Smartphone Case With Telescopic Rod And Adjunct Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional selfie sticks are inadequate for larger handheld electronic devices like tablets and often pose security and view-blocking issues, while existing technologies do not provide a suitable solution for expanding the reach of smartphone cameras for capturing and streaming video and photos beyond the device's native capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A smartphone case with a telescoping rod and an adjunct camera that can be wirelessly paired and controlled via an app, allowing for extended reach and hands-free operation, while also providing a rechargeable battery and protective storage for the camera.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a selfie stick is used to extend the camera reach, then the camera can capture images beyond the device's native reach, but the user requires at least one hand to operate the camera function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the camera device with the support structure (selfie stick or case) into an integrated unit. The camera is either built into the case or magnetically attached to it, allowing the entire assembly to be held and operated as one unit, thereby enabling hands-free operation while maintaining extended reach.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic coupling mechanism as an intermediary between the camera and the support structure. This magnetic intermediary allows the camera to be securely attached to the case or stick without physical connectors, enabling easy attachment/detachment while maintaining stable operation during use.
2Length of moving object
If a selfie stick is used to capture photos from above the crowd, then the camera reach is extended, but security issues arise as they can be used as weapons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the camera device with a protective case that integrates the support structure. This combination creates a unified object that is less likely to be used as a weapon compared to a separate stick, while still providing the extended reach functionality for capturing photos and videos from elevated positions.
3Length of moving object
If a selfie stick is used for capturing images, then the camera reach is extended, but it blocks the view of people in the rear of an auditorium or stadium
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the camera system into a compact case that can be easily positioned and adjusted. The modular design allows the camera to be independently positioned at the end of the case's extended structure, enabling the user to elevate the camera without necessarily blocking the view of others, as the case itself can be positioned more strategically than a long stick.
4Adaptability or versatility
If an adjunct camera is integrated into a smartphone case, then the camera reach is extended and hands-free operation is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the case to serve multiple functions: it protects the smartphone, provides an extended platform for the adjunct camera, and can function as a standalone camera support. The magnetic coupling mechanism also serves dual purposes of attachment and electrical connection, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall system.
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
A case (10) and a system for wirelessly pairing, storing and charging an adjunct camera (20) to a handheld electronic device, such as a smartphone (48). A software application on the device controls the adjunct camera (20). In one embodiment, the case (10) provides a telescopic rod (30) to elevate the adjunct camera. In another embodiment, the case provides a cable on a retractor reel (46) operative for connecting the adjunct camera (20) to the case. The adjunct camera is selectively detachable from the case and attachable to a user or other object for hands-free operation once the software app is engaged. The case (10), the adjunct camera (20), the electronic device and the app comprise a system for capturing, streaming and saving video and photos by expanding the reach of the native camera function of the electronic device.