TW201528816A - Modular camera core and modular camera expansion system - Google Patents

Abstract

A modular camera expansion system for a modular camera capable of capturing digital video, audio, and photograph data, the modular camera expansion system comprising a processor, a connecting means configured to electrically and mechanically connect the processor to a processor of the modular camera, a user interface connected to the processor which is capable of initiating a process in the processor of the modular camera when the modular camera is connected to the modular camera housing, and a housing which houses the processor, connecting means and user interface, the modular camera expansion system being configured to couple with the modular camera to form an assembled camera whereby the user interface of the modular camera expansion system is used to operate the modular camera.

Description

Modular camera core and modular camera expansion system

The present invention generally relates to a modular digital camera including a camera core and a modular camera expansion system configured to be used in a plurality of different camera configurations.

As people become more interested in capturing digital photos and digital video, the expansion of digital cameras has become more common. Mobile phones have evolved to include cameras that capture digital video and digital photos. While these cameras offer a variety of benefits due to integration with devices that many users have today, there are still advantages to having separate cameras, including cameras that have higher quality components, better control, longer battery life, and no There is a concern about the security issues associated with mobile phones that also store personal information.

Typically, currently marketed stand-alone digital cameras include a simple "point and shoot" camera that includes a fully integrated device that does not provide modularity and therefore requires user selection to suit various situations. The single camera, including which lens, function, etc., will be the easiest to adapt to various situations. In general, this forces consumers to find the best "over-all" digital cameras in which consumers will sacrifice features and components that are advantageous in some situations for the most commonly used functions and components. Other digital photos The camera includes a digital camera that allows the user to remove specific components of the camera, including a flash, filter or lens. In general, these cameras are more expensive and cumbersome.

A digital camera includes a series of functional components, such as: a lens, an optical filter, one or more electronic image sensor arrays, electronic circuitry for capturing, processing, and storing images from the image sensor array for storage And an internal or external memory device for transmitting the image file, a power supply, and a display system for previewing the captured image. These components are typically integrated and interdependent from an optical, electronic, and physical point of view. As described above, in some examples, the external lens and power supply can be attached to and removed from the camera, but the remaining components are typically permanently integrated into the main frame or housing without removal and replacement. Practical ability. Therefore, due to the limited set of attitudes associated with conventional cameras, it is typically suitable for a limited range of applications and contexts. As a result, users who want to shoot in a variety of contexts and for various applications typically need to purchase multiple cameras to achieve the desired result.

Thus, in addition to the various digital camera options that are available in the art, there is still a need for a camera system that is completely customizable by the user and overcomes the limitations discussed above.

The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or merely operate in an environment such as those described above. Rather, the background is provided merely to illustrate an illustrative technical field in which the embodiments described herein may be practiced.

These and other limitations are overcome by embodiments of the present invention, which are directed to a modular camera capable of capturing digital video and photo material.

A first aspect of the present invention is a modular camera housing for a modular camera that captures digital video, audio and photo material. The modular camera expansion system comprises: a processor; a connecting member configured to electrically and mechanically connect the processor to a processor of the modular camera; a user interface connected to the a processor, when the modular camera is connected to the modular camera housing, the user interface is capable of initiating a processing program of the processor of the modular camera; and a housing accommodating the processor a connector member and a user interface configured to couple with the modular camera to form an assembled camera to operate the module using the user interface of the modular camera expansion system camera.

A second aspect of the present invention is a modular camera product that can be coupled to a modular camera that captures digital video, audio, and photo material. The modular camera expansion product comprises: a processor; a connecting member configured to electrically and mechanically connect the processor to a processor of the modular camera; a user interface connected to The processor, when the modular camera is connected to the modular camera expansion product, the user interface can start a processing program of the processor of the modular camera; and a housing, the capacity thereof Locating the processor, the connection member, and the user interface, the housing being configured to couple with the modular camera to form an assembled camera for operation using the user interface of the modular camera expansion product The modular camera.

A third aspect of the present invention is a modular camera system for a modular camera that captures digital video, audio and photo material. The modular camera product comprises: a first modular expansion system, including a first a processor, a first housing, a first connecting member, and a first user interface, the first connecting member configured to electrically and mechanically connect the first processor to a processor of the modular camera The first user interface is coupled to the first processor, and the first user interface is capable of initiating the modular camera when the modular camera is connected to the first modularized expansion system a processing unit of the processor; and a second modular expansion system comprising a second processor, a second housing, a second connecting member and a second user interface, the second connecting member Configuring to electrically and mechanically connect the second processor to a processor of the modular camera, the second user interface is coupled to the second processor, and when the modular camera is coupled to the second In the modular expansion system, the second user interface can initiate one of the processors in the processor of the modular camera.

The Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The key technical features or essential characteristics of the claimed subject matter are not intended to be used to assist in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Additional technical features and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in the description which follows. The technical features and advantages of the present invention can be realized and obtained by means of the means and combinations specified in the appended claims. These and other technical features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description of the appended claims.

100‧‧‧Modular Digital Camera System; Modular Pocket Camera Expansion System

110‧‧‧Modular camera expansion system; modular active camera expansion system

120‧‧‧Modular camera expansion system; modular cable camera expansion system

130‧‧‧Modular camera expansion system

150‧‧‧Modular camera core

160‧‧‧ Pocket camera

170‧‧‧Active camera

180‧‧‧Wired camera configuration

210‧‧‧ camera lens

215‧‧‧ lens holder

220‧‧‧GPS antenna

230‧‧‧Bluetooth and Wi-Fi antennas

240‧‧‧connector; pin connector

250‧‧‧ Heat sink

260‧‧‧PCBA shielding

270‧‧‧Shell

280‧‧‧Connector; camera flexure connector

290‧‧‧ Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA)

302‧‧‧Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth antenna

304‧‧‧GPS antenna

306‧‧ Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Module

308‧‧‧GPS module

310‧‧‧Microphone

312‧‧‧Audio codec

314‧‧‧Mobile processor

316‧‧‧CPU

318‧‧‧MFi module

320‧‧‧LED lighting

322‧‧‧Power Management Unit (PMU)

324‧‧‧ Random Access Memory (RAM)

326‧‧‧Flash memory

328‧‧‧ UART connector

330‧‧‧JTAG connector

332‧‧‧ audio module

334‧‧‧GPS module

336‧‧‧Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Module

338‧‧‧Common Serial Bus (USB)埠

338a‧‧‧Universal Serial Bus (USB)埠

338b‧‧‧Common Serial Bus (USB)埠

340‧‧‧Common Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART)

345‧‧‧Connect button

350‧‧‧ Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA)

352‧‧‧Power Meter

355‧‧Photo sensor

360‧‧‧Microcontroller

365‧‧‧ sensor

370‧‧‧Micro USB埠

375‧‧‧Noise cancellation microphone

380‧‧‧Audio codec

385‧‧‧Reset/Power Detector

390‧‧‧Video Sensor

395‧‧‧Multiplexer

400‧‧‧Generalized modular camera expansion system

402‧‧‧DC socket

404‧‧‧Charger

406‧‧‧Battery

408‧‧‧Multiplexer

410‧‧‧ hub

412‧‧‧USB storage device

414‧‧‧Battery

416‧‧‧ display

418‧‧‧HDMI埠

420‧‧‧UART

422‧‧‧Bluetooth pair

424‧‧‧5-way switch

426‧‧‧OLED matrix

428‧‧‧Buzzer

430‧‧‧USB Video Recorder

450‧‧‧Modified cable camera expansion system

460‧‧‧External devices

462‧‧‧USB connector

464‧‧‧External devices

466‧‧‧ wiring

500‧‧‧Generalized modular camera expansion system

505‧‧‧Photo capture button

510‧‧‧Video Recording Slider Switch

512‧‧‧Battery protection circuit

514‧‧‧Battery

516‧‧‧Micro USB埠

518‧‧‧Video Recording Slider Switch Flexure

520‧‧‧Modular Camera Expansion System PCBA

522‧‧‧ pin connector

710‧‧‧metal strip

720‧‧‧Photo capture button

722‧‧‧ pin connector

730‧‧‧Metal frame

740‧‧‧LED indicator

750‧‧‧Crystal cover

914‧‧‧Battery

945‧‧‧Connect button

950‧‧‧Modular camera expansion system

952‧‧‧Power Meter

960‧‧‧CPU; microcontroller

965‧‧‧ sensor; photo capture button

970‧‧‧Micro USB port; USB port

975‧‧‧External noise cancellation microphone

980‧‧‧Audio codec

985‧‧‧Reset button

990a‧‧‧Modular camera core

990b‧‧‧Modular camera core

1000‧‧‧Computation System

1005‧‧‧ busbar

1010‧‧‧ Processor

1015‧‧‧ Input device

1020‧‧‧ Output device

1025‧‧‧Storage device

1030‧‧‧Communication subsystem

1035‧‧‧ working memory

1040‧‧‧Operating system

1045‧‧‧Application

The above and other advantages and features of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description of the invention. It is understood that the drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not considered as limiting the scope of the invention. The present invention will be described and illustrated with additional specificity and detail in the accompanying drawings in which: FIG. 1 illustrates a modular camera system and a modular camera core in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; FIGS. 2A-2B An example of various components of a modular camera core in accordance with an embodiment of the invention described herein; FIG. 3 illustrates a modular camera core and corresponding camera extensions in accordance with embodiments described herein A block diagram of one of the various electrical components of the system; FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate additional block diagrams of various electrical components of the modular camera core and additional camera expansion system in accordance with additional embodiments described herein; FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B illustrates an example of various components of a camera-expanded system in accordance with embodiments described herein; FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate a system for connecting modularized camera extensions in accordance with embodiments described herein. An example of a connector to a modular camera core; FIG. 7 illustrates the assembly of a modular camera assembly in accordance with embodiments described herein; FIG. 8 illustrates an implementation in accordance with the teachings herein. One of the assembled modular camera assembly; FIG. 9 shows a modular system expandable camera system according to one of the control and the ability to connect a plurality of camera modules according to an alternative embodiment of a block diagram of the present invention; and FIG. 10 shows an illustrative computing system for performing functions to facilitate implementation of the embodiments described herein.

The present invention generally relates to a modular digital camera incorporating a camera core that is configured for use with a plurality of different camera configurations.

As shown in Figure 1 of the accompanying drawings, the embodiments described herein relate to a modular digital camera system 100 including a modular camera core 150 that is configured to be different from a plurality of Other modular camera product couplings include a plurality of different modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130 to provide the user with a simple camera system that can be specifically modified for various uses.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, modular digital camera system 100 includes a modular camera core 150 (described more fully below) that can be coupled to a variety of different modular camera products, including more fully described below. A plurality of different modular camera expansion systems 110, 120 and 130. In this example, modular camera core 150 is configured to couple with a modular pocket camera expansion system 110 that includes a set of functions and controls designed to be useful in a variety of situations. When coupled with the modularized pocket camera docking system 110, the modular camera core 150 and the modular pocket camera docking system 110 together form a pocket camera 160 that is designed to be carried by the user on a daily basis. A general purpose camera that can be used in a variety of situations that users encounter on a daily basis. The modular camera core 150 is also configured to couple with the modular active camera augmentation system 120, including functions and controls or active settings that are designed to be useful in competitions, such as when engaged in a sport or other When playing sports. When working with modular active shooting When the camera expansion system 120 is coupled, the modular camera core 150 and the modular active camera expansion system 120 together form an active camera 170 that is specifically designed to capture when engaged in recreational activities. Useful features for photos, videos, or audio materials. In addition, the modular camera core 150 is also configured to couple with a modular camera expansion system 130 to form a wired camera configuration 180 that is designed to be connected to a computer or capable of being cabled Other electronic devices that communicate with the modular camera core 150.

As will be more fully explained below, each of the various modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130 have different technical features and aspects, and an advantage of the embodiments described herein is that the user can select A modular camera expansion system 110, 120 or 130 that best meets the immediate needs of the user. For example, when assembled, the pocket camera 160 can be lighter than the active camera 170, which can be an advantage for everyday use or where ease of handling and portability are required. In contrast, when assembled, the active camera 170 has, for example, a long battery life, a noise canceling microphone, and can be coupled to various mounts, including instrument panel mounts, bicycle mounts, and/or a suction cup mount. Thus, while the active camera 170 may be larger and heavier, the active camera 170 has additional functionality not provided by the pocket camera 160. Further, the cable camera configuration 180 is specifically designed to connect the modular camera core 150 to a computer or other electronic device for transmitting pictures, audio data, and/or video data for execution on the modular camera core 150. Software updates or the like. Because the designated use of the cable camera configuration 180 is to facilitate the transfer of data to and from the modular camera core 150, the cable camera configuration 180 can have wired camera functionality. On the contrary, because there is a finger The modular cable camera expansion system 130 is defined so that there is no need to provide a port in the pocket camera 160 or the active camera 170. It will be appreciated that this provides an advantage in that the pocket camera 160 and the active camera 170 are allowed to have a simpler design.

Although the embodiments described herein describe three different modular camera augmentation systems 110, 120, and 130, it should be understood that the examples described herein are merely illustrative and may be combined as described herein. The modular camera core 150 uses other modular camera augmentation systems. Accordingly, the examples described herein are not intended to limit the claimed invention.

A. Modular camera core

2A-2B illustrate an example of a modular camera core 150 for use in conjunction with the embodiments described herein. As shown in the front view of FIG. 2A, the modular camera core 150 includes, for example, a camera lens 210 that can be used in capturing digital video and digital photos; and a lens holder 215 that will camera lens 210. Hold in place (shown in Figure 2B). The modular camera core 150 can also include a GPS antenna 220 that can be used in conjunction with a space-based satellite navigation system that provides when the GPS antenna 220 is in communication with one or more GPS satellites. Location and time information.

The modular camera core 150 also includes a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi antenna 230. As described more fully below, the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi antenna 230 can be used to communicate with a variety of other devices, including external computing devices, various modules. Camera expansion Controls on the charging systems 110, 120 and 130, and the like. The modular camera core 150 also includes a pin receiver 240 that can be used to provide physical connection to various modular camera augmentation systems 110, 120, and 130.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the modular camera core 150 also includes a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 290 that uses conductive tracks, pads, and other techniques etched from copper sheets laminated on a non-conductive substrate. Features to mechanically support and electrically connect electronic components. Examples of components are described in more detail with respect to FIG. 3, which may include a portion of PCBA 290. In addition to the PCBA 290, the modular camera core 150 can also include a heat sink 250, a PCBA shield 260, and a camera flex connector 280 that electrically connects the camera lens 210 to the PCBA 290.

A housing 270 houses the various components of the modular camera core 150 and may be formed from a combination of materials or materials to provide stability and security for the various components housed therein. Materials for the casing may comprise a combination of plastic, metal or other materials known in the art.

3 is a block diagram showing an example of various electrical components of the modular camera core 150 that may be integrated into or used in conjunction with the PCBA 290. FIG. 3 also illustrates an example of various electrical components of a modular camera expansion system 110 or 120 that can be integrated into the PCBA 350 of the modular camera expansion system 110 or 120 or used in conjunction with the PCBA 350. It is also depicted in Figures 5A-5B and is described more fully below. 4A is a block diagram showing the various electrical components of the modular camera core 150 when used in conjunction with an alternate embodiment of the modular cable camera expansion system 450, which illustrates various combinations that can be used in conjunction with the modular camera core. Different work can. 4B is a block diagram of various electrical components of the modular camera core 150 when used in conjunction with the modular cable camera expansion system 130.

The PCBA 290 includes a CPU 316 or other microprocessor or microcomputer that executes the instructions of the computer program by performing basic arithmetic, logic, and input/output operations of the system. As shown in FIG. 3, the CPU 316 is connected to various components and controls various components. In this example, CPU 316 communicates with camera lens 210 via a 4 simplex channel MIPI or other form of interface, and may also be coupled to an executable sub-process routine, motion processor 314, which includes a power component Such as accelerometers, compasses, and/or gyroscopes, and performing processing based on data collected from their components to provide 9-axis movement processing. Further, CPU 316 can include a camera module (not shown) that is specifically designed to control the exchange of data between CPU 316 and camera lens 210.

The PCBA 290 is also coupled to a microphone 310 via an audio codec (CODEC) 312. The audio codec 312 can be used to configure the digital audio captured by the microphone 310 in accordance with a given audio file format or streaming media audio format. data. The digital audio data is then transmitted to an audio module 332 of the CPU 316, which can be used for compression and decompression if needed. As described briefly with respect to Figures 2A-2B, CPU 316 is also coupled via a GPS module 308 to a GPS antenna 304 that can be used to perform telemetry or other location or positioning processing. The GPS data is then transmitted to one of the CPU modules of the CPU 316. CPU 316 is also coupled to a Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth antenna 302 via a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module 306. The CPU 316 may also include an MFi module 318 to allow the CPU 316 and the modular camera core 150 to interface with Apple® branded products. Information from the MFi module 318 and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi data from the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module 306 can be transferred to the CPU One of the 316 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules 306 is for further processing, and in some instances, initiates control operations, as described more fully below.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, by performing a subset of processing at modules 314, 312, 306, and 308, the amount of processing performed by CPU 316 is reduced, resulting in increased system battery life. In other configurations, processing can be performed by modules within the CPU 316.

The CPU 316 may also include a universal serial bus (USB) port 338 and a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) 340. The universal serial bus (USB) port 338 is used to connect to an external device and/or Or the modular camera extended system PCBA 350, Universal Non-Synchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) 340 translates data between parallel and serial. The USB port can also be packaged or a micro USB port, mini USB port or other connection means known in the art. In other embodiments, the CPU may also include dual USB ports, such as 338a and 338b and/or a multiplexer 395 as shown in FIG. 4A.

The modular camera core 150 can also include an LED light 320 that is controlled by a power management unit (PMU) 322. The PMU 322 can be powered by one of the batteries 414 stored in the modular camera expansion system 110 or 120. The modular camera core 150 can also include various types of memory, including read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM) 324, and flash memory 326, which can be used to store various types of data. , including the stored video and images captured by the system. Further, the modular camera core can include other components, such as a JTAG header 330 and a UART connector 328 for testing the PCBA 290.

In the embodiment described herein, the modular camera core 150 includes various cameras including a camera 210 capable of capturing digital video, audio data and photos. Technical characteristics. Digital video can be captured at various resolutions, including 1080p60, 720p120, 480p240 formats, and 8-13MP still photos, although it will be appreciated that various resolutions can be used in conjunction with the embodiments described herein. In one embodiment, camera 210 includes a fixed focal length lens, although the embodiments described herein can be adapted to include a variable focus lens and other optical components. Camera 210 may also include a temporary flash that can be powered by a battery 414 corresponding to one of modular camera expansion systems 110 or 120.

B. Control the modular camera core

As will be more fully described below, in one embodiment, the modular camera core 150 is designed to be free of a separate power supply and does not include an integrated user interface. Rather, these components are designed to be incorporated into the modular camera expansion system 110, 120 or 130, and the modular camera core 150 is designed to be remotely controlled by an external computing device, the external computing device capable of The modular camera core 150 is in communication via a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. In some examples, a Bluetooth connection can be used to control the technical features of the modular camera core 150, while a Wi-Fi connection is used to transfer data between the memory of the modular camera core 150 and external devices.

It will be appreciated that one advantage of enabling external control is that the camera can be rack mounted by the user (such as when incorporated into the pocket camera 160 or the active camera 170), and then the user can use the pocket camera 160. The modular camera core 150 or the active camera 170 communicates with a mobile phone or other device to control the device. In some examples, this may include using an external device as a viewfinder that is capable of receiving streaming data from the modular camera core 150 to determine that the camera is framing. content. It will be appreciated that this configuration will allow the photographer to construct (and in many cases focus) the picture using an external device. This is particularly advantageous in situations where the photographer wants to take a selfie, or where the photographer is going to use it in a motion setting where the photographer does not want to have the risk of damage to the viewfinder or the extra volume and control required to operate the camera. But the photographer still wants to control the captured picture or video. In addition, the remote control is also advantageous in situations where the photographer is separated from the camera because it cannot be accommodated in the space in which the camera is placed, or in other instances where the photographer is located away from the camera for the safety of the photographer.

Further, external control may be used to delete data stored in the memory of the modular camera core 150, or to transfer data from the memory of the modular camera core 150, or in the modular camera core 150 and the modular camera. Data is transferred between different types of memory within the augmented system 110 or 120. The external control may also add metadata to the video or photo material, including the addition of metadata corresponding to the information collected from other components of the modular camera core 150 (including GPS information from the GPS module 308). .

External control can also be used to transfer video or photo data to a user's network via a Wi-Fi connection. In some cases, this may include the transmission of video or photo data to a storage network, for example, the application for patent application 14/137,654 filed on December 20, 2013, entitled "Storage Network Data Configuration" (Storage) The storage network described in Network Data Allocation) is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In another configuration, external controls are used to perform basic camera functions, such as setting flash settings, starting to capture photos, and starting or stopping video recording. In addition or In the alternative, some functions may be initiated using buttons on the corresponding modular camera augmentation system 110 or 120. Further, external controls are also used to mark the video highlights. In addition, the embodiments described herein can also perform pass-through control of external devices, such as motor heads, lights, etc., which are coupled to modular camera 160 or 170, or to modular cameras. 160 or 170 connected.

In addition to controlling the operation of the modular camera core 150, the modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130 can also be remotely controlled via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections.

C. Modular camera expansion system

3 through 6 illustrate illustrative diagrams of components of modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130. More specifically, as briefly described above, FIG. 3 illustrates various components of the PCBA 290 of the modular camera core 150 and the modularized pocket camera expansion system 110 or the modular active camera expansion system 120. A block diagram of some exemplary components of the PBCA 350. 4A is a block diagram showing the various electrical components of the modular camera core 150 when used in conjunction with an alternate embodiment of the modular cable camera expansion system 450, which illustrates the various components that can be used in conjunction with the modular camera core 150. Different functions. 4B is a block diagram showing some of the components of the CPU 316 of the modular camera core 150 and some exemplary components of the PBCA 350 of the modular modular cable camera expansion system 130. 5A-5B depict various components of an exemplary modularized pocket camera extension system 110 or modular active camera extension system 120, and FIG. 6 depicts various components of an exemplary connector, the connector Used to provide media Physical and electronic connections between modular camera expansion systems 110, 120 and 130 and modular camera core 150.

Referring again to FIG. 3, an illustrative component of the PBCA 350 is illustrated, which may include one of the modularized pocket camera expansion system 110 or the modular active camera extension system 120. As described more fully below, one difference between the modularized pocket camera expansion system 110 and the modular active camera extension system 120 is the size of the battery included in the respective modular expansion systems 110 and 120. And capacity, and many of the components of the two modular camera expansion systems 110 and 120 are similar. Accordingly, the modular camera expansion system illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5A-5B is shown as a general purpose modular camera expansion system 500 including an exemplary component, depending on the individual modular camera expansion system. The particular design of system 110 or 120, different modular camera augmentation systems 110 and 120 may or may not include illustrative components.

The universal modular camera expansion system 500 of Figures 5A-5B includes a video recording slider switch 510 that can be used to initially capture digital video material. As shown in FIG. 5B, the video recording slider switch 510 is coupled to a video recording slider switch flexure 518, which in turn is coupled to the modular camera expansion system PCBA 520, which is operated by the modular camera expansion system PCBA 520. Camera lens 210 and motion processor 314 are controlled to initiate retrieval of data. In an alternate embodiment, the video recording slider switch flexure 518 can be eliminated.

In some examples, the sliding video recording slider switch 510 can initiate capturing digital video data, and the second sliding operation of one of the video recording slider switches 510 can terminate the video capture. In another configuration, the video recording slider switch 510 can be configured to capture the number The video is held during the duration of the slider switch. As shown in FIG. 1, the video recording slider switch 510 can also be made of different materials depending on the configuration of the modular camera expansion system 110 or 120. For example, in the modularized pocket camera extension system 110, the video recording slider switch 510 is made of a polished metal material to provide a glossy overall appearance, while in the modular active camera extension system 120, The video recording slider switch 510 is made of a durable plastic material that is specifically designed to be used when an operator wears gloves or other materials that are typically worn during recreational activities.

The universal modular camera expansion system 500 of FIGS. 5A-5B also includes a photo capture button 505 that can be used to initially capture digital photos. The universal modular camera expansion system 500 can also include a battery 514 and a battery protection circuit 512.

In one embodiment, the battery 514 of the modular active camera expansion system 120 is designed to have a longer battery life than the battery 514 of the modular pocket camera expansion system 110. For example, the battery of the modularized pocket camera extension system 110 can be 45 to 60 minutes, while the battery 514 of the modular active camera extension system 120 can have a battery life of two hours or more. Still further, the battery 514 of the modular active camera expansion system 120 can be designed to be replaceable.

The universal modular camera expansion system 400 of FIGS. 5A-5B also includes a pin connector 522 for connection to a corresponding pin connector of the modular camera core 150. In one embodiment, the pin connector 522 is a dedicated 30-pin connector, but it should be understood that a plurality of different attachment methods can be used without departing from the scope and meaning of the invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates various electrical component general purpose modular camera expansion systems 500. In the example shown in FIG. 3, many of the components shown may be selectively included in various modular camera augmentation systems 110 or 120. For example, an external noise cancellation microphone 375 and an accompanying audio codec 380 may be included in the modular active camera expansion system 120, but not included in the modular pocket camera expansion system 110 and Modularized cable camera expansion system 130. Similarly, the micro USB port can be included in the modular pocket camera expansion system 110 and the modular active camera expansion system 120, but not included in the modular cable camera expansion system 130 (FIG. 4B) This is because the modular cable camera expansion system 130 can be configured to integrate a micro USB port or utilize an additional type of cable for data transfer.

Additionally, as described above, while the modularized pocket camera expansion system 110 and the modular active camera extension system 120 include a battery 414, the modular cable camera expansion system 130 illustrated in FIG. 4B does not include A battery 414 or an accompanying power meter 352 can be used to determine the remaining battery life of the battery 414.

The PCBA 350 of the Universal Modular Camera Expansion System 500 includes a microcontroller 360 for controlling various buttons and sensors of the general purpose modular camera expansion system. Further, the PCBA 350 can also include an additional sensor 365 that includes a detector for detecting external noise in the area to initiate the noise cancellation function of the external microphone 375. As described above, the universal modular camera expansion system 500 can be coupled to a video recording slider switch 510 (shown as video switch 390 in FIG. 3) and a photo capture button 505 (shown as a photo switch in FIG. 3). 355). In another embodiment, the generic model The componentized camera augmentation system can also include a connection button (shown as connection button 345 in FIG. 3) that can initiate the transmission of video and/or photo material to an external device.

4A illustrates various electrical components of the modular camera core 150 when used in conjunction with an alternate embodiment of the modular camera expansion system 450, which illustrates various different functions that can be used in conjunction with the modular camera core 150. . For example, in the modular camera expansion system 450, the modular camera core 150 is included to demonstrate the modularity that various modular cable camera expansion systems can provide, and the modularized cable camera expansion can be individually selected. The system assembles the modular camera with the desired functionality. The modular expansion system 450 includes a wide variety of components and is referred to as "Frankie" because it represents the various functions available for various assemblies.

More specifically, in addition to the previously described components, the "Frankie" modular camera expansion system 450 also includes various functions, including a battery 406 that is coupled to a DC outlet 402 via an external charger 402. External charging. The "Frankie" modular camera expansion system 450 also includes a multiplexer 408, a Bluetooth pair 422, a five-way switch 424 (which is configured to push or go straight down in four directions), and an OLED matrix 426 (using To drive a display device, a buzzer 428 or other piezoelectric element (which provides vibration as a notification to the user).

In addition, multiplexer 408 can be coupled to a hub 410, which in turn is coupled to a USB storage port 412 (which is configured to receive a USB memory card) and a USB video port 430, USB video port. The 430 can be coupled to an HDMI port 418 for driving an external display or a display 416 that is included in the "Frankie" modular camera expansion system 450.

In addition to these components, other components may be added to the modular camera expansion system without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, an external flash memory can be provided, and as shown in FIG. 9, a modular camera expansion system 950 along with an accompanying microcontroller or CPU 960 can be configured to control more than one Modular camera cores 990a and 990b.

More specifically, the modular expansion system 950 can also include a battery 914 that supplies power to one of the modular camera cores 990a and 990b, the PMU 322. Battery 914 can be used in conjunction with a power meter 952. The modular expansion system 950 can include various components as described above, including a microcontroller 960, an external noise cancellation microphone 975, and an accompanying audio codec 980, a micro USB port 970, and additional sensing. The detector 965 includes a detector for detecting external noise of the area to initiate the noise cancellation function of the external microphone 3975.

As described above, the modular camera expansion system 950 can also include a reset button 985, a connection button 945 (for initial transmission of data via the USB port 970), and a video button 960 (for starting the module). Either or both of the camera lenses 210 of the camera cores 990a and 990b capture video data) and a photo capture button 965 (for starting either or both of the modular camera cores 990a and 990b) Capture photo data).

In contrast to the multi-component modular cable camera expansion system 450 illustrated in FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B illustrates an exemplary assembly of the modular cable camera expansion system 130 that includes only a USB connector 462 and an external portion. One of the devices 464 is transparently connected, and the USB connector 462 is connected to the modular cable camera expansion via the wiring 466. System 130. The modular cable camera expansion system 130 is specifically configured to transfer data between the modular camera core 150 and an external device 464. In this embodiment, the modular cable camera expansion system 130 does not include a microcontroller or other electrical component.

The modular cable camera expansion system 130 includes a USB port 455 or other communication interface as is well known in the art. In this example, the USB connection is used for connection, communication, and power supply between the external device 464 and a modular camera core 150. Because the USB port 455 allows the external device 460 to supply power to the modular camera core 150 via the CPU 316, the modular cable camera expansion system 130 does not include the battery 414.

In each of the modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130 described above, any of the various modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130, in addition to the specifically described buttons and sliders Or the slider can also be used to reset or power on or off the pocket camera 160, the active camera 170 or the cable camera configuration 180. For example, a combination of pressing a photo capture button 405 or a connection button for a predetermined period of time or pressing the photo capture button 405 and the sliding video recording slider switch 510 can be used to initiate the operation, and a reset/ Power detector 385 can be used to detect this operation.

In addition to these electrical components, various modular camera augmentation systems 110, 120, and/or 130 may include other physical technical features depending on their intended use. For example, modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and/or 130 may include connectors for attaching modular camera expansion systems 110 and 120 to a lanyard, clip, or key clip. Or attached to a variety of different mounts as described above. Using a combination of such special mechanical and electrical components, various modular camera expansion systems 110, 120 and 130 can be specifically designed for use in a variety of camera applications. Further, in an embodiment, the modular camera extension system 110 or 120 can include a flexible clip holder that enables the pocket camera 160 or the active camera 170 to be rack mounted to a piece of clothing while allowing the camera lens 210 is aligned forward. In one embodiment, the modular camera core 150 of any of the modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130 is designed to be waterproof or water resistant.

6A and 6B illustrate a pin connection between the modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130 and the modular camera core 150. More specifically, one of the modular camera cores 150 shown in FIG. 6A is adapted to receive one of the contacts disposed on each of the modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130. Connector 622. As known to those skilled in the art, the pin receiver 240 and the pin connector 622 can be specially adapted to provide mechanical and electrical connection between the modular camera core 150 and the modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130. Pieces and communications. In one embodiment, the pin connector 622 is a dedicated 30 pin, but it should be understood that alternative embodiments or configurations may be used without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. .

8 illustrates a procedure in which modular camera core 150 is coupled to modular pocket camera extension system 110 to form assembled pocket camera 160. As shown in FIG. 8, the modular pocket camera core 150 slides into one of the housings of the modular camera expansion system 110 and the two components are mechanically and by their respective connector connectors 240 and 522. Electrically bonded. In some examples, the modularized pocket camera extension system 110 can include a button or other mechanism for initiating the release of the modular camera core 150 from the modularized pocket camera extension system 110.

FIG. 7 illustrates various aspects of an assembled pocket camera 160 in accordance with an embodiment. The assembled pocket camera 160 includes a video recording slider button and a photo capture button 720, which in this embodiment are integral. One of the tapered front portions of the assembled pocket type camera includes a metal bezel, and a metal strip 710 is formed on the back of one of the assembled pocket type cameras 160. An LED indicator 740 on top of the assembly indicates that the camera is powered on and/or in progress or in the data transfer process. A crystal cover 750 is placed on the front of the camera lens 210 to provide clear picture and video while providing durability.

By providing the various modular components described herein, the modular camera system described herein provides a camera that can be easily adapted for a variety of different uses. For example, a particular modular camera expansion system 110 and 120 can be selected that provides different user interfaces, physical attributes, electrical components, and battery life that are optimally suited to each situation. Further, an additional modularized cable camera expansion system 130 specifically designed for data transfer can be used.

In some examples, the user may purchase a variety of different modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130 having a modular camera core 150. In one embodiment, the modular camera core 150 can be sold along with three separate modular camera expansion systems 110, 120, and 130. In another embodiment, the modular camera core 150 can be sold with only one modular camera expansion system 110, 120 or 130, and other modular camera expansion systems can be sold separately. It can be appreciated that by enabling this modularity, the system described herein provides an individual degree of personalization and adjustability that is not known in the art.

Further, by providing a central modular camera core 150, the embodiments described herein allow for the development and sale of further camera expansion modules including new functions or components that enable users to upgrade or further personalize their modularization. Camera without having to buy a new camera system. The embodiments described herein provide advantages not known in the art by providing modularity and customization to the extent described herein.

One of the computing system 1000 (or processing unit) illustrated in FIG. 10 can be used to perform any of the embodiments of the present invention. For example, computing system 1000 can be used alone or in combination with other components to perform all or a portion of the procedures described above. As another example, computing system 1000 can be used to perform any of the calculations described herein, solve any equations, perform any identification, and/or make any determination. The computing system 1000 includes hardware components that can be electrically coupled (or otherwise otherwise connected via a busbar 1005). The hardware component can include one or more processors 1010 including, but not limited to, one or more general purpose processors and/or one or more special purpose processors (such as digital signal processing chips, graphics acceleration chips, and Or one or more input devices 1015, which may include, but are not limited to, a mouse, a keyboard, and/or the like; and one or more output devices 1020, which may include, but are not limited to, a display Devices, printers and/or the like.

Computing system 1000 can further include (and/or be in communication with) one or more storage devices 1025, which can include, but are not limited to, native and/or network accessible storage and/or can include (but is not limited to) a disk drive, a disk array, an optical storage device, a solid state storage device such as a random access memory ("RAM") and/or a read only memory ("ROM"), etc. Stylized, flashable updates, and/or the like. Calculation System 1000 can also include a communication subsystem 1030, which can include, but is not limited to, a data machine, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, a wireless communication device, and/or a chipset (such as a Bluetooth device, 802.6 device) , Wi-Fi devices, WiMax devices, cellular communication facilities, etc., and/or the like. Communication subsystem 1030 may permit the exchange of material with a network, such as the network described below, as an example, and/or any other device described herein. In many embodiments, computing system 1000 will further include a working memory 1035, which can include a RAM or ROM device, as described above.

The computing system 1000 can also include a software component that is shown as being currently located in the working memory 1035. The software component includes an operating system 1040 and/or other programming code, such as one or more applications 1045, which can include the computer program of the present invention. And/or systems designed to carry out the invention and/or to configure the invention, as described herein. For example, one or more of the procedures described above may be implemented as code and/or instructions executable by a computer (and/or a processor within a computer). A set of these instructions and/or code may be stored on a computer readable storage medium, such as storage device 1025 described above.

In some cases, the storage medium can be incorporated into or in communication with computing system 1000. In other embodiments, the storage medium can be separate from the computing system 1000 (eg, removable media, such as a compact disc, etc.) and/or provided in an installation package such that the storage medium can use the instructions/programs stored thereon. Code to program a general purpose computer. These instructions may take the form of executable code executable by computing system 1000 and/or may take the form of source code and/or installable code, which may be compiled and/or installed on computing system 1000 (eg, , using a variety of commonly available compilers, installation Any of the programs, compression/decompression utilities, etc., can then take the form of executable code.

Many specific details are mentioned herein to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will be able to identify the application of the practiceable claims without these specific details. In other instances, methods, devices, or systems known to those of ordinary skill in the art are not described in detail so as not to obscure the application.

Some aspects are presented in terms of algorithms or symbolic representations of data bit or binary bit signal operations stored in computing system memory, such as computer memory. These algorithms are described or represented as examples of techniques used by those of ordinary skill in the art of data processing to carry their work materials to other skilled artisans. The algorithm is a self-consistent sequence of operations or similar processing that results in the desired result. In this context, operations or processing involve entities manipulating physical quantities. Typically, though not necessarily, such quantities may take the form of an electrical or magnetic signal that can be stored, transferred, combined, compared, or otherwise manipulated. The use of such signals as bits, data, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, values, or the like has proven to be very convenient, primarily because of common usage. It should be understood, however, that all of these and similar terms are associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient. Unless otherwise specified, it should be understood that the entire specification refers to the use of terms such as "processing," "calculation," "calculation," "decision," and "identification" or the like to refer to an arithmetic device (such as one or more computers). Or the operation or processing of a similar electronic computing device or device, which is represented in the memory, scratchpad or other information storage device, transmission device or display device of the computing platform as physical, electronic or magnetic quantities.

The systems discussed herein are not limited to any particular hardware architecture or configuration. An arithmetic device can include any suitable component configuration that provides a result of coordinating one or more inputs. Suitable computing devices include a multi-purpose microprocessor-based computer system that accesses stored software that programs or configures the computing system from a general purpose computing device to implement a particular computing device in one or more embodiments of the subject matter of the present invention. Any suitable programming, scripting or other type of language or combination of languages may be used to implement the techniques contained herein in software for use in stylizing or configuring an computing device.

Embodiments of the methods discussed herein may be performed in the operation of such computing devices. The order of chunks presented in the above examples can be changed. By way of example, chunks can be reordered, combined, and/or broken into subchunks. Some chunks or processing can be executed in parallel.

As used herein, "adapted to" or "configured to" means an open and broad language, which does not exclude that the device is adapted or configured to perform additional tasks or steps. In addition, the term "based on" is used to mean that it is open and broad, as the processing, steps, calculations or other actions based on one or more of the described conditions or values may actually be based on additional conditions other than the description or value. The headings, lists, and numbers included herein are for ease of explanation only and are not intended to be limiting.

Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that modifications, variations and equivalents of the embodiments can be readily made by those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the invention is to be construed as illustrative and not restrictive, and understand.

The use of the examples and the conditional language descriptions herein are intended to be illustrative of the invention and the inventor's conception of the invention. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is understood that various modifications, changes and changes may be made to the embodiments of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

210‧‧‧ camera lens

290‧‧‧ Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA)

302‧‧‧Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth antenna

304‧‧‧GPS antenna

306‧‧ Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Module

308‧‧‧GPS module

310‧‧‧Microphone

312‧‧‧Audio codec

314‧‧‧Mobile processor

316‧‧‧CPU

318‧‧‧MFi module

320‧‧‧LED lighting

322‧‧‧Power Management Unit (PMU)

324‧‧‧ Random Access Memory (RAM)

326‧‧‧Flash memory

328‧‧‧ UART connector

330‧‧‧JTAG connector

332‧‧‧ audio module

334‧‧‧GPS module

336‧‧‧Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Module

338‧‧‧Common Serial Bus (USB)埠

340‧‧‧Common Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART)

345‧‧‧Connect button

350‧‧‧ Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA)

352‧‧‧Power Meter

355‧‧Photo sensor

360‧‧‧Microcontroller

365‧‧‧ sensor

370‧‧‧Micro USB埠

375‧‧‧Noise cancellation microphone

380‧‧‧Audio codec

385‧‧‧Reset/Power Detector

390‧‧‧Video Sensor

414‧‧‧Battery

Claims (20)

A modular camera expansion system for a modular camera capable of capturing digital video, audio and photo data, the modular camera expansion system comprising: a processor; a connecting member And configured to electrically and mechanically connect the processor to one of the processor of the modular camera; a user interface coupled to the processor, wherein the modular camera is coupled to the modular camera housing The user interface is capable of initiating a processing program of the processor of the modular camera; and a housing that houses the processor, the connecting member, and the user interface, the housing configured to The modular cameras are coupled to form an assembled camera whereby the modular camera is operated using the user interface of the modular camera expansion system. The modular camera expansion system of claim 1, further comprising one of means for communicating with an external computing device. The modular camera expansion system of claim 2, wherein the means for communicating with an external computing device comprises a USB port, a mini USB port or a micro USB port. The modular camera expansion system of claim 1, further comprising a battery for supplying power to the processor and the modular camera. The modular camera expansion system of claim 1, wherein the user interface comprises a button that causes the processor of the modular camera to initially capture digital video, audio or photo material. The modular camera expansion system of claim 1, further comprising at least one microphone capable of capturing digital audio data corresponding to the digital video material. The modular camera expansion system of claim 1, wherein the connecting member comprises an electrical pin connector that is coupled to a corresponding electrical pin connector of the modular camera. A modular camera extended system of claim 1, wherein the outer casing is waterproof. A modular camera expansion product capable of coupling to a modular camera capable of capturing digital video, audio and photo data, the modular camera product comprising: a processor; a connecting member, It is configured to electrically and mechanically connect the processor to a processor of the modular camera; a user interface coupled to the processor when the modular camera is coupled to the modular camera housing The user interface is capable of initiating a processing program of the processor of the modular camera; and a housing accommodating the processor, the connecting member and the user interface, the housing being configured to interact with the module The component cameras are coupled to form an assembled camera whereby the modular camera is operated using the user interface of the modular camera expansion product. The modular camera expansion product of claim 9, further comprising one of means for communicating with an external computing device. The modular camera expansion product of claim 10, wherein the means for communicating with an external computing device comprises a USB port, a mini USB port or a micro USB port. The modular camera expansion product of claim 9, further comprising a battery for supplying power to the processor and the modular camera. The modular camera expansion product of claim 9, wherein the user interface comprises a button that causes the processor of the modular camera to initially capture digital video and photo data. The modular camera expansion product of claim 9, further comprising at least one microphone capable of capturing digital audio data corresponding to the digital video material. The modular camera expandable product of claim 9, wherein the connecting member comprises an electrical pin connector coupled to a corresponding electrical pin connector of the modular camera. A modular camera expandable product according to claim 9 wherein the outer casing is waterproof. A modular camera system for a modular camera capable of capturing digital video and photo data, the modular camera product comprising: a first modular expansion system comprising a first processor, a first connecting member, and a first user interface, the first connecting member configured to electrically and mechanically connect the first processor to a processor of the modular camera, the first a user interface is connected to the first processor, and when the modular camera is connected to the first modular expansion system, the first user interface can start the processor of the modular camera One of the processing procedures; and A second modular expansion system includes a second processor, a second connection member, and a second user interface, the second connection member configured to electrically and mechanically connect the second processor To a processor of the modular camera, the second user interface is connected to the second processor, and when the modular camera is connected to the second modular expansion system, the second user interface A program in the processor of the modular camera can be initiated. The modular camera system of claim 17, wherein the first modular expansion system comprises a first battery, the capacity of one of the first batteries being greater than the capacity of the second battery of one of the second modular housings. The modular camera system of claim 17, wherein the first and second connecting members each comprise an electrical pin connector, and the electrical pin connector is connected to a corresponding electrical pin connection of the modular camera. Device. The modular camera system of claim 17, wherein the first modular extended camera system, the second extended camera system, and the modular camera are each waterproof.