Camera Base Cutout for Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small form factor cameras face challenges in achieving high-resolution imaging with optical image stabilization and autofocus due to structural limitations that obstruct the proximity of position sensing components, leading to reduced sensitivity and increased stray field rejection.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating base cutouts in the camera design to reduce the gap between probe magnets and position sensors, allowing for improved position sensing performance by enabling higher sensitivity and better stray field rejection through a more compact and efficient position sensing arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a compact camera structure is used to achieve small form factor, then the camera size is reduced, but the gap between probe magnets and position sensors increases leading to reduced sensing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The base cutout introduces a new spatial dimension by creating a through-opening in the base structure, allowing probe magnets to extend vertically beyond the base plane. This dimensional change enables the position sensing arrangement to achieve a compact footprint while maintaining adequate sensing gap, as the magnets and sensors are arranged in the vertical dimension rather than competing for horizontal space.
2Strength
If base structure is solid to provide structural support, then mechanical strength is improved, but position sensor proximity to probe magnets is obstructed leading to reduced sensing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The base cutout extracts a portion of the base structure to create a through-opening, removing the obstructing base material in the region where position sensing occurs. This extraction allows probe magnets and position sensors to be positioned in close proximity while the remaining base structure maintains overall mechanical support functions.
3Measurement precision
If probe magnets and position sensors are placed close together to improve sensing sensitivity, then position detection precision is improved, but structural obstruction from base components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base structure is segmented by introducing a cutout that divides the base into regions around the opening. This segmentation allows the position sensing arrangement to be isolated in a dedicated space where probe magnets and sensors can be positioned optimally without interference from other base components, simplifying the overall structural arrangement.
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 reduced gap between the probe magnet and position sensor enhances position sensing performance, providing improved sensitivity and stray field rejection, thereby enabling better optical image stabilization and autofocus capabilities in small form factor cameras.
Implementation Method 1
A probe magnet may be attached to the protrusion of the lens carrier, and a position sensor for sensing magnetic fields of the probe magnet may be attached to the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a camera having one or more base cutouts for a position sensing arrangement. For example, the position sensing arrangement may be used to determine a position of a moveable lens group and/or a moveable image sensor. According to some embodiments, a base structure of the camera may include a cutout that allows for a protrusion of a lens carrier to extend (e.g., in a direction parallel to an optical axis of the camera) past at least a portion of the base structure. A probe magnet may be attached to the protrusion of the lens carrier, and a position sensor for sensing magnetic fields of the probe magnet may be attached to the substrate.