Opposed Integrated Sensor-Lens Assembly Alignment for Spherical Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
In omnidirectional image capture systems, misalignments in the position or tilt of lenses and image sensors negatively impact the quality of spherical images, as they require precise alignment in multiple degrees-of-freedom to produce high-quality, focused images.
Innovation Solution
The use of integrated sensor-lens assemblies (ISLAs) with coincident optical axes and various alignment methods, including adhesives, mechanical fasteners, and brackets, to secure and stabilize the ISLAs in opposite directions, ensuring proper alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ISLAs are integrated into omnidirectional image capture systems, then image capture capability is improved, but alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the omnidirectional image capture function into multiple ISLAs (e.g., front-facing and rearward-facing assemblies), each capturing a portion of the spherical field of view. These segmented ISLAs are then stitched together during image processing, allowing the system to achieve omnidirectional coverage while managing alignment requirements through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
An adhesive layer is introduced as an intermediary element between the lens holder and PCB subassembly. This adhesive not only bonds the components together but also compensates for minor misalignments and provides a degree of freedom for adjustment, thereby reducing the stringency of precision requirements during assembly
2Ease of manufacture
If adhesive is used to connect ISLAs, then assembly simplicity is improved, but alignment stability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive formulation and application parameters are optimized to provide both ease of assembly and stable alignment. The adhesive is applied in controlled amounts with specific viscosity characteristics that allow self-alignment while maintaining bond strength, thus achieving both assembly simplicity and alignment stability
Solution Approach 2:
Mounting surfaces are pre-prepared with specific surface treatments or coatings before adhesive application. This preliminary action ensures optimal adhesive bonding characteristics, allowing the adhesive to achieve both easy assembly and stable, durable alignment of the ISLAs
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
Enhances the stability and alignment of ISLAs, resulting in improved image quality and reduced misalignment issues, leading to higher-quality spherical image generation.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive that is located between the first mounting surfaces and the second mounting surfaces so as to directly connect the first ISLA and the second ISLA
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module for an image capture system is disclosed. The optical module includes a first integrated sensor-lens assembly (ISLA) that is oriented in a first direction and which defines a first optical axis and first mounting surfaces; a second ISLA that is oriented in a second, opposite direction and which defines a second optical axis coincident with the first optical axis and second mounting surfaces; and an adhesive that is located between the first mounting surfaces and the second mounting surfaces such that the first ISLA and the second ISLA are directly connected together.