Variable aperture device for camera module and product comprising the same
By introducing supplementary blades and a rotating arm into the variable aperture device, the problems of excessive device size and limited stroke are solved, realizing a miniaturized and highly reliable variable aperture device while ensuring that optical performance is not affected.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-08-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-12
AI Technical Summary
Existing variable aperture devices in camera modules suffer from problems such as excessive size and limited blade travel, making it difficult to achieve miniaturization while maintaining high reliability.
The design employs a pair of main blades and a pair of supplementary blades. Through the coordinated action of the base aperture, the main blade guide, and the cover aperture, combined with the drive of the rotatable arm, the sliding and rotational movements of the blades are achieved, shortening the back length of the main blades and reducing the device size by covering unwanted holes with the supplementary blades.
This achieves miniaturization of variable aperture devices while maintaining the same or higher reliability, avoiding the appearance of unwanted holes, and ensuring that optical performance is not affected.
Smart Images
Figure CN119731591B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to a variable aperture device for use in camera modules or camera units of various products, particularly mobile electronic devices including smartphones and mobile phones. The invention also relates to a product incorporating such a variable aperture device. Background Technology
[0002] In recent years, in order to achieve higher image quality, variable aperture devices have been the focus of attention in camera modules implemented in mobile devices such as smartphones. In addition, some smartphones have begun to adopt "macro shooting functions".
[0003] In macro photography, variable aperture devices help improve optical performance and achieve greater depth of field.
[0004] In terms of camera specifications, there is an increased requirement for large aperture (number of bright apertures), and variable aperture also requires a large aperture diameter.
[0005] However, a large-diameter variable aperture would increase the size of the variable aperture device itself, which in turn would increase the size of the camera module.
[0006] As a structure suitable for variable aperture devices with miniaturization requirements, for example, as disclosed in JP2017167186A, a structure in which two blades are driven by a single actuator has been proposed. In this structure, the variable aperture is achieved by controlling the opening and closing of the two blades. Furthermore, in this structure, the arm is mechanically connected to the drive unit, and the two blades can be driven simultaneously by the movement (especially rotation) of the arm. Therefore, space can be saved for the actuator used to open and close the two blades, thereby reducing the size (especially its width) of the variable aperture device.
[0007] On the other hand, JP2021056448A proposes a structure using a shape memory alloy element (SMA element) as the actuator for driving the blade. Typically, SMA elements are referred to as miniature actuators. In JP2021056448A, because the actuator size is sufficiently small, the SMA element overlaps with the blade in the thickness direction. Therefore, the size of the variable aperture device can be reduced.
[0008] Typically, a variable aperture device has a fixed aperture that determines the amount of light passing through the device in the "open" state. Furthermore, in the "closed" state, a central aperture is formed by driving the blades to obtain a predetermined amount of light. In this state, from an optical perspective, the central aperture should be located at the center of the fixed aperture.
[0009] The structure proposed in JP2017167186A requires the back surface dimension of the blade to be large enough so that no aperture other than the central aperture is exposed when the blade is closed. Therefore, a large space is required to store the blade in the open state, which also leads to an unfavorable increase in the size of the variable aperture device.
[0010] On the other hand, in the structure proposed in JP2021056448A, as described above, a small SMA element is used as the actuator. However, due to the characteristics of the SMA element, it is difficult to obtain a large stroke. This means that the movable stroke of the blade is greatly limited. Because of this problem, the SMA element is difficult to apply to variable aperture devices with large aperture diameters that require long blade strokes. In addition, the scheme described in JP2021056448A, like the scheme described in JP2017167186A, cannot solve the problem of increasing the size of the variable aperture device due to the backside dimensions of the blade.
[0011] In summary, the problem related to the structure disclosed in JP2017167186A is that the back surface dimension of the blade needs to be large enough, which leads to an unfavorable increase in the size of the variable aperture device. The problem related to the structure disclosed in JP2021056448A is not only that the back surface dimension of the blade needs to be large enough, which leads to an unfavorable increase in the size of the variable aperture device, but also that the blade travel is significantly limited.
[0012] For these reasons, there is a need for variable aperture devices for camera modules that are smaller than existing devices and have the same or higher level of reliability as larger existing devices. Summary of the Invention
[0013] In view of the foregoing, the object of the present invention is to provide a novel variable aperture device for a camera module that can overcome or at least alleviate the problems of the prior art devices mentioned above. More specifically, the object of the present invention is to provide a novel variable aperture device for a camera module that is smaller in size than prior art devices and has the same or higher level of reliability as larger prior art devices.
[0014] To achieve these objectives, the present invention provides a variable aperture device for a camera module, comprising: (i) a base having a base aperture and a pair of blade guides, wherein the pair of blade guides are disposed on opposite longitudinal edges of the base, and the base aperture is located between the opposite longitudinal edges; (ii) a pair of main blades guided by the pair of blade guides of the base, wherein the pair of main blades are slidably disposed relative to the base for approaching and separating from each other, wherein each of the main blades has a corresponding notch, the notch cooperatively defining a central aperture when the pair of main blades are closest to each other, and the notch cooperatively defining a fixed aperture when the pair of main blades are farthest from each other; and (iii) the pair of blades of the base A pair of supplementary blades guided by a guide, wherein the pair of supplementary blades are slidably disposed relative to the base for approaching and separating from each other, wherein each of the supplementary blades has a corresponding notch, the notch cooperatively defining a minimum aperture around the central aperture when the pair of supplementary blades are closest to each other, and the notch cooperatively defining a maximum aperture substantially corresponding to the fixed aperture when the pair of supplementary blades are furthest from each other; (iv) a cover fixed to the base and having a cover aperture substantially corresponding to the fixed aperture, the cover for confining the pair of main blades and the pair of supplementary blades in the space between the base and the cover; (v) an actuator for moving the pair of main blades and the pair of supplementary blades relative to the base. The variable aperture device according to the invention is characterized in that, when the pair of main blades are closest to each other and the pair of supplementary blades are closest to each other, each of the supplementary blades is configured to project outwardly from a lateral edge of the main blade perpendicular to the longitudinal edge of the base.
[0015] The present invention also provides a product including a camera module, wherein the camera module includes the variable aperture device as described above.
[0016] According to the invention, the pair of supplementary blades are further added to the variable aperture device. These supplementary blades are used to protrude outward from the lateral (i.e., vertical) edge of the main blades when the pair of main blades are closest to each other and the pair of supplementary blades are closest to each other. Therefore, the problem arising when the size of the main blades shortens in their sliding direction (i.e., longitudinal or horizontal direction) can be avoided, thus preventing the formation of undesirable holes around the central aperture of the variable aperture device that allow light to pass through. This is because the supplementary blades can cover these undesirable holes in the protruding state. In other words, according to the invention, the variable aperture device can be made smaller, particularly in the longitudinal or horizontal direction, without undesirable holes, compared to any conventional device by shortening the longitudinal (horizontal) length of the back surface of the main blades. This is because shortening the longitudinal length of the back surface of the main blades effectively saves space in the device for storing the main blades in the open state.
[0017] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the pair of supplementary blades are inserted between the base and the pair of main blades. However, in another aspect of the invention, the pair of supplementary blades may be inserted between the cover and the pair of main blades.
[0018] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the actuator includes a pair of rotatable arms, each arm having a boss at its tip, wherein the pair of main blades have corresponding cam grooves, and the pair of supplementary blades have corresponding cam grooves, wherein the boss of the rotatable arm is configured to be received within the cam grooves of the main blades and the supplementary blades, and rotation of the rotatable arm is converted into linear motion of the main blades and the supplementary blades via the cam grooves of the main blades and the supplementary blades. In this preferred aspect of the invention, the pair of rotatable arms can be rotatably supported by the base. This aspect achieves a particularly simple and reliable structure. Furthermore, in this preferred aspect of the invention, the cover has a pair of cam grooves, and the boss of the rotatable arm is capable of entering the cam groove of the cover.
[0019] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, when the pair of supplementary blades are moved to the closed position, wherein the minimum aperture is cooperatively defined by the notches of the pair of supplementary blades, the cam groove of the supplementary blades is covered by the pair of main blades, and the cam groove of the main blades is covered by the pair of supplementary blades.
[0020] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, when the pair of supplementary blades are moved to the closed position, wherein the minimum aperture is cooperatively defined by the notches of the pair of supplementary blades, the pair of rotatable arms are in a position approximately parallel to the direction of movement of the pair of supplementary blades. In this preferred aspect of the invention, when the pair of rotatable arms are in a position approximately parallel to the direction of movement of the pair of supplementary blades, the pair of rotatable arms can be concealed behind the pair of supplementary blades. This aspect enables the device to achieve a particularly compact structure.
[0021] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, when the pair of main blades and the pair of supplementary blades move linearly, the first and second arms of the pair of rotatable arms rotate in opposite directions. This aspect also contributes to achieving a compact structure for the device.
[0022] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the variable aperture device further includes a pair of auxiliary supplementary blades guided by the pair of blade guides of the base, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades being slidably disposed relative to the base for approaching and separating from each other, wherein each of the auxiliary supplementary blades has a corresponding notch, the notch cooperatively defining a minimum aperture around the central aperture when the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades are closest to each other, and the notch cooperatively defining a maximum aperture around or substantially corresponding to the fixed aperture when the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades are furthest from each other; when the pair of main blades are closest to each other, the pair of supplementary blades are closest to each other, and the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades are closest to each other, each of the auxiliary supplementary blades is configured to project outward from a lateral (vertical) edge of the main blade perpendicular to the longitudinal edge of the base. According to this aspect, the area of the portion of the main blade opposite to the side forming the notch (i.e., the "blade back side") can be further reduced. This contributes to further compactness of the device.
[0023] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades have corresponding cam grooves, wherein the boss of the rotatable arm is further accommodated within the cam groove of the auxiliary supplementary blade, and the rotation of the arm is converted into linear motion of the auxiliary supplementary blade via the cam groove of the auxiliary supplementary blade. This aspect also achieves a particularly compact structure.
[0024] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades are inserted between the base and the pair of supplementary blades. However, in another aspect of the invention, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades may be inserted between the cover and the pair of main blades, or between the pair of main blades and the pair of supplementary blades.
[0025] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the central aperture defined by the notch of the main blade is circular. Furthermore, in another preferred aspect of the invention, the base aperture, the fixed aperture defined by the notch of the main blade, the minimum and maximum apertures defined by the notches of the supplementary blades, and the cover aperture may be non-circular, for example, approximately elliptical. However, these apertures can be set to any shape and size as needed, provided they do not interfere with the central aperture.
[0026] According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the product comprising the camera module can be a device, apparatus, equipment, machine, facility, tool, etc., including the camera module. Specifically, the product can be a mobile electronic device including the camera module. Attached Figure Description
[0027] The non-limiting and representative embodiments of the present invention are explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a product according to an embodiment of the present invention, namely a smartphone integrating a camera module including a variable aperture device.
[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The image shows a perspective view of the variable aperture device of the camera module, with the variable aperture device in the open state.
[0030] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows a front view of a variable aperture device in the open state.
[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 The diagram shows a front view of a variable aperture device in the off state.
[0032] Figure 5 yes Figures 2 to 4 An exploded perspective view of the variable aperture device shown.
[0033] Figure 6 schematically shows the fixed aperture and center aperture formed in a conventional variable aperture device, with the device cover removed for clarity.
[0034] Figure 7 It schematically shows that in Figures 2 to 5 The fixed aperture and central aperture formed in the variable aperture device shown are illustrated; for clarity, the device cover has been removed.
[0035] Figure 8 schematically illustrates the relationship between arm travel and blade travel in a conventional variable aperture device. For clarity, the device cover has been removed.
[0036] Figure 9 It schematically shows that in Figures 2 to 5 The relationship between the arm travel and blade travel in the variable aperture device is shown. For clarity, the device cover has been removed.
[0037] Figure 10 The diagram schematically illustrates the view from the rear (i.e., from the lens side of the camera module). Figures 2 to 5 The variable aperture device is shown in its open and closed states.
[0038] Figure 11 This schematically illustrates the view from the front. Figures 2 to 5 The positional relationship of each blade in the closed state of the variable aperture device is shown.
[0039] Figure 12 schematically illustrates the positional relationship of each blade in the closed state in a comparative example with an improperly shaped cam groove, viewed from the front.
[0040] Figure 13 This is an exploded perspective view of a variable aperture device according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] Figure 14 It means Figure 13 A plan view of the improved shape of the main blade of the variable aperture device.
[0042] Figure 15 is used for illustration. Figure 13 A front view of a reference example illustrating the effect of the variable aperture device. Detailed Implementation
[0043] The following is for reference. Figures 1 to 1 5. Some exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described.
[0044] The terms used in this article that relate to directions such as "front", "back", "side", "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", "further up", "further down", "upward", "downward", "right", "left", "longitudinal", "lateral", "horizontal", and "vertical" need to be understood in conjunction with the orientation of the device in the accompanying drawings. These directions may or may not match the actual orientation in use.
[0045] The following exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to, but are not limited to, variable aperture devices used in camera modules of mobile electronic devices, particularly smartphones and similar products. Furthermore, the following exemplary embodiments of the present invention also relate to such products as exemplary embodiments of the present invention, particularly mobile electronic devices including camera modules containing variable aperture devices. However, such products can be any device, apparatus, equipment, machine, facility, tool, etc., including a camera module.
[0046] Figure 1 A mobile electronic device 1, namely a smartphone, is shown according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The mobile electronic device 1 includes a camera module 1a built therein. The camera module 1a includes a variable aperture device (hereinafter referred to as "VA device") 10, as detailed below.
[0047] Figure 2 It shows the built-in Figure 1 A perspective view of the VA device 10 in the camera module 1a shown. Figure 3 A front view of the same VA device 10 is shown. VA device 10 in Figure 2 and Figure 3 It is in the "open" state. That is, in Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the state shown, a fixed aperture A2 is implemented in VA device 10 (described in detail later).
[0048] Figure 4 A front view of the VA device 10 is also shown. However, unlike... Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 4 VA device 10 is in the "off state". That is, in Figure 4 In the state shown, the central aperture A1 is implemented in the VA device 10 (described in detail later).
[0049] Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of VA device 10 is shown. From Figure 5 As can be seen, the VA device 10 mainly includes: a base 100; a pair of main blades 200a and 200b; a pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b; a cover 400; and an actuator 500. The base 100 and the cover 400 cooperate to form a rectangular housing C to house the pair of main blades 200a and 200b, the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b, and the rotatable arm of the actuator 500 (described in detail later). Although the main body of the actuator 500 (i.e., the drive unit) is not shown, this can be achieved by a micromotor, especially an ultrasonic micromotor or an electromagnetic micromotor.
[0050] The base 100 has a base aperture 110 and a pair of blade guides (i.e., a pair of guide rails) 120a and 120b. The base aperture 110 corresponds substantially in shape and size to the fixed aperture A2. The pair of blade guides 120a and 120b are disposed on the opposing longitudinal (horizontal) edges 130a and 130b of the base 100, wherein the base aperture 110 is located between the opposing longitudinal (horizontal) edges 130a and 130b. The pair of blade guides 120a and 120b extend parallel to each other.
[0051] A pair of main blades 200a and 200b are guided by a pair of blade guides 120a and 120b of the base 100. That is, the pair of main blades 200a and 200b are slidably configured relative to the base 100 to move closer to and further apart from each other. Furthermore, the pair of main blades 200a and 200b always partially overlap each other. Figure 5 It can be seen that each of the main blades 200a and 200b is approximately U-shaped overall. More specifically, each of the main blades 200a and 200b includes a blade back (i.e., a base) 240a and 240b and a pair of fingers 250a1 and 250a extending from opposite ends of the respective blade backs 240a and 240b. 2、 250b1, 250b2. Therefore, each of the main blades 200a, 200b has a corresponding notch 210a, 210b. Each notch 210a and 210b includes: a wide area forming a fixed aperture A2; and a semi-circular region forming a central aperture A1, the semi-circular region extending further from the wide area into the corresponding blade back surface 240a, 240b. Therefore, when a pair of main blades 200a, 200b are closest to each other, the two notches 210a, 210b cooperatively define the central aperture A1. In this embodiment, the central aperture A1 cooperatively defined by the notches 210a, 210b is circular. Furthermore, when a pair of main blades 200a, 200b are farthest from each other, the notches 210a, 210b cooperatively define the fixed aperture A2.
[0052] A pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b are also guided by a pair of blade guides 120a and 120b of the base 100. That is, the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b are slidably configured relative to the base 100 to move closer to and further apart from each other. Furthermore, the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b always partially overlap each other. Figure 5 It can be seen that each of the supplementary blades 300a and 300b is also approximately U-shaped overall. More specifically, each of the supplementary blades 300a and 300b includes a blade back (i.e., base) 340a and 340b and a pair of fingers 350a1 and 350a extending from the opposite ends of the respective blade back 340a and 340b. 2、350b1, 350b2. Therefore, each of the supplementary blades 300a, 300b has a corresponding notch 310a, 310b. When a pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b are closest to each other, the two notches 310a, 310b cooperatively define a minimum aperture A3 around the central aperture A1 (see...). Figure 7 and Figure 10 Furthermore, when the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b are at their furthest apart, the notches 310a and 310b collaboratively define the maximum aperture A4 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 7 The maximum aperture A4 basically corresponds to the fixed aperture A2.
[0053] For example, the cover 400 is secured to the base 100 by a snap-fit. The cover 400 has a cover aperture 410 that substantially corresponds to the fixed aperture A2. The cover 400 is used to confine a pair of main blades 200a, 200b and a pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b within a limited space between the base 100 and the cover 400. In this embodiment, the pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b is inserted between the base 100 and the pair of main blades 200a, 200b. However, in another embodiment, the pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b may be inserted between the cover 400 and the pair of main blades 200a, 200b.
[0054] Actuator 500 is used to move (slide) a pair of main blades 200a, 200b and a pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b relative to base 100. More specifically, as Figure 5 As shown, the actuator 500 includes a pair of rotatable arms 510a, 510b. Bosses 511a, 511b are provided at the tips of the respective arms 510a, 510b. In this embodiment, the pair of rotatable arms 510a, 510b are rotatably supported by the base 100. However, in other embodiments, the pair of rotatable arms 510a, 510b may be rotatably supported by any component in the camera module 1a other than the base 100. The base ends of the rotatable arms 510a, 510b are mechanically connected to a drive unit (not shown), such as a micromotor. By actuating the drive unit, the rotatable arms 510a, 510b can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise, such as... Figure 5 As shown. In this embodiment, the first arm 510a and the second arm 510b of a pair of rotatable arms are used to rotate in opposite directions to each other.
[0055] from Figure 5It can also be seen that a pair of main blades 200a and 200b have corresponding cam grooves 220a and 220b. Similarly, a pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b have corresponding cam grooves 320a and 320b. Although not limited thereto, each cam groove in cam grooves 220a and 220b consists of two linear sections connected to each other at a certain angle. In these two linear sections, the section intersecting the axis of symmetry X1 of the main blades 200a and 200b is arranged parallel to the lateral (vertical) edges 230a and 230b of the main blades 200a and 200b. Although not limited thereto, each cam groove in cam grooves 320a and 320b consists of a middle straight section and two end sections connected to the middle straight section at a certain angle at both ends. The middle section of cam grooves 320a and 320b is arranged parallel to the lateral (vertical) edges 360a and 360b of the supplementary blades 300a and 300b. In addition, the two end sections of the cam grooves 320a and 320b are inclined in the same direction.
[0056] The bosses 511a and 511b of the rotatable arms 510a and 510b are designed to be accommodated within the cam grooves 220a and 220b of the main blades 200a and 200b and the cam grooves 320a and 320b of the supplementary blades 300a and 300b. As detailed below, the rotation of the arms 510a and 510b is converted into linear motion of the main blades 200a and 200b and the supplementary blades 300a and 300b via the cam grooves 220a and 220b of the main blades 200a and 200b and the cam grooves 320a and 320b of the supplementary blades 300a and 300b (i.e.,...). Figure 5 (Horizontal sliding motion in the process). In this embodiment, when a pair of main blades 200a, 200b and a pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b move linearly, the first arm 510a and the second arm 510b of a pair of rotatable arms rotate in opposite directions to each other.
[0057] In addition to the main blades 200a and 200b and the supplementary blades 300a and 300b, the cover 400 also has a pair of cam grooves 420a and 420b. The cam grooves 420a and 420b extend substantially diagonally from near the corners of the cover aperture 410 of the cover 400. Specifically, in this embodiment, the cam grooves 420a and 420b extend along a portion of an arc having a predetermined curvature. Figure 3 It can be seen that when the VA device 10 is working, the bosses 511a and 511b of the rotatable arms 510a and 510b can enter the cam grooves 420a and 420b of the cover 400. On the other hand, the cam grooves 220a and 220b of the main blades 200a and 200b and the cam grooves 320a and 320b of the supplementary blades 300a and 300b always accommodate (constrain) the bosses 511a and 511b of the rotatable arms 510a and 510b.
[0058] As detailed below, in this embodiment, when a pair of main blades 200a, 200b and a pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b are closest to each other, each of the supplementary blades 300a, 300b protrudes outward from the lateral (vertical) edges 230a, 230b of the main blades 200a, 200b. In this document, the lateral edge refers to the edge perpendicular to the longitudinal or horizontal edge 130a, 130b of the base 100. Also in this embodiment, when the pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b has moved to the closed position (where the minimum aperture A3 is cooperatively defined by the notches 310a, 310b of the pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b), the cam grooves 320a, 320b of the supplementary blades 300a, 300b are covered by the pair of main blades 200a, 200b. Similarly, in this position, the cam grooves 220a and 220b of the main blades 200a and 200b are covered by a pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b.
[0059] In this embodiment, when the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b have moved to the closed position, the pair of rotatable arms 510a and 510b are positioned approximately parallel to the movement direction of the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b, i.e., longitudinally of the base 100. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the pair of rotatable arms 510a and 510b are positioned approximately parallel to the movement direction of the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b, the pair of rotatable arms 510a and 510b are hidden behind the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b.
[0060] As described above, the VA device 10 can be in an open state and a closed state. In the open state, a pair of main blades 200a, 200b and a pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b are all located outside the cover aperture 410 of the cover 400, and therefore outside the fixed aperture A2, and their shape is also determined by the cover aperture 410 of the cover 400. When the VA device 10 is operated to be in the closed state, the main blades 200a and supplementary blades 300a are driven to a predetermined position along the blade guides 120a, 120b of the base 100 by the rotation of the rotatable arm 510a; the main blades 200b and supplementary blades 300b are driven to a predetermined position along the blade guides 120a, 120b of the base 100 by the rotation of the rotatable arm 510b. On the other hand, when the VA device 10 is operated to present an open state, the main blade 200a and the supplementary blade 300a are driven to a predetermined position along the blade guides 120a and 120b of the base 100 by the rotation of the rotating arm 510a; the main blade 200b and the supplementary blade 300b are driven to a predetermined position along the blade guides 120a and 120b of the base 100 by the rotation of the rotatable arm 510b. As described above, this sliding linear motion of the pair of main blades 200a and 200b and the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b is achieved by the interaction between the bosses 511a and 511b of the rotatable arms 510a and 510b and the cam grooves 220a, 220b, 320a and 320b of the blades 200a, 200b, 300a and 300b.
[0061] The operation, function and advantages of the VA device 10 described above will be described below with reference to Figures 6 to 12.
[0062] Key Point 1
[0063] Figure 6 schematically shows the fixed aperture and central aperture formed in a conventional VA device 10'. Figure 7 The fixed aperture and central aperture formed in the VA device 10 as described above are schematically shown. In Figure 6, the blades used to form the central aperture A1' and the fixed aperture A2' are indicated by the numbers "2000a" and "2000b"; Figure 7 In the diagram, the blades (i.e., the main blades) used to form the central aperture A1 and the fixed aperture A2 are designated by the numbers "200a" and "200b". Typically, to miniaturize VA devices, the back surface of the blades needs to be shortened to allow for movement in their sliding direction (i.e., as shown in Figure 6 and...). Figure 7A central aperture is formed on the horizontal direction of the blades. By shortening the back surfaces of these blades, space can be saved for storing the blades in the open state, thus enabling miniaturization of the VA device. However, if the back surfaces of blades 2000a and 2000b are shortened in the conventional structure, the VA device 10' cannot function as expected. This is because, in the closed state of the VA device 10', an undesirable hole H appears in addition to the central aperture A1'. This means that the back surfaces of blades 2000a and 2000b must be large enough to prevent such a phenomenon from occurring. Therefore, in the conventional VA device 10', there is a limitation on the miniaturization of the VA device. In contrast, in this embodiment, a pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b are added to the VA device 10. Basically, as in the conventional structure, in the closed state of the VA device 10 (where the main blades 200a and 200b are shortened), an undesirable hole is inevitably generated in addition to the central aperture A1. However, from Figure 7 As can be seen, the pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b completely cover these undesirable holes. Therefore, in this embodiment, there are no problems caused by shortening the blades. For these reasons, in this embodiment, the VA device 10 can be miniaturized compared to conventional devices.
[0064] Key Point 2
[0065] Figure 8 schematically illustrates the relationship between arm travel and blade travel in a traditional VA device; Figure 9 The relationship between the arm travel and the blade travel in the VA device 10 described above is schematically illustrated. In a conventional structure, arms 5010a and 5010b rotate around a rotation axis on the base 1000 and drive blades 2100a and 2100b. Therefore, the line connecting the arm tips (i.e., bosses) 5011 in the open and closed states is approximately parallel to the direction of blade movement. This means that the arm travel S1' from the open to the closed state is approximately the same as the blade travel S2' from the open to the closed state. On the other hand, in this embodiment, although arms 510a and 510b also rotate around a rotation axis on the base 100 as in the conventional structure, the straight line L connecting the arm tips (i.e., bosses 511a and 511b) in the open and closed states forms an angle relative to the direction of blade movement, for example, approximately 45 degrees. Figure 9 As shown. In addition, in this embodiment, the rotational motion of arms 510a and 510b is converted into linear motion of blades 200a, 200b, 300a, and 300b via cam grooves 220a, 220b, 320a, and 320b formed thereon. By employing such a structure, in this embodiment, the width (horizontal) component S of the arm stroke S1 from the open state to the closed state... 1XThe blade travel distance S2 from the open state to the closed state can be shorter than that of the blade. Therefore, in this embodiment, the width of the VA device can be reduced compared to the conventional structure.
[0066] Key Point 3
[0067] Figure 10 The diagram schematically illustrates the AV device 10 in its open and closed states according to this embodiment, as viewed from the rear (i.e., from the lens side of the camera module). In the open state, the aperture shape is determined by the cover aperture 410 of the cover 400 (which substantially corresponds to the fixed aperture A2). In this state, all blades 200a, 200b, 300a, 300b and arms 510a, 510b are located outside the fixed aperture A2. On the other hand, in the closed state, the blades 200a, 200b, 300a, 300b are driven into the fixed aperture A2. In this state, the aperture shape in the closed state is determined by the central aperture A1 defined by the inner diameter of the notches 210a, 210b of the main blades 200a, 200b. Furthermore, in this state, the arms 510a, 510b are also located inside the fixed aperture A2. In this embodiment, by employing a unique structure, a portion of the actuator 500 (i.e., arms 510a and 510b that drive the blades 200a, 200b, 300a, and 300b) enters the interior of the fixed aperture A2 in the closed state, allowing arms 510a and 510b to be closer to the center of the device 10. Therefore, the size of the VA device can be further miniaturized. Furthermore, since the portion of arms 510a and 510b entering the interior of the fixed aperture A2 in the closed state is covered by blades 200a, 200b, 300a, and 300b, arms 510a and 510b do not affect any optical performance or other functions of the VA device. Moreover, arms 510a and 510b do not damage the appearance (appearance quality) of the VA device. This is because arms 510a and 510b are covered by blades 200a, 200b, 300a, and 300b and are not visible from the front.
[0068] Key Point 4
[0069] Figure 11Figure 12 schematically illustrates the relationship between the positions of each blade in the closed state in this embodiment, viewed from the front; Figure 13 schematically illustrates the relationship between the positions of each blade in the closed state in a comparative example where the shape of the cam groove is inappropriate, viewed from the front. For clarity, the main blades 200a and 200b are made translucent. As described above, the central aperture A1 defined by the inner diameter of the notches 210a and 210b of the main blades 200a and 200b determines the aperture shape in the closed state. Each blade has a corresponding cam groove thereon, and a boss provided on the tip of the arm is fitted into the corresponding cam groove. In this embodiment, in the closed state, the cam groove 220a of the main blade 200a is covered by the supplementary blade 300a located behind the main blade 200a. On the other hand, the cam groove 320a of the supplementary blade 300a is covered by the main blade 200a located in front of the supplementary blade 300a. Similarly, the cam groove 220b of the main blade 200b is covered by the supplementary blade 30b located behind the main blade 200b. On the other hand, the cam groove 320b of the supplementary blade 300b is covered by the main blade 200b located in front of the supplementary blade 300b. Therefore, in this embodiment, the shape and position of the cam grooves 220a, 220b, 320a, 320b of each blade are configured such that a particular groove is securely covered by other blades. Therefore, in this embodiment, in the closed state, it is possible to prevent unwanted holes from appearing around the central aperture A1. On the other hand, if the shape and / or position of the cam groove is not appropriate, in other words, if the cam groove is not covered by any blade, as shown in FIG12, the VA device 10” will not work well due to unwanted holes H appearing in the closed state.
[0070] As can be understood from the above explanation, the present invention has a larger aperture size and shape in the open state, which helps to achieve miniaturization of the VA device. Therefore, the VA device according to the present invention is particularly suitable for lenses with large apertures (high brightness relative aperture). Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the basic structure of the embodiment in which the arm rotates via an actuator and the arm linearly drives each blade is the same as the basic structure of a conventional device; therefore, the reliability of the VA device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention is at the same level as that of a conventional device. Thus, a small VA device with sufficient reliability can be realized. Similarly, the VA device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention achieves the above advantages by having the following features:
[0071] 1. In the closed state, the back of the main blade that determines the shape of the aperture is shortened. At the same time, in order to cover the gap (hole) between the fixed aperture (i.e., the aperture in the open state) and the main blade, additional blades are provided.
[0072] 2. In both the open and closed states, the straight line of the boss at the tip of the connecting arm forms a certain angle relative to the sliding motion direction of the blade;
[0073] 3. A part of the actuator, such as an arm, enters the interior of the fixed aperture (i.e., the aperture in the open state) in the closed state;
[0074] 4. The shape and position of the cam grooves of some blades are set to be covered by other blades when the blades are closed.
[0075] In the following text, we will use Figures 13 to 1 5. Alternative embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. Figures 13 to 1 In 5, components that are the same as or substantially the same as those in the above embodiments are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted. Figure 13 An exploded perspective view of a VA device 10 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 13 As can be seen, the VA device 10 also includes: a base 100; a pair of main blades 200a and 200b; a pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b; a cover 400; and an actuator 500 including rotatable arms 510a and 510b.
[0076] In addition to these components, the alternative VA device 10 also includes a pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b. The auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b are also guided by a pair of blade guides 120a, 120b of the base 100. That is, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b are slidably configured relative to the base 100 to be close to and separate from each other. Furthermore, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b always partially overlap each other. In this embodiment, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b is inserted between the base 100 and the pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b. However, in another embodiment, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b may be inserted between the pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b and the pair of main blades 200a, 200b, or between the pair of main blades 200a, 200b and the cover 400.
[0077] Each of the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b has a corresponding U-shaped notch 610a, 610b. When the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b are closest to each other, the notches 610a, 610b cooperatively define a minimum aperture A5 around a central aperture A1 (see Figure 15). The two notches 610a, 610b also cooperatively define a maximum aperture A6, which substantially corresponds to (or surrounds) a fixed aperture A2 in another embodiment when the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b are furthest from each other (see Figure 15).
[0078] from Figure 13As can be seen, in this embodiment, a pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a and 600b have corresponding linear cam grooves 620a and 620b. Each cam groove in cam grooves 620a and 620b is arranged parallel to the lateral (vertical) edges 630a and 630b of the auxiliary supplementary blades 600a and 600b. Bosses 511a and 511b of rotatable arms 510a and 510b are further accommodated within the cam grooves 620a and 620b of the auxiliary supplementary blades 600a and 600b. The rotation of arms 510a and 510b is converted into linear motion by the cam grooves 620a and 620b of the auxiliary supplementary blades 600a and 600b. That is, the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a and 600b are driven together with a pair of main blades 200a and 200b and a pair of supplementary blades 300a and 300b by the rotatable arms 510a and 510b.
[0079] from Figure 14 As can be seen, the pair of main blades 200a and 200b in this alternative embodiment are modified from the pair of main blades in the previously described embodiment. More specifically, in this alternative embodiment, a portion of the lateral (vertical) edges 230a and 230b of the previously described main blades 200a and 200b are diagonally cut. Therefore, the longitudinal (horizontal) upper length of each main blade in the pair of main blades 200a and 200b is less than its longitudinal lower length. Furthermore, the cam grooves 220a and 220b of the main blades 200a and 200b have been modified to a linear form.
[0080] In this embodiment, each of the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b is configured to protrude outward from the lateral edges 230a, 230b of the main blades 200a, 200b when the pair of main blades 200a, 200b are closest to each other, the pair of supplementary blades 300a, 300b are closest to each other, and the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a, 600b are closest to each other. Due to this characteristic configuration, this alternative embodiment produces the following effects.
[0081] In this alternative embodiment, to save more space for storing the various blades in the open state, the back surfaces 240a and 240b of the main blades 200a and 200b are shortened compared to the first embodiment (see [reference]). Figure 14In the first embodiment, the outline of the blade back surface is represented by a dashed line. However, shortening only the blade back surfaces 240a and 240b of the main blades 200a and 200b will result in the portion of the cam grooves 320a and 320b of the supplementary blades 300a and 300b not being covered by the main blades 200a and 200b. That is, an undesirable hole H is created outside the central aperture A1, allowing light to pass through (see the shaded area in Figure 15). In this state, the VA device 10 cannot perform its intended function. In this alternative embodiment, to overcome such auxiliary disadvantages, a pair of auxiliary supplementary blades 600a and 600b are added to cover the undesirable hole H. By adopting this structure, space can be saved for storing various blades compared to the first embodiment, and thus the VA device 10 can be made more compact.
[0082] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been explained above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Such modifications and changes are also included within the scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A variable aperture device (10) for a camera module (1a), characterized in that, The variable aperture device includes: A base (100), wherein the base (100) has a base aperture (110) and a pair of blade guides (120a, 120b), the pair of blade guides (120a, 120b) being disposed on opposite longitudinal edges (130a, 130b) of the base (100), and the base aperture (110) being located between the opposite longitudinal edges (130a, 130b); A pair of main blades (200a, 200b), wherein the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) are guided by a pair of blade guides (120a, 120b) of the base (100), the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) being slidably disposed relative to the base (100) for approaching and separating from each other, each of the main blades (200a, 200b) having a corresponding notch (210a, 210b), the notches (210a, 210b) cooperatively defining a central aperture (A1) when the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) are closest to each other, and the notches (210a, 210b) cooperatively defining a fixed aperture (A2) when the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) are farthest from each other. A pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b), wherein the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) are guided by a pair of blade guides (120a, 120b) of the base (100), the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) being slidably disposed relative to the base (100) for approaching and separating from each other, each of the supplementary blades (300a, 300b) having a corresponding notch (310a, 310b), wherein when the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) are closest to each other, the notches (310a, 310b) cooperatively define a minimum aperture (A3) around the central aperture (A1), and when the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) are farthest from each other, the notches (310a, 310b) cooperatively define a maximum aperture (A4) substantially corresponding to the fixed aperture (A2). A cover (400), wherein the cover (400) is fixed to the base (100) and has a cover aperture (410) substantially corresponding to the fixed aperture (A2), the cover (400) being used to constrain the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) and the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) in the space between the base (100) and the cover (400); An actuator (500) is used to move the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) and the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) relative to the base (100). When the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) are closest to each other and the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) are closest to each other, each of the supplementary blades (300a, 300b) is used to project outward from the lateral edge (230a, 230b) of the main blades (200a, 200b) perpendicular to the longitudinal edge (130a, 130b) of the base (100); The actuator (500) includes a pair of rotatable arms (510a, 510b), each rotatable arm (510a, 510b) having a boss (511a, 511b) at its tip. When the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) have been moved to the closed position, wherein the minimum aperture (A3) is cooperatively defined by the notches (310a, 310b) of the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b), and the pair of rotatable arms (510a, 510b) are in a position approximately parallel to the direction of movement of the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b).
2. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) are inserted between the base (100) and the pair of main blades (200a, 200b).
3. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The pair of main blades (200a, 200b) have corresponding cam grooves (220a, 220b), and the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) have corresponding cam grooves (320a, 320b). The bosses (511a, 511b) of the rotatable arms (510a, 510b) are used to accommodate the cam grooves (220a, 220b) of the main blades (200a, 200b) and the supplementary blades (300a, 300b). Within the cam grooves (320a, 320b) of the main blades (200a, 200b) and the supplementary blades (300a, 300b), the rotation of the rotatable arms (510a, 510b) is converted into linear motion of the main blades (200a, 200b) and the supplementary blades (300a, 300b) through the cam grooves (220a, 220b) of the main blades (200a, 200b) and the cam grooves (320a, 320b) of the supplementary blades (300a, 300b).
4. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The pair of rotatable arms (510a, 510b) are rotatably supported by the base (100).
5. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cover (400) has a pair of cam grooves (420a, 420b) and the bosses (511a, 511b) of the rotatable arms (510a, 510b) are capable of entering the cam grooves (420a, 420b) of the cover (400).
6. The variable aperture device (10) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that, When the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) have been moved to the closed position, wherein the minimum aperture (A3) is cooperatively defined by the notches (310a, 310b) of the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b), the cam grooves (320a, 320b) of the supplementary blades (300a, 300b) are covered by the pair of main blades (200a, 200b), and the cam grooves (220a, 220b) of the main blades (200a, 200b) are covered by the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b).
7. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the pair of rotatable arms (510a, 510b) are in a position approximately parallel to the direction of movement of the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b), the pair of rotatable arms (510a, 510b) are hidden behind the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b).
8. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) and the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) move linearly, the first arm (510a) and the second arm (510b) of the pair of rotatable arms (510a, 510b) rotate in opposite directions to each other.
9. The variable aperture device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, 7-8, characterized in that, The variable aperture device (10) further includes a pair of auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b), wherein the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) are guided by a pair of blade guides (120a, 120b) of the base (100), the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) are slidably disposed relative to the base (100) to approach and separate from each other, each of the auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) having a corresponding notch (610a, 610b), the notches (610a, 610b) cooperatively defining a minimum aperture (A1) around the central aperture (A1) when the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) are closest to each other. 5) When the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) are furthest apart from each other, the notches (610a, 610b) cooperatively define a maximum aperture (A6) surrounding or substantially corresponding to the fixed aperture (A2). When the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) are closest to each other, the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b) are closest to each other, and the pair of auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) are closest to each other, each of the auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) is used to protrude outward from the lateral edge (230a, 230b) of the main blade (200a, 200b) perpendicular to the longitudinal edge (130a, 130b) of the base (100).
10. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The pair of auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) have corresponding cam grooves (620a, 620b), wherein the bosses (511a, 511b) of the rotatable arms (510a, 510b) are used to be further accommodated in the cam grooves (620a, 620b) of the auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b), and the rotation of the rotatable arms (510a, 510b) is converted into linear motion of the auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) through the cam grooves (620a, 620b) of the auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b).
11. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The pair of auxiliary supplementary blades (600a, 600b) are inserted between the base (100) and the pair of supplementary blades (300a, 300b).
12. The variable aperture device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central aperture (A1) defined by the notches (210a, 210b) of the pair of main blades (200a, 200b) is circular.
13. A product (1) comprising a camera module (1a), characterized in that, The camera module (1a) includes a variable aperture device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.
14. The product (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The product (1) includes devices, apparatus, equipment, machines, facilities, tools, etc., that include the camera module (1a).
15. The product (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The product (1) is a mobile electronic device including the camera module (1a).