Lens Attachment Structure with Torque Change Portions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing attachment structures for lenses, which rely on threads for rotation, risk damage from excessive torque and increase in size and cost due to torque control mechanisms, necessitating a simpler and damage-resistant solution.

Innovation Solution

An attachment structure featuring engagement claws and torque change portions that allow for relative rotation between a conversion lens and an intermediate ring, with torque varying at different positions to prevent excessive rotation and ensure secure attachment without damaging the lens or barrel.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If threads are used to attach the conversion lens to the adaptor, then the attachment is simple and common, but the threads may be damaged if the rotation torque is large

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment simplicityVSAvoidthread damage resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism is divided into two independent parts: engagement claws for torque control and engagement walls for positioning. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function without compromising the other, preventing thread damage while maintaining attachment simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement claws act as intermediaries between the conversion lens and adaptor. These claws engage with the engagement walls to control torque transmission, preventing excessive force from reaching the threads while still allowing secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a torque control mechanism is interposed between the first member and the second member, then the threads are protected from damage, but the number of parts increases and the size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread protectionVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The engagement claws are integrated directly into the conversion lens structure, and the engagement walls are formed as part of the adaptor. This merging of the torque control mechanism with the existing components eliminates the need for separate torque control devices, maintaining simplicity while providing protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement claws serve multiple functions: they control torque during attachment, prevent thread damage, and work in conjunction with the engagement walls to ensure proper positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components.

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

3Reliability

If a torque control mechanism is interposed between the first member and the second member, then the threads are protected from damage, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethread protectionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The engagement claws and engagement walls are manufactured as integral parts of the conversion lens and adaptor respectively, eliminating the need for separate torque control mechanisms. This integration reduces manufacturing steps and component costs while maintaining thread protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement claws automatically engage with the engagement walls during the attachment process, providing torque control without requiring additional actuators or control systems. The mechanism self-regulates torque transmission through the geometric interaction of the claws and walls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8736990B2Attachment structure and lens unit
Publication Date: 2014.05.27 PANASONIC HOLDINGS CORP
  • US8736990B2 patent drawing
  • US8736990B2 patent drawing
  • US8736990B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An attachment structure is configured to attach a first member to a second member. The attachment structure includes a first engagement portion which is provided at one of the first member or the second member, and a second engagement portion which is provided at the other one of the first member or the second member and which engages with the first engagement portion at a predetermined attachment position to restrict a relative movement. One of the first member or the second member at which the second engagement portion is provided, is provided with spaces at both sides of the second engagement portion in the circumferential direction. The first member and the second member include a torque change portion which changes a torque such that the torque is larger at a preceding side and a succeeding side of the attachment position in the circumferential direction, than at the attachment position.