Patent ID: 7111998
Filing Date: 2006-09-26
Classification: F16H,G03B

Abstract:
1. A camera assembly comprising: a first rotating member and a second rotating member; a motor assembly operably coupled to said first rotating member and defining a first axis wherein said motor assembly drivingly rotates said first rotating member; a flexible member operably coupling said first and second rotating members, said second rotating member defining a second axis, rotation of said first rotating member causing rotation of said second rotating member through said flexible member; a camera operably coupled to said second rotating member, rotation of said second rotating member repositioning said camera; said motor assembly having a sidewall, said sidewall defining an annular support surface, said motor assembly further including a flange having a substantially circular outer circumference defining a plurality of teeth, each said teeth including a bearing surface and a latching surface, said at least one said bearing surface bearing against said support surface, said outer circumference defining a radially variable distance from said first axis defined by said first rotating member wherein rotation of said outer circumference relative to said annular support surface displaces said first axis relative to said second axis and thereby adjusts a tension force in said flexible member; and a first pawl mechanism fixed relative to said support surface and engageable with said outer circumference whereby engagement of said first pawl mechanism with one of said latching surfaces prevents relative rotational motion between said outer circumference and said annular support surface in a first rotational direction.