Imaging Apparatus Exposure Mode Switching via Dual-Function Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging apparatuses require lengthy steps to switch between exposure modes, especially when handling exposure factors like ISO sensitivity, shutter speed, and aperture value, as users need to manually set one factor while others are automatically adjusted, complicating the operation process.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an algorithm that allows for simultaneous manual setting and mode change of exposure factors using operation members, enabling manual setting of one exposure factor while automatically adjusting others without changing the exposure mode, and vice versa, using a system with multiple operation members and exposure modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users manually set exposure factors using traditional exposure mode dial or menu, then exposure mode can be changed, but the operation process becomes lengthy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the exposure mode selection function with the exposure factor setting operation members. When a user operates an exposure factor setting member (like shutter speed or aperture dial), the system automatically changes the exposure mode to match the manual setting, merging two separate operations (mode selection + factor setting) into one unified action.
Solution Approach 2:
The exposure factor setting operation members are given dual functionality: they serve both as exposure factor adjustment controls and as exposure mode selection controls. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mode dial operations, allowing users to switch modes simply by adjusting exposure factors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple exposure modes are provided, then exposure control flexibility increases, but the complexity of determining and setting the correct mode increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically determining the appropriate exposure mode based on the user's manual exposure factor settings. Instead of requiring users to understand and select from multiple exposure modes, the system automatically configures the mode to match the manual factors being set, reducing the cognitive load and complexity for users.
3Measurement precision
If exposure mode dial and exposure mode menu are used for setting, then precise mode selection is achieved, but the number of operation steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the exposure mode selection function from the traditional dedicated mode dial and menu systems, and integrates it into the existing exposure factor setting operation members. This extraction eliminates redundant components and operations while preserving the precise mode selection capability through the unified operation mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus comprising an imaging device; a photometry device; first to third exposure factors; first and second operation members for setting the first and second exposure factors; a first-to-third-exposure-factors-calculating-and-setting exposure mode for calculating and setting the first to third exposure factors to the calculated and set ones; a first-exposure-factor-manually-setting exposure mode for manually setting the first exposure factor, and calculating and setting the second and third exposure factors; a second-exposure-factor-manually-setting exposure mode for manually setting the second exposure factor, and calculating and setting the first and third exposure factors; and a first/second-exposure-factors-manually-setting exposure mode for manually setting the first and second exposure factors, and calculating and setting the third exposure factor; the operation of the second operation member changing the first-exposure-factor-manually-setting exposure mode to the first/second-exposure-factors-manually-setting exposure mode.