Curved Alignment Features for Precise Optical Element Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical imaging devices face challenges in achieving precise lateral alignment of stacked lens elements due to tolerances in lens and barrel dimensions, leading to suboptimal optical performance.
Innovation Solution
The use of curved alignment features, such as tracks and projections, on the surfaces of optical elements within the optically inactive regions, facilitates precise alignment by matching shapes between adjacent elements, allowing for improved lateral alignment and reduced footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment features are used in stacked lens elements, then lateral alignment can be achieved, but precision is insufficient due to tolerances in lens and barrel dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved alignment features including circular tracks and circular projections instead of traditional flat or linear alignment structures. The curved geometry provides self-aligning properties that compensate for manufacturing tolerances in lens and barrel dimensions, enabling more precise lateral alignment between stacked optical elements.
2Measurement precision
If alignment features are added to optical elements, then lateral alignment precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment features are localized to specific regions on the optical elements rather than requiring complex global alignment mechanisms. The curved tracks and projections are confined to predetermined locations on the lens surfaces, providing precise alignment functionality without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Optical assemblies include a stack of optical elements each of which has one or more alignment features. Each alignment feature traces a respective curve along a surface of one of the optical elements. The alignment feature(s) of one optical element fit within the alignment feature(s) of the other. In some cases, the alignment features can help establish more precise lateral alignment of the optical elements.