Accessory Device Lock Mechanism Prevents Data Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing accessory devices for image pickup apparatuses risk destroying setting information when detached during power-on state or when power supply is stopped during data writing to memory.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a lock mechanism and power switch into a single operation member, with an operation restricting member that prevents accidental detachment by locking the device until the power is fully off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the accessory device is detached from the image pickup apparatus during power-on state or when power supply is stopped during data writing, then the operation flexibility is improved, but the setting information in memory will be destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lock mechanism and power switch into a single integrated operation member. When the operation member is rotated to the lock position, it simultaneously locks the accessory device to the image pickup apparatus and maintains the power supply in the on state, preventing detachment during critical writing operations. This integration ensures that the accessory cannot be detached while setting information is being written to memory, thereby protecting data integrity while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If the lock mechanism and power switch are independently disposed, then the operational control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the lock mechanism and power switch functions into a single operation member, reducing structural complexity while maintaining full operational control. The operation member includes a power supply cover portion that covers the lock release button when locked, preventing accidental unlocking. This design provides both locking and power control through one component, eliminating the need for separate independent controls and reducing the overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the lock mechanism and power switch. When rotated to the lock position, it secures the accessory device and maintains power supply. The integrated design allows a single component to perform what would traditionally require separate mechanisms, achieving multi-functionality that reduces complexity while preserving operational capabilities.
3Loss of energy
If the power supply from image pickup apparatus is stopped during setting information writing, then the power consumption is reduced, but the setting information will be destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated operation member ensures that when the accessory device is locked to the image pickup apparatus, the power supply remains in the on state, preventing power interruption during critical writing operations. The design mechanically links the locking state with the power supply state, ensuring that locked = powered on, thereby protecting setting information from corruption while still allowing power management when unlocked.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
An accessory device capable of preventing setting information to be written from being destroyed is provided. The accessory device capable of being attached to or detached from an electronic apparatus, comprising an operation member, a lock mechanism configured to perform a locking operation to lock the accessory device and the electronic apparatus in response to an operation of the operation member, a movement restriction release mechanism configured to release a restriction on a movement of the operation member, and an operation restricting member configured to restrict an operation of the movement restriction release mechanism. The operation restricting member makes it more difficult to perform the operation of the movement restriction release mechanism when a power of the accessory device is in an on state than when the power of the accessory device is in an off state.