Swing Lever Lens Module for Compact Zoom Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Zoom lenses face a challenge in increasing their zoom range while minimizing the thickness of the lens module, as the magnification increases, leading to thicker lenses.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a bump and a swing lever mechanism allows the lens to swing to the edge of the lens module, reducing its overall thickness, achieved through a design comprising a first and second barrel, a lens, a swing lever, and a connecting shift, where the bump pushes the swing lever to rotate around the connecting shift, enabling the lens to be positioned at the edge when not in use and restored on the optical path for focusing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the magnification of the zoom lens is increased, then the zoom range is extended, but the thickness of the lens module increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvezoom rangeVSAvoidthickness of lens module
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic lens positioning mechanism where the lens can swing between a retracted position (reducing thickness) and an extended position (achieving zoom function). The swing lever allows the lens to move dynamically between these states, enabling the system to adapt its thickness based on operational requirements while maintaining zoom capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of extending the lens along the optical axis (thickness direction), the patent utilizes a swinging motion that moves the lens laterally to the edge of the lens module. This dimensional change allows the zoom function to be achieved without increasing the thickness parameter, as the lens displacement occurs in a different spatial dimension.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Length of moving object

If the lens is positioned at the edge of the lens module, then the total thickness is reduced, but the lens must be quickly restored on the optical path for image capture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetotal thicknessVSAvoidrestoration speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic element automatically restores the lens to its operational position on the optical path after it has been swung to the edge. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional actuators or complex control systems to return the lens, thereby achieving fast restoration speed while maintaining system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The lens positioning system operates in periodic cycles: the swing lever moves the lens to the edge position for thickness reduction, and the elastic element automatically restores it to the optical path for image capture. This periodic action between retracted and extended states enables the system to alternate between compact and functional configurations efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 design effectively reduces the total thickness of the lens module when not in use and ensures quick restoration of the lens on the optical path for image capture, enhancing the compactness and functionality of the image capturing system.

Implementation Method 1

The bump is used for pushing the second end of the swing lever

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS8682153B2Image capturing system and lens module thereof
Publication Date: 2014.03.25 ABILITY ENTERPRISE CO LTD
  • US8682153B2 patent drawing
  • US8682153B2 patent drawing
  • US8682153B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image capturing system and a lens module thereof are provided. The lens module includes a first barrel, a second barrel, a lens, a swing lever and a connecting shift. The first barrel has a bump. The second barrel is disposed inside the first barrel. The swing lever has a first end and a second end. The lens is disposed at the first end. The connecting shift connects the swing lever and the second barrel. The swing lever is rotated around the connecting shift. The bump is used for pushing the second end of the swing lever.