Split Camera Magnetic Alignment for Foldable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mobile devices with split cameras, achieving accurate alignment and locking of camera elements is challenging, especially in foldable or sliding devices, which affects image quality and requires careful alignment of optical accessories like lenses and focusing elements.
Innovation Solution
A device with a split camera configuration using magnetic elements for alignment and locking, where the imaging unit and optical unit are fixed in a set relative position through magnetic interaction, allowing for two operational modes: combined camera operation and independent imaging unit operation, with mechanical and digital alignment mechanisms ensuring precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If camera elements are separated into multiple parts (split camera configuration), then device design flexibility and thinness are improved, but alignment precision and locking reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment and locking mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system. Magnetic elements are integrated into the camera modules, enabling non-contact alignment and secure locking of camera elements in split camera configurations. This substitution maintains alignment precision while enabling thinner device designs without the bulk of mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between separated camera elements. The magnetic interaction serves as a mediating force that guides and secures the relative positioning of camera modules across the device hinge or separation point, ensuring precise alignment without direct mechanical contact.
2Measurement precision
If magnetic elements are used for alignment and locking, then alignment accuracy and repeatability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic elements serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide alignment guidance, secure locking of camera modules, and enable detachable connectivity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate alignment mechanisms, connectors, and locking structures, thereby managing device complexity while achieving high alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines alignment and locking functions into a single magnetic interaction system. Rather than using separate mechanisms for positioning and securing camera elements, the magnetic field performs both functions through its attractive and positioning forces, simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Reliability
If camera elements are brought together in working mode, then image quality is improved, but device structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic camera system where the relative positioning of camera elements can change between working and non-working modes. Magnetic elements enable smooth transitions between separated and connected states, with the camera modules dynamically adjusting their positions based on operational requirements, thereby maintaining image quality while managing structural complexity.
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
The magnetic alignment ensures accurate and repeatable positioning of camera elements, maintaining premium image quality across modes, and allows for thinner device designs without compromising camera performance.
Implementation Method 1
the imaging unit and the optical unit are fixed in a set relative position due to magnetic interaction between the at least one magnetic element in a movable connection with the imaging unit and the at least one magnetic element rigidly fixed to the optical unit
Data Source
AI summary
A device comprising at least two body sections is disclosed. The first body section comprises an imaging unit and a magnet movably connected to the imaging unit, and the second body section comprising an optical unit with a magnet fixed to the optical unit. The magnet movably connected to the imaging unit may be sliding along a guiding element. The body sections are also in a movable connection with each other, and the device is operable in at least two modes. In the first mode the imaging unit and the optical unit are fixed in a set relative position due to magnetic interaction between the magnets, and in the imaging unit is positioned away from the optical unit. In the second mode the units are positioned apart from each other.