Shape Memory Alloy Camera Lens Wiper Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cameras operating in harsh environments, such as dusty or wet conditions, face image quality degradation due to debris and moisture accumulation on the lens, which existing technologies fail to effectively address.
Innovation Solution
A camera system incorporating a shape memory alloy that transitions between states to actuate a wiper attached to the camera, allowing it to contact and translate across the lens to remove debris, while also being capable of stowing and deploying the camera as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the camera lens is exposed to the external environment for operation, then the camera can capture images, but debris and moisture accumulate on the lens diminishing image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The wiper system is automatically actuated by the shape memory alloy in response to detected debris or moisture, allowing the lens to self-clean without manual intervention. The system monitors lens conditions and activates the wiper only when needed, enabling the camera to maintain its own operational cleanliness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuators (motors, linkages) with a shape memory alloy-based actuation system. The SMA transitions between crystalline states in response to thermal or electrical signals, directly driving the wiper mechanism without complex mechanical transmission components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a wiper system is added to clean the lens, then image quality is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuators (motors, linkages) with a shape memory alloy-based actuation system. The SMA transitions between crystalline states in response to thermal or electrical signals, directly driving the wiper mechanism without complex mechanical transmission components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs shape memory alloy, a composite material exhibiting unique phase transition properties, to create an actuator that combines structural and functional elements. This single material performs both structural support and actuation functions, reducing the need for separate components.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the camera is stowed within the cavity when not in use, then lens protection is improved, but deployment and retrieval time is added
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system operates in periodic cycles of deployment and stowing. The camera is deployed only when image capture is needed and automatically returned to the stowed position afterward, minimizing exposure time to harmful environmental factors while maintaining operational capability when required.
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 camera system effectively maintains image quality and lens cleanliness in harsh conditions by using the shape memory alloy to actuate a wiper, ensuring continuous operation and reducing maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
a shape memory alloy transitionable between a first state and a second state in response to a thermal activation signal
Data Source
AI summary
A camera system includes a body defining a cavity therein, and a camera attached to the body within the cavity and including a lens. The camera system also includes a shape memory alloy transitionable between a first state and a second state in response to a thermal activation signal, and a wiper configured for wiping debris from the lens. The wiper is attached to the camera and is actuatable by the shape memory alloy. The shape memory alloy transitions between the first state and the second state to actuate the wiper so that the wiper contacts and translates across the lens and thereby wipes debris from the lens.