Dual-Threaded Camera Optics for Compact Rigid Zoom Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical systems for portable electronic devices face challenges in achieving sufficient image sharpness and resolution while maintaining compact dimensions, as they are either digital or use large, non-rigid, and expensive pocket camera lens barrels that are prone to damage and require larger sensors and optics, contradicting the trend of thin devices.
Innovation Solution
An optical system with a dual-threaded connector and actuator mechanism that allows for a compact, rigid, and sealed structure, utilizing a stationary threaded base element and moveable threaded support element, enabling optical zoom without visible support and allowing the optical module to move between retracted and extended positions, driven by a single actuator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pocket camera lens barrels are used for optical zoom, then optical magnification is achieved, but the device dimensions become large and the structure becomes non-rigid
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into separate modular components: a lens module, a support structure with integrated threads, and a frame. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the lens module can be compact while the support structure provides rigidity through the threaded mechanical interface, resolving the contradiction between small dimensions and mechanical stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens module is nested within the support structure, which itself is integrated into the frame. The threaded connector is embedded within the support structure. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization, allowing the optical components to be compact while the outer frame provides the necessary mechanical rigidity and protection.
2Length of stationary object
If pocket camera lens barrels are downscaled for portable devices, then device dimensions are reduced, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the lens module, contains the threaded connector for actuation, and integrates with the frame for structural rigidity. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the support structure and threaded connector into a single integrated component, and further integrates this with the frame. This merging of functions into unified structures reduces manufacturing steps and assembly complexity, making the compact design more cost-effective to produce.
3Reliability
If larger sensors and optics are used for higher zoom ratios, then image quality improves, but device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system incorporates a movable lens module that can be actuated along the optical axis through the threaded connector mechanism. This dynamic capability allows for focus adjustment and potentially zoom functionality with compact optics, achieving high image quality without requiring large fixed-distance optical paths that would increase device thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of increasing device thickness in one dimension to accommodate larger optics, the patent uses the threaded actuation mechanism to provide movement in the optical axis direction. This allows compact optics to achieve their full potential by utilizing axial movement for focusing and zooming, rather than requiring large static optical paths.
4Productivity
If conventional optical systems are used, then optical zoom is achieved, but sealing against dust and moisture is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The frame serves as a protective enclosure that seals the optical components from the external environment. The integrated design allows the frame to act as a barrier against dust and moisture while still permitting the threaded actuation mechanism to function, thus protecting the zoom functionality from environmental harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame and support structure are designed to provide protective sealing before any potential damage from dust or moisture can occur. The threaded connector and lens module are enclosed within this protective structure, preventing harmful factors from reaching sensitive optical components during normal operation.
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 system achieves high megapixel support with minimal height, providing efficient zoom action, improved mechanical stability, and a tight seal against dust and moisture, while fitting into thin electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
The actuation module comprises a stationary threaded base element and a moveable dual-threaded connector, the optical module comprises at least one lens and a moveable threaded support element housing the lens, the dual-threaded connector comprising a first connector thread and a second connector thread
Implementation Method 2
the actuator being configured to rotate the dual-threaded connector around the center axis in a first tangential direction and in an opposite, second tangential direction
Implementation Method 3
the frame interlocking with the threaded support element such that rotation of the threaded support element is prevented
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
An optical system (1) for a camera comprising an actuator (2), an actuation module (3), an optical module (4), and a frame (5). The actuation module (3) comprises a stationary threaded base element (6) and a moveable dual-threaded connector (7). The optical module (4) comprises at least one lens (8) and a moveable threaded support element (9) housing the lens (8). The dual-threaded connector (7) comprises a first connector thread (7a) and a second connector thread (7b), the first connector thread (7a) and the second connector thread (7b) being oriented in opposite directions. The threaded base element (6) comprises a thread (6a) engaging the first connector thread (7a), and the threaded support element (9) comprises a thread (9a) engaging the second connector thread (7b). The actuator (2) is configured to rotate the dual-threaded connector (7) around the center axis (C) in a first tangential direction (Dl) and in an opposite, second tangential direction (D2). The frame (5) interlocks with the threaded support element (9) such that rotation of the threaded support element (9) is prevented, allowing the optical module (4) to be moved between a first end position (Pl) and a second end position (P2) in response to rotation of the dual-threaded connector (7) in the tangential directions (D1, D2). This system achieves the required focal length without use of visible support while still remaining rigid.