Carriage Module Lens Trimming Mechanism for Image Sensor Focus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image capture units in scanners and digital cameras face challenges in achieving optimal focus and image quality due to the varying best position of the lens required for different applications, such as film scanning and infrared light sources, which cannot be effectively adjusted by moving the lens or object.

Innovation Solution

A carriage module with a sliding seat, cam, and pin mechanism that automatically adjusts the distance between the lens and image sensor, maintaining parallel optical axes, allowing for precise focus adjustments without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the lens or object is moved to adjust focus, then the focus position can be changed, but the best quality of digital image cannot be captured and reproduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefocus adjustmentVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic trimming mechanism that automatically adjusts the distance between the lens and image sensor based on different application requirements. The carriage module can move the image sensor along the optical axis to different positions, enabling the system to adapt to various focusing needs while maintaining optimal image quality through precise positional control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of distance between lens and image sensor to optimize focus for different applications. By using the trimming mechanism to adjust this distance parameter, the system achieves best focus position for film scanning, infrared ray applications, and other specialized grasping devices without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If a fixed lens position is used, then the device structure is simple, but the best position of lens to form the image is not the same for every application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens positioning mechanismVSAvoidapplication-specific focus
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the fixed lens position into a dynamic adjustable position. The carriage module with sliding seat and cam mechanism enables the image sensor to move along the optical axis, providing adaptability for different applications such as film scanning, infrared imaging, and specialized grasping devices while maintaining relatively simple device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal imaging system that can handle multiple applications with different focus requirements. The trimming mechanism allows the same device to optimize focus for film, slides, infrared rays, and other objects by simply adjusting the lens-image sensor distance, eliminating the need for separate devices for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If manual focus adjustment is used, then the device is easy to operate, but the focus cannot be reproduced and image quality is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefocus adjustment operationVSAvoidfocus reproduction
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service focus adjustment through the automatic trimming mechanism. The carriage module with cam and pin automatically adjusts the image sensor position based on pre-programmed or sensor-detected parameters, eliminating manual intervention and ensuring consistent, reproducible focus positions across multiple captures and different applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms to ensure accurate and reproducible focus. The trimming mechanism uses sensor information or pre-set parameters to automatically adjust the lens-image sensor distance, with the system monitoring and verifying the focus position to ensure consistent reproduction of optimal focus across different shots and applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS7612924B2Carriage module with image capture unit
Publication Date: 2009.11.03 MICROTEK INT
  • US7612924B2 patent drawing
  • US7612924B2 patent drawing
  • US7612924B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A carriage module with an image capture unit for using in a scanning device is disclosed. The module includes a carriage having a sliding seat and a cam; a lens attached to the carriage device; an image capture unit capturing the light images from the lens; a PC board mounting the carriage; and a supporting plate supporting the PC board. The supporting plate includes a pin and formed on the carriage. The simple trimming mechanism adjusts the distance between the lens and the image sensor easily. So, the device not only improves the quality of the formation of image and also promotes the efficiency of operating.