Foldable Camera Module Magnet Structure for Lens Vibration Restraint

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Camera modules in electronic devices experience vibration when power is not supplied, leading to noise generation and potential damage to the lens assembly due to uncontrolled movement.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a first magnet within the second housing to limit the movement of the lens assembly in the folding state of the electronic device, using an actuator with a second magnet and a carrier to control the lens assembly's movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the lens assembly is made movable within the camera module to enable autofocus and image stabilization functions, then the camera module can automatically adjust focus and stabilize images, but the lens assembly generates vibration and noise when power is not supplied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautofocus and image stabilization functionsVSAvoidvibration and noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by introducing a magnet assembly that generates a magnetic field to preemptively counteract and restrain the lens assembly's movement. The magnet assembly is positioned to interact with the lens assembly through the case, creating a restraining force that prevents vibration and noise generation while allowing the lens assembly to remain movable for autofocus and image stabilization functions when powered.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the lens assembly is made movable within the camera module, then the camera module can adjust focus, but the lens assembly may be damaged due to uncontrolled movement when power is not supplied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefocus adjustment capabilityVSAvoidlens assembly durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The magnet assembly provides preliminary protective action by creating a magnetic restraining force that prevents uncontrolled movement of the lens assembly when power is not supplied. This protective mechanism is always active and prevents damage before it can occur, while not interfering with the normal operation of the lens assembly when the camera module is powered and functioning properly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

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

Prevents vibration and subsequent noise generation, protecting the lens assembly from damage by restricting its movement.

Implementation Method 1

a first magnet disposed within the second housing and facing the camera module when the electronic device is in the folding state... the first magnet may limit the movement of the lens assembly by interaction with the second magnet when the electronic device is in the folding state

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP4400908B1Electronic device including structure for reducing vibration in camera module
Publication Date: 2025.12.10 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP4400908B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4400908B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4400908B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

An electronic device may comprise: a first housing including a first surface and a second surface; a second housing including a third surface and a fourth surface; a hinge structure; a camera module disposed in the first housing; and a first magnet disposed in the second housing and opposite to the camera module. The camera module may comprise: a case including one surface facing the first surface and the other surface facing the second surface; a lens assembly movable in the case; and an actuator configured to move the lens assembly in a direction facing one surface of the case or direction facing the other surface of the case and accommodating a second magnet therein. When the electronic device is in a folding state, the first magnet may interact with the second magnet to restrict the movement of the lens assembly.