Single-Lens Afocal Optical Element for Beam Diameter Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current afocal optical systems require a larger space and higher costs due to the use of two lenses to reduce the diameter of a parallel light beam, which is inefficient in terms of size and cost.
Innovation Solution
An afocal optical element with a single lens element, featuring a convex object-side surface and a concave image-side surface, is used to reduce the beam diameter, occupying less space and requiring lower costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If two lenses (convex and concave) are used to reduce the beam diameter, then the beam diameter reduction is achieved, but the device occupies larger space and requires higher cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate lenses (convex and concave) into a single integrated lens element. This single lens has a first surface with positive curvature and a second surface with negative curvature, merging the beam converging and diverging functions that previously required two separate components. This reduces the overall space occupied by the optical system while maintaining the beam diameter reduction capability.
2Volume of moving object
If two lenses (convex and concave) are used to reduce the beam diameter, then the beam diameter reduction is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two lens elements into one, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured, aligned, and assembled. This single lens with complex dual-curvature surfaces is easier and less costly to manufacture than two separate precision lenses requiring individual mounting and alignment, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost.
3Volume of moving object
If two lenses are used in the afocal system, then the beam diameter can be reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the optical system by combining two lens elements into a single integrated lens. This reduces the number of optical interfaces, eliminates the need for precise alignment between two separate lenses, and simplifies the overall optical path, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the afocal beam diameter reduction function.
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 single-lens afocal optical element effectively reduces the beam diameter while minimizing space and cost requirements, making the projection device smaller and more economical compared to traditional two-lens systems.
Implementation Method 1
The afocal optical element includes an object-side surface facing an object-side through which the light beam passes and an image-side surface facing an image-side through which the light beam passes. The object-side surface is convex, and the image-side surface is concave.
Data Source
AI summary
An afocal optical element adapted to reduce a beam diameter of a light beam is provided. The afocal optical element includes an object-side surface facing an object-side through which the light beam passes and an image-side surface facing an image-side through which the light beam passes. The object-side surface is convex, and the image-side surface is concave. The afocal optical element has only one lens element. In addition, a projection device is also provided.