Rotatable Optical Filter Module for Compact Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging apparatuses require a retraction space for multiple ND filters, leading to increased size and compromised designability.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with a first filter unit having a rotatable electronic ND filter and a second filter unit with a fixed ND filter, both rotating about shared or separate rotation center lines, allowing for variable light transmittance without increasing the apparatus size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ND filters are used in a rotary disk arrangement, then various light transmittances can be achieved, but a retraction space is required which increases the apparatus size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rotatable filter unit that can dynamically switch between a filtering position (where the optical filter is in front of the imaging surface) and a retraction position (where the filter unit is out of the front). This dynamic positioning allows the same physical space to serve multiple functions: when the filter is needed, it occupies the filtering position; when not needed, it retracts to minimize space occupation. This resolves the contradiction by making the filter system adaptable without requiring permanent retraction space for multiple filters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the filter system into separate filter units (first filter unit with electronic ND filter, second filter unit with fixed ND filter) that can independently rotate and position themselves. Each filter unit can be selectively positioned in front of the imaging surface or retracted, allowing multiple filters to share the same spatial envelope without requiring permanent retraction space for all filters simultaneously. This segmentation enables versatile light transmittance control while minimizing the overall apparatus volume.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ND filters with different light transmittances are provided, then optical filter versatility is improved, but the retraction space requirement increases the apparatus size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal filter mounting structure that can accommodate different types of optical filters (electronic ND filters, fixed ND filters) in the same physical location. The rotatable filter unit serves multiple functions: it can hold different filter types, it can be positioned in front of the imaging surface for filtering, and it can be retracted when not in use. This multi-functionality allows the apparatus to achieve optical filter versatility without increasing the stationary apparatus size, as all filter types share the same spatial envelope.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic rotatable mechanism allows the filter unit to transition between operational and retracted states. When an optical filter is needed, the unit rotates to the filtering position; when not needed, it rotates to the retraction position. This dynamic behavior enables multiple optical filters to be managed within the same physical space, achieving versatility without permanently increasing the apparatus length or volume.
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 the use of optical filters with various light transmittances without enlarging the apparatus, maintaining designability and reducing the need for retraction space.
Implementation Method 1
an electronic optical filter capable of changing a light transmittance
Data Source
AI summary
A filter module usable in conjunction with an imaging apparatus including an imaging element. The filter module includes a first optical filter; a first support member supporting the first optical filter; and a first drive unit moving the first support member. The the filter module is configured to be positioned along an optical axis of the imaging element included in the imaging apparatus, the first optical filter being rotationally movable by the first drive unit between a first position and a second position. The first position is a position within an imaging range of the imaging element, and the second position is a position out of the imaging range of the imaging element.