Unified Controller for Independent Camera Settings

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current solutions fail to provide remote and independent control of multiple different types of video recording cameras from a single device, limiting the ability to adjust settings such as frame rate, white balance, and other parameters.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that allows for the remote control of multiple video-capable cameras from a single device, enabling users to power on/off, control playback, view status, and adjust settings like frame rate, white balance, and resolution, using a communication network and a touch-sensitive display, allowing for independent operation of various camera types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple different types of cameras are controlled from a single device, then the ability to adjust settings and monitor status is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote control capabilityVSAvoidcontroller structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed as a universal device capable of controlling multiple different types of cameras (e.g., DSLR, mirrorless, action cameras) through a single interface. The system implements multi-functionality by integrating various control capabilities (shutter, aperture, ISO, playback, recording) into one device that can adapt to different camera models and types, eliminating the need for separate controllers for each camera.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The controller acts as an intermediary device between the user and multiple cameras. It receives user inputs and translates them into appropriate commands for each connected camera, while also serving as a mediator for displaying status information from different cameras in a unified interface. This intermediary role simplifies the user experience while managing the complexity of communicating with diverse camera systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If independent control of each camera is implemented, then the versatility is improved, but the difficulty of operation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera type compatibilityVSAvoidcontrol interface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control interface is segmented into camera-specific sections or modes, allowing the controller to present only relevant controls for the currently selected or active camera. Each camera type can have its own customized control layout, and the system automatically segments the interface based on which camera is being controlled, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The controller interface dynamically adapts its layout and available functions based on which camera is connected and active. The system automatically reconfigures the control options, display parameters, and available settings according to the specific camera type, making the interface intuitive for each camera while supporting multiple camera types through dynamic reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If multiple cameras are controlled from one device, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoidcontroller functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges the control functions of multiple cameras into a single unified controller interface. By combining playback controls, recording controls, settings adjustment, and status monitoring for multiple different camera types into one device, the system improves production efficiency while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate control units for each camera.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9992399B2System, method and apparatus for independently controlling different cameras from a single device
Publication Date: 2018.06.05 CARR ALEX B
  • US9992399B2 patent drawing
  • US9992399B2 patent drawing
  • US9992399B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, system, and apparatus are provided that enable control of multiple cameras, and even multiple types of cameras, from a single device. Responsive to linking a camera to the controller, a unique control panel is generated to display settings and status information associated with said camera. As additional cameras are added, additional control panels are generated respective to each linked camera. A navigable display on the controller then enables a user to optionally access each control panel so that he may assess the respective camera's status and optionally adjust the respective camera's settings from a single device.