Lens Actuator Assembly Simplified by Integrated FPC Current Conduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

The assembly of lens actuators with optical image-stabilization (OIS) functions is inefficient due to the need for suspension wires or similar elements to conduct current and stabilize the lens, complicating the assembly process and reducing production efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The lens actuator design incorporates a flexible print circuit board connected to the housing and a conductive-metal plate spring that allows current to be conducted directly to the focusing coil, eliminating the need for suspension wires and simplifying assembly by using a movable unit with a magnet assembly, elastic elements, and bearing balls to manage movement and friction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If suspension wires or wire springs are used to conduct current and stabilize the lens, then the lens actuator can function properly, but the assembly process becomes complicated and production efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens actuator functionalityVSAvoidproduction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the current conduction function and the lens stabilization function into a single integrated structure. The circuit board is directly connected to the lens holder, eliminating the need for separate suspension wires. This merging of functions reduces the number of components and simplifies the assembly process while maintaining both electrical connectivity and mechanical stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The circuit board serves multiple functions simultaneously: it conducts current to the coil and provides structural support for the lens holder. The lens holder itself serves dual purposes as both a mechanical support structure and a component that guides lens movement. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If suspension wires are used to conduct current into the coil, then the lens actuator can be operated, but the assembly process becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens actuator operationVSAvoidassembly difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the current conduction path with the structural support elements. The circuit board is integrated directly into the lens holder assembly, creating a unified structure that is easier to manufacture and assemble. This eliminates the need for separate wire connections that require precise positioning and secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and eliminates the suspension wires from the system by replacing them with an integrated circuit board structure. This removal of unnecessary components simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces assembly steps while maintaining the essential function of current conduction to the coil.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 enhances production efficiency by eliminating the need for suspension wires and simplifies the assembly process while maintaining the functionality of optical image-stabilization, improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the lens actuator.

Implementation Method 1

a coil wound around the lens holder and a stationary magnet separated from the coil and interacted with the coil for generating an electromagnetic force for driving the coil together with the lens to move approaching or away along an optical axis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

a movable unit with a magnet assembly, elastic elements, and bearing balls to manage movement and friction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction reduction: Ball Bearing

Data Source

PatentUS10036870B2Lens actuator
Publication Date: 2018.07.31 AAC OPTICS (CHANGZHOU) CO LTD
  • US10036870B2 patent drawing
  • US10036870B2 patent drawing
  • US10036870B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lens actuator includes a housing; a movable unit received in the housing and including: a carrier, a focusing coil disposed in the carrier, four magnets disposed to face the focusing coil in four directions perpendicular to the optical axis direction, a holder fixing the magnets; four shake correction coils each disposed opposite to one magnet and fixed on the housing; a first elastic element including a pair of spring plates arranged centrally symmetrical, each spring plate including a first spring part connecting the carrier to the holder, a second spring part connecting the holder to the housing and a third spring part connected between the first and second spring parts.