Camera stand having an unlimited range of motion along an axis of rotation

This application discloses a stand assembly that includes a receiving element for physically receiving a module, and a base assembly for supporting the receiving element. The receiving element further includes a module holding structure, an extended portion, and a first fastener structure coupled to an end of the extended portion. The base assembly includes a base, and a second fastener structure coupled to the base at a joint and configured to mate with the first fastener structure. The first fastener structure and the joint are configured to respectively provide a first degree of freedom of motion and a second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element with respect to the base. The movement of the receiving element at the first degree of freedom is unlimited in a first direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/738,880, filed Jun. 13, 2015, entitled “Camera Stand Having Constant Resistance for a Portion of a Range Of Motion Along an axis Of Rotation” and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/738,882, filed Jun. 13, 2015, entitled “Method of Packaging Camera Facilitating Ease of Installation,” both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This relates generally to an assembly, including but not limited to methods and systems for mechanically supporting an electronic device and providing one or more degrees of freedom of motion to the electronic device.

BACKGROUND

A smart home environment is created at a venue by integrating a plurality of smart devices, including intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected devices, seamlessly with each other in a local area network and/or with a central server or a cloud-computing system to provide a variety of useful smart home functions. Sometimes, the smart home environment includes one or more network-connected cameras that are configured to provide video monitoring and security in the smart home environment. These smart devices (e.g., the network-connected cameras) are normally placed on surfaces or mounted on walls at different locations of the smart home environment. As such, each smart device must include a base that could match and come into contact with different types of surfaces including a desktop, the wall or other surfaces. It would be beneficial to mechanically couple a smart device to its base in a compact and robust manner, while maintaining at least one or more degrees of freedom of motion for the smart device.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, there is a need for a compact and robust stand assembly that can support an electronic device and provide one or more degrees of freedom of motion to the electronic device. In various implementations of this application, a module (i.e., an electronic device) is mounted on a stand assembly that further includes a receiving element and a base assembly. The receiving element physically receives the module and is mechanically coupled to the base assembly using matching fastener structures. The base assembly further includes a base shaped to rest against a supporting surface, and a joint where one of the matching fastener structures is located. The matching fastener structures and the joint of the stand are configured to provide two independent degrees of freedom of motion of the receiving element with respect to the base of the base assembly.

In accordance with one aspect of this application, a stand assembly includes a receiving element for physically receiving a module, and a base assembly for supporting the receiving element. The receiving element further includes a module holding structure configured to hold the module, an extended portion that extends from the module holding structure, and a first fastener structure coupled to an end of the extended portion located opposite another end of the extended portion that extends from the module holding structure. The base assembly further includes a base shaped to rest against a supporting surface, and a second fastener structure coupled to the base at a joint, and the second fastener structure is configured to mate with the first fastener structure. The first fastener structure and the joint are configured to provide a first degree of freedom of motion and a second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element with respect to the base, respectively. The movement of the receiving element at the first degree of freedom has substantially consistent resistance through first part of a first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion, and the movement of the receiving element at the second degree of freedom has substantially consistent resistance through a second full range of motion associated with the second degree of freedom.

In accordance with another aspect of this application, a stand assembly includes a receiving element for physically receiving a module, and a base assembly for supporting the receiving element. The receiving element further includes a module holding structure configured to hold the module, an extended portion that extends from the module holding structure, and a first fastener structure coupled to an end of the extended portion located opposite another end of the extended portion that extends from the module holding structure. The base assembly further includes a base shaped to rest against a supporting surface, and a second fastener structure coupled to the base at a joint, and the second fastener structure is configured to mate with the first fastener structure. The first fastener structure and the joint are configured to provide a first degree of freedom of motion and a second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element with respect to the base, respectively. The movement of the receiving element at the first degree of freedom is unlimited in a first direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom, and the movement of the receiving element at the second degree of freedom is limited in a direction of travel associated with the second degree of freedom.

In some implementations, the first degree of freedom is associated with a reverse direction of travel that is opposite to the first direction of travel associated with the unlimited movement at the first degree of freedom, and the first and second fastener structures are unfastened when the receiving element moves with respect to the base assembly in the reverse direction of travel associate with the first degree of freedom.

In accordance with an aspect of this application, a method of packaging an assembly includes providing a base assembly that includes a base and a second fastener structure. The second fastener structure is coupled to the base at a joint. The method of packaging the assembly further includes attaching to the base assembly a receiving element that is configured to physically receive a module and includes a first fastener structure. Attaching to the base assembly the receiving element further includes tightening the first fastener structure onto the second fastener structure until the first fastener structure reaches a tightened position. The first fastener structure of the receiving element and the joint of the base assembly are configured to provide a first degree of freedom of motion and a second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element with respect to the base assembly, respectively. The method of packaging the assembly further includes after determining that the first fastener structure reaches the tightened position, rotating the receiving element reversely at the first degree of freedom of motion by a first angle to orient the receiving element to a nominal position. At the nominal position, the receiving element and the module received thereby are configured to face substantially up when they are flipped down via the joint at the second degree of freedom of motion

In accordance with another aspect of this application, a method of packaging an assembly includes providing a base assembly that includes a base and a second fastener structure. The second fastener structure is coupled to the base at a joint. The method of packaging the assembly further includes attaching to the base assembly a receiving element that is configured to physically receive a module and includes a first fastener structure. The first fastener structure is configured to mate with the second fastener structure and provide a first degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element with respect to the base, and the movement of the receiving element at the first degree of freedom is unlimited in a first direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom of motion. The joint is configured to provide a second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element with respect to the base. The method of packaging the assembly further includes rotating the receiving element along the first direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom until the receiving element reaches a nominal position. At the nominal position, the receiving element and the module received thereby are configured to face substantially up when they are flipped down via the joint at the second degree of freedom of motion.

DESCRIPTION OF IMPLEMENTATIONS

In accordance with various implementations of the present invention, a stand assembly is applied to support an electronic device at different locations in a smart home environment. The electronic device includes, but is not limited to, a surveillance camera, a microphone, a speaker, a thermostat, a hazard detector, or other types of smart devices. The stand assembly includes a receiving element for physically receiving the electronic device, and a base assembly for supporting the receiving element and the electronic device mounted thereon. The stand assembly is configured to provide at least two degrees of freedom of motion such that the receiving element and the electronic device mounted thereon can be oriented differently with respect to the base assembly. In some implementations, the two degrees of freedom of motion allow the receiving element and the electronic device mounted thereon to flip down and lie substantially in parallel with a bottom surface of the base assembly, and therefore, the stand assembly and the electronic device can be packaged within a shipping box in a compact, reliable and consistent manner. Also, such consistent packaging ensures that the electronic device when removed from a package will provide an optimal and consistent range of adjustability to reduce customer frustration and improve likelihood of customer success with the product. Further, in some implementations, the stand assembly offers a high aesthetic level in product design by hiding fastener structures used to assemble the stand assembly and rendering them structurally invisible to a user of the electronic device.

FIG. 1is an example smart home environment100in accordance with some implementations. The smart home environment100includes a structure150(e.g., a house, office building, garage, or mobile home) with various integrated devices. It will be appreciated that devices may also be integrated into a smart home environment100that does not include an entire structure150, such as an apartment, condominium, or office space. Further, the smart home environment100may control and/or be coupled to devices outside of the actual structure150. Indeed, several devices in the smart home environment100need not be physically within the structure150. For example, a device controlling a pool heater114or irrigation system116may be located outside of the structure150.

The depicted structure150includes a plurality of rooms152, separated at least partly from each other via walls154. The walls154may include interior walls or exterior walls. Each room may further include a floor156and a ceiling158. Devices may be mounted on, integrated with and/or supported by a wall154, floor156or ceiling158.

In some implementations, the integrated devices of the smart home environment100include intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected devices that integrate seamlessly with each other in a smart home network and/or with a central server or a cloud-computing system to provide a variety of useful smart home functions. The smart home environment100may include one or more intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected thermostats102(hereinafter referred to as “smart thermostats102”), one or more intelligent, network-connected, multi-sensing hazard detection units104(hereinafter referred to as “smart hazard detectors104”), one or more intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected entryway interface devices106and120(hereinafter referred to as “smart doorbells106” and “smart door locks120”), and one or more intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected alarm systems122(hereinafter referred to as “smart alarm systems122”).

In some implementations, the one or more smart thermostats102detect ambient climate characteristics (e.g., temperature and/or humidity) and control a HVAC system103accordingly. For example, a respective smart thermostat102includes an ambient temperature sensor.

The one or more smart hazard detectors104may include thermal radiation sensors directed at respective heat sources (e.g., a stove, oven, other appliances, a fireplace, etc.). For example, a smart hazard detector104in a kitchen153includes a thermal radiation sensor directed at a stove/oven112. A thermal radiation sensor may determine the temperature of the respective heat source (or a portion thereof) at which it is directed and may provide corresponding blackbody radiation data as output.

The smart doorbell106and/or the smart door lock120may detect a person's approach to or departure from a location (e.g., an outer door), control doorbell/door locking functionality (e.g., receive user inputs from a portable electronic device166-1to actuate bolt of the smart door lock120), announce a person's approach or departure via audio or visual means, and/or control settings on a security system (e.g., to activate or deactivate the security system when occupants go and come).

The smart alarm system122may detect the presence of an individual within close proximity (e.g., using built-in IR sensors), sound an alarm (e.g., through a built-in speaker, or by sending commands to one or more external speakers), and send notifications to entities or users within/outside of the smart home network100. In some implementations, the smart alarm system122also includes one or more input devices or sensors (e.g., keypad, biometric scanner, NFC transceiver, microphone) for verifying the identity of a user, and one or more output devices (e.g., display, speaker). In some implementations, the smart alarm system122may also be set to an “armed” mode, such that detection of a trigger condition or event causes the alarm to be sounded unless a disarming action is performed.

In some implementations, the smart home environment100includes one or more intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected wall switches108(hereinafter referred to as “smart wall switches108”), along with one or more intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected wall plug interfaces110(hereinafter referred to as “smart wall plugs110”). The smart wall switches108may detect ambient lighting conditions, detect room-occupancy states, and control a power and/or dim state of one or more lights. In some instances, smart wall switches108may also control a power state or speed of a fan, such as a ceiling fan. The smart wall plugs110may detect occupancy of a room or enclosure and control supply of power to one or more wall plugs (e.g., such that power is not supplied to the plug if nobody is at home).

In some implementations, the smart home environment100ofFIG. 1includes a plurality of intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected appliances112(hereinafter referred to as “smart appliances112”), such as refrigerators, stoves, ovens, televisions, washers, dryers, lights, stereos, intercom systems, garage-door openers, floor fans, ceiling fans, wall air conditioners, pool heaters, irrigation systems, security systems, space heaters, window AC units, motorized duct vents, and so forth. In some implementations, when plugged in, an appliance may announce itself to the smart home network, such as by indicating what type of appliance it is, and it may automatically integrate with the controls of the smart home. Such communication by the appliance to the smart home may be facilitated by either a wired or wireless communication protocol. The smart home may also include a variety of non-communicating legacy appliances140, such as old conventional washer/dryers, refrigerators, and the like, which may be controlled by smart wall plugs110. The smart home environment100may further include a variety of partially communicating legacy appliances142, such as infrared (“IR”) controlled wall air conditioners or other IR-controlled devices, which may be controlled by IR signals provided by the smart hazard detectors104or the smart wall switches108.

In some implementations, the smart home environment100includes one or more network-connected cameras118that are configured to provide video monitoring and security in the smart home environment100. The cameras118may be used to determine occupancy of the structure150and/or particular rooms152in the structure150, and thus may act as occupancy sensors. For example, video captured by the cameras118may be processed to identify the presence of an occupant in the structure150(e.g., in a particular room152). Specific individuals may be identified based, for example, on their appearance (e.g., height, face) and/or movement (e.g., their walk/gait). Cameras118may additionally include one or more sensors (e.g., IR sensors, motion detectors), input devices (e.g., microphone for capturing audio), and output devices (e.g., speaker for outputting audio).

Alternatively, in some implementations, the smart home environment100includes one or more network-connected microphone device124that are configured to capture audio and provide security functions in the smart home environment100. Optionally, the microphone device124is a stand-alone device that is not included in any other smart device, and can be regarded as a type of smart home device in this application. Optionally, the microphone device124is part of another client device502or another smart electronic device other than the cameras118. The microphone device124may be used to determine occupancy of the structure150and/or particular rooms152in the structure150, and thus may act as occupancy sensors. Specifically, audio captured by the microphone device124may be processed to identify the presence of an occupant in the structure150(e.g., in a particular room152). Specific individuals may be identified based, for example, on characteristic of their voices.

In some implementations, audio captured by the microphones in the cameras118or the microphone device124may also be processed to identify audio features (e.g., a baby sound), and relevant signature events (e.g., a baby cry event) when the audio features meet predetermined criteria.

The smart home environment100may additionally or alternatively include one or more other occupancy sensors (e.g., the smart doorbell106, smart door locks120, touch screens, IR sensors, microphones, ambient light sensors, motion detectors, smart nightlights170, etc.). In some implementations, the smart home environment100includes radio-frequency identification (RFID) readers (e.g., in each room152or a portion thereof) that determine occupancy based on RFID tags located on or embedded in occupants. For example, RFID readers may be integrated into the smart hazard detectors104.

The smart home environment100may also include communication with devices outside of the physical home but within a proximate geographical range of the home. For example, the smart home environment100may include a pool heater monitor114that communicates a current pool temperature to other devices within the smart home environment100and/or receives commands for controlling the pool temperature. Similarly, the smart home environment100may include an irrigation monitor116that communicates information regarding irrigation systems within the smart home environment100and/or receives control information for controlling such irrigation systems.

By virtue of network connectivity, one or more of the smart home devices ofFIG. 1may further allow a user to interact with the device even if the user is not proximate to the device. For example, a user may communicate with a device using a computer (e.g., a desktop computer, laptop computer, or tablet) or other portable electronic device166(e.g., a mobile phone, such as a smart phone). A webpage or application may be configured to receive communications from the user and control the device based on the communications and/or to present information about the device's operation to the user. For example, the user may view a current set point temperature for a device (e.g., a stove) and adjust it using a computer. The user may be in the structure during this remote communication or outside the structure.

As discussed above, users may control smart devices in the smart home environment100using a network-connected computer or portable electronic device166. In some examples, some or all of the occupants (e.g., individuals who live in the home) may register their device166with the smart home environment100. Such registration may be made at a central server to authenticate the occupant and/or the device as being associated with the home and to give permission to the occupant to use the device to control the smart devices in the home. An occupant may use their registered device166to remotely control the smart devices of the home, such as when the occupant is at work or on vacation. The occupant may also use their registered device to control the smart devices when the occupant is actually located inside the home, such as when the occupant is sitting on a couch inside the home. It should be appreciated that instead of or in addition to registering devices166, the smart home environment100may make inferences about which individuals live in the home and are therefore occupants and which devices166are associated with those individuals. As such, the smart home environment may “learn” who is an occupant and permit the devices166associated with those individuals to control the smart devices of the home.

In some implementations, in addition to containing processing and sensing capabilities, devices102,104,106,108,110,112,114,116,118,120,122and/or124(collectively referred to as “the smart devices”) are capable of data communications and information sharing with other smart devices, a central server or cloud-computing system, and/or other devices that are network-connected. Data communications may be carried out using any of a variety of custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, MiWi, etc.) and/or any of a variety of custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.), or any other suitable communication protocol, including communication protocols not yet developed as of the filing date of this document.

In some implementations, the smart devices serve as wireless or wired repeaters. In some implementations, a first one of the smart devices communicates with a second one of the smart devices via a wireless router. The smart devices may further communicate with each other via a connection (e.g., network interface160) to a network, such as the Internet162. Through the Internet162, the smart devices may communicate with a smart home provider server system164(also called a central server system and/or a cloud-computing system herein). The smart home provider server system164may be associated with a manufacturer, support entity, or service provider associated with the smart device(s). In some implementations, a user is able to contact customer support using a smart device itself rather than needing to use other communication means, such as a telephone or Internet-connected computer. In some implementations, software updates are automatically sent from the smart home provider server system164to smart devices (e.g., when available, when purchased, or at routine intervals).

In some implementations, the network interface160includes a conventional network device (e.g., a router), and the smart home environment100ofFIG. 1includes a hub device180that is communicatively coupled to the network(s)162directly or via the network interface160. The hub device180is further communicatively coupled to one or more of the above intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected devices (e.g., smart devices of the smart home environment100). Each of these smart devices optionally communicates with the hub device180using one or more radio communication networks available at least in the smart home environment100(e.g., ZigBee, Z-Wave, Insteon, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and other radio communication networks). In some implementations, the hub device180and devices coupled with/to the hub device can be controlled and/or interacted with via an application running on a smart phone, household controller, laptop, tablet computer, game console or similar electronic device. In some implementations, a user of such controller application can view status of the hub device or coupled smart devices, configure the hub device to interoperate with smart devices newly introduced to the home network, commission new smart devices, and adjust or view settings of connected smart devices, etc. In some implementations the hub device extends capabilities of low capability smart device to match capabilities of the highly capable smart devices of the same type, integrates functionality of multiple different device types—even across different communication protocols, and is configured to streamline adding of new devices and commissioning of the hub device.

FIG. 2Ais a perspective view of a camera assembly200that includes a stand assembly202and a camera module204in accordance with some implementations, andFIG. 2Bis a block diagram of a camera assembly200shown inFIG. 2Ain accordance with some implementations. Referring toFIG. 2B, the stand assembly202includes a receiving element206for receiving the camera module204, and a base assembly208for supporting the receiving element206. The base assembly208includes a base210shaped to rest against a supporting surface, and a joint212coupled at the base210.

The receiving element206further includes a module holding structure214that is configured to hold the camera module204(FIG. 2A). Specifically, in some implementations, the module holding structure214includes a cutout opening that has a shape conforming to a contour of the camera module204, and is configured to hold the camera module204when the module is inserted within the cutout opening204. Alternatively, in some implementations, the cutout opening has a non-conforming shape that is distinct from that associated with the contour of the camera module204, and the camera module204is configured to fit within the non-conforming shape of the cutout opening when the module is inserted within the cutout opening204. For example, the camera module204has a circular contour, and the cutout opening of the module holding structure214is associated with a polygon (e.g., a square, a pentagon, a hexagon, etc.) into which the circular contour can fit. In some implementations, the camera module204is held onto the receiving element206by one or more module fasteners216(e.g., a snap). When the module fasteners216are depressed, the camera module204is removed from the cutout opening of the receiving element206.

Referring toFIG. 2A, the receiving element206and the camera module204held thereon have at least two degrees of freedom of motion with respect to the base assembly208. In accordance with a first degree of freedom of motion, the receiving element206and the camera module204can be rotated or twisted around a twisting axis218that passes through the receiving element204and is perpendicular to a planar surface of the base210(e.g., a bottom surface of the base210). In accordance with a second degree of freedom of motion, the receiving element206and the camera module204can be flipped around a flipping axis220that passes through a joint212and is laid substantially in parallel to the planar surface of the base210. In some implementations, when the camera module204is held onto the receiving element206by the module fasteners216, it is configured to rotate within the cutout opening around a self rotation axis222that passes through a center of the camera module204.

Optionally, the camera assembly200is placed on a desktop surface and sits on the bottom surface of the base210of the stand assembly202. Optionally, the camera assembly200further includes a mount structure224for mounting the camera assembly200onto an alternative mounting surface. An example of the mount structure224is a wall mount that is configured to be fixed on a wall surface. When the base assembly208of the stand assembly202is attached to the mount structure224, the camera is anchored at the location where the mount structure is fixed. In some implementations, the base assembly208and the mount structure224are attached to each other by a magnetic attraction force. The base assembly208can be rotated freely about its central axis with respect to the mounting structure224and can be fixed in place at any angle of rotation with respect to the mounting structure224(e.g., by using magnetic attraction as described herein, an adhesive, or mechanical attachment).

Further, in some implementations, the mount structure224includes a cable guide structure226that is arranged on the edge of the mount structure224. The cable guide structure226is configured to guide a cable250or252that electrically couples the camera module204received in the receiving element206to an external power supply228or another electronic device242(e.g., a computational machine). The camera module204is configured to receive power and data from the external power supply228and the electronic device242using the cables250and252. Alternatively, in some implementations, power is provided by a cable250, while data is provided wirelessly.

In accordance with various implementations of the application, the camera module204includes one or more of a camera lens230, image sensors232, a microphone234, a speaker236, wireless transceiver circuit238and one or more antennas240. In some implementations, the camera module204includes an HD (e.g., 720p, 1080p, or higher) camera made of the camera lens230and one or more high definition image sensors232. In some implementations, the camera module204includes a microphone and a speaker, such that a person reviewing a live video feed from the camera module204can talk in-real to someone being filmed by the camera module204. In some implementations, the camera module204includes a connection port (e.g., female adapter) to which a connection plug (e.g., male adapter) is able to be coupled to supply power or transfer data. For example, the connection port includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, and is used as an input/output interface via which information about a Wi-Fi network is supplied to the camera module204(e.g., the name and password of the Wi-Fi network, an encryption key, etc.). Other examples of the connection port include, but are not limited to, an Ethernet port, a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) port, and a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) port. More details on the geometries, the components and the functions of the camera module204are explained below with reference toFIGS. 3A-3D.

In some implementations, the camera module204includes a Wi-Fi antenna and a Wi-Fi transceiver for communicating data (e.g., multimedia data captured by the camera module204) over a wireless local area network. In some implementations, the camera module204includes a Bluetooth antenna and a Bluetooth transceiver coupled to the Bluetooth antenna. The Bluetooth antenna is used to enable communication with a client device (e.g., a mobile phone) for the purposes of provisioning the camera module204. In some implementations, the camera module204includes a radio antenna and a radio transceiver coupled to the radio antenna. The radio antenna transmits and receives signals according to the IEEE 802.15.4 specifications, and is configured to facilitate communication between the camera module204and other smart home devices (e.g., the hub device180and the thermostats102).

In some implementations, the camera module204is associated with a software application and a related user interface displayed on a client device. The user interface is optionally an Internet browser application (e.g., Microsoft's Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox) running on a computer or a dedicated and/or downloaded application running on a smart phone. A user is able to view video captured by the camera module204remotely and/or via a network from the Internet browser application or the dedicated and/or downloaded mobile application.

It is noted that a stand assembly202can be configured to support other electronic devices in the smart home environment100, such as thermostats102, hazard detectors104, doorbells106, wall switches108, wall plugs110, pool heater monitor114, irrigation monitor116, alarm systems122, microphone devices124, and other occupancy sensors (e.g., IR sensors, ambient light sensors, motion detectors, etc.). Specifically, the module holding structure214of the stand assembly202is configured to match the dimension and geometry of the electronic device supported by the stand assembly202.

FIGS. 3A-3Dillustrate a perspective view, a front view, a rear view and a bottom view of a camera module204in accordance with some implementations, respectively. In some implementations, the camera module204has a circular contour, and the cutout opening of the receiving element206therefore has a circular shape conforming to the contour of the camera module204for the purposes of holding the camera module204.

In some implementations, the camera module204includes a status light302that is disposed in the proximity of the camera lens for the purposes of indicating whether the camera module204is powered on and/or filming. In some situations, when the status light302is in the red color, it indicates that the camera module204is powered on but not recording video data, and when the status light302is in the green color, it indicates that the camera module204is recording video data in real-time. When the status light302is powered off, it indicates that the camera module204is powered off. It is noted that in some implementations, the power and operation statuses of the camera module204are indicated by two or more status lights302rather than by the color of a single status light302.

In some implementations, the camera module204further includes an ambient light detector308that senses availability or intensity of ambient light. The resulting information is used to control parameters of the camera lens, enhance image processing of a captured image, or enable alternative illumination modes (e.g., an infrared light illumination mode).

In some implementations, the back of the camera module204is carved with a plurality of grooves304. The grooves increase friction with the camera module204and protect it from slipping to the ground, when the camera module204is assembled or disassembled onto the stand assembly202. Further, in some implementations, the microphone234or the speaker236is embedded under the carved grooves on the back of the camera module204. In some implementations, the back of the camera module204further includes a reset pin320. When a user of the camera module204presses the reset pin320, the camera module204is reset to its original status that it has when it is shipped out of factory.

Referring toFIG. 3D, in some implementations, the bottom of the camera module204further includes a connection port306to which a connection plug is able to be coupled to supply power or transfer data. For example, the connection port306includes one or more of a USB port, an Ethernet port, a HDMI port, and a PoE port. The connection port306is used as an input/output interface via which information about the Wi-Fi network is supplied to the camera module204(e.g., the name and password of the Wi-Fi network, an encryption key, etc.). In another example, the connection port246connects to a power cable that electrically couples the camera module204to an external power supply. In some implementation, the speaker236is disposed on the bottom of the camera module204.

It is noted that in the above implementations, the microphone234, the speaker236, the reset pin320and the connection port306are arranged on the back or the bottom of the camera module204to render a compact form factor. The locations of these components are not limited by the above arrangements, and can be arranged elsewhere, e.g., on the front or the periphery of the camera module204.

As shown inFIG. 3D, the camera module204has a relatively low profile. When it is flipped down around the flipping axis220that passes through the joint212of the base assembly208, the back of the camera module204can almost reach a desktop surface or a mounting surface against which the base assembly208rests. Under these circumstances, the low profile of the camera module204results in a large adjustable angle for the camera module204, and allows the camera module204to be packaged in a shipping box in a compact manner.

FIG. 4Ais a perspective view of a stand assembly202for supporting a module (e.g., a camera module204) in accordance with some implementations, andFIG. 4Billustrates a stand assembly202that is decoupled to a receiving element206and a base assembly208in accordance with some implementations. Further,FIG. 4Cillustrates a stand assembly202that includes fastener structures404and406for mechanically coupling a receiving element206to a base assembly208in accordance with some implementations.

As explained above, the stand assembly202includes the receiving element206and the base assembly208. The receiving element206includes a module holding structure214and an extended portion402that extends from the module holding structure214. In some implementations, the module holding structure214is substantially flat. Here, the camera module204is removed from the module holding structure214of the receiving element206. The receiving element206further includes a first fastener structure404coupled to an end of the extended portion402located opposite another end of the extended portion402that extends from the module holding structure214. In some implementations, the first fastener structure404is entirely hidden inside the extended portion402when the receiving element206is assembled onto the base assembly208.

In addition to the base210, the base assembly208further includes a second fastener structure406. As shown inFIG. 4B, in some implementations, the second fastener structure406is coupled to the base210of the base assembly208at a joint212. The second fastener structure406is configured to mate with the first fastener structure404. In a specific example, the first fastener structure404includes a screw hole, and the second fastener structure406includes a screw structure that matches the screw hole of the first fastener structure404. When the first fastener structure404is entirely hidden inside the extended portion402, both the fastener structures404and406are structurally invisible to a user when the receiving element206is assembled onto the base assembly208. As such, in some implementations, the first fastener structure404associated with the first degree of freedom of motion is structurally invisible to a user of the stand assembly202, and the joint212associated with the second degree of freedom of motion is structurally visible to the user of the stand assembly202.

FIG. 5is an exploded view of a stand assembly202for supporting a sensor module in accordance with some implementations. As explained above, the stand assembly202includes the receiving element206and the base assembly208. The receiving element206includes:a module holding structure214and an extended portion402that are made of a piece of material; anda first fastener structure404.

The base assembly208further includes one or more of the following components:a base210;a second fastener structure406;one or more joint fasteners212A-212D for creating a joint212at the base210;a hinge carrier502where the joint212and a magnet plate504are mounted;the magnet plate504that is integrated in the base assembly208;one or more magnet fasteners506that fasten the magnet plate504to the hinge carrier502or the base210;one or more base fasteners508that fasten the hinge carrier502to the base210;a cover plate510that is attached to a bottom surface of the base210for sealing the hinge carrier502and the magnet plate504inside the base assembly208; andone or more rubber patches512that are attached to the bottom surface of the base210for increasing friction on the bottom surface.

In various implementations of the applications, the first fastener structure404and the joint212are configured to provide a first degree of freedom of motion and a second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element206with respect to the base210, respectively. More details on the methods of assembling the first fastener structure404and the joint212are explained below with reference toFIGS. 7A-7F, 8A-8C, 9A, and 9B.

In some implementations, the stand assembly202further includes a mount structure224that is configured be attached and fixed onto a mounting surface using mount fasteners (e.g., screws). At least part of the mount structure224is made of magnetically attractable material, such that the stand assembly202can be mounted onto a mounting surface when the base210of the base assembly208magnetically adheres onto the mount structure224. Specifically, in some implementations, the mount structure224includes:a magnetically attractable plate514that is configured to adhere to the magnet plate504when they are placed in the proximity to or in contact with each other;a mount structure224that receives the magnetically attractable plate514and is configured for being fixed on a mounting surface; andone or more mount fasteners518that are applied to fasten the mount structure224to a mounting surface.

In some implementations, the stand assembly202further includes a detachable foam plate520. When the detachable foam plate520is disposed between the bottom surface of the base210and the mount structure224, the detachable foam plate520increases a distance between the magnet plate504of the base assembly208and the magnetically attractable plate514of the mount structure224, and therefore reduces a magnetic attraction force between the base assembly208and the mount structure224. In some implementations, the magnetic attraction force is relatively large, and it requires a large force to detach the base assembly208from the mount structure224once they adhere to each other. This detachable foam plate520protects the base assembly208from magnetically adhering to the mount structure224before the mount structure224is fixed on a mounting surface, thereby easing the difficulty of handling the stand assembly202for a user of the stand assembly202.

FIGS. 6A-6Cillustrate three example positions of a receiving element206when the receiving element206is rotated/twisted with respect to a base assembly208at a first degree of freedom of motion in accordance with some implementation. The base210includes a planar surface (e.g., a bottom surface) for resting against a supporting surface, and the first degree of freedom of motion is associated with twisting of the receiving element206with respect to a twisting axis218that passes through the receiving element and is perpendicular to the planar surface of the base210. The movement of the receiving element206at the first degree of freedom has substantially consistent resistance through first part of a first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion. In a specific example, the first part of the first full range of motion is associated with a twisting angle that is substantially equal to 90 degrees. Stated another way, the receiving element206has a nominal position (FIG. 6B), and is configured to be twisted up to 45 degrees in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction to reach two end positions (FIGS. 6A and 6C).

FIGS. 6D and 6Eillustrate two example end positions of a receiving element206when the receiving element206is rotated/flipped with respect to a base assembly208at a second degree of freedom of motion in accordance with some implementation. The base210includes a planar surface (e.g., a bottom surface) for resting against a supporting surface, and the second degree of freedom of motion that is enabled by a joint212is associated with rotating/flipping of the receiving element206with respect to a flipping axis220that passes through the joint212and is substantially parallel to the planar surface of the base210. The movement of the receiving element206at the second degree of freedom has substantially consistent resistance through a second full range of motion associated with the second degree of freedom. In a specific example, the receiving element206is configured to flip with respect to the flipping axis220by an angle that is substantially equal to 180 degrees. Stated another way, the receiving element206starts at a nominal position (FIG. 6B), and is configured to be flipped up to 90 degrees in either the forward or backward direction to reach two end positions (FIGS. 6D and 6E).

In some implementations, the nominal position is reached when the module holding structure214of the receiving element206is arranged to align in parallel or overlap with both the twisting axis218and the flipping axis220. When the receiving element206is flipped at the second degree of freedom of motion to an end position (FIG. 6D or 6E), the receiving element206and the camera module204mounted there on are laid in a substantially flat position, i.e., substantially in parallel with the planar surface of the base210. The back of the camera module204can almost reach a desktop surface or a mounting surface against which the base assembly208rests. Under these circumstances, if the camera module204has a low profile, it would obtain a large adjustable angle at the fully flipped end positions, and can also be packaged in a shipping box in a compact manner (seeFIGS. 14A-14F).

FIG. 6Fillustrates a receiving element206that is both twisted at the first degree of freedom of motion and rotated at the second degree of freedom of motion in accordance with some implementation. Specifically, in this example, the receiving element206is twisted by a first twisting angle in a clockwise direction associated with the first degree of freedom of motion, and flipped by a second flipping angle in a backward direction associated with the second degree of freedom of motion. Optionally, both the first twisting angle and the second flipping angle are measured with reference to the nominal position (FIG. 6B). Likewise, the clockwise, counterclockwise, forward and backward directions are also described with reference to the nominal position.

FIG. 7Ais a side view of a stand assembly202in accordance with some implementations, andFIG. 7Bis a cross sectional view702of a cross section A-A′ of the stand assembly202shown inFIG. 7A.FIG. 7Cis an enlarged view704of a region B shown inFIG. 7Bin accordance with some implementations. The region B includes two fastener structures that couple a receiving element206to a base assembly208in the stand assembly202.FIGS. 7D, 7E and 7Fillustrate an exploded view, a cross-sectional view706(cross section A-A′), and a side view708of a joint212of a stand assembly202shown inFIG. 7Bin accordance with some implementations, respectively.

As explained above, the receiving element206is configured to move with respect to the base210at the first degree of freedom of motion when the first fastener structure404is fastened onto the second fastener structure406of the base assembly208. In accordance with the enlarged view of the two fastener structures (FIG. 7C), the first fastener structure404of the receiving element206further includes a screw hole710and a nylon-like bushing712coupled at the end of the screw hole710. The screw hole710matches a screw structure714of the second fastener structure406. The screw hole710has a predetermined thread length, and provides a second part of the first full range of motion when the first fastener structure404is fastened onto the second fastener structure406via the screw hole710and the screw structure714. The nylon-like bushing712has a predetermined bushing depth, and provides the first part of the first full range of motion when the first fastener structure404is fastened onto the second fastener structure406via the screw hole710and the screw structure714. The second part of the first full range of motion is distinct from the first part of the first full range of motion. As such, the second fastener structure406sequentially passes the second part and the first part of the first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion, when it is fastened into the first fastener structure404of the receiving element206.

In some implementations, the nylon-like bushing has a first coefficient of friction that is associated with the substantially consistent resistance through the first part of the first full range of motion, and the screw hole has a second coefficient of friction that is associated with alternative resistance through the second part of the first full range of motion. The alternative resistance through the second part of the first full range of motion is distinct from the substantially consistent resistance through the first part of the first full range of motion.

When the second fastener structure406is fully tightened into the screw hole710and the nylon-like bushing712of the first fastener structure404, the first fastener structure404is coupled to the second fastener structure406at its tightened position. The tightened position of the first fastener structure404is associated with an end position (FIG. 6A or 6C) that the receiving element206has within the first part of the first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion.

As shown inFIG. 7D, in some implementations, the second fastener structure406of the base assembly208is flattened to have two substantially flat surfaces, such that it can fit into a base opening slot716on the base assembly208. The second fastener structure406includes a screw structure714on its top half and a joint hole718on its bottom half. While the top half of the second fastener structure406is fastened to the first fastener structure404, the bottom half of the second fastener structure406fits into the base opening slot716to form the joint212that rotates with respect to the joint hole718.

In some implementations, a hinge carrier720is used as a platform to create a joint212. The joint212includes a plurality of joint fasteners, e.g., a first bushing212A, a second bushing212B, a bevel spring stack212C and a hinge screw212D. The joint fasteners212A-212D together fasten the bottom half of the second fastener structure406onto the carrier slot720of the hinge carrier502to form the joint212. Specifically, the first and second bushings212A and212B are disposed on two sides of the second fastener structure406, and between the respective side of the second fastener structure406and the carrier slot710of the hinge carrier502. The first and second bushings212A and212B provide side to side location and smooth bearing surfaces for the joint212. In addition, the bevel spring stack212C provides positive tension on the hinge screw212D, and creates frictional resistance and torque around a hinge axis730when the hinge screw212D is tightened through the joint hole718and a screw hole722on the hinge carrier502to form the joint212. The hinge axis730passes through the center of the joint hole718on the second fastener structure406, and substantially overlaps the flipping axis220associated with the second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element206with respect to the base assembly208.

When the hinge carrier502is assembled into the base210, the screw structure714of the second fastener structure406extends beyond the base opening slot716. The second fastener structure406is configured to rotate around the hinge axis730while being constrained within the base opening slot716. When the screw structure714of the second fastener structure406is fastened with the first fastener structure404, the receiving element206is mounted onto the base assembly208, and therefore can rotate or flip with respect to its flipping axis220(i.e., the hinge axis730) to provide the second degree of freedom of motion for a module mounted onto the module holding structure214.

FIG. 8Aillustrates another exemplary stand assembly202in which movement of a receiving element206with respect to a base assembly208is unlimited in a direction of travel associated with a first degree of freedom of motion in accordance with some implementations.FIG. 8Bis an exploded view of a receiving element206that has an unlimited movement range in a direction of travel associated with a first degree of freedom of motion as shown inFIG. 8Ain accordance with some implementations.FIG. 8Cis a cross sectional view of fastener structures of a stand assembly202that enable an unlimited movement range in a direction of travel associated with a first degree of freedom of motion as shown inFIG. 8Ain accordance with some implementations.

The movement of the receiving element206at the first degree of freedom is unlimited in a first direction (e.g., a clockwise direction) of travel associated with the first degree of freedom. The first degree of freedom is associated with a reverse direction (e.g., a counterclockwise direction) of travel that is opposite to the first direction of travel associated with the unlimited movement at the first degree of freedom, and the first and second fastener structures404and406are unfastened when the receiving element206moves with respect to the base assembly208in the reverse direction of travel associate with the first degree of freedom. As such, in some implementations, a user of the stand assembly202is required to adjust the orientation of the module mounted onto the receiving element206by twisting the receiving element206only in the first direction of travel.

Referring toFIGS. 8B and 8C, in some implementations, the first fastener structure404further includes a shoulder screw802, a sleeve bushing804, a spring washer806, and a collar808. The collar808is fastened inside the sleeve bushing804to provide a screw hole that matches a screw structure of the second fastener structure406. The screw hole of the collar808is configured to be tightened onto the screw structure of the second fastener structure406along the first direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom. When the receiving element206moves further along the first direction of travel, the sleeve bushing804and the screw hole of the first fastener structure404do not move and therefore are fixed with respect to the second fastener structure406of the base assembly208.

The extended portion402of the receiving element206includes a thread locker812embedded therein, the shoulder screw802is configured to lock into place with the thread locker812for the purposes of fastening the first fastener structure404to the receiving element206. As such, the first fastener structure404is configured to be loosely suspended within the extended portion402of the receiving element206via the shoulder screw802. The spring washer806is mounted on the top of the sleeve bushing804. When the first fastener structure404is fastened into the extended portion402, the spring washer806can touch the interior wall of the extended portion402, and compression of the spring washer806defines a torque resistance for rotating the receiving element206at the first degree of freedom of motion.

The receiving element206further includes a low friction bushing810that is attached onto the interior wall of the extended portion402. In accordance with the unlimited motion in the direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom of motion, the sleeve bushing804of the first fastener structure404is tightened onto the second fastener structure406and rotates against the surface of the low friction bushing810inside the extended portion402. Stated another way, the low friction bushing810wraps around the first fastener structure, and rotates as part of the receiving element206with respect to the base assembly208, and with respect to the first fastener structure404when the first fastener structure404is tightened onto the second fastener structure406of the base assembly208. The torque resistance associated with the rotation is defined by the spring washer806mounted on the top of the sleeve bushing804. Moreover, the low friction bushing810is configured to hug the first fastener structure404closely, such that the first fastener structure404does not wobble inside the extended portion402or cause an unstable support for the module mounted on the stand assembly202. In some implementations, the low friction bushing810is made of elastic rubber material.

In some implementations, the spring washer806renders a substantially consistent resistance for the unlimited movement of the receiving element206in the first direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom of motion. Further, in some implementations, the unlimited movement of the receiving element at the first direction of travel is associated with a first torque resistance optionally created by the spring washer806, and the first torque resistance is substantially greater than a second torque resistance that is required to unfasten the receiving element from the base assembly in the reverse direction of travel.

FIG. 9Aillustrate another exemplary stand assembly202in which movement of a receiving element206with respect to a base assembly208is limited at a second degree of freedom of motion in accordance with some implementations. The second degree of freedom of motion is associated with flipping of the receiving element206at a joint212of the base assembly208with respect to a flipping axis220, and the flipping axis220passes through the joint212and is substantially parallel to a planar surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the base210. The movement of the receiving element206at the second degree of freedom has substantially consistent resistance through a second full range of motion associated with the second degree of freedom. The second full range of motion is limited. In a specific example, the receiving element206is configured to flip with respect to the flipping axis220by an angle that is substantially equal to 180 degrees. Stated another way, the receiving element206starts at a nominal position (e.g., a vertical position shown inFIG. 6B), and is configured to be flipped up to 90 degrees in either the forward or backward direction to reach its end positions of a second full range of motion associated with the second degree of freedom of motion.

FIG. 9Bis an exploded view of a joint212that is assembled onto a hinge carrier502to provide to a receiving element206a limited movement range at a second degree of freedom of motion shown inFIG. 9Ain accordance with some implementations. The second fastener structure406includes a screw structure714on its top half and a collar902on its bottom half, and a joint hole718is formed on the collar902. In some implementations, both the screw structure714and the collar902are flattened to have two substantially flat surfaces, such that they fit into a base opening slot716on the base assembly208. In some implementations as shown inFIG. 9B, the screw structure714has a screw diameter that fits into the base opening slot716, while the collar902is flattened for fitting into the base opening slot716. While the top half of the second fastener structure406is fastened into the first fastener structure404, the bottom half of the second fastener structure406is fastened onto a hinge carrier502to form the joint212that can rotate around the joint hole718.

The hinge carrier720is used as a platform to create the joint212. The joint212includes a plurality of joint fasteners212A-212D that further includes a collar bushing212A, a thrust bushing212B, a spring washer set212C and a shoulder screw212D. The joint fasteners212A-212D together fasten the bottom half of the second fastener structure406onto a carrier slot720of a hinge carrier502. The collar bushing212A and the thrust bushing212B provide side to side location and smooth bearing surfaces in contact with the collar902. Additionally, the spring washer set212C provides positive tension on the shoulder screw212D, and creates frictional resistance and/or torque around a hinge axis730when the hinge screw212D is tightened through the joint hole718and a screw hole722on the hinge carrier502to form the joint212. The hinge axis730passes through the center of the joint hole718on the second fastener structure406, and substantially overlaps the flipping axis220associated with the second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element206with respect to the base assembly208.

As explained above with reference toFIGS. 7E and 7F, when the hinge carrier502is assembled into the base210, the screw structure714of the second fastener structure406extends beyond the base opening slot716. The second fastener structure406is configured to rotate around the hinge axis730while being constrained within the base opening slot716. When the screw structure714of the second fastener structure406is fastened with the first fastener structure404, the receiving element206is mounted onto the base assembly208, and therefore can flip with respect to its flipping axis220(i.e., the hinge axis730) to provide the second degree of freedom of motion for a module mounted onto its module holding structure214.

FIGS. 10A and 10Billustrate a process1000for assembling a stand assembly202in accordance with some implementations. As shown inFIG. 10A, a second fastener structure406is mounted on a hinge carrier502to provide a joint212. The hinge carrier502is then assembled to a base210, and fixed thereon via one or more base fasteners506. In some implementations, as shown in the inset ofFIG. 10A, the one or more base fasteners506include screws that are fastened through screw holes on a bottom surface of the hinge carrier502, and anchored onto screw holes inside the base210. As such, the hinge carrier502is fully assembled to the base210to provide a base assembly208in which the second fastener structure406extends from a base opening slot716of the base210.

In some implementations, a standalone first fastener structure404is then tightened onto the exposed second fastener structure406of the base assembly208, until the first fastener structure404reaches a tightened position of its full range of motion. It is noted that the tightened position of the first fastener structure is associated with an end position (FIG. 6A or 6C) that the receiving element206has within a first part of a first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom. After the first fastener structure404is tightened onto the second fastener structure406, the module holding structure214and the extended portion402of the receiving element206is pressed onto the first fastener structure404to mount the receiving element206to the base assembly208. After the mount press, the first fastener structure404is mechanically coupled inside the extended portion402of the receiving element206. In some implementations, the first fastener structure404cannot be detached from the receiving element206without causing damage to the first fastener structure404or the receiving element206.

In some implementations, after it is determined that the first fastener structure404reaches its tightened position, the receiving element206is reversely twisted at the first degree of freedom of motion by a first angle to orient the receiving element206to a nominal position (FIG. 6B). At the nominal position, the module holding structure214of the receiving element206is aligned in parallel or overlaps with both the twisting axis218and the flipping axis220, and therefore, the receiving element206and a module received thereby are configured to face substantially up when they are flipped down via the joint212at the second degree of freedom of motion.

In some implementations, the first angle is half of a first part of a first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion. Stated another way, the nominal position is located substantially in the middle of the first part of the first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion. To obtain such a nominal position, the module holding structure214of the receiving element206needs to be properly oriented prior to and during the mount press according to the end position associated with the first part of the first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom as shown inFIG. 6A. Under some circumstances, the module holding structure214of the receiving element206is not properly oriented prior to and during the mount press according to the end position associated with the first degree of freedom as shown inFIG. 6A. The first part of the first full range of motion is not centered at the nominal position. The receiving element206has a larger range of motion on one of the clockwise and counterclockwise directions than the other of these two directions.

Alternatively, in some implementations not illustrated inFIGS. 10A and 10B, the first fastener structure404is attached to the receiving element206before it is fastened onto the second fastener structure406of the base assembly208. The first fastener structure404needs to be aligned to the module holding structure214properly, such that when the receiving element206is fastened onto the base assembly208, the resulting stand assembly202properly provides the first part of a first full range of motion and the nominal position both associated with the first degree of freedom of motion.

FIG. 11is an exploded view of a stand assembly202that includes a magnet plate504in its base assembly208in accordance with some implementations. The magnet plate504is mechanically coupled to the base210such that the magnet plate502is adjacent to or forms a portion of a bottom surface of the base210. The magnet plate504has a bottom surface area that is smaller than a surface area of the bottom surface of the base510. Specifically, in some implementations, the magnet plate504is mechanically coupled to the base210using one or more magnet fasteners506. Optionally, the magnet plate504is directly coupled to the base210, or indirectly coupled to the hinge carrier502that is configured to fit into and couple to the base210.

In some implementations, the base assembly208further includes a cover plate510. Optionally, the cover plate510is made of plastic, metal or other materials. The cover plate510is glued onto the bottom surface of the base510to cover the magnet plate504that has been mechanically coupled to the base510, and the magnet plate504is sandwiched between the bottom surface of the base210and the cover plate510. The cover plate510has a surface area that is substantially equal to or slightly larger than that of the magnet plate504such that the cover plate510entirely seals the magnet plate inside the base assembly208. As such, in some implementations, mechanical fasteners of the base assembly208are structurally visible to the user of the stand assembly202except the joint212.

In some implementations, the base assembly208further includes one or more rubber patches512that are attached to a bottom surface of the base assembly208to provide additional friction between the stand assembly202and the supporting surface against which the base is rested. In an example (FIG. 5), the one or more rubber patches512includes a rubber ring that is attached to the bottom surface of the base assembly208and surrounds the cover plate510.

FIG. 12Aillustrates a mount structure224for mounting a stand assembly202onto a mounting surface in accordance with some implementations. At least part of the mount structure224is made of magnetically attractable material, e.g., iron, steel, copper, and brass. The stand assembly202is mounted onto the mounting surface when the base210of the base assembly208magnetically adheres onto the mount structure224. In some implementations, the at least part of the mount structure224includes a magnetically attractable plate514that has been integrated in the mount structure224before they are shipped to a user of the stand assembly202.

The magnetic attraction force between the base210of the stand assembly202and the mount structure226enables secure attachment of an electronic device module that is mounted onto the mounting surface using the stand assembly202. Such secure attachment satisfies one or more Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards that set forth at least safety requirements for mounting the electronic device module onto a mounting surface. An example UL standard is UL 2442 Standard for Wall- and Ceiling-Mounts and Accessories, which applies to devices that provide structural support for the mounting of audio/video equipment, information technology equipment, and similar products, to the building structure and is intended for indoor use only.

The mount structure224has a surface area that is substantially larger than or equal to that of the bottom surface of the base assembly208, and includes a cable guide structure226at the circumference of the mount structure224. The cable guide structure226is configured to guide a power or data cable that electrically couples a module204received in the receiving element206to an external power supply or another electronic device (e.g., a computational machine). Specifically, one end of the power or data cable is electrically coupled to a connection port306of the module204, while the other end is electrically coupled to the external power supply or the other electronic device. An intermediate node at the power or data cable is held by the cable guide structure226, thereby protecting the power or data cable from wiggling around and disconnecting from the connection port206.

Further, the mount structure224includes one or more open slots1202each having a respective width that matches a dimension of a head of a mount fastener (e.g., a screw or a nail). The open slots1202are configured to receive the mount fasteners518. The mount structure224can be attached and fixed onto the mounting surface when the mount fasteners518are fastened onto the mounting surface via the open slots202of the mount structures224. The open slots1202have predetermined lengths configured to accommodate an adjustment of an orientation of the mount structure224when the mount fasteners518are loosened from the mounting surface. In some implementations, the orientation of the mount structure224is adjusted for the purposes of varying the location of the cable guide structure226with respect to a module mounted on the mount structure224(e.g., the camera module204). The predetermined lengths of the open slots as presented here are associated with an adjustment angle of 90 degrees for adjusting the orientation of the mount structure224and the location of the cable guide structure226.

FIG. 12Billustrates another exemplary mount structure224onto which a detachable foam plate520is attached in accordance with some implementations. Specifically, the detachable foam plate520is attached onto the magnetically attractable part of the mount structure224. In some implementations, the detachable foam plate520includes a back surface that is sticky, and adheres to the surface of the magnetically attractable part like a sticker. The front surface of the detachable foam plate520includes one or more instructions for assembling the stand assembly202. In this example, the one or more instructions include an arrow that indicates that a user can peel off the detachable foam plate520from the mount structure224. Additionally, the one or more instructions include specific language to guide the user to “screw plate to wall and remove sticker,” and “attach Nest Cam to plate.”

When the mounting structure224is mounted onto a mounting surface, it is arranged according to a preferred orientation such that the cable guide structure226is located at a preferred location (e.g., on a bottom rim of the mounting structure224, or below a module after the module is mounted on the stand assembly202). In some implementations, the one or more instructions on the detachable foam plate520include a notice that reminds the user of orienting the mount structure224according to the preferred orientation.

In some implementations, the detachable foam plate520includes a tab1204. The tab1204is oriented according to the preferred orientation of the mounting structure224, and used to guide the attachment of the mount structure224onto the mounting surface. Specifically, the detachable foam plate520is attached onto the mounting structure224with the tab1204aligned to the preferred orientation of the mounting structure224. When the user mounts the mount structure224according to the orientation of the tab1204, the cable guide structure226is disposed at its preferred location. In a specific example, the user orients the tab1204of the mounting structure224to an upward direction, and obtains the preferred orientation of the mounting structure224and the preferred location of the cable guide structure226automatically.

FIG. 12Cis an exploded view of a stand assembly202, a detachable foam plate520and a mount structure224ain accordance with some implementations. After the mount structure224ais fixed onto the mounting surface with a preferred orientation, the tab1204is peeled off, and the stand assembly202is placed on top of the mount structure224g. The stand assembly202adheres to the mount structure224afirmly by way of the magnetic attraction force that exists between the magnet plate504sealed inside the base210and the magnetically attractable part514of the mount structure224a. In some implementations, the magnetic attraction force satisfies the UL standards for mounting an electronic device onto a mounting surface safely, and the stand assembly202would not be easily detached from the mount structure224a.

Conversely, the detachable foam plate520is applied to reduce the magnetic attraction force between the base210and the mount structure224a, before the mount structure224is fully prepared for receiving the stand assembly202. The detachable foam plate520is attached onto the mount structure224ato increase a distance and thereby reduce the magnetic attraction force between the magnet plate504of the base210and the magnetically attractable part514of the mount structure224. The reduced magnetic attraction force allows a user to separate the stand assembly202from the mount structure224aconveniently without resorting to any tool, particularly before the mount structure224ais fixed onto the mounting surface and prepared to receive the stand assembly202.

FIG. 13Ais an exploded view of a stand assembly202, a cable guide ring1302and a mount structure224bthat function together to support a module204on a mounting surface in accordance with some implementations.FIG. 13Billustrates another mount structure224bin accordance with some implementations, andFIG. 13Cillustrates a cable guide ring1302in accordance with some implementations. At least part of the mount structure224bis made of magnetically attractable material, e.g., iron, steel, copper, and brass. The stand assembly202is mounted onto the mounting surface when the base210of the base assembly208magnetically adheres onto the mount structure224b. The mount structure224has a surface area that is substantially smaller than that of the bottom surface of the base assembly208, and does not include a cable guide structure226. Rather, the functions of the cable guide structure226are provided separately by a cable guide ring1302.

The mount structure224bis substantially flat, and includes a plurality of openings1304each having a respective dimension that matches that of a head of a mount fastener518(e.g., a screw or a nail). The openings are configured to receive the mount fasteners. The mount structure224bis attached and fixed onto the mounting surface, when the mount fasteners518are fastened onto the mounting surface via the openings1304of the mount structure224b.

The cable guide ring1302has an inner diameter that is substantially larger than a diameter of the mount structure224b. When the stand assembly202is mounted onto the mounting surface, the cable guide ring1302surrounds the mount structure224, comes into contact with the mounting surface, and is thereby sandwiched between the mounting surface and the base210of the stand assembly202. Further, the cable guide ring1302has an outer diameter that is substantially larger than or equal to that of the bottom surface of the base assembly208. The cable guide ring1302further includes a cable guide structure226located at its outer circumference for fixing a power or data cable. Optionally, the power or data cable is configured to electrically couple the module204received at the receiving element206of the stand assembly202to an external power supply or a separate electronic device.

In some implementations, the circumference of the mount structure224includes a groove, and the mount structure224bfurther includes an O-ring1306. The O-ring1306is configured to be seated in the groove of the mount structure224. The O-ring is compressed and creates a seal at an interface when the card guide ring1302is assembled onto the mount structure224b. In some implementations, the cable guide ring1302includes one or more protrusions1308on its surface to increase its friction with the bottom surface of the base210. The seal provided the O-ring1306and the friction provided by the surface protrusions1308prevent the card guide ring1302from wobbling between the stand assembly202and the mounting surface, and thereby enable a secure cable guiding function for the power or data cable electrically coupled to the module204.

Referring toFIGS. 13A-13C, the mount structure224bhas a relatively simple form factor, and is easy to manufacture at an affordable cost. In some implementations, the stand assembly202is associated with more than one mount structures224bthat can be mounted onto more than one mounting surfaces in a smart home environment. A user of the module204can conveniently remove the stand assembly202and the cable guide ring1302from one mount structure224blocated at a first location, and mount them to another mount structure224blocated at a second location without moving the mount structure224.

FIG. 14Ais a top view of a camera assembly200in which a receiving element206and a camera module204mounted thereon are packaged in accordance with some implementations. The receiving element206and the camera module204are flipped down to an end position, and face substantially up in the camera assembly200. As explained above with reference toFIGS. 6A-6F, the stand assembly202is associated with a nominal position at which the module holding structure214of the receiving element206is arranged to align in parallel or overlap with both the twisting axis218(not shown inFIG. 14A) and the flipping axis220. In accordance with a second degree of freedom of motion, the receiving element206and the camera module204can be flipped around the flipping axis220that passes through a joint212and lies substantially in parallel with a planar surface of the base210. As such, the receiving element206and the camera module204mounted thereon are flipped down and face substantially up (i.e., face opposite to the planar surface of the base210).

FIGS. 14B-14Fillustrate a packaging process1400for packaging a camera assembly200shown inFIG. 14Aand its accessories in a multilayer shipping package in accordance with some implementations. The multilayer shipping package includes a lid box1402and a container box1404. The container box1404is configured to contain the camera assembly200and its accessories, and the lid box is configured to cover the container box1404. The boxes1402and1404of the multilayer shipping package further include a plurality of packaging layers, e.g., four layers including layers1406-1412in this specific example, for organizing the camera assembly200and its accessories in a compact, reliable, and user friendly manner.

When a user opens the shipping package shipped from a retailer or a manufacturer, the user sees that a camera assembly200lays flat on a top layer1406of the container box1404(FIG. 14C). The top layer1406includes a first recess1412that is formed according to a contour of the camera assembly200and configured to hold the camera assembly200firmly. On the other hand, the lid box1402includes a lid layer1408, and the lid layer1408has a lid recess or protrusion1416that is also configured at least according to a contour of the receiving element206of the camera assembly200. When the lid box1402is flipped over to cover the container box1404, the camera assembly200is securely held between the lid recess or protrusion1416of the lid layer1408and the first recess1412of the top layer1406, and thereby protected from some shipping damages that can occur in transit.

In some implementations, the first recess1412of the top layer1406includes one or more cutout openings (not shown inFIG. 14C). When the camera assembly200is removed from the first recess1412of the top layer1406, the one or more cutout openings on the recess allow the user to pull the top layer1406out of the container box1404easily.

Further, after the top layer1406is removed from the container box1404, a subset of camera accessories (e.g., a power cord and a power adapter) is exposed. In some implementations, the subset of camera accessories is supported by one or more underlying layers (e.g., a bottom layer1410and an intermediate layer1412). The bottom layer1410includes a second recess1418, and the intermediate layer1412is placed inside the second recess1418of the bottom layer1410. A power cord is supported by the intermediate layer1412and held within the second recess1418. The intermediate layer1412further includes a cutout opening1420that allows the user to pull the intermediate layer14012out of the second access1418of the bottom layer1410.

After the intermediate layer1412is removed, a mount structure224that lies underneath the intermediate layer1412is exposed. The mount structure224is disposed at the bottom of the second access1418of the bottom layer1410. In some implementations, the second access1418of the bottom layer1410is configured to hold one or more mount structures224and a card guide ring1302as shown inFIGS. 13A-13C.

In some implementations, the bottom layer1410further includes a third recess1422that is configured to hold the power adapter.

In some implementations, a user manual is disposed under the top layer1406and above the accessories that are organized and held by the intermediate and bottom layers1410and1412.

In some implementations, the packaging layers1406-1412packaged inside the shipping package are made of recycled paper, and the recycled paper include at least a threshold amount of starch quantities. In an example, the threshold amount of starch quantities is equal to 40% of the packaging layers in weight.

FIG. 15illustrates a receiving element206that is mechanically coupled on a standard tripod1502in accordance with some implementations. Specifically, a first fastener structure404includes a threaded screw hole that matches a tripod screw of a standard tripod, and the receiving element206is configured to mount on the standard tripod1502when the tripod screw is tightened into the threaded screw hole of the first fastener structure404. In some implementations, the tripod screw is part of a tripod adaptor. The first fastener structure404is fastened to the tripod adaptor, and the tripod adaptor is further fastened onto the standard tripod1502. In some implementations, to match the tripod screw of a commonly used standard tripod, the threaded screw hole on the first fastener structure404is a ¼-20socket that has a ¼ inch diameter and 20 threads per inch at its screw length.

FIG. 16is a flow chart of a method1600for packaging a stand assembly202configured to support a module (e.g., a camera module204) in accordance with some implementations. The stand assembly packaging method1600includes providing (1602) a base assembly208that includes a base210and a second fastener structure406, and the second fastener structure406is coupled to the base210at a joint212. As shown inFIGS. 10A and 10B, in some implementations, providing the base assembly208further includes: inserting the second fastener structure406into a base opening slot716on the base assembly208, and forming the joint212by assembling the second fastener structure406in the base opening slot716using one or more joint fasteners. More details on the methods of providing the base assembly208including the joint212are explained above with reference toFIGS. 7D-7F and 9B.

The stand assembly packaging method1600further includes attaching (1604) to the base assembly208a receiving element206. The receiving element206includes a first fastener structure404and is configured to physically receive the module204. To attach the receiving element206to the base assembly208, the first fastener structure404is tightened onto the second fastener structure406until the first fastener structure404reaches a tightened position. The first fastener structure404of the receiving element206and the joint212of the base assembly208are configured (1606) to provide a first degree of freedom of motion and a second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element206with respect to the base assembly208, respectively.

In some implementations, the receiving element206further includes a module holding structure214and an extended portion402. To attach the receiving element206to the base assembly208, after the first fastener structure404is tightened onto the second fastener structure406, the module holding structure214and the extended portion402of the receiving element206are press mounted onto the first fastener structure404to mount the receiving element206to the base assembly208.

The stand assembly packaging method1600further includes after determining that the first fastener structure404reaches the tightened position, rotating (1608) the receiving element206reversely at the first degree of freedom of motion by a first angle to orient the receiving element to a nominal position. At the nominal position, the receiving element206and the module204received thereby are configured (1610) to face substantially up when they are flipped down via the joint212at the second degree of freedom of motion. In some implementations, the first angle is substantially equal to half of a full range of motion of the first fastener structure404. In a specific example, the first angle is substantially equal to 45 degrees. More details on the tightened position of the first fastener structure404and the nominal position of the receiving element206are explained above with reference toFIGS. 6A-6C.

In some implementations, the module is assembled (1612) onto the receiving element206to form a module assembly. When the module includes a camera module204, a camera assembly is formed to support the camera module204assembled onto the receiving element206.

As explained above, in some implementations, the movement of the receiving element206at the first degree of freedom has substantially consistent resistance through first part of a first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion, and the movement of the receiving element206at the second degree of freedom has substantially consistent resistance through a second full range of motion associated with the second degree of freedom. Further, in some implementations, the first part of the first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion is associated with a twisting angle, and the first angle is substantially equal to half of the twisting angle such that the nominal position is located at the center of the first part of the first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom of motion. In some implementations, the tightened position of the first fastener structure404is associated with an end position that the receiving element206has within the first part of the first full range of motion associated with the first degree of freedom. More details on the first and second degrees of freedom of motion of the receiving element206are explained above with reference toFIGS. 6A-6E.

In some implementations, the first fastener structure404of the receiving element206further includes a screw hole and a nylon-like bushing coupled at the end of the screw hole. The screw hole matches a screw structure of the second fastener structure406, and has a predetermined thread length. The screw hole is configured to provide a second part of the first full range of motion when the first fastener structure is fastened onto the second fastener structure via the screw hole and the screw structure. The nylon-like bushing has a predetermined bushing depth, and provides the first part of the first full range of motion when the first fastener structure is fastened onto the second fastener structure via the screw hole and the screw structure. The second part of the first full range of motion is distinct from the first part of the first full range of motion. More details on the first and second fastener structures that enable the stand assembly packaging method1600are explained above with reference toFIGS. 7A-7C.

In some implementations, the stand assembly packaging method1600further includes flipping the receiving element206via the joint212at the second degree of freedom of motion until the receiving element206and the module204received thereby face substantially up. After the receiving element406is flipped via the joint212, the assembly is placed within a shipping package. Specifically, the assembly is placed on a packaging layer (e.g., the layer1406) inside the shipping package with the receiving element206and the module204received thereby at least partially held in a recess (e.g., the recess1412) on the packaging layer. More details on a packaging process1400for packaging an assembly and its accessories in a multilayer shipping package are explained above with reference toFIGS. 14A-14F.

It should be understood that the particular order in which the operations inFIG. 16have been described are merely exemplary and are not intended to indicate that the described order is the only order in which the operations can be performed. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize various ways to package a stand assembly202as described herein. Additionally, it should be noted that details of other processes described herein with respect to method1600(e.g.,FIG. 16) are also applicable in an analogous manner to method1700described below with respect toFIG. 17. For brevity, these details are not repeated here.

FIG. 17is a flow chart of another exemplary method1700for packaging a stand assembly202configured for supporting a module (e.g., a camera module204) in accordance with some implementations. The stand assembly packaging method1700includes providing (1702) a base assembly208that includes a base210and a second fastener structure406, and the second fastener structure406is coupled to the base210at a joint212.

The stand assembly packaging method1700further includes attaching (1704) to the base assembly208a receiving element206that includes a first fastener structure404and is configured to physically receive the module204. The first fastener structure404of the receiving element206is configured (1706) to mate with the second fastener structure406and provide a first degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element206with respect to the base. The movement of the receiving element at the first degree of freedom is unlimited in a first direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom. The joint212is configured (1708) to provide a second degree of freedom of motion of the receiving element206with respect to the base. The movement of the receiving element at the second degree of freedom is limited in a direction of travel associated with the second degree of freedom. Further, in some implementations, the first degree of freedom is associated with a reverse direction of travel that is opposite to the first direction of travel associated with the unlimited movement at the first degree of freedom, and the first and second fastener structures406and406are unfastened when the receiving element206moves with respect to the base assembly208in the reverse direction of travel associate with the first degree of freedom.

In some implementations, the receiving element206is configured to move with respect to the base210at the first degree of freedom of motion when the first fastener structure404is fastened onto the second fastener structure406of the base assembly208. The first fastener structure404of the receiving element206further includes a screw hole that matches a screw structure of the second fastener structure. The screw hole has a predetermined thread length, and provides the unlimited movement at the first degree of freedom of motion, when the first fastener structure404is fastened onto the second fastener structure406via the screw hole and the screw structure.

In some implementations, the first fastener structure further includes a shoulder screw802, a sleeve bushing804, a spring washer806and a screw hole, and the first fastener structure404is configured to be loosely suspended within the extended portion402of the receiving element206via the shoulder screw802.

In some implementations, an extended portion402of the receiving element206includes a thread locker812embedded therein, and the first fastener structure404includes a shoulder screw802. The shoulder screw802is configured to lock into place with the thread locker812for the purposes of fastening the first fastener structure404to the receiving element206. Further, in some implementations, a low friction bushing810is fixed inside an extended portion402of the receiving element206. In accordance with the unlimited movement of the receiving element at the first degree of freedom, the low friction bushing810wraps around the first fastener structure404, and rotates as part of the receiving element206with respect to the base assembly208, and with respect to the first fastener structure404when the first fastener structure404is tightened onto the second fastener structure406of the base assembly208.

More details on the first fastener structure404that enables the stand assembly packaging method1700are explained above with reference toFIGS. 8B and 8C.

The stand assembly packaging method1600further includes (1710) rotating the receiving element206along the first direction of travel associated with the first degree of freedom until the receiving element206reaches a nominal position. At the nominal position, the receiving element206and the module204received thereby are configured (1712) to face substantially up when they are flipped down via the joint212at the second degree of freedom of motion. In some implementations, the module is assembled (1714) onto the receiving element206to form a module assembly. When the module includes a camera module204, a camera assembly is formed to support the camera module204assembled onto the receiving element206.

In some implementations, the stand assembly packaging method1600further includes flipping the receiving element206via the joint212at the second degree of freedom of motion until the receiving element206and the module204received thereby face substantially up. After the receiving element406is flipped via the joint212, the assembly is placed within a shipping package. Specifically, the assembly is placed on a packaging layer (e.g., the layer1406) inside the shipping package with the receiving element206and the module204received thereby at least partially held in a recess (e.g., the recess1412) on the packaging layer. More details on a packaging process1400for packaging an assembly and its accessories in a multilayer shipping package are explained above with reference toFIGS. 14A-14F.

It should be understood that the particular order in which the operations inFIG. 17have been described are merely exemplary and are not intended to indicate that the described order is the only order in which the operations can be performed. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize various ways to package a stand assembly202as described herein. Additionally, it should be noted that details of other processes described herein with respect to method1700(e.g.,FIG. 17) are also applicable in an analogous manner to method1600described above with respect toFIG. 16. For brevity, these details are not repeated here.

The foregoing description, for purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific implementations. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the claims to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The implementations were chosen in order to best explain the principles underlying the claims and their practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best use the implementations with various modifications as are suited to the particular uses contemplated.

It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc, are, in some instances, used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first fastener structure can be termed a second fastener structure, and, similarly, a second fastener structure can be termed a first fastener structure, without departing from the scope of the various described implementations. The first fastener structure and the second fastener structure are both fastener structures, but they are not the same fastener structure.

It is to be appreciated that “smart home environments” may refer to smart environments for homes such as a single-family house, but the scope of the present teachings is not so limited. The present teachings are also applicable, without limitation, to duplexes, townhomes, multi-unit apartment buildings, hotels, retail stores, office buildings, industrial buildings, and more generally any living space or work space.

It is also to be appreciated that while the terms user, customer, installer, homeowner, occupant, guest, tenant, landlord, repair person, and the like may be used to refer to the person or persons acting in the context of some particularly situations described herein, these references do not limit the scope of the present teachings with respect to the person or persons who are performing such actions. Thus, for example, the terms user, customer, purchaser, installer, subscriber, and homeowner may often refer to the same person in the case of a single-family residential dwelling, because the head of the household is often the person who makes the purchasing decision, buys the unit, and installs and configures the unit, and is also one of the users of the unit. However, in other scenarios, such as a landlord-tenant environment, the customer may be the landlord with respect to purchasing the unit, the installer may be a local apartment supervisor, a first user may be the tenant, and a second user may again be the landlord with respect to remote control functionality. Importantly, while the identity of the person performing the action may be germane to a particular advantage provided by one or more of the implementations, such identity should not be construed in the descriptions that follow as necessarily limiting the scope of the present teachings to those particular individuals having those particular identities.

It is noted that the stand assemblies described herein are exemplary and are not intended to be limiting. For example, any dimensions, shapes, styles, and/or materials described herein are exemplary and are not intended to be limiting. Drawings are not to scale. For brevity, features or characters described in association with some implementations may not necessarily be repeated or reiterated when describing other implementations. Even though it may not be explicitly described therein, a feature or characteristic described in association with some implementations may be used by other implementations.