Dual Stage Electromagnetic Actuator for Thin Mobile Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing imaging apparatuses in mobile devices face challenges in achieving improved optical characteristics while maintaining a thin form factor, as they require compact designs that often compromise on feature implementation due to space constraints.

Innovation Solution

A dual-stage electromagnetic actuator is introduced, comprising ferromagnetic elements and an electromagnetic element with slider elements, allowing for controlled movement and a flat design that enables better optical characteristics and more room for additional device features by utilizing a telescopic action and a returning spring for precise positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If a compact design is used to maintain a thin form factor, then the device thickness is reduced, but the optical characteristics deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice thicknessVSAvoidoptical characteristics
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The actuator is divided into two functional stages: a first electromagnetic actuator for fine positioning and a second electromagnetic actuator for coarse positioning. This segmentation allows each stage to be optimized for its specific function, enabling the overall system to achieve better optical characteristics while maintaining a thin form factor through coordinated operation of the two stages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If additional features are implemented to improve imaging capabilities, then the optical performance is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging capabilitiesVSAvoidactuator structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dual-stage electromagnetic actuator structure serves multiple functions: the first actuator provides fine positioning for precise focus, the second actuator provides coarse positioning for rapid adjustment, and together they enable both autofocus and optical image stabilization functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, thereby managing device complexity while improving imaging capabilities.

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

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 solution allows for improved optical performance in thin devices, enabling better imaging capabilities and flexibility in device design, suitable for various form factors including smartphones, tablets, and digital cameras.

Implementation Method 1

An electric current driven through the electromagnetic element causes a magnetic field of the electromagnetic element to interact with the magnetic fields of the two ferromagnetic elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

In one embodiment the returning action is effected with a returning spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3465703B1Dual stage actuator
Publication Date: 2020.12.16 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • EP3465703B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3465703B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3465703B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An electromagnetic actuator comprises a dual stage action, wherein the actuator comprises an electromagnetic element between two ferromagnetic elements. An electric current driven through the electromagnetic element causes a magnetic field of the electromagnetic element to interact with the magnetic fields of the two ferromagnetic elements.