Multi-Array Lens Assembly with Self-Aligning Protrusions
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing size of camera modules due to larger image sensors and more lenses leads to protrusion issues in portable electronic devices, compromising their slim form factor.
Innovation Solution
A slim lens assembly is designed with multiple lens arrays stacked along the optical axis, where each lens array includes lenses with specific dimensions and shapes, and a self-aligning structure using protrusions and recesses to maintain optical axis alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of lenses and image sensor size are increased to capture high-resolution images, then image quality is improved, but the camera module size increases causing protrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional planar lens arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked configuration where multiple lens arrays are arranged along the optical axis direction. This vertical stacking enables high-resolution imaging with multiple lenses while reducing the horizontal footprint, thereby preventing camera module protrusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple lens arrays are closely stacked along the optical axis, with each lens array containing multiple lenses. The lens arrays are positioned in proximity to each other, creating a compact nested arrangement that maximizes optical performance within a minimized volume.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple lens arrays are stacked to reduce camera module size, then compactness is improved, but alignment precision along the optical axis deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates protrusions and corresponding recesses on the lens arrays that are formed in advance during manufacturing. These alignment features are pre-positioned to guide the precise stacking of lens arrays along the optical axis, ensuring accurate alignment is achieved automatically during the assembly process without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment structure enables the lens arrays to self-align during stacking. The protrusions fit into the recesses, creating a self-correcting mechanism that automatically positions each lens array correctly relative to the others, eliminating the need for external alignment tools or complex positioning 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 configuration allows for a compact camera module that captures high-resolution images while maintaining a slim profile, effectively addressing the protrusion issue in portable devices.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of lens arrays sequentially disposed from an object side toward an image side, wherein each lens array includes a plurality of lenses
Data Source
AI summary
A lens assembly includes a plurality of lens arrays sequentially disposed from an object side toward an image side, wherein each lens array includes a plurality of lenses, and a plurality of lenses included in a lens array of the plurality of lens arrays, disposed to be closest to the image side have a length in a first axis direction, perpendicular to an optical axis, longer than a length in a second axis direction, perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first axis direction.