Multi-Axis Image Sensor Shifting for Compact Camera OIS and AF
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small form factor cameras face challenges in achieving high-resolution image stabilization and autofocus due to limited space, where existing mechanisms often compromise on performance or complexity.
Innovation Solution
A camera design incorporating a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator with a magnet and coil arrangement that allows for image sensor shifting along multiple axes, utilizing a flexure arrangement and position sensing to provide controlled movement for both optical image stabilization (OIS) and autofocus (AF) functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a voice coil motor actuator with magnet and coil arrangement is used to enable image sensor shifting along multiple axes, then optical image stabilization and autofocus performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optical image stabilization (OIS) and autofocus (AF) functions into a single voice coil motor actuator assembly. The magnet and coil arrangement integrates multiple coils (first coil for OIS, second coil for AF) and magnets that work together to control image sensor movement in multiple directions, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The voice coil motor actuator is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously provides both optical image stabilization and autofocus capabilities. The same actuator structure with its magnet and coil arrangement can generate forces in different directions to achieve both stabilizing the image against hand shake and focusing the lens, making one component serve multiple purposes.
2Reliability
If image sensor shifting mechanism is incorporated into small form factor camera, then image stabilization capability is improved, but camera size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the voice coil motor actuator components within the compact camera body. The magnet and coil arrangement is configured to fit within limited space, with coils positioned around the optical path and magnets arranged to maximize space utilization. The image sensor, substrate, and actuator components are integrated in a nested configuration that minimizes overall camera volume while maintaining stabilization functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of the magnet and coil components to achieve multiple axes of image sensor movement within a compact footprint. By arranging coils and magnets in different orientations and positions throughout the available volume, the system enables complex multi-directional movement without requiring a larger planar footprint, effectively using vertical and depth dimensions to compensate for limited horizontal space.
3Measurement precision
If multiple coils and magnets are arranged for multi-axis image sensor control, then autofocus precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the actuator into distinct functional segments: first coils for OIS, second coils for AF, and separately positioned magnets. This segmentation allows each coil-magnet pair to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining modular assembly. The substrate is also segmented with separate mounting areas for different components, facilitating systematic assembly and alignment during manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local optimization of the magnet and coil arrangement, where specific coils and magnets are positioned in particular locations to achieve precise control over image sensor movement in different directions. The first coils are positioned to provide stabilization forces, while second coils are positioned for focusing forces, with magnets strategically placed to maximize the effectiveness of each coil's magnetic field in its intended function, allowing precise local control without requiring uniform complexity throughout the entire assembly.
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
Enables efficient and precise image stabilization and autofocus in a compact form factor, enhancing camera performance by allowing controlled movement of the image sensor across multiple axes, thereby improving image quality and stability.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet and coil arrangement of the VCM actuator may include multiple magnets with a respective optical image stabilization (OIS) coil proximate each magnet and an autofocus (AF) coil(s) above and/or below the magnets
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator configured to shift an image sensor along multiple axes. Some embodiments include a magnet and coil arrangement. Some embodiments include a position sensing arrangement. Some embodiments include a flexure arrangement. Some embodiments include a coil structure and coil carrier assembly.