Centipede Actuator Motion Stage for Compact Zoom Lens Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current zoom lens systems for portable devices require complex assembly and have many components, necessitating a need for an integrated actuated stage that can be achieved during wafer-level processing, with a focus on micro electro mechanical (MEM) actuators.
Innovation Solution
A micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) stage composed of two planar components, a base plate with actuated flaps and a mount supported by flexures, providing leveraged motion and integrated actuation, springs, guiding, and electronic control for repeatable motion, fabricated using micromachining on silicon wafers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If standard optical systems with plastic components and electric motors are used, then zoom lens systems can be assembled with low cost components, but the assembly becomes complicated and requires many components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuator, springs, guides, and lens mounting into a single integrated actuated stage structure. The micromachined stage combines the drive mechanism (flaps), suspension (flexures), and lens holder (mount) into one unified component that can be manufactured as a single unit, eliminating the need for separate electric motors, individual springs, and guide components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electric motors with a micromachined electrostatic actuator system. Instead of using external motors with complex mechanical linkages, the invention uses electrically actuated flaps that directly interact with the lens mount through electrostatic forces, simplifying the mechanical system while maintaining actuation capability.
2Device complexity
If an integrated actuated stage is designed, then assembly complexity is reduced, but achieving integration during wafer-level processing becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the integrated stage into two separate planar components (base plate and mount) that can be independently manufactured on silicon wafers using standard micromachining processes. These segmented components are then bonded together through wafer-level processing, allowing each component to be optimized and fabricated separately before final integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional complex assembly to two-dimensional planar structures that can be manufactured on flat silicon wafers. By designing the actuator and mount as planar components with vertical interconnections, the invention enables wafer-level batch processing and simplifies the manufacturing dimensionality.
3Force
If flaps are designed to provide leveraged motion, then force on the mount is increased, but the motion of the flaps must be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic flap structures that can be electrically actuated to change their configuration and provide mechanical leverage. The flaps are designed to rotate or deflect when voltage is applied, creating a dynamic lever arm that amplifies the force transmitted to the lens mount while maintaining controllable motion through electrical signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces flexures as intermediary elements between the flaps and the lens mount. These flexures serve as compliant connectors that transmit force from the flaps to the mount while allowing for precise control of the motion path and providing a restoring force to return the system to its neutral position.
4Reliability
If a package is added to limit motion and prevent contamination, then the actuator is protected, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the package structure to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical guidance for the lens mount, seals the actuator to prevent contamination, and may provide electrical connections. By combining guidance, protection, and sealing functions into a single integrated package, the invention minimizes additional complexity while maximizing reliability.
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
Enables the integration of all necessary components for a compact, low-cost, and high-quality zoom lens system with reduced assembly complexity, achieving repeatable and controlled motion of the mount while preventing contamination.
Implementation Method 1
The actuation of the flaps is electrostatic
Implementation Method 2
springs or flexures to provide a repeatable restoring force
Data Source
AI summary
A micro electromechanical actuator has movable flaps formed on a base plate. The flaps are detached from the base plate on the ends and along one side, with the opposite side being partially attached to the base plate by flexures. The flaps can be moved upward, rotating or twisting along the axis of the flexure so that a one side contacts a movable element first, followed by the opposite side. As a result, the movable element is moved laterally with respect to the flaps. Movement of the flaps can be by application of a voltage to the flaps, followed by removal of the voltage to return the flaps to their original position. The cycle can continue to move the movable element the desired amount.