Camera Module Lens Array Compensation for Alignment Precision
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional camera modules using a single lens and image sensor can only capture 2D images, losing information on light intensity and direction, and those with multiple image sensors face challenges in precise alignment and equal optical characteristics, limiting their ability to provide high-resolution images and accurate focal distances.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring a lens array with multiple lenses and image sensors on a PCB, along with a compensation unit made of transparent materials or UV resin to adjust focal distances, allowing for high-resolution imaging and motion pictures with adjustable focus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a lens array with multiple lenses and multiple image sensors is used to capture 3D information and improve resolution, then the imaging quality and information retention are improved, but the alignment precision and manufacturing difficulty worsen due to the requirement for precise six-axis alignment
Solution Approach 1:
A compensation unit is introduced as an intermediary component between the lens array and image sensors. This compensation unit includes multiple compensation pieces that can be individually adjusted to compensate for focal distance deviations caused by manufacturing tolerances in the lens array, thereby maintaining high imaging quality without requiring extremely precise alignment during manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The compensation unit allows for adjustment of focal distance parameters for each lens-image sensor pair. By changing the focal distance parameter through the compensation pieces, the system can accommodate variations in lens optical characteristics and distances from unit sensors to lenses, converting a rigid alignment requirement into an adjustable parameter
2Use of energy by moving object
If a lens array with high light collection rate is installed to improve light gathering capability, then the light collection efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the requirement for precise six-axis alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The compensation unit serves as a mediator that simplifies the overall system complexity. While the lens array requires precise installation for optimal light collection, the compensation unit absorbs the complexity of individual lens adjustments, making the overall system easier to manufacture and maintain while preserving high light collection efficiency
3Measurement precision
If multiple unit sensors are arranged to correspond to each lens in the lens array to improve resolution, then the imaging resolution is improved, but the processor load increases causing the system to be usable only for static images or low frame rate motion pictures
Solution Approach 1:
Different image sensors are positioned at different locations corresponding to different lenses in the lens array. Each sensor-lens pair captures light from specific directions, and the compensation unit optimizes the focal distance for each local sensor-lens combination. This local optimization allows efficient processing of images from multiple sensors, enabling higher frame rates while maintaining high resolution
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 enables equalized focus of light on each image sensor, achieving high-resolution images and supporting high-frame-rate motion pictures, even with manufacturing defects, by compensating for focal distance deviations in the lens array.
Implementation Method 1
a lens array including at least one lens arranged in a direction traversing an optical axis in order to collect an optical signal
Implementation Method 2
a compensation unit provided between the image sensor and the lens array, and configured to compensate a focal distance deviation of each of the lens of the lens array
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of the present invention relates to a camera module in which the structure of an image sensor has been improved, and to a method for manufacturing same, the camera module comprising: a printed circuit board on which various elements are mounted; a lens array in which at least on lens is arranged in an direction traversing the optical axis; and a plurality of image sensors mounted on the printed circuit board so as to correspond with the respective lenses.