Two-Step Camera Button Layout for Precise AF and Shutter Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image pickup apparatuses face challenges in providing an intuitive and efficient mechanism for users to operate autofocus and other functions, particularly when using different grip positions, leading to potential accidental activation of buttons due to varying finger strengths and grip tensions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a two-step switch structure for the AF start button and release button, with distinct operating forces for half-pressing and fully pressing operations, optimized for thumb operation, and strategic placement on the camera body to minimize accidental activation and enhance user control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-step button structure is used for AF start and release buttons, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of operation control deteriorates due to accidental activations from varying finger strengths
Solution Approach 1:
The button operation is segmented into two distinct steps: a first pressing operation (half-press) that triggers AF start, and a second pressing operation (full press) that triggers image capture. This segmentation allows different functions to be activated at different stages of the same physical action, reducing accidental full-press activations while maintaining a relatively simple overall button structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The button mechanism uses different pressing depths (displacement parameters) to trigger different functions. The first pressing operation reaches a first displacement threshold for AF start, while the second pressing operation reaches a greater second displacement threshold for image capture. This parameter-based differentiation improves operational reliability without requiring completely separate buttons.
2Ease of operation
If the AF start button is positioned near the release button for easy thumb access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the harmful factor of accidental activation increases due to similar finger strength requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the button response into two distinct pressing depths, the system allows the AF start button to be positioned close to the release button for ergonomic thumb access, while the deeper second pressing operation required for image capture reduces the likelihood of accidental full-press activations during normal AF operation.
3Measurement precision
If distinct operating forces are implemented for half-pressing and fully pressing, then the precision of function activation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional switch states
Solution Approach 1:
The switch structure is segmented into multiple detection points along the pressing trajectory, with a first switch state detected at a first displacement (half-press) and a second switch state detected at a greater second displacement (full press). This segmentation enables precise function activation while using a relatively simple linear pressing mechanism rather than complex multi-axis controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The button system adds a dimensional aspect to operation by utilizing pressing depth (displacement) as the differentiating factor between functions. Instead of requiring separate buttons or complex multi-directional inputs, the system uses the depth dimension of a single pressing action to distinguish between AF start and image capture commands.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design allows for precise and controlled operation of autofocus and imaging functions, reducing accidental activations and enabling users to concentrate on imaging, regardless of grip position, by differentiating the force required for half-pressing and fully pressing actions.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic member (510a) and a second elastic member (510b) different from the first elastic member (510a) are disposed inside the button portion (500)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An electronic apparatus includes a first operation unit (122) and a second operation unit (123) each operable by a user. The first operation unit is configured to change a state of at least one switch (116, 117) when operated. The second operation unit is configured to change a state of a first switch (118) according to a first operation, and a state of a second switch (119) according to a second operation following the first operation, with an operating force greater than that of the first operation. A maximum value (Fa2) of the operating force for the second operation with the second operation unit is different from a maximum operating force (Fr2) for operating the first operation unit.