Self-adjusting optical filter holder with rotatable jaw
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter mounting systems for cameras are often expensive, bulky, and difficult to use, especially in changing light conditions or windy environments, requiring precise handling and frequent filter changes, which can lead to cross-threading or damage, and do not easily accommodate lenses of varying diameters or allow for proper orientation of filters like gradient and polarizing filters.
Innovation Solution
A self-adjusting filter holder assembly with a variably-sized lens adapter and rotatable filter holder that uses curved jaws and a coil spring for secure attachment and easy installation/removal, allowing for 360-degree rotation and easy stacking of multiple filters, accommodating lenses of various diameters and enabling quick filter changes with one hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded or bayonet mounting systems are used, then filters can be securely attached to lenses, but the systems require precise machining, are expensive, and need precise hand control that is awkward without a tripod
Solution Approach 1:
The filter holder employs a spring-loaded mechanism with resilient jaws that automatically adjust to grip the lens barrel. The spring provides continuous pressure to maintain secure attachment, while the resilient jaws flex to accommodate minor variations in lens diameter, eliminating the need for precise hand control during attachment and removal
Solution Approach 2:
The filter holder is designed to be self-adjusting through its spring-loaded resilient jaws that automatically conform to the lens barrel dimensions. The system requires no precise manual adjustment or threading - the spring mechanism self-regulates the gripping force and position, allowing easy one-handed operation
2Reliability
If framed filters with fixed diameter are used, then filters can be mounted securely, but they can only be directly mounted on lenses of the same size, requiring multiple filter sets or adapters
Solution Approach 1:
The filter holder uses a spring-loaded mechanism with resilient jaws that dynamically adjust to different lens diameters. The spring provides continuous pressure while the jaws flex to conform to the specific lens size, allowing a single filter holder to securely mount on lenses of various diameters without requiring multiple fixed-size filters or adapters
Solution Approach 2:
The filter holder is designed as a universal mounting system that can attach to lenses of different diameters through its adjustable resilient jaws. This single device replaces the need for multiple fixed-diameter filters or various adapters, providing multi-functionality across different lens sizes
3Ease of operation
If rotatable frames or adapters are used for gradient and polarizing filters, then proper orientation is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter holder combines the mounting function with the rotation function in a single integrated structure. The resilient jaws are attached to a rotatable body that can freely rotate to orient the filter, eliminating the need for separate rotatable frames or adapters and reducing overall cost while maintaining ease of orientation
4Ease of operation
If plastic film filters are dropped in or taped in front of lenses, then filter changes are easier, but the filters are easier to damage and require improvised mounting means
Solution Approach 1:
The filter holder uses a thin, flexible frame structure with resilient jaws that provide protection while maintaining ease of operation. The flexible design allows rapid filter changes similar to dropping filters in, while the frame structure protects the filter from damage and prevents it from flopping over, combining the advantages of both approaches
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 provides a lightweight, cost-effective, and easy-to-use system for mounting filters on cameras, allowing rapid installation and removal of filters, accommodating various lens diameters, and enabling proper orientation of filters, thus simplifying the process for photographers and forensic investigators in challenging conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A coil spring biases the sliding jaw into the compressed position
Data Source
AI summary
Self-adjusting filter holder assembly (10) consists of lens adapter (20) and filter holder (60). Lens adapter (20) has a variably-sized central opening (45) that accommodates lenses with a range of diameters. Filter holder (60) holds a single planar filter and is mounted onto lens adapter (20) with a detachable, rotatable fitting.