Conversion Lens Holder Layout for Precise Focal Length Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical apparatuses face issues with optical performance deterioration due to conversion lenses being restricted by parts other than the lens holder, limiting their functionality and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
An optical system comprising a first, second, and third lens unit, with holding members and stopper portions, allowing the second and third lens units to move between optical and non-optical paths, ensuring precise alignment and reducing interference during focal length changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the conversion lens is inserted into the optical path to change focal length range, then the focal length range can be extended toward telephoto or wide-angle side, but the position of the conversion lens is restricted by other parts which causes optical performance deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The conversion lens is divided into a first conversion lens unit and a second conversion lens unit that can move independently. The first conversion lens unit is inserted into the optical path to extend the focal length range, while the second conversion lens unit is retracted away from the optical path to avoid restricting the first unit's movement and maintain optical performance. This segmentation allows each unit to perform its function without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The second conversion lens unit is positioned in a different spatial dimension (retracted position) relative to the optical path compared to the first conversion lens unit. By moving the second unit away from the optical axis in the radial direction, the system creates additional spatial freedom that allows the first unit to move freely along the optical path without mechanical interference, thus resolving the contradiction between extending focal length range and maintaining optical performance.
2Device complexity
If the conversion lens is restricted by other parts in the optical path, then the structure can be compact, but the optical performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The second conversion lens unit is extracted from the optical path by positioning it in a retracted state away from the optical axis. This extraction removes the source of mechanical interference that would otherwise restrict the first conversion lens unit's movement, allowing the system to achieve both compact structure and good optical performance without sacrificing either aspect.
3Measurement precision
If a dedicated actuator is used to control the conversion lens, then the focal length switching can be precise, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first conversion lens unit is designed to move automatically along the optical path when the second conversion lens unit is inserted or retracted, without requiring a dedicated actuator. The mechanical interaction between the two lens units and their holding members enables the system to switch focal length ranges autonomously, reducing device complexity while maintaining precise switching through the inherent mechanical coupling of the lens units themselves.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical apparatus includes an optical system that includes first, second, and third lens units, a first holding member that includes a first stopper portion and holds the second lens unit, a second holding member that includes a first restricting portion and a second stopper portion and holds the third lens unit, and a fixed member that includes a second restricting portion and holds the first holding member and the second holding member. The second and third lens units are movable between a first state in which they are located outside an optical path of the optical system and a second state in which they are located in the optical path of the optical system. In a case where the second and third lens units are in the second state, the first restricting portion contacts the first stopper portion, and the second restricting portion contacts the second stopper portion.