Camera Module with Dual Substrates and Filling Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Camera modules used in vehicles face challenges in reducing size while maintaining performance, particularly in applications like e-Mirrors where space is limited, and existing designs struggle to achieve a compact form factor without compromising aesthetics or functionality.
Innovation Solution
The camera module design incorporates a housing with a lens barrel and two substrates, where the lens barrel is positioned between the substrates, and a filling member is used to fill the internal space, along with a coupling member that electrically connects the substrates and includes a conductive pattern for power supply, allowing for a compact structure and reduced size in both optical axis and perpendicular directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera module includes multiple components (image sensor, ISP, DCDC/LDO) to increase resolution and functionality, then the performance and capabilities are improved, but the overall size and volume of the camera module increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional components (image sensor, ISP, DCDC/LDO) onto a single substrate, integrating what were previously separate components into one unified structure. This merging approach maintains all necessary functions while reducing the overall camera module volume by eliminating the need for multiple discrete components and their associated mounting spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the mounting platform for the image sensor, houses the ISP and power management components (DCDC/LDO), and provides electrical connections between all components. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function, thereby reducing overall module volume while maintaining full functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the camera module is designed for vehicle exterior mounting (e.g., e-Mirror) to provide driving assistance functions, then the functionality is improved, but the available installation space becomes more limited requiring smaller size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the lens barrel within the housing structure, with the lens positioned inside the housing rather than protruding externally. The image sensor and processing components are nested within the housing, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes the overall footprint and allows mounting in space-constrained vehicle exterior locations.
3Volume of stationary object
If the lens barrel is positioned closer to the image sensor to reduce the distance, then the optical path length is reduced and compactness is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the camera module into distinct functional zones: the lens barrel section, the housing section containing the image sensor, and the substrate section with electronic components. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall compactness, managing structural complexity through modular design.
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module including a housing, a lens barrel disposed in the housing and configured to accommodate at least one lens, a first substrate including an image sensor configured to receive light passing through the lens, and a second substrate including a through-portion configured to pass the lens barrel.