Differential-Thread Lens Fastening for Flatness Run-Out Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lens modules face challenges in achieving precise flatness tolerance between the lens and the DMD due to high machining costs and low yield, with current solutions like flatness compensation gaskets and boresight adjustment structures lacking real-time adjustability and freedom of run-out adjustment, leading to micro-deformation and loosening issues.

Innovation Solution

A fastening assembly with a first and second fastening member having different thread pitches, allowing for micro-adjustment of the lens position through synchronized and independent rotations, and incorporating elastic members to ensure secure fastening and reduce deformation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a boresight adjustment structure is used to achieve flatness tolerance compensation, then image balance optimization is improved, but the degree of freedom of run-out adjustment is limited and micro-deformation occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflatness toleranceVSAvoiddegree of freedom of run-out adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening assembly incorporates a spherical surface contact mechanism between the lens mounting seat and the carrier, enabling dynamic adjustment in multiple directions. The spherical contact point allows the lens to be adjusted in any direction within the spherical space, providing three-dimensional run-out adjustment capability that overcomes the limited adjustment freedom of traditional boresight structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from traditional single-point or line contact adjustment to spherical surface contact, adding dimensional freedom to the adjustment mechanism. The spherical geometry introduces radial and angular adjustment capabilities that were not available in conventional linear adjustment structures, enabling comprehensive run-out compensation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Manufacturing precision

If accessory assemblies are added to achieve flatness compensation, then image quality is improved, but cumulative tolerance error increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflatness toleranceVSAvoidcumulative tolerance error
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention integrates the flatness compensation function directly into the fastening assembly structure itself, eliminating the need for separate accessory assemblies like gaskets or adjustment plates. The spherical contact mechanism and elastic member work together as a unified system to achieve both mechanical fastening and flatness compensation, reducing the number of components and cumulative tolerance interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it secures the lens to the carrier, compensates for flatness tolerance, and provides run-out adjustment capability. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components, reducing cumulative tolerance errors while achieving comprehensive optical alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If multiple fastening components are used to secure the lens, then fastening reliability is improved, but the structure becomes complex and adjustment difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening reliabilityVSAvoidadjustment operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening assembly is segmented into distinct functional elements: a fastening member for securing, a spherical lens mounting seat for positioning, and an elastic member for applying force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall simplicity in the adjustment operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic member automatically maintains contact force between the lens mounting seat and carrier, providing self-adjusting pressure compensation. The spherical geometry enables self-alignment during adjustment, reducing the complexity of operation while ensuring reliable fastening without requiring complex multi-step adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

The solution provides enhanced freedom of run-out adjustment, reduces micro-deformation, and simplifies assembly processes, ensuring stable fastening without loosening, while maintaining precise image projection quality.

Implementation Method 1

The elastic member is disposed between the carrier and the fastening part, and is configured to push the fastening part toward the second fastening member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The first fastening member has a first external thread and a second external thread, and a thread pitch of the first external thread is different from a thread pitch of the second external thread. The second fastening member has a first internal thread.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded fastening mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS12386139B2Lens module and fastening assembly
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 CORETRONIC CORPORATION
  • US12386139B2 patent drawing
  • US12386139B2 patent drawing
  • US12386139B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lens module and a fastening assembly are provided. The lens module includes a carrier, a lens having at least one fastening part, at least one fastening assembly including first and second fastening members, and at least one elastic member disposed between the carrier and the fastening part to push the fastening part toward the second fastening member. The first fastening member has a first external thread and a second external thread. The first external thread has a different thread pitch from the second external thread. The second fastening member has a first internal thread. The first fastening member penetrates the fastening part and is fastened to the carrier by the first external thread. The first and second fastening members are mutually fastened by the second external thread and the first internal thread, so that the fastening part is limited between the second fastening member and the carrier.