Optical Proximity Sensor Integrated into Camera Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic devices require separate and discrete imaging windows for optical sensing systems, increasing manufacturing complexity and cost, and compromising aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an optical sensing system, such as an optical interferometry proximity sensor, into a camera module, utilizing a spectral filter and a vertical cavity surface-emitting laser, which emits and receives infrared light to determine distance and velocity through self-mixing interference effects, allowing simultaneous proximity sensing and image capture through a shared window.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate and discrete imaging windows are used for each optical sensing system, then optical sensing function is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the optical proximity sensing system and camera system into a single shared imaging window. The housing defines one common optical path that serves both the proximity sensor (with VCSEL and photodiode) and the camera module (with lens and image sensor), eliminating the need for separate discrete imaging windows and reducing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The single imaging window serves multiple functions: it acts as both the optical aperture for proximity sensing (allowing infrared light from VCSEL to exit and return reflections to be detected) and for camera imaging (allowing visible light to pass through to the image sensor). This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and simplifies manufacturing
2Reliability
If separate and discrete imaging windows are used for each optical sensing system, then optical sensing function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical paths of the proximity sensor and camera into a single shared imaging window, reducing the number of discrete components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This consolidation directly reduces manufacturing cost by eliminating redundant housing features and simplifying the bill of materials
3Reliability
If separate and discrete imaging windows are used for each optical sensing system, then optical sensing function is achieved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple optical openings into a single shared imaging window, creating a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing device appearance. Instead of having multiple separate holes or openings in the housing, there is one unified optical aperture that serves multiple functions, improving the overall aesthetic appearance
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 integration simplifies the device design, reduces manufacturing complexity, and enhances aesthetics by using shared imaging optics while enabling accurate proximity sensing and image capture operations.
Implementation Method 1
an optical proximity sensor with a vertical cavity surface-emitting laser disposed onto an internal surface of the enclosure above the spectral filter and oriented to emit laser light toward the spectral filter
Implementation Method 2
emit laser light toward the spectral filter such that the emitted laser light reflects from the spectral filter and exits the enclosure
Implementation Method 3
a photodiode optically coupled to the vertical cavity surface-emitting laser and configured to monitor an output of the vertical cavity surface-emitting laser
Data Source
AI summary
An optical sensing system can be integrated into a camera module. In particular, an optical element of an optical sensing system can be disposed entirely or partly within a barrel of a camera module. The optical element can be oriented toward a reflective surface, such as an infrared cut filter, such that an optical path is defined between free space and the optical element via at least one reflection off the reflective surface.