Nested Lens Barrel Actuation for Compact Smartphone Zoom Optics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telescopic camera optics for smartphones are bulky, complex, and costly, with limited compatibility for miniaturization and robustness, requiring a more efficient and compact optical device design.
Innovation Solution
An optical device comprising a lens arrangement, a first cylinder element, a second cylinder element, and a rotation element, with an extendable actuating element, allowing for a compact, scalable, and robust design that provides accurate and long-stroke optics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional DSC telescope zoom units are implemented in smartphones, then zoom and telephoto functions are achieved, but device complexity and form factor increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the lens assembly inside a cylindrical housing that can be inserted into and removed from the smartphone body. The cylinder element contains the lens groups, actuators, and mechanical structures within a compact nested configuration, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining zoom functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is segmented into modular components: a removable cylinder element containing the lens assembly, separate actuator mechanisms for zoom and focus control, and distinct mounting interfaces. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and simplifies integration into the smartphone.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional DSC telescope zoom units are implemented in smartphones, then zoom and telephoto functions are achieved, but form factor increases and compatibility with handsets is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lens assembly is nested within a cylindrical housing that fits into a recess in the smartphone body. The cylinder element contains all optical components in a compact nested arrangement, minimizing the protruding volume while maintaining zoom capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system employs dynamic actuation mechanisms including VCM (voice coil motor) for autofocus and electromagnetic actuators for zoom control. These dynamic systems enable compact stroke lengths by using magnetic fields to generate linear motion from rotational input, reducing the mechanical travel distance required.
3Reliability
If actuators are added for autofocus and optical image stabilization, then optical performance is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuator functions into integrated electromagnetic actuation systems. The VCM assembly serves both autofocus and stabilization functions, while zoom actuators are integrated with the lens barrel structure. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall actuator system.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic actuators are designed to perform multiple functions: the VCM provides both autofocus and optical image stabilization, while the zoom actuators also contribute to focus control. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of actuators needed while maintaining comprehensive optical performance.
4Ease of operation
If power and control signals are transmitted through rotating and incrementally elevating cylinders, then actuator control is enabled, but signal transmission reliability and system robustness decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical signal transmission through rotating cylinders with wireless communication between the removable optical module and the smartphone body. Power and control signals are transmitted wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical connectors that must withstand repeated mechanical engagement and disengagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication interface as an intermediary between the removable optical module and the smartphone body. This intermediary enables power and control signal transmission without direct mechanical contact, improving reliability while maintaining ease of module replacement.
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 solution offers a compact, robust, and efficient optical device with fewer components, enabling accurate long-stroke movement and easy manufacturing, while maintaining optical performance and allowing for integration into smartphones.
Implementation Method 1
the actuating element is configured to generate movement of the first cylinder element along the optical axis, with respect to the second cylinder element, as the rotation element is rotated around the optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device (1) comprising a lens arrangement (3) defining an optical axis (A), a first cylinder element (4) accommodating the lens arrangement (3) and being movable along the optical axis (A), a second cylinder element (5), and optionally at least one third cylinder element (10). The cylindrical elements may be arranged in a nesting configuration, the third cylinder element(s) (10) being arranged between the first cylinder element (4) and the second cylinder element (5). A drive arrangement (7) is configured to rotate a rotation element (6) around the optical axis (A). A first end of an actuating element (8) is fixed to the first cylinder element (4) and a second end of the actuating element (8) is fixed to the rotation element (6). The actuating element (8) is configured to generate movement of the first cylinder element (4) along the optical axis (A), with respect to the second cylinder element (5), as the rotation element (6) is rotated around the optical axis (A).