Magnetic Actuator Camera System for Compact Optical Zoom
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in mobile devices is to provide a zoom function without increasing complexity, cost, and space, while maintaining high image quality, as traditional mechanical parts compromise reliability and space efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A camera system with multiple camera units, each with its own optical package and actuator, using magnetic fields generated by shared magnets to move the optical packages, allowing for optical zoom without mechanical parts, enabling independent or synchronized movement for focal length adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical parts are used to provide zoom function, then focal length adjustment is achieved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical zoom mechanisms with a magnetic field-based actuation system. Multiple camera units with different focal lengths are positioned using magnetic actuators consisting of magnet arrays and coil assemblies, eliminating complex mechanical parts such as gears, lenses, and moving mechanical components while achieving focal length adjustment through electromagnetic forces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple camera units with different optical characteristics (wide-angle, standard, telephoto) into a single integrated camera module. These camera units share common magnetic actuators and control systems, allowing the system to provide multiple focal lengths through a unified structure rather than separate mechanical zoom mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical parts are used for zoom, then focal length change is possible, but reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical wear and failure points by replacing mechanical zoom mechanisms with electromagnetic actuation. The magnetic field-based system uses stationary magnet arrays and controlled coil currents to position camera units, removing moving mechanical parts that could wear, loosen, or fail, thereby significantly improving system reliability
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical parts are used, then zoom function is provided, but space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges multiple camera units with different focal lengths in a nested or compact configuration within the camera module. The camera units are positioned closely together along the optical axis, with their respective magnetic actuators sharing space efficiently, thereby minimizing the overall volume required while providing multiple focal length options
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple camera units and their actuation systems into a single integrated module. By sharing common magnetic actuators, control electronics, and structural components among multiple camera units, the system achieves multiple focal lengths in a compact form factor that would be impossible with separate mechanical zoom mechanisms
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 solution enables efficient optical zoom in mobile devices, enhancing image quality and reliability while reducing space and complexity, allowing for simultaneous capture of multiple focal lengths and frame rates, improving user experience in capturing detailed and contextual images.
Implementation Method 1
The second camera unit includes a second central magnet array situated along the axis between the first optics package of the first camera unit and the second optics package of the second camera unit
Implementation Method 2
A camera system with multiple camera units, each with its own optical package and actuator, using magnetic fields generated by shared magnets to move the optical packages
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a first camera unit of a multifunction device for capturing a first image of a first visual field includes a first actuator for moving a first optical package. A second camera unit includes a second actuator for moving a second optical package. The second camera unit includes a second central magnet array situated along the axis between the first optics package of the first camera unit and the second optics package of the second camera unit. In some embodiments, the second central magnet array includes a second central upper magnet having a first polarity and a second central lower magnet having a polarity antiparallel to the first polarity. In some embodiments, the second camera unit includes a second distal magnet array situated opposite the second central magnet array with respect to the second optics package of the second camera unit.