Compact Optical Assembly With Multi-Axis Lens Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality devices are hindered by large and bulky optical assemblies, limiting their portability and user comfort.

Innovation Solution

An optical system featuring a light source, a fixed portion, an optical assembly with a first and second optical element, and a driving assembly that allows the second optical element to move relative to the first along different axes, utilizing guiding and buffering assemblies for precise movement and a locking assembly for secure positioning, enabling miniaturization and improved user experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If traditional optical projection technology is used for AR, then virtual content can be delivered to users, but the optical assembly becomes large and bulky

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical assembly sizeVSAvoidportability and user comfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The optical assembly is divided into multiple discrete optical elements (first optical element, second optical element, third optical element) that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function while reducing the overall volume of the optical assembly compared to traditional monolithic designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent positions multiple optical elements in a compact, nested arrangement where the first, second, and third optical elements are disposed in close proximity to each other along the optical path. This nesting approach allows the optical system to achieve the required optical path length and focusing capabilities while minimizing the external dimensions of the optical assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If optical elements are positioned closely to miniaturize the system, then device size is reduced, but precise positioning and stabilization become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical assembly sizeVSAvoidoptical element positioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the second optical element to move relative to the first and third optical elements along a first axis, and the third optical element to move relative to the first and second optical elements along a second axis. This dynamic positioning capability enables real-time compensation for manufacturing tolerances and maintains precise optical alignment despite the compact size of the assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs sensors to detect the positions of the optical elements and uses this feedback information to adjust the positioning of the movable optical elements. This closed-loop control system ensures that the optical elements maintain their precise relative positions despite vibrations, thermal expansion, or manufacturing variations, which is particularly critical in the miniaturized optical assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12181683B2Optical system
Publication Date: 2024.12.31 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US12181683B2 patent drawing
  • US12181683B2 patent drawing
  • US12181683B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical system is provided. The optical system includes a light source used for generating light, a fixed portion, an optical assembly having an equivalent focal length to the light and including a first optical element and a second optical element, and a driving assembly used for driving the second optical element to move relative to the first optical element. The driving assembly includes a first driving element used for driving the second optical element to move relative to the first optical element in a first axis, and a second driving element used for driving the second optical element to move relative to the first optical element in a second axis. The first axis and the second axis are different.