Endoscope Moving Lens Barrel Stopper Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes face challenges in miniaturization and precise focal distance adjustment for zooming functions, where the retreat position of the moving lens unit is difficult to set accurately, affecting the optical characteristics and image quality.
Innovation Solution
An endoscope design incorporating a moving lens system with a stopper member that serves as both a holding and defining element for the retreat position, utilizing a cylindrical stopper member fixed to the fixed barrel to restrict movement and define the optical axis, combined with an actuator for precise advance and retreat operations, and a shape memory device for power transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a stopper member is positioned and fixed to define the retreat position of the moving lens barrel, then the focal distance adjustment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper member is integrated with the fixed lens barrel, merging the stopper function into an existing structural component rather than adding a separate independent part. This reduces assembly complexity while maintaining precise retreat position definition through the stopper's engagement with the moving lens barrel.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper member serves multiple functions: it defines the retreat position of the moving lens barrel, provides a mechanical stop for the actuator mechanism, and contributes to the overall structural integrity of the lens assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the moving lens barrel is designed to advance and retreat along the optical axis for zooming, then the optical characteristic adjustment capability is improved, but the reliability decreases due to increased mechanical wear and positioning errors
Solution Approach 1:
A spring mechanism is incorporated into the actuator assembly to provide cushioning during the advance and retreat movements of the moving lens barrel. This spring cushioning absorbs mechanical shocks, reduces impact wear on the stopper and guide surfaces, and maintains consistent contact pressure for more reliable positioning throughout the zoom range.
Solution Approach 2:
The moving lens barrel assembly incorporates dynamic elements including springs and flexible mounting structures that allow for controlled movement while maintaining stability. The spring-loaded actuator provides dynamic compensation for manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion, ensuring reliable positioning at both extreme positions of the zoom range.
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 enables precise adjustment of focal distances, improves durability and maintainability, and reduces power consumption, ensuring high image quality and ease of assembly while maintaining the optical characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator which includes a movement section main body and a motive power transmission member and which is configured to transmit motive power to the moving lens unit by advance and retreat movement of the motive power transmission member with respect to the movement section main body
Data Source
AI summary
An image pickup unit includes a rear group lens barrel which holds the rear group lens, a moving lens barrel which holds the moving lens and which is movable to advance and retreat inside the rear group lens barrel along an optical axis of the observation optical system, an actuator which includes a guide tube and a head member and which is configured to transmit motive power to the moving lens barrel by advance and retreat movement of the head member with respect to the guide tube, and a second stopper member which is positioned and fixed to the rear group lens barrel and which defines a retreat position in a direction of the optical axis of the moving lens barrel, in which the second stopper member also serves as a holding member which holds a distal end side of the guide tube.