The combination of TDK and CML’s software removes the requirement for a dedicated OIS controller chip. This reduces the SMA OIS camera size and cost as well as simplifying system integration.
Smartphone camera actuators using CML’s SMA technology are also being manufactured by TDK, who has been a CML licensee for several years.
Actuators within smartphone camera modules improve image quality by moving optical components with a high level of precision. OIS actuators counteract disturbances such as handshake which allows increased camera exposure times without incurring shake-induced blur and improves low light photography.
One of the benefits of SMA OIS actuators is their ability to move heavy masses accurately. As the resolution of smartphone cameras continues to increase, the optics become larger and heavier which the industry’s incumbent conventional actuators are unable to manage. This issue is expected to be exacerbated by a trend of increased glass content in smartphone camera lenses to further improve image quality.
Andy Osmant, Managing Director at CML, commented:
“This is a further endorsement of our longstanding partnership with TDK, with whom we are working closely to provide our SMA technology and the associated software control algorithms for use in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips.
“The launch of the new SMA OIS controller should accelerate the adoption of our SMA technology across smartphone OEMs.
“We continue to expand our product portfolio and are enabling next-generation technological solutions for smartphone cameras, to meet the evolving demands of the industry.”
The new TDK SMA OIS software controller will be showcased by TDK and CML at Mobile World Congress. Demonstrations will take place in the executive meeting rooms #219Ex and #217Ex, Hall 2.
About Cambridge Mechatronics https://www.cambridgemechatronics.com/
Cambridge Mechatronics Limited (CML) is an industry leading engineering company specialising in designing miniature motors (actuators) which utilise smart materials – specifically shape memory alloy (SMA). CML’s actuators are the size of a human hair and can be controlled to the accuracy of the wavelength of light. These actuators are particularly suited to applications that require high levels of precision and force, in a compact and lightweight design.
CML has applied its unique patented platform technology to a range of applications in smartphones, wearables and drones. These include optics within miniature cameras providing autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilisation (OIS) functionality; customisable haptic (touch) sensation, enhanced accuracy of facial recognition and immersive augmented reality technologies.
The Company is headquartered in Cambridge but has an established presence in Asia, with offices in Shenzhen, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Taipei and Seoul.