Camera Module Lens Cone Friction Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera modules in thin and light electronic devices face challenges in maintaining a constant viewing angle and image quality due to reduced height and increased light-sensitive chip size, while existing solutions like voice coil motors cannot stretch the lens cone and result in high power consumption and image quality issues.
Innovation Solution
A camera module with a lens module that can move along the optical axis, utilizing elastic components for radial pressure and electromagnetic forces from coils and magnetic components to control the lens cone's movement, allowing for stretching and focusing while minimizing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a voice coil motor is used to move the lens cone, then the device can be made thinner, but the lens cone cannot stretch out and only achieves automatic focusing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic friction control mechanism where the friction force between the lens cone and guide structure is adjusted based on operational needs. During stretching, the friction is reduced to allow movement; during static positioning, friction increases to maintain position without continuous power input, enabling both thin profile and stretching functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the friction parameter dynamically between static and kinetic states. By controlling the friction coefficient through mechanical design rather than continuous electromagnetic force, the system achieves lens cone stretching capability while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for thin devices
2Stability of the object's composition
If current is continuously supplied to the coil to balance elastomer elasticity, then the lens cone position is maintained, but power consumption is relatively large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-locking friction mechanism where the lens cone's own weight and the guide structure's friction create a self-balancing system. Once positioned, the lens cone remains stable without continuous power input, as the static friction force naturally counteracts gravitational and elastic forces, eliminating the need for continuous current supply
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuous current supply, the system uses periodic or intermittent actuation to overcome static friction when movement is needed, then relies on static friction to maintain position. This periodic action significantly reduces average power consumption while maintaining position stability
3Length of moving object
If the lens cone moves along the optical axis without a guide structure, then movement is possible, but the optical path becomes eccentric and image quality is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a guide structure as an intermediary element between the lens cone and the camera module housing. This guide structure provides precise linear guidance along the optical axis, constraining the lens cone to move only in the intended direction and preventing lateral displacement that would cause optical path eccentricity
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure is designed with dynamic friction characteristics that allow smooth movement during actuation while providing sufficient constraint during positioning. The friction-based guidance mechanism enables the lens cone to follow the optical axis precisely during stretching and focusing operations
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
Enables the lens cone to stretch and increase light-sensitive chip size without compromising the viewing angle, improving image quality while reducing power consumption, and being suitable for thin electronic devices like mobile phones and tablets.
Implementation Method 1
deformation of the elastic components perpendicular to the optical axis direction applies a radial positive pressure to the lens module
Implementation Method 2
a frictional force in the optical axis direction is generated by the positive pressure on a contact surface of the elastic components and the lens module
Implementation Method 3
the lens module is subject to an electromagnetic force in the optical axis direction, the electromagnetic force acting as a driving force for the lens module to do rectilinear motion along the optical axis direction
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a control method for a camera module. The camera module comprises an imaging module, a sleeve module, a lens module which is mounted in the sleeve module and can move along an optical axis direction relative to the sleeve module, at least one coil, at least one magnetic component, and elastic components disposed between the lens module and the sleeve module. The method comprises: pressing the elastic components against the lens module, wherein a deformation of the elastic components perpendicular to the optical axis direction applies a radial positive pressure to the lens module, a frictional force in the optical axis direction is generated by the positive pressure on a contact surface of the elastic components and the lens module so that the frictional force can keep the lens module in a static state in the optical axis direction relative to the elastic components; and supplying current to the at least one coil, wherein the at least one coil or the at least one magnetic component optionally matches the lens module, and the lens module is subject to an electromagnetic force in the optical axis direction, the electromagnetic force acting as a driving force for the lens module to do rectilinear motion along the optical axis direction so as to drive the lens module to move.