SMA Pop-Out Camera Actuation for Slim Phones and Large TTL
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compact multi-camera systems in mobile devices face challenges in incorporating larger image sensors and lenses with large EFLs without increasing device thickness, which affects image quality and zoom capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a pop-out camera mechanism using shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators with antagonistic SMA wires and levers to control air-gaps between lens elements and the image sensor, allowing for a large TTL when in use and a collapsed state when not in use, along with locking mechanisms for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If larger image sensors and lenses with large EFLs are incorporated to improve image quality and zoom capabilities, then image quality and zoom capabilities are improved, but device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a pop-out camera mechanism that dynamically changes the camera module's position between extended and retracted states. The camera module moves along the optical axis to achieve a large TTL when needed for photography, then retracts to minimize device thickness during normal use, thus resolving the contradiction between image quality requirements and device slimness
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions the camera system from a static two-dimensional plane to a three-dimensional dynamic structure. By adding the depth dimension with the pop-out mechanism, the system can achieve large optical path lengths when required while maintaining a slim profile when the camera is not in use, effectively solving the thickness versus image quality trade-off
2Length of stationary object
If a pop-out camera mechanism is used to achieve large TTL without increasing device thickness, then device thickness is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional motor-driven mechanical actuation systems with shape memory alloy (SMA) wire-based actuation. The SMA wires utilize thermal-mechanical coupling to generate the forces needed for popping out and retracting the camera module, eliminating complex motors, gears, and control electronics while achieving the desired dynamic position changes
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state of the shape memory alloy wires through temperature variations. By applying electrical current to heat the SMA wires, they undergo a phase transformation that changes their mechanical properties, enabling them to contract and extend the camera module without requiring complex mechanical actuation systems
3Manufacturing precision
If SMA actuators with antagonistic SMA wires are used to control the pop-out mechanism, then actuation precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an antagonistic pair of SMA wires where one wire contracts to extend the camera module while the other wire contracts to retract it. This counterbalancing arrangement provides precise bidirectional control of the pop-out mechanism, with each wire acting as the active element while the other provides the opposing force, achieving accurate positioning without complex control systems
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 the use of larger image sensors and lenses without increasing device thickness, improving image quality and zoom capabilities while maintaining a slim design.
Implementation Method 1
a SMA actuator that includes at least two antagonistic SMA wires and a lever, wherein the SMA actuator is configured to move the pop-out mechanism to bring the camera to the operative pop-out state and to the collapsed state using the at least two antagonistic SMA wires and the lever
Data Source
AI summary
Pop-out cameras brought to at least an extended operational position and a collapsed position by pop-out mechanisms that include shape-memory alloy (SMA) materials. A camera may comprise a lens including a plurality of lens elements, an image sensor, and a pop-out mechanism configured to control at least one air-gap between the lens elements or between a lens element and the image sensor to bring the camera to an operative pop-out state and to a collapsed state, wherein the pop-out mechanism includes at least one component made from a SMA material.