Pivoting Optics Changer for Microscope Lens Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
In optical apparatuses like microscopes, customers face difficulties in exchanging optical elements due to limited accessibility and the need to dismount various components, which complicates rapid and user-friendly exchange.
Innovation Solution
An optics changer with a swivel mechanism that allows the optical element to be pivoted into place via an insertion channel, minimizing the channel's size and enabling easy exchange by customers, even in complex apparatuses with limited space, using a base frame and a holding unit to secure the element in position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the insertion channel is made larger to accommodate the optical element, then the accessibility and ease of exchange are improved, but the overall size of the optical apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is made pivotable relative to the base frame during insertion, transitioning from a linear insertion path to a pivoting motion that allows the element to rotate into its final orientation within the changer chamber, enabling access through a smaller channel
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion mechanism utilizes both linear translation and rotational pivoting movements, adding a dimensional aspect to the insertion process that allows the optical element to be positioned through a narrower channel than would be required for linear insertion alone
2Ease of operation
If multiple components are dismounted to access the optical element, then the accessibility is improved, but the device complexity and time required for exchange increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is mounted on a separate base frame that can be independently inserted through the channel, separating the optical element from the main apparatus body and allowing it to be exchanged without dismounting other components
Solution Approach 2:
The base frame acts as an intermediary carrier that holds the optical element and facilitates its insertion and removal through the channel, serving as a mediator between the user and the optical element without requiring disassembly of the main apparatus
3Reliability
If the optical element is held securely in position, then the reliability is improved, but the insertion channel size and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism automatically engages to hold the optical element in its pivoted position within the changer chamber, using elastic force to maintain positioning without requiring additional active components or complex locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The spring provides a constant holding force that maintains the optical element in its pivoted position, using mechanical force as a parameter to ensure reliable positioning while keeping the holding unit compact
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an optics changer for arranging an optical element in a target position in a changer chamber of an optical device accessible from the outside via a insertion channel, including a base frame and the optical element that is pivotally fastened to the base frame via a swivel mechanism, wherein the swivel mechanism effects a pivoting movement of the optical element when the optics changer is inserted through the insertion channel in the changer chamber starting at a predetermined insertion depth such that after inserting, the optical element is placed and pivoted in the target position.