Camera Module Elastic Connection for Compact Autofocus and OIS

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing voice coil motor (VCM) technology is difficult to apply in subminiature, low-power camera modules, and there is a need for improved assembly processes and reduced noise in miniaturized camera modules for smartphones and mobile devices with enhanced functionalities like autofocusing and handshake correction.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design that integrates an image sensor with an integral connecting board, reducing soldering points and using a connective elastic member with couplers to simplify assembly and reduce noise, while allowing for autofocusing and handshake correction through a lens module and image sensor movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If VCM technology is applied in existing general camera modules, then autofocusing and handshake correction functions are achieved, but the device size increases and power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautofocusing and handshake correction functionsVSAvoidcamera module size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the image sensor, connecting board, and support structure into an integrated assembly where the image sensor is directly mounted on the connecting board which is coupled to the support member. This merging eliminates separate components and reduces overall volume while maintaining OIS functionality through the integrated magnet and coil arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting board serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connections to the image sensor, structural support for mounting, and integration with the support member for OIS operation. The support member simultaneously provides mechanical support and enables the OIS function through its coupling with the magnet and coil assembly, reducing the need for separate dedicated components.

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

2Ease of operation

If multiple separate components are used for image sensor mounting, then assembly flexibility is maintained, but the number of soldering points increases and reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly flexibilityVSAvoidimage sensor operational reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The image sensor is directly mounted on the connecting board in an integrated assembly, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets, additional soldering layers, and intermediate connectors. This direct integration reduces the total number of soldering points and potential failure points while improving signal integrity by reducing the signal path length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of repair

If traditional multi-component assembly is used, then component replacement is easier, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent replacement easeVSAvoidassembly structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated assembly of image sensor on connecting board coupled to support member creates a streamlined structure with fewer discrete components. While individual component replacement may be slightly more complex, the overall assembly process is simplified, and the reduced component count lowers manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Stability of the object's composition

If image sensor is mounted with multiple soldering connections, then structural stability is improved, but image noise increases and reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage sensor mounting stabilityVSAvoidimage noise
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate soldering connections and mounting structures from the signal path between the image sensor and the circuit board. By providing a direct mounting arrangement, it removes potential sources of electrical noise and interference while maintaining structural stability through the rigid connecting board and support member integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

Simplifies assembly, reduces noise, and lowers material and manufacturing costs by minimizing components and processes, while enhancing autofocus and handshake correction capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a connective elastic member including a first coupler disposed on the holder and coupled to the first terminal, a second coupler coupled to the remaining end of the support member, and a connector connecting the first coupler to the second coupler

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The image sensor may be shifted or tilted in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis by virtue of interaction between the magnet and the coil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS12363407B2Camera module and optical device
Publication Date: 2025.07.15 LG INNOTEK CO LTD
  • US12363407B2 patent drawing
  • US12363407B2 patent drawing
  • US12363407B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An embodiment may comprise: a housing; a first circuit board disposed in the housing; a magnet disposed in the housing; a holder spaced apart from the housing; a second circuit board coupled to the holder; a coil disposed on the second circuit board and corresponding to the magnet; a connection substrate comprising a first terminal; an image sensor disposed on the connection substrate; a support member having one end coupled to the first circuit board; and an elastic connection member comprising a first coupling part disposed in the holder and coupled to the first terminal, a second coupling part coupled to the other end of the support member, and a connection part for connecting the first coupling part and the second coupling part.