Multi-Support Camera Accessory With Integrated Power and Freestanding Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capture devices often require two-handed operation and are cumbersome when using extended power solutions, limiting their usability in various scenarios.
Innovation Solution
An accessory with an integrated power supply and adjustable supports that allows for single-handed, wireless operation and functions as a freestanding base, enabling connection to ancillary products and providing a reconfigurable design for different use cases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If extended power solutions are used to extend battery life, then duration of action is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates due to two-handed operation requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory incorporates a support structure that is reconfigurable between multiple positions (first position for handheld support, second position for surface placement). This dynamic adaptability allows the device to transition between different operational modes, enabling single-handed operation when the support is in the first position and hands-free operation when placed on a surface with the support in the second position, thereby resolving the contradiction between extended battery life and ease of operation.
2Duration of action of moving object
If extended power solutions are used, then duration of action is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory integrates multiple functions into a single device: it provides extended power supply through an integrated battery, offers adjustable mechanical support through a reconfigurable support structure, and enables various operational modes (handheld, hands-free, different angles). This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate accessories, thereby extending battery life while managing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed to be collapsible and nestable within the accessory body when not in use. The support can be folded into a compact configuration that fits within the housing, minimizing the accessory's footprint and reducing apparent complexity when the support function is not needed, while still providing full support functionality when required.
3Ease of operation
If a fixed support structure is used, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates a pivot joint that allows it to be rotated between a first position (extending outward to provide handheld support) and a second position (retracted or angled for surface placement). This dynamic reconfigurability enables the accessory to adapt to different use cases including handheld operation, hands-free operation on surfaces, and various viewing angles, thereby maintaining ease of operation while significantly improving adaptability.
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
Enables efficient, single-handed operation and hands-free use of image capture devices across various scenarios, enhancing usability and convenience while maintaining a clean and integrated design.
Implementation Method 1
The accessory includes an integrated power supply (e.g., a battery)
Data Source
AI summary
An accessory for an image capture device is disclosed that includes: a body; a rotatable first support that is configured for connection to the image capture device; a second support that is pivotably reconfigurable between stowed and deployed configurations; and a third support including first and second legs that are pivotably connected to the body such that the third support is reconfigurable between collapsed and expanded configurations. In the stowed configuration, the second support is concealed within the body, and in the deployed configuration, the second support extends outwardly from the body to facilitate connection of the accessory to an ancillary product. In the collapsed configuration, the third support defines a grip for the image capture device, and in the expanded configuration, the body defines a third leg that cooperates with the first and second legs to provide a freestanding base for the image capture device.