Dual-Function Voice Coil Motor for Autofocus and IBIS Cameras
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voice coil motors in mobile phones primarily offer lens stabilization and lack the capability to achieve both autofocus and in-body image stabilization functions, which are essential for advanced photographic capabilities akin to single lens reflex cameras.
Innovation Solution
A voice coil motor design incorporating both autofocus and in-body image stabilization mechanisms, utilizing a coil assembly and magnetic assembly to enable axial and perpendicular movements, allowing for both autofocus and image stabilization functions through electromagnetic forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a voice coil motor is disposed inside a lens barrel to drive a lens assembly, then the electronic device can be made more compact, but the voice coil motor is exposed to moisture and heat from the battery which reduces its reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: the voice coil motor is separated from the lens barrel and integrated into the imaging assembly instead. This segmentation allows the voice coil motor to be positioned away from harmful environmental factors while maintaining the compact overall structure through optimized module arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure (the imaging assembly housing and mounting mechanism) that positions the voice coil motor in a protected environment. This intermediary placement shields the voice coil motor from direct exposure to moisture and heat generated by the battery, thereby maintaining reliability while achieving compact design.
2Device complexity
If the position of a lens assembly is adjusted by disposing a voice coil motor inside a lens barrel, then the structure can be simplified, but the range of motion is limited and the voice coil motor cannot be cooled
Solution Approach 1:
The voice coil motor is mounted on a movable support plate that can translate along the optical axis, enabling dynamic repositioning of the motor itself. This dynamic configuration allows the lens assembly to achieve a larger range of motion compared to fixed motor arrangements, while the motor remains accessible for cooling purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear adjustment mechanism to a two-dimensional configuration where the voice coil motor can move both with the lens assembly and independently along the optical axis. This dimensional freedom expands the operational range while maintaining structural efficiency.
3Device complexity
If a voice coil motor is disposed inside a lens barrel to drive a lens assembly, then the structure can be simplified, but heat generated by the voice coil motor cannot be dissipated
Solution Approach 1:
The voice coil motor is extracted from the confined lens barrel environment and repositioned in the imaging assembly where thermal management is more effective. This extraction removes the motor from the thermally restrictive space, allowing for better heat dissipation pathways while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces thermal management intermediaries including heat dissipation structures and airflow pathways in the imaging assembly configuration. These intermediary thermal management features enable effective heat dissipation from the voice coil motor without complicating the overall device structure.
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 design enhances image-stabilization performance, reduces component weight and manufacturing costs, and minimizes the axial size of the voice coil motor, facilitating integration into electronic devices while maintaining reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the voice coil motor is configured to drive the lens assembly along an optical axis of the imaging assembly
Data Source
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AI summary
A voice coil motor is provided in the disclosure. The voice coil motor includes an autofocus mechanism and an in-body image stabilization (IBIS) mechanism. The autofocus mechanism includes a first base, a cover, a coil assembly disposed between the first base and the cover, and a magnetic assembly arranged on the cover and around the coil assembly. The IBIS mechanism includes a second base disposed at one side of the first base away from the cover and a coil module positioned at the second base. When the coil assembly is energized, a first electromagnetic force is generated between the coil assembly and the magnetic assembly to drive the coil assembly to move in an axial direction, thereby achieving an autofocusing function. When the coil module is energized, a second electromagnetic force is generated between the coil module and the magnetic assembly to drive the second base and the coil module to move relative to the first base, thereby achieving an IBIS function. A camera provided with the voice coil motor and an electronic device are further provided in the disclosure.