Anamorphic lens system with lens mounting structure

Abstract

The system may include a first optical component and a first mounting structure having a first wall on a first side and a second wall on a second side, each wall having a gap. The system may further include a second lens coupled to the first lens. The second lens includes a second optical component and a second mounting structure engaging the first mounting structure. The second mounting structure has a first barrier having a first protrusion and a second barrier having a second protrusion. The first and second protrusions are complementary to and configured to engage with the gaps of the first mounting structure, and engagement of the protrusions with the gaps provides passive rotational alignment of the optical component about the optical axis.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to the field of lens systems, and more particularly to aligning lens systems with asymmetric lenses.

[0002] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 423,196, filed November 7, 2022, entitled "Integrated Rotationally Self Alignment Features for Lens to Lens Alignment in an Anamorphic Imaging Module," and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 585,179, filed September 25, 2023, entitled "Self-Aligning Lens Structure with Radial Grooves and Toroidal Protrusions," each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. [Background technology]

[0003] Conventional lens systems include external mechanical support structures (e.g., lens barrels) to align and hold the lens in place. However, aligning the lens using these external structures can be tedious. Furthermore, the final alignment of the lens can be imprecise, especially for asymmetric lenses that may need to be aligned rotationally about the optical axis (relative to each other) in addition to along the optical axis to form a focused image. Furthermore, maintaining rotational alignment via external supports can be difficult, especially when the lens system is mounted on a device prone to sudden movements, such as a phone or virtual reality headset. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Conventional lens systems include external mechanical support structures (e.g., lens barrels) for aligning and holding lenses in place. However, aligning lenses using these external support structures can be tedious. Furthermore, edge alignment of lenses with these external support structures can be imprecise (e.g., due to imprecise manufacturing tolerances of the external supports), especially for asymmetric lenses (lenses with asymmetric surfaces about the optical axis), which may need to be aligned rotationally about (relative to each other) the optical axis in addition to along the optical axis to form a focused image. Furthermore, maintaining rotational alignment via external supports can be difficult. This can be particularly challenging when the lens system is mounted in a device prone to sudden movements, such as in a phone or virtual reality headset.

[0005] The embodiments described herein address these and other problems by describing lenses having mounting structures configured to interlock with the mounting structures of adjacent lenses. The mounting structures may provide rotational alignment about the optical axis, lateral alignment perpendicular to the optical axis, linear alignment along the optical axis, or some combination thereof.

[0006] In some aspects, the technology described herein provides a method for manufacturing a multi-lens optical component, comprising: a first lens having a first optical surface with an asymmetric curvature about an optical axis; a first mounting structure configured to engage with a mounting structure of an adjacent lens, the first mounting structure having a first wall on a first side and a second wall on a second side, each wall having a gap, the first wall and the second wall being opposite each other on the first mounting structure; and a second lens configured to interface with the first lens, the second lens having a second optical surface with an asymmetric curvature about the optical axis. and a second mounting structure configured to engage with the first mounting structure, the second mounting structure having a first barrier with a first protrusion and a second barrier with a second protrusion, the first barrier and the second barrier being opposite each other on the second mounting structure, the first and second protrusions being complementary to and configured to engage with gaps in the first mounting structure, wherein engagement of the protrusions with the gaps provides passive rotational alignment of the first and second asymmetric surfaces about an optical axis.

[0007] Other aspects include components, devices, systems, improvements, methods, processes, applications, computer-readable media, and other techniques related to any of the above. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] The disclosed embodiments have advantages and features that will become more readily apparent from the detailed description, the appended claims, and the accompanying figures (or drawings), a brief description of which follows: [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating an anamorphic lens system according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating an anamorphic lens system according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1C]FIG. 1C is a diagram illustrating an anamorphic lens system according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 1D] FIG. 1D is a diagram illustrating an anamorphic lens system according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating another anamorphic lens system according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating another anamorphic lens system according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating an imaging system included in a mobile device, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating an imaging system included in a mobile device, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating an imaging system capturing images of different portions of a view of an external environment, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B illustrates an imaging system capturing images of different portions of a view of an external environment, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C illustrates an imaging system capturing images of different portions of a view of an external environment, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 4D] FIG. 4D is a diagram illustrating an image of a portion of a view according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 4E] FIG. 4E illustrates an image of a view of the external environment formed from the image of FIG. 4D, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a diagram of an anamorphic lens system having interlocking mounting structures around the periphery of the lens components, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 5B]FIG. 5B is a diagram of an anamorphic lens system having interlocking mounting structures around the periphery of the lens components, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a diagram of an anamorphic lens system having interlocking mounting structures around the periphery of the lens components, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is a diagram of an anamorphic lens system having interlocking mounting structures around the periphery of the lens components, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating rotational misalignment between lenses in an exemplary lens system. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the lens system of FIGS. 1A-1D showing different fit examples for the protrusions within the gaps. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the lens system of FIGS. 1A-1D showing different fit examples for the protrusions within the gaps. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view of the lens system of FIGS. 1A-1D showing different fit examples for the protrusions within the gaps. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The figures and the following description relate to preferred embodiments by way of example only. It should be noted from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods disclosed herein will be readily recognized as viable alternatives that may be employed without departing from the principles of what is claimed.

[0010] Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, wherever possible, like or similar reference numbers may be used in the drawings to indicate like or similar functionality. The drawings depict embodiments of the disclosed systems (or methods) for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein.

[0011] (anamorphic lens system) 1A-1D (collectively FIG. 1) illustrate an anamorphic lens system 100 according to one or more embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 1A is a perspective view (top view) of anamorphic lens system 100, FIG. 1B is an exploded perspective view (top view) of anamorphic lens system 100, FIG. 1C is another exploded perspective view (bottom view) of anamorphic lens system 100, and FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional view of anamorphic lens system 100.

[0012] In the example of FIG. 1, anamorphic lens system 100 includes three lenses, labeled 103A-103C, along optical axis 190. Lens 103A is the smallest of the three, and lens 103C is the largest of the three (as measured along each of the x, y, and z axes), although this is not required. For example, any of the three lenses can be the same size or different sizes along any of the axes. Lens 103A is the top lens and includes optical component 105A and mounting structures 107A on either side of optical component 105A. Optical component 105A includes upper optical surface 113A and lower optical surface 117A. Mounting structure 107A includes wall 109A with gap 111A at its top. Mounting structure 107A also includes barrier 119A with protrusion 115A at its bottom. As shown in FIG. 1, the shape and structure of lens 103A is symmetrical about the x- and y-axes (however, optical surfaces 113A and 117A may or may not have curvatures that are symmetrical about these axes). However, this is not required. For example, the gap on a first side (e.g., 111A) may not be symmetrically opposite the gap on a second side. Lenses 103B and 103C are similar in shape to lens 103A and have similar components (have reference labels ending with "B" and "C," respectively).

[0013] As used herein, like components may be collectively referred to using reference numbers without end letters (e.g., optical components 105A-C may be referred to as "optical component 105"). Additionally, the terms "top," "bottom," "above," and "below" are used herein simply for convenience to refer to a lens component in comparison to other lens components. Anamorphic lens system 100 need not be in a vertical position such that lens 103A is at the top and lens 103C is at the bottom (e.g., lens 103A may be at the bottom and lens 103C may be at the top, depending on optical surface 113 and the direction of the light).

[0014] An optical component (e.g., 105A) includes two surfaces (e.g., 113A and 117A) that direct light along an optical axis 190. The optical component may be transmissive and may focus or disperse light by refraction. For example, optical components 105 together focus light to form an image on an image sensor. An exemplary optical component is a lens.

[0015] As mentioned above, system 100 is an anamorphic system, meaning that system 100 has different optical powers along different focal axes (e.g., the x-axis and the y-axis). Stated another way, system 100 has different focal lengths along the focal axes. To achieve this, anamorphic lens system 100 may include one or more optical surfaces with curvatures that are not rotationally symmetric about optical axis 190 (state another way, the surface curvatures are asymmetric about optical axis 190). An example of an asymmetric lens is a cylindrical lens that has a curved surface along one axis and no curvature along a second (perpendicular) axis. However, the lens systems described need not be anamorphic or include asymmetric surfaces. For example, some embodiments include lenses with optical components with symmetric surfaces.

[0016] Having only one asymmetric optical surface may result in system 100 having different focal lengths along one axis, but it may also result in system 100 having different focal planes along that axis, which may make it difficult or impossible to focus light to form an image at a plane (e.g., on an image sensor). Thus, in some embodiments, system 100 includes at least two asymmetric surfaces, such that system 100 has different magnifications along two axes and can focus onto the same plane in both dimensions. The at least two asymmetric surfaces may be part of the same lens (e.g., surfaces 113A and 117A) or may span two or more lenses (e.g., 113A, 113B, and 117C).

[0017] If two or more lenses 103 include asymmetric optical surfaces, then relative alignment of the lenses about optical axis 190 (in this case, parallel to the z-axis) may be helpful (e.g., may be important) in achieving the desired optical effect. If the asymmetric optical surfaces are misaligned (e.g., misaligned by 0.01 to 0.05 degrees), the resulting optical image may be blurry or ineffective for its intended use. Lens alignment may be achieved using mounting structure 107, as described further below.

[0018] Mounting structures 107 are configured to interlock with the mounting structures of adjacent lenses, thereby allowing lenses 103 to be stacked on top of each other and maintain optical alignment. Specifically, the lower portions of mounting structures 107 are generally configured to engage with the upper portions of adjacent mounting structures (e.g., the lower portion of 107A engages with the upper portion of 107B).

[0019] The mounting structures 107 are located around the periphery of the optical component 105. In the example of FIG. 1, each mounting structure is located on two opposite sides of the optical component. Two opposing mounting structures may help the lenses to interlock easily when combined. However, the mounting structures 107 do not have to be located on two opposite sides. Furthermore, the mounting structures 107 may be located on fewer or additional sides of the optical component 105 (e.g., one, three, or four sides total). In some embodiments, the mounting structures may extend around the entire periphery of the optical component. See, for example, FIGS. 5A-5D.

[0020] The upper portion of the mounting structure 107 includes a wall (e.g., 109A) having a gap (e.g., 111A) on a first side (e.g., the +y-axis side in FIG. 1A ). The opposite side of the upper portion also includes a wall having a gap (e.g., see the −y-axis side in FIG. 1A ) because the lenses 103 may be symmetrical with respect to the x-axis and y-axis, as described above. More specifically, the wall 109 of each lens is on an opposite side of the optical component 105, and the gap is also on an opposite side (however, this is not required). As shown, the wall 109 extends upward along the optical axis 190 (or, in other words, parallel to the optical axis 190) and also along the periphery of the optical component 105. The thickness of the wall may decrease or remain the same when moving along the +z-axis direction. The thickness of the wall may remain the same when extending along the periphery of the optical component. Furthermore, the wall may have a curved shape along the periphery. In some configurations or embodiments, the walls may be referred to as "rotationally symmetric grooves" or "toroidal protrusions." Note that in the example of FIG. 1, the top lens 103A includes walls with gaps. However, in some embodiments, the top lens 103A may not include walls (e.g., if no other lenses are added on top of the lens system 100).

[0021] As used herein, the terms "parallel" and "perpendicular" may refer to components that are "substantially" parallel or "substantially" perpendicular (e.g., within 2 degrees), as it may be practically difficult to manufacture components that are perfectly parallel or perpendicular.

[0022] The lower portion of the mounting structure 107 includes a barrier (e.g., 119A) on a first side (e.g., the +y-axis side in FIG. 1A ) and a second barrier on the opposite side (e.g., the −y-axis side in FIG. 1A ). Each of the barriers 119 may include a protrusion (e.g., 115B). More specifically, the barrier 119 and protrusion of each lens 103 may be on opposite sides of the corresponding optical component. As shown, the barrier 119 extends downward along the optical axis 190 (or, in other words, parallel to the optical axis 190) and along the periphery of the optical component 105. The thickness of the barrier may decrease or remain the same as moving along the −z-axis direction. The thickness of the barrier may remain the same as it extends along the periphery of the optical component. Furthermore, the barrier may have a curved shape along the periphery. The protrusion 115 extends from the inner surface of the barrier 119 toward the optical component 105. Due to the X-axis symmetry, on a given lens, a pair of protrusions will also extend towards each other (although this is not required). In some situations or embodiments, the protrusions may be referred to as "non-concentric and / or rotationally asymmetric geometric features."

[0023] 1, each mounting structure includes only two gaps (one on each side) and two protrusions (one on each side), but mounting structure 107 may include more or fewer gaps. Similarly, mounting structure 107 may include more or fewer protrusions (assuming there are sufficient gaps in the corresponding walls to receive them). Furthermore, wall 109 need not be in the upper portion, and barrier 119 and protrusions 115 need not be in the lower portion of mounting structure 107. In some embodiments, wall 109 is in the lower portion, and barrier 119 and protrusions 115 are in the upper portion.

[0024] As shown, the protrusions 115 of the lenses are complementary positioned to the gaps 111 of adjacent lenses, thus allowing pairs of protrusions 115 to engage with pairs of gaps 111 when the lenses 103 are brought together in physical contact (e.g., during the installation process). The engagement of the gaps 111 and protrusions 115 is shown in Figure 1D. As shown, the protrusions of the top and middle lenses are received by the gaps of the middle and bottom lenses, respectively. Among other advantages, the engagement of the protrusions on the upper lens with the gaps on the lower lens prevents (or reduces (e.g., within 0.01 degrees)) rotation of the lenses about optical axis 190. The protrusions and gaps therefore enable rotational alignment of the lenses about optical axis 190. More specifically, this allows the asymmetric surfaces to maintain rotational alignment relative to one another, and therefore allows system 100 to produce focused images. This alignment is passive, meaning that when the structures are properly mated, the structure itself can enable and maintain alignment without active intervention (as long as lenses 103 are held together). Furthermore, system 100 may not require a mechanism for adjusting the lenses relative to one another during installation in a device or operation of that device. In other words, as long as the lenses are interlocked and held together, they may maintain alignment.

[0025] Similarly, the wall 109 of the upper portion is configured to engage with the barrier 119 of the lower portion. Specifically, the outer surface of the wall of the lower lens (facing away from the optic) is configured to engage with the inner surface of the barrier of the upper lens (facing toward the optic). The engagement of the outer surface of the wall with the inner surface of the barrier is partially shown in FIG. 1A. Specifically, the barriers of the upper and middle lenses contact the walls of the middle and lower lenses, respectively. Due to the position and shape of the wall and barrier (e.g., their curvature), the engagement of the wall and barrier prevents (or reduces) lateral movement (movement along the x-axis and y-axis) of the upper lens relative to the lower lens. Thus, the wall and barrier enable passive lateral centering of the lens. Lateral alignment can also be achieved by repositioning the wall and barrier so that the outer surface of the barrier is configured to engage the inner surface of the wall.

[0026] Furthermore, the interlocking mounting structure 107 may provide linear lens alignment along the optical axis 190 in addition to, or in place of, the rotational and lateral alignment described above. Stated differently, the mounting structure 107 may be configured to maintain the lenses spaced a predetermined distance apart such that the system 100 forms an image as light passes through the system 100.

[0027] Note that the shapes and sizes of the components of each lens may not be the same. For example, the thickness and length of wall 109A may be different from the thickness and length of wall 109C. Furthermore, one or more lenses may have different components (e.g., lack one or more components). For example, lens 103C does not include a protrusion (because there is no lens below lens 103C).

[0028] In the example of Figure 1, protrusion 115 has corners and is generally rectangular, but this is not required. For example, protrusion may be rounded, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B. Figures 2A and 2B are diagrams of an anamorphic lens system 200 having rounded protrusions 215A and 215B, according to some embodiments. Specifically, Figure 2A is an exploded perspective view (bottom perspective) of anamorphic lens system 200, and Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of anamorphic lens system 200.

[0029] Figures 5A-5D (collectively Figure 5) are diagrams of an anamorphic lens system 500 having interlocking mounting structures around the periphery of the lens components, according to some embodiments. Specifically, Figure 5A is a perspective view (high-angle view) of lens system 500, Figure 5B is a side view of lens system 500, Figure 5C is an exploded perspective view (high-angle view) of anamorphic lens system 500, and Figure 5D is another exploded perspective view (low-angle view) of anamorphic lens system 500.

[0030] Lens system 500 includes an upper lens 503A having an optical component 505A and a mounting structure 507A. The bottom side of mounting structure 507A includes a barrier 519 that extends around the entire periphery of optical component 505A. The bottom side of mounting structure 507A also includes two protrusions 515 on opposite sides of optical component 505A. The two protrusions 515 extend radially outward (away from optical component 505A) from barrier 519.

[0031] Lens system 500 also includes a lower lens 503B having an optical component 505B and a mounting structure 507B. The top side of mounting structure 507B includes a wall 509 that extends around the entire periphery of optical component 505B. The top side of mounting structure 507B also includes two gaps 511 in wall 509 opposite optical component 505B. Similar to system 100, gaps 511 are configured to receive protrusions 515, and walls 509 and barriers 519 are configured to engage with one another to align optical component 505B.

[0032] 6 is a diagram illustrating rotational misalignment between lenses in an exemplary lens system. Reference axes 603 and 605 illustrate axes that are misaligned by an angle α (e.g., based on the asymmetric focal planes of the lenses). In other words, a first lens is rotationally misaligned with respect to a second lens by an angle α. α is the arc length of the misalignment, and d α =π·D(α / 360), where D is the circumference of the lens.

[0033] 7A-7C (collectively FIG. 7) are cross-sectional views of system 100 illustrating different example fits of gap 111B and protrusion 115A (note that the example fits in FIGS. 7A-7C are not drawn to scale). FIG. 7A illustrates a cross-sectional view of system 100 in which the base of protrusion 115A is d f and gap 111B has a width of d f FIG. 7B shows a perfect fit with a maximum width of d. More specifically, each lens was manufactured to a tolerance of t. The example in FIG. 7B shows that lens 103A has a maximum width of d. f -t, and the lens 103B has a maximum projection width of d f 7C shows a hypothetical worst-case scenario in which the lens 103A has a maximum gap width of +t, resulting in a space between the protrusion 115A and the gap 111B. Thus, FIG. 7C shows the maximum possible rotational misalignment between the lenses 103A and 103B due to manufacturing tolerance t, with a misalignment arc length of d. α =t.

[0034] In some embodiments, the lens is a monolithic structure. Stated differently, the optical components and mounting structure may form a single structure, as opposed to being separate components bonded together (e.g., via an adhesive). Additionally or alternatively, the lens may be made (e.g., uniformly) of the same material. More specifically, the optical components and mounting structure of the lens may be made of the same material. Exemplary materials include polymer and glass.

[0035] To form a monolithic lens and / or for lenses made of the same material, the lens can be formed by an injection molding process. For example, a material (e.g., plastic or polycarbonate) can be inserted between two molds, cooled, and then the two molds can be separated to form the lens. In these embodiments, the draft angle of the finished shape can be positive to remove the material from the mold. Thus, lenses formed by an injection molding process can have only positive draft angles (e.g., at least 2 degrees). For example, the gap corner angle can be 120 degrees (see, e.g., θ in FIG. 1D).

[0036] Forming lenses using an injection molding process can offer several advantages. For example, the injection molding process can provide high control of lens tolerances (deviation between the manufactured product and the original design) (e.g., on a micron scale). Therefore, by forming a mounting structure that is part of the lens (using injection molding), the lenses may have better alignment when assembled compared to traditional barrel housing technology that uses mechanical parts to align and hold the lens in place. For example, traditional barrel housings configured to align and hold the lens may have an order of magnitude worse alignment.

[0037] Although many of the components and features described above are described in the context of Figures 1, 2, 5, 6, and 7, this is for convenience only. Lens systems within the scope of this disclosure may use various combinations of the components and features described above. For example, a lens system may include interlocking protrusions and gaps without including walls and barriers configured to engage with each other. Furthermore, a lens system is not limited to three lenses. A lens system with an interlocking mounting structure may include a minimum of two lenses or more than three lenses.

[0038] The following paragraphs describe additional exemplary lens system embodiments, and letters are used to refer to specific embodiments.

[0039] Exemplary embodiment A is an anamorphic lens system (e.g., 100 or 200) including: a first lens (e.g., 103B); a first optical component (e.g., 105B) having a first optical surface (e.g., 113B) with an asymmetric curvature about an optical axis (e.g., 190); a first mounting structure (e.g., 107B) configured to engage a mounting structure of an adjacent lens (e.g., 103A), the first mounting structure having a first wall (e.g., 109B) on a first side and a second wall on a second side, each wall having a gap (e.g., 111B), the first wall and the second wall being opposite each other on the first mounting structure; and a second lens (e.g., 103A) configured to interface with the first lens, the first optical surface (e.g., 113B) having an asymmetric curvature about the optical axis (e.g., 190). and a second mounting structure (e.g., 107A) configured to engage with the first mounting structure, the second mounting structure having a first barrier (e.g., 119A) with a first protrusion (e.g., 115A) and a second barrier having a second protrusion, the first barrier and the second barrier being opposite each other on the second mounting structure, the first protrusion and the second protrusion being complementary to and configured to engage with a gap in the first mounting structure (e.g., see FIG. 1D), wherein engagement of the protrusion with the gap provides passive rotational alignment of the first and second asymmetric surfaces about an optical axis.

[0040] Exemplary embodiment B is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment A, wherein the wall of the first mounting structure is in the upper portion, and the first mounting structure further includes a third barrier (e.g., 119B) having a third protrusion (e.g., 115B), and a fourth barrier having a fourth protrusion, and the third barrier and the fourth barrier are in the lower portion of the first mounting structure and are opposite each other on the first mounting structure.

[0041] Exemplary embodiment C is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment B, further including a third lens including: a third lens (e.g., 103C) configured to interface with the first lens (e.g., 103B), the third optical component (e.g., 105C) having an optical surface (e.g., 113C) with an asymmetric curvature about the optical axis; and a third mounting structure (e.g., 107C) configured to engage with the first mounting structure (e.g., 107B), the third mounting structure having a first wall (e.g., 109C) and a second wall, each of the first and second walls having a gap (e.g., 111C), the first wall and the second wall being opposite each other on the third mounting structure, and the gaps in the first and second walls being complementary to the third protrusion and the fourth protrusion on the lower portion of the first mounting structure.

[0042] Exemplary embodiment D is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment C, wherein the protrusion of the first mounting structure is configured to engage with the gap of the third mounting structure, and wherein engagement of the protrusion of the first mounting structure with the gap of the third mounting structure provides passive rotational alignment of the first and third asymmetric surfaces about the optical axis.

[0043] Exemplary embodiment E is the anamorphic lens system of any of the above exemplary embodiments, wherein the barrier and protrusion of the second mounting structure are in a lower portion of the second mounting structure, the second mounting structure further includes a first wall (e.g., 109A) having a gap (e.g., 111A) and a second wall having a gap, and the first wall and second wall are in an upper portion of the second mounting structure and are opposite each other on the second mounting structure.

[0044] Exemplary embodiment F is the anamorphic lens system of any of the above exemplary embodiments, wherein the first mounting structure is around the first optical component and the second mounting structure is around the second optical component.

[0045] Exemplary embodiment G is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment F, in which the first wall and the second wall are on opposite sides of the first optical component, and the first barrier and the second barrier are on opposite sides of the second optical component.

[0046] Exemplary embodiment H is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment G, where the first and second walls extend along the optical axis and around the periphery of the optical element, respectively.

[0047] Exemplary embodiment I is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiments G and / or H, wherein the first and second barriers extend along the optical axis and around the periphery of the second optical component, respectively.

[0048] Exemplary embodiment J is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment I, wherein the protrusion of the second mounting structure extends inward from the barrier toward the second optical component or outward away from the second optical component.

[0049] Exemplary embodiment K is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment J, wherein the protrusions of the second mounting structure extend toward or away from each other.

[0050] Exemplary embodiment L is the anamorphic lens system of any of the above exemplary embodiments, wherein the first and second walls of the first mounting structure are configured to engage with the first and second barriers of the second mounting structure (e.g., see FIG. 1A ) to engage the second mounting structure with the first mounting structure.

[0051] Exemplary embodiment M is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment L, wherein the outer surfaces of the first and second walls are configured to engage with the inner surfaces of the first and second barriers to engage the first and second walls of the first mounting structure with the first and second barriers of the second mounting structure.

[0052] Exemplary embodiment N is the anamorphic lens system of exemplary embodiment M, wherein engagement of the outer surfaces of the first and second walls with the inner surfaces of the first and second barriers provides alignment of the first and second lenses along an axis substantially perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0053] Exemplary embodiment O is the anamorphic lens system of any of the above exemplary embodiments, wherein engagement between the protrusion and the gap is configured to prevent rotation of the first lens relative to the second lens about the optical axis.

[0054] Exemplary embodiment P is the anamorphic lens system of any of the above exemplary embodiments, in which the first mounting structure and the first optical component are made of the same material.

[0055] Exemplary embodiment Q is the anamorphic lens system of any of the above exemplary embodiments, wherein the second mounting structure and the second optical component are made of the same material.

[0056] Exemplary embodiment R is the anamorphic lens system of any of the exemplary embodiments above, in which the first mounting structure and the first optical component form a single structure.

[0057] Exemplary embodiment S is the anamorphic lens system of any of the exemplary embodiments above, where the first lens and the second lens are in direct physical contact with each other (see, for example, FIGS. 1A and 1D).

[0058] Exemplary embodiment T is the anamorphic lens system of any of the above exemplary embodiments, in which the first lens and the second lens have only positive draft angles.

[0059] Additional advantages of the above embodiments may include: (1) improved optical performance due to improved lens alignment; (2) more predictable optical performance due to fewer variables in lens construction; (3) reduced manufacturing errors associated with lens misalignment; (4) simplified lens assembly process; (5) improved durability due to the ability of the interlocking mechanical structure to reduce mechanical stress on the lens during assembly; (6) improved optical performance of the lens system due to increased space for optical surfaces as a result of reduced space used for mechanical alignment of lens elements; or (7) some combination thereof.

[0060] The lens system with the interlocking mounting structure described above can be implemented for any lens system where precise rotational or lateral alignment is beneficial (the lens system does not require analomorphism). For example, lenses with interlocking mounting structures can be used in phone cameras, wearable glasses, augmented reality or virtual reality headsets, and portable cameras. The next section describes an example mobile device 303 that can use lenses with interlocking mounting structures (e.g., in lens module 307).

[0061] Exemplary Imaging System 3A-3B illustrate an exemplary imaging system 301 included in an exemplary mobile device 303, according to an embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 3A illustrates the front, back, and side of the mobile device 303, and FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional back and side view of the mobile device 303. The mobile device 303 includes the imaging system 301, a housing 317 having a window 302, and a display 319. The imaging system 301 includes a rotatable reflector 305, a motor 311, a motor 312, a lens module 307 (also referred to as a lens design), an image sensor 309, and a controller module 313.

[0062] The reflector 305 directs light passing through the window 302 downward toward the lens module 307. The lens module 307 focuses the light onto the image sensor 309. The motor 111 rotates the reflector 305 about an axis 315 that is substantially parallel to the image sensor plane (e.g., within 1 or 2 degrees). By rotating the reflector 305, the reflector 305 can direct light from different parts of the external environment toward the image sensor 309. A controller 313 electrically couples the image sensor 309 and the motor 311. To form an image of the external environment, the imaging system 301 captures images of a view portion of the external environment while rotating the reflector 305. The rotation of the reflector 305 from an initial angular position to a final angular position may be referred to as a scan. The captured series of images contains information of several adjacent parts of the environment, and after combining the images together (e.g., stitching or fusing), the imaging system 301 forms a larger image of the external environment having a predetermined aspect ratio.

[0063] The housing 317 encloses one or more components of the imaging system 301. The positions and orientations of the components of the imaging system may be described with reference to the housing 317 and the housing window 302. For example, the housing 317 is defined by multiple walls enclosing the imaging system 301, one of which includes the housing window 302, e.g., with a plane defined by the boundaries of the window 302. The plane may be parallel to the yz (or yz) plane in a three-dimensional reference system. The housing 317 may have a low profile along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the window 302 (e.g., along the x-axis). The length of the housing along the x-axis may be referred to as the thickness of the housing 317, and may be in the range of 5 to 15 millimeters, for example. In an embodiment, the housing 317 is part of the mobile device 303, and the window plane may be parallel to the display 319 of the mobile device 303. Unlike conventional imaging systems, the image sensor surface does not face the window plane. For example, the image sensor surface is perpendicular to the window plane (e.g., parallel to the xy plane) and outside the boundaries of the window 302. Due to this, the reflector 305 may be aligned with the window 302 and direct light propagating through the window 302 toward the image sensor plane. The lens module 307 may be between the reflector 305 and the image sensor 309. An aperture plane may be between the reflector 105 and the lens module 107 and may be perpendicular to the window plane and parallel to the image sensor plane. The reflector allows the optical path of the imaging system 301 to be folded into the yz plane. This folding allows the optical path to be increased beyond the limits of the housing's thickness, with the width (e.g., length along the y axis) and height (e.g., length along the z axis) of the housing being typically greater than its thickness. Thus, the reflector, image sensor, and / or aperture of the lens module 307 may have an aspect ratio that is not 1:1, and their long axes may be parallel to each other.

[0064] The image sensor 309 is an imaging device that captures an image of a portion of the external environment. Examples of the image sensor 309 include a CCD sensor and a CMOS sensor. As shown in FIG. 3, the image sensor surface may lie in the xy plane relative to the xy plane of the mobile device 303, and the image sensor surface may face perpendicular (along the z-axis) from the surface of the xy plane. With this arrangement, the sensor plane of the image sensor 309 does not face a view of the external environment. By placing the image sensor 309 in the xy plane, the size of the image sensor 309 can be larger than that of image sensors in conventional cameras. The smaller dimension (along the x-axis) of the image sensor plane may be limited by the thickness of the mobile device, and the larger dimension (along the y-axis) may be limited by the width of the mobile device, which may be many centimeters in length. This allows the image sensor 309 to have a high aspect ratio, such as an aspect ratio of 17:9 (e.g., 1:10) or greater. Conventional cameras generate images of scenes with less high aspect ratios (e.g., sensors limited to 2:3, 3:4, or 16:9). Because of the large aspect ratio of the image sensor 309, the image sensor 309 may create a narrow image (an "image strip") corresponding to a narrow view of a scene. In conventional imaging systems in mobile devices, the size of the image sensor may be limited by the focal length of the camera lens. However, by changing the position and orientation of the image sensor 309 as described herein, the size of the image sensor may be larger than an image sensor in a conventional imaging system having the same or similar housing.

[0065] As mentioned above, the reflector 305 (also called a scanning mirror) is an optical component that rotates about an axis 315 and directs light toward the image sensor 309. Generally, the axis 315 is substantially parallel to the long dimension of the image sensor plane, and the reflector 305 is centered in the window 302. If the plane of the window 302 (e.g., the yz plane) is perpendicular to the plane of the image sensor 309 (e.g., the xy plane), the reflector 305 may direct light at an angle of about 45 degrees to the image sensor plane and direct the light toward the image sensor 309. Due to the high aspect ratio of the image sensor 309, the reflector 305 may also have a high aspect ratio to ensure that light is reflected across the entire surface of the image sensor 309. While the reflector 305 is shown in FIG. 3B as having a rectangular plane, it can be other shapes, such as concave or convex (e.g., which may be used to magnify or reduce the view).

[0066] Reflector 305 is described herein in terms of "directing" light, but this is for ease of explanation. Reflector 305 may change the optical direction, magnify, slim, reflect, diffract, refract, disperse, amplify, attenuate, combine, separate, polarize, or otherwise property of light propagating within imaging system 301. To do this, reflector 305 may include reflective coatings, metalized features, optical gratings, mirrors, prismatic structures, Fresnel structures, corner reflectors, retroreflectors, etc. on one or more of its surfaces.

[0067] The lens module 307 includes one or more optical components (e.g., lens 103) and is designed to form an image on the image sensor 309. The lens module 307 may diffuse, focus, redirect, and otherwise modify light passing through it. The lens module 307 may be as simple as a single lens or may include additional optical components such as a diffuser, phase screen, beam expander, mirrors, and lenses (e.g., an anamorphic lens). In some embodiments, the entrance pupil of the lens module 307 is adjacent to the reflector 305. This may allow the reflector 305 to have a smaller size. In some embodiments, the lens module 307 includes an asymmetric aperture with one large axis and one small axis (stretching the axes may be used in devices with size constraints, such as smartphones; in such cases, the aperture, if not symmetric, can be much larger).

[0068] Due to the high aspect ratio of the image sensor 309, the lens module 307 may be designed and manufactured non-circular or asymmetrically to match the dimensions of the image sensor 309 at its aperture. Using a lens module 307 with an asymmetric aperture may allow it to fit into the mobile device housing 317. Furthermore, the focal length of the lens module 307 may differ in the x and y directions. In some embodiments, this results in the imaging system 301 not preserving the aspect ratio, so that, for example, a 4:3 scene may be imaged by an 8:3 image sensor. One or more optical components of the lens module 307 may have surfaces with cylindrical symmetry, while the apertures of other components may be rectangular or another elongated shape. The lens module 307 may be manufactured using wafer-level technology, which may be beneficial for creating rectangular-shaped optical components by dicing the lens surface at the desired aspect ratio. In some embodiments, the lens module 307 is manufactured using injection molding technology by creating a mold with an asymmetric aperture. The components of the lens module 307 may be injection molded or machined (eg, by wafer level technology) glass or plastic.

[0069] The motor 312 is controlled by the controller 313 and configured to move one or more optical components of the lens module or lens module 307. For example, the motor 312 moves one or more optical lenses along an optical axis to focus light onto a sensing plane of the image sensor 309. The imaging system may include multiple motors 312, for example, when multiple optical components are to be moved separately or by different amounts. The motor 312 may include one or more actuator-type mechanisms, galvanometer-type mechanisms, MEMS-type mechanisms, electric-type mechanisms, or stepper motor-type mechanisms. The motor 312 may also be referred to as a lens shift mechanism.

[0070] As described above, motor 311 rotates reflector 305 about axis 315. To do so, motor 311 may include one or more actuator-type mechanisms, galvanometer-type mechanisms, MEMS-type mechanisms, electromotive-type mechanisms, or stepper motor-type mechanisms. In some embodiments, as described further below, motor 311 may move reflector 305 in other directions. For example, motor 311 may translate and / or rotate reflector 305 along the x-axis, y-axis, and / or z-axis.

[0071] In some embodiments, the motor 311 tilts the reflector 305 (e.g., a few degrees in either direction) to compensate for movement (e.g., hand movement) while the image sensor 309 is capturing an image of a portion of a scene. For example, if a user tilts the mobile device 303 slightly downward, the motor may tilt the reflector 305 upward to compensate for the movement so that the image sensor 309 receives the same portion of the scene despite the tilt. In some embodiments, the imaging system 301 includes a sensor shifting mechanism (e.g., another motor) that shifts the image sensor 309 in one or more directions (e.g., in the x-y plane) to compensate for this movement. In some embodiments, the imaging system 301 includes a motor that shifts the lens module 307 (or parts thereof) in one or more directions (e.g., in the x-y plane) to compensate for this movement. If the imaging system 301 includes multiple motion compensation mechanisms, the controller 313 may coordinate the multiple mechanisms to work in conjunction to cancel out the movement. For example, motor 311 tilts reflector 305 to compensate for movement in one direction, and a sensor or lens shifting mechanism (e.g., 312) compensates for movement in another direction. In some embodiments, reflector 305 rotates about multiple substantially perpendicular axes (e.g., x-axis and z-axis) to compensate for movement (e.g., instead of the sensor or lens shifting mechanism).

[0072] The motor 311 and shift mechanism (e.g., 312) may also function as an autofocus mechanism. For example, a lens shift mechanism moves the lens module 307 (or parts thereof) closer to or farther from the image sensor 309 (e.g., along the z-axis) to achieve a desired focus. In another example, a sensor shift mechanism moves the image sensor 309 closer to or farther from the lens module 307 (e.g., along the z-axis) to achieve a desired focus.

[0073] Controller module 313 may configure software (e.g., program code embodied on a machine-readable medium and executable by a processing system to cause the processing system to operate in a particular manner) and / or hardware to provide control signals (also referred to as adjustment signals) to motors 311, 312, image sensor 309, or some combination thereof. Thus, controller 313 may (1) rotate reflector 305 via motor 311 to direct light from different portions of the external environment toward image sensor 309, (2) adjust the optics of lens module 307 via motor 312 to focus light onto image sensor 309, (3) synchronize image sensor 309 with reflector 305 to capture images of different portions of the environment, or (4) some combination thereof. Additionally, controller 313 may receive the captured images and combine them to form a larger, continuous image of the external environment.

[0074] In some embodiments, the imaging system 301 includes one or more motion sensors (e.g., accelerometers, gyroscopes, etc.) for tracking the movement of the imaging system relative to the external environment. The controller module 313 may receive motion data from the motion sensors. If the determined movement exceeds a threshold amount, the module 313 may provide instructions to the motors 311 and / or sensor shift mechanisms to compensate for the movement.

[0075] In some embodiments, the imaging system 301 is not included in the mobile device 303. For example, the imaging system 301 is housed in a stand-alone device such as a mobile phone 303 case.

[0076] 4A-4C illustrate an imaging system 301 capturing images of different portions of a view of an external environment, according to an embodiment. In the examples of FIGS. 4A-4C, the external environment includes one or more objects within the field of view. In this example, for ease of explanation, the objects are a vertically aligned cube 411A, a sphere 411B, and a pyramid 411C. In FIG. 4A, the reflector 305 is tilted at a first rotational position (e.g., forming an angle θ1 with respect to the yz plane) to direct light from an upper portion of the external environment toward the image sensor 309. Thus, the image sensor 309 captures an image of the cube 411A. In FIG. 4B, the reflector is tilted at a second rotational position (e.g., forming an angle θ2>θ1 with respect to the yz plane) to direct light from a central portion of the external environment toward the image sensor 309. Thus, the image sensor 309 captures an image of the sphere 411B. 2C, the reflector is tilted at a third rotational position (e.g., forming an angle θ>θ with respect to the y-z plane) to direct light from the bottom of the external environment toward the image sensor 309. Thus, the image sensor 309 captures an image of the pyramid 411C. In some exemplary embodiments, the angle θ of the reflector may range symmetrically around 45 degrees (e.g., 25 to 65 degrees) with respect to the x-y plane to capture a set of images.

[0077] FIG. 4D shows three image strips captured by image sensor 309, according to an embodiment. Each image strip is an image of a different portion of the external environment as a result of each strip being captured while reflector 305 is in a different rotational position. The image strips have a high aspect ratio due to the high aspect ratios of reflector 305, lens module 307, and image sensor 309. Image strip A is an image of cube 411A and was captured by imaging system 301 of FIG. 4A. Image strip B is an image of sphere 411B and was captured by imaging system 301 of FIG. 4B. Image strip C is an image of pyramid 411C and was captured by imaging system 301 of FIG. 4C.

[0078] The exposure time for capturing each image strip may be limited by user movement (the user unintentionally moving the device 303 while holding it) and objects moving within the scene. Additionally, the total exposure time for an image strip may be limited by possible changes in the external environment between captures of the image strip. The exposure time for an image strip and the total exposure time may be limited to a predetermined threshold time or may be determined dynamically (e.g., based on the amount of movement of the mobile device 303).

[0079] 4E illustrates an image 401 of a view of an external environment, according to an embodiment. The image 401 is formed by combining (e.g., fusing or stitching) the image strips A-C illustrated in FIG. 4D. The combined image 401 may be referred to as a composite image. The horizontal area of ​​view of the combined image 401 may be based on the width (along the y-axis) of the window 302, the reflector 305, the lens module 307 (e.g., its aperture), and / or the image sensor 309, and the vertical area of ​​view of the combined image 401 may be based on the scanning range of the reflector 305. Typically, the vertical area is larger than the horizontal area.

[0080] Depending on the position of the reflector 305 when the image strips are captured, the image strips may have some overlap with each other (e.g., between 10 and 300 rows of pixels). Capturing image strips with overlap may help ensure that the image strips do not miss a portion of the view of the environment (e.g., so that the entire view is captured) and may reduce the noise level of the combined image 401. Capturing image strips with overlap may also assist the merging process to ensure that the image strips are properly merged. For example, the controller 313 uses the overlap to align the image strips during the merging process. In another example, if objects in the environment move between captures of image strips, or if the mobile device 303 moves between captures of image strips, the control system 301 may use the overlap to correct for artifacts caused by this movement.

[0081] (Additional Considerations) Throughout this specification, multiple examples may implement components, operations, or structures described as a single example. Although individual operations of one or more methods are illustrated and described as separate operations, one or more individual operations may be performed simultaneously, and the operations need not be performed in the order shown. In example configurations, structures and functions presented as separate components may be implemented as combined structures or components. Similarly, structures and functions presented as a single component may be implemented as separate components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are within the scope of the subject matter of this specification.

[0082] Certain embodiments are described herein as including logic or several components, modules, or mechanisms, such as the controller module 313. A module may constitute either a software module (e.g., code embodied on a machine-readable medium or in a transmission signal) or a hardware module. A hardware module is a tangible unit capable of performing certain operations and may be configured or arranged in a particular way. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more computer systems (e.g., standalone, client, or server computer systems), or one or more hardware modules of a computer system (e.g., a processor or group of processors), may be configured by software (e.g., an application or portion of an application) as a hardware module that operates to perform certain operations described herein.

[0083] In various embodiments, a hardware module may be implemented mechanically or electronically. For example, a hardware module may include dedicated circuitry or logic that is permanently configured to perform specific operations (e.g., as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or a special-purpose processor such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)). A hardware module may also include programmable logic or circuitry that is temporarily configured by software to perform specific operations (e.g., as contained in a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor). It will be appreciated that the decision to implement a hardware module mechanically, in dedicated permanently configured circuitry, or in temporarily configured circuitry (e.g., configured by software) may be determined by cost and time considerations.

[0084] Various operations of the example methods described herein may be performed at least in part by one or more processors that are temporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured to perform the associated operations. Whether temporarily or permanently configured, such processors may constitute processor-implemented modules that operate to perform one or more operations or functions. Modules referenced herein may, in some example embodiments, include processor-implemented modules.

[0085] The one or more processors may also operate to support the execution of related operations in a "cloud computing" environment or as "software as a service" (SaaS). For example, at least some operations may be performed by a group of computers (examples of machines that include the processors), and these operations are accessible via a network (e.g., the Internet) and one or more suitable interfaces (e.g., application program interfaces (APIs)).

[0086] Execution of certain operations may be distributed among one or more processors that are not only located within one machine, but are also spread across multiple machines. In some exemplary embodiments, one or more processors or processor-implemented modules may be located in one geographic location (e.g., in a home environment, an office environment, or a server farm). In other exemplary embodiments, one or more processors or processor-implemented modules may be distributed across multiple geographic locations.

[0087] Some portions of this specification are presented in terms of algorithms, or symbolic representations, of operations on data stored as bits or binary digital signals within a machine memory (e.g., computer memory). These algorithms or symbolic representations are examples of techniques used by those skilled in the data processing arts to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. As used herein, an "algorithm" is a self-consistent sequence of operations or similar processes leading to a desired result. In this context, algorithms and operations involve physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, such quantities take the form of electrical, magnetic, or optical signals capable of being stored, accessed, transferred, combined, compared, or otherwise manipulated by a machine. It is sometimes convenient, primarily for reasons of common usage, to refer to such signals using words such as "data," "content," "bits," "values," "elements," "symbols," "characters," "terms," ​​"numbers," or "digits." However, these words are merely convenient labels and are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities.

[0088] Unless otherwise specified, discussions herein using words such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining," "presenting," or "displaying," etc., may refer to machine (e.g., computer) actions or processes that manipulate or transfer data represented as physical (e.g., electronic, magnetic, or optical) quantities into one or more memories (e.g., volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof), registers, or other machine components that receive, store, transmit, or display information.

[0089] As used herein, a reference to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," or "an embodiment" means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0090] Some embodiments may be described using the terms "coupled" and "connected," along with their derivatives. For example, some embodiments may be described using the term "coupled" to indicate that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact. However, the term "coupled" may also mean that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but yet still cooperate or interact with each other. The embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0091] As used herein, "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having," or any other variation thereof, is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, unless expressly stated otherwise, "or" refers to an inclusive "or," not an exclusive "or." For example, condition A or B can be satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent), A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0092] Furthermore, the use of "a" or "an" is employed to describe elements and components of embodiments herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the invention. This description should be read to include one or at least one, and the singular includes the plural unless it is clear that this is meant otherwise.

[0093] After reading this disclosure, those skilled in the art will recognize additional alternative structural and functional designs for systems and processes for forming combined images through the principles disclosed herein. Thus, while specific embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the precise structure and components disclosed herein. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, various modifications, changes, and variations can be made in the arrangement, operation, and details of the methods and apparatus disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope, as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. An anamorphic lens system, comprising: a first lens, a first optical component having a first optical surface with an asymmetric curvature about an optical axis; a first lens including: a first mounting structure configured to engage a mounting structure of an adjacent lens, the first mounting structure having a first wall on a first side and a second wall on a second side, each wall having a gap, the first wall and the second wall being opposite each other on the first mounting structure; a second lens configured to operate in conjunction with the first lens, a second optical component having a second optical surface with an asymmetric curvature about the optical axis; a second mounting structure configured to engage with the first mounting structure, the second mounting structure having a first barrier with a first protrusion and a second barrier with a second protrusion, the first barrier and the second barrier being opposite each other on the second mounting structure, the first and second protrusions being complementary positioned in the gap of the first mounting structure and configured to engage with the gap, engagement of the protrusions with the gap providing passive rotational alignment of the first and second asymmetric surfaces about the optical axis; Anamorphic lens systems, including:

2. 2. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1, wherein the wall of the first mounting structure is in an upper portion, and the first mounting structure further includes a third barrier having a third protrusion and a fourth barrier having a fourth protrusion, the third barrier and the fourth barrier being in a lower portion of the first mounting structure and being opposite each other on the first mounting structure.

3. a third lens configured to operate in conjunction with the first lens, a third optical component having an optical surface with an asymmetric curvature about the optical axis; a third mounting structure configured to engage with the first mounting structure, the third mounting structure having a first wall and a second wall, each of the first and second walls having a gap, the first wall and the second wall being opposite each other on the third mounting structure, the gaps in the first and second walls being complementary to the third and fourth protrusions on the lower portion of the first mounting structure; The anamorphic lens system of claim 2 further comprising a third lens comprising:

4. 4. The anamorphic lens system of claim 3, wherein the protrusion of the first mounting structure is configured to engage the gap of the third mounting structure, and wherein engagement of the protrusion of the first mounting structure with the gap of the third mounting structure provides passive rotational alignment of the first and third asymmetric surfaces about the optical axis.

5. 2. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1, wherein the barrier and the protrusion of the second mounting structure are in a lower portion of the second mounting structure, and the second mounting structure further includes a first wall having a gap and a second wall having a gap, the first wall and the second wall being in an upper portion of the second mounting structure and being opposite each other on the second mounting structure.

6. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1 , wherein the first mounting structure is on a periphery of the first optical component and the second mounting structure is on a periphery of the second optical component.

7. 7. The anamorphic lens system of claim 6, wherein the first wall and the second wall are on opposite sides of the first optical component, and the first barrier and the second barrier are on opposite sides of the second optical component.

8. The anamorphic lens system of claim 7 , wherein the first and second walls extend along the optical axis and around the periphery of the optical element, respectively.

9. The anamorphic lens system of claim 7 , wherein the first and second barriers extend along the optical axis and around the periphery of the second optic, respectively.

10. The anamorphic lens system of claim 9 , wherein the protrusion of the second mounting structure extends inwardly from the barrier toward the second optical component.

11. The anamorphic lens system of claim 10 , wherein the protrusions of the second mounting structure extend toward each other.

12. 2. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1, wherein the first and second walls of the first mounting structure are configured to engage the first and second barriers of the second mounting structure to engage the second mounting structure with the first mounting structure.

13. 13. The anamorphic lens system of claim 12, wherein outer surfaces of the first and second walls are configured to engage inner surfaces of the first and second barriers to mate the first and second walls of the first mounting structure with the first and second barriers of the second mounting structure.

14. 14. The anamorphic lens system of claim 13, wherein engagement of outer surfaces of the first and second walls with inner surfaces of the first and second barriers provides alignment of the first lens and the second lens along an axis substantially perpendicular to the optical axis.

15. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1 , wherein engagement of the protrusion and the gap is configured to prevent rotation of the first lens relative to the second lens about the optical axis.

16. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1 , wherein the first mounting structure and the first optical component are made of the same material.

17. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1 , wherein the second mounting structure and the second optical component are made of the same material.

18. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1 , wherein the first mounting structure and the first optical component form a single structure.

19. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1 , wherein the first lens and the second lens are in direct physical contact with each other.

20. The anamorphic lens system of claim 1 , wherein the first lens and the second lens have only positive draft angles.

Images