Opaque Layer Slit Blocks Flash Light in Camera Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electronic devices with integrated camera and flash modules, the proximity of these components leads to light from the flash entering the camera lens, degrading image quality due to the lack of effective separation between them.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an opaque layer with a slit between the camera lens and the flash, where the slit is oriented perpendicular to the direction of the camera and flash, prevents light from the flash from entering the camera lens, allowing for their proximity without compromising image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the camera lens and flash are disposed adjacent to each other to reduce device size, then the device size is reduced and components are efficiently integrated, but light from the flash enters the camera lens and image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the space between the camera lens and flash by introducing an opaque layer with a slit structure. This segmentation creates distinct light paths, allowing the flash and camera to be positioned close together while preventing harmful light from reaching the lens. The slit in the opaque layer selectively blocks light paths while maintaining spatial integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The opaque layer with a slit acts as an intermediary element positioned between the flash and camera lens. This intermediate structure selectively permits or blocks light paths, enabling the flash to illuminate the subject without its light directly entering the camera lens, thus resolving the light interference problem while maintaining compact integration.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a separate light-blocking member is disposed between the light emitting unit and camera to prevent light interference, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light-blocking function with the existing structural components by integrating the opaque layer with the slit directly into the camera assembly or housing structure. This combination eliminates the need for separate, complex light-blocking members while achieving the same light interference prevention effect, thus reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The opaque layer with a slit serves multiple functions: it acts as a light-blocking structure to prevent flash light from entering the camera, maintains the structural integrity of the device housing, and enables compact positioning of components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying the overall device structure.
3Area of stationary object
If the camera lens and flash are disposed adjacent to each other, then space utilization is improved, but the slit structure in the opaque layer becomes more complex to precisely control light paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a specific slit pattern in the opaque layer at a precise location between the camera lens and flash. The slit's position, size, and orientation are locally optimized to block harmful light paths while allowing compact component placement. This localized precision approach enables space-efficient design without requiring complex adjustments throughout the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The slit in the opaque layer is designed with asymmetric characteristics - its position, dimensions, and orientation are specifically tailored to the asymmetric light paths between the flash and camera lens. This asymmetric design allows maximum space utilization while precisely controlling light blocking, as the slit geometry is optimized for the specific spatial relationship between components rather than using a symmetric, generic approach.
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 configuration effectively blocks light from the flash, ensuring that images captured by the camera are sharper and of higher quality without the need for increased device size or separate light-blocking members.
Implementation Method 1
an opaque layer disposed between the camera lens and the flash... the opaque layer includes a first slit extended between the camera lens and the flash
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present invention relate to an electronic device for blocking light. The electronic device may comprise: a housing comprising a front plate, a rear plate facing in the opposite direction to the front plate, and a side member surrounding the space between the front plate and the rear plate; a touch screen arranged in the space and exposed through the front plate; and a camera assembly exposed through one selected from the front plate and the rear plate. The camera assembly may comprise: a camera lens facing a first part of the one selected from the front plate and the rear plate; a flash facing a second part of the one selected from the front plate and the rear plate; and an opaque layer arranged between the camera lens and the flash when seen from above the one selected from the front plate and the rear plate. The second part may be arranged adjacent to the first part. The camera lens and the flash may be arranged side by side with each other in a first direction. The opaque layer may comprise a first slit extending between the camera lens and the flash on the basis of a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Other embodiments are also possible.