Camera Module Optical Axis Alignment Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
In camera modules, especially those in portable devices and vehicles, optical axis distortion leads to deteriorated image quality, and in multi-camera systems like AVM, accurate alignment of images from different cameras is challenging due to significant distortions, resulting in inaccurate composite images.
Innovation Solution
An optical axis alignment apparatus that includes a chart unit, substrate alignment unit, optical axis alignment unit, and control unit, which acquires multiple images from different angles, calculates the principal point, and adjusts the substrate and lens assembly to align the optical axis coaxially with the image sensor, minimizing distortions and ensuring accurate image alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are installed for AVM function, then the coverage area and monitoring capability are improved, but the image alignment accuracy and distortion control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A calibration board with known geometric patterns is introduced as an intermediary object to establish reference points for multiple cameras. The board provides a common coordinate system that enables accurate alignment and distortion correction across all camera views, solving the image alignment problem in multi-camera AVM systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system captures images of the calibration board at multiple orientations and positions, then uses these varied parameter sets to calculate distortion coefficients and alignment transformations. By changing the parameters of captured images (angles, distances, orientations), the system derives correction parameters that improve image alignment accuracy across the entire coverage area
2Area of stationary object
If wide-angle lens is used to increase field of view, then the coverage area is improved, but the optical axis distortion increases
Solution Approach 1:
Optical axis alignment is performed preliminarily during the assembly process using a calibration board and alignment apparatus before the camera module is installed in the vehicle. The optical axis is adjusted and fixed in the correct position beforehand, preventing distortion issues from developing later in the application
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs computational methods and software algorithms to calculate and correct optical distortion rather than relying solely on precise mechanical alignment. By substituting mechanical precision requirements with computational correction, the system can tolerate wider manufacturing tolerances while still achieving accurate image alignment
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an optical axis alignment apparatus of a camera module including a chart unit, a substrate alignment unit, an optical axis alignment unit and a control unit, and wherein the control unit calculates a principal point of the images for optical axis alignment by using the acquired plurality of images for optical axis alignment, and controls the substrate alignment unit or the optical axis alignment unit such that a center of the image sensor is located coaxially with the calculated principal point.