Tilted Reticle Collimator for Compact Camera Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing collimator adjustment process is time-consuming, requiring multiple image captures and large collimator sizes, which increase the overall construction dimensions and complexity, especially in automated production lines like the automotive sector.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves tilting the object plane of the collimator by an angle deviating from 90 degrees in combination with a short focal length, similar to the camera lens, using a reticle with one line aligned along the tilt axis and the other perpendicular to it, and employing micro lenses and optical systems like mirrors or afocal optics to guide light beams effectively, allowing for camera lens adjustment based on a single image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional collimator with long focal length is used, then the collimator can generate parallel light beams, but the collimator size and overall construction dimensions become large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of focal length from conventional long values to short values (a few millimeters), fundamentally altering the collimator's size while maintaining its function through a different optical configuration involving tilted reticle and specific lens arrangements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a tilt angle dimension for the reticle plane relative to the optical axis, creating a three-dimensional geometric relationship that enables short focal length collimation while maintaining beam parallelism through angular compensation
2Measurement precision
If multiple image captures are performed for camera adjustment, then the alignment precision can be improved, but the adjustment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary geometric configuration of the collimator system (tilted reticle at specific angles, short focal length lens positioning) during manufacturing or setup, so that during actual camera adjustment only a single image capture is needed rather than multiple iterative captures
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric configuration of the tilted reticle and short focal length optics creates a self-aligning system where the camera lens automatically finds its correct position relative to the collimator's unique geometric signature in a single image, without requiring iterative adjustment
3Volume of moving object
If a tilted reticle configuration is used, then the system complexity increases, but the collimator size can be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry by tilting the reticle plane at a specific angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the optical axis, creating an asymmetric optical path that enables compact configuration while maintaining collimation function through geometric compensation
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 approach significantly reduces the time required for camera adjustment, enables a compact and cost-effective camera mounting system, and allows for modular and easy replacement in production lines, by determining the lens position and distance from a single image, while maintaining image sharpness and extending the measuring range.
Implementation Method 1
A light source (2) is present in the collimator housing (1) to illuminate the reticle (4)
Implementation Method 2
An optic (5), in particular a lens, is arranged in the collimator housing (1) to form an image of the reticle (4)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a collimator for testing a camera (6), comprising a collimator housing (1), wherein the collimator housing (1) has a longitudinal wall (8, 9) and two end walls (10, 11), the first end wall (10) having a light source (2) and the second end wall (11) having a lens (5), a reticle (4) being disposed between the lens (5) and the light source, with the reticle (4) being disposed obliquely with respect to the lens (5) and/or obliquely with respect to the longitudinal wall (8, 9) in the collimator housing (1).