Liquid Lens Optical System Miniaturization via Integrated Driving

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera module designs face challenges in achieving miniaturization while maintaining autofocus and optical image stabilization functions.

Innovation Solution

The optical system incorporates a fixed assembly, a movable element, a deforming member, a connecting assembly, and a driving module, where the movable element is connected to the first optical element through the deforming member, and the movable assembly is connected to the movable element through the connecting assembly, allowing the driving module to drive the movable assembly to move relative to the fixed assembly, thereby changing the optical properties of the liquid lens element.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If traditional camera lens holder and driving mechanism are used, then autofocus and optical image stabilization functions are achieved, but the camera module size cannot be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera module sizeVSAvoiddriving mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the autofocus driving mechanism and optical image stabilization mechanism into a single integrated driving module. The movable element simultaneously performs both autofocus (moving along the optical axis) and OIS (moving perpendicular to the optical axis) functions, eliminating the need for separate driving mechanisms and reducing overall camera module size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The movable element is designed as a multi-functional component that can achieve both autofocus and optical image stabilization functions. By making the single movable element perform multiple functions, the patent reduces the number of components and achieves miniaturization while maintaining both photographing and video recording capabilities.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If the movable element is directly connected to the first optical element, then the structure is simple, but the positioning precision and stability are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidconnecting structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a connecting assembly as an intermediary component between the movable element and the first optical element. This connecting assembly includes connecting members with elastic portions and rigid portions that precisely position the optical element while allowing for controlled movement, thereby improving positioning precision without excessive structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting assembly is segmented into multiple functional parts: elastic portions for flexible connection, rigid portions for precise positioning, and adhesive members for attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, improving overall positioning precision while keeping the structure manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Volume of moving object

If the distance between the movable element and the first optical element is reduced for miniaturization, then the camera module size is reduced, but the stability of the optical system may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera module sizeVSAvoidoptical system stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses elastic portions in the connecting members that can be made as flexible thin structures. These elastic portions maintain the optical element's position stability while allowing the overall camera module to be miniaturized. The flexibility of these thin film-like connecting structures provides the necessary compliance to maintain stability in a compact design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 design enables the camera module to achieve miniaturization while maintaining autofocus and optical image stabilization functions, enhancing the stability and accuracy of the optical system.

Implementation Method 1

the movable assembly is connected to the movable element by an elastic portion of the connecting member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11422357B2Optical system
Publication Date: 2022.08.23 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US11422357B2 patent drawing
  • US11422357B2 patent drawing
  • US11422357B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical system is provided and includes a fixed assembly, a movable element and a driving module. The fixed assembly has a main axis. The movable element is movable relative to the fixed assembly, and the movable element is connected to a first optical element. The driving module is configured to drive the movable element to move relative to the fixed assembly.