Electroactive Polymer Lens for Compact Variable Focal Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional variable optical elements, such as zoom lenses and reflectors, are often bulky and not suitable for miniaturized applications like mobile devices due to space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A lens comprising a lens body made of electroactive material with electrodes applied to control its shape, allowing for adjustable optical properties, such as forming a Fresnel lens, by applying a voltage, which can be used in compact devices like digital cameras and mobile phones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional variable optical elements (zoom lenses, reflectors) are used to achieve variable optical properties, then the optical functionality is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and unsuitable for miniaturized applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical zoom lens arrangements and variable reflector systems with an electroactive polymer-based optical element. The electroactive material changes its optical properties (refractive index, shape) in response to applied voltage, eliminating the need for bulky mechanical moving parts while achieving variable focal length and optical control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the ability of electroactive polymer material to change its physical and optical parameters (refractive index, shape, thickness) in response to electrical field stimulation. By applying different voltages, the optical properties of the lens are dynamically adjusted, providing variable optical functionality in a compact form factor suitable for miniaturized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional zoom lens arrangements are used to vary focal length, then optical adjustment is achieved, but the device complexity and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical zoom lens arrangements with a single electroactive polymer optical element whose focal length and optical properties are controlled electrically. This substitution of mechanical systems with electro-active materials dramatically simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining variable focal length capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The electroactive polymer optical element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the lens itself, provides focal length adjustment, and enables optical property variation, all through a single component controlled by electrical signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If variable reflector systems are used to change optical properties, then optical control is achieved, but the device becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces variable reflector systems with an electroactive polymer optical element that achieves optical property control through electrical stimulation rather than mechanical mirror movement. The electroactive material's ability to change shape and refractive index under voltage provides the same optical control functionality in a much more compact form.
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 a compact and adaptable optical system that can adjust focal length and optical axis, optimizing image capture and illumination in space-restricted devices.
Implementation Method 1
Optical elements with variable properties comprise variable reflectors, i.e. mirror arrangements comprising a plurality of individual mirrors at least some of which are movable to change the optical properties of the system
Data Source
AI summary
A lens is provided, comprising a lens body. According to an embodiment, the lens body comprises at least one portion of electroactive material.