Multi-Axis Webcam with Latching Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internal webcams in portable devices have limited rotational adjustment and are exposed, making them inconvenient to use and prone to contamination.
Innovation Solution
A built-in webcam with a video camera capable of rotating about multiple axes for adjustable filming angles, housed within the device to protect it from contaminants, utilizing a latching mechanism and support stand for easy deployment and retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the video camera is exposed to the atmosphere without protection, then it allows easy access and operation, but it becomes easily contaminated by dust and fingerprints
Solution Approach 1:
The video camera is extracted from the housing when needed for use, allowing easy access while maintaining protection when retracted. The camera can be partially or fully removed from the housing to enable operation while minimizing exposure time to contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible protective cover or shutter mechanism is used to protect the video camera lens when not in use. This flexible barrier prevents dust and fingerprints from accumulating on the lens while allowing quick access when needed.
2Device complexity
If the video camera is mounted with single-axis rotation only, then the structure remains simple, but users need to adjust their position to be filmed which is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation mechanism is segmented into multiple independent rotational axes. The video camera can rotate about a first axis (e.g., horizontal pan) and a second axis (e.g., vertical tilt), with each axis controlled by separate mechanisms, enabling comprehensive angle adjustment without excessive structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation capability is extended from one dimension (single-axis) to two dimensions (multi-axis). By adding rotational freedom in another dimension, the system achieves superior filming angle adjustment while maintaining reasonable structural complexity through modular design.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the video camera remains inside the housing at all times, then it is protected from contaminants, but it cannot be used for filming
Solution Approach 1:
The video camera system transitions between static protected state (retracted in housing) and dynamic operational state (extended for filming). This dynamic configuration allows the camera to be protected when not in use and accessible when needed, with smooth transitions between states.
Solution Approach 2:
The video camera is positioned in advance within the housing in a protected state, ready for quick deployment. When filming is needed, the camera is rapidly extended or ejected from the housing, minimizing exposure time and ensuring protection during non-operational periods.
Data Source
AI summary
A webcam built in an electronic device includes a housing, a video camera, and a latching mechanism. The video camera is movable between a first location in the housing and a second location outside the housing. The latching mechanism maintains the video camera at the first location and the second location.