Articulating Imaging Module for Smartphones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, face limitations in image quality and camera versatility due to constrained dimensions, which restrict the size of image sensors and lenses, and lack viewfinders, making them susceptible to camera shake.
Innovation Solution
A modular imaging module that can be removably secured to electronic devices, featuring a lens of variable focal length and an optical or electronic viewfinder, allowing for articulating movement beyond the device's dimensions, enhancing ergonomics and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the device dimensions are constrained to maintain portability, then the device remains portable, but the size of image sensors and lenses is limited, negatively affecting image quality and camera versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into a base electronic device and a separate modular imaging component that can be attached or removed. This segmentation allows the main device to remain compact while the imaging module can contain larger, higher-quality optical components when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging module extends beyond the conventional two-dimensional form factor constraints of portable devices by utilizing a third dimension (protruding from the device surface). This allows larger lens and sensor dimensions without increasing the device's footprint when not in use.
2Length of moving object
If the device dimensions are constrained to maintain portability, then the device remains portable, but camera versatility is limited due to restricted component sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The modular imaging component is designed to provide multiple imaging functions (different focal lengths, optical zoom, digital zoom) within a single attachable unit, making the system versatile while maintaining a compact base device form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging module incorporates an articulating mechanism that allows it to move between different positions and orientations, enabling flexible composition and多角度 shooting capabilities that enhance camera versatility without requiring a larger fixed device.
3Device complexity
If a live preview function is used on the display screen, then the device can function without a viewfinder, but the user must hold the device at an outstretched position, causing increased camera shake
Solution Approach 1:
An optical viewfinder is introduced as an intermediary component between the user's eye and the scene being captured. This allows the user to compose shots at a comfortable distance from the device, eliminating the need to outstretch the arm and reducing camera shake, while the live preview function remains available on the display.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular camera components are incorporated, then device functionality can be enhanced, but the components become bulky and unwieldy, which is generally not desirable in consumer devices
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into a base electronic device and a separate modular imaging component that can be attached or removed. This segmentation allows the main device to remain compact while the imaging module can contain larger, higher-quality optical components when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging module is designed to attach to the base device in a nested configuration, where the module fits into or onto the device's housing. This nesting approach allows the modular component to be stored compactly when not in use, reducing the overall bulk and making the system more consumer-friendly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution improves image quality by reducing camera shake and offering interchangeable focal lengths, while maintaining portability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging module that includes a lens and an image sensor configured to capture digital image data
Implementation Method 2
an optical viewfinder configured to transmit light to a user
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are provided for an imaging module configured to interface with an electronic device. According to certain aspects, the imaging module includes a support section that may secure to the electronic device and a body section that may extend beyond one or more dimensions that define the electronic device. The body section houses or secures various components that enable digital image capture, including one or more lenses, a viewfinder, and an image sensor. The body section may also articulate or rotate about an axis to increase versatility of the imaging module.