Fluid Lens Pressure Mitigation via Closed-Cell Foam
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fluid lens systems face issues with temperature-induced fluid expansion and internal pressure elevation, which can lead to fluid leakage and disruption of optical characteristics due to air bubbles entering the optical path.
Innovation Solution
A pressure mitigating member, such as a foam body made of fluororubber with closed cells, is installed in the gap between the vibrating member and the case, further outward than the vibrating member, to mitigate pressure without interfering with the optical path, ensuring optical characteristics are not influenced.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If air bubbles are injected into the fluid to mitigate pressure elevation, then internal pressure can be reduced, but air bubbles may enter the optical path and disrupt optical characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful air bubbles are extracted from the optical system entirely. Instead of injecting bubbles into the fluid, the patent introduces a separate pressure relief valve structure that allows excess pressure to be released without introducing any foreign substances into the optical path, thus maintaining optical characteristics while mitigating pressure elevation
Solution Approach 2:
A pressure relief valve acts as an intermediary mechanism between the sealed fluid system and the external environment. This valve provides a controlled pathway for pressure relief that does not require introducing air bubbles into the fluid, thereby mediating between the need for pressure control and the requirement to maintain optical purity
2Stability of the object's composition
If the fluid is sealed in the case, then the lens system can maintain its structure, but temperature-induced expansion causes pressure elevation and potential leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure relief valve introduces a dynamic element to the otherwise static sealed system. The valve remains closed during normal operation to maintain structural integrity, but automatically opens when pressure exceeds a threshold, allowing the system to adapt to temperature changes while maintaining sealing
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure relief valve is pre-configured with a set pressure threshold that anticipates pressure buildup from thermal expansion. By designing the valve to open at this predetermined pressure level, the system prepares in advance for temperature-induced expansion, releasing pressure before it can cause structural damage or leakage
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 pressure mitigating member effectively reduces internal pressure during fluid expansion, preventing leakage and maintaining optical performance by compressing closed cells and providing resistance to external pressures, ensuring stability and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a hollow cylindrical vibrating member formed of a piezoelectric material... when AC voltage is applied to both an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface of the vibrating member, the vibrating member expands and contracts
Implementation Method 2
By adjusting a frequency of the applied voltage in response to the natural frequency of the fluid, a standing wave of concentric circles is formed in the fluid
Implementation Method 3
a pressure mitigating member that is a foam body with a large number of closed cells... the foam body pressure mitigating member has a function of mitigating pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A lens system includes a tubular vibrating member that vibrates due to an input drive signal; a case accommodating the vibrating member; a fluid that fills the case and immerses the vibrating member; and a pressure mitigating member that is installed in a gap between the vibrating member and the case, further outward than the vibrating member. A foam body made of fluororubber and having a large number of closed cells is used as the pressure mitigating member.