Dual Membrane Optical Device with Fluid Coupling for Variable Focal Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical devices with variable focal length face challenges in achieving extended range variations and simple actuation with low electrical voltages, often requiring complex manufacturing methods and high-cost materials, while dual-direction actuation is complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
An optical device comprising two deformable membranes with a constant fluid volume mechanically coupling them, where one membrane deforms in a single direction under electrical actuation, and the other absorbs this deformation to minimize pressure, allowing dual-direction actuation with a single actuation device, using materials like siloxane resin or mineral materials with piezoelectric actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dual-direction actuation is implemented using conventional methods, then focal length variation range is extended, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuation of two membranes into a single integrated system. A first membrane with an actuation device and a second membrane share a common fluid volume, allowing one actuation device to control both membranes' deformations. This combining approach achieves dual-direction actuation (convergent and divergent modes) without requiring separate actuation systems for each membrane, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining extended focal length variation range.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuation device performs multiple functions: it actuates the first membrane directly and indirectly actuates the second membrane through fluid pressure transmission. The first membrane serves dual purposes as both an actuated element and a pressure transmission medium. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve convergent and divergent optical modes with a single actuation device, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If thick layers of piezoelectric materials are used for dual-direction actuation, then focal length variation is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying piezoelectric materials to both membranes for full dual-direction actuation, the patent applies piezoelectric actuation to only the first membrane. The second membrane achieves its deformation through fluid pressure transmission from the first membrane's actuation. This partial actuation approach reduces manufacturing complexity by eliminating the need for piezoelectric material deposition on both membranes, while still achieving convergent and divergent optical modes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If high electrical voltages are applied for dual-direction actuation, then focal length variation range is extended, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fluid pressure as an intermediary mechanism between the electrical actuation and the second membrane's deformation. The piezoelectric actuator on the first membrane generates electrical-to-mechanical conversion, creating fluid pressure that then acts on the second membrane. This intermediary approach allows the system to achieve extended focal length variation without directly applying high voltages to multiple actuators, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.
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 design enables compact, cost-effective, and simple actuation with extended focal length variations, reducing manufacturing complexity and electrical voltage requirements, while maintaining high optical power and flexibility in lens configurations.
Implementation Method 1
an actuation device of a region of the first membrane located between the anchoring area and a central part of the first membrane, configured to deform by application of electrical actuation voltage in a single direction of deflection
Implementation Method 2
a constant volume of fluid enclosed between the first and the second membrane, said fluid producing mechanical coupling of said first and second membranes
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device with focal length variation including a first deformable membrane, a second deformable membrane, and a support to which a respective peripheral anchoring area of each of said membranes is connected. A constant volume of fluid is enclosed between the first and the second membrane, said fluid producing mechanical coupling of said first and second membranes. An actuation device of a region of the first membrane located between the anchoring area and a central part of the first membrane, configured to deform by application of electrical actuation voltage in a single direction of deflection to displace at least a portion of the fluid volume, said displacement of fluid being likely to cause deformation of the central part of the first membrane based on application of an electrical actuation voltage to the actuation device.