Parallax Correction via Lateral Focal Plane Array Movement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for parallax correction in night vision systems with multiple thermal imagers are time-consuming and prone to small alignment errors, affecting optical performance.
Innovation Solution
A system with a housing containing a channel and lens enclosure, where a tab slideable along the channel moves a second focal plane array laterally to correct parallax between first and second lenses, using a pin and scroll disc mechanism for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual methods are used for parallax correction, then alignment can be adjusted, but the process demands a great deal of time and leaves small alignment errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment methods with an automated motor-driven mechanism. The motor rotates the lens enclosure to precisely position the second focal plane array laterally relative to the first focal plane array, eliminating manual alignment errors and reducing correction time. This substitution of manual mechanical operation with an automated motorized system directly resolves the contradiction between alignment precision and correction time.
2Measurement precision
If the second focal plane array is moved laterally to correct parallax, then alignment accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lens enclosure serves multiple functions: it houses the second lens and second focal plane array, acts as a rotatable platform for lateral movement to correct parallax, and integrates the motor drive mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing device complexity while achieving accurate parallax correction through lateral movement of the second focal plane array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic rotatable lens enclosure that can be actively positioned to correct parallax. The motor-driven rotation allows the second focal plane array to move laterally relative to the first focal plane array, enabling real-time adjustment for different object distances. This dynamic adjustment mechanism achieves high correction accuracy while keeping the overall structure integrated and manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for parallax correction includes a housing of a camera having a channel perpendicular to an optical axis of the camera. A lens enclosure is within the housing and includes a tab slideable along the channel. A first lens is positioned within the lens enclosure having a first focal plane array. A second lens is positioned within the lens enclosure having a second focal plane array. The second focal plane array is coupled to a pin disposed within the tab of the housing. The tab is configured to direct the pin to slide perpendicular to the optical axis along the channel to move the second focal plane array laterally with respect to the first focal plane array to correct for parallax between the first and second lenses.