SMA Wire Crimp Attachment Structure for Lens Suspension Reliability

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suspension assemblies using shape-memory alloy (SMA) wires face challenges in coupling electrical signals without damaging the SMA wires, particularly in camera lens suspension systems, where improved robustness and efficiency in manufacturing are needed.

Innovation Solution

The integration of conductive traces and dielectric layers in a crimping mechanism for SMA wires within the suspension assembly, which aligns spaces and traces to securely hold and actuate the SMA wires while preventing damage, using crimps and etched recesses to enhance mechanical and electrical connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If SMA wires are coupled to support member and moving member using conventional attachment methods, then electrical signals can be transmitted, but the SMA wires are susceptible to damage during suspension operation

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveSMA wire durabilityVSAvoidSMA wire damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies beforehand cushioning by creating a recess in the support member that receives and cushions the SMA wire before damage can occur. The recess is positioned to provide mechanical protection and stress relief at the attachment point, preventing wire damage during suspension operation while maintaining electrical signal transmission capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a recess structure that acts as a mediator between the SMA wire and the external environment. This recess provides a protected interface that reduces direct exposure to harmful forces while maintaining the electrical connection function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional attachment structures are used for SMA wires, then manufacturing is simpler, but the suspension assembly lacks robustness and manufacturing efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment structure simplicityVSAvoidmanufacturing efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated attachment structure. The recess in the support member simultaneously provides mechanical attachment, stress relief, and electrical signal transmission pathways. This consolidation improves manufacturing efficiency by reducing the number of separate components and assembly steps while maintaining structural robustness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If SMA wires are tightly coupled for electrical signal transmission, then signal coupling is effective, but the wires are more susceptible to damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical signal couplingVSAvoidSMA wire mechanical strength

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating a differentiated structure where the recess provides localized mechanical protection and stress relief at the attachment point, while the surrounding areas maintain tight coupling for effective electrical signal transmission. This localized differentiation allows the wire to be both electrically well-coupled and mechanically protected

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 reduces the likelihood of SMA wire damage and enhances the structural integrity and manufacturing efficiency of suspension assemblies, allowing for robust and reliable electrical signal coupling and actuation.

Implementation Method 1

The moving assembly and support assembly are coupled by shape memory alloy (SMA) wires extending between the assemblies. The suspension is actuated by applying electrical drive signals to the SMA wires.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory alloy: Shape Memory Alloy

Data Source

PatentUS11782286B2Shape memory alloy wire attachment structures for a suspension assembly

Publication Date: 2023.10.10 HUTCHINSON TECH INC

AI summary

Embodiments of the disclosure include a suspension assembly having a support member, a moving member movably coupled to the support member, and shape metal alloy wires coupled between the support and moving members by attachment structures. In embodiments, the attachment structures include a first portion and a second portion configured to be crimped together. In embodiments, at least one of the first and second portions include an etched recess.