Dual Port Security Camera Solo Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional IP security cameras require complex installation processes due to inaccessible network connections after mounting, leading to inefficiencies and increased labor costs, as technicians must either travel to a video terminal or work with a partner to focus and aim the camera.
Innovation Solution
A security camera with dual communication ports, where one port is accessible behind the mounting surface and the other in front, allowing the digital communication signal to be sent to the secondary port when connected, enabling technicians to view and focus the camera without leaving the installation site.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the primary communication port is positioned behind the mounting surface for secure installation, then the camera mounting reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because technicians cannot access the network connection after mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The communication functionality is segmented into two separate ports: a primary port positioned behind the mounting surface for secure installation, and a secondary port positioned on the front surface for easy access during installation and configuration. This segmentation allows each port to serve its specific purpose without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary communication port acts as an intermediary that enables technicians to access the camera's network connection and configuration interface without needing to physically reach behind the mounting surface. This intermediary port facilitates the installation process while maintaining the secure positioning of the primary port.
2Reliability
If technicians must travel to a video terminal to focus and aim the camera, then the camera mounting reliability is improved, but the loss of time increases due to additional travel and coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary communication port enables the installing technician to independently access the camera's video feed and configuration interface directly at the installation location. This self-service capability eliminates the need to travel to a remote video terminal or coordinate with another person, allowing the technician to complete focusing and aiming operations independently and efficiently.
3Reliability
If a partner is required to assist with camera installation, then the camera mounting reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary communication port provides the installing technician with direct access to all necessary camera functions and configuration interfaces at the installation site. This self-service capability eliminates the need for a second person to operate the video terminal or provide assistance, allowing single-technician installation and reducing coordination complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates solo installation by allowing technicians to access the digital communication signal directly, reducing installation time and labor costs by keeping the technician at the camera location.
Implementation Method 1
a lens mounted to the camera body and positioned to refract the light entering the camera body through the aperture
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present disclosure is directed at a security camera having dual communication ports. The camera includes a camera body mountable to a mounting surface and comprising an aperture, a lens, an imager, primary communication circuitry comprising a primary communication port accessible from outside the camera body, secondary communication circuitry comprising a secondary communication port accessible from outside the camera body, and control and processing circuitry communicatively coupled to the imager and to the primary and secondary communication circuitry. The primary communication port is on one side of the mounting when the camera body is mounted and the secondary communication port and the aperture are on an opposing side of the mounting surface when the camera body is mounted. A digital communication signal is sent to the secondary communication port when the secondary communication port is coupled to an active link.