Simpler

The new viu.

Click the image below to see a large image of the last, and hopefully final version of the viu – the no-nonsense digital compact.

The lens is a 7-elements 28mm F 1:2 (equivalent to 42mm on regular film). It has a mechanical aperture ring, and an easy to operate-focus lever with distance markings in meters. The thread mount in front is 39mm.

The shutter speed dial has an auto shutter speed mode (A), as well as exposure compensation (±1-2), in addition to shutter speeds and a bulb-mode (B). You can change the ISO by lifting and turning the dial, and a latch in the dial shows the current value.

I will try to sinter out a model on a rapid prototyping machine the coming week, if I have the time and money to do so. Time will show.

Click image to open a high-res version of this image.

In shape

Viu | mockup#4. Click image to open a high-res version of this image.

In the newest mockup of the viu, I’ve changed the form so that only the side you hold in your right hand is cylindrical. Since the viu is manual focus only, the user will hold his or hers left hand on the lens anyway, so there’s no need for a grip on that side.

The shutter/ev/iso-dial is flush with the cylindrical grip, to afford more possibilites in turning the dial. You could use your thumb from the back, or any finger from the front, or pinch it between thumb and index finger.

I’ve also combined the viewfinder and the rf-line window into one opening, and added rubber grips at the front, and for the thumb at the back. The lens is now a tad shorter (physically) and wider, and I’ve streamlined it more.

More compact

The new and more compact mockup of the viu. Click post header to see more renderings.

In the latest mockup of the viu, I’ve made it considerably more compact. (click the header of this post to see more renderings, and then click the image to watch it in large size.)

The viu now measures 115×70x25 mm. As you will notice I’ve also added a hot shoe, a screen with navigation buttons, vertical mounted strap hinges, and – as some of you recommended – I’ve reduced the rangefinder base.

The next step will be to reduce the size of the lens, and maybe further improve the shutter-dial placement. I’m considering using a 4/3 sensor to reduce the size of the lens. I’ve decided not to have a separate iso-dial, but rather have it inside the shutter dial, like on the Epson rd1 (where you lift the wheel before rotating to change the iso). This is because I’ve found that people don’t change the iso very often, but it’s very important to have a visual reminder of which iso you’re using at all times.

Numbers on dials and symbols/text on buttons will of course also be added (but that’s one heck of a job …)

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