Flex Hinge Actuator Assembly Constraining Pitch Yaw
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator designs often cause unwanted motion in directions other than the desired Z-direction, leading to stress and inefficiency, particularly in autofocus systems where precise Z-motion is required.
Innovation Solution
A flex hinge actuator with a multi-sided flex hinge assembly that includes structures on multiple sides to limit movement in directions other than the Z-direction, utilizing bimorph actuators and shape metal alloy materials to facilitate controlled Z-motion while constraining pitch, yaw, and roll.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional actuator designs are used to achieve Z-direction motion, then the actuator can move the moving component in the desired direction, but unwanted motion occurs in other directions (pitch, yaw, roll) causing stress and inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is divided into multiple independent components: a first link connected to the base, a second link connected to the moving component, and a flex hinge connecting them. This segmentation allows the structure to independently control Z-direction motion while constraining other directions through the specific arrangement of links and hinges.
Solution Approach 2:
The flex hinge assembly introduces rotational freedom in a specific dimension (allowing Z-direction motion) while constraining motion in other dimensions (pitch, yaw, roll). By carefully designing the hinge geometry and link orientations, the system achieves selective motion control across different spatial dimensions.
2Device complexity
If the actuator structure is simplified to reduce complexity, then manufacturing and assembly become easier, but the ability to constrain unwanted motion (pitch, yaw, tilt) during Z-motion is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flex hinge utilizes a flexible link with a specific geometric profile that provides both structural simplicity and functional complexity. The flexible structure allows for easy manufacturing while the carefully designed geometry ensures precise constraint of unwanted motion during Z-direction actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The flex hinge and link structures employ asymmetric geometries that are optimized for their specific function of allowing Z-motion while blocking pitch, yaw, and roll. This asymmetric design achieves precise motion control without requiring complex symmetric multi-component assemblies.
3Reliability
If multi-sided flex hinge structures are added to limit unwanted movement, then adverse motions are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements are merged into integrated components: the flex hinge combines the functions of a mechanical joint and a motion constraint element, while the links integrate structural support and actuation transmission. This merging reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining reliable motion control.
Solution Approach 2:
The flex hinge assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enables Z-direction motion, constrains pitch/yaw/roll, transmits actuation force, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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 flex hinge actuator effectively limits adverse motions, reducing stress and improving efficiency by allowing precise Z-motion while minimizing unwanted X, Y, pitch, yaw, and roll movements.
Implementation Method 1
The bimorph actuator can include a shape metal alloy (SMA) material disposed along the beam between the fixed end and the free end
Data Source
AI summary
The present embodiments relate to a flex hinge actuator. The actuator can include a base and a moving carriage configured to move in a direction (e.g., Z direction). A flex hinge assembly can include structures disposed on multiple sides (e.g., 2-sides, 4-sides). The flex hinge assembly structures can limit movement of the moving carriage in other directions than the Z direction to limit adverse motions of the moving carriage. The actuators as described herein can include a simple structure to constrain pitch and yaw tilt during Z motion of a payload. The actuator can push on sides of structure to move a carriage up and down (or in the Z-direction).