3-Axis Precision Focusing Module Using Friction Fits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional precision focusing camera modules, such as those in compact camera modules of hand-held devices, face issues like image blurring and lower image resolution due to misalignment of the imaging lens and image sensor, and adhesive material expansion/contraction, leading to complex and error-prone 5-axis or 6-axis active image focusing techniques with lengthy adjustment and curing processes.
Innovation Solution
A 3-axis precision focusing method using selective significant adjustments of the image focusing adjustment module, employing friction fitting instead of thick adhesive for alignment, and UV-curable adhesives for secure locking, simplifying the adjustment process and eliminating adhesive curing shrinkage and thermal expansion issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If 5-axis or 6-axis active image focusing techniques are used to correct misalignment, then image quality is improved, but device complexity and adjustment process length increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the adhesive material from the alignment mechanism, replacing it with a mechanical friction fitting system. This removes the source of expansion/contraction errors and simplifies the adjustment mechanism from 5-6 axes to a more manageable system while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the adhesive-based alignment system with a mechanical friction fitting system. The lens barrel assembly uses friction fits with the neck member and top member to achieve precise alignment without requiring adhesive curing processes, thereby reducing device complexity and adjustment time.
2Strength
If adhesive material is used for lens assembly, then components are securely joined, but thermal expansion and curing shrinkage cause alignment errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effects of adhesive material (thermal expansion and curing shrinkage) by completely eliminating adhesive from the alignment-critical paths. Instead, friction fitting mechanisms are used where the friction force provides both joining strength and alignment precision without the harmful side effects of adhesive materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses friction fitting mechanisms that can be easily adjusted and repositioned during the adjustment process, unlike adhesive bonds which are permanent and difficult to modify. This allows for iterative alignment adjustments without the constraints of adhesive curing.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional adhesive curing process is used, then components are permanently fixed, but adjustment time and curing duration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary alignment adjustments using friction fitting mechanisms before final assembly. The lens barrel assembly can be adjusted to the correct position while accessible, and then secured using friction fits that provide stable fixation without requiring time-consuming curing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical curing process of adhesives with mechanical friction fitting mechanisms. The friction between mating surfaces provides immediate and stable fixation without requiring curing time, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with adhesive curing while maintaining assembly stability.
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 3-axis method provides a quick, accurate, and economically reasonable focusing adjustment with minimal errors, as it converts the focusing mechanism to a polar coordinate system with Z-axis translation, Z-axis rotation, and Y-axis tilting, reducing the need for complex equipment and lengthy processes.
Implementation Method 1
UV-curable adhesives for secure locking
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein is an image focusing adjustment method, system, and module. A first image of a reference object is received in response to an input signal when the image focusing adjustment module is operating in a first state. The first image of the reference object is analyzed, based on which a plurality of adjustments to the image focusing adjustment module is controlled. The plurality of adjustments, performed by a plurality of actuators controlled by control module, include rotating a lens barrel assembly relative to a neck member along a first axis that causes a translational adjustment of the lens barrel assembly, rotating the neck member relative to a top member around the first axis that causes a rotational adjustment of the lens barrel assembly, and positioning a tilt adjustment member that causes tilt adjustment of the top member relative to a frame member along a second axis.