Electroactive Polymer Camera Calibration for Lens-Sensor Realignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera assembly techniques for automotive vehicles require expensive and complex equipment for precise lens and sensor alignment, which cannot be adjusted or recalibrated over time due to material creep, warping, and environmental stresses, leading to suboptimal performance and replacement costs.
Innovation Solution
A camera device utilizing an electroactive polymer that allows relative movement between the sensor and lens, controlled by a controller to achieve and maintain calibration, enabling adjustment and recalibration through electrical energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional curing techniques are used to secure lens and sensor alignment, then manufacturing precision is achieved, but future adjustment and recalibration become impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static cured adhesive with a dynamic electroactive polymer that can change its properties on demand. The polymer allows the substrate to move relative to the housing when electrical energy is applied, enabling recalibration, and returns to its original state when energy is removed, maintaining secure alignment. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between initial precision and future adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The electroactive polymer changes its physical parameters (rigidity, volume, or shape) in response to electrical energy input. During calibration, the polymer's parameters are changed to allow movement; during operation, parameters are restored to maintain alignment. This parameter transformation enables both precise initial positioning and subsequent recalibration capability.
2Manufacturing precision
If expensive specialized equipment is used for camera calibration, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical calibration equipment with an electroactive polymer that responds to electrical energy. Instead of using expensive five-axis machines and manual adjustment mechanisms, the system uses a controller to apply electrical energy to the polymer, which automatically adjusts the substrate position. This substitution of mechanical systems with an electroactive material simplifies the calibration process and reduces equipment complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electroactive polymer enables the camera system to perform its own calibration without external specialized equipment. The controller within the device manages the calibration process by applying appropriate electrical energy to the polymer, allowing the system to self-adjust and self-calibrate, eliminating the need for complex external calibration machinery.
3Stability of the object's composition
If lens and sensor are cured in fixed position, then structural stability is maintained, but recalibration becomes impossible when environmental changes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The electroactive polymer provides a dynamic solution that adapts to environmental changes. When calibration drift occurs due to temperature, humidity, or mechanical stress, the controller can apply electrical energy to the polymer to restore proper alignment. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains long-term reliability while preserving structural stability during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous calibration maintenance throughout the camera's service life. Rather than a one-time curing process, the electroactive polymer allows ongoing adjustment and recalibration as needed. The controller can periodically check calibration status and apply corrective energy to the polymer, ensuring continuous optimal performance despite environmental variations.
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
Facilitates precise and adaptive camera calibration during manufacturing and throughout the camera's service life, improving alignment accuracy and reducing replacement costs by allowing for recalibration in response to environmental changes.
Implementation Method 1
an electroactive polymer selectively causes relative movement between the sensor and the lens
Data Source
AI summary
An illustrative example camera device includes a substrate and a sensor supported on the substrate. The sensor is configured to gather image information. A lens is situated near the sensor and an electroactive polymer selectively causes relative movement between the sensor and the lens.