Abstract: A lens actuator module includes a lens assembly with an optical centerline and a clear aperture, a bearing guide integrated adjacent to the clear aperture with the centerline of motion substantially parallel to the optical centerline, a linear actuator with a preloaded frictional contact point that moves the lens along the centerline. The preload force is perpendicular to the optical centerline, constant and generated in-line with the contact point such that the preload force produces substantially zero additional friction in the bearing guide irrespective of the location along the optical centerline.

Abstract: A linear motor system includes an element with a threaded passage, a threaded shaft, and a driving system. The threaded shaft has an axis of rotation which extends through and is at least partially engaged with at least a portion of the threaded passage. The driving system comprises at least two members operatively connected to the element. Each of the two members comprises two or more piezoelectric layers and electrodes which are coupled to opposing surfaces of each of the piezoelectric layers. The members are configured to expand and contract in a direction along the axis of rotation. The driving system is configured to subject the element to vibrations causing the threaded shaft to simultaneously rotate and translate in the direction along the axis of rotation through the element and apply an axial force in the direction along the axis of rotation.