External Camera Module with Latch Mechanism for Notebook Security

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional image-capturing modules in notebook computers occupy internal space, reducing the display-to-cover ratio and pose security risks as they can be uncovered, allowing unauthorized image capture.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device with an external image-capturing module that includes a receiving recess and a moveable restriction unit, allowing the module to be securely stored within the device without additional space, using a latch mechanism and elastic elements to control its position and release.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an image-capturing module is affixed to the top of the display of a notebook computer, then the image-capturing function is provided, but the inner space of the cover is occupied and the display to notebook cover ratio is decreased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage-capturing functionVSAvoiddisplay to notebook cover ratio
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The image-capturing module is extracted from the fixed position on the display cover and made detachable. The module can be removed from the cover and stored separately, allowing the cover area to be fully utilized for display purposes while still providing image-capturing functionality when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The image-capturing module transitions from a static, fixed installation to a dynamic, detachable design. The module can be attached to or detached from the cover according to user needs, and the restriction unit dynamically adjusts to lock or release the module, optimizing both space utilization and functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If an image-capturing module is affixed to the top of the display of a notebook computer, then the image-capturing function is provided, but the image-capturing module is uncovered when the user uses the notebook, allowing hackers to steal images

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage-capturing functionVSAvoidunauthorized image capture
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The restriction unit is designed to automatically cover or protect the image-capturing module when it is not in use. This preliminary protective action prevents potential unauthorized access or hacking attempts before they can occur, while still allowing easy access when the user needs to use the function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The restriction unit dynamically changes position based on whether the image-capturing module is in use. When the module is detached or not needed, the restriction unit moves to cover it, providing security. When the module is attached and needed, the restriction unit moves away to allow access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a receiving recess is designed to receive the external image-capturing module, then the module can be carried within the device, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule portabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The receiving recess is integrated into the existing device structure, combining the storage function with the device housing. The restriction unit is merged with the device's existing mechanisms, and the positioning structures are integrated into the module and housing designs, minimizing additional complexity while achieving portability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables the external image-capturing module to be carried within the device without increasing its size, ensuring it is not forgotten and preventing unauthorized image capture by securely storing it within the device's idle space.

Implementation Method 1

a recovery elastic element, the latch comprises a latch abutting wall and a guiding post... the recovery elastic element is telescoped on the guiding post... One end of the recovery elastic element abuts the latch abutting wall, and the other end of the recovery elastic element abuts the recess abutting wall

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the pushing elastic element is disposed in the receiving recess, and when the restriction unit is in the second position, the restriction unit releases the external image-capturing module, and the pushing elastic element provides an elastic force to push the external image-capturing module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10824206B2Electronic device with external image-capturing module
Publication Date: 2020.11.03 QUANTA COMPUTER INC
  • US10824206B2 patent drawing
  • US10824206B2 patent drawing
  • US10824206B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes an external image-capturing module, a receiving recess and a restriction unit. The external image-capturing module is adapted to be received in the receiving recess. The restriction unit is moveable between a first position and a second position, and when the restriction unit is in the first position, the restriction unit abuts the external image-capturing module and restricts the movement of the external image-capturing module, and when the restriction unit is in the second position, the external image-capturing module is released by the restriction unit.