Nested Optical Image Capturing Module for Dual-Mode Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical image capturing systems in portable electronic devices face challenges in minimizing size while maintaining high imaging quality and increasing light intake, especially in low-light environments, due to the complexity of the optical system and the need for high optical performance.
Innovation Solution
The optical image capturing module employs a compact design with a combination of refractive powers and convex/concave surfaces in at least two optical lenses, optimized structural parameters, and a lens assembly made of opaque materials to reduce size and enhance light intake, allowing for better imaging quality and increased pixel density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the optical system uses conventional five or six lenses to achieve high optical performance and large aperture for dark environment photography, then the imaging quality and light intake are improved, but the size of the optical system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the infrared lens is positioned inside the visible light lens assembly. The infrared lens is located at the center of the visible light optical path, allowing both optical systems to share the same physical space. This nesting approach enables dual-mode functionality while minimizing the overall volume of the optical system.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is designed to perform multiple functions using a compact integrated structure. The visible light lens and infrared lens are combined in a single assembly that can switch between visible and infrared imaging modes. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate optical systems, reducing the overall size while maintaining high light intake capability for both modes.
2Volume of moving object
If the optical system is miniaturized to fit portable electronic devices, then the device size is reduced, but the light intake and imaging quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different optical designs to different parts of the system optimized for their specific functions. The visible light lens uses a multi-element design with specific refractive indices and curvatures optimized for visible spectrum imaging, while the infrared lens uses materials and geometries optimized for infrared wavelengths. This localized optimization ensures high imaging quality for each mode despite the compact overall size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a conventional planar lens arrangement to a three-dimensional nested configuration. The infrared lens is positioned at the optical center of the visible light system, creating a volumetric arrangement that maximizes light gathering in multiple directions. This dimensional change allows the compact system to maintain large effective apertures for both visible and infrared imaging.
3Quantity of substance
If the optical system uses more lenses to increase light intake, then the quantity of incoming light is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the visible light optical system and infrared optical system into a single integrated assembly. Instead of using separate lens groups for each wavelength range, the design combines them sharing common mechanical support structures and optical paths where possible. This merging reduces the total number of individual components and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining high light intake for both modes.
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 solution enables improved light entry and enhanced imaging quality, making it suitable for miniaturized electronic devices while maintaining high performance, including dual-mode (visible and infrared) functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The lens group includes at least two lenses with refractive power... so that a light passes through the lens group in the receiving hole and projects onto the sensing surface
Data Source
AI summary
An optical image capturing module includes a lens assembly and a circuit assembly including a circuit substrate, a sensor holder disposed on the circuit substrate, and an image sensing component connected to the circuit substrate and having a sensing surface and multiple image contacts. The circuit substrate has multiple circuit contacts. The image contacts are electrically connected to the circuit contacts. The lens assembly includes a lens base disposed on the sensor holder and a lens group. The lens base has a receiving hole penetrating through two ends of the lens base, thereby the lens base is hollow, and the receiving hole directly faces the image sensing component. The lens base is disposed on the circuit substrate, thereby the image sensing component is located in the receiving hole. The lens group includes at least two lenses, and is disposed on the lens base and is located in the receiving hole.