Compact Camera Module Flexure Texturing to Reduce Charge Accumulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrostatic charge accumulation in compact camera modules due to repeated relative motion of conductors and insulators interferes with optical image stabilization and autofocus performance.
Innovation Solution
Implementing roughened surfaces on flexure pads and end stops within the camera module to reduce contact surface area and enhance charge distribution, using methods like chemical etching, laser etching, or mechanical processing to create textured surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If smooth surfaces are used for flexure pads and bosses, then contact surface area is maximized for mechanical stability, but electrostatic charge accumulation increases due to concentrated charge density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different surface qualities to different regions of the flexure pad and boss. The bulk materials maintain smooth, continuous structure for mechanical integrity, while the contact surfaces are treated with roughened textures to reduce electrostatic charge accumulation. This local differentiation allows simultaneous optimization of mechanical stability and electrostatic performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the surface topology parameter of the contact interfaces by introducing roughened surfaces with controlled micro-scale features. This parameter change reduces the effective contact area and distributes electrostatic charge more evenly, thereby reducing charge accumulation while preserving the overall mechanical function of the flexure assembly.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If roughened surfaces are applied to flexure pads and bosses, then electrostatic charge accumulation is reduced through decreased contact surface area, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the surface topology parameter of contact interfaces by introducing roughened surfaces with controlled micro-scale features. This parameter change reduces the effective contact area and distributes electrostatic charge more evenly, thereby reducing charge accumulation while preserving the overall mechanical function of the flexure assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different surface qualities to different regions of the flexure pad and boss. The bulk materials maintain smooth, continuous structure for mechanical integrity, while the contact surfaces are treated with roughened textures to reduce electrostatic charge accumulation. This local differentiation allows simultaneous optimization of mechanical stability and electrostatic performance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If repeated relative motion occurs between conductors and insulators, then optical image stabilization and autofocus functions are enabled, but electrostatic charge accumulation increases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of repeated relative motion between conductors and insulators (which generates electrostatic charge) into a beneficial outcome by designing the contact surfaces with roughened textures. These textures distribute the generated charge more evenly across the contact interface, preventing concentrated charge accumulation and maintaining consistent optical performance over time.
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
Reduces electrostatic charge accumulation, preventing unexpected forces and improving the reliability of optical image stabilization and autofocus operations.
Implementation Method 1
repeated relative motion of conductors and insulators within the compact camera module cause electrostatic charge accumulation
Data Source
AI summary
A camera module for an electronic device includes an actuator structure for positioning a movable element of the camera module, such as an image sensor or a lens element. The actuator structure is supported within a module housing of the camera module and includes at least one flexure that includes a flexure pad configured to and aligned with a corresponding boss extending from the module housing or a carrier supporting the movable element. The flexure pad includes a roughened surface so as to reduce contact area between the boss and the flexure pad.