Folded Optical Path Imaging Module for Slim Mobile Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to integrate an imaging device module with a wide view angle, including zooming and telephoto functions, into slim mobile/portable terminals while maintaining a low height, which is difficult due to space constraints.
Innovation Solution
The imaging device module incorporates a first optical system with a reflective structure for path adjustment, optical image stabilization operators to compensate for hand tremble, and an auto-focus mechanism, along with sensors to measure displacement and control drivers for precise movement, allowing for effective zooming and focus adjustment within a compact form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the imaging device module uses a wide view angle for zooming and telephoto functions, then the imaging functionality is improved, but the height of the module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical path from a straight linear arrangement to a folded path using reflection surfaces. The light travels in multiple directions (first direction, second direction, third direction) rather than a single dimension, allowing the optical system to achieve wide view angle and zooming functions while maintaining a compact module height.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the first OIS operator is positioned within the optical path of the first optical system, and the second OIS operator is positioned within the optical path of the second optical system. This nesting allows multiple functional components to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, reducing the overall module height while maintaining all imaging functions.
2Ease of manufacture
If the imaging device module is reduced in height to match slim terminal thickness, then the ease of installation is improved, but the mounting of wide view angle imaging devices becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses reflection surfaces to fold the optical path into multiple dimensions. The light path extends in first, second, and third directions, creating a three-dimensional optical layout within a compact two-dimensional footprint. This allows slim terminal installation while maintaining wide view angle and zooming capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates OIS operators that can dynamically adjust the optical path to compensate for hand tremble, and AF operators that can dynamically adjust focus. These dynamic components are integrated into the compact folded optical structure, enabling full functionality within the reduced height constraint.
3Reliability
If optical image stabilization operators are added to compensate for hand tremble, then the image stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the OIS function with the existing optical system by positioning the first OIS operator within the optical path of the first optical system and the second OIS operator within the optical path of the second optical system. This integration allows image stabilization to be achieved without adding separate independent stabilization subsystems, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The OIS operators serve multiple functions: they stabilize the image by compensating for hand tremble, and they are integrated into the zooming and focus adjustment mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing device complexity while improving image stability.
4Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and drivers are added for precise movement control, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions into an integrated control system. The first and second sensors measure displacement along different directions, and the controller coordinates the first OIS driver, second OIS driver, and AF driver based on these measurements. This merged control architecture achieves precise movement control while managing complexity through centralized coordination rather than separate independent control systems.
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 solution enables the imaging device module to provide stable image capture with hand tremble compensation and auto-focus functionality, ensuring high-quality images while maintaining a slim profile suitable for mobile terminals.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging device including a first optical system on which a first light is incident and an image sensor; and a first optical image stabilization (OIS) operator configured to move back and forth along a first direction, wherein the first direction is an optical axis direction of a second light reflected from the first optical system
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an imaging device module including: an imaging device including a first optical element on which a first light is incident and an image sensor; and a first optical image stabilization (OIS) operator configured to move back and forth along an optical axis direction of a second light reflected from the first optical system, wherein a third light having an optical path adjusted by the first OIS operator may be incident on the image sensor.