Motor Coupling Mechanism for Versatile Camera Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional photography and filmmaking techniques require dedicated, specialized apparatus for various functions, limiting versatility and flexibility in achieving multiple techniques with a single system.
Innovation Solution
A versatile motor system with a flexible coupling mechanism and interchangeable gearing, allowing the motor to be coupled with different photographic equipment components to perform various functions such as camera movement, lens control, and stabilization, by preloading the connection between toothed wheels and enabling easy gearing changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated specialized apparatus are used for each photography technique, then reliability and precision of each technique is improved, but device complexity and the number of required components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor assembly is designed with a universal coupling member that can interface with multiple different driven components (camera, lens, filter holder) through a standardized coupling interface. This allows a single motor assembly to perform multiple photography functions (panning, tilting, focus control, iris control) that traditionally required separate dedicated apparatus, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable control precision for each function
2Adaptability or versatility
If a versatile multi-functional system is created, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor assembly is segmented into distinct functional modules: a motor unit, a coupling member with standardized interface, and interchangeable driven components. This modular segmentation allows the system to achieve versatility through combination of simple, well-defined modules rather than a single complex integrated system, making the overall assembly more manageable and easier to adapt to different configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member incorporates a universal interface design that can accommodate multiple types of driven components (camera bodies, lenses, filter holders) through standardized mounting features. This universality enables a single motor assembly to control diverse photographic equipment without requiring complex specialized interfaces for each component type, thereby achieving versatility while controlling complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional rigid coupling is used between motor and driven component, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability and ease of configuration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable features that allow the connection between motor and driven component to be dynamically adapted. The coupling interface can be configured in different positions and orientations to accommodate various driven components while maintaining precise mechanical engagement, thereby achieving both manufacturing precision and configurational flexibility that rigid fixed couplings cannot provide
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 a single system to perform multiple photography and filmmaking techniques, enhancing versatility and reducing the need for multiple specialized apparatus, while allowing for precise control and calibration of camera movements and lens operations.
Implementation Method 1
the coupling member (52) being arranged to flex along its length, characterised in that the motor (30) is arranged to be coupled to a component of photographic equipment being a driven component (14, 16, 20), the toothed driving wheel (56) being arranged to mesh with a toothed driven wheel (110) of the driven component (14, 16, 20), wherein the application of a pushing force to the driven component (14, 16, 20) acts to flex the coupling member (52), thus preloading the connection between the toothed driving wheel (56) and the toothed driven wheel (110)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A multi-purpose component system for photography is described. The system includes motors having connection channels arranged to engage with T-shaped engagement portions located on photographic equipment components. Cam members located along the engagement portions act to fix the motors in position relative to the components.