Sliding Camera Module for Screen-to-Body Ratio
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to optimize the screen-to-body ratio of electronic devices by resolving the contradiction between the installation space of camera modules on the front panel and the improvement in aesthetics and functionality, particularly in portable devices like smartphones.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow the camera module to slide between a recessed position within the device body and an exposed position, utilizing a sliding component driven by a processor-controlled motor, with a detecting system using magnetic fields and Hall elements to determine the camera's position, enabling the module to be exposed only when needed and retracted when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the camera module is permanently exposed on the front panel, then the user can access the camera function quickly, but the screen-to-body ratio deteriorates and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is designed to be movable rather than fixed, transitioning between an exposed position for camera access and a retracted position for aesthetic purposes. The driving component enables dynamic adjustment of the camera module's position based on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The front panel is segmented into functional zones, with the camera module separable from the main panel structure. The driving component creates a distinct mechanical separation between the camera assembly and the front panel, allowing independent movement of the camera module to balance accessibility and aesthetics.
2Ease of operation
If the camera module is permanently exposed on the front panel, then the user can access the camera function quickly, but the screen-to-body ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module transitions between static retraction and dynamic exposure states. During normal operation, the camera remains retracted to maximize screen-to-body ratio. When camera function is needed, the driving component rapidly moves the camera module to the exposed position, maintaining high screen-to-body ratio while enabling quick camera access.
3Area of stationary object
If the camera module retracts into the device body, then the screen-to-body ratio improves and aesthetics are enhanced, but the camera module may collide with internal components
Solution Approach 1:
A detecting component is positioned ahead of the camera module's retraction path to detect obstacles before collision occurs. When an obstacle is detected, the system controls the driving component to stop the retraction movement, preventing damage to internal components while allowing the camera module to achieve its retracted position for aesthetic purposes.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the camera module frequently moves between positions, then the device adapts to different usage scenarios, but the service life of the camera module and driving component decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module moves between exposed and retracted positions based on periodic detection of usage scenarios. The detecting component monitors for camera access requests, and the driving component executes movement only when needed, rather than continuous or frequent movement. This periodic action pattern reduces wear on mechanical components while maintaining adaptability to different usage scenarios.
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 solution reduces the hardware footprint on the front panel, enhancing the screen-to-body ratio and user experience by minimizing the camera module's presence when not in use, thereby prolonging the service life of components and improving usability.
Implementation Method 1
The detecting component is configured to detect a position of the sliding component. The driving component includes a magnetic field generating element and a Hall element. The magnetic field generating element and the Hall element are respectively fixed on the sliding component and the body.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a method for controlling a camera module in an electronic device. The camera module is removable between a first position received in a body of the electronic device and a second position exposed from the body. The method includes: driving the camera module to slide to the second position in response to receiving a first face recognition request; maintaining the camera module in the second position for a first duration in response to acquiring a release request on the camera module; and driving the camera module to slide to the first position in response to not receiving a second face recognition request within the first duration.