Four-Lens Image Capturing Optics for Compact Aberration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical systems struggle to balance high image quality, low sensitivity, proper aperture size, miniaturization, and desirable field of view, particularly with advancements in semiconductor technology and increasing functionality requirements.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing optical system comprising four lens elements with specific refractive powers and surface shapes, including an air gap between the second and third lens elements, and an aperture stop between the second and third lens elements, to optimize image quality and size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optical systems are used, then image quality can be maintained, but the system size and sensitivity cannot be optimized simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into four distinct lens elements with specific refractive powers and surface shapes. Each lens element is independently designed with specific curvature radii and thicknesses, allowing individual optimization of their optical functions while collectively achieving compact system size and high image quality
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the lens elements have different surface shapes (convex or concave in paraxial regions) and refractive powers tailored to specific optical functions. The aperture stop is positioned between specific lens elements to control light paths locally, enabling optimized image quality and aberration correction in different field regions
2Use of energy by moving object
If the aperture size is increased, then light gathering capability is improved, but aberration and sensitivity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system optimizes specific parameters including the curvature radii ratios (R1/R2, R3/R4), thickness ratios (CT1/CT2, CT3/CT4), and air gap distances between lens elements. These parameter optimizations enable the aperture to be sized appropriately for light gathering while maintaining aberration control through the specific optical configuration
Solution Approach 2:
Air gaps are introduced between adjacent lens elements as intermediary spaces that allow for optimal optical path control. These air gaps enable the lens elements to be positioned at specific distances from each other, facilitating aberration correction while maintaining the desired aperture characteristics
3Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view is expanded, then functionality is improved, but image quality and aberration control become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is designed with flexible parameters that can be adjusted to accommodate different field of view requirements. The specific configuration of lens elements with variable curvature radii and thicknesses allows the system to maintain image quality across different viewing angles and field of view specifications
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the optical system are optimized for different functions: central regions for sharpness and peripheral regions for field coverage. The lens elements have surface shapes (convex or concave in paraxial regions) specifically designed to control aberrations across the entire field of view, enabling expanded functionality while maintaining image quality
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 achieves a balance between high image quality, low sensitivity, and miniaturization while enhancing the field of view, with improved aberration correction and flexibility in design.
Implementation Method 1
The first lens element has negative refractive power, and the image-side surface of the first lens element is concave in a paraxial region thereof. The second lens element has positive refractive power. The third lens element has positive refractive power
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing optical system includes four lens elements which are, in order from an object side to an image side along an optical path: a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element and a fourth lens element. The first lens element with negative refractive power has an image-side surface being concave in a paraxial region thereof. The second lens element has positive refractive power. The third lens element with positive refractive power has an object-side surface being concave in a paraxial region thereof and an image-side surface being convex in a paraxial region thereof. The image capturing optical system further includes an aperture stop located between the second lens element and the third lens element.