Astronomical camera image field rotator and photographic equipment

Through the design of the synchronous belt transmission system and tightening mechanism, the backlash, noise and maintenance complexity of traditional gear transmission systems in astrophotography is solved, and an astronomical camera field rotator with high accuracy, low noise, smooth operation, simple structure and convenient maintenance is provided.

CN223205750UActive Publication Date: 2025-08-08ZW OPTICAL ZWO
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422435412.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-10-09
Publication Date
2025-08-08
Estimated Expiration
2034-10-09

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional gear transmission systems have backlash, noise, vibration and maintenance complexity problems in astrophotography, which affects imaging quality and equipment convenience.

Method used

The synchronous belt transmission system is adopted, combined with the tightening mechanism of the adjustable retention part, to achieve precise control of the synchronous belt tension, avoid backlash and noise, and simplify maintenance.

Benefits of technology

Achieve high-precision angle adjustment, reduce noise and vibration, simple structure, convenient maintenance, strong adaptability, and improve the stability and reliability of the transmission system.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

According to the astronomical camera image field rotator provided by the utility model, a synchronous belt transmission system is adopted, so that the defects of a traditional gear transmission system in astronomical photography are effectively overcome. The rotation regulator comprises a motor, the motor is fixedly installed in a machine shell of the rotation regulator, an output shaft of the motor is connected with a synchronous transmission system, synchronous belt transmission has the characteristic of zero back clearance, accurate control over the angle of the camera is ensured, and errors caused by the back clearance in gear transmission are avoided. And meanwhile, the synchronous belt is stable in transmission operation and low in noise, and cannot interfere with the operation environment of astronomy photography. In addition, the synchronous belt transmission system is easy to maintain, frequent lubrication and maintenance are not needed, and the use cost and the operation difficulty are reduced.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the field of astronomical photography equipment, and in particular to an image field rotator for an astronomical camera. Background Art

[0002] In the field of astronomical photography, astronomical camera angle adjusters are critical devices used to precisely adjust the camera's angle to capture subtle movements and changes in celestial objects. Traditional astronomical camera angle adjusters typically use a gear drive system, with a motor driving a gear set to achieve camera rotation and positioning. However, despite its widespread use in mechanical transmission systems, gear drives have exposed some significant shortcomings and limitations in high-precision astronomical photography, affecting both image quality and ease of use.

[0003] First, a common problem in gear transmission systems is backlash. The meshing process of gears inevitably introduces a certain amount of play, known as backlash. In astronomical photography, this backlash can cause slight deviations in the camera's angle, affecting the precise positioning of astronomical images. Especially during long exposures or high magnification, the errors introduced by backlash are amplified, resulting in blurred images or accumulated errors. This is a critical flaw for astronomical photography, which requires precise alignment of celestial objects and long exposures. Secondly, gear transmissions are prone to generating noise during operation. When gears mesh, friction and impact between the gear surfaces produce a certain amount of mechanical noise. This noise not only affects the smooth operation of the equipment but can also disrupt the operating environment for astronomical photography, a particularly prominent problem in astronomical observatories, which require a quiet and stable environment. Furthermore, this noise is often accompanied by vibration, which further affects the stability of the camera and reduces the clarity of the captured images. Furthermore, gear transmission systems require regular maintenance. Over time, the tooth surfaces of gears wear out due to friction, resulting in reduced meshing accuracy and transmission efficiency. Therefore, the gear transmission system requires regular lubrication and maintenance to extend its service life and maintain operational accuracy. However, lubrication and maintenance not only increase the user's operational difficulty but also incur additional maintenance costs. For professional astrophotographers or research institutions, frequent maintenance operations can disrupt their photography plans and increase operational complexity.

[0004] Patent publication CN217561826U, entitled "A Front-Focusing Astronomical Telescope," describes a front-focusing astronomical telescope that utilizes a front-mounted focusing seat and a focusing handwheel assembly for precise lens focusing. However, the focusing method described in the patent relies on a meshing transmission of a gear and rack. In practice, this gear transmission structure still suffers from the aforementioned issues of noise, backlash, and maintenance complexity. These shortcomings are particularly prominent in high-precision astronomical photography. Utility Model Content

[0005] The utility model relates to an image field rotator for an astronomical camera, which aims to adopt a synchronous belt transmission scheme with an adjustable abutting portion. Not only does it simplify the adjustment device in structure and reduce the influence of noise and vibration, but it also adjusts the position of the abutting portion relative to the synchronous belt by designing a tensioning mechanism, so that the abutting portion and the synchronous belt can switch between two states: contact (first state) and non-contact (second state), or the contact degree between the abutting portion and the synchronous belt can be adjusted in the contact state (first state), thereby achieving precise control of the tension of the synchronous belt and overcoming the shortcomings of traditional gear transmission systems.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned object, an image field rotator for an astronomical camera is provided, comprising: a rotary adjuster mounted between the astronomical camera and an adapter ring, for driving the rotation of the astronomical camera; the rotary adjuster comprising: a motor fixedly mounted within a housing of the rotary adjuster, the output shaft of the motor being connected to a synchronous transmission system; the synchronous transmission system comprising a small synchronous wheel connected to the output shaft of the motor and a large synchronous wheel disposed within the housing and cooperating therewith, the small synchronous wheel and the large synchronous wheel being connected by a synchronous belt;

[0007] The tensioning mechanism includes an adjustment structure and a supporting portion disposed in the housing, the supporting portion being connected to the adjustment structure, and the adjustment structure being used to adjust the position of the supporting portion relative to the synchronous belt. The relative position of the supporting portion and the synchronous belt can be in at least one of two states:

[0008] The first state is that the abutting portion contacts the synchronous belt;

[0009] The second state is that the abutting portion does not contact the synchronous belt.

[0010] Furthermore, the abutting portion includes a tensioning wheel, the adjusting structure includes an adjusting screw arranged on the outside of the housing, and the tensioning wheel is arranged on the movable bracket;

[0011] The adjusting screw is connected to the movable bracket and is used to drive the movable bracket to move and adjust the position of the tensioner to control the tension of the synchronous belt.

[0012] Furthermore, the movable bracket includes a support arm, one end of the support arm is connected to a fixed fulcrum on the inner wall of the casing through a hinge structure, so that the movable bracket can rotate around the fixed fulcrum under the action of the adjusting screw, thereby adjusting the position of the tensioner in the radial direction in the synchronous belt transmission path. The adjusting screw is connected to the middle part of the support arm through a thread and extends through the outside of the casing into the casing. When the adjusting screw rotates, its rotational motion acts on the support arm through the thread transmission, pushing the support arm to rotate around the fixed fulcrum, thereby changing the position of the tensioner relative to the synchronous belt, so that the relative position of the supporting portion and the synchronous belt is in the first state or the second state.

[0013] Furthermore, the synchronous belt is connected to the small synchronous wheel and the large synchronous wheel to form a transmission path. The small synchronous wheel is fixed to the output shaft of the motor through the motor bracket, and the large synchronous wheel is installed in the housing of the rotary regulator through a bearing. The rotation axis of the large synchronous wheel and the rotation axis of the small synchronous wheel remain parallel, and the synchronous rotation between the large synchronous wheel and the small synchronous wheel is achieved through the synchronous belt. At least part of the abutment is arranged in the transmission path of the synchronous belt and is installed on a movable bracket connected by an adjustment structure, and can be driven by the adjustment structure to move.

[0014] Furthermore, the motor is fixedly mounted on a motor bracket, and the motor bracket includes an integral support structure having a mounting hole for mounting the motor and an opening for extending the output shaft of the motor and connecting it to the small synchronous wheel.

[0015] Furthermore, a circuit board is fixedly installed in the housing of the rotary regulator. The circuit board is provided with a plurality of electronic components for controlling the motor and the synchronous belt transmission system. The electronic components include a motor drive module and a power management unit. The circuit board is connected to the fixed columns on the inner wall of the housing through a plurality of mounting holes.

[0016] Furthermore, the large synchronous wheel is installed in the housing of the rotary regulator through a bearing, the outer edge of the large synchronous wheel is provided with a toothed structure that engages with the synchronous belt, the inner wall of the large synchronous wheel contacts the outer wall of the bearing, the inner wall of the bearing is sleeved on the raised inner wall of the housing, the inner pressure ring of the bearing is pressed on the inner side of the bearing and fixed to the housing, the outer pressure ring of the bearing is pressed on the outside of the large synchronous wheel and the bearing, and the connecting plate is arranged above the outer pressure plate.

[0017] Furthermore, the diameter of the large synchronous wheel is larger than that of the small synchronous wheel.

[0018] Furthermore, it includes a first adapter ring and a second adapter ring, the first adapter ring is fixedly connected to one end of the rotary regulator, and the second adapter ring is fixedly connected to the other end of the rotary regulator, the first adapter ring is used to connect the rotary regulator to the telescope, and the second adapter ring is used to connect the rotary regulator to the astronomical camera, and the second adapter ring is arranged on the side opposite to the motor.

[0019] A photographic device uses the above-mentioned astronomical camera image field rotator, wherein the telescope is connected to the rotation regulator via a first adapter ring, and the rotation regulator is used to adjust the rotation angle of the camera; the camera is connected to the rotation regulator via a second adapter ring, and the second adapter ring is arranged on the side opposite to the motor.

[0020] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0021] Precisely control the timing belt tension and achieve high-precision angle adjustment: This utility model utilizes a tensioning mechanism with an adjustable abutment portion. The abutment portion can be in at least one of two states relative to the timing belt: a first state in which the abutment portion contacts the timing belt, and a second state in which the abutment portion does not. The abutment portion is used to abut or move away from the timing belt, applying variable amounts of additional pressure or releasing pressure when needed. By adjusting the position of the abutment portion, the tension of the timing belt can be varied. When the abutment portion contacts the timing belt (the first state), the tension of the timing belt is increased or decreased, ensuring that the timing belt maintains proper tension during transmission. When the abutment portion does not contact the timing belt (the second state), the timing belt returns to its original tension state. By precisely adjusting the abutment portion, the abutment portion and the timing belt can achieve precise control of the timing belt tension by switching between the first and second states, or by controlling the amount of pressure applied by the abutment portion on the timing belt in the first state. This ensures the stability of the transmission system and precise control of the camera angle, avoiding transmission errors.

[0022] Reduced Noise and Vibration, Smooth Operation: The synchronous belt drive system features zero backlash, eliminating errors caused by backlash in gear transmission. This provides smooth, low-noise operation, minimizing the effects of noise and vibration on astronomical photography, and providing a quieter and more stable operating environment.

[0023] Simple structure and easy maintenance: The astronomical camera image field rotator of this utility model has a simple structure and adopts an adjustable tensioning mechanism, eliminating the need for complex adjustment devices. The synchronous belt drive system is easy to maintain, requiring no frequent lubrication and maintenance, reducing usage costs and operational difficulty.

[0024] Strong adaptability to meet different working conditions: The design of the abutment in the tensioning mechanism allows users to adjust the contact state between the abutment and the synchronous belt according to actual needs, selecting the first or second state to adapt to different working conditions. The adjustability of the abutment ensures that the synchronous belt maintains optimal condition in various situations, improving the adaptability and practicality of the equipment.

[0025] Improve the stability and reliability of the transmission system: The adjustable tensioning mechanism, especially the design of the abutment part, not only achieves precise control of the timing belt tension, but also further improves the stability and reliability of the transmission system, ensuring that the camera maintains high-precision angle control during the rotation of the image field.

[0026] In summary, the present invention overcomes the shortcomings of traditional gear transmission systems by adopting a synchronous belt transmission scheme with a tensioning mechanism having an adjustable abutment portion in two states, and provides an astronomical camera image field rotator with high precision, low noise, smooth operation, simple structure, and easy maintenance, providing a more stable and reliable solution for astronomical photography. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the utility model.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the drive transmission system structure of the present utility model.

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the large synchronous wheel and bearing of the utility model.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the motor and the small synchronous wheel of the utility model.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the telescope and the rotary adjuster of the present utility model.

[0032] Figure 6 for Figure 1 main view.

[0033] Figure 7 To follow Figure 6 Cross-sectional view along the G--G direction.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the working state of the tensioner pulley assembly in the utility model.

[0035] In the figure: 1- tensioner assembly 2- top screw 3- large synchronous pulley 4- synchronous belt 5- small synchronous pulley 6- motor 7- circuit board 8- motor bracket 9- bearing 10- housing 11- upper cover 12- adapter ring 13- telescope 14- rotary adjuster 15- astronomical camera 16- bearing outer pressure ring 17- bearing inner pressure ring. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0037] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise" and the like to indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on the present invention.

[0038] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. In the description of this utility model, "several" means two or more, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0039] In order to better understand the technical solution of the present invention, the image field rotator of an astronomical camera is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments are only used to explain the technical solution of the present invention and do not limit its scope of protection.

[0040] As attached Figure 1-8As shown, the main structure of the rotary regulator 14 of the image field rotator of the astronomical camera of the present invention includes a shell 10 and an upper cover 11. The shell 10 is the outer shell of the rotary regulator, which mainly plays the role of protecting the internal components. The shell needs to have sufficient mechanical strength to withstand the mechanical forces generated during operation while maintaining the stability of the entire device. Key components such as the motor 6, the synchronous belt drive system, the tensioner assembly 1 and the circuit board 7 are accommodated inside. The upper cover 11 is installed on the upper part of the shell 10 to protect the internal components and facilitate maintenance or the disassembly and installation of the components. The upper cover is usually fixed to the shell by screws to ensure that it does not move during use.

[0041] Motor 6 is the system's power source. Its output rotation drives the small synchronous pulley, which in turn rotates the large synchronous pulley and camera via a timing belt. It is secured within housing 10 via motor bracket 8, ensuring stability during operation. The choice of motor is crucial, requiring high precision and stability.

[0042] A small synchronous pulley 5 is mounted on the output shaft of motor 6. This small synchronous pulley 5 is connected to the large synchronous pulley 3 via a timing belt 4, forming a complete transmission system. Under the control of circuit board 7, motor 6 drives the small synchronous pulley 5 to rotate, which in turn drives the large synchronous pulley 3 to rotate via the timing belt 4.

[0043] The synchronous belt 4 is made of high-strength, low-elongation material with excellent wear resistance and anti-aging properties, ensuring accuracy and long-term stability during the transmission process. The diameter of the large synchronous wheel 3 is larger than that of the small synchronous wheel 5, and the rotation angle and speed requirements of the astronomical camera 15 are met by adjusting the transmission ratio. The large synchronous wheel 3 is installed in the housing 10 through the bearing 9, and the outer edge is provided with a toothed structure that engages with the synchronous belt 4. The inner wall of the large synchronous wheel 3 contacts the outer wall of the bearing 9, and the inner ring of the bearing 9 is mounted on the raised inner wall of the housing 10. The bearing inner pressure ring 17 is fixed to the inner side of the bearing 9 and connected to the housing 10. The bearing outer pressure ring 16 is installed on the outside of the large synchronous wheel 3 and the bearing 9, and the connecting plate is located above the bearing outer pressure ring. This installation method ensures the coaxiality and stability of the large synchronous wheel 3 during rotation, reduces mechanical friction, and improves transmission efficiency.

[0044] In order to ensure that the synchronous belt 4 maintains appropriate tension during the transmission process and prevents it from loosening or slipping, a tensioner assembly 1 is provided. The tensioner assembly 1 includes a tensioner and a tensioner bracket. The tensioner is mounted on the tensioner bracket via a bearing, and the bracket can move within a certain range. By rotating the top screw 2, the tensioner bracket can be driven to move and the position of the tensioner can be adjusted. The tensioner changes the tension of the synchronous belt 4 by contacting the synchronous belt 4, ensuring that the synchronous belt maintains appropriate tension between the large synchronous pulley and the small synchronous pulley to prevent it from loosening or slipping. After the adjustment is completed, the position of the tensioner should be fixed to prevent position changes due to vibration during operation.

[0045] Attachment Figure 8 The structural changes of the tensioner relative to the synchronous belt in three states: no contact, loose and tight. Figure 8 The left picture shows the no-contact state. Figure 8 The middle picture shows the loose state. Figure 8 The right picture shows the tight state.

[0046] Non-contact state (left image): In this non-contact state, the top screw 2 is not rotating, the tensioner assembly 1 remains away from the timing belt 4, and there is no contact between the tensioner assembly 1 and the timing belt 4. At this point, the timing belt 4 is relaxed between the small timing pulley 5 and the large timing pulley 3, with minimal tension. This is suitable for equipment downtime or maintenance. Since the transmission system is not under load, wear on the timing belt 4 is significantly reduced, extending its service life.

[0047] Loose state (middle picture):

[0048] By rotating the jackscrew 2, the tensioner assembly 1 gradually approaches the timing belt 4, making light contact with it. In this state, the tensioner assembly 1 applies moderate pressure to the timing belt, increasing the tension of the timing belt 4 somewhat, but not reaching its maximum value. This state is suitable for lightly loaded or short-duration equipment operation, ensuring that the timing belt 4 maintains appropriate tension between the small and large timing pulleys 5 and 3, preventing loosening or slipping in the transmission system and ensuring smooth operation.

[0049] Tight state (right picture):

[0050] Continue rotating the jackscrew 2, pushing the tensioner assembly 1 into closer contact with the timing belt 4, increasing the tension of the timing belt 4 to its maximum value. At this point, the tensioner assembly 1 provides sufficient support for the timing belt 4, ensuring the transmission efficiency of the timing belt between the small timing pulley 5 and the large timing pulley 3. This is particularly useful when the equipment is under heavy load or under long-term continuous operation, effectively preventing timing belt slippage or insufficient tension, and ensuring the stability and efficiency of the transmission system.

[0051] Continuous adjustment of tension and gear adjustment:

[0052] Continuous adjustment of tension:

[0053] The adjustment mechanism not only switches the contact portion and the timing belt between contact and non-contact, but also enables continuous adjustment of the tension via adjustment screw 2. As screw 2 rotates, the tensioner assembly 1 on the movable bracket gradually moves closer to or further away from the timing belt 4, thereby varying the pressure applied by the tensioner on the belt. This continuous adjustment allows for smooth adjustment of the timing belt tension within a narrow range, making it suitable for equipment operating under varying load conditions and ensuring that the timing belt tension can be precisely adjusted to meet operational requirements.

[0054] Gear adjustment conditions:

[0055] In addition to continuous adjustment, the tensioner assembly 1 can also be adjusted in stages through preset gears to quickly switch between different tension states. The equipment is designed with a multi-gear system, each gear corresponding to a different tension range:

[0056] First gear (light load): The tensioner is in slight contact with the synchronous belt 4. It is suitable for equipment running under light load or short time. The tension is moderate, which can ensure the stability of the transmission system without excessively increasing the tension and reducing the wear of the synchronous belt.

[0057] Second gear (medium load): Rotate the adjusting screw to the middle position to make the tensioner contact with the synchronous belt 4 and further increase the tension. It is suitable for medium load operating conditions to ensure that the synchronous belt runs smoothly in the transmission system.

[0058] The third gear (heavy load): In this gear, the adjusting screw is further rotated to make the tensioner pulley and the synchronous belt 4 in close contact, and the tension reaches the maximum value. It is suitable for occasions where the equipment is under heavy load or runs continuously for a long time. It ensures that the synchronous belt maintains the highest tension between the large synchronous pulley 3 and the small synchronous pulley 5 to avoid loosening or slipping.

[0059] Usage scenarios combining continuous and gear adjustment:

[0060] Users can choose between continuous adjustment and shift adjustment based on the actual operating requirements of the equipment. For scenarios where load variations are small and precise control is required, continuous adjustment provides smooth and accurate tension control. In situations where load variations are large, shift adjustment allows for rapid switching between different tension states, improving adjustment efficiency. For example, when the equipment switches from no load to a heavy load, users can quickly switch from the light load position to the heavy load position, ensuring that the equipment can instantly adapt to the changing operating conditions.

[0061] Motor 6 is directly connected to the small synchronous pulley 5, ensuring efficient power transmission. A motor bracket 8 provides a stable mounting platform for motor 6 and facilitates its installation and removal. Motor 6 should be selected to meet the requirements of high precision, low noise, and stability to meet the high-precision angle adjustment required for astrophotography. The motor bracket 8 can be positioned on the side of the small synchronous pulley 5 away from the motor 6. The specific position can be flexibly adjusted based on the equipment design to ensure that the motor output shaft can effectively connect to the small synchronous pulley 5.

[0062] Circuit board 7 is mounted inside housing 10 and connected to motor 6 via signal cables. It controls the motor's operation, receives user control commands, and adjusts the motor's speed and direction of rotation. Circuit board 7 integrates electronic components such as the motor driver module, sensor interface, and power management unit. The user can set the rotation angle and speed of astronomical camera 15 using a pre-programmed program or an external control interface. The sensor interface can be connected to a position sensor to monitor the camera's rotational position in real time, ensuring accurate angle adjustment.

[0063] In practice, astronomical camera 15 is driven by rotary controller 14 to achieve precise angle adjustment. For example, in long-exposure astronomical photography, to compensate for the effects of Earth's rotation on the starry sky, camera 15 must rotate at a specific speed to keep the stars still in the image. Rotary controller 14 can precisely control the camera's rotation speed and angle according to preset parameters to meet diverse photography needs.

[0064] The rotary regulator 14 is installed between the telescope 13 and the astronomical camera 15. The telescope 13 is the main optical equipment for astronomical observation, responsible for collecting light and magnifying the images of distant celestial bodies. In this system, the telescope 13 is connected to the rotary regulator for astronomical observation and imaging. It is connected to the rotary regulator 14 through an adapter ring 12 (adapter ring 1), and the rotary regulator 14 is connected to the astronomical camera 15 through another adapter ring 12 (adapter ring 2). The astronomical camera is used to capture astronomical images. It is installed on the rotary regulator and adjusts the angle through the control of the rotary regulator to compensate for the angle changes caused by factors such as the rotation of the earth to ensure that the captured image is stable and clear. The connection between the various components adopts threaded connection to ensure a firm installation and prevent loosening during rotation.

[0065] To work with the astronomical camera 15, the design of the rotary adjuster 14 takes the camera's mechanical interface and signal connections into account. The specifications of the adapter ring 12 can be customized to suit different astronomical camera models to ensure compatibility. Furthermore, a signal cable channel is reserved within the rotary adjuster 14 to facilitate the routing of power and signal cables, preventing them from becoming tangled or damaged during rotation. By placing the adapter ring 12, which connects to the camera, on the side opposite the motor 6, away from these elements, this risk is significantly reduced, as the cables can be routed more naturally, avoiding excessive stretching or twisting.

[0066] During use, the user first installs the rotation adjuster 14 between the telescope 13 and the astronomical camera 15 and connects the power and signal cables. The camera's rotation parameters are then set using the control software or manually. Upon receiving these commands, the circuit board 7 controls the motor 6 to rotate at the set speed and angle. A synchronous belt drive system transmits the motor's rotational motion to the astronomical camera 15, enabling precise angle adjustment.

[0067] It's important to note that the stability of the rotary adjuster 14 is crucial during long-exposure or high-precision photography. Therefore, ensure that all connections are secure during installation to prevent vibration or displacement during operation. Also, regularly check the wear of the timing belt 4 and replace it if necessary to ensure transmission system reliability.

[0068] This new astronomical camera image field rotator utilizes a synchronous belt drive system, achieving high-precision, zero-backlash angle adjustment for astronomical cameras, overcoming the shortcomings of traditional gear transmissions. This synchronous belt drive offers smooth operation, low noise, and ease of maintenance, making it suitable for astronomical photography applications requiring a quiet environment. Furthermore, the design of the tensioner assembly 1 allows users to flexibly adjust the synchronous belt tension as needed, ensuring long-term stable operation of the transmission system.

[0069] Furthermore, the rotary regulator 14 is compact and easy to install, making it suitable for various astronomical telescope and astronomical camera combinations. Its high precision and reliability make it widely applicable in demanding astronomical observation fields such as deep space photography and planetary photography.

[0070] In terms of improvement and optimization, the rotary controller 14 could also integrate more functions. For example, a wireless control module could be added to enable remote control, or an angle sensor could be integrated to provide more precise angle feedback. These improvements could further enhance the performance of astronomical camera image field rotators and meet more diverse astronomical photography needs.

[0071] It's important to emphasize that the design of this utility model fully considers its compatibility with astronomical cameras 15. Mechanically, the adapter ring 12 ensures compatibility with different camera models. Electrically, channels for signal and power cables are reserved to ensure proper communication between the camera and the control system. Furthermore, the load capacity of the rotary adjuster 14 has been carefully designed to accommodate astronomical cameras of varying weights, ensuring balance and stability during rotation.

[0072] In summary, the astronomical camera image field rotator of the present invention achieves high-precision and stable astronomical camera angle adjustment through an innovative synchronous belt drive and tensioning mechanism design. It has the advantages of simple structure, easy installation, and easy maintenance, and is suitable for various high-precision astronomical photography applications.

[0073] Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The above-described embodiments and descriptions are merely preferred examples of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various changes and improvements may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such changes and improvements fall within the scope of the present invention. The scope of protection claimed in the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An astronomical camera image field rotator, characterized in that: include: A rotary regulator is installed between the astronomical camera and the adapter ring and is used to drive the rotation of the astronomical camera. The rotary regulator includes: a motor fixedly installed in the housing of the rotary regulator, and the output shaft of the motor is connected to a synchronous transmission system; the synchronous transmission system includes a small synchronous wheel connected to the output shaft of the motor and a large synchronous wheel disposed in the housing and cooperating with the small synchronous wheel, and the small synchronous wheel and the large synchronous wheel are connected by a synchronous belt; The tensioning mechanism includes an adjustment structure and a supporting portion disposed in the housing, the supporting portion being connected to the adjustment structure, and the adjustment structure being used to adjust the position of the supporting portion relative to the synchronous belt. The relative position of the supporting portion and the synchronous belt can be in at least one of two states: The first state is that the abutting portion contacts the synchronous belt; The second state is that the abutting portion does not contact the synchronous belt.

2. The astronomical camera image field rotator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The abutting portion includes a tensioning wheel, the adjusting structure includes an adjusting screw arranged on the outside of the housing, and the tensioning wheel is arranged on the movable bracket; The adjusting screw is connected to the movable bracket and is used to drive the movable bracket to move and adjust the position of the tensioner to control the tension of the synchronous belt.

3. The astronomical camera image field rotator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The movable bracket includes a support arm, one end of the support arm is connected to a fixed fulcrum on the inner wall of the casing through a hinge structure, so that the movable bracket can rotate around the fixed fulcrum under the action of the adjusting screw, thereby adjusting the position of the tensioner in the radial direction of the synchronous belt transmission path. The adjusting screw is connected to the middle part of the support arm through a thread and extends into the casing through the outside of the casing. When the adjusting screw rotates, its rotational motion acts on the support arm through the thread transmission, pushing the support arm to rotate around the fixed fulcrum, thereby changing the position of the tensioner relative to the synchronous belt, so that the relative position of the supporting portion and the synchronous belt is in the first state or the second state.

4. The astronomical camera image field rotator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The synchronous belt is connected to the small synchronous wheel and the large synchronous wheel to form a transmission path. The small synchronous wheel is fixed to the output shaft of the motor through the motor bracket, and the large synchronous wheel is installed in the housing of the rotary regulator through a bearing. The rotation axis of the large synchronous wheel is parallel to the rotation axis of the small synchronous wheel. The synchronous rotation between the large synchronous wheel and the small synchronous wheel is achieved through the synchronous belt. At least part of the abutment is arranged in the transmission path of the synchronous belt and is installed on a movable bracket connected by an adjustment structure, and can be driven by the adjustment structure.

5. The astronomical camera image field rotator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The motor is fixedly mounted on a motor bracket, which includes an integral support structure having a mounting hole for mounting the motor and an opening for extending the output shaft of the motor and connecting it to a small synchronous wheel.

6. The astronomical camera image field rotator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The circuit board is fixedly installed in the casing of the rotary regulator. The circuit board is provided with multiple electronic components for controlling the motor and the synchronous belt transmission system. The electronic components include a motor drive module and a power management unit. The circuit board is connected to the fixing columns on the inner wall of the casing through multiple mounting holes.

7. The astronomical camera image field rotator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The large synchronous wheel is installed in the housing of the rotary regulator through a bearing. The outer edge of the large synchronous wheel is provided with a toothed structure that engages with the synchronous belt. The inner wall of the large synchronous wheel is in contact with the outer wall of the bearing. The inner wall of the bearing is sleeved on the raised inner wall of the housing. The inner pressure ring of the bearing is pressed on the inner side of the bearing and fixed to the housing. The outer pressure ring of the bearing is pressed on the outer side of the large synchronous wheel and the bearing. The connecting plate is arranged above the outer pressure plate.

8. The astronomical camera image field rotator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The diameter of the large synchronous wheel is larger than that of the small synchronous wheel.

9. The astronomical camera image field rotator according to claim 1, characterized in that: It includes a first adapter ring and a second adapter ring, the first adapter ring is fixedly connected to one end of the rotary regulator, and the second adapter ring is fixedly connected to the other end of the rotary regulator. The first adapter ring is used to connect the rotary regulator to the telescope, and the second adapter ring is used to connect the rotary regulator to the astronomical camera. The second adapter ring is arranged on the side opposite to the motor.

10. A photographic device, using the astronomical camera image field rotator according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The telescope is connected to the rotary regulator via a first adapter ring, and the rotary regulator is used to adjust the rotation angle of the camera; the camera is connected to the rotary regulator via a second adapter ring, and the second adapter ring is arranged on the side opposite to the motor.

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Patent Citations

  • Front focusing astronomical telescope

    CN217561826U