TW200946953A - Optical lens image stabilization systems - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive polymer actuators to stabilize the image produced by the device or system.

Description

200946953 IX. Description of the Invention: [Technical Field] The present invention relates to an optical lens system, and in particular, relates to the use of an electropolymer transducer to adjust a lens to provide autofocus, ,,,,,, Such systems with image stabilization and/or shutter/aperture capabilities. ~ [Prior Art] ❹ In conventional optical systems (such as in digital cameras), motor tubes are used as power sources for displacement gears and cams. Equal gears and cams act on optical components (eg, lenses) to provide focus, zoom, and image stabilization (also known as anti-vibration). These conventional systems have a number of disadvantages - power consumption south, long response time, and accuracy High limits on space and space. Advances in miniaturization technology have led to high-quality, high-performance, lightweight portable devices' and ever-increasing consumer demand for further improvements. One example of this is the development of a honeycomb including a camera. Telephone (commonly referred to as a camera phone). Although most of these camera phones use a full mechanical lens with a small form factor lens Group, but this method is due to the large number of moving parts required without supplying variable or auto focus, zoom and image stabilization capabilities. For example, 'zoom capability requires a combination of lens elements, a motor and a cam mechanism for Converting the rotational movement of the motor into a linear movement to adjust the relative positions of the lenses and an associated image sensor to obtain a desired magnification. In addition to the motor and the cam mechanism, a plurality of reduction gears are used to collimate the ground. Controlling the relative positioning of the lenses. Electromagnetic actuators are commonly used to perform automatic focusing and zoom actuator functions in digital still cameras and, to some extent, in camera phones. 136856.doc 200946953

= Multiple-money actuators include - a coil that produces a magnetic force in which the magnet has a length that is long in the direction of the optical axis (commonly referred to as a "voice coil"). This voice coil technology has been widely accepted because it enables small and lighter optical lens systems. However, the disadvantages of lighter and smaller cameras (especially those with longer exposure time and higher resolution sensors) are mainly due to camera shake of hand shake to photos. The greater impact of quality, that is,? Pick up the blur. In order to compensate for the camera's vibration, the image is usually stunned. The gyro measures the pitch and yaw. However, it cannot measure the roll angle (:11). Rotation around the axis defined by the barrel. Conventionally, two single-axis piezoelectric or quartz gyroscopes have been used with many external components to achieve full-range image stabilization. Invensense provides the use for Image-stabilized MEMS technology integrated dual-axis gyroscope that provides smaller size settings. Although variable focus, zoom, and image stabilization features are possible in camera phones and other optical systems with relatively small form factors, These features generally increase the total mass of such devices. In addition, due to the necessity of a large number of moving components, power consumption is quite high and manufacturing costs are increased. Therefore, 'providing an optical lens system that overcomes the limitations of the prior art will It is advantageous to provide such a system whereby the configuration of the lens and the mechanical interface between the lens and its actuator structure are highly integrated in order to reduce the form factor as much as possible. It would be extremely beneficial if such an optical system involved a minimum number of mechanical components&apos; thereby reducing the complexity and manufacturing cost of the system. Doc 200946953 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention includes an optical lens system and apparatus and methods of use thereof. The systems and devices include one or more electroactive polymer based actuators integrated to adjust the parameters of the device/system. For example, the one or more xenon actuators can be configured to automatically adjust the focal length of the lens (auto focus), magnify the image focused by the lens (zoom), and/or adjust any desired effects experienced by the lens system The motion (image stabilization or anti-vibration) or multiple ΕΑΡ actuators include one or more ΕΑρ transducers, and the one or more output components and the lens portion of the subject lens system/device, sensing One or more of the portion of the shutter and the aperture portion are integrated. The lens portion (ie, the lens stack or barrel) includes at least one lens. In some embodiments, the lens portion typically includes a focus lens assembly and A non-focal lens assembly. The sensor portion includes an image sensor that receives an image from a lens portion of the device for digital processing by the image processing electronics. The activity (ie, by applying a voltage to the xenon transducer) adjusts the relative position of the lens and/or sensor assembly to affect or modify the optical parameters of the lens system. In one variation, an actuator assembly (including at least one actuator) can be used to adjust the position of a portion of the lens stack relative to the sensor portion along a longitudinal axis (2-axis) of the lens stack, In order to change the focal length of the lens stack. In another variation, the same or different actuators can be used to adjust the position of one or more lenses in the lens stack relative to each other along the longitudinal axis (Ζ axis). 'To adjust the magnification of the lens system. Also, in another variable ship' can use an actuator to 136856 in the plane direction (X-axis and / or γ-axis). Doc 200946953 to move the portion of the sensor of the system portion or to move the portion of the lens relative to the sensor portion in the lens portion to compensate for undesired motion imposed on the system 'i. The image on the image sensor. Other features of the invention include the use of an EAp actuator to control the aperture size of the lens system and/or to control the opening and closing of the shutter mechanism. A single actuator can provide only "from you", an early function (eg, shutter control or image stabilization) or a combination of functions (eg, auto focus and zoom). The present invention #includes the use of the subject device And methods for focusing and/or placing Α images or eliminating unwanted movements of such devices/systems. Other methods include methods of making the subject devices and systems. Having further read the invention as described more fully below These and other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the <RTI Variations of the invention that are different from those shown in the figures. To facilitate an understanding of the description of the invention, the same reference numerals (where applicable) are used to indicate similar elements that are common to the drawings. The following figures are included. Before describing the apparatus, systems, and methods of the present invention, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific form of the application or application. Thus, while the invention has been described primarily in the context of a zoom camera lens, the subject optical system can be used in microscopes, binoculars, telescopes, video cameras, projectors, glasses, and other types of optical applications. It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is used merely for the purpose of the description of the specific embodiments. Doc -10.200946953 is not intended to be limiting, as the scope of the invention is limited only by the scope of the appended claims. Referring now to the drawings, Figures 1A and 1B illustrate an optical lens system of the present invention having autofocus capabilities. The drawings detail a lens module 1A having a lens barrel 108 holding one or more lenses (not shown). The aperture ι 6 is provided at the distal end or the front end of the lens barrel 108. Positioned at the distal end of the aperture 1〇6 is an electroactive polymer actuator 1〇2 having an electroactive polymer (ΕΑΡ) film 120. The periphery of the film 12A is sandwiched by the frame sides 122a, 122b and sandwiched by the disk side turns 104a, 104b, leaving one of the films 120 exposed to the annular cross section. The structure and function of the electroactive film will now be discussed in more detail with reference to Figures 2A and 2B. As illustrated in the schematic diagrams of Figures 2A and 2B, the electroactive membrane 2 comprises a material composite which comprises a thin polymeric dielectric layer 4 sandwiched between flexible electrode plates or layers 6, thereby forming a capacitive structure. As seen in Fig. 2B, 'when a voltage is applied to the electrodes', the opposite charges in the two electrodes 6 attract each other and the electrostatic attractive forces compress the dielectric layer 4 (along the E-axis). In addition, the repulsive force between the isotropic charges in each electrode tends to reduce the thickness of the film by stretching the dielectric (along the X-axis and the Y-axis) in the plane. Thereby, the dielectric layer 4 is deflected as the electric field changes. Since the electrode 6 is flexible, it changes shape with the dielectric layer 4. In general, deflection refers to any displacement, expansion, contraction, torsion, linear or planar stress, or any other deformation of portions of dielectric layer 4. This deflection can be used to generate mechanical work depending on the form-fitting architecture (for example, using a frame of capacitive structures). The electroactive membrane 2 can be pre-strained within the frame to improve the transition between electrical energy and mechanical energy&apos;, i.e., pre-strain allows the membrane to deflect more and provide more mechanical work. 136856. Doc 200946953 In the case where electricity is applied, the electroactive medium 2 continues to be biased until the mechanical force balances the electrostatic force that drives the deflection. These mechanical forces include the elastic restoring force of the dielectric layer 4, the flexibility of the electrode 6, and any external resistance provided by the device and/or load that is lightly attached to the membrane 2. The resulting deflection of the film due to the applied electrical enthalpy may also depend on a number of other factors, such as the dielectric constant of the elastomeric material and its magnitude and hardness. The electrical hysteresis and the removal of the induced charge cause a reverse effect, returning to the inactive state illustrated in Figure 28. The length L and the width W of the electroactive polymer film 2 are much larger than the thickness t thereof. The dielectric layer 4 has a thickness in the range of about 1 (four) to about 100 μm and is likely to be thicker than each electrode. It is desirable to select the modulus of elasticity and the degree of curvature of the electrode 6 such that the additional hardness imparted to the actuator is substantially less than the hardness of the dielectric layer. The dielectric layer has a relatively low modulus of elasticity (i.e., less than about _). MPa) 类别 Suitable categories of electroactive polymer materials for use with the subject optical system include, but are not limited to, dielectric elastomers, electrostrictive polymers, electronic electroactive polymers, and ionic electroactive polymers, and some Copolymer. Suitable dielectric materials include, but are not limited to, electrostrictive polymers such as polyoxin, acrylic acid, polyamine vinegar, and flubenone, characterized in that the non-linear reactive electronic electroactive polymer of the electroactive polymer is generally attributed to the response Electromigration that occurs in an electric field (usually dry) changes shape or size. Ionic electroactive polymers are polymers that change shape or size due to ion migration that occurs in response to an electric field (usually wet and containing an electrolyte). Suitable electrode materials include ruthenium, gold, platinum, aluminum, and the like. Suitable materials and materials suitable for use in the aperture of the present invention are disclosed in the following U.S. Patents: No. 6,376,971, No. 136,856. Doc 200946953, No. 6, 583, 533, No. 6,664, 718, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety by reference to FIG. 1A and FIG. IB, operative engagement of the actuator 102 with the lens barrel and lens stack 108 to autofocus the lens assembly. become possible. The frame 122 is attached to the distal end of the outer casing 114 by means of a screw 126a received in the aperture 126b and the disc or cover portion 1〇4 of the actuator 102 is positioned or mounted against the distal end of the lens barrel 1〇8. The aperture 118 in the cover 104 is axially aligned with the aperture 106 to allow light to pass to the lens assembly. A biasing member in the form of a plate spring mechanism 11 φ is operatively engaged between the barrel 108 and the frame 122 to preload or bias the disk 1〇4 in the direction of arrow 125 to provide a truncated cone The structure of the shape. The frustoconical actuators are described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial Nos. 1 1/085,798, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The preload or bias ensures that the actuator 102 is actuated in the desired direction and not only after the electrode is active. In the case of the described leaf spring mechanism 110, the housing 114 can be provided with a wall recess 132 or the like to accommodate one or more leaf springs and operatively position one or more with respect to the actuator © 102 Plate springs. Alternatively, other biasing members of a simple positive rate spring (e.g., a coil spring) as shown in Figure 7A can be used. On the near or rear side of the lens assembly or lens stack 108 is an image sensor/detector 116 (such as a charge coupled device (CCD)), and the image sensor/detector 116 receives the control electronics. 128 (shown only in Figure 1) for digitally processed images. The focal length of the lens stack 108 can be adjusted by selective actuation of the ΕΑΡ actuator 102 (where one or 136856 is adjusted relative to the other lenses). Doc -13· 200946953 The axial position of multiple lenses). The sensor 116 and the actuator 1〇2 can be powered via electrical coupling to the power source 13〇. As shown in Figure 1B, a complete camera assembly will include at least one shield or cover 112. Other components commonly used with conventional lens systems, such as 'infrared (IR) filters (not shown), may also be incorporated into system 100. FIG. 3 illustrates another lens module 140 of the present invention. A cylindrical barrel 142 having one or more lenses 144 is movably retained within the outer housing component 146 and the inner housing component 148, having a distal portion 142a that is slidably positionable via an opening in the outer housing 146 and via The opening in the inner casing 148 slidably positions the proximal portion 142b. The junction between the distal barrel portion 142a and the proximal barrel portion 142b defines an annular shoulder 15 , and the annular inner frame member ι 58 of the εαρ actuator 152 is mounted to the annular shoulder 15〇. The actuator 152 has a double frustoconical configuration in which each truncated cone is defined by a membrane 154a, 154b held between the inner frame members 158 under tension, and the peripheral portion of the distal membrane 154a is retained to the outer casing ι46 The peripheral portion of the proximal membrane loop 54b is held between the frame block or spacer 1 56 and the inner casing © I48 and the frame block 156. Instead of being biased by the leaf spring mechanism, the distal end membrane l54a of the dual-head hybrid structure provides a preload for the actuator 152 in the direction of arrow 155, thereby moving the lens barrel 142 in the same direction to adjust the focus lens 144. . Although the unbiased film 154b is an EAp film, the bias film 15A need not be a ruthenium film and may be only an elastomeric fabric. However, if the membrane crucible 54&amp; contains an electroactive polysigma material&apos;, it can be used to sense the position by capacitive changes or can provide a biphasic actuator with the membrane 154b. In the latter case, when the diaphragm (10) / tongue is moved, it moves the lens barrel 142 in the direction of arrow 157, thereby being in phase 136856. Doc 200946953 Adjust the focal length of lens 144 in the opposite direction. In another variation of the invention, Figures 4A and 4D illustrate the use of an actuator combination to control the optical system 聚焦6 〇 of each of focus and zoom. The system has a focus stage' that is housed within the housing 182 and includes a focus lens 164 that is retained within the barrel 162 and that is driven by the aperture actuator 166. The focus is adjusted by varying the distance between the lens 164 and the image sensor 180 in a manner similar to that described with respect to Figures 1A and (1). The system 160 also provides a zoom stage that includes a zoom lens 168 that is retained within the lens holder and under the lens cover I76. The lens cover 176 is mechanically coupled to a pair of planar actuators by armatures 174a, 174b, respectively. 1 72a, 172b. Each of the actuators 72a, 172b is formed by stretching the crucible above or over the common frame member 178 attached to the armatures. The zoom function is achieved by changing the distance between the lens 164 and the lens 168. In general, the focus adjustment request is about 〇. The movement between 丨mm and 2 〇 mm; and zoom usually requires about 5 to 10 times the stroke amount. Although not shown, it is also contemplated that multiple faces of a combined frame may carry separate aperture actuators or separate load-bearing planar actuators. Also, non-orthogonal frame geometries can be used. Where there is more available space, it may be desirable to provide an EPAM zoom/focus engine that is suitable for longer zoom strokes to increase the operating range of the device. 5A and 5B are perspective views showing an alternative lens system 19 in which there is a telescopic arrangement of a plurality of pairs of planar actuators 192a, 192b, one of each pair of actuators The lens is positioned on the opposite side of the lens frame 194 that is fixed to the lens barrel 196, and the lens barrel 196 carries the zoom lens 198. When actuated, the planar actuator is disposed in the direction of arrows 2〇2 and 204, 136856. Doc 200946953 The image sensor 200 translates the lens barrel 196 and the zoom lens 198 along the focus axis, wherein Figures 5A and 5B show the minimum and maximum zoom positions, respectively. The manner in which the actuators are coupled and operated is illustrated by the enlarged cross-sectional views of Figs. 6A through 6C. Figs. 6A through 6C illustrate various actuation stages of the actuator stack of Figs. 5A and 5B. Progressive motion is achieved by attaching a continuous output rod 208 to the actuator frame segment 206 and attaching the innermost output rod to the rod 21 〇 to drive the zoom assembly. Turning now to Figures 7A and 7B' shows another optical lens system of the present invention ❹300' which provides image stabilization in addition to autofocus. The lens module 3〇2 includes a lens barrel 312 holding one or more lenses, and is shown here as having four lenses 3 1 4a, 3 14b, 3 14c and 3 14d, but can be used less or more More shots. The lens assembly 314 is displaced by a click actuator 320 having a diaphragm 3 25 extending between the outer frame 322 and the inner disk or cover member 328. The outer frame 322 is secured between the bottom outer casing 324 and the top outer casing 326. A biasing member in the form of a coil spring 332 is positioned about the barrel 3 12 and operatively engaged with the rear end 334 of the bottom housing 324 and the shoulder or flange of the lens barrel 312.  Between 336&apos; thereby preloading or biasing the shroud or disc 328 in the direction of arrow 335 to provide a frustoconical shape to the crucible actuator 320. The radial rigidity of the disc member 328 of the actuator and the counterforce/bias imposed on the distal end of the barrel 3 12 (opposite to the force/bias of the arrow 33 5) help maintain the barrel in the lens mold Concentricity within group 302. Moreover, as evidenced by the graph of Figure 11a, the overall structure of the bias ΕΑΡ actuator effectively suspends the lens barrel from gravity, and Figure 11 shows the passive stiffness of such a lens positioning system. On the other hand, Fig. 11B illustrates the 136856 after the start of the self-hard stop position. Doc -16- 200946953 The normal load response of the system. The sleeve wall 318 extends upwardly from the rear end 334 of the outer casing 324 and between the coil spring 332 and the outer surface of the barrel 312. The sleeve 318 acts as a linear guide for the barrel 312 and, together with the flange 336, provides a travel block at the maximum &quot;macro&quot; (near) focus position. It is also useful to have a built-in travel stop or hard stop for initial calibration of the barrel position during manufacture of the system. The rigidity of the sleeve wall 318 also provides additional compression protection to the lens assembly during normal use. In addition, the overall structure of the cymbal actuator 320 provides some φ impact absorption for the lens barrel. In summary, the ΕΑΡ actuator, bias spring, bushing, and overall barrel design provide uniform radial alignment of the best performance of the lens system. The frustoconical structure of the ΕΑΡ actuator can be provided by other types of biasing members, such as the leaf spring biasing mechanism 39 说明 illustrated in Figure 12, which provides a particularly low profile. The biasing mechanism 39A includes an annular base 392 having radial extensions spaced about the circumference of the base 392 and angled upward from the circumference of the base 3 92 at the flex point 3 96 Another adjustment sheet® 394. 1 and 12C show a leaf spring biasing mechanism 390 operatively used as an offset member in an optical lens system having a configuration similar to that of the system 300 of FIG. The base portion 392 of the leaf spring surrounds the barrel 312' below the flange 336 and each of the sub-adjusting tabs 3 94 acts as the underside of the frame 322 outside the bearing surface. To provide a uniform balance of concentric biases, the leaf spring mechanism preferably provides at least three evenly spaced tabs 394. In addition, in order to prevent the unintentional rotational movement of the leaf spring 39, the fork or leg of the furcation tab 394 is located at each corner of the outer casing 136856. Doc • 17- 200946953 in the slot. The inner casing block 398 acts as a linear sleeve or bracket for the barrel 3 12 when the barrel 312 is in the &quot;infinity&quot; (i.e., most recent) position. The biasing member can also be integrated into the optical lens system. In the barrel and/or housing configuration, Figure 13 illustrates an example of such a situation in which the structural portion 410 of the lens system of the present invention includes a barrel 412 that is concentrically positioned within the housing assembly 414. The biasing member 416 is positioned at the mirror Between the cartridge and the outer casing and across the lens barrel 'where the biasing member can be formed with such components as a unitary or unitary structure (e.g., by means of molding) or otherwise provided as an intervening insert therebetween. The latter configuration is illustrated, in which the annular aperture 418 has a raised configuration (as viewed from the top or outer viewpoint); however 'or a recessed configuration can be used. Polyus oxide, polyurethane, EPDM, other elastomers or any low viscosity The elastic body is a suitable material for the aperture 41 8 . The aperture extends between the inner side wall 42 amp &amp; and the outer side wall 420 b , and the inner side wall 42 〇 a and the outer side wall 叽 respectively support the outer tube wall and the inner casing wall. Curved aperture 418 provides a spring mechanism with a negative rate bias. Other examples of a sinusoidal actuator having a negative rate bias are disclosed in the previously referenced U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 1 1/618,577. ® Figure 14Α and Figure 14Β illustrate other ways of integrating the spring bias of the actuator into the subject lens system. In FIG. 14A, the spring bias applied to the ΕΑρ actuator (not shown) is provided by two or more tabs 422. The tabs 422 are structurally integrated into, for example, a map. 7A and the bottom housing 324 of the lens system 300 of FIG. 7 and extend radially inwardly within a concentric gap between the outer wall of the outer casing 324 and the sleeve wall 31. The tab 422 is curved or shaped in a manner to provide a spring bias when a load is applied. The lens barrel 312 can also be integrally formed with the tab 422 as shown in FIG. 14A (such as 136856. Doc •18- 200946953 by molding) and fixed to the tab 422. The lens system of the present invention can be equipped with one or more filters in any suitable position relative to the lens. Referring again to system 300 of Figures 7A and 7B, top housing 326 has a transparent or translucent cover 330 positioned therein for passage of light rays. Alternatively, the entire top outer casing 326 can be formed from a transparent/translucent material. In either case, the cover can act as a filter that prevents infrared wavelengths of about 670 nm and higher from being transmitted through the lens assembly while allowing the visible wavelength to pass through substantially non-destructively. Additionally or alternatively, the IR filter 366 366 can be positioned adjacent to the lens assembly. The lens system of the present invention can also have image stabilization capabilities. Referring again to FIGS. 7A and 7B, an exemplary embodiment in which an image stabilization module 3〇4 is positioned adjacent to the lens module 3〇2 includes an image stabilization module 304 for receiving focus by the lens module 302. Image sensors 3〇6 of the upper image and associated electronic devices for processing the images. The image stabilization module 3 〇4 also includes a ΕΑΡ actuator 310 for compensating for any movement of the image sensor 36 in the common plane (ie, &quot;vibration&quot;) to focus the image Keep it clear. ® can also provide shaft correction along with a sensor for sensing such motion. The ΕΑΡ actuator 310 has a planar configuration comprising a dual layer ΕΑΡ film transducer having a &quot;hot&quot; side 338 and a ground side 348. The two sides are best illustrated in the exploded assembly view of Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 Figure 9 is a plan view. The ruthenium film 338 includes an elastomeric layer 342 and a plurality of electrically insulating electrodes 340, each of which extends over a portion of the elastomer 342 while leaving a central portion 362a of the electrodeless material of layer 342. The diaphragm 348 includes an elastomer layer 352 and a single ground electrode 350. The annular shape of the ground electrode 350 is such that it is 〇 136856 with each of the hot electrodes 34. Doc -19- 200946953 is made possible and leaves the central portion 362b of the electrodeless material, the central portion 362b matching the portion 362a of the membrane 338. In summary, the two membranes provide a transducer with four quadrants (i.e., having four active ground electrode pairs) to provide a four phase actuator; however, as described below I〇a As discussed in Figure 10D, more or fewer active portions can be used. Selectively moving each of the quadrants (individually or in tandem with one or more of the other quadrants) to provide a range of actuations in the x_y plane in response to and compensating for the vibration experienced by the system Exercise (ie, with two degrees of freedom). Sandwiched between the two membranes is an electrical tab 344, one for each hot electrode. A pair of grounding electrical tabs 346 are provided on the opposite outer surfaces of the diaphragms 338, 348. Tabs 334 and 348 are used to couple the ΕΑΡ actuator to a power source and control electronics (not shown). The dual layer transducer film is in turn sandwiched between a top frame member 354a and a bottom frame member 354b that hold the film under tensile and strain conditions. The actuator 310 also includes two discs 356, 358, one centered on each side of the composite crucible structure. These discs serve multiple purposes. The disk 356 provided on the outer side of the thermal electrode film 338 is held in a planar alignment by a backing plate or cover 360b in the annular space or slit of the frame side 35. Disc 356 acts as a travel stop - preventing film 338 from contacting the backing plate and acting as an auxiliary bearing support for the sensor. A disk 358 is provided on the outer side of the membrane 348 and is held in a planar alignment by the plate or cover 360a in the annular space of the slit of the frame side 354a. The front plate or cover 36A also has a portion of the mouth, the disk 358 transmits the movement of the actuator 31 to the image sensor 306 via the slit portion. To facilitate the movement of the output actuator from the disc 358 to the shadow 136856. Doc • 20- 200946953 Image sensor 306 with a linear bearing structure/suspension part 3〇8 in between. The structure/component 308 is in the form of a planar substrate 362 having a plurality of impact absorbing elements 364 (e.g., spring tabs extending from the edges of the substrate 362) that act as shock absorbers for output of the actuator 31 Motion optimization. The substrate 362 can be in the form of a flexible circuit having a spring tab 364 (when made of a conductive material) that provides electrical contact between the image sensor 306 and its associated control electronics to the actuator 310. In summary, image sensor 306, suspension member 3〇8, and actuator 31 are nested within housing 316. Housing 316 is recessed on distal end side 368 to receive lens module 302. On its proximal side 370, the outer casing 3 16 has a recess or recess 372 for receiving the electrical contact tabs 344, 346 of the actuator 31 and/or the spring tab 364 of the bearing/suspension member 308. As mentioned above with respect to the discussion of four-phase actuator 310, the image stabilization actuator of the present invention can have any number of active areas that provide the desired phased actuation. Figures 10A through 10D illustrate a three-phase EAP actuator 380 for at least image stabilization suitable for use with the subject optical lens 10 system of the present invention. Actuator 380 has a thermal EAp film 384a having three electrode regions 386, each of which effects actuation of about one-third of the active region of actuator 38. Ground EAP 臈 384b has a single annular ground electrode 388 that provides a ground side for each of the three active portions of actuator 380 when packaged by film 38 藉 by frame sides 382a and 382b. Although this three-phase design is more fundamental than the four-phase design (both mechanical and electrical), a more complex electronic control algorithm is necessary because of the three-phase 136856. Doc 21 · 200946953 Actuators cannot provide discrete movement on the x or y axis alone. Many of the hardware components have dimensions that are within acceptable tolerances, so that fractional dimensional changes in similar components and associated components do not affect product throughput. However, in the case of devices such as optical lenses, it is often necessary to be more precise. More specifically, it is important to set the position of the lens assembly relative to the image sensor to optimize the lens assembly at the "infinity" position (ie, when in the &quot;close&quot; state) Focusing so as to ensure accurate focus when used by the end user. Therefore, it is preferred to calibrate the infinity position during the process. Figure 15A and Figure 15 illustrate the infinity position used to calibrate the lens assembly during the process ( That is, an exemplary design configuration for adjusting the distance between the image sensor and the lens assembly to determine the infinity position of the best focus. The lens barrel assembly 430 is comprised of a lens barrel 432 and a separable flange 434. The flange 434 has a thread 439 internally for rotational engagement with an external thread 437 of the barrel 432. The flange 434 is provided with a radially extending tab 436' as shown in Figure 15C, which is placed within the system housing 442 The protrusion 436 protrudes from a designated opening 436. Thus, the rotational position of the flange 434 is fixed relative to the lens barrel 432. As shown in Fig. 15C, the top portion 438 of the top cover 435 of the lens barrel 432 is provided for receiving the calibration tool 444. Groove or indentation 44 of the working end 446 0. The tool 444 allows for the proximity of the lens barrel 432 even after the lens barrel 432 is enclosed within the housing 442 and for rotating the lens barrel 432 with respect to the threaded engagement flange 434 in either direction, the position of the flange 434 being adjusted by means of adjustment The sheet 436 and the opening 436 are fixed in the housing. The relative rotational movement is linear or axial with respect to the image sensor (not shown) and other fixing components in the lens system (depending on the direction of rotation of the barrel) Any of the 136856. Doc •22- 200946953 Directional shifting the entire lens barrel assembly 43〇 ^The distance between the lens assembly material 8 (see Figure β5β) and the image sensor defines the infinity position of the system. Figures 16A and 16B illustrate another-tube configuration 45 for the purpose of (at least partially) achieving a calibrated lens assembly. The difference in configuration relative to Figures 15A through i5c is that the flange 456 is movable relative to the barrel, which is rotatably secured when operatively located within the housing 452. This attachment is provided by a bumper or projection 46 that extends radially from the outer wall of the barrel. When the lens barrel is positioned within the system housing 452, the buffer block 46 is positioned within the opening or window 々 内 in the housing wall, which prevents rotational movement of the lens barrel. The outer circumference of the flange 456 is provided with an indentation 462 that is configured to engage a calibration tool (not shown). The outer casing 452 is provided with a window 464 through which the peripheral edge of the flange 456 is exposed. By using a calibration tool (or a finger if possible), the flange 456 can be rotated in either direction as desired. As in the previously described configuration, the relative movement of the flange and the barrel linearly/axially translates the entire lens assembly relative to the image sensor (not shown). Both configurations provide a convenient and easy way to calibrate the infinity position of the lens assembly during final assembly of the lens system. ® Figures 17 and 17B illustrate two other embodiments of the lens system of the present invention having a simpler and lower profile design, wherein the lens 472 (the lens at the farthest end of a single lens or a plurality of lenses) The actuators are directly integrated and selectively positioned by a ΕΑΡ actuator. The lens system 470 of Figure 17 uses a single phase actuator comprising an inner frame member 474 and an outer frame member 476, wherein a diaphragm 478 is stretched between the two frame members. The lens 472 is positioned within the inner frame 474 and concentrically secured within the inner frame 474' such that the output movement of the actuator is directly imposed on the lens 472 136856. Doc -23· 200946953. The single phase actuator back plate 482 is biased in a direction toward the front side 472a of the lens by a compression coil spring 480 positioned within a frustoconical space defined between the inner frame 476 and the backing plate 482. Acts as a hard stop at the maximum &quot;macro near focus." When the actuator is in the &quot;close&quot; state, the lens 472 is in the macro position, and as the actuator is active, the lens is moved toward the infinity position in the direction of arrow 488. In a lens positioner application operating only in a macro position, the initial macro setting improves the reliability of the system by eliminating unnecessary displacement ranges. ® Figure 1 7B illustrates a dual phase lens system 510 having a similar, low profile configuration. Here, the ΕΑΡ actuator includes two layers or apertures for biasing each other. The top or back actuator includes a diaphragm 494 extending between the inner frame 490a and the outer frame 490b, and the bottom or front actuator includes a diaphragm 496 extending between the inner frame 492a and the outer frame 492b. The inner frames 490a, 492a are coupled together, and the respective outer frames 490b, 492b are spaced apart by the intermediate outer casing member 500 and sandwiched between them and the top outer casing member 498 and between the bottom outer casing members 502, respectively. Lens 472 (having a truncated low profile © shape) is concentrically positioned within the coupled internal actuator frame. In the case of two active actuators, each actuator provides a bias for the other actuator and allows for biphasic or bidirectional movement of the lens 472. In particular, when the bottom actuator is active and the top actuator is closed, the bias of the top actuator causes lens 472 to move in the direction of arrow 504, and again, the top actuator is active and the bottom actuator When closed, the bias of the bottom actuator causes lens 472 to move in the direction of arrow 506. This enables the lens 472 to have a travel distance that is twice the travel distance of the single phase system 470 (2 χ). This double light can be made 136856. Doc -24- 200946953 The loop is configured to act as a single phase actuator by making one or the other of the actuators passive (i.e., always in a closed state). In either case, the dual aperture actuator provides a very low profile shape factor for the lens system. The lens stroke/stroke (for auto focus or zoom) can be increased (and reduced) by using additional structural components that make lens movement possible. This movement may involve the absolute displacement of a single lens or a lens stack and/or the relative movement between the lenses within a lens assembly. Additional components for achieving such movements may include one or more EAP actuators, mechanical linkages, or the like, or a combination of both, integrated or coupled to the lens barrel/lens assembly to the lens barrel / lens assembly. 18 and 19 provide perspective views of an exemplary lens shifting mechanism of the present invention in which a plurality of ΕΑΡ actuators/transducers are stacked in series for an amplified stroke output, which are illustrated by arrows 525, 535, respectively. As illustrated, the transducers can be configured to be coupled together or coupled together to achieve the desired output. The lens shifting mechanism 52 of Figures 18A and 18B provides a plurality of double frustoconical actuator 528 units, wherein each actuator unit 528 includes two concave facing faces that have their inner® frame or cover 532 coupled together. The energy aperture 526. The actuator outer frame 534 is in turn coupled or coupled to an adjacent actuator frame 534. The outermost outer frame 534a is mounted to the lens frame 524 in which the lens 522 is positioned. The outer frame 534b is positioned farther away from the image viewer module (not shown). Figure 9A and Figure 9B illustrate a similarly functioning lens shifting mechanism 54A, wherein each of the plurality of xenon actuator units 548 has an inverted configuration whereby the transducer aperture 544 faces the inner recess. Side and outer frame 538 I36856. Doc -25- 200946953 Join together. The inner frame 536 of the actuators is in turn coupled or coupled to the inner frame 536 of an adjacent actuator. The most distal inner frame 536a is used to hold the lens 522 concentrically therein. The innermost frame 536b is positioned farther away from the image sensor module (not shown). In either design, the greater the number of actuator stages, the greater the stroke potential. Additionally, one or more of the actuator stages within the stack can be used in a zooming application where an additional lens can be integrated with and collectively operated as a non-focal lens assembly. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the transducer stages can be a setting for 〇 sensing (as opposed to actuation) to facilitate enabling actuator control or operational verification. In the case of any of these operations, any type of feedback method, such as a PI4 PID controller, can be used in the system to control the actuator position with very high accuracy and/or precision. Referring now to Figures 20A and 20B, another lens shifting mechanism 55A using a beak-based portion or assembly 552 in combination with a mechanical lens driving portion or assembly 554 (by which the latter is used to drive the former) is illustrated. The 部分ρ portion 552 includes a double frustoconical actuator in which the outer frames 556a, 556b are held between the bottom outer casing portions 558a, 558b, and the inner frames 555 &amp; 55 coupled to the transducer are movable along the optical axis 576 There are many spears in the ground. As noted above, the actuator can be configured to move active in both directions along the optical axis 576 as a possible two-phase actuator' or configured to be up/forward along the optical axis. A single-phase actuator that moves up. The mechanical portion 554 of the displacement system 550 includes first and second driver plates or platforms 56A, 564 interconnected by a pair of links 566a, brothers 568a, 568b. Each of the boards has a lens for holding and carrying the lens (not shown in Figure 136856. Doc • 26 - 200946953 / Central opening 'which provides in common—a non-focal lens assembly that adjusts the magnification of a lens (not shown) as it moves along the focal axis, which is centrally placed in the top housing 574 Inside the lens opening 578. Although only two zoom shifters are available, any number of plates and corresponding lenses can be used. The "equivalent" pair provides a scissor jack action in response to the force applied to the first driver plate 560 to move the second driver plate (6) along the optical axis. As understood by those skilled in the art, the scissor jack action The second driver plate 564 is translated at a rate greater than the first driver plate 56. The translation ratio between the first jaw and the second plate provides a telescopic effect. The plates 56A, 564 are linear guides 572 And slidably guided by a linear guide rod 572 extending between the bottom outer casing portion 55 仏 and the top outer casing 574. After the movable actuator portion 552, the cover 555 &amp; The force is applied to the proximal end 562 of the driver plate 560. This drives the first plate 560, which in turn moves the pair of links to drive the second plate 564 at a selected greater translational rate. Although illustratively described Scissor jack linkages, but other types of linkages or mechanical configurations can be used to translate one panel, ® to translate its translation rate and distance proportionally to the other panel. Figure 21 provides another hybrid of the present invention ( Actuator-linkage) lens shifter 580's cross-sectional view 'where actuator portion 582 includes a single turn transducer 584 that is upwardly biased along optical axis 588 by coil spring 586, however, any cartridge biasing member can be used (eg, 'slab bomb Yellow. After the movable actuator, the cover 590 is moved against the first driver plate 5 92, which thus moves the second driver plate 5 94 upward along the optical axis 588. Referring now to Figure 22 And Figure 23 illustrates two 136856 of the present invention using a hybrid configuration. Doc •27· 200946953 Other lens displacement mechanisms. These mechanisms use their two types of actuator mechanisms to translate their respective lens assemblies/lenses in incremental or &quot;inchw〇rm&quot;. The lens shifting mechanism 6 of Figures 22A and 2B uses two types of actuation motions to achieve the lens assembly displacement of the lens assembly/barrel 6〇2, thickness mode &quot;actuation and in-plane actuation. The lens barrel 6〇2 holds one or more lenses (not shown) that form a focusless lens assembly for zooming purposes. The lens barrel 602 has a sleeve 606 extending laterally from the outer surface. The sleeve 606 and the rail 604 are slidably engaged by friction and ©, and the rail 604 extends between the top actuation portion 6a 8a and the bottom actuation portion 608b. The actuation assembly of mechanism 600 includes a bottom portion 608a and a top portion 6A8b. Each of the actuating portions includes an actuator stack having a thickness mode actuator diaphragm 610 and a planar actuator έαρ film 612. The membranes are spaced apart from each other and enclosed between layers 614a-614c of a flexible material, such as a viscoelastic material and preferably having a very low viscosity and durometer rating, to form an actuator stack 6A8a. Figure 22A shows electrode layer patterns 61〇&amp; and 612a in a cross-sectional view of actuator stack 608a. A central aperture ® or aperture 61 6 extends through stack 608a to allow the focused image to pass to the image sensor/detector (not shown). In operation, the planar actuating g|EAP film 612 acts on the track with the rear or bottom end 6〇4a of the rail engaging the film stack 608a (or at least with the actuator layers 614b, 614c) at substantially right angles. The ends 604a move laterally in opposite directions (e.g., opposite) from each other in a direction 605 perpendicular to the length of the axis of the rail 604. With the front end or top end 604b of the rail in a fixed position, this movement causes the rail 604 to rest against the bearing 606 thereby rubbing 136856. Doc • 28 * 200946953 Force the position of the lens barrel 602 to the rail 6〇4. The event of 臈612 will be pulled back to its neutral or right angle position relative to the stack 6〇8a. The thickness mode actuation is then used to translate the guides 6〇4 in the axial direction 607, thereby shifting the existing frictional force in the same direction to the barrel 602 of the guide rail 603 to adjust the focal length of the lens assembly. More specifically, when the active EAp film 61 is ,, the film stack 608a is crimped thereby thereby axially displacing the guide rails 〇4. After the barrel 6〇2 advances, a friction bearing surface (not shown) is positioned to engage the outer surface of the barrel, whereby the frictional engagement is greater than the friction imposed on the rail 6〇4 by the barrel casing 6〇6. Engaged. The frictional engagement of the bearing surface on the wall of the lens barrel overcomes the frictional merging of the sleeve on the rail such that the lens barrel remains in the advanced position when the thickness mode diaphragm 610 is deactivated and the rail returns to the inactive position . The planar thickness mode actuation sequence just described can be reversed to align the lens assembly in the opposite axial direction. Optionally, the top actuation portion 608b can be used to adjust the relative position or angle of the rail 604 and/or increase the possible travel distance of the lens barrel 602 on either of the axial directions 607. In this example, actuator 608b is configured to provide planar actuation for adjusting the position of the rails for the purpose of engaging the sleeve 606 with friction. In particular, the actuator stack 608a includes a planar actuation diaphragm 618 sandwiched between layers 620a, 620b, which may be made of the same material as the layers 614a-614c of the bottom actuator 608a. . The composite structure has a hole or aperture 622 extending therethrough to allow light rays through a focusing lens (not shown) to pass to the zoom or afocal lens assembly 602. Preferably, the planar sections of 608a and 608b are simultaneously actuated to maintain the guide bars 604 in parallel relationship with one another. 136856. Doc •29- 200946953

A top actuator 嶋 can be used in place of the planar actuation of the bottom actuator 以 to provide angular displacement of the rails as described above, or it can be used in series with the planar actuator of the bottom actuator for lateral shifting The two ends of the tracks. The series actuation can be controlled to precisely adjust the angular arrangement of the rails or to maintain the rails at a right angle relative to the planar surface of the respective actuators (ie, to maintain the rails parallel to each other), but provide Sufficient lateral displacement (toward or away from the barrel 602) to achieve friction against the sleeve 6〇6. The top actuator 608b can also be equipped with a thickness mode actuation capability as described above to effect an enlarged axial movement of the rail. Although the translation of the two rails has been described, the present invention also includes variations of the lens shifting mechanism configured to move only a single rail or more than two rails. Figures 23A and 23B illustrate another lens shifting mechanism 625 that uses a ruler type actuating motion. Mechanism 625 houses a lens assembly containing a plurality of lens stages 626a, 626b, 626e, 626d, each lens stage having a slit 627 for holding a lens (not provided). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that fewer or more levels than the four levels described can be used, and that the level can be maintained for a focused 'zoom lens or for only light rays. In addition, all stages are not necessarily translatable and can be secured to the mechanism housing or post 628. For example, in the illustrated variant, the first stage 626a and the fourth stage 626d are solid and the second stage 626b and the third stage 626c are translatable. The four lens stages are held in parallel with each other by linear guides 642 that are fixed to the top lens stage 626a to the bottom lens stage 626d and between the top lens stage 626a and the bottom lens stage 626d. extend. The movable lens stage 626b, 626c can be translated linearly along the guide rail 642 via the bearing 648 136856.doc • 30-200946953. The actuating portion of the displacement mechanism 625 includes first/top and second/bottom actuators 630a and 630b. The configuration of the crucible 630a is illustrated in Fig. 24A, which provides two actuators - a single-phase linear actuator 632 and a two-phase planar actuator 63 4 stacked in series with each other. Each actuator includes a diaphragm extending between the inner member 63 8a and the outer member 638b, thereby coupling the respective inner members 638a together and coupling the respective outer members 638b to the spacers 64 positioned therein. . In the illustrated variation, the diaphragm of each planar actuator 634 is divided into © at least two separately movable portions 636a, 636b to provide dual phase (or more) actuation. In this variation, each linear actuator 632 has a unitary diaphragm 636c that is fully movable. The two single-phase linear (from each of the top and bottom turns) actuators 632 together form a two-phase linear actuator, wherein the top linear actuator is acted upon by the push rod 644 'bottom linear actuator The biased and top linear actuator is biased by a bottom linear actuator that holds the actuator in tensioned condition relative to each other. As a result, each planar actuator 634 does not have a force applied outside of its plane when the respective linear actuator 632 is passive. The output motion of the inner member 63 8a (also referred to as the actuator output member) of both actuators 632 and 634 can be controlled to exhibit axial motion and/or planar motion, respectively (as indicated by arrows 640a, 640b) To provide the desired actuation cycle or sequence. The configuration of the top 匣 63 〇 1) may be the same but warped to face the bottom 匣 630a such that the concave side of the ridge is outward. A link portion in the form of a push rod 644 extends between the inwardly facing output members 638 &amp; of the actuator IE 630a, 630b, through an axially aligned aperture in each of the lens stages, and may be The axial alignment slides within the aperture. Adjacent 136856.doc -31 · 200946953 The apertures in the movable stages 626b and 626c and positioned opposite or opposite each other are clutch or breaking mechanisms 646a, 646b, and the clutch or breaking mechanism 646a, 646b can be selectively coupled to the push rod 644 Engage to fix the axial position of each lens stage. Clutch mechanisms 646a, 646b can have any suitable configuration including, but not limited to, friction bearing surfaces or teeth for cooperative engagement with corresponding grooves on pusher 644. In operation, the selective actuation of the linear and planar actuators 632, 634 of the two actuators I 630a, 630b makes it possible to circulate the push rod 644 © incrementally translating the lens stages 626b, 626c . This incremental or "foot" motion is schematically illustrated in Figures 24B through 24F. Figure 24B shows the guide rail 644 in a neutral position, i.e., without any of the lenses when the actuators 632, 634 are inactive. Stage 626b or 636c is sprayed. To move lens stage 626b in the forward direction, as shown in Figure 24C, the first portion 636a of the diaphragm of each planar actuator 634 is made (i.e., the top of Figure 23A and Figure 23). And bottom) to move the pusher bar 644 laterally from the neutral position to engage the clutch mechanism 646a (not shown in this figure). Next, as illustrated in Figure 24D, the active linear actuator 632, At the same time, the first portion 636a of each planar actuator 634 remains movable to move the output member 638a out of plane. This out-of-plane motion pushes or lifts the push rod 644 in the forward direction and thus pushes or lifts the lens stage 626b. It is illustrated that once moved to the desired axial position, the pusher 644 is disengaged from the clutch 646a by deactivating the first jaw portion 636a of each planar actuator 634. Finally, as shown in Figure 24F, each line Actuator 632 deactivated To retract the push rod 644 to its neutral position. To move the lens stage 626c, repeat the procedure but the second planar portion 636b of the movable planar actuator 136856.doc -32 - 200946953 634 instead of the first partial portion 636a. A separately movable phase (i.e., a diaphragm portion) and an additional clutch mechanism are added to each of the planar actuators 634 to enable the lens shifting mechanism to move the two lens stages or more in series (possible conditions) 25A through 25C illustrate another lens shifting system 650 having focusing and zooming capabilities. System 650 includes two integrated single phase, magazine bias actuators, one having a single frustocone aperture configuration 652 and The other has a dual frustocone aperture configuration 654. The actuator 652 includes a lens barrel structure 656 that houses a focus lens assembly 658. The proximal end of the lens assembly 658 along the focus axis of the system is received. The afocal lens assembly 660 within the barrel structure 662. The two barrels 656, 662 are offset away from each other by a coil spring 664. The two actuators are further integrated into a radially extending transverse structure 666. , actuators 652, 654 Outer frame or output members 668a, 668b are respectively coupled to the radially extending transverse structure 666. The diaphragm 670 is at the outer frame 668a and a corresponding inner frame or output member mounted to the distal end of the lens barrel 656 of the focus actuator 652 Stretching between 672. Next, the first diaphragm 676a is stretched between the outer frame 668b and the corresponding inner frame or output member 674 mounted to the proximal end of the lens barrel 662. The second diaphragm 676b is internally frame 674 and grounded The outer frame or output member 668c is stretched to form a dual aperture structure of the zoom actuator 654. The second coil spring 678 is biased from the ground outer frame 668c to be coupled to the outer frames 668a, 668b. As illustrated in Figure 25A, all phases of the system actuator are passive and the focus is at the "infinity" position. As illustrated in Figure 25B, focusing the system involves the diaphragm 670 of the active focus actuator 652. The preload placed on the barrel 656 allows it to advance in the direction of arrow 680 to provide a reduced focal length. 136856.doc -33- 200946953 The amount of displacement experienced by the lens barrel 656 can be controlled by controlling the amount of voltage applied to the actuator 652. As illustrated in Figure 25C, the zoom actuation is similar but requires an active actuator 654 in which a voltage is applied to the diaphragms 676a, 676b to advance the barrel 662 in the direction of arrow 682. As with focusing, the degree of zoom displacement can be controlled by adjusting the amount of voltage applied to actuator 654. Additional actuators arranged in tandem may be used to obtain a larger magnitude of displacement. To provide incremental zoom displacement, the actuator 654 can operate in two phases to cause the two apertures to move independently of one another. While these figures show the independent operation of the focus (Fig. 25B) and zoom (Fig. 25C) lens assemblies, the two can be controlled simultaneously or in series to provide the desired focus and zoom combination for a particular lens application.

Figures 26A and 26B show another displacement mechanism 69 that is suitable for lens image stabilization. The 衾 actuator mechanism has a multi-phase EAP 696 that is stretched between the outer frame mount 092 and the central output disc or member 694. The output disc 4 is mounted to a pivot 698 that biases the disc out of plane. At rest, as illustrated in Figure 26A, all phases or portions of the multi-phase film are passive and the output disk 694 is horizontal. When a selected portion of the membrane 696a (from any number of separately movable portions) is active, the biasing membrane relaxes in the active region 696a causing the output platform 694 to be asymmetrically biased and cause it to tilt, as indicated by 囷26b. Selectively move each movable part in response to system vibration

A three-dimensional displacement of an image sensor or mirror (not shown but otherwise positioned on top of the central disc or output member 694) is provided. J displacement mechanism to compensate for image perception. This displacement mechanism 7 is described in the z-direction movement 136856.doc-34-200946953 which can be further modified by the detector of Figs. 26A and 26B. In Fig. 27A to Fig. 27C, instead of the actuator The output member 7〇4 is rotatably mounted to the ground, using a spring biasing mechanism 7〇8. Multiphase film 706 is also used. When a multiphase 706a or not all phases are active, as illustrated in Figure 27b, actuator output disk 694 undergoes asymmetric tilting and axial translation. Output member 704 undergoes a purely linear displacement in the axial direction when all of the jaw portions 7〇6 are simultaneously active or when some of the membrane portions are active to provide a symmetric response, as illustrated in Figure 2C. The amount of this linear displacement can be controlled by adjusting the voltage applied to all phases or by selecting the portion of the phase (4) which is simultaneously active. The present invention also provides a shutter/aperture mechanism for use with an imaging/optical system, such as the system disclosed herein, where it is necessary or desirable to turn off the lens aperture (shutter function) and/or control access to the optical component or component. The amount of light (aperture function). Figure 28 illustrates one such shutter/aperture system 71 of the present invention that uses a ΕΑΡ actuator 712 to actuate a plurality of cooperating plates or blades 724 to adjust the passage of light through the imaging channel. Actuator 712 has a planar configuration having a dual phase diaphragm 718a, 718b extending between outer frame member 714 and inner frame member 716, wherein the inner frame member has an annular opening 715 for passage of light. Although only two membrane portions 71 8a, 718b are used in the illustrated embodiment, a multi-phase membrane can also be used. The shutter/aperture mechanical/moving assembly is housed in a crucible 723 having a top plate 72A and a bottom plate 72A, each having a respective opening 725a, 725b for passing light therethrough. The aperture vane 724 has a curved or curved teardrop shape whereby its annular alignment is maintained in an overlapping planar configuration. The blades are pivotally mounted to the bottom plate 72A by means of upwardly extending cam pins 136856.doc-35-200946953 736, the cam pins 6 correspondingly corresponding to the respective holes extending through the wider ends of the blades 724 Thereby defining the pivot or fulcrum of the blades about their operational pivoting. The tapered ends of the blades point in the same direction, the concave edges of which define the lens aperture, and the opening size of the lens aperture is variable by selectively pivoting the blades 724. The vanes 724 each have a cam follower slot 73, and the other set of cam pins 732 extend through the cam from the bottom side of a rotating ring 722 (as illustrated in Figure 28A) positioned on the opposite side of the vane 724. The slot 73 is 〇. The cam follower ® slot 730 is curved to provide a desired arcuate path of travel by the cam pin 732 as the ring 722 rotates, which in turn pivots the curved blade 724 about its fulcrum. A pin 726 extending from the top of the ring 722 or toward the side of the actuator projects through the opening 725a of the top jaw 720a and mates with the aperture 717 in the inner frame member 716 of the actuator 712. The selective movement of the actuator dual phase membrane 718 causes the inner actuator frame 716 to move laterally in opposite directions in a plane. The output motion of the actuator (via the pull/push of the ring pin 726) causes the ring 727 to rotate, and thus the cam pins 732 in the cam slots 730 in the respective aperture blades 724 are rotated. This in turn pivots the blades thereby moving the tapered ends of the blades closer to each other or further apart to provide a variable aperture opening, as best illustrated in the top view of 匣 723 in Figure 29B. The size of the aperture opening can be changed between fully open (Fig. 29A) and fully closed (Fig. 29C) to operate as a lens shutter. 36A through 36D illustrate another aperture/shutter mechanism 84A of the present invention. The mechanism 840 includes a planar base 842' on which the aperture/shutter blade 844 is pivotally mounted to the pivot point 845 at one end. The pivoting movement of the blade 844 136856.doc -36- 200946953 causes its free end to move back and forth across the light through the image aperture 854 in the plane. The movement of the vane 844 is achieved by pivotal movement of the lever arm 846. The lever arm 846 has a free end that is movably received within the recess 856 in the inner edge of the vane 844. The lever arm 846 is pivotally mounted to the base 842 at a pivot point 852a. A flexure 848 integrally coupled to or formed as a single piece with the lever arm 846 extends between the first pivot point 852a and the second pivot point 852b. The tab 850 extends inwardly from the center point on the flexure 848 toward the aperture 854. The vanes, lever arms and flexures can be adapted to provide an aperture 854 that is in a normally open or normally closed state. As illustrated in Figure 36C, movement of the tab 850 in the direction of arrow 860a toward the aperture 850 causes the flexure 848 to deflect in the same direction. This action in turn causes the lever arm 846 to pivotally pivot in the direction of arrow 860b, causing the free end of the crossbar arm to move within the recess 856 toward the pivot point 845, which in turn causes the blade 844 to be in the direction of arrow 860c Rotating pivotally thereby covers aperture 854. As illustrated in Figure 36D, this actuation is caused by the movement of the actuator 856, which is mounted or stacked on top of the moving assembly of mechanism 840. Actuator ® 856 includes a dual phase diaphragm 860a, 860b configuration similar to actuator 710 of Figure 28 extending between outer frame member 858a and inner frame member 858b, respectively. The free end of the tab 850 is mechanically coupled to the inner frame member 858b. Based on the orientation of the actuator 856 relative to the shutter mechanism 84A illustrated in Fig. 36D, the movement of the segment 86〇a alone pushes the tab 85〇 outwardly, while the activity of the segment 860b alone adjusts the tab 85〇 Pull inwards. As illustrated, mechanism 840 acts primarily as a shutter with aperture 854 being open or closed. Providing a hole 862 in the vane 844 (shown in phantom line 136856.doc -37-200946953 in Fig. 36A) enables the mechanism to act as an aperture mechanism having two settings - a set of blades in the open position thereby enabling Multiple passes through the aperture 854 to the lens module, and another set of blade cover apertures 854 thereby passing light through the smaller aperture 862, which is aligned with the aperture 854 when the blade 844 is in the closed position and has a ratio The diameter of the aperture 854 is small. Other lens shifting mechanisms can be used to impart movement to the lens or lens stack by using actuators that employ &quot;ummorph&quot; membrane structures or composites. 30A and 30B show a cross-section of a section of such a film structure 740. The film structure comprises an elastomeric dielectric film 742 bonded to a film substrate or substrate 744 which is relatively stiffer than the dielectric film 742, i.e., has a higher modulus of elasticity. The layers are sandwiched between the flexible electrodes 746 on the exposed side of the dielectric film 742 and the harder electrodes 748 on the inside or on the exposed side of the hard substrate 744. Thus, the composite structure 74 is &quot;offset&quot; to deflect in only one direction. In particular, when the film structure 74 is active, as illustrated in Figure 3B, the dielectric film 742 is laterally compressed and displaced such that the structure is curved or curved in a direction away from the substrate 7. The bias imposed on the structure can be implemented in any known manner, including those generally described in International Publication No. W098/35529. Several lens shifting mechanisms of the present invention using such a unimorph type of ΕΑΡ actuator are now described. The lens shifting system 750 of Figures 31A and 31 includes a lens barrel or lens assembly 754 coupled to an actuator mechanism utilizing a unimorph diaphragm structure 752. Selected regions or lengths of the membrane structure 752 extend between the barrel 754 and the fixed base member 756. The film structure can be a skirt-like single barrel 136856.doc -38.200946953 piece which can comprise a single phase structure or a plurality of addressable areas to provide multi-phase operation. Alternatively, the actuator may comprise a plurality of discrete segments of 臈 that may be configured to be addressable collectively or independently. In either variant, the harder film side or layer (also gp&apos; substrate side) faces inwardly such that the film is biased outwardly. After the k-film is actuated, as illustrated in Figure 31B, the film expands in the biasing direction to cause the crucible to extend away from its fixed side (i.e., away from the base member 756), thereby causing the barrel 754 to be in the direction of arrow 758. Move on. The various parameters of the film composite (e.g., 臈 area/length, varying elasticity between the EAp layer and the substrate layer, etc.) ® T are adjusted to provide the desired amount of displacement for autofocus and/or zoom operation of the lens system. The lens displacement mechanism 76 of Figures 32A and 32B also uses a unimorph film actuator. System 76A includes a lens barrel or lens assembly 762 mounted to lens mount 764 resting on rail 766. Actuator 77A includes a folded or stacked unimorph diaphragm that is coupled together in series. In the illustrated embodiment, 'each unimorph is constructed' such that the more flexible side 772a faces the barrel and the harder side 772b is opposite the barrel, but the opposite orientation can also be used. ® When the actuator piece is all inactive, as illustrated in Figure 32A, the stack is in its most compressed position, i.e., the barrel 762 is in the closest position. In the case of a focus lens assembly, this position provides the maximum focal length' and in the case of a focusless lens assembly, the zoom lens is in the macro position. The movement of one or more of the sheets 772 (collectively or independently) displaces the barrel 762 in the direction of arrow 765 to adjust the focus and/or magnification of the lens system. In certain environmental conditions (such as high humidity and extreme temperature environments), the performance of the ΕΑΡ actuator can be affected by 136856.doc •39- 200946953. The present invention addresses such ambient conditions by incorporating a feature that can be integrated into the ΕΑΡ actuator itself or otherwise constructed within the system without increasing the space requirements of the system. In one such variation, a heating element is used to configure the helium actuator to generate heat as necessary to maintain or control the humidity and/or temperature of the helium actuator and/or to immediately surround the surrounding environment. The (equivalent) heating element is resistive and has a conductor integrated into or adjacent to the έαρ film, wherein the voltage on the conductor is lower than the voltage required for the actuator to operate. Using the same ΕΑΡ actuator for lens displacement and / or image stabilization to control the ambient parameters of the system further reduces the number of components in the system and their total mass and weight. Figure 33A illustrates an exemplary Εαρ actuator 780 that can be used with the lens/optical system of the present invention using a series electrode configuration to achieve a heating function. This view shows the ground side of the actuator with the ground electrode pattern 782 and the high voltage electrode pattern 784 on the other side of the actuator 780 shown in phantom. Terminals 786a and 786b are respectively electrically coupled to ground and a high voltage input from a system power source (not shown) for operating the actuator. A second terminal or connector 786c provides a connection to a low voltage input from the power source for the current path of the series resistive heater. Arrow 788 shows the annular current path provided by the electrode configuration using the entire ground electrode 782 as a resistive heating element. Figure 33B illustrates another ΕΑΡ actuator 790 that uses a parallel electrode configuration to achieve a heating function. This view shows the ground side ' of the actuator with the ground electrode pattern 792' and the high voltage electrode pattern 784 from the other side of the actuator 79 is shown in dashed lines. Terminals 796a and 796b are respectively electrically coupled to ground and a high voltage input from a 136856.doc -40-200946953 system power supply (not shown) for operating the actuator. Parallel bus bars 798a, 798b are provided on the ground side of actuator 790 for connection to ground and low voltage input from a power source (not shown), respectively. Arrow 800 illustrates the radial path of the current established by the parallel electrode configuration. The use of electrodes in a parallel manner opposite to the _ linkage mode allows the use of lower power to achieve the current flow required to induce heating of the crucible. As mentioned above, another method of system humidity and temperature control is to use a resistive heating element positioned adjacent to the helium actuator. Figure 34 illustrates the use of a lens shifting mechanism 81A with a diaphragm actuator having a diaphragm 812. The spacing 816 defined between the top outer casing/cover 8 13 and the diaphragm 812 provides sufficient space to position the heating element 814 therein. Preferably, the heating element has a cross-section and size (in this case, a truncated cone shape as illustrated in FIG. 34A) that matches the cross-section and size of the ruthenium film to minimize the spacing requirements of the system and maximize heating. Heat transfer between element 814 and diaphragm 812. The heating element includes resistive traces 8 15a and electrical contacts 81 8 ' on insulating substrate 81 5b to electrically couple the heating element to the power and sense electronics of the system. Another optional feature of the lens shifting system of the present invention is the provision of a sensor to sense the position of the lens or lens assembly, which provides closed loop control of lens displacement. Figure 35 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of this position sensing configuration that is incorporated into a lens displacement system 820 having a configuration similar to that of the lens displacement system of Figure 7 . The sensing configuration includes a set of electrode pairs having a cylindrical configuration. One electrode 822a (for example, a ground side electrode) surrounds an outer portion of the barrel 824. The ground electrode 822a is coupled to the ground lead 830a via an actuator biasing spring 830 and 136856.doc -41 - 200946953. Another electrode 822b (eg, active or power/sense electrode 822b) extends around the inner surface of the sleeve wall 826, from the rear end of the housing 828, and is located on the outer surface of the actuator biasing spring 83 and the barrel 824. between. Electrode 822b is electrically coupled to a power/sense lead "rib. An insulating material adhered to movable electrode 822b can be provided to a gap t defined between the two electrodes to provide a capacitive structure. In the lens barrel as illustrated In the case of the position, the capacitance between the electrodes is at its maximum. When the barrel 824 is displaced in the distal direction, the overlapping surface area of the electrodes is reduced, which in turn reduces the capacitive charge therebetween. This capacitance change is fed back to the system's control electronics (not shown) for closed loop control of the lens position. By using an actuator for auto focus, zoom, image stabilization and/or shutter control, the subject The optical lens system has minimal space and force requirements and is therefore ideally suited for use in highly compact optical systems such as cellular telephone cameras. Covers the present month associated with the subject optical systems, devices, components and components. Method examples and 5 'These methods may include selectively focusing the lens on the image' using the lens assembly to selectively magnify the image and/or selectively moving Sensors are used to compensate for unwanted vibrations experienced by the lens or lens assembly. Such methods may include providing an action to use a suitable device or system of the present invention that may be performed by an end user. In other words, the "provide" (eg, 'lenses, actuators, etc.') only require the end user to obtain, access, access, locate, set, move, power on, or otherwise act to provide the desired method in the subject method. Included in each of the mechanical activities associated with the use of the device and electrical activity. The use of the device is 136856.doc-42-200946953, and is adapted to form Part of the invention. Another source forms part of the invention: an electrical hard and/or software control of the method, and another aspect of the invention, including any combination of the devices described herein, whether in a package combination The form is provided or assembled by operation: purpose, description, etc. The kit may include a learning system used in accordance with the present invention = ❹ 。. The kit may include one for use with the optical system.吏 2 various other components, including mechanical or electrical connectors, power supplies, etc. The shouting kit can also include instructions for the use of such devices or their assemblies, such as on paper or plastic, etc. The == is present in the set for the package insert, is present in the set of the set or its 2 (ie, associated with the package or sub-package), etc., in his embodiment Etc., as being present in a multiplexed disk or the like (10), in other embodiments, the actual description does not exist in the set, but rather provides means for obtaining instructions from a remote source, for example, via the Internet. An example of such an embodiment is a set including a web address in which a description can be viewed and/or instructions can be downloaded from the web address. As explained, the means for obtaining the description is recorded on a suitable medium. For other details, materials and alternative configurations may be used within the level of those skilled in the art. The same situation can be maintained for the method-based aspect of the present invention in terms of additional actions that are typically used or logically used. In addition, although the invention has been described with reference to a number of examples, including various features, as appropriate, the invention is not limited to what is described or indicated as being encompassed by each variation of the invention of 136856.doc-43-200946953 . Various changes may be made to the described invention and may be substituted for equivalents, whether recited herein or to some degree of conciseness, which is not included in the scope of the invention. ). Any number of individual components or subassemblies shown may be integrated in their design. These or other changes may be taken or directed in accordance with the design principles of the assembly. Further, it is contemplated that any of the optional features of the described variations of the invention may be stated and claimed independently or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. References to singular items include the possibility that there are a plurality of identical items. More specifically, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms &quot;&quot; &&quot;&quot;&quot;&quot;&quot; In other words, the use of the articles is considered to be at least one of the subject matter in the above description and the scope of the claims below. Also note that the scope of the patent application can be drafted to exclude any optional components. This narrative is intended to serve as a pre-existing basis for the use of this exclusive term (such as &quot;alone&quot;, &quot;only&quot; and its analogs) in conjunction with the statement of the claim component or the use of &quot;negative&quot; In the absence of this exclusive term, the term &quot;contains&quot; in the scope of the patent application shall include any additional components, whether or not a given number of components are listed in the scope of the patent application, or may be added to the feature. The nature of the elements stated in the scope of the patent application is hereby incorporated by reference. Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all technical terms used herein will be given the broadest meaning as commonly understood. At the same time, the validity of the claim is maintained. In summary, the breadth of the present invention is not limited by the examples provided. That is, 136856.doc -44- 200946953 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are respectively a cross-sectional perspective view and an exploded assembly view of an optical lens system of the present invention using an electroactive polymer actuator configured to provide autofocus; FIG. And Figure 2B provides a schematic illustration of an electroactive polymer film for use with the optical system of the present invention before and after application of a voltage; Figure 3 is another type of electroactive polymer actuated device for use in focus control. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are cross-sectional perspective views of another optical lens system for controlling each of zoom and auto focus using an actuator combination and Figure 5A and Figure 5B are perspective views showing alternative components for controlling zoom; Figures 6A-6C are cross-sectional views showing the progressive phase of actuation of the transducer arrangement of Figures 5A and 5B; Figure 7A And Figure 7B is a cross-sectional perspective view and exploded assembly view of another optical lens system of the present invention configured to provide autofocus and image stabilization® capabilities; Figure 8 is a perspective view of the lens system of Figures 7A and 7B. Figure 9A and Figure 9B are top plan and bottom plan views, respectively, of the electrode configuration of the image-stable electroactive polymer transducer of Figure 8; Figures 10A and 10B are respectively comparable to Figure 8 The top view of another embodiment of the framed electroactive polymer transducer used in conjunction with the image stabilization and elevation 136856.doc -45-200946953 is a plan view; FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D are respectively used for FIG. 10A and 11B show passive stiffness and load response of the lens system of FIGS. 7A and 7B, respectively; FIG. 12A is used to bias the present invention. A perspective view of the leaf spring biasing member of the εαρ autofocus actuator; Fig. 12A and Fig. 12C are perspective cross-sectional views of the optical lens system of the present invention with the slab spring biasing member of Fig. 12 in operation And a top view; FIG. 13 is a perspective cross-sectional view of another optical lens system of the present invention using an integrated plate spring biasing member; FIGS. 14A and 14B are respectively another type of integrated spring biasing member Perspective transverse cross-face TSQ · circle of the lens system housing with and without associated lens barrels, Figure 15A and Figure 15A are perspective views of the assembled lens barrel and flange assembly for use with the lens system of the present invention And a cross-sectional view in which the assembly provides an adjustable barrel design for focus calibration purposes; Figure 15C illustrates the use of a tool for calibrating the infinity focus parameters of the lens assembly of Figures 15A and 15; 16Α and FIG. 16Β are perspective and cross-sectional views of another lens barrel assembly having an adjustable flange design for focus calibration purposes; FIG. 1 7Α and FIG. 7Β respectively provide a very compact, low profile Cross-sectional view of a lens system configured with single-phase and two-phase actuators of form factor; 136856.doc • 46- 200946953 FIGS. 18A and 18B are exemplary lens actuator displacement mechanisms of the present invention FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B are respectively a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of another εαρ lens shifting mechanism usable with the present invention; FIG. 20A and FIG. 20Β respectively use a ΕΑΡ actuator and a machine FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing another hybrid lens shifting mechanism of the present invention; FIG. 22A and FIG. 22 are respectively a "foot" type lens of the present invention. FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B are respectively a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a multi-stage "foot" type lens shifting mechanism of the present invention; FIG. 24A is a view of the lens of FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B. Schematic illustration of a cross-section of the actuator 匣 of the displacement mechanism; Figures 24B to 24F schematically illustrate various positions of the actuator and associated lens guide during the actuation cycle; Figures 25A-25C are exemplary of the present invention FIG. 26A and FIG. 26B are cross-sectional views showing the inactive and active state of the lens image stabilization system of the present invention; FIGS. 27A to 27C are diagrams showing another embodiment of the present invention in various active states. A cross-sectional view of a lens image stabilization system; Figure 28 is an exploded view of the aperture/shutter mechanism of the present invention suitable for use with the subject lens system and other known lens systems; Figure 2 8 A is Figure 8 Side view of the rotating ring of the aperture mechanism; 136856.doc -47- 200946953 Figures 29A to 29C respectively show the aperture/shutter mechanism of Fig. 28 in a fully open, partially open and fully closed state; Figs. 30A and 30B are A cross-sectional view of a unimorph actuator film in the lens displacement mechanism of the present invention; FIGS. 31 and 318 illustrate the inactivity of the unimorph actuator film using FIGS. 30 and 308, respectively. And a side view of another lens shifting mechanism of the present invention in an active state; FIGS. 32A and 32B illustrate a side view of another lens shifting mechanism of the present invention using a unimorph actuator; FIGS. 33A and 33B Describe the use of a ΕΑΡ actuator with features for handling certain conditions (eg, humidity) of the surrounding environment in which the lens system operates to optimize performance; Figure 34 shows the use of another configuration to handle ambient conditions The cross-sectional view of the lens shifting system of the present invention; FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B are perspective and top views of the ambient condition control mechanism of the system of FIG. 34; FIG. 35 shows another embodiment of the present invention without the lens position sensor. Lens shift © cross-sectional view of the system; Figure 3 6 is a perspective view of another variation of the mechanical assembly portion of the shutter/aperture mechanism of the present invention; Figure 3 6B and Figure 36C illustrate the fully open and fully closed states, respectively The shutter/aperture of Figure 36A; and Figure 36D is a perspective view of the mechanism of Figure 36 operatively coupled to the ΕΑΡ actuator of the present invention. [Main component symbol description] 136856.doc -48- 200946953

2 Electroactive film 4 Polymeric dielectric layer 6 Electrode 100 Lens module 102 Electroactive polymer actuator 104 Disc or cover portion 104a/104b Disc side 106 Aperture 108 Ar/f Mirror 110 Plate magazine mechanism 112 Shield or cover 114 Housing 116 Image sensor/detector 118 Aperture 120 Electroactive polymer film 122 Frame 122a/122b Frame side 125 Arrow 126a Screw 126b Sub L 128 Control electronics 130 Power supply 132 Wall recess 140 Lens module Group 136856.doc • 49- 200946953

142 Cylindrical barrel 142a Distal portion 142b Proximal portion 144 Lens 146 External housing 148 Inner housing 150 Circular shoulder 152 ΕΑΡ Actuator 154a/154b Membrane 155 Arrow 156 Frame block or spacer 157 Arrow 158 Inner frame member 160 Optical System 162 Lens 164 Focusing Lens 166 Aperture Actuator 168 Zoom Lens 170 Lens Clamp 172a, 172b Planar Actuator 174a, 174b Armature 176 Lens Cover 178 Frame Element 180 Image Sensor 136856.doc 50- 200946953

182 190 192a, 192b 194 196 198 200 202 204 206 208 210 300 302 304 306 308 310 312 314 314a, 314b, 314c, 314d 316 318 320 Housing Replacement lens system Planar actuator Lens mount

Ml. Mirror 闾 zoom lens image sensor arrow arrow actuator frame segment output rod optical lens system lens module image stabilization module image sensor linear bearing structure / suspension component actuator mirror gang lens assembly lens Housing casing tick actuator 136856.doc -51 - 200946953

322 Outer frame 324 Bottom case 325 Clam film 326 Top case 328 Inner disc or cover part 330 Transparent or translucent cover 332 Coil spring 334 Housing rear end 335 Arrow 336 Flange 338 &quot;Hot" side/ΕΑΡ膜340 Electrically insulated electrode 342 Elastomeric layer 344 Electrical tab 346 Electrical tab 348 Tantalum/grounding side 350 Grounding electrode 352 Elastomeric layer 354a Top frame part 354b Bottom frame part 356 Disc 358 Disc 360a Front plate or cover 360b Back plate or cover 136856.doc -52- 200946953

362 Planar substrate 362a Central portion 362b Central portion 364 Impact absorbing element 366 IR filter 368 Distal side 370 Proximal side 372 Notch or recess 380 Three-phase ΕΑΡ actuator 382a Frame side 382b Frame side 384a Thermal 384 film 384b Grounding diaphragm 386 Electrode region 388 Ring grounding electrode 390 Plate spring biasing mechanism 392 Base 394 Tab 396 Flexing point 398 Inner housing block 410 Structure portion 412 Mirror 414 Housing assembly 416 Offset member 136856.doc -53- 200946953

418 annular aperture 420a inner side wall 420b outer side wall 422 tab 430 barrel assembly 432 barrel 434 separable flange 435 top cover 436 tab 437 external thread 438 top portion 439 thread 440 groove or indentation 442 housing 444 calibration tool 446 Working end 448 Lens assembly 450 Lens barrel configuration 452 Housing 456 Flange 458 Opening or window 460 Buffer block or projection 462 Indentation 464 Window 136856.doc •54- 200946953

470 Lens system 472 Lens 472a Lens front side 474 Inner frame part 476 Outer frame part 478 ΕΑΡ film 480 箐 482 Back plate 488 Arrow 490a Inner frame 490b Outer frame 492a Inner frame 492b Outer frame 494 ΕΑΡ film 496 ΕΑΡ film 498 Top case parts 500 Intermediate housing part 502 Bottom housing part 504 Arrow 506 Arrow 510 Biphasic lens system 520 Lens shift mechanism 522 Lens 524 Lens frame -55- 136856.doc 200946953 ❹ 〇525 Arrow 526 Transducer aperture 528 Double-tipped cone ΕΑΡ actuation 532 inner frame or cover 534 outer frame 534a outer frame 534b outer frame 535 arrow 536a inner frame 536b inner frame 538 outer frame 540 lens displacement mechanism 544 transducer aperture 548 ΕΑΡ actuator unit 550 lens displacement mechanism 552 actuator portion 554 mechanical lens drive portion or assembly 555a inner frame 555b inner frame 556a '556b outer frame 558a, 558b bottom outer casing portion 560 first drive plate 562 first drive plate proximal end 564 second drive plate 136856.doc 56- 200946953

566a, 566b connecting rod pair 568a, 568b connecting rod pair 572 guiding rod 574 top housing 576 optical axis 578 lens opening 580 hybrid lens displacement mechanism 582 actuator portion 584 ΕΑΡ transducer 586 coil spring 5S8 optical axis 590 hood 592 A driver board 594 second driver board 596 linkage mechanism 600 lens shift mechanism 602 lens assembly / barrel 604 rail 604a rail end 605 direction 606 bearing 607 axial 608a film stack 608b top actuation portion 136856.doc -57- 200946953 610 610a 612 612a 614a-614c 616 618 620a , 620b 〇 622 625 626a-626d 627 628 630a 630b 632 ❿ 634 636a 636b 636c 638a 638b 640 642 thickness mode actuator EAP membrane electrode layer pattern plane actuator ΕΑΡ membrane electrode layer Patterned flexible material layer central hole or aperture plane actuated diaphragm layer aperture or aperture lens displacement mechanism lens stage slit struts actuator 匣 actuator 匣 single-phase linear actuator dual-phase planar actuator can be operated separately Partially detachable single-unit enamel film output part outer part spacer linear guide 136856.doc -58- 200 946953

644 646a, 646b 648 650 652 654 656 658 660 662 664 666 668a, 668b, 668c 670 672 674 676a ' 676b 678 680 682 690 692 694 696 Push rod clutch or circuit breaker bearing lens displacement system actuator actuator barrel Focusing lens assembly Afocal lens assembly Mirror coil spring Transverse outer frame or output member ΕΑΡ film inner frame or output member inner frame or output member ΕΑΡ film second coil spring arrow arrow displacement mechanism outer frame fixing member central output disc Or component multiphase 136856.doc •59- 200946953 〇696a Membrane 698 Pivot 700 Displacement mechanism 704 Output component 706 Multiphase film 706a Membrane portion 708 Spring biasing mechanism 710 Shutter/aperture system 712 Actuator 714 Outer frame member 715 Annular opening 716 Inner frame member 717 Hole 718a Biphasic diaphragm 718b Biphasic diaphragm 720a Top plate 720b Base plate 722 Rotating ring 723 匣 724 . Blade 725a &gt; 725b Opening 726 Pin 727 Ring 730 Cam follower slot 136856.doc 60 - 200946953 〇❹ 732 cam pin 736 cam pin 740 membrane structure 742 dielectric film 744 Membrane substrate 746 Flexible electrode 748 Harder electrode 750 Lens displacement system 752 Monomorph ΕΑΡ film structure 754 Lens barrel or lens assembly 756 Base part 758 Arrow 760 Lens displacement mechanism 762 Lens barrel or lens assembly 764 Lens匣 765 arrow 766 rail 770 actuator 772a relatively flexible side 772b hard side 780 ΕΑΡ actuator 782 ground electrode pattern 784 partial voltage electrode pattern 786a, 786b, 786c terminal 136856.doc -61 - 200946953

788 arrow 790 ΕΑΡ actuator 792 ground electrode pattern 796a, 796b terminal 798a, 798b bus bar 800 arrow 810 lens displacement mechanism 812 diaphragm 813 top housing / cover 814 heating element 815a resistive trace 816 spacing 818 electrical contact 820 Lens Shift System 822a, 822b Electrode 824 Lens Tube 826 Sleeve Wall 828 Housing 830 Actuator Bias Spring 830a Ground Lead 830b Power / Sense Lead 840 Aperture / Shutter Mechanism 842 Plane Base 844 Blade 136856.doc -62- 200946953 845 pivot point 846 lever arm 848 flexure 850 tab 852a first pivot point 852b second pivot point 854 aperture 856 notch © 858a outer frame member 858b inner frame member 860a segment 860b segment 860c arrow 862 hole ❿ 136856.doc -63-

Claims (1)

200946953 X. Patent application scope: 1. A lens shifting system comprising: a lens unit, the cymbal comprising a small-head positioned along a focus axis, the lens unit having a linear bearing surface; a polymer actuator adjacent to the lens position 'where the activity of the actuator causes the lens to be single-acting; and,,,, glaze, and a directional guide, adjacent thereto The surface of the linear bearing is used to maintain the position of the mirror. Looking for the lens shifting system of the requester, which further includes the biasing mechanism that biases the lens unit. , /σ uses the lens shift system of the long term 2, wherein the lens unit 4 of the active polymer actuator - the aperture is stretched into - (4) (d) the lens displacement system of item 2, wherein the biasing mechanism comprises 1 Surrounding the lens unit α ^ , the ring spring and the lens unit: the linear guide is positioned between one of the outer surfaces of the disk 7L. 5. The lens shifting system of claim 1, wherein the linear two = part of the casing wall that partially encloses the outer casing of the lens unit is "since from 6. the request is e e e ^ 兄 位移 displacement system, where Linearly guiding at least the "rail" extending from the focus axis. The directional device comprises a lens displacement system of 6.4.:: item 6, wherein the lens unit comprises a middle eight--for receiving the opening of the at least one guide rail- 8. The protection of claim 2 &lt; machi 10. The 顼 顼 displacement system, where the offset is located in the linear guide h „„ A _ 1躅 contains a certain guiding benefit between the outer surface of one of the lens units A 135856.doc 200946953 spring mechanism. The lens displacement system of claim 8, wherein the leaf spring mechanism has a susceptor ring surrounding the lens unit and a surface engagement of one of the electroactive actuators a plurality of radially extending tabs. 10. The lens shifting system of claim 2, wherein the biasing mechanism is integrally formed with the lens unit. 11. The lens shifting system of claim 10, wherein the biasing The institution further with at least one The housing of the lens unit is integrally formed. The lens displacement system of claim 2, wherein the biasing mechanism comprises an annular aperture extending between the lens unit and the housing, wherein the aperture has A negative rate spring bias. 13. The lens shifting system of claim 12, wherein the aperture comprises a low viscosity elastomeric material. 14. The lens displacement system of claim 2, wherein the biasing mechanism is included in the lens unit At least two spring tabs extending between the housing and the housing. 15. The lens shifting system of claim 1, wherein the movement of the lens unit changes the focal length of the lens unit. 16. The lens shifting system as claimed Wherein the at least one lens is a focusing lens. 1 7. The lens shifting system of claim 1, wherein the movement of the lens unit changes the magnification of the lens unit. The lens unit is carried by a lens driver mechanism by which the movement of the actuator causes the lens actuator mechanism to move. 136856.doc 200946953 where The head unit includes a lens shifting system, such as the lens shifting system of claim 18, and a focal lens assembly. 20. The horizontal displacement _ of claim 19 includes a plurality of lens levels, each of which includes three lenses, wherein the lens The driver mechanism translates the plurality of stages at different rates. • As in the lens position (four) of claim 20, wherein the ratio of the translation rate of one of the lens stages to the translation rate of the other lens level is defined as a telescopic action. The lens shifting system of claim 20, wherein each lens is located in a lens plate carried by the lens driver mechanism. 23. A mirror displacement system such as the kiss lens 22, wherein the lens driver mechanism is included in the lens plate A pair of links extending between each other. 24. The lens shifting system of claimants, further comprising a carriage that prevents the lens unit from moving out of a "limited distance" position. 25. The lens shifting system of claim 1, wherein the step further comprises at least one filter along the focus axis. 26. A lens shifting system as in the case of a kiss, further comprising a half transparent cover over the end of the lens unit. 27. The lens shifting system of the present invention, wherein the lens unit is configured to calibrate the focus of the lens unit. 28. The lens shifting system of claim 27, wherein one of the housing portions of the lens unit includes at least one indentation for receiving a calibration tool. The lens shifting system of claim 1, further comprising a sensor for sensing the position of the lens unit. 30. The lens shifting system of claim 29, wherein the sensor comprises a pair of electrodes spaced apart by a 136856.doc 200946953, the first electrode being positioned on an outer surface of the lens unit and the second electrode being positioned And a surface of the linear guide facing the outer surface of the lens unit, wherein a position of the lens unit relative to the linear guide changes a capacitance between the electrodes. The lens displacement system of claim 1, further comprising - a heating element positioned to control the temperature of at least a portion of the electroactive polymer actuator. 32. The lens displacement system of claim 2, wherein the lens unit has a circle ® cylinder n and the linear bearing surface is an outer surface of the barrel. 33. The mirror of the requester (4), wherein the lens unit comprises a plurality of lenses, wherein the __ the farthest lens is the focus lens and the closest to it = two or more lenses are afocal lenses. 34. The lens displacement system of claim 1, wherein the electroactive polymer actuator comprises a membrane wherein the membrane is configured to deflect on only one during activity. 35. The lens shifting system of claim 34, wherein the film comprises an elastomeric dielectric layer bonded to the underlying material, the substrate having a higher modulus of elasticity than the dielectric layer. 36. A lens shifting system, comprising: a lens unit το comprising at least one lens positioned along a focus axis, wherein the lens unit is biased in an infinity direction; a bracket for preventing the lens unit Moving out of an initial macro position in the macro direction; and an electroactive polymer actuator adjacent to the lens unit, I36856.doc 200946953 bit, wherein the actuator is active such that the lens unit is along The focus axis moves toward an infinity position. 37. ❹ 38. 39. 40. 41. ❹ 42. A lens shifting system comprising: a lens unit that includes at least one lens positioned along a focus axis and movable in opposite directions along the focus axis And a two-phase electroactive polymer actuator positioned adjacent to the lens unit 'where the movement of the actuator moves the lens unit along the focus axis' wherein the actuators are offset from each other The oppositely facing frusto-conical aperture. The lens shifting system of claim 37, comprising a plurality of dual phase electroactive polymer actuators stacked in series. The lens shifting system of claim 38, wherein the adjacent actuators are biased apart by a spring. The lens shifting system of claim 39, wherein the concave sides of the frustoconical apertures face each other. The lens shifting system of claim 40, wherein the convex sides of the head cones are toward each other. A lens shifting system comprising: a lens unit 'containing at least one lens positioned along a focus axis; and an electroactive polymer actuator positioned adjacent to the lens unit, wherein the actuator The movement moves the lens unit along the focus axis, the actuator comprising an electroactive polymer film wherein the film deflects in only one direction when in motion. The lens shifting system of claim 42, wherein the crucible comprises an elastomeric dielectric layer bonded to a substrate material, the substrate material having a higher modulus of elasticity than the dielectric layer. 44. The lens displacement system of claim 42, wherein the actuator further comprises a fixed base member, wherein the weir extends between the lens unit and the base member. 45. The lens shifting system of claim 44, wherein the film has an arcuate configuration&apos; wherein the substrate material is on the concave side of the film. The lens shifting system of claim 44, wherein the film has a folded configuration. 47. A lens shifting system, comprising: a lens unit 'containing at least one lens positioned along a focus axis; and an electroactive polymer actuator positioned adjacent to the lens unit The movement of the actuator moves the lens unit along the focus axis. The actuator includes an electrode assembly configured to generate heat. 48. The lens shifting system of claim 47, wherein the electrode is configured in series. 49. The lens shifting system of claim 47, wherein the electrodes are configured in parallel. 50. A lens shifting system, comprising: a lens unit comprising at least one lens positioned along a focus axis; 136856.doc 200946953 - an electroactive polymer actuator positioned adjacent to the lens unit The movement of the actuator moves the lens unit along the focus axis 'the actuator comprises an electroactive polymer film; and a heating element positioned adjacent to the electroactive polymer film and having A profile that matches the scraped surface of the electroactive polymer film. 51. The lens displacement system of claim 50, wherein the heating element has a wearer cone shape. 52. A device for use with an optical system, the device comprising: 〇 at least one tamper-mounted aperture blade; and an electroactive polymer actuator positioned adjacent to the aperture blade, wherein The movement of the actuator moves the aperture blades to adjust the passage of light through a lens aperture. 53. The device of claim 52, comprising a plurality of cooperating aperture blades provided in a planar configuration. The device of claim 53, wherein each of the aperture blades has a f-teardrop shape&apos; and wherein the blades are annularly aligned with adjacent blades having at least a portion that overlap each other. 55. The device of claim 54, wherein the actuator comprises a biphasic planar film extending between the outer frame member: the frame member, wherein the inner frame portion has an annular opening for transmitting light to the lens aperture And another phase activity causes the 莼 勒 通 寻 寻 枢 在 在 且 且 且 且 且 且 且 且 且 且 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 。 136856.doc 200946953 56. The apparatus of claim 52, further comprising a flexing mechanism cooperating with one of the aperture ends of the aperture blade, wherein the electroactive polymer actuator causes the deflection after the activity The mechanism deflects a portion of the aperture blade pivotally. 57. The device of claim 52, wherein the free end of one of the aperture blades has a light passage aperture therethrough. 58. A lens shifting system, comprising: a lens unit including at least one mirror head positioned along a focus axis; and two electroactive polymer actuator mechanisms positioned relative to the lens unit At the end 'where the movement of the actuators causes the lens unit to translate relative to the actuators. The lens shifting system of claim 58, further comprising at least one rail extending between the actuator mechanisms, the lens unit slidably consuming to the at least one rail, wherein the The activity of the actuator mechanism provides a translational shift of the lens unit in an incremental manner along the focus axis. 60. The lens shifting system of claim 59, wherein, in the actuator mechanism, &lt;, one of the actuators for causing the at least one of the guide rails &gt; At least two of the lateral movements of the focus axis, the part of the individual activity. 61. For the lens displacement system of claim 60, each of the separately movable portions is divided into layers, wherein the layers are stacked. 62. The lens displacement system of claim 61 provides thickness mode actuation and at least one 2 H film layer is actuated in motion. #他膜层 provides a flat when active 136856.doc 200946953 63. The lens displacement system of claim 60, wherein the in-plane actuation causes the at least one guide to angularly displace. 64. The lens shifting system of claim 59, wherein the lens unit comprises a plurality of lens stages comprising lenses that are necessarily located within a platform, wherein at least one of the lens stages is translatable along the focus axis independently of the other lens levels. 65. The lens displacement system of claim 64, further comprising a pusher rod extending between the two actuator mechanisms and operatively coupled to the two actuator mechanisms. One of the apertures in the lens platform is releasably engageable with each of the lens platforms. 66. The lens displacement system of claim 65, further comprising a clutch mechanism associated with each lens platform for cooperatively engaging the push rod. 67. The lens shifting system of claim 58, wherein each actuator mechanism includes two separately movable portions for moving the lens unit along the focus axis and in a lateral direction of the focus axis. For example, the lens shifting system of the item 67 of the present invention, wherein one movable portion comprises a single-phase linear actuator, and the other movable portion comprises a two-phase planar actuator stacked in series with each other. 69. The lens displacement system of claim 68, wherein the actuators are independently = selectively controllable 1 to translate the push rod axially and laterally to provide an actuation sequence to be actuated. The lens shifting system of claim 58 wherein the lens unit includes a poly-::: portion and a non-focal lens portion, wherein the first actuator causes the head portion to be along the focus axis relative to the The focal lens portion is flat 136856.doc 200946953 and the second actuator translates the afocal lens portion along the focus axis, wherein the actuators are selectively and independently movable. 71. The lens shifting system of claim 70, wherein the two lens portions are offset from each other by a spring. 7 2 _ - an optical lens system comprising: at least one lens; an image sensor positioned to receive images from the at least one lens; and © at least one electroactive polymer actuator for The movement experienced by the image sensor is selectively stabilized. 73. The optical system of claim 72, wherein the at least one lens is a focusing lens. 74. The optical system of claim 72, wherein the at least one lens is a zoom lens. 75. The optical system of claim 72, wherein the actuator is configured to selectively stabilize movement of the image sensor in an associated X-y plane. 76. The optical system of claim 72, wherein the actuator is configured to selectively stabilize movement of the image sensor in an associated z-direction. 77' The optical system of claim 72, further comprising a bearing interposed between the image sensor and the actuator to facilitate transmission of output motion from the actuator to the image sensor structure. 78. The optical system of claim 77, wherein the bearing structure comprises a planar substrate having a plurality of impact absorbing elements. 79. The optical system of claim 78, wherein the substrate comprises an electronic circuit that provides electrical contact between the image sensing device and the control electronics. 80. The optical system of claim 72, wherein the actuator comprises an electroactive membrane transducer comprising a plurality of independently movable portions. 8 1. A method of stabilizing an image provided by an optical lens system, the method comprising: providing at least one optical lens and an image sensor positioned to receive an image from the lens; and An electroactive polymer actuator is actuated to adjust the position of the image sensor in response to the motion experienced by the image sensor. 82. The method of claim 81, wherein selectively actuating the actuator comprises selectively actuating a plurality of electrically active portions of the actuator, wherein the portions are independently movable. 136856.doc -11 ·