Detecting loss of alignment of optical imaging modules
US11025898B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 29, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jun 1, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 16, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/50
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Imaging apparatus includes a housing, with imaging optics mounted in the housing and configured to form an optical image, at a focal plane within the housing, of an object outside the housing. An image sensor, including a matrix of detector elements, is positioned at the focal plane in alignment with the imaging optics and is configured to output an electronic image signal in response to optical radiation that is incident on the detector elements. At least one emitter is fixed within the housing and is configured to emit a test beam toward one or more reflective surfaces within the housing, which reflect the test beam toward the image sensor. A processor is configured to process the electronic image signal output by the image sensor in response to the reflected test beam so as to detect a change in the alignment of the image sensor with the imaging optics.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.