MEMS Camera Actuation With 6DoF Sensor Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices with fixed optical and sensing elements suffer from limited performance gains due to restricted relative movement, despite advances in miniaturization and cost reduction, necessitating improved mechanisms for enhanced image capture capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based imaging device with six degrees of freedom (6DoF) movement between the optical and sensing elements, utilizing a set of individually controllable actuators for translational and rotational movements, allowing full relative movement and enhanced performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed optical and sensing elements are used, then device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but image capture performance and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic positioning of the sensing element relative to the optical element using MEMS actuators that enable six degrees of freedom movement. This allows the imaging device to adapt to different imaging scenarios (macro, portrait, wide-angle) by dynamically adjusting the sensor position, resolving the contradiction between fixed simplicity and dynamic performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device achieves multi-functionality through a single sensor element that can be positioned at multiple locations to perform different imaging functions. The same sensor captures macro images, portrait images, and wide-angle images by changing its position relative to the optical element, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated sensors and reducing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized imaging devices are included, then image capture versatility is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single sensing element that serves multiple imaging purposes by changing its position relative to the optical element. The same sensor captures macro images when positioned close to the optical element, portrait images at intermediate distances, and wide-angle images at farther distances, thereby replacing multiple specialized sensors and reducing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging function is segmented into different operational modes (macro, portrait, wide-angle) that are achieved through positional segmentation rather than physical segmentation of multiple sensors. The sensing element is divided into different functional states based on its position, allowing one physical component to fulfill multiple roles.
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 6DoF configuration provides higher resolution images, adjustable Bokeh effects, Plenoptic imaging, and improved image stabilization, surpassing the limitations of fixed devices by enabling precise and dynamic image capture.
Implementation Method 1
a set of MEMS actuators configured to be individually selectively controlled to create six degrees of freedom (6DoF) movement between the sensing element and the optical element
Data Source
AI summary
This document relates to devices employing imaging devices, such as cameras and improved camera performance. In one example the device includes an optical element and a sensing element configured to sense light passing through the optical element. This example includes a set of MEMS actuators configured to be individually selectively controlled to create six degrees of freedom (6DoF) movement between the sensing element and the optical element.