Lens Mount With Magnetic Alignment And Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interchangeable lens systems are not suited for miniature lenses used in compact cameras, lacking rapid interchangeability and precise alignment between the lens focal plane and sensor image plane, and do not provide adequate environmental sealing or orientation-independent electrical contacts.
Innovation Solution
A lens mount system with a lens body and holder featuring precisely located reference surfaces for alignment, mechanical or magnetic retention, and environmental sealing, along with orientation-independent electrical contacts, allowing for precise alignment and rapid interchangeability of lenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If existing interchangeable lens systems are used, then lens interchangeability is provided, but precise alignment between lens focal plane and sensor image plane cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment mechanisms with a magnetic field-based alignment system. Magnets embedded in the lens holder interact with ferromagnetic material in the lens body to automatically align the lens with the sensor, eliminating the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms while achieving precise alignment between the focal plane and image plane.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens and lens holder are designed with self-aligning features where the magnetic attraction automatically positions the lens correctly when brought near the holder. The system performs its own alignment function without requiring external adjustment tools or complex mechanical guides, enabling rapid interchangeability while maintaining precision.
2Productivity
If traditional lens mounting systems are used, then lens retention is provided, but rapid interchangeability in the field is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical screw or bayonet mounting mechanisms with a magnetic retention system. The magnetic force between the lens holder and lens body provides secure retention while allowing the lens to be quickly attached and detached without tools, enabling rapid field interchangeability while maintaining reliable lens retention during use.
3Volume of moving object
If compact lens design is implemented, then lens size is reduced, but environmental sealing against moisture contamination is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible sealing element (O-ring or gasket) that creates an environmental barrier between the lens body and lens holder. This thin film seal effectively blocks moisture and dust contamination while maintaining the compact lens design, as the seal is integrated into the mounting interface without requiring additional bulk or complex sealing mechanisms.
4Manufacturing precision
If lens mounting systems are designed for precision alignment, then alignment accuracy is improved, but the system does not provide orientation-independent electrical contacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the electrical contact system to be orientation-independent, allowing the lens to be mounted in any rotational orientation while maintaining proper electrical connectivity. The contact mechanism is positioned and configured to ensure reliable electrical connection regardless of the lens's angular position, providing universal compatibility across different mounting orientations.
Data Source
AI summary
A lens mount design is presented. The mount can be used on a variety of imaging systems but is targeted at small camera systems such as might be used on mobile phones, cameras, sports cameras, computers and computer peripherals where interchangeable lenses are currently not common place. Embodiments include different attachment mechanisms, environmental barriers, electrical connections, a serial number marking system on the replaceable lens body and methods for using the lens mount and system.