Modular Camera Gimbal Layout for Protected Handheld Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image capture systems, particularly those used in drones, face challenges in maintaining image quality due to vibrations and motion-induced distortions, and there is a need for a modular system that can seamlessly transition between aerial and handheld use while minimizing weight and power consumption.

Innovation Solution

A modular image capture system with an integrated mechanical stabilization system, including gimbals and motors, that can be easily attached to both aerial vehicles and handheld modules, reducing weight and power consumption by separating display and battery components between modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If an integrated mechanical stabilization system is added to reduce image distortion, then image quality is improved, but device weight and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical stabilization system is integrated directly into the image capture module, merging the stabilization function with the camera housing. This eliminates the need for separate stabilization components and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The image capture module is designed as a universal platform that can be attached to multiple different aerial vehicles through standardized connectors. The integrated stabilization system serves all attachment scenarios, reducing the need for vehicle-specific stabilization components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If display and battery components are integrated into the image capture module, then device functionality is improved, but weight and power consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice functionalityVSAvoidmodule weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into separate functional modules: the image capture module contains only the camera and stabilization system, while display and battery components are placed in external handheld controllers. This segmentation reduces the weight of the airborne module while maintaining full functionality through wireless connectivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Heavy components such as the battery and display are extracted from the image capture module and placed in external handheld controllers. This extraction reduces the weight of the airborne module, extending flight time while the handheld controllers provide full user interface functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Volume of moving object

If the image capture module is made compact for handheld use, then portability is improved, but the mechanical stabilization system may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule sizeVSAvoidstabilization system protection
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical stabilization system is nested within the compact housing of the image capture module, with the gimbals and motors contained inside the module body. This nested arrangement protects the sensitive stabilization components from damage during handheld use while maintaining a compact form factor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

The system improves image quality by reducing blur and motion artifacts across various scenarios, enhances maneuverability, extends battery life, and ensures safer operation by minimizing collision risks through reduced weight and optimized power usage.

Implementation Method 1

an integrated mechanical stabilization system configured to control an orientation of the image sensor relative to the connector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical stabilization:

Implementation Method 2

a mechanical stabilization system, including gimbals and motors, that is integrated with the image sensor in the image capture module and configured to control an orientation of the image sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGimbal: Gimbal

Data Source

PatentUS12556820B2Modular image capture systems
Publication Date: 2026.02.17 GOPRO INC
  • US12556820B2 patent drawing
  • US12556820B2 patent drawing
  • US12556820B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system including an image capture module and a handheld module. The image capture module includes a body; an image sensor; and a mechanical stabilization system comprising a first gimbal, a second gimbal, and a third gimbal connected to the body and configured to control an orientation of the image sensor of the image capture module relative to the body. The handheld module defines a slot that is keyed to the body of the image capture module. The image capture module, when located within the handheld module, has a low profile so that the third gimbal is protected from damage by the handheld module.