Concentric Optical Pointer and Dial for Camera Grip

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image capturing apparatuses have low operability due to the need to remove a finger from an optical pointing device to operate other controls, making quick operations difficult.

Innovation Solution

An image capturing apparatus with a first and second operation section, where the second operation section is arranged concentrically with the first, allowing for simultaneous operation without finger removal, including an optical tracking pointer and a sub electronic dial that can be operated with the same finger while grasping the camera.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the optical pointing device is provided as a single member disposed away from other operation members, then the structure is simple, but the operability deteriorates because the user must remove the finger to operate other members

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveoperabilityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple operation members (optical pointing device, first operation member, and second operation member) into a single integrated operation section. The optical pointing device and other operation members are arranged concentrically so that they can all be operated with a single finger without requiring the user to move or remove the finger, thereby improving operability while maintaining structural integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If the optical pointing device is disposed away from other operation members, then each member can be independently designed, but the speed of operation deteriorates due to finger movement requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of operationVSAvoidfinger movement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent arranges operation members in a concentric dimensional layout rather than a linear or scattered arrangement. The optical pointing device, first operation member, and second operation member are positioned at different radial distances from a common center, allowing the user's finger to naturally transition between them in a radial direction without lifting, thereby increasing operational speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If multiple operation members are arranged concentrically, then simultaneous operation with one finger is enabled, but the arrangement complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous operationVSAvoidarrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested concentric arrangement where the optical pointing device, first operation member, and second operation member are positioned in nested circular patterns around a common axis. This nested structure allows all members to be accessed within a compact radial space, enabling simultaneous operation with one finger while keeping the overall arrangement compact and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

Enhances operability by allowing users to perform touch and slide operations on the optical tracking pointer without removing their finger, improving the speed and efficiency of photographing and other functions.

Implementation Method 1

an optical pointing device has a finger guiding surface which is gently recessed from a surface of the electronic apparatus and curved inward

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11281074B2Image capturing apparatus improved in operability of operation section
Publication Date: 2022.03.22 CANON KK
  • US11281074B2 patent drawing
  • US11281074B2 patent drawing
  • US11281074B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image capturing apparatus improved in the operability of an operation section. The image capturing apparatus includes an OTP, a sub electronic dial, and a grip portion that is provided at a location from where a finger can reach the OTP and the sub electronic dial. The sub electronic dial is arranged concentrically with the OTP.