Eccentric Optical Component Adjustment Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms for adjusting the position of optical components in two directions are often complex, time-consuming, and costly to manufacture, requiring separate adjusting means and lacking the capability for both alignment and scanning.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a first member with a flat sliding surface, a second member movable relative to the first, and an elongated third member with an eccentric part, allowing the optical component to be adjusted in two directions using a single actuator by linear and rotational motion, converting rotational motion into linear motion via the eccentric part.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If two separate adjusting means are used to control two single-axis drive stages, then the optical component can be adjusted in two directions, but the adjustment process becomes time-consuming and the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate adjusting mechanisms into a single integrated mechanism. The rotating member integrates both adjustment functions: rotation around the vertical axis provides first-direction adjustment, while rotation around the horizontal axis provides second-direction adjustment. This merging eliminates the need for two independent drive stages and their associated control mechanisms, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining two-dimensional adjustment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the adjustment mechanism and the support structure for the optical component. By integrating the adjustment function into the rotating member itself rather than using separate adjusting means, the device achieves multi-functionality that reduces overall complexity while preserving precise position control in two directions
2Manufacturing precision
If two separate adjusting means are used to control two single-axis drive stages, then the optical component can be adjusted in two directions, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging two separate adjusting mechanisms into one integrated rotating member, the patent reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-tested. This consolidation directly lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining the required precision through the integrated rotational adjustment system
3Device complexity
If a single actuator is used with eccentric part, then the device structure becomes simple and manufacturing cost reduces, but the conversion of rotational motion to linear motion must be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The eccentric part acts as an intermediary mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear displacement. As the rotating member turns, the eccentric part's offset from the rotation axis creates a reciprocating linear motion that drives the optical component's adjustment. This intermediary mechanism enables simple motion control while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the geometric parameter of eccentricity (the offset distance from the rotation axis) to transform rotational motion characteristics into linear displacement. By changing the rotational position of the eccentric part, the system achieves controlled linear motion for precise optical component adjustment without complex mechanisms
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
Enables quick, accurate, and reproducible two-dimensional adjustment of optical components with a simple mechanical structure, reducing manufacturing costs and enabling both alignment and scanning capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The third member comprises an eccentric part which is eccentric in relation to the rotation axis of the third member. The eccentric part is arranged in an operational connection with the second member so that the second member is movable relative to the first member in a direction perpendicular to said rotation axis when the third member is being rotated around its rotation axis.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The present invention provides a device (100) for adjusting a position of an optical component in two directions. The device comprises a first member (110) having a flat sliding surface (111), and a second member (120) arranged to be movable relative to the first member in contact with said sliding surface. The optical component can be attached to the second member. The device also comprises an elongated third member (130) arranged in an operational connection with the first and the second member so that the second member is movable relative to the first member in a direction of a rotation axis of the third member when the third member is being moved in the direction of its rotation axis.The rotation axis is arranged to be substantially parallel to the sliding surface of the first member. The third member comprises an eccentric part (132) which is eccentric in relation to the rotation axis of the third member. The eccentric part is arranged in an operational connection with the second member so that the second member is movable relative to the first member in a direction perpendicular to said rotation axis when the third member is being rotated around its rotation axis.The invention also provides a method for adjusting a position of an optical component in two directions.