Two-part camera arm with magnetically guided, reverse polarity protected connector for automatic dart scoring systems

Abstract

(Main claim): Camera arm for automatic dart scoring systems, comprising a foot section (1) with a USB-C socket (5) and a removable upper section (2), characterized in that a spring-loaded connector (3, 4) held by magnets is arranged between the foot section (1) and the upper section (2), which establishes an electrical connection according to the USB 2.0 standard.

Description

2. Technical field The invention relates to a camera mounting arm, particularly for use in automatic dart scoring systems. The camera arm serves to securely position and electrically connect a camera unit to a control unit, the connection being easily detachable and reverse polarity protected. 3. State of the art In conventional camera arms for automatic dart scoring systems, the camera unit and mounting arm are usually permanently connected. The electrical connection is made via a fixed cable or a standard connector. These designs are maintenance-intensive, cumbersome to transport, and prone to malfunctions with frequent setup and takedown. Accidental incorrect insertion can lead to damage or malfunctions. 4. Object of the invention The invention is based on the objective of providing a camera arm that enables a fast, safe and reverse polarity protected electrical connection between a detachable camera head and the arm, without the need to disconnect separate cables or conventional connectors. 5. Solution to the task The task is solved by a two-part camera arm, consisting of a base and a removable top, which are electrically connected via magnetically held, spring-loaded plug contacts. The base contains a USB-C port, which is connected according to the USB 2.0 standard. The upper part contains corresponding contact surfaces that are contacted via the spring-loaded plug contacts when assembled. Magnets in both parts ensure mechanical fixation and guarantee the correct alignment of the contacts. The magnetic guide design prevents incorrect or reversed assembly. When the top part is removed, the electrical connection is simultaneously disconnected. The solution allows for simple, intuitive handling and ensures a durable and reliable electrical connection. 6. Advantages of the invention • Quick and easy assembly and disassembly of the camera head • Secure, reverse polarity protected electrical connection • No loose cable connections or plugging errors • Easy to maintain and robust • Compatible with various automatic dart scoring systems 7. Example of implementation An embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the accompanying schematic drawing. Description of the example: • The base (1) of the camera arm contains a USB-C socket (5) which has an internal USB 2.0 connection to the camera. • In the transition area (view B1) between the base (1) and the upper part (2), several spring-loaded plug contacts (3) are arranged, which press against corresponding contact surfaces (4) of the upper part. • Magnets are arranged in the immediate vicinity of the plug contacts, which ensure automatic, correct positioning of the two parts. • When joined, the magnetic contacts snap into place automatically, thereby simultaneously establishing the electrical connection. • The camera head is attached to the upper part and is supplied with power and data via the USB-C connection. 8. Summary The invention relates to a two-part camera arm for automatic dart scoring systems. The camera arm consists of a base with a USB-C port (USB 2.0 standard) and a detachable top section. Magnetically held, spring-loaded connectors between the two parts ensure a reverse polarity protected electrical connection. This design allows for quick and easy mounting and dismounting of the camera unit without the need for separate cables. 9. List of reference symbols 1 Base 2 Top 3 Spring-loaded connector 4 Contact surfaces 5 USB-C socket 6 Camera module 9 M2x4 DIN912 10 Stray light cap 11 M2x6 DIN912

Claims

(Main claim): Camera arm for automatic dart scoring systems, comprising a foot section (1) with a USB-C socket (5) and a detachable upper section (2), characterized in that a spring-loaded connector (3, 4) held by magnets is arranged between the foot section (1) and the upper section (2), which establishes an electrical connection in accordance with the USB 2.0 standard. Camera arm according to claim 1, characterized in that the magnets guide the alignment of the plug connection in such a way that incorrect or reversed insertion is structurally excluded. Camera arm according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper part (2) can be electrically and mechanically separated by pulling it off the foot part (1). Camera arm according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the spring-loaded contacts are arranged in the foot part (1) and the corresponding contact surfaces in the upper part (2) consist of electrically conductive material. Camera arm according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the magnetic connection additionally serves as a mechanical fixation and ensures a reproducible electrical contact force.

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