Dual-Lens Camera Single Sensor Light Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-lens camera systems with two image sensors are costly and occupy significant internal space in electronic devices due to their complex structure and redundant components.
Innovation Solution
A dual-lens camera system utilizing a single image sensor and a reflecting module with a motor-driven reflecting member to switch between two lens assemblies, allowing light from either assembly to reach the sensor, thereby reducing hardware requirements and space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two image sensors are used in dual-lens camera system, then imaging functionality for both lenses is ensured, but cost and device space increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the imaging functions of two lenses onto a single image sensor by using a light switching mechanism. The light switching member directs light from either the first lens or the second lens to the shared image sensor, eliminating the need for two separate sensors while maintaining dual-lens imaging functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single image sensor serves multiple functions by receiving light from both the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly through the light switching mechanism. This multi-functional approach allows one sensor to replace what would traditionally require two sensors, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two image sensors are used in dual-lens camera system, then complete dual-lens functionality is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the imaging capabilities of two lenses into a single sensor system, reducing component count and manufacturing complexity. By sharing the image sensor between both lens assemblies through a light switching mechanism, the system achieves dual-lens functionality with fewer expensive components.
Solution Approach 2:
The single image sensor is designed to handle imaging tasks for both lens assemblies, making it a universal component that performs multiple functions. This approach reduces the need for purchasing and integrating two separate high-cost image sensors, thereby lowering manufacturing costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two lens assemblies are used, then different optical zoom capabilities are provided, but system complexity and space consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical paths of two lens assemblies with different zoom capabilities into a single imaging pipeline. The light switching member enables the system to select between the first lens assembly (for one optical zoom level) and the second lens assembly (for another optical zoom level), providing varied zoom capabilities without duplicating the entire sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The light switching mechanism introduces dynamic control to the optical system, allowing real-time switching between different lens assemblies based on the desired optical zoom level. This dynamic element enables the system to adapt its optical characteristics without permanently configuring multiple complete imaging systems.
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 reduces costs and minimizes space usage by eliminating the need for two image sensors while maintaining functionality through the use of a single image sensor and an efficient light-switching mechanism, enabling different optical zooms and stable image capture.
Implementation Method 1
a reflecting module including a reflecting member... allowing light from either assembly to reach the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-lens camera system includes a first lens, a second lens, an image sensor corresponding to a position of the first lens, and a reflecting assembly. The reflecting assembly includes a first reflecting member and a second reflecting member corresponding to a position of the second lens. The first reflecting member is movable between a first position at which an optical path from the first lens to the image sensor is blocked but an optical path from the second reflecting member to the image sensor is not blocked, and a second position at which the optical path from the first lens to the image sensor is not blocked but the optical path from the second reflective member to the image sensor is blocked. Only one image sensor is used in the dual-lens camera system, which saves cost and takes up less internal space of the electronic device.