Garage Door Opener Camera Module With Retractable Monitoring Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing movable barrier operators, such as garage door openers, often require separate, standalone cameras for monitoring, which can be inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a camera module within the movable barrier operator that can move between a storage and operative position, allowing for adjustable pan and tilt angles, and communication with user devices for remote monitoring and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standalone camera is installed in the garage for monitoring, then monitoring capability is provided, but installation convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera module with the movable barrier operator into a single integrated unit. The camera module is mounted on the barrier operator housing, eliminating the need for separate standalone camera installation. This merging provides monitoring capability while improving installation convenience, as the camera is installed automatically when the barrier operator is mounted.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable barrier operator system is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it provides both barrier operation control and security monitoring capabilities through the integrated camera module. This multi-functionality allows a single device to serve dual purposes, eliminating the need for separate monitoring equipment.
2Device complexity
If the camera module is integrated within the movable barrier operator housing, then device complexity is reduced, but camera adjustment flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is designed with movable and adjustable components that allow dynamic repositioning. The camera can be tilted and rotated to various angles, and the entire module can be positioned at different locations on the barrier operator housing. This dynamic adjustability maintains camera flexibility despite the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera module is nested within the barrier operator housing structure, with the camera positioned in a recessed area. This nesting arrangement allows the camera to be integrated into the housing while still maintaining adjustability through movable mounting mechanisms that enable angle and position changes.
3Reliability
If the camera is positioned outside the housing, then monitoring coverage is improved, but protection from environmental factors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is nested within a recessed area of the barrier operator housing, with the lens extending partially outward. This nesting provides protection from environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and physical damage, while still allowing sufficient external exposure for effective monitoring coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure provides localized protection around the camera module, with the lens area remaining exposed for optimal viewing. This local quality approach protects sensitive components from environmental harm while maintaining the necessary optical exposure for monitoring functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a movable barrier operator includes a housing and a motor. The movable barrier operator further includes a camera mount that is connected to the housing and that supports a camera. The camera mount is configured to facilitate movement of the camera between a storage position wherein at least a portion of the camera is inside the housing and an operative position wherein the at least a portion of the camera is outside of the housing.