Piezoelectric Optical Module for Compact AF and OIS Motion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern electronic devices with image capturing functions face challenges in reducing the size of driving mechanisms for auto focus and optical image stabilization while maintaining durability and versatility in capturing images from different directions.

Innovation Solution

An optical system with a piezoelectric driving assembly that includes a movable portion connected to an optical element, driven by a transmission element with a resilient structure, and a circuit assembly for precise movement control, allowing for efficient and compact auto focus and optical image stabilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional driving mechanism is used for auto focus and optical image stabilization, then the device can capture images with basic functionality, but the device size becomes large and durability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the auto focus driving mechanism and optical image stabilization mechanism into a single integrated driving assembly. The driving assembly includes a piezoelectric element that can simultaneously control lens movement for both auto focus and stabilization functions, eliminating the need for separate driving mechanisms and thereby reducing overall device volume while maintaining durability through unified structural design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces conventional mechanical driving mechanisms with a piezoelectric driving assembly. The piezoelectric element converts electrical signals directly into precise mechanical movements of the lens, eliminating complex mechanical linkages, gears, and motors. This substitution significantly reduces the volume of moving parts while improving durability by removing mechanical wear components

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

2Volume of moving object

If the driving mechanism size is reduced for compact device design, then device portability improves, but the precision and reliability of auto focus and optical image stabilization deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving mechanism sizeVSAvoidmovement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a piezoelectric element that provides precise control of lens movement through electrical signals. The piezoelectric material exhibits linear and reversible deformation in response to applied voltage, enabling extremely fine positional control of the lens. This electrical-to-mechanical conversion achieves high measurement precision while maintaining a compact driving mechanism size, as the piezoelectric element requires minimal space compared to conventional mechanical actuators

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the unique properties of piezoelectric materials that allow for precise control of deformation magnitude through voltage parameter adjustment. By changing the voltage applied to the piezoelectric element, the lens position can be precisely controlled with high resolution. This parameter-based control enables accurate auto focus and stabilization movements within a compact form factor

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If a simple driving structure is used to reduce manufacturing complexity, then manufacturing cost decreases, but the capability to capture images from different directions is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing complexityVSAvoidimage capture versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The driving assembly is designed with multi-functionality to support both auto focus and optical image stabilization operations. The same piezoelectric element and transmission mechanism can perform different functions by receiving different control signals, enabling the device to capture images from various directions and distances without requiring separate specialized mechanisms for each function

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates a resilient element that provides dynamic adjustment capability to the driving structure. This resilient component allows the system to adapt to different operational conditions and directional requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The dynamic characteristics enable versatile image capture from different directions without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 optical system achieves precise and efficient movement of optical elements, enabling smaller device sizes with improved durability and versatility in capturing images from various directions, enhancing auto focus and optical image stabilization capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

The driving source includes a first piezoelectric element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

a resilient element disposed on the first piezoelectric element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11809013B2Optical system
Publication Date: 2023.11.07 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US11809013B2 patent drawing
  • US11809013B2 patent drawing
  • US11809013B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical system is provided. The optical system includes a first optical module. The first optical module includes a fixed portion, a movable portion, a driving assembly, and a circuit assembly. The movable portion is movably connected to the fixed portion, and the movable portion is used to connect to an optical element. The driving assembly is used to drive the movable portion to move relative to the fixed portion. The circuit assembly is electrically connected to the driving assembly.