Camera Module Magnetic Actuator Lens Barrel Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Camera modules in small electronic devices face challenges with reduced size and increased pixels, leading to decreased strength of elastic members, causing lens barrel dropping and misalignment of the optical axis during autofocus and zoom functions.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design utilizing a magnetic force to support and move the lens barrel, employing a voice coil type actuator with a magnet and coil interaction, along with a Hall sensor for precise position control and a ball member for reduced friction, to enhance movement accuracy and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If elastic members (plate spring or elastic wire) are used to support and move the lens barrel, then the lens barrel can be moved for autofocus and zoom functions, but the strength of the elastic member becomes insufficient when the camera module size is reduced, causing lens barrel dropping and misalignment of the optical axis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical elastic member support system with a magnetic field-based actuator system. The actuator uses magnetic interaction between a magnet and a coil to generate driving force, eliminating the need for elastic members and their associated strength limitations in miniaturized designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating principle from elastic mechanical deformation to electromagnetic force generation. By utilizing magnetic field strength as the controlling parameter instead of elastic member physical properties, the system achieves reliable lens barrel support and movement in compact camera modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the camera module size is reduced to fit small electronic devices, then the camera module can be integrated into portable devices, but the elastic member strength decreases leading to lens barrel dropping and optical axis misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical elastic member support system with a magnetic field-based actuator system. The actuator uses magnetic interaction between a magnet and a coil to generate driving force, eliminating the need for elastic members and their associated strength limitations in miniaturized designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a Hall sensor that detects the position of the lens barrel by sensing the magnetic field position. This feedback mechanism enables precise control and compensation, ensuring reliable lens barrel positioning and preventing dropping or misalignment during autofocus and zoom operations.
3Ease of operation
If elastic members are used to couple the housing and lens barrel, then the lens barrel can be moved along the optical axis, but the reduced strength causes misalignment of the optical axis during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical elastic member coupling with a magnetic actuator system that provides controlled, precise movement. The magnetic field interaction enables smooth lens barrel movement along the optical axis without the mechanical play and alignment issues associated with elastic members.
Solution Approach 2:
The Hall sensor provides real-time feedback on lens barrel position by detecting the magnetic field position. This enables closed-loop control that maintains precise optical axis alignment during autofocus and zoom movements, compensating for any deviations and ensuring accurate positioning.
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 improves the accuracy and reliability of autofocus and zoom functions by providing a consistent driving force and precise position control, reducing the risk of lens barrel misalignment and dropping.
Implementation Method 1
a coil member provided at one side of the fixed support member, and a magnetic member provided at the other side of the fixed support member... a magnet member supported closely by the moving support member and exerting a magnetic force on the magnetic member, and moving the moving support member by electromagnetic interaction with the coil member
Implementation Method 2
A Hall sensor provided at one of the fixed support member and the moving support member, facing the magnet member provided at the other support member, and generating a signal indicating a moving position of the moving support member by the magnetic force of the magnet member
Implementation Method 3
a first support surface provided on the fixed support member; a second support surface provided on the moving support member and facing the first support surface; and a ball member provided between the first support surface and the second support surface and, supporting the movement of the moving support member
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module according to an aspect of the invention may include: a housing; a fixed unit fixed to the inside of the housing; a lens barrel provided in the housing and having at least one lens; and a moving unit moved and supported by the fixed unit by a predetermined magnetic force, and moving the lens barrel along an optical axis, such that driving accuracy and reliability can be increased when performing auto focus or zoom.