Waist-level viewfinder system for a digital display

Abstract

Modern camera systems use digital displays for image preview and usually also have the possibility of displaying the live sensor data on digital displays. Historically known, for example from the time of analogue medium format photography, are systems which use a waist-level viewfinder for image preview and composition. The present invention makes it possible to add this valuable function to modern camera systems. A possible variant for implementation is shown in the image. The waist-level viewfinder 1, consisting of a housing system with an embedded mobile telephone and an exchangeable shaft, is fastened to the camera system 2 via the flash shoe. The digital display of the mobile telephone shows the live image by means of the software supplied by the camera manufacturer. By means of the shaft whose aspect ratio can be adjusted, the photographer can make the image quickly and in an uncomplicated manner according to his concept.

Description

[0001] 01376347-0011 April 17, 2026 PCT / DE0S^S / |QßffiO27

[0002] Main Post Office

[0003] 1

[0004] Shaft search system for a digital display

[0005] Regarding image preview and composition options, various technical solutions already exist for camera systems.

[0006] Modern camera systems use digital displays as a replacement or supplement to conventional optical viewfinders.

[0007] Some of these displays are also foldable, thus allowing for a change of perspective when taking photographs.

[0008] Furthermore, there are attachments for a camera's hot shoe that feature a small, sometimes foldable, digital display along with an integrated optical viewfinder. This additional display not only allows for changing perspectives but also provides protection from ambient light.

[0009] In addition, many modern cameras have the option of connecting external digital displays for image viewing.

[0010] Some models allow the connection of specially designed digital display systems via HDMI cable or USB.

[0011] Some of these digital display systems are also equipped with controls that allow remote control of the camera systems.

[0012] Furthermore, many camera systems offer the possibility of a wireless connection to a smartphone, usually via apps provided by the camera system manufacturers.

[0013] This not only allows for image viewing, but often also for remote control of the camera system.

[0014] Shaft viewfinders have long been known from non-digital TLR camera systems, so-called twin-lens reflex cameras.

[0015] CONFIRMATION COPY

[0016] 01376347-0012 April 17, 2026 PCT / DE0S^|ößffiO27

[0017] Main Post Office

[0018] 2

[0019] Besides the advantage of more intensive concentration in image composition, due to the eye being guided through the light tunnel, they also protect against ambient light.

[0020] Viewing a subject from above encourages a conscious engagement with the subject and leads to more careful compositions.

[0021] This approach slows down the shooting process, allows for a more intense connection with the scene, and promotes more authentic photographs. Because the photographer is not looking directly at the subject but downwards, they also appear less intrusive.

[0022] The object of the present invention is to combine the advantages of a shaft finder with a modern digital camera system.

[0023] This task is solved by a shaft finder system for a digital display, which is characterized by the fact that the aspect ratio of the shaft finder can be changed.

[0024] This allows the photographer not only to use the advantages of a traditional waist-level viewfinder (focusing, unobtrusiveness in the scene and glare protection) with a digital camera, but also to quickly and easily adjust the aspect ratio for image composition.

[0025] The importance of image format for a successful photograph is undeniable.

[0026] Square formats (1:1) appear balanced, while classic formats (3:2, 4:3) correspond to familiar viewing patterns. Wide-format shots (16:9, 21:9), on the other hand, convey a sense of spaciousness and cinematic aesthetics, whereas vertical formats (2:3, 9:16) direct the viewer's gaze vertically and are suitable for portraits or architectural photography.

[0027] The format also influences the way the eye is guided and the perception of the subject.

[0028] The invention takes into account the importance of the image format for successful photography. It gives the photographer a quick and distraction-free way to change the image format and, enhanced by the slot, to immerse themselves in the scene.

[0029] 01376347-0013 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0030] 17.04.2026 Main Post Office

[0031] 376347-0013

[0032] 3

[0033] Furthermore, the invention enables the viewfinder to be adapted to different formats, allowing photographers to compose their subject in the desired format while simultaneously taking advantage of the benefits of a waist-level viewfinder.

[0034] Furthermore, the shaft viewfinder according to the invention also enables a photographer with a camera whose image format cannot be switched, so that the finally produced image in the desired image format is only generated during post-processing on a computer, to be able to optically capture the finally produced image during the shooting.

[0035] The invention offers a simple solution for integrating an adaptive waist-level viewfinder with a digital camera. This allows photographers to experience the original feel and effect of a traditional waist-level viewfinder while simultaneously having the opportunity to adjust the image aspect ratio during composition, simply by adding the viewfinder according to the invention to their existing camera, instead of purchasing a completely new system.

[0036] Changing the aspect ratio of the shaft finder can be achieved, for example, by making the aspect ratio of the shaft finder adjustable.

[0037] This can be achieved, for example, by having the shaft viewfinder have rigid or flexible side walls which can be deformed (in the case of a bellows) or shifted or adjusted relative to each other (in the case of rigid side walls) so that the aspect ratio of the shaft viewfinder can be adjusted according to the wishes of the user or photographer.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the shaft finder of the shaft finder system is also interchangeable to change the aspect ratio.

[0039] In this case, for example, it may be provided that the user has access to a variety of shaft finders with different aspect ratios, 01376347-0014 17.04.2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0040] Main Post Office

[0041] 1

[0042] which can be exchanged for each other if necessary or to change the aspect ratio of the shaft finder.

[0043] Regarding the design of the shaft finder, it may be provided, for example, that the shaft finder has a surrounding surface which covers at least part of the area of ​​the digital display.

[0044] This allows the user to focus, for example, on an interesting section of the image displayed on the digital display, while areas of the digital display that show distracting and / or unimportant information can simply be hidden by covering them.

[0045] Furthermore, the surface of the shaft finder and / or the cover facing the digital display can be provided with fastening means, for example in the form of adhesives such as double-sided adhesive strips, in order to attach the shaft finder directly to the digital display using the fastening means.

[0046] In order to enable the user to operate any controls located under the border surface or displayed on the digital display, or to be able to recognize information displayed in these areas by the digital camera, it may be provided that at least one free area is provided in the covering border surface, which may be covered, in particular, by means of a translucent surface, thereby protecting the digital display in the area of ​​the free area.

[0047] To enable the operation of the controls even when the translucent surface is present, it can, for example, be made of a flexible material that can be deformed to such an extent that pressing the translucent surface allows the underlying control element of the camera or digital display to be activated.

[0048] To change the display of the digital display, the shaft search system may be equipped with an optical system.

[0049] 01376347-0015 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0050] Main Post Office

[0051] 5

[0052] This makes it possible, for example, to optically enlarge even smaller digital displays to such an extent that the user has the impression of a professional camera system and / or that the user receives significantly more image information through the magnification of the image, which supports their work.

[0053] The optical system can be foldable. This allows, for example, the user to unfold the optical system when needed and then fold it back in.

[0054] The foldable optical system allows, for example, the optical system to be adjusted to different viewing angles of the user in the shaft finder.

[0055] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the optical system is interchangeable.

[0056] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the shaft search system has a housing.

[0057] The housing can be designed, for example, to accommodate a camera system and / or a digital display and / or at least one additional device, such as a battery, a separate control unit, or a remote control.

[0058] Furthermore, the housing may be equipped with a mirror surface on its inner side. This allows, for example, areas of the housing to be used as an image deflection surface, which deflects the image generated by the digital display, for example by 90° towards the waist-level viewfinder.

[0059] Furthermore, the shaft viewfinder system may include a mounting system for attaching the housing to a camera and / or camera accessories.

[0060] 01376347-0016 April 17, 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0061] Main Post Office

[0062] The fastening system may include, for example, a clamping device and / or a magnetic holder and / or a slide-in system and / or an adapter, for example from a third-party manufacturer.

[0063] According to a further embodiment, the invention claims a kit comprising a shaft finder system according to the preamble of claim 1 or one of claims 1 to 15, and is characterized in that the shaft finder system has a housing for receiving a camera system and / or a digital display and / or additional components.

[0064] The following describes embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0065] Figure 1 shows a variable shaft finder equipped with adjusting screws,

[0066] which adjusting screws allow the adjustment of the aspect ratio of the shaft finder, wherein Figure 1A shows a perspective view of the shaft finder with an aspect ratio of 1:1, Figure 1B is a top view of the shaft finder shown in Figure 1A, Figure 1C shows a perspective view of the shaft finder with an aspect ratio of 16:9, and Figure 1D is a top view of the shaft finder shown in Figure 1C;

[0067] Figure 2 shows two shafts with different aspect ratios, each in a side view from the right in the left-hand illustration and in a top view in the right-hand illustration, where Figure 2A shows a shaft with an aspect ratio of 1:1, whereas Figure 2B shows a shaft with an aspect ratio of 16:9;

[0068] Figure 3 shows the shafts depicted in Figure 2 with aspect ratios of 1:1

[0069] (above) and 16:9 (below) in perspective view (left) and top view (right) shows, supplemented by a surrounding border at the base, with the shafts each mounted on a digital display;

[0070] 01376347-0017 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0071] 17.04.2026 Main Post Office

[0072] 1

[0073] 7

[0074] Figure 4 shows a shaft with an aspect ratio of 16:9 in top view (Figure 4A) and in a perspective view from the top right (Figure 4B), which is provided with a border that has a recess;

[0075] Figure 5 shows the structure known from Figure 4, in which, in addition to the round, open free area in Figure 5, a rectangular area is visible which is covered with a translucent top surface;

[0076] Figure 6 shows a shaft with a permanently installed optical system in a 1:1 aspect ratio in top view (Figure 6A) and perspective view (Figure 6B);

[0077] Figure 7 shows a shaft equipped with a foldable optical system in various views;

[0078] Figure 8 shows an attachment for a shaft, with figures 8A and 8B showing two variants, the first variant 8A being able to have a higher magnification, while the second variant 8B has a larger imaging area;

[0079] Figure 9 shows a housing system that can be slid onto a folded-out flip-up display of a camera;

[0080] Figure 10 shows a housing system that can be mounted on a camera system hot shoe in various views, which housing system enables the mounting of a compact mobile phone;

[0081] Figure 11 shows a housing system attached to a camera via the tripod mount in various views; and

[0082] 01376347-0018 April 17, 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0083] Main Post Office

[0084] 8

[0085] Figure 12 shows a kit with a housing for a camera system.

[0086] Figure 1 illustrates a shaft finder 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention, in which the aspect ratio is adjustable.

[0087] In Figure 1, the left side (Figures 1A and 1C) shows isometric views from the top right, while the right side (Figures 1B and 1D) shows top views of the shaft seeker 10.

[0088] The shaft seeker 10 comprises a central shaft 12, which is open at its front and rear and in this embodiment is laterally surrounded by a rectangular channel-like boundary 14.

[0089] The rectangular boundary 14 comprises four L-shaped corner pieces 16 that can be moved into one another, the legs 18 and 20 of which are arranged at right angles to each other.

[0090] Each corner piece 16 is designed such that one leg 18 is provided with a groove 22 and the other leg 20 is designed as a tongue 24.

[0091] Using four corner pieces 16, wherein the tongue 24 of one corner piece 16 engages in the groove 22 of the adjacent corner piece 16 as shown in Figure 1, it is easily possible to adjust the dimensions of the shaft 12 of the shaft finder 10 according to the user's wishes by using the tongue and groove combination, by moving the interacting ends of the interlocking corner pieces 16 longitudinally relative to each other.

[0092] In this regard, it should be noted that guides not shown may be provided for better guidance of the interlocking legs 18 and 20.

[0093] Adjustment mechanisms 26 are used to precisely adjust the corner pieces 16 shown in Figure 1 relative to each other, allowing the setting of desired aspect ratios, whereby the upper two shaft views (Figures 1A and 1B) each show a shaft 10 with an aspect ratio of 1:1, whereas the lower two

[0094] 01376347-0019 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE06)^ / |ößffiO27

[0095] 17.04.2026 Main Post Office

[0096] 17-^<-a®2&- 37S34 "00 9

[0097] 9

[0098] The views (Figures 1C and 1D) each show a shaft 12 with an aspect ratio of 16:9.

[0099] Each adjusting mechanism 26 in this embodiment comprises a manually operated threaded rod 28, one end of which is rotatably mounted on the spring 24 of one L-shaped corner piece 16 by means of a bearing 30, and the other end of which is screwed into a counter bearing 32 with an internal thread in the area of ​​the groove 22 of the other L-shaped corner piece 16, so that the L-shaped corner pieces 16 which are in engagement with each other can be moved in their position relative to each other by simply turning the threaded rod 28.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, only two adjusting mechanisms 26 are provided for adjusting the aspect ratio of the shaft finder 10, wherein one adjusting mechanism 26 in Figure 1 on the top of the shaft finder 12 serves to adjust the width of the shaft 12, whereas the other adjusting mechanism 26 in Figure 1 serves to adjust the height of the shaft 12.

[0101] If two corner pieces 16 are moved relative to each other by turning the threaded rod 28, the aspect ratio of the right-angled shaft structure is changed.

[0102] Although not shown, it is self-evident that the adjusting mechanism 26, instead of the version with threaded rod 28, may, for example, have a locking or plug-in mechanism which adjustably fixes the desired positions of two interlocking legs 18 and 20 of two L-shaped corner pieces 16.

[0103] Figure 2 shows two shafts 12 with different aspect ratios. The left side of the illustration contains the side view of the shaft 12 shown on the right side from above, or in a top view.

[0104] Each shaft 12 has a specific, unchanging aspect ratio.

[0105] Thus, the shaft 12 shown above has an aspect ratio of 1:1, whereas the shaft shown below has an aspect ratio of 16:9.

[0106] 01376347-0020 April 17, 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0107] 17.04.2026 Main Post Office

[0108] 17--Q^a2€H31 37634 / ~Ö020

[0109] 10

[0110] As can be seen from the individual illustrations of the two shafts 12, the shafts 12 are wedge-shaped, wider at the top than at the base, in order to focus the view.

[0111] The side views shown on the left in Figure 2 reveal a chamfered edge. This chamfer allows for a wider view of the shaft from this side while simultaneously providing additional protection from ambient light from the opposite side.

[0112] Figure 3 shows the shafts 12 depicted in Figure 2, supplemented by a circumferential border 34 at the base.

[0113] Also shown in Figure 3 is a digital display 36.

[0114] The surround 34 at the base of shaft 12 partially covers the digital display 36, thus obscuring information underneath. For this reason, the surround 34 can also be considered a cover.

[0115] Furthermore, it may be provided that the rim 34 on the side facing the digital display 36 is provided with an adhesive agent that allows the rim 34 and thus also the shaft finder 10 to adhere to the digital display 36.

[0116] Figure 4 shows a shaft 12 designed with an aspect ratio of 16:9.

[0117] As shown in Figure 3, the rim 34 of the shaft 12 rests on the digital display 36, covering the entire surface of the digital display except for a circular free area 38. This arrangement enables two effects:

[0118] 1. Depending on the display on the digital display 36, only selected information is visible. This could include, for example, the ISO value or the exposure time.

[0119] 01376347-0021 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0120] Main Post Office

[0121] 17--O -". BÖ2&~O1S76347". O021

[0122] 11

[0123] 2. Some digital displays 36 have a touch function. This control surface can be used via the free space 38, which could, for example, be used for an alternative triggering option during recording.

[0124] Figure 5 shows the setup known from Figure 4. In addition to the round, open area 38, a rectangular area 40 is visible in Figure 5, which is covered with a translucent surface. This makes it possible to see the information displayed on the digital display 36 without activating the touch function underneath.

[0125] This combination offers the advantage that no unintentional activation of other control components on the 36-inch digital display is possible. This prevents accidental adjustments, which benefits the photographer during the process.

[0126] In the past, devices for tube viewfinder cameras were known that used an optical system to facilitate adjustments to the camera system on the viewing surface, for example for focusing.

[0127] Figure 6 shows a shaft 12 with a permanently installed optical system 42 in an aspect ratio of 1:1.

[0128] Figure 7 also shows a shaft 12 equipped with a foldable optical system 44.

[0129] To use the optical system 44, it is unfolded and folded back in when not in use.

[0130] Figure 8 shows an attachment 46 for shaft 12. Figures 8A and 8B illustrate two variants.

[0131] The first variant 8A, for example, can have a higher magnification, while the second variant 8B has a larger imaging area.

[0132] 01376347-0022 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0133] 17.04.2026 Main Post Office

[0134] 12

[0135] To switch between the optical systems, the attachment 46 on shaft 12 is replaced.

[0136] Figure 9 shows a housing system 48 that can be slid onto an unfolded folding display 50 of a camera 52.

[0137] The housing system 48 includes positioning aids for accommodating interchangeable waist-level finders and is open at the top.

[0138] The aspect ratio is achieved by replacing, in this case by attaching, the respective slot 12 to the housing system 48.

[0139] As an alternative, a magnetic connection can be used instead of the plug connection.

[0140] Figure 10 illustrates the principle of the attachment device. In particular, Figure 10 shows a housing system 56 that can be mounted on a camera system hot shoe 54 and enables the attachment of a compact mobile phone 58.

[0141] The housing system 56a shown in Figure 10 is additionally provided with an extension 60 for accommodating additional objects, such as a battery.

[0142] Furthermore, 56 interchangeable shaft systems can be mounted on the housing system from above.

[0143] The way it works is simple: The mobile phone 58 is operated using an app provided by the manufacturer of the camera system.

[0144] The connection between the mobile phone 58 and the camera system is wireless, and the image captured by a camera sensor is transmitted live to the digital display of the mobile phone 58.

[0145] Figure 11 shows the screw connection on the camera system, both as visible extensions, and shows in particular the housing system 57, which is attached to the camera 52 by means of the tripod mount.

[0146] 01376347-0023 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0147] Main Post Office

[0148] For this purpose, the housing system 57 includes a fastening screw 64 on an arm 62, which is screwed into the tripod mount of the camera 52 for fastening.

[0149] The housing system 57 is open to the inside and top. The housing system 57 has an inclined surface 68 on which a mirror system (not shown) is mounted, which reflects the image from the camera display 66 to the opening at the top.

[0150] Above this is an optical system 70, advantageously consisting of a Fresnel lens and a ground glass screen. The lens serves the purpose of producing a sharp image of the camera display 66 that is correctly sized.

[0151] In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment of the aspect ratio is achieved by replacing prefabricated shafts 12 or shaft finders 10, which in turn are connected to the housing system 57 via two small magnets.

[0152] In this regard, it should be noted that the prefabricated shafts 12 can be replaced, if necessary, by the adjustable shafts 12 shown in Figure 1, which also applies to all other components of the shaft finder 10 according to the invention.

[0153] In addition to the illustration in Figure 10 and the mounting according to Figure 11, Figure 12 shows the complete camera system housed in a single unit. Figure 12 particularly shows the integration as a single unit of the camera system, including optional additional elements.

[0154] Figure 12 shows a housing 72 into which a camera 52, a wired digital display system 74 with a digital display, such as a suitable mobile phone or monitor, and a battery pack 76 can be installed as a kit. The opening 78 on the back of the housing 72 is closed with a cover 80.

[0155] 01376347-0024 April 17, 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27

[0156] 17.04.2026 Main Post Office

[0157] 14

[0158] The interchangeable slots 12 are attached above the digital display 36 by a clamping device not shown in detail.

[0159] The housing 72 contains a release-stroke device 84, which, adapted to the housing 72, enables a mechanical release of the camera system 52 installed in it.

[0160] The battery pack 76 can be used via cable connection 82 to power both the digital display 36 and the camera system 52.

[0161] This creates a new camera system using existing

[0162] Components.

Claims

01376347-0026 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27 17.04.2026. Main Post Office 15 Patent claims 1. Shaft search system for a digital display, characterized in that the shaft search system has a shaft search whose aspect ratio is variable.

2. Shaft search system according to claim 1, characterized in that the aspect ratio of the shaft searcher is adjustable.

3. Shaft search system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the shaft searcher of the shaft search system is interchangeable for changing the aspect ratio.

4. Shaft search system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shaft searcher has a perimeter surface which covers at least a part of the area of ​​the digital display.

5. Shaft search system according to claim 4, characterized in that at least one open area is provided in the perimeter area, which is covered in particular by means of a translucent area.

6. Shaft search system according to claim 4 and / or 5, characterized in that the surface of the shaft searcher and / or the surrounding surface facing the digital display is provided with a fastening means for attachment to the digital display, in particular in a detachable manner. 01376347-0027 April 17, 2026 PCT / DE0S^|ößffiO27 Main Post Office 16 7. Shaft search system according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shaft search system is provided with an optical system for changing the display of the digital display.

8. Shaft search system according to claim 7, characterized in that the optical system is foldable.

9. Shaft search system according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the optical system is interchangeable.

10. Shaft search system according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shaft search system has a housing.

11. Shaft viewfinder system according to claim 10, characterized in that the housing is designed to accommodate a camera system and / or a digital display and / or at least one accessory device and / or an optical system.

12. Shaft search system according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the housing is provided with a mirror surface on the inside.

13. A waist-level viewfinder system according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waist-level viewfinder system has a fastening system for attaching the housing to a camera and / or camera accessories. 01376347-0028 04 / 17 / 2026 PCT / DE0S£^ / |ößffiO27 17.04.2026 Main Post Office T7- -1026-'Ql 3 S -W28 17 14. Shaft search system according to claim 13, characterized in that the fastening system comprises a clamping device and / or a magnetic holder and / or a slide-in system and / or an adapter from a third-party manufacturer.

15. Kit comprising a shaft finder system according to the preamble of claim 1 or one of claims 1-15, and a housing for receiving a camera system and / or a digital display and / or additional components.

Images