Planar Actuator with Latch Mechanism for Shock-Resistant Miniature Cameras

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Solution Overview

Problem

Miniature cameras require reduced size and enhanced shock resistance, with existing actuators being inadequate in size reduction and shock absorption due to the use of smaller, more delicate components.

Innovation Solution

The development of a planar actuator device with a latch mechanism and interdigitated teeth structure, fabricated using micromachining techniques, which allows for rotational movement and latching to ensure stability and precise control, utilizing flexures and deployment mechanisms for efficient operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the size of miniature cameras is reduced, then the compactness and portability are improved, but the shock resistance deteriorates due to smaller, more delicate components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecamera sizeVSAvoidshock resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a latch mechanism that engages before shock events occur, securing the movable frame in a protected position. The flexure elements are pre-configured to absorb and distribute shock forces, cushioning delicate components against impact damage before the shock fully manifests.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The actuator device is divided into distinct functional segments: an outer frame, a movable frame, latch masses, and flexure elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the latch mechanism for shock protection, the flexures for delicate movement, and the overall structure for compactness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If voice coils or Lorentz actuators are used for lens movement, then the actuation functionality is achieved, but the device size and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelens movement controlVSAvoidactuator size

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional voice coil or Lorentz actuator mechanisms with a purely mechanical latch-based system. The interdigitated teeth and latch masses provide mechanical actuation and positioning without requiring electromagnetic coils, significantly reducing the actuator size while maintaining lens movement control functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism utilizes vertical engagement of latch blocks with latch feet to provide shock protection, while the interdigitated teeth provide rotational actuation in a different dimensional plane. This multi-dimensional approach allows compact packaging of multiple functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If a latch mechanism with interdigitated teeth is implemented, then the shock resistance and stability are enhanced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshock resistanceVSAvoidlatch mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the latch mechanism, flexure elements, and interdigitated teeth into an integrated planar structure fabricated using micromachining techniques. This consolidation reduces the number of discrete components and assembly steps, managing complexity while maintaining shock resistance functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch block flexures are designed with specific geometric parameters that allow them to deflect under shock loads while maintaining structural integrity. By optimizing the thickness, length, and curvature parameters of the flexures, the mechanism achieves shock resistance without requiring overly complex designs.

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 actuator device achieves reduced size, enhanced shock resistance, and reliable operation by enabling precise movement and latching, suitable for miniature cameras and other optical devices, addressing the need for compact and durable actuation systems.

Implementation Method 1

an actuator incorporating a plurality of interdigitated teeth, a fixed portion of which is attached to the fixed frame and a moving portion of which is attached to the moveable frame

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic force: Electrostatics

Implementation Method 2

the latch mass having a latch block coupled thereto by at least one latch block flexure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8616791B2Rotationally deployed actuator devices

Publication Date: 2013.12.31 DIGITALPTICS MEMS

AI summary

A method for making an actuator device includes forming a substantially planar structure, including an outer frame with a latch foot, a fixed frame coupled to the outer frame, a latch mass coupled to the fixed frame, a latch block coupled to the latch mass by a latch block flexure, a moveable frame coupled to the outer frame, and an actuator incorporating a plurality of interdigitated teeth alternately attached to the fixed and moving frames. For operation, the latch mass is rotated downward until an upper surface of the latch block is disposed below and held in latching contact with a lower surface of the latch foot by the latch block flexure.