Optical image stabilization system

Abstract

The present invention relates to an optical image stabilization system (10) for a camera module (1a). The optical image stabilization system (10) comprises: (i) a moving part (100) comprising an image sensor (110); (ii) a fixed part (200) which comprises the moving part (100) and comprises a front opening (210) to expose the image sensor (110) of the moving part (100) to the outside, wherein the moving part (100) is arranged in the fixed part (200) such that the moving part (100) is displaceable relative to the fixed part (200); (iii) an actuator (300) for displacing the moving part (100) relative to the fixed part (200) to achieve optical image stabilization; (iv) a pair of signal transmission members (400) for transmitting signals from the image sensor (110) of the moving part (100) to respective signal receiving terminals (220) which are fixed in position relative to the fixed part (200), wherein each signal transmission member (400) comprises a first end (410) and a second end (420), the first end (410) of each signal transmission member (400) is electrically connected to the image sensor (110) of the moving part (100), and the second end (420) of each signal transmission member (400) is electrically connected to the respective signal receiving terminal (220). Each signal transmission member (400) is configured as a leaf spring. Each signal transmission member (400) further comprises a connecting arm portion (430), the first end (410) and the second end (420) of each signal transmission member (400) are connected integrally by the connecting arm portion (430). The connecting arm portion (430) of each signal transmission member (400) extends along a non-linear path which starts at the first end (410), at least partially surrounds the first end (410), and ends at the second end (420). The present invention further relates to a product (1) comprising a camera module (1a), wherein the camera module (1a) comprises an optical image stabilization system (10) as described above.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an optical image stabilization system. More particularly, it relates to a three-axis sensor-shift optical image stabilization system for camera modules or camera units in various products, specifically various terminal devices, including smartphones, mobile phones, and other mobile electronic devices. This invention also relates to a product incorporating such an optical image stabilization system. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS) systems have received widespread attention in order to achieve better image stabilization performance in camera modules installed in mobile devices such as smartphones and mobile phones. OIS systems aim to enhance photography capabilities, which have become one of the main functions of smartphones and mobile phones.

[0003] In sensor-shift OIS systems, the imager needs to be moved. However, since the imager has approximately 40 signals, the width and / or thickness of the FPC becomes quite large when attempting to extract these signals to the outside via a flexible printed card (FPC). Consequently, the reaction force generated when driving the imager becomes excessive.

[0004] To address this issue, the length of the FPC needs to be increased to make it more flexible. However, this increase in FPC length, in turn, increases the overall size of the camera module. This trend is particularly pronounced in actuator configurations capable of achieving optical image stabilization in three axes (X, Y, and roll). This presents a significant challenge for camera modules in mobile devices.

[0005] For example, prior art that is somewhat related to this invention is disclosed in US 11,223,765 B2 and CN 10878020 B.

[0006] A prior art description describes an imager signal transmission structure for a mobile device. This structure reduces the reaction force by bending the FPC that transmits the imager signal twice in the optical axis direction (Z direction), thereby increasing the degrees of freedom in the directions perpendicular to the optical axis (X and Y directions).

[0007] Another existing technology also describes an imager signal transmission structure for mobile devices. This structure reduces the thickness of the camera module by widening the imager signal lines in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z direction).

[0008] As mentioned above, a sensor shifting OIS system for mobile devices (specifically a three-axis sensor shifting OIS system for mobile devices) requires a special structure to reduce the reaction forces in the three axes (X, Y, and roll directions) without increasing the size of the camera module.

[0009] In the imager signal transmission structures described in the prior art, the size of the FPC inevitably increases in the Z direction, thus limiting the miniaturization of the camera module. Furthermore, since this structure requires multiple bending of the FPC, issues remain regarding bending accuracy and ease of assembly. Reducing the size of the camera module in the Z direction is possible. However, in this structure, the size of the camera module becomes larger in the X and Y directions. Additionally, the reaction force increases due to the shorter length of the imager signal line. Specifically, in this structure, the large reaction force in the rolling direction still presents challenges in implementing a three-axis sensor shifting OIS system.

[0010] For these reasons, there is a need for an optical image stabilization system that can reduce the reaction forces when working in the three axes (X, Y and roll) without increasing the overall size of the camera module. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In view of this, the object of the present invention is to provide a novel optical image stabilization system that can overcome or at least mitigate the problems associated with the prior art devices. Specifically, the specific object of the present invention is to provide a novel optical image stabilization system that can reduce the reaction forces when operating in the three axes (X, Y, and roll directions) without increasing the overall size of the camera module.

[0012] To achieve these objectives, the present invention provides an optical image stabilization system for a camera module. The system includes: a moving part including an image sensor; a fixed part including a front opening to expose the image sensor of the moving part to the outside, wherein the image sensor is configured to correspond to the opening of the fixed part, the moving part being disposed in the fixed part such that the moving part is displaceable relative to the fixed part; an actuator for displacing the moving part relative to the fixed part to achieve optical image stabilization; a pair of signal transmission members for transmitting signals from the image sensor of the moving part to corresponding signal receiving terminals fixed relative to the fixed part, wherein each signal transmission member includes a first end and a second end, the first end of each signal transmission member being electrically connected to the image sensor of the moving part, the second end of each signal transmission member being electrically connected to the corresponding signal receiving terminal, each signal transmission member being configured as a leaf spring, each signal transmission member further including a connecting arm portion, the first end and the second end of each signal transmission member being connected integrally via the connecting arm portion, the connecting arm portion of each signal transmission member extending along a non-linear path, wherein the non-linear path begins at the first end, at least partially surrounds the first end, and terminates at the second end.

[0013] The present invention also provides a product including a camera module, wherein the camera module includes the optical image stabilization system as described above.

[0014] According to the present invention, a signal transmission member for transmitting signals from an image sensor to a signal receiving terminal is configured as a leaf spring. A connecting arm portion of the signal transmission member is constructed such that the connecting arm portion extends along a non-linear path, which begins at a first end of the signal transmission member, at least partially surrounds the first end, and terminates at a second end of the signal transmission member. That is, the signal transmission member has a special spring structure that spirals from the center outwards. Compared to conventional signal transmission members, this special result reduces the spring constant in the rotational direction. Furthermore, through this special spring structure, the signal transmission member can achieve a maximum extension length within a limited available space (i.e., the spiral construction allows the spring to extend to fill the available space). Therefore, compared to conventional signal transmission members, this signal transmission member can also reduce the spring constant in the X and Y directions. Therefore, according to the present invention, an optical image stabilization system can be provided that reduces the reaction force when operating in the three-axis directions (X, Y, and roll directions) without increasing the overall size of the camera module.

[0015] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the pair of signal transmission members may be arranged adjacently on a plane along a first direction (i.e., the width direction) of the fixed member, wherein the plane is parallel to the surface of the image sensor of the moving member. Here, the width direction of the fixed member refers to the direction that coincides with the horizontal direction when using a device including a camera module.

[0016] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the pair of signal transmission members are rotationally symmetrical about the center point of the image sensor of the moving member. Alternatively, according to a preferred aspect of the invention, the pair of signal transmission members are symmetrically arranged about a vertical line passing through the center point of the image sensor of the moving member and perpendicular to the first direction of the fixed member. These aspects are particularly preferred in the invention because they significantly reduce the anisotropy of the image sensor's displacement in the X and Y directions and its rotational movement about the Z axis. In other words, by arranging the two signal transmission members in this way, the inherent resistance imbalance of each spring (i.e., each signal transmission member) is effectively counteracted. Therefore, excellent three-axis optical image stabilization can be achieved even when using low-thrust actuators in small mobile devices, etc. In addition, crosstalk in each direction is eliminated by adjusting this unique configuration.

[0017] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the connecting arm portion of each signal transmission member may include a plurality of straight segments and a plurality of curved segments connecting adjacent straight segments to each other. In another preferred embodiment of this aspect, the connecting arm portion of each signal transmission member may include at least four straight segments and at least three curved segments of approximately 90 degrees, whereby the connecting arm portion may be helical. Of course, in another aspect of the invention, the connecting arm portion of each signal transmission member may include two straight segments and one curved segment (not limited to 90 degrees). Alternatively, according to a preferred aspect of the invention, the connecting arm portion of each signal transmission member may extend along a helical path with an increasing radius of curvature. Here, the helix (or helical path) includes an incomplete helix (or incomplete helical path) with a rotation not exceeding 360°.

[0018] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the corresponding signal receiving terminal to which the second end of each signal transmission member is electrically connected is integrated into a single common terminal. In this aspect, the single common terminal may be located in a region corresponding to the upper (or lower) periphery of the two signal transmission members. Alternatively, the single common terminal may also be located in a region corresponding to the side periphery of the two face-to-face signal transmission members. In a preferred embodiment of this aspect, the second ends of the two signal transmission members may be interconnected or even pre-integrated.

[0019] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the connecting arm portion of each signal transmission member can be divided into multiple branches by at least one slit extending along the extending direction of the signal transmission member. In a particularly preferred embodiment of this aspect, at least two slits can extend along the extending direction of the signal transmission member, thereby dividing the connecting arm portion of each signal transmission member into at least three branches. Furthermore, in this preferred embodiment, it is desirable that the spacing between the slits be equal. Of course, in another aspect of the invention, the spacing between the slits does not need to be equal. That is, the spacing between the branches can be irregular. In the invention, the number of slits and the number of branches are not particularly limited. However, for example, two to sixteen branches can be used as needed. Specifically, considering the labor and cost required for manufacturing, four to six branches are preferred.

[0020] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the signal transmission member may include a metal support layer and at least one conductive layer stacked on the metal support layer. In a particularly preferred embodiment of this aspect, the signal transmission member may include multiple conductive layers, wherein the multiple conductive layers may be stacked together and insulated from each other. The invention does not particularly limit the number of conductive layers. However, for example, two to six conductive layers may be used as needed.

[0021] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the fixing component may include a back plate for enclosing the moving component within the fixing component, wherein a corresponding signal receiving terminal electrically connected to the second end of each signal transmission member may be disposed on the back plate of the fixing component. In this aspect, the signal receiving terminal may be disposed in a region on the back plate corresponding to the side peripheries of the two back-to-back signal transmission members. Alternatively, the signal receiving terminal may be disposed in a region on the back plate corresponding to the upper (or lower) peripheries of the two signal transmission members, or in a region on the back plate corresponding to the side peripheries of the two face-to-face signal transmission members.

[0022] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the moving member can be pressed against the fixed member by at least three ball bearings arranged around the center point of the image sensor surrounding the moving member. Furthermore, according to a more preferred aspect, the moving member can be pressed against the fixed member by magnetic attraction. In a particularly preferred embodiment of this aspect, the magnetic attraction can be generated by the interaction between at least one magnet disposed on one side of the fixed member and at least one back yoke disposed on one side of the moving member. This particularly preferred arrangement ensures freedom of movement in the X and Y directions and the rolling direction (rotation direction), while effectively suppressing deformation (bending) of the signal transmission member in the Z direction (i.e., the optical axis direction).

[0023] According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the product may be a device, apparatus, equipment, machine, facility, tool, etc., that includes the camera module. Specifically, the product may be a terminal device such as a smartphone that includes the camera module. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The non-limiting and representative embodiments of the present invention will now be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a product (i.e., a smartphone) including an optical image stabilization (OIS) system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the OIS system in its assembled state.

[0027] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a perspective view of the OIS system in its disassembled state.

[0028] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the OIS system taken by line A1-A1 in the figure (it should be noted that, for ease of understanding, Figure 4 (Inverted).

[0029] Figure 5 It is a plan view of a pair of signal transmission components arranged side by side.

[0030] Figure 6 It is a plan view of a pair of signal transmission components arranged in an alternative manner.

[0031] Figure 7 It is a plan view of a pair of signal transmission components with alternative forms.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a plan view of an alternative embodiment, wherein a single common terminal is disposed in the area corresponding to the upper periphery of the two signal transmission members.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a plan view of an alternative embodiment, wherein a single common terminal is disposed in the area of ​​the side periphery of two face-to-face signal transmission members.

[0034] Figure 10 This is a plan view of an alternative embodiment, in which two signal transmission components are joined together on their upper periphery.

[0035] Figure 11This is a plan view of an alternative embodiment, in which two signal transmission components are joined together at their facing side edges.

[0036] Figure 12 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a branch of the signal transmission component intercepted by line A2-A2 in the diagram.

[0037] Figure 13 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the OIS system is taken by line A3-A3.

[0038] Figure 14 This is a front view of the moving part, showing the arrangement of the three balls positioned between the moving part and the stationary part.

[0039] Figure 15 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the OIS system is taken by line A4-A4.

[0040] Figure 16 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of the OIS system taken by line A5-A5 in the figure.

[0041] Figure 17 This is a partial perspective view of the moving parts, showing the configuration in which multiple probes are distributed to the actuator coils for power supply.

[0042] Figure 18 This is a partial perspective view of the moving parts, showing the construction of a power supply from an electronic circuit board to an actuator coil using a flexible printed circuit (FPC). Detailed Implementation

[0043] The following is for reference. Figures 1 to 18 Some exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below.

[0044] The terms used in this article that relate to directions such as "up", "down", "upper", "lower", "upward", "downward", "right", and "left" should be understood as being related to the system orientation in the diagram. They may or may not match the actual orientation in use.

[0045] The following exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to optical image stabilization systems for camera modules (but not limited to) in products such as terminal devices (specifically smartphones). Furthermore, the following exemplary embodiments of the present invention also relate to products, specifically mobile electronic devices, including camera modules that incorporate optical image stabilization systems, which are an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. However, the aforementioned products can be any device, any apparatus, any machine, any facility, any tool, etc., including camera modules.

[0046] Figure 1 A mobile electronic device 1, namely a smartphone, is shown according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The mobile electronic device 1 includes a camera module 1a built therein. The camera module 1a includes an optical image stabilization system (hereinafter referred to as the "OIS system") 10, as detailed below. The OIS system 10 is located behind the optical lens 20 of the camera module 1a.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the OIS system 10 in its assembled state. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the OIS system 10 in a disassembled state. Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of OIS system 10 taken from line A1-A1. Figures 2 to 4 As can be seen, the OIS system 10 for the camera module 1a includes a moving part 100 and a fixed part (i.e., housing) 200 that includes the moving part 100. The OIS system 10 also includes an actuator 300 for displacing the moving part 100 relative to the fixed part 200 to achieve optical image stabilization (see details). Figure 3 In this embodiment, the actuator 300 consists of several components (described in detail below) located in the moving part 100 and the fixed part 200.

[0048] The moving part 100 includes an image sensor 110. The image sensor 110 is covered by an infrared (IR) cutoff filter 112. This image sensor can be any type known to those skilled in the art, and therefore a detailed description is omitted. The moving part 100 also includes an electronic circuit board 140 where the image sensor 110 is located. The electronic circuit board 140 includes connection terminals 150a and 150b, which are located on opposite sides of the image sensor 110. One end of a signal transmission component, described later, is connected to either connection terminal 150a or connection terminal 150b.

[0049] The movable component 100 is disposed within the fixed component 200, allowing the movable component 100 to be displaced relative to the fixed component 200 under the action of the actuator 300. In this embodiment, the movable component 100... Figure 2 The moving part 100 is displaceable or translateable in the X and Y directions. Furthermore, the moving part 100 is capable of rotating around... Figure 2 The Z-direction (which coincides with the optical axis) is displaced in the rolling direction (i.e., the rotation direction). Generally speaking, the X-direction is called the height direction of the OIS system 10 (or the module 1a including the OIS system 10), the Y-direction is called the first direction of the OIS system 10, and the Z-direction is called the thickness direction of the OIS system 10.

[0050] The fixed member 200, which includes the movable member 100, includes a front opening (rectangular opening) 210 to expose (more precisely, optically expose) the image sensor 110 in the movable member 100 to the outside through an IR cutoff filter 112. The fixed member 200 includes a back plate 230 for enclosing the movable member 100 therein.

[0051] An actuator 300 for moving the moving part 100 relative to the fixed part 200, such as... Figures 2 to 4 As shown in the rough diagram. The actuator 300 consists of several components such as coils and drivers, which will be described later.

[0052] from Figure 3 and Figure 4 As can be seen, the OIS system 10 also includes a pair of signal transmission components 400. These two signal transmission components 400 are used to transmit signals from the image sensor 110 of the moving part 100 to the external, i.e., to corresponding signal receiving terminals 220 fixedly positioned relative to the fixed part 200. In this embodiment, the two signal receiving terminals 220 are disposed on the back plate 230 of the fixed part 200. The signal transmission components 400 are also used to hold the image sensor 110 of the moving part 100 in a neutral position when the actuator 300 does not apply force to the image sensor 110.

[0053] Figure 5 This is a plan view of a pair of signal transmission components 400 arranged side by side. From Figure 5 As can be seen, each signal transmission component 400 includes a first end 410, a second end 420, and a connecting arm portion 430. The first end 410 and the second end 420 of each signal transmission component 400 are connected as one unit via the connecting arm portion 430. The first end 410 of each signal transmission component 400 is electrically connected to the image sensor 110 of the moving part 100 via an electronic circuit board 140 (see...). Figure 4 On the other hand, the second end 420 of each signal transmission component 400 is electrically connected to the corresponding signal receiving terminal 220 (see also...). Figure 4As described above, in this embodiment, the second end 420 of each signal transmission component 400 is electrically connected to a signal receiving terminal 220 disposed on the back plate 230 of the fixing component 200.

[0054] from Figure 2 As can be seen, each signal transmission member 400 is constructed as a leaf spring. The connecting arm portion 430 of each signal transmission member 400 extends along a non-linear path. This non-linear path begins at a first end 410, at least partially surrounds the first end 410, and terminates at a second end 420. In this embodiment, the non-linear path in which the signal transmission member 400 extends almost completely surrounds the first end 410. The specific structure of each signal transmission member 400 will be described in detail later.

[0055] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, a pair of signal transmission components 400 are positioned along the width direction of the fixed component 200 (i.e., Figure 2 The Y-direction in the middle is adjacent to each other on plane P (see Figure 4 The plane P is parallel to the surface of the image sensor 110 of the moving component 100. More specifically, in this embodiment, the pair of signal transmission members 400 surround the center point O of the image sensor 110 of the moving component 100 (see...). Figure 3 and Figure 5 ( ) Rotationally symmetrical arrangement. With this arrangement, the pair of signal transmission components 400 rotate in the same direction.

[0056] In an alternative embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown, a pair of signal transmission components 400 are about the center point O of the image sensor 110 (see Figure 110). Figure 3 And perpendicular to the width direction Y of the fixed component 200 (see...) Figure 2 The vertical line (i.e., the center line) L of the ) is symmetrically arranged. This arrangement, in conjunction with... Figure 5 In contrast to the embodiment shown, the pair of signal transmission components 400 rotate relative to each other in opposite directions.

[0057] Refer again Figure 5 In this embodiment, the connecting arm portion 430 of each signal transmission member 400 includes a plurality of straight segments 430a and a plurality of curved segments 430b connecting adjacent straight segments 430a to each other. In this embodiment, the connecting arm portion 430 of each signal transmission member 400 substantially includes, but is not limited to, four straight segments 430a and three curved segments 430b, thereby the connecting arm portion 430 is helical.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the bent segment 430b is approximately 90 degrees bent. Additionally, each bent segment 430b of the connecting arm portion 430 is circular. In an alternative embodiment, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the connecting arm portion 430 of each signal transmission member 400 extends along a spiral path with an ever-increasing radius of curvature. The ever-increasing radius of curvature is indicated by "C" in the figure. Furthermore, in this alternative embodiment, a pair of signal transmission members 400 may be arranged rotationally symmetrically about the center point O of the image sensor 110, or may be arranged symmetrically about the vertical line L as described above.

[0059] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the second end 420 of each signal transmission member 400 is electrically connected to a corresponding signal receiving terminal 220 spaced apart. Specifically, the signal receiving terminal 220 is disposed on the back plate 230 in a region corresponding to the side edges of the two back-to-back signal transmission members 400. However, in an alternative embodiment, as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the second end 420 of each signal transmission component 400 is electrically connected to a signal receiving terminal integrated into a single common terminal 220', 220'.

[0060] exist Figure 8 In one alternative embodiment shown, a single common terminal 220' is disposed on a backplate 230 (not shown) in an elongated region corresponding to the upper (or lower) periphery of the two signal transmission members 400. Figure 9 In another alternative embodiment shown, a single common terminal 220'' is disposed on a back plate 230 (not shown) in a central region corresponding to the side periphery of two face-to-face signal transmission members 400.

[0061] In yet another alternative embodiment, the second ends 420 of the two signal transmission components 400 are interconnected or even integrated. More specifically, as Figure 10 As shown, two signal transmission components 400 are joined together at their upper peripheral edges. In this case, the common connection area 420' (shaded portion in the figure) of the two signal transmission components 400 is electrically connected to a single common terminal, for example, Figure 8 The single common terminal 220' shown. Alternatively, as... Figure 11 As shown, two signal transmission components 400 are joined together at their facing side edges. In this case, the common connection area 420'' (shaded area in the figure) of the two signal transmission components 400 is electrically connected to a single common terminal, for example, Figure 9 The single common terminal 220'' is shown. In this way, integrating a pair of signal transmission components 400 into a single sheet reduces manufacturing costs.

[0062] Refer again Figure 5 Each signal transmission member 400's connecting arm portion 430 is divided into multiple branches 431a to 431d by multiple slits 432a to 432c extending along the extending direction of the signal transmission member 400. Specifically, in this embodiment, three slits 432a to 432c extend along the extending direction of the signal transmission member 400, thereby dividing each signal transmission member 400's connecting arm portion 430 into four branches 431a to 431d. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the spacing between the three slits 432a to 432c is equal. However, it should be noted that the spacing between the slits 432a to 432c may not be equal. That is, the spacing between the branches 431a to 431d may be irregular. To form the slits 432a to 432c on the signal transmission member 400, laser processing technology, etching processing technology, etc., can be used, but are not limited to these.

[0063] Figure 12 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a branch 431a of the signal transmission component 400, taken along line A2-A2 (note that the thickness of branch 431a is magnified). From Figure 12 As can be seen from the diagram, in this embodiment, branches 431a to 431d and the signal transmission member 400 include a metal support layer 441 and a plurality of conductive layers 442a to 442d stacked on the metal support layer 441. The metal support layer 441 and the conductive layer 442a located at the bottom of the plurality of conductive layers 442a to 442d are bonded together to prevent them from being spaced apart. Specifically, in this embodiment, the signal transmission member 400 includes four conductive layers 442a to 442d. These conductive layers 442a to 442d are stacked together and insulated from each other.

[0064] The metal support layer 441 is made of copper (or a suitable copper-containing alloy) or stainless steel (SUS), but is not limited thereto. On the other hand, each conductive layer 442a to 442d consists of a conductor 443 and a covering layer 444. The covering layer 444 is made of a plastic such as polyimide and is disposed outside the conductor 443 to at least partially cover the conductor 443. Each conductive layer 442a to 442d may initially be formed individually and then bonded together, or it may be formed as a single unit from the beginning. Signals emitted by the image sensor 110 of the moving part 100 are transmitted to the signal receiving terminal 220 via a set of conductors 443. If desired, the metal support layer 441 may also be used to transmit signals to the signal receiving terminal 220.

[0065] Figure 13 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of OIS system 10 taken by line A3-A3 in the diagram. Except... Figure 3 In addition, it can also be found from Figure 13 As can be seen, in this embodiment, the moving part 100 is combined with the fixed part 200 by a plurality of balls 500a to 500c. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the moving part 100 is pressed against the fixed part 200 by the plurality of balls 500a to 500c. Specifically, in this embodiment, three balls 500a to 500c are positioned between the moving part 100 and the fixed part 200, but this is not a limitation.

[0066] Figure 14 The ball bearing configuration is shown, from... Figure 14 As can be seen, three balls 500a to 500c, positioned between the moving component 100 and the fixed component 200, are arranged around the center point O of the image sensor 110 of the moving component 100. Specifically, the three balls 500a to 500c are arranged in a triangle T. That is, the three balls 500a to 500c are placed at each vertex of the triangle T. In this embodiment, the center point O of the image sensor 110 of the moving component 100 is located at the centroid of the triangle T (e.g., an isosceles triangle or an equilateral triangle) formed by the three balls 500a to 500c. The number and arrangement of the balls are not limited to this; other numbers (e.g., four) and alternative arrangements can be used as needed.

[0067] The reason for placing multiple ball bearings 500a to 500c in the OIS system is as follows. The signal transmission member 400, constructed as a leaf spring, is very thin. Therefore, the signal transmission member 400 is easily positioned in the Z direction (see...). Figure 2 Deformation occurs along the optical axis, specifically in the X and Y directions. In this embodiment, to ensure deformation in both the X and Y directions (see...), Figure 2 ) and the direction of scrolling (see Figure 2 The motion degrees of freedom of the signal transmission component 400 in the Z direction are effectively suppressed, while the motion degrees of freedom of the signal transmission component 400 in the Z direction (see [reference]). Figure 2 The deformation (bending) on ​​the surface of the moving part 100 is addressed by incorporating multiple ball bearings 500a to 500c in the OIS system. This unique construction suppresses unwanted secondary resonances in the moving part 100, allowing for increased servo bandwidth via PID control or similar methods. Other reasons for placing multiple ball bearings 500a to 500c in the OIS system include: In this system, the moving part 100 is prone to vertical movement due to its suspension via the signal transmission member 400. This alters the distance between position sensors such as Hall sensors (described later) and magnets (described later), potentially leading to false detections, i.e., OIS system malfunction. Furthermore, vertical movement of the image sensor (imager) 110 can cause image instability, i.e., blurring, during the imaging process. These adverse phenomena can be effectively suppressed by employing the aforementioned unique construction.

[0068] In this embodiment, the movable component 100 is pressed against the fixed component 200 by magnetic attraction. The mechanism of magnetic attraction is described in detail below. In this embodiment, the magnetic attraction is generated by the interaction between a magnet disposed on one side of the fixed component 200 and a back yoke (e.g., a steel plate) disposed on one side of the movable component 100. More specifically, Figure 15 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the OIS system 10 taken from line X4-X4 in the diagram. Figure 15 As can be seen, the magnetic attraction is generated by the interaction between the magnet 240 disposed on one side of the fixed component 200 and the back yoke 120 disposed on one side of the moving component 100. In this embodiment, multiple pairs of magnets 240 and back yokes 120 are installed in the OIS system 10.

[0069] In addition, such as Figure 15 As shown, the moving part 100 also includes a position sensor (e.g., a Hall sensor or a tunneling magnetoresistive (TMR) sensor) 130 for sensing its position. Figure 14 As shown, in this embodiment, multiple position sensors 130 are disposed at the upper and opposite peripheries of the moving member 100. Each position sensor 130 is surrounded by a coil of the actuator 300, which is described in detail below. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a back yoke 120 is placed on the back of the position sensor 130. Additionally, in this embodiment, a magnet 240 interacting with the back yoke 120 is disposed on the fixing member 200 opposite to the back yoke 120, i.e., disposed at the side periphery of the fixing member 200. The back yoke 120, in addition to generating magnetic attraction, is also used to control the magnetic flux entering the position sensor 130 (e.g., ...). Figure 15 (As indicated by the arrow in the image). That is to say, by adjusting (i) the thickness of the back yoke 120, (ii) the distance between the back yoke 120 and the magnet 240, and (iii) the shape of the back yoke 120, the optimal magnetic attraction (pressure boost) and magnetic flux can be obtained.

[0070] Refer again Figure 14The moving component 100 includes a pair of coils 310a, 310b and a pair of coils 320a, 320b. In this embodiment, the pair of coils 310a, 310b and the pair of coils 320a, 320b are elliptical. The pair of coils 310a, 310b are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction of the moving component 100 on the periphery of the moving component 100. On the other hand, the pair of coils 320a, 320b are respectively arranged on two opposite periphery sides of the moving component 100. The actuator 300 for displacing the moving component 100 relative to the fixed component 200 to achieve optical image stabilization uses the pair of coils 310a, 310b and the pair of coils 320a, 320b as its main components. More specifically, the pair of coils 310a, 310b are used to move the moving component 100 in the Y and roll directions (see...). Figure 2 On the other hand, this pair of coils 320a and 320b are used to move the moving part 100 in the X direction (see...). Figure 2 ) Upper displacement.

[0071] Figure 16 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of OIS system 10 taken from line A5-A5 in the diagram. Figure 16 As can be seen, the moving part 100 also includes drivers 330a and 330b for driving a pair of coils 320a and 320b, which are the main components of the actuator 300. These drivers 330a and 330b also drive a pair of coils 310a and 310b, which are the main components of the actuator 300. The pair of coils 310a and 310b and the pair of coils 320a and 320b are operated in cooperation by the drivers 330a and 330b to displace the moving part 100 relative to the fixed part 200, so that the system can exhibit the optical image stabilization function of the OIS system 10. Of course, the number of drivers for driving the coils of the actuator 300 is not limited to this embodiment. Generally, one driver can drive three channels. In the above embodiment, two drivers are used to obtain sufficient actuator thrust (i.e., channel 1: coil 310a; channel 2: coil 310b; channel 3: coil 320a; channel 4: coil 320b). However, if needed, the two drivers can be combined into one (in this case, for example, channel 1: coil 310a; channel 2: coil 310b; channel 3: coils 320a and 320b).

[0072] In this embodiment, in order to reduce the overall size of the OIS system 10, the overall size of the camera module 1a is reduced, and the coils of the driver and actuator 300 are stacked. Figure 16A configuration is shown where a pair of coils 320a and 320b are stacked with drivers 330a and 330b. Power is supplied to the pair of coils 320a and 320b from an electronic circuit board 140 using a probe 350. Figure 17 As further shown, in this embodiment, multiple probes 350 are assigned to a single coil. Alternatively, as... Figure 18 As shown, a flexible printed circuit (FPC) 360 can be used to power the electronic circuit board 140 to a pair of coils 310a, 310b and a pair of coils 320a, 320b.

[0073] As described above, in this embodiment of the invention, the signal transmission member 400 for transmitting signals from the image sensor 110 to the outside (i.e., the signal receiving terminal 220) is constructed as a leaf spring. Furthermore, the connecting arm portion 430 of the signal transmission member 400 is constructed such that it extends along a non-linear path that begins at a first end 410 of the signal transmission member 400, approximately circles the first end 410 once, and terminates at a second end 420 of the signal transmission member 400. In other words, the signal transmission member 400 has a unique spring structure that spirals from the center outwards. Compared to conventional signal transmission members, this unique structure is particularly effective in reducing the spring constant in the rolling direction (rotational direction). In this embodiment of the invention, this effect is further enhanced by dividing the signal transmission member 400 into multiple branches 431a to 431d.

[0074] Furthermore, through this unique structure, the signal transmission component 400 can achieve its maximum extension length within the limited space available in the OIS system 10. Therefore, compared to conventional signal transmission components, the signal transmission component 400 can also reduce the spring constants in the X and Y directions.

[0075] Therefore, according to the above embodiments of the present invention, an OIS system 10 can be provided, which can significantly reduce the reaction force when working in the three-axis directions (X, Y and roll directions) without increasing the overall size of the camera module 1a.

[0076] In addition, according to the above embodiments of the present invention, a pair of signal transmission members 400 are arranged rotationally symmetrically about the center point O of the image sensor 110 of the moving member 100. Furthermore, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the pair of signal transmission members 400 are arranged symmetrically about a vertical line L passing through the center point O of the image sensor 110 and perpendicular to the width direction (Y direction) of the fixed member 200. These arrangements significantly reduce the anisotropy of the image sensor 110's displacement in the X and Y directions and its rotational motion about the Z-axis. Therefore, excellent three-axis optical image stabilization can be achieved even when using low-thrust actuators in small mobile devices.

[0077] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been explained above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications and changes are also included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An optical image stabilization system (10) for a camera module (1a), characterized in that, The system includes: The moving part (100) includes an image sensor (110); The fixed component (200) includes a front opening (210) to expose the image sensor (110) of the movable component (100) to the outside, wherein the image sensor (110) is configured to correspond to the opening of the fixed component (200), the movable component (100) is disposed inside the fixed component (200), and the movable component (100) is displaceable relative to the fixed component (200); An actuator (300) is used to displace the moving part (100) relative to the fixed part (200) to achieve optical image stabilization; A pair of signal transmission components (400) for transmitting signals from the image sensor (110) of the movable component (100) to a corresponding signal receiving terminal (220) fixed on the fixed component (200), wherein each signal transmission component (400) includes a first end (410) and a second end (420), the first end (410) of each signal transmission component (400) being electrically connected to the image sensor (110) of the movable component (100), and the second end (420) of each signal transmission component (400) being electrically connected to the corresponding signal receiving terminal (220). Each signal transmission component (400) is constructed as a leaf spring. Each signal transmission component (400) further includes a connecting arm portion (430), wherein the first end (410) and the second end (420) of each signal transmission component (400) are connected as one unit through the connecting arm portion (430). The connecting arm portion (430) of each signal transmission member (400) extends along the path between the first end (410) and the second end (420) of each signal transmission member (400) and surrounds the first end (410).

2. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pair of signal transmission components (400) are arranged adjacently on a plane (P) along a first direction (Y) of the fixed component (200), wherein the plane (P) is parallel to the surface of the image sensor (110) of the moving component (100).

3. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pair of signal transmission components (400) are arranged rotationally symmetrically around the center point (O) of the image sensor (110) of the moving part (100).

4. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pair of signal transmission components (400) are symmetrically arranged about the center point (O) of the image sensor (110) passing through the moving part (100) and a vertical line (L) perpendicular to the first direction (Y) of the fixed part (200).

5. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The connecting arm portion (430) of each signal transmission component (400) includes a plurality of straight segments (430a) and a plurality of curved segments (430b) that connect adjacent straight segments (430a) to each other.

6. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The connecting arm portion (430) of each signal transmission component (400) includes at least four straight segments (430a) and at least three curved segments (430b) of about 90 degrees, thereby the connecting arm portion (430) is spiral.

7. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The connecting arm portion (430) of each signal transmission component (400) extends along a spiral path with an ever-increasing radius of curvature.

8. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The second end (420) of each signal transmission component (400) is electrically connected to the corresponding signal receiving terminal (220) and integrated into a single common terminal (220').

9. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The connecting arm portion (430) of each signal transmission member (400) is divided into multiple branches (431a to 431d) by at least one slit (432a to 432c) extending along the extension direction of the signal transmission member (400).

10. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that, At least two slits (432a to 432c) extend along the extension direction of the signal transmission member (400), thereby dividing the connecting arm portion (430) of each signal transmission member (400) into at least three branches (431a to 431d).

11. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The slits (432a to 432c) are spaced equally.

12. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The signal transmission component (400) includes a metal support layer (441) and at least one conductive layer (442a to 442d) stacked on the metal support layer (441).

13. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The signal transmission component (400) includes a plurality of conductive layers (442a to 442d), wherein the plurality of conductive layers (442a to 442d) are stacked together and insulated from each other.

14. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The fixed component (200) includes a back plate (230) for surrounding the movable component (100) inside the fixed component (200), wherein the corresponding signal receiving terminal (220) to which the second end (420) of each signal transmission component (400) is electrically connected is disposed on the back plate (230) of the fixed component (200).

15. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The moving part (100) is pressed against the fixed part (200) by at least three balls (500a to 500c) arranged around the center point (O) of the image sensor (110) of the moving part (100).

16. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The movable component (100) is pressed against the fixed component (200) by magnetic attraction.

17. The optical image stabilization system (10) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The magnetic attraction is generated by the interaction between at least one magnet (240) disposed on one side of the fixed component (200) and at least one back yoke (120) disposed on one side of the moving component (100).

18. A terminal device (1) including a camera module (1a), characterized in that, The camera module (1a) includes an optical image stabilization system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

Images