Optical Unit Rolling Support with Elastic Plate Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing optical unit structures require multiple wires and complex assemblies to correct shakes in both the optical axis direction and the direction around the optical axis, leading to complicated assemblability and potential plastic deformation during impact.
Innovation Solution
An optical unit with a rolling support mechanism using elastic members, where one elastic member generates elastic forces in both the optical axis direction and the direction around the optical axis, simplifying the structure and improving assemblability by using a plate spring with a first elastic part extended along the optical axis and a second elastic part intersecting it, preventing plastic deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple wires and plate springs are used to correct shakes in both optical axis direction and rolling direction, then shake correction capability is improved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple elastic members (plate springs) into an integrated structure that simultaneously corrects shakes in both the optical axis direction and rolling direction. The plate spring structure with its specific geometric configuration (including curved portions and extended portions) provides coupled elastic forces that address both shake components with a single integrated mechanism rather than separate wire and plate spring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate spring structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the rolling support mechanism and the optical axis direction support mechanism. The elastic member is designed with specific geometric features (curved portions extending in rolling direction, extended portions in optical axis direction) that enable it to generate appropriate elastic forces for correcting both types of shakes, making it a multi-functional component.
2Reliability
If multiple wires are attached with predetermined tension to correct shakes, then shake correction capability is improved, but ease of manufacture and assemblability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple tensioned wires into a single plate spring structure. The plate spring is designed with integrated curved portions and extended portions that collectively provide the shake correction functionality previously requiring multiple separate wire attachments, significantly simplifying the assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate spring structure is designed as a simple, easily manufacturable component that can be produced cost-effectively through standard spring manufacturing processes. The integrated design eliminates the need for complex assembly operations involving multiple wires and tension adjustments, making it more suitable for mass production and easier to manufacture.
3Reliability
If the first elastic part is extended along the optical axis to generate elastic force in rolling direction, then rolling shake correction is improved, but susceptibility to plastic deformation during impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the elastic member into distinct functional portions: curved portions that extend in the rolling direction to provide rolling shake correction, and extended portions that extend in the optical axis direction to provide impact resistance. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The plate spring structure exhibits local quality differentiation where different portions have different geometric characteristics optimized for specific functions. The curved portions are configured to provide rolling direction compliance, while the extended portions are configured to provide optical axis direction stiffness for impact resistance, creating localized functional zones within the single elastic member.
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
The solution allows for effective shake correction in both directions with a simplified structure, enhancing durability and reducing the complexity of assembly, while preventing unintended plastic deformation during impacts.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic part and a second elastic part which are disposed between the one end part and the other end part. The first elastic part is extended along the optical axis direction so as to generate an elastic force in a direction around the optical axis
Implementation Method 2
the second elastic part is extended from the first elastic part in a direction intersecting the optical axis so as to generate an elastic force in the optical axis direction
Data Source
AI summary
An optical unit is provided which enables performing shake correction of a moving element in the optical axis direction and the direction around the optical axis with a simple configuration and which takes into account ease of assembly. Specifically, this optical unit is provided with: a moving element (14) which is provided with an optical module; a static element (16); a rolling support mechanism (20) which supports the moving element with respect to the static element rotatably about the optical axis of the optical module; and a rolling drive mechanism (18) which rotates the moving element about the optical axis. The rolling support mechanism is provided with elastic members (36) which are arranged in multiple locations around the optical axis in positions between the moving element and the static element; the elastic members (36) are provided with one end part (36a), with an other end part (36b), and with a first elastic part (36c) and a second elastic part (36d) that are arranged between the one end part and the other end part. The first elastic part extends along the direction of the optical axis and generates an elastic force around the direction of the optical axis; the second elastic part extends from the first elastic part in a direction that crosses the optical axis, and generates an elastic force in the direction of the optical axis.