Retractable Camera Mechanism Sliding Base for Full-Screen Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
The fixed camera position on smart devices, such as mobile phones and tablets, occupies space on the front surface, limiting the full-screen capacity of the display screen.
Innovation Solution
A retractable camera mechanism is implemented, which includes a sliding base, lens module, latching mechanism, and buffer mechanism, allowing the camera to slide in and out of a receiving hole, enabling it to be visible only when needed and retractable to maximize display area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the camera is mounted in a fixed position on the front surface, then the camera structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the display screen area is reduced due to the camera occupying space on the front surface
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is transformed from a fixed static structure to a dynamic movable structure that can slide between the first cavity (exposed position) and the second cavity (retracted position). This dynamic design allows the camera to be hidden when not in use, maximizing the display screen area, while maintaining ease of manufacture through a relatively simple sliding mechanism guided by guide posts and restrained by elastic elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera module is nested within the housing structure, specifically positioned to slide between two cavities formed in the housing. When retracted, the camera module is hidden within the housing contours, creating a flush surface that maximizes the display area. The nesting approach allows the camera to be integrated into the housing without adding external protrusions.
2Reliability
If the camera is mounted in a fixed position on the front surface, then the device structure is simple, but the camera is more susceptible to damage from external impacts
Solution Approach 1:
An elastic element (such as a spring) is pre-installed in the camera mechanism to provide cushioning force. When the camera module moves or experiences external impact, the elastic element absorbs the shock and prevents direct transmission of impact forces to the camera sensor, thereby protecting the camera from damage before the impact can cause harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element acts as an intermediary between the camera module and the housing structure. Instead of the camera being directly mounted to the housing where it would be vulnerable to impacts, the elastic element mediates the connection, providing both mechanical coupling and impact absorption. This intermediary structure protects the camera while maintaining its functional positioning.
3Area of stationary object
If the camera is made retractable to maximize display area, then the display screen area is increased, but the camera mechanism becomes more complex with additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is transformed from a fixed static structure to a dynamic movable structure that can slide between the first cavity (exposed position) and the second cavity (retracted position). This dynamic design allows the camera to be hidden when not in use, maximizing the display screen area, while maintaining ease of manufacture through a relatively simple sliding mechanism guided by guide posts and restrained by elastic elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the elastic element. When the camera module is pushed into the first cavity, the elastic element automatically pushes it back to the second cavity position without requiring external actuators, motors, or complex control systems. This self-service mechanism reduces complexity while achieving the retractable function.
4Area of stationary object
If the camera is made retractable to maximize display area, then the display screen area is increased, but the mechanism for moving the camera requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The camera mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the elastic element. When the camera module is pushed into the first cavity, the elastic element automatically pushes it back to the second cavity position without requiring external actuators, motors, or complex control systems. This self-service mechanism reduces complexity while achieving the retractable function.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex actuation system (motors, sensors, control circuits) is extracted from the design entirely. Instead of using an active actuation system, the patent relies on passive elastic elements and user-initiated movement to achieve the retractable function. This extraction of unnecessary components significantly reduces the total number of parts while maintaining the core functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a main body, a camera mechanism, a latching mechanism, and a buffer mechanism. The camera mechanism is slidable to extend out of the main body. The main body includes an ejecting member mounted within the main body. The ejecting member is configured to eject the camera mechanism out of the main body. The latching mechanism is mounted within the main body. The latching mechanism is configured to limit movement of the camera mechanism. The buffer mechanism is coupled to the camera mechanism. The buffer mechanism is configured to buffer movement of the camera mechanism.