Detachable 3-Axis Camera Gimbal for Multi-Platform Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera gimbals are large, expensive, and not portable, and they fail to accommodate various camera weights and form factors, while also obstructing the camera's field of view and not effectively stabilizing video captured during unstable movements, such as those from aerial vehicles or handheld use.
Innovation Solution
A detachable electronic gimbal system with a 3-axis stabilization mechanism, including an inertial measurement unit and electronic motors, that can be removably coupled to multiple mount platforms, allowing for adjustable orientation and stabilization of cameras, and enabling communication between the camera and the mount platform to optimize video capture based on the platform's type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional electronic gimbal is used for stabilization, then video stability is improved, but the device becomes large, expensive, and non-portable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical stabilization systems with a computational approach. The processor analyzes motion data from sensors (accelerometers, gyroscopes) and applies digital image stabilization algorithms to compensate for camera movement, eliminating the need for large, expensive mechanical gimbals while maintaining video stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces software/firmware as an intermediary between the camera sensor and the final video output. This intermediary layer processes raw video data, detects stabilization needs through sensor input, and applies corrective transformations to achieve stable video without mechanical intervention
2Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed gimbal design is used, then stabilization performance is optimized, but adaptability to different camera weights and form factors is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic, software-based stabilization system that adapts to different cameras through sensor data analysis. The system automatically adjusts stabilization parameters based on the detected camera characteristics and motion patterns, providing optimized performance across multiple camera types without requiring physical reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from fixed mechanical parameters to variable software parameters. The stabilization algorithm dynamically adjusts correction strength, response time, and compensation vectors based on real-time sensor data and camera behavior, enabling adaptation to different weights and form factors through parameter modification rather than physical change
3Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional gimbal mounting system is used, then stabilization is achieved, but obstruction of the camera's field of view occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates physical gimbal components that would block the camera view by substituting mechanical stabilization with computational methods. Sensors are positioned to minimize obstruction, and all stabilization processing occurs digitally, ensuring maximum field of view is maintained while achieving stabilization
4Stability of the object's composition
If a specialized gimbal system is used, then stabilization quality is improved, but portability and cost-effectiveness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical gimbal systems with lightweight sensor arrays and processing units. The stabilization function is achieved through computational algorithms running on the camera's processor or a dedicated co-processor, dramatically reducing system weight and improving portability while maintaining stabilization quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal stabilization platform that can be integrated into various camera types and sizes. The software-based approach allows the same core technology to be deployed across different form factors, from compact action cameras to larger DSLRs, providing consistent stabilization quality without requiring specialized heavy-duty gimbals for each application
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
The system provides stable video capture across different platforms, accommodating various camera sizes and weights, minimizing obstruction, and allowing platform-specific behavior for optimal video recording, while being portable and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
including an inertial measurement unit and electronic motors
Implementation Method 2
including an inertial measurement unit and electronic motors
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an electronic gimbal with camera and mounting configuration. The gimbal can include an inertial measurement unit which can sense the orientation of the camera and three electronic motors which can manipulate the orientation of the camera. The gimbal can be removably coupled to a variety of mount platforms, such as an aerial vehicle, a handheld grip, or a rotating platform. Moreover, a camera can be removably coupled to the gimbal and can be held in a removable camera frame. Also disclosed is a system for allowing the platform, to which the gimbal is mounted, to control settings of the camera or to trigger actions on the camera, such as taking a picture, or initiating the recording of a video. The gimbal can also provide a connection between the camera and the mount platform, such that the mount platform receives images and video content from the camera.