Back-to-Back ISLA Connector Module for Low Profile Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capture devices with multiple image sensors face challenges in achieving a low profile while maintaining secure connections and minimizing stress on the sensors, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of capturing spherical or panoramic images.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dual-image sensor system with coaxial, back-to-back integrated sensor and lens assemblies (ISLAs) connected via a lens mount and retention systems, where connectors and flexible members are positioned outside stress-free zones to reduce the overall height and ensure secure connections without applying stress to the sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image sensors are positioned on opposing sides of the image capture device to capture images in more than one direction, then the capability to capture spherical or panoramic images is improved, but the device height increases and the profile becomes less low-profile
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is positioned within a recess or cavity in the image sensor assembly, allowing the connector to be nested inside the sensor structure rather than extending outward. This nesting approach enables the dual-image sensor system to maintain a low profile while still providing the necessary electrical connections for spherical or panoramic imaging capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is oriented to extend in a direction parallel to the optical axis of the image sensor rather than perpendicular to it. This dimensional reorientation allows the connector to be positioned within the profile of the sensor assembly, enabling low-profile device design while maintaining multi-directional imaging capability
2Ease of operation
If connectors and flexible members are positioned to extend outside the lens assembly area to facilitate connections, then ease of connection is improved, but stress is applied to the image sensors affecting accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
A retention system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the connector and the flexible member. The retention system securely holds the connector in place while allowing the flexible member to connect without transmitting stress directly to the image sensor. This intermediary structure enables easy connection while protecting the sensor from stress that would compromise image capture accuracy
3Length of stationary object
If the connector is positioned within the lens assembly area to minimize device height, then the low-profile characteristic is improved, but the connection reliability deteriorates due to limited space for retention systems
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is segmented into multiple components that work together to secure the connector. This segmentation allows the retention mechanism to provide reliable connection within the limited space available when the connector is positioned within the lens assembly area, maintaining both low-profile design and connection reliability
Data Source
AI summary
An image capture device includes a first lens assembly, a first image sensor, a second lens assembly, and a second image sensor. The first image sensor is in communication with the first lens assembly forming a first integrated sensor and lens assembly (a first ISLA) that faces in a first direction. The second image sensor is in communication with the second lens assembly forming a second integrated sensor and lens assembly (a second ISLA) that faces in a second direction that is opposite the first direction. A lens mount that connects the first ISLA and the second ISLA together forming one or more stress-free zones. A first retention system that connect a first connector and a flexible connector in a first connection zone. A second retention system that connects a second connector and a second flexible connector in a second connection zone.