Lens Module Variable Member Actuator for Compact Camera Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity and size of camera modules in mobile devices increase due to the implementation of autofocus, zoom, and optical image stabilization functions, leading to increased power consumption and weight, particularly when moving lenses or image sensors for stabilization.

Innovation Solution

A lens module with a first driving unit for moving a first lens barrel and a second driving unit, which includes a variable member with a length that changes based on current application, allowing the distance between lens barrels to be adjusted, reducing the need for multiple driving units and simplifying the structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple driving units are used to implement autofocus, zoom, and optical image stabilization functions, then the functionality of the camera module is improved, but the device complexity and size increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecamera functionalityVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple driving functions into a single integrated driving unit that can perform autofocus, zoom, and optical image stabilization operations. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate driving units needed, thereby simplifying the overall camera module structure while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The driving unit is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing multiple operations (autofocus, zoom, OIS) through a single mechanism. This universal design allows one component to serve multiple purposes, reducing device complexity without sacrificing adaptability or versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple driving units are used to implement autofocus, zoom, and optical image stabilization functions, then the functionality of the camera module is improved, but the size of the camera module increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecamera functionalityVSAvoidcamera module size

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By merging multiple driving functions into a single compact driving unit, the overall volume required for the camera module is reduced. Instead of allocating separate spaces for multiple independent driving units, the integrated design consolidates these functions into one smaller component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested arrangement where lens barrels are positioned within each other, and the driving unit is integrated within the housing structure. This nesting approach allows multiple components to occupy overlapping or adjacent spaces efficiently, minimizing the total camera module size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If lens or image sensor is directly moved to perform optical image stabilization, then the OIS function is achieved, but the weight and driving force requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveOIS functionVSAvoidlens or image sensor weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a movable lens barrel as an intermediary element to perform optical image stabilization. Instead of moving the heavy image sensor directly, the system moves a lighter lens barrel that contains compensation lenses. This intermediary approach reduces the weight of the moving object while maintaining OIS effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the mass parameter of the moving object by using a lens barrel with compensation lenses instead of moving the entire image sensor assembly. This parameter change (reducing mass) decreases the driving force requirements while preserving the OIS function through optical compensation.

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 configuration reduces the size and power consumption of camera modules while maintaining functionality, enabling efficient autofocus and zoom operations with a simplified structure and reduced weight.

Implementation Method 1

The variable member may include a shape memory alloy of which a length is changed based on the application of the current

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory alloy: Shape Memory Alloy

Implementation Method 2

The variable member may include a linear actuator of which a length in the optical axis direction changes based on the application of the current

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLinear actuator: Linear Motor

Implementation Method 3

The first driving unit may be configured to move the first lens barrel based on an operation of a voice coil motor that implements a coil and a magnet

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVoice coil motor: Electromagnetic Propulsion

Data Source

PatentUS20230075967A1Lens module and camera module including same

Publication Date: 2023.03.09 SAMSUNG ELECTRO MECHANICS CO LTD

AI summary

A lens module is provided. The lens module includes a first driving unit configured to move a first lens barrel along an optical axis direction; and a second driving unit configured to move a second lens barrel along the optical axis direction, wherein the second driving unit is disposed between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel and is configured to change a distance between the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel.