Lens Device With Rear-Side Multi-Function Operation Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lens devices face challenges in achieving a compact size while providing efficient zooming and focusing operations, particularly with existing zoom levers and rings that require larger barrel diameters and lack intuitive operation feedback.
Innovation Solution
A small-size lens device with a zoom lever ring that includes an automatic return mechanism, utilizing a cam pin and springs to allow for variable-speed zooming and focusing, and is positioned closer to the image side to optimize space utilization and reduce overall size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a zoom lever is provided on the lens barrel for quick focal length change, then zooming operation speed is improved, but the lens barrel diameter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the zoom lever structure closer to the image side (rear end) of the lens barrel, utilizing the space in the optical axis direction rather than expanding the radial dimension. This dimensional repositioning allows the zoom lever to be accommodated without increasing the lens barrel diameter, while still providing quick zooming operation capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operation rings are provided on the lens barrel for zooming and focusing, then operational versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first operation ring is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be rotated for zooming operation and tilted for focusing operation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate zoom and focus rings, reducing structural complexity while maintaining operational versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation ring is designed with dynamic operational modes - it can rotate around the optical axis for zooming and tilt along the optical axis for focusing. The automatic return mechanism also provides dynamic reset functionality, allowing the ring to return to its initial position after operation, enhancing usability without adding complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If the operation ring is positioned closer to the image side, then space utilization is improved and lens size is reduced, but the force application for operation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic return mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's operation and the operation ring's movement. The spring-based return mechanism provides tactile feedback and resistance during operation, making the ring easier to manipulate despite its rearward position. The cam pin and cam groove interaction also provides mechanical advantage for the user's input force.
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 enables a compact lens device with intuitive operation feedback and adjustable zooming speeds, enhancing user experience without increasing the lens barrel diameter, while maintaining efficient zooming and focusing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the structure includes a cam pin that is supported to be movable along an optical axis direction and a spring that biases the cam pin in the optical axis direction
Data Source
AI summary
A lens device includes a lens barrel, a first operation ring that is provided on an outer periphery of the lens barrel and that is rotationally operated along a circumferential direction of the lens barrel, and a structure that generates, with respect to the first operation ring, a force in a direction opposite to a direction in which the first operation ring is operated, in which the first operation ring and the structure are disposed closer to an image side than a position of a stop disposed in the lens barrel.