Camera Module Shape-Memory Alloy Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional camera modules in electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, often produce blurry images due to shaking, which existing technologies fail to adequately address for improving image quality through shockproof design.

Innovation Solution

A camera module incorporating shape-memory alloy biasing elements that connect the image sensor and base, allowing for relative movement to stabilize the image sensor and optical lens, combined with elastic elements and guiding members for angular displacement, enabling optical image stabilization and auto-focusing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the image sensor and optical lens are fixed rigidly to prevent movement, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to compensate for camera shake is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidimage quality under shaking conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing rigid fixed connections with movable mounting structures. The image sensor and optical lens are mounted on movable platforms that can dynamically adjust their positions relative to the camera body. This allows the system to transition from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adjustable structure, enabling real-time compensation for camera shake while maintaining operational stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the positional parameters of the image sensor and optical lens. By changing their mounting positions dynamically through movable platforms actuated by driving mechanisms, the system can adjust optical paths and sensor alignment in real-time, thereby compensating for shaking effects and improving image quality under varying conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If movable mounting structures are introduced to enable image sensor and lens adjustment, then shockproof capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshockproof capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the nesting principle by integrating multiple functional components into hierarchical structures. The image sensor is mounted on a movable platform that is nested within the camera body structure, with driving mechanisms and support structures nested within each other. This nested arrangement enables complex shockproof functionality while maintaining a compact overall structure and reducing apparent complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements merging by combining multiple functions into integrated structures. The movable mounting structures serve dual purposes: they provide mechanical support for the image sensor and optical lens while simultaneously enabling shockproof adjustment capabilities. This consolidation of support and adjustment functions into unified structures reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 effectively compensates for camera shake by adjusting the posture of the image sensor and optical lens, enhancing image quality through controlled movement and angular displacement, achieving optical image stabilization and fast focus capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

The first biasing element comprises a shape-memory alloy and connects to the bottom and the base, wherein the first biasing element forces the bottom and the image sensor to move relative to the base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShape-memory alloy: Shape Memory Alloy

Implementation Method 2

the camera module further comprises a first elastic element connected to the bottom and the base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11181713B2Camera module and method for controlling the same
Publication Date: 2021.11.23 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US11181713B2 patent drawing
  • US11181713B2 patent drawing
  • US11181713B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A camera module is provided, including a holder, a base, a bottom, an image sensor, and a first biasing element. The holder holds an optical lens and is disposed on the base. The bottom supports the image sensor and connects to the base via the first biasing element. The bottom and the image sensor can be moved with respect to the base by the first biasing element.