Folded Camera Light Path Element With Integrated Stray Light Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in camera modules of portable electronic devices is to enhance image quality while managing stray light and maintaining a stable light path, which existing technologies have not adequately addressed.
Innovation Solution
A light path folding element with specific geometric configurations and light blocking structures, including reflecting surfaces and light blocking structures, is designed to manage internal reflections and block stray light effectively, ensuring a stable light path and efficient light transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If light blocking structures are added to block stray light, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light blocking structures (first light blocking structure on the first surface, second light blocking structure on the second surface, and third light blocking structure on the edge) into a unified light path folding element. These structures work together synergistically to block stray light from different directions, improving image quality while maintaining a integrated design that manages complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The light blocking function is segmented into multiple distinct structures positioned at different locations and orientations. The first light blocking structure blocks light from the first surface, the second from the second surface, and the third from the edge near the first reflecting surface. This segmentation allows each structure to address specific stray light paths independently.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple light blocking structures are implemented, then stray light is blocked more effectively, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light blocking structures are merged into a single light path folding element that can be manufactured as one integrated component. This approach allows for more effective stray light blocking compared to separate structures, while the integrated design simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of assembly steps and potential alignment issues.
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 enhances image quality by effectively blocking stray light, maintaining a stable light path, and minimizing the device's volume, while allowing for mass production and cost-effective manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
The light forms an internal reflection via the first reflecting surface. The light forms another internal reflection via the second reflecting surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A light path folding element includes a first surface, a second surface, a first reflecting surface and a second reflecting surface. A light travels from the first surface into the light path folding element. The second surface is disposed relative to the first surface along a first direction and is parallel to the first surface, and the first direction is perpendicular to the first surface. The first reflecting surface connects the first surface and the second surface, an acute angle is formed between the first reflecting surface and the first surface, and the light forms an internal reflection via the first reflecting surface. The light forms another internal reflection via the second reflecting surface. The light path folding element further includes a light blocking structure, which extends from at least one of the first surface and the second surface into the light path folding element.