Rotatable Reflector Camera Module for Dual-Channel Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-channel camera modules occupy large space due to the presence of two reflectors, which limits their size and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A camera module with a rotatable reflector that can switch between two reflective areas to capture images from different sides, reducing the number of reflectors and allowing for dual-channel photographing while occupying less space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two reflectors are used to enable dual-channel photographing, then the camera module can capture images from two sides, but the camera module occupies relatively large space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of two separate reflectors into a single rotatable reflector. This reflector has a first reflective surface for capturing images from a first side and a second reflective surface for capturing images from a second side. By rotating the reflector between these two surfaces, the camera module achieves dual-channel photographing capability while occupying less space than would be required for two fixed reflectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a rotatable reflector that can dynamically switch between different reflective surfaces. The reflector rotates to position the appropriate reflective surface (first or second) to receive optical signals from different sides of the camera module. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt between different photographing channels without requiring both reflectors to be present simultaneously, thereby reducing the overall volume of the camera module.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two reflectors are used for dual-channel imaging, then both sides can be photographed, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple reflective surfaces into a single integrated rotatable reflector structure. Instead of using two separate reflectors that would each require independent mounting and alignment, the invention integrates both the first reflective surface and the second reflective surface onto one rotatable component. This merging reduces the number of parts and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the capability to photograph from multiple sides.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable reflector serves multiple functions: it acts as both the first reflector and the second reflector depending on its rotational position. The same physical component performs the role of reflecting optical signals from different directions, making it a multi-functional element. This universality reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated reflectors for each imaging channel.
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
Enables efficient dual-channel photographing with reduced space usage and improved flexibility, allowing for precise control and wide-angle image composition.
Implementation Method 1
a first mirror surface of the rotatable reflector is a reflective surface... when the rotatable reflector is located at a first position, the first mirror surface reflects a first optical signal entering from the first surface
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
This application relates to the field of electronic technologies, and discloses a camera module and a terminal device. The camera module includes a rotatable reflector, a lens group, a housing, and an image sensor. The housing includes a first surface and a second surface. A first mirror surface of the rotatable reflector is a reflective surface, and a part of the first mirror surface located in a first reflective area is a first sub mirror surface. When the rotatable reflector is located at a first position, the first mirror surface reflects a first optical signal. An image is generated after the reflected first optical signal is transmitted along a straight line along which an optical axis lies. When the rotatable reflector is located at a second position, the first mirror surface reflects a second optical signal. An image is generated after the reflected second optical signal is transmitted along the straight line along which the optical axis lies. According to the camera module provided in embodiments of this application, a dual-channel photographing function is implemented by using only one rotatable reflector, thereby reducing a quantity of reflectors, a size, and occupied space.