Robotic Mount for Remote Microphone and Camera Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microphone and camera mounts lack versatility and efficiency in remotely manipulating position and orientation, requiring bulky and expensive custom controllers, and are limited in their ability to handle multiple dimensional movements and real-time audio signal analysis.
Innovation Solution
A mount system with a framework, movable platforms, motors, and a wireless network connection, allowing for controlled motion along multiple axes, panning, and rotation, coupled with a microcontroller for remote operation and real-time audio signal analysis, using a camera for remote observation and laser alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional microphone stands are used, then the structure is simple and inexpensive, but the position and orientation cannot be modified remotely without physical manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The mount system is designed to be universally compatible with various microphone stand types while providing automated multi-axis control capabilities. The system can function as both a manually adjustable stand and a remotely controlled robotic mount, adapting to different application needs without requiring completely separate systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
A wireless communication intermediary (mobile device, tablet, or computer) is introduced between the user and the mount system. This intermediary transmits control signals wirelessly to adjust position and orientation, eliminating the need for physical manipulation while keeping the mount structure relatively simple.
2Ease of operation
If remote controlled microphone stands are used, then remote manipulation is enabled, but the devices are bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a separate wireless communication module that interfaces with existing mobile devices. This allows the mount itself to remain lightweight while the computational and control functions reside in the user's existing smartphone, tablet, or computer, eliminating the need for bulky onboard controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of embedding a complete control computer in the mount, the system uses a lightweight controller that communicates with copied or replicated control interfaces on the user's existing devices. The user interacts with familiar devices they already possess, and these devices serve as the primary control interface, reducing the computational burden and weight of the mount itself.
3Ease of operation
If remote controlled dollies are used for camera motion, then position manipulation along an axis is enabled, but the devices are bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The mount system provides multi-functional control capabilities including pan, tilt, and position adjustment along multiple axes. This universal control system can handle various types of hardware (microphones, cameras, sensors) and perform multiple operations (positioning, orientation, rotation) through a single integrated platform, eliminating the need for separate specialized devices for each function.
4Ease of operation
If custom controllers are used for remote manipulation, then control functionality is achieved, but the controllers are not already possessed by the operator
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to work with universal, commonly possessed devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. These devices serve as the control interface through wireless communication, eliminating the need for proprietary or custom controllers. The mount system adapts to work with the user's existing devices rather than requiring them to acquire new specialized equipment.
5Ease of operation
If manual position modifications are made, then position adjustments are possible, but time is lost repeatedly walking between locations
Solution Approach 1:
The mount system performs self-adjustment of position and orientation based on wireless control signals. Once positioned and configured, the system can autonomously return to previous positions and orientations on command without requiring physical manipulation by hand, effectively serving itself and eliminating the need for repeated manual intervention and movement between locations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A robotic mount is disclosed that attaches onto any appropriate stand, framework, or other support structure. The mount can manipulate the position and orientation of affixed devices upon remote command received from any network connected device. A specific or sequence of positions/orientations can be precisely registered and promptly returned to on command.