Camera Module Optical Zoom via Lateral Lens Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to develop a camera module that implements an optical zoom function while maintaining a reduced size and preventing flare, as existing camera modules with autofocusing and optical image stabilization functions tend to increase the thickness of portable electronic devices due to the complexity and size requirements of multiple lens groups.
Innovation Solution
The camera module design includes a first and second lens module with specific through-holes and openings, a light shielding member to prevent flare, and a reflective module to change the light path, allowing for optical zoom without increasing the device's thickness. The lens groups have different refractive powers and are positioned perpendicularly to the device's thickness, with a buffering stopper and elastic stopper for smooth movement, and a housing with ball members for stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lens groups are added to implement autofocusing and optical image stabilization functions, then the imaging functionality is improved, but the thickness of the camera module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions lens groups perpendicular to the thickness direction (in the horizontal direction) rather than stacking them along the optical axis. This dimensional change allows multiple lens groups to coexist without increasing camera module thickness, while still enabling autofocusing and optical image stabilization functions through lateral movement of the lens groups.
2Adaptability or versatility
If gaps among multiple lenses are increased to implement optical zoom function, then the focal length can be changed, but unnecessary light incident through the gaps causes flare
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes unnecessary light rays that would cause flare by providing light shielding members (irises) at strategic positions within the lens barrel. These irises block oblique light rays that enter through gaps between lenses, preventing them from reaching the image sensor and causing flare, while still allowing sufficient light for optical zoom operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If lens movement distance is increased to implement autofocusing function, then the focusing range is improved, but the camera module thickness must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables autofocusing by moving lens groups in the horizontal direction (perpendicular to optical axis) rather than along the optical axis. This lateral movement changes the effective focal length and achieves focusing without requiring increased camera module thickness, as the movement occurs in a different dimension.
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 configuration enables the camera module to provide an optical zoom function, maintain a reduced size, and prevent flare, ensuring the portable electronic device remains slim while offering enhanced imaging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective member configured to change a path of light incident to the reflective module to be directed to the first lens module
Implementation Method 2
a light shielding member disposed at one or more of the first opening and the second opening
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes a first lens module having a first lens barrel accommodating a first lens group, and a second lens module spaced apart from the first lens module in an optical axis direction, configured to be moveable in the optical axis direction, and having a second lens barrel accommodating a second lens group, the first lens barrel includes a first through-hole on one side and a first opening on the other side, the second lens barrel includes a second opening opposing the first opening on one side and a second through-hole on the other side, a diameter of the first opening is greater than a diameter of the first through-hole, and a diameter of the second opening is greater than a diameter of the second through-hole, and a light shielding member is disposed at one or more of the first opening and the second opening.