Rotating Power Changer for Compact Variable Magnification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional variable power mechanisms in ophthalmic apparatuses, such as those used in eye fundus cameras and OCT devices, have complex structures and require significant space due to their design, which limits their compactness and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A variable magnification optical component with a power changer that is rotatably disposed along the optical axis, featuring a light beam passage hole to allow lens retraction and insertion without interfering with the optical path, and a substrate with assemblies for the power changer, condensing lens, and image sensor, allowing for simpler power adjustments and reduced space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional variable power mechanisms (zoom lens component or turret component) are used, then optical power can be varied, but the structure becomes complicated and requires large space
Solution Approach 1:
The power changer is divided into multiple independent lens units (first lens unit, second lens unit, third lens unit) that can be independently positioned. Each lens unit can be selectively inserted into or retracted from the optical path, allowing optical power variation without requiring a complex integrated mechanism. This segmentation enables simple switching between different power configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a positional dimension beyond the traditional optical axis by positioning lens units at different locations (including off-axis positions) and using a light beam passage hole that does not interfere with the lens units. The power changer can be rotated about an axis orthogonal to the optical axis, adding rotational freedom that simplifies the mechanism compared to conventional zoom or turret designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional variable power mechanisms (zoom lens component or turret component) are used, then optical power can be varied, but the apparatus requires large space
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the optical system into modular lens units that can be independently positioned, the patent reduces the overall space required. The light beam passage hole allows compact arrangement of components, and the ability to retract lens units when not in use minimizes the volume occupied by the variable power mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens units can be positioned in a nested or compact arrangement where they occupy minimal space when retracted. The power changer assembly integrates multiple functional elements (lens units, positioning mechanism, light beam passage hole) in a compact configuration that reduces the overall apparatus volume.
3Ease of operation
If power changer is rotated to insert lenses into optical path, then optical power varies, but mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power changer is designed with rotational freedom about an axis orthogonal to the optical axis, allowing dynamic positioning of lens units. This rotational capability enables simple switching between different optical power configurations by rotating the power changer to predetermined angular positions, where each position corresponds to a specific lens unit being inserted into or retracted from the optical path.
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 a more compact and simplified mechanism for varying optical power, maintaining consistent space usage between configurations, enhancing usability and reducing the apparatus's overall size.
Implementation Method 1
the power changer is provided rotatably on a shaft that extends in a direction parallel to the substrate and orthogonal to the optical axis
Implementation Method 2
a condensing lens assembly including a condensing lens
Data Source
AI summary
A variable magnification optical component and an ophthalmic apparatus having a simpler mechanism and requiring a small space are provided. The variable magnification optical component includes an optical path, and a power changer, disposed rotatably with respect to an optical axis of the optical path. The power changer is configured to be removably inserted into the optical path, in which the power changer includes: multiple lenses for varying power and a light beam passage hole configured not to interfere with the lenses. In a first configuration of the variable magnification optical component, the power changer is inclined at a predetermined angle, such that the lenses are retracted outside the optical path, and the optical path passes through the light beam passage hole. In a second configuration of the variable magnification optical component, the power changer is restored and the lenses are positioned on the optical path.