Camera Module Shield Case With Elastic Barrel Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing camera modules for vehicles are prone to reduced image quality due to deformation of the shield case under external forces, which affects the accuracy of the barrel member's position within the housing.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design featuring a housing with a metallic shield case and an elastic part that biases the barrel member to maintain a specified distance from the second case, utilizing an arch-shaped elastic part to control the barrel's position and absorb external forces, thereby enhancing durability and image quality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a shield case is used to surround the board and fix the barrel member using spring force, then the barrel member can be positioned and supported, but the shield case may be deformed beyond its elastic limit when a large external force acts on the barrel, resulting in reduced accuracy in the position of the barrel member

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedurability against external forceVSAvoidposition accuracy of barrel member
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The shield case is divided into a rigid portion and a flexible portion, with the flexible portion further segmented into multiple elastic arms. This segmentation allows different parts to perform different functions: the rigid portion provides structural support while the elastic arms absorb external forces through elastic deformation, preventing the entire shield case from deforming beyond its elastic limit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The shield case's flexibility is adjusted by controlling the thickness and material properties of the flexible portion. By optimizing these parameters, the shield case can withstand external forces within its elastic limit while maintaining positioning accuracy. The elastic arms are designed with specific thickness ranges to ensure they return to their original position after deformation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the elastic part is designed to be highly flexible to absorb external forces, then durability is improved, but the control precision of the barrel member's position may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedurability against external forceVSAvoidposition control accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

Different portions of the shield case have different mechanical properties: the rigid portion provides structural stability while the flexible portion with elastic arms provides force absorption. The elastic arms are designed with specific geometric features (arch shape, controlled thickness) to ensure they deform elastically under external forces but maintain sufficient stiffness to control the barrel member's position accurately.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic arms are designed to dynamically respond to external forces by deforming within their elastic limit and then returning to their original position. This dynamic behavior allows the shield case to absorb shocks and vibrations while maintaining position control accuracy during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 effectively improves the camera module's durability against external forces and maintains high image quality by ensuring the barrel member remains at a stable distance from the second case, even under stress, thus preventing significant reductions in image accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic part that is provided to an end of the peripheral wall portion and biases the barrel member toward the opening

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the elastic part has an arch shape formed by the elastic part being bent in stages inward of the shield case from the end of the peripheral wall portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12077104B2Camera module
Publication Date: 2024.09.03 SONY SEMICON SOLUTIONS CORP
  • US12077104B2 patent drawing
  • US12077104B2 patent drawing
  • US12077104B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A camera module includes a housing, a barrel member, a sensor board, and a metallic shield case. The housing includes a first case that includes an opening, and a second case that is joined to the first case. The barrel member is arranged in the first case, and includes a barrel that is fitted into the opening in an optical-axis direction. The sensor board is arranged in the housing and includes an imaging device that faces the barrel member. The shield case is arranged between the barrel member and the second case.