Pop-up Flash Module Scissor Linkage Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern cameras require a compact pop-up flash module that can open and shut within a limited space using fewer elements to meet the current compact-size trend.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves an emitter extension and retraction module comprising an extendable and retractable cartridge, a linkage lever set, a housing, a driver or actuator, a mechanical linkage, and a retractable latch, which employs a scissor lift assembly, electromagnetic actuator, and elastic members to minimize the number of components required for operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a traditional pop-up flash mechanism is used, then the flash can be extended and retracted, but the number of elements increases and the size of the image-capturing apparatus becomes larger

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of elementsVSAvoidopen and shut functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional elements into integrated components. The linkage lever set integrates the extension and retraction functions into a single mechanical system that operates with fewer discrete elements. The driver mechanism merges the actuation and latching functions into a unified structure that reduces the total number of components needed for flash operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical linkage is designed to perform multiple functions with a single structure. The linkage lever set simultaneously provides extension support, retraction guidance, and positioning control, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each function and thereby reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If more elements are used to ensure reliable open and shut operation, then the reliability improves, but the volume of the flash module increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveopen and shut reliabilityVSAvoidflash module size

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The flash cartridge is designed to nest within the housing when retracted, with the linkage lever set and other mechanical elements arranged to fit within the compact volume. The nested arrangement allows reliable extension and retraction functionality while minimizing the overall volume of the flash module.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical linkage employs dynamic elements that can transition between extended and retracted positions. The linkage lever set uses movable joints and pivots that allow the structure to adapt its configuration, providing reliable operation in both extended and compact states without requiring additional structural elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Volume of moving object

If a compact flash module is designed with fewer elements, then the size is reduced, but the complexity of ensuring synchronous operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage-capturing apparatus sizeVSAvoidsynchronous operation mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The driver mechanism is pre-configured with the linkage lever set and latching mechanism in specific geometric relationships that ensure synchronous operation. The preliminary arrangement of these components allows the flash cartridge to extend and retract in precise synchronization with the camera's shutter timing without requiring complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical linkage utilizes spatial dimensionality to achieve synchronous operation. The linkage lever set is arranged in a three-dimensional configuration that converts the linear motion of the driver into the precise rotational and translational movements needed for synchronized flash operation, eliminating the need for additional timing mechanisms.

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

This design allows the flash module to efficiently open and close with fewer elements, reducing the overall size of the image-capturing apparatus while maintaining synchronous flash functionality.

Implementation Method 1

a driver or actuator... electromagnetic actuator

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic actuation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

elastic members... first elastic member... second elastic member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8559810B2Extendable emitter module and electronic apparatus

Publication Date: 2013.10.15 ABILITY ENTERPRISE CO LTD

AI summary

Embodiments of this invention provide a flash module and an electronic apparatus using the flash module. The electronic apparatus has a sensor and a processor. The sensor is used by the processor to detect an environmental brightness and issue a flash order. The flash module comprises a flash cartridge, a linkage lever set, a housing, an electromagnetic actuator, a mechanical linkage, and a latching mechanism. When necessary, the elements of the flash module perform a process to automatically move the flash to an open position.