Sensor-Shift Camera Module with Shared Magnets for 5-DOF Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current camera technologies face challenges in achieving high-resolution image stabilization and autofocus in small form factor devices, particularly in compensating for unwanted motion and dynamic tilt, due to limitations in actuation mechanisms that can only move the optical lens and image sensor in two axes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an actuator assembly with a combination of axial and transversal actuators, including voice coil motors and shared magnets, allows for five degrees of freedom motion of the image sensor, enabling advanced autofocus and optical image stabilization by moving the image sensor in parallel and orthogonal directions, as well as tilting, to compensate for user handshake and dynamic tilt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional two-axis actuation mechanisms are used, then the camera module maintains a compact design, but the ability to compensate for unwanted motion and dynamic tilt is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines axial actuators and transversal actuators into a unified five-degree-of-freedom actuation system that integrates multiple motion compensation functions (focus adjustment, image stabilization, and tilt compensation) into a single coordinated mechanism, resolving the contradiction by merging previously separate functions into one versatile system
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: axial movement for autofocus, transversal movement for optical image stabilization, and rotational movement for tilt compensation. This multi-functional design increases adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If five degrees of freedom motion is implemented, then advanced autofocus and optical image stabilization are enabled, but the camera module height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes rotational degrees of freedom in addition to translational movements, adding angular dimensionality to the actuation system. This allows the mechanism to achieve five degrees of freedom without simply extending the linear height, as rotational movements occur within the existing spatial envelope
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic actuators that can operate in multiple directions and modes (axial, transversal, and rotational) within a compact footprint. The dynamic nature of these actuators allows them to achieve greater functional range without proportionally increasing the static height of the camera module
3Manufacturing precision
If axial and transversal actuators with shared magnets are used, then image stabilization and autofocus precision are improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuator functions into shared magnetic assemblies where the same magnets serve both axial and transversal actuators. This merging reduces the total number of separate magnetic components, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining the precision required for five-degree-of-freedom control
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 solution provides enhanced image stabilization and autofocus capabilities, allowing for improved coplanarity adjustment and disturbance rejection, reducing secondary image sensor motion and stray light risks, while maintaining a compact design without increasing the camera module's height.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of axial actuators and the plurality of transversal actuators may include voice coil motors configured to cooperate with one another to drive the image sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator assembly for a camera module includes a transversal actuator for motion of an image sensor in one or more directions orthogonal to an optical axis of the camera module. The actuator assembly also includes an axial actuator for motion of the image sensor in one or more directions parallel to the optical axis of the camera module. The actuator assembly further includes a shared magnet for operation of the transversal actuator for motion of the image sensor in the one or more directions orthogonal to the optical axis and for operation of the axial actuator for motion of the image sensor in one or more directions parallel to the optical axis. A portion of the transversal actuator and a portion of the axial actuator are configured to move with the image sensor. The shared magnet is static relative to motion of the image sensor.