Shape memory alloy (SMA) bimorph actuators and methods for manufacturing the same

A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator comprising:

• a carriage;
• and
• a base comprising:
• a fixed end fixed to the carriage;
• a free end;
• a beam connecting the fixed end and the free end;
• a first SMA wire and a second SMA wire electrically connected to the fixed end at a first set of electrical contacts at a first end of each SMA wire, and electrically connected to the free end at a second set of electrical contacts at a second end of each SMA wire, wherein a first portion of the base contacts the first end of the first SMA wire, and a second portion of the base contacts the first end of the second SMA wire, wherein the first portion and the second portion are electrically isolated via a trench formed between the first portion and the second portion, the first SMA wire and the second SMA wire are disposed above the base, except at the first set of electrical contacts and at the second set of electrical contacts, to electrically isolate the first SMA wire and the second SMA wire from the base.