Spherical UAV Camera Assembly Stabilization Without Obstructions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-stabilizing UAV camera assemblies capture 360 degree×180 degree stereoscopic content with obstructing support rigs, which require post-processing to remove obstructions, hindering real-time visualization.
Innovation Solution
A self-stabilizing spherical UAV camera assembly with a stabilizer assembly, motors, and stereoscopic cameras mounted on a spherical cage, allowing tilting and rotation without a traditional gimbal rig, and an on-board processor for signal processing, enabling direct transmission of a single signal to a ground receiver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a conventional gimbal rig is used to stabilize the camera assembly, then stabilization is achieved, but the support rig obstructs the field of view and requires post-processing removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional gimbal rig structure entirely and replaces it with a spherical mounting cage that allows cameras to be positioned on the exterior surface. This extraction of the obstructing support rig eliminates the field of view blockage while maintaining stabilization through alternative means (spherical geometry and multiple camera angles).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a conventional linear/gimbal-based stabilization approach to a three-dimensional spherical mounting structure. By distributing cameras across the spherical surface and utilizing the third dimension, the system achieves stabilization without the linear obstruction of a traditional gimbal rig in the camera's path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cameras are used to capture 360 degree×180 degree stereoscopic content, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but the complexity of the camera assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spherical camera mounting cage serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for multiple cameras, enables 360-degree panoramic coverage, facilitates stereoscopic 3D capture, and eliminates the need for traditional gimbal stabilization. This multi-functional design achieves comprehensive coverage without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple cameras and the mounting structure into a single integrated spherical assembly. Rather than separate gimbal systems for each camera, all cameras are merged into one spherical cage structure that is stabilized as a unified unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining panoramic capabilities.
3Manufacturing precision
If post-processing is used to remove obstructing support rig from images, then clean images are achieved, but real-time visualization is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prevents the obstruction problem at the source by using a spherical mounting cage that does not block the cameras' fields of view. Since the support structure does not obstruct the lenses, no post-processing removal is needed, and clean images are captured directly in real-time without delay.
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
Enables obstruction-free capture and transmission of 360 degree×180 degree stereoscopic content, enhancing real-time visualization by eliminating the need for post-processing to remove mechanical components from images.
Implementation Method 1
The stabilizer assembly is operable for tilting the spherical camera mounting cage assembly about two axes with respect to the stabilizer assembly
Implementation Method 2
The stabilizer assembly is operable for rotating the spherical camera mounting cage assembly about a central axis with respect to the stabilizer assembly
Implementation Method 3
The plurality of motors includes one of a plurality of propellers and a plurality of ducted fans operable for lifting and controlling the UAV camera assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A self-stabilizing spherical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) camera assembly, including: a stabilizer assembly; a plurality of motors coupled to the stabilizer assembly; a spherical camera mounting cage assembly disposed about and coupled to the stabilizer assembly; and a plurality of cameras coupled to the spherical camera mounting cage assembly. Preferably, the plurality of cameras include a plurality of stereoscopic cameras coupled to an exterior of the spherical camera mounting cage assembly. The self-stabilizing spherical UAV camera assembly is capable of taking/recording 360 degree×180 degree stereoscopic photo/video content. The self-stabilizing spherical UAV camera assembly can also be used with various real-time visualization and control technologies.