Accessory Communication Protocol Switching via Data Level Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic apparatuses, such as digital cameras, require time-consuming processes to detect connections with accessories and switch communication protocols, as they need to verify reply contents and check compatibility through existing communication methods before changing to new methods.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a detection unit in the electronic apparatus to identify support for both a first and second communication method, allowing the apparatus to set the second method during communication when supported, and notifying the apparatus to set the first method by changing accessory data levels, enabling connection checking and protocol switching without affecting accessories supporting only the first method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera body communicates with accessories using the first communication method to detect connection, then connection detection is achieved, but the process takes time and the camera body must verify reply contents
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory device performs preliminary actions by setting its own data levels (high or low) in advance before actual communication begins. The camera body detects these pre-set levels through the data terminal to determine connection status and communication method compatibility without requiring time-consuming verification communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the camera body checks compatibility by communicating in the old communication method before switching to the new method, then compatibility is verified, but the switching process takes time
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory device sets its supported communication method level in advance before the camera body needs to switch protocols. The camera body detects this pre-configured level and determines compatibility without performing trial communication, enabling direct switching to the appropriate communication method.
Solution Approach 2:
The data terminal level (high or low) acts as an intermediary signal that conveys communication capability information from the accessory device to the camera body. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for direct communication testing to verify compatibility.
3Productivity
If the interchangeable lens unit selects information transmission units based on camera body ability during communication, then communication efficiency is optimized, but the camera body must determine reply contents to verify connection
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory device pre-determines and sets its optimal data level based on its capabilities before communication begins. The camera body simply detects this pre-set level to verify connection and determine the communication method, eliminating the need for time-consuming reply content verification during the connection process.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus that is capable of checking connection between the electronic apparatus body and accessories without performing communication between the electronic apparatus body and accessories. The electronic apparatus is capable of communicating with an accessory device connected. A detection unit detects whether the accessory device supports both a first communication method and a second communication method of which communication speed is higher than communication speed of the first communication method. A setting unit sets the second communication method during communication when the detection unit detects that the accessory device supports both the first communication method and the second communication method, and to set the first communication method except communicating.