Folded Camera Optics With 3-Axis AF and OIS Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The need for high-resolution, small form factor cameras in mobile devices poses challenges in integrating optical image stabilization (OIS) and autofocus (AF) mechanisms efficiently, as existing technologies often require significant space and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A folded optics arrangement with a lens group positioned between two light path folding elements, utilizing voice coil motor (VCM) actuators to enable autofocus and optical image stabilization through 3-axis movement of the lens group, reducing the overall height and enhancing compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional OIS and AF mechanisms are integrated in small form factor cameras, then image quality and focus control are improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines OIS and AF functions into a single integrated actuator system. The voice coil motor moves a carrier assembly that simultaneously holds both the lens group (for AF) and the prism (for OIS), enabling both functions to be controlled through one unified mechanism rather than separate actuators, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier assembly serves multiple functions: it holds the lens group for autofocus operation, holds the prism for optical image stabilization, and provides the moving platform for both components. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate mechanical structures needed, addressing the complexity issue while preserving both OIS and AF capabilities
2Reliability
If traditional OIS and AF mechanisms are integrated in small form factor cameras, then focus control and image stabilization are improved, but the camera module size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a folded optical path using a prism to redirect light at 90-degree angles. This allows the optical components to be arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration where the light path is folded back on itself, effectively reducing the physical footprint of the camera module while maintaining the necessary optical path length for image stabilization functionality
3Device complexity
If lens group is moved as a single rigid body for autofocus, then focusing mechanism is simplified, but optical image stabilization capability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lens system into two independently controllable parts: the lens group for autofocus operation and the prism for optical image stabilization. Each component can be moved independently by the actuator system, allowing AF and OIS to function simultaneously without interfering with each other, thus maintaining both simplicity and effectiveness
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 solution provides effective autofocus and image stabilization capabilities in a compact form factor, minimizing space requirements and improving performance in small form factor cameras.
Implementation Method 1
A folded optics arrangement with a lens group positioned between two light path folding elements, utilizing voice coil motor (VCM) actuators to enable autofocus and optical image stabilization through 3-axis movement of the lens group
Implementation Method 2
Some small form factor cameras may incorporate optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanisms that may sense and react to external excitation/disturbance by adjusting location of the optical lens on the X and/or Y axis in an attempt to compensate for unwanted motion of the lens
Data Source
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Figure 3A
Figure 3B~3C
AI summary
Various embodiments include a camera with folded optics and lens shifting capabilities. In some examples, a folded optics arrangement of the camera may include one or more lens elements and light path folding elements (e.g., prisms). Some embodiments include voice coil motor (VCM) actuator arrangements, carrier arrangements, and/or suspension arrangements to provide autofocus (AF) and/or optical image stabilization (OIS) movement. Furthermore, some embodiments include position sensor arrangements for position sensing with respect to AF and/or OIS movement.