Retractable Webcam Module With Damped Pop-Up Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional built-in webcam modules are aesthetically unappealing and pose information security risks due to their permanent exposure at the upper edge of displays, and they require additional space, leading to wider bezels or unsightly protrusions.

Innovation Solution

An elevatable webcam module is integrated into the display, featuring a fixing base, bearing base, webcam unit, elastic element, and damper, allowing the webcam to be retracted when not in use, with a locking mechanism that uses an elastic force to gently expose the webcam upon demand, reducing noise and damage risk.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the webcam module is permanently exposed at the upper edge of the display, then the webcam is always accessible and functional, but the appearance becomes less aesthetic and information security risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewebcam accessibilityVSAvoidappearance aesthetics

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The webcam module transitions from a static permanently exposed configuration to a dynamic elevatable configuration. The bearing base can move between a retracted position (flush with display surface) and a protruded position (exposed for use), allowing the system to adapt its state based on operational needs rather than being fixed in one position

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The webcam module is nested within the display body when not in use. The bearing base containing the webcam unit is housed inside the display chassis, allowing the webcam to be completely concealed within the display's internal space, similar to how nested dolls store smaller objects within larger ones

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If the webcam module is permanently exposed at the upper edge of the display, then the webcam is always accessible, but the bezel must be wider or the display appearance is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewebcam accessibilityVSAvoidbezel width

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The solution moves the webcam module from a two-dimensional planar arrangement (fixed at the edge requiring bezel space) to a three-dimensional configuration where the module can protrude perpendicular to the display surface. This vertical dimension allows the webcam to be accessed without consuming horizontal bezel area

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Speed

If the bearing base pops up quickly, then the webcam becomes accessible faster, but the lifting process generates noise and increases damage risk

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepop-up speedVSAvoidnoise and damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The damper is pre-installed on the bearing base to provide cushioning during the elevating process. This damping mechanism is in place before the bearing base is actuated, ensuring that the elastic force from the elastic element is gradually absorbed and the bearing base rises in a controlled, noiseless manner rather than snapping into position

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The damper acts as an intermediary element between the elastic force source and the bearing base. It mediates the interaction by absorbing and gradually releasing the elastic energy, transforming the potentially harmful rapid motion into a controlled, gentle elevation that reduces noise and damage risk

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 provides a secure, aesthetically pleasing, and user-friendly webcam module that reduces information security risks and minimizes damage by allowing the webcam to be completely hidden, while the damper ensures a stable and quiet operation.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic force provided by the elastic element to the bearing base

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a resistance provided by the damper to the bearing base

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDamping: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS11622068B2Elevatable webcam module

Publication Date: 2023.04.04 SYNCMOLD ENTERPRISE CORP

AI summary

An elevatable webcam module is provided. The elevatable webcam module includes a fixing base, a bearing base, a webcam unit, an elastic element, a damper and a locking unit. The fixing base is fixed in a display body. The bearing base is slidably disposed on the fixing base, the bearing base is accommodated in the display body when the bearing base is at a retracted position, and the bearing base is partially exposed from the display body when the bearing base is at a protruded position. The webcam unit is disposed on the bearing base. The elastic element abuts against the fixing base and the bearing base therebetween. The damper is disposed on the fixing base and is connected to the bearing base. The locking unit is disposed on the fixing base to fix the bearing base at the retracted position. When the locking unit is unlocked, the elastic force provided by the elastic element to the bearing base overcomes the resistance provided by the damper to the bearing base, the bearing base slides from the retracted position to the protruded position.