Folded Optical Path for Thin Smartphone Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical imaging systems are too large and bulky to be integrated into thin smartphones and small-size tablet PCs due to their increased size and volume with improved imaging resolution and zoom capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An optical imaging system comprising a fixed lens group, a movable lens group, a first reflective optical element at the object space, and a second reflective optical element at the image space, where the movable lens groups are driven to move, and the reflective optical elements are positioned at 90° angles to each other, allowing for a non-overlapping configuration that reduces the system's thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the imaging resolution and zoom capabilities are improved, then the imaging quality is enhanced, but the size and volume of the optical elements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces reflective optical elements (mirrors) to fold the optical path, transforming the optical system from a linear one-dimensional arrangement into a three-dimensional folded structure. This allows the light to travel a longer effective optical path length while occupying less physical space, thereby achieving high imaging resolution and zoom capabilities without proportionally increasing the volume of optical elements.
2Measurement precision
If the imaging resolution and zoom capabilities are improved, then the imaging quality is enhanced, but the thickness of the optical system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses reflective optical elements to fold the optical path in the lateral direction, allowing the optical system to achieve long effective optical path length (for high resolution and zoom) while maintaining small thickness. The light path is redirected perpendicular to the original direction, effectively utilizing the lateral dimension to reduce the thickness requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges optical elements in a nested or overlapping configuration where the reflective elements are positioned such that parts of the optical path are folded back through or alongside other optical components. This nesting allows multiple optical functions to be achieved within a compact thickness envelope.
3Length of moving object
If reflective optical elements are introduced to reduce thickness, then the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective optical elements serve multiple functions simultaneously: they fold the optical path to reduce thickness, they can act as beam splitters or directors for different zoom ranges, and they help in compacting the overall structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in 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
The solution enables a high-definition zoom camera with a physical thickness of 6.0 mm or less, suitable for thin smartphones, tablet PCs, and card digital cameras, by preventing optical component overlap through a staggered and vertical arrangement of lenses and reflective elements.
Implementation Method 1
The first reflective optical element is disposed at one end of an object space and the second reflective optical element is disposed at one end of an image space
Data Source
AI summary
An optical imaging system, including a fixed lens group, a movable lens group, a first reflective optical element, a second reflective optical element, and an imaging surface. The movable lens group is driven to move by a driving mechanism. The first reflective optical element is disposed at one end of an object space and the second reflective optical element is disposed at one end of an image space. The imaging surface is disposed at one side of the second reflective optical element to receive emergent rays from the second reflective optical element.