Liquidmetal Technologies Inc (LQMT)

[joshuaeyu]

“Apple is apparently considering larger lenses for 2020 models and SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) for OIS. We also expect 2020 models to feature Dual OIS and actuators for front-facing cameras.”

https://www.patentlyapple.com/patently-apple/2017/11/future-foldable-iphone-may-use-a-micro-led-display-and-liquid-metal-as-a-shape-memory-alloy.html


Shape Memory Alloy


Apple notes that "The material that forms layer 14-1 may be a shape memory alloy (e.g., nickel titanium) or a bulk metal glass (sometimes referred to as amorphous metal)." Bulk metal glass is also liquid metal.



The patent further notes that "An example of a shape memory alloy with a yield strain of greater than 1% (i.e., a yield strain of 1.1%) is a nickel titanium having 55.8 weight percent of nickel, less than 0.5 weight percent of oxygen, less than 0.2 weight percent of carbon, and a remainder formed from titanium. An example of an amorphous metal that may be used in forming support layer 14-1 is an alloy of zirconium (65 weight percent), copper (17.5 weight percent), nickel (10 weight percent), and aluminum (7.5 weight percent). Bulk metal glasses may be based on alloys of titanium, palladium, zirconium, iron, cobalt, nickel and other suitable materials.



The material that forms layer 14-1 may be a metal matrix composite having an amorphous metal and a reinforcing element, such as carbon fibers, silicon carbide fibers, or boron filaments. Layers 14-1 are illustrated in patent FIG. 4 above.