Optical Lens Assembly Layout for Compact Shake Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical apparatuses face challenges in miniaturization due to the need to arrange lens groups and actuators in a way that prevents interference, hindering the integration of lens groups that shift in orthogonal and linear directions along the optical axis.

Innovation Solution

A compact optical apparatus design where at least one shaft member is positioned on the outer side of a correction unit, with the correction unit and shaft members overlapping in the optical axis direction, optimizing the arrangement to minimize space occupation and prevent interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If lens groups and actuators are arranged to prevent interference, then functionality is maintained, but device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The correction unit is nested within the space occupied by the shaft members when viewed in the optical axis direction. The correction unit moves in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis while the shaft members extend along the optical axis, allowing the correction unit to be positioned within the cylindrical volume defined by the shaft members without interfering with their linear motion function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The correction unit operates in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis (transverse dimension), while the shaft members operate along the optical axis (longitudinal dimension). This dimensional separation allows both components to occupy the same space without interference, as they move in perpendicular directions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple lens groups and actuators are integrated, then functionality is enhanced, but arrangement complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidarrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optical system is segmented into distinct functional units: lens groups for focusing and zooming, and a separate correction unit for image stabilization. Each unit has its own actuator and operates independently, allowing complex functionality to be achieved through modular integration rather than a monolithic design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base member serves multiple functions: it holds the driving unit, supports the correction unit, and provides the structural framework for mounting lens groups. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12368958B2Optical apparatus and image pickup apparatus having the same
Publication Date: 2025.07.22 CANON KK
  • US12368958B2 patent drawing
  • US12368958B2 patent drawing
  • US12368958B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lens apparatus comprises a second lens holding frame configured to hold a second lens unit, two shaft members configured to hold the second lens holding frame movably along an optical axis, a lens driving unit configured to drive the second lens holding frame along the optical axis, a shake correction unit configured to move a shake correction unit in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis, and a main base configured to hold the lens driving unit and the shake correction unit, wherein at least one of the two shaft members is disposed on an outer side of the shake correction unit when viewed in an optical axis direction, and wherein the shake correction unit and the two shaft members are disposed to always overlap each other in the optical axis direction.