Multi-Linkage Camera Mount for Thin Displays
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing webcams struggle to securely and efficiently attach to a wide variety of computer monitors, particularly those with very narrow panel depths, such as 5 mm or less, due to limited design flexibility and mounting options.
Innovation Solution
A device mount system comprising linkages with friction hinges and a chamfered leading edge, allowing for a wide range of motion and secure attachment to thin displays, including a counterweight for stability, and a housing attachment mechanism for sensors like cameras or microphones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a webcam is designed with a traditional mounting base, then it can be securely attached to desktop surfaces, but it cannot be effectively mounted on thin panel displays with 5 mm or less depth
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is divided into three separate linkages (first, second, and third linkages) that can independently rotate and adjust. This segmentation allows each linkage to perform a specific function in the mounting process, enabling the device to adapt to thin panel displays while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism incorporates multiple rotatable linkages with friction hinges that allow dynamic adjustment during attachment. The linkages can rotate to different positions to accommodate various monitor thicknesses and angles, providing adaptability while the friction hinges maintain the final position securely
2Area of stationary object
If the third linkage is extended beyond the second linkage to improve contact area, then grip on thin displays is enhanced, but the device length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The third linkage extends in a direction that optimizes contact area with the monitor surface rather than simply increasing overall device length. The linkage can rotate and position itself to maximize the contact footprint on the monitor back panel, achieving better grip through spatial arrangement rather than linear extension
3Ease of operation
If friction hinges are used to allow wide range of motion, then ease of attachment is improved, but control precision during positioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The friction hinges are designed with specific friction parameters that allow free rotation during the attachment process but provide sufficient resistance to maintain precise positioning once attached. The friction force can be adjusted through design parameters to balance between ease of movement during installation and stability during operation
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 secure and stable attachment of image capturing devices to thin panel displays, maintaining stability even when the center of gravity is forward, and provides improved grip and contact area, enhancing usability and compatibility with various monitor designs.
Implementation Method 1
the second linkage may be rotatably connected to the first linkage via a friction hinge, and/or the third linkage may be rotatably connected to the second linkage via another friction hinge
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods related to computer peripheral devices and mounts are described including device mounts with three linkages. A first linkage may include a body, an abutment piece approximately perpendicular to the body, and a device attachment mechanism disposed proximate to said abutment piece. A second linkage is rotatably connected to the first linkage and a third linkage is rotatably connected to the second linkage. The third linkage may at least partially overlaps the second linkage and extend beyond an end of the second linkage. A camera housing may also be attached to the first linkage, e.g. by a hinge or socket joint. The second linkage may be connected to the first linkage via a friction hinge, and the third linkage may be connected to the second linkage via another friction hinge. The third linkage may preferably include a substantially planar contact surface with a chamfered leading edge.