Rotating Camera Module with Reflective Light Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing complexity and size of camera modules in portable electronic devices due to the integration of autofocusing, zooming, and optical image stabilization functions, which hinders the miniaturization of these devices.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring a reflective module with rotatable frames and drivers, including magnets and coils, that changes the light path direction to align with the optical axis perpendicular to the device's thickness, allowing for the implementation of AF, zoom, and OIS functions without increasing the device's thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple camera functions (autofocusing, zooming, OIS) are integrated into a single camera module, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the structural complexity and overall size of the camera module increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple camera functions (autofocusing, zooming, and optical image stabilization) into a single integrated camera module. The lens assembly includes multiple lens groups that can move along the optical axis and laterally, while the reflective module redirects light to enable these functions within a compact form factor, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reflective module that redirects light at an angle, effectively utilizing a different spatial dimension (lateral direction) to achieve optical functions. This allows the camera module to implement zooming and focusing capabilities without extending the optical axis length, thus managing structural complexity while maintaining advanced functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple camera functions (autofocusing, zooming, OIS) are integrated into a single camera module, then the functionality is improved, but the size of the portable electronic device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective module redirects light from the incident direction to a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the device. This dimensional change allows the optical path to be folded, enabling multiple camera functions to be integrated without increasing the device thickness, thus managing overall device volume while maintaining advanced functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the reflective module is positioned within the housing, and lens groups are arranged along the optical axis in a compact configuration. The first and second lens groups are positioned at different locations along the optical axis, with the reflective module laterally offset, creating a space-efficient nested structure that reduces device volume
3Volume of moving object
If the optical axis is oriented perpendicular to the device thickness direction, then the device thickness is reduced, but the light path alignment and optical performance become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective module is positioned at a lateral offset from the optical axis and redirects light at an angle, effectively folding the optical path into a different dimension. This allows the optical axis to be oriented perpendicular to the device thickness direction while maintaining proper light path alignment through the reflective geometry, thus reducing device thickness without sacrificing optical performance
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective module acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the incident light and the lens groups. It redirects the light path at a specific angle, enabling the optical system to function with the optical axis perpendicular to the device thickness direction. This intermediary component facilitates light path alignment while maintaining the reduced device thickness configuration
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 the integration of advanced camera functions while maintaining a reduced device size by redirecting light paths and rotating components to align with the optical axis, thus minimizing the device's thickness and enhancing zoom performance.
Implementation Method 1
a first driver including a first magnet installed on either one of the housing and the first frame, and a first coil opposing the first magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes: a housing; a first frame rotatably mounted in the housing; a second frame rotatably mounted on the first frame; a reflective member mounted on the second frame; a first driver including a first magnet installed on either one of the housing and the first frame, and a first coil opposing the first magnet; and a second driver including a second magnet installed on either one of the housing and the second frame, and a second coil opposing the second magnet. The first frame is configured to rotate in a first axial direction perpendicular to an incident direction of light incident to the reflective member. The second frame is configured to rotate in a second axial direction parallel to an incident direction of light incident to the reflective member.