Sensor-shifting structure in optical image stabilization suspension

Abstract

To provide optical image stabilization (OIS) suspensions that are highly functional, robust and efficient to manufacture.SOLUTION: A suspension assembly 114 includes: a static member 124 or static plate; a movable member 122 or movable plate movable about an x-axis and a y-axis with respect to the static plate; a sensor mounting region on the movable plate; and one or more shape memory alloy (SMA) elements extending between and coupled to the static plate and movable plate. The SMA elements, when driven by a controller, move the movable plate and the sensor mounting region thereon about the x-axis and the y-axis with respect to the static plate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 844,296, filed December 15, 2017, and further benefits from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 435,231, filed December 16, 2016, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] [Technical field] The present invention relates generally to optical image stabilization (OIS) suspensions used in conjunction with cameras, including those incorporated into mobile devices such as phones and tablets. [Background technology]

[0003] Shape memory alloy ("SMA") camera lens Optical image stabilization ("OIS") ) suspensions are generally known and are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,399,433 to Howarth, U.S. Patent No. 5,399,426 to Miller, U.S. Patent No. 5,399,435 to Brown, U.S. Patent No. 5,499,663 to Ladwig, U.S. Patent No. 5,499,635 to Eddington, U.S. Patent No. 5,499,663 to Howarth, and U.S. Patent No. 5,599,811 and U.S. Patent No. 5,599,825, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. An embodiment includes a movable member attached to a support member. A base portion can be attached to the support member on the opposite side of the movable member. These types of OIS assemblies have an image sensor attached to the base portion or support member and a lens holder with an auto focus ("AF") assembly or mechanism attached to the movable member. SMA wires connect the movable member to the support member and are controlled by a controller. The SMA wires are driven to move the movable member in the x-y axis relative to the support member to stabilize the position of the image generated by the lens on the sensor against vibrations such as those that may occur due to the movement of the user's hand. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Pat. No. 9,175,671 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Pat. No. 9,366,879 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Pat. No. 9,479,699 [Patent Document 4] US Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0154251 [Patent Document 5] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0135703 [Patent Document 6] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0346507 [Patent Document 7] International Publication No. 2014 / 083318 [Patent Document 8] International Publication No. 2013 / 175197 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is a continuing need for improved OIS suspensions, and these types of OIS suspensions that are highly functional, robust, and efficient to manufacture are particularly desirable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A suspension assembly is described. The suspension assembly includes a stationary member or plate and a movable member or plate that is movable relative to the stationary plate in x and y axes. The sensor includes a sensor mounting area in the movable plate, and one or more shape memory alloy (SMA) elements extending between and coupled to the stationary and movable plates. The SMA elements include: When actuated by a control, the movable plate and the sensor mounting area thereon are moved relative to the stationary plate in the x and y axes.

[0007] Other features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the detailed description that follows.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols represent similar elements and in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a sensor-shift camera system including an optical image stabilization suspension according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly including a centering spring according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates a centering spring of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly including four SMA wires according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly including a looped SMA wire according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 11]11a-11b show a looped SMA wire configuration of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to some embodiments. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as a rectangular wire sensor assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly configured as an arcuate sensor assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the arcuate sensor assembly shown in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as a bimetal actuator according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 shows the behavior of an example SMA material as it is heated and changes from a cold state to a hot state and back to the cold state. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as a bimetal actuator according to an embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows a bimetallic actuator according to an embodiment in a preformed flat state. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 illustrates a half-cylindrical wrapped interposer for an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 shows a semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer in a flat state before being formed into a final semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer such as that shown in FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 illustrates an interposer including a 45 degree bend for an optical image stabilization suspension assembly having a flexible circuit according to an embodiment. [Figure 24]FIG. 24 illustrates an interposer including a 45 degree bend for an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment having a flexible circuit. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 shows an interposer with flexible circuits protruding from four sides of the interposer in a flat state before being formed into a final interposer such as that shown in FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 illustrates the underside of a moveable member including a heat sink feature of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the bottom of a moveable member including a heat sink feature of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 illustrates a cross-sectional top view of a movable member including heat sink features and conductive plating of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 illustrates a moveable member of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment, including vias and conductive plating. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment including one or more Hall sensors. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment that includes one or more capacitive probes as motion sensors. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 illustrates an example of measuring movement using a capacitive probe according to an embodiment. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 illustrates an example of measuring the nominal or center position of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment that includes strain gauges as motion sensors. [Diagram 35] FIG. 35 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as a bimetal actuator according to an embodiment. [Diagram 36] FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as a bimetallic actuator as shown in FIG. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 shows a portion of a bimetallic actuator according to an embodiment including a bimorph actuator on an inner rail, a flexible trace path on an outer rail, and a motion sensor such as those described herein. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 illustrates a top view of a bimetallic actuator according to an embodiment, including a moving portion and a fixed portion. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 shows a layout pattern for forming an integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator according to an embodiment. [Diagram 40] FIG. 40 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as an integrated SMA actuator assembly according to an embodiment. [Diagram 41] FIG. 41 shows a perspective view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as an integrated SMA actuator assembly as shown in FIG. [Diagram 42] FIG. 42 illustrates a perspective view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as an integrated SMA actuator assembly according to an embodiment. [Diagram 43] FIG. 43 illustrates a side view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as an integrated SMA actuator assembly according to an embodiment. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as an integrated SMA actuator assembly according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] An embodiment of the invention includes an optical image stabilization (OIS) suspension having a stationary member or plate, a movable member or plate, and one or more shape memory alloy (SMA) elements or wires extending between the stationary and movable plates. An image sensor is attached to the movable plate. A lens component, such as a lens holder and optionally an autofocus (AF) assembly, is fixedly attached to or relative to the stationary plate. The SMA wires can be driven by a controller that moves the movable plate and the image sensor thereon in the xy-axis relative to the support member and lens component to stabilize the position of the lens component and the image generated thereby at the sensor. The OIS suspension can thereby counter vibrations such as those that may occur due to the movement of a user's hand. These types of suspensions can be miniaturized and used, for example, in camera lenses and imaging systems integrated into cell phones, tablets, and other devices.

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention are described in the attached document entitled SMA·OIS Sensor Shifting Components, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Processes and structures of the type described in the patent documents mentioned above in the Background section can be used in connection with these embodiments. Conventional additive deposition and / or subtractive methods such as wet (e.g., chemical) and dry (e.g., plasma) etching, electrolytic and electroless plating, and sputtering processes, as well as mechanical forming methods (e.g., using punches and dies), can be used to manufacture the OIS suspension components in the embodiments of the present disclosure. These types of additive and subtractive methods are known and used, for example, in connection with the manufacture of disk drive head suspensions, and are generally disclosed in the following U.S. patent documents, all of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes: The U.S. patent documents in question are: U.S. Pat. No. 8,941,951 (Bennin et al., "Head Suspension Flexure with Integrated Strain Sensor and Sputtered Traces"); U.S. Pat. No. 8,885, No. 299 (Bennin et al., "Low Resistance Ground Joints for Dual Stage Actuation Disk Drive Suspensions"), U.S. Pat. No. 8,169,746 (Rice et al., "Multiple No. 8,144,430 (Hentges et al., "Multi-Layer Ground Plane Structures for Integrated Lead Suspensions"); U.S. Pat. No. 7,929, '252 (Hentges et al., "Multilayer Ground Plane Structure with Integrated Lead Suspension") Multi-Layer Ground Plane Structures for Integrated Lead Suspensions, USA No. 7,388,733 (Swanson et al., "Precious Metal Conductive Substrates for Suspension Assemblies") No. 7,384,531 (Peltoma et al., "Plated Ground Features for Integrated Lead Suspensions"), and U.S. Pat. No. 5,862,015 (Evans et al., "Head Suspension with Resonance Feedback Transducer").

[0012] Although described with respect to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in aspect and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In particular, although features of an embodiment are described individually or with respect to certain other features, the features of the described embodiment may be combined with any or all of the features of the other embodiments. As a non-limiting example, the described x / y flexible circuit connectors, thermal management, and / or x / y position feeds may be combined with the described x / y flexible circuit connectors, thermal management, and / or x / y position feeds. Any or all of the embodiments of Buck's concept may be incorporated into or combined with any sensor-shifting mechanism concept.

[0013] 1 illustrates a sensor-shift camera system including an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. The sensor-shift camera system 100 includes a lens stack assembly 102 attached to an autofocus assembly 104. The autofocus ("AF") assembly 104 includes one or more lenses 106a-106d configured to focus on an image sensor 108 using techniques including those known in the art. The AF assembly 104 is attached to a camera housing 112.

[0014] The AF assembly 104 can be a voice coil magnet actuator ("VCM") AF assembly or an SMA actuator AF assembly. A VCM AF assembly uses a voice coil magnet actuator to generate motion, including techniques known in the art, to move one or more lenses 106a-106b in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the image sensor 108, e.g., along the z-axis 110 of the sensor-shift camera assembly 100, to focus on the image sensor 108. A SMA actuator AF assembly uses an SMA actuator to generate motion, including techniques known in the art, to move one or more lenses 106a-106b in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the image sensor 108, e.g., along the z-axis 110 of the sensor-shift camera assembly 100, to focus on the image sensor 108.

[0015] The image sensor 108 is mounted on an optical image stabilization suspension assembly 114. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly 114 is configured to move the image sensor 108 in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis 120 of the image sensor, for example in the x-axis and y-axis directions relative to the z-axis 110 of the sensor-shift camera assembly 100. By displacing the image sensor 108 in the x-axis and y-axis directions relative to the stationary lens stack assembly 102, longer SMA wires can be used because the optical image stabilization suspension assembly 114 does not need to space the image beam. The advantage of using longer SMA wires is that a longer stroke is obtained, allowing the optical image stabilization suspension assembly 114 to compensate for larger movements.

[0016] The optical image stabilization suspension assembly 114 includes a stationary member 124, which may also be referred to as a stationary plate, and a movable member 122, which may also be referred to as a movable plate, in various embodiments. The movable member 122 is configured to receive the image sensor 108. By way of example, the image sensor 108 is attached to the movable member 122 at a sensor mounting area of ​​the movable member 122. In some embodiments, the sensor mounting area is at or near the center of the movable member 122. In various embodiments, to reduce the height of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly 114, the image sensor 108 is attached to the movable member such that the image sensor 108 is between the movable member 122 and the stationary member 124, thereby reducing the overall height required for the sensor-shift camera assembly 100.

[0017] 2 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly 214 is configured with an image sensor 208 disposed and attached to a movable member 222. The movable member 222 includes wire crimps 204a, 204b for attaching SMA elements, such as SMA wires 212a, 212b, to the movable member 222. The SMA wires 212a, 212b are disposed between the movable member 222 and a stationary member 224. The stationary member 224 includes wire crimps 216a, 216b for attaching the SMA wires 212a, 212b to the stationary member 224. The stationary member 224 also includes one or more plain bearings 210a-d in some embodiments. Any number of plain bearings 210a-d may be used. Some embodiments include three plain bearings 210a-d. The plain bearings 210a-d can be made from a low friction material to allow relative sliding between the movable member 222 and the sliding member 224. In some embodiments, the plain bearings 210a-d are ball bearings with features formed in the stationary member 224 to contain the ball bearings.

[0018] In various embodiments, any of the movable member wire crimps 204a, 204b and stationary member wire crimps 216a, 216b may be offset from the respective movable member 222 and stationary member 224 to position the SMA wires 212a, 212b at various heights between the stationary member 224 and movable member 222 to prevent the SMAs 212a, 212b from contacting. In other embodiments, centering springs are used to act against the tension of the SMAs 212a, 212b and are configured to hold the movable member 222 on the plain bearings 210a-d. FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in FIG. 2. When the SMA wires 212a, 212b are actuated using techniques including those known in the art, movement of the movable member 222 in the x-axis and y-axis directions is generated. In some embodiments, a separate force is applied to each SMA wire 212a, 212b to move the movable member 222 in the x-axis and y-axis directions.

[0019] 4 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly including a centering spring according to an embodiment. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly is configured to have an image sensor 408 disposed and attached to a movable member 422. The movable member 422 includes wire crimps 404a, 404b for attaching SMA wires 412a, 412b, etc., to the movable member 422. The SMA wires 412a, 412b are disposed between the movable member 422 and a stationary member 424. The stationary member 424 includes wire crimps 416a, 416b for attaching the SMA wires 412a, 412b to the stationary member 424. The stationary member 424 also includes one or more plain bearings 410a-410d, such as those described herein, in some embodiments. In various embodiments, the wire crimps 404a, 404b of any of the movable members and the wire crimps 416a, 416b of the stationary members can be offset from the respective movable members 422 and stationary members 424, as described herein, to position the SMA wires 412a, 412b at various heights between the stationary members 424 and the movable members 422.

[0020] The movable member 422 includes centering springs 430a, 430b, e.g., first centering spring 430a and second centering spring 430b. Another embodiment includes a movable member 422 including four centering springs. The stationary member 444 includes centering springs 432a, 432b, e.g., first centering spring 432a and second centering spring 432b. Another embodiment includes a stationary member 424 including four centering springs. The centering springs 430a, 430b and 432a, 432b are used to act against the tension of the SMA wires 412a, 412b and are configured to hold the movable member 422 on the plain bearings 410a-410d. FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in FIG. 4. When the SMA wires 412a, 412b are actuated using techniques including those known in the art, movement of the moveable member 422 in the x-axis and y-axis directions is produced.

[0021] 6 illustrates a centering spring of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to embodiments. The centering spring 602 includes a second shaped spring arm 604a aligned in a second direction of movement of the member, such as the y-axis. The centering spring 602 also includes a second shaped spring arm 604b aligned in a second direction of movement of the member, such as the y-axis. In various embodiments, the first shaped spring arm 604a and the second shaped spring arm 604b are 90 degree shaped spring arms, and the longitudinal axis of the first shaped spring arm 604a and the second shaped spring arm 604b are oriented in a 90 degree axial direction. The directional axis forms a 90 degree angle. The spring arms are integrally formed with one of the movable or stationary members and are formed from the same material. Forming the first shaped spring arm 604a and the second shaped spring arm 604b as 90 degree shaped spring arms is utilized to reduce the stiffness of the springs. The first shaped spring arm 604a and the second shaped spring arm 604b are connected to each other via an unshaped corner portion 608. The unshaped corner portion 608 is configured to provide clearance for the SMA wire attached to the wire crimp. The centering spring 602 also includes spring legs 606. The spring legs 606 are configured to be attached to an adjacent member. As an example, the spring legs 606 of the shaped spring arm of the movable member are attached to the stationary member and the spring legs 606 of the shaped spring arm of the stationary member are attached to the movable member.

[0022] 7 shows an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly including four SMA wires according to an embodiment. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly is configured with an image sensor 708 disposed and attached to a movable member 722. The movable member 722 includes wire crimps 704a-704d to attach SMA wires 712a-712d to the movable member 722. The SMA wires 712a-712d are disposed between the movable member 722 and a stationary member 724. The stationary member 724 includes wire crimps 716a-716d to attach SMA wires 712a-712d to the stationary member 724. The SMA wires 712a-712d are oriented in a cross shape but offset parallel to each other, with a wire crimp at each corner of the movable member 722 and the stationary member 724, respectively. Two parallel SMA wires run from a first corner to a second corner of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly, one to the stationary crimp and one to the movable crimp, and are attached to each crimp. Each wire of the pair is configured to provide motion in opposite directions when actuated. This eliminates the need to rely on a centering spring to pull the optical image stabilization suspension assembly to a centered position. The SMA wires 712a-712d are configured to pull against each other. A bias in the pulling force provides motion, and when it is desired to move the optical image stabilization suspension assembly to a centered position, the actuation bias of one SMA wire 712a-712d is changed to the opposite of the other. The stationary member 724 also includes, in some embodiments, one or more plain bearings 710a-710d, such as those described herein. In various embodiments, any of the movable member wire crimps 704a-704d and stationary member wire crimps 716a-716d may be offset from the respective movable member 722 and stationary member 724, as described herein, to allow the SMA wires 712a-712d to be positioned at various heights between the stationary member 724 and the movable member 722. Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in Figure 7. When the SMA wires 712a-712d are actuated using techniques including those known in the art, movement of the movable member 722 in the x and y axis directions is produced.

[0023] 9 illustrates an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly including a looped SMA wire according to an embodiment. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly is configured with an image sensor 908 disposed and attached to a movable member 922. The movable member 922 includes wire crimps 904a, 904b for attaching the SMA wires 912a, 912b to the movable member 922. The SMA wires 912a, 912b are disposed between the movable member 922 and a stationary member 924. The stationary member 924 includes wire crimps 916a, 916b for attaching the SMA wires 912a, 912b to the stationary member 924. The stationary member 924 also includes one or more plain bearings 910a-d, such as those described herein, in some embodiments. In various embodiments, each plain bearing 910a-d is configured with a pulley feature. In some embodiments, the pulley feature is separate from one or more of the plain bearings 910a-910d. The pulley feature is configured such that one or more SMA wires 912a, 912b that wrap around or engage the pulley feature, also referred to herein as pin features, can slide freely around the pulley feature. The pulley features can be arranged in any configuration to generate motion in the moving plate 922. The pulley features that are separate from the plain bearings can be attached to the members using adhesives, welding, and other techniques known in the art.

[0024] In various embodiments, any of the movable member wire crimps 904a, 904b and stationary member wire crimps 916a, 916b may be offset from the respective movable member 922 and stationary member 924 as described herein to position the SMA wires 912a, 912b at various heights between the stationary member 924 and the movable member 922. Other embodiments are configured with centering springs such as those described herein. Various embodiments may also include four SMA wires and eight wire crimps such as those described herein. FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in FIG. 9. When the SMA wires 912a, 912b are actuated using techniques including those known in the art, movement of the movable member 922 in the x-axis and y-axis directions is generated.

[0025] 11a and 11b show a looped SMA wire configuration of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to some embodiments. FIG. 11a shows four pulley features 1102a-d with two SMA wires 1112a, 1112b. A first end of the first SMA wire 1112a is attached to a first wire crimp 1116a of the stationary member, also referred to as a stationary crimp. The first SMA wire 1112a wraps around the first pulley feature 1102a of the stationary member and the second pulley feature 1102b of the stationary member (each also referred to as a stationary pulley feature). A second end of the first SMA wire 1112a is attached to a second wire crimp 1116b of the movable member, also referred to as a movable crimp. This configuration results in a pulling action when the SMA wire 1112a is actuated using techniques such as those known in the art, including applying a voltage, current, or heat to the SMA wire 1112a.

[0026] A first end of the second SMA wire 1112b is attached to a second wire crimp 1116c of the stationary member, also referred to as the stationary crimp. The second SMA wire 1112b wraps around a third pulley feature 1102c (also referred to as the stationary pulley feature) of the stationary member and a fourth pulley feature 1102d (also referred to as the movable pulley feature) of the movable member. A second end of the second SMA wire 1112b is attached to a second wire crimp 1116d of the movable member, also referred to as the movable crimp. This configuration provides a pushing action when the SMA wire 1112b is actuated using techniques such as those known in the art, including applying voltage, current, or heat to the SMA wire 1112b.

[0027] 11b shows two pulley features 1104a, 1104b with two SMA wires 1114a, 1114b. A first end of the first SMA wire 1114a is attached to a first wire crimp 1118a of the stationary member, also referred to as the stationary crimp. The first SMA wire 1114a wraps around the first pulley feature 1104a (also referred to as the stationary pulley feature) of the stationary member. A second end of the first SMA wire 1114a is attached to a second wire crimp 1118b of the moving member, also referred to as the moving crimp. This configuration produces a pushing action when the SMA wire 1114a is actuated using techniques such as those known in the art, including applying voltage, current, or heat to the SMA wire 1114a.

[0028] A first end of the second SMA wire 1114b is attached to a second wire crimp 1118c of the stationary member, also referred to as the stationary crimp. The second SMA wire 1114b is wrapped around a second pulley feature 1104b (also referred to as the movable pulley feature) of the movable member. A second end of the second SMA wire 1114b is attached to a second wire crimp 1118c of the stationary member, also referred to as the stationary crimp. The second SMA wire 1114b is wrapped around a second pulley feature 1104b (also referred to as the movable pulley feature) of the movable member. The SMA wire 1114b is attached to a second wire crimp 1118d. This configuration results in a pulling action when the SMA wire 1114b is actuated using techniques such as those known in the art, including applying a voltage, current, or heat to the SMA wire 1114b.

[0029] One or more SMA wire and pulley feature configurations shown in Figures 11a and 11b can be used in some embodiments of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly to move the moveable member in directions along the longitudinal and lateral axes, e.g., in the x and y directions. In this manner, an image sensor attached to the moveable member can be moved to offset any external forces that cause movement of the camera system that includes the optical image stabilization suspension assembly.

[0030] 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly is configured to have an image sensor disposed and attached to a movable member 1222. The movable member 1222 includes wire crimps 1204a, 1204b to attach the SMA wires 1212a, 1212b to the movable member 1222. The SMA wires 1212a, 1212b are disposed between the movable member 1222 and a stationary member 1224. The stationary member 1224 includes wire crimps 1216a, 1216b to attach the SMA wires 1212a, 1212b to the stationary member 1224. The stationary member 1224 also includes one or more plain bearings 1210 as described herein in some embodiments. Any number of plain bearings 1210 may be used in any configuration.

[0031] As described herein, one or more of the wire crimps 1204a, 1204b of the movable member and the wire crimps 1216a, 1216b of the stationary member may be offset from either or both of the respective movable member 1222 and stationary member 1224 to position the SMA wires 1212a, 1212b at various heights or z-axis offsets between the stationary member 1224 and the movable member 1222 so that the SMAs 1212a, 1212b do not contact. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 12, a first wire crimp 1204a of the movable member 1222 is formed to have an offset from a second wire crimp 1204b of the movable member 1222 in an axis perpendicular to the surface 1230 of the movable member 1222, e.g., an offset in the z-axis direction. The offset in the wire crimps 1204a, 1204b results in a wire offset 1240 for the SMA wires 1212a, 1212b. This offset can be used to prevent SMA wires 1212a, 1212b from interfering with each other when one or both of SMA wires 1212a, 1212b are actuated.

[0032] 13 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly configured as a rectangular wire sensor assembly according to an embodiment. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly is configured with an image sensor 1308 disposed and attached to a movable member 1322. The movable member 1322 includes wire crimps 1304a-d to attach the SMA wires 1312a-d to the movable member 1322. The SMA wires 1312a-d are disposed between the movable member 1322 and a stationary member 1324. The stationary member 1324 includes wire crimps 1316a-d to attach the SMA wires 1312a-d to the stationary member 1324. The stationary member 1324 also includes one or more plain bearings 1310a-c in some embodiments. Any number of plain bearings 1310a-c may be used. Some embodiments include three plain bearings 1310a-1310c. The plain bearings 1310a-1310c can be made from a low friction material to better enable relative sliding between the movable member 1322 and the sliding member 1324. In some embodiments, the plain bearings 1310a-1310c are ball bearings with features formed in the stationary member 1324 to contain the ball bearings.

[0033] The rectangular wire sensor assembly, in various embodiments, is configured to have four SMA wires 1312a-d attached to the periphery of the rectangular wire sensor assembly. The four SMA wires 1312a-d pull each other to return the movable member 1322 to a center position. Attaching the SMA wires 1312a-d to the periphery allows the movable member 1322 to be positioned closer to the stationary member 1324 than an optical image stabilization suspension assembly having SMA wires between the movable and stationary members. In this way, a thinner camera profile is obtained. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the central portion 1342 of the movable member 1322 is configured to fit within a void 1344 in the stationary member 1324, also referred to as a z-height space (e.g., a recess or pocket in the movable member). Some embodiments of the rectangular wire sensor assembly can include an optional base member 1340. In such an embodiment, the central portion 1342 can be configured to fit within a void 1346 formed in the base member 1340 .

[0034] The rectangular wire sensor assembly, in some embodiments, optionally includes spring arms 1348a, 1348b. The spring arms 1348a, 1348b are formed on the movable member 1322 and are configured to assist in centering the movable member 1322 and to hold the movable member 1322 against the plain bearings 1310a-1310c. By way of example, the spring arms 1348a, 1348b are configured to assist in moving the movable member to a center position of the rectangular wire sensor assembly when the SMA wires 1312a-1312d are not actuated. In an embodiment, the spring arms 1348a, 1348b include an arcuate portion and are configured to extend between the movable member 1322 and the stationary member 1324.

[0035] Figure 14 shows a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly shown in Figure 13. When the SMA wires 1312a-1312d are actuated using techniques including those known in the art, movement of the movable member 1322 in the x-axis and y-axis directions is generated. In some embodiments, a separate force is applied to each parallel pair of SMA wires 1312a-1312d to move the member 1322 in the x-axis and y-axis directions.

[0036] 15 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly configured as an arcuate sensor assembly according to an embodiment. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly is configured to have an image sensor 1508 disposed and attached to a movable member 1522. The movable member 1522 includes pin features 1504a-d, also referred to herein as pulley features, disposed at outer corners of the movable member 1522. The pin features 1504a-d are configured to wrap at least one of four SMA wires 1512a-d around the pin features 1504a-d. The SMA wires 1512a-d are disposed around a stationary member 1524. The stationary member 1524 includes eight wire crimps 1516a-1516h for attaching the four SMA wires 1512a-1512d between the wire crimps 1516a-1516h. The stationary member 1524 also includes one or more plain bearings 1510a-1510d in some embodiments. Any number of plain bearings 1510a-1510d may be used. Some embodiments include three plain bearings 1510a-1510d. The plain bearings 1510a-1510c can be made from a low friction material to better allow for relative sliding between the movable member 1522 and the sliding member 1524. In some embodiments, the plain bearings 1510a-1510d are ball bearings with features formed in the stationary member 1524 to contain the ball bearings.

[0037] The arcuate sensor assembly, in various embodiments, is configured with four SMA wires 1512a-1512d attached to the periphery of the arcuate sensor assembly. The four SMA wires 1512a-1512d pull against each other to return the movable member 1522 to a center position. By attaching the SMA wires 1512a-1512d to the periphery, the movable member This allows the moving member 1522 to be positioned closer to the stationary member 1524 than an optical image stabilization suspension assembly having SMA wires between the moving member and the stationary member. In this manner, a thinner camera profile is obtained.

[0038] FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the arcuate sensor assembly shown in FIG. 15. When the SMA wires 1512a-d are actuated using techniques including those known in the art, movement of the movable member 1522 in the x-axis and y-axis directions is generated. In some embodiments, when the SMA wires 1512a-d are actuated and contract, they exert a normal force on the pin feature around which they are wrapped. The amount of applied force between the four SMA wires 1512a-d acting on each pin feature 1504a-d around which they are wrapped is used to move the movable member 1522 in the x-axis and y-axis directions. By wrapping the SMA wires 1512a-d around each pin feature 1504a-d, the length of the SMA wires 1512a-d increases, increasing the stroke. When SMA wires 1512a-d are actuated, the length of SMA wires 1512a-d contracts, causing the movable plate to move an increasing amount of distance due to an increase in stroke.

[0039] FIG. 17 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly configured as a bimetal actuator according to an embodiment. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly is configured to have an image sensor disposed and attached to a movable member 1722. The movable member 1722 includes spring arms 1704a-d disposed on the exterior of the movable member 1722. The spring arms 1704a-d are coupled to the movable member 1722 via respective struts 1706a-d in various embodiments. An SMA element, such as SMA material 1708a-d, is affixed to each of the spring arms 1704a-d. The SMA material 1708a-d is attached to the spring arms 1704a-d using adhesives, solder, laser welding, resistance welding, and other techniques including those known in the art. In some embodiments including spring arms 1704a-1704d formed from a conductive material such as stainless steel, SMA material 1708a-1708d is disposed on an insulating layer formed on spring arms 1704a-1704d using techniques including those known in the art. In other embodiments, the SMA material can be electrically and structurally attached to the spring arms only at the ends of the SMA material, leaving the spring arms free at a central region of the SMA material. The free central region allows the SMA material to pull straight when actuated while the spring arms bend into an arc. The spring arms can include electrical circuitry that provides power through the SMA material for actuation, also referred to as actuation.

[0040] The SMA material 1708a-1708d can be applied to either side of the spring arms 1704a-1704d, i.e., the side of the spring arms 1704a-1704d that faces toward the movable member 1722, or the surface of the spring arms 1704a-1704d that faces away from the movable member 1722. In some embodiments, the SMA material 1708a-1708d is applied to both sides of the spring arms 1704a-1704d.

[0041] When heated, the SMA material 1708a-1708d bends the spring arms 1704a-1704d, resulting in movement of the movable member 1722 in the x-axis and y-axis directions. A controller can be used to apply a coordinated force to the SMA material, one or more spring arms 1704a-1704d to cause sufficient movement of the movable member 1722 in the x-axis and y-axis directions. FIG. 18 shows an example movement of an SMA material as it is heated and changes from a cold state to a hot state and back to the cold state using techniques known in the art. By way of example, the SMA material 1708a-1708d can be heated with an electric current.

[0042] Spring arms 1704a-d also include stationary legs 1710a-d that are configured to be attached to a stationary member such that actuation of SMA materials 1708a-d causes movable member 1722 to move relative to the stationary member.

[0043] FIG. 19 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly configured as a bimetallic actuator according to an embodiment. The bimetallic actuator includes four spring arms formed at 90 degrees from each other, similar to the bimetallic actuator as described with respect to FIG. 17. This gives it low stiffness in the x and y directions due to low resistance to movement in those directions, and high stiffness in the direction of the axis perpendicular to the movable member 1922, which is the z-axis. In various embodiments, the spring arms are formed to be wide. This wide spring arm allows for many traces to be formed on the top of the spring arms. In some embodiments, each spring arm includes eight traces and eight stationary electrical pads at the end of each spring arm for a total of 32 traces. However, any number of traces and electrical pads can be formed on the spring arm traces. In some embodiments, the traces are routed toward the center of the movable member 1922 to connect to the image sensor. FIG. 19 illustrates the spring arms, a continuously molded 90 degree section. Other embodiments include spring arms formed from multiple sections of 90 degree formed portions separated by unformed portions along the working length of the spring arm. Figure 20 shows a bimetallic actuator according to an embodiment in a preformed flat state. The bimetallic actuator is similar to the bimetallic actuator described with respect to Figures 17 and 19. The final form of the bimetallic actuator is formed from the flat state to form a bimetallic actuator such as that described with respect to Figures 17 and 19.

[0044] FIG. 21 illustrates a semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer for an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. In some embodiments, the semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer is integral with a movable member such as those described herein. In other embodiments, the semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer is a separate part from the movable member and is configured to be attached to the movable member. The semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer includes one or more flexible circuits each having a plurality of traces protruding from the side and curved 180 degrees. The 180 degree curve makes the movable member flexible for movement in directions along the x-axis and y-axis. In some embodiments, the 180 degree curve forming lines can be at a 45 degree angle with respect to the x-axis and y-axis. This provides uniform low resistance to movement in both the x-axis and y-axis. The circuit traces of the flexible circuit are connected to pads disposed around the image sensor on the top of the semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer. The flexible circuit is configured to roll and twist during movement in the x-axis and y-axis directions. The flexible circuit includes pads that are connected to stationary circuits below the semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer. Additionally, SMA wires and spring arms such as those described herein can be incorporated into a semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer. Figure 22 shows a semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer in a flat state before being formed into a final semi-cylindrical wrapped interposer such as that shown in Figure 21.

[0045] FIG. 23 illustrates an interposer including a 45 degree bend for an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to embodiments. The interposer includes four flexible circuits, such as those described herein, protruding from one side. The flexible circuits are formed with a 45 degree forming line relative to the x and y axes in the plane of the movable member. In some embodiments, the flexible circuits have a smaller thickness in the bent area to further reduce stiffness in the x and y axes, making movement in the x and y axes easier. FIG. 24 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to embodiments having flexible circuits, such as those described herein, protruding from four sides of the interposer. FIG. 25 shows an interposer including a 45 degree bend for assembly. The interposer can be configured to have a flexible circuit protruding from one to four sides of the interposer. FIG. 25 shows an interposer with a flexible circuit protruding from four sides of the interposer in a flat state before being formed into a final interposer state such as that shown in FIG.

[0046] FIG. 26 shows the underside of a movable member including a heat sink feature of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to embodiments. The heat sink feature 2502 is configured to be located below the area where the image sensor 2508 is attached to the movable member 2522 and to be utilized to remove heat from the area around the image sensor 2508. The heat sink feature 2502 can be fabricated by stamping metal etching or grooves of various designs. The heat sink feature can also include another highly conductive material attached to the underside of the movable member with a conductive adhesive or solder. A highly conductive plated metal can be located on the top and / or bottom side of the movable member where the image sensor is attached. In some embodiments, vias are formed in the movable member such that the highly conductive plated metal can more efficiently conduct heat from the top to the bottom of the heat sink feature. FIG. 27 shows a cross-sectional view of the bottom of a movable member including a heat sink feature of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to embodiments. 28 illustrates a cross-sectional top view of a movable member including a heat sink feature and conductive plating 2510 of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. The conductive plating 2510 may be gold, nickel, copper, or other material utilized to conduct heat from the image sensor 2508. In addition to the heat sink feature, in some embodiments, the movable member 2522 includes vias formed therein, and the conductive plating 2510 can more efficiently conduct heat from the top side of the heat sink feature 2502 to the bottom side.

[0047] 29 illustrates a movable member of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment including vias and conductive plating. Vias 2802 are formed in the base metal of the movable member 2822 of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly to form a thermal path away from the image sensor 2808. In some embodiments, the vias 2802 are formed below the location of the image sensor 2808. Conductive plating 2810 is disposed on the top and bottom sides of the movable member 2822 and within the vias 2802 to form a thermal path away from the image sensor 2808.

[0048] 30 illustrates an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment including one or more Hall sensors. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly includes a movable member 2922 and a stationary member 2924 configured to move an image sensor 2908 using techniques including those described herein. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly also includes one or more Hall sensors 2904 disposed on the movable member 2922. One or more magnets 2906 are disposed on the stationary member 2924 adjacent to each Hall sensor 2904. In some embodiments, the Hall sensors 2904 are disposed on the movable member 2922 adjacent to magnets used in the autofocus assembly. In other embodiments, the position of the movable member 2922 relative to the stationary member 2924, which includes one or more Hall sensors attached to the stationary member 2924 and one or more magnets attached to the movable member 2922, is measured using one or more Hall sensors 2904 to sense changes in the strength of a magnetic field generated by one or more magnets 2906, using techniques including those known in the art.

[0049] 31 shows an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment including one or more capacitive probes as motion sensors. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly includes a movable member 3022 and a stationary member 3024 configured to move an image sensor 3008 using techniques including those described herein. Optical Image Stabilization The suspension assembly also includes one or more capacitive probes. The capacitive probe has a first portion 3004 formed on the movable member 3022 and a second portion 3006 formed on the stationary member 3024. The first portion 3004 and the second portion 3006 of the capacitive probe are formed from a conductive material such as copper or gold plating. The first portion 3004 and the second portion 3006 may be circular, rectangular, or triangular. The shapes can be designed to increase the amount of capacitance change seen when the movable member 3022 moves in one direction relative to the other direction, so one capacitive probe can be designed to only sense movement along the x-axis and the other capacitive probe can detect movement along the y-axis. Movement is measured by creating a change in the overlap area of ​​the first portion 3004 and the second portion 3006. As an example, more capacitance means the movable member 3022 moves in one direction relative to the stationary member 3024. Less capacitance means the movable member 3022 has moved in the opposite direction relative to the stationary member 3024, as shown in Figure 32. When the overlapping area of ​​the first portion 3004 and the second portion 3006 is the same for each capacitor probe, as shown in Figure 33, a capacitance that is approximately the same indicates a nominal or center position of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly.

[0050] In an embodiment, electrical leads or traces are connected to the first portion 3004 and the second portion 3006 of the capacitive probe using a flexible circuit or connector. The distance between the movable member 3022 and the stationary member 3024 can be adjusted to a desired nominal capacitance value. Higher capacitance can be achieved by reducing the distance between the two plates of the capacitor probe. This distance remains constant as the movable member 3022 moves in the x-axis and y-axis directions.

[0051] FIG. 34 shows an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment including strain gauges as motion sensors. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly includes a movable member 3322 including spring arms in embodiments described herein configured to move an image sensor using techniques including those described herein. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly also includes one or more strain gauge sensors 3304 attached to one or more of the spring arms. In some embodiments, the strain gauge sensors 3304 are attached to high stress areas of the spring arms. As the movable member 3322 moves, the spring arms will have strains that can be measured by the strain gauges attached thereto or formed thereon. By reading different amounts of strain from the multiple gauges, the full x / y position can be measured, for example using a controller with an algorithm. Such strain gauge sensors 3304 include those similar to and manufactured by processes such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 8,941,951 to Bennin et al. and U.S. Patent No. 5,862,015 to Evans et al.

[0052] Other aspects of the motion sensor include a feedback position sensor that uses a lens fiducial in conjunction with an image controller tracking algorithm. In some embodiments, the lens is stationary in the x-axis and y-axis directions. A mark or fiducial is formed on one of the lenses of the camera system that is visible by the image sensor. As an example, the fiducial can be at the far end of the lens, i.e., the far end of the image circle on the image sensor and in an area of ​​the image that is cropped from the stored image. Other examples include having a fiducial on a structure of the camera system other than the lens that is within the sensitive area of ​​the image sensor. The camera controller is configured to track the position of one or more fiducials to determine which pixels of the sensor are being used. The position of the one or more fiducials can be fed back to the optical image stabilization suspension assembly via the controller to move the assembly to make position corrections.

[0053] FIG. 35 illustrates optical image stabilization implemented as a bimetal actuator according to an embodiment. 35 shows an exploded view of a suspension assembly. Such a bimetallic actuator is an integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator with a sensor shift trace as a motion sensor. As shown in FIG. 35, the integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator includes two SMA actuators 3502 at each corner of an integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator 3504. The integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator 3504 is configured to mount on one or more plain bearings 3510 in a base member 3524. Any number of plain bearings 3510 may be used. Some embodiments include three plain bearings 3510. The plain bearings 3510 can be made from a low friction material to better allow relative sliding between the integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator 3504 and the base member 3524. In some embodiments, the plain bearings 3510 are ball bearings with features formed in the base member 3524 to contain the ball bearings. FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of the optical image stabilization suspension assembly implemented as a bimetallic actuator as shown in FIG.

[0054] FIG. 37 shows a portion of a bimetallic actuator according to an embodiment, including a bimorph actuator 3504 on an inner rail, a flexible trace path 3506 on an outer rail, and a motion sensor such as those described herein. The trace path 3506 is configured to transmit an electrical signal to the components, including an actuation signal to the bimorph actuator 3504. A pair of bimorph actuators 3504 at each corner of the integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator 3504 are formed using SMA material that forms a moving portion 3602 as shown in FIG. 38 when actuated using techniques described herein. FIG. 38 shows a top view of a bimetallic actuator according to an embodiment, including a moving portion 3602 and a fixed portion 3604. The fixed portion is attached to a base member 3524. The fixed portion 3604 is attached to the base member 3524 by techniques including, but not limited to, adhesive and solder. Thus, the moving portion 3602 is configured to move in the x-axis and y-axis directions relative to the fixed portion 3604 and the base member 3524. Additionally, motion sensors such as those described herein may also be integrated into the integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator 3504. Figure 39 shows a layout pattern for forming the integrated SMA bimorph X / Y actuator using etching and deposition techniques, including those known in the art.

[0055] FIG. 40 shows an exploded view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly made as an integrated SMA actuator assembly according to an embodiment. The integrated SMA actuator assembly includes wire crimps, traces, and sensors using techniques described herein integrated into an SMA actuator member 4022. The optical image stabilization suspension assembly is configured to have an image sensor disposed and attached to the SMA actuator member 4022. The SMA actuator member 4022 includes wire crimps 4004 for attaching four SMA wires 4012 to the SMA actuator member 4022 using techniques including those described herein. In some embodiments, the wire crimps 4004 are configured as one or more crimp subassemblies, each crimp subassembly including a stationary crimp and a moving crimp. The SMA actuator member 4022 is configured to be attached to a base member 4024. The base member 4024 also includes one or more plain bearings 4010 as described herein in some embodiments. Any number of plain bearings 4010 may be used in any configuration.

[0056] FIG. 41 shows a perspective view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly made as an integrated SMA actuator assembly as shown in FIG. 40. The SMA actuator member 4022 includes trace termination pads on opposite sides of the SMA actuator member 4022 for obtaining electrical signals through the traces to the SMA actuator member 4022. FIG. 42 shows an optical image stabilization suspension assembly made as an integrated SMA actuator assembly according to an embodiment. FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly according to an embodiment. The SMA actuator includes trace rails 4220 formed on spring arms configured to center the SMA actuator using techniques including those described herein. The trace rails 4220 include 16 traces on each of the two spring arms in some embodiments. FIG. 43 shows a side view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly made as an integrated SMA actuator assembly according to an embodiment. The trace rails 4220 are formed at a 90 degree angle in some embodiments to reduce stiffness in the x-axis and y-axis directions. FIG. 44 shows a cross-sectional view of an optical image stabilization suspension assembly made as an integrated SMA actuator assembly according to an embodiment. The integrated SMA actuator includes a moving portion 4006 and a fixed portion 4008. The fixed portion 4008 is attached to a base member 4024. The fixed portion 4008 is attached to the base member 4024 by techniques including, but not limited to, adhesives and solder. Thus, the movable portion 4006 is configured to move in the x-axis and y-axis directions relative to the fixed portion 4008 and the base member 4024. Additionally, motion sensors such as those described herein may also be integrated into the integrated actuator.

[0057] While the present invention has been described with respect to various embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in aspect and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, although described as a dual camera assembly, other embodiments of the invention are configured for three or more cameras. Features of the various illustrated embodiments can be combined with each other in yet other embodiments. The specification and drawings are, therefore, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

Claims

1. A stationary plate; a movable plate movable relative to the stationary plate in x-axis and y-axis directions; a sensor mounting area on the movable plate that is integral with the movable plate; one or more springs connecting the movable plate to the stationary plate, the one or more springs including one or more spring arms having major surfaces that are substantially perpendicular to a major surface of the movable plate; one or more bearings that permit the movement of the movable plate relative to the stationary plate; one or more shape memory alloy (SMA) elements extending between and coupled to the stationary plate and the movable plate; the movable plate is configured to displace the sensor mounting area relative to one or more lenses; A suspension assembly, wherein the SMA element, when actuated by a controller, moves the movable plate and the sensor mounting area thereon relative to the stationary plate about the x-axis and the y-axis, the SMA element being disposed on the major surface of the spring arm.

2. The suspension assembly of claim 1 , further comprising an image sensor mounted to said movable plate at said sensor mounting area.

3. 3. A suspension assembly according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a lens mounted substantially fixedly relative to said stationary plate with respect to said x-axis and said y-axis, and optionally an autofocus mechanism.

4. The suspension assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sensor mounting area is disposed within a z-height space defined by the stationary plate and the moving plate.

5. 5. A suspension assembly according to claim 1, wherein the SMA element further comprises at least two SMA wires extending across each other below the sensor mounting area.

6. The suspension assembly of claim 5 , wherein the at least two SMA wires extending across one another are spaced apart from one another in the z-height direction.

7. A suspension assembly as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 6, comprising two pairs of SMA wires below the sensor mounting area, each said pair of SMA wires crossing the other said pair of SMA wires.

8. 8. A suspension assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising one or more pulley members on one or both of said stationary plate and said movable plate, each said pulley member being engaged by at least one SMA element.

9. 5. The suspension assembly according to claim 1, wherein the SMA element is disposed in a space outside the periphery of the sensor mounting area.

10. the spring arm includes an arcuate portion extending between the movable plate and the stationary plate; 5. A suspension assembly according to claim 1, wherein the one or more SMA elements comprise SMA material in the arcuate portions of the one or more spring arms to form a bimetallic actuator.

11. The suspension assembly of claim 1 , wherein the one or more spring arms are integral with one of the moving plate and the stationary plate and are formed from the same material.

12. The one or more spring arms extend from the movable plate; further comprising an electrical trace on the spring arm; The suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the spring arms are metallic, and the suspension assembly further comprises an insulating layer between the electrical traces and the spring arms.

13. The suspension assembly of claim 12 , wherein the one or more spring arms are integral with the movable plate and formed from the same material.

14. A suspension assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the spring arm includes a curved portion.

15. The suspension assembly of any preceding claim, further comprising one or more flexible circuit connectors including electrical traces extending from said movable plate.

16. The suspension assembly of claim 15 , wherein the one or more flexible circuit connectors are integral with the movable plate.

17. 17. A suspension assembly according to any of claims 15 to 16, wherein the one or more flexible circuit connectors have one or more angled bends, optionally about 45 degrees.

18. A suspension assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a heat sink on the movable plate.

19. 20. The suspension assembly of claim 18, wherein the heat sink includes one or more molded heat sink features in the moving plate, a thermally conductive material such as a plating in the moving plate, and one or more thermally conductive material vias through the moving plate.

20. A suspension assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising one or more position sensing elements on one or both of the stationary and movable plates.

21. 21. The suspension assembly of claim 20, wherein the one or more position sensing elements include one or both of a Hall sensor and a magnet.

22. The suspension assembly of claim 20 , wherein the one or more position sensing elements include a capacitive probe.

23. The suspension assembly includes:

21. The suspension assembly of claim 20, further comprising a strain gauge in one or more of the spring arms.

24. 11. The suspension assembly of claim 10, wherein the SMA material is electrically and structurally attached to the one or more spring arms only at two ends of the SMA element and is open at a central portion of the SMA element.

Images