Camera Module Light-Blocking Structure for Flare Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturization of camera modules in portable electronic devices is hindered by the potential for flare phenomena due to elongated optical paths caused by multiple reflective members, which can lead to light being re-reflected by internal structures before reaching the image sensor.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a light-blocking structure with an aperture and an infrared cutoff filter, featuring a frame with an inclined inner surface and a protrusion, along with a light-blocking member, to prevent unintended light reflections and reduce flare occurrences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If multiple reflective members are used to fold the optical path, then the total track length is extended without increasing device thickness, but light may be re-reflected by internal structures causing flare phenomena
Solution Approach 1:
A light-blocking structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the second reflective member and the image sensor. This structure includes a light-blocking member that selectively blocks diffusely reflected light while allowing directly reflected light to pass through to the image sensor, thereby preventing flare phenomena without interfering with the normal optical path
Solution Approach 2:
The light-blocking structure implements local quality by having different regions with different optical properties. The light-blocking member has a specific shape that allows it to block light from certain directions (where diffuse reflections occur) while transmitting light from other directions (where direct reflections occur), creating spatially selective light control
2Length of stationary object
If the optical path is lengthened to achieve compact design, then device thickness is reduced, but image quality deteriorates due to flare from internal reflections
Solution Approach 1:
The light-blocking structure serves as a mediator that reconciles the conflict between compact design and image quality. It allows the optical path to be folded (maintaining compact thickness) while simultaneously preventing harmful internal reflections that would degrade image quality, thus enabling both goals to be achieved together
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 light-blocking structure effectively suppresses flare phenomena by blocking diffusely reflected light, ensuring improved image quality while maintaining a compact camera module design.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared cutoff filter disposed to cover the aperture
Implementation Method 2
a light-blocking structure, disposed in the housing between the second reflection module and the image sensor module
Implementation Method 3
a camera module having a reflective member for changing a path of light
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes a lens module including at least one lens, a housing configured to accommodate the lens module, a first reflection module disposed in front of the lens module, a second reflection module disposed behind the lens module, an image sensor module configured to receive light reflected from the second reflection module, and a light-blocking structure, disposed in the housing between the second reflection module and the image sensor module, including an aperture configured to pass light and an infrared cutoff filter disposed to cover the aperture.