Lens Driving Unit Structure for Stable Magnets in Miniature Camera Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voice coil motor (VCM) technology is difficult to apply to subminiature, low-power camera modules, necessitating a solution that simplifies structure and reduces manufacturing costs while stabilizing the magnet and minimizing components.
Innovation Solution
A lens moving apparatus with a base featuring posts and stepped portions to secure magnets, coupled with elastic members for stability and reduced components, eliminating the need for a housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If VCM technology is applied to camera modules, then driving function is achieved, but structure complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base structure is merged with the housing function, eliminating the need for a separate housing component. The base now serves both as the structural foundation and the protective enclosure, reducing the total component count and simplifying assembly while maintaining all necessary functions including magnet support and coil positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The base is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing structural support, housing the magnetic components, positioning the coil, and serving as the mounting platform for the entire assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Device complexity
If traditional housing and multiple components are used, then magnet stability is achieved, but component count and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The housing and base are merged into a single integrated base structure. The base includes built-in features such as recesses and positioning structures that originally required separate housing components, thereby reducing the total number of parts while maintaining magnet stability through integrated design features.
Solution Approach 2:
The base is segmented into functional zones with specific features: recesses for magnet positioning, stepped portions for coil placement, and integrated mounting structures. This segmentation allows each feature to serve its specific function within the unified base structure, eliminating the need for separate components.
3Volume of moving object
If camera module is miniaturized, then size is reduced, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the housing and base into a single component, the invention reduces the total part count and assembly steps. This integration simplifies manufacturing processes, reduces assembly time, and lowers production costs while enabling compact dimensions suitable for miniaturized camera modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated base performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components, reducing the overall bill of materials and simplifying the manufacturing supply chain. The multi-functional design allows for cost-effective production while achieving the required compact form factor.
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 solution simplifies the structure, reduces manufacturing costs, and stabilizes the magnet, making the apparatus compact and cost-effective for miniaturized camera modules.
Implementation Method 1
a coil disposed at the bobbin
Implementation Method 2
a lower elastic member coupled both to a lower portion of the bobbin and to the base; and an upper elastic member coupled both to an upper portion of the bobbin and to the first to fourth posts
Data Source
AI summary
A lens moving apparatus including a base comprising a first post, a second post, a third post and a fourth post; a bobbin disposed inside the first to fourth posts; a coil disposed on the bobbin; a magnet comprising a first magnet unit disposed between the first post and the second post and a second magnet unit disposed between the third post and the fourth post; and a lower elastic member coupled to a lower portion of the bobbin and to the base, wherein the lower elastic member comprises a first portion coupled to a first region of the base positioned between the first post and the fourth post, and wherein the first portion of the lower elastic member does not overlap the magnet in a direction parallel to an optical axis.