Variable Neutral Density Filter Operating Unit for Camera Transmittance Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing imaging apparatuses with variable neutral density filters have complex operation systems, making it difficult for camera operators to perform transmittance operations efficiently, especially when capturing images, as they need to navigate between variable and preset modes without clear indicators for transmittance changing operations.

Innovation Solution

The imaging apparatus incorporates a variable neutral density filter with a rotating member and a pressing portion that changes its state between a first and second mode, allowing for continuous transmittance adjustment in the variable mode and stepwise selection in the preset mode, with preset memory storage for transmittance control values, enabling seamless switching between modes without compromising operability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If both variable mode and preset mode are prepared for transmittance changing operations, then the user is provided with an environment for transmittance changing operations depending on situations, but the operation system becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransmittance changing operation modesVSAvoidoperation system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the variable mode operation unit and preset mode operation unit into a single integrated operating unit. The rotating member can operate in two distinct modes: continuous rotation for variable mode and stepwise rotation with click sensations for preset mode. This merging eliminates the need for separate operating units and mode switching mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall operation system while maintaining both operational modes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The operating unit dynamically changes its operational characteristics based on the selected mode. In variable mode, the rotating member allows continuous rotation without click sensations. In preset mode, the same rotating member produces click sensations at predetermined angular intervals and restricts rotation to discrete steps. This dynamic adaptability allows a single unit to serve multiple functions without requiring separate physical components for each mode

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a complicated operation system is adopted with multiple modes, then transmittance changing capabilities are enhanced, but transmittance operation during imaging becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransmittance control capabilitiesVSAvoidtransmittance operation during imaging

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent provides tactile feedback through click sensations at specific locations in the rotation range when preset mode is selected. These click sensations occur at predetermined angular intervals, giving the operator clear tactile cues about the current transmittance setting. This localized tactile feedback mechanism allows operators to quickly and accurately adjust transmittance without needing to visually locate controls or interpret complex displays

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The operating unit automatically provides tactile feedback and mode-appropriate resistance without requiring external input or visual confirmation. The click sensations and rotational restrictions are inherent properties of the mechanism itself, allowing operators to perform transmittance adjustments through touch alone, which is particularly useful when the operator's attention is focused on the viewfinder or display during imaging

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration simplifies transmittance operations by providing a unified operating unit that changes form based on user input, reducing the likelihood of erroneous operations and enhancing user experience by maintaining excellent operability across multiple modes.

Implementation Method 1

variable transmittance ND filters, and in the case of a variable transmittance ND filter, the voltage to be applied to the electrode of the ND filter is changed, so as to provide a plurality of light reduction variations

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectro-optic effect: Electro-Optic Effects

Data Source

PatentUS11671713B2Imaging apparatus, transmittance designation device, transmittance control method, and program

Publication Date: 2023.06.06 SONY GROUP CORP

AI summary

An imaging apparatus includes a variable neutral density filter that has a variable transmittance; an imaging device on which object light via the variable neutral density filter forms an image; variable transmittance drive circuitry that changes the transmittance of the variable neutral density filter in accordance with a transmittance control value; a hardware input device that can be in a first state or in a second state depending on a change in form; and transmittance designation circuitry. Further, when the hardware input device is in the first state, the transmittance designation sets the transmittance control value in accordance with an operation amount of the hardware input device and notifies the variable transmittance drive circuitry of the transmittance control value.