MEMS Locking Assembly for Flexure Alignment During Compression
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MEMS actuators face challenges in achieving precise mechanical motion within the constraints of miniaturization, low power consumption, and cost-effectiveness, particularly in applications like camera packages where assembly complexities arise due to flexible conductive components.
Innovation Solution
A temporary MEMS-based locking assembly is introduced, which compresses electrically conductive flexures using first and second locking structures with teeth, allowing for temporary rigid coupling of MEMS actuation core and outer frame, thereby facilitating assembly and limiting in-plane movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrically conductive flexures are used to connect MEMS components, then flexibility and electrical conductivity are improved, but mechanical stability and alignment precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly is engaged before final assembly operations to temporarily rigidize the structure. The locking protrusions are positioned in advance to engage with corresponding recesses, establishing precise alignment before the flexures are fully activated or connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking assembly acts as an intermediary element between the flexible conductive flexures and the rigid MEMS components. It provides a temporary rigid connection that mediates between the flexibility needed for electrical connection and the rigidity needed for precise alignment during assembly.
2Manufacturing precision
If temporary locking structures are introduced to improve assembly precision, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly is segmented into distinct functional elements: locking protrusions for engagement, locking surfaces for stabilization, and releasing structures for disengagement. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design despite the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The temporary locking structures are designed to be discarded after serving their assembly purpose. The releasing structures enable easy removal of the locking assembly, and the discarded components can be recovered and reused in subsequent assembly operations, reducing overall waste and 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 temporary locking assembly enables precise mechanical alignment and assembly of MEMS components by providing temporary rigidity, thus overcoming the challenges of flexible conductive components and enhancing the overall assembly process efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
electrically conductive flexures positioned between the first portion of the MEMS conductive assembly and the second portion of the MEMS conductive assembly
Implementation Method 2
first and second locking structures are configured to engage each other upon the compression of the electrically conductive flexures
Data Source
AI summary
A temporary MEMS-based locking assembly is configured to temporarily compress electrically conductive flexures and includes: a first locking structure coupled to a first portion of a MEMS conductive assembly; a second locking structure coupled to a second portion of the MEMS conductive assembly, wherein: the electrically conductive flexures are positioned between the first portion of the MEMS conductive assembly and the second portion of the MEMS conductive assembly, and the first and second locking structures are configured to engage each other upon the compression of the electrically conductive flexures to effectuate the locking of the first portion of the MEMS conductive assembly with respect to the second portion of the MEMS conductive assembly.