Unified Touch Interface for Camera Zoom and Capture Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic image capture devices face challenges in efficiently controlling zoom level adjustments and image frame capture operations, particularly due to the complexity of transitioning between different user inputs on a graphical user interface, which can result in unsatisfactory framing and focus issues, especially when capturing moments that require quick composition changes.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that allow for continuous user input with distinct portions to control both zoom level adjustments and image frame capture operations, using a processor coupled with a camera module and touch-sensitive display to enable intuitive control through movement and release inputs on a graphical user interface with separate regions for each operation, minimizing the time and coordination required for transition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate graphical user interface elements are used for zoom control and image capture, then the functionality is complete and clear, but the transition time between operations increases and operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality completenessVSAvoidtransition time between operations
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the zoom control interface and image capture interface into a single integrated graphical user interface element. The first region handles zoom level adjustments while the second region handles image capture, allowing users to perform both operations without moving their finger between separate locations on the display, thereby reducing transition time while maintaining complete functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single graphical user interface element serves multiple functions: the first region enables zoom level adjustment operations and the second region enables image capture operations. This multi-functional design allows one interface element to replace what would traditionally require separate elements, reducing the number of transitions needed during operation.

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

2Ease of operation

If separate graphical user interface elements are used for zoom control and image capture, then each operation is clearly defined, but the number of interface elements and operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational clarityVSAvoidnumber of interface elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple interface elements into one unified graphical user interface element with distinct regions. The first region for zoom control and second region for image capture are integrated into a single element, reducing the total number of interface elements while maintaining clear operational definitions through spatial separation and functional differentiation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If traditional separate input methods are used for zoom and capture, then the control precision is maintained, but the coordination requirement and time for transition increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidcoordination requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating both controls into a single graphical user interface element, the patent allows users to perform zoom adjustment and image capture with a continuous finger movement without lifting or repositioning the input element. This reduces coordination requirements and transition time while preserving control precision through maintained touch contact and consistent input methodology.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11483469B2Camera zoom level and image frame capture control
Publication Date: 2022.10.25 QUALCOMM INC
  • US11483469B2 patent drawing
  • US11483469B2 patent drawing
  • US11483469B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, devices, and systems for controlling imaging operations in electronic image capture devices are disclosed. In some aspects, a device includes processor coupled to a camera module, a user input surface, and a memory. The processor can be configured to receive, from the user input surface, a continuous user input. The continuous user input can include, at least, a first portion and a second portion. The processor can be further configured to control a first imaging operation based on a first input type received during the first portion and control a second imaging operation based on a second input type received during the second portion. The first input type can include movement of an input element relative to the user input surface, for example, and the second imaging operation can be different than the first imaging operation.