3D Sensor-Shift VCM Assembly for Compact Camera AF and OIS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small form factor cameras, such as those in smartphones, face challenges in achieving high-resolution imaging while maintaining a compact size, particularly in stabilizing images and focusing due to external disturbances and the need for optical image stabilization and autofocus mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator assembly that translates the image sensor along three axes (X, Y, and Z) using a substrate carrier, carrier frame, spring plate, and suspension elements, allowing for autofocus and optical image stabilization by generating Lorentz forces to move the image sensor relative to the optical element, while maintaining a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If optical image stabilization and autofocus mechanisms are incorporated into small form factor cameras, then image quality and focus capability are improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optical image stabilization (OIS) and autofocus (AF) mechanisms into a single integrated VCM actuator assembly. The carrier frame supports both OIS coils for stabilizing the image sensor in lateral directions and AF coils for focusing by moving the image sensor along the optical axis, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The VCM actuator assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides optical image stabilization by counteracting external disturbances, enables autofocus by adjusting the image sensor position along the optical axis, and maintains a compact form factor suitable for smartphone integration. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by achieving high image quality without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Stability of the object's composition
If optical image stabilization mechanisms are added to compensate for external disturbances, then image stability is improved, but the camera size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The OIS mechanism is integrated within the compact VCM actuator assembly rather than being a separate component. The carrier frame houses both OIS and AF coils in a space-efficient arrangement, allowing the image sensor to be stabilized against external disturbances without significantly increasing the overall camera module volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the image sensor is mounted on a substrate carrier that is suspended within the carrier frame. The OIS coils are positioned around the image sensor, and the AF coils are arranged to move the entire assembly along the optical axis. This nested configuration maximizes space utilization and maintains a compact form factor while providing effective image stabilization
3Manufacturing precision
If autofocus mechanisms are incorporated to adjust object focal distance, then focus capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The autofocus mechanism is merged with the optical image stabilization system in a single VCM actuator assembly. The same carrier frame and suspension elements that enable OIS also support AF movement, and the AF coils are integrated into the assembly to move the image sensor along the optical axis. This integration reduces device complexity by eliminating separate AF mechanisms while maintaining precise focus capability
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
Enables effective autofocus and optical image stabilization in a compact camera form factor, improving image quality by allowing precise movement of the image sensor in multiple directions to compensate for external disturbances and maintain focus.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more voice coil motor actuators, formed between respective magnets mounted to the carrier frame and respective coils positioned within the VCM actuator assembly, are configured to move the image sensor in the autofocus (AF) direction (e.g. the Z-direction) and move the image sensor in the plurality of optical image stabilization (OIS) directions orthogonal to the autofocus direction (e.g. the X and Y directions)
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a camera with a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator assembly to provide autofocus (AF) and/or optical image stabilization (OIS) movement. The VCM actuator assembly is configured to move an image sensor of the camera in three dimensions (e.g. X, Y, and Z) to provide the AF and/or OIS movements. The VCM actuator assembly is asymmetrical and includes an at least partially open side that allows an optical assembly of the camera to pass through the open side of the VCM actuator. In some embodiments, the optical assembly is part of a folded optics arrangement of the camera that includes one or more prisms/and or lenses.