Modular Image Capture Assembly With Integrated Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image capture systems, particularly those used in drones and handheld devices, face challenges in providing stable and high-quality image capture across various usage scenarios due to vibrations and motion, and they often require multiple batteries and complex mechanical stabilization systems.

Innovation Solution

The proposed modular image capture system includes an image capture module with an integrated mechanical stabilization system, a handheld module with a battery and display, and an aerial vehicle, allowing for interchangeable attachment and efficient power management, thereby enhancing image stability and usability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If mechanical stabilization systems (gimbals and motors) are used with drone based cameras, then image stability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage stabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into separate functional modules: an image capture module with integrated stabilization, a handheld module with display and control, and an aerial vehicle module. This segmentation allows the stabilization system to be isolated in the image capture module while other functions are distributed to appropriate modules, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The image capture module serves multiple functions: it captures images, provides mechanical stabilization through integrated gimbals and motors, and can be attached to either handheld modules or aerial vehicles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate stabilization systems in different configurations.

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

2Duration of action of moving object

If multiple batteries are used to power different modules, then operational duration is extended, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery lifeVSAvoidpower management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electro-mechanical interface is designed to handle multiple functions: power transmission from the handheld module's battery to the image capture module, data communication between modules, and mechanical attachment. This universal interface reduces the need for separate power management systems in each module.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The handheld module's battery is designed to power both the handheld module itself and the image capture module when attached. This merging of power sources eliminates the need for separate batteries in each module, reducing complexity while extending operational duration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If the image capture module is made lightweight for handheld use, then ease of operation is improved, but image quality may deteriorate due to reduced stabilization capability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandheld usabilityVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The stabilization system is integrated into the compact image capture module as miniaturized gimbals and motors, maintaining stabilization capability while keeping the module lightweight. The segmentation of stabilization functions into the image capture module itself rather than requiring external heavy equipment enables handheld usability without sacrificing image quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of operation

If the connector is designed for quick attachment and detachment, then ease of operation is improved, but connection reliability may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment speedVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The electro-mechanical interface includes pre-aligned connection elements and guide features that automatically position the modules correctly during attachment. This preliminary alignment ensures that connection pins and contacts engage properly on first attempt, providing both quick attachment and reliable connection without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250119648A1Modular image capture systems
Publication Date: 2025.04.10 SHENZHEN DOBOT CORP LTD
  • US20250119648A1 patent drawing
  • US20250119648A1 patent drawing
  • US20250119648A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A handheld module including a battery, an electro-mechanical interface, and a display. The electro-mechanical interface is configured to attach the handheld module to an image capture module, wherein when attached to the image capture module, the handheld module forms a communication link to the image capture module via the electro-mechanical interface and supplies power from the battery to the image capture module via conductors of the electro-mechanical interface. The display is configured to present images captured by the image capture module and received from the image capture module via the communication link.