Camera Modules with MEMS Inertial Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniature cameras face challenges in reducing size while maintaining functionality and durability, and there is a need for enhanced functionalities such as inertial sensing for image stabilization in compact electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
The integration of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) components, including accelerometers and gyroscopes, within camera modules, which utilize existing components as masses to provide inertial sensing, and MEMS actuators for focusing, zooming, and optical image stabilization, using bias voltages and capacitance measurements to align optical elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the size of miniature cameras is reduced, then the camera can be integrated into smaller electronic devices, but the components become more delicate and vulnerable to shock from abuse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protective housing structure that surrounds and cushions the delicate camera components, including the lens, image sensor, and inertial sensors. This housing acts as a shock-absorbing barrier that protects the internal components from damage during drops or rough handling, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving the miniaturized form factor.
2Volume of moving object
If miniature cameras are made smaller, then they can be integrated into more compact electronic devices, but additional functionalities like inertial sensing must be added without increasing size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the inertial sensing functionality with the existing camera structure by integrating accelerometers and gyroscopes into the same housing that contains the lens and image sensor. The inertial sensors are positioned to utilize the existing mechanical structure and mounting mechanisms, allowing dual functionality (imaging and inertial measurement) without requiring separate dedicated spaces, thus maintaining compact size while enhancing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it protects the camera components from shock, provides mounting for the inertial sensors, and enables optical alignment. This multi-functional design allows the camera module to offer both imaging and inertial sensing capabilities within a single compact unit, improving adaptability without increasing overall size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If MEMS actuators are used for focusing and stabilization, then the camera achieves enhanced functionality, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical focusing mechanisms with MEMS actuators that utilize electrostatic forces to move the lens. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages, springs, and dampers in favor of a simpler electrical control system with fewer moving parts. The MEMS actuator achieves focusing and stabilization functions through electrical actuation rather than mechanical complexity, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining or enhancing functionality.
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
This approach results in smaller, more rugged camera modules with enhanced functionalities, enabling improved image stabilization and reduced size without increasing the camera's overall size or complexity, while maintaining reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator is configured to position one or more, e.g., three, lenses of the optical train by applying one or more bias voltages respectively between one or more pairs of actuator components
Implementation Method 2
An associated processor uses measured capacitance(s) of the pairs of actuator components, and the bias voltage(s), to calculate an acceleration or force acting on the camera module
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module includes an actuator that is coupled to one or more lenses of an optical train configured to move relative to an image sensor to provide alignment, zoom and/or autofocus control. The actuator is configured to position one or more, e.g., three, lenses of the optical train by applying one or more bias voltages respectively between one or more pairs of actuator components. A processor uses measured capacitances of the pairs of actuator components and/or the bias voltages thereof to calculate an acceleration or force acting on the camera module and to provide information for the actuator to align the optical train along the optical path in accordance with the information.