Segmented Driving System for Optical Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

The miniaturization of electronic devices, such as cameras and smartphones, poses challenges in mechanical design, leading to difficulties in reliably moving lens elements due to increased complexity and reduced driving force.

Innovation Solution

A driving system comprising three modules with terminals on the same side, each connected to an external circuit, utilizing a combination of magnets and coils to generate electromagnetic forces for precise movement of optical elements, enhancing reliability and efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If several coils and magnets are used for adjusting the focus of a lens, then the auto-focusing capability is improved, but the device complexity increases and the driving force for moving the lens decreases due to miniaturization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauto-focusing capabilityVSAvoidmechanical design complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The driving system is divided into multiple independent modules, each containing a coil and magnet assembly. Each module can independently drive a specific lens element, allowing for precise control while simplifying the overall mechanical design. The segmentation enables modular assembly and reduces the complexity of coordinating multiple moving parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested structure where lens elements are positioned within housings that contain the driving mechanisms. The optical elements are nested within the mechanical assembly, allowing compact integration of multiple functional components in a miniaturized configuration while maintaining adequate driving force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If miniaturization is implemented in electronic devices, then the device size is reduced, but the reliability and driving force for moving the lens decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidreliability of lens movement
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the magnetic field strength and coil configuration parameters to maintain adequate driving force in a miniaturized system. By carefully selecting and adjusting parameters such as magnet size, coil turns, and current density, the system achieves reliable lens movement despite the reduced overall device volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical focusing mechanisms with electromagnetic actuators (coils and magnets). This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages, reduces moving parts, and improves reliability while enabling precise control in a compact form factor. The electromagnetic system provides direct drive without mechanical transmission losses.

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

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 system effectively addresses the challenges of miniaturization by providing a reliable and efficient mechanism for moving optical elements, improving the auto-focusing and image stabilization capabilities while maintaining a compact design.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing a combination of magnets and coils to generate electromagnetic forces for precise movement of optical elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS11474368B2Driving system
Publication Date: 2022.10.18 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US11474368B2 patent drawing
  • US11474368B2 patent drawing
  • US11474368B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A driving system for moving several optical elements is provided, including a first module, a second module and a third module. The first, second and third modules respectively have a first, second and third terminal electrically connected an external circuit. The first terminal is on a first side of the first module, the second terminal is on a second side of the second module, and the third terminal is on a third side of the third module. Specifically, the first, second, and third terminals are located on the same side of the driving system.