Sensor-Shift Flexure Assembly for Compact OIS and AF Cameras
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compact camera modules face challenges in achieving effective optical image stabilization (OIS) and autofocus (AF) while maintaining a small form factor, as stiffening the flexure arrangement for increased stiffness in the Z-direction can impede movement in the X and Y directions and increase the camera's height.
Innovation Solution
The use of an upper flexure with suspension wires and a lower flexure with flexure arms provides increased stiffness in the Z-direction without compromising OIS movement in the X and Y directions, decoupling stiffness requirements for different directions and maintaining a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the flexure arrangement is stiffened for increased stiffness in the Z-direction, then the structural stability and autofocus functionality are improved, but the movement in the X and Y directions is impeded and the camera height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexure arrangement is divided into multiple segments: upper flexure elements (comprising top sheet, bottom sheet, and suspension wires) and lower flexure elements (comprising flexure arms). This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for specific directional requirements - the upper flexure provides Z-direction stiffness while the lower flexure enables X-Y plane movement, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and compact height.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the flexure arrangement is stiffened for increased stiffness in the Z-direction, then the structural stability and autofocus functionality are improved, but the OIS movement in the X and Y directions is impeded
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the flexure arrangement are given different mechanical properties tailored to local requirements. The upper flexure elements are designed with high Z-direction stiffness to support the lens assembly and enable autofocus, while the lower flexure arms are designed with compliance in the X-Y plane to facilitate optical image stabilization movement. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between structural stability and OIS operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single rigid flexure structure is used, then the manufacturing is simplified, but the ability to provide differential stiffness in different directions is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than attempting to design a single complex rigid structure with differential stiffness properties, the system segments the flexure into multiple simpler elements (top sheet, bottom sheet, suspension wires, flexure arms) that can be manufactured using standard techniques. Each segment's simple geometry enables easy manufacturing while the collective arrangement achieves the sophisticated directional stiffness control needed for both autofocus and OIS 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
This configuration allows for controlled motion of the moveable platform, enhancing OIS performance while maintaining autofocus functionality and reducing the overall camera height, thereby addressing the need for both stability and compactness.
Implementation Method 1
a flexure arrangement including an upper flexure that includes a top sheet, a bottom sheet, and a set of suspension wires
Implementation Method 2
an actuator module configured to move the image sensor in one or more directions orthogonal to the optical axis
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a camera with image sensor shifting capabilities and a flexure arrangement. In various embodiments, the flexure arrangement may include an upper flexure and a lower flexure. The upper flexure may include a suspension wire that extends between two sheets. The lower flexure may include one or more flexure arms that connect a moveable platform to a stationary platform.