Camera Controller Drain Mechanism for Fluid Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in operating digital cameras in outdoor and sports environments where they may need both hands or be out of reach, making it challenging to capture images and videos.
Innovation Solution
A wireless and hands-free camera controller device with embedded microphones that detects voice commands and features drainage channels to prevent fluid ingress, allowing operation in wet conditions, and can be secured to the user via various mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera controller is made waterproof to protect microphones from fluids, then reliability in wet environments is improved, but voice command detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera controller housing is segmented into multiple functional zones: a waterproof sealed section containing the microphone, and an exposed drainage section with channels that allow fluid egress. This segmentation enables the microphone to be protected from fluid ingress while still allowing voice commands to be detected through the controlled drainage path.
Solution Approach 2:
A membrane is introduced as an intermediary element between the fluid environment and the microphone. The membrane allows acoustic waves to pass through for voice command detection while blocking fluid particles from reaching the microphone, thus mediating between the conflicting requirements of waterproof protection and voice detection.
2Reliability
If drainage channels are added to allow fluid egress, then reliability in wet environments is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage channels are merged with the housing body structure itself rather than being separate components. The channels are formed as integral features of the housing, combining the protective function with the structural element, thereby adding drainage capability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains internal components, and simultaneously acts as a drainage system through integrated channels. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate drainage components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Reliability
If the microphone is sealed to prevent fluid ingress, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible membrane is used to seal the microphone opening. This thin film structure allows acoustic vibrations from voice commands to pass through effectively while providing a physical barrier against fluid ingress, thus maintaining both protection and operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing approach is applied locally only at the microphone opening where fluid protection is critical, rather than sealing the entire device. This localized sealing maintains the overall open structure of the device for easy operation while providing targeted protection where needed.
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 remote and hands-free control of cameras in challenging environments, ensuring reliable voice command detection and protection of internal components from fluids, facilitating seamless image and video capture during outdoor and sports activities.
Implementation Method 1
A membrane is located between the first channel and the microphone to create a waterproof seal around the microphone, thereby protecting the microphone from fluids that enter the first channel
Implementation Method 2
A first channel extends from the first opening into the housing body and adjacent to a microphone cavity in which a microphone is located such that the microphone can capture audio signals entering the first channel
Data Source
AI summary
A camera controller is configured to control a camera through voice commands. The camera controller includes drain mechanisms that allow the camera controller to be used in environments in which the camera controller is exposed to fluids. The camera controller device comprises a housing body with an outer surface including a first opening and a second opening. A first channel extends from the first opening into the housing body and to a cavity in which a microphone is located, enabling audio signals entering the first opening to be captured by the microphone. A membrane is located between the first channel and the microphone to create a waterproof seal over the microphone. A second channel extends from the first channel to the second opening to create a drain such that fluid entering from the first opening can flow from the first channel through the second channel and out the second opening.