Movable Drip-Proof Member for Accessory Shoe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drip-proof structures for accessory shoes on image-pickup apparatuses are not compatible with conventional cameras and devices, requiring a special adaptor, which is inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
An accessory device with a contact member, lock mechanism, and a movable drip-proof member that forms a drip-proof space around the accessory shoe, allowing for orthogonal mounting and independent movement of the drip-proof member to prevent water intrusion, ensuring compatibility with conventional accessory shoes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a drip-proof structure is provided around the accessory shoe, then water intrusion is prevented, but compatibility with conventional accessory shoes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The drip-proof member is designed to be movable rather than fixed. It moves between a first position where it contacts the image-pickup apparatus to form a drip-proof space, and a second position where it is retracted to avoid interfering with mounting. This dynamic configuration allows the drip-proof structure to be effective when needed while being compatible with conventional accessory shoes during mounting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory device is divided into functionally independent portions: the contact member for electrical connection, the lock mechanism for fixation, and the movable drip-proof member for water protection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling the drip-proof member to operate without interfering with the mounting process while maintaining compatibility with conventional accessory shoes.
2Reliability
If a fixed drip-proof member is used, then water protection is achieved, but interference with mounting process occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The drip-proof member transitions from a static barrier to a dynamic component that responds to mounting operations. During mounting, it moves to the second position to avoid interference with the accessory shoe and contact member engagement. After mounting is complete, it moves to the first position to provide effective water protection around the electrical connections.
3Reliability
If the drip-proof member is positioned to contact the image-pickup apparatus, then drip-proof space is formed, but interference with mounting occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The movable mechanism allows the drip-proof member to dynamically adjust its position based on operational requirements. During mounting, it retracts to the second position to eliminate interference. During operation, it extends to the first position to form an effective drip-proof space around the electrical connections, thus resolving the conflict between water protection and mounting ease.
Data Source
AI summary
An accessory device mountable to an accessory shoe of an image-pickup apparatus includes a contact member electrically connecting with the accessory shoe, a lock mechanism allowing a lock operation for fixing the accessory device to the accessory shoe and an unlock operation for releasing the fix of the accessory device, a drip-proof member contacting the image-pickup apparatus to form a drip-proof space around the contact member and the accessory shoe. In response to the lock operation, the drip-proof member is moved to a first position where the drip-proof member is allowed to be brought into contact with the image-pickup apparatus. In response to the unlock operation, the drip-proof member is moved to a second position where the drip-proof member is retracted from the first position. The drip-proof member has a shape such that a length of a rear-end-side portion is longer than that of the front-end-side portion.