WO2022069888A1 - Ensemble actionneur - Google Patents

Ensemble actionneur Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022069888A1
WO2022069888A1 PCT/GB2021/052529 GB2021052529W WO2022069888A1 WO 2022069888 A1 WO2022069888 A1 WO 2022069888A1 GB 2021052529 W GB2021052529 W GB 2021052529W WO 2022069888 A1 WO2022069888 A1 WO 2022069888A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
image sensor
support structure
assembly
sensor assembly
actuator assembly
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2021/052529
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Andrew Benjamin Simpson Brown
Robin Eddington
Stephen Matthew BUNTING
Konstantinos PANTELIDIS
Original Assignee
Cambridge Mechatronics Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Cambridge Mechatronics Limited filed Critical Cambridge Mechatronics Limited
Priority to CN202180072157.3A priority Critical patent/CN116615909A/zh
Priority to GB2306466.0A priority patent/GB2615465A/en
Publication of WO2022069888A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022069888A1/fr

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N23/00—Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof
    • H04N23/50—Constructional details
    • H04N23/54—Mounting of pick-up tubes, electronic image sensors, deviation or focusing coils
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N23/00—Cameras or camera modules comprising electronic image sensors; Control thereof
    • H04N23/50—Constructional details
    • H04N23/52—Elements optimising image sensor operation, e.g. for electromagnetic interference [EMI] protection or temperature control by heat transfer or cooling elements

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to actuator assemblies, particularly those in which optical image stabilisation (OIS) and/or super-resolution imaging is provided.
  • OIS optical image stabilisation
  • super-resolution imaging is provided.
  • OIS In a camera, the purpose of OIS is to compensate for camera shake, that is vibration of the camera, typically caused by user hand movement, that degrades the quality of the image captured by the image sensor.
  • Mechanical OIS typically involves detecting the vibration by a vibration sensor such as a gyroscope sensor, and controlling, on the basis of the detected vibration, an actuator arrangement that adjusts the camera apparatus to compensate for the vibration.
  • a vibration sensor such as a gyroscope sensor
  • actuator arrangement that adjusts the camera apparatus to compensate for the vibration.
  • a number of actuator arrangements employing mechanical OIS techniques are known and applied successfully in relatively large camera apparatuses, such as digital still cameras, but are difficult to miniaturise.
  • Cameras have become very common in a wide range of portable electronic equipment, for example mobile telephones and tablet computers, and in many such applications miniaturisation of the camera is important.
  • the very tight packaging of components in miniature camera apparatuses presents great difficulties in adding OIS actuators within the desired package.
  • a camera unit comprising an image sensor and a lens assembly for focussing an image on the image sensor is tilted relative to a support structure around two notional axes that are perpendicular to each other and to the lightsensitive region of the image sensor.
  • OIS-module-tilt Such a type of OIS will be referred to herein as “OIS-module-tilt”.
  • WO-2010/029316 and WO-2010/089529 each disclose actuator assemblies of this type in which a plurality of shape memory alloy (SMA) wires are arranged to drive tilting of the camera unit.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • a lens assembly is moved orthogonally to the optical axis of the at least one lens.
  • OIS-lens shift Such a type of OIS will be referred to herein as “OlS-lens shift”.
  • WO-2013/175197 and WO-2014/083318 each disclose actuator assemblies of this type in which a plurality of SMA wires are arranged to drive movement of the lens assembly.
  • WO-2017/072525 discloses an image sensor mounted on a carrier that is suspended on a support structure by a plain bearing that allows movement of the carrier and the image sensor relative to a support structure in any direction laterally to the light-sensitive region of the image sensor.
  • An actuator assembly comprising plural SMA wires is arranged to move the carrier and the image sensor relative to the support structure for providing OIS of the image captured by the image sensor.
  • Super-resolution imaging may be achieved by combining two or more images that are captured at positions offset from one another by a sub-pixel distance. Positioning of the image sensor relative to the support structure at a positional accuracy of 0.5pm or less may thus be desirable. Such accurate positioning may require actuator components that can reliably be controlled to apply high actuation forces to move and position the image sensor and/or a reduction in frictional forces between the image sensor assembly and the support structure.
  • the present invention is concerned with an alternative actuator assembly that exhibits reduced frictional forces between the image sensor assembly and the support structure, while maintaining adequate heat transfer between the image sensor assembly and the support structure.
  • the present invention is also concerned with providing an improved actuator assembly for the purpose of applications requiring accurate positional control, such as super-resolution imaging.
  • an actuator assembly comprising a support structure; an image sensor assembly comprising an image sensor having a light-sensitive region, wherein the image sensor assembly is supported on the support structure such that a gap is formed between the image sensor assembly and the support structure on a side of the image sensor assembly facing away from the lightsensitive region; and a region of heat transfer material arranged in the gap, wherein the heat transfer material is arranged to transfer heat between the image sensor assembly and the support structure, and wherein the heat transfer material is configured to deform so as to allow movement of the image sensor assembly relative to the support structure.
  • Provision of the gap reduces the friction between the image sensor assembly and the support structure. This may ultimately allow more accurate positioning of the image sensor assembly with respect to the support structure, for example for the purpose of superresolution imaging.
  • the heat transfer material in the gap improves the transfer of heat away from the image sensor and to the support structure.
  • the support structure may thus act as a heat sink for the image sensor.
  • the deformability of the heat transfer material ensures that the image sensor assembly remains movable, as for example required for OIS applications and/or super-resolution imaging.
  • an actuator assembly comprising: a support structure; an image sensor assembly comprising an image sensor having a light-sensitive region; plural SMA wires in an arrangement capable, on selective driving thereof, of moving the image sensor assembly relative to the support structure in any direction laterally to the light-sensitive region, and a control circuit configured to drive the SMA wires so as to controllably move the light-sensitive region to two or more position, wherein the two or more positions are offset from each other in a direction parallel to the light-sensitive region by a distance that is less than a pitch between the pixels of the light-sensitive region.
  • SMA wires Due to their high actuation forces, SMA wires enable particularly accurate control of the movement and positioning of the image sensor assembly relative to the support structure. Controllable movement by sub-pixel distances enables use of the actuator assembly in applications such as super-resolution imaging. Positional accuracy may further be improved by reducing the frictional forces between the image sensor assembly and the support structure, for example by providing the gap between the image sensor assembly and the support structure.
  • the gap may be formed by supporting the image sensor assembly on the support structure using a roller bearing or a flexure arrangement. A region of heat transfer material may be provided in the gap to increase the transfer of heat between the image sensor assembly and the support structure.
  • an actuator assembly comprising: a support structure; a moving part supported on the support structure, wherein one of the support structure and the moving part comprises an image sensor having a lightsensitive region; and a bearing arrangement configured to support the moving part on the support structure, wherein the bearing arrangement is configured to allow movement of the moving part relative to the support structure; wherein at least one of the support structure and the moving part comprises at least one plate provided with a hole extending at least partly through the plate for accommodating the bearing arrangement.
  • the hole accommodates the bearing. This can help to reduce the height of the actuator assembly, i .e. reduce the dimension in the thickness direction of the plates that form the actuator assembly.
  • an actuator assembly comprising: a support structure; an image sensor assembly comprising an image sensor having a light-sensitive region, wherein the image sensor assembly is supported on the support structure; one or more bearings configured to support the image sensor assembly on the support structure, the one or more bearings being configured to allow movement of the image sensor assembly relative to the support structure; and a bearing shock protection structure comprising cantilever structures comprised in the support structure or the image sensor assembly, the one or more bearings resting on the free ends of the cantilever structures.
  • an actuator assembly comprising: a support structure; a moving part supported on the support structure, wherein one of the support structure and the moving part comprises an image sensor having a lightsensitive region; one or more bearings configured to support the moving part on the support structure, the one or more bearings being configured to allow movement of the moving part relative to the support structure; and a bearing shock protection structure comprising cantilever structures comprised in the moving part, the one or more bearings resting on the free ends of the cantilever structures.
  • the bearings enable movement of the image sensor assembly parallel to the plane in which the light sensitive region extends.
  • the cantilevers deflect, thereby absorbing energy and protecting the bearings and/or bearing surfaces.
  • an actuator assembly comprising: a support structure; an image sensor assembly comprising an image sensor having a light-sensitive region, wherein the image sensor assembly is supported on the support structure; and a flexure arrangement configured to support the image sensor assembly on the support structure in a manner allowing movement of the image sensor assembly relative to the support structure in any direction parallel to the plane in which the light sensitive region extends and/or in a manner allowing rotation of the image sensor assembly about any axis orthogonal to the plane in which the light-sensitive region extends.
  • the flexure arrangement comprises one or more flexures.
  • the image sensor assembly is supported on the support structure by only the flexure arrangement, e g. without any additional (plain or ball) bearings.
  • the flexure arrangement constrains movement of the image sensor assembly perpendicular to the plane in which the light sensitive region extends.
  • an actuator assembly comprising: a support structure; a moving part supported on the support structure, wherein one of the support structure and the moving part comprises an image sensor having a lightsensitive region; and a flexure arrangement configured to support the moving part on the support structure in a manner allowing movement of the moving part relative to the support structure in any direction parallel to the plane in which the light sensitive region extends and/or in a manner allowing rotation of the moving part about any axis orthogonal to the plane in which the light-sensitive region extends, wherein the flexure arrangement comprises three or more beams that extend between the moving part and the support structure in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region, wherein each beam comprises first and second portions that are parallel to each other and each extend in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region, wherein the first portion is connected at one end to the moving part and the second portion is connected at one end to the support structure, and wherein the other ends of the first and second portions are connected to each other.
  • the moving part is supported on the support structure by only the flexure arrangement, e.g. without any additional (plain or ball) bearings.
  • the flexure arrangement constrains movement of the moving part perpendicular to the plane in which the light sensitive region extends.
  • the flexure arrangement may help to reduce the friction between the moving part and the support structure.
  • an actuator assembly comprising: a support structure defining a primary plane; a moving part configured to receive an image sensor; plural SMA wires in an arrangement capable of moving the moving part relative to the support structure in any direction parallel to the primary plane and/or rotating the moving part about any axis orthogonal to the primary plane; and one or more endstops configured to limit the movement of the moving part relative to the support structure, wherein each end stop comprises a surface region comprised in the support structure and a surface region comprised in the moving part.
  • the actuator assembly need not comprise the image sensor or any other component that is incorporated after the image sensor in the normal order of assembly. Hence, the actuator assembly (including the endstops) can be tested before attaching the image sensor.
  • the present invention provides particular advantage when applied to an actuator assembly for a miniature camera, for example where the light-sensitive region has a diagonal length of at most 12mm or 15mm.
  • Fig. l is a schematic cross-sectional view of a camera apparatus including an actuator assembly
  • Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator assembly comprising a roller bearing
  • Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a moving plate of a carrier of the actuator assembly
  • Fig. 4 is a plan view of the actuator assembly from above;
  • Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator assembly comprising another roller bearing
  • Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator assembly comprising another roller bearing
  • Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the actuator assembly comprising a flexure arrangement
  • Fig. 8 is a perspective view of another flexure arrangement
  • Fig. 9 is a perspective view of another flexure arrangement
  • Fig. 10 is a perspective view of another flexure arrangement
  • Figs. 10a and 10b schematically depict examples of moving the image sensor assembly using the flexure arrangement of Fig. 10;
  • Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of part of the actuator assembly, illustrating the gap and the heat transfer material
  • Figs. 12 and 13 are plan views of the region of heat transfer material arranged in the gap and on the support structure;
  • Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of part of the actuator assembly, illustrating another arrangement of the gap and the heat transfer material;
  • Figs. 15 to 17 are cross-sectional views of alternative actuator assemblies
  • Fig. 18 is another cross-sectional view of the actuator assembly of Fig. 15;
  • Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a bearing shock protection structure
  • Fig. 20 is a perspective view of part of an image sensor assembly with accommodated bearings.
  • Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus shown in Fig. 20.
  • FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view taken along the optical axis O.
  • the actuator assembly 2 is a sensor shift assembly.
  • the camera apparatus 1 is to be incorporated in a portable electronic device such as a mobile telephone, or tablet computer.
  • miniaturisation is an important design criterion.
  • the actuator assembly 2 is shown in detail in Figs. 2 to 4, Fig. 2 being a side view of the actuator assembly 2, Fig. 3 being a perspective view of a moving plate 9 of a carrier 8 of the actuator assembly 2; and Fig. 4 being a plan view of the actuator assembly 2.
  • Figs. 2 and 4 omit the flexures 67 described below.
  • the actuator assembly 2 may be manufactured first and then assembled with the other components of the camera apparatus 1.
  • the actuator assembly 2 comprises a support structure 4. On the support structure 4 is supported an image sensor assembly 12.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 comprises an image sensor 6 having a light-sensitive region 7 and generally further comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) on which the image sensor 6 is mounted.
  • PCB printed circuit board
  • the image sensor 6 captures an image and may be of any suitable type, for example a CCD (charge-coupled device) or a CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) device.
  • the image sensor 6 has a rectangular light-sensitive region 7.
  • the light-sensitive region 7 may comprise an array of pixels.
  • the camera apparatus 1 is a miniature camera in which the light-sensitive region 7 has a diagonal length of at most 12mm.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 comprises a carrier 8 that comprises a moving plate 9.
  • the image sensor 6 may be mounted on the carrier 8, in particular on the moving plate 9.
  • the moving plate 9 may be formed from sheet material, which may be a metal for example steel such as stainless steel.
  • the moving plate 9 is shown in isolation in Fig. 3 and includes flexures 67 that are described in more detail below.
  • the carrier 8 comprises a single moving plate 9 in this example, optionally the carrier 8 may comprise other layers which may be attached to or laminated with the moving plate 9.
  • the support structure 4 comprises a support plate 5 which may be formed from sheet material, which may be a metal for example steel such as stainless steel.
  • the support structure 4 comprises a single support plate 5 in this example, optionally the support structure 4 may comprise other layers which may be attached to or laminated with the support plate 5.
  • the support structure 4 further comprises a rim portion 10 fixed to the front side of the support plate 5 and extending around the support plate 5.
  • the rim portion 10 has a central aperture 11.
  • the camera apparatus 1, and/or the portable electronic device in which the camera apparatus 1 is integrated comprises an integrated circuit (IC) chip 30 and a gyroscope sensor 31 which, in the illustrated example, are fixed on the rear side of the support plate 5.
  • IC integrated circuit
  • a control circuit described further below is implemented in the IC chip 30.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 is supported on the support structure 4 in a manner allowing movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 in any direction laterally to the light-sensitive region 7 (i.e. laterally of the optical axis O and parallel to the plane in which the light-sensitive region 7 extends). So, the image sensor assembly 12 may be supported in a manner supressing movement of the image sensor assembly 12 in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 is further supported on the support structure 4 in a manner allowing rotation of the image sensor assembly about any axis parallel to the optical axis O (i.e. parallel to any axis orthogonal to the plane in which the light-sensitive region extends). So, the image sensor assembly 12 may be supported in a manner supressing tilt or rotation of the image sensor assembly 12 about any axis parallel to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • WO-2017/072525 discloses use of a plain bearing for supporting an image sensor assembly on a support structure in a manner allowing the above-described movement.
  • a plain bearing comprises two bearing surfaces that bear on each other, permitting relative sliding motion.
  • Such a plain bearing may be compact and facilitate heat transfer between the image sensor assembly and the support structure.
  • Such applications include, for example, the use of the image sensor assembly for superresolution imaging.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 is supported on the support structure 4 such that a gap 104 is formed between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4.
  • the gap 104 is formed on a side of the image sensor assembly 12 facing away from the light-sensitive region 7, in particular in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the gap 104 is formed, in particular, between the moving plate 9 and the support plate 5. Provision of the gap 104 reduces the friction between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4. This enables more accurate movement and positioning of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4.
  • the actuator assembly 2 further comprises a region of heat transfer material 103 arranged in the gap 104.
  • the heat transfer material 103 transfers heat between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4. Heat conductance between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 12 is increased compared to a situation in which the heat transfer material 103 is not provided.
  • the heat transfer material 103 spans the gap 104 in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7. So, the heat transfer material 103 is in direct contact with a surface of the support structure 4 facing the gap 104 and a surface of the image sensor assembly 12 facing the gap 104.
  • the region of heat transfer material 103 may have a thermal conductance greater than 0.02 W/K, preferably greater than 0.1 W/K, further preferably greater than 0.2 W7K.
  • the heat transfer material 103 may have a thermal conductivity greater than 0.02 W/m*K, preferably greater than 0.1 W/m «K, further preferably greater than 0.2 W/m*K.
  • the heat transfer material 103 may comprise thermally conductive particles, for example metal particles. Such thermally conductive particles may increase the thermal conductivity of the heat transfer material 103.
  • the heat transfer material 103 deforms so as to allow movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4.
  • the heat transfer material 103 undergoes shear deformation when the image sensor assembly 12 moves relative to the support structure 4. Sliding between the heat transfer material 103, the image sensor assembly 12 and/or the support structure 4 may be avoided, thereby avoiding or reducing friction between the moveable and static components of the actuator assembly 2.
  • the heat transfer material 103 may have a shear modulus, in the direction parallel to the light-sensitive region 7, of less than 100 kPa, preferably less than 10 kPa, further preferably less than 1 kPa.
  • the heat transfer material 103 may comprise one or more of silicone rubber or any other rubber, a gel (such as a hydrogel or an organogel) and a liquid.
  • the liquid may be a shear thinning liquid, for example a liquid for which the viscosity reduces by more than a factor of 1000 under shear.
  • the region of heat transfer material 103 may fill the gap 104, as for example shown in Fig. 2.
  • the area of contact between the heat transfer material 103 and the image sensor assembly 12 may thus be equal to or greater than the area of the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the region of heat transfer material 103 may partially fill the gap 104, and so the area of contact between the heat transfer material 103 and the image sensor assembly 12 may be less than the area of the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the heat transfer material 103 has a total area of contact with the image sensor assembly 12 that is at least 0.1 times, preferably in the range from 0.2 times to 4 times, further preferably 1 times to 4 times, the area of the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the height i.e.
  • the extent in the direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7) of the gap 104, or in particular of the heat transfer material 103 in the gap 104, may be chosen to control the heat transfer between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4.
  • the minimum height of the gap 104 may be sufficiently large to avoid contact between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 12 in the gap
  • the minimum height of the gap 104 may be greater than 10pm, preferably greater than 20pm, further preferably greater than 50pm.
  • the height of the gap 104 may be sufficiently small to ensure adequate heat transfer between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4.
  • a smaller gap 104 also ensures that the actuator assembly 2 remains compact.
  • the height of the gap 104, or of the heat transfer material 103 may be smaller than 1mm, preferably smaller than 300pm, further preferably smaller than 200pm, most preferably smaller than 100pm.
  • the minimum height of the heat transfer material 103 may be sufficiently large to allow movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 within a range of movement required for OIS, for example within a range of movement of at least 100pm, preferably at least 200pm.
  • the minimum height of the heat transfer material 103 may thus depend on the flexibility of the heat transfer material 103.
  • the height of the heat transfer material may be in the range from 20pm to 300pm, preferably from 50pm to 150pm.
  • the gap may have a substantially uniform height, as shown in Fig. 11.
  • the support structure 4 may comprise depressions on a surface facing the gap 104.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 may comprise depressions on a surface facing the gap 104 (not shown).
  • Fig. 14 shows the gap 104 having a stepwise variable height, but in general the height of the gap 104 may vary in any other manner.
  • the region of heat transfer material 103 may be provided within the depressions, i.e. in the regions of the gap 104 having a greater height. This allows the height of the heat transfer material 103 to be increased, thereby increasing the flexibility of the region of heat transfer material 103 and the range of movement of the image sensor assembly. At the same time, the minimum height of the gap 104 remains small, thus increasing heat transfer across the gap 104 in regions in which no heat transfer material 103 is provided.
  • the region of heat transfer material 103 may be patterned.
  • the region of heat transfer material 103 may be provided in a plurality of separated regions.
  • Fig. 12 shows, in plan view, the region of heat transfer material 103 formed as five dots.
  • Fig. 13 shows an alternative pattern of the heat transfer material 103, in which the region of heat transfer material 103 is formed in a star shape. Patterning the region of heat transfer material may reduce the lateral extent of the heat transfer material 103, thus improving compliance of the heat transfer material 103. This may help prevent damage to (e g. tearing of) the heat transfer material 103 due to impacts, for example when a device in which the actuator assembly 2 is incorporated is dropped.
  • the actuator assembly 2 further comprises a bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130.
  • the bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130 supports the image sensor assembly 12 on the support structure 4 so as to form the gap 104.
  • the bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130 allows movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4, for example in a manner allowing movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 in any direction laterally to the lightsensitive region 7 and/or in a manner allowing rotation of the image sensor assembly 12 about any axis perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the bearing arrangement may comprise a rolling bearing 110.
  • the rolling bearing 110 may, for example, be a ball bearing, a roller bearing or a rocker bearing.
  • the rolling bearing 110 comprising a rolling element, for example a ball, a roller or a rocking element.
  • the rolling element may be spherical or may in general be any rotary element with curved surfaces that bear against the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4 and are able to roll back and forth and around in operation.
  • the rolling element is disposed between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 is thus supported on the support structure 4 by the rolling element.
  • the rolling bearing 110 may comprise plural rolling elements, for example three rolling elements. Although in general any number of rolling elements could be provided, it is preferable to provide at least three rolling elements to prevent relative tilting of the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4. Three rolling elements are sufficient to support the image sensor assembly 12 without tilting, and the provision of three rolling elements has the advantage of easing the tolerances required to maintain point contact with each rolling element in a common plane.
  • the rolling bearing 110 is disposed on the same side of the image sensor assembly 12 as the gap 104, as shown in Figs. 2 and 6. This may ensure that the height of the gap 104 remains constant even when large forces act upon the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the rolling bearing 110 may be arranged outside the gap 104, for example laterally to the gap 104, as shown in Fig. 2.
  • the extent of the rolling element may thus be larger than the extent of the gap 104 in the direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7. This may allow the height of the gap 104 to be reduced compared to a situation in which the rolling element is arranged in the gap 104.
  • the rolling bearing 110 may be arranged in the gap 104. This may reduce the lateral extent of the bearing arrangement 110.
  • the rolling element may be incorporated into the heat transfer material 103, or else may be arranged in regions of the gap 104 in which no heat transfer material 103 is provided.
  • the rolling bearing 110 is disposed on the side of the image sensor assembly 12 that is opposite to the gap 104.
  • the rolling bearing 110 is disposed on the same side of the image sensor assembly 12 as the light-sensitive region 7, in particular laterally to the light-sensitive region 7. This is schematically depicted in Fig. 5.
  • the heat transfer material 103 that is arranged in the gap 104 may bias, or contribute to biasing, the image sensor assembly 12 against the rolling bearing 110.
  • the bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130 may, alternatively or additionally, comprise a flexure arrangement 120, 130.
  • Examples of the flexure arrangement 120, 130 are schematically depicted in Figs. 7, 8, 9 and 10.
  • the flexure arrangement 120, 130 is disposed between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 is thus supported on the support structure 4 by the flexure arrangement 120, 130.
  • the flexure arrangement 120, 130 comprises a fixed portion 121, 131 that is fixed relative to the support structure 4 and a movable portion 122, 132 that is fixed relative to the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the flexure arrangement 120, 130 further comprises a flexible element 123, 133 disposed between the fixed portion 121, 131 and the moveable portion 122, 132.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 is supported on the support structure 4 by only the flexure arrangement 120, 130, e.g. without any additional (plain or ball) bearings.
  • the flexure arrangement 120, 130 constrains movement of the image sensor assembly 12 perpendicular to the plane in which the light sensitive region 7 extends.
  • Fig. 7 schematically depicts an example of the flexure arrangement 120.
  • the fixed portion 121 of the flexure arrangement is fixed to the support structure 4 or a component that is fixed relative to the support structure 4.
  • the moveable portion 122 is fixed to the carrier 8, in particular to the moving plate 9.
  • the flexible element 123 comprises beams 123 that are connected between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure.
  • Fig. 7 shows four beams 123, although in general any number of beams 123 may be provided, for example three or more beams 123.
  • the beams 123 extend parallel to each other and to the optical axis O, and therefore extend perpendicular to the orthogonal directions in which the light-sensitive region 7 moves.
  • the beams 123 could extend at a non-perpendicular angle, provided that they are transverse to the orthogonal directions.
  • the beams 123 are fixed to each of the support structure 4 and the image sensor assembly 12 in a manner that the beams 123 cannot rotate, for example by being soldered.
  • the beams 123 thereby support the image sensor assembly 12 on the support structure 4 in said manner allowing movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 in two orthogonal directions perpendicular to the optical axis O simply by means of the beams 123 bending, in particular in an S-shape.
  • the beams 123 resist movement along the optical axis O.
  • the beams 123 may have any construction that provides the desired compliance perpendicular to the optical axis O, typically being formed by wires, for example metal wires.
  • the beams 123 may be mechanically connected to different corners of the image sensor assembly 12.
  • Fig. 8 schematically depicts an alternative example of the flexure arrangement 120.
  • the beams 123 comprise a first portion 123a and a second portion 123b.
  • Each beam 123 is formed in a U-shape, with the first portion 123a corresponding to one arm of the U-shape and the second portion corresponding to another arm of the U- shape.
  • the first and second portions 123a, 123b are parallel to each other and extend in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the first and second portions 123a, 123b are not collinear.
  • the first portion 123a comprises the moveable portion 122, and so the first portion 123a is connected at one end to the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the second portion 123b comprises the fixed portion 121, and so is connected at one end to the support structure 4.
  • the other ends of the first and second portions 123a, 123b are connected to each other.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 of Fig. 8 allows movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 in a manner similar to the flexure arrangement 120 of Fig. 7.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 of Fig. 8 is more compact, in that the extent of the flexure arrangement 120 in a direction along the axis O may be smaller in Fig. 8 than in Fig. 7.
  • the connections between the flexure arrangement 120 and the support structure 4 may be in substantially the same plane as the connections between the flexure arrangement 120 and the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 of Fig. 8 may be integrally formed.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 may be formed from sheet metal.
  • the beams 123 may be formed by etching and bending the sheet metal.
  • the flexure arrangements 120 of Figs 7 or 8 may further comprise drop protection elements.
  • the drop protection elements may supress buckling and thus avoid damage to the beams 123 due to sudden impacts, for example when a device incorporating the actuator assembly 2 is dropped.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 constrains movement of the image sensor assembly 12 perpendicular to the plane in which the light sensitive region 7 extends.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 is arranged to allow movement of the image sensor assembly 12 perpendicular to the plane in which the light sensitive region 7 extends in the event of shock cause by, for example, a drop event.
  • the flexure arrangement may help to reduce the friction between the moving part and the support structure. For example, the friction may be lower compared to when a plain bearing is used.
  • the moveable portion 122 may be arranged as a drop protection element.
  • any vertical forces are at least partly taken up by bending of the moveable portion 122 (upwards or downwards in Fig. 8).
  • the moveable portion 122 is compliant in the direction perpendicular to the plane in which the light sensitive region 7 extends.
  • the actuator assembly 2 comprises one or more end stops (not shown) configured to limit movement of the image sensor assembly 12 in the direction perpendicular to the plane in which the light sensitive region 7 extends.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 may move in the direction perpendicular to the plane in which the light sensitive region 7 extends until the image sensor assembly 12 abuts against the one or more end stops.
  • the compliance of the moveable portion 122 may be controlled by selecting their thickness, length and material, for example.
  • the distance between the end stops and the image sensor assembly 12 in normal conditions can be selected to control how far the image sensor assembly 12 can move in shock conditions.
  • the end stops and the drop protection elements such as the moveable portion 122 are arranged such that in shock conditions the image sensor assembly 12 is enabled to reach the one or more end stops. The possibility of the flexure arrangement 120 being over-stressed in shock conditions can be reduced.
  • At least one drop protection element may be provided by a portion that is similar to the moveable portion 122 illustrated in Fig. 8 (e.g. a horizontal portion of the beam 123) but is arranged between the fixed portion 121 of the beam 123 and the support structure 4.
  • the beams 123 may extend at different angles (when viewed in a direction along the optical axis O).
  • at least one beam 123 may extend in a direction parallel to an edge of the image sensor assembly 12 (when viewed in a direction along the optical axis O).
  • the flexure arrangements 120 of Figs. 7 or 8 may be used to provide electrical connection.
  • the purpose of the flexure arrangement 120 may thus be both to provide electrical connection and to provide a bearing arrangement that supports the image sensor assembly 12 on the support structure 4.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 may be configured to provide drive signals (e.g. current) to the SMA actuator wires 40.
  • the SMA actuator wires 40 may have a connection terminal at each end. Two or more of the SMA actuator wires 40 may share a common terminal. At least one terminal of each SMA actuator wire 40 is specific to the SMA actuator wire 40 (i.e. not common to the other wires).
  • the flexure arrangement 120 may be configured to provide drive signals to one or more of the terminals (either specific or common).
  • the flexure arrangement 120 may be electrically subdivided into multiple sections, with each section including one or more beams 123 and being insulated from the other section(s).
  • each of the four beams 123 illustrated in Fig. 8 may form part of a different such section. This may be achieved by forming the flexure arrangement 120 from separate components that are mechanically but not electrically interconnected.
  • the actuator assembly 2 is a sensor shift assembly.
  • the actuator assembly 2 may be a lens shift assembly in which the image sensor 6 is mounted to the static part of the actuator assembly 2 and the lens is part of the moving part of the actuator assembly 2.
  • Such a lens shift assembly may comprise an autofocus system.
  • the moving part comprises the autofocus system.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 is configured to transfer signals between the support structure 4 and the SMA actuator wires 40 and/or the autofocus system.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 may transfer power and/or control signals to the autofocus system.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 may transfer data from the autofocus system.
  • Figs. 9 and 10 schematically depict further examples of flexure arrangements 130.
  • the flexure arrangements 130 comprise a flexible sheet 130.
  • the flexible sheet 130 comprises two first arms 124.
  • the flexible sheet further comprises one second arm 125 (as in Fig. 9) or two second arms 125 (as in Fig. 10).
  • Each of the first and second arms 124, 125 extends in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the first arms 124 are parallel and facing each other, and the second arms 125 are parallel and facing each other.
  • the first arms 124 are perpendicular to the second arms 125.
  • Each first arm 124 may comprise a rigid portion 124a, such as a rigid plate, that is fixedly connected to the image sensor assembly 12.
  • Each first arm 124 may further comprise a flexible portion 124b, that extends from the rigid portion 124a to the respective connection with the one or two second arms 125.
  • Each second arm 125 may comprise a rigid portion 125a, such as a rigid plate, that is fixedly connected to the support structure 4.
  • Each second arm 125 may further comprise a flexible portion 125b, that extends from the rigid portion 125a to the respective connection with the two first arms 125.
  • the connection between the first and second arms 124, 125 may be a rigid connection (such that the angle between the first and second arms 124, 125 is maintained) or a flexible connection, such as a hinge connection.
  • the flexure arrangement 130 of Fig. 9 is positioned to one side of the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the flexure arrangement of Fig. 10 surrounds the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the flexure arrangement of Fig. 10 may provide a more stable support of the image sensor assembly 12 on the support structure 4.
  • Figs. 10a and 10b schematically depict, in plan view, the movement allowed by the flexure arrangement 120 of Fig. 10. Although not shown, the movement allowed by the flexure arrangement 120 of Fig. 9 is similar.
  • the dashed lines in Figs. 10a and 10b depict the position of the flexible sheet 120 prior to movement of the image sensor assembly 12, and the solid lines depict the position of the flexible sheet 120 after movement of the image sensor assembly 12 in the direction of the arrow in Fig. 10a and 10b.
  • the flexible portion 125b of the second arms 125 may deform.
  • the first arms 124 may also deform if the joint between the first and second arms 124, 125 is rigid.
  • first and second arms 124, 125 are flexible (e.g. a hinge)
  • the first arms may maintain their shape.
  • the flexible portion 124b of the first arms 124 may deform so as to allow movement of the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the second arms 125 may also deform if the joint between the first and second arms 124, 125 is rigid. If the joint between first and second arms 124, 125 is flexible (e.g. a hinge), the second arms 125 may maintain their shape.
  • the flexible sheet 120 may comprise at least two flexible printed circuits.
  • the flexible printed circuits are electrically connected to the image sensor assembly.
  • the purpose of the flexible sheet 120 may thus be both to provide electrical connection to the image sensor assembly and to provide a bearing arrangement that supports the image sensor assembly 12 on the support structure 4.
  • the flexible sheet 120 may be configured to provide drive signals (e g. current) to the SMA actuator wires 40.
  • the flexible sheet 120 may be configured to transfer signals between the support structure 4 and the image sensor 6.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 may transfer power and/or control signals to the image sensor 6.
  • the flexure arrangement 120 may transfer data such as image data from the image sensor 6.
  • the actuator assembly 2 is a sensor shift assembly.
  • the actuator assembly 2 may be a lens shift assembly in which the image sensor 6 is mounted to the static part of the actuator assembly 2 and the lens is part of the moving part of the actuator assembly 2.
  • a lens shift assembly may comprise an autofocus system.
  • the moving part comprises the autofocus system.
  • the flexible sheet 120 is configured to transfer signals between the support structure 4 and the SMA actuator wires 40 and/or the autofocus system.
  • the flexible sheet 120 may transfer power and/or control signals to the autofocus system.
  • the flexible sheet 120 may transfer data from the autofocus system.
  • the bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130 may comprise the heat transfer material 103.
  • the heat transfer material 103 may be selected so as to allow supporting the image sensor assembly 12 on the support structure.
  • the heat transfer material 103 may be a silicone rubber or other rubber, for example. Some degree of tilt and/or movement along the optical axis O may be tolerable in certain situations, so that use of the above-described bearing arrangements 110, 120, 130 may not be required.
  • the bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130 may comprise a plain bearing, such as a structured plain bearing.
  • the plain bearing comprises a bearing surface on each of the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4.
  • the bearing surfaces may each be planar.
  • the bearing surfaces bear on each other so as to support the image sensor assembly 12 on the support structure 4, permitting relative sliding motion.
  • the plain bearing thus allows movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4, in particular in said manner allowing movement or rotation of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 in any direction laterally to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the plain bearing may be structured so as to reduce the contact area of the bearing surfaces, thus reducing friction between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4 and forming the gap 104.
  • the plain bearing may be provided in select regions, and the gap 104 may be formed between the select region in which the plain bearing is provided.
  • the total area of contact of the bearing surfaces that form the plain bearing may be less than 1, preferably less than 0.5, further preferably less than 0.2, particularly preferably less than 0.1, of the area of the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the bearing surfaces may be designed to have a coefficient of friction of 0.2 or less.
  • the actuator assembly 2 may comprise a biasing arrangement.
  • the biasing arrangement may provide a biasing force that biases the image sensor assembly 12 towards the bearing arrangement 110.
  • An example of a biasing arrangement is schematically depicted in Fig. 3.
  • Fig. 3 shows two flexures 67 connected between the support structure 4 and the carrier 8/moving plate 9 to act as a biasing arrangement, as well as providing an electrical connection to the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the flexures 67 are formed integrally with the moving plate 9 at one end 68 thereof and are mounted to the support plate 5 of the support structure 4 at the other end 69 thereof.
  • the flexures 67 could be formed integrally with a plate of the support structure 4 and mounted to the carrier 8, or else could be separate elements mounted to each of the support structure 4 and the carrier 8.
  • the mounting of the flexures 67 may be achieved e.g. by soldering which provides both mechanical and electrical connection.
  • the flexures 67 are arranged as follows to provide their mechanical function. Each flexure 67 is an elongate beam connected between the support structure 4 and carrier 8. The flexures 67, due to their intrinsic resilience, bias the support structure 4 and the image sensor assembly 12 together, the biasing force being applied parallel to the optical axis O. This may maintain the bearing arrangement 110, for example the bearing arrangement of Figs. 2, 5 or 6. At the same time, the flexures 67 may be laterally deflected to permit lateral movement and rotation of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 to permit the OIS function.
  • the flexures 67 again due to their intrinsic resilience, also provide a lateral biasing force that biases the image sensor assembly 12 towards a central position aligned with the optical axis O of the lens assembly 20 from any direction around that central position.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 will tend towards the central position. This ensures that the camera apparatus 1 remains functional to capture images, even in the absence of driving of the SMA wires 40.
  • the flexures 67 are designed as follows to provide a suitable retaining force along the optical axis O for the bearing arrangement 110, and also to permit lateral movement with a lateral biasing force.
  • the magnitude of the lateral biasing force is kept low enough as not to hinder OIS, whilst being high enough to centre the image sensor assembly 12 in the absence of driving.
  • Each flexure 67 has a cross-section with an average width orthogonal to the optical axis O is that is greater than its average thickness parallel to the optical axis O.
  • Each flexure 67 extends in an L-shape around the optical axis O, it in general being desirable that the angular extent is at least 90° as measured between the ends of the flexure 67.
  • the flexures 67 are deflected from their relaxed state to provide a pre-loading force that biases the support structure 4 and the image sensor assembly 12 together.
  • the flexures 67 are made of a suitable material that provides the desired mechanical properties and is electrically conductive.
  • the material is a metal having a relatively high yield, for example steel such as stainless steel.
  • the biasing arrangement may comprise the heat transfer material 103.
  • the heat transfer material 103 may be selected such that it is capable of applying a biasing force to the image sensor assembly 12, for example when used in combination with the bearing arrangement 110 of Fig. 5.
  • the heat transfer material 103 may also provide or contribute to the lateral biasing force that biases the image sensor assembly 12 towards a central position.
  • Movement of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 is driven by a lateral actuator arrangement that is arranged as follows, and seen most easily in Fig. 4.
  • the actuator arrangement comprises plural SMA wires 40, as SMA provides a high actuation force compared to other forms of actuator. This may assist in accurate positioning of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4.
  • the actuator arrangement may comprise plural actuator components other than SMA wires 40.
  • the lateral actuator arrangement shown in Fig. 4 is formed by a total of four SMA wires 40 connected between the support structure 4 and the carrier 8.
  • the carrier 8 comprises crimp portions 41 fixed to the moving plate 9 and the support structure 4 comprises crimp portions 42 fixed to the rim portion 10.
  • the crimp portions 41 and 42 crimp the four SMA wires 40 so as to connect them to the support structure 4 and the carrier 8.
  • the crimp portions 41 fixed to the moving plate 9 are formed integrally from a sheet of metal so as to electrically connect the SMA wires 40 together at the carrier 8.
  • the crimp portions 41 and 42 are separate elements fixed to the moving plate 9 and the rim portion 10, as an alternative the crimp portions 41 could be formed integrally with the moving plate 9 and/or the crimp portions 42 could be formed integrally with the support plate 5.
  • Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of an actuator assembly 2.
  • the actuator assembly 2 comprises an image sensor assembly 12, which is movable relative to a support structure 4.
  • the image sensor assembly comprises a moving plate 9 (which may also be referred to as an endstop plate, as described in more detail below) and an image sensor 6 comprising a light-sensitive region 7.
  • the support structure 4 comprises a can 15, a base plate 51 and a conductor layer 52.
  • the can 15 may comprise a support plate 5.
  • the image sensor assembly 12 is supported on the support structure 4 such that a gap 104 is formed between the image sensor assembly 12 and the support structure 4.
  • the gap 104 is formed on a side of the image sensor assembly 12 facing away from the lightsensitive region 7, in particular in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the gap 104 is formed, in particular, between the moving plate 9 and the support plate 5, which may be part of the can 15.
  • the actuator assembly 2 comprises a bearing 110, which may be a rolling bearing or a plain bearing for example.
  • the bearing 110 is disposed on the side of the image sensor assembly 12 that is opposite to the gap 104.
  • the bearing 110 is disposed on the same side of the image sensor assembly 12 as the light-sensitive region 7, in particular laterally to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the support structure 4 comprises a support layer 51 (which may also be referred to as a subbase).
  • the support layer 51 is configured to provide mechanical support to the actuator assembly 2.
  • the support layer 51 may surround a hole that allows light to reach the image sensor 6.
  • the support layer 51 may be shaped as a rim forming the top edge of the support structure 4.
  • the support layer 51 may comprise a stiff material such as a metal.
  • the support layer 51 may be formed as a separate component from the rest of the can 15 and subsequently attached (e.g. glued or welded) to the rest of the can 15. Alternatively the support layer 51 may be integral to the can 15.
  • the support structure 4 comprises a conductor layer 52.
  • the conductor layer 52 comprises one or more electrical tracks configured to transport signals to and/or from the actuator.
  • the conductor layer 52 may comprise tracks for transferring electrical power and/or control signals to drive the SMA actuator wires.
  • the conductor layer 52 may comprise one or more tracks from transferring data about the SMA actuator wires to a controller of the actuator assembly 2 or camera apparatus 1.
  • the conductor layer 52 is fixed relative to the can 15.
  • the conductor layer 52 may be attached to the support layer 51.
  • the conductor layer 52 may be located between the support layer 51 and the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the conductor layer 52 is arranged so as not to add to the depth of the actuator assembly 2.
  • the conductor layer 52 may surround a hole that allows light to reach the image sensor 6.
  • the conductor layer 52 may be shaped as a rim at the underside of the support layer 51 of the support structure 4.
  • one end 68 of the flexure 67 is fixed (e.g. glued or welded) to the moving plate 9.
  • the end 68 of the flexure 67 may be integral to the moving plate 9.
  • the other end 69 (not shown in Fig. 15) of the flexure 67 is attached to the support structure 4.
  • the end 68 of the flexure 67 may be located between the conductor layer 52 or the support layer 51 and the moving plate 9.
  • the bearing 110 is located between the conductor layer 52 and the end 68 of the flexure 67.
  • the bearing 110 may run on the end 68 of the flexure 67 and the conductor layer 52.
  • the bearing 110 abuts a surface of the conductor layer 52.
  • the bearing abuts a surface of the end 68 of the flexure 67.
  • the diameter of the bearing 110 may be at least 30% and optionally at least 40% of the height of the actuator assembly 2.
  • the height of the actuator assembly is the distance in the vertical direction shown in Fig. 15 between the top side of the support layer 51 and the bottom side of the support plate 5 of the can 15. It is desirable to reduce the height of the actuator assembly 2.
  • a gap 55 is provided between the parts of the actuator assembly 2 that move relative to each other.
  • the gap 55 may be defined between the end 68 of the flexure 67 and the conductor layer 52 (or an enclosure 56 shown in Fig. 18 and described below).
  • the gap may be at least 20pm, optionally at least 50pm and optionally at least 100pm.
  • the gap 55 may be large enough to account for a small amount of bowing of the plates of the actuator assembly 2.
  • the gap 55 reduces the possibility of components that are intended to move relative to each other touching each other. Any such contact can undesirably produce mechanical interference and potentially electrical short-circuiting.
  • Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of an actuator assembly 2.
  • the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 16 has a smaller height than the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 15.
  • Features that are in common between the actuator assembly 2 of Fig. 16 and the actuator assembly 2 of Fig. 15 are not described in detail below. Instead the description focuses on the differences between the actuator assembly 2 of Fig. 16 and the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 15.
  • the components can be brought closer (relative to the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 15) by having the bearings 110 running on the support layer 51 and the moving plate 9.
  • a hole is provided in the conductor layer 52 to accommodate each bearing 110.
  • the bearing 110 is located in the hole such that the bearing 110 abuts the support layer 51.
  • the hole which may also be referred to as a cut-out
  • the thickness of the conductor layer 52 may be at least 50pm and optionally at least 100pm.
  • the thickness of the conductor layer 52 may be at most 200pm and optionally at most 100pm.
  • a hole is provided in the end 68 of the flexure 67 that is fixed to the moving plate 9 to accommodate each bearing 110.
  • the bearing 110 is located in the hole such that the bearing 110 abuts the moving plate 9.
  • the hole which may also be referred to as a cut-out
  • the thickness of the material from which the flexure 67 is formed may be at least 50pm and optionally at least 100pm.
  • the thickness of the material from which the flexure 67 is formed may be at most 200pm and optionally at most 150pm.
  • the flexure 67 By providing the hole in the end 68 of the flexure 67, the flexure 67 extends over a shorter distance in the height direction. The distance between the two ends 68, 69 of the flexure 67 in the direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7 of the image sensor 6 is decreased. This may reduce the force that the flexure 67 imparts between the support structure 4 and the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the flexure 67 may be shaped during manufacture of the actuator assembly 2 so as to provide an additional biasing force to compensate for the reduced distance.
  • the flexure 67 is formed into a particular shape before the actuator assembly 2 is assembled (i.e. before the image sensor assembly 12 is assembled with the support plate 5).
  • the flexures 67 may comprise a jog.
  • the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 16 has holes in both the conductor layer 52 and the end 68 of the flexure 67. Alternatively, such holes may be provided in only one of the conductor layer 52 and the end 68 of the flexure 67.
  • Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of an actuator assembly 2.
  • the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 17 has a smaller height than the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 15 or the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 16.
  • Features that are in common between the actuator assembly 2 of Fig. 17 and the actuator assembly 2 of Fig. 15 are not described in detail below. Instead the description focuses on the differences between the actuator assembly 2 of Fig. 17 and the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 15.
  • the moving plate 9 can be split into two plates consisting of a bearing plate 53 (which may also be referred to as a cradle) for the bearings 110 to run on and an accommodating plate 54 for accommodating the bearings 110.
  • a bearing plate 53 which may also be referred to as a cradle
  • an accommodating plate 54 for accommodating the bearings 110.
  • a half etched single plate could be used as the moving plate 9 (i.e. the bearing plate 53 and the accommodating plate 54 may be integral).
  • a hole is provided in the accommodating plate 54 to accommodate each bearing 110.
  • the bearing 110 is located in the hole such that the bearing 110 abuts the bearing plate 53. This can help to reduce the height of the actuator assembly 2 by a fraction of the thickness of the moving plate 9.
  • the thickness of the moving plate 9 may be at least 50pm and optionally at least 100pm.
  • the thickness of the moving plate 9 may be at most 200pm and optionally at most 150pm.
  • the height of the actuator assembly 2 may be reduced (relative to the height of the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 16) by the difference between the thickness of the moving plate 9 and the thickness of the bearing plate 53
  • the thickness of the bearing plate 53 may be at least 20pm and optionally at least 50pm.
  • the thickness of the bearing plate 53 may be at most 100pm and optionally at most 50pm.
  • the difference between the thickness of the moving plate 9 and the thickness of the bearing plate 53 may be at least 50pm and optionally at least 100pm.
  • the principle described above applied to the moving plate 9 may additionally or alternatively be applied to the support layer 51.
  • the support layer 51 can be split into two plates consisting of a bearing plate for the bearings 110 to run on and an accommodating plate for accommodating the bearings 110.
  • a half etched single plate could be used as the support layer 51 (i.e. the bearing plate and the accommodating plate may be integral).
  • a hole is provided in the accommodating plate of the support layer 51 to accommodate each bearing 110.
  • the bearing 110 is located in the hole such that the bearing 110 abuts the bearing plate of the support layer 51. This can help to reduce the height of the actuator assembly 2 by a fraction of the thickness of the support layer 51.
  • the thickness of the support layer 51 may be at least 50pm and optionally at least 100pm.
  • the thickness of the support layer 51 may be at most 200pm and optionally at most 150pm.
  • the height of the actuator assembly 2 may be reduced (relative to the height of the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 16 or Fig. 17) by the difference between the thickness of the support layer 51 and the thickness of the bearing plate of the support layer 51.
  • the thickness of the bearing plate of the support layer 51 may be at least 20pm and optionally at least 50pm.
  • the thickness of the bearing plate of the support layer 51 may be at most 100pm and optionally at most 50pm.
  • the difference between the thickness of the support layer 51 and the thickness of the bearing plate of the support layer 51 may be at least 50pm and optionally at least 100pm.
  • Fig. 18 is another cross-sectional view of the actuator assembly 2 of Fig. 15.
  • Fig. 18 shows further details particularly relating to the crimp portion 41 and the function of the moving plate 9 as an endstop.
  • Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along a different line of the actuator assembly 2.
  • the cross-section shown in Fig. 15 (and also in Fig. 16 and Fig. 17) extends across the full width of the actuator assembly and passes through the image sensor 6 but does not pass through any crimp portion 41, 42.
  • the cross-section shown in Fig. 18 extends only partly across the actuator assembly 2 and passes through the crimp portion 41 fixed to the image sensor assembly 12 and the arm of the flexure 67.
  • the actuator assembly 2 comprises an enclosure 56.
  • the enclosure 56 is configured to accommodate the bearing 110.
  • the enclosure 56 is configured to constrain the movements of the bearing 110.
  • the enclosure 56 may be shaped as a plate provided with a hole to accommodate the bearing 110.
  • the enclosure 56 may be part of the support structure 4.
  • the enclosure 56 may be fixed (e.g. glued or welded) to the conductor layer 52.
  • Such an enclosure 56 may be provided in the actuator assembly 2 shown in Fig. 16, albeit with a smaller thickness (because of there being less available space and the hole in the conductor layer 52 effectively functioning similarly to the enclosure 56). It is not essential to provide an enclosure 56.
  • a hole in the conductor layer 52 may sufficiently constrain the bearing 110.
  • the actuator assembly 2 comprises a crimp spacer 57.
  • the crimp spacer 57 is arranged to connect the crimp portion 41 to the moving plate 9.
  • the crimp spacer may be fixed (e.g. welded) onto the end 68 of the flexure 67.
  • the crimp spacer 57 may connect the crimp portion 41 to the end 68 of the flexure 67. It is not essential to provide the crimp spacer 57.
  • the crimp portion 41 may be connected directly to the end 68 of the flexure 67 or the moving plate 9.
  • a hole is provided in the moving plate to accommodate each crimp spacer 57.
  • Each hole that accommodates the bearing 110 may be dimensioned such that the diameter of the bearing 110 is at least half, optionally at least 80% and optionally at least 90% of the diameter of the hole.
  • the moving plate 9 is arranged such that there is a gap 58 between the edge of the moving plate 9 and the inner surface of the can 15.
  • the moving plate 9 moves relative to the can 15.
  • the movement causes the gap 58 to increase or decrease in size.
  • the moving plate 9 is configured to function as an endstop. When the moving plate 9 moves such that the gap 58 becomes zero and the moving plate 9 abuts the can 15, further movement in that direction of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 is prevented. This can help to reduce the possibility of the SMA actuator wires becoming damaged as a result of the image sensor assembly 12 moving too far relative to the support structure 4 in a particular direction.
  • That the endstops are provided within the actuator assembly 2 can also facilitate testing of the actuator before the image sensor 6 is incorporated into the actuator assembly 2. In turn, this can help reduce the possibility of an image sensor being discarded with an actuator that does not pass the testing process, thereby reducing the average cost of manufacturing the actuator assembly 2.
  • This is contrast to, for example, a comparative example in which such endstops involve a separate component, e.g. a can, which must be incorporated after the image sensor 6.
  • the same principle may apply in relation to endstops (not shown) that limit movement in other directions, e.g. along the optical axis O.
  • the actuator assembly 2 is a sensor shift assembly.
  • the actuator assembly 2 may be a lens shift assembly in which the image sensor 6 is mounted to the static part of the actuator assembly 2 and the lens is part of the moving part of the actuator assembly 2.
  • the features relating to the bearing 110 extending through one or more components of the actuator assembly 2, thereby reducing the height of the actuator assembly 2, may apply to such a lens shift assembly.
  • the bearing 110 is disposed on a side of the image sensor assembly 12 that is opposite to the gap 104.
  • the bearing 110 may be disposed on a side of the image sensor assembly 12 as the gap 104.
  • Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a bearing shock protection structure 60.
  • the bearing shock protection structure 60 may be incorporated as part of any of the arrangements of the actuator assembly 2 described elsewhere in this document.
  • Fig. 19 shows the carrier 8 of the actuator assembly 2 comprising a bearing shock protection structure 60.
  • the actuator assembly 2 may be a sensor shift assembly.
  • the bearing shock protection structure 60 may be comprised in the image sensor assembly 12 which moves relative to the support structure 4.
  • the bearing shock protection structure 60 may be comprised in the support structure 4 of a sensor shift assembly.
  • the bearing shock protection structure 60 may be comprised in the moving part of a lens shift assembly.
  • cantilevers 61 cut into a plate.
  • the cantilevers 61 are cut into a plate of the carrier 8.
  • the carrier 8 may be part of a sensor shift assembly.
  • the plate of the carrier 8 comprising the cantilevers 61 may be formed of a metal sheet.
  • One or more shaped cuts 62 form cantilevers 61 in portions of the plate.
  • Fig. 19 shows three such cantilevers 61, but there could be more, for example four, cantilevers 61.
  • Each cantilever 61 supports a bearing 110, which may be ball bearing, at its free end 63.
  • the one or more bearings 110 in Fig. 19 are shown in exploded view for clarity, the dotted lines indicating where they locate.
  • the bearing shock protection structure 60 may be formed as a single part of cut metal, which is easy to manufacture and assemble to other components.
  • the plate in which the cantilevers 61 are provided may be the plate that forms the surface with which the bearing 110 comes into contact.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the peripheral part of the moving plate 9 shown in Fig. 2 lateral to the gap 104.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the moving plate 9 shown in any of Figs. 5 to 8.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the end 68 of the flexure 67 shown in Fig. 15.
  • a hole may be provided in the moving plate 9 adjacent to each cantilever 61 so as to allow the cantilevers 61 to flex away from the bearing 110 into the hole.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the moving plate 9 shown in Fig. 16.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the bearing plate 53 shown in Fig. 17.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in a plate of the support structure 4.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the support plate 5 shown in Fig. 2.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the support structure 4 of any of the arrangements shown in Figs. 5 to 8.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the conductor layer 52 shown in Fig. 15.
  • a hole may be provided in the support layer 51 adjacent to each cantilever 61 so as to allow the cantilevers 61 to flex away from the bearing 110 into the hole.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be provided in the support layer 51 shown in Figs. 16 or 17.
  • the cantilevers 61 are arranged to deflect during a drop event, for example.
  • the bearing shock protection structure 60 is configured to reduce the possibility of the bearings 110 and/or the bearing surface from being damaged. The deflection of the cantilevers 61 dissipates energy, thereby reducing the energy that could otherwise damage the actuator assembly 2 during a drop event.
  • Fig. 20 is a perspective view of part of an image sensor assembly 12 with accommodated bearings 110.
  • Fig. 20 shows a sub-assembly including the bearing shock protection structure 60 of Fig. 19.
  • the cantilevers 61 are provided in a moving plate 9 of an image sensor assembly 12 of a sensor shift actuator.
  • a bearing retaining structure 64 is shown assembled on top of the moving plate 9 which incorporates the cantilevers 61.
  • the bearing retaining structure 64 is shown as a relatively thick plate with holes 65 for locating the bearings 110.
  • a further shock protection structure in the form of end stops 66.
  • end stops 66 are shown, but there may be more or fewer. For example, three end stops 66 may be used.
  • Each end stop 66 may be a pad of material raised above the main body but lower in height than the bearings 110.
  • the relative heights of the bearings 110, the end stops 66 and the main body of the bearing retaining structure 64 is shown in Fig. 21.
  • Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the sub-assembly shown in Fig. 20.
  • the end stops 66 play no role, but in shock conditions they prevent the bearing surface of the support structure 4 (which is not shown, but which normally resides at the level of the top of the bearings 110) from moving further down than the top of the end stops 66.
  • the cantilevers 61 take up part of the downward movement by deflecting and the end stops 66 limit further movement.
  • the end stops 66 may be arranged to limit vertical movement of support structure 4 with respect to the carrier 8.
  • the end stops 66 may be simple pads of material and are easily assembled or mounted on to the top of the bearing retaining structure 64.
  • the end stops 66 are comprised in the moving part of the actuator assembly 2.
  • the end stops 66 protrude towards the support structure 4 and are arranged to abut the support structure 4 only during a drop event, for example.
  • the end stops 66 may be comprised in the support structure 4 and may protrude towards the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the end stops 66 may be arranged with a gap between the end stops 66 and the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the end stops 66 may be arranged to abut the image sensor assembly 12 only during a drop event, for example.
  • the end stops 66 may protrude from the moving plate 9 towards the support structure 4.
  • the end stops 66 may protrude from the end 68 of the flexures 67 towards the support structure 4, or from the conductor layer 52 towards the image sensor assembly 12, or from the support layer 51 towards the image sensor assembly 12, or from the enclosure 56 towards the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the cantilevers 61 may be formed as a separate element and attached to the plate.
  • the SMA wires 40 are arranged as follows so that they are capable, on selective driving, of moving the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 in any direction laterally to the light-sensitive region 7 and also of rotating the image sensor assembly 12 about an axis orthogonal to the light-sensitive region 7 .
  • Each of the SMA wires 40 is held in tension, thereby applying a force between the support structure 4 and the carrier 8.
  • the SMA wires 40 may be perpendicular to the optical axis O so that the force applied to the carrier 8 is lateral to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the SMA wires 40 may be inclined at a small angle to the light-sensitive region 7 so that the force applied to the carrier 8 includes a component lateral to the light-sensitive region 7 and a component along the optical axis O that acts as a biasing force that biases the image sensor assembly 12 against the bearing arrangement 110.
  • the SMA wires 40 may act as the biasing arrangement.
  • the biasing arrangement may comprise plural actuator components that are inclined relative to the light-sensitive region 7 for applying a biasing force that biases image sensor assembly 12 towards the bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130.
  • the overall arrangement of the SMA wires 40 will now be described, being similar to that described in WO-2014/083318, except that the SMA wires move the image sensor assembly 12, not the lens assembly 20.
  • SMA material has the property that on heating it undergoes a solid-state phase change which causes the SMA material to contract. At low temperatures, the SMA material enters the Martensite phase. At high temperatures, the SMA enters the Austenite phase which induces a deformation causing the SMA material to contract. The phase change occurs over a range of temperature due to the statistical spread of transition temperature in the SMA crystal structure. Thus heating of the SMA wires 40 causes them to decrease in length.
  • the SMA wires 40 may be made of any suitable SMA material, for example Nitinol or another Titanium-alloy SMA material.
  • the material composition and pre-treatment of the SMA wires 40 is chosen to provide phase change over a range of temperature that is above the expected ambient temperature during normal operation and as wide as possible to maximise the degree of positional control.
  • the carrier 8 and the image sensor assembly 12 are positioned axially within the aperture 11 of the rim portion 10 of the support structure 4.
  • the four SMA wires 40 are arranged on four sides of the image sensor assembly 12.
  • the SMA wires 40 are of the same length and have a rotationally symmetrical arrangement.
  • a first pair of the SMA wires 40 extend parallel to a first axis (vertical in Fig. 4) that is lateral to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the first pair of the SMA wires 40 are oppositely connected to the support structure 4 and the carrier 8 so that they apply forces in opposite directions along the first axis (vertically up and down in Fig. 4) .
  • the forces applied by the SMA wires 40 of the first pair balance in the event that the tension in each SMA wire 40 is equal. This means that the first pair of the SMA wires 40 apply a first torque to the image sensor assembly 12 (anti-clockwise in Fig. 4).
  • a second pair of SMA wires 40 extend parallel to a second axis (horizontal in Fig. 4) that is lateral to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the second pair of SMA wires 40 are oppositely connected to the support structure 4 and the carrier 8 so that they apply forces in opposite directions along the second axis (horizontally left and right in Fig. 4).
  • the forces applied by the SMA wires 40 of the second pair balance in the event that the tension in each SMA wire 40 is equal.
  • the second pair of the SMA wires 40 apply a second torque (clockwise in Fig. 3) to the image sensor assembly 12 that is arranged to be in an opposite sense to the first torque.
  • the first and second torques balance in the event that tension in each SMA wire 40 is the same.
  • the SMA wires 40 may be selectively driven to move the image sensor assembly 12 in any direction laterally and to rotate the image sensor assembly 12 about an axis parallel to the optical axis O. That is:
  • • movement of the image sensor assembly 12 in either direction along the first axis may be achieved by driving the first pair of SMA wires 40 to contract differentially, due to them applying forces in opposite directions;
  • rotation of the image sensor assembly 12 may be achieved by driving the first pair of SMA wires 40 and the second pair of SMA wires 40 to contract differentially, due to the first and second torques being in opposite senses.
  • the magnitude of the range of movement and rotation depends on the geometry and the range of contraction of the SMA wires 40 within their normal operating parameters.
  • This particular arrangement of the SMA wires 40 is advantageous because it can drive the desired lateral movement and rotation with a minimum number of SMA wires.
  • other arrangements of SMA wires 40 could be applied. To provide three degrees of motion (two degrees of lateral motion and one degree of rotational motion), then a minimum of four SMA wires 40 are provided. Other arrangements could apply a different number of SMA wires 40. Less SMA wires 40 could be provided for lateral motion, but not rotation. Arrangements with more than four SMA wires 40 are also possible, and may have advantages in allowing additional parameters to be controlled in addition to motion, for example the degree of stress in the SMA wires 40.
  • the lateral position and orientation of the image sensor assembly 12 relative to the support structure 4 is controlled by selectively varying the temperature of the SMA wires 40.
  • This driving of the SMA wires 40 is achieved by passing selective drive signals through the SMA wires 40 to provide resistive heating. Heating is provided directly by the current of the drive signals. Cooling is provided by reducing or ceasing the current of the drive signals to allow the SMA wire 40 to cool by conduction, convection and radiation to its surroundings.
  • the camera apparatus 1 comprises a lens assembly 20 that is assembled with the actuator assembly 2 by being mounted to the support structure 4, in particular to the rim portion 10.
  • the lens assembly 20 comprises a lens carriage 21 in the form of a cylindrical body that is mounted to the rim portion 10 of the support structure 4.
  • the lens carriage supports at least one lens 22 arranged along the optical axis O.
  • any number of one or more lenses 22 may be provided.
  • the camera apparatus l is a miniature camera in which the at least one lens 22 (i.e. each lens 22 if plural lenses are provided) typically have a diameter of at most 10mm or 15mm or 20mm.
  • the at least one lens 22 of the lens assembly 20 is arranged to focus an image onto the image sensor.
  • At least one lens 22 is supported on the lens carriage 21 in a manner in which at least one lens 22 is movable along the optical axis O relative to the lens carriage 21, for example to provide focussing or zoom, although that is not essential.
  • the at least one lens 22 is fixed to a lens holder 23 which is movable along the optical axis O relative to the lens carriage 21.
  • any or all of the lenses 22 may be fixed to the lens holder 23 and/or one or more of the lenses 22 may be fixed to the lens carriage 21 and so not movable along the optical axis O relative to the lens carriage 21.
  • An axial actuator arrangement 24 provided between the lens carriage 21 and the lens holder 23 is arranged to drive movement of the lens holder 21 and lenses 22 along the optical axis O relative to the lens carriage 21.
  • the axial actuator arrangement 24 may be any suitable type, for example being a voice coil motor (VCM) or an arrangement of SMA wires, such as is described in WO-2019/243849 which is incorporated herein by reference.
  • VCM voice coil motor
  • SMA wires such as is described in WO-2019/243849 which is incorporated herein by reference.
  • the camera apparatus 1 may comprise a can 15 fixed to the support structure 4 and protruding forwardly therefrom to encase and protect the other components of the camera apparatus 1.
  • the SMA wires 40 are selectively driven to move the image sensor assembly 12 in any direction laterally and/or to rotate the image sensor assembly 12 about an axis parallel to the optical axis O. This is used to provide OIS, compensating for image movement of the camera apparatus 1, caused by for example hand shake.
  • Relative movement of the image sensor relative to the support structure 4 and hence also relative to the lens assembly 20 may be used to stabilise the image against tilting of the camera apparatus 1, i.e. rotation about axes extending laterally to the light-sensitive region 7.
  • rotation of the image sensor may be used to stabilise the image against rotation of the camera apparatus 1 around the optical axis O. This type of stabilisation is not achieved by a camera apparatus providing OlS-lens shift of the type disclosed in WO-2013/175197 and WO-2014/083318.
  • the SMA wires 40 are driven by the control circuit implemented in the IC chip 30.
  • the control circuit generates drive signals for each of the SMA wires 40 and supplies the drive signals to the SMA wires 40.
  • the control circuit 30 receives the output signals of the gyroscope sensor 31 which acts as a vibration sensor.
  • the gyroscope sensor 31 detects the vibrations that the camera apparatus 1 is experiencing and its output signals represent those vibrations, specifically as the angular velocity of the camera lens element 20 in three dimensions.
  • the gyroscope sensor 31 is typically a pair of miniature gyroscopes, for detecting vibration around three axes, being two axes laterally of the light-sensitive region 7 and also the optical axis O. More generally, larger numbers of gyroscopes or other types of vibration sensor could be used.
  • the drive signals are generated by the control circuit in response to the output signals of the gyroscope sensor 31 so as to drive movement of the image sensor assembly 12 to stabilise an image focused by the camera lens element 20 on the image sensor, thereby providing OIS.
  • the drive signals may be generated using a resistance feedback control technique for example as disclosed in any of WO-2013/175197, WO-2014/076463, WO-2012/066285, WO-2012/020212, WO-2011/104518, WO-2012/038703,
  • the camera apparatus 1 may be incorporated into a portable electronic device, such as such as a mobile telephone or tablet computer. There is thus provided a portable electronic device comprising the camera apparatus 1.
  • the portable electronic device may comprise a processor.
  • Super-resolution imaging may be provided in the camera apparatus 1 and/or the portable electronic device. Super-resolution imaging is achieved, for example, by combining two or more images that are captured at positions offset from one another by a sub-pixel distance.
  • the image sensor assembly is controllably moved between two or more positions that are offset from each other, in a direction parallel to the light-sensitive region 7, by a sub-pixel distance.
  • Light that falls onto a centre of a pixel at one position (and so may be used to capture an image) thus falls between pixels at another position.
  • the control circuit may drive the SMA wires 40 so as to controllably move the image sensor assembly in this manner.
  • a sub-pixel distance is a distance that is less than a pixel pitch of the light-sensitive region 7.
  • the pixel pitch refers to the distance between the centres of two adjacent pixels.
  • the image sensor assembly may be controllably moved to a positional accuracy of 0.5pm or smaller.
  • the actuator arrangement comprises plural SMA wires, as SMA provides a high actuation force compared to other forms of actuator. This may assist in accurate positioning of the image sensor assembly relative to the support structure.
  • the two or more positions may be stationary positions, so the image sensor assembly may stop at each of the two or more positions before moving on to the next of the two or more positions.
  • the two or more positions may be offset from one another in a direction along a pixel row and/or along a pixel column of the light-sensitive region.
  • the two or more positions may comprise i) one or more positions that are offset from a starting position by a sub-pixel distance along a pixel row, and ii) one or more positions that are offset from a starting position by a sub-pixel distance along a pixel column.
  • the two or more positions may comprise one or more positions that are offset from a starting position by a sub-pixel distance along a pixel row and along a pixel column.
  • a controller may control the image sensor so as to capture the images.
  • the controller may be implemented as part of the control circuit on the IC chip 30 or as part of another circuit on the IC chip 30.
  • the controller may be implemented as part of another IC that forms part of the camera apparatus 1.
  • the controller may be implemented as part of the processor that forms part of the portable electronic device.
  • the images may then be combined so as to form a super-resolution image, for example using the processor of the portable electronic device or the above-described controller.
  • the super-resolution image has a resolution that is greater than the resolution of the individual images that are captured by the image sensor.
  • the two or more images may be combined by interleaving the two or more images.
  • the bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130 may comprise any combination of the above-described bearing arrangements 110, 120, 130.
  • the roller bearing 110 may comprise rolling elements on both sides of the image sensor assembly 12 in a direction perpendicular to the light-sensitive region 7, so the rolling elements shown in Fig. 5 and the rolling elements shown in Fig. 2 or Fig. 6.
  • the bearing arrangement 110, 120, 130 may comprise one or more rolling bearings of Figs. 2, 5 and 6 and one or more of the flexure arrangements of Figs. 7 to 10.
  • Any of the above-described bearing arrangements 110, 120, 130 may be combined with any of the above-described arrangements of the gap 104 and/or the region of heat transfer material 103.
  • Super-resolution imaging may be achieved using an actuator assembly with any bearing arrangement, including a bearing arrangement comprising a continuous plain bearing without provision of the gap 104.
  • the high actuation force of SMA wires 40 may allow accurate positioning by overcoming any frictional forces that are due to such a continuous plain bearing.
  • the term SMA wire may refer to any suitably-shaped element comprising SMA.
  • the SMA wire may be elongate and may have a round cross section or any other shape cross section. The cross section may vary along the length of the SMA wire. It is also possible that the length of the SMA wire (however defined) may be similar to one or more of its other dimensions.
  • the SMA wire may be flexible. Accordingly, when connected between two elements, the SMA wire may only be able to apply a force that urges the two elements together, this force being applied when the SMA wire is in tension. Alternatively, the wire may be beam-like or rigid.
  • the SMA wire may or may not include material(s) and/or component(s) that are not SMA.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Transforming Light Signals Into Electric Signals (AREA)
  • Studio Devices (AREA)

Abstract

Un ensemble actionneur comprend : une structure de support ; un ensemble capteur d'images comprenant un capteur d'images ayant une région sensible à la lumière, l'ensemble capteur d'images étant porté sur la structure de support de telle sorte qu'un espace est formé entre l'ensemble capteur d'images et la structure de support sur un côté de l'ensemble capteur d'images opposé à la région sensible à la lumière ; et une région en matériau de transfert de chaleur disposée dans l'espace, le matériau de transfert de chaleur étant agencé pour transférer de la chaleur entre l'ensemble capteur d'images et la structure de support, et le matériau de transfert de chaleur étant configuré pour se déformer de façon à permettre le mouvement de l'ensemble capteur d'images par rapport à la structure de support.
PCT/GB2021/052529 2020-09-29 2021-09-29 Ensemble actionneur WO2022069888A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CN202180072157.3A CN116615909A (zh) 2020-09-29 2021-09-29 致动器组件
GB2306466.0A GB2615465A (en) 2020-09-29 2021-09-29 Actuator assembly

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2015414.2 2020-09-29
GBGB2015414.2A GB202015414D0 (en) 2020-09-29 2020-09-29 Actuator assembly

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WO2022069888A1 true WO2022069888A1 (fr) 2022-04-07

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GB (2) GB202015414D0 (fr)
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GB202306466D0 (en) 2023-06-14
CN116615909A (zh) 2023-08-18
GB2615465A (en) 2023-08-09
GB202015414D0 (en) 2020-11-11

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