Vision System Stress Reduction via Dual Frame Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern opto-electronic vision and sighting systems face challenges in maintaining stable optical axis positioning and preventing malfunctions under dynamic mechanical stresses, such as those encountered on self-propelled vehicles, especially when costs are a concern.

Innovation Solution

A vision and sighting system comprising a video camera with an internal frame supported by an external frame, where sliding mechanisms and shock absorbers reduce mechanical stresses, and a return mechanism with a pressure roller and inclined surface maintain the internal frame's stable equilibrium, minimizing acceleration and preventing damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If high-performance stress reduction systems are used for video camera assemblies, then reliability and optical axis stability are improved, but cost increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the support structure into two distinct frames: an external frame that receives dynamic stresses and an internal frame that supports the video camera. The frames are coupled through stress reduction members that selectively isolate the internal frame from external vibrations and shocks, thereby protecting the camera while maintaining cost-effectiveness through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Stress reduction members are introduced as intermediary elements between the external and internal frames. These members selectively transmit or isolate mechanical stresses, allowing the system to protect the video camera from harmful vibrations and shocks while maintaining a simple and cost-effective structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If rigid mounting is used to secure video camera, then structural stability is improved, but transmission of mechanical stresses and vibrations to the camera increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidmechanical stress transmission
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling between external and internal frames is made dynamic rather than rigid. The stress reduction members allow relative motion and deformation in response to external vibrations and shocks, enabling the system to adapt to dynamic conditions while protecting the video camera from harmful stress transmission

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

The system effectively reduces mechanical stress transmission to the video camera, maintaining stable optical axis positioning and preventing malfunctions under dynamic conditions while being cost-effective.

Implementation Method 1

The shock absorbers allow damages resulting from the occurrence of this abnormal condition to be avoided or reduced. The shock absorbers can be elastic, or visco-elastic systems, or comprise or be formed by components made of rubber or other soft material capable of dissipating the kinetic energy of the shock between external frame and internal frame.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShock absorption: Damping

Implementation Method 2

The shock absorbers can be elastic, or visco-elastic systems, or comprise or be formed by components made of rubber or other soft material capable of dissipating the kinetic energy of the shock between external frame and internal frame.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

The shock absorbers can be elastic, or visco-elastic systems, or comprise or be formed by components made of rubber or other soft material capable of dissipating the kinetic energy of the shock between external frame and internal frame.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectViscoelasticity: Viscoelasticity

Implementation Method 4

A return mechanism of the internal frame toward an intermediate position of stable equilibrium of the internal frame with respect to the external frame is also provided. The return mechanism comprises a pressure member, preferably a pressure roller, elastically stressed against a surface with double inclination.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2891009B8Vision system with video camera and system for reducing stresses
Publication Date: 2016.12.21 LEONARDO

AI summary

The vision and/or sighting system comprises: a video camera (107) with an optical axis (A-A); an internal frame (105) containing the video camera (107); and an external frame (103), in which the internal frame (105) is supported. Between the external frame (103) and the internal frame (105) there are arranged members for reducing the acceleration transmitted (124, 126, 130) or the mechanical stresses transmitted by the external frame to the internal frame.