Multipolar Magnet Layout for Precise Lens Position Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing position detection devices using magnetic sensors suffer from low position detection accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A position detection device comprising a magnetic sensor and a multipolar magnet generator, where the magnetic sensor and magnet are positioned orthogonally and movable relative to each other, generating orthogonal magnetic fields to enhance detection accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a magnetic sensor and magnetic field generator are positioned with their centers aligned in the third-axis direction, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the position detection accuracy is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection accuracyVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by intentionally offsetting the center position of the magnetic sensor from the center position of the multipolar magnet in the third-axis direction. This asymmetric positioning creates a more favorable magnetic field distribution for detection, improving position detection accuracy while accepting increased structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by creating a non-uniform magnetic field environment through the offset positioning. The magnetic sensor is placed in a specific location where the magnetic field gradient is optimized for detection purposes, rather than being positioned at the symmetric center where the field would be more uniform but less informative for position detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Measurement precision

If the magnetic sensor is positioned closer to the multipolar magnet, then the magnetic field strength increases improving detection sensitivity, but the risk of magnetic field interference and measurement errors increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidmagnetic field interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the offset distance in the third-axis direction to achieve the right balance. By adjusting this positional parameter, the system achieves sufficient magnetic field strength for sensitive detection while maintaining enough separation to avoid excessive interference and measurement errors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 configuration improves position detection accuracy by optimizing the magnetic field interaction, enabling precise lens positioning for autofocus and optical image stabilization.

Implementation Method 1

a first magnetic field generator... includes a first multipolar magnet... and generates a first magnetic field to be exerted on the magnetic sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field generation: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

A position detection device according to one embodiment of the technology includes a magnetic sensor and a first magnetic field generator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic sensing: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS12517248B2Position detection device, lens module, imaging apparatus, and distance measurement apparatus
Publication Date: 2026.01.06 TDK CORP
  • US12517248B2 patent drawing
  • US12517248B2 patent drawing
  • US12517248B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A position detection device includes a magnetic sensor and a first magnetic field generator. The first magnetic field generator is disposed to be spaced from and face the magnetic sensor in a first-axis direction, includes a first multipolar magnet, and generates a first magnetic field to be exerted on the magnetic sensor, the first multipolar magnet including N poles and S poles, the N and S poles being adjacent in the first-axis direction. The magnetic sensor and the first magnetic field generator are provided to be relatively movable with respect to each other in a second-axis direction orthogonal to the first-axis direction. A center position of the magnetic sensor in a third-axis direction orthogonal to both the first-axis direction and the second-axis direction is different from a center position of the first multipolar magnet in the third-axis direction.