Concentric Two-Speed Lens Focusing Mechanism for Compact Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-speed focusing mechanisms require additional packaging space due to separate controls for coarse and fine focus adjustments, and they are not compactly configured within a lens housing.
Innovation Solution
A two-speed focusing mechanism that translates a single rotary motion into axial displacement of a lens at two different speeds using a base with an inner guide, a carrier, and concentric drives with helical grooves and bearings, allowing for compact packaging within a lens housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate controls are used for coarse and fine focus adjustments, then focusing functionality is achieved, but packaging space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate focus control mechanisms (coarse and fine adjustment) into a single integrated mechanism. The first and second drives are merged into one unified structure that provides both focusing speeds through different helical grooves, eliminating the need for separate controls and reducing packaging space while maintaining full focusing functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested configuration where the first drive and second drive are concentrically arranged around a common axis. The first drive is positioned inside the second drive, creating a compact nested structure that accommodates both focusing mechanisms within a minimal volume, directly addressing the space constraint
2Ease of manufacture
If components are arranged radially (spur gear radial to worm gear), then gear engagement is achieved, but packaging space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a radial gear arrangement to a concentric axial arrangement. Instead of positioning gears radially outward from a central axis, the drives are stacked concentrically along the same axis, utilizing the axial dimension to achieve compact packaging while maintaining proper gear engagement through helical grooves
3Volume of moving object
If a single rotary mechanism is used for two-speed focus, then packaging space is optimized, but mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single rotary mechanism is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both coarse and fine focusing capabilities within one structure. The first and second drives share a common rotational axis and work together to provide dual-speed focusing, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining comprehensive functionality through careful integration
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
Enables efficient adjustment of focus at two different speeds using a single rotary mechanism, optimizing space and user experience by allowing quick coarse focus adjustments and precise fine focus adjustments within a compact lens housing.
Implementation Method 1
An inner surface of the first drive includes a first groove. The first groove is helical and has a first pitch... An inner surface of the second drive includes a second groove. The second groove being helical and having a second pitch
Data Source
AI summary
A two-speed focusing mechanism includes a base having an inner guide, a carrier disposed within the inner guide, a first drive, an outer guide and a second drive. A first and second bearing are disposed in a respective inner dimple of the carrier and a second bearing is disposed within a first dimple of the first drive. The first and second bearings are held within a respective inner slot and outer slot and a first guide and second guide, wherein a rotation of the second drive is translated into an axial movement of the carrier at different speeds.