Rotating Reflecting Module for Compact Camera Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing complexity and size of camera modules in portable electronic devices due to added functions like auto focusing, optical image stabilization, and zoom, lead to higher power consumption and larger device sizes, as existing solutions require direct movement of lenses or image sensors to correct shaking, which is inefficient and power-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring a reflecting module with a holder that rotates on two axes, using electromagnetic forces and a unique support structure with ball members and inclined surfaces to change the light path, allowing for image stabilization without direct movement of lenses or image sensors, thus minimizing power consumption and device size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lenses or image sensors are directly moved to correct shaking, then optical image stabilization is achieved, but power consumption increases due to the heavy weight of lenses and image sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reflecting member as an intermediary element to achieve optical image stabilization. Instead of directly moving the heavy lenses or image sensor, the reflecting member redirects light to the imaging sensor, effectively stabilizing the optical path while moving only a lightweight component. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by achieving stabilization without the power consumption penalty of moving heavy components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical system of moving lenses or image sensors with an optical system using a reflecting member. By substituting the mechanical movement of heavy components with optical redirection through a lightweight mirror or prism, the system achieves the same stabilization effect with minimal power consumption, as the reflecting member can be moved by lightweight actuators.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions (AF, OIS, zoom) are added to camera modules, then camera capabilities are improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple camera functions into a compact integrated module. The reflecting member structure allows auto-focusing, optical image stabilization, and zoom capabilities to be combined in a single unified design rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function. This merging reduces the overall camera module size while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to accommodate multiple functions within a reduced footprint. By positioning the reflecting member at an angle and utilizing vertical space efficiently, the design packs AF, OIS, and zoom mechanisms into a compact volume, effectively using dimensional optimization to reduce the camera module's overall size.
3Reliability
If lenses or image sensors are directly moved for stabilization, then optical image stabilization is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflecting member serves as a simplified intermediary that replaces complex lens or sensor movement mechanisms. By introducing this single reflective element, the patent achieves optical image stabilization through a straightforward optical path redirection rather than requiring complex mechanical systems to move heavy components, thereby reducing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the imaging sensor or lenses directly to achieve stabilization, the patent inverts the approach by moving or adjusting the reflecting member to redirect light. This inverted methodology simplifies the mechanical structure, as the reflecting member requires less complex mounting and actuation systems compared to direct sensor or lens movement mechanisms.
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 design enables the implementation of advanced camera functions like auto focusing and optical image stabilization with a simpler structure and reduced size, minimizing power consumption by moving a lighter reflecting module instead of the lenses or image sensors, thereby maintaining device compactness and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first yoke disposed on one surface of facing surfaces of the holder and the first housing, and a magnet disposed on the other surface, where the first yoke and the magnet are configured to magnetically attract each other
Implementation Method 2
a reflecting member configured to change the path of light to direct the light toward the lens module
Implementation Method 3
The support protrusions may be configured to slide along the inclined surface of the support grooves, thereby enabling rotation of the holder
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes a lens module including lenses and a reflecting module disposed in front of the lens module. The reflecting module is configured to change a path of light to direct the light toward the lens module. The reflecting module includes a holder in which a reflecting member configured to change the path of the light is mounted and a first housing supporting the holder. The holder is configured to slide with respect to the first housing to enable rotation of the reflecting member with respect to a first axis and a second axis.