WO2009076477A1 - 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

OPTICAL LENS IMAGE h i ABfLfZA f TON S\ STEM$

Field of the Invention

[0001 j The present invention i elates Jo apnea! lens systems and 5« particular, i elates to such M₁ stems cmplo>iθg clectioactn c poh mei transdueeis Rt adμist the icns to provide auto-fπeustng, zoom, image stabilization and oi shuttci apei Hire capabilities

Background

[0002 j In conventional optical systems, such as m digital camαas motυis and solenoids arc used as sources of power to displace gears and cams which act upon optica! elements, e g . lenses, to pro\ κ1e focusing, zoom, and image stabilisation {also referred to as shake pre\ cation} There are many anUges to such conventional systems ~ powci consumption is high, i espouse times aic long, accuracy is limited and space requirements are high

[0003] λάλ ancements in miniaturized technologies ha\ c IeJ to

highly- furtcUonnuf, Iighl-u eight poi table

foi e\en further improvements An example of this is the development of cellulas telephones to include a cameia, often ieferred to as camera phones While the maioi itv of such camera phnπes emplo> an al! -mechanical lens mπdule hav ing a small foi m factoi lens, this approach does not offei

ot auto-foeusmg, zoom and image stabilisation capabilities due to the significant mimbei of mo\ mg patts leqiuted For example, zoom capability icquiies a combination of lens elements, a motcu, and a cam mechanism {or iransmitung the rotational mm ement of the motoi to hneai movement in order to adjust the relate c positions of the lenses and an associated image sensor in aider to obtain the desired magnification In addition to the motor and cam mechanism, a plurality of reduction gears are is used to accurate H control the relative positioning of the lenses [0^βθ4| Eicctjumagnctic type acaiarøj s which include a coil generating a magnetic foicc vvhαe the magnet has- a length longer than that of the coil m the optical axis direction { common!} referred to as ^*\oicc coils^"') are comrnortlv employed to perform mam' of the aυto-foeus. and jvom actuator fuocUons. v. ithm digital still cameras and, Jo s.ome extent, in cameia phones This \oιce coil rcchuologj has been widely accepted as it enables small and lighter optical lens systems

a downside to lighter and smaller cameras, particular!) those w ith capabilities for longer exposure times and ifig higher resolution sensors is the greater effect that camera shake, due primarily to hand lϋtcr has. on the qualuv of photographs, i e . causing blumng To compensate for camera shake,

measures pitch and vaw , it is not capable of tucasunng toll, i c , ioution about the axis defined bs the lens band Com entionail)

been υsed \\ ith manj external components to achieve the full-scale range of image stabilization InvenSense, lnc prov ides an iniegsated

gvioscope using MEMS technology for image stabilization which offcib smaller sizing

[00Θ5J W In Ic \ aπable focusing zoom and image stabilization features are possible %\ ithm a camera photic and other optical

mg a relatneh sina.ll ftn m faecøi „ these featutes add substantially to {he moral! mass of these deuces Futiher due to the necessity of an cxtcnsi\c number of mov ing components powei consumption is sigmficanth high and numufactisung ctxsts are uiα eased

[0006] Accordmgh Jt

lens s\ stem \\ hich osetcomes the limitations of the pnoi asf It would be parncυlarlv advantageous to prov ide such a svbtein wherebv the anangemcm of and die mechanical in.lejfa.ee between a lens and us actuator structure wctc highlj integrated so as to i educe the foϋii factυt as much as possible It would be gϊcarh beneficial if such an optical s\stem lnx oKcd a minimal numbei of mechanical eomponews therebv reducing the compicMts and fabncatio« costs of the ssstem

Summary of the Indention

[ 0007] The pjesctif im cntion includes optical lens s

\ stems and tees and methods for usmu them lhc svstcms and

pol\ mer-based (I 4P) actuators tniegtated dieseui to a

d|u^t a parameiei of the icc_'Svswm Fot example, the one or mate EΛP aetuatots ma> be conflgioed io automatically adjust the focal length of the lcnb (auto-focusing), magmf) the image being focused on bv the lens (zoom), and os adjust for

unwanted motion undergone b\ the lens svstem (image stabilization or shake pi mention)

[0008 [ The one or more BAP actuators include one oi more EAP transducers and one or more output members are incest atcd w ith one ot mote of a lens pπitsoti, a sensor portion and a iJuittei apcrtui c portion of the subiect lens s

\ stems tees The lens portion (i e , the lens stack or batrei) includes at least one lens lrt ccrtasrt embodiments, the lens portion tvptcalh includes a iociiϋing lens component a» well as art afocal lens component The sensoi poiuon includes, an image seπsπi which teeeix es tlie image horn the lens portion of the deuce for digital processing bj image pioeesssπg eleeti omcs

of the EAP actuators(s), i e ,

the application of a \ oltage to the F \P transducer adjusts the relatne position of a lens snd or sensor component to effect Oi modify an optical paiametet of the leas system

J0009] In one \ anatioru dt\ actuator asscrαbh (including at least one EAP actuator) may be used to adjust the position of a poitioπ of the lens stack along its longitudinal axis (/-axis) relative to the sensoi poi tion in oi der to change the focal length of the lens stack In another \ as iation the same or different actuator mas be used to adjust the position of one or more lenses vuthm the stack relatn e to each othej alππs the Iππgitudtnal axis (/-axis) to adsitst the magnification oi the lens sj stem boll jet, m atiorhci s anation, an αctuatox may be used to

e tlie sensoi portion of the system portion within a planar direction (X-axis and/or Y-axis) relative to the Sens portion, or visa- versa, in order to compensate for unwanted motion imposed on the system, i.e., to stabilize the image imposed on the image sensor. Other features of the present invention include the use of an EAP actuator to control the aperture size of a tens system ancl'or control the opening and closing of a shutter mechanism. An EAP actuator may provide only a single function (e.g., shutter control or image stabilization) or a combination of functions (e.g., auto-focus and zoom). J(RHO] The present invention also includes methods for using the subject devices and systems to focus and/or magnify an image, or to cancel out unwanted movement of the devices/systems. Other methods include methods of fabricating the subject devices and systems. 10011 ] These and other features, objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those persons skilled in the art upon reading the details of the invention as more fully described below.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] ^"The invention is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying schematic drawings, where variation of the invention from that shown in the figures is contemplated. To facilitate understanding of the invention description, the same reference numerals have been used {where practical) to designate similar elements that are common to the drawings. Included in the drawings are the following figures:

Figs. 1 A and IB are a sectional perspective and exploded assembly views, respectively, of an optical lens system of the present invention employing an eiecfroactive polymer actuator configured to provide auto-focusing;

Figs, 2 A and 2B provide schematic illustrations of an eleetroactϊve polymer film for use with the optica! systems of the present invention before and after application of a voltage;

Fig. 3 is a sectional perspective view of another optical lens system of the present invention employing another type of electroactive polymer actuator for focus control.;

Figs. 4A and 4B are sectional perspective and exploded assembly views, respectively, of another optica! lens system employing an actuator combination to control each of zoom and auto-focus;

Figs. 5 A and 5B are perspective views showing an alternative means of control! ing zoom;

Figs. 6A-6C are perspective views showing progressive stages of actuation of the transducer arrangement in Figs. 5A and 5B:

Figs. 7A and 7B are sectional perspective anά exploded assembly views, respectively, of another optical lens system of the present invention configured to provide auto- focusing and image stabilization capabilities; Fig. H is an exploded assembly view of the image stabilization cartridge of the Sens system of Figs. ^A ancTB,

Figs, 9 A and ^B are top and bottom planar \ lews, respectiv e.) , of the electrode configuration of the elcccroactive polymer transducer of the image stabilization cartridge of Fig <S;

Figs. JOΛ and H⁾B are top and bottom planar views, respective!)., of another embodiment of a framed electroactive polymer transducer usable vvrih the image stabilization cartridge of f ig. 8;

Figs. IuC and 1OD are top and bottom planar views, respectively, of the eJcctroacme films employed in the transducer of Figs. IOA and 10B;

Figs, I IA and I I B show the passne stiffness and load response, respectively, of the lens system of Figs. 7 A and 7B;

Fi g. 12 A is a perspective view of a leaf spring biasing member usable for biasing an EAP auto-focus actuator of the present invention;

Figs I 2B and 12C are perspeetn c cioss-scctional and top \ lews of an optical lens sj srem of the present invention m which the leaf spring biasing member of Fig. 12 A is m operative use.

Fig. 13 is a pet speciiv e cross-sectional view of another optical lens, system of the present im entioii using an sntegtated leaf spting biasing member.

Figs S 4A and S 4S are perspeetn e cross-sectional \ tews of a lens

srem housing with and without an associated lens barrel, respectively, having another type of integrated spring biasing member;

Figs. Ϊ 5Λ and ! 5B are perspectiv e and cross-sectional v ιews of an assembled lens barrel and flange assembly usable w ith the lens s> stems of the present invention where the assembly prov ides an adjustable barrel design for purposes of focus calibration; Fig. 15C illustrates use of a tool for cahbraύng the infinity focus parameter of the lens ban el assembly of Figs. 15 A and 15B.

Figs, 16A and 16S are perspective and eross-scetkmal view s of another lens barrel assembly hav ing an adjustable flange design for purposes of focus calibration; Figs. J 7Λ and PB are cross-sectional v iews of lens systems having single-phase and two- phase actuator configurations, respectively, which prov ide a very compact, low-profile form factor.

Figs. 18A and 188 are perspcctrv e and cross-sectional uews of an exemplary FAP actuator-based lens displacement mechanism of the present inv ention; Figs. I9A and WB aic perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of another EΛP lens displacement mechanism useable with the piesent invention. Figs 20A and 2UB are peispcctixc and cross-sectional v iews, rcspeefa eh , of another iens displacement mechanism which cmplo>s CAP actuators and mechanical linkages,

Fig 21 is a ci oss-seetiOJw! v iew of anothei hv bnd lens displacement svstem of the ptesent ention.

Figs 22A and 22B arc perspective and cross-seetional v ievx s, respectiv ely, of an rvpe of ICON displacement mechanism of Ae ptesαit invention.

Figs. 23Λ and 23B are perspective and cioiss-secttonal

ely, of a multi-stage

"inchworm ^* type of lens displacement mechanism of the psesenf invention

Fig 24A is a schematic illustration of cross-section of an actuator carts idge of the lens displacement mechanism of Figs 23 Λ and 23B,

Figs 24B-24F schematically illustrate satious portions of the actuαtυi and dssυcidfcd !c»s guide rail during an actuation cycle.

Figs 25A-2.^SC aie crciss-sectional Λ lews of a multi-actuatot lens displacement system of the present sm ention, tigs 26Λ and 26B are ctoss-sectionat \ iew s of inactive and active states of lens image stabilization system of the present invention,

Figs 27A-27C arc cross-scettnnal \ ιev>>s of anothei lens image stabilization sv stem of the present inv ention m unions acin ation states.

Fig 2S is an evplυded v iew of an apcrtute shutter mechanism of the picsent imention which is suitable for use with the subject lens s\ stems as well as other known lens sv stems

Fig 284 is a side view of the rotating collar of the shutter aperture mechanism of Fig 28,

Figs 2^Q-W^QO shou the aperture shutter mechanism of Fig 2H in fulh opened, paϋully πpen and full} closed states, respeetn elv,

Figs 3ϋΛ and ^{)B are etoss-sectiona! \ tews of a unimorph aetuatot film lni use m the lens displacement mechanisms of the present invention.

Figs 31 A and 3 IR illusjrate side \ ie\vs of another lens displacement mechanism of {he present inv ention in inactive and activ e states respectively, empkmng the ummυiph aeatafos 01m of Figs 30Λ and 30B,

Figs 32A and 32B illusttate side \ icvx s of anothet lens displacement mechanism of the ptesent imenuon which employs- a iinitnoiph jctuatoi.

Figs 33A and 33B iiiustiate the use of FΛP actuator

features, which function to address cfirain eonihtioos e g hmnidiry, ut the ambiftit env ironment m which the lens sj stem is operated in Oider to optimize perfotmancc.

Fig 34 shows a cross-seettona! v iew of a lens displacement svstem of the present invention employing anothet configuration foi addtcssmg ambient conditions, Fsgs 34Λ and 34B arc pcispective and top v iew* of a the ambient condition conttol mechanism of the system of

Fig U Fig. 35 shows a cross-sectional view of another lens displacement sy stem of the present imcntion

ing a lens position sensor.

Fig 36A is a perspective \ sew of another variation the mechanical componentry of a shutter ''aperture mechanism of the present i mention.

Figs. 36B and 36C illustrate the shutter aperture of Fig 36A m fully open and full} closed states, respectively, and

Fig 36D is a perspective \ iew of the mechanism of Fig. 36A operate el> coupled with an

LAP actuator of the present i mention: and

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0^βl3| Before the de\ sees, systems and methods of the present nnenriαn arc described, it is to be understood that this imcntion is not limited to a particular form fit or applications as such may vary Thus, while the present invention is primarily described in the context of a variable focus camera lens, the subject optical systems may be used in microscopes:, binoculars, telescopes, camcorders, projectors, eyeglasses as well as other types of optical applications. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention w ill be limited on K b> the appended claims.

[0014] Referring now to the diawings, Figs 1Λ and IB illustrate an optical lens system of the present i mention ha\ ing auto-focus capabilities ^'The figures detail a lens module I 00 has ing a lens barrel 108 holding one OF more lenses (not shown) An aperture 106 as

idcd at a dista! or front end of lens barrel 108 Positioned distalK' of aperture 106 is an eiectroactive polymer (EAP) actuator 102 ing an electroactήc polymer film 12⁽K Film 120 sandv. ichcd about tts periphery by frame sides 122a, 122b and centrally by disc sides 104a, 104b, ieav inu an exposed annular section of film 120 1 he structure and function of the clectroacUx c films are now discussed in greater detail with reference to Figs. 2Λ and 28,

|00!5] Λs illustrated m the schematic draw ings of Figs. 2Λ and 2B, electroactn e film 2 comprises a composite of materials which includes a thin polymeric dielectric layer 4 sandwiched between compliant electrode plates or layers 6. thereby forming a capaotn c structure. As seen in Fig, 28, when a voltage is applied across the electrodes, the unlike chatges in the two electrodes 6 are attracted to each other and these electrostatic attractive ibices compress the dielectric layer 4 (along the /-axis) Additionally, the reptihn c forces between like charges in each electrode tend to stretch the dielectric in plane (along the X- and Y~axes}, thereby reducing the thickness of the film The dielectric layer 4 is

caused to deflect with a change in electric field As electrodes 6 are compliant, they change shape with dielectric layer 4. Generally speaking, deflection refers to any displacement, expansion, contraction, torsion, linear or area strain, or any other deformation of a portion of dielectric layer 4. Depending on the form fit architecture, e.g.. the frame m which eapaeήne structure is employed, this deflection mav be used to produce mechanical work. The electroaetύ c film 2 ma> be pre-straincd within flic frame to improv e conv crsion between electrical and mechanical energy, i.e., the prc-strain allows the film to deflect more and provide gx eater mechanical work

[00] ύ] With a voltage applied, the elcctroactnc film 2 continues_* to deflect until mechanical forces balance the electrostatic forces tiriv mg the deflection. The mechanical forces include elastic restoring forces of the dielectric layer 4, the compliance of the electrodes 6 and any external resistance prov ided by a de% ice and or load coupled to film 2 The resultant deflection of die film as a result of the applied voltage may also depend on a number of other factors such as the dielcctπc constant of the elastomeπc material and its Size and stiffness. Remov al of the v oltage difference and the induced charge causes the reverse effects, with a return to the itiacm c state as illustrated in Fig. 2A.

[00171 The length L and width W of electroacf ivc polymer film 2 are much greater than its thickness t. Typical K, the dielectric

4 has a thickness m ranye from about 1 μm to about KMi μm and is ϊikelj thicker than each of the electrodes It ts desirable to select the elastic modulus and thickness of electrodes 6 such that the additional stiffness they contribute to the actuator is generally less than the stiffness of the dielectric layer, which has a relatively Sov. modulus of elasticity, i.e., less than about 100 MPa.

[001 Sj Classes of electroactive polymer materials suitable for use \\ ith the subiect optical stems include but are not limited to dielectric elastomers, eleetrostrietive polymers, electronic electroaetive polymers, and ionic cleetroactrvc polymers, and some copolv rners. Suitable dielectric materials include but are not limited to silicone, acrylic, poiyurethane, flourosilieone, etc blectJOstrictive poljmers are characterized b> the non-linear reaction of electroactiv e polymers. Electronic electroactive polymers typically change shape or dimensions due to migration of electrons in response to electric field (usually dry). Ionic electroactix e polymers are polymers that ehanye shape or dimensions due to migration of ions m x espouse to electric field (usually wet and contains electrolyte). Suitable electrode materials include carbon, gold, platinum, aluminum, etc. Suitable films and materials for use with the diaphragm cartridges of the present invention are disclosed m the following U S. pateαts. 6.37&.971. 6,583,533, 6,664,7 UH, which are herein incorporated by reference.

10019) With reference again to Figs, i A and I B, the operatn e engagement of FAP actuator 102 \\ ith lens barrel and stack 108 enables auto-focusing of the lens assembiv Frame 122 is affixed to a distal end of a housing 114 by means of bolts 126a which are received in holes: 126b, v\hile disc or cap portion 104 of the EAP actuatox K)2 is positioned or mounted against the distal end of lens barrel 108, whereby an aperture 1 18 within cap 104 ss axially aligned with aperture HK) to allow for the passage of light to die lens assembly. A biasing member m the form of leaf spring mechanism 1 Ui is opcrathcϊy engaged between lens barrel IW and frame 122 to pre-load or bias disc 104 in the direction of arrow 125 to ide a frustum-shaped architecture. Such frusmm-rvpe actuators ate described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial Nos, i 1 085,798. 1 1 085,804 and 1 1/6 ϊ 8,577, each incorporated by reference iti its entirety Pre-loading or basing insures that aetuatot WZ actuates in the desired duection rather than simph wrinkle upon electrode actu ation. With the illustrated leaf spring mechanism 1 10, housing 1 14 may be prm ide with wall recesses J 32 or the like TO accommodate and operath civ position one or more leaf springs reiafh e to the actuator 102. Other biasing means such as simple positive rate springs (e g , coil spring) as shown in Fig. 7 A may aUcrnatrvelv be used.

[ΘO2^β| On the proximal or back side of lens asscmblj or stack 108 is an image sensor detector S 16 (such as a charge-couple

tee (CCO)) w hich recedes the image for digital processing by control electronics 128 (shown in Fig. 1 B only). The focal length of Sens stack 108 is adjustable by the selective actuation of EAP actuator 102 (where the axial position of one or more lenses is adjusted reiatn c to the other lenses) Sensor 1 16 as well as actuatox 102 ma> be powered \ ia electrical coupling to power supplj 130.

(002I ] As shown in Fig 1 B, a completed camera assembh w ill include at least a shroud or eo\er I J 2. Other component, such an infrared (IR) filter (not shown), commonly used with com entional lens systems, may also be operatrv el> incorporated into system 100. |OO22] Fig. 3 illustrates another lens module 140 of the present ind ention. Cylindrical!}'- shaped lens barrel 142. bal ing one or more lenses 144. is movably held w ithin outer and inner housing members 146, 14W with a distal portion 142a slidahiy positioned through an opening in outer housing 146 and a proximal portion 142b slidabiy positioned through an opening in inner housing 148. The juncture between distal and proximal barrel portions Ϊ42a, ϊ 42b defines an annular shoulder 150 to which an annular inner frame member 15S of RAP actuator 152 is mounted. Actuator 152 has a double-frustum architecture w ith each frustum defined bj a film 154a. 154b held m a stretched condition betw ceo inner frame member 158, with the peripheral portion of distal film 154a held between outcx bousing 146 and frame block or spacer 156, and a peripheral portion of proximal film 154b held between inner housing 148 and frame block 156 Instead of being biased by a leaf spring mechanism, the distal film 154a of the double frustum structure ptm ides the preload fot actuator 152 in the ducciion of at tow 155. thereby rum mg Sens barrel 142 in the same dirccnon to adjust the focal lens 144. While the unbiased film 154b is an LAP film, rhe biased film 154a need not be, and may simply be an eiastorneπe webbing. Should film 154a comprise an electroacttve polymer material, however, it may be employed for sensing position by capacitance change or ma\ , eolicccήcly with film 154b, prov ide a t\\ o-phase actuatox In the latter ease, when film 1 *>4b is actuated, it causes Sens bairel 142 to roo\e in the dneetion of anow 1 ^7. adjusting the focal length of lens 144 m die opposite direction [0023 j m another \ an at ion of the imendon, tigs 44 and 4B show an optical s\ stem 160 cmμloj ing an actuatoi combination to contiol each of focus and zoom The s; stem has a focus singe housed vuthm housing 1 S2 and includes focusing lens 164 held vuthtn tens barrel 162 and dm en by a diapluagm actuatoi lbb Focusing is adμusted by \ Irving the distance butw een lens IM and image sensot 180 m a maαnei similar io dial descubcd w uh tcspcct to Figb I -\ and 1 B

ides a /corn stage

includes a zoom lens 16?* held w ithm lens f sxtui c 1 "0 and undes lens co\ er 1 "6 w hsch is mechanicalls coupled to a pair of planar actuatot s ! 72a 1 ^"2b bv \\ av of as matures 174a, 174b, respcctn civ Each of these actuators 172a, 172b is fos røcd b> stretching E ^<\P film o\et Oi upon a common hamc clement 178 affixed to the aimatuies Zoom function is. accomplished bv

the distance between lens 164 and lens ϊ 68

focus adjustment requiies between about 0 1 and 2 0 mm of movement, uhile zoom often sequires about ^ Jo 10 times that amount of stroke Though not shown it also is contemplated that multiple faces of a combined iiaine may earn dωμhiagm actuatot s alone os μlanat actuatot s alone boll further, non-orthogonal frame geomerr> ma> be

cd

(0024] In cases vihetc {here is more a\ ailablc space it ma\ be desirable to pro\ ide an Jt PAM zoom focus engine suitable fot longet zoom

of the see fjgs

e lens system 1⁰O in which a telescopic arrangement of paued sets of planar actuators 192a, 192b, whetc one of each pair is. positioned on opposite Sides of a lens carriage 194 which is fixed to lens barrel 196 w hich carries zoom lens 198 W hen actuated, the plana* actuatoi arrangement tiansiatcs. lens barrel W6 and zoom lens. 1 ^QS along the focal axis relatn c to an image sciisoi 200 va the dii cctnms of arums 202 and 204, whcxc ϊius 5Λ and 5B show mtnsmum and maximum zoom positions,

cly JO025J The manner m which die actuators are connected and opes ate is claufied by the enlarged section x \c\\ s oi Figs 6Λ-6C w Inch jHu&ttate \ as sous actuation stages oi an actuator stack of Figs 5 A and 5 B f he pjogtcssrve motion

c b\ connection of successiv e output bais 208 to actuatoi fiame sections 206 with the UInCtHInSt OiItPiIt HaJ attached tπ a xod 2 !0 tπ dnv c zπom components

[0026 [ Turning urns to Figs 7 A and 7B, thcte is shown anothci optical lenb system 3(K) of the picsent uiventiυn

Lens module

\% shown to e four lenses ^ 14a, 314b, 314e and 314d but few er or more lenses ma\ be employed f ,ens assembh

film >2^ extending bcmecn an outer hamc 322 and an itinei disc m cap membci

is between bottom housing 324 and top housing 326 A teassng membci m the foim of cπil spttng 332 is positioned about lens barrel. 3 J 2 and operafively engaged between the back end 334 of bottom housing 324 and a shoulder or flange 336 of lens barrel 3 J 2, thereby pre-loading or biasing cap or disc 328 in the direction of arrow 335 to provide a frustum-shape to EAP actuator 32(1 [0027] The radial rigidity of the actuator's disc member 328 and the counter-force/bias (opposite that of arrow 335) imposed on the distal end of lens barrel 312 assist in maintaining the concentricity of the barrel within the lens module 302. Moreover, the overall structure of the biased EAP actuator effectively suspends the Sens barrel, making it unaffected by gravity, as evidenced by the graph of Fig. 1 SA which shows the passive stiffness of such a lens positioning system. Fig. 1 IB, on the other hand, illustrates the normal load response of the system after initiation of travel from the hard stop position.

[0028] A bushing wall 31 S extends upward from the back cod 334 of housing 324 and is seated between coil spring 332 and the outer surface of lens barrel 312. Bushing 31 S acts as a linear guide for Sens barrel 352 and, together with flange 336, provides a travel stop at a maximum ''macro" (near) focus position. Having a buiϊt-in travel or hard stop is also useful upon initial calibration of the barret's position during manufacturing assembly of system 300. The rigidity of bushing wall 318 also provides added crush protection to the Sens assembly during normal use. Additionally, the overall structure of the EAP actuator 320 provides some shock absorbency for the lens barrel. Collectively, the EAP actuator, the bias spring, the bushing and the overall barrel design provide a uniform radial alignment for optimal performance of the Sens system. 10029 j The frustum architecture of the EAP actuator may be provided by other types of biasing members, such as the leaf spring biasing mechanism 390 illustrated in Fig. 12A. which configuration provides a particularly low profile. Biasing mechanism 390 includes an annular base 392 having radially-extending, forked tabs 394 spaced about and angled upward from the circumference of base 392 at flexure points 396. Figs. 12B and 12C show the leaf spring biasing mechanism 390 operatively employed as a biasing member within an optical lens system having a coustRtct similar to that of system 300 of Figs. 7A and 7B. The base portion 392 of the leaf spring encircles lens barrel 312 under flange 336 and each of the forked tabs 394 engage the underside of outer frame 322 which acts as a bearing surface. To provide a uniformly balanced, concentric bias, the leaf spring mechanism preferably provides at least three, evenly-spaced tabs 394. Further, to prevent unintentional rotational movement of leaf spring 390, the tines or legs of the forked tabs 394 within slots located at each corner of the housing. An inner housing block 398 acts as a linear bushing or backstop to lens barrel 312 when in the "infinity'^'' (i.e., most proximal) position. [0030] The biasing member may also be integrated into the Sens ban-el and/or housing structure of the optical lens system. Fig. 13 illustrates an example of such where a structural portion 410 of a Sens system of the present invention includes a lens barrel 412 concentrically positioned within a housing component 414, A bias member 416 is positioned in between and straddles across the lens barrel and bousing, where the biasing member may be formed vuth these component? as a unitary or monolithic structure (e.g., by means of molding) or otherwise be provided as an insert therebetween 1 he latter configuration is illustrated where an annular diaphragm 4 i 8 hav ing a com ex configuration (from a top or outside μerspeetn e), how e\ er, a concave configuration ma\ alternatively be employed Silicone, polyurcthanc, J-PDM. other elastomers or any low

elastomer is a suitable material for diaphragm 418. The diaphragm extends between inner and outer side walls 42Ua, 42Ub which brace against ihe outer Sens barrel w ail arid mner housing wall, respectively Die curved diaphragm 418 provides a spring mechanism which has a negafiv e rate bias Other examples of EAP actuators hav ing a negative rate bias are disclosed in pre\ iouslv referenced I ^'.S. Patera Application Serial No. 1 1 65 S, 57^". [00311 Figs 14A and 148 illustrate other ways of integrating the actuator^'s spring bias into the subicct iens systems In V ig. ! 4A. the spring bias to be applied to the EAP actuator (not show n) is provided by two or more tabs 422 which are structurally integrated into the bottom housing 324 of, for example, lens %\ stem 3W of Figs ^"A and 7B. and extend radially inward within the concentric gap betw ceo the outer wall of housing 324 and bushing w all 31 S. Tabs 422 are bent or molded in a manner so as to prov ide a spring bias when a load is applied. The lens barrel 312 maj also be integrally formed (such as by molding) with and fixed to tabs 422, as shown m Fig, !4B. [0032] The lens s> stems of the present itn enϋon may be equipped with one or more Sight filters at any suitable position relative to the lenses;. Referring again to system 300 of Figs. 7 A anil ?B, top housing 326 has a transparent or translucent co\ er 330 positioned theicm foi passing light rays Alternatively, the entirety of top housing 326 max be molded from the transparent translucent material. In cither case, the cover may function as a filler which prevents infrared wav elengths of about 6^"O nm and greater from being transmitted through the lens assembly while allowing v isible w avelengths to be transmitted generally without loss. Alternate el> or additionally, an IR filter 366 may be positioned proxtmnlly of {he Sens assembly j 0033 [ The lens ss stem of the present inv ention may also hav e image stabilization capabilities. With reference again to Figs. 7\ and 7B, positioned μroximalis of lens module 302 is an exemplar) embodiment of an image stabilization module 304, which includes an image sensor 306 fox receiv mg images focused onto it by lens module 302 and associated electronics for processing those images. Image stabilization module 304 also include an EΛP actuator 310 which serves to compensate for any movement, i e , "shake", of image sensor 360 m the \-γ plane in order to keep the focused image sharp /-axis correction maj also be

idcd along w ith a sensor for sensing such motion.

[ 0034] FAP actuator 310 has a planar configuration comprising a t\\ o-plγ EAP film transducer having "hot" and ground sides 338 and 348, best illustrated in the exploded assembly, v iew of Hy. S and the planar \ tews of Figs. ¹M and ^B EAP film 338 comprises elastomerie layer 342 and electrically isolated electrodes 340 which each extend over a portion of elastomer 342 while

ing a central portion 362a of laser 342 free of electrode material EAP film 348 includes clastomcric layer 352 and a stnylc gioimd electrode 350 The annular shape of yroand electrode 350 enables apposition to each hot cleetiode 340 and leaves a central portion 362b free of electrode material which matches that of portion 362a of film 338 Collectively, the two films provide a transducer mu four aetήe quadrants {i.e., having four

electrode pairs) to pros sde a four- phase aciuaior, however, more or fewer acm e portions may be employed, as discussed below with respect to Figs. 10A- SOD. Each quadrant is selectiv ely actu ated, either

or m tandem s\ itb one or more of the other quadrants to provide a range of actuation motion in the \-> plane (i e , with two degrees of freedom), in response to and to compensate for shake undergone bv the svstcm. Sandwiched between the two films arc electrical tabs 344, one for each hot electrode. A pan' of grounded electrical tabs 346 is

ided on opposing outer surfaces of HAS* films 338, 348. ^'Tabs 334 and 348 are for coupling the EAP actuator to a power supply and control electronics (not shown* The two-ply transducer film is in turn sandwiched between top and bottom frame members 354a, 354b which hold the EAP films in stretched and strained conditions

[ 0035] Actuator 310 also includes two disks 356, 358, one centralis positioned on each stde of the composite film structure The disks sen e \ aπous functions Disk 356, pro\ ided on the outer Mile of hot electrode film 338, is held in planar alignment within the annular space or cut-out of frame side 354b by backing plate cu eoser 360b Disk 356 acts as a

el stop —

αiting Gim 338 from contacting the back plate and acts as a supplemental bearing support to rhe sensor. Disk 358 ts pros ided on the outer side of film 348 and held in planar alignment within the annular space of cut-out of frame stde 354a bv front plate or cover 3ftQa which also has a cut-out portion through which disk 358 transfers mov ement of actuator 310 to image sensor 306. To facilitate transmission of the output actuator motion from disk 358 to smaye sensor 306, a linear bearing structure suspension member 30H is provided therebetween. Structure member 308 is in the form of a plaiiai substiate 362

ing a plurality of shock absorbing dements. 364, e.g., spring tabs extend my from the edges of substrate 362, which function as shock absorbers to optimize the output motion of actuator 310. Substrate 362 may be in the form of a flex ciicuit w ith the spring tabs 364 (when made of conductive materia?) providing electrical contact between image sensor 306 and its associated control electtonics to actuator 310.

[0036 [ CoSleetisely. image sensor 306. suspension member 308 and actuator 3 J 0 are nested together \\ ithin a housing 316. Housing 316 is recessed on a distal side 368 to receh e lens module 302. On its proximal side 3 ^"O, housing 31 ft has notches or recesses 372 for accommodating electrical contact tabs 344, 346 of actuator 3 KS and or spring tabs 364 of hearing suspension member 308. [0037 [ As mentioned above with respect to discussion of the four-phase actuator 31 {⁾„ the image stabilization actuators of the present invention may have any number of active areas which provide the desired phased actuation. Figs. 10A- JOD illustrate a three-phase EAP actuator 380 suitable for use with the subject optical lens, systems of die present invention for at ieast image stabilization Actuator 380 has a hot EAP film 384a having three electroded areas 386, each of which effects actuation of approximately one-third of the active area of actuator 380. Grounded EAP film 384b has a single annular ground electrode 388 which, when packaged with film 384a by frame sides 382a and 382b, provides the ground sale for each of the three active portions of actuator 380 While this three-phase design is more basic, both mechanically and electrically, than the four-phase design, more complex electronic control algorithms are necessary as a three-phase actuator may not alone provide discrete movement in cither the X or Y axes. 10038] Many manufactured hardware components have dimensions which fail within an acceptable tolerance range, whereby fractional dimensional variations amongst like components and between associated components do not affect production yields. However, with devices such as optical lenses, more precision is often necessary. More specifically, it is. important that the position of the lens assembly relative to the image sensor be set to optimize the focus of the lens. assembly when in the "infinity" position (i.e., when in an "off state) so as to ensure accurate focusing when in use by the end user. As such, the infinity position is preferably calibrated during the fabrication process.

|0039] Figs 15A and 15S illustrate an exemplary design configuration for calibrating the infinity position of the iens assembly, i.e., adjusting the distance between the image sensor and the lens assembly to establish an optimally focused infinity position, during the fabrication process. The lens barrel assembly 430 is comprised of lens barrel 432 and a separable flange 434. Flange 434 is internally threaded 439 to rotationally engage with externa! threads 43? of lens barrel 432. Flange 434 is provided with a radially extending tab 436 which, when placed within the system housing 442, as shown in Fig. 1 SO, protrudes from a designated opening 436, As such, the rotational position of flange 434 is fixed relative to lens barrel 432. The crest portion 438 of the top cov er 435 of the lens barrel 432 is provided with groov es or indentations 440 for receiv ing the working end 446 of a calibration too! 444, as shown in Fig. 15C. Tool 444 allows access to lens barrel 432 even after enclosed within housing 442. and is used to rotate the lens barrel 432 in either direction relative to the threadedly engaged Range 434, the position of which is fixed within the housing by means of" tab 436 and opening 436. This relative rotational movement, in turn. translates the entire lens barrel assembly 430 linear or axially relative (in either direction depending on rotational direction of lens barrel) to the image sensor (not shown) and other fixed components within the iens system, Ir is the distance between the lens assembly 448 (see Fig- ! 5B) and the image sensor that defines the infinity position of the system. [0040J Figs 164 and 16B illustrate anothet Jcπ.»* band eonfiguiation 4^0 tor purposes (at \ca>>t in purl) of calibrating a iens assembh The diffetenu: with respect Io the tonfiguiation of Figs 15A-1 *C is that flange

is mov able ieiame to the lens bane! which is iotationaIK fixed when operat eh seated w ithin housing 4*>2 I his fixation is ptouded b> a bumper OJ ptorrusion 4M) extending radially from the lens barrel s ouiei w all W hen the lens ban cl is seated vuthm the s>stem housing 452 bismpei 460 is positioned within an opening or w indow 4^8 within the housing wail wϊuch picΛcnts totatsoαal movement o{ the Sens barrel The outet αrcumfeience of flange 456 is ided with indentations 462 which aie configured to engage vuth a calibration tool (not shown) Housing

\\ ith a w indow 464 tin ongh w inch the pei rphesai edge of flange 456 it. exposed B> use of calibration a tool (oι a fingei if possible) flange 4% is rotatablc in cither ducuion. as needed As with the

dcscnbcd configtuation. the ielarn c of the flange to the

rclatt\c to the image

easΛ w a\ to calibrate the mfinitv position of the lens assembH during final assembH of the lens svtcm |0041 ] h tgs π \ and 1⁷B illustrate tv. o othei cmbodimenti> < it len^ s\ stems of the pi esent imcntion my mote simplistic and lowα profile designs in which a lens 472 teithei a single lens or lhc distal most lctis amongst a plurakt\ of lenses) is dtreetlv sntegiated w ith and seiecUx eh positioned by an CAP actiutαi

[00421 Lens s> steni 470 of Fig P-V employs a single-phase attuatot computing snoei and outer frame members 474, 4^6, sespeetn eiv, w rth an FAP film 4~H sts etched Therebetween Lens 4?2 is positioned and fixed concents icallv within mnes fiamc 4⁷4 such that the output mov ement

the actuator is directh imposed on lens 472 The single-phase actuator is biased in the dnection tow aid the fiont side 4^23 of the icns bj a eosnpaet coil spi ing 480 positioned within the frustum spaee defined betw eeti itπiei frame 4^"f> and a back plate 482 flic tattet acts as haid stop at a maximum ^* macro" (near focus) position When the actuator is in lhc ^k off" stale lens 472 ts in the iTucio position and, when actu ated the lens moves towasd the rafϊnjts position m the duection ol ait ow 48S In lens positions applications which onK operate m the macio position, an initial inaeio settmg impioscs the leliabilifj of the s>^teni b> eliminating υnncccssαrj displacement range J0043] λ two-phase lens s\ stem 5 !0 ha\ mg a similar, low -profile construct is illustrated sn Fig 17B Here, the CAP aetuatoi computes iwo layers ot diaphtagras. which act to bias each othci The top or back actuator includes. E-VP fihn 494 extending between uinet and outet fjorπes 4M()a, 490b And the bottom oi fionr actuator includcs. bΛP turn 496 exteπdini; between iπnei And outet frames 490a 492b The inner frames 490a 492a are coupled together while the rcspecin e outer frames 490b 492b arc spaced apart b> an intermediate housing member ^W and sandwiched between it and, icspcctnch, fop housing membet 49S and bottom bousing membei 502 Lens 472 ing a fruncatcd, low -profile shape) is positioned eoneenti icalij within the coupled innei actuator frames With tw o activ e actuates s. each the bias foi the other and allow s

phase oi bid-dii ectional mov ement of kns 4⁷2 Speαfϊealiv , w hen the bottom actuator is aetn ated while the top actuatof is off, the has by the tup aetuatot moves lens 472 in the diieetum of aπow *iO4 and, likew ise, when the top actuatoi is actuated while the bottom aetuatπt is oil, the bias b\ the bottom actuator mov Cs lens 472 iti the direction of at row ^06 I his enables lens 472 to hav c double (2K) the trav el distance as that of the single-phase sutem 47(⁾ Thus double diaphtagrn coofigmatioii can be made ω funeuon as a sjngk-phase aetuatot

making one OJ the othes of the actuatoi s passix e, i e , ahv a\ s m the oft state In eifhei ease, The double diaphragm actuatoi prov ides a iow profile foim factot foi the lens svstem

[00441 Lens

eJ stroke, whelhei fos auto- foe using or zooming, can be increased (as well as decreased) bx employing additional strut. dual compoufots winch enable leas movement ϊhis moxement mav

oh c absolute displacement cii A single

«~>t a stack of icnscs and Ot i ciafrvc moxement between iens.es wjthin an avscmbls of lenses. The additional components foi effecting such mox emenfs. πuv include one or more HAP acfuafois. mechanical linkages or the like, oi a combination oi both,

el as^enibK |0045] hfgs I S and !Ψ

e \ sew nt excmptaty Sens displacement mechanisms of the present invention in which a numbei of I 4P acHiator transducers are slacked m seiies to amplifv stiokc output, tlfoNtiaied by attows 525, 5^, jcspcctn ely As ϋlusiraicd, die ttansduecis mav be eoiipleU o\ ganged together tn a debited coπtlgioation to achieve die desired output |0046j The lens displacement mechanism ^20 ot Figs IKA and 1KB provides a number ot double- fnistum FAP actuator ^2K units m which each actuator unit ^2K includes two concaxe-faong transducers diaphiagms 526 hav ing then innci frames, or caps 532 ganged together In turn, the ouiei names *>^4 oi the actuatm s aie ganged ot coupled to an outer ijame 534 of an adjacent actuatoi The distal mπst oiitci frame 534a is mounted to a lens fiame *>24 having lens 522 positioned thetem 1 he ptoxtmal most outer frame 534h is positioned distalh of an image sensor module (not shown) 10047] Figs I ^ \ and 1 ^B illustuue a s>imilaιlv functioning lens displacement mechanism 54f where each of the pkuahtj of t \

? aetuatot s units ^48 have an lnvetted configuration the traiisducet diaphiagms 544 hav e then cπncav e ssdes facing inward with then outei frames 53$ ganged togethet in turn, die inner ftanies S36 of the actuators are ganged or coupled to an inner frame 536 of an adjacent aciiiaioi The distal most innei frame 536a serves to hold Jens ^22 conecntrscallv therein The pioximal oiobt snoei frame 536b is positioned distallv of an unage scnboi module (not shown) 10048] W ifh eithei design, the greatet the numbei of actuatoi les els. the gieatei the sttoke potential Further, one or more the actuator lev els w ithin the stack ma\ be used fot zoom applications w here additional lenses mav be integi ated with the \ anous actuator lev els and coileetiv ely operated a* an afocal lens assembly

os ahetnativelv , one OJ more of the transducei

els may be setup foi sensing as opposed to actuation to facilitate aeriv e actuator control os opeiation verification. With am of these operations, any type of feedback approach such as a Pl or PiD controller may be employed in the s>sterø to control actuator position with very high accuracy and/or precision.

[0049] Referring now to Figs. 20Λ and 2OB. there is illustrated another lens displacement mechanism 550 urιii7ing FΛP-bascd portion or components 552. in conjunction vvtth a mechanical tens dm ing portion or components 554, whereby the former us used to drive the latter EAP portion 552 includes; a double-frustum actuator in which the outer names 556a, 556b are held between bottom housing portions 55Sa, 55Sb with inner frames 555a. 555b of the coupled transducers being relatively translatable along the optical axis 576. As discussed abov e, die actuator may be configured as either a two-phase actuator which enables active movement m both directions along optical axis 576. or as a single-phase actuator movable u\ the upward forward direction along the optical axis.

[00501 Mechanical portion 554 of displacement svstem 550 includes first and second driver plates or platforms 560, 564 interconnected by linkage pairs 566a, 566b and 568a, 568b Hach of the plates has a centra! opening to hold and earn, a lens (not shown) which, collectively , proude an afocal lens assembl) which, when moved along the focal axis, adjusts the magnification of the focal lens (not shown), w hich is ccntralh -disposed in lens opening 578 within top housing 574 While only two zoom displacement plates are prm ided, any number of plates and corresponding lenses may be employed.

[005Ϊ ) The linkage pairs provide a scissor jack action to move the second dπver plate 564 along the optical axis in response to a force enacted on the first driver plate 560 As understood by those skilled in the art, such a scissor jack action translates the second driver plate 564 at a greater rate than first driver plate 560, whcxe the translation ratio between the first plate and second plate to provide a telescoping effect Plates 560, 564 are slidably guided along and by linear guide xods 572 which extend between bottom housing portion 558a and top housing 574. Upon actn ation of actuatot portion 552, cap 555a is displaced iheteby applying an upward force against the proximal end 562 of dmer plate 5M), This driv es first plate 560 which in turn moves the linkage pairs to driv e second plate 564 at a selected greater rate of translation. While seissox jack linkages are illustrativ ely described, other types of linkages or mechanical arrangements maybe used to translate one plate at a proportionately greater translation rate and distance than the othet plate. [00521 Fig. Zi prov ides a cross-sectional \ tew of another hybrid (actuatot -linkage) lens displacement mechanism 580 of the present invention in which the actuator portion 582 includes a single FAP transducer 584 biased upward along the optical axis 58H by a coil spring 586. howe\ er, any spring bias means (e g., leaf spring > mav be employ ed Upon acύv atson of the actuator, cap 5W cs against first driver plate 592 which dm es the linkage mechanism 5% to then mov e second dmer plate 5*M upw ard along optical axis 588. [0053 [ Refemng now to fig⁴- 22 and 23, there asc illustrated two other lens displacement mechanisms of the present invention which cmpio> a hvbud eonstiuet Both of these mechanisms tianslate then icspcetix e lens assemblies''baπds in an tnciemental ot "inehw oπn" tashiπn Sn use of twπ t\pes of actuatOJ mechanisms

[0054 [ The tens displacement mechanism 600 of Figs 22 A and 22B emploj s two typei oϊ actuation mυtωn to effect die inenwoim displacement of a lens assembly bane! 602 " thickness mode¹" actuation and lo-plane actuation The Jens band 602 holds one ot more lenses (not shown) w hich max foim afαcai lens asseirtbis for zooming pus poses Basrel 602 has bushings 606 extending Litesaiis from an outei surface Bushings 606 are fπetionaih and siidablv engaged with guide rails 6t*4 which extend bcmeen top and bottom actuation portions 608a, 608b The actuation components of mechanism 600 int. hide a bottom portion 608a and a top portion δOHfa fcacfa actuation poi πoπ includes an acruatoi stack

a thickness mode acruatoi FAP film 610 and a planar actuator FAP film 612 The films aie separated from each other and encapsulated between L^ers of flexible material 6 l4a-6l4c. such as a \ isco-elasπc mates sal and prefcrabiv wuh a \cr\ low and duiomctcx lating, to toπn the actuator stack 608a ϊ iu 22Λ show s die eieermde la>ci patterns MOa and 612a, icspcetfuih , in the cutaway \ icws of actuator stack M)8a \ centra! hole or apeiture 616 extends throimh stack 608a to allow passage of the image focused upon to an image sensot/detectoi (not shown)

[00551 In operation, w uh the back or bottom ends 604a of the guide

engaged v. tth film stack 608a (oi at least with actuatni Ia; ess 614b, 614e) at substantiaUx πght angles, actuation of plana! actuates EAP film 612 causes sail ends 604a to mo\e laterally m opposing directions, e g apart, fiom each other in a diicction 605 pcrpendicuias to the axial length of guide rails 604 With the Ih nit ot top ends 604b of the giude rails in a tlxcd position, this mo\ cmexit causes the guide rails f->{J4 to beat against bcatmys 606 theieb\ fπctionally securing the posxtntn of lem barrel f->{)2 on iaiis 604 Deactiv ation of film 612 draws the rails back to {hor neutral ot right angle position with respect to film stack 6θ8a Thickness mode actuation is then employed to tiaπslate guide sails 604 xii an axial dncction 607 thcxeby ttanslating lens batJci 602, now h letxonallj engaged to yuide rails 603, in the same diteetxon to adjust the focal length «ti the lens assembh Mine spcciOeaϋj , w hen h ΛP film 610 is actuated film stack 608a buckles thereby axialh displacing guide iails 604 Upon

batte! 602. a (rsctional beating sutface (not shown) is positioned to engage the otitct bin face of the band wheicbv this fuctioiial engagement ^ gicatei than the fiictional engagement imposed bj the bat t ci bushings 606 on jails 604 The ft tctioπal engagement of the beaπno surface on the walls of the basrel overcomes, that of the bushings on the guide rails, such that, when the thsckness mode F AP film 610 is deaetn atcd and the guide tails return to the ioactne positntn, the lens band ss tetamcd m the advanced position The ρlanαx-tlnck.ncsi> mode actuation sequence just described may be rev ersed to translate the lens assembly in die opposite axial direction.

[0056] Optionally, a top actuation portion W)Kb may be empkryed to adjust the relative position or angle of rails 604 and or to increase the potential trav el distance of lens barrel 602 w either axial direction 607 Actuator 60Sh, in this example, is constructed to provide planar actuation for adjusting the position of the rails foi the purpose of iπetioiialfy engaging them against bushings 606. In particular, actuator stack 608a compiles a planar aetuauoo EΛP film 618 sandw iched between layers 620a, 620b, which may be made of the same material as layers 614a- 614c of bottom actuator 608a. The composite structure has a hole OF aperture 622 extending therethrough to allow for the passage of Sight rays passed through a focusing Sens (not shown) to the zoom or afoeai Sens asscmbh 602. Preferably, the planar sections of 60Sa and 608b actuate Simultaneously to maintain the guide rods 604 in a parallel relationship with each other. [0057 [ Top actuator 608b may be employed m iieii of the planar actuation of bottom actuator 60Ka to provide tSic angular displacement of the raiSs as described

or it may be used in tandem \\ ith the planar actuation portion of bottom actuator 608a to lateral.) displace both ends of the rails. This tandem actuation can be controlled to precise.) adjust the angular disposition of the rails or, alternate civ, to maintain tSie rails at πgliJ angles with respect to the planar surfaces of the tcspeetive actuators (i.e.. the rails are maintained patalkl to each otSicr) but provide a sufficient lateral displacement (cither towards or away fiom lens barrel 6i)2) to effect frictional bearing against bushings 606 Top actuator 60Kb may also be equipped with thickness mode actuation capabilities as described above to effect amplified axial mo\ement of tSie guide rails While translation of both rails has been described, the present invention also includes variations of Sens displacement mechanisms which are configured to mo\ c on K a single rail or more than two. J0058] Figs. 23Λ and 23B illustrate another lens displacement mechanism 625 that cmplo) s an mehworm type of actuation motion. Mechanism 625 houses a lens assembly containing a phmilirv of lens stages 626a, 626b, 626c, 626d, each Slaving a cutout 627 for retaining a lens (not provided). Those skilled m the art will appreciate that fewer or more stages than the four illustrated may be employed, and that the stages may retain Senses used for focusing, zooming, or mereh provide a pass through for light rays. Further, not all stages need to be translatable, and may he fixed to the mechanism housing or struts 628. hi tSie illustrated variation, for example, the lust and fourth stages 626a, 626d are fixed, while the second and third stages 626b. 626c are translatable. The four lens stages are held m spaced parallel alignment with each other bj linear guide rails 642 which are fixed to and extend between the top to the bottom Sens stages 626a, 626d The mo\ able lens stages 626b, 626c are linearly translatable along tSie guide rails 642 through bearings 64X. J0059] The actuation portion of the displacement mechanism 625 includes fust-'top and second bottom actuator eartridses 630a and 630b. The construct of eaitridsc 630a is illustrated in Fig 24A. % here m two actuators are ided - a single-phase linear actuator 632 and two-phase plana! actuates 634 stacked m series with each oihci Each actuate! compns.es an CAP film extending between inner and oiitci members 638a, 638b, whetcln the tespeetne inner members f>38a aie ganged iogethet and the iespeetne ontei membeis 63Sb ate coupled to a spacet 640 positioned therebetween In the illustrated

the I AP film of each planar actuator 634 is dmded snto at least mo sepatateh actn atcable pousoiis 636a. 636b to pirn ide tsvo-phase {ot more) actuation Each imeat actuatoi 632. in this \ aπattoru has a monolithic EAP film 636c which is aetn ateabie in w hole ϊ he tw o single-phase linear (from each of the top and bottom cartridges^*) actuators 632 colieetneh form a two-phase linear actuator, w heron the bottom linear actuator is biased bv lhe top linear actuates , and usa \ersa, b\ means of pushrod 644 which holds the actuators in tension tciatne to one anothci As a tcsuir, each plana* actuator 634 has no out-of-planc FOΪCCΪ applied to if when the corresponding linear actuator 632 ts paswe ϊhe output motion of itioei rncrnbαs 638a (also referred to as. actuatoi output members} of both actuates s 632 and M4 roa\ be eoJUi oiled Io exhibit axial motion and Qi planar motion, respecUx eh . as indicated b\ ax \ m\ s 640a,

idyc 630b ma\ be identical but oπcntcd tn face bottom eastjaige 630a ^

uch that the side of the cartttdye faces outw ard

[0060 [ Λ linkage poitton ia the form of a pushiod 644

bcmecu the uinci facing output raerabeis t>1&a of actuatoi cartudges. 630a 630b, passing thtough and slidable « tthtu axjallv- aligπcd \\ ithin each of the lens stages Adjacent the apertures w ithin mo% able stages 626b and 626c asid opposslely or diametncaliv positioned from each other are clutch or break mechanisms. 646a 646b uhsch are selectn ely engageahle wϋh pushrod 644 to fix the axsal position of a i espccm e tens ^tage ϊhe clutch mechanisms M6a, M6b may has c any suitable construct, including but not limited to A ft ictsonal bearitig sui facc Of a tooth foi coopciαtiv c engagement \\ ith a corresponding groove on pushrod 644

1006 J j In operation, selectix e actuation of the linear and plaiiai actuators 632, 634 of the two actuator cat fridges 630a, 63Oh enable the cvelicat mπtiππ of pushrod 644 to iiicrementath ttanslatc lens stages 626b, 626e Such mciementa! ot "inch w orm" motion ts schemattcal!> illustrated iti f jgs 24B-24f Hg 24B shows guide iait 644 in a neutral position, i e not engaged \\ ith either lens stage 626b ot 636c. v» hen both actuators 632. 634 aic mactue To mo\e Sens stage 626b in a fomatd direction, a first portion M 6a of EAP film of each planai actuatoi 634 Ci e . top and bottom in Hgs 234 and 23B) is actn αied. as" show π in t ig 24C, to

pushi od 644 laterally from the neutral position Io engage dutch mechanism 646a {not shown in {his figure) Xcxt, as illustrated in Fig 24D, hiieai actuatoi 632 a, actn ated while first portion 636a of each planar acluator 634 icmauis actne to move the output membeis. 63Ha out of plane This out of plane motion pushes oi lifts pushiod 644 and, thus, tens stage 626b in a fυivsaid diiection Once

to the desue axial position, piishrod 644 is disengaged from clutch 646a deactivating the fπst LAP pottion 6 M>a of each planas actuates M4 as illustrated HI Fsg 24E Fmaliv, each Smear actuator 6 >2 is deactivated to retract pushrod 644 to its neutial position, as shown m Fm 24F To move lens stage 626c. the pt ocess is tepeated but vuth activating the second LAP pom on

of planar actuator 634 instead of the Oi st fcΛP portion 636a Sepaiateh aetn atcabte phases, i e . fc AP film portions,

be added to each planar acKiaior 634 along w ith additional clutch mechanisms to enable the lens displacement mechanism to move both Sens stages, or nωic stages as the ca^ ma> be, m tandem J 0062] figs 25Λ-25C iitusttate αnothci lens displacement s\ stein 650 which has both focusing and zoom capabilities Sj stem 650 includes two integrated single phase spring biased actuatois - one hav ing a single fiustum diaphiagm configuration 6^2 and the other a double frustum diaphragm configuration 654 Actuate* 652 includes a lens basrel structuse 656 housing a focusing lens assembh 6^8 Pjuximal to lens θiscmbl> 658 along the focal axis of the sy stem is aiocal lens assembly 660 housed w rthiπ a ban cl stαicαuc 662 J he tw o

barreK 6^6 662 ai e biased aw a\ from each othe* b\ coil spring h64 Further iiuegraimg the mo actuators, lϋ. a radial h extending laleul stTuctuic 666 to which the outer frame or output members 66Xa 66Xb of actuates s 652, 6^4, icspectneij ate coupled b« etched between oufci fiαnic 6^f>8a and a coπespotidmy inner frame or output membcf 6^"2 mounted to the distal end of lens battei 6^f> of focusing actuatos 652 is fcΛP film 670 Then, stretched bet\>>eeiϊ outer frame 66Hb and a corresponding inner frame or output raerabei 674 mounted to the pjoΛimal end of lciv*. barrel 662 ^ a first EAP film 6?6a Λ second E-VP GUn 67&b is stretched between inaci frame &⁷4 and j gtounded outet Λame ot output racmbe; 66Xc to form the double diaphragm structuic of zoom actuate! 654 Λ second coil spi ing 678 biases the coupled outer frames 668a 668b from grounded outer frame MSXc

[00631 Λs illustrated m Fig 2^A, all phases of the system actuator asc passnc w Jih focus at the 'iiifimrj ' position V-ocusing the s>stcni im ohcs actu ating H '\P film 670 of rocus actuator 652, as illusti αted m Fsg 2SS The preload placed on tens hatiel 6^6 allow s st to advance in the do eehon of ai i o\\ 6KO to pi o\ idc a reduced fac<ύ length 1 he amount of displacement undei gone bs lens, ban el 656 ma> be controlled bj the coutiolliug the amount of voltage applied to actuatoi f>52 Zoπm actiutntii is similαi but \\ ith the

of actuatoi 654, as sllusttated in Fig 2^C in which ts applied to both EAP films 676a, 676b to advance lens bail el 662 m the direction of at row 682 4s \>> tth focusing, the e\tent of zoom displacement ma) be contiolled b\ iegulatsng the amount of

applied to jctuatoi 654 To obtain magnitudes o( gicaiei displacement additional actuates stages

To tde inciemenϋt mom displacement actuatoi 654 ma> t>e opetated m two phases, whetcbv the mo diaphragms are actu ated mdependentU of each other While the figuses show independent operation of the focus {Fig 2^B) and ?oom (Fig 2>0) lens assemblies, both ma\ be operated srmultaneousH or controlled in tandem to pun sde die desired combination of focus and zoom foi a pai ocular lens application [0064 [ Figs 264 and 26B show another displacement mechanism 6S⁾O suitable for lens image stabilization The actuator mechanism has a multi-phased EAP 6% stretched between an outei frame mount 692 and a central output disc ox memhet <W {he output disc 6Ψ4 is mounted fo a pnot 698 which biases the disc out-of-plane At rest, as tlkistiated m Fig 26A, at! phases ot portions of mnlU-phased film are passn c and the output disc 694 is hori7onu5 \λ hen a selected poitioo Oi poitions (out of ao> number of sepaiateh actiuitable poition.s) of film 696a is aie actn j ted the biased film relaxes m the acin ated area 6%a causing as\mmetιy in the forces on the output plattorm 6V4 and causing it to tilt as shown m Fig 26B The \ anous^* activatable poition can be seleetueh actuated to provide three-dimensional displacement of an image sensor or minor (not shown but otherwise positioned atop the center disc or output member 694) in sesponse to s> stern shake

10065] J he displacement mechanism of Figs 26A and 26B can be furthci modified to compensate for undesirable

an image sensor Such a displacement mechanism ^"OU is illustrated in Figs 2^"Α-27(\ where instead of pnotalh mounting the actuator's output memhet 704 to giouxid, a spring biasing mcchanism 708 is croplo\ ed Λtso using a niultf-phascd 01m 706, when one 706a. or less than all phases are actuated, as illustrated m } m 27b the actuator output disc 694 under goes asvminefnc tilting and axial translaUon Where all of the OSm portions 706 are actuated simultaneous!), os wheie some aie actuated to pιo\ κle a iespυnsc. output member 704 undcigoes a porel> ltneai displacement in the axial direction, as iHusttatcd in Fig 2C J he magnitude of this imeai displacement ma\ be contiolled bj icgiilating the \ okage applied to ail phases OF selecting the iclatn e mimbei of film portions that are actuated at the same time j 0066] { he ps esent

foi use ^ tth imaging optica! sj stems, such as those disclosed heicm, where if is necessai} oi desirable to clπse a lens apertuie (shuUer function) and ot to contiol the amount of light passing to an optical element Oi component (apeitufe function) Fig 2H illustrates one such shutter apeuurc system 7 U¹ of the present inv ention which cmplo>s an H '\P actuator 7! 2 to actuate a pluralitj of cooperating plates or blades "24 to adjust the passage πr light thtough imaging patlm a\ λctuatox 712 has a planar eonftgui atϊon

a two-phase FAP film 71 Ka, 7 I Kb extending between outer and inner frame mcmbcts 714, 716, whete the mnci fiame membci has ΛIΪ annular opening ~"\ 5 kπ passing light While only mo film poitions 7j.8a. ⁷^b are employed m the illustiated embodiment a multiphase film may also be os.ed The

nig components of the shutfet αpcjture aic housed within a cartridge ^"23 funsng top and bottom plates 720a 720b, each having respectne openings 72^a, 72% for passing light therethrough

J0067]

eimed *ti arched tcaidxop shapes

then annulai alignment is held in an o\et lapping pianai arrangement The hiades aie

otalK mounted to bottom plate 720 by means of upwardly extending cam pins 736 which correspondingly mate with respective holes extending through the broader ends of blades 724, thereby defining a pivot or fulcrum point about which the blades operative!}' pivot. ^"The tapered ends of the blades point in the same direction, with their concave edge defining the lens aperture, the opening size of which is variable by selective pivoting of blades 724. Blades 724 each have a cam follower slot 730 through which another set of cam pins 732 extend from the bottom side of a rotating collar 722 positioned on the opposing side of blades 724 (as illustrated in Fig. 28A). Cam follower slots 730 are curved to provide the desired arched travel path by cam pins 732 as collar 722 is rotated, which in turn, pivots curved blades 724 about their fulcrums. A pin 726 extending from the top or actuator -facing side of collar 722 protrudes through opening 725a of top cartridge plate 720a mates with a hole 717 within inner frame member 716 of actuator 712. Selective activation of the actuators two-phase film 718 causes inner actuator frame 716 to move laterally in-plane in opposing directions. The actuator's output motion, through the pulling/pushing of collar pin 726, rotates collar 727 and. thus, cam pins 732 within cam slots 730 within the respective aperture blades 724. This in turn pivots the blades, thereby moving the tapered ends of the blades closer together or farther apart to provide a variable aperture opening, which is best illustrated in top view of cartridge 723 in Fig. 29B. The size of the aperture opening may be varied between fully open (Fig. 29A) and fully closed (Fig. 2⁰C) to operate as a lens shutter.

[00681 Ftgs. 36A-36D illustrate another aperture/shutter mechanism 840 of the present invention. Mechanism 840 includes a planar base 842 on which a.n aperture/shutter blade 844 is pivotally mounted at one end to a pivot point 845. Pivotal movement of blade 844 moves its free end in a plane back and forth over light -passing image aperture 854, Movement of blade 844 is accomplished by pivotal movement of a lever arm 846 having a free end movably received within a notch 856 within the interior edge of blade 844. Lever ami 846 is pivotally mounted to base 842 at a pivot point 852a A flexure 848 integrally coupled or formed as a monolithic piece with lever arm 846 extends between first pivot point 852a and second pivot point 852b. A tab 850 extends from a central point on flexure 848 inward toward aperture 854, The blade, lever arm, and flexure may be adapted to provide aperture 854 in a normally open state or normally closed state. [00*59] Movement of tab 850 toward aperture 850 in the direction of arrow 860a deflects ^■flexure 848 in the same direction, as illustrated in Fig. 36C. This action, in turn, rotationaliy pivots lever arm 846 in the direction of arrow 86Ob, causing the free end of the lever arm to move within notch 856 toward pivot point 845, which in turn causes blade 844 to pivotally rotate in the direction of arrow 860c thereby covering aperture 854. Such actuation is caused by activation of actuator 856 which is mounted or stacked on top of the moving components of mechanism 840, as illustrated in Fig. 36D. Actuator 856 comprises a two-phase EAP film 860a, 860b configuration, similar to that actuator 710 of Fig. 28, extending between outer and inner frame members 858a. 858b, respectively. The free end of tab 850 is mechanically coupled to inner frame member 85Sb. Based on the orientation of actuator 8^6 ielatn e to shutter mechanism 840 illustrated in Fig *6D, aetn anon of CAP section WOa alone pushes tab 850 outwaid white actn ation of EAP section 860b alone pulls tab 850 nwatd

|0070] Λs illustrated, mechanism 840 functions μnmaπiy as a shuttei , with apcrtoic 854 being either open or closed Pi o\ tding a hole S62 (shown m phantom in Fig 36A) \\ ithin blade 844 which aligns w ith apetture 854 w hen blade 844 is in the closed position, and W HICH has a diametei which is smaller ihan that of apαtuse 8M, enables the mechanism to function as an jpeuure mechanism w tth tv\ o settings - one w ifh the blade in an open position thcrebx letting more light pass thiough apertuse 8*>4 to a lens module, and another w ith the blade closed o\et aperture 8 vi, thereby passing light through smaller hole 862

[0071] ϋthci lens displacement mechanisms mas impait movement to a lens m lens stack b> use of an actuator employing a 'Ximmniph" film

oi composite figs MϊA and ^0B show a cross-section of a segment of such a film structure 740 Film structure comprises an efastomeπe dielectric film ⁷42 bonded to a film backing or substrate 744 which is

suffer, i e , has a highei elastic modulus, than dielcctt ic film 742 f hoc tayci s arc sand w iched betw ecu a flexible elecimdc 746 on me exposed side of dielectttc film 742 and a stiffei clectiode 748 eithei on the inner or exposed side of stiff film backing 744 Λs such the composite structure 740 is "biased^{^} to deflect in onK one direction In patucuiar when the film stiitctiue ^**4() is actuated, as illustrated sn Fig 30B, dtelcetuc film 742 is compressed and displaced latcialh . causing the bttuctuie to bow or arch in a direction aw a\ from substiatc ^"44 1 he biasing imposed on the stmetuie max be effected in anv known mannes including those geneiallv described in International Publication ^"No W 098 W2^l> Several lens, displacement mechanisms of the present invention employmg such a unimπiph tjpe F \? aetuatoi ai c now described j 0072] Lens displacement s>i>teni 750 of Figs 31 Λ and 31 B includes a lens bai i cl or asscnibh 754 coupled to an actuatoi mechanism which utilizes a unimorph FAP film stiucture ⁷⁴»2 A selected atca os length of the film sUiictnre 752 extends between the lens, band 754 and a fixed base membcf 7^f> {he film stiuetuic may be a monnhthte piece which suπounds the lens hatxel like a sksi t, which may compuse a sinylc phase stt uctαtc or multiple addiessable aicas to

ide muUi-phasc action Altcrnatrvch , the actuatoi ma\ eompπse multiple disctete segments of film which ma> be conftguied to be collects cl> or uidependcntK addtcssablc In cithei ^attatson the sttffei film side or la\ cr i t e subsuate side) faces umaiil such that the film is biased oumaid 1'pθii actuation «~>f the film, as iilusttated ι« Fig 3 !B the film expands jn the biased ducetioti causing the film to extend aw a\ from Hs fixed side, J e , aw a\ from base member ~">b, thereby rno\ mg lens ban el 754 m the direction of arrow 758 V arious parameter of the film composite. e g , Olm aiea length, v anancc eiastiαrj between k \

P lajei and substiatc !a\er, etc , be adjusted to prov ide the desired amount of displacement to effect auto focus and or zoom operation of the lens system.

[0073J Lens displacement mechanism 760 of Figs 32 A and 32B also employs a nmmorph film actuator. S>stcm "60 includes a lens barrel or assembly 762 mounted to lens carriage 764 u htch rides on guide rails 766 Actuator 770 comprises folded or stacked unmiorph film sheets coupled together ni series fashion. Io the illisstiated embodiment each unimorph sheet is constructed with the more flexible side 772a facing ihe lens barrel and the stiffer side ^""72b facing aw ay from the lens barrel, hut the re\ erse orientation max be employed as well. When all of the actuator sheets are inactive, the stack is at its most compressed to position, i.e., lens barrel 762 is in the most proximal position, as illustrated in Fig. 32Λ. In the context of a focusing lens assembly, this position provides the greatest focal length whereas, in the context of an afoeai lens assembly , the zoom lens is in the macro position Actuation of one or more sheets 772, Cither coiiecm eh or independently, displaces lens barrel 762 in the direction of arrow 765 to adjust the focus and or magnification of the lens system

|0074] Under certain

tronnienral conditions, such as m high humid.it> and extreme temperature sronments, the performance of an EAP actuator may be affected. The present tin cation addresses such ambient conditions with the incorporation of a feature which may be integrated into the EΛP actuator itself ot otherwise constructed within the system without inα casing the system's space tcquirements In certain

the EAP actuators arc configured wjfh a heating element to geπeiate heat as necessai j to maintain oi control the humidirj and 'or temperature of the EAP actuator and OF the immediately surrounding ambient

ironment. The heating elements) are resists c.

ing a conductor cither integrated into or adjacent to the HAP film, where the

across the conductor is lower than that icqmred for activation of the actuator. Employing the same EAP actuator used for lens displacement and or image stabilization to control ambient parameters of me system further reduces the number of component in the s>\ stem and us overall mass and weight.

|0075] Ftg. 33 A illustrates an exemplary FAP actuator 780 usable \\ ith the lens optical sj stems of the present invention cmplo> ing a series electrode arrangement for the heating function ihe \ iew shows the ground side of the actuator with ground electrode pattern 782 and the high

Lugs ^"^oa and 786b establish electrical connections, icspectύeiv. to the ground and high voltage inputs from the system^'s power supply (not show n) for operating the actuator. A third lug or connector 7S6c

\ olfage input from the power supply for the series resistive heater current path Arrows 78K show the annular current path provided by the electrode arrangement which uses the entire ground cicctiode ^"S2 as a resistne heating element [0076 [ Fig. 33B illustrates another LAP actuator 7*⁾0 which empkn s a parallel electrode arrangement for the heating function. This view shows the ground side of the actuator with ground electrode pattern 7S>2 with the high v oltage electrode pattern 784 shown in phantom from the other side of actuator TsK). Lugs ?%a and 7Φ>b establish electrical connections, respcctήcly, to the ground and high \nltagc inputs from {he s\ stem's power supph (not shown) for operating the actuator Parallel bus bars ?°8a. ?^8b are provided on the ground side of actuator ?W for connection to the ground and low \ oltagc inputs, respecth eh, from the power supply (not shown) Arrow s KOO illustrate the radial path of the current established by the parallel electrode arrangement Using the electrode in a parallel as opposed to series fashion allows for the use of a lower voltage to achiex e the current flow necessary to induce heating of the film. [0077] As mentioned above, another approach to svstcm humidity and temperature control is the use of a resistive heating element positioned adjacent the LAP aetuatoi . Fig. 34 illustrates a lens displacement mechanism SlO employing FAP actuator having EAP film 852 The spacing 816 defined between the top housing cover 853 and LAP film 812 pro\ ides: sufficient space m which to position a heating element 814. Preferabl) , the heating element has a profile and size that matches that of the fcΛP film m this case, a frustum shape as illustrated in Fig. 34A, in order to minimize spacing requirements of the system and to maλnnsze heat transfer between the heating clement K54 and EAP film 812. The heating element includes; a resisth e trace 815a on an insulating substrate 815b and electrical contact 818 to electrically couple the heating element to the system's power and sensing eleetiomes.

[0078] Another optional feature of the lens displacement systems of the present im cntiort is the provision of a sensor to sense the position of a lens or lens assembh which

ides closed loop control of the lens displacement, Hg. 35 illustrates an

embodiment of such a position sensing arrangement incorporated into the tens displacement s> stems 820, having a similar construct to the lens displacement system of Fig 7A The sensing arrangement comprises a nested electrode pan

cylindrical configurations. One electrode 822a, e.g., the ground side electrode, encircles an exterior portion of lens barrel 824 Ciround electrode 822a is electrically coupled to ground lead 83Oa through actuator biasing spring 830, The other electrode 822b, e.g., the active or power sensing electrode 822b. encircles the interior surface of a bushing wall X2d extends upwards from the back end of housing 828 and is seated between actuator biasing spring 830 and the outet surface of lens barrel 824, Electrode 822b is electrically coupled to power sensing lead 83Ob. An insulating material adhered to the acm e electrode 822b may be ided in the gap defined between the two electrodes to provide a capaαtive structure. With the position of the lens barrel as illustrated, the capacitance across the electrodes is at its greatest. As lens barrel 824 is displaced in the distal direction, the ov erlapping surface areas of the electrodes decreases, m turn i cducmg the eapaeitne charge between them This change m capacitance is fed back lo the system^'s control electronics <not shown) for closed loop control of the lens position [0079 j Bs use of the b4P actuators for auto-foeusing, zoom, image stabilization and or shutter control, the subject optical lens s; stems have minimized space and pov.es xequiremenrs and, as such, are ideal for use in highly compact optical systems such a<$ cell phone cameras [00801 Methods of the present im cπtion associated with the subject optica! svstems, devices, components and element are contemplated FOJ example, such methods may include selective!} focusing a lens on an image, selective!) magnifying an image using a lens assemhh , and or seieetiv eh ing an image sensor to compensate fos unwanted shake undergone bv a lens or lens assembly The methods, mav comprise the act of providing a suitable device oi system in which the stsbiect inv entions are emplo>cd, which piousiun mav. be pet formed b> the end use* In othct vv oids, the "pioudmiT (e g , a iens, actuatoi etc ) meierv lequues the end usei obtain, access, approach, position, set-up, activate, power-up or otherwise act to prov ide the requisite dev ice in the subject method The subject methods ma> include each of the mechanical activities associated with use of the deuces deset ibed as well as eleetπeai activifj As such, mefhodologv implicit to the use of the devices deseuhed tbtms pait πf the invention Futthej, eleetncal hardwaic and or softv-aic eøniro! and power supplies adapted to effect the methods form part of the present inv ention [00811 Yet another aspect of the invention includes kits hav tng any combination of de\ tecs described heictn vvhcthci provided in packaged combination o\ assembled by a technician tot opesaϋng use, instructions for use. etc A kit may include any numbes of optical s; stems according to the present invention A kit mav include vasioυs other components for use with the optica! sv stems including mechanical or electrical connect©! s, power supplies, etc The subieet kits mav also include wi ittcn instructions fox use oi fee

m then assemblj Such insti actions mav ^e punted on a substrate, such as papet m plastic, etc As such, the insti actions mav ^e ptescnt in the kits as a package insert, in the labeling of the eøniamet of the kit or components thereof (i e , associated with the packaging o\ sub-packaging) etc In other embodiments, the iiistiuctioiis are present as an eieemmie stoiage data file present on a suitable compute! teadaNc storage medium, e g , CD-ROM, diskette, etc ϊn yet othei embodiments, the actual mstiuctions are not pteseπt in the kit, but means foi obtaining the instructions fiom a remote soutce, e g via the Interact, are pun sded An example of this embodiment is a kit that includes a

w licie the insti uetions can be viewed and oi fiom which the tnstt uctions can be downloaded Ab with the instructions this means foi obtammy the instructions is recorded on suitable media [0082] As for other details of the present im ention, materials and alternate related configurations mav be employed as within the level of those uith skill in the relevant aU The same mav hold true with tcspect to method-hased aspects of die inv ention in terms of additional acts as communis oi Sogieaitv employed In addition, though the invention has been deseπbed in iefeietice to sev eral examples optional h mcorpoiating \ anous features the sm entton is not to he limited to that which is> described oi indicated as contemplated with respect to each variation of the invention \ axious changes ma\ be made to the inv ention desci ibed and equiv alents (whethet i ecited hexein oi not included fox the sake of sonic

\\ ithout departing fxoni the R ue spnit and scope of die invention Ati\ number of the indiv idual parts or subassemblies shown mav be sntegtated in then design Such changes or others raa> be undertaken oi giuded

the puπaplcs of design {or assemblv

|00S3| Also it is contemplated that ans optional feature of the imentne \ anations descubed ιτia> be set foith and claimed independcntK , 01 »i combination w ith anv o«e or moic of the featuies described heiem Refeience Io a singulai item, includes the possibilitv that there aic plural of the same items pjcsent Moie specifn.aU> , as uscti hctcin and in the appended claims the singular toims. "a," 'an ' "said ' and "the ^% include pluinl referents unless the speeifienlij stated ofhcrw ise In other uoid*. use of the aitieies. allcm for ^mat least one ^' of the subject item in the description as well as. the claims below It is further noted that the claim* ma> be drafted to exclude an> optional element Λs such this statement ii> intended to set \e as antecedent basis for use of such exelusn e tei mxnoloyv as '

^"so!el\ ' and the hke in connection v. ith the xecitation of claim elements 01 use of a ' ncgatn c" hmitatton W rthout the use of such exclusive ferrmnolog\ , the tenn "corapπsing" in the elαnm shall allow for the inclusion of an\ additional element SHCspectne of vvhcthci a gn en tiunibci of elements aie enumerated in the chum, 01 the addition of a teatuf e eouid be tcyaided as tianstoimuiL' the natuic of an element set fotfh n the claims Stated otherw ise unless, speeificalh defined herein, al! technical and scientific terms used herein aie to be grvcn as bioad a commonl) understood meaning as possible while maintaining claim \ alidϊts |0084] In all, the bieadth of the picsent invention is nut to be limited

the examples prπv ided i hat being said, w e claim

Claims

Claims

1. A lens displacement system comprising; a tens unit comprising at least one Sens positioned along a focal axis, the lens unit having a linear bearing surface: an eiecfrαactive polymer actuator positioned adjacent die lens unit wherein activation of the actuator moves the lens unit along the focal axis; and a linear guide adjacent to the linear bearing surface for maintaining the position of the Sens unit.

2. The lens displacement system of claim 1 , further comprises a biasing mechanism for biasing the lens unit along the focal axis.

3. The lens displacement system of claim 2, wherein biasing of the lens

stretches a diaphragm of the electroaetύ e polymer actuator into a frustum form.

4. The lens displacement system of claim 2, wherein the biasing mechanism comprises a coil spring encircling the lens unit, and wherein the linear guide is positioned between die coil spring and an outer surface of die lens unit.

5. ^'The lens displacement system of claim 1 , wherein the linear guide is a bushing wall extending from a housing which at least partial!)¹ encases the lens unit.

6. The lens displacement system of claim 1 , wherein the linear guide comprises at least one guide rail extending parallel to the focal axis.

7. The lens displacement system of claim 6, wherein the lens unit comprise., a platform having an opening therein for receiving die at least one guide rail.

8. The lens displacement system of claim 2, wherein the biasing mechanism comprises a leaf spring mechanism positioned between {he linear guide and an outer surface of {he lens unit.

9. The lens displacement system of claim 8, wherein the leaf spring mechanism has a base ring encircling the lens unit and a plurality of radially extending labs engaged against a surface of the elcctroaciive actuator.

10. The lens displacement system of claim 2, wherein die biasing mechanism is integrally formed with the lens unit.

1 1. The lens displacement system of claim 10, wherein the biasing mechanism is further integrally formed with a housing which at least partially encases the lens unit. 12, The lens displacement s> stem of claim 2, wherein the biasing mechanism comprises an annular diaphragm extending between the lens unit and the housing, wherein the diaphragm lias a negatn e rate spring bias.

13, The lens displacement system of claim 12, wherein the diaphragm comprises a low \ iscosicy elastomer material.

14, The lens displacement system of claim 2, wherein the biasing mechanism comprises at least two spring tabs extending between the lens unit and die housing,

15, The lens displacement system of claim 1. wherein movement of the lens unit changes the focal length of die Sens unit.

16, The lens, displacement system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one lens is a focusing lens.

! 7. The lens displacement system of claim I, wherein movement of the lens unit changes the magnification of the lens unit.

j 8 The lens displacement s> stem of claim J wherein the lens unit ss carried b> a lens driver mechanism \vhereb> actn ation of the actuator mo\ es the lens dm cr mechanism.

19 The lens displacement sx stcm of claim 18 wherem the lens unit comprises an afocal lens ajvseiobh .

20, The lens displacement system of claim 19, comprising multiple lens stages, each stage comprising a lens, wherein the lens lirivet mechanism translates the multiple stages at different tattw

21 , The lens displacement system of claim 20. wherein the tatio of a translation rate of one lens stage to that of another lens stage defines a telescoping action

22, The lens displacement system of claim 20, wherein each lens is seated within a lens plate earned by the lens drύ er mechanism.

23, The lens displacement system of claim 22, wherein the lens driver mechanism further comprises a pair of linkages extending between lens plates.

24, The lens displacement system of claim 1, further comprising a backstop to prevent mo\ ement of the lens unit beyond an infinity locus position.

25. The lens displacement system of claim 1, further comprising at least one light filter along the focal axis.

26. The lens displacement system of claim ! , further comprising a translucent cø\ er over a forward end of the lens unit.

27. The lens displacement system of claim 1 , wherein the iens unit configured for calibrating the focus of the lens unit.

28. The leas displacement system of claim 27, wherein a housing portion of the lens unit comprises at least one indentation for receiving a calibration tool

29. The lctis displacement system of claim 1 , further comprising a sensor for sensing the position of the lens unit.

30. The lens displacement system of claim 29. wherein the sensor comprises a pair of spaced apart electrodes, the first electrode positioned on an outer surface of the iens unit and the second electrode positioned on a surface of the linear guide facing the outer surface of the lens unit. wherein position of the lens unit relative to linear guide changes the capacitance across the electrodes.

31. The iens displacement system of claim 1 , further comprising a heating element positioned for controlling the temperature of a least a portion of the electroactive polymer actuator.

32. The iens displacement system of claim 1. wherein the lens unit lias a cylindrical barrel configuration and the linear bearing surface is an outer surface of the lens barrel.

33. The iens displacement system of claim 1. wherein the lens unit comprises a plurality of lenses, wherein a distal most lens is a focusing iens and two or more lenses proximal thereto are afocal lenses.

34. The iens displacement system of claim i , wherein the electroactive polymer actuator comprises a film wherein the film is configured to detlect in only one direction when activ ated.

35. The iens displacement system of claim 34. wherein the film comprises an elastomeric dielectric layer hooded to a backing material, the backing material having a higher elastic modulus than the dielectric layer.

36. A leos displacement system comprising: a lens unit comprising at least one lens positioned along a focal axis, -wherein in the leas unit is biased m the infinity direction; a backstop to prevent movement of the lens unit in the macro direction beyond an initial macro position; and an electroactive polymer actuator positioned adjacent the Sens unit wherein activation of the actuator moves the tens unit along the focal axis toward an infinity position.

37. A lens displacement system comprising: a tens unit comprising at least one lens positioned and movable along a focal axis in opposing directions; and a two-phase etectroactivc polymer actuator positioned adjacent ihe lens unit wherein activation of the actuator moves the leas unit along ihe focal axis, wherein the actuator comprises to oppositely facing frustum shaped diaphragms which bias each other.

38. The lens displacement system of claim 37, comprising a plurality of two-phase electroactive polymer actuators stacked in series.

39. The lens displacement system of claim 38, wherein adjacent actuators are biased apart by a spring.

40. The lens displacement system of claim 39, wherein the concave sides of the frustum diaphragms face each other.

41. The lens displacement system of claim 40, wherein the convex sides of the frustum diaphragms face each other.

42. A tens displacement system comprising: a lens unit comprising at least one lens positioned along a focal axis; and an electroactive polymer actuator positioned adjacent the lens unit wherein activation of the actuator moves the lens unit along the focal axis, the actuator comprising an electroactive polymer film wherein the film deflects in only one direction when activated.

43. The lens displacement system of claim 42, wherein the film comprises an clastomeric dielectric layer bonded to a backing material, die backing material having a higher elastic modulus than the dielectric layer.

44. The lens displacement system of claim 42, wherein the actuator further comprises a fixed base member wherein the film extends between the lens unit and the base member.

45. The lens displacement system of claim 44, wherein the film has an arched configuration. wherein the backing material is on the concave side of the film.

46. The lens displacement s> stern of claim 44, wherein the film has a folded configuration.

47. A lens displacement system eømpi ising. a ie«s unit comprising at least one lens positioned along a focal axis; and an eiectroac{i\ c polymer actuator positioned adjacent the lens unit w herein act) vat ion of the actuator the lens unit along the focal axis, the actuator comprising an electrode arrangement configured for generating heat

48. 1 he lens displacement system of claim 47, w herein the electrode arrangement is m series,

4<>, The lens displacement system of claim 47. wherein the electrode arrangement is in parallel

50 A lens displacement system comprising' a lens unit comprising at least one lens positioned akuig a focal axis, an dectrαactrve polymer actuator positioned adjacent the leas unit wherein actu ation of the actuator mtn cs the lens unit along the focai axis, the actuator comprising an dcefrαacme pohmcr film i and a heatmg element positioned adjacent to and hav mg a profile which matches that of the eleerroactn e polymer film.

51 , The lens displacement system of claim 50, wherein the heating element has a frustum shape

52, A dev tee for use with optical systems, the dc\ ice comprising' at least one pnotalK mounted aperture blade: and an electraaetiv e polymer actuator positioned adjacent the aperture blade, wherein activ ation of the actuator moΛ cs 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 arrangement

54, The see of claim 53, wherein each aperture blade has a curved teardrop shape, and wherein the blades are annularly aligned with adjacent blades bas ing at least a portion which ov eriap each other.

55, The of claim 54, wherein the actuator comprises a two-phase planar film extending between outer and inner frame members wherein the nuicr frame member has an annular opening for passing light to the lens aperture, and further wherein actn at ion of one phase pi\ otalij moves the blades in one direction and activation of the other phase ph otaily moves the blades in the opposite direction.

56, The ice of claim 52, further comprising a flexure mechanism cooperating with a phot aid of the aperture blade wherein, upon activation, the elcetroaethe pol>mer actuator deflects a portion of the Oexure mechanism which pivotal!} rotates the aperture blade.

57, The ice of claim 52, wherein a free end of the aperture blade has a light-passing hole therethrough.

58, A lens displacement system comprising' a lens unit comprising at least one icns positioned along a focal axis, and two eicctroactive poij mcr actuator mechanisms positioned at opposing ends of the lens unit wherein activation of the actuators translates the lens unit relative to the actuators

59 The lens displacement system of claim 58. further comprising at least one guide rail extending between the actuator mechanisms, the lens unit siideahiy coupled to the at least one guide rail, wherein activ ation of the actuator mechanisms provides translation of the lens unit along the focal axis in an incremental fashion.

6⁽1. The lens displacement system of claim 5*-λ wherein at least one of the actuator mechanisms comprises at least two separatel) aetivatabJe portions fox mo\ ing the at least one guide rail along the focal axis and laterall) of the focal axis.

61. The lens displacement s> stem of claim 60, wherein each separate!) aetiv atable portion comprises an electroaetne film la}cr, wherein die la>ers arc stacked.

62. The lens displacement system of claim 61 , wherein at least one film !a> er ρro\ ides thickness mode actuation when aefiv atcd and at least one other film layer

m-plane actuation when actrv atcd

63. The lens displacement system of claim 60, wherein the in-plane actuation angularly displaces the at least one guide rail.

64. The lens displacement sj stcm of claim 59, wherein the lens unit comprises a plurality of lens stages comprising a lens positioned within a platform, wherein at least one lens stage is translatable along the focal axis independently of the other lens stages 65, The lens displacement s> stem of claim 64, further comprising a pushrod extending between and operativcly coupled to lhe two actuator mechanisms, the pushrod passing through an aperture within and reicasably engayeabie ΛUth each lens platform

66, The lens displacement system of claim 65, further comprising a clutch mechanism associated with each lens platform for eooperatn e engagement v. tth the pushrod.

67, The lens displacement system of claim 58, wherein each actuator mechanism comprises two separate!) aetn atable portions for moung the lens unit along the focal axis and laterally of the focal axis.

68, The lens displacement system of claim 67. \\ herein one actπ atablc portion comprises a single-phase linear actuator ana the other aetnatablc 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 and seleeth eiy controllable to translate the pushrod axiaily and laterally So provide a desired actuation sequence

70, The lens displacement system of claim 58. wherein the lens unit comprises a focusing lens portion and an afoea! lens portion w herein the first actuator translates the foeusmg lens portion along the focal axis xelatrve to the atbcal lens portion and the second actuator translates the afocal lens portion along the focal axis, therein the actuators ate scicctncly and independent!} actn atahSe

" I . The lens displacement system of claim "(X, wherciti the two lens portions are biased away from each other b> spring.