Camera Module Optical Axis Alignment via Elastic Frame Pressing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The optical axis of the lens in camera modules is often inclined due to assembly tolerances, leading to image distortion and reduced image quality, as it is not correctly aligned perpendicular to the image formation surface of the image sensor during the initial assembly of the lens barrel in portable electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an elastic member that presses the frame to align it relative to the housing, ensuring the optical axis of the lens is perpendicular to the image formation surface, and providing adjustment mechanisms through openings and protrusions to fine-tune the alignment after assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the lens barrel is assembled in the initial state without alignment adjustment, then the assembly process is simple and fast, but the optical axis of the lens becomes inclined with respect to the image formation surface, causing image distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing adjustment mechanisms (screws, protrusions, or magnets) that enable alignment adjustment before the lens barrel is fixed in its final position. The adjustment part allows the lens barrel to be tilted or rotated to achieve precise optical axis alignment with the image sensor before being secured, thus ensuring manufacturing precision without requiring complex real-time adjustment systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary adjustment mechanism between the lens barrel and the housing. The adjustment part (including screws, protrusions, or magnets) serves as a mediator that enables precise positioning and alignment of the lens barrel relative to the image sensor. This intermediary mechanism facilitates accurate optical axis alignment while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
2Reliability
If adjustment mechanisms are added to align the optical axis, then image quality improves, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by providing an adjustable and movable lens barrel structure. The lens barrel can be tilted or rotated during the adjustment process using screws, protrusions, or magnets, allowing dynamic alignment adjustment. After alignment is achieved, the lens barrel is fixed in position, transitioning from a dynamic adjustable state to a static fixed state, thus ensuring image quality stability without permanently increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by adjusting the angular position and orientation of the lens barrel through the adjustment mechanisms. The screws, protrusions, or magnets enable changes in the lens barrel's tilt angle and rotational position, allowing precise control of the optical axis alignment parameters. This parameter adjustment ensures reliable image quality while using simple mechanical components.
3Ease of operation
If the lens barrel is fixed tightly to prevent movement, then structural stability is improved, but alignment adjustment becomes difficult or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the alignment adjustment function from the final fixation function. The adjustment mechanisms (screws, protrusions, or magnets) are provided as distinct components that enable alignment adjustment independently from the fixation structure. This segmentation allows the lens barrel to be easily adjusted during assembly while ensuring stable fixation once alignment is achieved, thus improving ease of operation without compromising structural stability.
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
This solution effectively reduces assembly defects, secures perpendicularity of the optical axis, and improves image quality by preventing tilt-induced distortions, allowing for precise alignment and enhanced camera performance.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member pressing the frame so that one surface of the frame is closely adhered to one surface of the housing
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~3
AI summary
A camera module may include a lens barrel supporting a lens, a frame in which the lens barrel is provided, and a housing accommodating the frame. The frame may be pressed toward one surface of the housing to thereby be relatively aligned in the housing so that an optical axis of the lens is positioned perpendicularly with respect to an image formation surface of an image sensor.