Lens Device Operation Ring for Distributed Sliding Loads

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lens devices face challenges in ensuring smooth operation of the operation ring without subjecting the sliding surface to excessive force, particularly when using gear portions for external and internal driving mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

The lens device incorporates a design where the operation ring has first and second gear portions, with a fixing member that supports the lens portion's movement. The operation ring and fixing member slide on convex portions of sliding portions, ensuring controlled movement and preventing excessive force on the sliding surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the operation ring uses gear portions for external and internal driving mechanisms, then the operability and driving capability are improved, but the sliding surface is subjected to excessive force which may cause damage or wear

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveoperabilityVSAvoidsliding surface durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

A force distribution mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the gear portions and the sliding surface. This mechanism distributes the force from the gear portions across multiple areas of the sliding surface, preventing concentration of excessive force at any single point. The intermediary structure allows the gear portions to transmit driving force while the sliding surface maintains its durability through distributed load bearing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The sliding surface is segmented into multiple areas that can independently bear force. By dividing the sliding surface into distinct force-bearing zones, the patent prevents excessive force from being concentrated on one area. Each segment of the sliding surface handles a portion of the total force, allowing the system to maintain both high operability through gear engagement and sliding surface durability through force distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the operation ring is designed with multiple gear portions for different driving mechanisms, then the versatility and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving mechanism compatibilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The operation ring is designed with multiple gear portions that can interface with different driving mechanisms (external and internal driving). This multi-functional design allows a single operation ring structure to serve multiple purposes: supporting both external motor driving and internal manual operation. The universal design principle enables the same basic structure to accommodate different driving sources without requiring completely separate mechanisms for each type of operation.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functions of multiple driving mechanisms into a single integrated operation ring structure. Instead of creating separate rings or mechanisms for external and internal driving, the design combines both gear portions on one operation ring. This merging approach reduces overall device complexity by consolidating multiple functions into a unified structure, while still maintaining the versatility to support different driving methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This design allows for smooth movement of the lens portion without subjecting the sliding surface to excessive force, enhancing the operability of the lens device when the operation ring is driven from the outside.

Implementation Method 1

a sliding portion slides on a convex portion formed on at least any one of the fixing member or the operation ring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20250291149A1Lens device
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 FUJIFILM CORP
  • US20250291149A1 patent drawing
  • US20250291149A1 patent drawing
  • US20250291149A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The lens device includes a lens portion, an operation ring that has a first gear portion and a second gear portion and that operates movement of the lens portion, and a fixing member that is fixed to the lens barrel and that supports movement of the lens portion in an optical axis direction. The fixing member and the operation ring are relatively moved while sliding on each other, and a sliding portion slides on the convex portion formed on at least any one of the fixing member or the operation ring.