Multistable Lens Actuator for Discrete Focus Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-sensitivity imaging systems face challenges in maintaining consistent intrinsic characteristics across varying lens positions, particularly due to changes in focal length, optical center, and lens distortion, which are exacerbated by temperature variations, limiting the depth of field and requiring continuous focus actuation.
Innovation Solution
A multistable lens actuator system that stabilizes the lens at discrete positions along the optical axis using a conductive coil, mechanical flexures, and magnets, allowing movement between predefined focus positions such as infinity and macro focus, eliminating the need for continuous interpolation of intrinsic parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a variable focus actuator is used to move the lens continuously along the optical axis, then the depth of field is expanded, but the intrinsic characteristics (focal length, optical center, lens distortion) change continuously requiring complex determination and interpolation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the continuous lens movement range into multiple discrete stabilized positions. Instead of allowing continuous variable focus, the lens is segmented into specific focal planes (e.g., macro, mid-range, infinity) where each position is stabilized. This segmentation eliminates the need for continuous position determination and interpolation of intrinsic parameters, as the system only needs to identify which discrete position is active.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic stabilization mechanism using electromagnetic interaction between a conductive coil and magnet, combined with mechanical flexures, to enable the lens to transition between and stabilize at discrete positions. The system dynamically adjusts the lens position to maintain stability at predefined focal planes, combining continuous actuation capability with discrete position stabilization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the lens position is continuously adjusted, then the imaging system can adapt to different focus requirements, but the intrinsic characteristics change requiring storage and interpolation of parameters for virtually infinite positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the continuous focus range into aĉé number of discrete stabilized positions. Each position corresponds to a specific focal plane with fixed intrinsic characteristics. Instead of storing parameters for virtually infinite positions, the system only needs to store parameters for these discrete positions, dramatically reducing the quantity of stored data while maintaining adaptability across the focus range.
3Volume of moving object
If the lens is moved to different positions, then the working range is expanded, but temperature variations further influence intrinsic characteristics requiring additional compensation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic stabilization at discrete lens positions using electromagnetic forces and mechanical flexures. This dynamic stabilization reduces lens position drift caused by temperature variations and mechanical disturbances. By maintaining the lens at stabilized discrete positions rather than allowing continuous movement, the system improves the reliability and stability of intrinsic characteristics while still providing expanded working range through position switching.
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 solution reduces the complexity of lens position determination and intrinsic parameter interpolation, enhancing the stability and accuracy of imaging systems by maintaining the lens at stable discrete positions, thereby improving the imaging system's performance and resistance to mechanical shocks.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic interaction between the conductive coil and the magnet causes the lens barrel to move from a first position of the stabilized discrete positions to a second position of the stabilized discrete positions
Implementation Method 2
at least one mechanical flexure maintaining the lens barrel within the housing and allowing movement of the lens barrel between stabilized discrete positions along an optical axis of the lens barrel
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed apparatus may include (1) a camera lens assembly including at least one lens held within a lens barrel, (2) a conductive coil fixably attached to the lens barrel, (3) a housing at least partially surrounding the conductive coil and the lens barrel, (4) at least one mechanical flexure maintaining the lens barrel within the housing and allowing movement of the lens barrel between stabilized discrete positions along an optical axis of the lens barrel, and (5) a magnet spaced from the conductive coil and coupled to the housing such that, in response to an electrical current in the conductive coil, an electromagnetic interaction between the conductive coil and the magnet causes the lens barrel to move from a first position of the stabilized discrete positions to a second position of the stabilized discrete positions. Various other systems and methods are also disclosed.