Self-Illuminated Lens Scale Using Integrated Light Pipes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lenses face challenges in low light conditions due to the lack of visibility of markings for iris, focus, and zoom settings, with traditional solutions like photoluminescent paints causing stray light and health hazards, and external lamps occupying space and blocking markings.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable lens with a self-illuminating scale using integral light sources like LEDs or discharge lamps, directed through light pipes or fiber optics, with controlled intensity via switches and internal software to prevent light from escaping and interfering with image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If photoluminescent paints are used to improve visibility of lens markings, then visibility in low light conditions is improved, but stray light is cast that adversely affects image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful stray light effect is extracted and isolated by containing the light source within a recess and using an opaque cover member to direct light only onto the scale markings, preventing light from escaping and affecting the image
Solution Approach 2:
A light pipe or optical fiber is introduced as an intermediary to transfer light from the source to the scale markings, enabling precise light direction and preventing stray light from reaching the image plane
2Illumination intensity
If external viewing lamps are used to illuminate lens markings, then visibility is improved, but critical space around the operator is occupied and markings are blocked from certain angles
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination function is merged with the lens housing structure itself, integrating the light source, cover member, and scale into a single compact unit that requires no external space
Solution Approach 2:
The lens housing serves itself by incorporating the illumination system directly into its structure, eliminating the need for separate external lighting devices
3Illumination intensity
If radioluminescent paints are used to improve visibility, then visibility in low light conditions is improved, but health hazards are created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses safe, replaceable light sources such as LEDs or discharge lamps instead of hazardous radioluminescent materials, prioritizing operator safety while maintaining visibility function
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination method is changed from chemical/radiological (radioluminescent paints) to electrical/optical (LEDs, discharge lamps, light pipes), eliminating health hazards while achieving the same visibility goal
4Illumination intensity
If bright color engravings on matte black backgrounds are used to improve visibility, then visibility is improved somewhat, but sufficient visibility in low light conditions is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
Light is provided in advance through the integrated illumination system before the user needs to read the markings, ensuring visibility is immediately available without waiting for ambient light conditions to improve
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
Enhances visibility of lens markings without degrading image quality, allowing precise adjustments in low light environments while maintaining operational safety and space efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The direction of the illumination can be accomplished by, but not limited to, light pipes, fiber optics, light path channels, mirrors and appropriate baffles/barriers to control the illumination
Implementation Method 2
The direction of the illumination can be accomplished by, but not limited to, light pipes, fiber optics, light path channels, mirrors and appropriate baffles/barriers to control the illumination
Implementation Method 3
The light can originate from any number of light sources (including, but not restricted to, light emitting diodes, discharge lamps, lasers, infrared lamps)
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable lens with a self-illuminating scale for use in photography, cinematography, or videography has a housing surface with scale markings and an opaque member with a reference marking mounted over and movable relative to the surface. The movement of the member normally adjusts a parameter of the lens. The scale markings are visible through a window in the member. The edge of the member adjacent the scale has an opening. A light source is situated within a recess in the member adjacent the opening. Light is directed from the light source through the edge opening in a direction along the surface of the surface such that the visible scale markings are illuminated, while light from the light source is otherwise substantially prevented from escaping from the lens. The activation and intensity of the light source is controlled by movement of the member or an external illumination controller.