MEMS Spacer Assembly for Image Sensor Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturized MEMS actuators face challenges in securely positioning and electrically connecting image sensors within camera packages, particularly in preventing undesired movement, such as drop-induced movement, while maintaining compact size and low power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A spacer assembly with an essentially-planar structural portion is used to position the image sensor on the MEMS actuator, featuring outer and inner sub-portions mounted with epoxy, relief assemblies for electrical connection, and movement restriction assemblies to limit X, Y, and Z-axis movement, interfacing with stop assemblies to prevent unwanted displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the image sensor is mounted directly on the MEMS actuator, then the device size is minimized, but the image sensor experiences undesired movement including drop-induced movement
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is divided into multiple functional components: an outer sub-portion that interfaces with the MEMS actuator, an inner sub-portion that interfaces with the image sensor, and a structural portion connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to solve the overall problem of securing the image sensor within minimal space.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer assembly serves as an intermediary component between the MEMS actuator and the image sensor. It provides a stable mounting platform that prevents undesired movement of the image sensor while maintaining the compact form factor required for miniaturized devices.
2Reliability
If the image sensor is securely mounted to prevent movement, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the image sensor, prevents undesired movement in all directions, enables electrical connections through relief assemblies, and maintains the compact device form factor. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines several mounting and connection functions into a single integrated spacer assembly structure. The outer sub-portion, inner sub-portion, and structural portion work together as one unit that simultaneously provides mechanical support, movement restriction, and electrical connection pathways, simplifying the overall device architecture.
3Stability of the object's composition
If movement restriction assemblies are added to prevent drop-induced movement, then image sensor stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movement restriction functionality is segmented into specific geometric features of the spacer assembly, such as the configuration of the outer and inner sub-portions and the structural portion. These segmented features work together to restrict movement in different directions, providing comprehensive protection against drop-induced movement while maintaining manufacturability through standardized geometric forms.
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 spacer assembly effectively secures the image sensor, ensuring stable mechanical and electrical connectivity, preventing drop-induced movement and allowing precise control of movement axes, thus enhancing the reliability and performance of MEMS actuators in camera packages.
Implementation Method 1
The outer sub-portion may be is configured to be mounted to the MEMS actuator with an epoxy. The inner sub-portion may be configured to mount the image sensor with an epoxy.
Data Source
AI summary
A spacer assembly includes: an essentially-planer structural portion configured to position an image sensor on a MEMS actuator; an outer sub-portion configured to be mounted to the MEMS actuator; and an inner sub-portion configured to mount the image sensor.