Camera Module Image Stabilization via Integrated Lens Group Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera modules with image stabilization functions face challenges in miniaturization and thinning due to the need for separate stabilization mechanisms for lenses and image sensors, leading to increased size and complexity, particularly when trying to integrate image stabilization in both autofocus and fixed focus systems.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design that includes an imaging lens portion, an image sensor, and an image stabilization portion with a movable part supported by a guide member, allowing the entire lens group to move integrally in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, eliminating the need for separate stabilization devices and reducing module thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate stabilization lens or image sensor is driven in directions perpendicular to the optical axis for image stabilization, then image stabilization function is achieved, but the size of the imaging unit increases in the optical axis direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the autofocus driving portion and image stabilization function into a single integrated structure. The imaging lens portion is mounted on the movable part which is driven by the autofocus driving portion, enabling both autofocus and image stabilization functions to be achieved without requiring separate stabilization mechanisms that would increase the optical axis length.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable part serves multiple functions: it acts as the mounting base for the imaging lens portion during autofocus operation and simultaneously serves as the platform for image stabilization by being driven in directions perpendicular to the optical axis. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated stabilization components.
2Reliability
If suspension wires are arranged outside the focus portion to support the lens driving portion, then the focus portion can be driven in directions perpendicular to the optical axis, but the size of the camera module increases in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis
Solution Approach 1:
The guide member having a spherical shape is provided between the movable part and the fixed part, with the movable part nested within the constraints of the guide member. This nested configuration allows the movable part to be driven perpendicular to the optical axis while maintaining a compact footprint, as the guiding mechanism is integrated within the existing structure rather than requiring external suspension wires.
3Reliability
If the image sensor is driven together with its substrate for image stabilization, then image stabilization is achieved, but a large space is required to prevent substrate contact with other parts
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of driving the image sensor and substrate separately, the patent merges the image stabilization function with the lens driving mechanism. The imaging lens portion mounted on the movable part is driven perpendicular to the optical axis by the autofocus driving portion, achieving image stabilization without requiring additional space for substrate movement and contact prevention.
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 achieves both miniaturization and thinning of the camera module while maintaining excellent optical characteristics and allowing for integration with various lens systems, including fixed focus systems, by moving the entire lens group in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, thus simplifying the structure and reducing the need for additional stabilization mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a guide member having a spherical shape, which is provided between the movable part and the fixed part and supports the movable part so as to be movable in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction with respect to the fixed part
Data Source
AI summary
In a camera module having an image stabilization mechanism, both of miniaturization and thinning are achieved, while adopting a structure of driving an entire of a lens group in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction. An image stabilization portion (4) of a camera module (50) includes an OIS base (14), an OIS movable plate (12), and guide balls (15) which support the OIS movable plate (12) so as to be movable in a plane perpendicular to an optical axis direction with respect to the OIS base (14).