ISLA Optical Module Alignment for Omnidirectional Image Capture

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Solution Overview

Problem

In omnidirectional image capture systems, misalignments in the position or tilt of integrated sensor-lens assemblies (ISLAs) negatively impact the quality of spherical images, as they define overlapping fields-of-view that require precise alignment to produce high-quality, focused images.

Innovation Solution

The optical module includes a first and second ISLA with coincident optical axes, secured by adhesives or mechanical fasteners, and optionally with brackets or standoffs, to ensure proper alignment and stability, with mounting surfaces defined by PCB subassemblies or lens holders.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If ISLAs are integrated into a compact unit, then device miniaturization is achieved, but alignment precision between lens and sensor deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveISLA sizeVSAvoidalignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The ISLA is divided into separate functional modules (lens assembly and sensor assembly) that can be independently manufactured and then precisely aligned through mechanical interfaces and adjustment mechanisms, allowing each segment to be optimized separately while maintaining overall integration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Mechanical fasteners, mounting structures, and alignment fixtures serve as intermediary elements between the lens and sensor components, providing stable connection and precise positioning that maintains alignment accuracy despite the compact integrated form factor

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple ISLAs are used for omnidirectional capture, then field-of-view coverage is improved, but alignment complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefield-of-view coverageVSAvoidalignment complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting structures and mechanical interfaces for multiple ISLAs are designed with asymmetric features that provide self-alignment and reference points, reducing the complexity of aligning multiple sensors while maintaining omnidirectional coverage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

A universal mounting structure and alignment mechanism is designed that can accommodate multiple ISLAs with consistent interfaces, allowing the same alignment procedure and hardware to be applied to each sensor unit, thereby reducing overall alignment complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20260019692A1Integrated Sensor-Lens Assembly Alignment in Image Capture Systems

Publication Date: 2026.01.15 GOPRO INC

AI summary

An optical module for an image capture system that includes a first integrated sensor-lens assembly (ISLA) and which defines a first optical axis, a second ISLA that is directly connected to the first ISLA and which defines a second optical axis, and mechanical fasteners that extend through the first ISLA and the second ISLA to thereby secure the first ISLA and the second ISLA in relation to each other.