Patent ID: 7535649
Filing Date: 2009-05-19
Classification: G02B,G02F,H01L,H04N

Abstract:
1. An autofocus camera lens system comprising: a first lens comprised of a nematic liquid crystal and adapted to provide a variable index of refraction, wherein the first lens comprises a single, uniform lens; a second and a third lens, wherein the first lens, the second lens, and the third lens are situated in fixed positions to provide a focal length for the lens system, with a variable focus based on the index of refraction of the first lens; and a control system adapted to monitor an image received through the first lens, the second lens, and the third lens and adjust the focus via the index of refraction of the first lens; wherein the second lens comprises a nematic liquid crystal adapted to provide a variable index of refraction, with the focal length variable based on the index of refraction of the second lens, with the control system further adapted to monitor an image received through the first lens, the second lens, and the third lens and adjust the focal length via the index of refraction of the second lens.