Two-Axis Angular Pointing Device Miniaturization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing miniature two-axis pointing systems face challenges in miniaturization, particularly for payloads between 10 mm and 20 mm in diameter, due to limitations in materials, actuation voltage, angular range, and dynamic response, as well as the lack of integrated drive and control electronics.
Innovation Solution
A compact two-axis angular pointing device is designed with a pivot bearing and two actuators positioned at orthogonal drive points, allowing for rotation around two axes, using piezoelectric ultrasonic motors and flexible printed circuits for actuation and control, enabling efficient and precise movement of a wide range of payloads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If nested gimbal mechanisms or two-mirror galvanometer driven devices are used for larger payloads, then the pointing system can support bigger payloads, but the system becomes difficult to miniaturize and increases in size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical gimbal mechanisms with a single-pivot bearing design driven by two ultrasonic motors. This substitution eliminates the need for nested mechanical structures, enabling miniaturization while maintaining payload support capability through direct acoustic mechanical actuation of the mirror surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the drive electronics directly within the mirror assembly structure, nesting the electronic components inside or alongside the mechanical elements. This integration reduces overall system volume by eliminating separate electronic housing and interconnections, directly addressing the miniaturization challenge.
2Volume of moving object
If MEMS devices are used for smaller payloads, then the system can be miniaturized, but the devices require more than 100 volts to actuate and have limited angular range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs ultrasonic motors that operate at high frequency vibrations to produce mechanical motion. This dynamic actuation method enables large angular ranges (±45 degrees or more) while operating at low voltages (3-24V), overcoming the limited angular range and high voltage requirements of traditional MEMS devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the actuation mechanism from electrostatic (MEMS) to acoustic-mechanical (ultrasonic motor), fundamentally altering the operating parameters. This enables operation at battery-compatible voltages (3-24V) instead of requiring over 100V, while simultaneously achieving larger angular deflections through the resonant vibration mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional pointing systems are used, then adequate angular range is achieved, but the dynamic response is slower
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes ultrasonic motors that operate by generating high-frequency mechanical vibrations (typically 20-100 kHz). These vibrations are converted into controlled angular motion through friction or direct mechanical coupling, enabling both large angular ranges and fast dynamic response by adjusting the vibration frequency and amplitude control signals.
4Volume of moving object
If the system is miniaturized, then compact size is achieved, but integrated drive and control electronics are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the drive electronics with the mechanical mirror assembly by integrating the electronic components directly into the structure. This combining of electrical and mechanical systems into a single compact unit maintains full functionality while achieving miniaturization, as the electronics are embedded rather than externally mounted.
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 solution provides a highly miniaturized, efficient, and compact pointing system with a large range of motion, fast dynamic response, and the ability to hold any angular position without power, operating from typical battery voltages, while integrating all components in the smallest possible size.
Implementation Method 1
using piezoelectric ultrasonic motors and flexible printed circuits for actuation and control
Implementation Method 2
using piezoelectric ultrasonic motors and flexible printed circuits for actuation and control
Implementation Method 3
A pivot bearing is configured to support a payload
Data Source
AI summary
A two-axis angular pointing device includes a pivot bearing configured to support a payload. A first actuator is positioned to contact the payload at a first drive point. A second actuator is positioned to contact the payload at a second drive point. The first actuator is configured to generate a first movement of the payload in a direction substantially orthogonal to a plane defined by a center of the pivot bearing, the first drive point, and the second drive point to cause the payload to rotate around a first rotation axis. The second actuator is configured to generate a second movement of the payload at the second drive point in the direction substantially orthogonal to the plane to cause the payload to rotate around a second rotation axis. A method of making a two-axis angular pointing device is also disclosed.