Camera Mode Selection via Reference Image Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of digital still cameras face difficulties in selecting suitable imaging modes without prior knowledge of the icons and their effects, leading to unnecessary trouble in setting appropriate imaging conditions.
Innovation Solution
An image pickup apparatus and method that generates a reference image based on detected imaging modes, allowing users to understand the effects of each mode by displaying a simulation image alongside the working image, enabling easy selection of imaging conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple imaging modes with different icons are provided, then imaging condition adaptability is improved, but user operation complexity increases because users must learn icon meanings and mode effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates simulation images that copy the visual appearance of images taken with different imaging modes. By generating these simulated reference images from a single captured image and applying different imaging conditions, users can visually compare mode effects without needing to memorize icon meanings, thus maintaining adaptability while improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image processing to generate reference images showing the effects of different imaging modes before the user makes a selection. By pre-computing and displaying these simulation images, users can make informed decisions about imaging mode selection without having to learn technical details in advance
2Loss of information
If imaging mode information is not memorized by users, then user burden increases requiring reference to instruction manuals, but providing comprehensive manuals increases information completeness
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically generating and displaying visual references for different imaging modes directly on the camera interface. Users can independently explore and understand mode effects through the simulation images without needing to consult external manuals, thus maintaining information accessibility while eliminating time loss
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is intended to let users easily and properly select desired imaging modes. A control section controls an image processing section to display icons indicative of imaging modes onto a monitor. When an icon is specified, the control section reads setting values corresponding to the imaging mode corresponding to the specified icon from a setting value storage section. The control section controls the image processing section to generate a reference image based on the read setting values and displays the generated reference image on the monitor. Namely, specifying an icon allows the user to look up a reference image which would have been obtained if a scene appearing on a stored image already taken were imaged in a specified imaging mode. This novel configuration allows the user to easily and properly confirm the effects of a selected imaging mode.