{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854172","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854172","title":"Image stabilization apparatus and image pickup apparatus applied with image stabilization apparatus","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2016-10-17T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":8,"abstract":"An image stabilization apparatus includes a fixed barrel member, a movable barrel member configured to hold an optical lens, a support member configured to movably support the movable barrel member with respect to the fixed barrel member within a plane orthogonal to an optical axis of the optical lens and a drive unit configured to drive the movable barrel member with respect to the fixed barrel member, in which the fixed barrel member or the movable barrel member includes a support member disposing portion configured to rotatably accommodate the support member and limit an amount of movement of the support member within a plane and a small spatial region portion formed by notching part of the support member disposing portion so as to communicate with the support member disposing portion, an interior of the small spatial region portion being filled with a lubrication member."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Image Stabilization Apparatus and Image Pickup Apparatus Applied with Image Stabilization Apparatus patent describes a system for improving image stability in cameras and other imaging devices. The core innovation lies in its mechanical design, which utilizes a movable barrel member to hold the optical lens and compensate for unwanted movement. This system addresses the common problem of blurry images caused by hand tremors or other external disturbances. The key technical approach involves a fixed barrel member, a movable barrel member, a support member, and a drive unit. The movable barrel member is supported within the fixed barrel member, allowing it to adjust its position in response to external movements. The support member facilitates this movement, while the drive unit provides the necessary force. The inclusion of a lubrication member ensures smooth and efficient operation. The business value of this technology lies in its ability to improve image quality and user experience. By reducing blur, the system enables clearer and sharper images, which is particularly valuable in mobile photography and videography. The market opportunity is significant, as the demand for high-quality imaging is constantly growing. This technology can be integrated into smartphones, digital cameras, and other imaging devices, offering a competitive advantage to manufacturers. The Image Stabilization Apparatus and Image Pickup Apparatus Applied with Image Stabilization Apparatus represents a significant advancement in image stabilization technology, with the potential to transform the way we capture and share images.","layman_explanation":"The Image Stabilization Apparatus and Image Pickup Apparatus Applied with Image Stabilization Apparatus patent addresses the common problem of blurry images caused by unintentional camera movement. Existing solutions, often software-based, have limitations in effectively counteracting this issue without compromising image quality. This invention provides a hardware-based solution that physically stabilizes the camera lens, resulting in sharper and clearer images.\n\nThe technology works by incorporating a movable barrel member that holds the optical lens. This movable element is supported within a fixed barrel member, allowing for dynamic adjustment to compensate for external movements. Think of it like a miniature gyroscope that keeps the lens steady even when the camera is shaking. Instead of relying on software to correct the image after it's taken, this system prevents the blur from happening in the first place. The innovation allows the lens to move slightly within the camera body, counteracting any shaking or movement. This keeps the lens stable and the image sharp.\n\nThis technology has significant market impact and opportunities. It can be integrated into smartphones, digital cameras, and other imaging devices, offering a competitive advantage to manufacturers. By providing a superior imaging experience, they can attract more customers and increase sales. The business value lies in the ability to offer a product that delivers consistently high-quality images, even in challenging conditions. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. This could also be a game changer for medical imaging, industrial inspection, and any field where image clarity is paramount.\n\nFuture applications of this technology could include integration with virtual reality and augmented reality devices, where stable images are essential for a seamless user experience. The market adoption timeline will depend on the speed at which manufacturers incorporate this technology into their products. Investment implications are positive, as this patent represents a valuable asset with the potential to generate significant revenue through licensing and product sales.","technical_analysis":"The Image Stabilization Apparatus and Image Pickup Apparatus Applied with Image Stabilization Apparatus patent details a sophisticated mechanical system designed to mitigate image blurring caused by unwanted movement during image capture. The apparatus comprises a fixed barrel member, a movable barrel member (housing the optical lens), a support member, and a drive unit. The movable barrel is configured to shift within a plane orthogonal to the optical axis, thereby counteracting external disturbances. A key element is the support member disposing portion, which facilitates rotational accommodation of the support member while limiting its range of motion. This ensures precise lens positioning. Furthermore, the inclusion of a small spatial region filled with a lubrication member minimizes friction and enhances operational smoothness. From a technical standpoint, the architecture necessitates precise engineering and material selection. The movable barrel's support system must be highly responsive and accurate to effectively counteract vibrations and movements. The drive unit, responsible for actuating the barrel, requires careful calibration to ensure optimal performance. The lubrication member plays a critical role in maintaining consistent operation and preventing wear. The integration of this system into existing camera designs presents several challenges. The size and weight of the apparatus must be minimized to avoid impacting the overall device form factor. The control algorithms governing the drive unit must be optimized to provide real-time compensation for external movements. The Image Stabilization Apparatus and Image Pickup Apparatus Applied with Image Stabilization Apparatus has significant implications for various imaging applications, including mobile photography, videography, and medical imaging. By providing a robust and reliable means of image stabilization, this technology can significantly enhance image quality and user experience.","business_analysis":"The Image Stabilization Apparatus and Image Pickup Apparatus Applied with Image Stabilization Apparatus patent represents a significant business opportunity within the rapidly evolving imaging technology market. The core value proposition lies in its ability to enhance image quality by mitigating the effects of camera shake and movement, a common problem that plagues both amateur and professional photographers alike. The market opportunity for this technology is substantial. The global market for camera modules in smartphones is projected to reach billions of dollars in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality mobile photography. This patent offers a competitive advantage to manufacturers who can integrate this advanced image stabilization system into their devices. By providing a superior imaging experience, they can differentiate their products and capture a larger share of the market. The revenue potential is further amplified by the potential for licensing the technology to other companies in the imaging industry. The business model could involve a combination of direct sales of camera modules incorporating the patented technology, as well as licensing agreements with other manufacturers. The strategic positioning of this technology is also noteworthy. By focusing on a hardware-based solution, it offers a distinct advantage over software-based image stabilization methods, which can often introduce artifacts and reduce image quality. This patent provides a more robust and reliable solution that can significantly enhance the performance of imaging devices. ROI projections for this technology are highly promising. By reducing the cost of rework and improving customer satisfaction, the Image Stabilization Apparatus and Image Pickup Apparatus Applied with Image Stabilization Apparatus can generate significant returns on investment. The strategic implications extend beyond the imaging industry, potentially impacting medical imaging, industrial inspection, and other areas where image clarity is critical.","faqs":null,"topics":["image stabilization","optical lens","camera","mobile","patent","image","stabilization","apparatus"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Image Stabilization - US9854172 - Sharper Images","description":"Discover the Image Stabilization Apparatus and Image Pickup Apparatus Applied with Image Stabilization Apparatus patent for crystal-clear images. Full analysis, claims, and details.","keywords":["image stabilization","optical lens","camera","mobile","patent","US-9854172","image stabilization apparatus","image pickup apparatus","blurred images","camera shake"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854172","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854172","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Image stabilization apparatus and image pickup apparatus applied with image stabilization apparatus\" (US-9854172). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854172","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854172","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854172","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-31T05:11:10.846Z"}