Camera Module Carrier Structure for Compact Optical Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of optical image stabilization functions in compact electronic devices, such as smartphones, increases manufacturing and purchase costs while complicating assembly processes and potentially degrading image quality due to user hand tremors.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring a first carrier movable horizontally, a second carrier movable horizontally and along the optical axis, and a lens array with elastic members guiding the second carrier's movement, allowing for stable focusing and image stabilization without increasing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical image stabilization functions are integrated into compact electronic devices, then image quality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical image stabilization function with the existing camera module structure by integrating a movable lens assembly that can shift horizontally to counteract hand tremors. This consolidation allows image stabilization capability to be added without requiring separate stabilization components, thereby improving image quality while controlling manufacturing costs through structural integration rather than component multiplication.
2Reliability
If optical image stabilization functions are integrated into compact electronic devices, then image quality is improved, but assembly process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the camera module into distinct functional components: a fixed carrier holding the image sensor, and a movable carrier holding the lens assembly that can shift independently. This segmentation allows the stabilization function to be implemented as a separate movable unit that can be assembled onto the fixed structure, simplifying the overall assembly process compared to integrating stabilization mechanics throughout the entire module.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable carrier containing the lens assembly is nested within or coupled to the fixed carrier structure. This nested arrangement allows the stabilization mechanism to be housed within the existing camera module footprint, enabling compact integration without requiring additional external components or complex external mounting procedures, thus simplifying assembly while maintaining image stabilization capability.
3Reliability
If multiple cameras or image sensors are used to enhance image quality, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements optical image stabilization by making the lens assembly dynamically movable along the horizontal axis to counteract hand tremors, rather than using multiple static cameras or sensors. This dynamic single-lens approach achieves image stabilization functionality without the complexity of multiple camera systems, maintaining device simplicity while improving image quality through active optical compensation.
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 provides high-quality images with optical image stabilization, maintaining cost-effectiveness and simplifying assembly by integrating a stable focusing operation and optical image stabilization function into compact devices.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic member connecting the second carrier to the first carrier and configured to guide movement of the second carrier relative to the first carrier
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes: an image sensor configured to receive light incident an optical axis direction and generate an electrical signal; a first carrier movable horizontally; a second carrier movable horizontally and in the optical axis direction; a lens array moveable in the optical axis direction and focus the light to the image sensor; and at least one elastic member configured to guide the second carrier. The at least one elastic member includes: a first fixing portion; at least one first elastic portion extending from the first fixing portion; a second fixing portion at an end of the at least one first elastic portion; at least one second elastic portion extending from the at least one first elastic portion between the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion; and at least one third fixing portion at an end of the at least one second elastic portion.