Lens Placement Using Sensor Imaging for Fixed-Focus Cameras

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fixed-focus cameras face challenges in accurately placing lenses to achieve optimal focal length, as existing methods do not effectively account for the unique optical characteristics of image sensor modules, leading to suboptimal image quality.

Innovation Solution

A lens-placement system that captures images of the image sensor module to evaluate and adjust the lens position in the lens mount, using an imaging system to ensure the image sensor is at the focal point, allowing for mechanical anchoring once optimal placement is achieved, regardless of camera specifications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a fixed-focus camera uses a lens placed at a fixed distance from the image sensor module, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the image quality and focal range are suboptimal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens placement processVSAvoidlens positioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by capturing an image of the image sensor module before final lens assembly, allowing the lens to be positioned and anchored at the optimal focal point determined by analyzing the captured image. This preliminary imaging step enables precise lens placement without requiring complex fixed-distance mounting mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Device complexity

If the lens is placed at a fixed distance from the image sensor module, then the device complexity is reduced, but the focus quality and edge characteristics are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens mounting mechanismVSAvoidfocal length accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical focusing mechanisms with an optical imaging approach. Instead of using mechanical systems to achieve precise focal length adjustment, the system captures an image of the image sensor module and uses optical analysis to determine the optimal lens position, thereby achieving precise focus without mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If existing lens placement methods are used, then the manufacturing process is straightforward, but the image quality including brightness and contrast is suboptimal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens assembly processVSAvoidimage brightness and contrast
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by capturing an image of the image sensor module and using the captured image information to determine the optimal lens position. This feedback loop allows the lens to be positioned at the focal point that produces the best image quality, including optimal brightness and contrast, rather than relying on fixed-distance placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Ensures high-quality image capture by accurately positioning the lens, improving focus, edge characteristics, color, brightness, and contrast, adaptable to various image sensor types and sizes.

Implementation Method 1

an imaging camera to capture an image of at least a portion of an image sensor module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS7433585B2System and method of lens placement
Publication Date: 2008.10.07 APTINA IMAGING CORP
  • US7433585B2 patent drawing
  • US7433585B2 patent drawing
  • US7433585B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lens-placement system in accordance with the invention includes an imaging system having an imaging camera to capture an image of at least a portion of an image sensor module that is located in a fixed-focus camera. The captured image is used for placement of a lens in the fixed-focus camera.