Camera Module Lens Segmentation for Compact Optical Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera modules with single group lenses face challenges in achieving superior resolution due to increased optical length, leading to a larger profile, and existing methods for positioning lenses lack accuracy and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring an object-side group optical unit and an image-plane-side group lens, where the object-side group optical unit is positioned along the optical axis using a jig to avoid contact with the image-plane-side group lens, and a lens driving device with a lens holder, combined with a manufacturing method using softened resin molds to create a thin image-plane-side group lens with a concave surface, allowing for high-accuracy positioning and superior resolving power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple lenses (5 or 6 lenses) are used to achieve superior resolving power, then resolution is improved, but the total optical length increases leading to a larger profile
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into two separate group lenses: an object-side group lens and an image-plane-side group lens. This segmentation allows each lens to be optimized independently for specific optical functions, achieving superior resolving power while maintaining a compact overall optical length by distributing the optical power across two separate components rather than requiring a single long optical path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional arrangement by placing the object-side group lens and image-plane-side group lens at different positions along the optical axis, with the object-side group positioned closer to the object and the image-plane-side group positioned closer to the image sensor. This spatial distribution in multiple dimensions enables compact optical path design while maintaining high resolution.
2Length of stationary object
If a single group lens is used to reduce optical length and profile, then device size is reduced, but superior resolution cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single group lens, the optical system is segmented into two separate group lenses: an object-side group lens and an image-plane-side group lens. This segmentation enables the system to maintain a compact optical length while achieving superior resolution by distributing optical functions across multiple components, with each group lens contributing to the overall imaging performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple lenses into two integrated group lenses that work together as a unified optical system. The object-side group lens and image-plane-side group lens are combined in a coordinated arrangement, where each group lens is optimized for specific optical tasks, achieving both compact size and high resolving power through functional integration.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing positioning methods (abutment or jig) are used for single group lens, then positioning is simplified, but positioning accuracy is insufficient for high resolving power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary positioning actions during the assembly process by providing specific positioning structures on both the object-side group lens and image-plane-side group lens. These structures are designed in advance to guide and constrain the lenses to their precise predetermined positions, ensuring high positioning accuracy is achieved automatically during assembly without requiring complex external positioning equipment or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces positioning structures as intermediary elements between the lenses and their mounting components. These positioning structures act as mediators that translate simple assembly actions into precise lens positioning, enabling high positioning accuracy to be achieved through straightforward manufacturing processes by mediating the interaction between components.
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
The solution achieves a low-profile camera module with superior resolving power and improved producibility by accurately positioning the object-side group optical unit and using a thin, concave image-plane-side group lens, preventing damage to the image sensor and enabling efficient manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
a curing step of forming a resin member having a substantially planar planar surface portion on one surface and a concave portion on another surface by curing the resin material
Data Source
AI summary
A method of manufacturing a camera module that is low profile and that can achieve superior resolving power, a camera module, and an imaging device are provided. A positioning step of positioning an object-side group optical unit (12a) along an optical axis direction with the use of a jig (40) such that the object-side group optical unit (12a) is located so as not to be in contact with an image-plane-side group lens (32a) and a fixing step of fixing the object-side group optical unit (12a) to a lens holder (20) are included.