Prism-Based Zoom Lens Layout for Compact Periscope Cameras
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing periscope cameras in mobile devices face challenges with large size due to sequential arrangement of lenses, hindering the arrangement of other internal components.
Innovation Solution
The first lens group faces towards the incident surface of the prism, while the third lens group faces towards the exit surface, with the second lens group being movable, allowing for a compact periscope structure that facilitates internal component arrangement by reducing size in certain directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple lenses are arranged sequentially along the periscope camera direction, then the zoom lens can achieve proper optical function, but the size of the zoom lens in that direction becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the arrangement dimension of lens groups from sequential linear arrangement to three-dimensional spatial distribution. Specifically, lens groups are arranged at different positions including above, below, and beside the optical axis, with some lens groups facing different directions (first lens group faces incident surface, third lens group faces exit surface). This dimensional change allows the optical system to achieve proper function while reducing the length in the periscope direction.
2Length of moving object
If lens groups are arranged in different directions, then the size is reduced, but the arrangement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lens system into multiple independent lens groups (first, second, third, and fourth lens groups) with distinct functions and orientations. Each lens group can be independently positioned and oriented, allowing complex optical functions to be achieved through modular arrangement rather than a single complex lens structure, thereby managing complexity through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric arrangement where lens groups are positioned at different locations and oriented in different directions relative to the optical axis. The first lens group faces the incident surface while the third lens group faces the exit surface, creating an asymmetric configuration that optimizes both size reduction and optical performance while managing structural complexity.
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 arrangement reduces the overall size of the zoom lens, enabling more efficient internal component placement within electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a second lens group including a prism which has no refractive power and deflects an optical path
Data Source
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AI summary
A zoom lens (10), a camera module (100), and an electronic device (1000). The zoom lens (10) comprises a first lens group (122) having a negative focal power, a second lens group (142) having a positive focal power, a third lens group (162) having a negative focal power, and a prism (132). The prism (132) comprises an incident surface (136), a reflection surface (137), and an exit surface (138) sequentially connected to each other. The second lens group (142) and the third lens group (162) can move with respect to the prism (132).