3D Imaging Lens Module with Sliding Optical Structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mobile phones with 3D image functions face challenges in generating high-quality 3D images due to the close proximity of lens modules, which limits the viewing angle difference and increases manufacturing costs.

Innovation Solution

An electronic apparatus with a sliding structure that houses an optical module with two light-incidence openings spaced to match the average human eye distance, allowing for adjustable lens positioning to enhance viewing angle and image processing to form 3D images, while also incorporating a control module to switch between regular and 3D photography modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If two lens modules are disposed close to each other to maintain portability, then the device volume is reduced, but the viewing angle difference becomes insufficient affecting 3D image quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice volumeVSAvoid3D image quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two lens modules into a single integrated lens module, where one lens captures light directly and the other lens captures light reflected at a specific angle. This merging approach eliminates the need for two separate lens modules while maintaining the dual-view capability for 3D image generation, thus reducing device volume while preserving 3D image quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a reflective element as an intermediary component that redirects light at a specific angle to the second lens. This intermediary mechanism enables the second lens to capture light from a different viewing angle without requiring a second lens module positioned at a large distance, thereby achieving sufficient viewing angle difference within a compact form factor

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If another lens module is added to generate 3D images, then 3D image function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D image functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functionality of two separate lens modules into a single integrated lens module with multiple light-receiving surfaces. This consolidation reduces the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining the 3D image generation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated lens module serves multiple functions: it captures light for regular imaging and simultaneously captures light for 3D imaging through its different light-receiving surfaces. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a dedicated second lens module, reducing component count and manufacturing cost while achieving 3D image functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If another lens module is added to generate 3D images, then 3D image function is achieved, but the available space in the mobile phone is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve3D image functionVSAvoidavailable space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two lens modules into one integrated structure, significantly reducing the space required for the imaging system. This merging eliminates the need for a second lens module and its associated mounting space, thereby preserving available space within the mobile phone while achieving 3D image functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the reflective element to redirect light at a specific angle, effectively using the third dimension (angle of incidence) to create a second light path. This dimensional approach allows the system to achieve dual-view capability without requiring a second lens module positioned at a large lateral distance, thus conserving available space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 improves the quality and convenience of 3D image generation by increasing the viewing angle difference and reducing the need for additional space and manufacturing costs, enabling effective 3D image formation and mode switching.

Implementation Method 1

the optical module comprises two light-incidence openings, and the distance between the two light-incidence openings is substantially equal to the average distance between a human's eyes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS8412265B2Electronic apparatus with photographing functions
Publication Date: 2013.04.02 WISTRON CORP
  • US8412265B2 patent drawing
  • US8412265B2 patent drawing
  • US8412265B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic apparatus with photographing function is disclosed. The electronic apparatus comprises a main body and a sliding structure. The main body comprises a lens module and a controlling module. The sliding structure is movably connected to the main body and comprises an optical module. The optical module comprises two light-incidence openings, and the distance between the two light-incidence openings is substantially equal to the average distance between a human's eyes. The lens module is capable of obtaining two images via the optical module through movement of the sliding structure. The two images may be processed via the controlling module to form a 3D image.