Rotating Dual-Frame Camera Module for Compact AF and OIS

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Solution Overview

Problem

Camera modules in portable electronic devices have become complex and large due to the integration of autofocus, optical image stabilization, and zoom operations, leading to increased device size.

Innovation Solution

A camera module design featuring a housing with rotatable first and second frames, each driven by a respective magnet-coil unit, allowing for compact integration of autofocus and optical image stabilization functions without increasing device size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional camera modules integrate autofocus, optical image stabilization, and zoom operations, then functional capability is improved, but device size and structural complexity increase

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

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines autofocus and optical image stabilization functions into a single camera module structure. The first frame assembly (with first frame and lens barrel) and second frame assembly (with second frame and prism) are integrated within one housing, sharing common support structures and driving mechanisms, thereby achieving functional integration without proportionally increasing structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested arrangement where the second frame is positioned within the first frame, and the lens barrel is positioned within the second frame. This nested doll-like structure allows multiple functional components to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, enabling compact integration of autofocus and OIS functions while minimizing the overall footprint and structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional camera modules integrate multiple operations, then functional capability is improved, but device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional capabilityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement and rotational movements in multiple dimensions. The first frame rotates about a first axis for autofocus, while the second frame rotates about a second axis perpendicular to the first for OIS. This multi-dimensional operational approach allows compact integration by exploiting spatial degrees of freedom rather than requiring linear expansion of device volume

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

Solution Approach 2:

The nested arrangement of frames and components allows the system to maintain compact volume by having components occupy overlapping spaces. The lens barrel, second frame, and first frame are positioned in a nested configuration that minimizes the envelope volume while preserving all necessary functional movements for autofocus and optical image stabilization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 design achieves miniaturization, reduces manufacturing costs, and improves manufacturing efficiency while maintaining functionality.

Implementation Method 1

a first driving unit comprising a first magnet, disposed on one of the housing and the first frame, and a first coil disposed to face the first magnet; and a second driving unit comprising a second magnet, disposed on one of the housing and the second frame, and a second coil disposed to face the second magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS12585166B2Camera module including rotating first and second frames
Publication Date: 2026.03.24 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD
  • US12585166B2 patent drawing
  • US12585166B2 patent drawing
  • US12585166B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A camera module is provided. The camera module includes a housing, a fixed member fixedly disposed on the housing, a first frame rotatably disposed on the fixed member, a second frame rotatably disposed on the first frame, a lens barrel disposed on the second frame, a first driving unit including a first magnet disposed on one of the housing and the first frame and a first coil disposed to face the first magnet, and a second driving unit including a second magnet installed on one of the housing and the second frame and a second coil disposed to face the second magnet, wherein the first frame is configured to rotate in a first axial direction, perpendicular to an incident direction of light incident on the lens barrel, and the second frame is configured to rotate in a second axial direction, perpendicular to the first axial direction.