New Scale patents lens actuator module

New Scale Technologies (Victor, NY, USA) has received a US patent for its UTAF (Ultra-Thin Auto Focus) piezoelectric lens actuator module which measures just 8.5 x 8.5 x 3.8 mm.

US patent 8,279,541 was issued on October 2, 2012 by the US Patent and Trademark Office to inventors David Henderson, Todd Haran, Matt Wrona, Qin Xu and Daniele Piazza.

The UTAF actuator module integrates New Scale's UTAF piezoelectric beam motor with a drive IC and position sensor IC for closed-loop motion control.

The patent covers the module's precision pin bushing system that moves the lens in a straight line with dynamic tilt of less than 0.1 degree as well as a unique preload system.

"This precision lens actuator module enables development of high-performance vision systems that fit into smaller and smaller form factors – from thin smart phones, to ultra-compact devices for medical imaging and diagnostics," says David Henderson, CTO and co-CEO of New Scale Technologies.

New Scale licenses its UTAF module technology to manufacturers worldwide. It is currently licensed by several Tier 1 integrators supplying camera systems to OEM manufacturers.

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-- Dave Wilson, Senior Editor, Vision Systems Design