Camera Module Lens Group Movement via Support Ball Rolling Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniature camera modules in mobile devices face challenges in implementing a zoom-up function similar to larger cameras due to size constraints, which complicates the adjustment of focal lengths and magnification.
Innovation Solution
A camera module design featuring a first and second lens group with movers and a support ball system that reduces friction and tilting, allowing for efficient auto-focusing and zoom-up capabilities through rolling contact and electromagnetic interaction, while maintaining a simple structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a miniature camera module is designed to perform zoom-up function, then the magnification capability is improved, but the device size increases and structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested lens group configuration where multiple lens groups (first, second, and third lens groups) are arranged in sequence along the optical axis. The lens groups can move relative to each other to achieve zoom-up and auto-focusing functions, effectively nesting functional units within a compact volume to provide variable magnification without proportionally increasing overall size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs movable lens groups that can dynamically adjust their positions along the optical axis. The first lens group moves for auto-focusing while the second and third lens groups move for zoom-up functionality. This dynamic configuration allows the camera module to achieve multiple functions (zoom-up and auto-focusing) within a compact size by optimizing the spatial arrangement and movement ranges of the lens groups.
2Manufacturing precision
If lens groups are moved for auto-focusing and zoom-up, then the imaging quality is improved, but friction and tilting increase leading to higher current consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lens system into multiple independent movable lens groups (first, second, and third lens groups), each controlled by separate actuators. This segmentation allows independent optimization of movement paths and forces for each group, reducing overall friction and energy consumption while maintaining precise imaging quality through coordinated movement of all groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes physical parameters such as the movement distance ranges, velocities, and acceleration profiles of the lens groups to minimize friction and tilting during operation. By carefully controlling these motion parameters, the system achieves smooth lens group movement with reduced energy consumption while maintaining the precision required for high-quality imaging.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lens groups are added for zoom-up function, then the magnification range is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the lens groups to serve multiple functions: the first lens group performs auto-focusing, while the second and third lens groups perform zoom-up. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified mechanical structure where all lens groups share common support elements and movement mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity despite the multiple functional capabilities.
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 stable and efficient movement of lens groups, reducing current consumption and tilting, thereby effectively performing auto-focusing and zoom-up functions in a compact form factor.
Implementation Method 1
a support ball disposed to be in rolling contact with the first mover, the second mover, and the base, the support ball supporting movement of the first mover and the second mover relative to the base
Implementation Method 2
a driving magnet coupled to each of the first mover and the second mover and a coil part coupled to the base and disposed to face the driving magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes first to third lens groups; a first mover configured to move the second lens group in the optical-axis direction; a second mover configured to move the third lens group in the optical-axis direction; a base accommodating the first mover and the second mover; a support ball disposed to be in rolling contact with the first mover, the second mover, and the base, the support ball supporting movement of the first mover and the second mover relative to the base; a driving magnet coupled to each of the first mover and the second mover; and a coil part coupled to the base, the coil part being disposed to face the driving magnet, and wherein an entirety of a surface of the driving magnet that faces the moving coil serves as a first pole.