Modular Digital Camera System With Interchangeable Sensor And Lens Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital cameras have limited configurability and are not upgradeable, forcing users to replace the entire device to access improved technology, and they are often suited for either still or motion photography, but not both, necessitating multiple camera purchases for varied applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular digital camera system that allows users to interchange and upgrade individual components, such as the sensor module, power module, and lens mount, enabling configuration for both still and motion photography and various applications without needing multiple cameras.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional digital cameras integrate all components permanently into a main framework, then structural stability and reliability are improved, but adaptability and upgradeability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is divided into separate functional modules (sensor module, lens module, processing module, display module) that can be independently replaced. Each module connects to the main framework through standardized interfaces, allowing individual component upgrades while maintaining overall system stability.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional digital cameras use fixed configuration, then manufacturing simplicity and reliability are improved, but versatility for different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system employs universal standardized interfaces and modular components that can be configured for different applications. The same base platform supports various sensor types, lens configurations, and processing capabilities, allowing a single manufacturing line to produce multiple camera variants.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users purchase multiple conventional cameras for different applications, then application versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single modular camera platform can be configured for different applications by swapping modules. The standardized interfaces and common control architecture allow one base unit to support multiple sensor types, recording formats, and output configurations, replacing the need for multiple specialized cameras.
4Reliability
If conventional digital cameras are replaced entirely for technological improvements, then performance is improved, but loss of time and resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
Only the specific module requiring technological improvement needs to be replaced rather than the entire camera system. The standardized interfaces enable quick module swaps, reducing downtime and preserving the functionality of non-outdated components.
Data Source
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AI summary
Modular digital camera systems, such as modular digital still and motion cameras are disclosed. Individual modules may be removed from the system and replaced, such as to benefit from upgraded technology, while preserving the remaining modules in the system. The modules may be disassembled and reconstructed to convert the physical form of the camera, such as between still configurations, motion configurations, ENG configurations. DSLR configurations and studio configurations. Universal lens mount modules are provided, to enable use of lens systems from a variety of commercial manufacturers.