Camera Module Barrel and Mount Using Polycarbonate and LCP
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Solution Overview
Problem
Camera modules experience image quality degradation due to frictional forces generating debris during the assembly of optical elements, which blocks incident radiation and results in failed quality checks or image degradation, as existing materials and techniques do not effectively mitigate this issue.
Innovation Solution
Forming the barrel and mount of a camera module from polycarbonate and liquid crystal polymer (LCP) materials, with self-lubricating LCP grades like Zenite® 5130L demonstrating reduced debris generation, as evidenced by tape adhesion tests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the barrel and mount are assembled with screw threads during manufacture, then the optical elements can be adjusted for focus, but frictional forces generate debris that degrades image quality
Solution Approach 1:
A release agent is applied as an intermediary substance between the barrel and mount screw threads. This release agent reduces friction during assembly and focus adjustment operations, preventing the generation of debris that would otherwise contaminate the image sensor and degrade image quality.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional materials are used for barrel and mount, then manufacturing is simple, but debris is generated during assembly causing quality failures
Solution Approach 1:
The surface properties of the barrel or mount are modified by changing parameters such as surface roughness, coating composition, or material treatment. These parameter changes reduce friction and debris generation during assembly while maintaining ease of manufacture. Examples include applying release agents, using low-friction coatings, or modifying surface treatments.
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 use of polycarbonate and LCP materials significantly reduces debris generation, enhancing the pass rate of camera modules through the manufacturing process and maintaining image quality by minimizing foreign matter interference.
Implementation Method 1
The LCP material may be a self-lubricating LCP material
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module may include a mount and a barrel coupled to the mount. One of the barrel and the mount may include a polycarbonate material and the other of the barrel and the mount may include a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) material.