Single-Layer Gradient Refractive Index Lens for Slim Camera Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current camera modules in mobile devices require multiple aspherical lenses for high-resolution imaging, leading to increased manufacturing costs, assembly complexity, and a bulky form factor, which hinders the development of slim, lightweight designs.

Innovation Solution

A lens module incorporating a single-layer refractive index distribution lens made of plastic material with a maximum refractive index of 1.75 or higher, featuring a continuous refractive index gradient achieved through an organic polymer and inorganic particles, such as ZrO2, TiO2, and WO3, which reduces the number of lenses needed while maintaining high refractive index differences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple aspherical lenses are combined to achieve high-resolution imaging, then imaging performance is improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging resolutionVSAvoidnumber of lenses

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple lens functions into a single aspherical lens by incorporating a gradient refractive index structure. This allows one lens to perform optical functions that would traditionally require multiple lenses, thereby reducing the total number of lenses while maintaining high-resolution imaging capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by creating a gradient refractive index within the lens material, where the refractive index varies continuously from the center to the edge. This local variation in optical properties enables the single lens to correct multiple optical aberrations and achieve high-resolution imaging without requiring multiple separate lenses

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Measurement precision

If multiple aspherical lenses are used for high-resolution imaging, then imaging performance is improved, but assembly alignment precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging resolutionVSAvoidassembly alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

By combining multiple lens functions into a single aspherical lens with gradient refractive index, the patent eliminates the need for precise alignment between multiple separate lenses. The single lens structure inherently maintains optical performance without requiring complex assembly alignment procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If a large number of lenses are implemented, then high-resolution imaging is achieved, but the form factor increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging resolutionVSAvoidmodule thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple lens functions into a single aspherical lens with gradient refractive index, dramatically reducing the number of lenses from six or more to just one. This consolidation significantly reduces the overall thickness and form factor of the camera module while maintaining high-resolution imaging capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Measurement precision

If multiple aspherical lenses are combined, then high-resolution imaging is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging resolutionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple lens functions into a single aspherical lens, reducing the total number of lenses that need to be manufactured, procured, and assembled. This consolidation directly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining high-resolution imaging performance through the gradient refractive index structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 reduces the thickness and weight of the lens module, lowers production costs, and enhances focusing characteristics, enabling thinner, lighter, and more cost-effective camera modules with improved performance.

Implementation Method 1

at least one refractive index distribution lens... the at least one refractive index distribution lens... comprises a plastic material... continuously changed refractive index

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS11789184B2Lens module and camera module including the same

Publication Date: 2023.10.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD

AI summary

A lens module is provided. The lens module includes at least one refractive index distribution lens; and a lens barrel configured to accommodate the at least one refractive index distribution lens, wherein the at least one refractive index distribution lens is composed of a single layer, and includes a plastic material.