3.1mm 3D AF Endoscope Module: Selection Guide for Micro-Space Inspection
You are here: Home » About Us » News » Latest News » 3.1mm 3D AF Endoscope Module: Selection Guide for Micro-Space Inspection

3.1mm 3D AF Endoscope Module: Selection Guide for Micro-Space Inspection

Views: 0     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2026-04-15      Origin: Site

Inquire

wechat sharing button
line sharing button
twitter sharing button
facebook sharing button
linkedin sharing button
pinterest sharing button
whatsapp sharing button
sharethis sharing button

In micro-pipeline 3D inspection, minimally invasive medical stereoscopic vision, and industrial precision measurement, traditional 2D endoscopes can only provide flat images, lacking depth information and three-dimensional contours, making defect size judgment difficult and limiting operational accuracy. When the inspection task demands “seeing depth,” a module featuring a 3.1mm ultra-micro diameter, split structure, VCM auto-focus, 140° ultra-wide angle, and 3D stereoscopic imaging becomes a cutting-edge solution worth evaluating. This article provides a clear selection framework from four dimensions—3D imaging principles, physical size, auto-focus & field of view, and interface & integration—while incorporating key terms such as endoscope camera module, custom endoscope camera module, usb endoscope camera, Wide Angle Camera Module, and Mini Camera Module to help you precisely match micro-space 3D vision inspection needs.

1. 3D Stereoscopic Imaging: From Flat to Depth

First step: Determine whether the inspection task requires depth information, contour measurement, or spatial positioning.

This module uses dual optical path synchronous acquisition to output 3D stereoscopic images, accurately restoring object depth, contour, and deformation, providing stereo measurement capabilities that traditional 2D endoscopes lack. As a professional 3D solution among endoscope camera module products, its engineering value lies in:

  • Measuring the depth of micro-defects, volume of pits, or height of protrusions, suitable for precision part quality inspection and solder joint morphology assessment.

  • In minimally invasive surgery, providing tissue depth perception to help surgeons accurately judge the relative position of instruments and tissues, reducing operational risks.

  • Compared to monocular 2D solutions, 3D imaging eliminates visual ambiguity, making it especially suitable for robot guidance or automated inspection requiring spatial positioning.

When selecting, assess: If only surface color, texture, or rough morphology is needed, a 2D solution is more cost-effective; but for dimensional measurement, depth assessment, or stereoscopic navigation, 3D is necessary. The 3D output requires a compatible 3D display or algorithm processing—confirm backend capability before selection.

2. Physical Size: 3.1mm Micro Probe and Split Structure

Second step: Evaluate the minimum inner diameter of the target channel and the internal space constraints of the device.

The probe diameter is only 3.1mm, with a split structure (probe and main board separated), representing a typical Mini Camera Module design. The engineering significance of this specification:

  • Easily accesses micro-pipes, deep holes, and precision instrument gaps with inner diameter ≥3.5mm, filling a gap where traditional 3D endoscopes cannot enter.

  • The split structure allows the main board to be placed away from the narrow detection area, facilitating integration into handheld devices, robots, or fixed instruments, while reducing probe weight and volume.

  • The 3.1mm diameter achieves extreme miniaturization while maintaining dual-optical-path 3D imaging, representing a frontier in 3D endoscope technology.

As a base for custom endoscope camera module, the probe diameter, rigid section length, and cable flexibility can be customized. Note: 3.1mm is the bare probe diameter; adding a protective sheath increases outer diameter. For curved channels, evaluate the bending radius and flexibility.

3. Auto-Focus and Ultra-Wide Angle: Enhancing Usability and Coverage Efficiency

Third step: Confirm whether the working distance varies and the single-frame coverage requirement.

This module integrates VCM (voice coil motor) auto-focus, maintaining clear imaging at different distances without manual adjustment. It also features a 140° ultra-wide angle (a characteristic of Wide Angle Camera Module), covering a much larger area per frame than conventional endoscopes. The core value:

  • VCM auto-focus eliminates the hassle of frequent focusing, ideal for scenarios with uncertain working distances (e.g., varying depths inside pipes, moving surgical instruments).

  • The 140° wide angle significantly reduces probe movement, covering a larger circumferential area in deep holes or cavities in a single pass, improving efficiency.

  • Adjustable aperture allows flexible control of brightness and contrast under different lighting conditions, adapting to complex environments.

As an advanced form of usb endoscope camera, the auto-focus and wide-angle features give it a significant advantage in dynamic inspection. When selecting, verify: The response speed of auto-focus meets the operational pace; distortion at the wide-angle edges is acceptable (3D imaging is more sensitive to distortion—test in real scenes).

4. Interface and Integration: USB Plug-and-Play and Customization Capability

Fourth step: Evaluate host interface type, power supply capability, and system integration complexity.

This module uses USB 5V power, DP+/DM- for data transmission, dual GND for grounding, following standard USB protocol. As a usb endoscope camera, its plug-and-play nature lowers development barriers. Additionally, SincereFirst offers custom endoscope camera module services, adjusting cable length, connector type, main board size, and housing material. Selection considerations:

  • Does the host provide sufficient USB bandwidth? 3D video streams have higher data volume; USB 3.0 or above is recommended.

  • Does 3D image post-processing require a dedicated SDK or driver? UVC supports only 2D; 3D output may need a custom protocol.

  • For embedded systems, confirm whether the host chip supports dual-lane MIPI or USB 3D transmission.

5. Typical Application Scenarios and Selection Mapping

Application Scenario

Recommended Configuration

Selection Rationale

Industrial micro-pipe 3D inspection

3.1mm bare probe + long cable

Enters ≥3.5mm pipes; 3D reveals corrosion depth and crack profiles

Minimally invasive surgical 3D vision guidance

Medical-grade housing + disposable sheath

Auto-focus adapts to instrument movement; 140° wide angle reduces blind spots; depth info enhances safety

Precision electronics solder joint 3D measurement

Fixed mount + ring light

3D measures paste height and coplanarity, replacing expensive laser profilometers

Research micro-stereo observation

Microscope adapter + PC software

3D records micro-surface deformation for mechanical or thermal analysis

Robotic 3D environment perception

Miniaturized main board + flexible cable

3.1mm probe integrates on robotic arm; depth info for obstacle avoidance and grasping

6. Selection Decision Summary

The core value of the 3.1mm 3D auto-focus endoscope module lies in integrating the extreme miniaturization of a Mini Camera Module, the wide coverage of a Wide Angle Camera Module, the convenience of VCM auto-focus, and the depth information of 3D stereoscopic imaging—providing an unprecedented tool for micro-space precision inspection and stereo measurement. When selecting, prioritize three questions:

  • Is depth information needed? If measuring defect depth, contour, or spatial positioning is required, 3D is necessary; for flat observation, 2D is more economical.

  • How narrow is the space? If the channel inner diameter ≥3.5mm, the 3.1mm probe fits; if smaller, evaluate customizing an even smaller diameter.

  • Does the host support 3D? USB 2.0 bandwidth may be insufficient; USB 3.0 or compressed transmission is recommended; the display must support 3D or have corresponding algorithm synthesis.

As a manufacturer with over 30 years of optical imaging experience, SincereFirst not only supplies standard endoscope camera module products but also provides custom endoscope camera module services, including adjusting probe diameter, cable length, auto-focus parameters, and 3D algorithm integration. We recommend obtaining engineering samples before mass production and conducting 3D imaging quality, auto-focus response, and depth measurement accuracy tests in real micro-holes or surgical simulation environments to ensure your selection is both scientifically sound and forward-looking.

SincereFull Factory is a Leading high-tech enterprise in integrated optical device manufacturer and optical imaging system solution provider since 1992's foundation.

Contact Us

Phone: +86-17665309551
E-Mail: sales@cameramodule.cn
WhatsApp: +8617665309551
Skype: sales@sincerefirst.com
Address: 501, Building 1, No. 26, Guanyong Industrial Road, Guanyong Village, Shiqi Town

Quick Links

Applications

Keep In Touch With Us
​Copyright ©2024 Guangzhou Sincere Information Technology Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved. | Sitemap | Privacy Policy