Autofocus Reflector Folds Optical Path to Reduce Device Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autofocus systems in mobile devices face challenges in miniaturization and time response due to the need for a large loading space and extended moving distances for the lens, which limits spatial utilization and delays the autofocus function.
Innovation Solution
An autofocus apparatus that includes a reflector mounted on a carrier, which linearly moves in the optical axis direction, changing the light path between the lens assembly and the image sensor, utilizing a driving unit with magnets and coils to minimize space and optimize miniaturization, allowing for a shorter moving distance and improved time response.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a lens with variable focal length or long distance image is installed to meet higher user needs, then the imaging functionality is improved, but the loading space required increases and spatial utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reflector that changes the light path direction, effectively utilizing the vertical dimension (optical axis direction) to fold the optical path. This allows the optical system to achieve variable focal length and long distance imaging capabilities while reducing the horizontal loading space required in the mobile terminal.
2Manufacturing precision
If a sufficient distance is secured between the lens and image sensor due to optical characteristics, then the imaging quality is improved, but the device length increases and miniaturization is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is positioned to receive light from the lens and redirect it toward the image sensor, effectively folding the optical path in the vertical dimension. This allows the required optical distance to be achieved while reducing the horizontal device length, enabling miniaturization while maintaining imaging quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lens is designed to ensure extended moving distance for autofocus function, then the autofocus range is improved, but the time response deteriorates due to longer moving distance
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector moves in the vertical optical axis direction to adjust the effective optical path length, rather than moving the lens horizontally. This vertical movement mechanism achieves the required autofocus range while significantly reducing the moving distance and time, thereby improving time response.
4Manufacturing precision
If a larger loading space is provided for the lens structure, then the optical system performance is improved, but the design environments for other devices and components are limited
Solution Approach 1:
By folding the optical path using the reflector in the vertical dimension, the patent reduces the horizontal loading space required for the optical system. This creates more design space for other devices and components in the mobile terminal while maintaining optical system performance.
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
The solution effectively reduces the overall space required for the autofocus system, enabling more compact designs and significantly improving the time response of the autofocus function by shortening the moving distance of the reflector, thus enhancing the efficiency of the autofocus operation.
Implementation Method 1
One typical method for implementing the AF or OIS function is to install a magnet (a coil) on a mover (a carrier) and install a coil (a magnet) on a stator (a housing, or another type of carrier, or the like), and then generate an electromagnetic force between the coil and the magnet so that the mover moves in the optical axis direction or in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.
Implementation Method 2
a reflector provided to a rear side of a lens assembly and configured to change a path of a light passing through the lens assembly so that the light is oriented toward an image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An autofocus apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a reflector provided to a rear side of a lens assembly and configured to change a path of a light passing through the lens assembly so that the light is oriented toward an image sensor; a carrier to which the reflector is mounted, the carrier being configured to linearly move in an optical axis direction; a housing configured to accommodate the carrier; and a driving unit configured to move the carrier so that a distance between the reflector and the lens assembly and a distance between the reflector and the image sensor are changed simultaneously.