VCM Driving Mechanism for Optical Element Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

The miniaturization of electronic devices, such as smartphones and laptops, complicates mechanical design and reduces the reliability and driving force for moving optical elements like lenses, particularly in focusing mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A driving mechanism comprising a fixed and movable part, guided by first and second guiding members, and utilizing a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) with magnetic permeable elements and coils to enable precise and reliable movement of optical elements for auto-focusing and Optical Image Stabilization, incorporating a cross-shaped magnetic permeable element and angled protrusions for enhanced adhesion and positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If coils and magnets are used to adjust lens focus, then focusing functionality is achieved, but device miniaturization becomes difficult and reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefocusing functionalityVSAvoidmechanical design reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical coil-magnet focusing system with a new driving mechanism that uses a driving assembly and guiding members. This substitution eliminates the reliability issues associated with miniaturized coil-magnet systems while maintaining focusing functionality, as the new mechanism provides more stable mechanical guidance and control for the optical element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If coils and magnets are used for lens adjustment, then focusing is enabled, but driving force becomes insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefocusing capabilityVSAvoiddriving force
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the focusing system into distinct functional components: a driving assembly that generates force, guiding members that direct movement, and a movable part that carries the optical element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the driving assembly specifically designed to provide sufficient driving force while the guiding members ensure precise control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Volume of moving object

If device size is reduced, then portability improves, but mechanical design complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidmechanical design complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a nested structure where the movable part is received within the housing, and guiding members are integrated into the base structure. The driving assembly components are arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration that allows the entire focusing mechanism to be miniaturized without proportionally increasing complexity, as the nested arrangement naturally consolidates multiple functions into a compact volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 solution provides a reliable and precise mechanism for moving optical elements, enhancing the reliability and performance of auto-focusing and Optical Image Stabilization functions in miniaturized electronic devices by leveraging the electromagnetic force and guiding structures to ensure smooth and stable movement.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) with magnetic permeable elements and coils to enable precise and reliable movement of optical elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic force: Lorentz Force

Data Source

PatentUS20240248280A1Driving mechanism
Publication Date: 2024.07.25 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US20240248280A1 patent drawing
  • US20240248280A1 patent drawing
  • US20240248280A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A driving mechanism for moving an optical element is provided. The driving mechanism includes a fixed part, a movable part, a driving assembly, and a first guiding member. The optical element is disposed on the movable part. The driving assembly drives the movable part to move relative to the fixed par. The first guiding member is disposed between the fixed part and the movable part. The movable part is guided by the first guiding member when moving relative to the fixed part.