Foldable Optical Apparatus with Overlapping Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a demand for miniaturization and reduced thickness in camera modules to achieve a slim outer appearance in portable devices, driven by the increasing installation of additional devices in camera modules.
Innovation Solution
The optical apparatus features a foldable design with two main bodies, each containing an optical module, where the first optical module includes a lens unit, shutter, beam splitters, and driving units to control light paths, and the second optical module includes a lens unit and image sensor, allowing for overlapping and alignment of optical axes to reduce size and thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If various types of additional devices are installed in camera modules, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical apparatus employs multiple optical modules (first optical module with first lens unit, second optical module with second lens unit) that can perform different optical functions. Each module can be independently controlled to achieve various shooting modes, allowing the system to provide diverse functionalities while maintaining a structured organizational framework that manages complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera module is divided into separate first and second optical modules, each with its own lens unit and control mechanisms. This segmentation allows independent optimization and control of each module's function, making the overall complex system more manageable and enabling versatile functionality through coordinated operation of discrete components.
2Length of moving object
If camera module size is reduced for miniaturization, then device thickness is improved, but optical path length and image quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the optical axis direction (vertical dimension) for overlapping the first and second optical modules, rather than only horizontal arrangement. This dimensional approach allows the optical paths to be stacked vertically, reducing the horizontal footprint and enabling miniaturization while maintaining sufficient optical path length through careful design of the vertical stacking configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second optical modules are arranged in an overlapping configuration where their optical paths are nested in the optical axis direction. This nesting allows compact integration of multiple optical systems within a reduced thickness envelope, while maintaining the necessary optical path lengths through precise vertical positioning and alignment of the nested modules.
3Length of moving object
If multiple optical modules are arranged in overlapping configuration, then device thickness is reduced, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second optical modules are merged in an overlapping arrangement where their optical paths coincide in the optical axis direction. This merging approach consolidates multiple optical systems into a compact integrated structure, reducing overall thickness while the modular design maintains manageable structural complexity through standardized interfaces and control mechanisms.
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 design enables a slim and compact camera module that can implement various optical modes while maintaining image quality, enhancing the miniaturization and thickness reduction of portable devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first lens unit, the second optical module may comprise a second lens unit being overlapped with the first lens unit in an optical axis direction
Implementation Method 2
a first beam splitter disposed under the shutter; a second beam splitter disposed on one side of the third lens unit
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of the present invention relates to an optical apparatus comprising: a first main body including first cover glass; a second main body including second cover glass and foldably connected to the first main body; a first optical module arranged in the first main body; and a second optical module which is arranged in the second main body and which overlaps with the first optical module in the optical axis direction when the first cover glass and the second cover glass are facing each other.