Multi-Layer Aperture Module for Thin Camera Light Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In miniature electronic devices, implementing a mechanical aperture for camera modules poses challenges due to increased weight, which can deteriorate autofocus and optical image stabilization operations, and requires a solution to improve image quality without significantly increasing device thickness.
Innovation Solution
An aperture module with a blade unit comprising blades in (2M−1) layers, where blades on different layers partially overlap and those on the same layer do not, is rotated to adjust the incidence hole size, using a rotator and aperture driver, with a ball member and rolling grooves for smooth motion, and includes a controller to manage the aperture size based on device movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a mechanical aperture is provided in the camera module, then the amount of light incident on the lens can be adjusted to improve image quality, but the weight of the camera module increases due to various parts that drive the aperture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical aperture system with a movable lens system that adjusts aperture size by changing the lens position relative to the sensor. This eliminates the need for separate aperture blades and their driving mechanisms, thereby reducing weight while maintaining the ability to control light incident on the sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable lens serves multiple functions: it performs both focusing (autofocus) and aperture control. By moving the lens along the optical axis, the system simultaneously achieves focus adjustment and effective aperture variation, eliminating the need for dedicated aperture components and reducing overall system weight.
2Illumination intensity
If a mechanical aperture is provided in the camera module, then the amount of light incident on the lens can be adjusted, but the thickness of portable electronic devices increases due to the aperture
Solution Approach 1:
The lens movement mechanism performs dual functions of autofocus and aperture control. By adjusting the lens position, the system simultaneously achieves focus and effective aperture variation, eliminating the need for a separate aperture structure and reducing device thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the aperture control function from the traditional mechanical aperture structure and integrates it into the lens movement mechanism. This removes the need for separate aperture blades and housing, thereby reducing the overall thickness of the camera module.
3Manufacturing precision
If blades are arranged in multiple layers to control light, then aperture precision is improved, but the complexity of the blade unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex multi-layer blade structure with a simpler movable lens system. The aperture control is achieved by moving the lens along the optical axis, which creates an effective aperture variation without requiring multiple layers of precision-aligned blades, thereby reducing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the entire blade unit structure (including multiple layers and rotation mechanisms) and replaces it with a lens movement mechanism. This extraction simplifies the overall structure while maintaining aperture control functionality through changes in the lens-sensor distance.
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 design enhances image quality while minimizing thickness increase, maintaining autofocus and optical image stabilization performance, and includes features like fall detection to protect the lens.
Implementation Method 1
a rolling groove that extends in a direction of rotation of the rotator, and accommodates the ball member in a rolling motion
Data Source
AI summary
An aperture module is provided. The aperture module includes a blade unit including a plurality of blades configured to form an incidence hole through which light passes, the plurality of blades being provided in (2M−1) layers in an optical axis direction, the plurality of blades disposed in each layer being provided in (2N+1) members, where M and N are natural numbers, a rotator on which the plurality of blades are rotatably seated, and an aperture driver configured to rotate the rotator and change a size of the incidence hole. In the plurality of blades, blades disposed on different layers of the (2M−1) layers overlap at least partially in the optical axis direction, and blades disposed on a same layer of the (2M−1) layers do not overlap each other in the optical axis direction.