Shape Memory Alloy Actuator for Pop-up Camera in Thin Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional actuating mechanisms, such as motors or electromagnetic valves, are too large to be applied in thin-type electronic devices like mobile phones and tablets, due to the design constraints of slim or borderless displays which limit the space for mounting camera modules.
Innovation Solution
An actuating mechanism using two levers and two shape memory alloy members, where the levers rotate on fixed fulcrums to amplify the linear contraction of the alloy members, allowing the camera module to protrude from the device when heated, enabling the mechanism to be compact enough for thin-type electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a motor or electromagnetic valve is used as the actuating mechanism, then the camera module can be protruded from the electronic device, but the device size and thickness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional motor or electromagnetic valve actuating mechanism with a shape memory alloy-based mechanical system. The shape memory alloy member undergoes phase transformation under thermal stimulation to generate driving force, eliminating the need for complex mechanical actuating components and significantly reducing the overall mechanism size while maintaining the camera module protrusion function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase transformation parameter change of the shape memory alloy material. When the shape memory alloy member is heated, it transforms from martensite phase to austenite phase, causing a change in length that directly drives the camera module to protrude. This parameter-based actuation method replaces traditional mechanical actuation systems
2Shape
If the border around the display screen is reduced for aesthetic reasons, then the screen-to-body ratio is improved, but the space for mounting the camera module lens is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the camera module from a static border-mounted position to a dynamic position that can protrude from the device body. By utilizing the thickness dimension and creating a protrudable structure, the camera module can be mounted inside the device when not in use, freeing up the border area for aesthetic purposes while maintaining functionality when needed
3Shape
If the camera module is disposed inside the electronic device to improve aesthetics, then the borderless display design is achieved, but the camera lens cannot be accessed when required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static camera module positioning into a dynamic system. The camera module can switch between two states: retracted inside the device body for aesthetic purposes and protruded outside for functional use. The shape memory alloy member enables this dynamic transition through thermal actuation, allowing the system to adapt between aesthetic and functional requirements
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
This solution provides a compact actuating mechanism that allows the camera module to be efficiently deployed and retracted in thin electronic devices, overcoming the size limitations of conventional mechanisms and enabling their use in smaller devices like mobile phones and tablets.
Implementation Method 1
When the first shape memory alloy is heated, the length of the first shape memory alloy member is reduced to generate a pulling force on the first minor axis and drive the first lever to rotate
Implementation Method 2
When the first shape memory alloy is heated, the length of the first shape memory alloy member is reduced
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses an actuating mechanism disposed in an electronic device, which includes an opening. The actuating mechanism comprises a moving member, a first lever, a second lever, a first shape memory alloy member and a second shape memory alloy member. The moving member corresponds to the opening and has a first limiting slot and a second limiting slot. The first lever has a first minor axis and a first major axis, and one end of the first major axis connects to the first limiting slot. The second lever has a second minor axis and a second major axis, and one end of the second major axis connects to the second limiting slot. One end of the first shape memory alloy member connects to the first minor axis. One end of the second shape memory alloy member connects to the second minor axis.