Rotational Force Transmitting Apparatus Compact Lens Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rotational force transmitting apparatuses for lens barrels in cameras require significant space due to the need for an annular member to support ball races, leading to larger optical apparatuses and reduced positional accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A compact rotational force transmitting apparatus using a cylindrical fixed member with a rotating member, supported by first and second bearing members that rotate around the axis and radial direction respectively, reducing friction loss and allowing for a more compact design by arranging bearings in a specific configuration that saves space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a ball race with an annular pressing member is used to reduce sliding friction, then rolling friction is achieved and driving force loss is reduced, but the apparatus requires large space in radial and rotational axis directions
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing structure is divided into two separate bearing members instead of using a single ball race with annular pressing member. The first bearing member handles radial direction support while the second bearing member handles rotational axis direction support, allowing each to be optimized independently and reducing overall space requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane ball race configuration to a three-dimensional arrangement with bearing members positioned at different locations and orientations. The first bearing member rotates around an axis parallel to the rotation axis, while the second bearing member rotates around a radial direction, creating a spatial distribution that reduces the radial and axial footprint
2Reliability
If a ball race with annular pressing member is used to support the rotating member, then the rotating member can be supported, but the apparatus becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is segmented between two bearing members with distinct roles. The first bearing member provides support in the radial direction by rotating around an axis parallel to the rotation axis, while the second bearing member provides support in the rotational axis direction by rotating around a radial direction. This segmentation maintains reliable support while reducing the space required compared to a single annular pressing member structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces two bearing members as intermediary elements between the fixed member and the rotating member. These bearing members act as mediators that enable smooth rotational support with reduced friction, eliminating the need for the space-consuming annular pressing member while maintaining reliable support functionality
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 enables a compact and stable rotational force transmission system that maintains positional accuracy while reducing the overall size of the apparatus, allowing for more efficient and precise lens operation.
Implementation Method 1
The structure of JP 9-159898 can reduce a driving force loss due to a sliding friction through rolling
Implementation Method 2
a second bearing member held by the cylindrical fixed member and configured to rotate around a radial direction of the rotating member
Data Source
AI summary
A rotational force transmitting apparatus includes a cylindrical fixed member, a rotating member configured to rotate around the cylindrical fixed member, a first bearing member held by the cylindrical fixed member and configured to rotate around an axis parallel to a rotation axis of the rotating member, and a second bearing member held by the cylindrical fixed member and configured to rotate around a radial direction of the rotating member.