Multipolar Lens Actuator Structure for Large-Stroke Zoom Motion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional actuators for zoom lenses face inefficiencies due to large movement displacement requirements, leading to increased volume, weight, and assembly complexity, as the magnetic force distribution is not optimal for large focal adjustments.

Innovation Solution

An actuator with a multipolar magnet structure, where a magnet with n+1 magnetic poles faces a coil unit with n coils, allowing for enhanced magnetic force distribution and reduced size, enabling efficient operation even with increased carrier movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a plurality of magnets are provided at suitable intervals to generate sufficient magnetic force, then the driving force is improved, but the volume of the actuator and the weight of the carrier increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving forceVSAvoidweight of carrier
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple separate magnets are merged into a single integrated magnet structure with multiple magnetic poles. The patent describes a magnet having first, second, and third magnetic poles formed on a single magnet body, which combines the functions of multiple magnets while reducing the overall number of components and their associated mounting structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

A single magnet is segmented into multiple magnetic poles (first, second, and third poles) with different polarities. This segmentation allows the magnet to interact with multiple coils simultaneously, generating sufficient driving force across the entire stroke range without requiring multiple separate magnet assemblies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If multiple magnets are disposed at suitable intervals to maintain magnetic force over large displacement, then the driving efficiency is improved, but the assembly process becomes less efficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving efficiencyVSAvoidassembly efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple magnets are merged into a single integrated magnet structure, significantly reducing the number of assembly steps. Instead of positioning and securing multiple separate magnets at precise intervals, the invention uses one magnet body with multiple poles, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining the ability to provide distributed magnetic force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single magnet structure serves multiple functions simultaneously by providing first, second, and third magnetic poles that interact with different coils during various stages of carrier displacement. This multi-functional design maintains driving efficiency across the entire stroke range while simplifying assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the gap between coils and magnets is increased to accommodate large carrier movement, then the operational range is improved, but the volume of the actuator increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational rangeVSAvoidvolume of actuator
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The magnet is segmented into multiple poles extending along the optical axis direction, with each pole positioned to interact with specific coils at different displacement positions. This segmentation allows the magnetic force to be maintained throughout the entire carrier stroke without requiring excessive gap space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic pole arrangement extends in the optical axis direction (vertical dimension) rather than only in the radial direction. By positioning magnetic poles at different heights along the optical axis, the system maintains effective magnetic interaction throughout the carrier's vertical displacement range, reducing the required actuator volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 configuration enhances driving force and assembly efficiency, allowing for smaller actuator design and improved zoom operation precision without the need for extensive gap spacing between magnets, thus optimizing space utilization and reducing weight.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic force generated between the plurality of facing coils 10... the carrier 30 may move by a magnetic force generated between the plurality of facing coils 10

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS11824417B2Actuator with multipolar magnet structure
Publication Date: 2023.11.21 JAHWA ELECTRONICS
  • US11824417B2 patent drawing
  • US11824417B2 patent drawing
  • US11824417B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An actuator with a multipolar magnet structure includes a carrier configured so that a lens is loaded thereon, the carrier being configured to linearly move along an optical axis direction, a housing configured to accommodate the carrier, a coil unit provided in the housing and having an n number of coils arranged along the optical axis direction in the same side of the housing, where n is a natural number of 2 or above, and a magnet mounted to the same side of the carrier to face the coil unit, the magnet having an n+1 number of magnetic poles facing the coil unit.