Self-tilting retractable camera mechanism for monitor vertical footprint reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera-enabled display devices face design limitations due to the placement of integrated cameras, which can disrupt the monitor's aesthetic appearance and increase vertical footprint, while also posing privacy concerns that require additional mechanical features like shutters, and existing retractable camera modules often require manual activation and result in an elevated camera position that obstructs the user's view.
Innovation Solution
A self-tilting integrated retractable camera mechanism that automatically tilts forward when extended, reducing the camera's vertical footprint and allowing for a clear field of view without manual pre-tilting of the camera board, utilizing a combination of revolute joints and pre-loaded torsional springs for the tilting action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the camera is integrated at the top center of the display device, then the camera is easily accessible and functional, but it disrupts the monitor's aesthetic appearance and increases vertical footprint
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is extracted from the fixed top-center position and made retractable, allowing it to be removed from the aesthetic field when not in use. The camera can be extended only when needed for video calls or recording, thereby eliminating the visual disruption to the monitor's appearance while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera module transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic retractable mechanism. It can extend forward when needed and retract into the display device when not in use, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements, thus preserving aesthetic appearance during non-use while maintaining accessibility during use.
2Shape
If a retractable camera module is used to reduce vertical footprint, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but the camera position becomes elevated and obstructs the user's view
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module incorporates a self-tilting mechanism that dynamically adjusts the camera angle based on its extended or retracted position. When extended, the camera tilts forward to maintain proper alignment with the user's line of sight, preventing view obstruction. When retracted, it returns to a neutral position, minimizing vertical footprint while avoiding view blockage.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-tilting mechanism uses a tilt sensor to detect the camera module's position and automatically adjusts the camera angle accordingly. This feedback system ensures that the camera maintains the correct orientation relative to the user's view, preventing obstruction regardless of whether the module is extended or retracted, thereby resolving the view blockage issue while preserving aesthetic appearance.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If manual activation is required for the retractable camera, then privacy control is achieved, but user interaction complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module incorporates sensors that automatically detect when the display device is in video call mode or when a user is positioned in front of the screen. Based on this detection, the camera automatically extends or retracts without requiring manual user intervention. This self-service approach maintains privacy protection through automatic retraction when not in use while simplifying user interaction by eliminating the need for manual activation.
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 self-tilting mechanism enhances the aesthetic appeal by reducing the camera's height, provides a clear field of view without obstruction, and meets user privacy needs by minimizing the camera's vertical footprint and allowing for automatic tilt adjustment, improving the overall industrial design and user interaction experience.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a combination of revolute joints and pre-loaded torsional springs for the tilting action
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are disclosed for providing a display device with a self-tilting retractable camera mechanism. The retractable camera mechanism includes a display device mounting portion, the display device mounting portion being configured to mechanically attach to a display device; and, a retractable camera mounting portion, the retractable camera mounting portion including a self-tilting mechanism, the self-tilting mechanism causing the retractable camera mounting portion to automatically tilt when the retractable camera mounting portion is in an extended position relative to the display device.