Nested Optical Element Drive for Compact AF, OIS, and Zoom
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera module driving mechanisms fail to achieve miniaturization while maintaining the functions of auto focusing and optical image stabilization, particularly in electronic devices like smartphones, where space constraints are significant.
Innovation Solution
An optical element driving mechanism comprising a fixed assembly, first and second movable assemblies, and corresponding driving assemblies, which allow for linear movement of optical elements along different dimensions, utilizing a guiding rod and magnetic elements for stability and precision, enabling optical zoom functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If existing camera module driving mechanisms are used to achieve auto focusing and optical image stabilization functions, then the photographing and video recording functions are satisfied, but the device cannot achieve miniaturization due to space constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The camera module is divided into multiple independent lens groups (first lens group, second lens group, third lens group) that can move independently along the optical axis. Each lens group has its own driving mechanism, allowing separate control for auto-focusing and optical image stabilization functions while reducing overall module size through functional segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the second lens group is positioned within the space between the first and third lens groups. The movable assemblies are nested within the fixed assembly structure, allowing multiple lens groups to occupy overlapping spatial volumes and achieve miniaturization while maintaining all required functions
2Volume of moving object
If the camera module is miniaturized to fit electronic devices, then space constraints are satisfied, but the driving mechanism cannot maintain stability and precision in optical element movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic driving mechanisms including voice coil motors that provide precise electromagnetic actuation for each lens group. The movable assemblies incorporate magnetic elements and coil assemblies that enable fine positional control through electromagnetic force modulation, maintaining movement precision despite reduced mechanical tolerances in the miniaturized structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensors (such as Hall sensors or capacitive sensors) that detect the position of each lens group and provide feedback to the control system. This closed-loop control enables real-time adjustment of lens group positions, compensating for manufacturing variations and maintaining high positioning precision in the miniaturized camera module
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lens groups are added to achieve optical zoom functionality, then optical zoom capability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each movable assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: the first movable assembly controls the first lens group for both auto-focusing and contributing to optical zoom, the second movable assembly controls the second lens group for optical image stabilization and zoom, and the third movable assembly controls the third lens group for fine-tuning focus and zoom. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated mechanisms for each function, managing overall complexity while achieving optical zoom capability
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 mechanism achieves miniaturization while ensuring stability and precision in optical element movement, enabling effective auto focusing and optical image stabilization within limited device spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic element and a coil assembly, configured to generate an electromagnetic force to drive the movable assembly to move along the guiding rod in the first direction
Implementation Method 2
a guiding rod and magnetic elements for stability and precision, enabling optical zoom functionality
Data Source
AI summary
An optical element driving mechanism is provided and includes a fixed assembly, a first movable assembly and a first driving assembly. The first movable assembly is configured to connect a first optical element, and the first movable assembly is movable relative to the fixed assembly. The first driving assembly is configured to drive the first movable assembly to move relative to the fixed assembly in a first dimension.