Kinematic Mount Locking Mechanism to Prevent Orientation Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current kinematic mounts in the field of optics and laser optics lack innovative designs and mechanisms, with existing solutions relying on traditional form factors and incremental improvements that fail to address the need for rethinking the state of the art, particularly in preventing orientation interference during locking.
Innovation Solution
A kinematic mount design featuring a housing with a curved outer surface, a footing cradle, and a tightening mechanism with a compression spring and locking interface component that allows for manual adjustment and secure locking without affecting the orientation of the housing, utilizing a curved outer surface and flared portions to apply pressure and prevent accidental readjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional screw-based kinematic mounts are used to hold and adjust optical components, then the components can be securely held in place, but the mounting process becomes complex and time-consuming with multiple screws requiring precise adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is segmented into distinct functional zones: a curved outer surface for positioning, a cradle for support, and a tightening mechanism for locking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall operation while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of securing optical components from the complex multi-screw system and implements it through a single tightening mechanism that applies pressure through a locking interface component, eliminating the need for multiple adjustment screws.
2Reliability
If traditional kinematic mounts with multiple screws are used, then orientation adjustment is possible, but the locking process may interfere with the orientation of the optical component
Solution Approach 1:
The curved outer surface and cradle are designed to pre-position the optical component in the correct orientation before the tightening mechanism is engaged. This preliminary positioning ensures that when locking occurs, it does not interfere with the already-established orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking interface component acts as an intermediary between the tightening mechanism and the optical component. It applies pressure in a manner that secures the component without directly interfering with its orientation, mediating between the locking force and the optical element.
3Ease of operation
If a simple mounting mechanism is used, then the device is easy to operate, but it may not provide sufficient security to prevent accidental readjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The compression spring provides a dynamic element to the mounting mechanism. It maintains constant pressure on the locking interface component, ensuring that the optical component remains securely held while allowing for simple operation. The spring's elasticity provides ongoing security without adding mechanical complexity.
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 solution enables secure locking of the housing without altering its orientation, facilitating easy manual adjustment and preventing unwanted movements, thereby improving the stability and precision of optical components like mirrors and lasers.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring configured such that an inner diameter of the spring is greater than an outer diameter of the hollow tip, and wherein the spring is positioned between the flared portion and the locking interface component
Data Source
AI summary
Kinematic mounts disclosed in this application are made from three main components: a housing, a footing, and a tightening mechanism. The tightening mechanism includes three parts: a top portion, a bottom portion, and a locking interface mechanism. When the top portion, which includes a hollow tip with interior threading, is screwed down onto the bottom portion, which includes a threaded tip, the locking interface component is pressed against at least one interior surface of the housing that causes the housing to be pressed against the footing. This action holds the housing in place relative to the footing while simultaneously preventing unwanted movement of the housing during tightening.