Collimator lens-based camera module validation device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a collimator lens-based camera module verification device. The technical problem to be solved is to provide a collimator lens-based camera module verification device capable of high-precision automatic alignment and verification by implementing a verification environment of approximately 20m in actual distance in a narrow space (within approximately 87mm to 210mm) using a collimator lens-based optical system. To this end, the present invention discloses a collimator lens-based camera module verification device comprising: a socket part for mounting a camera module; a robot part for driving the socket part in multiple axes; a test unit including a collimator lens part supported by the robot part and arranged to correspond to the camera module; a chart unit including a verification chart arranged to correspond to the collimator lens part; and a control unit configured to optically implement an actual distance verification environment by controlling the test unit and the chart unit to set the distance between the collimator lens part and the verification chart.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a verification device for verifying the performance of a camera module, an image sensor, or an optical device, and in particular, to a collimator lens-based camera module verification device that implements a real-distance verification environment (e.g., 19.4 m to 20 m) in a confined space using a collimator lens-based optical system and integrates precision attitude control based on multi-axis robotics. Background Technology

[0002] In order to align the optical axis, measure Spatial Frequency Response (SFR), and verify distortion and Field-of-View (FOV) of high-resolution sensing cameras or optical modules for autonomous driving, a real-distance test environment of 19.4m to 20m is generally required.

[0003] However, existing full-distance test facilities have various problems, as follows. First, they require a large test space. In other words, the equipment space required to secure full distance is very large, increasing facility construction costs and resulting in low space utilization efficiency. Additionally, alignment operations are inefficient and precision is compromised. That is, since the positions of the camera module and verification chart must be adjusted manually, it is difficult to ensure repeatability and precision. Furthermore, there are limitations in attitude control. Specifically, precise control over pitch, tilt, roll, and the X, Y, and Z axes is difficult, which restricts automated high-precision verification. Moreover, verification of ultra-wide-angle lenses is difficult. That is, stable reproduction and verification of ultra-wide-angle lens environments with an FOV of 120° or more are challenging.

[0004] The information described above disclosed in the background technology of this invention is intended only to enhance understanding of the background of the present invention and may therefore include information that does not constitute prior art. The problem to be solved

[0005] The present invention aims to solve the problems of the prior art by reducing a verification environment of approximately 20m in actual distance to a narrow space (within approximately 87mm to 210mm) using a collimator lens-based optical system, and by integrating a 6-axis precision control gimbal robotics structure to provide a collimator lens-based camera module verification device capable of high-precision automatic alignment and verification. means of solving the problem

[0006] The present invention relates to a collimator lens-based camera module verification device, comprising: a socket portion for mounting a camera module; a robot portion for driving the socket portion in multiple axes; a test unit including a collimator lens portion supported by the robot portion and positioned to correspond to the camera module; a chart unit including a verification chart positioned to correspond to the collimator lens portion; and a control unit configured to optically implement a real-distance verification environment by controlling the test unit and the chart unit to set a distance between the collimator lens portion and the verification chart.

[0007] In some examples, the socket portion includes a guide component that guides the camera module to be aligned with a reference plane.

[0008] In some examples, the guide component includes a rotatable mounting plate, a rotatable cover plate covering the mounting plate, and a pin block that penetrates the mounting plate and is electrically connected to a camera module.

[0009] In some examples, the robot unit includes a linear drive unit that performs movement in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions.

[0010] In some examples, the robot part includes a rotary drive unit that rotates the socket part with respect to at least one axis among the Tx axis, Ty axis, or Rz axis.

[0011] In some examples, the robot part is configured to support the collimator lens part and maintain a constant distance between the camera module and the collimator lens part.

[0012] In some examples, the chart section includes a moving section that moves the verification chart in the Z-axis direction.

[0013] In some examples, the verification chart includes a plurality of charts configured to have different sizes or patterns depending on the diopter characteristics of the collimator lens portion.

[0014] In some examples, the control unit is configured to control the position or rotational movement of the robot unit by analyzing an image acquired from a camera module.

[0015] In some examples, the control unit is configured to synchronously control the test unit and the chart unit to automatically perform optical axis alignment between the camera module, the collimator lens unit, and the verification chart.

[0016] In some examples, the control unit is configured to evaluate the resolution, distortion, or optical axis alignment status of the camera module based on the pattern of the verification chart.

[0017] In addition, the present invention relates to a method for verifying a collimator lens-based camera module, comprising: a step of mounting a camera module to a socket portion; a step of driving the socket portion in multiple axes through a robot portion to position the camera module so as to correspond to a collimator lens portion; a step of optically implementing a real-distance verification environment by setting a distance between the collimator lens portion and a verification chart; a step of acquiring image data by photographing the verification chart through the camera module; and a step of evaluating the performance of the camera module by analyzing the image data. Effects of the invention

[0018] The present invention utilizes the diopter characteristics of a collimator lens to optically realize a real-distance shooting environment of about 19.4 m to 20 m in a small space, thereby enabling high-precision camera module verification without a large test space.

[0019] In addition, the present invention enables precise optical axis alignment between a camera module, a collimator lens, and a verification chart by having a robot of a test unit perform X, Y, and Z axis movement and Tx, Ty, and Rz axis rotation control, and by having a control unit perform image-based or sensor-based feedback control.

[0020] In addition, since the socket includes guide components such as a rotatable mounting plate and a cover plate, the camera module can be stably fixed to a reference plane, and the electrical connection between the camera module and the control unit is reliably maintained through the RF pin block.

[0021] In addition, the present invention includes a structure in which a chart unit is movable in the Z-axis direction, so that the verification chart can be automatically or semi-automatically adjusted to a position corresponding to the diopter of the collimator lens, thereby allowing a verification environment corresponding to actual distance conditions for various lens specifications to be easily configured.

[0022] In addition, the present invention may include a plurality of charts having different sizes or patterns depending on diopter values ​​or FOV characteristics, so as to be able to respond to various verification requirements such as resolution evaluation, distortion analysis, and pattern matching.

[0023] In addition, the present invention automates the entire verification process by having the control unit synchronously control the operation of the test unit and the chart unit, and enables the shooting and analysis procedures to be performed under consistent conditions, thereby improving the repeatability and reproducibility of the verification results.

[0024] In addition, the present invention provides a universal and scalable verification environment for high-resolution and ultra-wide-angle camera modules, as its structural and optical configurations can flexibly respond to various diopter specifications, various camera module types, and various evaluation criteria. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] FIGS. 1a, FIGS. 1b, and FIGS. 1c are a perspective view, a plan view, and an electrical block diagram illustrating a collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a socket portion of a collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a robot part in a collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a chart unit in a collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to the present invention. FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating the operation of coupling a camera module to a socket portion in a collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the operation of coupling an RF pin block to a socket portion in a collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a camera module verification method according to a collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0027] The present inventions are provided to more fully explain the invention to those skilled in the art, and the following examples may be modified in various different forms, and the scope of the invention is not limited to the following examples. Rather, these examples are provided to make the disclosure more faithful and complete and to fully convey the spirit of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0028] Additionally, in the drawings below, the thickness or size of each layer is exaggerated for convenience and clarity of explanation, and like reference numerals in the drawings refer to like elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any one of the listed items and all combinations of one or more thereof. Furthermore, in this specification, the meaning of "connected" refers not only to cases where Member A and Member B are directly connected, but also to cases where Member C is interposed between Member A and Member B so that Member A and Member B are indirectly connected.

[0029] The terms used herein are for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular form may include the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Additionally, as used herein, "comprise, include" and / or "comprising, including" specify the presence of the mentioned features, numbers, steps, actions, parts, elements, and / or groups thereof, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, actions, parts, elements, and / or groups.

[0030] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used in this specification to describe various components, parts, regions, layers, and / or parts, it is obvious that these components, parts, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component, part, region, layer, or part from another region, layer, or part. Accordingly, the first component, part, region, layer, or part described below may refer to the second component, part, region, layer, or part without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0031] Spatial terms such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used to facilitate understanding of one element or feature depicted in the drawings and another element or feature. These spatial terms are intended to facilitate understanding of the invention according to various process or usage conditions of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention. For example, if an element or feature in the drawings is inverted, an element or feature described as "beneath" or "below" becomes "upper" or "on top." Therefore, "below" is a concept that encompasses "upper" or "below."

[0032] Additionally, the control unit (controller) and / or other related devices or components according to the present invention may be implemented using any suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application-specific semiconductor), software, or a suitable combination of software, firmware, and hardware. For example, various components of the control unit (controller) and / or other related devices or components according to the present invention may be formed on a single integrated circuit chip or on separate integrated circuit chips. Additionally, various components of the control unit (controller) may be implemented on a flexible printed circuit film, a tape carrier package, a printed circuit board, or on the same substrate as the control unit (controller). Additionally, various components of the control unit (controller) may be processes or threads running on one or more processors in one or more computing devices, which may execute computer program instructions and interact with other components to perform the various functions mentioned below. Computer program instructions are stored in memory that can be executed on a computing device using a standard memory device, such as, for example, random access memory. Computer program instructions may also be stored on other non-transitory computer-readable media, such as, for example, CD-ROMs, flash drives, etc. Furthermore, those skilled in the art relating to the present invention should recognize that the functions of various computing devices may be combined with one another, integrated into a single computing device, or the functions of a specific computing device may be distributed across one or more other computing devices without departing from exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] For example, the control unit (controller) according to the present invention may be operated in a conventional commercial computer comprising a central processing unit, a mass storage device such as a hard disk or a solid-state disk, a volatile memory device, an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse, and an output device such as a monitor or a printer.

[0034] FIGS. 1a, FIGS. 1b, and FIGS. 1c illustrate the overall configuration of a camera module verification device (100) based on a collimator lens unit according to the present invention as a perspective view, a plan view, and an electrical block diagram, respectively. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a socket unit (111) included in the verification device (100) according to the present invention, FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a robot unit (112) that supports and drives the camera module (101) in multiple axes, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a chart unit (120) that supports and adjusts the position of a verification chart unit (121).

[0035] As illustrated in FIGS. 1a to 4, the camera module verification device (100) based on a collimator lens unit according to the present invention may include a test unit (110) comprising a socket unit (111) on which a camera module (101) is mounted, a robot unit (112) that drives the socket unit (111) in multiple axes, and a collimator lens unit (113) mounted on the robot unit (112) and positioned to correspond to the camera module (101). Additionally, the device (100) may include a chart unit (120) configured to support a verification chart unit (121) and adjust a relative position with respect to the collimator lens unit (113), and a control unit (131) that controls the operation of the test unit (110) and the chart unit (120) to perform optical axis alignment between the camera module (101), the collimator lens unit (113), and the verification chart unit (121). In the drawings, the unexplained reference numeral 130 is the main body, and a control unit (131) and a power supply unit (not shown) may be built inside the main body.

[0036] The test unit (110) may include a socket part (111) configured to mount a camera module (101), a robot part (112) that drives the socket part (111) in multiple axes, and a collimator lens part (113) mounted on the robot part (112) and positioned to correspond to the camera module (101). Here, the socket part (111) may be installed on a socket mount (1101), and the collimator lens part (113) may be installed on a collimator lens mount (1102). The socket part (111) may have a guide structure that guides the camera module (101) to be stably seated at a reference position, and may further include a fixing mechanism for fixing the camera module (101) in an automatic or semi-automatic manner as needed.

[0037] Additionally, the robot unit (112) may be configured to perform not only linear movement in the X, Y, and Z axis directions but also rotational movement including the Tx, Ty, and Rz axes. To this end, the robot unit (112) may include an X stage (1121), a Y stage (1122), an R stage (1123), a Tx stage (1124), and a Ty stage (1125). These stages may include linear actuators or motors, etc. Since the mechanical configuration for such linear movement and rotational movement is well known to those skilled in the art, further description thereof is omitted here.

[0038] Meanwhile, through this multi-axis control function, the robot unit (112) can precisely adjust the spatial position and orientation of the camera module (101), and as a result, can control the optical axis of the camera module (101) to accurately match the optical axis of the collimator lens unit (113).

[0039] As described above, the socket portion (111) may include a guide component that guides the camera module (101) to be aligned with a reference plane. This guide component is intended to ensure that the camera module (101) is stably mounted without losing its position reference and may include a base plate (1111), a mounting plate (1112) that can be rotated approximately 90 degrees relative to the base plate (1111) and on which the camera module (101) is directly seated, a cover plate (1113) that can be rotated 90 degrees again relative to the mounting plate (1112) and covers and secures the camera module (101) from the top, and a pin block (1114) that penetrates the mounting plate (1112) to electrically connect the camera module (101) and the control portion (131).

[0040] By configuring the socket portion (111) in this manner, the mounting, alignment, and fixing processes of the camera module (101) can be performed step-by-step within a single structure, and accordingly, the camera module (101) can be installed in the test unit (110) while accurately maintaining the alignment standard with the collimator lens portion (113). This structure ensures that the camera module (101) is stably fixed without mechanical shaking or mounting errors, thereby contributing to improving the reliability of precise optical axis alignment and verification results.

[0041] As described above, the robot unit (112) may include a linear drive unit (e.g., X stage (1121), Y stage (1122), and R stage (1123)) that moves the socket unit (111) in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions. Here, the X-axis represents the horizontal direction of the camera module (101), the Y-axis represents the vertical direction of the camera module (101), and the Z-axis represents the distance direction extending along the optical axis of the camera module (101), the collimator lens unit (113), and the verification chart unit (121). Through such a linear drive unit, the robot unit (112) can precisely adjust the position of the camera module (101) in various spatial directions and control the optical axis of the camera module (101) to coincide with the center axis of the collimator lens unit (113).

[0042] The robot unit (112) may also include a rotation drive unit (e.g., Tx stage (1124), Ty stage (1125)) that rotates the socket unit (111) based on at least one axis among the Tx axis or the Ty axis. The rotation drive unit may be configured to finely adjust the pitch and tilt and roll of the camera module (101), thereby making it possible to accurately align the orientation of the camera module (101) with the optical reference of the collimator lens unit (113). In particular, this multi-axis rotation function is advantageous for implementing a stable and repeatable verification environment, as it can immediately correct even when the optical axis of the camera module (101) deviates slightly from the center of the verification chart unit (121).

[0043] Furthermore, the robot unit (112) may include a structure that supports the collimator lens unit (113). Specifically, the robot unit (112) may include a dedicated lens mount (1102) for mounting the collimator lens unit (113) on the same platform or housing as the socket mount (1101) that supports the socket unit (111), and the lens mount (1102) may be integrally controlled according to the reference coordinate system of the robot unit (112). For example, by providing a lens fixing plate on the upper or front of the robot unit (112) and fixing the collimator lens unit (113) to the plate, the camera module (101) and the collimator lens unit (113) may be configured to stably maintain their relative positions within the same structure.

[0044] Alternatively, the robot unit (112) may include a support arm or slide rail for supporting the collimator lens unit (113) independently of the configuration supporting the camera module (101), and this support structure may also be integrated into the drive control of the robot unit (112) to control the distance between the camera module (101) and the collimator lens unit (113) so that the distance is maintained at a set reference distance. In this way, by the robot unit (112) managing the camera module (101) and the collimator lens unit (113) in the same reference frame, the relative distance and angle between the two components are stably maintained despite external shocks, vibrations, or repetitive movements occurring during the verification process, and the optical reference required to accurately reproduce the real-distance environment is guaranteed.

[0045] As a result, the robot unit (112) is configured to perform not only the function of simply adjusting the position or orientation of the camera module (101), but also the function of continuously maintaining a constant distance between the camera module (101) and the collimator lens unit (113), thereby enabling accurate implementation of the focal length, optical axis alignment conditions, and image quality evaluation criteria required for real-distance verification.

[0046] The collimator lens unit (113) is configured to provide the camera module (101) with optical conditions identical to the actual shooting environment, and may be supported by the robot unit (112) or configured to be controlled integrally with the driving coordinate system of the robot unit (112). The collimator lens unit (113) includes a lens or lens assembly having a specific diopter value, thereby enabling optical reproduction of an actual shooting distance of approximately 19.4 m to 20 m in a small space. For example, by using a collimator lens having diopter specifications such as 200D or 300D, the camera module (101) can capture the verification chart unit (121) under the same focus conditions as the actual shooting environment.

[0047] The collimator lens unit (113) can be designed so that the optical center axis is accurately formed in correspondence with the FOV, sensor size, resolution, etc. of the camera module (101), and the incident and exit surfaces of the lens can be precisely aligned with the optical axis of the camera module (101). To this end, the collimator lens unit (113) can be mechanically coupled to the robot unit (112) or positioned to share the same coordinate system as the reference frame of the robot unit (112), so that the position adjustment and rotation correction of the camera module (101) are accurately performed based on the lens center axis.

[0048] Additionally, the collimator lens unit (113) can be set so that the relative distance with the verification chart unit (121) corresponds to a specific diopter value, and the control unit (131) can precisely adjust the optical distance between the two components in conjunction with the Z-axis movement of the chart unit (121). This structure allows for accurate reflection of the difference in focal length required for each diopter, and enables more precise reproduction of various actual distance conditions depending on the optical design of the lens unit (113).

[0049] Furthermore, the collimator lens unit (113) may be configured to be replaceable with multiple lenses having different diopter specifications as needed, or to be easily mounted and detached via a lens holder or lens mount. This configuration provides a flexible verification environment capable of supporting various camera module specifications, such as ultra-wide angle camera modules and camera modules including high-resolution sensors.

[0050] As a result, the collimator lens unit (113) functions as a configuration that precisely implements the actual shooting environment of the camera module (101) within a miniaturized structure and forms an optical axis alignment standard for the entire test unit (110), thereby enabling high-precision camera module verification.

[0051] The chart unit (120) may include a verification chart unit (121) positioned to correspond optically with the collimator lens unit (113). The verification chart unit (121) includes a reference pattern for evaluating the resolution, distortion, and degree of optical axis alignment of the camera module (101), and can be used to quantitatively analyze the performance of the camera module (101) in a reduced real-distance environment formed through the collimator lens unit (113).

[0052] The chart unit (120) may include a Z stage (123) for adjusting the position of the verification chart section (121), and the Z stage (123) may be configured to move the verification chart section (121) in the Z-axis direction. Here, the verification chart section (121) may be coupled to the Z stage (123) through a chart mount (122).

[0053] Meanwhile, the Z-axis refers to the optical axis direction in which the camera module (101), the collimator lens unit (113), and the verification chart unit (121) are aligned, and the chart unit (121) can be precisely adjusted to a reference position corresponding to the focal length or diopter characteristics of the collimator lens unit (113) by moving along the Z-axis. If necessary, the chart unit (120) may further include a function / structure that allows the Z stage (123) to finely adjust in the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0054] Additionally, the chart unit (120) may be configured so that the position of the verification chart unit (121) is automatically or semi-automatically adjusted to match the diopter characteristics of the collimator lens unit (113). For example, when a collimator lens unit (113) having different diopter values ​​such as 200D or 300D is applied, the chart unit (120) can move the verification chart unit (121) to a reference distance corresponding to the diopter to achieve optical conditions corresponding to an actual distance environment of about 19.4 to 20 m.

[0055] Furthermore, the verification chart section (121) may include a plurality of chart sections (121) having different sizes or patterns depending on the diopter characteristics of the collimator lens section (113). For example, the chart section (121) corresponding to the 200D collimator lens section (113) may have a size of approximately 580 × 428 mm, and the chart section (121) corresponding to the 300D collimator lens section (113) may have a size of approximately 960 × 716 mm. However, it is not limited thereto, and a plurality of chart sections (121) may be prepared to correspond to various FOV (Field of View), focal length, and sensor specifications, and these may be mounted to the chart unit (120) in a replaceable or sliding manner. In some embodiments, the chart section (121) may be linked with a control unit (131) so as to be automatically exchanged according to the diopter value or test conditions.

[0056] In addition, multiple verification chart sections (121) may have different sizes as well as various pattern characteristics. For example, the following patterns are possible.

[0057] - Checkerboard pattern: Suitable for optical axis alignment, distortion correction, and geometric position measurement, and capable of determining central and peripheral deformation.

[0058] - Dot or circle pattern: Advantageous for analyzing lens astigmatism and chromatic aberration, and measuring distortion

[0059] - Resolution or SFR / MTF Pattern: Quantitative comparison of resolution between the center and corners

[0060] - Mixed Patterns: Can be used for evaluating ultra-wide-angle cameras by combining checkerboard and resolution patterns.

[0061] These patterns may be selectively applied according to the specifications of the camera module (101) (FOV, number of pixels, lens distortion characteristics, etc.), and may include RGB targets or color charts for color reproduction evaluation if necessary.

[0062] Accordingly, the chart unit (120) can select, replace, and arrange various chart sections (121) by considering diopter characteristics, focal length, field of view, sensor specifications, etc., thereby providing an optimal verification environment for various collimator lens sections (113) and camera modules (101). As a result, by providing a plurality of chart sections (121) and various patterns, the present invention provides an extended verification function that enables various verification items, such as resolution evaluation, optical axis alignment evaluation, distortion measurement, and quality analysis of sensor-lens combinations, to be performed in a single device.

[0063] The control unit (131) is a component that integrally controls the test unit (110) and the chart unit (120) to ensure that the alignment between the camera module (101), the collimator lens unit (113), and the verification chart unit (121) is accurate. The control unit (131) controls the X stage (1121), Y stage (1122), R stage (1123), Tx stage (1124), and Ty stage (1125) of the robot unit (112) to perform multi-axis control including movement along the X-axis, Y-axis, and R-axis, and rotation along the Tx-axis and Ty-axis, thereby allowing the position and orientation of the camera module (101) to be precisely aligned with the optical axis of the collimator lens unit (113). Additionally, the control unit (131) controls the Z stage (122) of the chart unit (120) to move the verification chart unit (121) in the Z-axis direction and can automatically or semi-automatically set it to a reference position corresponding to the diopter characteristics and focal length requirements of the collimator lens unit (113).

[0064] The control unit (131) can analyze image data acquired through the camera module (101) in real time to calculate optical axis error, center alignment error, pitch (tilt) error, and roll error. The analysis results are used as feedback signals to correct the movement and rotation of the robot unit (112), thereby enabling immediate closed-loop control even when the camera module (101) deviates slightly from the center axis of the collimator lens unit (113). Such precise control plays an important role in items requiring high alignment accuracy, such as SFR measurement, resolution evaluation, and distortion analysis.

[0065] Additionally, the control unit (131) can be configured to adjust the distance between the collimator lens unit (113) and the verification chart unit (121) to implement optical conditions corresponding to a real-distance environment of approximately 19.4 m or 20 m in a small space. For example, when a collimator lens unit (113) with different diopter values, such as 200D or 300D, is used, the control unit (131) can move the verification chart unit (121) to a distance corresponding to the diopter, and control the distance between the camera module (101) and the collimator lens unit (113) so that it is maintained within a range set by the robot unit (112). Through this, the control unit (131) can reproduce real-distance shooting conditions identical to the actual environment.

[0066] Furthermore, the control unit (131) may provide an interface with the chart unit (120) to select or replace a suitable chart among charts that include various verification patterns, such as a chart for 200D or 300D, or a checkerboard, dot, resolution, SFR / MTF pattern, etc., when the verification chart unit (121) has multiple sizes or patterns. Through this, the control unit (131) can quickly set optimized verification conditions for camera modules (101) having various FOVs, resolutions, and lens characteristics.

[0067] Additionally, the control unit (131) synchronously controls the operation of the test unit (110) and the chart unit (120) to ensure that the optical axis alignment between the camera module (101), the collimator lens unit (113), and the verification chart unit (121) is stably maintained. The control unit (131) processes the movement and rotation movements of the robot unit (112), the position adjustment movements of the chart unit (120), and the image analysis results of the camera module (101) in conjunction with each other, and can determine the alignment state using an AI-based alignment prediction model or an automatic SFR analysis algorithm if necessary. This control method provides high repeatability and accuracy for various camera modules (101) that require precise verification, such as ultra-wide angle cameras (FOV 120° or more) or high-resolution sensors.

[0068] Consequently, the control unit (131) is not limited to a simple control interface, but organically combines the operations of the test unit (110) and the chart unit (120) to perform a central control function that integrates the entire verification process, such as optical axis alignment, distance correction, image analysis, chart selection, and diopter correspondence. Through this, the present invention enables the verification of a camera module (101) based on actual distance to be implemented in a compact, precise, and automated environment.

[0069] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a series of operations for coupling a camera module (101) to a socket portion (111) in a collimator lens-based camera module verification device (100) according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5, the socket portion (111) includes a rotatable guide structure that allows the camera module (101) to be seated on an accurate reference plane, and the insertion and fixing process of the camera module (101) is performed in steps.

[0070] First, the user places the camera module (101) on the mounting plate (1112) of the socket portion (111). The mounting plate (1112) includes a support structure that guides the camera module (101) to be accurately placed in a reference position and may have a groove or support surface corresponding to the lower shape of the camera module (101). After the camera module (101) is mounted, the cover plate (1113) rotates approximately 90 degrees to cover the camera module (101) from above and firmly secures it between the mounting plate (1112) and the cover plate (1113). This structure prevents the camera module (101) from shaking or deviating from the alignment reference during the fixing process.

[0071] In the next step, the entire socket portion (111) is rotated approximately 90 degrees relative to the base plate (1111) so that the optical axis of the camera module (101) is aligned with the optical axis of the collimator lens portion (113). The rotation of the socket portion (111) is performed using a rotation axis and a rotation guide, and structural rigidity is ensured so that the camera module (101) remains stable even during the rotation process. Through this, the camera module (101) is positioned in the correct direction, allowing subsequent optical axis alignment and evaluation operations to be performed smoothly.

[0072] When the rotation of the socket portion (111) is completed, the pin block (1114) moves toward the mounting plate (1112) to exchange RF signals and other electrical signals with the control portion (131). The pin block (1114) is designed to advance to align with the interface terminal position of the camera module (101) and is coupled by sliding in the front or rear direction of the socket portion (111) as shown in FIG. 5. When the pin block (1114) reaches a predetermined position, it electrically contacts the connection terminal of the camera module (101), thereby not only mechanically fixing the camera module (101) but also electrically connecting it to the control portion (131).

[0073] Finally, the camera module (101) is mounted inside the socket portion (111) in a state of complete optical, mechanical, and electrical coupling, and in this state, it is ready to perform alignment and verification operations through the robot portion (112). This series of structural and operational processes ensures the positional accuracy of the camera module (101), thereby greatly improving the reliability of the verification results.

[0074] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the operation of coupling an RF pin block (1114) to a socket portion (111) in a collimator lens-based camera module verification device (100) according to the present invention. As shown in the drawing, the RF pin block (1114) is a component that forms an electrical interface inside the socket portion (111) and plays the role of completing an electrical connection with a control portion (131) after the camera module (101) is mounted on the socket portion (111).

[0075] The RF pin block (1114) may be configured to move in a straight direction along the guide structure of the socket portion (111), and for this purpose, a shaft or slide rail supporting the pin block (1114) may be applied. Additionally, the RF pin block (1114) is provided with a spring or elastic member so that an appropriate contact pressure is maintained at the point when the pin contacts the connection terminal of the camera module (101). This structure is visually illustrated in the drawing with elements such as 'shaft for moving the pin block (1114)' and 'application of a spring'.

[0076] When the RF pin block (1114) advances toward the direction where the camera module (101) is located, the electrical connection portion of the pin block (1114) naturally aligns with the interface terminal of the camera module (101), and an electrical connection is formed while maintaining a constant pressure. At this time, the RF signal line, power line, and control signal line are connected simultaneously, and the camera module (101) is able to communicate stably with the control unit (131) through the socket portion (111). As shown in FIG. 6, the pin block (1114) is fixed in the completed connection state, and in this state, the camera module (101) is ready to perform a normal verification operation.

[0077] Additionally, the RF pin block (1114) can be designed to be coupled with the structure of the rotary socket part (111). Even after the socket part (111) is rotated approximately 90 degrees from the seating position to the reference position, the RF pin block (1114) is configured to maintain the same reference coordinate system, so that the rotational movement of the socket part (111) does not affect the electrical connection. This configuration ensures that the optical axis alignment process and the electrical connection process do not interfere with each other, and enables stable signal transmission and precise optical axis alignment simultaneously throughout the verification process.

[0078] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a camera module verification method performed in a camera module verification device (100) based on a collimator lens unit according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, the verification method of the present invention includes a plurality of steps for evaluating the alignment, focus, resolution, distortion, optical axis accuracy, etc. of a camera module (101) in a state in which a real-distance shooting environment is optically reduced and reproduced using a collimator lens unit (113).

[0079] First, a step of mounting the camera module (101) onto the socket portion (111) is performed (S1). In this step, the user can place the camera module (101) on the mounting plate (1112) and rotate the cover plate (1113) to secure the camera module (101). Since the socket portion (111) includes a structure that guides the camera module (101) to be aligned with a reference plane, a basic reference for optical axis alignment of the camera module (101) is formed during the mounting step.

[0080] Next, a step is performed (S2) in which the socket part (111) is driven in multiple axes using the robot part (112) to position the camera module (101) so as to correspond to the collimator lens part (113). The robot part (112) is controlled so that the position and orientation of the camera module (101) are precisely aligned with the optical axis of the collimator lens part (113) by performing linear movement in the X, Y, and Z axis directions and rotational movements in the Tx, Ty, and Rz axes. In addition, the robot part (112) is configured so that the distance between the camera module (101) and the collimator lens part (113) is maintained constant during the verification process, thereby preventing changes in focal length or optical axis shaking.

[0081] In the next step, the distance between the collimator lens unit (113) and the verification chart unit (121) is set to optically implement a real-distance verification environment (S3). For example, when a 200D or 300D collimator lens unit (113) is used, the chart unit (120) moves the verification chart unit (121) in the Z-axis direction to a reference distance corresponding to the diopter value, thereby forming focus and optical axis conditions identical to a real-distance environment of about 19.4 m to 20 m. This process can be performed automatically or semi-automatically by the control unit (131).

[0082] In the subsequent step, image data is obtained by capturing the verification chart section (121) through the camera module (101) (S4). This image data is obtained in a reduced real-distance environment through the collimator lens section (113) and can be used to evaluate various performance indicators of the camera module (101), such as center and peripheral resolution, SFR (Spatial Frequency Response), distortion, illumination response, and color reproduction characteristics.

[0083] Finally, a step of analyzing the performance of the camera module (101) using the acquired image data is performed (S5). This analysis can be performed through the image processing function of the control unit (131) or an external analysis algorithm, and the optical axis alignment accuracy, resolution characteristics, distortion rate, and whether there are any functional abnormalities of the camera module (101) can be evaluated. In addition, the present invention may automate the performance evaluation procedure by applying an AI-based image analysis technology or an automatic SFR analysis algorithm as needed.

[0084] Consequently, the verification method according to the present invention organically combines the mechanical alignment, optical environment setting, image acquisition, and performance analysis procedures of the camera module (101), thereby enabling verification conditions identical to those of a real-world environment to be reproduced in a small space. This allows for repetitive and precise verification of various diopter specifications and various camera module (101) configurations.

[0085] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, the technical scope of the invention is not limited thereto. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications, changes, substitutions, or additions can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the structure of the socket part (111), the multi-axis driving method of the robot part (112), the diopter specifications of the collimator lens part (113), the pattern type or size of the verification chart part (121), the movement method of the chart unit (120), the alignment algorithm of the control part (131), etc. described in the present invention may be varied depending on the implementation environment or verification purpose, and all such modified embodiments should also be understood to be included within the scope of the rights of the present invention.

[0086] In addition, the components of the present invention may be applied independently of each other, or may be implemented by selectively combining only some of the elements. Accordingly, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments described above, but should be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Explanation of the symbols

[0087] 100; Collimator lens-based camera module verification device 101; Camera module 110; test unit 1101; Socket mount 1102; Lens mount 111; Socket part 1111; Base plate 1112; seating plate 1113; Cover plate 1114; Pin block 112; Robot Department 1121; X stage 1122; Y stage 1123; R stage 1124; Tx stage 1125; Ty stage 113; Collimator lens section 120; Chart Unit 121; Chart section 122; Chart stand 123; Z stage 130; Main body 131; control unit

Claims

Claim 1 A camera module verification device based on a collimator lens comprises: a socket portion for mounting a camera module; a robot portion for driving the socket portion in multiple axes; a test unit including a collimator lens portion supported by the robot portion and arranged to correspond to the camera module; a chart unit including a verification chart arranged to correspond to the collimator lens portion; and a control unit configured to optically implement a real-distance verification environment by controlling the test unit and the chart unit to set a distance between the collimator lens portion and the verification chart. The robot portion supports the collimator lens portion and is configured to maintain a constant distance between the camera module and the collimator lens portion so that the camera module and the collimator lens portion maintain relative positions in the same reference coordinate system. The control unit is configured to analyze an image acquired from the camera module in real time to calculate at least one of an optical axis error, a center alignment error, a tilt error, or a rotation error, and to provide feedback control for position movement or rotational movement of the robot portion based on the calculation result. The control unit synchronously controls the test unit and the chart unit to control the camera module and the collimator lens portion A collimator lens-based camera module verification device that automatically performs optical axis alignment between the verification charts and controls the movement of the verification chart of the chart unit in the optical axis direction to correspond to the diopter characteristics of the collimator lens part. Claim 2 A collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to claim 1, wherein the socket portion includes a guide component that guides the camera module to be aligned with a reference plane. Claim 3 A collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to paragraph 2, wherein the guide component comprises a rotatable mounting plate, a rotatable cover plate covering the mounting plate, and a pin block that penetrates the mounting plate and is electrically connected to a camera module. Claim 4 A collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to claim 1, wherein the robot part includes a linear drive unit that performs movement in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions. Claim 5 A collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the robot part includes a rotary drive part that rotates the socket part with respect to at least one axis among the Tx axis, Ty axis, or Rz axis. Claim 6 delete Claim 7 A collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to claim 1, wherein the chart unit includes a moving unit that moves the verification chart in the Z-axis direction. Claim 8 A collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to claim 1, wherein the verification chart comprises a plurality of charts configured to have different sizes or patterns according to the diopter characteristics of the collimator lens part. Claim 9 delete Claim 10 delete Claim 11 A collimator lens-based camera module verification device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to evaluate the resolution, distortion, or optical axis alignment status of the camera module based on the pattern of the verification chart. Claim 12 delete

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