Protruding TV Camera Module for Power-Efficient Video Conferencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current TV apparatuses for video conferencing have limited functionality and high power consumption due to inefficient camera module operation, which hinders advanced features like 3D image generation and depth extraction.
Innovation Solution
A TV apparatus with a camera module that can protrude from the body, driven by a unit with a photo reflector and actuator system, allowing for power management through light reflection control, and incorporating multiple camera units for 3D image generation and depth extraction, with optional magnetic field control for on/off operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the camera module is continuously operated to enable video conferencing functions, then the video conferencing capability is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is designed to dynamically change its operational state based on TV body movement. When the TV body is protruded (indicating user presence), the camera module activates to provide video conferencing functions. When the TV body is retracted, the camera module enters a low-power state. This dynamic operation resolves the contradiction by making power consumption conditional rather than continuous.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces continuous electrical operation with a mechanical trigger system. A photo reflector and light sensor detect the physical protrusion state of the TV body, automatically controlling camera module power states without continuous user intervention. This mechanical-optical control system eliminates the need for continuous power supply while maintaining video conferencing readiness when needed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the camera module is embedded in the TV body to minimize power consumption, then the power saving is improved, but the ability to capture images deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is nested within the TV body structure, allowing it to be compact when not in use. The driving unit enables the camera module to protrude from the TV body when image capture is needed, while remaining embedded during normal operation. This nesting arrangement resolves the contradiction by providing both power-saving embedding and functional protrusion capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of user presence through TV body protrusion before activating the camera module. This preliminary action ensures the camera is only activated when actually needed for video conferencing, preventing unnecessary power consumption while ensuring image capture capability is available when required.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the camera module is driven only when protruded to minimize power consumption, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the response time for video conferencing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The TV body protrusion serves as a preliminary action that triggers camera module activation. By using the physical protrusion event as the trigger, the system ensures the camera module is activated immediately when user presence is detected, minimizing response time while avoiding activation during absence. This preliminary triggering mechanism resolves the contradiction between energy efficiency and response time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the photo reflector and light sensor to detect TV body protrusion state. This feedback mechanism ensures the camera module responds automatically and immediately to user presence, maintaining fast response time while activating power consumption only when the feedback indicates the TV body is protruded.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple camera units are added to enable 3D image generation and depth extraction, then the video conferencing functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is segmented into multiple functional units: a first camera unit for standard imaging, a second camera unit for 3D imaging, and a third camera unit for depth extraction. Each unit has a specific function, allowing the system to achieve advanced video conferencing capabilities while keeping each individual component relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple camera units serve multiple functions within a single integrated module. The first camera unit can work alone for standard video conferencing, while the second and third units add 3D and depth capabilities when needed. This multi-functionality allows the system to provide advanced features without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function, managing complexity through integration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Minimizes power consumption and enhances video conferencing capabilities by enabling efficient camera operation, 3D image generation, and accurate depth extraction while allowing for reduced light reflection and controlled power states.
Implementation Method 1
the driving unit may be mounted with a photo reflector, and the receiving unit is formed with a reflector configured to reflect light emitted from the photo reflector to the photo reflector
Implementation Method 2
a camera module mounted on the TV body and configured to be turned on and turned off by a magnetic field configured to change in response to movement of the camera module
Data Source
AI summary
A TV apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a TV body configured to display an image, anda camera module configured to be driven, in a case the TV body is protruded.