Optical Element Driving Mechanism With Magnetic Impact Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical element driving mechanisms in electronic devices, such as smartphones and digital cameras, face challenges in miniaturization and effective locking mechanisms, especially when subjected to impacts, which can lead to separation of optical elements from their locking structures.

Innovation Solution

An optical element driving mechanism with a movable part, fixed assembly, and locking assembly, utilizing magnetic and guiding elements to drive and lock the optical element, incorporating a special space configuration and interlocking structures to ensure secure locking and miniaturization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If existing optical element driving mechanisms are used, then the device can capture images and record videos, but the mechanism is difficult to miniaturize and the optical elements may separate from locking structures during impacts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesize of optical element driving mechanismVSAvoidlocking stability during impact
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested structure where the first movable part containing the optical element is positioned within the fixed assembly, and the locking assembly is integrated within the same space. The second movable part with the locking element operates within the accommodation space of the fixed assembly, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes overall volume while maintaining reliable locking functionality during impacts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking mechanisms with a magnetic field-based locking system. The second driving assembly generates a magnetic field that acts on the second magnetically conductive element to engage or disengage the locking element with the engaging structure, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and reducing the overall mechanism size while improving impact resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Volume of moving object

If the optical element driving mechanism is miniaturized, then the device becomes more compact, but the locking mechanism becomes less effective under impact

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesize of optical element driving mechanismVSAvoidlocking force during impact
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, distribution, and timing) to control the locking mechanism. The second driving assembly adjusts the magnetic field parameters to generate sufficient locking force during normal operation and enhances the magnetic field strength during impact conditions, maintaining effective locking in a miniaturized configuration without compromising strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If a locking assembly is added to prevent separation during impact, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking stability during impactVSAvoidstructure complexity of optical element driving mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the second movable part to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the actuator for the locking mechanism and the component that directly engages with the optical element. The magnetic field generation, locking actuation, and optical element control are integrated into a single multi-functional assembly, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high reliability during impact.

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

4Volume of moving object

If the second driving assembly with magnetic elements is used, then the miniaturization is achieved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesize of optical element driving mechanismVSAvoidalignment precision of magnetic elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces the second magnetically conductive element as an intermediary between the second coil and the locking element. This intermediary component has high magnetic permeability and concentrates the magnetic field lines, allowing for more tolerant manufacturing tolerances in the positioning of the coil while still achieving precise and strong magnetic actuation for locking in a miniaturized configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 effectively prevents separation of optical elements during impacts and allows for miniaturization, ensuring the optical element remains locked in place, even under stress, while maintaining functionality.

Implementation Method 1

a second driving assembly, configured to drive the second movable part to move relative to the fixed assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

The second driving assembly is configured to drive the second movable part to move in a first direction relative to the fixed assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Implementation Method 3

a pressing element, configured to generate a first pre-pressure on the second movable part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 4

The locking assembly is configured to fix the first movable part at a first position relative to the fixed assembly temporarily

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS12382158B2Optical element driving mechanism
Publication Date: 2025.08.05 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US12382158B2 patent drawing
  • US12382158B2 patent drawing
  • US12382158B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an optical element driving mechanism, which includes a first movable part, a fixed assembly, a first driving assembly and a locking assembly. The first movable part includes an optical element. The fixed assembly has a first opening, and the first movable part is movable relative to the fixed assembly. The first driving assembly is configured to drive the first movable part to move relative to the fixed assembly, so that the optical element selectively overlaps the first opening. The locking assembly is configured to fix the first movable part at a first position relative to the fixed assembly temporarily.