Self-Registering Lens Integrating Refraction and Registration Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional lens configurations require separate holders for optical and mechanical functions, leading to space inefficiencies and imprecise alignment in portable devices, where space is limited and precise alignment is crucial.
Innovation Solution
A self-registering lens integrates refraction and registration elements to directly align with optical elements, such as LEDs or sensors, reducing the need for separate holders and enabling precise positioning within a smaller form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a traditional lens holder is used to position the lens relative to the optical element, then the mechanical mounting function is provided, but the device occupies more space and requires additional tolerances on both sides
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the lens and lens holder into a single integrated component. The lens is directly mounted to the substrate without a separate holder, combining the optical function (lens) and mechanical mounting function (holder) into one element. This eliminates the space required for a separate holder and reduces the number of components while maintaining both optical and mechanical functions.
2Manufacturing precision
If a traditional lens holder is used for mounting, then mechanical considerations are handled separately, but the alignment precision between lens and optical element is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the lens directly onto the substrate, the patent eliminates the intermediate lens holder that would introduce alignment tolerances. The lens is positioned directly at its intended location on the substrate, ensuring precise alignment between the lens and the optical element (LED) without requiring complex mounting structures or additional alignment features.
3Area of stationary object
If separate lens and lens holder are used, then optical design can be decoupled from mechanical design, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lens and mounting structure into a single integrated component that is directly mounted to the substrate. This eliminates the need for a separate lens holder, reducing the total area occupied by the lens assembly while maintaining the ability to independently design optical and mechanical aspects during the design phase.
4Volume of moving object
If a traditional two-part configuration is used, then mounting design changes can be handled by the lens holder, but space is wasted and tolerances are required on both sides
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the lens directly onto the substrate, the patent eliminates the lens holder entirely. This removes the space required for the holder and eliminates the need for tolerances on both the lens and holder interfaces, as there is only one interface between the lens and substrate. The single integration point reduces cumulative tolerance requirements.
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
This solution allows for more precise light alignment and reduced optical aperture size, enhancing light efficiency and enabling the use of standard LEDs across various devices with different mechanical constraints, while minimizing device size and assembly complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a refraction element configured to focus light
Data Source
AI summary
The description relates to lenses. One example can include a refraction element defining a lens axis and a registration element extending from an edge of the refraction element in a direction that is generally parallel to the lens axis.