Imaging Apparatus File System Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing imaging apparatuses lack user-centric management of image files, as they often rely on standardized file systems that do not accommodate diverse user preferences, leading to inefficient file organization and playback.

Innovation Solution

The imaging apparatus provides a user interface to switch between two file systems: the DCF system for compatibility with digital still cameras and the cinema system for professional users, allowing users to select their preferred file system and manage image files accordingly, with the ability to change folder configurations and volume labels based on user input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a standardized file system (DCF) is used for compatibility, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic file system selection mechanism that allows users to switch between DCF and cinema file systems based on their needs. The controller dynamically changes the file storage structure and folder configuration according to the selected file system type, providing both standardized compatibility and specialized functionality without requiring separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a specialized file system (cinema) is used for detailed information storage, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging apparatus is designed to support multiple file systems (DCF and cinema) within a single device, making it universally compatible with both standard digital cameras and professional cinema workflows. The controller automatically adapts the file management functionality based on the selected system, allowing the device to serve multiple purposes without compromising ease of use.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple file systems are supported, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the file system parameters (structure, folder configuration, metadata format) based on user selection rather than implementing permanently complex multi-file system support. The controller adjusts operational parameters dynamically, allowing the apparatus to maintain simplicity while providing adaptability through parameter modification rather than structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11968442B2Imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.04.23 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US11968442B2 patent drawing
  • US11968442B2 patent drawing
  • US11968442B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An imaging apparatus includes: an imager configured to capture a subject image to generate image data; a controller that records an image file based on the image data on the recording medium; and an operation interface that inputs a user operation for selecting a file system from first and second file systems different from each other, the file system managing the image file in the recording medium, wherein in accordance with the user operation input in the operation interface, the controller switches a folder for storing the image file between a first folder corresponding to the first file system and a second folder corresponding to the second file system in the recording medium.