Folded Optics Camera with Precise Autofocus and Stabilization
Here’s PatSnap Eureka !
Summary
Problems
Small form factor cameras face challenges in achieving high-resolution imaging with compact designs, particularly in integrating optical image stabilization and autofocus mechanisms effectively within limited space.
Innovation solutions
The use of folded optics arrangements combined with voice coil motor actuators allows for compact camera modules that provide autofocus and optical image stabilization capabilities by moving lenses along multiple axes, utilizing magnets and coils to generate Lorentz forces for precise movement within a reduced-height imaging system.
TRIZ Analysis
Specific contradictions:
General conflict description:
Principle concept:
If a folded optics arrangement is used, then the camera's overall dimensions are reduced, but the complexity of integrating autofocus and optical image stabilization mechanisms increases
Why choose this principle:
The patent combines autofocus and optical image stabilization mechanisms into a single integrated actuator system. The voice coil motor actuator simultaneously controls lens group movement for both autofocus (along the optical axis) and optical image stabilization (perpendicular to the optical axis), merging two previously separate functions into one unified mechanism that operates within the folded optics arrangement.
Principle concept:
If a folded optics arrangement is used, then the camera's overall dimensions are reduced, but the complexity of integrating autofocus and optical image stabilization mechanisms increases
Why choose this principle:
The folded optics arrangement folds the optical path at 90-degree angles, changing the dimensional layout of optical components. This allows the optical train to fit within a compact volume while maintaining the necessary optical path length, effectively using three-dimensional space optimization to reduce the camera module's overall footprint.
Application Domain
Data Source
AI summary:
The use of folded optics arrangements combined with voice coil motor actuators allows for compact camera modules that provide autofocus and optical image stabilization capabilities by moving lenses along multiple axes, utilizing magnets and coils to generate Lorentz forces for precise movement within a reduced-height imaging system.
Abstract
Various embodiments include a camera with folded optics and lens shifting capabilities. In some examples, a folded optics arrangement of the camera may include one or more lens elements and light path folding elements (e.g., prisms). Some embodiments include voice coil motor (VCM) actuator arrangements, carrier arrangements, and/or suspension arrangements to provide autofocus (AF) and/or optical image stabilization (OIS) movement. Furthermore, some embodiments include position sensor arrangements for position sensing with respect to AF and/or OIS movement.