Camera Function Change via Wireless IC Tag and Orientation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Outdoor cameras without LCD screens and reduced buttons face challenges in function changes, especially when users do not carry smartphones, leading to difficulties in changing camera functions without risking loss of interchangeable lenses or accessories.
Innovation Solution
An image pickup apparatus with a mounting component featuring a wireless IC tag, processor, and attitude determination unit, allowing function changes based on the orientation and attachment of the mounting component, eliminating the need to detach and carry separate components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If function change is instructed by external device (smartphone), then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates when smartphone is not carried
Solution Approach 1:
The camera performs function changes autonomously by detecting the attachment state of mounting component parts themselves, without requiring external devices. The camera reads identification information from the mounting component parts and automatically changes functions based on detection results, making the system self-sufficient and reliable even when smartphone is not available.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable lens or accessory is detached for function change, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mounting component parts with identification information as intermediaries between the camera body and function selection. These parts can be attached or detached without being held separately, serving as a reliable mediator that enables function changes while remaining physically connected to the camera, thus eliminating the risk of loss.
3Ease of operation
If number of buttons and levers is reduced, then ease of operation is improved for outdoor use, but device complexity increases for function control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control systems (buttons and levers) with an automatic detection system using identification information reading. The camera automatically detects which mounting component part is attached and changes functions accordingly, substituting manual mechanical operations with automated electronic detection and control.
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
Enables easy and secure function changes of the camera without risking loss of components, enhancing user convenience and reducing the risk of misplacement or loss during outdoor use.
Implementation Method 1
a reading unit configured to read information recorded in the wireless IC tag
Implementation Method 2
an attitude determination unit configured to determine an attitude of the mounting component part, which is attached, with respect to the image pickup apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
An image pickup apparatus whose function can be easily changed is provided. The image pickup apparatus, to which a mounting component part having a wireless IC tag can be attached, comprising at least one processor and/or circuit configured to function as following units, a reading unit configured to read information recorded in the wireless IC tag, an attitude determination unit configured to determine an attitude of the mounting component part, which is attached, with respect to the image pickup apparatus, and a function changing unit configured to change a function of the image pickup apparatus. In a case that the reading unit can read the information recorded in the wireless IC tag, the function changing unit changes the function of the image pickup apparatus according to the attitude of the mounting component part, which is determined.