Camera Module Actuator Using Nested Substrate and Magnetic Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera modules with auto-focusing functions face challenges in miniaturization and integration into compact electronic devices like mobile phones due to space constraints and potential defects from electrical connections between coil and printed circuits.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design featuring a substrate unit with a coil member on one surface and connection pads on another, separated by an insulating cover part, along with a sensor member to accurately sense the position of a movable unit using magnetic forces, ensuring precise alignment and minimizing electrical contact risks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the camera module is miniaturized to fit in compact electronic devices, then the device size is reduced, but the integration of additional components becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecamera module sizeVSAvoidintegration of additional components

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor member is positioned inside the fixed unit with its sensing surface facing the movable unit through an opening. The insulating cover part is nested within the substrate unit, covering the coil member while allowing magnetic field passage. This nesting arrangement allows multiple components to be integrated in a compact space without increasing the overall module volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The coil member and connection pads are positioned on opposite surfaces of the substrate unit, utilizing the third dimension (vertical stacking) rather than spreading components horizontally. This dimensional arrangement reduces the horizontal footprint while maintaining electrical connectivity and magnetic actuation functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If electrical connections between coil and printed circuits are implemented, then the actuator function is achieved, but defects may occur from electrical connections

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveactuator functionVSAvoiddefects from electrical connections

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The insulating cover part acts as an intermediary element that covers the coil member and provides a structural bridge between the substrate unit and the movable unit. It mediates the spatial relationship between components while maintaining electrical insulation, preventing direct electrical contact that could cause defects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct electrical connections with a magnetic field-based actuation system. The coil member generates a magnetic field that acts on the magnet member in the movable unit, eliminating the need for sliding electrical contacts or complex printed circuit connections, thereby reducing connection-related defects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If the coil member and connection pads are on the same substrate, then manufacturing is simplified, but electrical insulation becomes challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesubstrate integrationVSAvoidelectrical insulation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The substrate unit is segmented into functional zones: the coil member is positioned on one surface while connection pads are placed on the opposite surface. The insulating cover part further segments the space by covering the coil area, creating distinct electrical zones that prevent unwanted electrical interactions while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The insulating cover part provides localized electrical insulation precisely where needed - covering the coil member and extending toward the movable unit. This local insulation approach maintains ease of manufacture by only adding insulation in critical areas rather than requiring complete substrate insulation, thereby balancing manufacturing simplicity with electrical safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 achieves miniaturization and reliable operation by reducing manufacturing costs and preventing defects from electrical connections, enabling efficient auto-focusing in compact devices.

Implementation Method 1

a coil member positioned on a first surface of a fixed unit; a magnet member positioned on a movable unit and facing the coil member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

a sensor member positioned on a second surface of the fixed unit and configured to sense a position of the movable unit

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field sensing: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS10003723B2Camera module including lens module actuator

Publication Date: 2018.06.19 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD

AI summary

A camera module includes a coil member, a magnet member, and a sensor member. The coil member is positioned on a first surface of a fixed unit. The magnet member is positioned on a movable unit and facing the coil member. The sensor member is positioned on a second surface of the fixed unit and configured to sense a position of the movable unit.