MEMS Deformable Aperture Ring for Adjustable Micro Camera
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing micro camera modules in handheld devices face challenges in achieving an adjustable aperture with small size, low power consumption, and low manufacturing cost, which are essential for modern micro camera applications.
Innovation Solution
A Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) based device with an opaque deformable aperture ring and conductive deformable crossbeams and structs, where electrostatic forces between these components allow for automatic aperture adjustment by changing the area of the aperture ring, reducing power consumption and manufacturing costs while maintaining a compact size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed aperture system is used in a micro camera module, then the manufacturing cost and size are reduced, but the aperture adjusting function is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed aperture system into a dynamic adjustable aperture system. The aperture ring is made deformable through elastic deformation, allowing it to change shape and adjust the aperture area. The conductive deformable crossbeams enable the aperture ring to deform elastically when electrostatic force is applied, providing dynamic aperture control while maintaining a compact structure suitable for micro camera modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical aperture adjustment mechanisms with an electrostatic field-based system. Instead of using mechanical linkages, motors, or actuators, the invention uses electrostatic force generated between conductive deformable crossbeams and conductive structs to deform the aperture ring. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical components, reducing manufacturing cost and device size while enabling aperture adjustment functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical aperture adjustment mechanism is used, then the aperture can be adjusted, but the device size and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical aperture adjustment mechanisms with an electrostatic field-based system. Instead of using mechanical linkages, motors, or actuators, the invention uses electrostatic force generated between conductive deformable crossbeams and conductive structs to deform the aperture ring. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical components, reducing manufacturing cost and device size while enabling aperture adjustment functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the aperture ring by applying electrostatic force. The conductive deformable crossbeams undergo elastic deformation when voltage is applied, changing the shape and area of the aperture ring. This parameter change approach allows continuous aperture adjustment without mechanical moving parts, significantly reducing device size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical aperture adjustment mechanism is used, then the aperture can be adjusted, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical aperture adjustment mechanisms with an electrostatic field-based system. Instead of using mechanical linkages, motors, or actuators, the invention uses electrostatic force generated between conductive deformable crossbeams and conductive structs to deform the aperture ring. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical components, reducing manufacturing cost and device size while enabling aperture adjustment functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic or pulsed electrostatic action to adjust the aperture. By applying voltage intermittently or in pulses to the conductive deformable crossbeams, the system can achieve aperture adjustment with minimal power consumption. The elastic deformation of the aperture ring maintains its position without continuous energy input, allowing the system to consume power only during adjustment phases rather than continuously.
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 MEMS device effectively adjusts the aperture area with reduced power consumption and manufacturing costs, enhancing the functionality and efficiency of micro camera modules in handheld devices.
Implementation Method 1
Electrostatic force between the conductive deformable crossbeam and the conductive struct in each group enables the conductive deformable crossbeam to move relatively to the conductive struct
Implementation Method 2
By attraction of opposite charges between the conductive deformable crossbeams and the conductive structs, the conductive deformable crossbeams move relatively to the conductive structs gradually
Data Source
AI summary
A micro-electro-mechanical system based device for adjusting aperture and a manufacturing method thereof are disclosed. The system includes: an opaque deformable aperture ring, multiple groups of conductive deformable crossbeams and conductive structs; and one or more fixed parts. In each group, each conductive deformable crossbeam corresponds to a conductive struct. The conductive deformable crossbeams and the conductive structs are arranged around the deformable aperture ring and spaced from each other. The conductive deformable crossbeams are suspended in the air, their inner edges are connected with an external edge of the deformable aperture ring, and their external edges are connected with the fixed parts. The conductive structs are connected with the fixed parts and remain stationary. Electrostatic force between the conductive deformable crossbeam and the conductive struct causes the deformable aperture ring to be stretched and rotate, so that area of an inner bore of the deformable aperture ring is changed.