Microscope Objective Lens Group Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscope objectives with manually operated lens groups face challenges such as soiling of the optical system due to spring element abrasion, uneven movement of lens groups leading to optical aberrations, and restricted accessibility in inverted designs, as well as complex and space-intensive motor drive solutions.
Innovation Solution
A motor-driven system with transmission elements that convert rotational movement into precise translational movement for lens groups, preventing rotation about the optical axis, and incorporating measuring devices for enhanced positioning accuracy, allowing for compact and ergonomic design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If spring elements are used to eliminate axial slackness between pin and cam, then axial movement precision is improved, but optical system soiling occurs due to abrasion at contact surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is extracted and removed from the optical system. Instead of using a spring to eliminate slackness, the patent uses a cam profile designed to maintain continuous contact between the pin and cam surface without requiring elastic compression elements, thereby eliminating abrasion and soiling within the optical system
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical spring-based slackness elimination is replaced with a cam profile geometry that inherently maintains contact force. The cam surface is shaped to guide the pin axially while the rotation of the driving ring provides the necessary contact pressure without friction-induced wear
2Adaptability or versatility
If different amounts of slackness exist between pins and cams in multiple lens groups, then individual lens groups can be adjusted, but simultaneous movement is prevented resulting in optical aberrations
Solution Approach 1:
Each lens group is given its own driving ring with a specifically tailored cam profile. The cam contours are individually designed to provide the exact movement characteristics required for each lens group, ensuring that all groups can be adjusted independently while maintaining the capability for synchronized movement when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The driving mechanism is designed to serve multiple functions: it allows individual adjustment of each lens group through independent driving ring rotation, while also enabling simultaneous movement of all lens groups by coordinating the rotation of multiple driving rings, thus providing both adaptability and reliability
3Device complexity
If manual operation of lens groups is used, then device complexity is reduced, but accessibility is restricted especially in inverted microscope designs
Solution Approach 1:
Electric motors are introduced as intermediary actuators between the user and the lens groups. The motors convert electrical signals into rotational movement of the driving rings, which then translate to axial movement of lens groups through the cam mechanisms, thereby enabling remote control without manual manipulation
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operation is replaced with an electromechanical system. Motors mounted on the microscope stand or integrated into the objective holder automatically actuate the driving rings, eliminating the need for manual access to the lens groups and solving the accessibility problem in inverted microscopes
4Measurement precision
If threaded rings are used to move lens groups, then rotational control is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
One of the two threaded rings is extracted from the system. Instead of using a pair of engaged threaded rings, the patent uses a single driving ring with a cam profile that directly converts rotation to axial movement, simplifying the mechanism while maintaining precise control
Solution Approach 2:
The approach is inverted: rather than using thread engagement to convert rotation to translation, the patent uses a cam profile on the driving ring that guides the pin axially while the ring rotates. This inverts the conventional threaded mechanism into a cam-based mechanism, reducing complexity
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 precise and simultaneous movement of lens groups along the optical axis without rotation, reducing optical aberrations and improving accessibility, while maintaining a compact and efficient design that eliminates the need for manual adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
transmission elements configured to convert rotational movement into precise translational movement
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a family of microscopes, each with at least one lens group that includes at least one lens and a lens mount and moves along the optical axis via a drive system for The drive system includes a rotary motor and transmission elements to convert the rotary motion to linear motion to transmit the translational movement to the lens group, and, simultaneously, to prevent rotations of the lens group about the optical axis. In an embodiment, the rotating output shaft of the motor is connected with a screw spindle that engages with a threaded hole machined into the lens mount, so that the lens group is directly moved in a translational manner. The engagement of the screw spindle with the lens mount both effects the translational movement of the lens group and secures the lens group against rotation about the optical axis.