Lens Apparatus Conductive Pattern Static Discharge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional lens apparatuses face issues with static electricity interference, leading to malfunctions due to electrostatic induction, and existing solutions either increase the size of the lens or compromise its strength and assembly performance.

Innovation Solution

A lens apparatus with a conductive mount member and a nonconductive fixed member featuring a conductive pattern, which allows for effective static electricity discharge to the ground without requiring additional space or components, maintaining compactness and structural integrity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conductive line of flexible substrate is used to transmit static electricity to ground, then static electricity can be discharged, but the lens apparatus becomes larger and assembly performance lowers due to complicated routing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestatic electricity dischargeVSAvoidrouting complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the conductive pattern directly with the fixed member structure, merging the static electricity discharge function into the existing structural component. This eliminates the need for separate flexible substrate routing and conductive lines, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining static electricity discharge capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixed member serves multiple functions: it provides structural support and simultaneously acts as a conductive path for static electricity discharge through the integrated conductive pattern. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a conductive elastic member is disposed between operation ring and mount, then static electricity can be transmitted, but the lens apparatus becomes larger and strength lowers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestatic electricity dischargeVSAvoidlens apparatus strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive pattern is integrated directly into the fixed member, eliminating the need for separate elastic members. This merging approach maintains structural strength while providing the necessary conductive path for static electricity discharge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using a separate elastic member that copies the conductive function, the patent creates the conductive path directly on the fixed member surface through conductive patterns, achieving the same electrical function with a more integrated and structurally sound solution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 effectively suppresses static electricity-induced malfunctions, ensuring the lens apparatus remains compact and resistant to static interference without enlarging the device or compromising its strength.

Implementation Method 1

The fixed member has a conductive pattern... effectively suppresses static electricity-induced malfunctions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS11016365B2Lens apparatus and imaging system using the same
Publication Date: 2021.05.25 CANON KK
  • US11016365B2 patent drawing
  • US11016365B2 patent drawing
  • US11016365B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lens apparatus includes a conductive mount member, and a nonconductive fixed member fixed onto the mount member and having a conductive pattern.