Compact Reflective Camera Module with Shared Illumination Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging apparatuses with reflection optical systems face challenges in size reduction, particularly in incorporating illumination systems, and there is a desire for further miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
The use of a Schmidt-Cassegrain-type optical system with a correction plate and reflection mirrors, along with a light source and image sensor, allows for a compact design by reducing the optical path length and enabling folding of the optical system, and the inclusion of a switcher for alternating the light source and sensor in the optical axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a reflection optical system is used, then the size of the imaging apparatus is reduced, but the illumination system size reduction is still desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the illumination optical system with the imaging optical system by using the same first reflector (12) and second reflector (13) for both imaging light and illumination light. The light source (70) projects illumination light through the same folded optical path as the image sensor (14) captures imaging light, eliminating the need for separate illumination optics and reducing overall apparatus size.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflectors (12, 13) serve dual functions: they guide imaging light from the object to the image sensor, and simultaneously guide illumination light from the light source to illuminate the object. This multi-functionality allows a single optical system to perform both imaging and illumination tasks, achieving size reduction while maintaining illumination capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical systems are used for imaging and illumination, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions into a single integrated system. The first reflector (12) and second reflector (13) form a common optical path that handles both imaging light transmission and illumination light projection, reducing the number of separate optical components and simplifying the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The switcher (80) dynamically switches the position of the image sensor (14) and light source (70) in the optical axis, allowing the system to alternate between imaging mode and illumination mode. This dynamic switching enables multiple functions without requiring permanently separate optical paths, reducing structural complexity while maintaining functional versatility.
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 achieves a significant reduction in the size of the imaging apparatus by a factor of 2 to 3 compared to refractive systems, while maintaining image quality and enabling high-resolution imaging through multiple views.
Implementation Method 1
a first reflector and a second reflector sequentially arranged from an object side along an optical path and form images of an object
Implementation Method 2
a light source that projects light toward the object via the optical system different from the part of the plurality of optical systems
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus having high resolution and high optical performance and reduced in size is provided. A camera module 1, which is an imaging apparatus incorporated in an optical apparatus, such as a camera 60, includes a plurality of optical systems UL, which each include a primary reflection mirror 12, which is a first reflector, and a secondary reflection mirror 13, which is a second reflector, sequentially arranged from the object side along the optical path and form images of an object, image sensors 14, which capture the images formed by part of the plurality of optical systems UL, and a light source 70, which projects light toward the object via the optical system different from the part of the plurality of optical systems UL.