Side-Mounted Camera Orientation Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices with a single camera on the back require users to hold the device upright, which can be intrusive and inconvenient, especially in situations where discreet image capture is needed or when capturing information about people or objects in various orientations.
Innovation Solution
Electronic devices with image capture elements positioned on sides, edges, or corners, allowing for multiple camera configurations that enable image capture in various orientations without the need to hold the device upright, using orientation detection elements to automatically select the appropriate imaging elements for image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single camera is positioned on the back of the device, then the device structure is simple, but the user must hold the device upright which is intrusive and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is segmented into multiple independent imaging elements positioned at different locations (front, back, sides, corners) of the device. Each imaging element can independently capture images, allowing the system to provide flexible orientation options without requiring a single complex movable camera mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system transitions from a single-point (back of device) to multi-point distribution across the device surface. By placing imaging elements on front, back, sides, and corners, the system adds spatial dimensionality, enabling image capture from multiple orientations simultaneously without mechanical movement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras are positioned on sides and edges of the device, then image capture flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple imaging elements are positioned at various locations (front, back, sides, corners) to serve universal image capture needs. Each imaging element can function independently or in combination with others, allowing the system to adapt to different capture scenarios (discreet capture, group photos, various angles) without requiring separate specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes an orientation determining element that automatically detects device orientation and selects the appropriate imaging element for capture. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual camera selection by users, automatically optimizing image capture based on current device positioning without requiring complex user intervention.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the device is held upright for image capture, then the back camera can be used, but the user obstructs the view and distracts others
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the user to hold the device upright (traditional orientation), the system inverts the approach by enabling image capture when the device is positioned horizontally or at various non-traditional orientations. Front and side imaging elements allow capture without the device blocking the user's view or appearing conspicuous to others.
Solution Approach 2:
Different imaging elements are positioned at specific locations optimized for different capture scenarios. Front-facing elements enable discreet capture in social situations, while side and corner elements provide specialized viewing angles. Each location's imaging element is optimized for its specific function, allowing users to select the most appropriate element for minimizing obstruction and maintaining discretion.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device can utilize one or more image capture elements on the sides or edges of the device to capture image information in a way that is more discrete than for conventional devices with a single camera on a back of the device. Further, the ability to utilize cameras on multiple sides of the device provides enhanced capability. Devices can utilize information such as the current orientation of a device to select one or more appropriate image capture elements to activate at a given time. The image information can be used to provide information about the user's surroundings, such as the names of people in a meeting, without making it obvious that the user is trying to determine that information.