Single Motor Lens Actuation with Variable Speed Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital still cameras (DSC) face inefficiencies and high power consumption when using a single motor for both zoom and focus functions, as they either require additional control circuits or rely on step motors that drain battery quickly, leading to reduced performance and inability to meet photo-taking and power-saving requirements.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing device and lens actuating method utilizing a single DC motor controlled by a microcontroller to operate at different predetermined speeds for focus and zoom functions, allowing efficient switching between focus and zoom motions based on user instructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single step motor is used to control both zoom and focus, then control precision is improved, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the motor by implementing multiple predetermined speeds (first, second, and third speeds) instead of a single speed. The microcontroller selects different speeds based on the operation mode: first speed for initial focus, second speed for zoom operations, and third speed for final focus adjustment. This parameter change allows the system to achieve precise control while reducing overall power consumption by using higher speeds only when necessary and lower speeds for routine operations.
2Device complexity
If a single DC motor is used for zoom and focus with one rotating speed, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the motor speed variable rather than fixed. The microcontroller dynamically adjusts the motor speed based on the current operation phase: using first predetermined speed during initial focus, switching to second predetermined speed during zoom operations, and using third predetermined speed during final focus adjustment. This dynamic speed adjustment maintains low device complexity (single motor) while significantly improving productivity and operational efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two motors (DC motor and step motor) are used for zoom and focus controls, then operational versatility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single DC motor system that can perform multiple functions (both zoom and focus operations) that traditionally required two separate motors. The microcontroller enables this single motor to switch between different operating modes and speeds to accomplish various tasks: initial focus, zoom, and final focus adjustment. This multi-functional approach maintains operational versatility while reducing device complexity and manufacturing cost.
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 approach enhances the overall performance of the camera by efficiently managing power consumption and extending battery life while maintaining high efficiency in zoom and focus operations.
Implementation Method 1
a single motor (15) is mainly used for driving the movements of the zoom lens group (11) and the focus lens group (12)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses an image capturing device and a lens actuating device and a lens actuating method thereof. The lens actuating device comprises a focus lens group, a zoom lens group, a motor and a microcontroller. The focus lens group is arranged for changing a focus point of the image. The zoom lens group is arranged for changing distance of the image. The motor is arranged for driving the movements of the focus lens group and the zoom lens group respectively. The microcontroller is arranged for receiving a plurality of instructions, and controlling the motor at one of a plurality of predetermined speeds according to the instruction received to control the motor to drive the focus lens group or the zoom lens group to perform a focus motion or a zoom motion.