Interchangeable Camera Image Head for Modular Base Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capture devices require additional internal componentry in sub-system bases to generate images, limiting flexibility and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A modular camera design with a swappable image head that includes internal componentry such as a printed circuit board, integrated sensor and lens assembly, and memory, which can be connected to various sub-system bases without requiring additional circuitry in the bases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional internal componentry is added to sub-system bases to generate images, then image generation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is divided into two distinct segments: an image head containing all image-generating componentry (sensor, lens, processing circuitry) and a sub-system base providing support functions. This segmentation allows the image head to be reused across multiple bases without requiring each base to have duplicate image generation components, thereby improving adaptability while reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The image head is designed as a universal module that can be connected to different sub-system bases through a standardized interface. By concentrating all image generation capability in this single reusable unit, the system achieves multi-functionality across different base configurations without increasing complexity in each individual base unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If image head is made swappable between multiple bases, then flexibility is improved, but connection reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The image head features a housing with an integrated connection structure that nests within the sub-system base. The connection interface includes nested electrical contacts and mechanical engagement features that ensure reliable electrical and physical connection while allowing for easy attachment and detachment, thus maintaining both flexibility and connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present teachings provide an image head with a housing, an integrated sensor and lens assembly (ISLA), a port, and componentry. The housing has a front side a rear side located opposite the front side; a top side located between the front side and the rear side; and a bottom side located opposite the top side and between the front side and the rear side. The ISLA extends from the front side and is configured to detect images. The port is located on the rear side that is configured to electrically connect the image head to a base when the image head is inserted into the base. The internal componentry has a printed circuit board in communication with an integrated sensor of the ISLA and a memory located on the printed circuit board and configured to store the images. The internal componentry controls the image head.