Camera Module Circuit Board Layout for Compact Dual-Actuator Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera modules face challenges in achieving improved assemblability, reliability, and efficient electrical connections while maintaining a compact size, particularly in ultra-slim and high-resolution cameras, with issues related to assembly tolerance and foreign matter inflow.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design featuring a first and second actuator with a circuit board configuration that includes overlapping regions and connectors, allowing for efficient electrical connections and reduced foreign matter ingress, while minimizing assembly tolerance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the circuit board is extended in the optical axis direction to connect both actuators, then electrical connection efficiency is improved, but the overall module length increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection efficiencyVSAvoidmodule length
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit board extends not only in the optical axis direction but also in the radial direction, creating a three-dimensional layout that optimizes both connection efficiency and compactness. The board transitions from a simple linear extension to a multi-directional structure that connects actuators efficiently without proportionally increasing overall length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The circuit board is positioned and configured to nest within the radial space of the actuators, utilizing the available three-dimensional space efficiently. This nesting arrangement allows the circuit board to connect both actuators while minimizing the external dimensions of the module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If the circuit board overlaps both actuators radially to reduce module size, then compactness is improved, but assembly tolerance becomes more critical

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule volumeVSAvoidassembly tolerance
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit board is divided into multiple regions with different functions: a first region for connecting the first actuator and a second region for connecting the second actuator. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized independently for its specific connection requirements, reducing the impact of assembly tolerance on the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the circuit board are designed with different properties - the first region has characteristics optimized for the first actuator connection while the second region is optimized for the second actuator. This local optimization allows the board to accommodate both actuators in a compact arrangement while maintaining reliable connections despite tolerance variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of manufacture

If the circuit board structure is simplified for easier assembly, then assemblability is improved, but foreign matter inflow protection is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveassemblabilityVSAvoidforeign matter inflow
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The circuit board integrates multiple functions into a single component: electrical connection, structural support, and foreign matter protection. By combining these functions, the design achieves good assemblability without sacrificing protection capabilities, as the board itself serves as both a connector and a barrier.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The circuit board is designed as a multi-functional element that simultaneously provides electrical connectivity, mechanical support, and protection against foreign matter intrusion. This universal design reduces the need for additional protective components, maintaining assemblability while preventing foreign matter inflow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4664912A1Camera actuator and camera module comprising same
Publication Date: 2025.12.17 LG INNOTEK CO LTD
  • EP4664912A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4664912A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4664912A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Disclosed in an embodiment of the present invention is a camera module comprising a first actuator, a second actuator, and a circuit board that are sequentially arranged in the optical axis direction, wherein the circuit board includes: a first circuit board unit on which an image sensor is loaded; and a second circuit board unit which is connected to the first circuit board and which extends in the optical axis direction, and the second circuit board unit overlaps the first actuator and the second actuator in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction so as to be connected to the first actuator.