Liquid Lens Module with Fluid Pressurization for Compact Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional camera modules with multiple lenses face challenges in size increase due to high power consumption and the need for additional cover glass, complicating the implementation of optical zoom, auto-focusing, and image stabilization functions.
Innovation Solution
A lens module with a simplified configuration that uses a fluid-filled cavity, a magnet, and a coil unit to apply driving force through a pressurizing frame, allowing for precise focus adjustment and reduced size, incorporating a driving controller to manage current supply to the coils.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lenses are combined to achieve optical zoom and various photographing functions, then the photographing functions are improved, but the size of the optical device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a liquid lens that uses liquid crystal material to change curvature and focal length through electrical control, replacing the need for multiple discrete lenses and mechanical moving parts. This hydraulic/optical approach enables optical zoom and focus adjustment without increasing physical size, as the single liquid lens can dynamically adjust its optical properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid lens provides dynamic adjustment of focal length and curvature through electrical control of the liquid crystal material. This dynamic property allows the system to achieve multiple photographing functions (optical zoom, focus adjustment) with a single lens element, maintaining compact size while improving versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate lens module is used to move lens assembly for auto-focusing and hand-tremor compensation, then the photographing functions are improved, but the power consumption increases and additional cover glass is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical lens moving systems with an electrically-controlled liquid lens system. Instead of mechanically moving lens assemblies for auto-focusing and hand-tremor compensation, the system uses electrical signals to change the curvature of the liquid crystal lens, eliminating mechanical components and reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid crystal-based liquid lens uses electrical field control to adjust optical properties, replacing mechanical actuation systems. This approach eliminates the need for separate motorized lens modules and additional cover glass protections, reducing both power consumption and structural complexity.
3Reliability
If conventional lens modules with separate cover glass are used, then the lens module is protected, but the overall size of the camera module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the lens module and protective cover glass into a single integrated structure. The liquid crystal lens module is designed to work together with the camera module housing, eliminating the need for separate protective cover glass components and reducing overall size while maintaining protection.
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 reduces manufacturing costs, simplifies the manufacturing process, and minimizes the overall size of the camera module while enhancing focus accuracy and image stabilization capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a coil unit including coils disposed to face the magnet in a first direction perpendicular to an optical axis, a driving controller configured to control supply of current to the coils such that the pressurized region of the lens is pressurized by the pressurizing portion of the first mover frame through interaction between the coils and the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A lens module includes a lens having therein a cavity to accommodate a fluid; a first mover frame supporting the lens, the first mover frame comprising a pressurizing portion disposed to face a pressurized region of the fluid; a magnet disposed at the first mover frame; a coil unit comprising coils disposed to face the magnet in a first direction perpendicular to an optical axis; a second mover frame disposed to face the first mover frame in a second direction parallel to the optical axis, with the magnet interposed therebetween, the second mover frame supporting the magnet together with the first mover frame; and a driving controller configured to control supply of current to the coils such that the pressurized region of the lens is pressurized by the pressurizing portion of the first mover frame through interaction between the coils and the magnet.