Lens Actuation Flywheel Linkage for Faster Position Cycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical devices face limitations in rapid and precise lens movement due to deceleration at end positions, which restricts speed and efficiency, particularly in applications requiring quick transitions between beam widths.
Innovation Solution
A lens actuation system utilizing a motor-driven flywheel and connecting linkage to achieve continuous linear movement of the lens through circular rotation, eliminating the need for deceleration at end positions and enabling faster cycling between positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional motor drive systems with worm drive or belt drive are used to move the lens linearly between two end positions, then precise control of speed and position can be achieved, but the average speed of the lens is limited due to deceleration near end positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the linear motion system into a rotational motion system using a circular lens path. The lens moves along a circular trajectory defined by a radius rod connected to a rotating drive mechanism, eliminating the need for deceleration at end positions inherent in linear reciprocating motion. This curved path allows continuous motion at constant speed while maintaining precise positional control through angular positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic reciprocating motion of the lens by rotating the drive mechanism in a continuous cyclic manner. The lens oscillates between two extreme positions along its circular path as the drive rotates, creating a periodic motion pattern that eliminates idle deceleration and acceleration phases while maintaining continuous operational flow.
2Measurement precision
If the motor decelerates lens movement near end positions to stop and reverse, then precise positioning is achieved, but the speed of transition between end positions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves continuous useful action by maintaining constant rotational motion of the drive mechanism. The lens continuously follows the circular path without stopping or reversing, eliminating the time losses associated with deceleration, stopping, and reacceleration in conventional linear systems. The rotational motion provides uninterrupted useful action while the lens oscillates between its extreme positions along the circular trajectory.
3Ease of operation
If conventional linear reciprocating motion is used for lens movement, then the lens can be positioned between two end positions, but energy efficiency is reduced due to repeated stopping and starting
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational drive system maintains continuous motion without the repeated stopping and starting characteristic of linear reciprocating systems. The lens continuously oscillates along its circular path as the drive rotates, eliminating energy losses from frequent acceleration and deceleration cycles while maintaining the ability to position the lens at any point along its trajectory through controlled angular positioning.
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 system allows for increased speed and energy efficiency in lens movement, supporting rapid transitions between beam widths, and reduces mechanical stress on components.
Implementation Method 1
The optical device includes a motor, a flywheel rotationally coupled to the motor
Implementation Method 2
a connecting linkage coupled to the flywheel via a rod, and a plurality of articulating arms extending from the connecting linkage to a frame housing a lens
Data Source
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.