Pop-Up Camera Module Layout for Thin High-Magnification Phones
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of reducing the height or thickness of camera modules with high magnification in portable devices, such as smartphones and tablets, while maintaining optical performance and accommodating lens groups that protrude when in use and retract when not in use, is addressed.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring a first holder with multiple first lens groups movable in the optical axis direction and a second holder with multiple second lens groups movable in a horizontal direction, allowing for overlapping configurations that enable the lens groups to protrude or retract based on operation, with integrated driving mechanisms using piezo members or actuators for precise movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high magnification lens groups are added to improve optical performance, then the optical performance is improved, but the height or thickness of the camera module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable lens module that can dynamically change its position between a retracted state (within the terminal) and a protruding state (outside the terminal). This dynamic configuration allows the camera module to achieve high magnification optical performance when needed while maintaining a thin profile during normal use, effectively resolving the contradiction between optical performance and module thickness.
2Reliability
If lens groups are moved in multiple directions (optical axis and horizontal) to achieve overlapping configurations, then the optical performance and functionality are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lens groups (first lens group and second lens group) into a single integrated movable module. This merged structure enables both lens groups to be moved together in coordinated fashion along the optical axis and horizontally, achieving complex optical functions while simplifying the overall drive mechanism compared to controlling each lens group separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable lens module serves multiple functions: it acts as a zoom mechanism by changing the relative positions of lens groups, functions as a focus adjustment mechanism, and enables switching between different camera modes (wide-angle, telephoto). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each function, thereby managing complexity while improving optical performance.
3Reliability
If the camera module protrudes when driven to improve optical performance, then the optical performance is improved, but the appearance and compactness of the terminal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module employs a dynamic protrusion mechanism that allows the lens assembly to extend only when needed for high magnification photography. During normal operation, the module remains retracted within the terminal's case, maintaining a sleek and compact appearance. This on-demand protrusion resolves the contradiction between achieving high optical performance and maintaining aesthetic design.
4Length of moving object
If multiple lens groups are stacked in a direction orthogonal to the terminal thickness to reduce height, then the module thickness is reduced, but the manufacturing precision and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into multiple discrete lens groups (first lens group and second lens group) that can be independently positioned and aligned. Each lens group is mounted on a separate holder within the movable module, allowing for precise individual alignment during assembly. This segmented approach enables the stacking of lens groups in the thickness direction while maintaining the necessary optical alignment through modular assembly techniques.
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 allows the camera module to pop-up or retract smoothly, maintaining optical performance and reducing the overall thickness, while minimizing power consumption and lens exposure, thus enhancing the appearance and reliability of portable devices.
Implementation Method 1
integrated driving mechanisms using piezo members or actuators for precise movement
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4(B)~4(a)
AI summary
A camera module disclosed in an embodiment of the invention includes: a first holder having a plurality of first lens groups arranged in a first direction; a second holder having a plurality of second lens groups arranged in the first direction; and a first driving means for moving the first holder having the plurality of first lens groups in the optical axis direction, wherein each of the plurality of first lens groups may include a plurality of lenses, and each of the plurality of second lens groups may include a plurality of lenses.