Lens Actuation Linkage for Fast Optical Position Cycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical devices face limitations in achieving rapid and precise lens movement between end positions due to deceleration requirements, which restricts speed and efficiency, particularly in applications demanding quick transitions between beam widths.
Innovation Solution
The optical device employs a motor coupled with a flywheel and a connecting linkage to achieve continuous linear movement of the lens through circular rotation, eliminating the need for deceleration at end positions and allowing for faster cycling between positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional motor drive systems with linear motion (worm drive or belt drive) are used to move the lens, then precise control of speed and position can be achieved, but the lens movement speed is limited due to deceleration requirements near end positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies circular motion (rotational movement of the flywheel) instead of linear motion to drive the lens back and forth. The flywheel's rotational movement converts to oscillating linear motion of the lens through the connecting linkage, eliminating the need for deceleration at end positions and enabling continuous high-speed operation while maintaining precise position control through the mechanical geometry of the linkage system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic reciprocating motion of the lens through continuous rotation of the flywheel. The lens oscillates back and forth between end positions in a periodic manner driven by the rotating flywheel, allowing the system to maintain constant rotational speed while achieving the required periodic lens movement for applications like strobe effects
2Measurement precision
If the motor decelerates near end positions to stop and reverse the lens, then precise positioning can be maintained, but the average speed of lens cycling is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves continuous operation by using the flywheel's rotational inertia to carry the lens through end positions without stopping. The motor maintains constant rotational speed, and the mechanical linkage system continuously converts this rotation into reciprocating lens motion, eliminating idle deceleration and reversal time to maximize lens cycling frequency and productivity
3Measurement precision
If conventional linear drive systems are used, then the system can stop at end positions for precise positioning, but energy consumption increases due to repeated stopping and starting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates energy-wasting stop-and-start cycles by maintaining continuous motor rotation. The flywheel's rotational inertia stores and releases energy smoothly throughout the cycle, and the mechanical linkage continuously converts this rotational energy into useful reciprocating lens motion, minimizing energy losses associated with acceleration and deceleration while maintaining precise positioning through the linkage geometry
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
This approach enables faster lens transitions, enhancing operational efficiency and energy savings by allowing continuous operation without stopping at each end position, thus improving speed and reducing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a motor, a flywheel rotationally coupled to the motor
Implementation Method 2
a flywheel rotationally coupled to the motor, a connecting linkage coupled to the flywheel via a rod
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A
AI summary
Systems are provided for an optical device. The optical device comprises a lens actuation system including a motor, a flywheel, a connecting linkage, a plurality of articulating arms, and a lens. The lens is housed in a frame coupled to the articulating arms and driven via the lens actuation system between an upstream position and a downstream position.