Telecentric Lens With Folded Optical Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Telecentric lenses used in artificial vision systems face challenges in reducing overall dimensions without increasing the number of optical elements, which complicates manufacturing and increases costs, while also compromising optical performance as the size of the observed object increases.
Innovation Solution
The integration of reflective or semi-reflective optical elements between the front optical group and the lens aperture, causing at least a part of the rays to undergo multiple reflections, reduces the distance between optical groups and overall lens length without increasing the number of optical elements, thereby maintaining optical performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the focal length f1 is reduced to decrease the overall length of the telecentric lens, then the lens becomes more compact, but the number of optical components must increase which complicates manufacturing and increases costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reflective element that redirects the optical path at an angle, effectively utilizing spatial dimension to fold the optical path. This allows the light to travel a longer effective distance through the optical components while maintaining a compact physical footprint, thereby reducing the overall lens length without increasing the number of optical components
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective element is integrated within the existing optical structure, nesting the reflection function within the lens assembly. This allows the optical path to be folded back on itself, enabling multiple optical components to be arranged in a more compact configuration without increasing device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the diameter d1 and focal length f1 are increased to observe larger objects, then the observation capability is improved, but the lens dimensions and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing a reflective element that folds the optical path, the patent enables larger focal lengths and object observation capabilities while maintaining a compact physical structure. The reflected path allows light from larger objects to be directed through the optical components without requiring a proportionally larger physical lens assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is segmented into distinct functional groups (front optical group, reflective element, rear optical group) that can be independently optimized. This segmentation allows the front optical group to handle large object collection while the reflective element and rear group manage the optical path folding, reducing overall structural complexity
3Length of moving object
If reflective elements are added to reduce lens length, then the overall dimensions are reduced, but the number of optical components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it folds the optical path to reduce physical length, maintains the telecentric optical properties, and enables compact arrangement of optical components. This multi-functionality justifies the addition of the reflective element without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective element acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the front and rear optical groups, redirecting light paths to achieve compact dimensions while maintaining optical performance. This intermediary function allows the system to achieve space reduction without requiring fundamental redesign of the optical groups themselves
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 approach results in a more compact telecentric lens design that maintains optical performance and reduces overall dimensions, addressing the complexity and cost issues associated with larger objects while minimizing chromatic aberrations and optical component power.
Implementation Method 1
The integration of reflective or semi-reflective optical elements between the front optical group and the lens aperture, causing at least a part of the rays to undergo multiple reflections
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
AI summary
A telecentric lens comprises a front optical group (20) defining a front optical axis (k), at least a first rear optical group (40), defining a rear optical axis (k'), and at least one lens aperture (30) positioned between the front optical group 20 and a respective rear optical group. Between the front optical group (20) and the lens aperture (30) are inserted at least two reflective or semi-reflective elements arranged in such a way that at least a part of the rays coming from the front optical group undergoes at least one double reflection before reaching the rear optical group (40).