Partially Spherical Endoscope Optics for Dual-Direction Viewing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing endoscopes with spherical lenses face challenges in miniaturization and cost-effectiveness, particularly when aiming for simultaneous observation in multiple directions.
Innovation Solution
An objective optical system comprising first and second lenses with partially spherical shapes, where the first lens has an inclined flat surface and the second lens is perpendicular to the main optical axis, allowing for simultaneous observation in both forward and lateral directions, and is housed in a cylindrical holding member for easy assembly and miniaturization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If spherical lenses are used in endoscopes, then manufacturing ease and miniaturization are improved, but the ability to observe in multiple directions simultaneously deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple spherical lenses (first spherical lens and second spherical lens) with different orientations. The first spherical lens observes in a first direction while the second spherical lens observes in a second direction, allowing multi-directional observation while maintaining the manufacturing simplicity of spherical lenses
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dimensional aspect by orienting spherical lenses in different spatial directions. The first spherical lens is oriented in a first direction and the second spherical lens is oriented in a second direction, enabling the system to capture images from multiple dimensions simultaneously while preserving the ease of manufacturing spherical lenses
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lenses are added to enable multi-directional observation, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each spherical lens is designed to perform multiple functions: the first spherical lens serves as both an imaging element for the first direction and a light guide for the second direction, while the second spherical lens serves as both an imaging element for the second direction and a light guide for the first direction. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the imaging function and light guiding function into the same spherical lenses. The first spherical lens and second spherical lens both perform imaging in their respective directions and simultaneously guide light for the other direction, combining multiple optical functions into unified components to reduce system complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If prisms are used to achieve multi-directional observation, then adaptability is improved, but cost and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive prisms with spherical lenses that are cheaper and easier to manufacture. Spherical lenses can be produced through simple molding processes, making them more cost-effective than precision-prismatic components while achieving the same multi-directional observation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameter approach from using prisms (which rely on total internal reflection and precise angular geometry) to using spherical lenses (which rely on refraction and spherical geometry). This parameter change enables multi-directional observation through a manufacturing process that is simpler and less costly
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 system enables ultra-fine, low-cost endoscopes capable of observing both forward and lateral directions, with adjustable viewing field ratios and improved manufacturing ease, outperforming systems using ultra-fine prisms in cost and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the first flat surface is disposed on a side of the object and is inclined with respect to the main optical axis
Implementation Method 2
A spherical lens is suitable for an ultra-fine endoscope, because manufacturing and miniaturization thereof are easy
Data Source
AI summary
An objective optical system including a first lens and a second lens that are arranged in this order from an object side along a main optical axis, wherein the first lens has a partially spherical shape having a first flat surface, the second lens has a partially spherical shape having a second flat surface, the first flat surface is disposed on a side of the object and is inclined with respect to the main optical axis, and the second flat surface is disposed on an opposite side which is opposite from the side of the object and is perpendicular to the main optical axis.