Deformable Electroconductive Joining Member for Actuator Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional actuator mounting structures are complex and lack stability in both electrical and mechanical connections, particularly for actuators with electrodes, necessitating a simpler and cost-effective solution for reliable connections.

Innovation Solution

A mounting structure featuring a deformable and electroconductive joining member that connects an actuator with a substrate through deformation, providing both mechanical and electrical connections by forming electroconductive bumps that pinch the actuator, allowing for stable and assured connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional mounting structures are used for actuators with electrodes, then electrical connections and mechanical connections can be established, but the structure becomes complex and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability of electrical and mechanical connectionsVSAvoidcomplexity of mounting structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines electrical connection and mechanical connection functions into a single joining member. The electroconductive joining member simultaneously establishes both electrical connection between electrodes and mechanical connection between actuator and substrate, eliminating the need for separate connection structures and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining connection stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The joining member is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides electrical conduction, mechanical support, and structural attachment. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components, simplifying the mounting structure while ensuring reliable connections

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If separate structures are used for electrical and mechanical connections, then connection stability can be achieved, but the mounting process becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestability of connectionsVSAvoidsimplicity of mounting process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the electrical connection structure and mechanical connection structure into a single integrated joining member. This integration allows both electrical and mechanical connections to be established simultaneously through one mounting operation, greatly simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining the stability benefits of dedicated connection structures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If a deformable joining member is used, then both electrical and mechanical connections can be achieved through single component, but the joining member must withstand deformation stresses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of mounting structureVSAvoidstrength of joining member

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the deformable nature of the joining member as a functional characteristic rather than a weakness. By designing the joining member to deform during actuator actuation, the system converts potential strength concerns into a beneficial mechanism that accommodates actuator movement while maintaining electrical and mechanical connections

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution enables simple, low-cost, and reliable electrical and mechanical connections, reducing the complexity of the mounting process and allowing for compact actuator integration while avoiding heat effects that could damage sensitive components.

Implementation Method 1

a joining member which is deformable and electroconductive, and the joining member is pressed toward the substrate, and via a deformation of the joining member toward the actuator, the actuator and the substrate are connected mechanically, and the first electrode and the second electrode are connected electrically

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Data Source

PatentUS7737607B2Actuator having first and second electrodes and deformable joining member and method for mounting actuator

Publication Date: 2010.06.15 OLYMPUS CORPORATION(JP)

AI summary

Temporary assembling is carried out by inserting an ion conducting actuator into a groove which is provided at a central portion of a substrate. Thereafter, a bump is pressed by forcing in a direction of a surface of the substrate while carrying out leveling and thrust control, by a flat portion of a pedestal having a recess which is provided such that the ion conducting actuator is not crushed. At this time, due to a deformation of the bump which is pressed, the electrical connections are carried out assuredly, and the ion conducting actuator is held mechanically by both sides.