SMA Lens Module Layout for Large Stroke in Compact Cameras
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lens modules using SMA actuating structures face challenges with large volume due to the need for long SMA wires to achieve a sufficient contraction stroke, hindering device miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
The lens module employs a design with at least two groups of SMA actuating structures, each comprising a driven member clamped between V-shaped SMA wires, allowing for a larger movement stroke through controlled contraction, and arranged in various configurations to facilitate miniaturization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If SMA wire length is increased to achieve sufficient contraction stroke, then movement stroke is improved, but volume of SMA actuating structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the linear contraction of the SMA wire into multi-dimensional movement through a V-shaped configuration. The wire is arranged in a V-shape with the vertex connected to the driven member, allowing the contraction force to be converted into movement along a line connecting two V-shaped angles, thereby achieving amplified stroke without increasing wire length or volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple groups of SMA actuating structures that can be dynamically controlled with different magnitudes of current. This allows the system to achieve variable movement strokes by adjusting the contraction of individual SMA wires, providing dynamic adaptability while maintaining compact volume
2Ease of operation
If multiple groups of SMA actuating structures are provided to achieve large movement stroke, then movement capability is improved, but device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple SMA actuating structures into a compact arrangement where they share common components such as the bearing portion and driven member. The structures are arranged to cooperate with each other, with contact plates positioned at specific locations, allowing multiple actuating functions to be integrated into a unified compact structure rather than separate independent units
Solution Approach 2:
The SMA actuating structures are designed to serve multiple functions: they can independently or cooperatively control lens focusing and anti-shake operations. The same basic structure with V-shaped SMA wires and contact plates can achieve different movement strokes and directions by adjusting current magnitudes, providing multi-functionality without requiring separate dedicated structures for each function
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 design achieves a significant increase in movement stroke while reducing the thickness of the SMA actuating structure, enabling miniaturization of the lens module and allowing for both focusing and anti-shake operations with reduced volume.
Implementation Method 1
SMA (shape memory alloy) is a material which is made of two or more metal materials and has a shape memory effect (SME) due to thermoelasticity and transformation and reverse transformation of martensitic. The SMA may be deformed at a relatively low temperature, and return to a shape before the deformation after being heated by electricity.
Implementation Method 2
An electrically controllable contraction is thus achieved. The SMA has a large tensile force when it contracts
Data Source
AI summary
A lens module and an electronic device are provided. The lens module includes: a bearing portion; and at least two groups of SMA actuating structures, and each group is connected to the same side portion or different side portions of the bearing portion, and includes: a driven member fixedly provided at a side portion of the bearing portion; a first contact plate, two ends of a first SMA wire are each electrically connected to the first contact plate, and a middle portion of the first SMA wire is in contact with the driven member; and a second contact plate, two ends of a second SMA wire are each electrically connected to the second contact plate, and a middle portion of the second SMA wire is in contact with the driven member; the driven member is movably mounted between angles formed by the first SMA wire and the second SMA wire being bent.