Camera Detachable Lens Module Anti-Drop Coupling Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Detachable lens modules in cameras are prone to dropping due to loss of support during detachment, especially with minimized sizes, leading to potential damage and increased susceptibility to shock.

Innovation Solution

A camera design featuring a rotating lens module with a first coupling structure for mounting and a secondary coupling structure using flange portions and anti-escape protrusions to provide temporary coupling, preventing the lens module from dropping during detachment by maintaining support against gravity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the lens module is minimized in size, then the camera becomes more compact and portable, but the grip on the lens module is weakened making it more prone to dropping

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens module sizeVSAvoidlens module drop prevention
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling mechanism is divided into two independent structures: a first coupling structure for secure mounting and a secondary coupling structure for temporary support during detachment. This segmentation allows each structure to specialize in its function, with the secondary structure specifically designed to prevent drops during the transition phase when the lens module is most vulnerable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The secondary coupling structure engages in advance during the detachment process, providing preliminary support before the lens module is fully separated. This preliminary action ensures that the lens module is supported throughout the entire detachment sequence, preventing drops that would occur with minimized size alone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Volume of moving object

If the lens module is minimized in size, then the camera design is improved, but the lens module becomes more susceptible to shock and damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens module sizeVSAvoidshock susceptibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The secondary coupling structure acts as a cushioning mechanism that remains engaged during detachment, providing protective support before any potential drop or shock can occur. This beforehand cushioning ensures that even if the lens module is minimized in size, it remains protected from shock and damage throughout the detachment process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Device complexity

If a single coupling structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the lens module cannot be prevented from dropping during detachment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling structure complexityVSAvoidlens module support during detachment
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling system is segmented into two distinct structures with different functions: the first coupling structure provides secure mounting during operation, while the second coupling structure provides temporary support during detachment. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by showing that added structural complexity is necessary and worthwhile to achieve reliable drop prevention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling structures operate dynamically at different stages of the lens module lifecycle. The first coupling structure is active during mounted operation, while the second coupling structure becomes active during detachment. This dynamic operation allows the system to provide appropriate support at each stage without requiring both structures to be permanently engaged, thus managing complexity effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7988372B2Camera having detachable lens module
Publication Date: 2011.08.02 ADEIA GUIDES INC
  • US7988372B2 patent drawing
  • US7988372B2 patent drawing
  • US7988372B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A camera having a detachable lens is provided. More particularly, the camera includes a main body and a lens module configured so that it can be mounted to or detached from the main body according to a rotating state of the lens module with respect to the main body. The camera also includes a first coupling structure that is configured to provide the lens module with coupling when the lens module is set to a mounting position. The camera also includes a secondary coupling structure that is configured to provide the lens module with temporary coupling when the lens module is set to a detaching position. As a result of this structure, an unwanted dropping of the lens module due to an instant loss of supporting force when the lens module is detached from the main body may be prevented.