Image Blur Correction Apparatus Using Magnetic Return and Sphere Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image blur correction apparatuses for cameras, such as those in mobile phones, face challenges in size reduction, thickness minimization, and simplification of structure and assembly, while also achieving accurate image blur correction and automatic return to a predetermined position.
Innovation Solution
An image blur correction apparatus with a base, a movable holding member, a support mechanism using concave portions and spheres for two-dimensional movement, and a magnetic return mechanism with drive and return magnets for precise positioning and stabilization, eliminating the need for conventional springs and simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a double configuration with first and second movable members aligned in optical axis direction is used, then image blur correction function is achieved, but the apparatus size increases in optical axis direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the movable member from an optical axis-aligned configuration to a configuration where movement occurs in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis. The movable member is positioned at the image plane side of the lens group and moves laterally to correct image blur, rather than moving along the optical axis. This dimensional change reduces the apparatus size in the optical axis direction while maintaining image blur correction functionality.
2Reliability
If the first drive device must drive both the first movable member and the second movable member together, then image blur correction is achieved, but the drive device size increases due to larger drive force requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the first movable member and its associated drive mechanisms from the system. Instead of using a complex dual-drive system, the invention employs a single movable member that integrates both correction functions into one component. This single movable member is driven by a single drive device, thereby eliminating the need for coordinated control of multiple drive devices and reducing overall drive device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of the first and second movable members into a single integrated movable member. This unified movable member performs both image blur correction functions that were previously distributed across two separate components. By combining these functions, the system requires only one drive device instead of two, reducing complexity and size.
3Ease of operation
If four elastic support members (wires) are used to support the movable member, then movable support is achieved, but the apparatus size increases in optical axis direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wire support system with a magnetic field-based support mechanism. The movable member is supported by magnetic attraction forces between magnets embedded in the base and corresponding magnetic elements on the movable member. This allows the movable member to be held in position and return to its initial position without mechanical wires, thereby reducing the apparatus size in the optical axis direction while maintaining the movable support function.
4Stability of the object's composition
If rigid coupling portions are used for the four elastic support members, then structural stability is achieved, but the movable member may incline with respect to the optical axis and return characteristics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid mechanical coupling system with a magnetic field-based support system. The movable member is supported by magnetic attraction forces that naturally provide both stability and proper return characteristics. The magnetic support allows the movable member to maintain correct orientation while returning to its initial position, eliminating the inclination problems associated with rigid mechanical couplings.
5Adaptability or versatility
If the fixed frame holding the coil is not integrally coupled, then flexibility in positioning is achieved, but assembly operation becomes troublesome and module formation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coil, yoke, and magnets into a single integrated drive unit. This unified component eliminates the need for separate positioning and assembly of multiple discrete parts. The integrated design maintains positioning flexibility while dramatically simplifying assembly operations and enabling easy module formation for the image blur correction apparatus.
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 apparatus effectively corrects image blur caused by hand movement, reduces size and thickness, simplifies the assembly operation, and ensures accurate and stable positioning of the correction lens, enhancing the camera's image quality and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a position detecting means for detecting a position of the movable holding member; wherein the position detecting means includes a magnetic sensor fixed to one of the base and the movable holding member at a position where the magnetic sensor faces the drive magnet
Implementation Method 2
a returning means for returning the movable holding member to a predetermined pause position in a pause state; wherein the returning means includes a return magnet that faces the drive magnet and is fixed to one of the base and the movable holding member to generate magnetic force for returning to the pause position
Implementation Method 3
a driving means for driving the movable holding member within the plane; wherein the driving means includes a coil fixed to one of the base and the movable holding member, and a drive magnet fixed to the other of the base and the movable holding member at a position where the drive magnet faces the coil
Data Source
AI summary
An image blur correction apparatus includes a base, a movable holding member, a support mechanism that supports the movable holding member to be movable within a plane vertical to an optical axis of a lens, a driving means for driving the movable holding member, a position detecting unit, and a returning unit for returning the movable holding member to a pause position, wherein the driving unit includes coils fixed to the base and drive magnets fixed to the movable holding member, the returning unit includes return magnets fixed to the base to face the drive magnets, the position detecting means includes magnetic sensors fixed to the base, and the support mechanism includes at least three concave portions provided on the base, at least three spheres rollably arranged in the concave portions, and at least three abutment surfaces provided on the movable holding member to abut on the spheres.