Telescopic network camera

Abstract

A telescopic web camera (1) comprises a housing (3) and an image capture device (5). The housing comprises a telescopic arm having two or more slidably connected segments (7a-f) that are longitudinally movable between a fully extended state and a fully retracted state. The image capture device (5) is mounted to a slidably connected section (7a) of the housing (3) such that the position of the image capture device (5) can be adjusted by moving the housing (3) between a fully retracted state and a fully extended state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a retractable network camera for capturing and transmitting image data (e.g., video). Background Technology

[0002] A webcam is a digital camera device that captures video. It is primarily designed to transmit live images or video over the internet, allowing individuals to participate in video calls, video conferences, or live streaming. Many webcams also have built-in microphones to capture audio and video, enabling users to communicate via video and audio during video calls or recordings.

[0003] Network cameras are typically small, compact devices that can be attached to a computer monitor, laptop computer, or mounted on a table or tripod. They usually connect to a computer via USB or another suitable port, and the video and audio data captured by the network camera is transferred to the computer for processing and transmission.

[0004] Webcams are compatible with multiple operating systems and can work with various software applications, including video conferencing platforms, instant messaging services, and video recording / editing software. Webcams have become increasingly popular for remote work, online education, video gaming, and social activities because they enable people to leverage the convenience of computers for face-to-face communication and content creation.

[0005] The problem with existing webcams is that, due to their relatively compact nature, they are typically designed to attach to components of existing computer setups (such as monitors), and therefore the webcam's position relative to the user is limited by the physical size of the attached component. This can cause the webcam to be positioned off-eye level, which can negatively impact the user experience. For example, this can cause the webcam to capture the user's view from an unpleasant angle, thus failing to provide an accurate representation of a person's appearance, resulting in reduced engagement or professionalism in video calls or recordings. It can also lead to a lack of eye contact, which plays a crucial role in effective communication during video calls. When a webcam is positioned above eye level, it can create a visual disconnect, where the person appears to be looking down rather than directly at the camera. This can leave an impression of non-engagement or lack of attention, hindering effective communication. Webcams positioned off-eye level may also unintentionally capture more background than necessary. This can distract viewers or participants, preventing them from focusing on the person in the video call or recording.

[0006] To overcome these issues, it is generally desirable to position webcams at or slightly above eye level to allow for a more natural, engaging field of view, thereby promoting better eye contact and minimizing background distractions. However, as mentioned above, the ability to position webcams at eye level is often hampered by the need to mount the webcam onto another component of the computer, and therefore may not always be feasible.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide an improved network camera that solves the above-mentioned problems. Utility Model Content

[0008] This utility model provides a network camera according to the appended claims.

[0009] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a network camera including a housing and an image capture device. The network camera may be a telescopic network camera. The housing may include a telescopic arm having two or more slidably connected sections that are longitudinally movable between a fully extended state and a fully retracted state. The image capture device may be mounted to the slidably connected sections of the housing, such that the position of the image capture device can be adjusted by moving the housing between the fully retracted state and the fully extended state.

[0010] Accordingly, according to a first embodiment of the present invention, a telescopic network camera is provided, including a housing and an image capture device, wherein the housing includes a telescopic arm having two or more slidably connected sections that can move longitudinally between a fully extended state and a fully retracted state, and wherein the image capture device is mounted to the slidably connected sections of the housing such that the position of the image capture device can be adjusted by moving the housing between a fully retracted state and a fully extended state.

[0011] Advantageously, the height of the network camera can be adjusted over a wide range, allowing the image capture device to be properly positioned at the operator's eye level or at an alternative desired vertical position within the height adjustment range.

[0012] The image capture device can be mounted to the uppermost slidably connected section of the housing. When the housing is fully retracted, the image capture device is hidden; when the housing is fully extended, the image capture device is exposed. Two or more slidably connected sections can rotate relative to each other.

[0013] At least one slidably connected segment may include a linear path, and adjacent slidably connected segments may include a stop extending from the surface of that segment. The size and shape of the stop may be configured to mate with the linear path such that the stop can travel along the linear path when the stop and the linear path are aligned. The size and shape of the stop may be further configured to mate with the edge of the adjacent slidably connected segment when the stop is not aligned with the linear path. In a fully extended state, the adjacent slidably connected segments can rotate between a first position in which the stop is aligned with the linear path and a second position in which the stop is not aligned with the linear path. In the first position, the adjacent slidably connected segments can move longitudinally relative to each other, such that the adjacent slidably connected segments can extend and retract. In the second position, the adjacent slidably connected segments cannot move longitudinally relative to each other due to the mate between the stop and the edge of the adjacent slidably connected segment.

[0014] The slidably connected sections can collectively form an internal channel for the cable that extends from the image capture device to the end of the housing.

[0015] The network camera may further include a circuit system contained within a housing and a cable extending between the image capture device and the circuit system, wherein the cable includes a flexible printed circuit board with multiple creases to allow the cable to contract and expand, such that the length of the cable can be adjusted between a fully contracted state and a fully expanded state.

[0016] The slidably connected segments may include concentric tubes of decreasing diameter, the size and shape of which are set to nest in the fully retracted state.

[0017] The network camera may further include a mounting device for connecting the network camera to a computer interface device, wherein the mounting device includes one or more electrical connectors for forming an electrical connection between the network camera and the computer interface device when the network camera is connected to the computer interface device via the mounting device. The network camera may include a USB or USB-C connector.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for deploying a retractable network camera according to the first aspect is provided, the method comprising the steps of: mounting the network camera on a surface; moving the housing from a fully retracted state to a fully extended state; and directing an image capture device toward a desired target for image capture. The method may further include the step of moving two or more slidably connected segments relative to each other, such that the housing moves between a locked state and an unlocked state, in which the slidably connected segments cannot move relative to each other in the longitudinal direction, and in which the slidably connected segments can move relative to each other in the longitudinal direction in the unlocked state. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To provide a clearer understanding of this invention, embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1 A perspective view showing a schematic representation of a network camera in a fully extended state is provided, wherein the components of the network camera are in a first relative rotational arrangement.

[0021] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The image shows a front view of the network camera.

[0022] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 The diagram shown is a 3D view of a network camera, without the base mounting components; in this position, the component is in contact with... Figure 1 The second relative rotation arrangement is different from the first relative rotation arrangement shown;

[0023] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The side view of the network camera shown;

[0024] Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 The image shown is a 3D view of the network camera, which is in a fully retracted state at this time.

[0025] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A 3D view of the bottom of the network camera shown;

[0026] Figure 7 It shows Figure 5 The side view of the network camera shown;

[0027] Figure 8 It shows Figure 1 A plan view of the cross-section of the network camera shown;

[0028] Figure 9 It shows Figure 3 A plan view of the cross-section of the network camera shown;

[0029] Figure 10 It shows Figure 1 The image shows a three-dimensional view of the upper three components of the network camera in a partially extended state.

[0030] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 The diagram shows the component in its fully retracted state.

[0031] Figure 12 It shows Figure 1 A lower perspective view of a component of a network camera housing interacting with an adjacent component, wherein the interacting components are in a first relative rotational arrangement;

[0032] Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 The lower perspective view shown depicts interacting components in a second relative rotational arrangement;

[0033] Figure 14 It shows Figure 12 A perspective view of the component, in which the component is in an upright position; and

[0034] Figure 15 It shows Figure 1 The image shows a bottom view of the base mounting portion of the network camera. Detailed Implementation

[0035] In the following description, unless otherwise stated, "upper" and "lower" should be considered in relation to a horizontal surface on which the network camera can be supported in an upright position, such as... Figure 1 As shown. For example, the top tube of a network camera should be considered when the network camera is in an upright position (such as...). Figure 1 (As shown) is the pipe section farthest from the horizontal surface, while the lowest pipe should be considered as being in the position of... Figure 1 The location shown is the pipe section closest to the horizontal surface.

[0036] refer to Figure 1 The image shows a telescopic network camera 1 in its fully extended, locked state, and supported on a horizontal surface. The network camera 1 has a housing 3 and an image capture device 5 mounted to the housing 3. The housing 3 includes six concentric tubes or segments 7a-f that are slidably connected, such that the housing 3 can be extended and retracted by sliding one tube 7a telescopically within another adjacent tube 7b.

[0037] Each tube 7a-e is fitted into an adjacent, larger tube 7b-f, thus forming a series of nested cylinders, allowing the housing 3 to retract into a compact arrangement, such as... Figures 5 to 7 As shown. The tubes 7a-f are formed of a lightweight, robust material (e.g., plastic). The number of tubes 7a-f in the housing 3 can vary, but in this case, there are six concentric tubes 7a-f. The tubes 7a-f are arranged in ascending order of diameter, with the diameter of each lower tube 7a-f slightly larger than the diameter of the preceding upper tube until the largest diameter tube 7f is reached, which forms the lowermost section of the network camera 1. The lowermost section of the network camera 1 is attached to the base mounting portion 27 for connecting the network camera 1 to a separate computer interface device (not shown).

[0038] The uppermost tube 7a has a longitudinal handle 9, which, in such a way... Figure 5 In its fully retracted state, it protrudes beyond the nested cylinder. Handle 9 assists the operator in gripping the uppermost tube 7a, allowing the housing to be dragged from its fully retracted state to... Figure 1 The fully extended state.

[0039] Each tube 7a-e, except for the lowest tube 7f, includes three circumferentially spaced linear channels or passages 11a-e, which are formed in the outer surface of the tube and extend longitudinally from the upper edge to the lower edge of the corresponding tube 7a-e. Each tube 7b-f, except for the uppermost tube 7a, includes three circumferentially spaced linear stops 13b-f, which protrude from the inner surface of the tube. The circumferential spacing of the linear channels 11a-e is substantially the same as the circumferential spacing of the stops 13b-f. Accordingly, the tubes 7a-f can be arranged such that the three channels 11a-e of one tube 7a-e are aligned with the three stops 13b-f of the adjacent tube 7b-f, for example... Figure 3 and Figure 9 As shown.

[0040] If possible Figure 9 As can be seen, the linear channels 11a-e and the corresponding stops 13b-f have rectangular cross-sections in the plan view. The size and shape of each linear stop 13b-f are configured to fit within the channel 11a-e of the adjacent tubes 7a-e.

[0041] refer to Figures 12 to 13 All tubes 7a-f include lower flanges 15a-f that surround a lower edge and extend circumferentially inward from the lower edge. All tubes 7a-e, except the lowest tube 7f, include three circumferentially spaced tabs 17a-e that extend outward from the outer side of the lower edge. All tubes 7b-f, except the uppermost tube 7a, include upper flanges 19b-f that surround an upper edge and extend circumferentially inward from the upper edge. Three pairs of circumferentially spaced longitudinal struts 21b-f project from the inner surface of each tube 7b-f and extend a short distance from the associated upper flange 19b-f. Figures 12 to 13 As shown, when the tabs 17a-e are positioned between the supports 21b-f, each pair of supports 21b-e forms the boundary of the corresponding tabs 17a-e of the adjacent tube.

[0042] As described, each tube 7a-f is fitted into an adjacent, larger tube 7a-f to form a series of nested tubes. For example, the outer diameter of the uppermost tube 7a is smaller than the inner diameter of the upper flange 19b of the adjacent lower tube 7b. Therefore, the uppermost tube 7a can be fitted into the adjacent lower tube 7b. However, since the three tabs 17a-e of each tube 7a-e extend beyond the outer wall of the tube 7a-e, the upper flange 19b-f of the tubes 7b-f includes three corresponding circumferentially spaced and shaped cutouts 25b-f to allow the tabs 17a-e, and thus the inner tubes 7a-e, to pass through during assembly. The tabs 17a-e extend slightly beyond the inner edge of the corresponding cutout 25b-f, such that some force is required to push the tabs 17a-e through the cutouts 25b-f of the adjacent tubes 7b-f. One face of each tab 17a-e is beveled or chamfered to facilitate the tab 17a-e passing through the corresponding cut 25b-f. The opposite face of each tab 17a-e is flat to reduce the likelihood that the tab 17a-e will pass back through the corresponding cut 25b-f after assembly.

[0043] Furthermore, the outer diameters of tubes 7a-e are too large to pass through the stops 13b-f of adjacent tubes 7b-f. Accordingly, a tube 7a-e can only be fitted into an adjacent tube 7b-f and move linearly relative to that adjacent tube when the channels 11a-e are aligned with the stops 13b-f. Each stop 13b-f extends linearly between the lower and upper ends of the associated tube 7b-f. However, each stop 13b-f terminates at a short distance from the upper flange 19b-f, such as... Figure 14 As depicted by reference numeral 23 in the accompanying drawings. For each tube 7b-f, three gaps 23 defined between three stops 13b-f and the associated upper flanges 19b-f together define a channel that extends around the circumference of tube 7b-f below the upper flanges 19b-f. This channel allows rotation of the lower section when the lower section of an adjacent tube 7a-e is positioned within the channel of the adjacent tube 7a-e and above the stops 13b-f.

[0044] Each tab 17a-e and its associated strut pair 21b-f restricts the relative rotational movement of two adjacent tubes 7a-f. (Reference) Figure 12 When the tab 17d of a tube 7d is adjacent to or immediately close to one of the associated supports of an adjacent tube 7e (pair 21b-f), the stop 13e is misaligned with the channel 11d. In this position, relative linear movement between the adjacent tubes 7d and 7e is impossible because the lower face of a tube 7d is sandwiched between the stop 13e and the upper flange 19e of the adjacent tube 7e. (Reference) Figure 13When tube 7d rotates relative to adjacent tube 7e such that the tab 17d of tube 7d abuts or is close to the associated support of adjacent tube 7e against another support of 21b-f, the stop 13e and channel 11d are aligned. In this position, relative linear movement between adjacent tubes 7d and 7e is possible because the stop 13e travels freely along the adjacent channel 11d.

[0045] refer to Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 The tubes 7a-f can rotate relative to each other between two extreme positions defined by each pair of struts 21b-f. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 In the first position shown, the stop 13b-f of tube 7b-f is misaligned with the linear channel 11a-f of the adjacent tube 7a-f. As described, in this first position, the stop 13b-f abuts the lower surface of the adjacent inner tube 7a-e to prevent linear relative movement, thus preventing the housing 3 from retracting and keeping it locked in the extended state. Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 9 In the second position shown, the stop 13b-f is aligned with the linear channel 11a-f of the adjacent tubes 7a-f. In this second position, the stop 13b-f can slide along the linear channel 11a-f of the adjacent tubes 7a-e, allowing the housing 3 to move between a retracted state and an extended state (i.e., in...). Figure 3 The state shown is the same as Figure 5 (The state shown) moves between. Accordingly, the linear channels 11a-f and the stops 13b-f ensure that the tubes 7a-f do not rotate or twist during extension or retraction, and also ensure that the network camera 1 can remain in a fully extended, locked state during use.

[0046] Image capture device 5 is installed inside the uppermost tube 7a and positioned such that when network camera 1 is in such a position... Figure 5 In its fully retracted state, it is hidden by the adjacent tube 7b. (As shown) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the network camera 1 is in its fully extended state, the image capture device 5 is exposed and can be guided to the desired target for image capture purposes.

[0047] Tubes 7a-f collectively define an inner channel or passageway (not shown) for the cable, extending from the image capturing device 5 to a mounting member 27 attached at the base of the lowermost tube 7f. In this embodiment, the cable comprises a flat printed circuit board that is folded multiple times to allow it to expand and contract together with the housing 3.

[0048] refer to Figure 15Mounting element 27 includes a connector 29 for allowing the network camera 1 to be mechanically attached to an electronic interface device (such as the electronic interface device described in International Patent Application No. PCT / IB2022 / 055330, for transmitting data between the network camera 1 and a computer (not shown)). Mounting element 27 may include a circuit system for electrically connecting a cable to the electronic interface device when the network camera 1 is attached, allowing data to be transmitted between the image capture device 5 and the computer via the electronic interface device. Accordingly, a connector 31 includes an electrical connector (e.g., a USB-C connector) for establishing a data connection between the network camera 1 and the electronic interface device when the network camera 1 is properly mounted to the electronic interface device.

[0049] In order to make housing 3 from Figures 5 to 7 In the fully retracted extended state, the operator grips handle 9 and applies force to the uppermost tube 7a, pulling it upwards. As the uppermost tube 7a moves, it slides within an adjacent, larger-diameter tube 7b until the three tabs 17a of the uppermost tube 7a engage with the upper flange 19b of the adjacent, larger-diameter tube 7b, causing the adjacent, larger-diameter tube to move upwards together with the uppermost tube 7a. This process continues for each consecutive tube 7c-e until the desired extension length of the housing 3 is reached. When the housing 3 is fully extended, the tubes 7a-f rotate relative to each other until each tab 17a-e abuts its associated support 21b-f. Figure 1 In the position shown, the lower surface of each tube 7a-e is sandwiched between the stop 13b-f and the upper flange 19b-f of each adjacent lower tube 7b-f. Therefore, in this position, the housing 3 is locked in place. Figure 1 The fully extended state.

[0050] The housing 3 is retracted by rotating each tube 7a-f in opposite directions until each tab 17a-e abuts another strut 21b-f of the associated strut pair. Figure 3 In the position shown, each channel 11a-e of tubes 7a-e is aligned with the stop 13b-f of the adjacent lower tubes 7b-f. Therefore, in this position, tubes 7a-f can move linearly relative to each other, and housing 3 is unlocked. Housing 3 retracts by pushing the uppermost tube 7a back towards the lowermost tube 7f. This action causes each nested tube 7a-e to slide back to its corresponding larger diameter tube until housing 3 is as shown. Figure 5 As shown, it has completely retracted.

[0051] Advantageously, the telescopic movement of the housing 3 provides a significant range of extension while maintaining a compact form when retracted for carrying and storage. This versatility makes the network camera suitable for applications where range, accuracy, and space efficiency are key factors, as well as applications that require positioning the image capture device 5 at eye level.

[0052] The above embodiments are described by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A retractable network camera, comprising a housing and an image capture device, wherein, The housing includes a telescopic arm having two or more slidably connected sections capable of longitudinally moving between a fully extended state and a fully retracted state, wherein the image capturing device is mounted to the slidably connected sections of the housing, such that the position of the image capturing device can be adjusted by moving the housing between the fully retracted state and the fully extended state.

2. The network camera as described in claim 1, wherein, The image capture device is mounted to the uppermost slidably connected section of the housing.

3. The network camera as described in claim 1, wherein, When the housing is in the fully retracted state, the image capturing device is hidden; when the housing is in the fully extended state, the image capturing device is exposed.

4. The network camera as described in claim 1, wherein, Two or more slidably connected segments can rotate relative to each other.

5. The network camera as described in claim 4, wherein, At least one of these slidably connected segments includes a linear path, and wherein adjacent slidably connected segments include a stop extending from the surface of the segment, the stop being sized and shaped to mate with the linear path such that when the stop and the linear path are aligned, the stop is able to travel along the linear path, the stop being sized and shaped to mate with the edge of the adjacent slidably connected segment when the stop is not aligned with the linear path, in the fully extended state, the adjacent slidably connected segments are rotatable between a first position and a second position, in the first position the stop is aligned with the linear path, and in the second position the stop is not aligned with the linear path, in the first position the adjacent slidably connected segments are able to move relatively longitudinally such that the adjacent slidably connected segments can extend and retract, in the second position the adjacent slidably connected segments cannot move relatively longitudinally due to the mate between the stop and the edge of the adjacent slidably connected segment.

6. The network camera as described in claim 1, wherein, These slidably connected sections together form an internal channel for the cable, which extends from the image capturing device to the end of the housing.

7. The network camera of claim 1, further comprising a circuit system contained within the housing and a cable extending between the image capture device and the circuit system, wherein, The cable includes a flexible printed circuit board with multiple creases to allow the cable to contract and expand, enabling the cable length to be adjusted between a fully contracted state and a fully expanded state.

8. The network camera as described in claim 1, wherein, These slidably connected segments consist of concentric tubes with decreasing diameters, the size and shape of which are configured to nest in the fully retracted state.

9. The network camera of claim 1, further comprising a mounting component for connecting the network camera to a computer interface device, wherein, The mounting includes one or more electrical connectors for forming an electrical connection between the network camera and the computer interface device when the network camera is connected to the computer interface device via the mounting.

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