Camera Module Using Shape Memory Alloy Wires for OIS

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity and increased size of camera modules in portable electronic devices due to the implementation of functions like autofocusing, optical image stabilization, and zoom, which complicates miniaturization and integration.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design utilizing shape memory alloy driving wires to rotate cases around axes, allowing for compact integration of optical image stabilization and other functions without the need for bulky actuators, connected through a flexible circuit board to manage electrical changes and prevent interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional actuators are used for optical image stabilization and autofocusing functions, then the camera module can achieve the required functions, but the device complexity and size increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical image stabilization functionVSAvoidcamera module structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuators with shape memory alloy driving wires that utilize thermal-mechanical coupling effects. The driving wires are connected to rotation cases that can rotate around first and second axes, enabling optical image stabilization and autofocusing functions through thermal activation rather than complex mechanical actuation mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameter from electrical-mechanical actuation to thermal-mechanical actuation by using shape memory alloys. The driving wires respond to temperature changes by changing their shape, which rotates the rotation cases to adjust lens position and orientation, thereby achieving the required functions with simpler structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple functions (autofocusing, optical image stabilization, zoom) are integrated into the camera module, then the camera capabilities are enhanced, but the size of the portable electronic device increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecamera functionsVSAvoidcamera module size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a multi-functional camera module where the same shape memory alloy driving wire system serves multiple purposes: optical image stabilization through rotation case adjustment, autofocusing through lens position control, and zoom functionality. This universal driving mechanism replaces multiple separate actuators, reducing overall module size while maintaining all required functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested structure where the second rotation case is disposed within the first rotation case, and the sub-module is fixed in the second rotation case. This nested arrangement allows multiple rotational degrees of freedom to be compactly integrated, enabling complex camera functions within a minimized volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

Enables miniaturization of portable electronic devices by simplifying the camera module structure, improving rotational orientation control, and enhancing optical image stabilization performance while reducing electromagnetic interference and manufacturing costs.

Implementation Method 1

a first shape memory alloy driving wire connected to the first rotation case

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory alloy: Shape Memory Alloy

Data Source

PatentUS11509799B2Camera module

Publication Date: 2022.11.22 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD

AI summary

A camera module includes a first rotation case configured to rotate in the fixed case around a first axis, a second rotation case configured to rotate in the first rotation case around a second axis, perpendicular to the first axis, a sub-module fixed in the second rotation case, a first shape memory alloy driving wire connected to the first rotation case, and a second shape memory alloy driving wire connected to the second rotation case.