Built-in Dustproof Structure for Image Capturing Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging modules in portable devices lack a dustproof design, which can compromise image quality due to dust ingress, especially with the increasing complexity and pixel count of these modules.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing module with a built-in dustproof structure, comprising a housing frame, an image sensing unit, and an actuator structure, where the lens holder and movable lens assembly have mating surrounding structures to form a dustproof seal, preventing external dust from entering the module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the imaging module is designed with high pixel count and auto-focus capability, then image definition and functionality are improved, but the module becomes more susceptible to dust ingress due to increased complexity and movement mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging module is divided into separate functional components (lens assembly, image sensor, housing) with defined interfaces. The dustproof structure segments the internal cavity from the external environment through mating structures at the interface between the lens holder and housing, allowing each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall dust resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The dustproof structure acts as an intermediary barrier between the external environment and the internal imaging components. The mating surrounding structures create a sealed interface that mediates the interaction between external dust particles and the internal optical path, preventing dust ingress without compromising the auto-focus movement functionality.
2Reliability
If a dustproof structure is added to the imaging module, then dust resistance is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional surrounding structures
Solution Approach 1:
The dustproof function is merged with the existing structural components of the imaging module. The surrounding structures are integrated into the lens holder and housing design rather than being added as separate elements. The mating structures combine the functions of mechanical support, positioning, and dust sealing in a single integrated feature, avoiding additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The surrounding structures serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide mechanical support for the lens assembly, define the optical path boundaries, enable precise positioning, and create the dustproof seal. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function, maintaining structural simplicity while achieving dust resistance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lens assembly is made movable for auto-focus, then imaging functionality is improved, but dust can enter through the movement mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The dustproof sealing is established in advance through the mating surrounding structures before the lens assembly begins its movement. The seal is created by the interference fit between the protruding and recessed surrounding structures, which maintains continuous contact throughout the auto-focus range, preventing dust ingress during the movement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The dustproof structure is designed to accommodate dynamic movement of the lens assembly. The mating surrounding structures maintain their sealing relationship throughout the full range of motion, allowing the lens to move freely for auto-focus while the dustproof barrier remains intact. The dynamic seal adapts to the movement without compromising dust resistance.
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing module having a built-in dustproof structure includes an image sensing unit, a housing frame and an actuator structure. The image sensing unit includes a substrate and an image sensing chip disposed on the substrate. The housing frame is disposed on the substrate to surround the image sensing chip. The actuator structure includes a lens holder disposed on the housing frame and a movable lens assembly movably disposed inside the lens holder. More precisely, the lens holder has a first surrounding structure disposed on the inner surrounding surface thereof, and the movable lens assembly has a second surrounding structure disposed on the outer perimeter surface thereof and located above the first surrounding structure, and the first surrounding structure of the lens holder and the second surrounding structure of the movable lens assembly are mated with each other to form the built-in dustproof structure.