Pliable Camera Base Structure for Stable Positioning on Irregular Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional camera supporting systems for compact cameras face challenges in stability on irregular surfaces, especially under vibration and movement, due to their low bulk and mass, and often require rigid anchoring, which can be cumbersome and hinder use in small spaces.
Innovation Solution
A camera supporting base with a mounting platform and a pliable stabilizing mass that surrounds the platform, featuring a bi-level configuration with a recessed mounting surface to accommodate protruding elements, providing stability without the need for rigid anchoring and allowing for compact, ergonomic design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional compact cameras are used, then the camera remains small and light for portability, but the camera lacks inherent stability due to low bulk and mass
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pliable stabilizing mass that acts as a counterweight to compensate for the low mass of compact cameras. This stabilizing mass is positioned within the base structure to create a counterbalancing effect that enhances camera stability without requiring the camera itself to be bulky or heavy, thus resolving the contradiction between compact size and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pliable stabilizing mass as an intermediary element between the camera and the rigid base structure. This stabilizing mass serves as a mediator that provides both stability and adaptability, allowing the compact camera to achieve enhanced stability while maintaining its compact form factor through the cushioning and stabilizing properties of the intermediate material.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigidly anchored supporting devices are used, then the camera is securely positioned, but repositioning requires substantial time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic supporting system where the pliable stabilizing mass allows for easy adjustment and repositioning of the camera. Unlike rigid anchoring systems that require tools and time to adjust, the pliable nature of the stabilizing mass enables quick repositioning by simply moving the camera, thus resolving the contradiction between secure positioning and repositioning time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes a pliable stabilizing mass that functions similarly to flexible materials, allowing the camera to be easily repositioned while maintaining stability. The flexibility of this stabilizing element enables quick adjustments without the need for rigid anchoring mechanisms, thus reducing repositioning time while preserving positioning stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a ball head is added for positioning, then camera positioning flexibility is improved, but the added height decreases stability and hinders use in small spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning functionality traditionally provided by a separate ball head into the integrated base structure itself. The mounting platform is designed with inherent positioning capabilities through its interaction with the pliable stabilizing mass, eliminating the need for an additional ball head component. This integration maintains positioning flexibility while avoiding the height increase that would result from adding a separate ball head.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the positioning mechanism within the base structure itself, nesting the functionality rather than adding it as an external component. The mounting platform works in conjunction with the pliable stabilizing mass to provide positioning flexibility, with all components contained within the compact base footprint, thus avoiding the height increase associated with traditional ball heads.
4Ease of manufacture
If the mounting surface is flat, then manufacturing is simplified, but protruding elements of ball heads are impeded or cause jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a recessed area specifically at the mounting surface where the ball head contacts the base. While the overall base structure can be manufactured simply, this localized recessed feature provides the necessary clearance for ball head operation without complicating the overall manufacturing process. The recessed area is precisely where it is needed to accommodate protruding elements, maintaining ease of manufacture while enabling smooth 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
The solution enhances stability under vibration and movement while maintaining a compact form factor, allowing for unimpeded operation of camera components and easy positioning on irregular surfaces without the drawbacks of traditional ball heads or rigid anchoring.
Implementation Method 1
the conventional compact cameras have less inherent stability resulting from gravity
Implementation Method 2
a pliable stabilizing mass that surrounds the platform
Data Source
AI summary
A camera supporting base includes a mounting platform with a mounting surface, a lower surface, and a recess area. The mounting surface is raised above and non-coplanar with the lower surface of the mounting platform. The camera supporting base also includes a pliable mass surrounding the mounting platform. The mounting surface of the mounting platform is recessed below a highest contour of the pliable mass.