Liquid Lens Camera Module with Overlapping FPCB for Reduced Bezel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face challenges in minimizing the bezel portion width to enhance display area, as the volume of electronic components limits the reduction of the bezel portion.
Innovation Solution
A camera device design that includes a first lens unit, a liquid lens unit, and an image sensor, with a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) that overlaps the liquid lens unit in the thickness direction, allowing for a reduced width by utilizing the FPCB's second region that does not contribute to image formation, and a masking portion to minimize flare phenomena.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the volume of electronic components is maintained to support diversified functions, then the functional capability is improved, but the bezel portion area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The FPCB is configured to extend in the thickness direction of the camera device, utilizing the Z-axis dimension rather than only the lateral dimensions. This allows the FPCB to overlap with the liquid lens unit in the thickness direction, effectively using the third dimension to reduce the lateral footprint and bezel portion area while maintaining the required functional capability.
2Reliability
If the FPCB width is increased to ensure signal transmission, then the electrical connection reliability is improved, but the camera device width increases
Solution Approach 1:
The FPCB transitions from a planar configuration to a three-dimensional configuration by extending in the thickness direction and overlapping the liquid lens unit. This dimensional change allows the FPCB to maintain adequate signal transmission capability through proper electrical contact while significantly reducing the lateral width occupied by the FPCB, thereby reducing the overall camera device width.
3Area of stationary object
If the bezel portion area is reduced to increase display area, then the display area is improved, but the space for electronic components decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The FPCB is configured to extend in the thickness direction of the camera device, utilizing the Z-axis dimension to accommodate the electronic component. This allows the display area to be maximized in the lateral dimensions while the FPCB occupies space primarily in the thickness direction, effectively decoupling the display area from the component space requirement and enabling a smaller bezel portion.
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 reduces the lateral thickness of the camera device, minimizing the bezel portion thickness and reducing flare effects, thereby optimizing the use of space in electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid lens unit disposed on a rear side of the first lens unit and controlling an optical path of light by adjusting curvature according to an electrical signal
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A camera device includes a first lens unit concentrating light incident from a front side; a liquid lens unit disposed on a rear side of the first lens unit and controlling an optical path of light by adjusting a curvature of the liquid lens unit according to an electrical signal; a second lens unit disposed on a rear side of the liquid lens unit; an image sensor on which light passing through the second lens unit forms an image; and a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) transferring the electrical signal to the liquid lens unit. Further, the liquid lens unit includes a first region allowing light, which is to form the image on the image sensor, to be transmitted therethrough and a second region surrounding the first region. In addition the FPCB is disposed in the second region and overlaps the liquid lens unit in a thickness direction.