Folded-Optics Camera Module With Movable Light-Folding Element
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional telephoto optical systems face challenges in achieving compact size and high image quality while maintaining a simple structure, as they often require complex driving units for optical axis folding, which increases weight and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring a plastic light-folding element that folds the optical axis multiple times, combined with a driving module to move the light-folding element parallel to the axis and an image stabilization module to move the imaging lens or sensor perpendicular to the axis, all within a compact casing, utilizing spherical rollable supports and magnetic attraction for efficient movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional telephoto optical systems use complex driving units to achieve optical axis folding, then the optical system can maintain compact size, but the structure becomes more complex and weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the driving unit from the optical axis folding element, allowing the folding element to move independently without a complex dedicated driving mechanism. This reduces overall structural complexity while maintaining compact size capability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical axis folding element is designed to serve multiple functions: it folds the optical axis to achieve compact size, acts as its own driving element through its movable structure, and provides image stabilization functionality. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate complex driving units
2Shape
If conventional telephoto optical systems use complex driving units for optical axis folding, then optical axis folding can be achieved, but the weight of the optical system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the heavy complex driving unit from the system, allowing the optical axis folding element to achieve its function through a simpler, lighter movable structure that doesn't require substantial driving mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The optical axis folding element is designed to move and fold the optical axis through its own structural characteristics rather than requiring an external heavy driving unit, achieving self-service functionality that reduces overall system weight
3Adaptability or versatility
If the plastic light-folding element is moved with larger displacement, then the optical system can achieve focus adjustment, but the structural stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic movable structure for the plastic light-folding element that allows controlled displacement for focus adjustment while maintaining structural stability through its specific mechanical design, enabling adaptability without compromising composition stability
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 design achieves a compact and lightweight camera module with high image quality by reducing the displacement of the light-folding element and incorporating total internal reflections, while maintaining structural stability and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The plastic light-folding element is located on the optical axis and configured to fold the optical axis at least one time
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes a casing, a base, an imaging lens module, a driving module, an image stabilization module and an image sensor. The base is coupled to the casing, forming an accommodation space. The imaging lens module is disposed in the accommodation space and includes an imaging lens and a plastic light-folding element. The driving module includes a first holder, a fixed frame, a first rollable support and a first driving mechanism. The first holder holds the plastic light-folding element. The fixed frame is disposed corresponding to the first holder. The first rollable support is disposed between the first holder and the fixed frame. The first driving mechanism is configured to drive the first holder to move relative to the fixed frame. The image stabilization module is configured to drive the imaging lens or the image sensor to move in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.