Camera Actuator Reinforcement for Stable Lens Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lens assemblies in camera modules bend due to the weight of lens groups, leading to image quality deterioration and improper functioning as light refracts through the lens groups during movement.
Innovation Solution
A camera actuator design with a housing containing first and second lens assemblies, each with reinforcement portions perpendicular to the optical axis, and a driving unit with magnets and coils to move the lens assemblies, including reinforcement structures to prevent bending and facilitate efficient heat dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If lens groups are provided in the lens assembly to enable camera functions, then the camera can perform image stabilization, auto-focus, and zoom functions, but the weight of lens groups causes bending of the lens assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The lens assembly is divided into multiple lens groups (first lens group, second lens group, third lens group) that can move independently. Each lens group is supported by separate support structures (first support structure, second support structure) within the housing, allowing individual stabilization while maintaining overall assembly functionality for image stabilization, auto-focus, and zoom operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where lens groups are positioned within the housing, with support structures nested between the housing and the lens groups. The first lens group, second lens group, and third lens group are arranged in sequence within the housing, with each supported by corresponding support structures that are nested within the overall assembly, creating a compact yet stable configuration.
2Extent of automation
If the lens assembly moves in the optical axis direction through electrical interaction, then auto-focus and zoom functions are achieved, but load is applied only to certain parts causing bending
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides localized support structures at specific positions within the housing. The first support structure supports the first lens group, the second support structure supports the second lens group, and the third support structure supports the third lens group. This localized support distribution ensures that loads from electrical interaction during auto-focus and zoom operations are properly distributed to multiple support points rather than concentrated on single parts, preventing bending while maintaining automated functions.
3Stability of the object's composition
If reinforcement portions are added to prevent bending, then lens assembly stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structures serve dual functions: they act as reinforcement portions to prevent bending of the lens assembly while simultaneously serving as mounting structures for the lens groups. The first support structure, second support structure, and third support structure are integrated into the housing design, combining the reinforcement function with the structural support function, thereby improving stability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
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
Prevents lens assembly bending, allowing for miniaturization of the camera actuator while maintaining image quality by stabilizing the lens assemblies and enhancing heat dissipation.
Implementation Method 1
a driving unit configured to move the second lens assembly in an optical axis direction, wherein the driving unit includes a first magnet disposed on the second lens assembly and a first coil disposed to face the first magnet
Implementation Method 2
the driving unit includes a second magnet disposed on the third lens assembly and a second coil disposed to face the second magnet
Data Source
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AI summary
A camera actuator according to the present invention comprises: a housing; a first lens assembly and a second lens assembly disposed inside the housing and arranged in an optical axis direction; and a driving unit for moving the second lens assembly in the optical axis direction, wherein the driving unit includes a first magnet disposed on the second lens assembly and a first coil disposed to face the first magnet, a first reinforcement part protruding in a first direction of facing the first magnet is disposed in the second lens assembly, and the first direction is perpendicular to the optical axis direction.