Projection Lens Optical Axis Adjustment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projection lenses face challenges in adjusting the relative positional relationship between the optical axis of the first optical system and the first reflection portion without applying stress that can damage the lens barrel, which is necessary for optimizing optical performance and reducing size.

Innovation Solution

A projection lens design with a first holding portion for the first optical system, a first reflection portion, a second holding portion, and a second holding portion fixing mechanism that allows for relative shifting and fixation, utilizing a male screw and female screw mechanism to adjust the position of the second holding portion with respect to the first holding portion, and an adhesive for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the second holding portion is fixed rigidly to the first holding portion, then the structural integrity of the lens barrel is maintained, but the relative positional relationship between the optical axis of the first optical system and the first reflection portion cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of optical axis alignmentVSAvoidstructural integrity of lens barrel
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic adjustable connection. The second holding portion can be positioned at multiple discrete locations along the first optical axis and fixed at each position, enabling adjustment of the relative positional relationship between the optical system and reflection portion while maintaining structural integrity when fixed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing mechanism is segmented into multiple discrete fixing positions along the first optical axis. The second holding portion can be fixed at different segments/positions, allowing incremental adjustment of optical alignment while maintaining overall structural integrity through the segmented fixing approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the lens barrel is pressed in the direction intersecting the first optical axis to adjust position, then the relative position between optical axis and first reflection portion is adjusted, but stress that bends or damages the lens barrel is applied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of reflection portion positionVSAvoidstress and damage to lens barrel
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment function is extracted from the lens barrel structure itself and transferred to the movable second holding portion. Instead of deforming or pressing the lens barrel to achieve adjustment, the second holding portion is designed to move independently along the first optical axis and be fixed at desired positions, eliminating harmful stresses on the lens barrel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The second holding portion acts as an intermediary between the first holding portion and the optical components. It provides a movable interface that allows positional adjustment without transmitting harmful forces to the lens barrel, mediating between the need for adjustment and the need to protect the lens barrel from stress.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If a fixed fixing mechanism is used for the second holding portion, then the assembly is stable, but precise adjustment of optical axis alignment is prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical axis alignment precisionVSAvoidstability of holding portion assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism provides dynamic stability - it allows movement during the adjustment phase and provides fixed stability once positioned. The second holding portion can be temporarily positioned and then fixed at the optimal position for optical alignment, achieving both precision and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanism allows preliminary positioning of the second holding portion at the correct optical alignment position before final fixation. This preliminary action enables precise optical axis alignment to be achieved and then locked in place, ensuring both precision and long-term stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

This design enables precise adjustment of the optical axis alignment, reduces the size and weight of the lens barrel, and enhances optical performance by allowing for easier assembly and stress reduction, thereby improving the projection lens's ability to handle heat and maintain structural integrity.

Implementation Method 1

a first reflection portion that bends light having the first optical axis into light having a second optical axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12013625B2Projection lens and projection apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.06.18 FUJIFILM CORP
  • US12013625B2 patent drawing
  • US12013625B2 patent drawing
  • US12013625B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A projection lens is configured to be attached to a housing of a projection apparatus having an electro-optical element. The projection lens includes a first holding portion that holds a first optical system disposed along a first optical axis through which light from the housing passes, a first reflection portion that bends light having the first optical axis into light having a second optical axis, a second holding portion that holds the first reflection portion, and a second holding portion fixing mechanism that fixes the second holding portion to the first holding portion. By weakening a fixing force of the second holding portion fixing mechanism, the second holding portion can be shifted relative to the first holding portion.