Liquid Lens Thermal Correction for Machine Vision Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional machine vision systems are limited in their adaptability, often requiring fixed optical devices and being unable to easily switch between different lenses or sensors to accommodate various operations and conditions, which restricts their versatility in capturing images of objects with varying sizes and orientations.
Innovation Solution
A modular lens assembly for machine vision systems, featuring a lens housing with a liquid lens, solid lens elements, and a processor device that can adjust the liquid lens's focal length through thermal compensation, mechanical, and electrical compensation, allowing for quick interchangeability and precise focus adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed optical devices are used, then the system structure is simple, but the adaptability to different operations and conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into separate interchangeable modules: lens assemblies with different focal lengths and sensor assemblies. Each module can be independently selected and attached to the housing, allowing the system to adapt to different operations without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed with a universal mounting interface that can accommodate multiple types of lens assemblies and sensor assemblies. This universal design enables a single housing to perform multiple functions by simply changing the attached module.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed lenses are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the ability to switch between different lenses is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
Lens assemblies are manufactured as separate, standardized modules that can be produced independently using automated processes. The modular design simplifies manufacturing by allowing specialized lens modules to be mass-produced and then assembled into the housing as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Different lens assemblies are designed with varying optical parameters (focal length, aperture) but maintain the same mechanical interface standards. This allows a family of lenses with different parameters to be manufactured using similar processes while maintaining interchangeability.
3Measurement precision
If conventional imaging systems are used, then the device structure is fixed, but the precision of focus adjustment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces static focus adjustment with dynamic control through a liquid lens element whose focal length can be changed in real-time by applying different voltages. This allows precise focus adjustment without mechanical movement, improving precision while reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical focus adjustment mechanisms (moving lens elements) are replaced with an electrically controlled liquid lens. The focal length is adjusted by changing the electrical voltage applied to the liquid lens, eliminating the need for complex mechanical positioning systems.
4Reliability
If liquid lens without compensation is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the thermal drift affects the focus stability
Solution Approach 1:
A temperature sensor continuously monitors the temperature of the liquid lens, and this information is fed back to a processor that calculates the required voltage adjustment to compensate for thermal drift. This closed-loop feedback system maintains focus stability despite temperature changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the voltage parameter applied to the liquid lens based on temperature measurements. By changing the electrical parameter (voltage) in response to temperature changes, the system compensates for thermal effects and maintains stable focus.
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
Enables flexible and precise image capture by allowing easy switching of lenses and sensors, accommodating different operations and conditions, and correcting thermal drift in the liquid lens for improved focus and optical power adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
A liquid lens may be used in the lens assembly. The liquid lens may allow for dynamic adjustment of the focal distance and optical power by varying a voltage or current applied to the liquid lens.
Implementation Method 2
The lens processor can be configured to perform thermal correction for the liquid lens. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor can be positioned within the lens assembly proximate to the liquid lens.
Implementation Method 3
a calibration ring disposed around the outer surface of the barrel and configured to cause linear movement of the barrel when the calibration ring is rotated
Data Source
AI summary
A modular lens assembly for a machine vision system includes a lens housing, a liquid lens disposed within the lens housing, a solid lens element disposed within the lens housing, and a lens processor device disposed within the lens housing and coupled to the liquid lens. The lens processor device may be configured to determine a control signal to control the liquid lens.