Asymmetric Lens Actuator Control for Compact Camera Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing camera actuators are bulky due to their square shape, which is not optimized for the aspect ratios of modern image sensors, leading to increased camera size and potential inefficiencies in optical image stabilization and auto focusing functions.
Innovation Solution
The actuator control apparatus features a unique configuration with drivers positioned differently on either side of a lens support member, allowing for varying current values based on distances and tilting directions to compensate for camera shake, enabling precise movement of the lens in multiple directions while maintaining a compact form factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If actuators are disposed in a square shape to cover the long axis of the image sensor, then the actuator can provide sufficient support for optical image stabilization and auto focusing, but the camera size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the four drivers at non-uniform distances from the lens optical center. Specifically, first and second drivers are positioned at a first distance from the optical center, while third and fourth drivers are positioned at a second distance that is greater than the first distance. This asymmetric arrangement allows the actuator to achieve effective optical image stabilization and auto focusing performance while reducing the overall actuator outline size, thereby decreasing camera size without sacrificing reliability
2Volume of moving object
If drivers are positioned at different distances from the lens optical center, then the actuator size is reduced, but the control complexity increases due to varying current requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different current values to drivers based on their specific positions and functions. The controller is configured to apply a first current value to first and second drivers, and a second current value to third and fourth drivers, where the first and second current values are different. This localized control approach compensates for the asymmetric positioning, ensuring that each driver operates at optimal performance levels while maintaining overall system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by dynamically adjusting current values applied to different drivers based on operational conditions. The controller changes current parameters (first current value vs. second current value) to compensate for the different distances of drivers from the lens optical center, enabling precise control despite the reduced and asymmetric actuator configuration
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 solution allows for a smaller camera size with enhanced optical image stabilization and auto focusing capabilities, enabling precise compensation for shake in various directions, thus improving image quality and reducing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator which changes an optical path of a lens, and a controller which controls the actuator, wherein the actuator includes a first driver and a second driver
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment of the present invention, an actuator control apparatus comprises: an actuator changing an optical path of a lens; and a controller controlling the actuator, wherein the actuator comprises a first driver and a second driver which are arranged on a first side of a lens support member, and a third driver and a fourth driver which are arranged on a second side of the lens support member. A first distance between the first driver and the second driver is different from a second distance between the first driver and the third driver, and the first driver and the fourth driver are located in a diagonal direction with respect to each other. The controller applies a first current to the second driver and the third driver and applies a second current to the first driver and the fourth driver. When the lens is moved in a diagonal direction, an absolute value of the first current is different from an absolute value of the second current.