into the sphere B with a radius of 1 cm to 3 cm.

[0091] Furthermore, the camera 10 according to this embodiment is not provided with a display unit for checking the subject image. This allows the camera 10 to be made smaller by the amount of the display unit not being provided. On the other hand, since no display unit is provided, the subject image cannot be checked by the camera alone. Even in such a case, the camera 10 is stable in its operation, so it is easy to obtain a captured image with little blur, and there is no need to take the trouble of repeatedly taking pictures just to be sure.

[0092] Furthermore, in camera 10 according to this embodiment, front surface 12A, rear surface 12B, and right side surface 12C and left side surface 12D connecting front surface 12A and rear surface 12B of housing 12 are configured with curved surfaces that are convex outward when excluding opening 16 and shutter button 28. As a result, when a user holds housing 12 in an enveloping manner, it fits more easily in the palm of the hand than when housing 12 is configured with a flat surface, making it easier for the user to hold housing 12.

[0093] In addition, in the camera 10 according to this embodiment, the bottom surface 12E of the outer peripheral surface of the housing 12 is configured as a flat surface. This allows the camera 10 to be placed on the surface. Being able to place the camera on the surface in this manner is useful, for example, when using the camera 10 as a fixed camera or when taking self-portraits.

[0094] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the shutter button 28 is disposed at a position that overlaps with the upper peripheral region 42 in the height direction when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. 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. Also, 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.

[0095] (Modification) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the shutter button 28 is disposed at a position overlapping with the upper peripheral region 42 in the height direction when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. In this modification, an upper peripheral region 42 and a lower peripheral region 44 are provided in the height direction of the housing 12. The upper peripheral region 42 and the lower peripheral region 44 overlap with a corresponding region 52 of the shutter button 54.

[0096] As an example, as shown in FIG. 15, peripheral regions 40 are provided on both sides of the opening 16 in the height direction. That is, an upper peripheral region 42 and a lower peripheral region 44 are provided around the opening 16 in the height direction. A shutter button 54 is provided on the back surface 12B of the housing 12. When the housing 12 is viewed from the side, the shutter button 54 is disposed at a position overlapping the upper peripheral region 42 and the lower peripheral region 44 in the height direction. That is, when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, the corresponding region 52 corresponding to the shutter button 54 and the upper peripheral region 42 overlap. When the housing 12 is viewed from the side, the corresponding region 52 corresponding to the shutter button 54 and the lower peripheral region 44 overlap.

[0097] With this arrangement, the force acting on the housing 12 from the rear face 12B side when the shutter button 54 is pressed can be received from the front face 12A side by the index finger F1 abutting the upper peripheral region 42. Furthermore, the force acting on the housing 12 from the rear face 12B side when the shutter button 54 is pressed can be received from the front face 12A side by the middle finger F2 abutting the lower peripheral region 44. This makes it possible to reduce the rotational moment generated in the housing 12 due to the force acting on the housing 12 accompanying the pressing operation.

[0098] As described above, in the camera 10 according to this modification, the upper peripheral region 42 and the lower peripheral region 44 around the opening 16 on the front surface 12A overlap with the corresponding region 52 of the shutter button 54 in the height direction. This allows the housing 12 to be held from the front surface 12A side, which faces the direction in which the shutter button 54 is pressed, when the shutter button 54 is pressed from the rear surface 12B side, thereby allowing for stable operation. In other words, the rotational moment of the housing 12 is suppressed when the shutter button 28 is pressed, allowing for stable operation.

[0099] In the above modified example, the shutter button 54 is disposed at a position overlapping the upper peripheral region 42 and the lower peripheral region 44 in the height direction when the housing 12 is viewed from the side, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the shutter button 54 may be disposed at a position overlapping the right peripheral region 46 and the left peripheral region 48 in the width direction when the housing 12 is viewed from above.

[0100] In the above embodiment, the housing 12 has been described as having a generally egg-shaped rounded shape, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. The housing 12 may be spherical, spindle-shaped, or rectangular.

[0101] In the above embodiment, an example is described in which the upper peripheral region 42, the lower peripheral region 44, the right peripheral region 46, and the left peripheral region 48 are provided around the opening 16 in the housing 12, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. 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.

[0102] In the above embodiment, the camera 10 is described with the indicator 14 provided on the upper part of the housing 12, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. The shape of the indicator 14 is not particularly limited, and the indicator 14 does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the shutter button 28 is a physical button, but the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the shutter button 28 may be displayed on a touch panel display.

[0104] The above description and illustrations are detailed descriptions of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure, and are merely an example of the technology of the present disclosure. For example, the above description of the configuration, function, action, and effect is an example of the configuration, function, action, and effect of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary parts may be deleted, new elements may be added, or replacements may be made to the above description and illustrations, within the scope of the gist of the technology of the present disclosure. In addition, in order to avoid confusion and to facilitate understanding of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure, the above description and illustrations omit explanations of technical common sense that do not require explanation in order to enable the implementation of the technology of the present disclosure.

[0105] In this specification, "A and / or B" is synonymous with "at least one of A and B." In other words, "A and / or B" means that it may be only A, only B, or a combination of A and B. In addition, in this specification, the same idea as "A and / or B" is also applied when three or more things are expressed by connecting them with "and / or."

[0106] All publications, patent applications, and standards mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent application, or standard was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0107] The following is further disclosed regarding the above embodiment. <Appendix 1> A housing and an opening provided in the housing and allowing subject light to enter a photographing lens, the opening being located at a position overlapping with a center of the housing in a width direction; a shutter button provided on the rear surface and arranged at a position at least partially overlapping with a position of the opening projected onto the rear surface, when the side of the housing on which the opening is provided is defined as a front surface and the side opposite to the front surface in the optical axis direction of the photographing lens is defined as a rear surface; camera. <Appendix 2> The opening is disposed at a position overlapping with the center of the housing in a height direction perpendicular to the width direction. 2. The camera described in Appendix 1. <Appendix 3> A peripheral region is provided on the front surface at least partially around the opening, A dimension of the peripheral region in a width direction of the housing is shorter than an overall width of the opening, or 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. 1. A camera as described in claim 1 or 2. <Appendix 4> On both sides of the width of the opening, the dimension of the peripheral region is shorter than the overall width of the opening, or On both sides of the opening in the height direction, the dimension of the peripheral region is shorter than the overall height of the opening. The camera described in Appendix 3. <Appendix 5> On both sides of the opening in the width direction, the dimension of the peripheral region is shorter than the overall width of the opening, and On both sides of the opening in the height direction, the dimension of the peripheral region is shorter than the overall height of the opening. Attachment 4 describes the camera. <Appendix 6> 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. 6. The camera according to claim 1, <Appendix 7> The peripheral area is provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or the height direction of the housing. 6. The camera described in Appendix 6. <Appendix 8> A peripheral area that allows the housing to be held with fingers is provided on both sides of the opening in a width direction or a height direction of the housing. 8. The camera according to claim 1 , <Appendix 9> The periphery of the opening projects from the front surface. 9. The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 8. <Appendix 10> In the case where a surface of the housing connecting the front surface and the rear surface is a side surface, When the housing is viewed from the side, the peripheral edge of the opening projects to a greater extent on the lower side than on the upper side in the height direction of the housing. 10. The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 9. <Appendix 11> When the housing is viewed from the front, the projected area of ​​the opening is 20% or more of the projected area of ​​the housing. 11. The camera according to claim 1. <Appendix 12> When the housing is viewed from the front, the ratio of the maximum height to the maximum width of the housing is 1.0 to 1.2. 12. The camera according to claim 1 , <Appendix 13> The shutter button is provided with a finger grip. 13. The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 12. <Appendix 14> The finger grip portion is a recess recessed toward the front side. 14. The camera described in appended claim 13. <Appendix 15> The shutter button can be pressed from the rear side toward the front side. 15. The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 14. <Appendix 16> The above housing fits within a sphere with a radius of 1 cm to 10 cm. 16. The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 15. <Appendix 17> The above housing fits within a sphere with a radius of 1cm to 3cm. 17. The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 16. <Appendix 18> The housing does not have a display unit for checking the subject image. 18. The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 17. <Appendix 19> The front surface, the rear surface, and both side surfaces connecting the front surface and the rear surface of the housing are formed of curved surfaces that are convex outward, except for the opening portion and the shutter button. 19. The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 18. <Appendix 20> At least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the housing, including the center of the lower surface, is formed as a flat surface. 19. The camera according to claim 1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 10. Camera 12. Cabinet 12A front 12B Back 12C Right side 12D left side 12E Bottom side 14 Indicators 14A Top 15 Power Button 16 Opening 16A projection area 18 Lens unit 18A Retaining frame 20. Shooting Lenses 24 Speaker section 24A through hole 26 Flash Section 26A Cover material 28,54 Shutter button 28A Finger grip 28A1 Recess 29 Reception Department 30 Image sensor 32 Photodiode 40 Surrounding Areas 42 Upper peripheral area 44 Lower Periphery Area 46 Right peripheral area 48 Left peripheral area 50,52 Corresponding area B. Sphere F1 index finger F2 middle finger F3 Thumb L optical axis P1,P2 center S1,S2 Projected area W Maximum width h1 Overall height h2,h3 dimensions r radius t1,t2 Projection amount w1 Overall width w2,w3 dimensions VT Vertical HZ Horizontal X,Y,Z Arrows

Claims

1. A housing and an opening provided in the housing and allowing subject light to enter a photographing lens, the opening being located at a position overlapping with a center of the housing in a width direction; a shutter button provided on the rear surface and arranged at a position at least partially overlapping with a position of the opening projected onto the rear surface, when the side of the housing on which the opening is provided is defined as a front surface and the side opposite to the front surface in the optical axis direction of the photographing lens is defined as a rear surface; camera.

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

3. A peripheral region is provided around at least a portion of the opening on the front surface, A dimension of the peripheral region in a width direction of the housing is shorter than an overall width of the opening, or 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. The camera of claim 1 .

4. On both sides of the opening in the width direction, the dimension of the peripheral region is shorter than the overall width of the opening; or On both sides of the opening in the height direction, the dimension of the peripheral region is shorter than the overall height of the opening. The camera according to claim 3.

5. On both sides of the opening in the width direction, the dimension of the peripheral region is shorter than the overall width of the opening, and On both sides of the opening in the height direction, the dimension of the peripheral region is shorter than the overall height of the opening. The camera according to claim 4.

6. A peripheral area is provided around at least a portion 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. The camera of claim 1 .

7. The peripheral area is provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or the height direction of the housing. The camera according to claim 6.

8. A peripheral area that allows the housing to be held with fingers is provided on both sides of the opening in the width direction or height direction of the housing. The camera of claim 1 .

9. The periphery of the opening protrudes from the front surface. The camera of claim 1 .

10. In the case where a surface of the housing connecting the front surface and the rear surface is a side surface, When the housing is viewed from the side, the peripheral edge of the opening projects more on the lower side than on the upper side in the height direction of the housing. The camera of claim 1 .

11. When the housing is viewed from the front, the projected area of ​​the opening is set to 20% or more of the projected area of ​​the housing. The camera of claim 1 .

12. When the housing is viewed from the front, the ratio of the maximum height to the maximum width of the housing is 1.0 to 1.

2. The camera of claim 1 .

13. The shutter button is provided with a finger grip. The camera of claim 1 .

14. The finger grip portion is a recess recessed toward the front side. The camera of claim 13.

15. The shutter button can be pressed from the rear side toward the front side. The camera of claim 1 .

16. The housing fits into a sphere with a radius of 1 cm to 10 cm. The camera of claim 1 .

17. The housing fits into a sphere with a radius of 1 cm to 3 cm. The camera of claim 1 .

18. The housing does not have a display unit for checking the subject image. The camera of claim 1 .

19. The front surface, the rear surface, and both side surfaces connecting the front surface and the rear surface of the housing are formed of curved surfaces that are convex outward, except for the opening and the shutter button. The camera of claim 1 .

20. At least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the housing, including the center of the lower surface, is configured as a flat surface. The camera of claim 1 .

Images