Variable Aperture Mechanism in Camera Lens Barrel

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Solution Overview

Problem

Portable electronic devices face limitations in size and thickness, which restrict the functionality of camera modules, particularly in adjusting light exposure, leading to limited photographing capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A camera module with a variable aperture mechanism, allowing the size of the aperture hole area to be adjusted, is integrated into the lens barrel, enabling various photographing modes while minimizing the device's thickness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a camera module includes a variable aperture mechanism, then the photographing capability and light exposure adjustment are improved, but the device thickness increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotographing capabilityVSAvoiddevice thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The aperture mechanism is nested within the lens barrel structure. The aperture leaflets are arranged concentrically with the lens elements, allowing the aperture control mechanism to be integrated inside the existing lens assembly volume without adding external thickness to the device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a variable aperture mechanism where aperture leaflets can dynamically adjust their opening size. The leaflets are configured to rotate or move between different positions (fully open, partially closed, fully closed) to control light exposure, enabling adaptive photographing capabilities while maintaining a compact form factor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the aperture hole area size is made adjustable, then the light exposure control is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelight exposure controlVSAvoidaperture mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The aperture is divided into multiple independent leaflets (first aperture leaflet and second aperture leaflet) that can be controlled separately. Each leaflet can be positioned independently to create different aperture shapes and sizes, providing fine-grained control over light exposure while using simple individual components rather than a complex monolithic mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The aperture leaflets serve multiple functions: they control light exposure, create different aperture shapes for various photographing modes, and can be positioned to block light completely or allow maximum passage. This multi-functionality is achieved through a simple rotational or positional adjustment mechanism rather than complex separate systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3519891B1Camera module including aperture and electronic device including the same

Publication Date: 2022.01.05 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

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AI summary

A camera module is provided. The camera module includes a lens barrel including at least one lens and a lens hole, and a variable aperture including an aperture hole area which is arranged on the lens hole formed in the lens barrel, a size of the aperture hole area being is adjustable, and an electronic device including the same.