Optical System with Shape Memory Alloy Driving Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in miniaturizing optical element driving mechanisms for electronic devices is to design a compact mechanism that enables precise movement of optical elements for functions like auto-focusing and image stabilization while maintaining optical quality and reducing device thickness.
Innovation Solution
The proposed optical element driving mechanism incorporates a polygonal structure with a fixed and movable portion, a driving assembly using shape memory alloys, and a position sensing assembly, along with a guiding and limiting mechanism to control the movement of optical elements, allowing for precise control and miniaturization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional driving mechanisms are used for optical elements, then the mechanism can achieve basic movement functions, but the device size and thickness cannot be reduced sufficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical driving mechanisms with a magnetic driving system. A magnetic driving assembly generates magnetic fields to drive the movable portion carrying optical elements, eliminating complex mechanical transmission components. This substitution significantly reduces the volume of the driving mechanism while maintaining precise movement control through magnetic field regulation, directly resolving the contradiction between miniaturization and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs shape memory alloys as driving elements that change their physical parameters (shape, length) in response to temperature or electrical stimulus. By controlling the activation temperature and electrical parameters of the shape memory alloy, the system achieves precise control over optical element movement with a compact structure, enabling both miniaturization and high manufacturing precision.
2Length of stationary object
If the driving mechanism is miniaturized, then device thickness is reduced, but the range and accuracy of optical element movement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into the magnetic driving assembly: it serves as both the driving force generator and the position reference system. The same magnetic components used for driving also provide magnetic field references for position sensing, eliminating the need for separate sensing mechanisms. This multi-functionality enables high position sensing accuracy within a thin device profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field lines as an intermediary medium between the driving assembly and the optical elements. These magnetic field lines serve dual purposes: transmitting driving force and providing position feedback through magnetic field strength variations. This intermediary approach enables precise position sensing without adding mechanical sensing components that would increase device thickness.
3Volume of moving object
If shape memory alloys are used as driving elements, then the mechanism becomes more compact, but the control complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the periodic phase transition characteristics of shape memory alloys, cycling between martensite and austenite phases through controlled heating and cooling. By applying periodic thermal or electrical stimuli, the system achieves continuous back-and-forth movement of optical elements. This periodic action enables compact driving with reduced energy consumption compared to continuous actuation, as the shape memory alloy retains its position without energy input once phased.
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
This configuration enables efficient optical zooming, auto-focusing, and image stabilization while enhancing the optical quality and reducing the device's thickness, supporting the miniaturization of electronic devices with improved shooting and depth sensing accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The first driving element drives the movable portion to move in a first dimension relative to the fixed portion, and has a shape memory alloy
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system is provided, including a first movable part for connecting an optical element; a first base, wherein the first movable part is movable relative to the first base; and a first driving assembly for driving the movable part to move relative to the first base. The optical system further includes a light quantity control mechanism for controlling the quantity of light entering the optical element. The light quantity control mechanism further includes a base seat and a light quantity control assembly at least partially movable relative to the base seat. The optical system further includes a second driving assembly for controlling the light quantity control assembly.