Integrated Camera Stand with Wireless Audio Hub
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face cluttered and complex setups when using cameras for video conferencing, requiring separate microphones, speakers, and headset chargers, which detract from the experience and limit mobility.
Innovation Solution
A combined device that integrates a camera stand, wireless headset, and battery charger, allowing for seamless audio and video communication with a single USB connection for both data transfer and power, featuring adjustable tilt and height, and intuitive button controls for call management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate devices (camera, microphone, speakers, headset charger) are used for video conferencing, then audio and video functionality can be provided, but desktop clutter increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines camera, microphone, speakers, and headset charger into a single integrated stand device. The stand houses the camera on a adjustable mount, includes a rechargeable battery pack that charges a wireless headset, and incorporates audio processing capabilities, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices on the desktop.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand device performs multiple functions: it supports and positions the camera at adjustable angles, charges the wireless headset battery through wireless power transfer, provides audio processing for video conferencing, and serves as a centralized control unit. This multi-functional design reduces desktop clutter while maintaining all necessary audio and video capabilities.
2Reliability
If a corded headset is used for audio communication, then audio quality can be maintained, but user mobility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection (physical cable) between the headset and audio source with a wireless communication system. The integrated stand contains a wireless transmitter that communicates with the wireless headset, eliminating the physical cable constraint while maintaining audio quality through wireless digital signal transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand automatically manages the wireless connection and audio signal transmission to the headset without requiring physical plugging or unplugging. The system self-adjusts and maintains the wireless connection, providing both mobility and reliable audio quality.
3Ease of operation
If a cordless headset with rechargeable batteries is used, then user mobility is improved, but the need for a separate charger increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the headset charging function directly into the stand device. The stand contains a rechargeable battery pack that wirelessly transfers power to the headset when placed on the stand, combining the support function and charging function in one device, eliminating the need for a separate charger.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand acts as an intermediary between the power source and the wireless headset. It contains a battery pack that receives power from the host computer and wirelessly transfers it to the headset, serving as a power mediation system that eliminates the need for direct charging connections or separate charging devices.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are set up for video conferencing, then complete audio and video functionality is achieved, but setup time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines camera, microphone, speakers, and headset charging into a single pre-integrated stand device, eliminating the need to set up and connect multiple separate devices. The unified design reduces setup time while maintaining complete audio and video functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand device provides multiple functions (camera support, audio processing, wireless headset charging) in a single unit that connects to the host computer through one interface, significantly reducing the number of connections and setup steps required compared to using separate devices for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a combined camera, camera stand, audio hub, and audio headset charger. The audio headset is wireless, with a wireless connection to the stand/hub. The stand/hub then connects over a bus to a personal computer. The camera can be both tilted and adjusted in height on the stand. Seamless switching from one audio path (e.g., external speakers and microphone in webcam) to another (e.g., wireless headset) occurs, providing the user with a regular telephone like experience. In addition, it is easily possible to mute audio as well as video for the entire system.