Playground Camera Support Integration for Hands-Free Photo Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
It is challenging to capture high-quality photos or videos of individuals using playground equipment due to poor angles and safety concerns, making it difficult for parents to document their children's play activities for posterity or sharing with others.
Innovation Solution
Integration of smartphone mounts into playground apparatuses such as swings, whirls, and spinners, allowing for hands-free photography or videography by positioning the camera to capture the user during play activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate photographer is used to capture images of users on playground equipment, then image quality and angles can be improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera functionality with the playground equipment structure itself. The camera support is integrated into the swing seat or attached to the swing chain, merging the photography function with the existing equipment. This eliminates the need for a separate photographer while maintaining good imaging angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The playground equipment performs the photography function autonomously. The camera is positioned on the swing structure to automatically capture images of the user during play without requiring external assistance. The equipment serves both its primary function and the photography function simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If a camera is positioned on playground equipment, then hands-free photography is enabled, but safety concerns may arise
Solution Approach 1:
The camera support is designed as a separate, detachable component that can be independently positioned and secured. This segmentation allows the camera to be mounted on the swing structure without interfering with the user's safety or the equipment's operation. The support structure can be removed or adjusted if safety concerns arise.
Solution Approach 2:
A camera support structure acts as an intermediary between the camera and the swing. This support element positions the camera at appropriate heights and angles while maintaining a safe distance from the user. The support structure serves as a buffer that prevents direct contact between the camera mounting system and the user.
3Measurement precision
If camera support is integrated into the swing structure, then preferable angles for capturing memories are achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera support is designed to move with the swing motion rather than being fixed rigidly to the structure. This dynamic positioning allows the camera to maintain optimal angles for capturing the user during play while simplifying the manufacturing process. The support can be attached to the swing chain or seat in a way that allows natural movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera support structure is pre-positioned and pre-configured during manufacturing to achieve the desired photography angles. The mounting mechanism is designed in advance to allow easy attachment and adjustment, reducing manufacturing complexity while ensuring proper positioning. The support structure can be pre-assembled and then installed on the swing.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a playground apparatus that is configured to support a camera, typically a smartphone or similar photo/video device. The apparatus is configured to both (a) position the camera to take a photograph or video of the user during the play activity and (b) to maintain the camera in place during the play activity. Embodiments of the play apparatus include swings, whirls, and spinners.