Camera Module IR Filter Integration and Miniaturization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Camera modules face challenges in miniaturization due to the requirement of space for an infrared filter, which complicates the structure and assembly process.
Innovation Solution
The camera module design eliminates the need for an internal infrared filter by integrating an IR filter at the window cover or transparent cover, allowing for a simplified structure and assembly, and includes a heat radiating material between the housing and shield can to prevent external interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an infrared filter is installed inside the camera module housing, then the infrared filter can block infrared light from reaching the image sensor, but the camera module size increases and the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the infrared filter function with the existing lens window or cover glass by coating the IR filter directly onto these components. This merging eliminates the need for a separate infrared filter component and its associated mounting space, thereby reducing camera module size while maintaining infrared blocking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens window or cover glass is given multiple functions: it serves as both the optical window for the lens and as the infrared filter medium through coating. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a dedicated infrared filter component, simplifying the overall structure and reducing size.
2Reliability
If an infrared filter is installed inside the camera module housing, then the infrared filter can block infrared light from reaching the image sensor, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
By coating the infrared filter directly onto the lens window or cover glass during manufacturing, the patent eliminates the need for separate assembly steps to install a discrete infrared filter component. This integration simplifies the assembly process while ensuring the infrared blocking function is properly implemented.
3Reliability
If an infrared filter is installed inside the camera module housing, then the infrared filter can block infrared light from reaching the image sensor, but the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the infrared filter function into existing components (lens window or cover glass) through coating, thereby eliminating the need for a separate infrared filter part. This reduces the total number of components in the camera module while maintaining the necessary infrared blocking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens window or cover glass is designed to serve multiple purposes: as an optical window, as a protective cover, and as the infrared filter medium. This multi-functionality reduces the number of dedicated parts needed in the camera module.
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 approach enables miniaturization of the camera module, simplifies the assembly process, and enhances the internal space of portable terminals by eliminating the need for an internal IR filter, while also providing protection against foreign objects and thermal insulation.
Implementation Method 1
a window of the one or more sheets of lenses is formed with an IR (infrared) filter
Implementation Method 2
a heat radiating material filled between the housing and the shield can
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) mounted with an image sensor, a housing mounted therein with camera parts and configured to protect the image sensor, and one or more sheets of lenses mounted at the housing, wherein the a window of the one or more sheets of lenses is formed with an IR (infrared) filter.