Integrated sensor-lens assembly for image capture device

Abstract

An integrated sensor-lens assembly for an image capture device. The integrated sensor-lens assembly defines an optical axis, and includes a lens holder secured to the lens holder at a first interface, a cover glass holder, and a printed circuit board secured to the cover glass holder at a second interface, thereby, the cover glass holder indirectly connects the lens holder to the printed circuit board such that the lens holder and the printed circuit board do not have any direct connection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an integrated sensor-lens assembly (ISLA) for an image capture device. Background Art

[0002] Image capture devices are used in a variety of applications (e.g., handheld cameras and video recorders, cellular phones, drones, vehicles, etc.) and include one or more lenses (or other such optical elements) and one or more image sensors. The one or more lenses capture content by receiving and focusing light, and the one or more image sensors convert the captured content into electronic image signals that are processed by an image signal processor to generate an image. In some image capture devices, the one or more lenses and the one or more image sensors are integrated into a single unit, which is referred to as an ISLA.

[0003] In order to produce a high-quality focused image, one or more lenses and one or more corresponding sensors must be properly aligned in multiple degrees of freedom, because even a small misalignment (e.g., the position or tilt of one or more lenses and / or one or more image sensors) can negatively affect image quality. To address this issue, the present disclosure describes various structures, components, and methods that improve the alignment and connection of components of an ISLA during assembly of an image capture device. Summary of the invention

[0004] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an integrated sensor-lens assembly for an image capture device is disclosed. The integrated sensor-lens assembly defines an optical axis and includes a lens holder, a cover glass holder, and a printed circuit board, the cover glass holder being fixed to the lens holder at a first interface, and the printed circuit board being fixed to the cover glass holder at a second interface, whereby the cover glass holder indirectly connects the lens holder to the printed circuit board, such that the lens holder and the printed circuit board do not have any direct connection.

[0005] In certain embodiments, the integrated sensor-lens assembly may further include a lens barrel that is placed within the lens holder and houses the optical group.

[0006] In certain embodiments, the integrated sensor-lens assembly may further include an image sensor supported by the printed circuit board, wherein the optical group is actively aligned with the image sensor.

[0007] In certain embodiments, the coverslip holder may be of unitary construction.

[0008] In certain embodiments, a coverslip holder can include an inner module and an outer module connected to the inner module.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the inner module and the outer module can be configured as separate components of the coverslip holder.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the inner module may include a first construction material and the outer module may include a second construction material that is different than the first construction material.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the inner module may define an outer radial wall and the outer module may define an inner radial wall that contacts the outer radial wall.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the coverslip holder can be configured such that the outer radial wall and the inner radial wall are oriented substantially parallel to the optical axis.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the integrated sensor-lens assembly may further include an electrical connector spaced radially outward from the cover glass holder relative to the optical axis.

[0014] In some embodiments, the electrical connector can be generally aligned with the second interface and axially spaced from the first interface along the optical axis.

[0015] In another aspect of the present disclosure, an integrated sensor-lens assembly for an image capture device is disclosed. The integrated sensor-lens assembly defines an optical axis and includes a lens holder; a lens barrel, which is placed in the lens holder and houses an optical group; a cover glass holder, which is fixed to the lens holder at a first interface using a first adhesive; a printed circuit board, which is fixed to the cover glass holder at a second interface using a second adhesive different from the first adhesive, so that the lens holder is spaced from the printed circuit board along the optical axis; and an image sensor, which is supported by the printed circuit board and actively aligned with the optical group.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the coverslip holder may be of unitary construction.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the cover glass holder can include an inner module defining an outer radial wall and an outer module defining an inner radial wall connected to the outer radial wall of the inner module.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the inner module and the outer module may comprise dissimilar materials of construction.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the integrated sensor-lens assembly may further include an electrical connector spaced radially outward from the cover glass holder relative to the optical axis.

[0020] In some embodiments, the electrical connector can be generally aligned with the second interface and axially spaced from the first interface along the optical axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The present disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. As is customary, the various features of the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the sizes of the various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced. Additionally, certain components, elements, and / or features may be omitted from certain drawings for clarity.

[0022] Figure 1A to Figure 1B is an isometric view of an example of an image capture device.

[0023] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B is an isometric view of another example of an image capture device.

[0024] Figure 3 is a top view of another example of an image capture device.

[0025] Figure 4 is a block diagram of the electronic components of an image capture device.

[0026] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an example of an optical module for an image capture device including an ISLA pair.

[0027] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 An axial (longitudinal) cross-sectional view of an optical module is shown.

[0028] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Magnified view of the detail area identified in .

[0029] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional perspective view of another example of an optical module for an image capture device including an ISLA pair.

[0030] Fig. 9 is an axial (longitudinal) cross-sectional view of another example of an ISLA for use in an optical module of an image capture device.

[0031] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 Magnified view of the detail area identified in .

[0032] Fig.11 is an axial (longitudinal) cross-sectional view of another example of an ISLA for use in an optical module of an image capture device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The present disclosure describes various embodiments of an integrated sensor-lens assembly (ISLA) for an image capture device. For example, in one embodiment, the ISLA includes a lens holder, a cover glass holder, and a printed circuit board, the cover glass holder being fixed (connected) to the lens holder; and the printed circuit board being fixed (connected) to the cover glass holder, so that the cover glass holder is placed between the lens holder and the printed circuit board and indirectly connects the lens holder and the printed circuit board.

[0034] Figure 1A to Figure 1B 1 is an isometric view of an example of an image capture device 100. The image capture device 100 includes a body 102, an image capture device 104, an indicator 106, a display 108, a mode button 110, a shutter button 112, a door 114, a hinge mechanism 116, a latch mechanism 118, a seal 120, a battery interface 122, a data interface 124, a battery receiving portion 126, microphones 128, 130, 132, a speaker 138, an interconnect mechanism 140, and a display 142. Although not shown in FIG. Figure 1A to Figure 1B Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 1 , the image capture device 100 includes internal electronics within the body 102 , such as imaging electronics, power electronics, etc., for capturing images and performing other functions of the image capture device 100 . Figure 1A to Figure 1B The arrangement of components of image capture device 100 shown is an example, and other arrangements of elements may be used in addition to arrangements as described herein or as clear from the context.

[0035] The body 102 of the image capture device 100 can be made of a rigid material such as plastic, aluminum, steel, or fiberglass. Other materials can be used. The image capture device 104 is built on the front surface of the body 102 and within the body 102. The image capture device 104 includes a lens. The lens of the image capture device 104 receives light incident on the lens of the image capture device 104 and directs the received light to an image sensor of the image capture device 104 inside the body 102. The image capture device 100 can capture one or more images, such as an image sequence, such as a video. The image capture device 100 can store the captured images and videos for subsequent display, playback, or transmission to an external device. Although Figure 1A One image capturing device 104 is shown in FIG. 1 , but the image capturing apparatus 100 may include a plurality of image capturing devices, which may be constructed on corresponding surfaces of the body 102 .

[0036] like Figure 1AAs shown, the image capture device 100 includes an indicator 106, which is constructed on the front surface of the body 102. The indicator 106 can output or emit visible light to indicate the state of the image capture device 100. For example, the indicator 106 can be a light emitting diode (LED). Figure 1A One indicator 106 is shown in FIG. 1 , but the image capture device 100 may include a plurality of indicators that are constructed on corresponding surfaces of the body 102 .

[0037] like Figure 1A As shown, the image capture device 100 includes a display 108 that is built into the front surface of the body 102. The display 108 outputs (such as presents or displays) information, such as by emitting visible light, to show image information (such as image preview, live video capture), or status information (such as battery life, camera mode, elapsed time, etc.). In some implementations, the display 108 can be an interactive display that can receive, detect, or capture input, such as user input representing user interaction with the image capture device 100. In some implementations, the display 108 may be omitted, or the display 108 may be combined with another component of the image capture device 100.

[0038] like Figure 1A As shown, the image capture device 100 includes a mode button 110 that is built into a side surface of the body 102. Although described as a button, the mode button 110 may be another type of input device, such as a switch, a toggle switch, a slider, or a dial. Figure 1A 1 , the image capture device 100 may include multiple mode buttons or configuration buttons that are built into the respective surfaces of the body 102. In some implementations, the mode button 110 may be omitted or may be combined with another component of the image capture device 100. For example, the display 108 may be an interactive display (such as a touch screen), and the mode button 110 may actually be omitted and may be functionally combined with the display 108.

[0039] like Figure 1AAs shown, the image capture device 100 includes a shutter button 112, which is built on the top surface of the body 102. The shutter button 112 can be another type of input device, such as a switch, a toggle switch, a slider, or a dial. The image capture device 100 may include multiple shutter buttons, which are built on corresponding surfaces of the body 102. In some implementations, the shutter button 112 may be omitted, or the shutter button 112 may be combined with another component of the image capture device 100.

[0040] The mode button 110, the shutter button 112, or both obtain input data, such as user input data based on user interaction with the image capture device 100. For example, the mode button 110, the shutter button 112, or both can be used to turn the image capture device 100 on and off, scroll through modes and settings, and select a mode and change settings.

[0041] like Figure 1B As shown, the image capture device 100 includes a door 114 that is secured to the door 114 using, for example, a hinge mechanism 116 ( Figure 1A ) is coupled to the body 102. The door 114 may be secured (connected) to the body 102 using a latch mechanism 118 that releasably engages the body 102 at a location generally opposite the hinge mechanism 116. The door 114 includes a seal 120 and a battery interface 122. Although Figure 1A 1, but the image capture device 100 may include multiple doors that form respective surfaces or portions thereof of the body 102. The door 114 may be removed from the body 102 by releasing the latch mechanism 118 from the body 102 and decoupling the hinge mechanism 116 from the body 102.

[0042] exist Figure 1B , the door 114 is shown in a partially open position so that the data interface 124 can be used to communicate with an external device and the battery receiving portion 126 can be used to place or replace a battery. Figure 1A In the embodiment, the door 114 is shown in the closed position. In each implementation in which the door 114 is in the closed position, the seal 120 engages the flange (not shown) to provide an environmental seal, and the battery interface 122 engages the battery (not shown) to secure the battery in the battery receiving portion 126.

[0043] like Figure 1BAs shown, the image capture device 100 includes a battery receiving portion 126 that is constructed to form a portion of the interior surface of the body 102. The battery receiving portion 126 includes an operative connection for power transfer between the battery and the image capture device 100. In some implementations, the battery receiving portion 126 may be omitted. The image capture device 100 may include multiple battery receiving portions.

[0044] like Figure 1A As shown, the image capture device 100 includes a first microphone 128, a second microphone 130, and a third microphone 132, the first microphone 128 being constructed on the front surface of the body 102, the second microphone 130 being constructed on the top surface of the body 102, and the third microphone 132 being constructed on the side surface of the body 102. The third microphone 132, which may be referred to as a drain microphone and is indicated as hidden in dashed lines, is placed behind a drain cover 134, surrounded by a drain channel 136, and may drain liquid from the audio components of the image capture device 100. The image capture device 100 may include other microphones on other surfaces of the body 102. The microphones 128, 130, 132 receive and record audio, such as in conjunction with or separate from the captured video. In some implementations, one or more of the microphones 128, 130, 132 may be omitted, or the one or more microphones may be combined with other components of the image capture device 100.

[0045] like Figure 1B As shown, the image capture device 100 includes a speaker 138, which is built on the bottom surface of the body 102. The speaker 138 outputs or presents audio, such as by playing back recorded audio or emitting sounds associated with notifications. The image capture device 100 may include multiple speakers, which are built on corresponding surfaces of the body 102.

[0046] like Figure 1B As shown, the image capture device 100 includes an interconnection mechanism 140 that is built on the bottom surface of the body 102. The interconnection mechanism 140 removably connects the image capture device 100 to an external structure, such as a handle, another mount, or a fixture. The interconnection mechanism 140 includes a folding protrusion that is configured to be in an extended position or an open position and as Figure 1BThe image capture device 100 may include a plurality of interconnecting mechanisms that are built onto or form part of respective surfaces of the body 102. In some implementations, the interconnecting mechanism 140 may be omitted.

[0047] like Figure 1B As shown, the image capture device 100 includes a display 142 that is built on the rear surface of the body 102 and forms a part of the rear surface of the body 102. The display 142 outputs (such as presents or displays) data, such as by emitting visible light, to show image information (such as image preview, live video capture), or status information (such as battery life, camera mode, elapsed time, etc.). In some implementations, the display 142 can be an interactive display that can receive, detect, or capture input, such as user input representing user interaction with the image capture device 100. The image capture device 100 may include multiple displays, such as Figure 1A to Figure 1B As shown, the displays 108, 142 are constructed on respective surfaces of the body 102. In some implementations, the display 142 may be omitted, or the display 142 may be combined with another component of the image capture device 100.

[0048] The image capture device 100 may include features or components that are different from those described herein, such as other buttons or interface features. In some implementations, interchangeable lenses, cold shoe sockets, and hot shoe sockets, or combinations thereof, may be coupled to or combined with the image capture device 100. For example, the image capture device 100 may communicate with an external device (such as an external user interface device) via a wired computing communication link or a wireless computing communication link (such as via the data interface 124). The computing communication link may be a direct computing communication link or an indirect computing communication link, such as a link including another device or a network such as the Internet. The image capture device 100 may transmit an image to an external device via the computing communication link.

[0049] The external device may store, process, display, or a combination thereof, the image. The external user interface device may be a computing device, such as a smart phone, a tablet computer, a smart watch, a portable computer, a personal computing device, another device, or a combination of devices configured to receive user input via a computing communication link and convey information using the image capture device 100 or receive user input via a computing communication link and convey information using the image capture device 100. The external user interface device may implement or implement one or more applications to manage or control the image capture device 100. For example, the external user interface device may include applications for controlling camera configuration, video acquisition, video display, or any other configurable or controllable aspects of the image capture device 100. In some implementations, the external user interface device may generate and share one or more images or video clips, such as via a cloud-based service or a social media-based service. In some implementations, the external user interface device may display an unprocessed or minimally processed image or video captured by the image capture device 100 simultaneously with capturing an image or video by the image capture device 100, such as for lens composition or live preview.

[0050] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Another example of an image capture device 200 is shown. The image capture device 200 and Figure 1A to Figure 1B The image capture device 100 is similar to that shown. The image capture device 200 includes a body 202, a first image capture device 204, a second image capture device 206, an indicator 208, a mode button 210, a shutter button 212, an interconnect mechanism 214, a drainage channel 216, audio components 218, 220, 222, a display 224, and a door 226 including a release mechanism 228. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The arrangement of components of image capture device 200 shown is one example, and other arrangements of elements may be used.

[0051] The body 202 of the image capture device 200 may be connected to Figure 1A to Figure 1B The first image capture device 204 is constructed on the front surface of the body 202. The first image capture device 204 includes a first lens. The first image capture device 204 can be connected to Figure 1A The image capture device 104 is similar to that shown. Figure 2A As shown, the image capture device 200 includes a second image capture device 206, which is constructed on the rear surface of the body 202. The second image capture device 206 includes a second lens. The second image capture device 206 can be connected to Figure 1AThe image capture device 104 is shown similar. Image capture devices 204, 206 are disposed on opposing surfaces of body 202, for example, in a back-to-back configuration, a Janus configuration, or an offset Janus configuration. Image capture apparatus 200 may include other image capture devices built into corresponding surfaces of body 202.

[0052] like Figure 2B As shown, the image capture device 200 includes an indicator 208 associated with an audio component 218 and a display 224 on the front surface of the body 202. The indicator 208 may be associated with Figure 1A The indicators 106 are similar to those shown. For example, one of the indicators 208 may indicate the status of the first image capture device 204, while another of the indicators 208 may indicate the status of the second image capture device 206. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Two indicators 208 are shown in FIG. 2 , but the image capture device 200 may include other indicators that are built into corresponding surfaces of the body 202 .

[0053] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B As shown, the image capture device 200 includes an input mechanism including a mode button 210 and a shutter button 212. The mode button 210 is constructed on the side surface of the body 202, and the shutter button 212 is constructed on the top surface of the body 202. The mode button 210 can be connected to Figure 1B The shutter button 212 may be similar to the mode button 110 shown. Figure 1A The shutter button 112 is shown similar.

[0054] The image capture device 200 includes internal electronics (not explicitly shown) within the body 202 , such as imaging electronics, power electronics, etc., for capturing images and performing other functions of the image capture device 200 . Figure 4 An example showing the internal electronics is shown in FIG.

[0055] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B As shown, the image capture device 200 includes an interconnection mechanism 214 that is built on the bottom surface of the body 202. The interconnection mechanism 214 can be connected to Figure 1B The interconnection mechanism 140 shown is similar.

[0056] like Figure 2B As shown, the image capture device 200 includes a drain channel 216 for draining liquid from the audio components of the image capture device 200.

[0057] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 2BAs shown, the image capture device 200 includes audio components 218, 220, 222, which are respectively constructed on the corresponding surfaces of the body 202. The audio components 218, 220, 222 can be connected to Figure 1A to Figure 1B The microphones 128, 130, 132 and the speaker 138 are shown to be similar. One or more of the audio components 218, 220, 222 may be or may include an audio sensor such as a microphone to receive and record audio signals (such as voice commands or other audio) in conjunction with capturing images or video. One or more of the audio components 218, 220, 222 may be or may include an audio presentation component that may present or play audio to provide a notification or warning.

[0058] like FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B As shown, the first audio component 218 is placed on the front surface of the body 202, the second audio component 220 is placed on the top surface of the body 202, and the third audio component 222 is placed on the back surface of the body 202. Other numbers and configurations of the audio components 218, 220, 222 may be used. For example, the audio component 218 may be as follows: Figure 2B A drain microphone is shown surrounded by the drain channel 216 and adjacent to one of the indicators 208 .

[0059] like Figure 2B As shown, the image capture device 200 includes a display 224, which is constructed on the front surface of the body 202. The display 224 can be connected to Figure 1A to Figure 1B The display 224 may be similar to the displays 108, 142 shown. The display 224 may include an I / O interface. The display 224 may include one or more indicators 208. The display 224 may receive touch input. The display 224 may display image information during video capture. The display 224 may provide status information to the user, such as status information indicating battery power level, memory card capacity, elapsed time of recorded video, etc. The image capture device 200 may include multiple displays that are built into corresponding surfaces of the body 202. In some implementations, the display 224 may be omitted, or the display 224 may be combined with another component of the image capture device 200.

[0060] like Figure 2B As shown, the image capture device 200 includes a door 226 that is built on a side surface of the body 202 or forms a part of a side surface of the body 202. The door 226 may be Figure 1A The door 114 shown is similar. For example, Figure 2AThe illustrated door 226 includes a release mechanism 228. The release mechanism 228 may include a latch, a button, or other mechanism configured to receive a user input that allows the door 226 to change position. The release mechanism 228 may be used to open the door 226 so that the user can access the battery, battery receiving portion, I / O interface, memory card interface, etc.

[0061] In some embodiments, the image capture device 200 may include features or components different from those described herein, may omit some of the features or components described herein, or may combine some of the features or components described herein. For example, the image capture device 200 may include additional interface features or different interface features, interchangeable lenses, cold shoe sockets, or hot shoe sockets.

[0062] Figure 3 is a top view of the image capture device 300. The image capture device 300 and FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The image capture device 200 is similar to that of FIG. 1 , and is configured to capture spherical images.

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the first image capture device 304 includes a first lens 330, and the second image capture device 306 includes a second lens 332. For example, the first image capture device 304 can capture a first image, such as a first hemispherical image or a hyper-hemispherical image, the second image capture device 306 can capture a second image, such as a second hemispherical image or a hyper-hemispherical image, and the image capture device 300 can generate a spherical image that merges or combines the first image and the second image, which are captured simultaneously or substantially simultaneously.

[0064] The first image capture device 304 defines a first field of view 340 in which the first lens 330 of the first image capture device 304 receives light. The first lens 330 directs the received light corresponding to the first field of view 340 onto a first image sensor 342 of the first image capture device 304. For example, the first image capture device 304 may include a first lens barrel (not explicitly shown) extending from the first lens 330 to the first image sensor 342. In the illustrated embodiment, the first lens 330 and the first image sensor 342 are integrated into a single unit, whereby the first image capture device 304 is configured as a first ISLA 326 defining a first optical axis Xi.

[0065] The second image capture device 306 defines a second field of view 344 in which the second lens 332 receives light. The second lens 332 directs the received light corresponding to the second field of view 344 onto a second image sensor 346 of the second image capture device 306. For example, the second image capture device 306 may include a second lens barrel (not explicitly shown) extending from the second lens 332 to the second image sensor 346. In the illustrated embodiment, the second lens 332 and the second image sensor 346 are integrated into a single unit, whereby the second image capture device 306 is configured as a second ISLA 328 defining a second optical axis X1i.

[0066] The boundary 348 of the first field of view 340 is shown using dashed directional lines. The boundary 350 of the second field of view 344 is shown using dashed directional lines. As shown, the image capture devices 304, 306 are arranged in a back-to-back (Janus) configuration so that the lenses 330, 332 face opposite directions (e.g., a forward direction and a rearward direction), and so that the image capture device 300 can capture a spherical image. The first image sensor 342 captures a first hyper-hemispherical image plane from light entering the first lens 330. The second image sensor 346 captures a second hyper-hemispherical image plane from light entering the second lens 332.

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the fields of view 340, 344 partially overlap, such that the combination of the fields of view 340, 344 forms a spherical field of view, except that one or more uncaptured regions 352, 354 may be outside the fields of view 340, 344 of the lenses 330, 332. Light emitted from or passing through the uncaptured regions 352, 354 (which may be near the image capture device 300) may be blocked by the lenses 330, 332 and corresponding image sensors 342, 346, such that content corresponding to the uncaptured regions 352, 354 may be omitted from an image captured by the image capture device 300. In some implementations, the image capture devices 304, 306 or their lenses 330, 332 may be configured to minimize the uncaptured regions 352, 354.

[0068] Examples of transition points or overlap points from the uncaptured regions 352 , 354 to the overlapping portions of the fields of view 340 , 344 are shown at 356 , 358 .

[0069] The images captured simultaneously by the respective image sensors 342, 346 may be combined to form a combined image, such as a spherical image. Generating the combined image may include correlating overlapping areas captured by the respective image sensors 342, 346; aligning the captured fields of view 340, 344; and stitching the images together to form a cohesive combined image. Stitching the images together may include correlating overlapping points 356, 358 with corresponding locations in corresponding images captured by the image sensors 342, 346. Although Figure 3 A plan view of the fields of view 340, 344 is shown in FIG, but the fields of view 340, 344 are hyper-hemispherical fields of view.

[0070] Changing the alignment (such as position, tilt, or a combination thereof) of the image capture devices 304, 306 (such as lenses 330, 332, image sensors 342, 346, or both) may change the relative positions of the respective fields of view 340, 344, may change the positions of the overlap points 356, 358 (such as relative to the image captured by the image sensors 342, 346), and may change the uncaptured areas 352, 354, which may include changing the uncaptured areas 352, 354 in an uneven manner.

[0071] Incomplete or inaccurate information indicating the alignment of the image capture devices 304, 306, such as the location of the overlap points 356, 358, may reduce the accuracy, efficiency, or both of generating the combined image. In some implementations, the image capture device 300 may maintain information indicating the location and orientation of the image capture devices 304, 306 (such as the lenses 330, 332, the image sensors 342, 346, or both) so that the fields of view 340, 344, the overlap points 356, 358, or both can be accurately determined, which can improve the accuracy, efficiency, or both of generating the combined image.

[0072] As shown, the ISLAs 326, 328 (e.g., lenses 330, 332) can be aligned (e.g., so that the optical axes Xi, Xii coincide with each other), laterally offset from each other (not shown), offset from the central axis of the image capture device 300 (not shown), or laterally offset and offset from the central axis (not shown). Whether by using an offset or by using a compact image capture device 304, 306, a reduction in the distance between the lenses 330, 332 may improve the overlap in the fields of view 340, 344, such as by reducing the uncaptured areas 352, 354.

[0073] The images or frames captured by the image capture devices 304, 306 may be combined, fused, or stitched together to generate a combined image, such as a spherical image or a panoramic image, which may be an equirectangular plane image. In some implementations, generating the combined image may include using techniques such as noise reduction, tone mapping, white balance, or other image corrections. In some implementations, pixels along the stitching boundary that may correspond to the overlap points 356, 358 may be accurately matched to minimize boundary discontinuities.

[0074] Figure 4 4 is a block diagram of the electronic components in image capture device 400. Image capture device 400 may be a single-lens image capture device, a multi-lens image capture device, or variations thereof, including image capture devices with multiple capabilities (such as using interchangeable integrated sensor-lens assemblies). Figure 4 As shown, it can be achieved Figure 1A to Figure 1B The image capture device 100 shown, FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The image capture device 200 or Figure 3 Components (such as electronic components) of image capture device 300 are shown.

[0075] Image capture device 400 includes a body 402. Body 402 may be connected to Figure 1A to Figure 1B The body 102 or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The illustrated body 202 is similar. The body 402 includes electronic components such as a capture component 410, a processing component 420, a data interface component 430, a spatial sensor 440, a power component 450, a user interface component 460, and a bus 480.

[0076] Capturing component 410 includes an image sensor 412 for capturing images. Figure 4 4. One image sensor 412 is shown in FIG. 4, but the capture component 410 may include multiple image sensors. The image sensor 412 may be connected to Figure 3 The image sensors 342 and 346 are similar. The image sensor 412 may be, for example, a charge coupled device (CCD) sensor, an active pixel sensor (APS), a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, or an N-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) sensor. Figure 3As shown, the image sensor 412 detects light within a defined spectrum (such as a visible spectrum or an infrared spectrum) that is incident through a corresponding lens (such as the first lens 330 with respect to the first image sensor 342 or the second lens 332 with respect to the second image sensor 346). The image sensor 412 captures the detected light as image data and transmits the captured image data as an electrical signal (image signal or image data) to other components of the image capture device 400, such as the processing component 420, such as via the bus 480.

[0077] Capture component 410 includes microphone 414 for capturing audio. Figure 4 4, but the capture component 410 may include multiple microphones. The microphone 414 detects and captures or records sound, such as sound waves incident on the microphone 414. The microphone 414 can detect, capture or record sound in conjunction with the captured image by the image sensor 412. The microphone 414 can detect sound to receive audible commands to control the image capture device 400. The microphone 414 can be used in conjunction with the captured image by the image sensor 412. Figure 1A to Figure 1B The microphones 128, 130, 132 or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The illustrated audio components 218, 220, 222 are similar.

[0078] The processing component 420 performs image signal processing (such as filtering, tone mapping, or splicing) based on the image data obtained from the image sensor 412 to generate or obtain a processed image or processed image data. The processing component 420 may include one or more processors having a single processing core or multiple processing cores. In some implementations, the processing component 420 may include or may be an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a digital signal processor (DSP). For example, the processing component 420 may include a customized image signal processor. The processing component 420 uses other components of the image capture device 400 via the bus 480 to transmit data (e.g., processed image data). In some implementations, the processing component 420 may include an encoder, such as an image decoder or video encoder that can encode, decode, or both image data, such as for compression encoding, code conversion, or a combination thereof.

[0079] Although not in Figure 4 Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 4 , processing component 420 may include memory, such as a random access memory (RAM) device, which may be a non-transitory computer-readable memory. The memory of processing component 420 may include executable instructions and data that can be accessed by processing component 420.

[0080] The data interface component 430 communicates with other electronic devices such as external electronic devices (such as remote controls, smart phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, desktop computers, or external computer storage devices). For example, the data interface component 430 can receive commands to operate the image capture device 400. In another example, the data interface component 430 can transmit image data to transmit the image data to other electronic devices. The data interface component 430 can be configured to perform wired communication, wireless communication, or both. As shown, the data interface component 430 includes an I / O interface 432, a wireless data interface 434, and a storage interface 436. In some implementations, one or more of the following may be omitted or combined: the I / O interface 432, the wireless data interface 434, or the storage interface 436.

[0081] I / O interface 432 can send, receive, or send and receive wired electronic communication signals. For example, I / O interface 432 can be a universal serial bus (USB) interface, such as a USB Type-C interface, a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a FireWire interface, a digital video interface link, a display port interface link, a video electronics standards associated (VESA) digital display interface link, an Ethernet link, or a Thunderbolt link. Although Figure 4 FIG. 4 shows one I / O interface 432, but the data interface unit 430 includes multiple I / O interfaces. The I / O interface 432 can be connected to Figure 1B The data interface 124 shown is similar.

[0082] The wireless data interface 434 can send, receive, or send and receive wireless electronic communication signals. The wireless data interface 434 can be a Bluetooth interface, a ZigBee interface, a Wi-Fi interface, an infrared link, a cellular link, a near field communication (NFC) link, or an Advanced Network Technology Interoperability (ANT+) link. Figure 4 4 shows one wireless data interface 434, but the data interface component 430 includes multiple wireless data interfaces. The wireless data interface 434 can be connected to Figure 1B The data interface 124 shown is similar.

[0083] The storage interface 436 may include a memory card connector, such as a memory card receiving portion, configured to receive and operably couple to a removable storage device (such as a memory card) and transfer (such as read, write, or read and write) data between the image capture device 400 and the memory card (such as for storing images captured by the image capture device 400, recorded audio, or both on the memory card). Although Figure 4 4 shows one storage interface 436, but the data interface component 430 includes multiple storage interfaces. The storage interface 436 can be connected to Figure 1BThe data interface 124 shown is similar.

[0084] The spatial sensor or spatiotemporal sensor 440 detects the spatial position, movement, or both of the image capture device 400. Figure 4 As shown, spatial sensor 440 includes position sensor 442, accelerometer 444, and gyroscope 446. Position sensor 442 (which may be a global positioning system (GPS) sensor) can determine the geospatial location of image capture device 400, which may include: time data such as obtained (such as obtained by receiving) via GPS signals. Accelerometer 444 (which may be a three-axis accelerometer) can measure linear motion, linear acceleration, or both of image capture device 400. Gyroscope 446 (which may be a three-axis gyroscope) can measure rotational motion of image capture device 400, such as rotation rate. In some implementations, spatial sensor 440 may include other types of spatial sensors. In some implementations, one or more of the following may be omitted or combined: position sensor 442, accelerometer 444, and gyroscope 446.

[0085] The power component 450 distributes power to the components of the image capture device 400 for operating the image capture device 400. Figure 4 As shown, power component 450 includes battery interface 452, battery 454, and external power interface 456 (external power interface). Battery interface 452 (battery interface) is operably coupled to battery 454, such as via conductive contacts, to transfer power from battery 454 to other electronic components of image capture device 400. Battery interface 452 can be connected to Figure 1B The external power interface 456 obtains or receives power from an external source (such as a wall plug or an external battery) and distributes the power to the components of the image capture device 400, which may include distributing power to the battery 454 via the battery interface 452 to charge the battery 454. Although Figure 4 4 shows a battery interface 452, a battery 454, and an external power interface 456, but any number of battery interfaces, batteries, and external power interfaces may be used. In some implementations, one or more of the following may be omitted or combined: battery interface 452, battery 454, and external power interface 456. For example, in some implementations, external power interface 456 and I / O interface 432 may be combined.

[0086] User interface component 460 receives input (such as user input) from a user of image capture device 400, outputs (e.g., displays or presents) information to the user, or both receives input and outputs information (such as information consistent with the user's interaction with image capture device 400).

[0087] like Figure 4 As shown, the user interface component 460 includes a visual output component 462 for conveying information in a visual manner to present the captured image. As shown, the visual output component 462 includes an indicator 464 and a display 466. The indicator 464 can be connected to Figure 1A The indicator 106 shown or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The display 466 may be similar to the indicator 208 shown. Figure 1A The display 108 shown, Figure 1B The display 142 or Figure 2B The display 224 is similar to that shown. Although the visual output component 462 is Figure 4 Although shown as including one indicator 464, the visual output component 462 may include multiple indicators. Figure 4 466, but the visual output component 462 may include multiple displays. In some implementations, one or more indicators 464 or displays 466 may be omitted or combined.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, the user interface component 460 includes a speaker 468. The speaker 468 can be used with Figure 1B The speaker 138 shown or FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B The audio components 218, 220, 222 are shown to be similar. Figure 4 One speaker 468 is shown in FIG, but the user interface component 460 may include multiple speakers. In some implementations, the speaker 468 may be omitted, or the speaker 468 may be combined with another component of the image capture device 400 (such as the microphone 414).

[0089] like Figure 4 As shown, the user interface component 460 includes a physical input interface 470. The physical input interface 470 can be connected to Figure 1A , Figure 2A The mode buttons 110, 210 or Figure 1A , Figure 2B The shutter buttons 112, 212 are shown similar. Figure 4 4, one physical input interface 470 is shown, but the user interface component 460 may include multiple physical input interfaces. In some implementations, the physical input interface 470 may be omitted, or the physical input interface 470 may be combined with another component of the image capture device 400. The physical input interface 470 may be, for example, a button, a toggle switch, a switch, a dial, or a slider.

[0090] like Figure 4As shown, user interface component 460 includes a dashed border labeled "Other" to indicate that components of image capture device 400 other than those explicitly shown as included in user interface component 460 can be user interface components. For example, microphone 414 can receive or capture and process audio signals to obtain input data, such as user input data corresponding to voice commands. In another example, image sensor 412 can receive or capture and process image data to obtain input data, such as user input data corresponding to visible gesture commands. In another example, one or more of spatial sensors 440, such as a combination of accelerometer 444 and gyroscope 446, can receive or capture and process motion data to obtain input data, such as user input data corresponding to motion gesture commands.

[0091] Now, refer to Figures 5 to 7 , the optical module 500 is discussed, and the optical module 500 can be configured to be used with the aforementioned spherical image capture device (e.g., the image capture device 200 ( Figure 2A , Figure 2B )、Image capture device 300( Figure 3 ) etc.) are used together with any spherical image capture device. More specifically, Figure 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the optical module 500; Figure 6 is an axial (longitudinal) cross-sectional view of optical module 500; and Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Magnified view of the detail area identified in .

[0092] The optical module 500 includes respective first ISLAs 502a and second ISLAs 502b that define respective optical axes Xa, Xb and are similar (e.g., (substantially) identical) in configuration. Thus, throughout the following disclosure, only the ISLA 502a is described in detail. The ISLAs 502a, 502b include the ISLAs 326, 328 described above in conjunction with the aforementioned ISLAs. Figure 3 ) are similar to the components and features discussed in the ISLA 326, 328, 502, and therefore, for the sake of brevity, only the differences will be discussed. Therefore, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the elements, structures, features, etc. common to the ISLA 326, 328, 502.

[0093] Although generally illustrated in the context of a spherical image capture device in which the ISLAs 502a, 502b are (substantially) aligned (e.g., such that the respective optical axes Xa, Xb (substantially) coincide), embodiments are also contemplated in which the optical module 500 may be configured such that the ISLAs 502a, 502b are not aligned (e.g., such that the respective optical axes Xa, Xb are offset from each other). It is also contemplated herein that a single ISLA 502 may be used for a non-spherical image capture device (such as the image capture device 100 ( Figure 1A , Figure 1B )) and these embodiments will not exceed the scope of this disclosure.

[0094] Each ISLA 502 includes: a lens holder (mount) 504; a lens barrel 506, which houses (includes, contains) an optical group 508, which includes a lens 330 and receives light and directs the light onto an image sensor 342; a printed circuit board (PCB) subassembly 510, which is fixed (connected) to the lens holder 504; and an electrical connector 512.

[0095] The lens holder 504 has an inner end 514 and an outer end 518, the inner end 514 defining an inner mounting surface 516. The lens holder 504 defines an outer radial wall 520 extending (substantially) parallel to an optical axis X of the lens holder 504 (e.g., optical axis Xa defined by ISLA 502a and optical axis Xb defined by ISLA 502b), and an internal cavity 522 extending between the ends 514, 518 of the lens holder 504 and configured to receive the lens barrel 506 such that the lens barrel 506 protrudes from the outer end 518.

[0096] Lens barrel 506 is placed within lens holder 504 and secured (attached) to lens holder 504 (e.g., concentrically located within interior chamber 522) such that lens barrel 506, and therefore optical group 508, is fixed relative to lens holder 504. For example, it is contemplated that lens barrel 506 may be adhesively secured (attached) to lens holder 504, and / or it is contemplated that lens barrel 506 may be mechanically secured (attached) to lens holder 504 (e.g., via one or more mechanical fasteners).

[0097] PCB subassembly 510 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 524 and a cover glass holder 526 .

[0098] PCB 524 has an inner face 528 and an outer face 530. Outer face 530 supports image sensor 342 and defines channel 532 ( Figure 7), the channel 532 extends into the outer surface 530 in a manner (substantially) parallel to the optical axis X, thereby defining an outer mounting surface 534.

[0099] Cover glass holder 526 has respective inner and outer ends 536 and 538 ( Figure 6 ), and at the corresponding first interface 540 and the second interface 542 ( Figure 5 ) is fixed (connected) to both the lens holder 504 and the PCB 524, and the first interface 540 and the second interface 542 are axially spaced from each other along the optical axis X. Therefore, the cover glass holder 526 is placed between the lens holder 504 and the PCB 524, and indirectly connects the lens holder 504 and the PCB 524, so that the lens holder 504 and the PCB 524 are axially spaced from each other along the optical axis X without any direct connection. More specifically, the outer end 538 of the cover glass holder 526 is fixed (connected) to the inner end 514 of the lens holder 504 (via a (first) adhesive 544 placed therebetween) so as to define a (first) joint 546, which is subjected to a UV and thermal curing process, as described in further detail below, and the inner end 536 of the cover glass holder 526 is fixed (connected) to the outer surface 530 of the PCB 524 (via a (second) adhesive 548 placed therebetween) so as to define a (second) joint 550, which is subjected to a standard curing process (e.g., air curing). For example, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that the adhesive 544 may include an active alignment adhesive 552, while the adhesive 548 may include a standard adhesive 554, solder, or any other suitable means of fixing (connecting) the cover glass holder 526 to the PCB 524. Thus, the adhesives 544, 548 differ not only in composition, but also in curing process.

[0100] Cover glass holder 526 supports cover glass 556, which protects image sensor 342 from particles, debris, dust, etc., and acts as a filter for ISLA 502. Now, with specific reference to Figure 7, the coverslip holder 526 includes an inner module (component) 558 and an outer module (component) 560, which is connected to the inner module 558. In the illustrated embodiment, the modules 558, 560 are configured as discrete components of the coverslip holder 526, which include (e.g., are formed of) different (dissimilar) (e.g., respective first and second) construction materials, which can be connected (fixed) together in any suitable manner (e.g., via adhesives, welding, etc.). For example, it is contemplated that the inner module 558 may include a polyamide (e.g., PA9T) (e.g., may be partially or completely formed of a polyamide (e.g., PA9T)), and the outer module 560 may include a liquid crystal polymer (e.g., may be partially or completely formed of a liquid crystal polymer). However, embodiments in which the modules 558, 560 may include similar (e.g., the same) construction materials and embodiments in which the coverslip holder 526 may be of a unitary construction are also contemplated herein. For example, Figure 8 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an alternative embodiment of optical module 500 in which modules 558, 560 are integrally (monolithically) formed (eg, via injection molding of a common material) such that coverslip holder 526 comprises a unitary construction.

[0101] Inner module 558 includes base 562, inner ring 564, and outer ring 566. As described in further detail below, inner module 558 is positioned around image sensor 342 (e.g., surrounds image sensor 342) and supports cover glass 556 such that inner module 558 and cover glass 556 cover image sensor 342.

[0102] The base 562 extends in a manner (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) to the optical axis X and includes an aperture 568 that is aligned with the optical group 508 ( Figure 5 , Figure 6 ) and image sensor 342 (substantially) aligned so as to allow light entering lens barrel 506 to be directed onto image sensor 342. Base 562 defines respective inner and outer end walls 570, 572, and outer radial wall 574, each of which extends in a manner (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) to optical axis X. In the illustrated embodiment, outer radial wall 574 is chamfered (beveled) such that outer radial wall 574 extends at an acute angle relative to optical axis X, which facilitates assembly of ISLA 502 (e.g., by reducing tolerances). However, embodiments of inner module 558 are also contemplated herein where outer radial wall 574 may instead extend in a manner (substantially) parallel to optical axis X, and such embodiments would not exceed the scope of the present disclosure.

[0103] The inner ring 564 is defined by a (substantially) annular (first) flange 576 extending axially outwardly from the base 562 (e.g., away from the PCB 524) in a manner (substantially) parallel to the optical axis X so as to define a respective inner radial wall 578 and an outer radial wall 580, each of which extends in a manner (substantially) parallel to the optical axis X, and an outer end wall 582 extending in a manner (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) to the optical axis X. The flange 576 is recessed relative to the aperture 568 (e.g., relative to the optical axis X) and is radially spaced outwardly therefrom so as to define a (first) receiving portion 584 configured to receive the cover glass 556. More specifically, when assembling ISLA 502, cover glass 556 is positioned adjacent to (e.g., in contact with) the inner radial wall 578 of flange 576, whereby cover glass 556 is nested within inner module 558 (e.g., receiving portion 584) and covers image sensor 342, such that cover glass 556 is axially spaced apart from image sensor 342 along optical axis X.

[0104] The outer ring 566 is defined by a (substantially) annular (second) flange 586 extending axially inwardly from the base 562 (e.g., toward the PCB 524) in a manner (substantially) parallel to the optical axis X and the flange 576 so as to define a respective inner radial wall 588 and an outer radial wall 590, each of which extends in a manner (substantially) parallel to the optical axis X, and an inner end wall 592 extending in a manner (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) to the optical axis X. The flange 586 is recessed relative to the outer radial wall 574 of the base 562 and is radially inwardly spaced from the outer radial wall 574 of the base 562 so as to define a (second) receiving portion 594 and a recess 596. The receiving portion 594 is configured to (partially) receive the outer module 560, so that the base 562 covers the outer module 560, and the recess 596 is configured to contain (receive, accommodate) the image sensor 342, so that the outer ring 566 surrounds the image sensor 342. Figure 7 As shown, when ISLA 02 is assembled, the inner end wall 592 defined by the flange 586 is positioned adjacent to (eg, in contact with) the PCB 524 radially inward of the channel 532 .

[0105] The outer module 560 includes a body 598 and teeth 600. As described in further detail below, the outer module 560 is positioned around (e.g., surrounds) the inner module 558, and thus around the image sensor 342, and supports assembly of the ISLA 502 by providing sufficient surface area to establish the interfaces 540, 542.

[0106] The body 598 defines respective inner and outer end walls 602, 604, each of which extends in a manner (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) to the optical axis X, and respective inner and outer radial walls 606, 608, each of which extends in a manner (substantially) parallel to the optical axis X. The inner and outer end walls 602, 604 define respective inner and outer mounting surfaces 610, 612 that support the application of adhesives 544, 548, respectively. More specifically, the inner mounting surface 610 faces (is oriented toward) the PCB 524 and supports the application of adhesive 548 to define the interface 542, and the outer mounting surface 612 faces (is oriented toward) the inner mounting surface 516 defined by the inner end 514 of the lens holder 504 and supports the application of adhesive 544 to define the interface 540. Figure 7 As shown, when ISLA 502 is assembled, inner radial wall 606 of body 598 is positioned adjacent to (eg, in contact with) outer radial wall 574 of base 562 , and outer radial wall 608 of body 598 is (substantially) aligned with outer radial wall 520 of lens holder 504 .

[0107] The lens holder 504, the cover glass holder 526 and the PCB 524 are arranged axially in an end-to-end stacked configuration along the optical axis X, whereby the mounting surfaces 516, 612, 610, 534 extend in a (substantially) parallel manner to each other and in a (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) manner to the optical axis X, wherein the mounting surfaces 516, 612 and the mounting surfaces 610, 534 are oriented in a facing relationship. The stacked configuration of the ISLA 502 and the resulting (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) orientation of the mounting surfaces 516, 612, 610, 534 relative to the optical axis X eliminate radial abutment of the lens holder 504, the cover glass holder 526 and the PCB 524, as in known ISLAs, thereby eliminating radial clearance that may be required for (adhesive) fixing (connecting) components of the ISLA 502, thereby reducing the overall radial dimension R of the ISLA 502. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, ISLA 502 is configured such that radial dimension R is (substantially) within the range of (approximately) 13.8 mm to (approximately) 15.7 mm, which is a (approximately) 7% reduction compared to known ISLAs. Additionally, the stacked configuration of ISLA 502 described herein not only increases the amount of internal space available for fasteners, electrical connectors, light pipes, indicators, wiring, surface mounts, sensors, etc. (e.g., on the outer surface 530 of PCB 524), but also increases the accessibility of mounting surfaces 516, 612, which facilitates stencil (screen) printing of adhesive 544 rather than dispensing via a needle (or other such device) as is typically done during assembly of an ISLA.

[0108] Continue to refer Figure 7 , the body 598 is configured to be inserted into (received by) the channel 532 so that the outer module 560 is nested within the PCB 524. The nesting of the outer module 560 and the PCB 524 not only supports the assembly of the ISLA 502, but also inhibits (if not completely prevents) undesired (radial) movement between the cover glass holder 526 and the PCB 524 (e.g., during the curing of the adhesives 544, 548). More specifically, the nesting of the outer module 560 and the PCB 524 facilitates the proper alignment of the cover glass holder 526 with the PCB 524, the image sensor 342, and the lens holder 504, thereby facilitating the optical group 508 ( Figure 5 , Figure 6 ) with the image sensor 342. The nesting of the outer module 560 and the PCB 524 also inhibits (if not completely prevents) undesired (radial) movement between the cover glass holder 526 and the PCB 524, thereby increasing the uniformity of the curing of the joints 546, 550 so as to mitigate any misalignment that may occur between the optical stack 508 and the image sensor 342.

[0109] The tooth 600 extends radially inward from the body 598 (e.g., toward the inner module 558), is recessed along the optical axis X relative to the inner end wall 602 and the outer end wall 604 of the body 598 and is axially spaced therefrom so as to define corresponding inner end walls 614 and outer end walls 616 and an inner radial wall 618 that extend in a manner that is (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) to the optical axis X and the inner radial wall 618 that extends in a manner that is (substantially) parallel to the optical axis X. More specifically, the teeth 600 are axially spaced from the inner end wall 602 of the body 598 to define a gap 620 that receives the body 598 within the channel 532 in the PCB 524, and the teeth 600 are axially spaced from the outer end wall 604 of the body 598 to define a receiving portion 622 that is configured to (partially) receive the inner module 558 so that the inner module 558 is nested within the outer module 560. Figure 7 As shown, when the ISLA 502 is assembled, the inner end wall 614 of the tooth 600 is positioned adjacent to (e.g., in contact with) the PCB 524, the outer end wall 616 of the tooth 600 is positioned adjacent to (e.g., in contact with) the inner end wall 570 of the base 562 of the inner module 558, and the inner radial wall 618 of the tooth 600 is positioned adjacent to (e.g., in contact with) the outer radial wall 590 of the flange 586.

[0110] As indicated above, it is contemplated that the inner module 558 and the outer module 560 may be secured (connected) together in any suitable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the modules 558, 560 are connected by applying an adhesive (not shown) therebetween, which adhesive may be the same adhesive 548 used to secure (connect) the inner end 536 of the cover glass holder 526 to the outer face 530 of the PCB 524. More specifically, the adhesive is applied to the interface between the outer radial wall 590 and the inner radial wall 618, to the interface between the inner end wall 570 and the outer end wall 616, and / or to the interface between the outer radial wall 574 and the inner radial wall 606.

[0111] like Figure 7 As shown, outer module 560 defines a radial dimension Rm (e.g., width) that is (substantially) in the range of (approximately) 1 mm to (approximately) 2 mm, as compared to known ISLAs that typically define a corresponding radial dimension that is (substantially) in the range of (approximately) .25 mm to (approximately) .5 mm, which not only increases the surface area available for adhesives 544, 548, but also increases the structural support provided by cover glass holder 526. As such, cover glass holder 526 serves as a structural component of ISLA 502 that increases its overall strength and stability, as compared to optical modules used in known image capture devices.

[0112] Furthermore, reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 , electrical connector 512 is supported by (connected to) PCB 524 and is spaced (placed, positioned) radially outward (e.g., relative to optical axis X) from cover glass holder 526. More specifically, electrical connector 512 is (substantially) aligned with interface 542 (e.g., connector 550) and is axially spaced from interface 540 (e.g., connector 546) along optical axis X, which facilitates access to (e.g., direct viewing of) interface 540 during UV curing, as described in further detail below. Electrical connector 512 can be any component (or array of components) that supports the functionality of ISLA 502 and / or an image capture device (e.g., image capture device 200, 300), including, for example, one or more connectors, ports, hubs, interfaces, surface mounts, etc., and can be connected to PCB 524 in any suitable manner. For example, it is contemplated that the electrical connector 512 may be adhesively secured (connected) to the PCB 524 and / or the electrical connector 512 may be mechanically secured (connected) to the PCB 524 (eg, via one or more mechanical fasteners).

[0113] Continue to refer Figures 5 to 7 , the assembly method of ISLA 502 will be discussed.

[0114] Initially, the cover glass holder 526 is assembled by connecting (adhesively) the inner module 558 and the outer module 560.

[0115] The electrical connector 512 can then be connected to the PCB 524, after which the lens holder 504 is actively aligned with the assembled cover glass holder 526. The active alignment of the lens holder 504 and the cover glass holder 526 results in a corresponding active alignment of the optical group 508 and the image sensor 342 so as to optimize their alignment. More specifically, during the active alignment process, the adhesive 544 is applied to the outer mounting surface 612 defined by the outer module 560 and / or the inner mounting surface 516 defined by the lens holder 504. Then, a first device (e.g., a robotic assembly) is used to position and align the lens holder 504 and the cover glass holder 526, after which the adhesive 544 is subjected to a UV and thermal curing process to form a joint 546, thereby fixing the connection between the lens holder 504 and the cover glass holder 526, which is facilitated by the relative positions of the interface 540 and the electrical connector 512. More specifically, due to the axial misalignment (separation) between the electrical connector 512 and the interface 540 along the optical axis X, a direct line of sight can be established between the interface 540 and the UV curing device (equipment) 700. The direct line of sight between the interface 540 and the UV curing device 700 suppresses (if not completely prevents) interference with the curing process that may be caused by the electrical connector 512 (e.g., shielding of UV light projected on the interface 540), thereby increasing the uniformity of the curing of the joint 546 and suppressing (if not completely eliminating) shrinkage of the adhesive 544 and misalignment between the optical group 508 and the image sensor 342.

[0116] Before or after forming joint 546, adhesive 548 is applied to the outer mounting surface 534 defined by PCB 524 and / or the inner mounting surface 610 defined by outer module 560 to connect cover glass holder 526 to PCB 524, which can be performed in a conventional manner rather than via the aforementioned active alignment process. Adhesive 548 is then allowed to cure to form joint 550.

[0117] Now, refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , an alternative embodiment of ISLA 502 identified by reference numeral 802 will be discussed. More specifically, Fig. 9 is an axial (longitudinal) cross-sectional view of ISLA 802, Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 802 includes features similar to those of the aforementioned ISLA 502, and therefore, for the sake of brevity, only the differences will be discussed. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to elements, structures, features, etc. common to ISLA 502 and 802.

[0118] ISLA 802 includes the lens holder (mount) 504, lens barrel 506, and electrical connector 512 discussed above in conjunction with ISLA 502 and an alternative embodiment of a PCB subassembly 510 identified by reference numeral 810. PCB subassembly 810 includes the aforementioned PCB 524 and an alternative embodiment of a cover glass holder 526, which is identified by reference numeral 826 and includes corresponding inner modules (components) 858 and outer modules (components) 860. Cover glass holder 826 includes similar features to the aforementioned cover glass holder 526, and therefore, for the sake of brevity, only the differences from cover glass holder 526 will be discussed. As such, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to elements, structures, features, etc. common to cover glass holders 526, 826.

[0119] The inner module 858 includes the base 562, inner ring 564, and outer ring 566 discussed above in conjunction with the aforementioned coverslip holder 526. However, in contrast to the aforementioned coverslip holder 526, the outer ring 566 (e.g., flange 586) is positioned adjacent to (e.g., extends from) the outer radial wall 574 of the base 562.

[0120] The outer module 860 includes the body 598 and teeth 600 discussed above in conjunction with the aforementioned coverslip holder 526. However, in contrast to the aforementioned coverslip holder 526, the teeth 600 are positioned adjacent to the outer end wall 604 of the body 598 (e.g., extending radially inwardly from the outer end wall 604) so ​​as to define a receiving portion 822, which is configured to (partially) receive the inner module 858 so that the inner module 858 is nested within the outer module 860. More specifically, the teeth 600 are configured so that the outer end wall 604 of the body 598 and the outer end wall 616 of the teeth 600 are (substantially) aligned along the optical axis X (e.g., so that the outer end walls 604, 616 are arranged in a (substantially) co-linear manner). As shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown, when the ISLA 802 is assembled, the body 598 is positioned adjacent to (e.g., in contact with) the flange 586 on the inner module 858, and the inner end wall 614 of the tooth 600 is positioned adjacent to (e.g., in contact with) the base 562 of the inner module 558, so that the outer module 860 (e.g., the tooth 600) covers the inner module 858 (e.g., the base 562 and the flange 586).

[0121] As discussed above in conjunction with the aforementioned coverslip holder 526, it should be contemplated that the inner module 858 and the outer module 860 can be secured (connected) together in any suitable manner, for example, via an adhesive applied to the interface between the body 598 of the outer module 860 and the flange 586 on the inner module 558, the interface between the inner end wall 614 of the tooth 600 and the flange 586, and / or the interface between the inner end wall 614 of the tooth 600 and the outer end wall 572 of the base 562.

[0122] Now, refer to Fig.11 , another embodiment of ISLA 502 identified by reference numeral 902 will be discussed. More specifically, Fig.11 902. ISLA 902 includes similar features to the aforementioned ISLA 502, 802, and thus, for the sake of brevity, only the differences will be discussed. As such, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to elements, structures, features, etc. common to ISLA 502, 802, 902.

[0123] In addition to the lens barrel 506, the electrical connector 512, and the PCB subassembly 510, the ISLA 902 also includes an alternative embodiment of the lens holder 504 identified by the reference numeral 904. The lens holder 904 includes similar features to the aforementioned lens holder 504, and thus, for the sake of brevity, only the differences will be discussed. As such, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to elements, structures, features, etc. common to the lens holders 504, 904.

[0124] The lens holder 904 includes respective inner modules (components) 906 and outer modules (components) 908 , which are connected together and configured as discrete components of the lens holder 904 .

[0125] The inner module 906 includes an inner end 910 and an outer end 912. The inner end 910 of the inner module 906 defines a (substantially) U-shaped chamber 914 that is configured to receive the cover glass holder 526 and the cover glass 556, such that the inner module 906 is positioned around (e.g., surrounds) the image sensor 342 and the inner mounting surface 916, and the outer end 912 defines an outer mounting surface 918.

[0126] The outer module 908 includes an inner end 920 defining an inner mounting surface 922 and an outer end 924. Additionally, the outer module 908 defines an interior chamber 522 that receives the lens barrel 506, as discussed above in conjunction with the lens holder 504 described above.

[0127] The inner module 906 is fixed (connected) to the outer module 908 and the PCB 524 at respective first and second interfaces 926, 928. Thus, the inner module 906 is placed between the outer module 908 and the PCB 524 and indirectly connects the outer module 908 and the PCB 524, such that the outer module 908 and the PCB 524 are axially spaced from each other along the optical axis X and without any direct connection. More specifically, the inner end 920 of the outer module 908 is fixed (connected) to the outer end 912 of the inner module 906 by the adhesive 544 so as to define a (first) joint 930, which has been subjected to the aforementioned UV and heat curing process discussed above in conjunction with the ISLA 502, and the inner end 910 of the inner module 906 is fixed (connected) to the outer surface 530 of the PCB 524 by the adhesive 548 so as to define a (second) joint 932. Thus, the modules 906, 908 of the lens holder 904 are arranged axially in an end-to-end, stacked configuration along the optical axis X, whereby the mounting surfaces 916, 918, 922 are oriented in a manner that is (substantially) parallel to each other and in a manner that is (substantially) orthogonal (perpendicular) to the optical axis X.

[0128] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for assembling an integrated sensor-lens assembly of an image capture device is provided, the method comprising: actively aligning a lens holder with a coverslip holder; connecting the lens holder to the coverslip holder; and connecting the coverslip holder to a printed circuit board using a second adhesive such that the lens holder is separated from the printed circuit board along an optical axis of the ISLA.

[0129] In some embodiments, coupling the lens holder to the coverslip holder may include UV curing an adhesive placed between the lens holder and the coverslip holder.

[0130] In certain embodiments, the method may further include securing the electrical connector to the printed circuit board such that the electrical connector is axially spaced from the adhesive along the optical axis.

[0131] In some embodiments, the method may further include assembling a cover glass holder.

[0132] In some embodiments, assembling the coverslip holder may include connecting an inner module of the coverslip holder to an outer module of the coverslip holder.

[0133] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an integrated sensor-lens assembly for an image capture device is disclosed. The integrated sensor-lens assembly defines an optical axis and includes a printed circuit board and a lens holder. The lens holder is fixed relative to the printed circuit board via an adhesive and is configured so that the adhesive is spaced from the printed circuit board along the optical axis to allow UV curing thereof.

[0134] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an integrated sensor-lens assembly for an image capture device is disclosed. The integrated sensor-lens assembly defines an optical axis and includes a first component, a second component, and a third component, the second component being fixed to the first component at a first interface, and the third component being fixed to the second component at a second interface, whereby the second interface is spaced from the first component along the optical axis.

[0135] In certain embodiments, the second component may be secured to the first component by a first adhesive.

[0136] In certain embodiments, the third component may be secured to the second component by a second adhesive that is different than the first adhesive.

[0137] In certain embodiments, the second adhesive may be UV curable.

[0138] Although the present disclosure has been described in conjunction with certain embodiments, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, which scope is to be given the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as permitted by law.

[0139] Those skilled in the art will understand that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings constitute non-limiting examples, and that additional components and features may be added to any of the embodiments discussed above without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, those skilled in the art will understand that the elements and features shown or described in conjunction with one embodiment may be combined with the elements and features of another embodiment to achieve any desired result without departing from the scope of the present invention, and will appreciate other features and advantages of the subject matter currently disclosed based on the description provided. Changes, combinations and / or modifications to any embodiment and / or features of the embodiments described herein within the capabilities of those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the present disclosure, and alternative embodiments that may be produced by combining, integrating and / or omitting features from any of the disclosed embodiments are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0140] Use of the term "optionally" with respect to any element of a claim means that the element may be included or omitted, with both alternatives being within the scope of the claim. Additionally, use of broader terms such as "comprise," "include," and "having" should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as "consisting of," "consisting essentially of," and "consisting substantially of." Thus, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above, but is defined by the appended claims, and includes all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims.

[0141] In the foregoing description, reference may be made to the spatial relationship between the various structures illustrated in the accompanying drawings and the spatial orientation of the structures. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art after a thorough reading of this disclosure, the structures described herein may be positioned and oriented in any manner suitable for their intended purpose. Therefore, the use of terms (such as "above", "below", "up", "down", "inside", "outside", "left", "right", "upward", "downward", "inwardly", "outwardly", "horizontally", "vertically", etc.) should be understood to describe the relative relationship between structures and / or the spatial orientation of the structures. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the use of these terms may be provided in the context of the description provided by one or more corresponding drawings.

[0142] Additionally, terms (such as "substantially", "approximately", "substantially", etc.) should be understood as numerical ranges, concepts or basic terms associated therewith, and variations of up to 25% of the numerical ranges, concepts or basic terms (e.g., allowing for manufacturing tolerances and / or design deviations). For example, the term "substantially parallel" should be understood to refer to an arrangement in which the angle between related parts (structures, elements) is equal to 180° and an arrangement in which the angle between related parts (structures, elements) is greater than or less than 180° (e.g., ±10%, ±15%, ±25%). Therefore, the term "substantially parallel" should be understood to cover configurations in which related parts are arranged in a parallel relationship. Similarly, the term "substantially the same" should be understood to cover configurations in which related parts are identical in configuration and configurations in which there may be non-substantial changes between related parts that do not affect their substantial construction or performance.

[0143] Although terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various operations, elements, components, regions and / or sections, these operations, elements, components, regions and / or sections should not be limited by the use of these terms, in that these terms are used to distinguish one operation, element, component, region or section from another operation, element, component, region or section. Therefore, unless otherwise explicitly stated, a first operation, element, component, region or section may be referred to as a second operation, element, component, region or section, etc., without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0144] Each claim is incorporated into the specification as another disclosure and represents an embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C" and "A and / or B and / or C" should each be interpreted to include only A, only B, only C, or any combination of A, B, and C.

Claims

1. An integrated sensor-lens assembly for an image capture device, characterized in that: The integrated sensor-lens assembly defines an optical axis and comprises: Lens holder; a coverslip holder secured to the lens holder at a first interface; and A printed circuit board is secured to the cover glass holder at a second interface, whereby the cover glass holder indirectly connects the lens holder to the printed circuit board such that the lens holder and the printed circuit board are free of any direct connection.

2. The integrated sensor-lens assembly of claim 1, further comprising: A lens barrel is placed within the lens holder and houses the optical group.

3. The integrated sensor-lens assembly of claim 2, further comprising: An image sensor is supported by the printed circuit board, wherein the optical group is actively aligned with the image sensor.

4. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cover glass holder is of unitary construction.

5. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cover glass holder comprises: Internal modules; and An outer module is connected to the inner module, wherein the inner module and the outer module are configured as separate components of the coverslip holder.

6. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The inner module comprises a first construction material, and wherein the outer module comprises a second construction material that is different than the first construction material.

7. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: The inner module defines an outer radial wall, and the outer module defines an inner radial wall that contacts the outer radial wall.

8. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The coverslip holder is configured such that the outer radial wall and the inner radial wall are oriented substantially parallel to the optical axis.

9. The integrated sensor-lens assembly of claim 1 , further comprising: An electrical connector is spaced radially outward from the coverslip holder relative to the optical axis.

10. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that: The electrical connector is generally aligned with the second interface and is axially spaced from the first interface along the optical axis.

11. An integrated sensor-lens assembly for an image capture device, characterized in that: The integrated sensor-lens assembly defines an optical axis and includes: Lens holder; a lens barrel, which is placed in the lens holder and houses an optical group; a coverslip holder secured to the lens holder at a first interface using a first adhesive; a printed circuit board secured to the cover glass holder at a second interface using a second adhesive different from the first adhesive such that the lens holder is spaced apart from the printed circuit board along the optical axis; and An image sensor is supported by the printed circuit board and is actively aligned with the optical group.

12. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: The cover glass holder is of unitary construction.

13. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that: The cover glass holder comprises: an inner module defining an outer radial wall; and An outer module defines an inner radial wall connected to the outer radial wall of the inner module.

14. The integrated sensor-lens assembly according to claim 13, It is characterized in that The inner module and the outer module include dissimilar materials of construction.

15. The integrated sensor-lens assembly of claim 11, further comprising: An electrical connector is spaced radially outward from the coverslip holder relative to the optical axis, wherein the electrical connector is generally aligned with the second interface and is axially spaced from the first interface along the optical axis.

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