Thermoplastic Alignment Member for Sensor Board
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current camera alignment techniques, such as those using UV curing glue, are complex, require a clean environment, and do not allow for re-alignment, as the curing process is permanent and sensitive to dust and specific application conditions.
Innovation Solution
An alignment member comprising a thermoplastic material section and a heating element that softens the material above its glass transition temperature, enabling adjustable alignment of a sensor board relative to an optics unit, with the option to re-solidify and re-align multiple times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If UV curing glue is used to fix the image sensor to the optics unit, then the alignment can be performed, but the process becomes complex and requires a clean environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the UV curing glue from the alignment process entirely. Instead of using adhesive materials that require careful application, storage, and curing, the invention uses a mechanical coupling system with a coupling member that engages with the sensor board and optics unit without requiring any adhesive substances, thereby simplifying the overall process.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary element between the sensor board and the optics unit. This intermediate component provides the alignment function without requiring UV curing glue, serving as a mechanical mediator that enables precise positioning while avoiding the complexities of adhesive application and curing.
2Manufacturing precision
If UV curing glue is used to fix the image sensor, then the alignment can be performed, but the process requires a clean environment to prevent dust contamination
Solution Approach 1:
By removing UV curing glue from the process, the invention eliminates the source of dust contamination. Without adhesive materials being applied and cured, there is no risk of dust particles entering the assembly area and contaminating the sensor or optics, thereby removing this harmful factor entirely.
3Manufacturing precision
If UV curing glue is used to fix the image sensor, then the alignment can be performed, but the curing process is permanent and cannot be reversed
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is designed to provide a dynamic, reversible connection rather than a permanent fixed bond. The mechanical engagement can be disengaged and re-engaged, allowing the alignment to be adjusted or corrected if needed, thereby providing adaptability and versatility that permanent adhesives cannot offer.
4Manufacturing precision
If UV curing glue is used to fix the image sensor, then the alignment can be performed, but specific knowledge is required regarding UV light parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the UV curing step entirely from the process. By using a mechanical coupling system instead of UV-curing adhesives, the complex knowledge requirements regarding UV light wavelength, intensity, curing time, and curing depth are eliminated, simplifying the overall process requirements.
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
This solution simplifies the alignment process, reduces the need for a clean environment, allows for re-alignment, and supports the use of various materials, including those unsuitable for UV gluing, while minimizing heat impact on sensitive camera components.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element which upon activation is arranged to transfer heat to the section such that the section at least partly is heated to a temperature being at least the glass transition temperature
Implementation Method 2
a section formed by a thermoplastic material... heated to a temperature being at least the glass transition temperature for the thermoplastic material for enabling alignment
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment member for alignment of a sensor board relative an optics unit where the alignment member is arranged to couple the sensor board to the optics unit. The alignment member comprises: a section formed by a thermoplastic material and arranged to support the sensor board; and a heating element which upon activation is arranged to transfer heat to the section such that the section at least partly is heated to a temperature being at least the glass transition temperature for the thermoplastic material for enabling alignment of the sensor board relative the optics unit. A camera arrangement comprises a sensor board, an optics unit, and an alignment member. A method for aligning a sensor board relative an optics unit.