Laminated Actuator for Compact Camera Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge is to create compact camera modules for portable electronic devices that are smaller, lighter, and more cost-effective while maintaining high performance, particularly in adjusting the distance between the imaging lens and the image sensor within limited space.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves a compact imaging module with laminated components, including a magnet and coil actuator system, where the actuator can adjust the lens assembly's position relative to the image sensor using magnetic forces, and incorporates laminated spacers and holders to achieve precise control and reduced manufacturing costs through batch processing techniques.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If traditional actuator designs are used, then the imaging lens can be adjusted relative to the image sensor, but the device size and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidlens position adjustment capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functional components (actuator body, magnet holder, coil holder, spacer) into a single integrated laminated structure. This consolidation reduces the overall device volume while maintaining the full functionality of lens position adjustment, directly resolving the contradiction between compact size and operational capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs laminated composite structures combining different materials (magnetic materials, non-magnetic materials, elastic materials) in layered configurations. This approach achieves compact actuator design while maintaining magnetic forces and mechanical flexibility needed for lens adjustment, balancing size reduction with functional performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Ease of manufacture

If precision actuator components are manufactured individually, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidcomponent dimensional accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple precision components into a single laminated actuator assembly that can be manufactured as one integrated piece. This merging reduces the number of separate manufacturing steps and assembly operations, lowering overall manufacturing cost and complexity while maintaining precision through controlled lamination processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the manufacturing approach from individual high-precision component fabrication to batch lamination processing. By controlling the lamination parameters (temperature, pressure, adhesive distribution), the process achieves both cost efficiency and consistent dimensional accuracy across multiple components simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 design allows for a compact footprint, precise image adjustment, and reduced manufacturing costs by utilizing laminated components that can be efficiently produced in batches, addressing the need for smaller, lighter, and more affordable camera modules with improved image quality.

Implementation Method 1

a magnet and coil actuator system, where the actuator can adjust the lens assembly's position relative to the image sensor using magnetic forces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8692932B2Compact imaging device having a laminated component
Publication Date: 2014.04.08 HONG KONG APPLIED SCI & TECH RES INST
  • US8692932B2 patent drawing
  • US8692932B2 patent drawing
  • US8692932B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to an imaging device including a laminated portion of an actuator or actuator support.