Samsung Electro-Mechanics Camera Module

A camera module provides functions for taking photos by using electronic devices, such as smartphones and table PCs. High-level technologies are required for mobile devices as they become small and slim and customers demand high resolution and multiple functions. We own advanced technologies based on optical, electronic, and electric mechanism design know-how that are necessary for camera modules General Features Ultra small and low-power camera module Super speedy autofocusing High-quality and low-illumination photo-taking and hand-shaking correction functions Application Smartphones Tablet PCs Game Consoles TV Why Samsung Core Parts of a Camera Module Designing and manufacturing of lenses, actuators, and software are all performed in-house. ※ ISP(Image Signal Processor) : Realizes image correction (AE & AWB) and additional functions (AF, face recognition, and hand-shaking correction) ※ AF : Auto Focus ※ OIS : Optical Image Stabilizer Core Competence Has the in-house capability of developing three core parts for leading in the camera module business. Based on competence, We have continuously promoted the three values: high image quality, miniaturization, and high productivity. In-house development and application of customized lenses and actuators In case of camera modules, there is a trend that the parts designated by the customers are used. → Reduction in the appealing point of differentiation by camera manufacturers Capable of developing lenses and actuators immediately in responding to a change in the generation and specification of sensors (Lens molds included) → Advantageous in terms of speed and flexibility in developing parts compared with other companies Owning the capability of in-house development of S/W for high-end sectors Develop and apply immediately the software required for the interfaces between sensors, modules, phones, the evaluation of modules, and the driving algorithm of actuators Overview and Core Competence of Lens Lenses go through processes that are necessary to make them have high resolution, become slim, and have high yield and high productivity. Core Competence Introduction of Technology for Differentiating Lenses Owns the technologies for designing, manufacturing, assembling, and evaluating multilayer lenses to satisfy the high-resolution requirements that meet the demands of customers Advantages of a multilayer lens : Realizes the same refractive index using two layers ( θ1=θ2+θ3 ) → Reduces the refraction angle for each layer When the layers of lens increase, the refraction angle of each lens layer decrease and the light spread (abberation) be removed. As the set gets smaller and there is a demand for high pixels, it is necessary to secure a multilayer lens design technology and a relevant manufaturing technology to ensure that there will be no spread of light considering that the pixel of the current image sensor is small. Secured multiple patents for multi-layer lenses (applied for multiple patents for five-layer and six-layer lens structures, and applied them for high-pixel modules) Owns a design technology for minimizing flare to secure optimal image quality The light that entered through an abnormal path be shielded because of the design of the lens optical path ※ Flare : A phenomenon that the light received through an abnormal path beyond the field of view is formed on the image sensor Developed and owns an optical mold technology to secure high yield and high productivity in the lens production process. CAD / CAE technology : Improves lens injection yield Owns lens optical mold technology Overview and Core Competence of Actuators The actuators are small and have high performance because of the autofocus and OIS technologies Core Competence Introduction of Technology for Differentiating Actuators An actuator moves the lens automatically and swiftly to a position in which the focus is the most appropriate. AF core performance: 2L(Low Tilt, Power Consumption), 2H(High Speed, Accuracy) A line-up of various AF modules makes it possible to respond to any need of customers with optimal solutions. VCM1 is highly competitive in terms of prices and VCM2 can focus in an accurate and prompt way. Auto Focus Module 1 Features The spring work as a guide when the lens moves up and down. Fixes the position of the lens caused by the force of the spring Assemling through bonding Open-loop control (no position sensor) Low Cost Auto Focus Module 2 Features The lens move upward and downward in line with the ball/rolling surface. The magnetic force make the lens close against the ball/rolling surface. Bond-less structure (Main line) Closed loop control (Hall position sensor) Low drive tile; no preload (no spring) Quick and highly accurate AF ※ VCM : Voice Coil Motor Roles of OIS(Optical Image Stabilizer) - Detects the hand shaking and moves in the opposite direction of the shaking part of the lens to prevent the image from becoming blurred Advantages of OIS(Optical Image Stabilizer) Can take photos clearly and brightly, thanks to OIS and autoexposure control (when exposed for a long period of time) / correction of hand shaking Can produce bright and clear photos because of extended exposure time without shaking in low illuminnation Minimizes the shaking of videos caused by shaky hands while taking videos High-performance of OIS1 and OIS2 make it possible to respond to the needs of customers with optimal solutions OIS1 and OIS2 are differentiated based on the support structure (OIS, AF) and the AF control method. OIS1 is highly competitive in terms of prices, and OIS2 is strongly resistant to external shock. OIS1Features OIS support structure : Wire AF support structure : Plate Spring AF control method : Open Loop No position control hall element Low Cost Wide correction angle OIS2 Features OIS support structure : Ball AF support structure : Ball Guid AF control method : Closed Loop Position control hall element exists Strong shock resistance - Wide correction angle ※ Support structure: Technology for holding the lens to prevent it from shaking Software Core Competence Improves the efficiency and productivity of the development, operation, and manufacturing facilities by internalizing the image evaluation software in the finishing process Core Competence Introduction of Technology for Differentiating Software A case of realizing a multiport in the same space by reducing relay lens working distance Classification AF Cal. and Finishing Evaluation (Integrated) Color Cal Foreign substances inspection Activity Focus adjustment Resolution power–level evaluation Chromatic deviation correction Yes/No, Noise Overview of Package Secures high productivity by internalizing precision technology Structure View The camera module is comprised of a complex integration of optical, electronic, and mechanical technologies.