Two-Step Camera Button Force Differentiation Against Misoperation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image pickup apparatuses lack distinct operational forces for different functions, leading to potential accidental activation of autofocus and imaging operations, especially when using thumbs and fingers for multiple buttons.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a two-step switch structure for operation buttons, where the second operation requires a greater force than the first, ensuring clear differentiation between half-press and full-press functions, particularly for the AF start button.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operation buttons are provided for different functions, then operational functionality is improved, but accidental activation of functions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different operating force characteristics to different buttons. The AF start button requires a first operating force for half-press and a second greater operating force for full-press, while the release button has its own distinct force characteristics. This localized differentiation of mechanical properties prevents accidental activation while maintaining multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the operating force threshold between half-press and full-press operations. The switch structure detects different press depths by monitoring changes in operating force, enabling the system to distinguish between AF start (half-press) and image capture (full-press) commands through parameter differentiation.
2Reliability
If operation buttons require distinct operating forces, then accidental activation is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the switch structure into multiple independent components: a first switch for detecting half-press operation, a second switch for detecting full-press operation, and elastic members providing different restoring forces. This modular segmentation enables distinct operating force detection while maintaining manageable device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a switch mechanism that mediates between the button press and the control system. The switch structure, including elastic members and contact points, acts as an intermediary that translates physical press depth into distinct electrical signals, simplifying the overall system design.
3Device complexity
If a single button is used for multiple operations, then device complexity is reduced, but operational precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling a single button to exhibit multiple operational states through dynamic press depth detection. The half-press state triggers AF start while the full-press state triggers image capture, allowing one button to perform multiple functions with high operational precision through dynamic state recognition rather than requiring multiple static buttons.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus includes a first operation unit and a second operation unit each operable by a user. The first operation unit is configured to change a state of at least one switch when operated. The second operation unit is configured to change a state of a first switch according to a first operation, and a state of a second switch according to a second operation following the first operation, with an operating force greater than that of the first operation. A maximum value of the operating force for the second operation with the second operation unit is different from a maximum operating force for operating the first operation unit.