Abstract: When filming a scene, the focal distance of the video camera is often controlled remotely, and can be switched between manual and autofocus modes. To overcome sudden movements in the lens upon reverting to manual mode, and to avoid disrupting a user's grip on the manual control during autofocus, the traditional distance ring indicator is split into separate controller and indicator components. The controller permits manual input, while the indicator tracks the desired distance. In manual mode, the controller and indicator move in unison. In autofocus mode, the indicator tracks a rangefinder input but the controller is not moved. In a hybrid mode, the controller offsets the rangefinder input. In all cases, the position of the lens moves with the indicator.

Abstract: When filming a scene, the focal distance of the video camera is often controlled remotely, and can be switched between manual and autofocus modes. To overcome sudden movements in the lens upon reverting to manual mode, and to avoid disrupting a user's grip on the manual control during autofocus, the traditional distance ring indicator is split into separate controller and indicator components. The controller permits manual input, while the indicator tracks the desired distance. In manual mode, the controller and indicator move in unison. In autofocus mode, the indicator tracks a rangefinder input but the controller is not moved. In a hybrid mode, the controller offsets the rangefinder input. In all cases, the position of the lens moves with the indicator.