Sliding Camera Lens Covers for Electronic Device Cases

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Solution Overview

Problem

Personal electronic devices with dual cameras often leave the camera exposed, leading to unintended recording and potential unauthorized access, as typical cases do not adequately protect the camera lenses.

Innovation Solution

A case design with movable front and rear camera covers that can be slid between open and closed positions to block the cameras when not in use, allowing independent movement and integration with the device's body for secure camera protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the camera is left exposed for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the security and protection from unintended access deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera accessibilityVSAvoidcamera security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The camera cover is designed to be movable between a first position that blocks the camera and a second position that exposes the camera. This dynamic positioning allows the system to adapt between security mode (cover blocking camera) and accessibility mode (cover moved to expose camera), resolving the contradiction between maintaining security and enabling easy access when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a fixed cover is used to block the camera, then the security is improved, but the ease of operation for accessing the camera deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera securityVSAvoidcamera accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of a fixed cover, the patent implements a movable cover that can be positioned in two states: blocking the camera for security or moved aside for access. This dynamic mechanism allows users to easily switch between security and accessibility needs without the complexity of multiple separate mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The camera cover is designed as a separate, movable component that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the cover to be manipulated independently from the main device body, providing easy user access while maintaining security when the cover is in the blocking position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If the case structure is simplified, then the device complexity is reduced, but the functionality for protecting cameras deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecase structure complexityVSAvoidcamera protection
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The movable camera cover serves multiple functions simultaneously: it blocks the camera for security, protects the camera lens from physical damage, and can be positioned to allow access when needed. By integrating these multiple functions into a single component, the patent avoids adding excessive complexity while achieving comprehensive camera protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10003371B1Electronic device case comprising sliding camera lens covers
Publication Date: 2018.06.19 GIVEN DENNIS
  • US10003371B1 patent drawing
  • US10003371B1 patent drawing
  • US10003371B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a case for use with a personal electronic device comprising front and rear camera lenses. Particularly, the disclosed case comprises front and rear covers that selectively move to cover and uncover the camera lenses on demand. In addition, the covers prevent dust, dirt, and the like from contacting and damaging the device cameras. Optionally, the disclosed case includes an integral storage compartment for housing credit cards, ID cards, and the like. In some embodiments, the stored items can be used with a slot integral to the case to function as a support stand.