Compact Optical Module Layout for AF, OIS, and Aperture Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera modules struggle to achieve auto-focus, optical image stabilization, and adjust light exposure while maintaining miniaturization.

Innovation Solution

An optical system with a first optical element driving mechanism for aperture control and a second optical element driving mechanism for auto-focus and optical image stabilization, utilizing a flexible circuit board and magnetic elements for smooth movement and adjustable aperture size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple driving mechanisms are added to achieve auto-focus, optical image stabilization, and aperture control, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple driving mechanisms (first driving assembly for aperture control, second driving assembly for auto-focus and optical image stabilization) into a single integrated camera module structure. The first and second movable assemblies are disposed on the same optical path, allowing multiple functions to be achieved within a unified mechanical framework, thereby improving versatility while controlling complexity through systematic integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The second movable assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously - it can perform auto-focus by moving the second optical element along the optical axis and optical image stabilization by moving the second optical element in directions perpendicular to the optical axis. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated mechanisms, addressing the contradiction between versatility and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical elements and driving mechanisms are integrated, then functional capabilities are improved, but the volume of the camera module increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional capabilitiesVSAvoidcamera module volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested arrangement where the first movable assembly (with first optical element and first driving assembly) is disposed on the second movable assembly (with second optical element and second driving assembly). The first movable assembly is positioned within the spatial envelope of the second movable assembly, allowing compact integration of multiple functional components without significantly increasing the overall camera module volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to pack multiple driving mechanisms and optical elements into a compact volume. The first driving assembly and second driving assembly are positioned at different locations and orientations, with the first movable assembly disposed on the second movable assembly in a vertical stacking arrangement, efficiently utilizing available space in multiple dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

Enables auto-focus, optical image stabilization, and adjustable light exposure within a compact design, enhancing image clarity and stability.

Implementation Method 1

The first driving assembly includes a first coil and a first magnetic element, and the first coil corresponds to the first magnetic element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

The second driving assembly is configured to drive the second movable assembly and the second optical element to move relative to the second fixed assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS12372776B2Optical system
Publication Date: 2025.07.29 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US12372776B2 patent drawing
  • US12372776B2 patent drawing
  • US12372776B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical system includes a first optical element driving mechanism, including a first fixed assembly, a first movable assembly, and a first driving assembly. The first movable assembly is configured to be connected to at least two first optical elements. The first movable assembly includes a first movable element. The first driving assembly is configured to drive the first movable assembly to move relative to the first fixed assembly. The first fixed assembly and the first movable assembly are arranged along a main axis. The first driving assembly is configured to drive the first movable element to move around the main axis. A portion of the first driving assembly is disposed on the first movable element. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the main axis, the first driving assembly exceeds the first fixed assembly and the first movable assembly.