SMA Optical Aperture Drive for Compact Module Durability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modern electronic devices with image-capturing and video-recording functions face challenges in reducing the size of optical modules while maintaining durability and effectively regulating light entry.

Innovation Solution

A driving mechanism comprising a fixed part, a movable part, and a driving unit, where the driving unit includes an SMA element that impels the movable part relative to the fixed part, allowing for the adjustment of optical unit blades to regulate light entry.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the optical module size is reduced to meet modern device requirements, then the device becomes smaller and lighter, but the durability and reliability of the optical element driving mechanism deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical module sizeVSAvoiddurability of driving mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The optical module is divided into distinct functional components: a fixed part, a movable part, and a driving unit. The movable part is further segmented into blade elements that can independently adjust aperture size. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall reliability in a compact form.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The driving mechanism employs a nested structure where the movable part with aperture blades is positioned within the fixed part, and the driving unit is integrated within the movable part. The slider mechanism nests within guiding structures, allowing multiple functional elements to occupy minimal space while maintaining structural integrity and durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Device complexity

If conventional driving mechanisms are used in compact optical modules, then the structure becomes simpler, but the precision of aperture adjustment and light regulation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving mechanism structureVSAvoidaperture adjustment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The aperture blades are designed as movable parts that can dynamically adjust their positions to change aperture size. The slider mechanism enables smooth, controlled movement along guiding structures, allowing precise aperture adjustment. The driving unit provides dynamic control through SMA element actuation, enabling accurate positioning despite the compact structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The slider acts as an intermediary element between the driving unit and the movable part with aperture blades. It translates the driving force from the SMA element into precise linear motion along the guiding structures, ensuring accurate aperture adjustment. This intermediary mechanism maintains precision while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Volume of moving object

If the optical module is miniaturized, then device portability improves, but the effectiveness of light regulation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical module sizeVSAvoidlight regulation effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The aperture blades are designed with specific geometric shapes and dimensions optimized for light regulation in a compact format. The guiding structures have locally optimized geometries to ensure smooth slider movement. The SMA element is sized and positioned to provide adequate driving force for precise aperture control despite the miniaturized scale, maintaining effective light regulation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The driving mechanism utilizes SMA (shape memory alloy) elements that combine elastic and memory properties to provide reliable actuation in compact dimensions. The combination of different materials with complementary properties enables effective light regulation while maintaining miniaturization, as the SMA elements can generate sufficient force and precision in small sizes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 mechanism effectively miniaturizes the optical module, enhances durability, and allows precise regulation of light entry, addressing the size and durability concerns in modern electronic devices.

Implementation Method 1

the driving unit comprises an SMA element that has a first length when the movable part is in a first position relative to the fixed part, and when a current signal is applied to the SMA element, the SMA element shrinks from a first length to a second length and impels the movable part from the first position to a second position relative to the fixed part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShape Memory Alloy effect: Shape Memory Alloy

Data Source

PatentUS12287562B2Driving mechanism
Publication Date: 2025.04.29 ACTUTEK CORP
  • US12287562B2 patent drawing
  • US12287562B2 patent drawing
  • US12287562B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A driving mechanism for moving an optical unit is provided, including a fixed part, a movable part, and a driving unit. The movable part is connected to the optical unit and the fixed part, and the movable part is movable relative to the fixed part. The driving unit is configured to drive the movable part and the optical unit to move relative to the fixed part.