Micro Optic Systems
New Scale's SQUIGGLE micro motors and tiny TRACKER sensors add
precision motion to micro optic systems. They improve speed and
precision, reduce power use, and enable the use of smaller lenses to
reduce system size.
SQUIGGLE micro motors are smaller, more power-efficient and more
precise than stepper motors. Unlike MEMS actuators, they also
provide the long travel required for zoom.
TRACKER position sensors are high-resolution devices tiny enough to
fit in existing micro optical systems. Unlike optical encoders, they
do not require a light source or external zero reference sensor.
We work closely with OEM designers to create custom motion systems for
micro imaging applications ranging from consumer digital cameras to medical
and industrial endoscopes. Several reference designs are available
for customization to fit your needs. Check out the examples below
and then contact us to get started.
Customizable Auto Focus Module
Our optical focus module demonstrates a
customizable, precision focus system for board cameras using M6 to M12 lenses. It
provides more than 2 mm of lens motion for focus from less than 100
mm to infinity. Modules typically measure less than 20 x 20 x 16 mm and
are designed to fit the OEM board camera's PCB. Each module incorporates one
SQL-RV-1.8-6
SQUIGGLE motor and one TRACKER
NSE-5310 (chip-on-board) position sensor and is driven by New
Scale's NSD series piezo motor drive ASIC.
Learn more:
Reference Design: Micro Zoom Module
Our micro zoom module reference design demonstrates 0.5 µm
resolution in a thin 6.5 mm module. It offers 4 mm optical zoom stroke (customizable to 30 mm).
It incorporates two
SQL-RV-1.8-6
SQUIGGLE motors and two TRACKER
NSE-5310 (chip-on-board) position
sensors. The magnetic position sensor means that no light source is
needed for the sensor. It provides absolute position sensing (with external flash memory) - no
zero reference sensor is needed. The module is driven by New
Scale's NSD series piezo motor drive ASIC.
Learn more:
Application Example: Improving Focus in Digital Still Cameras
TRACKER position sensors improve focus and zoom in digital still
cameras, video cameras and similar products. Used to upgrade
existing open-loop stepper motor systems or replace optical
encoders, this sensor reduces power use and enables faster, more
precise focus and/or zoom.
Learn more:
Other Mobile Applications
SQUIGGLE motor technologies are being applied to optical image stabilization (OIS), shutter control
and aperture control.
These technologies are also promising for use in other
miniature mobile products, such as adding motorized focus to the
next generation of
pico projectors or for use in augmented reality applications
(near eye micro displays, retina trackers, monocular depth pointing).
In addition, New Scale is also developing an
ultra-thin autofocus (UTAF) actuator
for use in mobile phone cameras.
