Low-profile lens mount adapter for compact cameras
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compact imaging devices, such as smartphones and action cameras, lack compatibility with high-quality lenses typically used in professional cameras due to differences in flange focal distance and mounting systems.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile, positive lock camera component with a lens mount adapter that allows for removable attachment of camera lenses, featuring a rotatable lock ring and flanges to secure lenses with a reduced flange focal distance, enabling the use of various lens types on compact imaging devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional lens mount system is used in compact imaging devices, then the device maintains a small form factor, but the device loses compatibility with high-quality lenses designed for professional cameras
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a lens mount adapter as an intermediary component between the compact imaging device and the lens. This adapter includes a first interface that attaches to the device housing and a second interface that accepts the lens, thereby enabling compatibility between devices with different flange focal distances and various lens types without changing the device itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the flange focal distance mismatch by adding a dimensional adjustment layer through the adapter. The adapter's thickness compensates for the difference between the device's flange focal distance and the lens's required flange focal distance, effectively bridging the gap in the axial dimension
2Reliability
If a positive lock mounting system is implemented, then secure attachment and release of lenses is achieved, but the mounting mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional elements: a rotatable lock ring for engagement, a button for actuation, and a post for mechanical interlocking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining reliable positive lock attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one, where the lock ring can rotate to engage or disengage the post. The button provides a mechanical actuator that enables controlled movement between locked and unlocked states, providing reliable attachment while maintaining operational simplicity
3Length of moving object
If the flange focal distance is reduced, then the lens can be positioned closer to the sensor for compact design, but the lens compatibility with existing optical systems is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter serves as a dimensional intermediary that bridges the gap between the device's reduced flange focal distance and the lens's original flange focal distance. By incorporating the necessary thickness adjustment in the adapter, the system maintains the compact 7mm device profile while preserving full lens compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter modifies the effective flange focal distance parameter by adding the necessary axial dimension. This parameter change allows the lens to be properly positioned relative to the sensor plane while maintaining compatibility with the lens's optical design requirements
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
Llow profile, positive lock camera component (224) which is lockable to a camera comprising a stationary plate (248) having a central aperture, a lock ring (246) carried by the stationary plate (248) and at least two projections (238-240) coupled to the lock ring (245), wherein rotation of the lock ring (246) rotates the projections (238-240) about a central axis of the component and also advances the projections (238-240) along the axis in direction of the stationary plate (248).