Triaxial Hall Sensor IC for Camera Lens Position Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current camera systems face challenges in miniaturization and cost reduction due to the complexity and size requirements of separate Hall sensor ICs for triaxial position sensing, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of Autofocus (AF) and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A Hall sensor IC with at least three Hall sensors spaced apart in a non-aligned configuration within a single semiconductor die, allowing for the measurement of a magnetic field generated by a single magnet to determine the triaxial position of a lens module, reducing the need for multiple magnets and ICs and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate Hall sensor ICs are used for each axis to achieve accurate triaxial position sensing, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple Hall sensors (at least three) onto a single semiconductor die to form one integrated Hall sensor IC. This consolidation allows the sensor to measure magnetic field components in multiple directions (X, Y, Z axes) simultaneously, achieving triaxial position sensing without requiring multiple separate ICs. The merging of sensors reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement precision through integrated multi-axis detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single Hall sensor IC with multiple Hall sensors spaced apart in a non-aligned configuration serves multiple functions: it can determine position along the optical axis (Z-axis) and lateral directions (X and Y axes). This multi-functional sensor replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized sensors, reducing overall system complexity while providing comprehensive triaxial position sensing for both AF and OIS mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate Hall sensor ICs and magnets are used for triaxial sensing, then position determination accuracy is improved, but the size of the lens module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple Hall sensors onto a single semiconductor die, significantly reducing the physical space required for position sensing components. Instead of requiring multiple separate ICs and their associated magnets distributed throughout the lens module, the integrated sensor array on one die provides triaxial sensing capability in a compact footprint, directly addressing the miniaturization requirements of modern lens modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spatial arrangement of multiple Hall sensors on the semiconductor die surface, spaced apart in a non-aligned configuration, to enable three-dimensional position determination. By strategically positioning sensors in specific geometric patterns on the two-dimensional die surface, the system extracts three-dimensional position information (X, Y, Z coordinates) from magnetic field measurements, achieving volumetric sensing without increasing physical volume.
3Device complexity
If fewer Hall sensor ICs are used to reduce cost and complexity, then device complexity is reduced, but OIS control quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the conflict between simplicity and performance by merging multiple Hall sensors into a single IC that provides comprehensive triaxial sensing. This integrated approach maintains the measurement capability needed for high-quality OIS control (by providing accurate X, Y, and Z position data) while reducing device complexity compared to using multiple separate ICs. The single IC with multiple sensors delivers both cost/complexity benefits and sufficient measurement precision for reliable OIS operation.
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 configuration enables accurate three-dimensional lens position determination with reduced size and complexity, improving the precision and cost-effectiveness of camera systems while maintaining precise lens position control for AF and OIS.
Implementation Method 1
When the distance between the magnet and the Hall sensor changes in the direction of actuation (e.g. in the Z-axis for AF), the Hall sensor measures the changing magnetic field which can be converted into the position of the lens
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
A Hall sensor integrated circuit, IC, for a camera system is provided, the Hall sensor IC comprising at least three Hall sensors spaced apart from each other in a non-aligned configuration, and configured to measure a magnetic field generated based on a position of one magnet arranged on a lens module in the camera system.