Camera-Based Hinge Angle Detection for Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices that convert between laptop and tablet modes, such as convertible laptops, often require expensive components like accelerometers and complex calculations to detect movement between the LCD and keyboard assemblies, making them costly and space-consuming.
Innovation Solution
The use of a first and second camera, supported by respective assemblies via a hinge, captures images of a common reference object to determine the relative angle between the assemblies, allowing the device to change operating modes without the need for costly sensors, through a controller that compares these images and adjusts the device's mode accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If accelerometers and complex calculations are used to detect movement between assemblies, then detection accuracy is improved, but device cost and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensors (accelerometers) with an optical system using cameras to detect assembly movement. The cameras capture images of a common reference object from different angles, and the controller calculates the hinge angle through image processing and geometric relationships, eliminating the need for expensive mechanical sensing components while maintaining detection accuracy.
2Reliability
If accelerometers are used to detect assembly movement, then detection reliability is improved, but available device space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical accelerometers with compact camera modules that can be integrated into the device's existing structure. The camera-based system uses optical fields rather than physical sensors, significantly reducing the space required for detection components while maintaining reliable movement detection through image analysis of the reference object.
3Measurement precision
If expensive sensors are used for mode detection, then detection precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs standard camera modules that are inexpensive and widely available compared to specialized accelerometers. These cameras can be mass-produced using conventional manufacturing processes, and the image processing algorithms can be implemented through software, significantly reducing overall manufacturing costs while achieving sufficient detection precision for mode changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical sensing components with optical cameras and computational algorithms. This substitution leverages成熟的 imaging technology and software processing capabilities, eliminating the need for precision mechanical sensors and reducing bill of materials costs while maintaining detection accuracy through mathematical calculations based on image geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
A device includes a first camera and a second camera respectively supported by a first and a second assemblies coupled via a hinge. The first and the second cameras are configured to respectively capture a first image and a second image that include a common reference object. A controller is coupled to the first and the second cameras, and configured to change an operating mode of the device in response to a comparison between the first and the second images. Additional cameras may be used in further embodiments and may be mounted onto the front and back surfaces of the first and the second assemblies.