Multi-Camera Capture Control Using Proximity Camera Selection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The fixed position of capturing virtual keys on electronic device screens makes it inconvenient for users to operate the camera functions.

Innovation Solution

A method where a user can select a first camera to control a second camera for image capture by performing an input on a camera identifier and moving a target operating body towards the first camera within a threshold distance, allowing the electronic device to control the second camera to capture an image.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a capturing virtual key is displayed at a fixed position on the screen, then the camera function can be triggered, but it becomes inconvenient for users to operate the virtual key

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconvenience of operating capturing virtual keyVSAvoidcomplexity of camera control operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the capturing virtual key movable rather than fixed. The virtual key can be repositioned to different locations on the screen based on user needs, transforming a static interface element into a dynamic one that adapts to different operating scenarios, thereby improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the camera control functionality by separating the capturing virtual key from its traditional fixed position. The key can be independently positioned and manipulated as a separate element, allowing users to place it in convenient locations without affecting other camera controls, thus simplifying the overall operation complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple cameras are available, then more shooting options are provided, but it becomes complicated to control which camera captures the image

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshooting options with multiple camerasVSAvoidconvenience of selecting and controlling camera
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a movable capturing virtual key as an intermediary element that mediates between the user and multiple camera options. By positioning this key near the desired capture area or subject, the system simplifies the selection process - users simply interact with the key rather than navigating complex camera selection menus, making multi-camera control more convenient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a spatial dimension to camera selection by allowing the capturing virtual key to be positioned at different locations on the screen corresponding to different cameras' fields of view. This spatial arrangement provides an intuitive visual representation of shooting options, making it easier for users to understand and select among multiple cameras based on their positioning rather than abstract menu selections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentEP4068758B1Image capture method and electronic device
Publication Date: 2026.02.18 NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY
  • EP4068758B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4068758B1 patent drawingFigure 3(a)~4
  • EP4068758B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

Disclosed in embodiments of the present application are an image capture method and an electronic device. The method comprises: receiving a first input by a target operating body on a first camera among at least one camera; in response to the first input, determining the first camera as a camera that controls a second camera among the at least one camera to capture an image; receiving a second input by the target operating body on the first camera; and in response to the second input, controlling the second camera to capture a first image when the distance between the target operating body and the first camera is smaller than or equal to a first threshold.