Integrated Camera Module Case with Stopper and Coupling Protrusions

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge is to miniaturize camera modules while maintaining the number of pixel elements and ensuring design freedom for integration into various electronic devices, which existing technologies have not adequately addressed.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design featuring a stopper member and coupling structure formed integrally with the case, including a protrusion part to limit lens barrel movement and a coupling part for external device coupling, simplifies manufacturing and enhances design flexibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate stopper member and coupling structure are used, then lens barrel movement is limited and external device coupling is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing process are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens barrel movement limitationVSAvoidcomponent count
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the stopper member and coupling structure into a single integrated component formed as one piece with the case. The stopper protrusion limits lens barrel movement while the coupling protrusion provides external device coupling, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated case component serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both a stopper member for limiting lens barrel movement and a coupling structure for connecting to external devices. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count while maintaining all necessary mechanical functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If traditional camera module design is used, then functional requirements are met, but miniaturization and slimness are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional performanceVSAvoidcamera module size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the stopper member and coupling structure into the case itself, the patent eliminates additional components that would increase the camera module's volume. The integrated design allows for more efficient space utilization and contributes to miniaturization while maintaining all necessary functional capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8958690B2Camera module
Publication Date: 2015.02.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD
  • US8958690B2 patent drawing
  • US8958690B2 patent drawing
  • US8958690B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A camera module includes a lens barrel having at least one lens disposed in an optical axis direction, a housing having the lens barrel disposed therein, and a case coupled to the housing to cover the outer surfaces of the housing. The case may include at least one of a protrusion part protruding inwardly from an upper edge of the case, a coupling forming part protruding outwardly from the upper edge of the case, and a coupling part protruding from an outer surface of the case. The protrusion part, the coupling forming part or the coupling part may be formed integrally as one piece with the case.