Camera Module Ball-Bearing OIS for Impact-Resistant Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera modules in mobile devices face issues with reliability due to deformation of suspension wires during optical image stabilization (OIS) operations, leading to driving displacement and high power consumption.

Innovation Solution

The camera module employs ball bearings to support the lens barrel, allowing independent movement in two perpendicular directions using electromagnetic interaction between magnets and coils, reducing the risk of deformation and power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If suspension wire is used to support lens module in OIS actuator, then lens module can be moved perpendicular to optical axis, but suspension wire is vulnerable to external impacts and may be deformed causing driving displacement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelens module movement capabilityVSAvoidproduct reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical suspension wire system with a magnetic field-based actuation system. Electromagnetic actuators generate forces through magnetic fields to move the lens module, eliminating the need for physical suspension wires that are vulnerable to deformation and external impacts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters by transitioning from mechanical wire-based support to electromagnetic field-based actuation. This parameter change allows the lens module to be positioned and stabilized without relying on the mechanical integrity of suspension wires, thereby improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If suspension wire is used to support lens module, then OIS operation is enabled, but large amount of power is consumed by the actuator

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveOIS operationVSAvoidpower consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a hybrid system where the electromagnetic actuator provides only the necessary corrective force for OIS rather than continuously powering the lens module. The suspension wire maintains basic support position, and the actuator applies partial electromagnetic force only when hand shake compensation is needed, reducing overall power consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If suspension wire is used for OIS, then hand shake compensation can be achieved, but driving displacement is generated and reliability is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehand shake compensation capabilityVSAvoidproduct reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the power source and the lens module. Instead of direct mechanical connection through wires, the electromagnetic actuator uses magnetic field interaction to transmit force, providing a non-contact force transmission mechanism that improves reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This design enhances reliability against external impacts and prevents driving displacement while minimizing power consumption by optimizing movement compensation for disturbances like hand shake.

Implementation Method 1

driving forces generated by a coil in response to a current flowing along the coil

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

driving forces generated by a coil in response to a current flowing along the coil, the driving forces being forces generated by electromagnetic interaction between a magnet and the coil

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS12360388B2Camera module

Publication Date: 2025.07.15 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD

AI summary

There is provided a camera module including a plurality of ball bearings to support the driving of a lens barrel at the time of compensating for unintended camera movement due to disturbance such as hand shake. The lens barrel may be driven in first and second directions, independently, by one driving force exerted in the first direction perpendicular to an optical axis and by another driving force exerted in the second direction perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first direction, thereby preventing driving displacement from being generated at the time of compensating for unwanted motion such as hand shake while securing reliability against external impact, and having reduced power consumption at the time of compensating for the disturbance.