Retrofit Trigger Weight Camera Device for Underwater Surveillance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional underwater tracking cameras require complex control systems, are expensive, and pose challenges in maintaining stability and correct positioning, leading to increased risk of displacement and high manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A retrofit trigger weight camera device that securely positions imaging equipment, functioning as a trigger weight for existing equipment, allowing for secure underwater surveillance with accessories like cameras, lasers, and acoustic monitoring devices, which are inexpensive to manufacture and easy to implement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional underwater tracking cameras are used, then underwater surveillance capability is provided, but the system complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the trigger weight function with the camera mounting platform into a single integrated device. The trigger weight serves dual purposes: providing the necessary weight for the coring operation and simultaneously supporting the camera and accessories. This merging eliminates the need for separate control systems for both the coring operation and camera stabilization, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable underwater surveillance capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger weight device is designed as a multi-functional platform that performs multiple functions: (1) provides ballast weight for the coring operation, (2) mounts and stabilizes the camera, (3) supports additional accessories like lights and laser scalers, and (4) serves as a positioning structure. This universality allows a single device to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate components and control systems, reducing complexity while ensuring reliable surveillance.
2Reliability
If conventional underwater tracking cameras are used, then underwater imaging is achieved, but manufacturing cost and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The camera mounting platform is designed as a modular, segmented structure with separate mounting points and attachment mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to be assembled from standard, off-the-shelf components rather than requiring custom-manufactured integrated units, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the ability to provide high-quality underwater imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform utilizes simple, inexpensive materials and construction methods that prioritize functionality over durability of the platform itself. The focus is on creating a cost-effective solution that achieves the imaging goal for each deployment, rather than investing in expensive, highly durable conventional camera systems.
3Reliability
If conventional underwater tracking cameras are used, then tracking capability is provided, but equipment stability and positioning accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger weight itself serves as a counterweight that stabilizes the camera platform. By positioning the camera and accessories on this weighted platform, the system achieves inherent stability without requiring additional active stabilization systems. The weight provides a stable base that resists displacement and maintains correct positioning and orientation for tracking underwater objects and processes.
4Reliability
If conventional underwater tracking cameras are used, then surveillance function is provided, but time consumption for deployment and inspection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera and accessories are pre-mounted on the trigger weight platform before deployment. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for time-consuming on-site installation and configuration during the actual deployment process. The system is ready for immediate use upon deployment, significantly reducing the time required for setup and inspection while maintaining reliable surveillance functionality.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A trigger weight camera device (10) that is retrofittable to existing equipment to image underwater objects and underwater processes, and method of using the device (10) to image the underwater objects and the underwater processes.