Moving Prism Camera Module for Compact Autofocus and Cooling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera designs with a vertically stacked optical assembly, prism, and image sensor configuration face challenges in heat dissipation, increased height, and limited focal length adjustment due to the reliance on image sensor movement for autofocus, which affects efficiency and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A camera design with a prism positioned below the optical assembly and image sensor, allowing the prism to move vertically to adjust focal length, while the image sensor moves orthogonally for optical image stabilization, reducing height and improving heat dissipation by minimizing the gap between the image sensor and the enclosure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the image sensor moves vertically for autofocus adjustment, then the focal length can be adjusted, but the camera height increases and heat dissipation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a moving prism as an intermediary element between the optical assembly and the image sensor. The prism moves vertically to adjust the optical path length and focal length, while the image sensor remains stationary or moves minimally for optical image stabilization. This mediator approach allows focal length adjustment without requiring large image sensor displacement, thereby reducing camera height while maintaining autofocus functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the dimension of movement from direct image sensor displacement along the optical axis to prism movement in a different spatial configuration. By moving the prism vertically while keeping the image sensor relatively stationary, the system achieves focal length adjustment through optical path modification rather than direct sensor displacement, effectively reducing the required camera height
2Adaptability or versatility
If the image sensor moves vertically for autofocus, then focal length adjustment is achieved, but heat dissipation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The moving prism serves as a mediator that enables focal length adjustment without requiring the image sensor to move vertically. This eliminates the need for large gaps between the image sensor and enclosure for sensor movement, allowing the enclosure to be positioned closer to the image sensor for improved heat dissipation efficiency while maintaining autofocus capability through prism movement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the autofocus function from the image sensor movement by assigning it to the moving prism instead. This separation allows the image sensor to remain in a fixed position optimized for heat dissipation, while the prism handles the focal length adjustment independently, resolving the conflict between autofocus functionality and thermal management
3Adaptability or versatility
If the prism moves vertically to adjust focal length, then autofocus range is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The moving prism serves multiple functions: it adjusts focal length for autofocus, enables optical zoom by modifying the optical path length, and can work in conjunction with optical image stabilization mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite the enhanced autofocus range
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 achieves efficient heat dissipation, reduces camera height, and enhances autofocus range and focal length adjustment, enabling longer optical zoom and improved functionality in mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
A camera design with a prism positioned below the optical assembly and image sensor, allowing the prism to move vertically to adjust focal length
Implementation Method 2
the image sensor moves orthogonally for optical image stabilization
Data Source
AI summary
A camera is provided. The camera includes an optical assembly having one or more lenses. The camera also includes an image sensor, a prism, and an actuator. The prism is configured to receive light that has passed through the one or more lenses, reflect the received light multiple times, and transmit the received light to the image sensor in a direction parallel to the optical axis. The image sensor is located at a same side of the prism as the one or more lenses. The actuator is configured to move the prism along an axis parallel to the optical axis for auto focus (AF).