Auto-Return Hinge for Mobile Webcam Orientation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hinges used in mobile computers with integrated webcams lack auto-return and auto-turning functions, leading to inconvenient image inversion when the webcam is turned beyond 180°.
Innovation Solution
A hinge design incorporating a shaft member, spring member, slide, mounting frame, locating member, and actuating member, which utilize wedge blocks and sliding grooves/protrusions to achieve auto-return and auto-turning functions, preventing image inversion by triggering a control device at predetermined angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the webcam is mounted on the mobile computer with a hinge allowing turning to different angles, then the webcam can be positioned flexibly, but the image orientation becomes reversed when turned over 180°
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge incorporates a control device that detects the turning angle of the webcam and provides feedback control. When the webcam is turned beyond 180°, the control device automatically triggers to return the webcam to the correct orientation, preventing image reversal and maintaining proper image direction without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge system performs self-correction of the webcam position automatically. The control device monitors the turning angle and autonomously activates the return mechanism when necessary, eliminating the need for user intervention to correct inverted images and enabling the system to maintain proper orientation self-service
2Adaptability or versatility
If the hinge allows the webcam to turn freely to different angles, then the positioning adaptability is improved, but the auto-return function is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The control device continuously monitors the turning angle of the webcam and provides feedback to the return mechanism. This feedback loop ensures that when the webcam is turned beyond the predetermined angle (180°), the system automatically detects the condition and triggers the return function to restore the webcam to its correct position, maintaining both positioning freedom and reliability
3Device complexity
If the hinge structure is simplified without cam wheel components, then the device complexity is reduced, but the auto-turning function cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge employs a self-service mechanism where the return spring and control device work together to automatically return the webcam to its correct position without external intervention. The control device detects when the webcam exceeds the predetermined angle and automatically activates the return function, achieving automation while keeping the overall structure relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge utilizes a return spring that changes its physical state based on the turning angle parameter. When the webcam is turned within the predetermined angle, the spring remains in one state; when exceeded, the spring is compressed and automatically returns the webcam to the correct position. This parameter-based mechanism achieves auto-turning functionality with minimal structural complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The hinge ensures smooth operation with auto-return and auto-turning capabilities, maintaining image orientation and enhancing user convenience by automatically returning to a normal position when the webcam is turned beyond 180°.
Implementation Method 1
The spring member is mounted on the shaft body of the shaft member and stopped against the shaft base
Implementation Method 2
the wedge-shaped grooves of the locating member are respectively worked relative to the wedge blocks of the slide, causing the mounting frame to be returned or positioning in a predetermined position
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge formed of a shaft member, a spring member, a slide, a locating member, a mounting frame, and an end cap. When turning the mounting frame with the locating member relative to the slide and the shaft member within a predetermined angle, the mounting frame is returned or positioning in a position within an angle. When turning the mounting frame over the first predetermined angle, the sliding protrusions of the locating member are moved along the sliding protrusions of the slide, and the mounting frame is returned when the sliding protrusions of the locating member do not move over the peaks of the sliding protrusions of the slide, or the mounting frame is automatically turned relative to the shaft member through an angle when the sliding protrusions of the locating member are moved over the peaks of the sliding protrusions of the slide.