Flexible Lens Positioner for Ophthalmic Microscopes
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscope systems, particularly in ophthalmic microscopy, require manual and frequent adjustment of lenses, which is cumbersome and inefficient, especially during procedures that demand precise and quick positioning of lenses for optimal imaging.
Innovation Solution
A lens positioner system comprising a tension control assembly, an adjustable lens extension assembly, and a tensile cord that allows for controlled movement of the lens through multiple degrees of freedom, utilizing a flexible linkage subassembly and a solenoid actuated tension control mechanism to adjust and lock the lens position, enabling precise and efficient positioning of the wide-angle lens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of lenses is used in existing microscope systems, then the structure remains simple, but the operation becomes cumbersome and inefficient during procedures requiring precise and quick positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner system employs a flexible linkage subassembly that transitions from a locked static state to an unlocked dynamic state, allowing the lens to move freely along the optical axis when unlocked and remain fixed when locked, thereby enabling both precise positioning and operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
A tensile cord acts as an intermediary element connecting the tension control assembly to the flexible linkage subassembly, transmitting control forces to enable remote adjustment of lens position without direct manual manipulation of the lens itself
2Productivity
If frequent repositioning of lenses is required for optimal imaging, then imaging quality is maintained, but time is lost due to repeated manual adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The positioner system pre-positions the lens at optimal locations and locks it in place using the tension control assembly, allowing the lens to remain fixed during procedures without requiring frequent manual repositioning, thus reducing time loss while maintaining imaging quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated tension control mechanism that uses a solenoid actuator to control the tensile cord, enabling quick and precise lens repositioning without continuous manual intervention
3Manufacturing precision
If the lens is held firmly in position, then positioning precision is improved, but the ease of adjustment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible linkage subassembly is designed to be easily unlocked and repositioned when not under tension, allowing simple manual adjustment, and then locked firmly when tension is applied through the tensile cord, achieving both ease of adjustment and positioning precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the linkage from flexible and movable to rigid and fixed by applying tension through the tensile cord, thereby transitioning the lens from an easily adjustable state to a precisely locked state without requiring separate adjustment 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
The system allows for precise and efficient adjustment of the lens position, reducing manual effort and improving the ease of use during procedures by allowing selective control of tension in the tensile cord, facilitating better imaging and reducing the need for frequent repositioning.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid actuated tension control mechanism to adjust and lock the lens position
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a microscope is provided comprising a microscope assembly and a lens positioner. The lens positioner comprises a tension control assembly, an adjustable lens extension assembly, and a tensile cord coupling the tension control assembly to the adjustable lens extension assembly. The tension control assembly is configured to control the degree of tension in the tensile cord. The adjustable lens extension assembly comprises a flexible linkage subassembly and a lens support subassembly. The flexible linkage subassembly comprises a proximal end and a distal end and is configured such that the distal end is movable relative to the proximal end through a plurality of degrees of freedom of movement. The lens support subassembly is secured to the distal end of the flexible linkage subassembly. The flexible linkage subassembly is further configured such that the ease at which its distal end moves relative to its proximal end is a function of the degree of tension in the tensile cord, as controlled by the tension control assembly.