Motorized Camera Shutter via Stepper Screw Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic communication devices lack a physical security mechanism to protect their camera lenses from unauthorized access and recording, as existing solutions either require manual operation or are inconveniently tied to the camera's functionality.
Innovation Solution
A motorized security door system that uses a threaded screw mechanism, stepper motors, and a shutter assembly to automatically open and close the camera lens independently of the camera's operation, allowing for secure locking and easy repositioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a physical cover is added to protect the camera lens, then the lens is protected from damage, but the device structure becomes more complex and the cover requires manual operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the security door function with the camera lens protection function into a single integrated shutter assembly. The shutter serves dual purposes: protecting the lens from damage and providing security by blocking unauthorized camera access, thereby eliminating the need for separate protective covers and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter assembly is designed to be automatically controlled by the processor based on camera operation status. When the camera is active, the shutter automatically opens; when inactive, it automatically closes. This self-service mechanism eliminates manual operation requirements while maintaining lens protection and security functions.
2Reliability
If the camera function is permanently disabled to prevent spying, then security is improved, but camera functionality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control system where the shutter position is not fixed but changes based on camera operation status. The processor dynamically controls the shutter to open when the camera is active and close when inactive, allowing the system to adapt between security mode and camera functionality mode as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the camera operation status to control shutter position. The processor receives signals indicating whether the camera is active or inactive and automatically adjusts the shutter accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that balances security and functionality based on real-time conditions.
3Ease of operation
If a motorized shutter is added to automatically control lens access, then convenience is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized shutter assembly is designed as a universal component that serves multiple functions: lens protection, security control, and automatic operation. By integrating these functions into a single multi-functional unit, the patent reduces the need for separate components and minimizes overall device complexity despite adding motorization.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter system operates autonomously based on camera status signals from the processor. It automatically opens when the camera is active and closes when inactive without requiring user intervention. This self-service capability improves convenience while the integration with existing device control systems minimizes additional complexity.
4Reliability
If the shutter is always closed to prevent unauthorized recording, then security is improved, but camera usability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter transitions from a static always-closed position to a dynamic position that changes based on camera operation status. The processor controls the shutter to open when the camera is active, ensuring usability, and close when inactive, maintaining security. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between security and usability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from camera operation status to automatically adjust shutter position. When the camera is activated, the shutter receives a signal to open, enabling full camera usability. When deactivated, it closes to maintain security. This feedback-driven automatic control eliminates the need for manual intervention and resolves the security-usability contradiction.
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
Provides a convenient and secure way to control camera lens access, preventing unauthorized recording while allowing users to leave the camera function running without continuous exposure, thus addressing the anxiety around camera usage and data privacy.
Implementation Method 1
at least one shutter with a door wing that is formed with a threaded nut coupling to a threaded screw that is itself rotatably coupled to a motor
Implementation Method 2
A motorized security door system that uses a threaded screw mechanism, stepper motors, and a shutter assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A motorized shutter for a host communication device configured as a single or multipart shutter positioned over a lens of a host camera. The shutter is opened and closed by a stepper motor rotating a threaded screw coupled to a threaded nut to which the shutter is affixed in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction in one embodiment, or by the stepper motor rotating a series of gears including a bipartite rack and pinion, and spur gear configurations, with the shutter affixed to the bipartite rack in which movement of the rack by the gears moves the shutter so as to cover or uncover the lens. A separate logic board in communication with the stepper motor and with the host logic board receives and transmits instructions from the host logic board, allowing the host device to control the shutter independently of the camera operation.