Dual-Axis Camera Module for Continuous OIS and Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional camera modules with optical image stabilization (OIS) actuators are limited in correcting hand-shake that occurs in directions other than perpendicular to the optical axis, and they struggle to implement continuous shake correction and tracking functions during video recording.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design featuring a first frame and a second frame that rotate about intersecting axes, supported by magnetic forces and ball members, allowing the lens module to move in multiple directions to correct shake and maintain focus, enabling effective shake correction and tracking functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the lens module is moved in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis using a typical OIS actuator, then relatively minor hand-shake is prevented, but shaking correction is limited when the lens module needs to move in other directions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehand-shake correction capabilityVSAvoiddirectional correction range
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a single-axis perpendicular movement system to a multi-axis rotational system. The lens module can now rotate about a first axis perpendicular to the optical axis and a second axis intersecting the first axis, enabling movement in multiple directions including diagonal and axial directions, thus expanding the correction capability from one dimension to three-dimensional space.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes from a static single-direction actuation mechanism to a dynamic multi-axis rotational mechanism. The lens module can continuously adjust its orientation and position by rotating about two intersecting axes, allowing adaptive correction for shaking in any direction rather than being constrained to a fixed perpendicular direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a typical OIS module moves the lens module horizontally in a plurality of directions perpendicular to the optical axis, then relatively small hand-shake is prevented, but continuous shake correction during video recording is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehand-shake preventionVSAvoidcontinuous correction duration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-axis rotational mechanism enables continuous and smooth adjustment of the lens module position and orientation over extended periods. The intersecting axes configuration allows for seamless transitions between different correction directions, facilitating uninterrupted shake correction throughout video recording sessions without mechanical limitations or position constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides universal shake correction capability that works effectively for both still image photography and continuous video recording. The two-axis rotational system can handle various types of shaking patterns and durations, making it adaptable for different recording modes and durations without requiring separate mechanisms.

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

3Reliability

If a typical OIS module horizontally moves the lens module in a plurality of directions perpendicular to the optical axis, then relatively small hand-shake is prevented, but additional tracking function for video recording cannot be implemented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehand-shake preventionVSAvoidtracking function capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The two-axis rotational system provides a universal platform that simultaneously enables both shake correction and tracking functions. By rotating the lens module about the first axis perpendicular to the optical axis and the second axis intersecting the first axis, the system can correct hand-shake while also performing active tracking of moving subjects during video recording, combining multiple functions in a single mechanism.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The addition of rotational degrees of freedom about two intersecting axes expands the system's capability from simple horizontal displacement to three-dimensional positioning and orientation control. This dimensional expansion enables the lens module to not only correct shake but also actively track and follow moving subjects by adjusting its angular position in multiple directions.

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

The camera module effectively corrects hand-shake and maintains focus in various directions, enhancing image stability and enabling continuous shake correction and tracking during video recording.

Implementation Method 1

The first frame may be supported in the housing by the rotational axis ball and at least two guide balls

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

The housing and the second frame may be respectively configured with a first magnetic body and a second magnetic body, and wherein the second frame may be supported in the housing by an attraction force of the first magnetic body and an attraction force of the second magnetic body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11902647B2Camera module and electronic device including the same
Publication Date: 2024.02.13 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD
  • US11902647B2 patent drawing
  • US11902647B2 patent drawing
  • US11902647B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A camera module is provided. The camera module includes a housing; a first frame, provided in the housing; and a second frame, provided on the first frame and including a lens module, wherein the lens module is configured to rotate together with the second frame about a first axis and a second axis, intersecting an optical axis, and , wherein the first frame and the second frame are configured to be supported on a surface that is parallel to the optical axis.