Actuator Control via Induced Voltage Feedback for Autofocus Settling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Autofocus systems in electronic devices face increased settling time due to resonance vibrations caused by external forces and control operations, as existing systems are not designed to directly stop or suppress these vibrations.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an induced voltage detection circuit and feedback control systems that utilize the self-induced voltage generated by the actuator to adjust its position, thereby reducing settling time by suppressing resonance vibrations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If constant current is applied to the actuator, then the actuator generates constant force for lens movement, but resonance vibrations occur causing increased settling time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveactuator forceVSAvoidsettling time
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback control system that detects the induced voltage generated by the actuator and uses this information to adjust the drive signal. The controller monitors the actuator's response and dynamically adjusts the current to suppress resonance vibrations, thereby reducing settling time while maintaining the constant force capability when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful resonance vibrations into a useful signal by detecting the induced voltage generated during vibration. This induced voltage serves as feedback information that the controller uses to generate counteracting signals, transforming the problematic vibration into a diagnostic and control resource that actively reduces the settling time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the actuator operates in normal mode, then it provides stable lens positioning, but it cannot directly stop or suppress resonance vibrations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens positioning stabilityVSAvoidvibration suppression capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the actuator control system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both normal positioning operations and vibration suppression. The same actuator and control circuitry that provide stable positioning are enhanced with induced voltage detection and adaptive control capabilities, allowing the system to switch between or combine positioning and vibration suppression modes as needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the static normal operating mode into a dynamic adaptive mode. The controller continuously monitors the induced voltage and adjusts the drive signal in real-time, allowing the actuator to dynamically respond to vibration conditions. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to maintain positioning stability while actively suppressing resonances that would otherwise persist.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of time

If induced voltage detection circuit is added, then vibration suppression is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesettling timeVSAvoidcontrol circuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service control approach where the actuator's own induced voltage serves as the sensing signal for vibration detection. Rather than requiring an external sensor to detect vibrations, the system uses the electrical property naturally generated by the actuator during motion, eliminating the need for additional mechanical sensors and simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the sensing and actuation functions into a single integrated system. The induced voltage detection circuit is combined with the existing drive circuitry, and the control algorithm integrates both positioning and vibration suppression objectives. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the control architecture while achieving both functions simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 approach significantly reduces the time it takes for the actuator and lens to reach a desired position, improving autofocus performance by continuously providing feedback control and adjusting the drive signal based on the induced voltage, thus enhancing image stabilization and quality.

Implementation Method 1

When a constant current is applied to the actuator, a constant force is created as well as an induced voltage that is proportional to the velocity of the actuator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the operation of the actuator is governed by the Lorentz Force principle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLorentz Force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS10574914B2Methods and apparatus for actuator control
Publication Date: 2020.02.25 SEMICON COMPONENTS IND LLC
  • US10574914B2 patent drawing
  • US10574914B2 patent drawing
  • US10574914B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various embodiments of the present technology may comprise methods and apparatus for actuator control. The methods and apparatus may comprise various circuits and/or systems to detect an induced voltage and various signal processing functions to utilize the induced voltage to control the actuator. The apparatus for actuator control may comprise an induced voltage detection circuit and adjust the actuator position according to the detected induced voltage.