Camera Module Lens Movement Using Mixed Friction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to miniaturize camera modules for portable electronic devices while maintaining autofocusing and zoom functions without increasing the device's thickness, as existing designs face limitations in reducing size due to the need for multiple lens modules and actuators that occupy space in the thickness direction.
Innovation Solution
The camera module design includes a housing with first and second lens modules that are individually movable in the optical axis direction, utilizing different friction types on opposite sides for movement, with longer sides supported by ball members and shorter sides in line contact with the housing, allowing for compact overlap and efficient use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If both sides of all lens modules are supported by ball members, then the lens modules can be moved smoothly, but guide grooves must be provided on both sides which limits size reduction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different support methods to different sides of the lens module: one side uses ball members for smooth movement while the other side uses direct housing contact to eliminate guide grooves. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by providing smooth movement only where necessary while minimizing overall size.
2Adaptability or versatility
If space is secured for moving lens modules to implement zoom function, then zoom function is achieved, but the camera module size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables lens modules to move not only in the optical axis direction but also in the width direction by utilizing the space between the lens module width and housing width. This dimensional expansion allows zoom function implementation without increasing the main body thickness, effectively resolving the size-function contradiction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lens modules are disposed in the thickness direction, then autofocusing and zoom functions are implemented, but the device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from purely thickness-directional lens module arrangement to a configuration that utilizes the width direction as well. Lens modules can move in both width and optical axis directions, enabling multiple functions without increasing thickness, thus resolving the contradiction between functionality and thinness.
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 a thinner portable electronic device with improved miniaturization of the camera module, securing sufficient moving space for zoom functions while reducing overall size, and enhancing driving force magnitude through optimized magnet and coil configurations.
Implementation Method 1
the first lens module is configured to generate rolling friction on a first side of two sides of the first lens module
Implementation Method 2
generate sliding friction on a second side of the two sides of the first lens module when the first lens module is moved
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module is provided. The camera module includes a housing, and a first lens module and a second lens module disposed in the housing and individually movable in an optical axis direction, the first and second lens modules being configured to generate rolling friction on one of both sides of each of the first and second lens modules and sliding friction on the other of both sides when the first and second lens modules are moved.