Compact Imaging Module Actuator Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designers of portable electronic devices face challenges in creating compact camera modules that fit within limited spaces while maintaining imaging functionality, as existing solutions often result in larger module profiles due to the placement of actuators around the lens assembly.
Innovation Solution
The compact imaging module addresses this by positioning the actuator above or below the lens assembly, using a magnet and coil configuration to adjust the lens position relative to the image sensor, allowing for a footprint no larger than the image sensor itself, and incorporating a spring for restoring force, enabling precise control for improved image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the actuator is placed around the lens assembly, then the lens position can be adjusted, but the module footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is repositioned from a radial arrangement around the lens to a linear arrangement above or below the lens along the optical axis. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the actuator to occupy space in the depth direction rather than increasing the lateral footprint, thereby reducing the module's planar dimensions while preserving focusing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing the actuator in the conventional position surrounding the lens assembly, the patent inverts the spatial relationship by positioning the actuator above or below the lens along the optical axis. This inversion of the traditional actuator-lens arrangement enables compact lateral dimensions while maintaining the necessary mechanical coupling for lens position adjustment.
2Productivity
If the actuator is integrated within the module design, then manufacturing efficiency improves, but precise lens positioning becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is integrated with the lens assembly as a unified component structure, where the actuator is positioned above or below the lens and mechanically coupled to it. This merging of components into a single integrated unit simplifies the manufacturing process and enables batch production, while the direct mechanical coupling ensures precise lens positioning is maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves as an intermediary component that translates electrical signals into mechanical displacement of the lens. By positioning the actuator above or below the lens and coupling it through a defined mechanical interface, the system achieves both manufacturing efficiency through integration and positioning precision through controlled mechanical transmission.
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 configuration allows for a smaller camera module footprint, maintains image quality through precise lens positioning, and facilitates efficient batch manufacturing, reducing costs by integrating the actuator within the module's design.
Implementation Method 1
positioning the actuator above or below the lens assembly, using a magnet and coil configuration to adjust the lens position
Implementation Method 2
incorporating a spring for restoring force
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus may comprise a lens assembly including one or more lenses, an image sensor to receive light from the lens assembly, and an actuator to adjust a position of the lens assembly. An actuator may be mounted on an image sensor, wherein a surface area of the actuator need not extend substantially beyond a surface area of the image sensor.