Camera Track System for Smooth Slow Motion Capture

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image capture systems require multiple cameras and complex editing techniques to achieve smooth slow motion playback of fast action, which is inefficient and cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

A track system for image capture devices comprising a track, carriage, retractors, release mechanism, and adjustable handles, allowing a single camera to capture images and videos efficiently by moving along the track to detach time and space from the subject.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple cameras and specialized editing techniques are used to capture fast action at high frame rates, then smooth slow motion playback is achieved, but device complexity and operational efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesmooth slow motion playbackVSAvoidmultiple cameras and editing techniques

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The track system is divided into modular components including carriage, track segments, retractor units, and camera mounts. Each module can be independently configured and assembled, allowing the system to achieve complex multi-camera setups while maintaining ease of deployment and reduced operational complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic carriage movement along the track at controlled speeds to capture fast action sequences. The retractors dynamically adjust cable tension to maintain precise carriage positioning during high-speed traversal, enabling smooth slow motion playback through controlled mechanical motion rather than complex post-processing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If multiple cameras are deployed to capture fast action, then coverage and playback quality improve, but ease of operation and setup time worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefast action capture qualityVSAvoidsystem setup and operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The track system serves multiple functions: it provides precise carriage positioning, supports various camera configurations, enables controlled high-speed movement, and facilitates easy reconfiguration through modular components. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single integrated platform, improving ease of operation while maintaining capture quality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The retractor units automatically maintain cable tension and carriage positioning without requiring manual adjustment during operation. The modular track segments self-align through interlocking mechanisms, reducing setup time and operational complexity while ensuring consistent capture quality across multiple camera positions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10690284B2Track system for image capture devices

Publication Date: 2020.06.23 MAYORGA BENJAMIN

AI summary

A track system for image capture devices is utilized to shoot fast action at high frame rates for smooth slow motion playback. The results are visual impressions of detaching time and space of viewers from that of their visible subject. The system includes a track, a carriage, a handle, a first retractor, and a release mechanism. The release mechanism includes a trigger, actuator, and a pin. When the user is ready to capture fast action images and/or videos of the target subject, the user pulls the trigger, which in communication with the actuator which causes the pin to disengage from a pin aperture. In turn, the carriage is released to slide along the track.