Articulating Camera Unit for Confined Space Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing visual inspection devices lack the ability to effectively articulate and maneuver cameras within confined spaces, limiting access and visibility for professionals in various trades.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held visual inspection device with an articulating camera unit featuring a flexible cable and articulation mechanism, allowing the camera to be articulated relative to the cable and secured in multiple orientations, coupled with a display unit for real-time image transmission and a rechargeable battery pack for power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid camera housing is used, then structural stability is improved, but ability to access confined spaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera unit is divided into separate segments including a camera module, flexible cable, and articulation mechanism that can be independently positioned and secured at different locations within confined spaces
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible cable with articulation mechanism replaces rigid housing structures, allowing the camera to bend and articulate to access narrow passageways while maintaining structural integrity through the flexible yet durable cable construction
2Device complexity
If the camera is fixed in position, then structural simplicity is improved, but maneuverability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system transitions from a fixed position to a dynamic configuration where the camera can be articulated to multiple positions along the flexible cable and secured at various orientations using a rotatable mount with detent positions
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation mechanism is nested within the flexible cable structure, allowing the camera to be positioned and secured at different locations without requiring external mounting structures or complex assembly procedures
3Duration of action of moving object
If a rechargeable battery pack is added, then duration of action is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rechargeable battery pack is integrated into the handle assembly, merging the power source with the existing structural component rather than adding a separate external power supply unit
Solution Approach 2:
The handle serves multiple functions including providing structural support, housing the rechargeable battery pack for power supply, and serving as the user interface for operating the camera system
Data Source
AI summary
A visual inspection device includes a housing, a handle coupled to the housing that is grasped by a user while the device is in use, and an articulating camera unit coupled to the housing. The articulating camera unit includes a flexible cable with a first end coupled to the housing and a second end, a camera coupled to the second end of the flexible cable and operable to transmit image data through the flexible cable, and an articulation mechanism operable to articulate the camera relative to the flexible cable. The articulation mechanism includes a mount that is removably coupled to the housing. The articulating camera unit further includes a means for securing the mount to the housing in a plurality of different orientations relative to the housing. The visual inspection device further includes a display unit coupled to the housing to display an image transmitted by the articulating camera unit.