GB2549310A

GB2549310A - Camera system

Info

Publication number: GB2549310A
Application number: GB1606391.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Conran Douglas
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-04-13
Filing date: 2016-04-13
Publication date: 2017-10-18

Abstract

A hand-held camera system includes a separable optical unit and a single image sensor for capturing images and a single screen for viewing images captured by the image sensor. The optical unit includes a lens, a signal transmitter, a signal receiver and the image sensor; and a base unit including a power source, controls for controlling the optical unit, a transmitter for transmitting signals to the optical unit, a receiver for receiving signals from the optical unit and the screen. The camera system is configured to capture images in both a first configuration in which the optical unit is secured to the base unit and a second configuration in which the optical unit is remote from the base unit. The optical unit may be attached to a drone for aerial photography.

Description

Camera System

BACKGROUND a. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to the field of hand-held cameras. In particular this invention relates to the field of camera systems that include a separable optical unit. b. Related Art

It is common for camera users to want to capture a picture of themselves when on holiday or with friends. These photographs have become known as “selfies”. Historically, to capture such a picture it was necessary to hold the camera at arms length or to ask someone else to take the photograph.

In recent years a device, often in the form of a telescopic rod or stick to which the the camera may be attached, has been used to allow the camera to be located further from the user. These devices are typically referred to as selfie sticks. The camera, which is often an integral part of a mobile telephone, is attached to a first end of the stick and a button is located in a handle at a second end of the stick. Pressing the button allows a user to control the camera to capture a still image or to start and stop recording of a video, if this function is available. Typically the connection between the selfie stick and the camera will be by means of a Bluetooth® connection.

There are, however, a number of disadvantages of the known selfie stick. Firstly, there is still a limit to the distance that the camera may be held away from the user based on the maximum extension of the selfie stick. Secondly, there is some limitation on the angle of the photograph that may be captured without the selfie stick itself being included in the field of view of the photograph. Thirdly, even though there is only limited functionality of the selfie stick, the typical Bluetooth® connection is a significant drain on the battery of the camera or mobile telephone. A fourth disadvantage is that with the camera attached to a distal end of the selfie stick, at a distance from the user, it is difficult for the user to see what image will be captured by the camera.

Another consideration is the need to carry a device in addition to the camera or mobile telephone. In the case of a selfie stick, the stick is telescopic; however, even in its collapsed state it can still be awkward to carry.

It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide an alternative device that allows images to be captured at a distance from a user of the camera.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a hand-held camera system including one or more image sensors for capturing images and a single screen for viewing images captured by the one or more image sensors, the camera system comprising: an optical unit including a lens, a signal transmitter, a signal receiver and the one or more image sensors; and a base unit including a power source, controls for controlling the optical unit, a transmitter for transmitting signals to the optical unit, a receiver for receiving signals from the optical unit and the screen, wherein the camera system is configured to capture images in both a first configuration in which the optical unit is secured to the base unit and a second configuration in which the optical unit is remote from the base unit.

The camera system of the present invention, therefore, allows a user to separate the optical unit from the rest of the camera system and place the optical unit in a desired located remote from the base unit and the user. The user can, however, still view images and control the function of the optical unit, as well as capture images, using the base unit. Alternatively, a user may capture images with the optical unit physically attached to the base unit.

The hand-held camera system may be similar to a traditional digital camera, or may be a smart phone, mobile phone, tablet computer or other similar hand-held device that is able to capture images.

In some embodiments, the camera system preferably further comprises a propulsion unit, the propulsion unit providing a propulsion system for transporting the optical unit to a location remote from the base unit, wherein one or both of the optical unit and the propulsion unit includes an auxiliary power source, and wherein in the second configuration the optical unit is attached to the propulsion unit, and the base unit includes controls for controlling the propulsion unit. The propulsion unit may include attachment means for releasably attaching the optical unit to the propulsion unit. In some embodiments the optical unit may be permanently attached to the propulsion unit.

The propulsion system preferably includes a rotor, and in preferred embodiments the propulsion system comprises a quadcopter.

In some embodiments there may be an electrical connection between the optical unit and the propulsion unit when the camera system is in the second configuration. This allows only one of the propulsion unit and the optical unit to include a power source, a transmitter and a receiver.

In embodiments in which the propulsion unit is detachable from the optical unit the base unit preferably comprises a storage compartment for housing the propulsion unit.

It may be desirable in some embodiments to configure the base unit such that the screen is movably connected to the base unit. In these embodiments the screen may be movable between a first position in which the controls for controlling the propulsion unit are concealed by the screen and a second position in which the controls for controlling the propulsion unit are accessible.

One or both of the base unit and the propulsion unit may comprise a GPS module. This may allow the propulsion unit to be programmed to automatically return to the location of the base unit.

In the first configuration the optical unit will typically be releasably secured to the base unit by mechanical or magnetic means.

In the second configuration, when the optical unit is remote from the base unit, there is preferably wireless communication between the optical unit and base unit. Furthermore, in some embodiments there may also be wireless communication between the optical unit and base unit when the camera system is in the first configuration. In other embodiments an electrical connection is established between the optical unit and base unit, when the camera system is in the first configuration, permitting communication of data and signals between the optical unit and the base unit without the use of wireless communication.

Preferably image data is streamed continuously from the optical unit to the base unit in both the first and second configurations.

The optical unit preferably comprises a focussing assembly.

In some embodiments the optical unit comprises more than one image sensor and more than one lens, a lens being associated with each of the image sensors. The controls for controlling the optical unit may, therefore, include controls for selecting one of the one or more image sensors that is used to capture an image.

In preferred embodiments only the base unit includes a memory for storing image data. As such, image data captured by the optical unit is transmitted to the base unit for storage in the memory even when the optical unit is remote from the base unit. In other embodiments both the optical unit and the base unit include a memory for storing image data. In yet further embodiments only the optical unit includes memory for storing image data.

In some embodiments the transmitters and receivers of the base unit and the optical unit are only operational to permit the transmission of wireless signals and data when the camera system is in the second configuration. In other embodiments the transmitters and receivers of the base unit and the optical unit are operational to permit the transmission of wireless signals and data when the camera system is in both the first configuration and the second configuration.

The base unit preferably comprises a latching mechanism configured to retain the optical unit on the base unit, such that the latching mechanism must be deactivated to release the optical unit from the base unit.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of using a hand-held camera system including one or more image sensors for capturing images and a single screen for viewing images captured by the one or more image sensors, the method comprising: detaching an optical unit from a base unit, the optical unit including a lens, a signal transmitter, a signal receiver and the one or more image sensors and the base unit including a power source, controls for controlling the optical unit, a transmitter for transmitting signals to the optical unit, a receiver for receiving signals from the optical unit and the screen; positioning the optical unit in a location remote from the base unit; viewing image data from the optical unit on the screen of the base unit; using controls on the base unit to capture an image while the optical unit is remote from the base unit; and after capturing said image, reattaching the optical unit to the base unit.

The method may further comprise after detaching the optical unit, activating the transmitter of the optical unit to continuously and wirelessly stream image data to the base unit; wirelessly transmitting from the base unit to the optical unit signals for adjusting the focus and zoom of the lens; wirelessly transmitting from the base unit to the optical unit a signal to capture an image or a series of images; wirelessly transmitting from the optical unit to the base unit said captured image or series of images; and storing said captured image or series of images in a memory in the base unit.

In embodiments in which the camera system includes a propulsion unit, the method preferably comprises, after detaching the optical unit from the base unit, connecting the optical unit to a propulsion unit, the propulsion unit providing a propulsion system for transporting the optical unit to a location remote from the base unit; and operating controls on the base unit to alter the position of the propulsion unit relative to the base unit. In some embodiments the method may further comprise moving the screen with respect to the base unit from a first position in which the controls for controlling the propulsion unit are concealed by the screen to a second position in which the controls for controlling the propulsion unit are accessible. If the optical unit is detachable from the propulsion unit, the method may comprise detaching the optical unit from the propulsion unit and storing the propulsion unit in a storage compartment attached to the base unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be further described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a camera system according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, including a base unit and an optical unit;

Figure 2 shows the camera system of Figure 1 with the optical unit removed and showing attachment means located on the base unit;

Figure 3 shows the optical unit of Figure 1;

Figure 4 shows the optical unit of Figure 3 attached to a propulsion unit;

Figure 5 illustrates a base unit of a camera system including a storage compartment for housing a propulsion unit;

Figure 6 shows an alternative base unit of a camera system including a storage compartment for housing a propulsion unit;

Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment of a propulsion unit forming part of a camera system according to the invention;

Figure 8 shows a further embodiment of a propulsion unit forming part of a camera system according to the invention;

Figure 9 shows a further embodiment of a propulsion unit forming part of a camera system according to the invention;

Figure 10 is a front perspective view of a camera system according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention, including a base unit and an optical unit;

Figure 11 is a rear perspective view of the camera system of Figure 10;

Figure 12 is a rear perspective view of the camera system of Figure 11, with a viewing screen moved to a second position revealing controls for controlling a propulsion unit of the camera system;

Figures 13a and 13b are front and rear views of a smart phone including an integral camera; and

Figures 14a and 14b are front and rear views respectively of the smartphone of Figures 13a and 13b showing an optical unit of the smart phone detached from a base unit of the smart phone.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION A first embodiment of a camera system 10 is illustrated in Figures 1 to 4. The camera system 10 comprises a base unit 12, an optical unit 14 and a propulsion unit 16. The optical unit 14 is configured to be attached, in a first configuration, to the base unit 12 or, in a second configuration, to the propulsion unit 16.

In the first configuration a user may use the camera system 10 in a similar way to a conventional digital camera. The base unit 12 may be held by a user and controls on the base unit 12 used to capture images. In the second configuration the optical unit 14 is detached from the base unit 12 and attached to the propulsion unit 16. In this configuration a user may hold the base unit 12 and use controls on the base unit 12 to manoeuvre the propulsion unit 16 to a location remote from the base unit 12. Further controls on the base unit 12 may then be used to communicate wirelessly with the optical unit 14 to capture an image. In this configuration, therefore, the user may capture a ‘selfie’. Wireless communication between the optical unit 14 and base unit 12 may utilise any suitable technology such as radio frequency (RF), WiFi or Bluetooth® systems.

The optical unit 14 comprises a main body 18 housing a lens 20, an image sensor and a focussing assembly. The optical unit 14 also includes a receiver for receiving signals and data from the base unit 12 and a transmitter for transmitting signals and data, including image data, to the base unit 12. The optical unit 14 includes suitable circuitry for controlling the components of the optical unit 14, e.g. the lens 20 and image sensor, based on the data and signals received by the optical unit 14. The optical unit 14 may also include a memory for storing data including image data captured by the image sensor.

The optical unit 14 preferably includes first attachment means 22 for attaching or mechanically securing the optical unit 14 to the base unit 12 and second attachment means for attaching or mechanically securing the optical unit 14 to the propulsion unit 16. The first and second attachment means may be the same attachment means.

The propulsion unit 16 is preferably an aerial vehicle such as a multirotor or multicopter. In preferred embodiments the propulsion unit 16 is a miniature quadcopter. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the propulsion unit 16 is a miniature quadcopter 24 comprising a central hub or chassis 26 from which extends four arms 28. A motor 30 and associated rotor 32, or vertically oriented propeller, is located at a distal end of each arm 28. Typically the quadcopter 24 includes two pairs of fixed pitch rotors, a first pair rotating in a clockwise direction and a second pair rotating in an anticlockwise direction. By varying the speed of each rotor independently it is possible to control the speed and direction of movement of the quadcopter.

The propulsion unit 16 preferably includes a receiver for receiving signals from the base unit 12 and a transmitter for transmitting signals to the base unit 12. The propulsion unit 16 also includes suitable circuitry for controlling the motors 30 based on the received signals.

The base unit 12 comprises a main body 34 having a substantially rectangular cubiodal shape. The main body 34 of the base unit 12 has opposite top 36 and bottom surfaces, opposite side surfaces 38 and opposite front and rear surfaces 40, 42.

The base unit 12 further comprises a screen 44 for viewing image data captured by the image sensor. The screen 44 will typically be located on the rear surface 42 of the main body 34. The base unit 12 includes a first set of controls 46 for controlling functions of the optical unit 14 and a second set of controls 48 for controlling functions of the propulsion unit 16. The first set of controls 46 may include controls for adjusting zoom, focus, exposure, image mode (e.g. shutter priority or aperture priority), as well as controls for image capture, switching between still image and video capture, and to start/stop video recording. The second set of controls 48 may include controls for controlling movement of a quadcopter and, in particular, may include controls that affect the speed, height and direction of movement of the quadcopter. Each of the first and second sets of controls 46, 48 may include a plurality of control members 50 such as buttons, switches, knobs, wheels and/or joysticks. At least some of the controls in one or both of the first and second sets 46, 48 may be accessed by a touchscreen. The control members 50 may be located on one or more of the surfaces of the main body 34.

The base unit 12 further comprises a power source, which will typically include a battery. The battery may be removable and rechargeable and may be housed in an accessible compartment 52 in the main body 12. The power source in the base unit 12 provides power to the components in the base unit 12 and may additionally provide power to the optical unit 14 when the optical unit 14 is connected to the base unit 12 in the first configuration. The base unit 12 additionally comprises a receiver for receiving signals and data, including image data, from the optical unit 14 and a transmitter for transmitting signals and data to the optical unit 14. The transmitter and receiver may only be operational when the optical unit 14 is remote from the base unit 12 in the second configuration, as discussed further below. The base unit 12 will also include a memory for storing data, including image data captured by the image sensor. An additional data storage component, such as a known memory card (e.g. an SD card) may also be inserted into the main body 34 for additional data storage, especially of image data.

One or both of the optical unit 14 and propulsion unit 16 includes an auxiliary power source. In preferred embodiments the propulsion unit 16 includes the auxiliary power source. In these embodiments, in addition to the auxiliary power source providing power to the motors 30 of the propulsion unit 16, the auxiliary power source also provides power to the optical unit 14 when the optical unit 14 is attached to the propulsion unit 16 in the second configuration of the camera system 10.

When the camera system 10 is in the first configuration the optical unit 14 is mechanically and/or magnetically secured to the base unit 12. A mechanical connection may be made by any suitable means of attachment such that the optical unit 14 is retained in a fixed position with respect to the base unit 12. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the base unit 12 includes a cut-out 54 in the top surface 36 of the main body 34. The cut-out or recess 54 is sized to receive at least a part of the optical unit 14.

The means of attachment may comprise a clip, complementary screw threads or complementary plug and socket. It may be desirable if the means of attachment includes a quick release system. The means of attachment may include a plate on a first one of the base unit 12 and optical unit 14 and a complementary recess on the other one of the base unit 12 and optical unit 14 sized and shaped to receive the plate. The plate may be slidably received in the recess.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, the optical unit 14 comprises a foot 56 for engagement with a mount 58 on the base unit 12. The foot 56 includes a mounting plate 60 having opposite edge regions 61 extending outwardly from a stem 62, such that a gap 64 is defined between each of the edge regions 61 and the main body 18 of the optical unit 14. The mount 58 on the base unit 12 includes a shallow recess 66 having a base and opposite side walls. The recess 66 is sized and shaped to receive the mounting plate 60. In this embodiment the recess 66 is located in the cut-out 54 in the main body 34. The mount 58 on the base unit 12 further comprises a pair of retaining members 68 extending inwardly from the side walls of the recess 66, thereby creating a gap 70 between an underside surface of each of the retaining members 68 and the base of the recess 66. To attach the optical unit 14 to the base unit 12, the mounting plate 60 is slid into the recess 66 so that the edge regions 61 of the mounting plate 60 locate in the gaps 70 under the retaining members 68.

The means of attachment of the optical unit 14 to the base unit 12 will typically further include a latching or locking mechanism. This latching mechanism, when in an engaged position, is configured to retain the optical unit 14 in a fixed position with respect to the base unit 12. To remove the optical unit 14 from the base unit 12 a user must disengage or release the latching mechanism. Preferably the latching mechanism automatically moves into the engaged position when the optical unit 14 is attached to the base unit 12.

When the optical unit 14 is attached to the base unit 12 the camera system 10 may be used to capture images in a similar way to a conventional compact digital camera. Images recorded or captured by the image sensor in the optical unit 14 are displayed on the screen 44 of the base unit 12. The first set of controls 46 may be used to make all of the usual adjustments to the images that are captured, such as focus, zoom and exposure, and may be used to switch between still image capture and video capture.

In the first configuration, data and electronic signals may be transmitted between the base unit 12 and the optical unit 14 by wireless data transmission, in a similar manner to the data transmission when the optical unit 14 is remote from the base unit 12. In other embodiments, however, it may be preferable if there is a wired electrical connection between the optical unit 14 and the base unit 12 when the system 10 is in the first configuration. Accordingly, each of the optical unit 14 and the base unit 12 may include complementary electrical connectors, such as a plug and socket. In these embodiments when the optical unit 14 is mechanically or magnetically secured to the base unit 12 an additional electrical connection is made between the optical unit 14 and the base unit 12 permitting transmission of electronic signals and data such as image data. The electrical connection may be made simultaneously with the mechanical connection or the electrical connection may be made separately and independently of the mechanical connection.

When a user wishes to capture an image from a remote location, for example to capture a selfie or an aerial image, the optical unit 14 is detachable from the base unit 12. The optical unit 14 may be permanently attached to a propulsion unit 16 or attachable to a separate propulsion unit 16. In this second configuration the optical unit 14 communicates wirelessly with the base unit 12. Any suitable means of wireless communication may be used.

In embodiments in which the propulsion unit 16 is not permanently attached to the optical unit 14, the propulsion unit 16 and the optical unit 14 include complementary attachment means to enable the optical unit 14 to be removeably connected to the propulsion unit 16. These attachment means may be of any suitable type to enable the optical unit 14 to be retained in a fixed position with respect to the propulsion unit 16. In other embodiments the attachment means may include a linkage arrangement to enable the optical unit 14 to be moved with respect to the propulsion unit 16 in well defined ways. This linkage arrangement may be used, for example, to tilt the optical unit 14 in a vertical direction with respect to the propulsion unit 16.

In the second configuration, with the optical unit 14 attached to the propulsion unit 16 and remote from the base unit 12, a user may control the operation of both the optical unit 14 and the propulsion unit 16 from the base unit 12.

In preferred embodiments the propulsion unit 16 and the optical unit 14 are separate units, only connected mechanically. Accordingly, in these embodiments, the propulsion unit 16 comprises a power source, a receiver, a transmitter and control circuitry. Similarly, the optical unit 14 also comprises a power source, a receiver, a transmitter and control circuitry. Control signals from the base unit 12 relating to the operation of the optical unit 14 are received by the optical unit 14 and control signals relating to the operation of the propulsion unit 16 are received by a separate receiver in the propulsion unit 16.

In other embodiments, however, only one of the propulsion unit and the optical unit include a power source, a receiver, and a transmitter. Both of the propulsion unit and the optical unit will, however, include the necessary control circuitry to operate the propulsion unit or optical unit, respectively, based on signals received by the receiver. In these embodiments an electrical connection is made between the optical unit and the propulsion unit when the optical unit is attached to the propulsion unit to enable power and signals to be passed between the two units. This electrical connection may be made when the optical unit is attached to the propulsion unit. If the propulsion unit is permanently attached to the optical unit, then the electrical connection may only be established or switched on when the optical unit is detached from the base unit.

In these embodiments, therefore, control signals from the base unit relating to both the operation of the optical unit and the operation of the propulsion unit are received by a single receiver. These signals are then passed to the appropriate control circuitry in either the optical unit or the propulsion unit for processing.

In the second configuration of the camera system 10, image data is preferably streamed continuously from the optical unit 14 to the base unit 12 so that a user can view the images on the screen 44 of the base unit 12. This permits a user to view on the screen 44 the field of view of the camera lens 20 so that they can manoeuvre the propulsion unit 16 to the desired location before capturing an image or video.

It will be appreciated that the size of the propulsion unit 16 is chosen such that the propulsion unit 16, for example the quadcopter, has sufficient power and is of suitable dimensions to lift, transport and manoeuvre the optical unit 14.

In embodiments in which the propulsion unit 16 is detachable from the optical unit 14, the base unit 12 preferably includes a storage compartment within which the propulsion unit 16 may be housed when not in use. Figures 5 and 6 illustrate two embodiments of a base unit 112, 212 including a storage compartment 172, 272.

In a first embodiment (Figure 5) the storage compartment 172 extends from the front surface 140 of the main body 134 of the base unit 112 proximate one of the side surfaces 138. A door or flap 174 is located in a wall of the storage compartment 172 providing access to an interior volume of the storage compartment 172. In this position the storage compartment 172 forms a bulge on the front surface 140 of the main body 134 that provides a grip by which a user may comfortably hold the base unit 112. In a second embodiment (Figure 6) the storage compartment 272 extends from a side surface 238 of the main body 134 of the base unit 112. A door or flap 274 is located in a wall of the storage compartment 272 providing access to an interior volume of the storage compartment 272.

In other embodiments a storage compartment may extend from any other surface of the main body. It will be appreciated that it may be necessary for the propulsion unit to be collapsible or foldable for storage in order to minimise the volume of the storage compartment. In yet further embodiments the propulsion unit may be stored separately from the main body.

Figures 7 to 9 illustrate a number of different types of quadcopter that may be used as a propulsion unit 16.

The quadcopter 324 shown in Figure 7 comprises a central cylindrical or disc shaped chassis 326 to which an optical unit 14 may be attached. Four arms 328 extend from the chassis 326 and are equidistantly spaced around the chassis 326. At a distal end of each of the arms 328 there is an assembly including a motor 330 and an associated rotor or propeller 332. Each of the arms 328 is telescopic such that the arms 328 may be extended when the quadcopter 324 is in use, as shown in Figure 7, and may be retracted when the quadcopter 324 is stored. Control circuitry, and a power source when present, is housed within the chassis 326. The motors 330 may be connected to the circuitry by suitable wires located within the telescopic arms 328.

The quadcopter 424 shown in Figure 8 comprises a central cylindrical or disc shaped chassis 426 to which an optical unit 14 may be attached. Four arms 428 extend from the chassis 426 and are equidistantly spaced around the chassis 426. An annular guard 474 is connected to a distal end of each arm 428. An assembly including a motor 430 and an associated rotor 432 is mounted centrally within each guard 474. In this design, each guard 474 and the connected motor 430 and rotor 432 is detachable from the corresponding arm 428 such that when it is desired to store the quadcopter 424 the guards 474 may be stacked on top of one another and on top of the chassis 426. Control circuitry, and a power source when present, is housed within the chassis 426 and the motors 430 are connected to the circuitry by suitable wires extending through the arms 428 and the guards 474. In order to make the guards 474 detachable, therefore, wires extending from the circuit terminate at the distal end of each arm 428 at a suitable socket and wires extending from the motors 430 terminate at a suitable plug mounted in or on the guard 474. The guards 474 may, therefore, be detached from the chassis 426 by unplugging the guard 474 from the socket and may be reattached by plugging each of the guards 474 into a respective one of the sockets.

Figure 9 shows a miniature quadcopter 524 comprising a central chassis portion 526, to which an optical unit 14 may be attached, and radially extending arm portions 528. An assembly including a motor 530 and an associated rotor 532 is mounted at a distal end of each of the arm portions 528. Control circuitry, and a power source when present, is housed within the chassis 526.

Typically the optical unit 14 will be mounted below the chassis of the quadcopter or other propulsion unit 16. It will be appreciated, however, that the optical unit 14 may be mounted in any suitable location with respect to the chassis. A further embodiment of a camera system 610 is shown in Figures 10 to 12. The camera system 610 includes a base unit 612 and a detachable optical unit 614 substantially as described above. The optical unit 614 is attachable to a propulsion unit (not shown). A cut-out or recess 654 is provided in a front surface 640 of a main body 634 of the base unit 612. The cut-out 654 is sized to receive at least a part of the optical unit 614. Locking means are provided to lock the optical unit 614 in engagement with the base unit 612. When a user wishes to detach the optical unit 614 from the base unit 612, the locking means are unlocked to release the optical unit 614. A switch 676 is preferably provided to enable a user to engage or disengage the locking means. A screen 644 is connected to a rear surface 642 of the main body 634. The screen 644 is slidably connected to the main body 634 such that the screen 644 is moveable between a first position (Figure 11) and a second position (Figure 12).

The base unit 612 includes a first set of controls 646 for controlling functions of the optical unit 614 and a second set of controls 648 for controlling functions of the propulsion unit. The first set of controls 646 may include controls for adjusting zoom, focus, exposure, image mode (e.g. shutter priority or aperture priority), as well as controls for image capture, switching between still image and video capture, and to start/stop video recording. The second set of controls 648 may include controls for controlling movement of a quadcopter and, in particular, may include controls that affect the speed, height and direction of movement of the quadcopter. Each of the first and second sets of controls 646, 648 may include a plurality of control members 650 such as buttons, switches, knobs, wheels and/or joysticks.

The first and second sets of controls 646, 648 may be arranged on the main body 634 of the base unit 612 such that the second set of controls 648 is covered by the screen 644 when the screen 644 is in the first position. When the screen 644 is moved to the second position the second set of controls 648 is exposed and becomes accessible to a user.

In this way, when the camera system 610 is in a first configuration, with the optical unit 614 attached to the base unit 612, a user is able to control the functions of the camera in a similar way to a traditional compact digital camera. In particular, a user is able to control the optical unit 614 with the first set of controls 646. When the camera is to be used in the second configuration, with the optical unit 614 detached from the base unit 612 and attached to a propulsion unit, the screen 644 is moved to the second position to expose the second set of controls 648. A user may then use these controls 648 to control the propulsion unit. With the screen 644 in the second position at least some and most preferably all of the first set of controls 646 are still accessible to the user and these controls 646 may be used to control the operation of the optical unit 614.

The base unit 612 may include a sensor that detects whether the screen 644 is in the first position or the second position. Wireless data and signal transmission between the optical unit 614 and/or propulsion unit and the base unit 612 may only be established when the screen 644 is in the second position.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the base unit 12, 612 includes a GPS module. The GPS coordinates of the base unit 12, 612 may then be transmitted to the optical unit 14, 614 and/or the propulsion unit 16 when the camera system 610 is in the second configuration. In these embodiments, by using the GPS information, the propulsion unit 16 may be pre-programmed to initially move to a specific location remote from the base unit 12, 612. Furthermore, the camera system 10, 610 may include a function to allow the propulsion unit 16 to automatically return to the location of the base unit 12, 612 when a user wishes to return the camera system 10, 610 to the first configuration.

In the above embodiments the propulsion unit 16 is in the form of a quadcopter. It will be appreciated, however, that the propulsion unit may be of any suitable construction that is able to support the optical unit and transport it to a location remote from the base unit. The propulsion unit may, therefore, be in the form of any suitable unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and may be in the form of a plane including a fuselage and wings, a helicopter having a tail rotor or a multirotor having any number of rotors or propellers. In yet further embodiments the propulsion unit may be a land vehicle or may be a vehicle suitable for moving in or on water.

In the above embodiments the camera system included a propulsion unit for transporting the optical unit to a location remote from the base unit. In other embodiments, however, the camera system may not include a propulsion unit. In these embodiments the optical unit is detachable from the base unit as described above. A user may then place the optical unit in a desired location remote from the base unit, for example on a wall or table, and subsequently control the operation of the optical unit from a remote location. Separating the optical unit and the base unit in this way means that the user is able to control the optical unit while viewing the images on the screen of the base unit, thereby making it easier to compose the desired image, for example a photo of a group of people including the user of the camera system.

In each of the preceding specific embodiments the camera system has been depicted as being similar to a traditional digital camera. It will be appreciated, however, that the present invention is applicable to all hand-held systems including a screen and an image sensor. The camera system of the present invention may, therefore, be part of a mobile telephone, or smart phone, or a tablet computer or similar device.

Figures 13 and 14 illustrate a camera system 710 in the form of a mobile telephone or smart phone 711. The smart phone 711 comprises a base unit 712 including a screen 744 and an optical unit 714 including an image sensor and a lens 720. In a first configuration, illustrated in Figures 13a and 13b, the optical unit 714 is attached to the base unit 712. In a second configuration, illustrated in Figures 14a and 14b, the optical unit 714 is detached from the base unit 712 and may be located in a location remote from the base unit 712.

The screen 744 is configured to enable a user to view image data captured by the image sensor of the optical unit 714. The screen 744 is located on a front surface 740 of the main body 734. In this embodiment the screen 744 is a touch screen and is configured to enable a user to access a first set of controls for controlling functions of the optical unit 714.

Attachment means are provided for attaching or mechanically securing the optical unit 714 to the base unit 712.

When the optical unit 714 is attached to the base unit 712 the camera system 710 may be used to capture images in substantially the same way images are captured using a camera of a conventional mobile telephone. Images recorded or captured by the image sensor in the optical unit 714 are displayed on the screen 744 of the base unit 712. The first set of controls may be used to make all of the usual adjustments to the images that are captured, such as focus, zoom and exposure, and may be used to switch between still image capture and video capture.

In the first configuration, data and electronic signals may be transmitted between the base unit 712 and the optical unit 714 by wireless data transmission; however, it is preferable if there is a wired electrical connection between the optical unit 714 and the base unit 712 when the system 710 is in the first configuration. Accordingly, in this embodiment, each of the optical unit 714 and the base unit 712 includes complementary electrical connectors 780. When the optical unit 714 is mechanically or magnetically secured to the base unit 712 an additional electrical connection is made between the optical unit 714 and the base unit 712 permitting transmission of electronic signals and data such as image data. The electrical connection may be made simultaneously with the mechanical connection or the electrical connection may be made separately and independently of the mechanical connection.

When a user wishes to capture an image from a remote location, for example to capture a selfie, the optical unit 714 is detachable from the base unit 712. In this second configuration the optical unit 714 communicates wirelessly with the base unit 712. Any suitable means of wireless communication may be used. The base unit 712, therefore, comprises a receiver for receiving signals and data, including image data, from the optical unit 714 and a transmitter for transmitting signals and data to the optical unit 714. The optical unit 714 also includes a corresponding transmitter and receiver.

In the second configuration of the camera system 710, image data is preferably streamed continuously from the optical unit 714 to the base unit 712 so that a user can view the images on the screen 744 of the base unit 712. This permits a user to view on the screen 744 the field of view of the camera lens 720 to allow the desired image to be composed and captured.

In some embodiments, the optical unit may include more than one image sensor and more than one lens, each image sensor having an associated lens. The lenses and image sensors may be arranged such that the field of view of each image sensor is in a different direction. For example, a first image sensor may be front facing and a second image sensor may be rear facing. The image sensors may be configured to capture different kinds of images. For example, a first image sensor may capture a visible light image and a second image sensor may capture an infrared image. In particularly preferred embodiments all of the one or more image sensors of the camera system are located in the optical unit, such that these are separable from the base unit.

Claims

1. A hand-held camera system including one or more image sensors for capturing images and a single screen for viewing images captured by the one or more image sensors, the camera system comprising: an optical unit including a lens, a signal transmitter, a signal receiver and the one or more image sensors; and a base unit including a power source, controls for controlling the optical unit, a transmitter for transmitting signals to the optical unit, a receiver for receiving signals from the optical unit and the screen, wherein the camera system is configured to capture images in both a first configuration in which the optical unit is secured to the base unit and a second configuration in which the optical unit is remote from the base unit.

2. A hand-held camera system as claimed in Claim 1, further comprising a propulsion unit, the propulsion unit providing a propulsion system for transporting the optical unit to a location remote from the base unit, wherein one or both of the optical unit and the propulsion unit includes an auxiliary power source, and wherein in the second configuration the optical unit is attached to the propulsion unit, and the base unit includes controls for controlling the propulsion unit.

3. A hand-held camera system as claimed in Claim 2, wherein the propulsion unit includes attachment means for releasably attaching the optical unit to the propulsion unit.

4. A hand-held camera system as claimed in Claim 2, wherein the optical unit is permanently attached to the propulsion unit.

5. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any one of Claims 2 to 4, wherein the propulsion system includes a rotor.

6. A hand-held camera system as claimed in Claim 5, wherein the propulsion system comprises a quadcopter.

7. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any one of Claims 2 to 6, wherein in the second configuration there is an electrical connection between the optical unit and the propulsion unit.

8. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any one of Claims 2 to 7, wherein the base unit comprises a storage compartment for housing the propulsion unit.

9. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any one of Claims 2 to 8, wherein the screen is movably connected to the base unit and the screen is movable between a first position in which the controls for controlling the propulsion unit are concealed by the screen and a second position in which the controls for controlling the propulsion unit are accessible.

10. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any one of Claims 2 to 9, wherein the base unit and the propulsion unit comprise a GPS module.

11. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein in the first configuration the optical unit is secured to the base unit by mechanical or magnetic means.

12. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein in the second configuration there is wireless communication between the optical unit and base unit.

13. A hand-held camera system as claimed in Claim 12, wherein in the first configuration there is wireless communication between the optical unit and base unit.

14. A hand-held camera system as claimed in Claim 12, wherein in the first configuration there is an electrical connection between the optical unit and base unit permitting communication of data and signals between the optical unit and the base unit.

15. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein image data is streamed continuously from the optical unit to the base unit in both the first and second configurations.

16. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the optical unit comprises a focussing assembly.

17. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein only the base unit includes a memory for storing image data.

18. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 16, wherein both the optical unit and the base unit include a memory for storing image data.

19. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the transmitters and receivers of the base unit and the optical unit are only operational to permit the transmission of wireless signals and data when the camera system is in the second configuration.

20. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 18, wherein the transmitters and receivers of the base unit and the optical unit are operational to permit the transmission of wireless signals and data when the camera system is in both the first configuration and the second configuration.

21. A hand-held camera system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the base unit comprises a latching mechanism configured to retain the optical unit on the base unit, such that the latching mechanism must be deactivated to release the optical unit from the base unit.

22. A method of using a hand-held camera system including one or more image sensors for capturing images and a single screen for viewing images captured by the one or more image sensors, the method comprising: detaching an optical unit from a base unit, the optical unit including a lens, a signal transmitter, a signal receiver and the one or more image sensors and the base unit including a power source, controls for controlling the optical unit, a transmitter for transmitting signals to the optical unit, a receiver for receiving signals from the optical unit and the screen; positioning the optical unit in a location remote from the base unit; viewing image data from the optical unit on the screen of the base unit; using controls on the base unit to capture an image while the optical unit is remote from the base unit; and after capturing said image, reattaching the optical unit to the base unit.

23. A method as claimed in Claim 22 further comprising: after detaching the optical unit, activating the transmitter of the optical unit to continuously and wirelessly stream image data to the base unit; wirelessly transmitting from the base unit to the optical unit signals for adjusting the focus and zoom of the lens; wirelessly transmitting from the base unit to the optical unit a signal to capture an image or a series of images; wirelessly transmitting from the optical unit to the base unit said captured image or series of images; and storing said captured image or series of images in a memory in the base unit.

24. A method as claimed in Claim 22 or Claim 23 further comprising: after detaching the optical unit from the base unit, connecting the optical unit to a propulsion unit, the propulsion unit providing a propulsion system for transporting the optical unit to a location remote from the base unit; and operating controls on the base unit to alter the position of the propulsion unit relative to the base unit.

25. A method as claimed in Claim 24 further comprising moving the screen with respect to the base unit from a first position in which the controls for controlling the propulsion unit are concealed by the screen to a second position in which the controls for controlling the propulsion unit are accessible.

26. A method as claimed in Claim 24 or Claim 25 further comprising: detaching the optical unit from the propulsion unit; and storing the propulsion unit in a storage compartment attached to the base unit.

27. A hand-held camera system substantially as herein described with reference to or as shown in Figures 1 to 4.

28. A hand-held camera system substantially as herein described with reference to or as shown in Figures 10 to 12.

29. A method of using a hand-held camera system substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.