Lens Barrel Dual Focus Ring Segmentation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Professional photographers using video cameras for broadcasting or professional use face poor operability when switching between automatic and manual focus due to the lack of mechanical interlock between focus rings and lenses, leading to incorrect focus positioning and potential misoperation between relative and absolute position instruction type focus rings.
Innovation Solution
A lens barrel design incorporating two focus rings - a slidable relative position instruction type and an absolute position instruction type, with a connecting mechanism allowing the first focus ring to switch between connected and disconnected states with the second focus ring, and a cover member to prevent erroneous operation of the absolute position instruction type focus ring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a relative position instruction type focus ring is used for endless rotation, then the focus ring can be operated continuously without rotation limits, but professional photographers cannot recognize when the focus lens has reached the close-up end or infinite end by operation feeling
Solution Approach 1:
The focus ring system is segmented into two distinct types: a relative position instruction type focus ring for endless rotation and an absolute position instruction type focus ring with rotation limits. This segmentation allows each type to serve its specific function optimally - the relative type provides endless rotation for continuous focusing adjustments, while the absolute type provides mechanical end stops for professional photographers to recognize focus limits through operation feeling
Solution Approach 2:
The first focus ring acts as an intermediary that can switch between two operational modes. When connected to the second focus ring, it transmits rotation to the absolute position instruction type ring, providing mechanical feedback. When disconnected, it operates independently as a relative position instruction type ring with endless rotation capability. This intermediary mechanism allows professional photographers to select the appropriate ring type based on their needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If two focus rings are provided in one lens barrel, then users can select based on preference, but it increases the risk of wrong operation of an unintended focus ring
Solution Approach 1:
The second focus ring (absolute position instruction type) is extracted and covered by a cover member that prevents direct operation. This extraction from direct user access eliminates the risk of wrong operation while preserving the ability to use it when needed. The cover member acts as a physical barrier that prevents accidental activation of the absolute position ring, allowing users to operate only the first focus ring unless they intentionally remove the cover
Solution Approach 2:
The cover member serves as an intermediary between the user and the second focus ring. It physically separates the user from the absolute position instruction type focus ring, preventing unintended operation. When the cover is removed, the user can access and operate the second ring intentionally. This intermediary mechanism resolves the contradiction by allowing user preference selection while preventing wrong operation
3Manufacturing precision
If a position sensor of absolute position detection type is used, then the rotation range of the focus ring can be limited, but the focus lens cannot be moved to the close-up end or infinite end even if the focus ring is rotated to the end position
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes. When the first focus ring is connected to the second focus ring, the absolute position detection type sensor limits the rotation range and provides accurate position control within that range. When disconnected, the relative position instruction type mode allows endless rotation for continuous focusing adjustments. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by allowing both rotation limitation and accurate focus positioning when needed, while providing flexibility when not needed
Data Source
AI summary
A lens barrel comprises: a first focus ring used for either one of instruction types of focus operation of a relative position instruction type focus operation for moving a position of the focus lens for focus control and an absolute position instruction type focus operation for moving it in an absolute positional relation; a second focus ring used for the focus operation of the instruction type different from that of the first focus ring between the relative position and the absolute position instruction type focus operation; a support device which slidably supports the first focus ring; a connecting device which brings the first focus ring and the second focus ring from an unconnected state into a connected state when the first focus ring is slid from a first position to a second position; and a cover member covering the outer circumference portion of the second focus ring.