Network Camera Lens Shutter for Privacy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network video cameras lack effective mechanisms for user privacy control, as existing systems do not provide clear visual feedback when the camera is recording, leading to privacy concerns and limited adoption due to uncertainty about recording status.
Innovation Solution
A network video camera device with a blocking mechanism and indication device that physically blocks the lens and provides visible feedback, allowing customizable settings for video capture control, including the option to block video capture and operate as a motion sensor, with a circuit board for event detection and command generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a network video camera records video continuously, then monitoring capability is improved, but user privacy is compromised due to lack of visual feedback on recording status
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements visual feedback mechanisms (LED indicators, display screens) that provide real-time information about recording status to users. This feedback loop allows users to know when the camera is recording, transforming the hidden recording process into a visible, controllable state that addresses privacy concerns while maintaining monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a blocking mechanism (physical shutter, movable lens cover) as an intermediary between the camera lens and the external environment. This intermediary component can be controlled to block or allow video capture, providing users with direct control over recording operations and mitigating privacy concerns through actionable control
2Adaptability or versatility
If a blocking mechanism is added to control video capture, then privacy control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking mechanism is designed to serve multiple functions: it physically blocks the lens for privacy control, provides visual feedback through integrated indicators, and can be controlled via multiple interfaces (manual buttons, automated schedules, remote access). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and justifies the added complexity through enhanced versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the blocking mechanism with the indication device and control circuitry into an integrated assembly. The blocking component, LED indicators, and control logic are merged into a unified system that operates through shared control circuits, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate independent components
3Loss of information
If visual feedback is provided to indicate recording status, then user awareness is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The visual feedback system uses periodic or event-driven activation rather than continuous operation. LED indicators are activated only when recording status changes or when explicitly triggered by user interaction, and display screens show information on demand or in periodic updates, significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous illumination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and separates the visual feedback function from the main recording operation. The indication system operates as an independent, low-power subsystem that can be selectively activated, allowing the camera to maintain recording capability while minimizing energy consumption of the feedback mechanism through selective activation
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described for a network video camera device. Specifically, various techniques and systems are provided for embodiments of a network video camera with a blocking mechanism for privacy and control of the blocking mechanism. Embodiments of the present invention include a network video capture device. The network video capture device comprises a lens connected to a housing; a blocking mechanism, wherein the a blocking mechanism is configured to selectively block the lens from capturing video images, and wherein the blocking mechanism includes a physical body; an indication device, wherein the indication device is configured to provide visible feedback that the lens is blocked; and a circuit board having a data processor, a wireless transceiver, and a memory configured to store a customizable setting associated with the blocking mechanism.