Camera and monitoring equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a camera and monitoring equipment. The camera includes: a base; the plurality of camera modules are arranged on the base side by side; a plurality of first movable modules, one of which is connected with one of the camera modules and can drive the camera modules to move towards a first direction; the second movable module is connected between the base and the first movable module and can drive the first movable module and the camera module to move towards a second direction relative to the base; wherein the first direction is different from the second direction. According to the embodiment of the invention, each camera module can adjust the shooting visual angle more flexibly, and the shooting blind area of the camera is reduced; and the privacy shielding function of the camera can be realized by adjusting the shooting visual angle of each camera module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of video surveillance technology, and in particular to a camera and surveillance equipment. Background Technology

[0002] With technological advancements, traditional single-camera cameras have gradually evolved into multi-camera cameras, which can provide more monitoring angles. However, existing dual-camera cameras typically consist of a PTZ camera on top and a bullet camera on the bottom. The viewing angle of the bullet camera in this type of camera cannot be adjusted, resulting in a lack of privacy protection and failing to meet users' needs for personal privacy. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To overcome the problems existing in related technologies, this disclosure provides a camera and monitoring equipment that enables each camera module to adjust its shooting angle more flexibly, reducing the camera's blind spot; and by adjusting the shooting angle of each camera module, it is beneficial to realize the camera's privacy masking function.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a camera is provided, comprising:

[0005] Base;

[0006] Multiple camera modules are mounted side-by-side on the base;

[0007] Multiple first active modules, each first active module is connected to one of the camera modules and can drive the camera module to move in a first direction;

[0008] The second movable module is connected between the base and the first movable module, and can drive the first movable module and the camera module to move relative to the base in a second direction;

[0009] The first direction is different from the second direction.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first activity module includes:

[0011] A first bracket is connected to the camera module, and a connecting plate is formed on the surface of the first bracket facing the camera module;

[0012] A first driving component is located inside the housing of the camera module and has a first rotating shaft connected to the connecting disk;

[0013] When the first driving component drives the first rotating shaft to rotate, the first rotating shaft cooperates with the connecting plate to drive the camera module to move relative to the first bracket.

[0014] In some embodiments, the connecting disc is formed with a first gear; the first rotating shaft is formed with a second gear;

[0015] When the first rotating shaft rotates, the second gear can mesh with the first gear at different positions to drive the camera module to move relative to the first bracket.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first bracket has an extension formed on the surface facing the base, the extension having a groove; the second movable module includes:

[0017] The second driving component is disposed on the base and has a second rotating shaft, which engages with the groove.

[0018] When the second drive unit drives the second rotating shaft to rotate, the second rotating shaft causes the first bracket and the camera module to move relative to the base.

[0019] In some embodiments, the camera further includes:

[0020] A support housing is disposed between the first bracket and the base; the surface of the support housing facing the camera module has an opening, and the extension passes through the opening and connects to the second drive member;

[0021] A pressure cap is fitted onto the extension and abuts against the support housing at the opening, thereby increasing the gap between the extension and the support housing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the camera further includes:

[0023] The second bracket is located inside the support housing and can fix the second drive member;

[0024] There is a gap between the second drive member and the inner wall of the support housing, which provides space for the signal lines of the camera.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first bracket has a hollow structure for the camera's signal cable to pass through in order to connect to the camera module.

[0026] In some embodiments, the camera further includes:

[0027] The first circuit board is fixed inside the housing of the camera module and electrically connected to the camera module;

[0028] A second circuit board is disposed on the surface of the base facing the camera module;

[0029] One end of the signal line is electrically connected to the first circuit board, and the other end passes through the hollow structure of the first bracket and is electrically connected to the second circuit board.

[0030] In some embodiments, the signal line includes a flexible flat cable.

[0031] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a monitoring device is provided, comprising:

[0032] The camera as described in the first aspect;

[0033] The controller has a communication module and is able to send control commands to the camera through the communication module to control multiple camera modules of the camera.

[0034] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure may include the following beneficial effects:

[0035] This embodiment of the invention arranges multiple first movable modules on the camera base. These first movable modules, connected to the camera module, drive the camera module to move in a first direction. Furthermore, a second movable module, positioned between the base and the first movable modules, drives both the first movable modules and the camera module to move relative to the base in a second direction different from the first direction. Thus, when different movable modules are used in the camera, the camera module can move in two different directions under the drive of these modules. This allows each camera module to more flexibly adjust its shooting angle, reducing blind spots. Adjusting the shooting angle of each camera module also facilitates privacy masking. Simultaneously, because the movement directions of each camera module can differ, the camera has a wider field of view, thereby improving the shooting effect.

[0036] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, enable the explanation of the principles of this disclosure.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a dual-lens camera according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the structure of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] Figure 4 This is a top view of a first active module and a camera module in a camera according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a monitoring device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] Figure label:

[0045] 10-Camera, 11-Base, 12-Camera module, 13-First movable module, 14-Second movable module, 131-First bracket, 132-First drive component, 133-Connecting plate, 134-First rotating shaft, 121-Camera module housing, 135-Extension, 136-Groove, 141-Second drive component, 142-Second rotating shaft, 15-Support housing, 151-Opening, 16-Clip, 17-Second bracket, 137-Hollow structure, 18-Signal line, 191-First circuit board, 192-Second circuit board, 100-Controller, 20-Dual camera, 21-PTZ camera, 22-Bullet camera. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of structures consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0047] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this disclosure.

[0048] In the description of this disclosure, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linkage" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure based on the specific circumstances.

[0049] The technical solutions provided by the various embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] In related technologies, such as Figure 1 As shown, existing dual-camera cameras 20 typically consist of an upper PTZ camera 21 and a lower bullet camera 22. The PTZ camera 21 is an adjustable-angle camera, while the bullet camera 22 is a fixed-angle camera. The bottom bullet camera of this type of camera cannot adjust its angle, making privacy protection impossible and failing to meet users' needs for personal privacy.

[0051] Based on this, the present disclosure proposes a camera that allows each camera module to adjust its shooting angle more flexibly, reducing the camera's blind spot; and by adjusting the shooting angle of each camera module, it is beneficial to achieve the camera's privacy masking function. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the camera 10 proposed in this embodiment may include:

[0052] Base 11;

[0053] Multiple camera modules 12 are mounted side by side on the base 11;

[0054] Multiple first active modules 13, each first active module 13 is connected to a camera module 12 and can drive the camera module 12 to move in a first direction;

[0055] Second activity module (in) Figure 2 (Not shown in the image), connected between the base 11 and the first movable module 13, and capable of driving the first movable module 13 and the camera module 12 to move relative to the base 11 in a second direction;

[0056] The first direction is different from the second direction.

[0057] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the camera can be applied to scenarios requiring real-time monitoring. For example, in industrial production processes, the camera can capture images of the product manufacturing process in real time to assist engineers in monitoring the production status, enabling real-time diagnosis of problems and improving production efficiency and product quality. Alternatively, in a home environment, the camera can capture images of the living room or bedroom in real time and transmit the images to electronic devices, allowing users to remotely monitor their home, facilitating the care of family members and improving home security.

[0058] The aforementioned base can be a support for various functional components within the camera, used to fix the camera in different locations according to actual monitoring needs. For example, the base can be fixed to a desktop, wall, or production rack.

[0059] It should be noted that the specific fixing method of the base can be set according to the actual application scenario, and this disclosed embodiment does not impose any limitations. For example, the base can be fixed by screws, suction cups, or glue.

[0060] The aforementioned camera module may include a housing and a camera body. The housing has an opening through which the camera body can be exposed outside the housing to collect ambient light. Multiple camera modules may be mounted side by side on a base.

[0061] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first movable module can be rotatably connected to the camera module so that the first movable module can drive the camera module to move in a first direction.

[0062] Here, the first direction in which the first movable module moves the camera module can be a direction that forms an angle with the plane on which the base is located, such as a direction perpendicular to the plane on which the base is located; the way the first movable module moves the camera module can include moving up and down or rotating.

[0063] For example, the first active module can drive the camera module to move up and down or rotate in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the base, so as to adjust the shooting angle of the camera module in the vertical direction of the base.

[0064] It should be noted that the specific number of the first active module can be set according to the actual application scenario, as long as the number of the first active module is the same as the number of camera modules. This disclosed embodiment does not impose any restrictions.

[0065] Understandably, one camera module is connected to one first movable module, and each first movable module is connected to a second movable module, which is mounted on a base. The second movable module can be fixedly connected to the base and rotatably connected to the first movable modules, allowing the second movable module to drive the first movable modules and the camera module to move relative to the base in a second direction.

[0066] Here, the second direction in which the second movable module moves the first movable module and the camera module can be a direction different from the first direction, such as a direction parallel to the plane of the base; the way the second movable module moves the first movable module and the camera module can include moving left and right or rotating.

[0067] For example, the second movable module can drive the first movable module and the camera module to rotate in a direction parallel to the plane of the base, so as to adjust the shooting angle of the camera module in the horizontal direction, so that the camera module can cover a wider field of view.

[0068] It should be noted that the number of second movable modules can be one or more. When there is one second movable module, it may include multiple rotating parts, with one rotating part connected to one first movable module. The second movable module drives the movement of each first movable module and each camera module through the rotating parts. When there are multiple second movable modules, they are spaced apart on the base, with one second movable module connected to one first movable module. Each second movable module can drive the movement of the first movable module and the camera module. This disclosure does not limit this aspect.

[0069] In this embodiment of the disclosure, by setting multiple first movable modules and second movable modules in the camera, each camera module can move in a first direction and / or a second direction, so that the camera can freely and flexibly adjust the shooting angle of the camera module through the first movable modules and second movable modules, thereby reducing the shooting blind spot of the camera; and by adjusting the shooting angle of each camera module, it is beneficial to realize the privacy masking function of the camera.

[0070] This embodiment of the invention arranges multiple first movable modules on the camera base. These first movable modules, connected to the camera module, drive the camera module to move in a first direction. Furthermore, a second movable module, positioned between the base and the first movable modules, drives both the first movable modules and the camera module to move relative to the base in a second direction different from the first direction. Thus, when different movable modules are used in the camera, the camera module can move in two different directions under the drive of these modules. This allows each camera module to more flexibly adjust its shooting angle, reducing blind spots. Adjusting the shooting angle of each camera module also facilitates privacy masking. Simultaneously, because the movement directions of each camera module can differ, the camera has a wider field of view, thereby improving the shooting effect.

[0071] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the structure of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 This is a top view illustrating a first active module and a camera module in a camera according to an exemplary embodiment. See also: [link to embodiment]. Figures 2 to 4 The first activity module 13 may include:

[0072] The first bracket 131 is connected to the camera module 12, and a connecting plate 133 is formed on the surface of the first bracket 131 facing the camera module 12;

[0073] The first driving component 132 is located inside the housing 121 of the camera module and has a first rotating shaft 134, which is connected to the connecting disk 133.

[0074] When the first driving member 132 drives the first rotating shaft 134 to rotate, the first rotating shaft 134 and the connecting plate 133 cooperate with each other to drive the camera module 12 to move relative to the first bracket 131.

[0075] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first bracket may be a component connecting the camera module and the second movable module. The first bracket may be rotatably connected to the camera module so that the camera module can move relative to the first bracket in a first direction.

[0076] It should be noted that the specific shape of the first bracket can be set according to the actual application scenario, and this embodiment does not impose any limitations. For example, the shape of the first bracket can be a straight line, an L-shape, or an inverted T-shape, etc.

[0077] The aforementioned first driving component can be fixedly installed inside the housing of the camera module, and can drive the camera module to move relative to the first bracket through the cooperation of the first rotating shaft and the connecting plate.

[0078] The first driving component can be a motor, electric motor or other type of power device that can provide rotational torque so that the camera module can rotate relative to the first bracket in a first direction.

[0079] Understandably, when it is necessary to adjust the shooting angle of the camera module, the first driving component can drive the first rotating shaft to rotate. The first rotating shaft cooperates with the connecting plate, so that the camera module can rotate in the first direction relative to the first bracket.

[0080] Here, the connecting plate can be fixedly connected to the first bracket or integrally formed with the first bracket; this embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. Since the first driving component is fixed inside the housing of the camera module, and the connecting plate can be rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft of the first driving component, when the first driving component drives the first rotating shaft to rotate, the camera module can be moved relative to the first bracket through the mutual cooperation between the first rotating shaft and the connecting plate.

[0081] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, by setting the first rotating shaft of the first driving component to cooperate with the connecting plate of the first bracket, interference between the first driving component and other components in the housing of the camera module can be avoided, making the structure of the camera module more compact and reducing the overall size of the camera module; and the first driving component can improve the accuracy of controlling the camera module to move in the first direction, thereby improving the accuracy of adjusting the shooting angle of the camera module.

[0082] In one embodiment of this disclosure, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the connecting disk 133 has a first gear; the first rotating shaft 134 has a second gear.

[0083] When the first rotating shaft 134 rotates, the second gear can mesh with the first gear at different positions to drive the camera module 12 to move relative to the first bracket 131.

[0084] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, the first gear and the second gear can mesh with each other, that is, the tooth pitch of the first gear is equal to the tooth pitch of the second gear.

[0085] It is understandable that when the first driving member drives the first rotating shaft to rotate, the second gear can rotate with the first rotating shaft. Since the first gear and the second gear can mesh at different positions and the connecting plate is fixed to the first bracket, the second gear can drive the first driving member to rotate around the first gear. In addition, the first driving member is fixedly connected to the housing of the camera module, so the first driving member can drive the camera module to rotate relative to the first bracket.

[0086] It should be noted that the specific dimensions of the first gear and the second gear can be set according to the housing dimensions of the camera module in the actual application scenario, as long as the first gear and the second gear can mesh with each other. This disclosed embodiment does not impose any restrictions.

[0087] In this embodiment, the camera module moves relative to the first bracket through the transmission between the first gear of the connecting disc and the second gear of the first rotating shaft, which improves the accuracy and stability of the camera module's movement and meets the different shooting angles of the camera module.

[0088] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 The first support 131 has an extension 135 formed on its surface facing the base 11, and the extension 135 has a groove 136; the second movable module 14 may include:

[0089] The second driving member 141 is disposed on the base 11 and has a second rotating shaft 142, which is engaged with the groove 136.

[0090] When the second drive member 141 drives the second rotating shaft 142 to rotate, the second rotating shaft 142 drives the first bracket 131 and the camera module 12 to move relative to the base 11.

[0091] In this embodiment, the first bracket can be rotatably connected to the second driving member via an extension. The second driving member can be fixedly mounted on the base and can engage with the groove of the extension via a second rotating shaft, so as to drive the first bracket and the camera module to move relative to the base when the second rotating shaft rotates.

[0092] The second driving component can also be a motor, electric motor or other type of power device, which can provide rotational torque so that the first bracket and camera module can rotate relative to the base in the second direction.

[0093] It is understandable that the second rotating shaft and the first bracket are relatively fixed because the second rotating shaft is engaged with the groove of the extension. When it is necessary to adjust the shooting angle of the camera module, the second driving component can drive the second rotating shaft to rotate, and the rotation of the second rotating shaft can drive the first bracket and the camera module to rotate relative to the base.

[0094] It should be noted that the number of second driving components can be one or more. When there is one second driving component, the second driving component may include multiple second rotating shafts, each second rotating shaft engaging a groove in the extension of a first bracket. The second driving component can drive each first bracket and each camera module to rotate by controlling the rotation of each second rotating shaft. When there are multiple second driving components, each second driving component is spaced apart on the base, and each second driving component has a second rotating shaft. The second rotating shaft of one second driving component engages a groove in the extension of a first bracket, and the rotation of each second rotating shaft can drive the first bracket and the camera module to rotate. This disclosure does not limit this aspect.

[0095] In this embodiment, by setting the second rotating shaft of the second driving member to engage with the groove of the extension of the first bracket, the rotation of the second rotating shaft can drive the first bracket and the camera module to move relative to the base, so that the camera module can flexibly adjust the shooting angle; and the second driving member can improve the accuracy of controlling the camera module to move in the second direction, thereby improving the accuracy of adjusting the shooting angle of the camera module.

[0096] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 The camera 10 may also include:

[0097] A support housing 15 is disposed between the first bracket 131 and the base 11; the surface of the support housing 15 facing the camera module 12 has an opening 151, and the extension 135 passes through the opening 151 and is connected to the second drive member 141.

[0098] The pressure cap 16 is fitted onto the extension 135 and abuts against the support housing 15 at the opening 151, thereby increasing the gap between the extension 135 and the support housing 15.

[0099] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, the support housing is disposed between the first bracket and the base, and the second driving member may be located inside the support housing.

[0100] Here, the surface of the support housing facing the camera module has an opening, through which the extension of the first bracket can pass, so that part of the extension is also located inside the support housing. At this time, the second rotating shaft of the second drive can engage with the groove of the extension inside the support housing.

[0101] It should be noted that the number of openings on the surface of the supporting housing facing the camera module can be selected according to the number of first brackets in the actual application scenario, and this embodiment does not impose any limitations. For example, there may be two first brackets and two openings on the surface of the supporting housing facing the camera module; or, there may be three first brackets and three openings on the surface of the supporting housing facing the camera module, etc.

[0102] The aforementioned cap can be a component with good wear resistance; for example, the cap can be a polyoxymethylene (POM) cap or a polypropylene (PP) cap, etc.

[0103] POM is a highly crystalline, high-density linear polymer with metal-like hardness, strength, and rigidity. Therefore, POM glands have excellent wear resistance, fatigue resistance, self-lubrication, and chemical corrosion resistance, and can be used to reduce wear between the extension and the support housing.

[0104] It is understandable that when the second drive unit drives the second rotating shaft to rotate, the rotation of the second rotating shaft can cause the extension to rotate relative to the support housing. At this time, the gland is located between the extension and the support housing. By increasing the gap between the extension and the support housing, the contact between the extension and the support housing can be reduced, thereby reducing the wear between the extension and the support housing.

[0105] It should be noted that the specific number of the aforementioned covers can also be set according to the number of the first brackets in the actual application scenario. That is, the number of covers, the number of the first brackets, and the number of camera modules can all be the same, and this disclosure embodiment does not impose any restrictions.

[0106] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, the gap between the extension and the support housing can be increased by providing an extension sleeved on the first bracket and abutting against the support housing at the opening of the support housing, thereby reducing wear between the extension and the support housing and improving the stability of the camera; in addition, using the pressure cover to replace the metal bearing in the camera can reduce the production cost of the camera.

[0107] In some embodiments, see Figure 3 and Figure 5 The camera 10 may also include:

[0108] The second bracket 17 is located inside the support housing 15 and can fix the second drive member 141.

[0109] There is a gap between the second drive member 141 and the inner wall of the support housing 15, which provides space for the signal line 18 of the camera 10.

[0110] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the second bracket may be a component disposed on the base for supporting the second driving member.

[0111] Here, the second bracket can fix the second drive unit inside the support housing. Due to the position of the second bracket on the base, there is a gap between the second drive unit located on the second bracket and the inner wall of the support housing. This gap can be used to provide cable space for the signal line connecting the camera module.

[0112] It should be noted that the number of second supports can be set according to the number of second driving components in the actual application scenario, and this embodiment does not impose any limitations. For example, when there is one second driving component, the number of second supports is one; or, when there are two second driving components, the number of second supports is two, and so on.

[0113] In this embodiment, a second drive unit can be fixed by setting a second bracket inside the support housing. Due to the position of the second bracket on the base, there is a gap between the second drive unit fixed on the second bracket and the inner wall of the support housing. This gap can be used to provide cable routing space for the camera's signal line, so that the signal line can be connected to the base without affecting the movement of the camera module, thereby improving the rationality of the internal space layout of the camera.

[0114] In some embodiments, see Figures 2 to 5 The first bracket 131 has a hollow structure 137, which is used for the signal line 18 of the camera 10 to pass through to connect the camera module 12.

[0115] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the signal line may include a flexible flat cable (FFC). This allows the use of FFC in the camera design to replace copper-coated signal lines, reducing camera production costs while increasing the flexibility of wiring for the camera module.

[0116] It should be noted that the signal lines are used to transmit power and control signals to each camera module of the camera. The power supply signals are used to power each camera module, and the control signals are used to control the movement angle of each camera module.

[0117] Here, the supporting shell and the base form a first receiving cavity, the camera module shell has a second receiving cavity, and the hollow structure of the first bracket can conduct the first receiving cavity and the second receiving cavity, so that the signal line connecting the camera module can pass through the hollow structure of the first bracket and connect to the base.

[0118] It is understandable that the first opening and the second opening of the first support can be the opposite ends of the hollow structure of the first support, that is, the hollow structure of the first support can connect the first opening and the second opening of the first support.

[0119] The first opening of the first bracket can be located at the connection position between the first rotating shaft and the connecting plate, and the second opening of the first bracket can be located in the groove of the extension, so that the signal line set in the camera will not affect the movement of the camera module following the first and second movable modules.

[0120] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, by setting a hollow structure inside the first bracket, a connection space can be provided for the camera's signal lines. By setting the first opening and the second opening of the first bracket as opposite ends of the hollow structure, interference between the signal line wiring and the internal components of the camera can be reduced, thereby improving the rationality of the internal space layout of the camera.

[0121] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 The camera 10 may also include:

[0122] The first circuit board 191 is fixed inside the housing 121 of the camera module and electrically connected to the camera module 12.

[0123] The second circuit board 192 is disposed on the surface of the base 11 facing the camera module 12;

[0124] Signal line 18 is electrically connected at one end to the first circuit board 191, and at the other end passes through the hollow structure 137 of the first bracket 131 and is electrically connected to the second circuit board 192.

[0125] In this embodiment of the disclosure, both the first circuit board and the second circuit board can be printed circuit boards, which can be used to carry various functional modules inside the camera.

[0126] For example, the second circuit board may carry an audio module for outputting audio signals, or a processing module for information processing, responsible for processing image data, etc., and the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited thereto.

[0127] Here, the first circuit board can be fixedly mounted inside the housing of the camera module, and both the camera module and the first driving component can be electrically connected to the first circuit board. One end of the signal line is connected to the first circuit board, and the other end passes through the hollow structure of the first bracket and is electrically connected to the second circuit board. The second circuit board can be fixedly mounted between the base and the second bracket, and is located inside the supporting housing; the second driving component can also be electrically connected to the second circuit board.

[0128] It is understandable that the camera module and the first circuit board, the first driver and the first circuit board, and the second driver and the second circuit board can also be electrically connected through the camera's signal line so that power supply signals and control signals can be transmitted to the camera module, the first driver and the second driver.

[0129] It should be noted that the dimensions of the first circuit board and the second circuit board can be set according to the actual application scenario, and this embodiment does not impose any restrictions.

[0130] The camera in this embodiment may further include an interface module electrically connected to a second circuit board. The interface module may include various input / output ports, such as general purpose input / output interfaces, audio / video interfaces, power interfaces, etc., for connecting and transmitting data with other electronic devices or power supplies.

[0131] The interface module can be exposed to the outside of the base through the through-hole on the base, which makes it convenient for users or other electronic devices to connect and exchange data with the camera through the interface module.

[0132] It should be noted that the through holes on the base can be set on the surface of the base away from the camera module, or they can be set on the side of the base, etc., and this disclosure does not limit them.

[0133] In this embodiment of the disclosure, by setting up a first circuit board and a second circuit board, and using signal lines passing through the hollow structure of the first bracket to electrically connect the first circuit board and the second circuit board, the camera can better transmit signals to each camera module, thereby better controlling each camera module and improving the ease of use and overall performance of the camera.

[0134] For example, taking a camera that includes two camera modules and two first active modules as an example, such as... Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the camera 10 may include a base 11, two camera modules 12, two first movable modules 13 and a second movable module 14. Each camera module 12 may include a camera module housing 121 and a camera body. Each first movable module 13 may include a first bracket 131 and a first driving member 132. The second movable module may include a second driving member 141.

[0135] Here, a connecting disk 133 is formed on the surface of the first bracket 131 facing the camera module 12, the first driving member 132 has a first rotating shaft 134, and the connecting disk 133 forms a first gear, and the first rotating shaft 134 forms a second gear; when it is necessary to adjust the shooting angle of the camera module, the first driving member 132 can drive the first rotating shaft 134 to rotate, and the second gear of the first rotating shaft 134 and the first gear of the connecting disk 133 can mesh at different positions to drive the camera module 12 to rotate in a first direction relative to the first bracket 131.

[0136] The first bracket 131 has an extension 135 on its surface facing the base 11. The extension 135 has a groove 136. The second drive member 141 has a second rotating shaft 142, and the second rotating shaft 142 is engaged with the groove 136. When it is necessary to adjust the shooting angle of the camera module, the second drive member 141 can drive the second rotating shaft 142 to rotate. The rotation of the second rotating shaft 142 can drive the first bracket 131 and the camera module 12 to rotate relative to the base 11 in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0137] Additionally, the camera 10 of this embodiment may further include: a support housing 15 disposed between the first bracket 131 and the base 11, and a pressure cap 16 sleeved on the extension 135 and abutting against the support housing 15 at the opening 151. When the second driving member 141 drives the second rotating shaft 142 to rotate, the rotation of the second rotating shaft 142 can drive the extension 135 to rotate relative to the support housing 15; at this time, the pressure cap 16 is located between the extension 135 and the support housing 15, and by increasing the gap between the extension 135 and the support housing 15, the contact between the extension and the support housing can be reduced, thereby reducing the wear between the extension and the support housing.

[0138] The camera 10 of this embodiment may further include: a second bracket 17 located within the support housing 15, capable of fixing the second drive member 141; due to the position of the second bracket 17 on the base 11, there is a gap between the second drive member 141 located on the second bracket 17 and the inner wall of the support housing 15, which can be used to provide cable routing space for the signal line 18 connecting the camera module 12, so that the signal line can be connected to the base without affecting the movement of the camera module, thereby improving the rationality of the internal space layout of the camera.

[0139] In this embodiment, when the first driving component of the camera drives the first rotating shaft to rotate, the two camera modules can be driven to rotate relative to the first bracket in a first direction by the meshing of the second gear of the first rotating shaft in the two first movable modules with the first gear of the connecting plate at different positions. At this time, both camera modules can rotate in the first direction, but the shooting angles of the two camera modules can be different. For example, one camera module can rotate 45 degrees clockwise in a direction perpendicular to the base, and the other camera module can rotate 45 degrees counterclockwise in a direction perpendicular to the base. When the second driving component of the camera drives the second rotating shaft to rotate, the rotation of the second rotating shaft in the second movable module can drive the first bracket and the camera modules to rotate relative to the base in a second direction different from the first direction. At this time, both camera modules can rotate in the second direction, but the shooting angles of the two camera modules can also be different. For example, one camera module can rotate 90 degrees clockwise in a horizontal direction parallel to the base, and the other camera module can rotate 90 degrees counterclockwise in a horizontal direction parallel to the base.

[0140] Thus, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, when the two first and second movable modules in the camera move, the two camera modules can follow the movement of the two first and second movable modules in different directions. This allows the two camera modules to adjust their shooting angles more flexibly, reducing the camera's blind spots. Furthermore, adjusting the shooting angle of each camera module helps to achieve the camera's privacy masking function. Simultaneously, since the two camera modules can move in different directions, the camera has a wider field of view, thereby improving the camera's shooting effect. In addition, using a pressure cap instead of a metal bearing in the camera reduces the camera's production cost while reducing wear between the extension and the support housing, improving the camera's stability.

[0141] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a monitoring device according to an exemplary embodiment. For example... Figure 6 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, a monitoring device is proposed, which may include:

[0142] The camera as described in the above embodiments of this disclosure;

[0143] The controller 100 has a communication module and is able to send control commands to the camera 10 through the communication module to control the multiple camera modules 12 of the camera 10.

[0144] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the monitoring equipment is applied to scenarios such as home security, public safety, or industrial production. The monitoring equipment can precisely control multiple camera modules in the camera through the controller, so that each camera module can adjust different shooting angles, thereby improving the reliability of the monitoring equipment.

[0145] The aforementioned camera includes multiple camera modules, each capable of capturing images from different angles or areas through the camera's first and second movable modules.

[0146] Here, each camera module can follow the first active module in a first direction when the first active module of the camera is active, so as to capture images in the first direction; each camera module and the first active module can follow the second active module in a second direction when the second active module of the camera is active, so as to capture images in the second direction.

[0147] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the controller may include a mobile terminal, such as a mobile phone, tablet, or remote control. The controller may respond to user manual operations or internal logic judgments by sending control commands to the camera via a communication module to control the various camera modules of the camera.

[0148] The communication module can communicate via wireless or wired communication, and can be used to establish a communication connection with the camera.

[0149] It should be noted that after receiving a control command, the camera responds by adjusting the shooting angle, focal length, or exposure of each camera module to meet different monitoring needs. The camera can also transmit the image data collected by each camera module to the controller, which then performs subsequent image processing.

[0150] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the monitoring equipment is suitable for various scenarios that require monitoring. Through the precise control of the controller, the multiple camera modules in the camera can be flexibly adjusted, which increases the monitoring angle of the monitoring equipment and improves the reliability of the monitoring equipment.

[0151] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the claims.

[0152] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A video camera characterized by comprising: The camera comprises: a base; a plurality of camera modules mounted side by side on the base; a plurality of first movable modules, each of which is connected to one of the camera modules and can drive the camera module to move in a first direction; a second movable module connected between the base and the first movable modules and capable of driving the first movable modules and the camera modules to move in a second direction relative to the base; wherein the first direction is different from the second direction.

2. The camera of claim 1, wherein, The first movable module comprises: a first support connected to the camera module, a surface of the first support facing the camera module being formed with a connecting disc; a first driving member located in a housing of the camera module and having a first rotating shaft connected to the connecting disc; when the first driving member drives the first rotating shaft to rotate, the first rotating shaft and the connecting disc cooperate to drive the camera module to move relative to the first support.

3. The camera of claim 2, wherein, The connecting disc is formed with a first gear, and the first rotating shaft is formed with a second gear; when the first rotating shaft rotates, the second gear can engage with the first gear at different positions to drive the camera module to move relative to the first support.

4. The camera of claim 2, wherein, A surface of the first support facing the base is formed with an extension having a groove, and the second movable module comprises: a second driving member provided on the base and having a second rotating shaft connected to the groove; when the second driving member drives the second rotating shaft to rotate, the second rotating shaft drives the first support and the camera module to move relative to the base.

5. The camera of claim 4, wherein, The camera further comprises: a support housing provided between the first support and the base, a surface of the support housing facing the camera module having an opening, and the extension passes through the opening to be connected to the second driving member; a gland sleeve provided on the extension and abutting against the support housing at the opening to increase the gap between the extension and the support housing.

6. The camera of claim 5, wherein, The camera further comprises: a second support located in the support housing and capable of fixing the second driving member; the second driving member and an inner wall of the support housing have a gap therebetween, and the gap provides space for arranging signal lines of the camera.

7. The camera of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein, The first support has a hollow structure for the signal lines of the camera to pass through to connect the camera module.

8. The camera of claim 7, wherein, The camera further comprises: a first circuit board fixed in the housing of the camera module and electrically connected to the camera module; a second circuit board provided on a surface of the base facing the camera module; the signal lines have one end electrically connected to the first circuit board and the other end electrically connected to the second circuit board through the hollow structure of the first support.

9. The camera of claim 7, wherein, The signal lines comprise flexible flat cables.

10. A monitoring device, characterized by The camera comprises: the camera according to any one of claims 1 to 9; a controller having a communication module and capable of sending control instructions to the camera through the communication module to control the plurality of camera modules of the camera.

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