Multi-Camera Filter Mount with Bayonet Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for mounting filters over multiple cameras on smartphones are difficult to use and impose limitations, particularly in providing simultaneous filter coverage and full user control over camera selection, which is essential for computational imaging functions.
Innovation Solution
A removable filter mount with a symmetrical frame featuring coplanar orifices and a bayonet coupling system that allows for simultaneous light path alignment with multiple cameras, enabling easy installation and rotation for secure positioning over multiple camera lenses, along with optional baffles to block unwanted light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a filter mount is designed to cover multiple camera lenses simultaneously, then filter coverage is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter mount is divided into multiple separate circular openings (first circular opening, second circular opening, third circular opening) instead of a single continuous structure. Each opening can be independently positioned and sized to match specific camera lenses, allowing the mount to adapt to different camera configurations while maintaining overall structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The filter mount is designed with multiple circular openings that can accommodate different camera lens positions and sizes on various smartphone models. The mount can be used with different filter types (UV, polarizing, neutral density) and can be attached to different smartphone cases, making it a universal solution for multi-camera devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If a filter mount is designed to cover multiple camera lenses simultaneously, then filter coverage is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mount structure is segmented into separate circular openings that can be independently aligned with each camera lens. This segmentation allows for simpler alignment procedures compared to a single complex covering structure, as each opening can be positioned separately to match the corresponding lens location
Solution Approach 2:
Each circular opening in the mount is designed with specific local characteristics (diameter, position, orientation) that match the corresponding camera lens. This localized optimization allows each part of the mount to be simple and easy to install, while the overall mount provides comprehensive coverage for multiple cameras
3Productivity
If camera selection is automated by preprogrammed instructions, then imaging system functionality is improved, but user control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter mount provides universal filter coverage for all camera lenses simultaneously, ensuring that regardless of which camera is selected by automated functions or user choice, the appropriate filter is already in place. This eliminates the need for automated camera-specific filter switching and maintains full user control over both camera selection and filter application
Data Source
AI summary
A filter mount for removably coupling an optical element to an encasement for a personal electronics device that provides openings for light paths to at least first and second cameras within the encasement. The filter mount has a frame that defines a first orifice having a bayonet coupling, wherein the first orifice provides a first light path for imaging to at least the first camera, and a second orifice, adjacent to and coplanar with the first orifice and configured to provide a second light path for imaging to at least the second camera. Rotation of the filter mount frame within the bayonet coupling couples the filter mount against the encasement and opens at least the first and second light paths to the corresponding cameras.