Folded Optical Module Layout for Thin Image Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional optical systems in electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, face challenges in miniaturization and image stabilization while maintaining effective light transmission and image processing.

Innovation Solution

The optical system incorporates a modular design with a first module featuring a movable optical member driven by an electromagnetic assembly, allowing for relative movement and adjustment of light paths, combined with an image sensor and a second module that adjusts light direction, facilitating miniaturization and optical image stabilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the optical system uses a conventional design, then the structure is simple, but the thickness is large and miniaturization is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethickness of optical systemVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a folded optical path design where light travels in multiple directions rather than a straight line. The light path includes segments that travel in different directions, effectively using three-dimensional space to achieve a longer optical path within a compact thickness. This dimensional approach allows the optical system to be miniaturized while maintaining its functional requirements.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The optical system integrates multiple functional components within a nested structure. The second optical member is positioned to receive light from the first optical member, with components arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration. The base structure supports multiple elements in a layered arrangement, allowing the system to achieve miniaturization through efficient spatial nesting of optical and mechanical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If the optical system is miniaturized, then the thickness is reduced, but image stabilization becomes difficult to implement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethickness of optical systemVSAvoidimage stabilization capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a movable portion that can shift position in response to external disturbances. This dynamic element, driven by a driving assembly, adjusts the optical path in real-time to compensate for vibrations or movements. The movable portion works in conjunction with the folded optical path to maintain image stability within the miniaturized structure, allowing the system to achieve both compactness and stabilization capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Length of stationary object

If the optical path is extended for better image processing, then the thickness increases, but miniaturization is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical path lengthVSAvoidthickness of optical system
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a folded optical path configuration where light travels through multiple segments in different directions rather than a single linear path. This allows the effective optical path length to be extended while the physical thickness remains compact. The light path includes directional changes that utilize three-dimensional space efficiently, achieving long optical path length without proportional increase in thickness.

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 configuration enables efficient light transmission, image stabilization, and reduced thickness, enhancing the miniaturization and functionality of optical systems in electronic devices.

Implementation Method 1

The first driving assembly is configured to drive the first movable portion to move relative to the fixed portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic driving: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20240176094A1Optical system
Publication Date: 2024.05.30 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US20240176094A1 patent drawing
  • US20240176094A1 patent drawing
  • US20240176094A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical system is provided, including a first module configured to hold a first optical member. The first module includes a first movable portion, a first fixed portion, and a first driving assembly. The first movable portion is configured to connect the first optical member, and is movable relative to the fixed portion. The first driving assembly is configured to drive the first movable portion to move relative to the fixed portion.