Integrated Lens Motion Structure for Autofocus and Image Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Compact camera modules in devices like smartphones require an effective optical image stabilizer to counteract vibrations caused by user hand movement, necessitating an improved lens moving apparatus for enhanced autofocusing and handshake correction.

Innovation Solution

A lens moving apparatus incorporating a bobbin with a first coil and magnet for autofocusing, supported by elastic members and a second coil generating electromagnetic forces to move the support member in perpendicular directions, enabling precise control of lens movement for image stabilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a lens moving apparatus is incorporated into a compact camera module, then optical image stabilizing function is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical image stabilizing functionVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the autofocusing mechanism (first coil and magnet) and the optical image stabilizing mechanism (second coil and support member) into a single integrated lens moving apparatus. The housing simultaneously supports both the first magnet for autofocus and the second coil for OIS, allowing both functions to operate within one unified structure rather than as separate systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lens moving apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it enables both autofocusing (through the first coil-magnet interaction) and optical image stabilization (through the second coil-generated electromagnetic force). The housing and support structures serve dual purposes, supporting both autofocus and OIS operations, making the system multi-functional and reducing overall device complexity.

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

2Speed

If electromagnetic forces are used to move the support member for image stabilization, then response speed improves, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponse speedVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic electromagnetic force generation through the second coil to move the support member in real-time for image stabilization. The electromagnetic force is activated only when needed for correction, allowing rapid response to hand tremors while minimizing continuous energy consumption. The system dynamically adjusts the electromagnetic force based on the stabilization requirements rather than operating continuously at full power.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 apparatus effectively stabilizes images by allowing controlled movement of the lens system, improving autofocus accuracy and reducing handshake-induced blur, thus enhancing the optical image stabilizing effect in compact camera modules.

Implementation Method 1

a first coil provided on an outer surface of a bobbin, which moves in a first direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 2

a second coil, which is disposed over the housing, and which generates an electromagnetic force to move the support member in the second and/or third directions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS12174397B2Lens moving apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.12.24 LG INNOTEK CO LTD
  • US12174397B2 patent drawing
  • US12174397B2 patent drawing
  • US12174397B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lens moving apparatus includes a housing for supporting a first magnet, a bobbin, which includes a first coil provided on an outer surface thereof and which moves in a first direction, a support member, which is disposed over one side surface of the housing, and which supports the bobbin and the housing such that the bobbin and the housing are movable in second and/or third directions, which are perpendicular to the first direction, a second coil, which is disposed over the housing, and which is spaced apart from the support member by a predetermined distance and which generates an electromagnetic force to move the support member in the second and/or third directions, and a printed circuit board disposed over the second coil.