Folded Optical Path Camera Module with Asymmetric Lens Holder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Camera modules in mobile devices face limitations in achieving high zoom magnification due to constraints in total track length and accurate lens movement, leading to issues with zoom magnification control and focus control functions.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring a lens barrel with a symmetric structure about the optical axis and a lens holder with asymmetric support structures, utilizing ball members and magnetic members for precise movement and stabilization, along with reflective members to change the light path, enabling a longer total track length without increasing module length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the total track length is increased to achieve high zoom magnification, then the zoom magnification is improved, but the overall length of the camera module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reflector that redirects light at approximately 90 degrees, changing the optical path from a linear arrangement to a folded configuration. This allows the total track length to be extended in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, achieving high zoom magnification without increasing the overall length of the camera module in the optical axis direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens module is positioned within the housing such that the light path is folded back through the housing structure. The reflector is integrated into the housing, and the optical path is nested within the three-dimensional space of the housing, allowing the total track length to be maximized within the constrained overall length.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the movement range of the lens module is increased to provide a wide range of zoom magnification, then the zoom magnification range is improved, but the lens module may move in a direction different from the intended direction or the position may not be detected accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The support structures are designed with asymmetric configurations, where one support structure extends further in the optical axis direction than the other. This asymmetric design provides stable support for the lens module during its movement range, preventing lateral deviation while allowing sufficient movement distance for wide zoom magnification control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates position detection mechanisms that provide feedback on the lens module's position. This feedback system enables accurate detection of the lens module's position throughout its movement range, ensuring precise zoom magnification control even when the lens module moves over a large distance.
3Length of moving object
If a reflector is used to switch light direction by 90 degrees to achieve long total track length, then the total track length is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is integrated with the housing structure, and the support structures are combined into a unified lens holder assembly. This merging of components reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall structure, achieving a long total track length without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the reflector, and defines the optical path. The support structures simultaneously support the lens module and guide its movement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
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 allows for stable focus and zoom control functions with high zoom magnification, contributing to the miniaturization and thinning of camera modules while maintaining image quality.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflective member configured to change a direction of light incident in a first direction to the optical axis direction
Implementation Method 2
a first magnetic member disposed in a portion of the lens holder facing the bottom surface, and a second magnetic member disposed on the bottom surface and facing the first magnetic member, wherein magnetic attraction may arise between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes a housing, a lens holder configured to move in the housing in an optical axis direction, and a lens barrel coupled to the lens holder, wherein the lens holder includes a first support structure extending from one side surface in the optical axis direction and a second support structure located on a side surface opposite to the first support structure and extending in the optical axis direction, and the first support structure includes an extension protruding beyond the second support structure in the optical axis direction.