Tim Thanh Ngo

US Patent:

7646969, Jan 12, 2010

Filed:

Nov 8, 2005

Appl. No.:

11/268849

Inventors:

Robert J. Calvet - Pasadena CA, US
Roman C. Gutierrez - Arcadia CA, US
Kumaraswamy Jayaraj - San Diego CA, US
Tim Quang-Tinh Ngo - San Diego CA, US

Assignee:

Siimpel Corporation - Arcadia CA

International Classification:

G03B 17/00
G02B 7/02

US Classification:

396 79, 359823

Abstract:

A method and system for limiting the motion of components such as the optics of a camera are disclosed. The system can comprise a stage and a snubber assembly for controlling motion of the stage in six degrees of freedom. For example, the snubber assembly can permit movement in one translational degree of freedom while substantially limiting motion in the other five degrees of motion so as to facilitate focusing and/or zooming of a camera while inhibiting misalignment of the optics and while providing some protection against shock and vibration. Such motion control can be achieved while mitigating costs associated with precision manufacturing of the snubber assembly.