Optical System Centering and MTF Detection Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for aligning and centering lenses in optical systems are inadequate, leading to degraded optical properties due to production and installation tolerances, and there is a need for a system that can efficiently measure both centering and imaging performance.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus combining an MTF measuring apparatus for off-axis modulation transfer function measurements and a centering measuring apparatus for on-axis centering, using an autocollimator to measure the center of curvature, allowing simultaneous assessment and adjustment of lens alignment and imaging quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If only traditional single-function measurement devices are used, then the measurement process is simple, but both centering and imaging performance cannot be measured simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement efficiencyVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines an MTF measuring apparatus and a centering measuring apparatus into a single integrated measurement system. The MTF measuring apparatus includes an MTF measuring unit and a centering measuring unit, allowing both imaging performance and centering status to be measured simultaneously using one device, thereby improving productivity while managing complexity through functional integration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to perform both MTF measurement and centering measurement. The apparatus can measure modulation transfer function at multiple field points and simultaneously determine the centered state of the optical system, making a single device capable of handling multiple measurement tasks that would traditionally require separate equipment

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

2Measurement precision

If multiple separate measurement devices are used for centering and imaging performance, then each measurement function is specialized, but the measurement time and productivity are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the MTF measuring apparatus and centering measuring apparatus into a single integrated system that can perform both measurements simultaneously. This eliminates the need to sequentially use separate devices, significantly reducing measurement time while maintaining the specialized measurement capabilities of each function through their integrated design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If production and installation tolerances are not accounted for, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but optical properties degrade

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens alignment precisionVSAvoidproduction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary measurement of the centered state during the production process. By measuring the position of the center of curvature of optical surfaces and determining the centered state before final assembly, the system allows for early detection and correction of alignment deviations, ensuring that tolerance requirements are met without complicating the manufacturing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement apparatus provides feedback on the centered state and MTF performance during production. The determined centered state information can be used to adjust lens alignment during assembly, creating a feedback loop that ensures manufacturing precision is achieved while maintaining ease of manufacture through automated measurement and adjustment capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables quick and efficient detection of multiple parameters in optical systems, facilitating fine adjustments to optimize imaging performance and ensuring high-quality optical system production.

Implementation Method 1

a centering measuring apparatus that is arranged on-axis that is configured to measure a centered state of the optical system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

an MTF measuring apparatus for measuring a modulation transfer function at a plurality of field points in the field of view of the optical system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS11340136B2Apparatus for detecting a modulation transfer function and centering of an optical system
Publication Date: 2022.05.24 TRIOPTICS GMBH
  • US11340136B2 patent drawing
  • US11340136B2 patent drawing
  • US11340136B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to an apparatus (2) for detecting imaging quality of an optical system (4) with at least one lens (6) or lens group. The apparatus (2) includes an MTF measuring apparatus (10) for measuring a modulation transfer function at a plurality of field points in the field of view of the optical system (4), and a centering measuring apparatus (18) for measuring a centered state of the optical system (4).