Integrated Camera Case Lens Alignment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional auxiliary lenses for mobile smartphones can mechanically stress the device and distort image quality due to unstable alignment with the camera module, and they are difficult to use for capturing images that include multiple subjects or require specific depth of field or motion control.
Innovation Solution
A mobile camera system with a case that integrates a lens attachment interface, a lens recognition sensor, and a processor to stabilize and identify removable lenses, ensuring proper alignment and enhancing image capture capabilities through stable mechanical and optical coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If clip-on lenses are attached to the smartphone, then auxiliary lens functionality is added, but mechanical stress is applied to the device and optical alignment becomes unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary lens is nested within a protective case that integrates with the smartphone structure. The case contains a precisely engineered lens mounting cavity that holds the auxiliary lens in stable alignment with the camera module, eliminating the need for external clip-on attachments and their associated mechanical stress and alignment instability.
Solution Approach 2:
The case acts as an intermediary structure between the smartphone and the auxiliary lens. It provides a stable mechanical interface with precision-machined alignment features that ensure the auxiliary lens remains properly positioned relative to the camera module, while the smartphone itself is not directly stressed by the lens attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional auxiliary lenses are used, then image capture capability is extended, but lateral movement occurs during operation and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary lens is nested within a dedicated cavity in the case that provides precise mechanical constraints. This nesting arrangement prevents lateral movement during operation and storage, while maintaining stable optical alignment with the camera module throughout the device lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The case is pre-configured with precision alignment features and a dedicated lens cavity during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the auxiliary lens is installed, it automatically achieves correct alignment and remains stable during all subsequent operations without requiring adjustment or intervention.
3Device complexity
If built-in camera module is used, then device integration is maintained, but imaging limitations exist for close or distant objects and depth of field control
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the auxiliary lens functionality with the smartphone case structure, creating an integrated system that maintains device simplicity while extending imaging capabilities. The auxiliary lens is combined with the case in such a way that it functions as a unified attachment solution, providing both structural support and optical enhancement.
Solution Approach 2:
The case serves multiple functions: it protects the smartphone, provides precise mechanical mounting for the auxiliary lens, and enables extended imaging capabilities. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to maintain low device complexity while achieving high adaptability for various imaging scenarios including close-up, distant, and depth-of-field controlled photography.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile device case for coupling around a miniature camera-enabled mobile device a case shutter button mechanism for actuating the miniature camera module of the mobile camera system. A half-press or single tap triggers a precapture settings menu and a full-press or double tap triggers capture of an image.