Torque Control Clutch for Optical Apparatus Focusing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical apparatuses face challenges in achieving high operability during focusing due to differences in rotation torques required for upward and downward movements, leading to reduced usability.
Innovation Solution
The optical apparatus incorporates a torque control section with a clutch and restriction mechanism, including a one-way clutch and plate-like sections, to manage rotation and torque effectively, allowing for high-precision control of the observation section's movement, thereby minimizing torque differences and enhancing operability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If one uses a simple rotation handle to move the stage or measurement head, then the structure remains simple, but the difference in rotation torques between raising and lowering reduces operability
Solution Approach 1:
A torque control section is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the rotation handle and the stage/measurement head. This section includes a clutch that selectively engages or disengages based on rotation direction, and a restriction mechanism that controls torque in one direction while permitting free rotation in the other direction, thereby equalizing the torque required for raising and lowering operations
Solution Approach 2:
The clutch mechanism dynamically changes its engagement state based on the direction of rotation. When rotating in the raising direction, the clutch engages to transmit torque; when rotating in the lowering direction, the clutch disengages to allow free rotation, adapting the mechanical connection to the operational requirements of each direction
2Stability of the object's composition
If the weight of the stage or measurement head is increased for stability, then stability improves, but the difference in rotation torques increases reducing operability
Solution Approach 1:
The torque control section acts as a counterbalancing mechanism that compensates for the weight of the stage or measurement head. The restriction mechanism provides controlled resistance in the lowering direction to counteract gravitational force, while the clutch mechanism allows the weight to assist motion in the raising direction, effectively balancing the torque 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 enables focusing with high operability by maintaining consistent torque requirements for both upward and downward movements, improving the stability and accuracy of the focusing process.
Implementation Method 1
a clutch section that permits the rotation of the shaft section in the first direction, inhibits the rotation of the shaft section in the second direction
Implementation Method 2
a brake unit obtained by combining a friction-type brake and a one-way clutch. By using the brake unit, it is possible to equalize the rotation torques requisite for lowering and raising
Data Source
AI summary
An optical apparatus including: a stage on which an object is mounted; an observation section including an imaging system forming an image of the object; a shaft rotatable in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction; a drive that moves the observation section or the stage in a third direction defying a gravity according to rotation of the shaft in the first direction and in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction according to rotation of the shaft in the second direction; and a torque controller including a clutch that permits rotation of the shaft in the first direction, inhibits rotation of the shaft in the second direction, and rotates in the second direction with the shaft as a rotation force in the second direction is input to the shaft, and a restriction section restricting rotation of the clutch.