Camera Module Liquid Lens Autofocus and Mechanical Image Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera modules that combine autofocus and image stabilization functions using liquid lens modules face challenges in achieving perfect performance due to factors like temperature and gravity effects.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design that incorporates a liquid lens module for autofocus and mechanical image stabilization, featuring a housing with magnets, a substrate with coils, and electrical connections through conductive lines and wires to facilitate both functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If both autofocus and image stabilization functions are implemented through the liquid lens module, then the camera module can achieve automatic focus adjustment and image stabilization, but the performance deteriorates due to temperature and gravity effects on the liquid lens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual function capabilityVSAvoidperformance stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the dual function into two separate modules: the liquid lens module handles only autofocus, while a separate mechanical image stabilization module handles image stabilization. This segmentation allows each module to operate independently without the performance degradation issues that arise when both functions are combined in the liquid lens module due to temperature and gravity effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a mechanical image stabilization module as an intermediary system that works alongside the liquid lens module. This mechanical module, which includes moving components and sensors, serves as a mediator to provide image stabilization functionality without interfering with the liquid lens's autofocus operation, thereby maintaining overall system reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the liquid lens module is used for autofocus, then automatic focus adjustment is achieved, but image stabilization function cannot be perfectly performed due to the nature of liquid lens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautofocus functionalityVSAvoidimage stabilization capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the optical system into a liquid lens module dedicated to autofocus and a separate mechanical image stabilization module. This allows the liquid lens to perform autofocus smoothly without the added complexity and interference of image stabilization functions, while the mechanical module independently provides image stabilization capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a multi-functional camera module where the liquid lens module provides autofocus and the mechanical module provides image stabilization. Together, these modules form a universal system that can perform both functions effectively, with each module optimized for its specific purpose rather than being compromised to handle both functions simultaneously.

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

3Reliability

If mechanical image stabilization is added to the camera module, then image stabilization function is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage stabilization performanceVSAvoidmodule structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the stabilization function into a dedicated mechanical module that can be independently designed and optimized. This modular approach, while adding complexity, allows for standardized components and simplified integration with the existing liquid lens module, as each module can be developed and tested separately before assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

The solution enables effective implementation of both autofocus and image stabilization functions in a camera module, improving performance and reliability by addressing the limitations of liquid lens modules.

Implementation Method 1

a substrate having a coil facing the magnet and disposed on the base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

a magnet disposed in the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS12222525B2Camera module
Publication Date: 2025.02.11 LG INNOTEK CO LTD
  • US12222525B2 patent drawing
  • US12222525B2 patent drawing
  • US12222525B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present exemplary embodiment relates to a camera module comprising: a housing; a liquid lens disposed in the housing; a magnet disposed in the housing; a base disposed and spaced apart from the housing; a substrate comprising a coil facing the magnet and disposed on the base; a plurality of wires connected to the housing and the substrate; and a connection part connecting the liquid lens and at least one wire of the plurality of wires, wherein the liquid lens and the substrate are electrically connected to each other through the connection part and the at least one wire.