Interchangeable Lens Camera Communication Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional interchangeable-lens cameras lack a suitable communication mode for controlling lens units during video capture, as their communication modes are adapted for still image capture, leading to inadequate control and exposure issues when switching between still and video modes.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a system that switches between two distinct communication modes between the image capture apparatus and the lens unit, allowing for precise control of the lens unit by adjusting diaphragm settings based on the operation mode, enabling seamless transitions between still and video capture.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a communication mode suitable for capturing still images is used, then control of the lens unit is optimized for still image capture, but the control is not suitable for capturing moving images

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol suitabilityVSAvoidoperation mode adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between two distinct communication modes (first communication mode for still images, second communication mode for moving images) based on the current operation mode. The control system selectively activates the appropriate communication mode, enabling the lens unit control to adapt dynamically between still image capture and moving image capture requirements, thus resolving the contradiction between control suitability and mode adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the communication parameters between the image capture apparatus and lens unit depending on the operation mode. When switching from still image to moving image capture, the system transitions to a different communication mode with parameters optimized for moving image requirements, including adjusted communication frequency and data transmission protocols, thereby achieving both control suitability and mode versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the communication mode is switched between still image and moving image modes, then adaptability to different operation modes is improved, but control precision and diaphragm adjustment accuracy may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation mode adaptabilityVSAvoiddiaphragm control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the communication protocol into two distinct communication modes, each optimized for specific operation requirements. The first communication mode is dedicated to still image capture with precise diaphragm control, while the second communication mode is dedicated to moving image capture. This segmentation ensures that each mode maintains its own control precision without interference from the other mode's requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms within each communication mode to maintain control precision. The system continuously monitors the operation mode and adjusts the communication parameters accordingly, ensuring that diaphragm control precision is maintained in both still image and moving image capture modes through real-time feedback and correction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If a single communication mode is used for both still and moving image capture, then device complexity is reduced, but exposure control and image quality deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication mode complexityVSAvoidexposure control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal communication control system that can operate in two distinct communication modes through a single integrated controller. The control system is designed to handle both still image and moving image capture requirements by switching between communication modes, achieving multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated control systems for each operation mode, thus balancing device complexity with exposure control precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2658243B1Image capture apparatus, lens unit, communication controlling method, and diaphragm controlling method
Publication Date: 2019.08.14 CANON KK
  • EP2658243B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2658243B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2658243B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An image capture apparatus with a detachable lens includes a communication means capable of switching a communication mode used in communication with the mounted lens unit between a first communication mode of transmitting first control information to the mounted lens unit and a second communication mode of transmitting a second control information different from the first control information to the mounted lens unit, and a control means configured to control a communication with the mounted lens unit, wherein the control means controls the communication such that, until the control started based on either one of the first control information and the second control information is ended, the other one of the first control information and the second control information is not transmitted.