Previously, there was a significant gap in performance between digital cameras and smartphone cameras. Because of the small size and structural limitations of smartphones, it was difficult to improve their camera quality. Despite that, LG Innotek revolutionized the field by succeeding in commercializing high-magnification optical telephoto zoom camera modules for the first time in the world. A new era has opened where shooting high-definition images at the level of DSLR cameras is possible.

We spoke with our passionate researcher behind this innovation, called the ‘Inventor of the Year’ for his unique ideas and execution ability. Let’s hear how he brought this groundbreaking technology to reality!

(Sungguk Lee Engineer)

Q. Glad to meet you, Mr. Lee, could you give us a brief introduction about yourself?

Hello, I’m Sungguk Lee, a Senior Research Engineer at LG Innotek’s Optical Solutions division. I participated developing of the ‘High-magnification Optical Telephoto Zoom Camera Module,’ and I’m currently working on developing the ‘Actuator’ in camera modules.

Q. We’ve heard you’re known as the ‘The King of Inventors.’ What’s the story behind that?

I’ve always enjoyed finding ways to solve everyday inconveniences and creating new things, which naturally led me to register many patents. So far, I’ve filed and registered over 200 patents, both domestically and internationally, which reflects my great passion and love for invention. 

I gained the nickname ‘The King of Inventors’ in 2023 after being awarded the ‘Inventor of the Year’ by the Korean Intellectual Property Office. This prestigious award is given to just one inventor annually on Inventors' Day, recognizing significant technological achievements. The OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) actuator and AF structure I developed, which are key technologies in the High-Magnification Optical Telephoto Zoom Camera Module for smartphones, earned me this honor. I was also fortunate to win the ‘Industrial Service Medal.’

Q. Could you explain what the ‘High-magnification Optical Telephoto Zoom Camera Module’ is?

The High-magnification Optical Telephoto Zoom Camera Module (hereafter referred to as the Optical Zoom Camera Module) is a sophisticated device where the zoom lens and the AF (Auto-Focus) lens operate independently. As some may know, zooming involves moving the lens forward or backward to change magnification, and for clear and clean images, the AF lens must adjust quickly and precisely to maintain focus as the zoom lens moves and changes magnification.

LG Innotek has developed a highly precise ‘Actuator’ that moves both the zoom and AF lenses, ensuring no loss of picture quality at any magnification range. In simple terms, we’ve brought DSLR-level optical technology to smartphones. In 2021, LG Innotek became the first company in the world to commercialize this Optical Zoom Camera Module technology. This groundbreaking innovation has received significant global recognition, winning the CES 2023 Innovation Award, the iR52 Jang Young Sil Award in Korea, and the Edison Awards in the U.S.

Q.  Could you explain in detail what an ‘Actuator’ is?

As I mentioned earlier, the actuator is the component that moves the camera lens. In the Optical Zoom Camera Module, there are three key actuators, one for zoom, one for AF (autofocus), and one for OIS(optical image stabilization). For high-quality images, these actuators must work together seamlessly with absolute precision. Therefore, it’s crucial to design and control the actuators carefully and to manufacture them exactly as intended by the developers. In short, the actuators must move to the precise position as the developers intended. 

LG Innotek’s Zoom Actuator uses highly advanced control technology to move the lens precisely in micrometer (㎛, 1m per 1 million) unit. Additionally, LG Innotek manages every stage of the vertical production process, from designing and manufacturing the actuator to quality control and integration into the camera module, to ensure the highest performance of the product.

Q. What led to the development of the Optical Zoom Camera Module, and could you share any memorable moments during the development process?

At the time, fixed zoom camera modules had just started to become commercially available in the smartphone market. However, the lenses are integrated with fixed zoom, providing high-definition images at specific magnification levels while picture quality deteriorates at others. You’ve probably noticed this when using a smartphone camera the images appear clear at certain magnification levels but lose quality as you zoom further.

We initially used EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) technology to address this issue. But in situations where EIS couldn’t correct the image quality, users had to physically move to a point where image degradation was minimal, what we called ‘foot zoom.’ LG Innotek wanted to reduce the reliance on EIS and create a camera module that maintains image quality across all magnification ranges. This desire led to the development of the Optical Zoom Camera Module.

I joined the project in its early stages, but we were struggling as we didn’t have a solution for the OIS actuator yet. After months of brainstorming with the team, we finally settled on a solution and produced the first prototype along with a junior colleague. I vividly remember the joy and excitement we felt when we saw the prototype working properly, thinking, ‘We’ve finally found the right solution!’

Q. What customer pain points can LG Innotek’s Optical Zoom Camera Module resolve?

Innotek’s Optical Zoom Camera Module allows smartphones to achieve DSLR-level high-definition images while also saving internal space in the smartphone and improving battery efficiency. Previously, optical zoom could only be properly realized by installing multiple fixed zoom modules, but with the Optical Zoom Camera Module, one is all you need.

Q. Do you have any advice for aspiring inventors who hope to become the next ‘Inventor of the Year’?

Never undervalue your ideas. What you might think is a simple or ordinary idea could have the power to change the world. If you have an idea, don’t hesitate to pursue it further, and find colleagues who can help you refine and develop it. Also, if possible, protect your idea through patents to secure your rights.

At LG Innotek, we have a dedicated patent team to support developers throughout the patenting process. When you come up with an idea, you can submit the key features, principles, and unique aspects of their invention on the internal communication system. Then the patent team will arrange meetings with external patent attorneys to help further refine and clarify your idea to apply the patent. Sometimes, new features are discovered during the meeting that weren't initially considered. Once the idea is refined, the patent attorney drafts and files the patent application.

The patent terms and process may seem complicated at first, but once you’ve been through it, you’ll realize it’s not as difficult as it seems. I highly recommend taking the time to jot down your ideas regularly and going through the patent process to gain this invaluable experience.

Q. Lastly, why do you think LG Innotek’s High-magnification Optical Telephoto Zoom Camera Module is remarkable?

LG Innotek’s High-magnification Optical Telephoto Zoom Camera Module is the first of its kind in the world for mobile optical zoom camera module, and LG Innotek led every stage of its development, from design to manufacturing. In the past, each team responsible for the actuator, lens, or sensor focused solely on their specific tasks, whether in development, manufacturing, production, or quality. However, through TDR (Tear Down & Redesign) activities, we were able to better understand each other’s pain points and communicate and collaborate more effectively as a team. This is why I believe this module is truly remarkable.