Camera Module Cover Mechanism for Privacy Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing in-house communication systems lack protection against misuse, particularly in terms of visual communication, as camera modules can be hacked, compromising individual privacy.

Innovation Solution

A mounting arrangement with a camera module and a manually adjustable cover part that transitions from an open to a closed position, incorporating an actuating element for switching other electrical devices off when the cover is closed, preventing unauthorized visual communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a camera module is installed in an in-house communication system, then visual communication functionality is improved, but the system becomes vulnerable to hacking and misuse compromising privacy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual communication functionalityVSAvoidhacking and misuse risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamically adjustable cover part that can transition between open and closed positions, allowing the camera module to switch between active and protected states. This dynamic mechanism enables the system to adapt its security state based on usage requirements, resolving the contradiction between maintaining visual communication functionality and preventing unauthorized access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cover part serves as an intermediary physical barrier between the camera module and the external environment. When closed, it physically blocks access to the camera, preventing hacking and misuse while preserving the camera's functionality when open. This intermediary element effectively isolates the vulnerable component without eliminating its useful function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a protective cover is added to the camera module to prevent misuse, then privacy protection is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprivacy protectionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the protective cover function with the existing camera module housing and mounting structure. The cover part is integrated into the overall device architecture, sharing structural elements and mounting points with other components, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity while achieving effective privacy protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cover part is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a protective barrier against hacking, provides a manual switching mechanism for camera activation, and integrates with the overall device aesthetics. Additionally, the actuating element can trigger other electrical installation devices, adding further functionality without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If a manually adjustable cover part is implemented to control camera access, then privacy control is improved, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprivacy controlVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cover part is designed to be manually operable by the end user without requiring technical knowledge or complex procedures. The simple mechanical actuating mechanism allows users to independently control camera access by opening or closing the cover, enabling self-service privacy control without increasing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2375520B1Assembly system, in particular for internal communication
Publication Date: 2013.12.04 GIRA GIERSIEPEN GMBH & CO KG
  • EP2375520B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2375520B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2375520B1 patent drawingFigure 3~3a

AI summary

The arrangement (1) has a plate made of glass or plastic and provided in a frame part (14). A camera module (2) is connected with a supporting part (3) and comprises a base body (21), in which an opening (22) is provided for recording an image. The opening is covered by a covering part (4) that is mechanically adjustable from an opening position into a closing position for the opening. The covering part is designed as a lever or rotary disk. The covering part is manually adjustable via an actuating section. A status LED is found in a non-covered opening of the module.