Ball-Guided Camera Module Actuator for Precise Autofocus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera modules face challenges in efficiently and accurately controlling the movement of lenses for autofocus, particularly in terms of precision and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design incorporating a lens carrier supported by balls and guided by electromagnetic coils and yokes, with offset magnets for precise movement along the optical axis, allowing for controlled lens positioning using electromagnetic coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional mechanical actuators (spring, ball, SMA wire) are used to move the lens, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the autofocus precision and energy efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuators (spring, ball, SMA wire) with an electromagnetic actuator system consisting of magnets and coils. This substitution enables more precise control of lens movement through electromagnetic forces while maintaining a relatively compact structure suitable for camera modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple magnets positioned at different offsets from the optical axis (first direction and second direction) with corresponding coils. By controlling the current parameters in these coils, the system can precisely adjust the lens position along the optical axis, achieving high autofocus precision through parameter control rather than complex mechanical linkages.
2Use of energy by moving object
If traditional mechanical actuators are used, then the device is easier to operate, but energy consumption is higher and efficiency is lower
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic actuator system replaces energy-inefficient mechanical actuators. Electromagnetic coils can be controlled to generate precise forces with lower energy consumption, and the system responds rapidly to control signals, improving both energy efficiency and ease of operation through electronic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic coils can be activated periodically or in pulses to achieve lens movement, allowing the system to consume energy only when adjustment is needed rather than continuously, thereby improving overall energy efficiency while maintaining ease of control through electronic timing.
3Measurement precision
If multiple magnets and coils are used for precise lens positioning, then autofocus precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions magnets asymmetrically with different offsets from the optical axis in different directions. This asymmetric arrangement creates distinct electromagnetic coupling characteristics for each magnet-coil pair, enabling precise control of lens position through differential activation of coils while maintaining a manageable structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic actuator is divided into multiple independent magnet-coil pairs, each responsible for specific directional control. This segmentation allows the system to achieve complex positioning through coordinated activation of simpler individual units, balancing precision with manageable 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
Enhances autofocus precision and reduces energy consumption by optimizing lens movement through electromagnetic actuation, improving image capture quality and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first coil in the camera housing and configured to be electromagnetically coupled with the first magnet; a second coil in the camera housing and configured to be electromagnetically coupled with the second magnet
Data Source
AI summary
The camera module includes a lens having an optical axis; a carrier configured to carry the lens in a direction along the optical axis; a camera housing accommodating the carrier; a first magnet in the carrier and offset from the optical axis in a first direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis; a second magnet in the carrier and offset from the optical axis in a second direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis; a first coil configured to be electromagnetically coupled with the first magnet; a second coil configured to be electromagnetically coupled with the second magnet; a first yoke facing the first magnet; a second yoke facing the second magnet; and at least three balls between the carrier and the camera housing and configured to support the carrier with respect to the camera housing and to guide the carrier in the direction along the optical axis.