Folded Optical Path Camera Module for Compact Device Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Downsized electronic devices face challenges in mounting image-capturing devices with good optical performance due to reduced design freedom and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
An image-capturing device with at least two lenses arranged along a first optical axis, an image sensor inclined with respect to this axis, and optical members redirecting light along multiple axes, satisfying conditional expressions for improved optical performance and design flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the image-capturing device is downsized to fit compact electronic devices, then the device size is reduced, but the optical performance deteriorates due to space constraints and reduced design freedom
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light redirecting member that changes the optical path from a linear arrangement to a folded configuration. Light from the object passes through the lens, is reflected by the light redirecting member (prism or mirror) at approximately 45 degrees, and then reaches the image sensor. This dimensional change in the optical path allows the optical components to be arranged in a compact volume while maintaining the effective optical distance, thereby resolving the contradiction between downsizing and maintaining optical performance.
2Reliability
If multiple optical components are added to improve optical performance in compact spaces, then the optical performance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light redirecting member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it redirects the optical path to enable compact arrangement, maintains the effective optical distance between lens and sensor, and allows for standardized integration with existing lens and sensor components. This multi-functionality approach improves optical performance in compact spaces without proportionally increasing system 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
The solution allows for an image-capturing device that can be easily disposed in narrow spaces while maintaining high optical performance, enhancing design freedom in compact electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical member disposed between the at least two lenses and the image sensor, wherein the first optical member is configured to receive light incident through the at least two lenses in a direction of the first optical axis and to emit the light along a direction of a second optical axis crossing the first optical axis
Implementation Method 2
a first optical member disposed between the at least two lenses and the image sensor, wherein the first optical member is configured to receive light incident through the at least two lenses in a direction of the first optical axis and to emit the light along a direction of a second optical axis crossing the first optical axis
Implementation Method 3
a second optical member disposed between the first optical member and the image sensor, wherein the second optical member is configured to receive light incident through the first optical member in the direction of the second optical axis and to emit the light to the image sensor along a direction of a third optical axis crossing the second optical axis
Implementation Method 4
a second optical member disposed between the first optical member and the image sensor, wherein the second optical member is configured to receive light incident through the first optical member in the direction of the second optical axis and to emit the light to the image sensor along a direction of a third optical axis crossing the second optical axis
Implementation Method 5
at least two lenses arranged along a direction of a first optical axis from an object side
Implementation Method 6
at least two lenses arranged along a direction of a first optical axis from an object side
Data Source
AI summary
An image-capturing device is provided. The image-capturing device includes lenses arranged along a direction of a first optical axis from an object side, an image sensor receiving light guided through the lenses, the image sensor includes an imaging surface inclined with respect to the first optical axis, a first optical member disposed between the lenses and the image sensor, the first optical member receiving light incident through the lenses in a direction of the first optical axis and emitting the light along a direction of a second optical axis crossing the first optical axis, and a second optical member disposed between the first optical member and the image sensor, the second optical member receiving light through the first optical member in the direction of the second optical axis and emitting the light to the image sensor along a direction of a third optical axis crossing the second optical axis.