BIMORPH µ-Actuators Target HUD and AR Motion-Control Apps

According to TDK HTI, its BIMORPH µ-Actuators deliver industry-leading micro-actuation performance in an ultra-compact form factor, well-suited for next-generation augmented-reality (AR) devices and automotive head-up-display (HUD) systems. At half the size of comparable solutions, these actuators provide the highest-performing tilt actuation available, enabling precise control in space-constrained applications.

Designed for flexibility and integration, the µ-Actuator supports six degrees of freedom and X/Y/Z translation, along with pitch, yaw, and rotation, offering complete motion versatility for advanced optical alignment and tracking systems. It operates with low power consumption and minimal heat generation, making it a strong fit in battery-powered or thermally sensitive environments.

HTI's Micro Actuators have shape-memory-alloy (SMA) wires connected directly to a metal beam. A tiny SMA wire is used as the “motor” to move the metal beam.

When electrical current is flowing, the SMA wire heats up, shrinking the wire and pulling the free end of the beam up. When electrical current is turned off, the SMA wire cools to its memory state. If the SMA wire was stretched during factory "memorization," the wire will lengthen when cool and the beam goes flat. A combination of these SMA motors can be configured into structures that provide the six degrees of motion (X, Y, Z, pitch, yaw, and roll) found in the HTI BIMORPH µ-Actuator.

The technology is lead-free and designed for zero magnetic interference, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and compatibility with magnetic-sensitive components. Its self-centering mechanism requires zero power to return to a neutral state, enhancing energy efficiency. Built to withstand harsh conditions, the µ-Actuator excels in drop and shock resistance and has undergone extensive life testing, surpassing industry reliability benchmarks.

These actuators are particularly well-suited for smart AR glasses, supporting micro-actuation for dynamic image positioning and real-time eye-tracking. In automotive applications, they enable precise alignment of HUDs, improving driver awareness and safety.

The design is fully scalable and can easily integrate into new or existing systems, supporting a wide range of motion-control and optical applications. The BIMORPH µ-Actuators combine miniaturization, mechanical precision, and robust durability, making them a powerful solution for cutting-edge consumer and industrial technologies.