Spring-Loaded Lens Holder for Dome Camera Distance Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dome surveillance cameras face challenges in maintaining a fixed distance between the lens and the dome's inner surface when using interchangeable lenses, which can lead to reflections and calibration issues, and existing solutions either increase bulkiness or require time-consuming recalibration.
Innovation Solution
A dome camera design featuring a spring-loaded lens holder that maintains a fixed axial distance between the lens and the housing, allowing for interchangeable lenses without altering the distance between the lens and the dome's inner surface, using an elastic member to ensure consistent positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the lens holder is spring-loaded to maintain fixed distance between lens and housing, then the distance consistency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
An elastic member (spring) is introduced as an intermediary between the lens holder and housing to maintain the fixed axial distance. The spring acts as a mediator that automatically compensates for lens length variations while keeping the distance between the lens front end and housing front end constant, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens holder's position parameter is made dynamically adjustable through spring loading, allowing it to adapt to different lens lengths while maintaining the required distance constraint. The spring's elastic property enables the system to change its configuration parameter (lens holder position) in response to different lenses while preserving the critical distance parameter.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the housing is designed with extra space to accommodate longer lenses, then the adaptability is improved, but the volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lens holder is designed with dynamic positioning capability through spring loading, allowing it to move axially to accommodate different lens lengths. This dynamic adjustment mechanism enables the housing to adapt to various lens configurations without requiring excessive fixed space, as the lens holder automatically positions itself optimally for each lens type.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded lens holder mechanism serves multiple functions: it maintains fixed distance, accommodates different lens lengths, and provides consistent positioning. This universal mechanism allows the same housing to work with various lenses without requiring lens-specific design modifications, achieving versatility without increased volume.
3Reliability
If the distance between lens and dome is increased to protect the lens, then the reliability is improved, but reflections increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of maximizing the distance for protection, the spring-loaded mechanism positions the lens at the optimal partial distance that provides sufficient protection while minimizing reflections. The elastic member allows the lens to be positioned close enough to the dome for protection but not so close as to cause excessive reflections, achieving a balanced compromise.
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 easy lens interchangeability without recalibration, maintaining a consistent distance between the lens and the dome, reducing bulkiness, and simplifying handling and maintenance of the camera system.
Implementation Method 1
the lens holder is spring loaded in relation to the housing by an elastic member arranged in a position between the housing and the lens holder
Data Source
AI summary
A camera comprising a housing, a lens, a lens holder and an image sensor is provided. The image sensor is supported by the lens holder. The lens holder comprises a through-going channel configured to coaxially and lockably receive the lens in a position in which a rear end of the lens faces the image sensor. The lens holder is spring loaded in relation to the housing by an elastic member arranged in a position between the housing and the lens holder into a position in which a front portion of the lens is forced into abutment with a first lens stop arranged in the housing, thereby providing a fixed axial distance between a front end of the lens and a front end of the housing.

