Multi-aperture Imaging Device with Piezoelectric Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cameras face challenges in miniaturization while maintaining high image quality and functionality, such as autofocus and optical image stabilization, due to the need for larger components that occupy significant space.
Innovation Solution
A multi-aperture imaging device design featuring a piezoelectric actuator coupled with an image sensor and a single-line array, where the actuator is arranged between the image sensor and the beam deflection device, allowing for relative movement to achieve focus and optical image stabilization without increasing the device's thickness, thus minimizing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional camera components are arranged to surround the optical axis, then autofocus and optical image stabilization functions are enabled, but the device occupies significant space and cannot be miniaturized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional arrangement where actuators surround the optical axis in three-dimensional space to a planar arrangement where the actuator assembly is positioned within a plane containing the optical axis. This dimensional reorganization allows the actuator to be integrated without increasing the device's footprint in directions perpendicular to the imaging beam path, enabling miniaturization while preserving autofocus and optical image stabilization capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the actuator assembly with the imaging device structure by positioning it within the same plane as the optical components. This integration allows the actuator to share space with other components rather than occupying additional volume, resolving the contradiction between enabling movement functions and minimizing device size.
2Reliability
If the actuator is arranged outside the imaging beam path, then the imaging function is not obstructed, but the device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the actuator assembly within the plane containing the optical axis rather than placing it perpendicular to this plane. This repositioning allows the actuator to operate within the existing spatial envelope of the imaging device without increasing thickness in the direction normal to the imaging beam path, while still enabling the necessary movements for focusing and stabilization.
3Volume of moving object
If a single-row array is used instead of a two-dimensional array, then the device can be miniaturized, but capturing the entire field of view becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable single-row array that can be dynamically repositioned by the actuator assembly. This dynamic capability allows the single-row array to scan across different angular positions, enabling the miniaturized device to capture the entire field of view through sequential imaging rather than requiring a static two-dimensional array to capture it simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The single-row array implements periodic scanning motion to cover the entire field of view. By systematically moving through different angular positions in a periodic manner, the miniaturized device achieves complete field coverage over time, resolving the contradiction between using a compact single-row array and capturing the full field of view.
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
Enables a compact, miniaturized multi-aperture imaging device that captures high-quality images while maintaining autofocus and optical image stabilization functions without significant increases in size, specifically by using a piezoelectric actuator to adjust the distance between the image sensor and the single-line array within a minimal volume configuration.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator assembly comprises a piezoelectric actuator coupled to the image sensor or array; the image sensor or beam deflection device is arranged between the piezoelectric actuator of the actuator assembly and the single-row array, the piezoelectric actuator being configured to change the distance between the image sensor and the single-row array and to deform along a beam direction parallel to a beam path through the optical channels when actuated.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a multi-aperture imaging device comprising an image sensor, a single-row array of optical channels arranged next to one another, wherein each optical channel has an optic for imaging a sub-region of an object region on an image sensor region of the image sensor, and a beam deflection device for deflecting a beam path of the optical channels. The multi-aperture imaging device comprises an actuator device for generating a relative movement between the image sensor, the single-row array and the beam deflection device, wherein the actuator device is arranged in such a way that it is arranged at least partially between two planes, which are spanned via sides of a cuboid, wherein the sides of the cuboid are arranged in parallel to one another, as well as in relation to a row extension direction of the single-row array and a part of the beam path of the optical channels between the image sensor and the beam deflection device. A volume of the cuboid is minimal and nevertheless comprises the image sensor, the single-row array and the beam deflection device.