Wuhan City

CML overview

Patented technology platform for substantial global markets

CML at a glance

Mechatronics involves the harmony between different engineering and scientific disciplines, primarily mechanical engineering and electronics, to deliver innovative and sophisticated product designs.

Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd. (CML) has world-leading expertise in the mechanical, optical, electrical, software and controller silicon design making use of our patented Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) platform technology. Total system solutions such as actuators based on SMA wire (as thin as a human hair) 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 is developing solutions with its SMA technology platform using first-rate technical expertise. From delivering high-performance cameras to localised haptic (touch) sensations, CML creates value for customers, partners and end users.

CML has established relationships with major global corporations across international supply chains who have made significant investments to put in place production capacity to deliver millions of SMA actuators, cameras and silicon chips per month.

Our innovative solutions are produced and deployed by renowned manufacturers under license, and have been successfully integrated into millions of consumer devices.

In addition to CML's design and development work on mechanical actuators, electronics, algorithms, software code, and manufacturing and test equipment, CML supports its camera actuator partners and customers globally.

The CML technology platform is also evolving alongside growing and emerging markets. SMA actuators are suitable wherever small, lightweight, precise and powerful motors are required. CML technology is particularly applicable across a range of devices from mobile phones to wearables and beyond, with active developments for haptic and extended reality (XR) products in these markets.

CML’s mission is to provide world class designs for its customers, enabling more powerful, compact, precise and differentiating solutions than before.

Powerful solutions for a wide variety of applications

With a portfolio of unique designs and control algorithms, CML's SMA actuators and silicon position and control objects with a high level of precision for a variety of technology applications.

Business model

CML’s established business model leverages its extensive patent portfolio and proven technical expertise. CML licenses its SMA platform technology in return for licensing fees, engineering fees and product sales royalties. In addition, we have a portfolio of silicon chips which provide our customers with the highest precision control of our actuators.

With substantial investment in SMA research and development over the past decade, CML has built a robust global patent portfolio of around 700 patents issued and pending worldwide. CML collaborates with a wide network of partners including multinationals and their supply chains.

CML is committed to continuous development of SMA actuators. CML is targeting next-generation cameras, haptics, and augmented reality applications to meet the roadmap aspiration of its global customer base.

CML engages in a variety of programmes, including technology development, transfer and production support to accelerate the commercialisation of SMA-based technology. These programmes are collaborative and tailored to the individual requirements of our customers. CML offers ongoing support from initial sample build to mass production, including the development of manufacturing processes and equipment.

Markets and opportunities

CML licenses actuators for cameras currently used in smartphones, wearables and drones. Beyond that, CML has developed haptic actuators alongside actuators for augmented reality applications to meet consumer needs across all applicable markets.

Cameras are one of the key features within electronic devices. Vendors compete to offer superior imaging technology, increasing both the quantity and quality of cameras. Smartphones exemplify such market trends, with the total number of cameras with OIS growing from 650 million units in 2023 to 840 million units in 2027. 

Haptic technology is set to reach $5 billion by 2025. 80% of market growth will be driven by smartphones, tablets and wearables, with an array of applications from gaming to enabling new smartphone casework designs.

CML targets high volume markets that provide substantial opportunities for growth.

CML Technology and Patents

Patented SMA Platform Technology

With its multidisciplinary engineering skillset, and design and simulation tools, CML’s team has mastered the control of SMA for precision applications.

Learn about CML technology