System for multi-lens device

Abstract

The system is provided with a multi-lens device. In one example, the multi-lens device includes a volumetrically flexible compartment fluidly coupled to a gap between a first lens and a second lens of a lens assembly. The gap and the flexible compartment are hermetically sealed with an outer side of the lens assembly. A desiccant is positioned between the compartment and the gap.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 603,569, filed on November 28, 2023, entitled "System for a Multi - Lens Device". The entire content of the above application is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to multi - lens devices, and more particularly to optical devices.

[0004] Background Art / Disclosure of the Invention

[0005] Multi - lens devices can include, but are not limited to, windows, cameras, lights, telescopes, and binoculars. A multi - lens device can include a lens assembly having a plurality of lenses (e.g., two or more lenses) spaced apart from each other. The lens assembly can be hermetically sealed. For example, a compartment containing the gap between adjacent lenses can be hermetically sealed with a gas therein. In one example, an inert gas can be hermetically sealed between the lenses to increase the optical clarity of the lenses, e.g., by reducing condensation.

[0006] Due to changes in ambient temperature, such compartments of the lens assembly can be prone to pressure fluctuations. These pressure fluctuations can cause additional stress on the gaskets and / or sealants. Over time, the additional stress can degrade the gaskets and / or sealants, allowing the inert gas to escape and / or impurities to enter. Thus, a need exists for a system different from existing available systems. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure provides support for a multi - lens device that includes a volumetrically flexible compartment fluidly coupled to the gap between a first lens and a second lens of a lens assembly, wherein the gap and the flexible compartment are hermetically sealed from the outside of the lens assembly.

[0008] In this way, compared to a system with a hermetically sealed fixed volume, a change in temperature can cause a corresponding increase or decrease in the volume of the flexible compartment, thereby reducing the impact on the pressure within the gap. Accordingly, gaskets and / or seals forming the hermetic seal of the gap with the outside of the lens assembly may experience less stress and can thus maintain the hermetic seal more effectively and / or for a longer period of time. Additionally, the multi - lens device can include a desiccant positioned between the gap and the flexible compartment. The desiccant can reduce moisture in the gap, reducing the formation of condensation on the lenses within the gap.

[0009] It should be understood that the above Summary of the Invention is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a series of concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description. It is not intended to identify the key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is uniquely defined by the claims that follow the Detailed Description. Moreover, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present disclosure may be better understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 An environment of a multi-lens device is shown;

[0012] Figure 2 A perspective view of the multi-lens device is shown;

[0013] Figure 3 The multi-lens device exposed to a first temperature is shown;

[0014] Figure 4 The multi-lens device exposed to a second temperature is shown; and

[0015] Figures 5A to 5F Different views of the multi-lens device including an expansion device are shown.

[0016] Figures 5A to 5F Shown approximately to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The present disclosure provides support for a multi-lens device. In one example, the multi-lens device is an optical device. In another example, additionally or alternatively, the multi-lens device is a lighting fixture. The multi-lens device can be used in various indoor and / or outdoor scenarios, examples of which are schematically shown in Figure 1 . A perspective view of an example of the multi-lens device is shown in Figure 2 . Figure 3 And Figure 4 show schematic views of the multi-lens device in different temperature scenarios. Figures 5A to 5F show different views of an exemplary multi-lens device including its lens assembly with an expansion device.

[0018] It should be understood that the specific components and systems shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined herein. For the purpose of discussion, the drawings are described uniformly. Accordingly, like elements may be commonly referred to herein by like reference numerals and may not be reintroduced.

[0019] Now turning to Figure 1, which shows environment 10. In one example, environment 10 is an outdoor scene including stage 12. In other examples, stage 12 can be indoors. Stage 12 can be an amphitheater. Transport device 20 can transport various equipment for positioning on the stage.

[0020] Multiple multi-lens devices (including multi-lens device 100) can be positioned on or coupled to various parts of stage 12. Multi-lens device 100 may be exposed to different weather and temperature conditions, such as rain 30, the temperature of transport device 20, and the outside (e.g., ambient) temperature. As discussed herein, temperature changes greater than a determined value may stress one or more seals and / or gaskets of multi-lens device 100.

[0021] For example, according to the ideal gas law provided in Equation (1), changing temperature may affect the pressure experienced by the seals and / or gaskets:

[0022] PV = nRT (1)

[0023] Where n and R are constants, and at a constant volume (V), when the temperature (T) increases, the pressure (P) will increase. Equation (1) can be a simplified representation of the general correlation between the pressure, temperature, and volume of the sealed compartment of multi-lens device 100. The gas in the sealed compartment may deviate from the ideal gas law and behave more precisely according to other equations of state. However, the correlation between pressure, temperature, and volume (e.g., direct correlation vs. inverse correlation) can be captured by Equation (1) and is used herein to demonstrate the impact of changing environmental conditions on the sealed compartment.

[0024] The stress experienced by the seals and / or gaskets at higher or lower pressures may cause the seals and / or gaskets to degrade prematurely, which may allow water, dust, and other contaminants to enter the previously airtight sealed compartment. Additionally, the degradation of the seals and / or gaskets may allow gas to leak from the previously airtight sealed compartment. Thus, an expansion device can be included with multi-lens device 100, where the expansion device is configured to account for pressure changes due to temperature fluctuations, delay the degradation of the seals and / or gaskets, and thereby extend the airtight seal of the airtight sealed compartment.

[0025] Now turning to Figure 2 , which shows a perspective view 200 of multi-lens device 100. Thus, the previously introduced components are similarly numbered in this figure and subsequent figures. Figures 2 to 5F An axis system 290 including an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis is shown in to compare the orientations shown therein. In one example, the x-axis is parallel to the lateral direction, the y-axis is parallel to the vertical direction, and the z-axis is parallel to the transverse direction.

[0026] The multi-lens device 100 may include a base 124 coupled to a yoke 123. The base 124 may be fixed to a structure, such as Figure 1 the stage 12 or a frame extending therefrom. Thus, the base 124 may be stationary.

[0027] The yoke 123 may be vertically positioned above the base 124. The yoke 123 may be coupled to the base 124 in such a manner that the yoke 123 may rotate relative to the base 124. For example, the yoke 123 may be configured to articulate relative to the base 124 about a translation axis 125 parallel to the y-axis. In one example, the yoke 123 may articulate about the pan axis 125 in exactly the same direction as arrow 212. In another example, the yoke 123 may articulate about the pan axis 125 in a direction opposite to arrow 212.

[0028] The yoke 123 may also be coupled to the housing 110 of the multi-lens device 100. For example, the yoke 123 may extend upward along the side of the multi-lens device 100 and be coupled to the multi-lens device 100 at diametrically opposite points. In this way, the housing 110 may be configured to articulate relative to the yoke 123 about a tilt axis 120 parallel to the x-axis. For example, the housing 110 may articulate about the tilt axis 120 in exactly the same or opposite rotational direction as arrow 214. The tilt axis 120 may be normal to the pan axis 125.

[0029] The optical path 113 may be adjusted based on the articulation of one or more of the yoke 123 and the housing 110. For example, the optical path 113 may be parallel to the light emitted from the multi-lens device 100. The articulation of the yoke 123 may adjust the horizontal position (e.g., x and z direction components) of the optical path 113. The articulation of the housing 110 may adjust the vertical elevation (e.g., y direction component) of the optical path 113. In other examples, the optical path 113 may be fixed rather than movable.

[0030] Now turning to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , they respectively illustrate examples 300 and 400 of the multi-lens device 100 exposed to a first temperature 302 and a second temperature 402. In one example, the first temperature 302 is greater than the second temperature 402. Figure 3 and Figure 4 also illustrate the interior of the multi-lens device 100. Described herein in conjunction are Figure 3 and Figure 4 .

[0031] The multi-lens device 100 may include a first hinge joint 310 disposed between the housing 110 and the yoke 123. The first hinge joint 310 may allow the housing 110 to rotate relative to the yoke 123 about the pitch axis 120. The multi-lens device 100 may further include a second hinge joint 320 disposed between the yoke 123 and the base 124. The second hinge joint 320 may allow the yoke 123 to rotate relative to the base 124 about the pan axis 125.

[0032] The controller 126 may be electrically coupled to the multi-lens device 100. The controller 126 may include instructions stored in a memory (e.g., non-volatile memory) that cause the controller 126 to adjust the position of the multi-lens device 100 along the pan axis 125 or along the pitch axis 120. The instructions may also cause the controller to adjust the output of the light source 121.

[0033] The multi-lens device 100 may include an internal volume 111 formed through the housing 110. The internal volume 111 may include a light source 121 configured to emit light toward the lens assembly 350. For example, the light source 121 may be a light-emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light of one or more colors (e.g., wavelengths).

[0034] The lens assembly 350 may include one or more of a first lens 101, a second lens 102, and a lens assembly housing 103. The lens assembly 350 may include two or more lenses, in addition to or instead of the first lens 101 and the second lens 102. In one example, the lens assembly housing 103 may be physically coupled to the housing 110. In some examples, additionally or alternatively, the lens assembly housing 103 and the housing 110 may be a single piece. The lens assembly 350 may further include a gap 104. The gap 104 may be an enclosed space between the first lens 101 and the second lens 102. In this way, the first lens 101 and the second lens 102 are spaced apart and do not touch the second lens.

[0035] The lenses 101, 102 can be made of a transparent material such as glass or plastic. The lenses 101, 102 can include surface features such as bends (e.g., convex or concave surfaces), pits, grooves, protrusions, textures, combinations thereof, etc. For example, the surface features can be configured to focus or otherwise redistribute light passing through the lenses 101, 102. Additionally or alternatively, the lenses 101, 102 can be flat (e.g., planar) on one or more of their surfaces, such as a window glass sheet. Additionally or alternatively, the lenses 101, 102 can have smooth surfaces. The first lens 101 and the second lens 102 can be identical. In other examples, the first lens 101 and the second lens 102 can have different shapes (e.g., convexity, perimeter shape, etc.) and / or sizes (e.g., diameter, perimeter, surface area, thickness, etc.).

[0036] The first lens 101 and the second lens 102 can be positioned such that the lenses 101, 102 receive light emitted from the light source 121. The lenses 101, 102 can be positioned such that the second lens 102 is closer to the light source 121 than the first lens 101. The light can travel through the first lens 101 before reaching the second lens 102. The first lens 101 and the second lens 102 can be positioned parallel to each other. The optical path 113 can extend through both the first lens 101 and the second lens 102.

[0037] In some examples, additional lenses such as three or more lenses can be included in the multi-lens device 100, and the optical path 113 extends through the additional lenses such that the lenses receive light emitted by the light source 121. Two or more lenses can be arranged in parallel with gaps similar to the gap 104 placed between each pair of adjacent lenses. The gaps can be fluidly coupled to each other and hermetically sealed to the outside of the multi-lens device 100.

[0038] The optical path 113 can also extend through components placed between the light source 121 and the lenses 101, 102. For example, the optical path 113 can extend through the opening 130, which can adjust the beam width 308 of the light emitted by the light source 121. There can also be Figure 3 and Figure 4 additional components placed between the light source 121 and the lenses 101, 102 that are not shown in

[0039] The gap 104 may contain an inert gas. For example, the gap 104 may be filled with an inert gas, which includes a single inert gas or a combination of inert gases. The gas included in the gap 104 may include one or more of oxygen, nitrogen, argon, neon, or other inert gases. In one example, the gap 104 is argon flushed such that substantially only argon is present in the gap 104. The gap 104 may be sealed from the outside of the multi-lens device 100. For example, one or more seals and / or gaskets may be configured to form an airtight seal with the atmosphere. In this way, impurities can be prevented from entering the gap 104. For example, droplets or vapors (such as water, alcohol, oil, etc.) are not allowed to be present within the gap 104. By airtight sealing the gap 104, the formation of condensation on one or both of the lenses 101, 102 can be reduced (e.g., prevented), increasing the optical quality of the multi-lens device 100.

[0040] Throughout the temperature fluctuations, the pressure within the gap 104 can change accordingly. For example, changes in the ambient temperature (e.g., due to weather patterns) and / or changes in the internal temperature (e.g., the light source 121 heats the gas within the gap 104) may cause such pressure changes, e.g., according to Equation (1) provided above or different corresponding equations of state.

[0041] The lens assembly 350 may further include an expansion device 306 coupled to the lens assembly housing 103. The expansion device 306 may include a flexible compartment 105 and a desiccant 106. The internal volume of the flexible compartment 105 may be fluidly coupled to the gap 104 via an opening 107 within the lens assembly housing 103. The flexible compartment 105 may be sealed from the atmosphere such that the gap 104 and the internal volume 111 of the housing 110 are airtight sealed from the atmosphere. The sealed space 352 may include the interior of the flexible compartment 105 and the gap 104. The sealed space 352 may be sealed from the outside of the lens assembly 350. Due to the inclusion of the flexible compartment 105, the sealed space 352 may have an adjustable volume. In this way, changes in the temperature and / or pressure of the gas within the sealed space 352 may cause a corresponding change in the volume of the sealed space 352.

[0042] The desiccant 106 can be positioned within or adjacent to the opening 107. The desiccant 106 can be configured to reduce moisture within the gap 104. For example, the desiccant 106 can include drying granules that draw water molecules from the gap 104 into the flexible compartment 105 while allowing air to flow bidirectionally through the desiccant 106. Additionally or alternatively, the desiccant 106 can include a permeable membrane that allows air or an inert gas to flow from the gap 104 to the flexible compartment 105 and vice versa, and allows water molecules to pass from the gap 104 to the flexible compartment 105 but not from the flexible compartment 105 to the gap 104. In this way, water molecules can be drawn from the gap 104 via the desiccant 106, reducing condensation buildup on the lenses 101, 102. Additionally, the desiccant 106 can not impede gas transfer between the gap 104 and the flexible compartment 105 based on temperature and pressure.

[0043] The flexible compartment 105 can be configured to expand or contract based on the temperature of the gas within the gap 104. That is, the flexible compartment 105 can have an adjustable volume contained therein. Thus, the flexible compartment 105 can also be referred to herein as the volume flexible compartment 105. The flexible compartment 105 can be constructed of a flexible material (such as rubber, silicone, ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM), combinations thereof, etc.). For example, the flexible material can form an inflatable airbag. Additionally or alternatively, the flexible compartment 105 can be constructed (e.g., formed) to be stretchable and expandable with or without stretching the material. For example, the flexible compartment 105 can be configured to have bellows with a concertina-like fold (e.g., a zigzag fold, a fan fold, etc.), or other flexible structures that can be folded in a hexagonal concertina fashion. As another example, the flexible compartment 105 can be configured as a movable piston that displaces based on the pressure within the gap 104 to increase or decrease the volume fluidly coupled to the gap 104. In this way, the flexible compartment 105 can allow adjustment of the volume of the gap 104 (e.g., rather than pressure) due to temperature changes. For example, the flexible compartment 105 can be configured to expand to at least a quarter of the volume of the gap 104. Additionally or alternatively, the flexible compartment 105 can increase the volume of the sealed space 352 by 1.1 times or more in the expanded position compared to the contracted position.

[0044] At Figure 3In Example 300, the first temperature 302 is a relatively high temperature, which can increase the pressure of the gas within the gap 104. The flexible compartment 105 is shown in the expanded position, thereby increasing the volume of the sealed space 352 and reducing the pressure of the gas therein. For example, when the flexible compartment 105 is made of a flexible material, the flexible material can be under elastic tension in the expanded position. The elastic tension can cause the flexible compartment to further expand from the gap 104, such as in the direction indicated by arrow 304. For example, when the flexible compartment 105 includes a fold (e.g., bellows), the fold can be stretched in the expanded position to include a wider angle therebetween and / or extend further from the gap 104 (e.g., in the direction indicated by arrow 304). For example, when the flexible compartment includes a movable piston, the movable piston can be positioned further away from the gap 104 in the expanded position (e.g., in the direction indicated by arrow 304).

[0045] In Figure 4 Example 400, the second temperature 402 is a relatively low temperature, which can decrease the pressure of the gas within the gap 104. The flexible compartment 105 is shown in the contracted position, thereby decreasing the volume of the sealed space 352 and increasing the pressure of the gas therein. The flexible compartment 105 can be compressed toward the gap 104 in the contracted position (e.g., in the direction indicated by arrow 404). For example, when the flexible compartment 105 is made of a flexible material, the elastic tension can be released, allowing the flexible compartment 105 to contract and bend. For example, when the flexible compartment includes a fold, the fold can be pressed together to include a narrower angle therebetween and / or move closer to the gap 104 (e.g., toward the direction indicated by arrow 404). For example, when the flexible compartment 105 includes a movable piston, the movable piston can be positioned closer to the gap 104 in the contracted position compared to the expanded position.

[0046] By allowing the flexible compartment 105 to expand and contract to minimize changes in the pressure within the gap 104, an airtight seal can be maintained between the gap 104 and the flexible compartment 105 and the exterior of the lens assembly 350 (e.g., the atmosphere), such that condensate and other contaminants do not enter the gap 104 and degrade the condition of the first lens 101 or the second lens 102.

[0047] In Figure 3 and Figure 4 the examples, the flexible compartment 105 is shown to expand and contract in a direction parallel to the lenses 101, 102 and perpendicular to the optical path 113. In other examples, the flexible compartment 105 can be oriented to expand and contract in other directions. For example, the flexible compartment can extend perpendicular to the lenses 101, 102 and / or parallel to the optical path 113. Such a configuration can allow the expansion device 306 to be positioned within the housing 110, as Figures 5A to 5FAs shown in the example, the packaging volume of the multi-lens device 100 is reduced. However, in other examples, the expansion device 306 can be configured to be in other orientations, such as when the flexible compartment does not extend parallel or perpendicular to the lenses 101, 103 or the optical path 113. In this way, the expansion device 306 can be configured relative to the gap 104 and the lenses 101, 102 according to the configuration of the multi-lens device 100 (which can vary between its embodiments, such as optical devices (e.g., lamps, binoculars, etc.), automotive devices, thermal windows, electronic devices, etc.).

[0048] Now turning to Figures 5A to 5E , which show various views of the multi-lens device 100 and various parts of the lens assembly 350 including the expansion device 510.

[0049] Figure 5A A fully assembled view 500 of the housing 110 of the multi-lens device 100 is shown. Wherein the internal volume of the housing 110 is sealed, and the removable top cover 508 is fastened in place. The lens assembly housing 103 can be coupled to the housing 110. Alternatively, the lens assembly housing 103 can be integral with the housing 110. For example, the lens assembly housing 103 can be located at the first end 502 of the multi-lens device 100. The housing 110 can include various features for actuating the multi-lens device 100, such as a seat 528 for a first hinge joint 310 for Figure 3 and Figure 4 .

[0050] Figure 5B An internal view 520 of the housing 110 of the multi-lens device 100 is shown. Wherein the top cover 508 is removed, and the components of the multi-lens device 100 are shown, including the second lens 102 and the expansion device 510. A light source (such as the light source 121 in Figure 3 and Figure 4 ) can be located inside the multi-lens device 100 near its second end 504, for example when the multi-lens device 100 is an optical device such as a lamp. The expansion device 510 is an example of the expansion device 306 for Figure 3 and Figure 4 . Thus, the expansion device 510 includes a flexible compartment 105.

[0051] Figure 5C An example 540 of the lens assembly housing 103 is shown. The lens assembly housing 103 can include a plurality of features that can engage with the features of the housing 110 of the multi-lens device 100 to physically couple the lens assembly housing 103 to the housing 110. In one example, the lens assembly housing 103 is fixedly coupled to the housing 110 via tabs 542, 543 that engage with slots in the housing 110.

[0052] In one example, the lens assembly housing 103 can include a rectangular shape having a bottom portion 516, side arms 506, and a top portion 518. In other examples, the lens assembly housing 103 can include other shapes, such as circular, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The lens assembly housing 103 can circumferentially surround the lenses 101, 102, and the gap 104. Tabs 542, 543 can be disposed on the side arms 506. The lens assembly housing 103 can be sealably coupled to the lenses 101, 102 such that an airtight seal is formed between the interior of the expansion device 510 (which is fluidly coupled to the gap 104) and the outside of the expansion device 510. For example, a gasket can be positioned at the interface where the lenses 101, 102 meet the lens assembly housing 103, such as along the circumference of the lenses 101, 102.

[0053] The top portion 518 of the lens assembly housing 103 can include a mounting portion 546 extending therefrom. The expansion device 510 can be at least partially received within the mounting seat 546. The mounting portion 546 can extend from a portion of the lens assembly housing 103 that surrounds the second lens 102, as Figure 5C shown in the example of. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting portion 546 can extend from a portion of the lens assembly housing 103 that surrounds the gap 104. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting portion 546 can extend from a portion of the lens assembly housing 103 that surrounds the first lens 101. The mounting portion 546 can extend radially away from the lenses 101, 102. Alternatively, the mounting portion 546 can extend laterally away from the lenses 101, 102. As described above, the orientation of the expansion device 510 can be selected according to the configuration of the multi-lens device 100. Thus, the mounting portion 546 extends in a direction away from the lenses 101, 102 according to the desired expansion direction of the flexible compartment 105. For example, the mounting portion 546 can project from the lens assembly housing 103 in a direction perpendicular to the expansion direction 512 and the contraction direction 514, in which the flexible compartment 105 can expand and contract, respectively. The mounting portion 546 can support the flexible compartment 105 during its entire actuation (e.g., expansion and contraction).

[0054] The flexible compartment 105 can be fluidly coupled to the mounting portion 546. Additionally, the flexible compartment 105 can be sealed using the mounting portion 546 around the perimeter of the flexible compartment 105 in order to maintain an airtight seal between the inside and the outside of the expansion device 510. The flexible compartment 105 can be at least partially positioned within the mounting portion 546 and held relative to the mounting portion via a cover 522. The cover 522 can be physically coupled to the mounting portion 546 via fasteners 523, 524. For example, the cover 522 can be placed between the flexible compartment 105 and the mounting portion 546, as described below with respect to Figure 5Dis further described. The fasteners 523, 524 may include screws, bolts, etc. that extend through the cover 522 and the mounting portion 546. Additionally or alternatively, the cover 522 may be physically coupled to the mounting portion 546 via other means such as adhesives, welding, etc.

[0055] Figure 5D An exploded view 560 of the expansion device 510 is shown. The lens assembly housing 103 includes at least one opening 107 that fluidly couples the flexible compartment 105 to the gap 104 between the first lens 101 and the second lens 102. In one example, the opening 107 may be used to flush the gap 104 with an inert gas (such as argon, krypton, or nitrogen) before the expansion device 510 is positioned and utilized to seal the lens assembly housing 103. In this way, the gap 104 may be filled with an inert gas and may be free of other materials such as water vapor.

[0056] The desiccant 106 can be inserted into the interior of the mounting portion 546 prior to the flexible compartment 105. As described above, the desiccant 106 can include: a permeable membrane that regulates water transfer therethrough in only one direction; or a plurality of particles that attract moisture. The desiccant 106 can be shaped according to the mounting portion 546. For example, the desiccant 106 can fill the interior of the mounting portion 546 such that the entire perimeter of the desiccant 106 contacts the inner surface of the mounting portion 546. In this way, any molecules traveling through the mounting portion 546 will pass through the desiccant 106. Thus, the desiccant 106 can regulate the transport of materials through the desiccant between the gap 104 (which is fluidly coupled to the mounting portion 546 via the opening 107) and the flexible compartment 105. For example, as described above, water molecules can be allowed to pass from the mounting portion 546 through the desiccant 106 to the flexible compartment, but not vice versa. In this way, the formation of condensation on the lenses 101, 102 can be reduced. Gases (e.g., inert gases flushed into the gap 104) intended to be located within the gap 104 between the lenses 101, 102 can be allowed to travel in both directions through the desiccant 106 between the gap 104 and the flexible compartment 105. In this way, as the pressure in the gap 104 increases, the gas can flow into the flexible compartment 105, causing the volume of the flexible compartment 105 to expand and minimizing the change in pressure in the gap 104. For example, the flexible compartment 105 can expand outward (e.g., away from the lens assembly housing 103 and / or parallel to the z-axis). Similarly, as the pressure in the gap 104 decreases, the gas can flow from the flexible compartment 105 into the gap 104, causing the volume of the flexible compartment 105 to contract and minimizing the change in pressure in the gap 104. For example, the flexible compartment 105 can contract inward (e.g., toward the lens assembly housing 103 and / or parallel to the z-axis) in the contraction direction 514. By providing volume flexibility of the flexible compartment 105 and fluidly coupling the flexible compartment 105 to the gap 104, the internal volume including the flexible compartment 105 and the gap 104 can be volume flexible, reducing the effect of temperature changes on the pressure therein.

[0057] The flexible compartment 105 can be disposed between the desiccant 106 and the cover 522. The gasket 544 surrounding the perimeter of the flexible compartment 105 can be in coplanar contact with the desiccant 106 and the cover 522 when assembled, such that the desiccant 106 encloses the space inside the flexible compartment 105. The gasket 544 can be shaped according to the mounting portion 546 and the annular portion 538 of the lens assembly housing 103. The gasket 544 can include a curvature along the bottom edge 532 that matches the curvature of the second lens 102. In this way, the flexible compartment 105 can be positioned such that the bottom edge 532 of the gasket 544 is flush with the second lens 102 or with the annular portion 538 of the lens assembly housing 103 that circumferentially surrounds the second lens 102. Alternatively, the lens assembly housing 103 can include a leveling portion that levels the curvature of the annular portion 538 from which the mounting portion 546 projects, such that the bottom edge 532 is straightened and made flush with the lens assembly housing 103.

[0058] The cover 522 can be large enough to cover the gasket 544. The cover 522 can include a frame that includes an outer perimeter 548 that is approximately the same size and shape as the outer perimeter 554 of the gasket 544 (e.g., identical). For example, the bottom edge 564 of the cover 522 can include a curvature that matches the bottom edge 532 of the gasket 544. In this way, the cover 522 can also be flush with the annular portion 538 of the lens assembly housing 103. Additionally or alternatively, the bottom edges 532, 564 can include a curvature that matches the curvature of at least one of the first lens 101 and the second lens 102. In some examples, the desiccant 106 can also include a curved bottom edge that has a curvature that matches at least one of the first lens 101, the second lens 102, the annular portion 538, the bottom edge 532, and the bottom edge 564. The cover 522 can also include an inner perimeter 536 that extends into the space 534 between the lip of the gasket 544 and the flexible compartment 105. In at least some examples, the gasket 544 and the flexible compartment 105 are integral. The gasket 544 and the flexible compartment 105 can be connected via a connection surface 566 that has along the inner perimeter of the flexible compartment 105 and along the outer perimeter of the gasket 544. The connection surface 566 can be integral with the flexible compartment 105 and the gasket 544. The inner perimeter 536 of the cover 522 can have approximately the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the connection surface 566. The inner perimeter 536 of the cover 522 can be shaped to cover the opening 562 of the cover 522 through which the flexible compartment 105 can extend. The shape and size of the opening 562 can be determined based on the flexible compartment 105. For example, the cross-section of the flexible compartment 105 perpendicular to the expansion direction 512 and the contraction direction 514 can be substantially the same shape as and at least as large as the shape of the inner perimeter 536. By including the opening 562, the flexible compartment 105 can be actuated (e.g., expand and contract in the expansion direction 512 and the contraction direction 514, respectively) through the opening 562 based only on the pressure of the gap 104 and the atmosphere. For example, the cover 522 can not restrict the expansion or contraction of the flexible compartment 105. Fasteners 523, 524 can extend through through-holes 552 in the protrusions 556 of the cover 522 and be threadedly coupled to the mounting portions 546 to fasten the expansion device 510 to the lens assembly 350. For example, the protrusions 556 can extend outwardly from opposite sides of the frame of the cover 522. The fasteners 523, 524 can intersect the gasket 544 or the desiccant 106. In some examples, additional fasteners can be present, where the fasteners are equally spaced around the opening 562. In this way, the fasteners 523, 524 can compress the gasket 544 between the mounting portion 546 and the cover 522 to form an airtight seal around the outer perimeter 554 of the gasket 544.

[0059] Figure 5EShows a cross-sectional view 580 of a lens assembly 350, the lens assembly including a first lens 101, a second lens 102, a lens assembly housing 103, a gap 104, and a mounting portion 546. The cross-sectional view 580 can be a cross-section taken along Figure 5C a cutting plane 570 therein. The cross-sectional view 580 can show a channel 582 extending from at least one opening 107 to the mounting portion 546. Gas can flow between the gap 104 and the flexible compartment 105 via the opening 107 and the channel 582. Water vapor can travel via the opening 107 and the channel 582 to the desiccant 106 to reduce moisture within the gap 104.

[0060] Figure 5E A portion 550 of Figure 5F is magnified in Figure 5E and Figure 5F to show more details. For example,

[0061] Figures 5A to 5F Figure 5F The position shown can be a relatively contracted position where the flexible compartment 105 has a smaller volume compared to a more expanded position. The flexible compartment 105 can include a plurality of folds 592. The plurality of folds 592 can be zigzag folds that allow the flexible compartment 105 to expand and contract in volume similar to a bellows, an accordion, etc. For example, compared to the relatively contracted position of the flexible compartment 105, the distance 594 between adjacent folds in the plurality of folds 592 can be greater at the relatively expanded position of the flexible compartment. Additionally or alternatively, compared to the relatively contracted position, the distance 596 that the flexible compartment 105 protrudes from the cover 522 can be greater at the relatively expanded position. Additionally or alternatively, compared to the relatively contracted position, the distance 598 that the flexible compartment 105 protrudes from the connection surface 566 can be greater at the relatively expanded position.

[0061] Figures 5A to 5FThe example of the flexible compartment 105 shown is non-limiting for the volume flexibility mechanism. For example, other examples of volume flexible compartments may not include folds. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the volume flexible compartment may include an inflatable bladder made of an elastic material, the inflatable bladder having an expanded position that is an inflated state and a contracted position that is a deflated state. Alternatively, a movable piston may be displaced between an expanded position where the piston is closest to the gap 104 and a contracted position where the piston is farthest from the gap 104. In this way, the flexible compartment 105 can be configured to increase and decrease the volume therein that is fluidly coupled to the gap 104. The configuration of the flexible compartment 105 can be selected according to the application of the expansion device 510. For example, the resistance to expansion and the volume range between the expanded position and the contracted position can be adjusted by modifying the characteristics of the flexible compartment 105, such as size (e.g., the contracted and expanded sizes relative to each other and the gap 104), structure (e.g., more or fewer folds if included), material (e.g., more or less elastic), etc. Additionally, the flexible compartment 105 can be shaped according to the available space within the multi-lens device 100, such as Figures 2 to 5B the internal volume within the housing 110. For example, in an example where the distance 596 is constrained by other components in the multi-lens device approaching the expansion device 510 along the z-axis such that the distance 596 can have a shorter range and provide the same volume change as an example with a smaller cross-sectional area, the flexible compartment 105 can have a larger cross-sectional area (e.g., in the xy plane). That is, the geometry of the flexible compartment 105 can be selected to adjust the distance by which the flexible compartment expands and contracts.

[0062] When the temperature changes within the gap 104, within the flexible compartment 105, and / or outside the lens assembly 350, gas can be exchanged between the gap 104 and the flexible compartment 105 via the opening 107 and the passage 582 accordingly. The adjustable volume of the flexible compartment 105 expands and contracts with the gas exchange. The passage 582 can be a through-hole in the lens assembly housing 103 that extends from the opening 107 to the inside of the mounting portion 546. The passage 582 can extend radially outward from the opening 107 at the inner perimeter of the annular portion 538 toward the outer perimeter of the annular portion 538. Additionally, in an example where the mounting portion 546 is not directly radially aligned with the gap 104, the passage 582 can extend laterally. For example, the passage 582 can lead to a desiccant 106 that can be positioned within the mounting portion 546. A portion of the passage 582 can be perpendicular to the desiccant 106. The desiccant 106 can be positioned within a notch 588 in the annular portion 538 such that the passage 582 intersects the desiccant 106 at or near the bottom of the desiccant 106. In this way, when transferring between the flexible compartment 105 and the gap 104, gas exchange can be forced through the desiccant 106 rather than bypassing the desiccant 106.

[0063] In some embodiments, there can be a second passage fluidly coupled to the second opening. In such an example, the second passage can be identical to the passage 582. Additionally or alternatively, the second opening can be identical to the opening 107. Having two sets of passages and openings can allow for an inert gas flush into the gap 104. For example, in a case where the passages are oriented toward a vertical top, an inert gas can be applied to the first of the two sets, and air can exit via the second of the two sets due to being lighter than the inert gas. Both of the two sets can fluidly couple the gap 104 to the flexible compartment 105.

[0064] The technical effect of the multi-lens device including the expansion device according to the present disclosure is to extend the life of one or more airtight seals that fluidly separate the gap between adjacent lenses from the outside of the multi-lens device. For example, by adjusting the volume of the interior including the flexible compartment and the gap in response to temperature changes, degradation of gaskets and / or seals can be reduced. In this way, the magnitude of the pressure change caused by temperature changes can be reduced, and the stress experienced by the gaskets and / or seals can be decreased. Therefore, compared to previous systems with a gap of constant volume between lenses, the gaskets and / or seals can maintain an airtight seal more effectively and / or for a longer period of time. By maintaining the airtight seal of the gap between lenses, impurities (e.g., water, dust, and / or any other substance other than the inert gas within the gap) can be prevented from entering and degrading the optical quality. Additionally, a desiccant positioned within the flexible compartment can draw moisture out of the gap and into the flexible compartment, reducing (e.g., preventing) the formation of condensation on the lenses.

[0065] The present disclosure also provides support for a multi-lens device, the multi-lens device including a volumetric flexible compartment fluidly coupled to a gap between a first lens and a second lens fluidly coupled to a lens assembly, wherein the gap is hermetically sealed to the outside of the lens assembly. In a first example of the system, the system further includes: a desiccant disposed between the flexible compartment and the gap. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the flexible compartment is received in a mounting portion of the lens assembly, and the flexible compartment is held within the mounting portion via a cover. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first and second examples), the flexible compartment is integral with a gasket disposed between the cover and the mounting portion. In a fourth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples), the gasket and the cover include a curvature matching the curvature of at least one of the first lens and the second lens. In a fifth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples), the gap is filled with an inert gas. In a sixth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples), the flexible compartment is a bellows having a plurality of folds.

[0066] The present disclosure also provides support for an optical device, the optical device including: a light source; a lens assembly including two or more lenses receiving light emitted by the light source, a gap between two of the lenses, and a lens assembly housing circumferentially surrounding the lenses and the gap; and an expansion device including a flexible compartment disposed in a mounting portion of the lens assembly housing and fluidly coupled to the gap, wherein the flexible compartment is held within the mounting portion via a cover. In a first example of the system, the cover includes an opening through which the flexible compartment is actuated. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the system further includes: a desiccant disposed in the mounting portion, between the gap and the flexible compartment. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first example and the second example), the desiccant encloses the interior of the flexible compartment. In a fourth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples), the mounting portion radially projects from an annular portion of the lens assembly housing, and an expansion direction in which the flexible compartment expands is perpendicular to the lens. In a fifth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples), the cover and the gasket are flush with the annular portion. In a sixth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples), the flexible compartment is made of a flexible material.

[0067] The present disclosure also provides support for an expansion device, the expansion device including: a flexible compartment having an adjustable volume, a gasket surrounding the perimeter of the flexible compartment and shaped according to the mounting portion of the lens assembly, a desiccant enclosing the flexible compartment, and a cover including an opening through which the flexible compartment expands and contracts, wherein the gasket is disposed between the desiccant and the cover. In a first example of the system, the desiccant is configured to allow water to transfer into the flexible compartment but not out of the flexible compartment. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the perimeter of the cover is approximately the same in size and shape as the perimeter of the gasket. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first and second examples), the cover protrudes into the space between the gasket and the flexible compartment. In a fourth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples), a fastener secures the cover to the mounting portion. In a fifth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples), the expansion device and the lens assembly are included in a multi-lens device.

[0068] In another representation, the present disclosure also provides support for a multi-lens device, the multi-lens device including: a flexible compartment fluidly coupled to the gap between a first lens and a second lens of a lens assembly. In a first example of the system, the system further includes: a desiccant disposed between the flexible compartment and the gap. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the flexible compartment is received within the mounting portion of the lens assembly and the flexible compartment is retained within the mounting portion via a cover. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first and second examples), the gap is filled with an inert gas. In a fourth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples), at least one opening is disposed in the lens assembly and fluidly couples the gap to the flexible compartment.

[0069] In another representation, the present disclosure also provides support for an optical device, the optical device including: a lens assembly including a first lens and a second lens separated by a gap; and an expansion device disposed within the mounting portion of the lens assembly, wherein the expansion device is retained within the mounting portion via a cover. In a first example of the system, the cover includes an opening through which the expansion device is actuated. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the system further includes: a desiccant disposed within the mounting portion. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first and second examples), the expansion device is fluidly coupled to the gap via at least one opening and a passageway.

[0070] As used in this application, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood to not exclude the plural of the recited element or step, unless such exclusion is stated. Additionally, a reference to "an embodiment" or "an example" of the present disclosure is not to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the recited features. The terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements or a particular positional order on their objects. The following claims particularly point out the subject matter regarded as novel and non - obvious from the foregoing disclosure.

[0071] It should be understood that the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary in nature and these specific embodiments should not be considered limiting since there may be various variations. Additionally, unless expressly stated to the contrary, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are not intended to denote any order, position, quantity, or importance, but merely as labels to distinguish one element from another. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non - obvious combinations and sub - combinations of the various systems and configurations and other features, functions, and / or properties disclosed herein.

[0072] As used herein, the term "about" should be construed to mean plus or minus five percent of a range, unless otherwise specified.

[0073] The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and sub - combinations regarded as novel and non - obvious. These claims may refer to "an" element or "a first" element, or equivalent terms. Such claims should be understood to cover the combination of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Other combinations and sub - combinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed by amending the current claims or presenting new claims in this application or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope from the original claims, are all regarded as included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A multi-lens device, comprising: A volumetric flexible compartment is fluidly coupled to a gap between a first lens and a second lens of a lens assembly, wherein the gap and the flexible compartment are hermetically sealed to an outside of the lens assembly.

2. The multi-lens device of claim 1, further comprising a desiccant disposed between the flexible compartment and the gap.

3. The multi-lens device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible compartment is received in a mounting portion of the lens assembly, the flexible compartment being retained in the mounting portion via a cover.

4. The multi-lens device of claim 3, wherein the flexible compartment is integral with a gasket interposed between the cover and the mounting portion.

5. The multi-lens device of claim 3, wherein a gasket and the cover comprise a curvature that matches a curvature of at least one of the first lens and the second lens. The multi-lens device according to claim 1 , wherein the gap is filled with an inert gas.

7. The multi-lens device of claim 1, wherein the flexible compartment is a bellows having a plurality of folds.

8. An optical device, comprising light source; a lens assembly comprising two or more lenses that receive light emitted by the light source, a gap between two of the lenses, and a lens assembly housing circumferentially surrounding the lenses and the gap; as well as An expansion device includes a flexible compartment disposed in a mounting portion of the lens assembly housing and fluidly coupled to the gap, wherein the flexible compartment is retained within the mounting portion via a cover.

9. The optical device of claim 8, wherein the cover includes an opening through which the flexible compartment is actuated.

10. The optical device of claim 8, further comprising a desiccant disposed in the mounting portion between the gap and the flexible compartment. The optical device of claim 10 , wherein the desiccant seals the interior of the flexible compartment.

12. The optical device of claim 8, wherein the mounting portion radially protrudes from the annular portion of the lens assembly housing, and an expansion direction of the flexible compartment is perpendicular to the lens.

13. The optical device of claim 12, wherein the cover and gasket are flush with the annular portion.

14. The optical device of claim 8, wherein the flexible compartment is comprised of a flexible material.

15. An expansion device, comprising: a flexible compartment having an adjustable volume; a gasket surrounding a perimeter of the flexible compartment and shaped according to a mounting portion of the lens assembly; a desiccant enclosing the flexible compartment; as well as A cover includes an opening through which the flexible compartment expands and contracts, wherein the gasket is interposed between the desiccant and the cover.

16. The expansion device of claim 15, wherein the desiccant is configured to allow water to transfer to but not from the flexible compartment.

17. The expansion device of claim 15, wherein the perimeter of the cover is approximately the same size and shape as the perimeter of the gasket.

18. The expansion device of claim 15, wherein the cover protrudes into a space between the gasket and the flexible compartment.

19. The expansion device of claim 15, wherein a fastener secures the cover to the mounting portion.

20. The expansion device of claim 15, wherein the expansion device and the lens assembly are included in a multi-lens device.

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