Under-Display Camera Module Layout for Smaller Exposure Area
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to minimize the camera exposure area on electronic devices while maintaining a wide display area, as existing designs are limited by the size of the camera module's barrel member and the need for apertures in the display, which restricts the extension of the display area.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a camera module with a lens housing and image sensor positioned under the display, utilizing a light blocking member with a light transmission aperture to reduce the camera exposure area without an aperture structure, allowing for a smaller camera exposure area while maintaining the same viewing angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the display area is extended to cover the overall area of the cover member, then the visibility and screen real estate are improved, but the disposition of camera modules and other electronic components is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is divided into functionally independent components: the lens assembly and the image sensor are separated, with the image sensor positioned in a different spatial plane (under the display) than the lens assembly. This segmentation allows the display to extend continuously without interruptions for component housing, while still accommodating all necessary camera functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The image sensor is relocated from the traditional side-mounted position to a position underneath the display panel, utilizing the vertical dimension (Z-axis) rather than the horizontal plane. This dimensional transition allows the display area to extend fully across the cover member while the sensor occupies space in the thickness direction, eliminating the need for lateral clearance.
2Area of moving object
If the outer diameter of the barrel member is reduced to minimize camera exposure area, then the camera exposure area is improved, but the lens thickness support and viewing angle are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module separates the lens assembly (barrel member) from the image sensor, allowing each component to be optimized independently. The lens assembly can maintain its required diameter for proper optical performance and viewing angle, while the overall camera exposure area is reduced by positioning the sensor underneath the display, eliminating the need for a large lateral clearance zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The display panel itself serves as an intermediary structure that supports the lens assembly from above while the image sensor is positioned below it. This arrangement allows the lens to maintain its structural integrity and optimal dimensions without being constrained by the need for lateral space, as the display panel provides the necessary support structure.
3Reliability
If an aperture structure is included in the camera module, then the light control is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture function is merged with the display panel structure itself. The display panel serves dual purposes: as the visual display surface and as the aperture control mechanism for the camera module. This integration eliminates the need for separate aperture structures, reducing device complexity while maintaining light control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The display panel is given multiple functions: it displays visual information to the user and simultaneously serves as the aperture structure for the camera module. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed in the device, simplifying both the overall structure and manufacturing processes while maintaining all necessary functions.
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 configuration enables the extension of the display area while minimizing the camera exposure area, improving the device's design by reducing the visible camera module size without compromising functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a light blocking member comprising a light blocking material including a light transmission aperture disposed on an inside and/or an outside of the display panel and overlapping at least parts of the plurality of lenses
Data Source
AI summary
According to various embodiments, an electronic device may include a housing, a display disposed in an internal space of the housing and viewable from an outside and including a display area, and a camera module disposed under the display overlapping at least a part of the display area and not including an aperture structure, wherein the camera module includes a lens housing, a plurality of lenses disposed on the lens housing, and an image sensor disposed under the plurality of lenses, wherein the display includes a display panel and a light blocking member comprising a light blocking material and including a light transmission region disposed on an inside and/or an outside of the display panel overlapping at least parts of the plurality of lenses as viewed from above the display.