Lens Module Using Shape Memory Alloy for Compact Image Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Camera lens modules are bulky due to their large volume, which increases power consumption and cost, especially in portable devices, and existing image stabilization methods like voice coil motors are inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A lens module design incorporating a light path altering element and electronically controlled deformation elements, such as shape memory alloy wires, to divert the light path and compensate for hand shake, allowing for a more compact size and reduced power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a voice coil motor is adopted to drive the lens assembly to shift relative to the sensor to compensate for hand shake, then image stabilization is achieved, but power consumption, cost and volume of the lens module increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical voice coil motor system with a shape memory alloy-based optical path adjustment system. The shape memory alloy wires directly act on the optical path altering element to compensate for hand shake, eliminating the need for separate motors, drivers, and control electronics, thereby significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining stabilization functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the shape memory alloy's unique phase transition property (between austenite and martensite phases) to change its shape in response to temperature changes. This parameter change enables the optical path altering element to automatically adjust its position and compensate for hand shake without requiring external power-driven actuators
2Reliability
If a voice coil motor is adopted to drive the lens assembly to shift relative to the sensor to compensate for hand shake, then image stabilization is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical voice coil motor system with a shape memory alloy-based optical path adjustment system. The shape memory alloy wires directly act on the optical path altering element to compensate for hand shake, eliminating the need for separate motors, drivers, and control electronics, thereby significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining stabilization functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy wires serve as a cost-effective alternative to expensive voice coil motors. The optical path altering element can be easily replaced or adjusted, providing an economical solution for image stabilization that reduces both component cost and manufacturing complexity
3Reliability
If a voice coil motor is adopted to drive the lens assembly to shift relative to the sensor to compensate for hand shake, then image stabilization is achieved, but volume of the lens module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical path altering function with the stabilization function into a single integrated system. The shape memory alloy wires are directly coupled to the optical path altering element, combining the optical component and actuator into one compact unit, thereby eliminating the need for separate voice coil motors and reducing overall module volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts the optical path in a different spatial dimension by using the shape memory alloy wires to change the angle and position of the optical path altering element. This dimensional approach to stabilization allows for a more compact arrangement of components compared to traditional linear motor-driven lens shifting
4Volume of moving object
If the lens module volume is reduced to facilitate portability, then camera device portability is improved, but the complexity of achieving compact design increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical drive systems with shape memory alloy-based optical path adjustment, simplifying the overall design while achieving compact volume. The direct action of shape memory alloys on optical components eliminates intermediate mechanical linkages and control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic shape memory alloy wires that can change their physical state in response to temperature variations, enabling automatic optical path adjustment. This dynamic property allows the system to adapt to hand shake conditions without requiring complex control algorithms or multiple sensors
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 design effectively reduces the thickness and power consumption of the lens module while lowering production costs by enabling compact size and efficient image stabilization without the need for voice coil motors.
Implementation Method 1
a light path altering element... An image beam incident to the light path altering element is diverted from a first light transmission path to a second light transmission path
Implementation Method 2
at least one group of electronically controlled deformation element... deformation of the at least one group of electronically controlled deformation element makes the light path altering element to move
Data Source
AI summary
A lens module including a light path altering element, a first lens assembly, a first sensor and at least one group of electronically controlled deformation element is provided. An image beam incident to the optical path altering element is diverted from a first light transmission path to a second light transmission path. The first lens assembly is disposed between the light path altering element and the first sensor. The at least one group of electronically controlled deformation element is connected to the light path altering element, and deformation of the at least one group of electronically controlled deformation element makes the light path altering element to move.