Meraki MV2 Flex Camera

Press Kit

Unique Properties

MV2 brings enterprise-grade security and analytics together in a flexible, compact form. A unique hinge, flexible mounting, wireless capability, USB-C, and mobile onboarding enables a seamless install. Onboard CPU and cloud management eliminates infrastructure and software requirements. MV2 uses machine-learning for real-time object detection, classification, and tracking with no servers or hardware required. The API data provides journey mapping insights for safer, more efficient processes.

Dimensions & Packaging

-76mm x 68-129mm
-Expansive coverage with a wide 103° horizontal field of view
-High-definition video with 4MP sensor and 1080P video resolution
-Built-in motion analytics for intelligent insights
-In-camera machine-learning capability for intelligent object detection
-Simplified management with Meraki cloud architecture
-Secure boot and firmware backed by hardware security chip
-Secure video access and privacy with user accounts
-Integrated wireless
-Night vision with IR illumination up to 8m

Tags

Meraki, MV2, Smart Camera, Security Camera, Cisco Systems, Flex Camera

Production Technology

MV2 has 50 unique parts dialed in for the right fit and feel. Two complex hinge mechanisms allow for thousands of adjustments without losing holding power, all while passing live data wires. The components in the hinge are assembled with less than a 0.02mm tolerance, thinner than a human hair. Plastic and metal injection molding, machining, die casting, welding, and stamping are only a few of the processes used to make the parts inside an MV2. AI inspection on the assembly line ensures quality.

Design Challenge

The design challenge had two main objectives: Match the bowl shaped aesthetic of the MV line, and be able to aim the lens in any direction from a variety of desk, wall, and ceiling installations. The original MV design was intended for dome cameras only so it did not lend itself to a flex camera. The concept to transform from the compact bowl shape to a freestanding form using a hinge solved both objectives while giving the MV2 a unique and playful character that’s perfect for the SMB customer.

Research

We began with the previous bowl shaped MV camera as a baseline and began sketching and prototyping ways to make the shape more versatile. Whether it was with 3D printed parts or pieces of fruit from our lunch, we learned continually over the first few years what was important for MV2's usability. Many adjustable products were studied via tear downs. No corner of our work space was exempt from testing an install scenario; the camera had to be able to be mounted anywhere and aimed at anything.

Inspiration

The security camera space is saturated with mundane boxes, domes, and cylinders that lack individuality and character. The MV2 is a bellwether for human centered design and user experience. It’s rare to find an object so perfectly balanced between functionality and personality. MV2 had to feel at home in a server closet or in a boutique coffee shop so it’s friendly, not intimidating. Transforming compact to standing mode gives MV2 a playful personality that transcends typical camera aesthetics.

Project Duration

The project concept started in June of 2016 and began shipping in June of 2021.

Operation Flow

The MV2 is packaged in its opened, standing form, so that the user immediately begins to play with the hinge mechanism upon unboxing. This playful initial experience informs the user how they will eventually aim the view. Swiveling the base, lifting the hinge, and rotating the lens is a seamlessly intuitive process that brings joy to the user, creating a personal connection to the product. MV2 can be deployed in a simple standing scenario, on the wall, or on the ceiling with the mounting plate.

Patents

Patent Pending. #1027877. Nick Kawamoto, Daniel Lee, Ram Swamy, Ian Snyder, Nick Abalos, Parmis Taidy, Brad Palladino. 2020. US.

Image Credits

Cisco Systems Inc.