Binocular Prism Module Integrating Light Transmitter to Reduce Assembly Volume

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing design of binoculars capable of measuring distance is limited by the arrangement of the laser diode, which compromises the appearance and increases the volume due to the need for a metallic shield to prevent electromagnetic interference, restricting the use of organic light-emitting diodes for reticle generation.

Innovation Solution

The binocular design incorporates a prism and light transmitter module where the light source and receiver are positioned above or below the prism module, utilizing a prism holder, drive circuit board, shield, and fixing assembly to optimize space and allow for the use of organic light-emitting diodes, with a bent pin connecting the light transmitter to the drive circuit board and an elastic plate for secure positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If the laser diode is directly welded on the drive PCB to reduce current loss, then the current loss is reduced, but the volume of the assembly increases due to the metallic shield and drive PCB

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent lossVSAvoidassembly volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the laser diode mounting function directly into the prism module structure. The laser diode is mounted on a mounting plate that is integrated with the prism module, eliminating the need for a separate drive PCB and metallic shield assembly. This integration reduces the overall assembly volume while maintaining the electrical connection function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting plate serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the laser diode, establishes electrical connections, and integrates with the prism module structure. This multi-functional component replaces what would traditionally require separate components (PCB, shield, mounting structure), thereby reducing overall assembly volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the laser diode is disposed near the ocular to avoid the OLED, then the OLED can be used for reticle generation, but the appearance design of the ocular is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveOLED usageVSAvoidocular appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent relocates the laser diode from the lateral position (near the ocular) to a vertical position (above or below the prism module). This dimensional change in component placement allows the OLED to be positioned in the original laser diode location, enabling reticle generation without compromising the ocular's appearance design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the laser diode, metallic shield, and drive PCB are assembled together, then electromagnetic interference is prevented, but the volume of the assembly becomes too large

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic interferenceVSAvoidassembly volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the metallic shield and drive PCB from the traditional assembly and integrates their functions into the prism module structure. The mounting plate provides both mechanical support and electrical connection functions, eliminating the need for separate shield and PCB components, thereby reducing assembly volume while maintaining EMI protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

This arrangement enables the use of organic light-emitting diodes for reticle generation, optimizing the appearance design and maximizing space utilization within the binocular, while maintaining effective distance measurement capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

A laser beam B is emitted by the laser diode 52

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

the laser beam B emitted by the binocular is utilized to measure the distance from the binocular to the object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTime of flight: Time of Flight

Implementation Method 3

an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) 63 configured to produce light containing an image and a reticle message

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Implementation Method 4

Visible light beams A, A′ respectively pass through the objective modules 14, 24 and Schhmidt-Pechan prisms of the prism modules 12, 22 to form an erect image

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS10704903B2Binocular capable of measuring distance and prism and light transmitter module thereof
Publication Date: 2020.07.07 SINTAI OPTICAL SHENZHEN CO LTD
  • US10704903B2 patent drawing
  • US10704903B2 patent drawing
  • US10704903B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A prism and light transmitter module includes a prism holder, a light transmitter, a prism module, a drive circuit board, a shield, and a fixing assembly. The light transmitter is configured to emit or receive a light beam along a light axis. The prism module includes an inclined plane and is disposed within the prism holder with the inclined plane exposed. The drive circuit board is disposed above the inclined plane, and intersects with the light axis at a first angle. The shield is disposed on the drive circuit board. The fixing assembly connects to the prism holder, is configured to fix the drive circuit board, and includes a hole through which the light transmitter is exposed. A binocular capable of measuring distance includes a first optical system and a second optical system. The first optical system or/and the second optical system include the prism and light transmitter module.