Stationary Camera Retainer for Electronic Magnifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current desktop electronic magnifiers face limitations such as insufficient lighting for larger fields of view, camera-monitor interference leading to focus issues, and the use of dedicated, hard-to-repair monitors.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a stationary camera with a laterally disposed lighting arm for improved illumination, two independent mounting arms for the monitor and camera, and a removable monitor bracket for easy replacement and maintenance, allowing for wider fields of view and higher resolutions without interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing magnifiers use dedicated monitors with integrated controls, then the magnifier provides specialized functionality, but repair and maintenance become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the system into separate functional modules: the camera assembly, the monitor assembly, and the base unit. The monitor is no longer integrated into the base but is instead mounted on a separate adjustable arm, allowing it to be independently removed, replaced, or repaired without affecting the camera or base components.
2Measurement precision
If existing magnifiers use lower resolution cameras, then the device remains simpler, but the field of view and resolution are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a laterally disposed lighting arm that extends perpendicular to the camera's optical axis, providing illumination from the side rather than from above or below. This dimensional change in lighting arrangement allows the use of higher resolution cameras with larger fields of view without increasing the vertical profile height, as the lighting is provided from a lateral direction.
3Reliability
If existing magnifiers have fixed camera and monitor positions, then the structure is simpler, but interference between camera and monitor causes focus issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fixed mounting positions with dynamic, adjustable mounting arms. The camera assembly and monitor assembly are each mounted on separate adjustable arms that can be independently positioned and locked into place. This allows the camera and monitor to be dynamically adjusted to optimal positions while maintaining structural stability through locking mechanisms.
4Area of stationary object
If existing magnifiers have vertical lighting arrangements, then the structure is simpler, but the field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical lighting arrangements to a lateral lighting arrangement where the lighting arm extends horizontally from the camera assembly. This dimensional change allows the lighting to be provided from the side, enabling a larger field of view without increasing the vertical profile height of the device.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a magnification device for use by blind and/or low vision individuals. The device includes an X-Y table upon which an item to be magnified can be placed. A stationary camera arm and a pivotal monitor arm are oriented over the X-Y table. The monitor arm includes a video monitor pivotally mounted at its distal end. The camera arm also includes two laterally disposed lighting arms. A series of controls are provided along a lower edge of the monitor via a mounting bracket.