Universal Camera Module Tester Friction Grip
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera module testing methods require custom tools for each lens holder configuration due to varying keying features, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs in the testing process.
Innovation Solution
An engagement ring system with a cone and back support that uses a friction grip mechanism to rotate the lens holder, accommodating different camera module keying configurations without the need for custom tools, and allows for adjustable biasing force to ensure proper focus without binding or slippage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If custom tools are used for each lens holder configuration, then the lens holder can be rotated for focus adjustment, but the device complexity and manufacturing costs increase due to multiple specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single engagement ring with a standardized interface that can accommodate multiple lens holder configurations. The engagement ring features a universal gripping mechanism that can engage with different keying patterns (e.g., 4-position, 6-position, 8-position keyings) without requiring custom tools for each configuration. This allows one tool to perform multiple functions across different camera module types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the engagement mechanism into two parts: a standardized engagement ring with a universal interface and interchangeable adapter elements that can be attached to the engagement ring. This segmentation allows the core engagement mechanism to remain simple and universal, while only the small adapter elements need to be changed for different lens holder configurations, reducing overall system complexity.
2Device complexity
If a universal engagement ring is used to accommodate different lens holder configurations, then the number of tools is reduced, but the reliability of the grip may decrease due to the need to accommodate varying keying features
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement ring incorporates local quality by featuring a friction-based gripping interface that applies uniform pressure around the entire circumference of the lens holder, rather than relying on precise mechanical engagement at specific keying points. This distributed friction grip ensures reliable engagement across different keying configurations without requiring exact geometric matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by making the engagement ring's gripping force adjustable through a biasing mechanism (such as a spring-loaded structure). This allows the normal force applied by the engagement ring to be optimized for different lens holder sizes and materials, ensuring sufficient friction grip reliability across varying configurations without over-gripping or slippage.
3Ease of operation
If the lens holder is rotated for focus adjustment, then the focus can be changed, but the lens holder may bind or slip due to insufficient or excessive grip force
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement ring employs a dynamic biasing mechanism that allows the grip force to adapt during operation. The spring-loaded structure provides continuous contact pressure that automatically adjusts to maintain optimal friction grip during rotation, ensuring the lens holder neither binds nor slips regardless of minor variations in lens holder geometry or surface conditions.
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
Enables universal testing of camera modules with various lens holder configurations, reducing the need for multiple tools and improving the efficiency of the focus adjustment process, while maintaining accurate focus and accommodating different lens diameters and field of views.
Implementation Method 1
uses a friction grip mechanism to rotate the lens holder
Implementation Method 2
allows for adjustable biasing force to ensure proper focus without binding or slippage
Data Source
AI summary
According to the invention, an electronic module tester for engaging a camera module is disclosed. The electronic module tester includes a camera tester body, an engagement ring, and a camera back support. The engagement ring engages a lens holder of the camera module, where the engagement ring comprises an engagement surface, an outer circumference and an inner circumference. The engagement surface rotates and is not keyed for any key on the lens holder. The camera back support engages a back of the camera module, where the back is on the opposite side of camera module as the lens holder. The engagement ring and the camera back support are separated, but biased together to engage the camera module.