Camera Actuator Layout for Slim OIS Without Magnetic Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera modules face challenges in maintaining a combination between a mover and a housing due to space constraints, particularly in ultra-slim and ultra-small designs, and suffer from magnetic field interference between actuators for OIS, AF, and zoom functions, while also lacking direct testing capabilities for Hall sensors mounted on the same substrate.
Innovation Solution
A camera actuator design utilizing a repulsive force between first and second magnetic bodies to maintain a stable combination, allowing for ultra-slim and high-resolution cameras, with Hall sensors directly connected to test pads on the substrate for reliable mounting verification, and separate magnetic actuators to prevent interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If actuators for OIS are disposed around the lens to enable optical image stabilization, then image stabilization function is achieved, but space for arranging actuators and lens movement is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a 2D planar arrangement of actuators around the lens to a 3D configuration where actuators are positioned at different heights and depths. The first actuator is disposed at a first height and the second actuator at a second height, utilizing vertical space dimension to resolve the space constraint problem while maintaining OIS functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The OIS actuator system is segmented into multiple independent actuators (first actuator and second actuator) positioned at different locations and heights. This segmentation allows each actuator to be optimally positioned for its specific function while reducing interference and space constraints compared to a single centralized actuator arrangement.
2Illumination intensity
If lens size is increased to increase light reception for high pixel cameras, then image quality is improved, but space occupied by OIS actuator limits lens size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension (height) to position actuators, freeing up horizontal space that would otherwise be occupied by a single large actuator. This allows the lens to be enlarged for better light reception while actuators are arranged in the vertical space above or below the lens plane.
3Volume of stationary object
If magnet for OIS and magnet for AF or zoom are disposed close to each other to save space, then module size is reduced, but magnetic field interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic shielding structures (shielding magnets or shielding plates) positioned between the OIS magnet and AF/zoom magnets. These intermediary elements block or redirect magnetic field lines, preventing direct interference between the magnetic fields of different actuators while allowing the magnets to be disposed in close proximity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies magnetic shielding selectively in specific regions where magnetic field interference occurs. Rather than uniformly spacing all magnets apart, shielding is applied only in the local areas between OIS and AF/zoom magnets, maintaining compact overall module size while preventing interference at critical interfaces.
4Reliability
If driver IC and Hall sensor are mounted on the same substrate to reduce noise and minimize volume, then noise is reduced and volume is minimized, but direct testing of Hall sensor mounting state becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a test pad as an intermediary element on the substrate that provides a direct electrical connection path to the Hall sensor. This test pad allows external testing equipment to measure the mounting state of the Hall sensor (through resistance or continuity measurements) without requiring separate substrate connections, thus enabling quality control while maintaining the integrated mounting approach.
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
The design enables efficient actuator placement without increasing module size, improves Hall sensor testing reliability, enhances thrust and sensitivity, and prevents magnetic field interference, ensuring precise OIS and AF functions with low power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the tilting guide part is in close contact with the first member and the holder by a repulsive force of the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body
Implementation Method 2
a Hall sensor is used to detect the position and movement of the lens
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of the present invention provides a camera actuator comprising: a housing; a first member combined with the housing; a mover including an optical member; a first magnetic body disposed in the first member; a second magnetic body disposed in the mover; and a tilting-guiding part for guiding titling of the mover, wherein the mover comprises a holder combined with the optical member and a second member combined with the holder, and the tilting-guiding part is closely adhered to the first member and the holder by repulsion between the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body.