Nested Zoom Cell Assembly to Minimize Angular Deviation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zoom lenses or zoom assemblies in viewing optics experience angular deviation, leading to zoom defocus and mechanical binding, while increasing the aspect ratio to mitigate this issue limits the zoom range and is difficult to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of zoom cells with an interrupted bearing surface and pin/slot mechanisms that enhance the aspect ratio, allowing for reduced angular deviation and full zoom functionality by nesting and rotational constraints within the erector tube.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the length of the zoom lens assembly is extended to increase the aspect ratio, then angular deviation is reduced, but the minimum distance between multiple lenses increases and zoom range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rotational dimension by allowing the zoom lens assembly to rotate within the cylindrical housing. The cam mechanism converts rotational motion into linear displacement, enabling the lens to move along the optical axis while maintaining a compact axial length. This dimensional transformation resolves the contradiction by achieving full zoom range without extending the assembly length, thereby preventing angular deviation while maintaining zoom capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The zoom lens assembly is nested within the cylindrical housing with rotational freedom, allowing it to occupy a compact space while performing complex movements. The cam mechanism is nested within the same housing, with the cam follower on the lens assembly engaging the cam profile. This nesting arrangement enables both lenses to be positioned at minimal distances while achieving full zoom range through rotational-cum-linear motion.
2Volume of moving object
If the external diameter of the zoom lens assembly is reduced to fit within the tubular housing, then the assembly can be housed, but the zoom lens tilts within the housing causing angular deviation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static positioning problem into a dynamic solution by introducing rotational motion. The zoom lens assembly rotates within the cylindrical housing, and the cam mechanism dynamically converts this rotation into precise linear displacement along the optical axis. This dynamic approach allows the lens to maintain proper alignment throughout the zoom range, eliminating angular deviation while keeping the external diameter compact for housing compatibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two zoom lenses are used to achieve full zoom range, then zoom functionality is improved, but the minimum distance between lenses increases limiting the zoom range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic rotational-cum-linear motion for both zoom lenses, where each lens rotates and translates along the optical axis according to its specific cam profile. This dynamic coordination allows the two lenses to maintain optimal spacing throughout the zoom range, achieving full zoom functionality (e.g., 3x or 4x zoom) without requiring excessive distance between the lenses. The cam mechanisms ensure synchronized movement that preserves the minimal necessary separation.
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
A zoom cell has a main zoom cell body having a central axis, at least two fingers extending from the main zoom cell body parallel to the central axis, and at least two grooves separating the at least two fingers. A zoom cell system has at least two zoom cells disposed in an erector tube, with the fingers of the at least two zoom cells pointed towards one another, with the at least two zoom cells positioned such that the fingers of a first of the at least two zoom cells align so as to correspond with at least one of the at least two grooves of the other of the at least two zoom cells.