Camera Module OIS via Rotating Optical Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a camera module that can implement an optical image stabilizer (OIS) function while minimizing the size impact, particularly in lightweight and thinner portable devices such as smartphones, where existing OIS technologies may compromise the camera module's size and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The camera module incorporates a first optical unit and a second optical unit that rotate about specific axes to tilt the light path, allowing for OIS functionality in both vertical and left-right directions, with a second lens unit that rotates at a predetermined angle to enhance light reception and image quality, all within a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an actuator for driving the entirety of an auto focusing (AF) module is used to implement OIS, then the OIS function can be achieved, but the size of the camera module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into separate functional units: a first optical unit for OIS (rotating about a first rotation axis perpendicular to the optical axis) and a second optical unit for AF (moving along the optical axis). This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for its specific function, enabling OIS without requiring the entire AF module to be actuated, thereby reducing the overall camera module size while maintaining OIS functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic rotation capabilities to the optical units, where the first optical unit rotates about a first rotation axis for OIS and the second optical unit rotates about a second rotation axis for AF. This dynamic approach replaces the traditional static or linearly actuated AF system with a more flexible rotational mechanism that achieves OIS with smaller actuator requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the first optical unit and second optical unit rotate about perpendicular axes, then OIS and AF functions are both achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the optical system where the first optical unit serves dual purposes: it can rotate about the first rotation axis for OIS and also about the second rotation axis for AF. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby achieving both OIS and AF capabilities while managing device complexity through shared optical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The second optical unit acts as an intermediary between the first optical unit and the image sensor. It receives light from the first optical unit, rotates about the second rotation axis for AF, and directs the light to the sensor. This intermediary structure facilitates the coordination between OIS and AF operations, managing the complexity of perpendicular rotation axes through a well-defined optical path.
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 enables the provision of an OIS function in a miniaturized camera module, ensuring high-definition images and increased light reception, while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for modern portable devices.
Implementation Method 1
the first optical unit and the second optical unit rotate about a first rotation axis... the first optical unit may include a first incident surface on which light is incident, a first reflective surface by which the light incident through the first incident surface is reflected
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module, according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprises: a first optical unit which changes the path of received light from a first direction to a second direction and outputs the light; a second optical unit which is disposed on an image side of the first optical unit, changes the path of the light received from the first optical unit from the second direction to a third direction, and outputs the light; second lens units which are disposed on the image side of the second optical units and receive the light outputted from the second optical units; and a sensor unit which receives light outputted from the second lens units so as to generate an electrical signal, wherein, in a first OIS mode in which the path of light incident on the sensor unit tilts in the vertical direction with respect to the sensor unit, the first optical unit and the second optical unit rotate with respect to a first rotation axis.