Cam-Barrel Lens-Group Switching for Compact Image Capture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical apparatuses face challenges in reducing size while maintaining functionality due to the need for dedicated actuators to move conversion lenses, which occupy additional space and hinder compact design.
Innovation Solution
An optical apparatus with a first lens group, a second lens group, and a guide barrel system that allows for focal length range change without a dedicated actuator, using a cam barrel and interlocking member to move lens groups along the optical axis, enabling compact size and efficient focal length transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated actuator is used to move the conversion lens, then the conversion lens can be reliably moved to insertion and withdrawal positions, but the lens size increases due to the additional actuator space required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuation function into the existing focusing mechanism. The focusing actuator that normally moves the first lens group for focusing is modified to also move the second lens group (conversion lens) by changing its driving range, eliminating the need for a dedicated actuator for the conversion lens.
Solution Approach 2:
The focusing actuator is given multiple functions: it serves both as the focusing actuator for the first lens group and as the actuator for moving the second lens group between insertion and withdrawal positions. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of actuators and saves space.
2Ease of operation
If the second lens group is moved using a dedicated actuator, then precise control of focal length range transition is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control of the first lens group (focusing) and the second lens group (focal length range transition) into a single actuator system. The focusing actuator controls both lens groups, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining precise control through programmed driving ranges.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the conversion lens is built into the camera body, then it can be moved to insertion position, but it requires additional space between the prism and flash unit
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of building the conversion lens into the camera body and moving it to an insertion position within the camera, the patent inverts the approach by placing the conversion lens (second lens group) in the lens barrel and moving it relative to the first lens group. This eliminates the need for additional space in the camera body between the prism and flash unit.
4Volume of moving object
If a cam barrel mechanism is used to move lens groups, then compact size is achieved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a cam barrel mechanism that combines the movement control of both the first lens group and the second lens group into a single integrated structure. The cam grooves on the cam barrel work with cam followers to simultaneously control the positioning of both lens groups, achieving compact size while managing complexity through integration.
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 compact size and efficient focal length transitions without the need for additional space, allowing for high portability and reduced image capture preparation time.
Implementation Method 1
a cam groove configured to move the first lens group and a second cam groove that is different from the first cam groove and is configured to move the interlocking member
Data Source
AI summary
An optical apparatus includes first and second lens groups, a guide barrel having a straight-guiding groove, a cam barrel, and an interlocking member having a first coupling portion. The cam barrel includes a first cam groove that moves the first lens group and a second cam groove that is different from the first cam groove and moves the interlocking member. When the second lens group changes a focal length range of an optical system from a second focal length range to a first focal length range, the first lens group is moved in a direction of an optical axis by the straight-guiding groove and the first cam groove, the interlocking member is moved in the direction of the optical axis by the straight-guiding groove and the second cam groove, and the first coupling portion withdraws the second lens group to outside of an optical path of the first lens group.