Dual-Lens Camera Assembly with Offset Optical Axes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spherical cameras face challenges in minimizing blind spots and ensuring accurate stitching of images from multiple lenses, which requires precise alignment and orientation of lenses to maintain consistent overlap and reduce complexity in stitching algorithms.
Innovation Solution
A dual-lens assembly with lenses oriented in opposite directions and laterally offset optical axes, secured by unibody lens barrels and base portions, maintains tight tolerances and reduces camera thickness while allowing for efficient image capture and stitching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple camera lenses are oriented in different directions to capture 360 degree field of view, then the spherical camera can capture the entire environment, but blind spots may occur and stitching complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by laterally offsetting the optical axes of the two lenses relative to the camera body's central axis. This asymmetric arrangement creates predictable overlapping fields of view that facilitate stitching while maintaining 360-degree coverage, resolving the contradiction between comprehensive coverage and stitching complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial parameters of lens positioning by introducing a specific lateral offset distance between the optical axes. This parameter modification optimizes the overlap between lens fields of view, making the stitching process more manageable while preserving complete environmental capture
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple camera lenses are used to capture spherical images, then 360 degree coverage is achieved, but alignment precision requirements increase to minimize blind spots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-establishing fixed mounting structures with predetermined lateral offsets during manufacturing. This pre-planned geometric configuration ensures that lenses are positioned with precise relative alignment before deployment, reducing blind spots without requiring complex post-manufacturing adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a central axis of the camera body as an intermediary reference for positioning the two lenses. By using this central axis as a mediator, the design establishes a systematic framework for achieving precise lateral offset alignment, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining high alignment precision
3Reliability
If lenses are positioned to ensure overlapping fields of view for stitching, then image continuity is improved, but camera thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a longitudinal arrangement (stacking lenses along the optical axis, which increases thickness) to a lateral arrangement (positioning lenses side-by-side with lateral offset). This dimensional change allows overlapping fields of view to be achieved through lateral separation rather than axial separation, thereby maintaining image stitching continuity while reducing camera thickness
Data Source
AI summary
Dual-lens assemblies and cameras including dual lens-assemblies that include a first lens barrel securing a first lens having a first optical axis and a second lens barrel securing a second lens having a second optical axis are disclosed. In one dual-lens assembly, the first optical axis is approximately parallel to and spaced from the second optical axis by a lateral offset, axial lengths of the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are approximately equal, and the first lens and the second lens are oriented in opposite directions at opposing ends of the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel.