Camera Shutter Lock Latch Mechanism for Privacy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to prevent unauthorized access to camera modules in information handling systems, particularly in scenarios where users want to ensure privacy by controlling the shutter state of camera modules.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that involves a shutter state control computing module, a lock latch, and a pin/switch mechanism to mechanically interfere with the shutter's movement from a closed state to an open state, preventing unauthorized access by detecting the engagement of the lock latch and setting a pin state to indicate interference, and allowing access when the lock latch is disengaged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock latch mechanism is added to mechanically interfere with shutter movement, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock latch mechanism is integrated within the existing shutter assembly, with the latch nested inside the shutter housing and the pin/switch mechanism embedded within the latch structure. This nested arrangement allows multiple security functions to be contained within a compact form factor, adding security capabilities without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A pin or switch mechanism serves as an intermediary element between the lock latch and the shutter blade. This intermediary component detects the engagement state of the latch and translates it into a controllable signal, allowing the system to monitor and respond to lock status without requiring direct mechanical coupling between all components.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a pin/switch mechanism is used to detect latch engagement, then detection capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pin or switch mechanism replaces complex mechanical linkages with a simpler electrical or magnetic detection system. Instead of using elaborate mechanical indicators to show latch status, the patent employs a pin that can be actuated by the latch position to change an electrical state or trigger a sensor, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining detection capability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the shutter is mechanically constrained by the lock latch, then privacy protection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock latch mechanism is designed to be dynamically controllable, allowing it to transition between locked and unlocked states based on user input or system commands. The shutter can be temporarily released from mechanical constraint when authorized, enabling flexible operation while maintaining strong privacy protection when needed. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt between security and usability requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock latch is pre-configured to engage with the shutter in a default locked position, providing automatic privacy protection without requiring user intervention. The mechanism is designed so that the shutter remains constrained unless an explicit unlock action is taken, thereby maintaining privacy by default while allowing easy operation when authorization is provided.
Data Source
AI summary
Controlling states of a shutter, including receiving a signal indicating to adjust a shutter of a camera from an open state to a closed state; in response to the signal, mechanically adjusting the shutter of the camera module from the open state to the closed state; after adjusting the state of the shutter of the camera module from the open state to the closed state, receiving a signal indicating that a state of a pin indicates that a lock latch is engaged with the shutter to mechanically interfere with movement of the shutter from the closed state to the open state; detecting an attempt to adjust the state of the shutter of the camera module to the open state from the closed state, and in response, preventing mechanical adjustment of the state of the shutter of the camera module to the open state from the closed state.