Tiltable Optical Axis Folding Element for Variable Field of View
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lenses for compact computing devices face challenges in achieving high resolution and variable field of view due to their large dimensions and complex optical system requirements, with existing solutions either compromising on resolution or requiring precise mechanical movements that are not suitable for compact designs.
Innovation Solution
An optical assembly with a double-folded optical axis using an array of lens assemblies, each comprising an input and output optical axis folding element, and a group of lenses with optical power, allowing for independent tilting of the input optical axis folding element to change the field of view by adjusting the optical axis folding angle, enabling both high-resolution image capture and flexible focal length adjustments without mechanical movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional lenses are used for compact computing devices, then high resolution can be achieved, but the device dimensions become large and the optical system becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into multiple lens assemblies arranged in an array, each contributing to the overall imaging function. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high resolution through combined input from multiple smaller lens elements rather than requiring a single large lens system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a folded optical axis configuration where the optical path is bent back on itself, effectively changing the spatial dimension of the optical system. This allows the optical path length to be extended without increasing the physical footprint of the device, resolving the contradiction between resolution requirements and compact dimensions
2Adaptability or versatility
If zoom functionality is implemented by moving lens elements, then field of view can be changed, but the mechanical structure becomes complex and precise tolerances are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical zoom mechanisms with an optical field of view changing element that can alter the FOV without requiring physical movement of lens elements. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical structures and stringent tolerance requirements while maintaining zoom functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The optical field of view changing element serves multiple functions: it can change the field of view, adjust the optical axis folding angle, and work with the folded optical axis configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanical zoom mechanisms
3Volume of moving object
If the optical axis is folded to achieve compact design, then device dimensions are reduced, but the field of view becomes fixed and cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical field of view changing element that can dynamically adjust the optical axis folding angle within the folded optical axis configuration. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the field of view to be changed while maintaining the compact folded structure, resolving the contradiction between compact dimensions and FOV adjustability
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 high-resolution image capture with adjustable field of view, achieving a compact and efficient optical system suitable for portable devices by combining multiple FOV channels to generate a resulting image with either narrow or wide field of view, depending on the mode of operation, thereby addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
each of the lens assemblies each having the double-folded optical axis includes an input optical axis folding element, at least one lens having an optical power, and an output optical axis folding element, and the input optical axis folding element of each of the lens assemblies each having the double-folded optical axis is configured to change a field of view (FOV) of the input optical axis folding element by changing an optical axis folding angle of the input optical axis folding element about two axes
Implementation Method 2
an array of lens assemblies each having a double-folded optical axis; and an image sensor, wherein each of the lens assemblies each having the double-folded optical axis includes an input optical axis folding element, at least one lens having an optical power
Data Source
AI summary
An optical assembly of an imaging device includes an array of lens assemblies each having a double-folded optical axis, and an image sensor. Each of the lens assemblies each having the double-folded optical axis includes an input optical axis folding element, at least one lens having an optical power, and an output optical axis folding element. The input optical axis folding element of each of the lens assemblies having the double-folded optical axis is configured to change a field of view (FOV) of the input optical axis folding element by changing an optical axis folding angle of the input optical axis folding element about two axes.