Optical Element Driving Mechanism for Rapid Miniature Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing camera module driving mechanisms fail to meet the needs of rapid positioning and multiple functions while achieving miniaturization.

Innovation Solution

An optical element driving mechanism comprising a fixed assembly, movable assembly, and driving assembly, utilizing a first stator and rotor connected by rolling balls, with a positioning base and connecting elements to facilitate precise movement and adjustment of optical elements, including shielding blades, to control light entry.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a driving mechanism is designed to achieve miniaturization, then the size of the camera module is reduced, but the positioning speed and functional versatility are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera module sizeVSAvoidpositioning speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The driving mechanism is divided into distinct functional modules: a driving assembly with driving wheels, a movable assembly with rotors and rolling balls, and a fixed assembly with positioning bases. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently for miniaturization while maintaining rapid positioning capability through coordinated operation of the modular components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanism employs dynamic elements including rotors that can rotate in multiple directions, rolling balls that enable multi-axis movement, and positioning bases that can adjust positions dynamically. These dynamic components allow the system to achieve rapid positioning and multiple functions within a compact structure by adapting the motion paths and orientations of various parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Volume of moving object

If a driving mechanism is designed to achieve miniaturization, then the size of the camera module is reduced, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera module sizeVSAvoiddriving mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functional elements are merged into integrated assemblies: the driving wheels are combined with the positioning bases, the rotors are integrated with the rolling balls, and the movable assembly is unified with the fixed assembly. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall structure while achieving miniaturization, as the combined elements work together in a compact configuration rather than as separate parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If existing driving mechanisms are used, then the basic functions of auto focusing and optical image stabilization are achieved, but rapid positioning and multiple functions are not met

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoiddriving mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The driving mechanism is designed with universal components that can perform multiple functions: the positioning bases can support different configurations for auto-focusing and optical image stabilization, the rotors and rolling balls can enable various motion patterns for different operational modes, and the driving wheels can operate in different positions to provide multiple functions. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated structure rather than through multiple separate mechanisms, thereby not increasing overall structural complexity.

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

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

Enables rapid positioning and multiple functions while achieving miniaturization, with improved assembly convenience and reduced manufacturing complexity, and enhanced imaging quality through precise control of light entry.

Implementation Method 1

The first rotor rotates around a first rotating axis relative to the first stator by the first rolling ball

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20250334855A1Optical element driving mechanism
Publication Date: 2025.10.30 TDK CORP
  • US20250334855A1 patent drawing
  • US20250334855A1 patent drawing
  • US20250334855A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical element driving mechanism includes a fixed assembly, a movable assembly, and a driving assembly. The movable assembly is configured to be connected to an optical assembly and is movable relative to the fixed assembly. The driving assembly is configured to drive the movable assembly to move relative to the fixed assembly. When at least a portion of the movable assembly moves relative to the fixed assembly, the optical assembly moves relative to the movable assembly.