Camera Module OIS-AF Assembly for Wearable Image Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera modules in wearable devices often suffer from, insufficient optical stabilization and focus issues with, leading to poor image quality due to mechanical vibrations and poor image quality due to shaking of the device.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a camera module with a casing, lens assembly, AF assembly, OIS magnet, and image sensor, where the AF assembly moves the lens unit in the optical axis direction and OIS magnet moves it perpendicular to the axis, with a guide structure to limit external light reflection on the image sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a camera module is incorporated into a wearable device, then imaging functionality is provided, but image quality deteriorates due to mechanical vibrations and device shaking
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is divided into functionally independent assemblies: the lens assembly (including OIS carrier and lens unit) for optical stabilization, the AF assembly for focus control, and the image sensor assembly. This segmentation allows each assembly to independently address specific image quality issues without interfering with others, enabling simultaneous optimization of stabilization and focus in the constrained wearable environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The OIS carrier acts as an intermediary between the lens unit and the casing, providing a stable mounting platform that isolates the lens unit from vibrations. The AF carrier similarly serves as an intermediary for the lens assembly, enabling precise focus control. These intermediary components decouple the sensitive optical elements from the shaking device body, maintaining image quality despite mechanical vibrations.
2Reliability
If optical stabilization is implemented using OIS magnets and lens assembly, then image stabilization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The OIS carrier integrates multiple functions: it serves as the mounting structure for the lens unit, the platform for OIS magnet placement, and the mechanical linkage for stabilization movement. The AF carrier similarly combines focus drive mechanics with lens assembly mounting. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall structure despite the advanced stabilization capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The yoke structure performs multiple functions: it provides magnetic shielding for the OIS magnets, serves as a structural support for the lens assembly, and includes guide structures that constrain motion paths. The casing simultaneously provides structural enclosure, magnetic shielding, and light path management. This multi-functionality reduces component count and simplifies the device architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lens unit is made movable for focus and stabilization, then imaging adaptability is improved, but mechanical precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lens unit is designed with controlled degrees of freedom: it can move along the optical axis for focus adjustment and perpendicular to the optical axis for stabilization, but its motion is constrained by guide structures to prevent unwanted movements. This dynamic design with constrained freedom allows versatile imaging control while simplifying mechanical precision requirements by eliminating the need to control all six degrees of freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical precision mechanisms with electromagnetic actuation. The OIS magnets interact with magnetic fields for stabilization, and the AF assembly uses electromagnetic forces for focus control. This substitution reduces mechanical wear and precision requirements compared to traditional mechanical focus and stabilization mechanisms.
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
Enhances image stabilization and focus adjustment, reducing image degradation from device shaking and improving overall image quality.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one OIS magnet may be operatively connected to the lens unit to move the lens unit in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction
Implementation Method 2
The AF assembly may be operatively connected to the lens unit to move the lens unit in an optical axis direction
Implementation Method 3
One surface of the yoke facing the OIS carrier may include a guide structure. The guide structure may be configured to limit a path of the external light so that the external light introduced into the casing does not reach the image sensor after being reflected from one surface of the yoke
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module or an electronic device, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, includes: a casing; a lens assembly that is disposed within the casing, and includes an OIS carrier and a lens unit; an AF assembly that is disposed within the casing, is operatively connected to the lens unit so as to move the lens unit in an optical axis direction, and includes an AF magnet, a yoke, and an AF carrier; at least one OIS magnet that is operatively connected to the lens unit so as to move the lens unit in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and is disposed on the OIS carrier; and an image sensor that is arranged so as to be aligned with the lens unit in the optical axis direction.