Detachable Security Bracket for DSLR Lens Release Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional security sensors are difficult to use on removable camera lenses of DSLR cameras due to their cylindrical shape lacking a flat, non-rotating surface, leading to potential theft issues as thieves can detach lenses without triggering alarms.
Innovation Solution
A security bracket assembly with a base portion that captures the camera body and a detachable forward bracket portion that covers the lens release mechanism, preventing access and allowing for easy lens swapping without disconnecting security sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional security sensors are used on DSLR cameras, then theft protection is provided for the camera body, but the removable lens cannot be secured because it lacks a flat, non-rotating surface for sensor attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The security system is divided into two segments: a stationary sensor mounted on the display post and a movable tab on the lens that engages with the release mechanism. This segmentation allows the sensor to remain fixed while the lens tab moves during normal operation, resolving the contradiction between providing security and accommodating lens removability.
Solution Approach 2:
A tab is introduced as an intermediary element between the lens and the release mechanism. This tab serves as a mediator that the security sensor can detect, allowing the sensor to monitor lens attachment status without directly attaching to the rotating lens surface. The tab translates the rotational motion of the lens into a detectable linear motion for the sensor.
2Reliability
If a cable-tie strap is used to secure the lens, then security is improved, but hand-operation of the lens by potential purchasers is interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The security mechanism transitions from a static cable-tie strap to a dynamic tab system that moves with lens operation. The tab is positioned and dimensioned to engage the release mechanism only when the lens is improperly removed, allowing normal hand-operation and lens swapping while maintaining security against theft.
Solution Approach 2:
Security is applied locally at the critical interface between the lens and camera body where the release mechanism is located, rather than surrounding the entire lens with a cable-tie strap. This localized approach provides security exactly where needed without interfering with the overall accessibility and operation of the lens.
3Reliability
If the security bracket prevents lens removal, then theft protection is enhanced, but lens swapping by sales personnel becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The security system is designed to be self-serving for both security and operational purposes. The tab automatically engages and disengages from the release mechanism during normal lens swapping operations performed by authorized personnel, requiring no additional actions or modifications to the security system itself.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is a security bracket assembly for preventing theft of camera lenses from cameras that are on display at retail locations. The bracket assembly carries and partially receives the camera body. The assembly has a forward shield that prevents finger access to the lens release mechanism that allows detachment of the lens from the camera body. The forward shield may be removed from the assembly so that a camera lens can be swapped without disconnecting other security or power features associated with the camera display post.