Image Sensor Alignment Apparatus Using Floating Stage and Ball Bearing Datum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alignment apparatuses for image sensors fail to constrain the height coordinate of an object during inclination adjustments, leading to increased complexity and difficulty in operation.
Innovation Solution
The alignment apparatus features a first stage and a second stage floatingly coupled with a positioning aligned unit between them, using elastic elements and ball bearings to constrain the second stage on a datum surface, allowing it to rotate relative to the first stage without displacing in the Z-axis, and adjustment units to precisely adjust the inclination angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a coaxial movement stage with gear-driven rotation is used to adjust inclination angle, then the inclination angle can be adjusted, but the height coordinate of the object changes simultaneously, increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment apparatus is divided into two independent stages: a first stage for height adjustment and a second stage for inclination angle adjustment. This segmentation allows each stage to perform its specific function independently, preventing the coupled movement problem where height changes occur during inclination adjustment. The second stage rotates on a datum surface formed by ball bearings, ensuring height coordinate stability while adjusting inclination.
Solution Approach 2:
Ball bearings are introduced as intermediary elements between the second stage and the datum surface. These ball bearings facilitate smooth rotation of the second stage while maintaining a stable reference plane, acting as a mediator that enables inclination adjustment without causing height coordinate changes or operational complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second stage is floatingly coupled on the first stage without positioning constraints, then movement flexibility is improved, but stability during rotation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning aligned unit applies local quality by providing positioning elements at specific locations on the datum surface. These positioning elements (ball bearings) are strategically placed to constrain the second stage's position in the height direction while allowing rotational movement. This localized constraint approach maintains overall movement flexibility while ensuring stability during rotation operations.
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
This configuration enhances the stability and ease of operation by maintaining the second stage on a datum surface during movement, reducing the complexity of alignment processes and improving precision.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of elastic elements connected between the first stage and the second stage. The elastic elements drive the second stage to rest against the positioning elements.
Implementation Method 2
Each ball bearing comprises a base portion and a second coupling portion. The base portion is embedded into the first stage, and the second coupling portion is disposed on the base portion. The second coupling portions form the datum surface and are coupled to the first coupling portions, respectively.
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment apparatus for adjusting an image sensor is provided. The alignment apparatus includes a first stage, a second stage, a positioning aligned unit, and an adjustment unit. The second stage is floatingly disposed on the first stage. The image sensor is adapted to be disposed on the second stage. The positioning aligned unit connected between the first stage and the second stage constrains the second stage on a datum surface above the first stage. The positioning aligned unit coupled to the second stage drives the second stage to rotate along the datum surface.