Imaging Device Dial Input for Seamless Still and Video Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera technologies inadequately support seamless switching between still image and moving image shooting modes and frame rates, limiting user operability.

Innovation Solution

An imaging device with a control unit, optical imaging system, and input devices that allow users to easily switch between still image and moving image shooting modes and frame rates through a dial-like input device with distinct positions for still image and frame rate settings, enabling continuous and intuitive mode and rate changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a camera supports both still image and moving image shooting with frame rate switching, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshooting mode flexibilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines still image shooting mode and moving image shooting mode with multiple frame rate options into a single unified shooting device. The control unit integrates switching between different shooting modes (still image, moving image at various frame rates) through one control system, eliminating the need for separate devices or complex external controls for each mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The imaging device is designed to perform multiple functions: still image shooting, moving image shooting at multiple frame rates (30fps, 60fps, 120fps, 240fps), and seamless switching between these modes. The single device universal structure allows users to access all shooting modes without adding external equipment or complicating the basic device architecture.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple shooting modes and frame rates are available, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex switching

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshooting mode varietyVSAvoidmode switching simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit is pre-programmed with predetermined switching rules and logic for transitioning between shooting modes. When a user selects a shooting mode, the control unit automatically handles the switching sequence, frame rate adjustments, and parameter settings in advance prepared configurations, reducing the cognitive load and operational steps required by the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit autonomously manages the complexity of mode switching and frame rate selection without requiring manual intervention for each parameter change. The system self-adjusts settings based on the selected mode, automatically transitioning between still image and moving image shooting, and selecting appropriate frame rates, thereby simplifying user interaction to basic mode selection only.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If frame rate switching is supported during moving image shooting, then the versatility is improved, but the operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe rate variabilityVSAvoidframe rate switching simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic frame rate switching capability that allows users to change frame rates during moving image shooting without stopping recording. The control unit dynamically adjusts the frame rate between 30fps, 60fps, 120fps, and 240fps in real-time based on user input, enabling flexible adaptation to different shooting scenarios while maintaining continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit supports periodic switching between different frame rates during moving image recording, allowing users to alternate between frame rates at regular intervals or on-demand. This periodic action capability enables creative shooting techniques such as slow motion segments followed by normal speed segments, while the control system automatically manages the transitions without interrupting the overall recording session.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentEP3754965B1Imaging device, imaging method and imaging program
Publication Date: 2022.09.14 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP3754965B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3754965B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2C
  • EP3754965B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3C

AI summary

An imaging device includes a control unit that performs setting for shooting in accordance with an input from a first input unit in which setting for a still image shooting mode and a plurality of frame rates at the time of moving image shooting can be continuously input.