Motorized Lens Mount Interface for Infrared Imaging Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Infrared imaging systems with fixed optical components face challenges when integrating different lenses or filters, as this can cause electrical issues, rendering the system unusable.

Innovation Solution

A lens mount assembly mechanism that extends the optical component's electrical interface for motorized lenses while retracting it for non-motorized lenses, allowing secure and electrical-issue-free operation with various optical components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the electrical interface is extended to support motorized lenses, then motorized lens functionality is enabled, but non-motorized lenses may cause electrical issues

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with motorized lensesVSAvoidelectrical system stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical interface is designed to be dynamically extendable rather than fixed. The interface can extend to engage with motorized lenses that require electrical connections, while remaining retracted for non-motorized lenses, thus adapting its state based on the lens type installed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the lens mount assembly have different functions: the electrical interface is localized to specific engagement points that only activate when motorized lenses are detected and properly positioned, while other regions handle mechanical mounting for all lens types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Device complexity

If a fixed electrical interface is used, then electrical connections are simple, but different optical components cannot be integrated without causing electrical issues

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical interface simplicityVSAvoidcompatibility with different optical components

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical interface transitions from a static design to a dynamic one that can change its engagement state. It remains retracted by default for simplicity but can extend when needed, providing versatility without permanently increasing system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The lens mount assembly serves multiple functions: mechanical mounting for all lens types, and conditional electrical interfacing for motorized lenses. This multi-functionality allows a single interface design to handle both simple and complex lens requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11622065B2Motorized optical component interface systems and methods

Publication Date: 2023.04.04 FLIR SYST AB

AI summary

Various techniques are provided for interfacing motorized and non-motorized optical assemblies with imaging systems. In one example, a method includes receiving an optical assembly at a lens mount assembly of an imaging system. The method also includes receiving a rotation of the optical assembly from a first position to a second position to secure the optical assembly to the lens mount assembly. The rotation causes one or more electrical connections of the lens mount assembly to translate toward and engage with one or more complementary electrical connections of the optical assembly to couple an electrical component of the optical assembly with the imaging system. Additional methods and systems are also provided.