Double Optical Path Imaging Lens with Switching Selector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 3-D imaging lens systems are complex and costly due to their requirement for high production costs and sequential or alternating image recording from different lenses, which complicates the process of recording images from different optical subsystems effectively.
Innovation Solution
An optical imaging lens system with double optical paths, featuring a first and second optical subsystem with equal back focal lengths, an optical path selector that can switch between light reflection and passing states, and reflector sets to direct light from each subsystem to the selector, allowing images from different lenses to be recorded on a sensor in sequential or alternating order.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional 3-D imaging lens systems use two separate lenses with sequential or alternating image recording, then images from different lenses can be recorded, but the device complexity and production cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate optical subsystems into a single integrated system where both subsystems share a common sensor and optical path selector. This combining approach allows the system to record images from different lenses without requiring completely separate recording paths, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to capture images from multiple optical subsystems
Solution Approach 2:
The optical path selector serves multiple functions: it can selectively direct light from either the first or second optical subsystem to the sensor, and it can also direct both paths to different positions on the sensor. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate recording mechanisms for each optical subsystem, reducing overall device complexity while preserving adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional 3-D imaging lens systems use sequential or alternating image recording from different lenses, then images can be captured from multiple perspectives, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the optical paths of two subsystems into a single shared path with a programmable optical path selector, the system reduces the number of required components compared to conventional systems. This merging reduces material costs, assembly complexity, and manufacturing steps, thereby lowering production cost while maintaining the ability to capture images from different lenses
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a programmable optical path selector that can change its optical properties (reflection or passing state) based on control signals. This parameter change capability allows the system to dynamically switch between different optical paths without requiring physical reconfiguration or multiple fixed components, simplifying manufacturing and reducing production cost
3Productivity
If an optical path selector is used to direct light from different optical subsystems, then image recording from multiple lenses is enabled, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical path selector is designed as a universal component that can handle multiple optical paths and direct them to either the same sensor position or different positions. This multi-functionality is achieved through programmable control, which reduces the need for multiple dedicated components for each optical path, thereby enabling image recording from multiple lenses without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical switching mechanisms with a programmable optical path selector that uses electrical or optical control signals to direct light paths. This substitution eliminates the need for moving parts, mechanical linkages, and physical switches, reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to selectively direct light from different optical subsystems to the sensor
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 configuration reduces production costs and enables effective image recording from different lenses, simplifying the system while maintaining image clarity and synchronization, thus addressing the complexity and cost issues of conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
the first reflector set disposed at an image side of the first optical subsystem for directing light from the first optical subsystem to the optical path selector; and the second reflector set disposed at an image side of the second optical subsystem for directing light from the second optical subsystem to the optical path selector
Implementation Method 2
the optical path selector selectively having a light reflection state or a light passing state; when the optical path selector is in the light reflection state, the light from the first optical subsystem forms an image on a sensor while the light from the second optical subsystem forms an image on another position rather than on the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an optical imaging lens system with double optical paths, comprising: the first optical subsystem; the second optical subsystem having a back focal length equal to that of the first optical subsystem; an optical path selector selectively having a light reflection state or a light passing state; the first reflector set disposed at an image side of the first optical subsystem for directing light from the first optical subsystem to the optical path selector; and the second reflector set disposed at an image side of the second optical subsystem for directing light from the second optical subsystem to the optical path selector. In the present invention, the optical path selector can be controlled to have the light reflection state or the light passing state selectively, so that an image coming from the first optical subsystem or from the second optical subsystem is captured.