Aperture Switching Device for Mobile Lens

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional smartphone cameras lack adjustable apertures due to space constraints and power limitations, making it impossible to implement a motor-driven diaphragm mechanism for aperture control, resulting in a constant aperture value.

Innovation Solution

A compact aperture switching device using a plate base, driving mechanism, connecting rod, and transfer mechanism, where a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire drives the movement of an insert piece within a light-transmissive channel to adjust the aperture diameter, eliminating the need for a motor and minimizing space occupation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a motor-driven diaphragm mechanism is installed to enable aperture adjustment, then aperture control function is improved, but device space and weight are exceeded

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaperture control functionVSAvoiddevice space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the motor-driven mechanical diaphragm system with an electrochromic material-based optical system. The electrochromic layer changes its light transmission properties in response to electrical signals, enabling aperture control without mechanical moving parts, thereby eliminating the need for motors and reducing overall device volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the optical parameters of the electrochromic material through electrical control. By applying voltage, the electrochromic layer transitions between different states (transparent to opaque), dynamically adjusting the effective aperture without physical movement, thus achieving aperture control within limited space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If a motor-driven diaphragm mechanism is installed to enable aperture adjustment, then aperture control function is improved, but power consumption and heat dissipation increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaperture control functionVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs periodic or pulsed electrical signals to control the electrochromic material's state transitions. By applying voltage only when aperture adjustment is needed rather than continuous power, the system achieves energy-efficient operation while maintaining the ability to dynamically control aperture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the lens protrudes outwardly to accommodate adjustable aperture structure, then aperture adjustment capability is improved, but lens susceptibility to scratching increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaperture adjustment capabilityVSAvoidlens scratching risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent embeds the electrochromic aperture control layer within the existing lens structure, nesting the functional element inside the lens assembly rather than adding external protruding components. This integrated approach maintains a flush lens surface that is less susceptible to scratching while preserving aperture adjustment capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the existing lens assembly multi-functional by integrating the electrochromic aperture control layer within it. The lens structure simultaneously serves as both the optical element and the housing for the aperture mechanism, eliminating the need for separate protruding aperture components and reducing vulnerability to damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables adjustable aperture control in smartphones, allowing for dynamic light management and compact design suitable for thin and light mobile devices, overcoming the limitations of traditional motor-driven systems.

Implementation Method 1

a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire drives the movement of an insert piece within a light-transmissive channel to adjust the aperture diameter

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory alloy: Shape Memory Alloy

Data Source

PatentUS10983307B2Aperture switching device for use with a lens of a mobile device

Publication Date: 2021.04.20 ACTUTEK CORP

AI summary

The invention provides an aperture switching device for use with lens of mobile device. The lens of the mobile phone or the portable electronic product usually has a fixed aperture of lens, and the aperture size cannot be adjusted. Therefore, the invention provides an aperture switching device for the lens, comprising a plate base, a driving mechanism, a connecting rod and a transfer mechanism, wherein the transfer mechanism comprises a insert piece having a light-transmissive hole, wherein the driving mechanism moves the connecting rod to move the insert piece toward the lens, and replaces the lens aperture with the light-transmissive hole of the insert piece. As such, the invention achieves the purpose of changing the aperture of the lens, and the lens aperture of the mobile device can be substantially switched.