Modular Camera Gimbal Integration for Low-Weight Image Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image capture systems, especially those used in drones, face challenges with image distortion and motion artifacts due to vibrations, and they often have separate mechanical stabilization systems that are unreliable and add weight, affecting maneuverability and battery life.
Innovation Solution
A modular image capture system with an integrated mechanical stabilization system, including gimbals and motors, that can be easily attached to both aerial vehicles and handheld modules, providing reliable orientation control and reducing weight by separating the display and battery to the handheld module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a mechanical stabilization system is added to reduce image distortion and shakiness, then image quality is improved, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the mechanical stabilization system directly into the camera module, merging the image capture function with the stabilization function into a single compact unit. This integration reduces the overall system weight compared to having separate stabilization mechanisms while maintaining effective image stabilization through the gimbal-based mechanical system.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate mechanical stabilization systems are used, then image stabilization is achieved, but reliability decreases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the stabilization system into the camera module itself, the patent reduces the number of separate components and connection points that could fail. The unified design improves reliability while maintaining the mechanical stabilization function through the integrated gimbal mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If display and battery are integrated in the same module, then device functionality is complete, but weight distribution and maneuverability are affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging system into separate functional modules: the camera module with integrated stabilization, and a handheld module containing the display and battery. This segmentation allows for optimized weight distribution and improves maneuverability while maintaining complete device functionality through the modular architecture.
4Weight of moving object
If weight is reduced to comply with regulations, then regulatory compliance is achieved, but battery life may be extended or maneuverability improved
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the battery into the handheld module rather than integrating it with the camera module, the patent enables independent optimization of weight and battery capacity. The camera module meets weight regulations while the handheld module can accommodate a larger battery for extended operation, improving battery life without compromising regulatory compliance.
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
This solution improves image quality by reducing blur and motion artifacts, enhances maneuverability, extends battery life, and ensures compliance with weight regulations by integrating the mechanical stabilization system within the image capture module, while allowing versatile usage scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
Mechanical stabilization systems (e.g., gimbals and motors) have been used with drone based cameras to reduce distortion or shakiness of captured images that can be caused by vibrations and other motions of a drone during capture
Implementation Method 2
a mechanical stabilization system configured to control an orientation of the image sensor relative to the connector
Data Source
AI summary
A system including an image capture module and a handheld module. The image capture module includes a body; an image sensor; and a mechanical stabilization system comprising a first gimbal, a second gimbal, and a third gimbal connected to the body and configured to control an orientation of the image sensor of the image capture module relative to the body. The handheld module defines a slot that is keyed to the body of the image capture module. The image capture module, when located within the handheld module, has a low profile so that the third gimbal is protected from damage by the handheld module.