Imaging Device Carabiner Housing and Switch Layout

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing imaging devices, such as digital cameras, face challenges in portability and operational efficiency due to overlapping components that can lead to accidental operation and reduced image quality, and lack of easy panel replacement for customization.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a carabiner structure with a pivoting mechanism and a changeable panel that serves as both a carabiner and a finder, along with strategic placement of components to prevent accidental operation, and the use of an elastomer cover for shock absorption and grip enhancement, combined with a design that allows for easy panel replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a carabiner is added to the imaging device for portability, then portability is improved, but device complexity increases

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

Solution Approach 1:

The carabiner is integrated into the housing structure of the imaging device, merging the carrying function with the device body. This eliminates the need for separate carrying accessories while maintaining portability improvement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The housing structure serves multiple functions: it protects internal components, provides structural support, and incorporates the carabiner for carrying. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while improving portability.

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

2Volume of moving object

If components are placed closer together to reduce device size, then device compactness is improved, but accidental operation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidaccidental operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the imaging device are designed with different operational characteristics. The power switch is positioned in a location that requires intentional action, while other components are arranged to prevent unintended activation. This localized design ensures compactness without compromising reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The power switch design includes features that prevent accidental activation before intended use. The switch mechanism requires deliberate user action to activate, counteracting potential accidental operations that could occur with closer component placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Stability of the object's composition

If the panel is made fixed to improve structural stability, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidpanel replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device is divided into modular components, with the panel being a separate replaceable element. This segmentation allows the panel to be easily replaced for customization while maintaining the structural stability of the overall device through standardized connection interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The panel connection system transitions from a fixed to a dynamically replaceable state. The panel can be securely attached for stable operation and easily removed or replaced when customization is needed, providing adaptability without compromising structural integrity during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 portability and operational efficiency by reducing accidental operations and allowing for customization through interchangeable panels, while providing shock absorption and improved grip to prevent device drops.

Implementation Method 1

the use of an elastomer cover for shock absorption and grip enhancement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Data Source

PatentEP3583865B1Imaging device
Publication Date: 2024.01.31 CANON KK
  • EP3583865B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3583865B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP3583865B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

An imaging device (1) includes a lens (2), a predetermined operation member (6) configured to receive a predetermined instruction, a frame portion (3, 20) configured to form an opening (3d, 20d), at least a portion of the frame portion being an opening and closing member (3b, 20f). In the imaging device, the predetermined operation member and the opening and closing member of the frame portion are disposed so that the predetermined operation member and the opening and closing member do not overlap each other in an operation direction of the predetermined operation member, and the frame portion is configured to form a portion of a housing of the imaging device.