Removable Hinge Hook Slot Mechanism for Camera Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of bullet-style surveillance cameras often requires technicians to hold the camera with one hand while making electrical connections, which is time-consuming, awkward, and increases the risk of camera damage due to the need for two-handed operations, especially when installed at heights requiring ladders.
Innovation Solution
A removable hinge system that allows a plate to be securely attached to a bracket using hooks and slots, enabling the camera to be easily hung and positioned without the need for lanyards, thus reducing the strain on installers and minimizing the risk of camera damage during installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a camera is mounted using traditional methods requiring technicians to hold the camera while making electrical connections, then the installation can be completed, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and increases the risk of camera damage
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a bracket fixed to the mounting surface, and a camera assembly with a removable hinge that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the camera to be mounted securely without requiring technicians to hold it during electrical connections, thus improving installation efficiency while maintaining camera stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable hinge mechanism provides dynamic adjustability during installation. The hinge allows the camera to be positioned at various angles and heights, then securely locked in place. This dynamic capability enables technicians to easily adjust the camera position before final mounting, reducing installation time and minimizing the risk of damage during the installation process.
2Ease of operation
If lanyards are used to suspend cameras during installation, then the camera can be held without direct hand support, but the camera swings freely and becomes prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The removable hinge acts as an intermediary mechanism between the bracket and the camera. Instead of using flexible lanyards that allow free swinging, the hinge provides a controlled connection that reduces installer strain while maintaining camera stability. The hinge mechanism includes friction or detent features that prevent excessive movement, thus eliminating the swinging problem associated with lanyards.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism changes the physical parameters of the connection by providing fixed pivot points and limited rotation ranges. This contrasts with lanyards that allow full 360-degree movement. The parameter changes in the hinge design (fixed axis, limited angular range, friction engagement) ensure the camera remains stable while still being easy to install and adjust.
3Strength
If the camera mounting system requires complex attachment mechanisms, then secure attachment is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into simple, modular components: a fixed bracket, a removable hinge with hooks, and a camera assembly. Each component has a straightforward function, and they connect through simple hook-and-slot interfaces. This segmentation achieves secure attachment without requiring complex mechanisms, as each component is optimized for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex locking mechanisms that require multiple steps to secure, the design inverts the approach by using simple hooks that naturally engage with slots. The security comes from the geometric interlocking of the hooks and slots rather than from complex fasteners or multiple adjustment steps, thus achieving strong attachment with minimal complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A removable hinge for connecting a plate to a bracket. The bracket has a hook slot which has an open end and a retaining end. A hook on the plate fits into the open end of the hook slot and slides along the hook slot to the retaining end. When the plate is in a hanging position, the hook is at the retaining end of the hook slot. The plate is removable from the bracket by sliding the hook from the hook slot out of the open end. The removable hinge may be advantageously use in coupling a camera assembly, such as a bullet camera, to a bracket mounted on a wall or ceiling.