Optical Element Driving Mechanism for Compact Long-Focal-Length Layout

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of optical elements with long focal lengths in electronic devices increases device thickness, hindering miniaturization.

Innovation Solution

An optical element driving mechanism comprising movable parts and supporting elements that allow for precise alignment and adjustment of optical elements along multiple axes, minimizing contact and optimizing space utilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If optical elements with long focal lengths are provided in electronic devices, then image quality is improved, but device thickness increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoiddevice thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a traditional linear arrangement of optical elements along the optical axis to a three-dimensional spatial distribution. Multiple optical elements are positioned at different heights and lateral positions, utilizing vertical and lateral dimensions to achieve long focal length functionality without increasing device thickness. This dimensional transformation allows compact integration while maintaining optical performance.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested structure where multiple optical elements are arranged in overlapping or interleaved configurations. Optical elements are positioned such that they occupy different spatial layers, with some elements located above or below others when viewed from certain angles. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization and reduces the overall device thickness while accommodating multiple optical components with long focal lengths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If multiple optical elements are arranged closely to minimize device size, then device miniaturization is achieved, but the risk of contact and damage between optical elements increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidrisk of contact and damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces movable parts as intermediary components between optical elements. These movable parts include limiting elements that physically prevent direct contact between optical elements while allowing controlled movement for focusing and alignment. The limiting elements act as mediators that maintain safe distances between optical elements, preventing damage from accidental contact during operation or assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic positioning mechanisms that allow optical elements to move independently along the optical axis and in lateral directions. Movable parts with limiting elements enable each optical element to adjust its position dynamically for focusing while maintaining minimum separation distances. This dynamic control ensures that optical elements can be closely positioned for miniaturization while actively preventing contact through controlled movement ranges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Illumination intensity

If optical elements are positioned to optimize light reception, then imaging performance is improved, but alignment precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight receptionVSAvoidalignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements active alignment mechanisms with feedback control that automatically adjust the positions of optical elements during assembly and operation. Sensors detect the relative positions and alignment of optical elements, and motorized actuators make real-time adjustments to optimize light reception and imaging performance. This feedback system reduces the impact of manufacturing tolerances and ensures precise alignment without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs preliminary alignment features built into the movable parts and optical element mounts that pre-position optical elements in correct orientations and locations before final assembly. Alignment marks, guide rails, and pre-adjusted mounting structures provide initial positioning that simplifies the alignment process and reduces the precision requirements for final assembly. This preliminary action ensures that optical elements are correctly positioned for optimal light reception before operational adjustments are made.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250310645A1Optical element driving mechanism
Publication Date: 2025.10.02 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US20250310645A1 patent drawing
  • US20250310645A1 patent drawing
  • US20250310645A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical element driving mechanism is provided, including a first movable part, a second movable part, and a third movable part. The first movable part is connected to a first optical element. The second movable part is connected to a second optical element that has an optical axis. The third movable part is connected to a third optical element. The first optical element, the second optical element, and the third optical element are arranged along the optical axis. The second optical element is located between the first optical element and the third optical element when viewed along a direction that is perpendicular to the optical axis.