Liquid Lens Electrowetting Control for Simultaneous Focus and Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions require separate liquid lenses for variable focus and image stabilization, leading to increased size and a need for a single liquid lens that can simultaneously achieve both functions.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that control a liquid lens with a deformable liquid-liquid interface using electrowetting, where motion data and focusing signals are used to determine voltage levels applied between electrodes to control the shape of the interface, allowing for simultaneous focus and tilt adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate liquid lenses are used for variable focus and image stabilization, then each function can be achieved independently, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines variable focus and image stabilization functions into a single liquid lens by implementing segmented electrodes that can independently control different regions of the liquid interface. The first electrode controls overall focus while the second electrode controls tilt for image stabilization, merging two functions into one integrated optical element.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid lens is designed with multi-functionality to perform both variable focus adjustment and image stabilization simultaneously. The segmented electrode structure enables the same liquid interface to be controlled for different optical functions, making the lens universal in its capabilities.
2Volume of moving object
If a single liquid lens is used for both variable focus and image stabilization, then device size is reduced, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is segmented into at least two independent electrodes: a first electrode for controlling variable focus and a second electrode for controlling image stabilization tilt. This segmentation allows independent control of different functions within the single lens, managing complexity through modular electrode design.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid lens employs dynamic control through independently adjustable voltage applied to segmented electrodes, allowing real-time adjustment of both focus and tilt parameters. The liquid interface can dynamically change shape and orientation in response to applied electrical fields, enabling flexible control of multiple functions.
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
Enables the simultaneous achievement of variable focus and image stabilization using a single liquid lens, reducing size and improving image quality by dynamically adjusting the lens's shape in response to motion and focusing requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a refractive interface between first and second immiscible liquids that is movable by electrowetting
Implementation Method 2
determining motion data indicating a movement of the imaging device using a motion detector
Data Source
Figure 1~3B
Figure 4~7
Figure 8A~8B
AI summary
A method of controlling a liquid lens in an imaging device, the liquid lens including a liquid-liquid interface between first and second immiscible liquids deformable by electrowetting; a chamber containing the first and second liquids, the first liquid being an insulating liquid and the second liquid being a conducting liquid; and a first electrode in contact with the second liquid and at least one second electrode insulated from the second liquid by an insulating layer, the first and second electrodes being arranged to allow a plurality of voltages levels to be applied between the first and second electrodes to control the curvature of the liquid-liquid interface, the method including: determining motion data representative of a movement of the imaging device; determining focusing data representative of a desired focus of the imaging device; determining the plurality of voltage levels to be applied between the first and second electrodes, wherein each of the voltage levels is a function of the motion data, the focusing data and at least one parameter relating to the liquid lens and preliminary determined in a calibration phase.