Inspection Camera Accessory Locking for Secure Tool Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inspection cameras suffer from poor performance due to poorly attached accessories that can detach during use, and lack effective manipulation of objects.
Innovation Solution
A dual attachment mechanism comprising a primary and secondary attachment arrangement secures the accessory tool to the camera housing, resisting axial and rotational motion, ensuring robust attachment and easy detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are attached to the inspection camera, then the functionality for manipulating objects and redirecting camera view is improved, but the reliability of attachment is worsened as accessories can detach during use
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into two independent arrangements: a primary attachment arrangement that secures the accessory tool to the camera housing, and a secondary attachment arrangement that provides additional security. This segmentation allows each arrangement to be optimized for its specific function while working together to prevent detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism is designed so that the primary attachment arrangement is engaged first during the attachment process, establishing the basic connection. The secondary attachment arrangement is then engaged to provide additional security before the accessory tool is put into use, preventing detachment during manipulation tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are attached to the inspection camera, then the ability to manipulate objects is improved, but the performance of manipulation is worsened due to poor attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The bayonet mechanism incorporates rotational engagement where the accessory tool is twisted into position relative to the camera housing. This rotational attachment provides mechanical advantage and secure engagement, preventing the accessory from detaching during object manipulation tasks.
3Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is used, then the reliability of accessory attachment is improved, but the ease of removing and interchanging tools is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is designed to be dynamically engaged and disengaged. The bayonet mechanism allows the accessory tool to be rotated into the locked position for secure attachment, and rotated in the opposite direction for quick removal. This dynamic design maintains security during use while enabling easy interchangeability when needed.
4Device complexity
If a simple attachment mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of attachment is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The primary and secondary attachment arrangements are merged into a single integrated mechanism on the camera housing. The bayonet mechanism and locking elements work together as a unified system, providing reliable attachment without requiring separate complex mechanisms. This merging maintains simplicity while achieving high reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An inspection camera system includes a camera unit and one or more accessory tools. The camera is mounted in a camera housing. A primary attachment and a secondary attachment act together to provide a reliable attachment of an accessory tool to the camera housing. The accessory tool is removable from the camera housing by disengagement of the secondary and primary attachments. The primary attachment arrangement alone, in an engaged position, resists at least some motion of the accessory tool relative to the camera housing. The secondary attachment arrangement, when engaged, resists motion of the primary attachment arrangement relative to the camera housing out of its engaged position.