Camera Module Lens Stabilization Using Ball Bearings
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Solution Overview
Problem
In miniaturized camera modules for mobile devices, achieving a longer stroke for optical image stabilization is challenging due to increased gaps between magnets and coils, which hinders the effective movement of the lens module and deteriorates image quality.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design that includes a housing with a carrier and lens module movable in the optical axis direction, utilizing a frame and lens holder with ball members and magnets/coils to maintain a consistent gap, allowing for movement perpendicular to the optical axis, thereby stabilizing images effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the stroke of the lens module is increased to improve optical image stabilization, then image stabilization performance is improved, but the gap between the magnet and coil increases making it difficult to drive the actuator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a carrier that moves in the optical axis direction (z-axis), while the lens module moves perpendicular to the optical axis (x-y plane) within the carrier. This dimensional separation allows the lens module to achieve a longer stabilization stroke without increasing the gap between the magnet and coil, as the magnet-coil interaction occurs in a different dimensional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the lens module into two independent movable parts: the carrier that moves in the optical axis direction, and the lens module that moves perpendicular to the optical axis within the carrier. This segmentation allows each part to have optimized movement characteristics, with the lens module maintaining a consistent gap with the magnet-coil assembly for effective driving.
2Volume of moving object
If the camera module is miniaturized to fit mobile devices, then device size is reduced, but the stroke for optical image stabilization becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the movement directions into different dimensions - the carrier moves in the optical axis direction (z-axis) for focusing, while the lens module moves perpendicular to the optical axis (x-y plane) for stabilization - the patent enables both functions within a compact volume. The lens module achieves adequate stroke for stabilization without increasing the overall camera module size.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens module is nested within the carrier, which itself is disposed inside the housing. This nested structure allows the lens module to move perpendicular to the optical axis within the carrier's space, maximizing the utilization of available volume and achieving sufficient stabilization stroke without increasing the overall camera module footprint.
3Length of moving object
If the gap between magnet and coil is increased to accommodate longer stroke, then lens module movement range is extended, but electromagnetic interaction strength is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by changing the dimensional relationship between the moving lens module and the stationary magnet-coil assembly. The lens module moves perpendicular to the optical axis within a plane that maintains a constant distance from the magnet-coil assembly, ensuring consistent electromagnetic interaction strength throughout the stabilization stroke.
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 enables efficient optical image stabilization with a longer stroke, improving image quality by maintaining consistent gaps and utilizing electromagnetic interactions to drive the lens module, thus addressing the challenge of miniaturization and image stabilization.
Implementation Method 1
The frame is configured to be supported by a first ball member interposed between the frame and the carrier on a side surface of the carrier parallel to the optical axis direction
Implementation Method 2
a first magnet disposed on a side surface of the frame opposing the side surface of the carrier... a first coil disposed in the housing to oppose the first magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes: a housing; a carrier disposed inside the housing and movable in an optical axis direction; and a lens module disposed inside the carrier and movable in directions perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and configured to implement optical image stabilization. The lens module includes a frame disposed on the carrier, and a lens holder disposed on the frame and having a lens barrel. The frame is configured to be supported by a first ball member interposed between the frame and the carrier on a side surface of the carrier parallel to the optical axis direction.