Electronic Imaging Device Dust Removal Visual Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
In lens-interchangeable digital cameras, dust and dirt can enter the camera body when the imaging optical system is detached, potentially reaching the photoelectric conversion surface, and existing methods for removing dust often rely on vibration which may not be recognizable to the operator without generating sound, leading to potential misinterpretation of operation status.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a display section to visually indicate the operation state of the dust removal mechanism, such as a dustproof filter vibrated by a piezoelectric element, allowing operators to recognize the operation without relying on sound cues, and allowing for quiet operation recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dust removal mechanism operates using vibration only, then dust removal function is achieved, but operator cannot recognize operation state without sound
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a display section as an intermediary device to convey operation state information from the dust removal mechanism to the operator. The display section visually indicates whether the dust removal mechanism is operating, compensating for the lack of audible feedback when the mechanism operates silently.
2Loss of information
If sound is generated to indicate operation, then operator can recognize operation state, but other operation sounds may be misinterpreted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the acoustic feedback mechanism with a visual display system. Instead of using sound waves to indicate operation state, the display section uses visual signals (such as LED indicators or LCD display) to communicate the operational status of the dust removal mechanism, eliminating ambiguity with other mechanical operation sounds.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If vibration frequency exceeds human audio region, then quiet operation is achieved, but operator cannot recognize operation through sound
Solution Approach 1:
The display section serves as an intermediary information channel that bridges the gap between the silent high-frequency vibration operation and the operator's need for feedback. It translates the invisible ultrasonic vibration into visible operational indicators that the operator can perceive.
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
Enables clear and accurate recognition of the dust removal operation by the operator, ensuring quiet and effective dust removal without misinterpretation of other sounds, enhancing the usability of electronic imaging devices like digital cameras.
Implementation Method 1
a dustproof filter vibrated by a piezoelectric element
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed an electronic imaging device having an imaging element, a mechanism which removes dust attached to the imaging element or an optical element disposed in front of the imaging element, and a display section which displays that at least the mechanism is operating. Consequently, an operator of the electronic imaging device can exactly recognize whether or not the mechanism to remove the dust is operating. Examples of the mechanism which removes the dust include an excitation mechanism which vibrates a dustproof filter disposed in front of the imaging element, a mechanism which removes the dust by a gas flow and the like.