Liquid Lens Camera Module for Compact Autofocus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera modules with multiple lenses face challenges in achieving high resolution and functionality while maintaining a compact size, as the power consumption and size increase due to the need for lens-moving apparatuses for autofocus and image stabilization.
Innovation Solution
A camera module utilizing a liquid lens with conductive and non-conductive liquids, where the curvature of the liquid interface is adjusted electrically, allowing for autofocus and hand-tremor compensation without the need for mechanical movement, and featuring a connection board design that facilitates stable electrical bonding to the sensor board, reducing manufacturing tolerance and stress-related damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lenses are combined to achieve high resolution and various photographing functions, then the photographing functions (autofocus, hand-tremor compensation) are improved, but the size of the optical device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical lens-moving apparatus with a liquid lens that adjusts focus through electrical control of liquid curvature. The liquid lens changes its focal length by applying voltage to alter the curvature of the liquid interface between conductive and non-conductive liquids, eliminating the need for mechanical movement of multiple lenses and reducing overall device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the liquid lens (curvature of liquid interface) through electrical voltage application. By controlling the voltage applied to the liquid lens, the curvature of the interface between conductive and non-conductive liquids is adjusted, thereby changing the focal length and enabling autofocus functionality without mechanical movement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a lens-moving apparatus is used to perform autofocus and hand-tremor compensation by moving the lens module, then the photographing functions are improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the power-consuming mechanical lens-moving apparatus with an electrically controlled liquid lens. The liquid lens achieves focus adjustment and hand-tremor compensation through electrical voltage application that modifies liquid curvature, eliminating the need for motors, magnets, and coils, thereby significantly reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid lens performs self-adjustment of its focal length and position through electrical control without requiring external mechanical actuation systems. The liquid interface automatically changes curvature in response to applied voltage, enabling the lens to service its own focusing and stabilization functions without additional power-consuming moving components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a lens-moving apparatus with driving members (magnets and coils) is used to move the lens module, then the autofocus and hand-tremor compensation functions are improved, but the overall thickness of the camera module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for magnets, coils, and other driving members by using a liquid lens controlled through electrical voltage. The liquid lens achieves the same autofocus and hand-tremor compensation functions through electrical actuation of liquid curvature, removing the thick mechanical components and reducing overall camera module thickness.
4Reliability
If a connection board is used to electrically connect the liquid lens to the sensor board, then the electrical connection is established, but the connection may be damaged by stress or manufacturing tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible connection board with a bent shape that includes a bent region connecting a horizontal plate and a vertical plate. The bent region is designed to absorb stress and accommodate manufacturing tolerances, preventing damage to the electrical connection between the liquid lens and sensor board while maintaining reliable electrical connectivity.
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 more compact camera module with reduced power consumption and improved stability in electrical connections, enhancing the camera's functionality and size efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid lens configured to electrically adjust the curvature of an interface between two kinds of liquid
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
An embodiment may provide a camera module comprising: a liquid lens including an electrode; a holder for receiving the liquid lens; a base disposed under the holder; a sensor substrate disposed under the base and including an image sensor; a connection substrate connected to at least a part of the electrode of the liquid lens; and a terminal plate disposed on the base and electrically connected to the sensor substrate and the connection substrate.