Hybrid MEMS scanning module

A scanning device, comprising:

• a base containing one or more rotational bearings disposed along a gimbal axis;
• a gimbal, comprising a shaft that fits into the rotational bearings so that the gimbal rotates about the gimbal axis relative to the base;
• and
• an electromagnetic drive, which comprises:
• a stator assembly, which is fixed to the base and comprises at least one core and one or more coils comprising conductive wire wound on the at least one core,
• wherein the at least one core contains an air gap and generates a magnetic field in the air gap in response to an electrical current flowing in the conductive wire;
• at least one rotor, comprising one or more permanent magnets, which are fixed to the shaft of the gimbal and which are positioned in the air gap so as to rotate in response to the magnetic field;
• and
• drive circuitry, which is coupled to apply the electrical current to the one or more coils.