Movable Camera Module Gear-Rack Mechanism for Space-Saving Phones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with fixed front-facing and rear-facing cameras occupy significant space and are costly, limiting convenience in photo-taking as they cannot be easily adjusted for different angles.
Innovation Solution
A camera module with a driving device that includes a miniaturized motor, gears, and a rack system, allowing the camera to move within a channel in the device, enabling it to be protruded or retracted and rotated for flexible positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed cameras are installed in the electronic device, then photo-taking coverage is improved, but device space occupation and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple camera functions into a single movable camera module that can be positioned at different locations (front, rear, side) to perform the functions of multiple fixed cameras, thereby reducing the number of camera components needed while maintaining versatile photo-taking capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the camera from a fixed position to a dynamically movable position using a driving mechanism. The camera module can be moved between different locations on the device body, allowing one camera to adaptively serve multiple positions that would traditionally require multiple fixed cameras
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed cameras are installed in the electronic device, then photo-taking coverage is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple camera functions into a single movable camera module, reducing the bill of materials and manufacturing costs associated with producing, assembling, and maintaining multiple separate camera systems
Solution Approach 2:
The movable camera module is designed to perform multiple functions (front camera, rear camera, side camera) by changing its position, making it a universal component that replaces several specialized fixed cameras, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost
3Ease of operation
If a movable camera mechanism is added, then photo-taking flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the camera system into a separable movable camera module that can be independently controlled and positioned, simplifying the overall control architecture compared to coordinating multiple fixed cameras. The driving mechanism is segmented into discrete components (motor, transmission, positioning structure) that can be manufactured and assembled using standard processes
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
The solution provides a compact, cost-effective, and user-friendly mechanism for the camera to be moved externally for front or rear use, optimizing space and improving photo-taking convenience without increasing the device's size or weight.
Implementation Method 1
a driving motor, including an output shaft mounted with a driving gear; and a driven gear, meshed with both of the driving gear and the rack
Implementation Method 2
a driving motor, including an output shaft mounted with a driving gear; and a driven gear, meshed with both of the driving gear and the rack
Implementation Method 3
a driving motor, including an output shaft mounted with a driving gear; and a driven gear, meshed with both of the driving gear and the rack, wherein a diameter of the driven gear is greater than a diameter of the driving gear
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present application provide an electronic apparatus comprising : a passageway; a drive plate fixedly connected to a camera module; a driver gear mounted on an output shaft of a drive motor; and a follower meshed with the driver gear and a rack of the drive plate, the diameter of the follower being greater than the diameter of the driver gear. The drive motor is capable of driving rotation of the driver gear and the follower, so as to drive the drive plate to move from the passageway towards the exterior of the electronic apparatus, such that the camera module rotates from inside the passageway to the exterior of the electronic apparatus.