27 Jun 2024
Be Inspired: London Stock Exchange interview with Andy Osmant, Co-MD of Cambridge Mechatronics
Andy Osmant, Co-MD of Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd. (CML), recently sat down with Julia Hoggett, CEO of the London Stock Exchange, for an episode of the "Be Inspired" series. The interview covers the various use cases for shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators, from smartphone cameras to insulin pumps, and CML’s market strategy. Andy also explains CML’s evolving business from licensing IP to a fabless semiconductor model, and how being part of the Cambridge ecosystem has supported the growth of the business.
Watch the full video of the interview below
CML’s SMA technology utilises wires thinner than human hair that can be controlled with high accuracy and with a high force-to-mass ratio to move components, making it ideal for applications where space is limited, precision is critical and lack of electromagnetic interference a benefit. CML’s primary product focus to date has been on enhancing smartphone cameras, providing superior autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilisation (OIS) capabilities. This technology ensures that users can capture clearer, sharper images, even in challenging conditions.
While SMA technology has enhanced smartphone photography, its applications extend further. For example, CML are developing insulin patch pumps that are smaller, more precise and longer-lasting than existing pumps, or AR and VR devices with enhanced optical and/or haptic capabilities. Andy explores these exciting possibilities and how CML is poised to lead the way in these emerging markets.
CML has recently transitioned from a licensing and royalty-based model to also selling semiconductor chips. This strategic shift allows CML to better capture the value of its IP and innovative control algorithms and expand revenue streams. CML’s chips, embedded with proprietary software, ensure that SMA actuators deliver optimal performance across various applications. This evolution reflects our commitment to continuous growth and adaptation in a dynamic market.
During the interview, Andy also highlights the critical role of the Cambridge ecosystem in CML’s journey. The company maintains strong connections to Cambridge University and has benefitted from the support of local angel investors. Our recent funding round, which attracted investment from prominent venture capital firms and corporations such as Atlantic Bridge, Intel Capital, Sony Innovation Fund and Supernova, underscores the growing global recognition of our technology's potential.
What's next for CML? Andy shares his vision for the future, where CML aims to lead the smartphone camera OIS and AF market and explore new applications for our SMA technology.
Our goal is to focus on implementing the fabless silicon model and expand our customer base. This will enable a transition to profitable growth, whilst solidifying our position as a leader in precision engineering. We have nurtured a culture of innovation and excellence, and we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what our technology can achieve. Our journey ahead is exciting.”
– Andy Osmant
For customers in China, watch video here
About CML: Cambridge Mechatronics Limited (CML) is a world-leading developer of mechanical, optical, electrical, silicon and software designs for system-level solutions using its Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) platform technology. ACTUATOR SOLUTIONS using SMA wire (thinner than 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.
About LSEG (London Stock Exchange Group): LSEG is a diversified international markets infrastructure business —earning our clients’ trust for over 300 years. That legacy of customer-focused excellence ensures that you can rely on our expertise in capital formation, intellectual property and risk and balance sheet management. As global leaders in financial indexing, benchmarking and analytic services, we offer unrivalled access to international capital markets. Our high-performance technology solutions enable companies worldwide to access funds for growth and development. And with our Data & Analytics, Capital Markets and Post Trade divisions, we provide a comprehensive, integrated suite of trusted financial market infrastructure services that help our customers pursue—and achieve—their ambitions. That’s how we make a difference— ensuring people can meet their potential—worldwide.