Removable Thermal Imaging Camera With Releasable Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging cameras are typically integrated into specific equipment, leading to idle devices when not in use and lack flexibility for mounting on various platforms or surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system with an adapter and housing featuring a latching mechanism and biasing element allows for a releasable coupling of an image capture device to different platforms, fixtures, and surfaces, providing durability and protection against environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If imaging cameras are integrated into specific equipment, then the camera is protected and securely mounted, but the camera cannot be moved or used on different platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the mounting solution into separate components: a reusable housing with latching mechanism and removable adapters. Each adapter is designed to fit specific platforms while the housing remains consistent, allowing the camera to be segmented from its mounting base and reconfigured for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple types of adapters through standardized interfaces. The latching mechanism provides universal securing functionality across different mounting scenarios, enabling a single housing to serve multiple platforms and applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If imaging cameras are integrated into equipment, then the camera is protected from environmental conditions, but multiple expensive devices are needed for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
A single housing with interchangeable adapters serves multiple applications that would traditionally require separate integrated cameras. The universal housing design allows one camera unit to be deployed across various platforms and scenarios by simply changing the adapter component.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter design allows the camera housing to be nested within or coupled to different platform-specific adapters. This nesting approach enables a single core camera unit to adapt to multiple external configurations without requiring separate camera devices for each application.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a releasable coupling mechanism is used, then the camera can be moved between platforms, but the mounting security and durability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states, providing dynamic mounting capabilities. When locked, the coupling strength approaches that of permanent mounting; when unlocked, the camera can be easily removed and repositioned for different applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing element automatically engages the latching mechanism to secure the camera to the adapter, and can be easily disengaged by applying force to release the latch. This self-service design ensures strong coupling during operation while allowing quick release when needed, without requiring complex external mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system for an image capture device includes an adapter that has a first mating member, and a housing releasably coupled to the adapter. The housing includes a latching mechanism that has a second mating member sized and configured to receive the first mating member of the adapter when the housing member is coupled to the adapter, and a biasing element projecting from an outer surface of the housing. The biasing element is movably coupled to the housing and is transitionable between a first disengaged position and a second engaged position.