[go: up one dir, main page]

WO2020035697A1 - Sertissage amélioré - Google Patents

Sertissage amélioré Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2020035697A1
WO2020035697A1 PCT/GB2019/052305 GB2019052305W WO2020035697A1 WO 2020035697 A1 WO2020035697 A1 WO 2020035697A1 GB 2019052305 W GB2019052305 W GB 2019052305W WO 2020035697 A1 WO2020035697 A1 WO 2020035697A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
crimp
zone
sma
actuator wire
electrical connection
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/GB2019/052305
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Andrew Benjamin Simpson Brown
James Howarth
Stephen Bunting
Robin Eddington
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd
Original Assignee
Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd filed Critical Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd
Priority to GB2103226.3A priority Critical patent/GB2591648B/en
Priority to CN201980068060.8A priority patent/CN112888854B/zh
Publication of WO2020035697A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020035697A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G—SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS; MECHANICAL-POWER PRODUCING DEVICES OR MECHANISMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR OR USING ENERGY SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G7/00—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for
    • F03G7/06—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like
    • F03G7/061—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like characterised by the actuating element
    • F03G7/0614—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like characterised by the actuating element using shape memory elements
    • F03G7/06143—Wires
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G—SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS; MECHANICAL-POWER PRODUCING DEVICES OR MECHANISMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR OR USING ENERGY SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G7/00—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for
    • F03G7/06—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like
    • F03G7/061—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like characterised by the actuating element
    • F03G7/0616—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like characterised by the actuating element characterised by the material or the manufacturing process, e.g. the assembly
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G—SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS; MECHANICAL-POWER PRODUCING DEVICES OR MECHANISMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR OR USING ENERGY SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G7/00—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for
    • F03G7/06—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like
    • F03G7/064—Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for using expansion or contraction of bodies due to heating, cooling, moistening, drying or the like characterised by its use
    • F03G7/0645—Clamping, fixing or crimping parts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
    • H01R4/10—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation effected solely by twisting, wrapping, bending, crimping, or other permanent deformation
    • H01R4/18—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation effected solely by twisting, wrapping, bending, crimping, or other permanent deformation by crimping
    • H01R4/188—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation effected solely by twisting, wrapping, bending, crimping, or other permanent deformation by crimping having an uneven wire-receiving surface to improve the contact
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R4/00—Electrically-conductive connections between two or more conductive members in direct contact, i.e. touching one another; Means for effecting or maintaining such contact; Electrically-conductive connections having two or more spaced connecting locations for conductors and using contact members penetrating insulation
    • H01R4/01—Connections using shape memory materials, e.g. shape memory metal

Definitions

  • the present application generally relates to improved techniques for crimping a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, and in particular to techniques for controlling where electrical connections are made between a crimp and an SMA actuator wire.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • an actuation mechanism comprising : a static component; a moveable component that is moveable relative to the static component; at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, each SMA actuator wire comprising a first portion coupled to the static component and a second portion coupled to the moveable component; at least one crimp connected to the static component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the first portion of one SMA actuator wire to the static component, the crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection and at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp; at least one crimp connected to the moveable component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the second portion of one SMA actuator wire to the moveable component, the crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection and at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp; and an electrical connection forming mechanism for forming an electrical connection between the SMA actuator wire and the crimps in the zone of electrical connection; wherein
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • the electrically insulating layer may be selectively provided in each zone of electrical insulation by selectively coating the SMA actuator wire (only) in locations corresponding to said zones and/or selectively coating the crimp (only) in said zones.
  • the electrically insulating layer By selectively providing the electrically insulating layer in this way, a selected portion of the SMA actuator wire can brought into contact with the crimp in the zone of electrical connection, which is therefore defined in a more controlled manner.
  • a crimp for forming an electrical and mechanical connection with a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, the crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection and at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the respective edge of the crimp.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • a strut element comprising : a sacrificial strut body; and at least two crimps, held apart by the sacrificial strut body, for holding at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire by being folded and pressed over the at least one SMA actuator wire, each crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection and at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp; wherein the sacrificial strut body is removable from the crimps.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • an actuation mechanism comprising: a static component; a moveable component that is moveable relative to the static component; at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, each SMA actuator wire comprising a first portion coupled to the static component and a second portion coupled to the moveable component; at least one crimp connected to the static component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the first portion of one SMA actuator wire to the static component, the crimp comprising a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire; and at least one crimp connected to the moveable component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the second portion of one SMA actuator wire to the moveable component, the crimp comprising a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • a crimp for forming an electrical and mechanical connection with a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire comprising a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • a strut element comprising : a sacrificial strut body; and at least two crimps, held apart by the sacrificial strut body, for holding at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire by being folded and pressed over the at least one SMA actuator wire, each crimp comprising a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire; wherein the sacrificial strut body is removable from the crimps.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • an actuation mechanism comprising: a static component; a moveable component that is moveable relative to the static component; at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, each SMA actuator wire comprising a first portion coupled to the static component and a second portion coupled to the moveable component; at least one crimp connected to the static component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the first portion of one SMA actuator wire to the static component, the crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection, at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp, and a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire; at least one crimp connected to the moveable component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the second portion of one SMA actuator wire to the moveable component, the crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection, at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp, and a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire; and an electrical
  • a crimp for forming an electrical and mechanical connection with a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire comprising a zone of electrical connection, at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp, and a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • a strut element comprising : a sacrificial strut body; and at least two crimps, held apart by the sacrificial strut body, for holding at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire by being folded and pressed over the at least one SMA actuator wire, each crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection, at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp, and a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire; wherein the sacrificial strut body is removable from the crimps.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • a method of forming the actuation mechanism comprising: a) selectively providing electrically insulating layer in the zone of electrical insulation; and b) forming electrical connection by an electrical connection forming mechanism between the SMA actuator wire and the crimps in the zone of electrical connection.
  • an apparatus comprising any of the actuation mechanisms, strut elements or crimps described herein.
  • the apparatus may be any one of: a smartphone, a camera, binoculars, a foldable smartphone, a foldable image capture device, a foldable smartphone camera, an image capture device, a consumer electronics device, a mobile computing device, a laptop, a tablet computing device, a gaming system, an augmented reality system, a virtual reality system, a wearable device, a drone, a submersible, an aircraft, a spacecraft, a vehicle, an autonomous vehicle, a robotic device, a domotic device, and a home automation device. It will be understood that this is a non-exhaustive and non-limiting list of example apparatus.
  • Figure 1 shows an exploded view of SMA actuator wire arrangements in a camera
  • Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a portion of an SMA actuator wire in a crimp
  • Figures 2B and 2C are plan views of a strut element and an SMA actuator wire in successive stages of a method of assembly
  • Figure 3 shows a known technique for forming a good electrical and mechanical connection between a crimp and an SMA actuator wire
  • Figures 4A and 4B show, respectively, a cross-sectional view of a first technique for forming a good electrical and mechanical connection between a crimp and an SMA actuator wire without the wire and with the wire in the crimp;
  • Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a second technique for forming a good electrical and mechanical connection between a crimp and an SMA actuator wire
  • Figure 6 shows a plan view of a third technique for forming a good electrical and mechanical connection between a crimp and an SMA actuator wire.
  • embodiments of the present techniques provide improved techniques for crimping a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire to ensure that electrical connections between a crimp and SMA actuator wire are made in a controlled manner.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • SMA actuator wires may be used to move components or elements in a variety of apparatus such as smartphones, cameras, and consumer electronics devices.
  • an SMA actuator wire needs to be connected to a moveable component, and a component which the moveable component moves relative to (i.e. a static component).
  • the SMA actuator wire is typically connected to the moveable and static components via crimps.
  • the crimps electrically and mechanically connect the SMA actuator wire to the moveable and static components. Example techniques for holding an SMA actuator wire in a crimp are described below with respect to Figures 1 to 2C.
  • FIG 1 shows an exploded view of a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire arrangement 10 in a camera.
  • the SMA actuator arrangement 10 includes a static part 5 that comprises a base 11 that is an integrated chassis and sensor bracket for mounting an image sensor, and a screening can 12 attached to the base 11.
  • the SMA actuator arrangement 10 includes a moving part 6 that is a camera lens assembly comprising a lens carriage 13 carrying at least one lens (not shown).
  • the SMA actuator arrangement 10 includes eight SMA wires 2 each attached between the static part 5 and the moving part 6.
  • a pair of SMA wires 2 that cross each other are provided on each of four sides of the SMA actuator arrangement 10 as viewed along an optical axis.
  • the SMA wires 2 are attached to the static part 5 and the moving part 6 in such a configuration that they are capable of providing relative movement of the moving part 5 with multiple degrees of freedom for providing both autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilisation (OIS).
  • AF autofocus
  • OIS optical image stabilisation
  • the SMA wires 2 are attached at one end to two static mount portions 15, which are themselves mounted to the static part 5 for attaching the SMA wires 2 to the static part 5.
  • the static mount portions 15 are adjacent one another but are separated to allow them to be at different electrical potentials.
  • the SMA wires 2 are attached at one end to a moving mount portion 16 which is itself mounted to the moving part 6 for attaching the SMA wires 2 to the moving part 6.
  • the moving part 6 further comprises a conductive ring 17 connected to each of the moving mount portions 16 for electrically connecting the SMA wires 2 together at the moving part 6.
  • the static mount portions 15 and the moving mount portions 16 comprise crimp tabs 23 which may be formed into crimps and used to hold the SMA wires 2.
  • the moving mount portions 16 may comprise electrical connection tabs 31 for providing electrical connection to the conductive ring 17.
  • the crimp tabs 23 that are formed into crimps are integral parts of the static and moving portions of the actuator arrangement 10. Methods for forming the crimps and trapping the SMA wires within the crimp tabs 23 are described in International Patent Publication No. WO2016/189314.
  • Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a portion of an SMA actuator wire 42 in a crimp 43. It is important to achieve good mechanical and electrical contact between the SMA actuator wire 42 and the crimps 43, so that the SMA actuator wire 42 does not slip out of the crimp 43 and so that the wire can be powered/driven when required. If the SMA actuator wire 42 is coated with an electrically insulating layer 40, the insulation may hinder this requirement especially if it is relatively thick (e.g. of the order of lpm or more) as the mechanical action of closing the jaws of the crimp 43 during manufacture is not sufficient to break down the electrically insulating layer 40 and make good contact with the SMA material beneath.
  • the SMA actuator wires 42 may be coated with the electrically insulating layer along part of their length, but not at the crimps 43, as shown in Figure 2A.
  • the length 41 of the part of the SMA actuator wire 42 that is not coated with the electrically insulating layer 40 is greater than the length of contact between the SMA actuator wire 42 and the crimp 43, such that good contact is made within the crimp 43 while providing easy placement of the crimp 43.
  • FIGS 2B and 2C are plan views of a strut element used to hold an SMA actuator wire in successive stages of a method of assembly.
  • a fret 1 is a type of strut element.
  • the fret 1 may be made of metal, for example phosphor bronze, steel or laminate containing conductive components.
  • the fret 1 may be a flat or a formed strip.
  • the fret 1 is shaped as follows.
  • the fret 1 comprises a sacrificial strut body 8 having an elongate portion 8a and laterally protruding arms 8b at the extremes of the elongate portion 8a.
  • the fret 1 further comprises crimp tabs 3 at the ends of the sacrificial strut body 8, i.e. at the ends of the arms 8b.
  • the crimp tabs 3 may be formed into crimps as described below. Thus, the crimp tabs 3 are held apart by the sacrificial strut body 8.
  • the method comprises laying an SMA wire 2 onto the fret 1 in a predetermined position near the ends 3 of the fret 1 across the crimp tabs 3, as shown in Figure 2B.
  • the SMA wire 2 may be made of any suitable SMA material, for example Nitinol or another Titanium-alloy SMA material.
  • the method comprises folding the crimp tabs 3 over the SMA wire 2 and pressing them to form crimps 4 that hold the SMA wire 2 therebetween, as shown in Fig. 2C.
  • the folding and pressing may be performed by a crimp tool (not shown), or by using a punch and anvil.
  • the pressing is performed by the application of pressure and firmly traps the SMA wire 2 in the crimps 4.
  • an SMA actuator wire is provided in a crimp or crimp tab, which is folded and pressed to grip the SMA actuator wire.
  • a crimp or crimp tab that is simply folded and pressed together to grip the SMA actuator wire does not form a good mechanical connection with the wire. This is because the wire is able to slip or move within the folded crimp and friction between the wire and the inner surfaces of the crimp are not sufficient to retain the wire in position.
  • the crimp may be punched (e.g. using a punch and anvil) to form a dimple.
  • Figure 3 shows a crimp 300 which is used to form a good mechanical and electrical connection between the crimp 300 and an SMA actuator wire 306.
  • the crimp 300 comprises a first portion 302 and a second portion 304.
  • the SMA actuator wire 306 is provided on the crimp 300, and the first portion 302 and second portion 304 are folded and pressed together, thereby holding the SMA actuator wire 306 in the crimp 300.
  • the crimp 300 is then punched or stamped to form a dimple 308.
  • the dimple 308 increases the friction between SMA actuator wire 306 and the first and second portions 302, 304 of the crimp 300, and thereby reduces the likelihood of, or degree of, the SMA actuator wire 306 slipping/moving within the crimp 300.
  • SMA-based actuators use the resistance of the SMA actuator wire(s) to determine where the moveable element (being moved by the SMA actuator wire(s)) is positioned relative to the static element, and the power which needs to be applied to the SMA actuator wire(s) to move the moveable element to a required target position.
  • Drive signals for the SMA actuator wire(s) may be generated in a control circuit and supplied to the SMA actuator wires.
  • Such a control circuit may receive an input signal representing a desired position for the moveable element and generates drive signals having powers selected to drive the moveable element to the desired position.
  • the power of the drive signals may be either linear or varied using pulse width modulation.
  • the drive signals may be generated using a resistance feedback control technique, in which case the control circuit measures the resistance of the SMA actuator wire(s) and uses the measured resistance as a feedback signal to control the power of the drive signals.
  • a resistance feedback control technique may be implemented as disclosed in any of WO2013/175197, WO2014/076463, WO2012/066285, W02012/020212,
  • the crimp comprises a dimple 308, as per Figure 3, the resistance between the crimp 300 and the SMA actuator wire 306 as measured at a point along the wire is noisy and varies with time.
  • the source of this noise may arise from the shape and nature of the crimp 300 itself.
  • a flat crimp i.e. a crimp that is simply formed by folding two flat portions/crimp tabs together
  • a dimple 308 when a dimple 308 is formed in the crimp 300, spring back is prevented or significantly reduced because the crimp is distorted in the other direction (i.e. a direction opposite to the spring back direction). This causes the path of the SMA actuator wire 306 through the crimp 300 to not be straight (thereby increasing friction).
  • the dimple 308 significantly reduces spring back in the region of the dimple because (i) the crimp material is caused to flow in a different direction removing the elastic strain that would otherwise open the crimp 300, and (ii) the path of the wire 306 lies at an angle to the direction the crimp 300 would open, thereby reducing the size of the gap caused by a spring back.
  • the present techniques provide solutions to this problem and provide techniques for crimping a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire to ensure that electrical connections between a crimp and SMA actuator wire are made in a controlled manner.
  • Embodiments of the present techniques provide crimps comprising a zone of electrical connection and at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp, and ensuring that electrical connections between the crimp and the SMA actuator wire are only made within the zone of electrical connection. Accordingly, even if the SMA actuator wire moves within the crimp, an electrical connection is only formed in a pre- determined zone, which reduces or removes any variation in resistance in the wire.
  • Embodiments of the present techniques provide an actuation mechanism which may comprise: a static component; a moveable component that is moveable relative to the static component; at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, each SMA actuator wire comprising a first portion coupled to the static component and a second portion coupled to the moveable component; at least one crimp connected to the static component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the first portion of one SMA actuator wire to the static component, the crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection and at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp; at least one crimp connected to the moveable component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the second portion of one SMA actuator wire to the moveable component, the crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection and at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp; and an electrical connection forming mechanism for forming an electrical connection between the SMA actuator wire and the crimps in the zone of electrical connection.
  • SMA shape
  • FIGS 4A and 4B show, respectively, a cross-sectional view of a first technique for forming a good electrical and mechanical connection between a crimp 400 and an SMA actuator wire 408, without the wire and with the wire in the crimp.
  • each SMA actuator wire 408 comprises an electrically insulating coating 410 and an internal surface of each crimp 400 is conductive.
  • Each crimp 400 comprises a zone of electrical connection 414 and zones of electrical insulation 412, 416 where the SMA actuator wire 408 (and coating 410) emerges from the crimp 400.
  • the electrical connection forming mechanism comprises at least one feature 406 on each crimp 400 in the zone of electrical connection 414 to pierce the coating 410 and make electrical contact with the SMA actuator wire 408.
  • the at least one feature 406 may also hold the SMA actuator wire 408 in place/position within the crimp 400.
  • the feature 406 may be any suitable feature for piercing the insulating coating 410 and forming an electrical connection with the SMA actuator wire 408.
  • Each crimp 400 may comprise a first portion 402 and a second portion 404 which are folded together, and the portion of the SMA actuator wire 408 within each crimp 400 is held between the first and second portions 402, 404, as shown in Figure 4B.
  • the at least one feature 406 on each crimp 400 may be provided on the first portion 402 and/or the second portion 404 of the crimp 400.
  • the features 406 on the first and second portions 406 may be aligned (not shown), or may be spaced apart/separated (as shown in Figure 4B). Where there are multiple features 406, the features 406 may have the same form or be of the same type, or may be different or have a different form.
  • FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a second technique for forming a good electrical and mechanical connection between a crimp 500 and an SMA actuator wire 508.
  • each SMA actuator wire 508 comprises an electrically insulating coating 510 along part of its length.
  • An internal surface of each crimp 500 may be entirely conductive.
  • Each crimp 500 comprises a zone of electrical connection 514 and zones of electrical insulation 512, 516 where the SMA actuator wire 508 (and coating 510) emerges from the crimp 500.
  • a portion 506 of the SMA actuator wire 508 that is not coated with the electrically insulating coating 510 is provided in the zone of electrical connection in each crimp.
  • the electrical connection forming mechanism may comprise at least one feature (not shown) on each crimp 500 in the zone of electrical connection 514 to make contact with the portion 506 of the SMA actuator wire 508 that is not coated. In this way, only the uncoated portion 506 of the SMA actuator wire 508 in the zone of electrical connection 514 comes into contact with the at least one feature.
  • the at least one feature that makes contact with the SMA actuator wire 508 is electrically conductive.
  • the at least one feature on each crimp 500 may be provided on the first portion 502 and/or the second portion 504 of the crimp 500.
  • the electrical connection forming mechanism may comprise a dimple (not shown in Figure 5) in the crimp 500 in the zone of electrical connection 514.
  • the dimple may be formed by punching or stamping the crimp 500 in the zone of electrical connection 514. This may solve the problem of variable resistance observed in crimps that take the form shown in Figure 3, as only the portion 506 of the SMA actuator wire 508 that is uncoated is able to form an electrical connection with the crimp 500. Thus, even if the SMA actuator wire 508 moves in the gaps regions away from the dimple, the SMA actuator wire 508 in these regions is coated with an insulative coating, and the movement therefore does not affect the resistance of the wire.
  • the electrically insulating layer 510 may be provided along part of the length of the SMA actuator wire 508 during manufacture by selective coating (for example using a mask prior to coating), or by coating the entire length of the SMA actuator wire 508 and subsequently selectively removing part of the electrically insulating layer 510. In the latter case, removal of the electrically insulating layer 510 may be by mechanical abrasion, or other chemical or physical means, such as focussed laser- or plasma-ablation. Hence an electrically insulating coating may be selectively provided along part of the length to form the electrically insulating layer 510 at the zone of electrical insulation 512, 516.
  • electrical insulating layer 510 may be selectively provided at the zone of the electrical insulation 512, 516 by means of an electrical insulating tape, an electrical insulating sheath, an electrical insulating paint or an electrical insulating gel.
  • Figure 6 shows a plan view of a third technique for forming a good electrical and mechanical connection between a crimp 600 and an SMA actuator wire (not shown).
  • an internal surface of each crimp 600 is conductive and the SMA actuator wire is not coated with an insulating coating.
  • Each crimp 600 comprises a zone of electrical connection 604 and zones of electrical insulation 602, 606 where the SMA actuator wire (and coating) emerges from the crimp 600.
  • the electrical connection forming mechanism comprises an electrically insulating layer on the internal surface of each crimp 600 in the at least one zone of electrical insulation 602, 606.
  • An SMA actuator wire (uncoated) may be provided in the crimp such that it lies substantially parallel to line A, and the crimp 600 may be folded along line A and pressed to grip the wire within the crimp.
  • the SMA actuator wire contacts the conductive inner surface of the crimp 600 only in the zone of electrical connection 604. In the zones of electrical insulation 606, 606, no electrical connection is formed between the wire and the crimp.
  • the electrically insulating layer may be formed by patterning the internal surface of each crimp 600 in the zones of electrical insulation 602, 606.
  • the insulating layer is provided on the first and second portion of each crimp 600.
  • the insulating layer may be formed by patterning using any one or more of the following techniques: wet etching, dry etching, electro plating, sputtering, photolithography and mechanical etching. It will be understood that this is a non- exhaustive list.
  • the electrically insulating layer may be selective provided on the internal surface of each crimp 600 in the at least one zone of electrical insulation 602, 606.
  • electrical insulating layer may be selectively provided at the zone of the electrical insulation 602, 606 by means of an electrical insulating tape, an electrical insulating sheath, an electrical insulating paint or an electrical insulating gel.
  • the electrical connection forming mechanism may be, or may further comprise a liquid disposed within each crimp, wherein the liquid transforms into a solid within each crimp.
  • the liquid may be electrically non-conductive (insulative) and may be disposed only in the at least one zone of electrical insulation of each crimp.
  • the liquid may be electrically conductive and may be disposed in the zone(s) of electrical connection of each crimp.
  • the electrical forming mechanism may be or may comprise disposing a non-conductive liquid in the at least one zone of electrical insulation in each crimp, and disposing an electrically conductive liquid in the zone of electrical connection in each crimp, wherein each liquid transforms into a solid within each crimp.
  • the liquid may be an adhesive.
  • the liquid may be transformed into a solid by using any one of the following techniques: an additive, drying, evaporation, pressure, heating, curing, light curing, moisture curing, chemical curing, and heat curing.
  • each crimp may comprise a patterned inner surface for gripping an SMA actuator wire when the crimp is closed, where the pattern increases the friction between crimp and wire relative to a featureless or substantially flat folded crimp.
  • the pattern may be, for example, a pattern of raised bumps, dots, or ridges.
  • the pattern may be provided across the whole of the inner surface of the crimp or at least a portion of the inner surface of the crimp.
  • the pattern may be provided on the first portion and/or the second portion of the crimp.
  • embodiments of the present techniques provide an actuation mechanism comprising : a static component; a moveable component that is moveable relative to the static component; at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, each SMA actuator wire comprising a first portion coupled to the static component and a second portion coupled to the moveable component; at least one crimp connected to the static component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the first portion of one SMA actuator wire to the static component, the crimp comprising a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire; and at least one crimp connected to the moveable component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the second portion of one SMA actuator wire to the moveable component, the crimp comprising a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire.
  • SMA shape memory alloy
  • an actuation mechanism comprising: a static component; a moveable component that is moveable relative to the static component; at least one shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator wire, each SMA actuator wire comprising a first portion coupled to the static component and a second portion coupled to the moveable component; at least one crimp connected to the static component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the first portion of one SMA actuator wire to the static component, the crimp comprising a zone of electrical connection, at least one zone of electrical insulation where the SMA wire emerges from the crimp, and a patterned inner surface for gripping the SMA actuator wire; at least one crimp connected to the moveable component and arranged to electrically and mechanically connect the second portion of one SMA actuator wire to the moveable component, the crimp compris

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Connections Effected By Soldering, Adhesion, Or Permanent Deformation (AREA)
  • Adjustment Of Camera Lenses (AREA)

Abstract

D'une manière générale, des modes de réalisation de la présente invention concernent des techniques améliorées pour sertir un fil d'actionneur en alliage à mémoire de forme (SMA) permettant de garantir que des connexions électriques entre une sertissure et un fil d'actionneur en SMA sont effectuées de manière contrôlée.
PCT/GB2019/052305 2018-08-16 2019-08-16 Sertissage amélioré Ceased WO2020035697A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2103226.3A GB2591648B (en) 2018-08-16 2019-08-16 Improved crimping
CN201980068060.8A CN112888854B (zh) 2018-08-16 2019-08-16 改进的夹压

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1813407.2 2018-08-16
GB1813407.2A GB2576362A (en) 2018-08-16 2018-08-16 Improved crimping

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2020035697A1 true WO2020035697A1 (fr) 2020-02-20

Family

ID=63668060

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2019/052305 Ceased WO2020035697A1 (fr) 2018-08-16 2019-08-16 Sertissage amélioré

Country Status (3)

Country Link
CN (1) CN112888854B (fr)
GB (2) GB2576362A (fr)
WO (1) WO2020035697A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2022092230A1 (fr) * 2020-11-02 2022-05-05 アルプスアルパイン株式会社 Dispositif d'entraînement de lentille, module de caméra et procédé de fabrication de dispositif d'entraînement de lentille

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB202111134D0 (en) * 2021-08-02 2021-09-15 Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd Actuator assembly
CN113991328A (zh) * 2021-11-11 2022-01-28 广东海德亚科技有限公司 形状记忆合金线固接端头、固接产品以及固接方法
CN114361816A (zh) * 2022-01-05 2022-04-15 广东海德亚科技有限公司 Sma线端头组件及其连接方法

Citations (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3897992A (en) * 1974-07-17 1975-08-05 Amp Inc Crimping connector means for fine wires
WO2008129291A2 (fr) * 2007-04-23 2008-10-30 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil d'actionnement en alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2010029316A2 (fr) 2008-09-12 2010-03-18 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Stabilisation d’image optique
WO2010089529A1 (fr) 2009-02-09 2010-08-12 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Stabilisation d'image optique
WO2011104518A1 (fr) 2010-02-26 2011-09-01 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil d'actionnement à alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2012020212A1 (fr) 2010-08-09 2012-02-16 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil de prise de vues
WO2012038703A2 (fr) 2010-09-22 2012-03-29 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Stabilisation d'image optique
WO2012066285A1 (fr) 2010-11-18 2012-05-24 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil d'actionnement à alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2013175197A1 (fr) 2012-05-25 2013-11-28 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil d'actionnement à alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2014076463A1 (fr) 2012-11-14 2014-05-22 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Commande d'un appareil d'actionnement à alliage à mémoire de forme (sma)
WO2015036761A1 (fr) 2013-09-12 2015-03-19 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Isolation de fils d'actionneur à alliage à mémoire de forme (amf) dans une caméra miniature
WO2016189314A1 (fr) 2015-05-26 2016-12-01 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Procédé d'assemblage d'un agencement d'actionneur en alliage à mémoire de forme

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3852702A (en) * 1973-07-27 1974-12-03 Amp Inc Electrical terminal having pyramid teeth thereon
DE60325446D1 (de) * 2002-10-07 2009-02-05 Tyco Electronics Amp Gmbh Crimpverbinder
US7491101B2 (en) * 2004-06-17 2009-02-17 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Self-locking wire terminal and shape memory wire termination system
US7650914B2 (en) * 2006-06-22 2010-01-26 Autosplice, Inc. Apparatus and methods for filament crimping and manufacturing
JP2010157396A (ja) * 2008-12-26 2010-07-15 Autonetworks Technologies Ltd コネクタ及びその製造方法
JP2011002811A (ja) * 2009-05-19 2011-01-06 Mitsumi Electric Co Ltd レンズ駆動装置、装入方法、およびｓｍａアセンブリ
JP5561540B2 (ja) * 2010-09-08 2014-07-30 株式会社オートネットワーク技術研究所 端子金具および端子金具の製造方法
KR20190015528A (ko) * 2016-06-09 2019-02-13 허친슨 테크놀로지 인코포레이티드 현가 조립체를 위한 접착제를 갖는 형상기억합금 와이어 부착 구조물

Patent Citations (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3897992A (en) * 1974-07-17 1975-08-05 Amp Inc Crimping connector means for fine wires
WO2008129291A2 (fr) * 2007-04-23 2008-10-30 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil d'actionnement en alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2010029316A2 (fr) 2008-09-12 2010-03-18 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Stabilisation d’image optique
WO2010089529A1 (fr) 2009-02-09 2010-08-12 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Stabilisation d'image optique
WO2011104518A1 (fr) 2010-02-26 2011-09-01 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil d'actionnement à alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2012020212A1 (fr) 2010-08-09 2012-02-16 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil de prise de vues
WO2012038703A2 (fr) 2010-09-22 2012-03-29 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Stabilisation d'image optique
WO2012066285A1 (fr) 2010-11-18 2012-05-24 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil d'actionnement à alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2013175197A1 (fr) 2012-05-25 2013-11-28 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Appareil d'actionnement à alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2014076463A1 (fr) 2012-11-14 2014-05-22 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Commande d'un appareil d'actionnement à alliage à mémoire de forme (sma)
WO2015036761A1 (fr) 2013-09-12 2015-03-19 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Isolation de fils d'actionneur à alliage à mémoire de forme (amf) dans une caméra miniature
US20160227088A1 (en) * 2013-09-12 2016-08-04 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Insulation of sma actuator wires in a miniature camera
WO2016189314A1 (fr) 2015-05-26 2016-12-01 Cambridge Mechatronics Limited Procédé d'assemblage d'un agencement d'actionneur en alliage à mémoire de forme

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2022092230A1 (fr) * 2020-11-02 2022-05-05 アルプスアルパイン株式会社 Dispositif d'entraînement de lentille, module de caméra et procédé de fabrication de dispositif d'entraînement de lentille

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB202103226D0 (en) 2021-04-21
GB2576362A (en) 2020-02-19
GB2591648A (en) 2021-08-04
CN112888854A (zh) 2021-06-01
GB201813407D0 (en) 2018-10-03
CN112888854B (zh) 2024-10-18
GB2591648B (en) 2023-05-10

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2020035697A1 (fr) Sertissage amélioré
US11781534B2 (en) Compact SMA actuator
JP5967366B2 (ja) 平型形状記憶ケーブル体及びそれを使用した駆動装置
US11286916B2 (en) Assembly method for a shape memory alloy actuator arrangement
TWI255083B (en) Jack
CN111295513A (zh) 形状记忆合金致动器支承部
EP3435490B1 (fr) Élément d'assistance de connexion et ensemble de carte de circuit
GB2581689A (en) Continuous wiring of shape memory alloy actuators
EP3532896B1 (fr) Dispositif à iris variable employant un élément en alliage à mémoire de forme
WO2015116299A2 (fr) Interconnexion de haute fiabilité pour des circuits d'encre conductrice
WO2021084257A1 (fr) Joint électrique et procédé de formation associé
JP5573960B2 (ja) アクチュエータ
JP6156666B2 (ja) 駆動装置
US9620880B2 (en) Direct plug element having improved contacting
WO2011155380A1 (fr) Connecteur
JP7063581B2 (ja) アクチュエータ
CN219086299U (zh) 接头和致动器组件
JP2017091969A (ja) 同軸コネクタ
JPH08111267A (ja) Ｚｉｆコネクタ装置
CN112904640B (zh) 光学部件驱动装置、照相机装置以及电子设备
JPH10125439A (ja) 端子接続方法
JP2008084957A (ja) アクチュエータの実装構造及び実装方法
TWI660545B (zh) Crimp connector
JP2007307572A (ja) Ｆｐｃの半田付け方法及び半田付け構造
JP5759280B2 (ja) 端子接続構造

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 19758475

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 202103226

Country of ref document: GB

Kind code of ref document: A

Free format text: PCT FILING DATE = 20190816

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 19758475

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1