Camera Module Coil Conductive Part in Metal Case

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Solution Overview

Problem

RFID systems, such as NFC, face reduced recognition distance and design limitations when used in metal cases due to eddy currents and magnetic repulsion fields, and existing solutions require complex slit structures and separate injection-molding for contaminant prevention.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design featuring a coil conductive part formed on a substrate with a penetration hole, enclosed by a glass cover with a shielding coating, and integrated with a lens housing and light source, allowing for antenna communications without expanding the opening in a metal case, using a magnetic material for improved NFC performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a metal case is used for the electronic device, then the appearance and structural strength are improved, but eddy currents are induced and magnetic repulsion fields are generated which decrease antenna recognition distance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidantenna recognition distance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The metal case is segmented by forming a slit structure that divides the continuous metal surface into separate regions. This segmentation interrupts the eddy current paths while maintaining the overall structural integrity and appearance of the metal case. The slit allows the antenna to function properly by preventing harmful electromagnetic interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The metal case has different properties in different regions: most areas maintain full metal coverage for strength and appearance, while a specific local region contains a slit structure to allow antenna signals to pass through without inducing harmful eddy currents. This local modification preserves the benefits of the metal case while eliminating the harmful effects in the antenna region.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If a slit structure is formed in the metal case to enable antenna communication, then signal transmission is improved, but the design flexibility is limited and separate injection-molding structures are required to prevent contaminant entry

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal transmissionVSAvoiddesign complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective cover structure is merged with the antenna housing to form an integrated unit. The transparent or translucent cover is directly formed as part of the housing structure that contains the antenna, eliminating the need for separate injection-molding components. This integration maintains signal transmission while providing built-in protection against contaminants.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The housing structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, contains the antenna, allows signal transmission through its translucent/transparent cover, and protects against contaminant entry. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function.

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

3Ease of operation

If the opening part of the metal case is expanded to accommodate the camera module, then the camera module can be properly positioned, but the structural integrity and appearance of the metal case are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera module positioningVSAvoidstructural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The camera module is nested within a dedicated housing structure that is itself nested within the metal case. The antenna housing with its transparent cover is positioned within the metal case structure, allowing the camera module to be properly accommodated without creating large openings in the metal case. This nested arrangement preserves the metal case's structural integrity while providing proper positioning for the camera module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

Enables flexible design of metal cases without slits, maintains wireless communication capabilities, and enhances NFC performance by positioning the coil conductive part within the opening, reducing interference and improving signal transmission.

Implementation Method 1

The glass cover may have a shielding coating layer formed thereabove in order to prevent the coil conductive part from being exposed externally.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Implementation Method 2

When an antenna system is used in a metal case, magnetic flux passing through a metal surface may induces an eddy current within the metal of the case

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic flux: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

magnetic flux passing through a metal surface may induces an eddy current within the metal of the case, such that a magnetic repulsion field according to Lenz's law may be generated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEddy current: Eddy Currents

Implementation Method 4

magnetic flux passing through a metal surface may induces an eddy current within the metal of the case, such that a magnetic repulsion field according to Lenz's law may be generated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLenz's law: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9609183B2Camera module and electronic device including the same
Publication Date: 2017.03.28 WITS CO LTD
  • US9609183B2 patent drawing
  • US9609183B2 patent drawing
  • US9609183B2 patent drawing

AI summary

There is provided a camera module including: a lens housing in which a lens is disposed; a glass cover formed of a transparent material and covering the lens housing; and a coil conductive part formed between an outer surface of the lens and an inner surface of the glass cover.