3D Image Sensor VCM Assembly for Compact Camera AF and OIS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small form factor cameras in mobile devices face challenges in achieving high-resolution imaging with optical image stabilization and autofocus capabilities due to limited space and mechanical constraints.
Innovation Solution
A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator assembly that translates the image sensor along three axes (X, Y, and Z) using Lorentz forces, allowing for both autofocus and optical image stabilization by moving the image sensor relative to the optical element, while maintaining precise control through a spring plate and suspension elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If optical lenses are moved as a single rigid body for autofocus and stabilization, then the mechanism structure is simple, but the flexibility in compensating for unwanted motion and focusing is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lens assembly into multiple independently movable components: the optical lens, the optical element, and the image sensor. This allows each component to move independently in different directions - the lens for autofocus along the optical axis, and the image sensor for stabilization in perpendicular directions, thereby resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and motion flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the optical lens to achieve both autofocus and stabilization, the patent inverts the approach by moving the image sensor for stabilization while keeping the lens movement dedicated to autofocus only. This inversion allows the optical path to remain stable while the sensor compensates for motion, achieving versatility without complicating the optical mechanism
2Volume of moving object
If the camera form factor is reduced for mobile devices, then the device size is smaller, but the space available for image stabilization and autofocus mechanisms is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the autofocus and optical image stabilization functions into a single integrated actuator assembly. The voice coil motor simultaneously controls both the lens position for autofocus and the image sensor position for stabilization, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and thereby reducing the overall camera module volume while maintaining full functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that performs both autofocus (moving the lens along the optical axis) and optical image stabilization (moving the image sensor in perpendicular directions). This universal design allows a single mechanism to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components, fitting high-resolution imaging capabilities into a compact form factor
3Manufacturing precision
If high-resolution imaging is achieved with optical image stabilization and autofocus, then image quality is improved, but the device requires more space and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical focus and stabilization mechanisms (such as motorized lens barrels and complex gear systems) with voice coil motor actuators that use electromagnetic fields to achieve precise positioning. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while enabling the high-precision movements required for both autofocus and optical image stabilization in high-resolution cameras
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 high-resolution imaging with effective autofocus and optical image stabilization in a compact form factor by allowing the image sensor to move in multiple directions, enhancing camera performance in mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more voice coil motor actuators, formed between respective magnets mounted to the carrier frame and respective coils positioned within the VCM actuator assembly, are configured to move the image sensor in the autofocus (AF) direction (e.g. the Z-direction) and move the image sensor in the plurality of optical image stabilization (OIS) directions orthogonal to the autofocus direction (e.g. the X and Y directions)
Implementation Method 2
The spring plate mechanically couples the substrate carrier to the carrier frame, wherein the spring plate permits motion of the substrate carrier relative to the carrier frame in the autofocus (AF) direction (e.g. a Z-direction) and restricts motion of the substrate carrier relative to the carrier frame in a plurality of optical image stabilization (OIS) directions orthogonal to the autofocus (AF) direction (e.g. X and Y directions)
Implementation Method 3
The suspension elements permit motion of the carrier frame and the substrate carrier in the plurality of optical image stabilization (OIS) directions (e.g. X and Y directions) and restrict motion of the carrier frame in the autofocus (AF) direction (e.g. the Z-direction)
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a camera with a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator assembly to provide autofocus (AF) and/or optical image stabilization (OIS) movement. The VCM actuator assembly is configured to move an image sensor of the camera in three dimensions (e.g. X, Y, and Z) to provide the AF and/or OIS movements. The VCM actuator assembly is asymmetrical and includes an at least partially open side that allows an optical assembly of the camera to pass through the open side of the VCM actuator. In some embodiments, the optical assembly is part of a folded optics arrangement of the camera that includes one or more prisms/and or lenses.