Deformable Lens Zoom Mechanism Reducing Axial Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional zoom lenses are space-consuming, expensive, and prone to material wear due to the need for multiple optical elements to be axially shifted, limiting their miniaturization potential for use in devices like cell phones and medical endoscopes.
Innovation Solution
The development of compact zoom lenses utilizing deformable lenses with high focus tuning ranges, actuated by elements like electromagnetic actuators, and operating on varifocal principles instead of afocal/parfocal principles, reducing axial length and the number of optical elements required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional zoom lenses use multiple optical elements axially shifted by motorized translation stages, then zoom functionality is achieved, but axial length increases and device miniaturization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motorized translation stages with shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators that directly deform lens elements to change focal length. This substitution of mechanical translation with material deformation enables zoom functionality without the need for axial movement of multiple optical elements, thereby reducing axial length and enabling device miniaturization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and shape of lens elements by applying electrical current to shape memory alloy actuators. The SMA material undergoes phase transformation from austenite to martensite, causing controlled deformation of the lens curvature and focal length, enabling zoom without mechanical translation
2Ease of operation
If multiple optical elements are axially shifted to achieve zoom, then focal length adjustment is possible, but material wear increases due to repeated mechanical movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates repeated mechanical translation of optical elements by using shape memory alloy actuators that deform lens elements in place. This substitution removes sliding contacts and mechanical interfaces that would otherwise experience wear, thereby improving reliability and reducing material degradation over time
3Measurement precision
If conventional zoom lenses use motorized translation stages, then precise focal length control is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive motorized translation stages with shape memory alloy actuators that can be integrated directly into the lens element structure. This substitution reduces the number of discrete mechanical components, simplifies assembly, and lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining precise focal length control through electrical actuation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the actuator and lens element into a single integrated structure, where the shape memory alloy is embedded within or attached to the lens element itself. This integration eliminates the need for separate translation stages and mounting mechanisms, reducing part count and manufacturing complexity
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 approach results in a highly compact varifocal system with superior focus tuning ranges compared to traditional technologies, effectively addressing the limitations of conventional zoom lenses in terms of size and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the shape of the lens was changed in order to alter the focal length and other optical properties of the lens
Implementation Method 2
actuated by elements like electromagnetic actuators
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
An optical system includes a first deformable lens having a membrane with a deformable portion. A sensor is configured to receive the light focused by the first deformable lens. An optical path extends through the first deformable lens and to the sensor. The first deformable lens is tuned according to an applied electrical signal in order to directly focus light traversing the optical path onto the sensor. A first volume of a first optical media and a second volume of a second optical media are defined at least in part by the deformable portion of the membrane. The first volume and the second volume are completely enclosed by the housing. The first volume and the second volume remain substantially constant for all configurations of the first deformable lens.