Folded camera with actuator for moving optics

Various embodiments include a camera with folded optics and lens shifting capabilities. In some examples, a folded optics arrangement of the camera may include one or more lens elements and light path folding elements (e.g., prisms). Some embodiments include voice coil motor (VCM) actuator arrangements, carrier arrangements, and/or suspension arrangements to provide autofocus (AF) and/or optical image stabilization (OIS) movement. Furthermore, some embodiments include position sensor arrangements for position sensing with respect to AF and/or OIS movement.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure relates generally to architecture for a camera with folded optics and lens shifting capabilities.

Description of the Related Art

The advent of small, mobile multipurpose devices such as smartphones and tablet or pad devices has resulted in a need for high-resolution, small form factor cameras for integration in the devices. Some small form factor cameras may incorporate optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanisms that may sense and react to external excitation/disturbance by adjusting location of the optical lens on the X and/or Y axis in an attempt to compensate for unwanted motion of the lens. Some small form factor cameras may incorporate an autofocus (AF) mechanism whereby the object focal distance can be adjusted to focus an object plane in front of the camera at an image plane to be captured by the image sensor. In some such autofocus mechanisms, the optical lens is moved as a single rigid body along the optical axis of the camera to refocus the camera.

It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first contact could be termed a second contact, and, similarly, a second contact could be termed a first contact, without departing from the intended scope. The first contact and the second contact are both contacts, but they are not the same contact.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some embodiments include camera equipment outfitted with controls, magnets, and voice coil motors to improve the effectiveness of a miniature actuation mechanism for a compact camera module. More specifically, in some embodiments, compact camera modules include actuators to deliver functions such as autofocus (AF) and/or optical image stabilization (OIS). One approach to delivering a very compact actuator for AF and/or OIS is to use a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator.

Described here are folded optics arrangements for providing a reduced-height imaging system. The arrangements discussed throughout generally comprise one or more lenses positioned between two light path folding elements, which collectively provides a dual-folded light path. The one or more lenses may be moveable between the light path folding elements to provide autofocus and/or image stabilization during imaging.FIG. 1shows a generalized example of a camera100with a folded optics arrangement The example X-Y-Z coordinate system shown inFIG. 1is used to discuss aspects of systems and/or system components, and may apply to embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

In various embodiments, the camera100may include a lens group102, a first prism104, a second prism106, and an image sensor package108. The lens group102may include one or more lens elements. In some embodiments, the lens group102may be located between the first prism104and the second prism106, forming the folded optics arrangement. Light may follow an optical path110that is folded by the first prism104such that the light is directed towards the lens group102, passes through the lens group102, and is folded by the second prism106such that the light is directed towards the image sensor package108. In some examples, light may enter an object side of the first prism104along the Z-axis. The first prism104may redirect the light to propagate along the X-axis (which may be parallel to an optical axis defined by the lens group102) towards the lens group102. The second prism106may redirect the light to propagate along the Z-axis (which may be orthogonal to a plane defined by the image sensor package108), e.g., such that the light exits an image side of the second prism106towards the image sensor package108. The first prism104, the lens group102, and/or the second prism106may be positioned along a common axis (e.g., the X-axis, the optical axis defined by the lens group102, etc.). According to some examples, the optical path110may be contained within a plane (e.g., the X-Z plane), and the image sensor package108may extend along a different plane (e.g., the X-Y plane).

In some embodiments, the object side of the first prism104may extend along the X-Y plane. Furthermore, the first prism104may include a pair of opposing lateral sides that each extend along the X-Z plane, a lens group facing side that extends along the Y-Z plane, and a reflecting surface side that is angled relative to one or more of the other sides of the first prism104. For example, the reflecting surface side of the first prism104may include a reflective surface that is angled so as to redirect light received from the object side of the first prism104towards the lens group102(via the lens group facing side of the first prism104), as discussed above.

In some embodiments, the image side of the second prism106may extend along the X-Y plane, e.g., proximate the image sensor package108. Furthermore, the second prism106may include a pair of opposing lateral sides that each extend along the X-Z plane, a lens group facing side that extends along the Y-Z plane, and a reflecting surface side that is angled relative to one or more of the other sides of the second prism106. For example, the reflecting surface side of the second prism106may include a reflective surface that is angled so as to redirect light received from the lens group102(via the lens group facing side of the second prism106) towards the image sensor package (via the image side of the second prism106), as discussed above.

While the light path folding elements are shown in various figures as comprising prisms (e.g., the first prism104and the second prism106), the camera systems and/or folded optics arrangements described herein may include any suitable light path folding element (e.g., a mirror or the like) or combination of elements. In some embodiments, one or more of the light path folding elements may also act as a lens element (or combination of lens elements). For example, one or more lens elements (e.g., other than those of the lens group102) may be integrated with the first prism104(and/or the second prism106) such that the prism acts as a lens element. Additionally, or alternatively, the first prism104(and/or the second prism106) may be shaped such that the prism acts as a lens element.

As will be discussed in further detail below, the lens group102may be coupled with an actuator structure that is configured to move the lens group102along multiple axes, e.g., to provide autofocus (AF) and/or optical image stabilization (OIS) functionality.FIG. 2shows an example of 3-axis movement of the lens group102to provide AF and/or OIS functionality. For example, the lens group102may be shifted (e.g., by an actuator structure, such as the actuator structures/arrangements discussed in further detail below) along the X-axis to provide AF movement. Additionally, or alternatively, the lens group102may be shifted along the Z-axis to provide OIS-X movement (e.g., movement that shifts the image projected on the image sensor package108in one or more directions parallel to the X-axis). Additionally, or alternatively, the lens group102may be shifted along the Y-axis to provide OIS-Y movement (e.g., movement that shifts the image projected on the image sensor package108in one or more directions parallel to the Y-axis). Components of the camera100(e.g., the lens group102, the first prism104, the second prism106, and/or the image sensor package108, etc.) may be used with any of the actuator arrangements described in the following figures.

As mentioned above, the camera systems described here may comprise an actuator system to move the lens group relative to the light path folding elements (e.g., the first prism104and the second prism106). The actuator arrangements described here may generally comprise one or more carrier structures (e.g., the inner carrier structures and/or the outer carrier structures of the carrier arrangements discussed below), one or more suspension structures for moveably holding the carrier structure(s) relative to the rest of the camera and/or for moveably holding a carrier structure relative to another carrier structure, and an actuator module for controlling movement of the carrier structure(s).FIGS. 3A-3Cshow perspective and cross-sectional views of one such variation, and include an example camera300with a folded optics arrangement.

In some embodiments, the camera300may include a lens group302, a first prism304, a second prism306, and an image sensor (not shown). The lens group302may include one or more lens elements308disposed within a lens barrel310.

In various embodiments, the camera300may include an actuator module312that provides for shifting the lens group302along multiple axes, e.g., to provide AF and/or OIS movement. In some embodiments, the actuator module312may comprise a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator module that includes one or more VCM actuators. For instance, the actuator module312may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. The magnets and coils may magnetically interact (e.g., when electrical current is provided to the coils) to produce Lorentz forces that move the lens group302.

According to various embodiments, the camera300may include a carrier arrangement that includes an inner carrier structure (e.g., the lens barrel310and/or a lens carrier) and an outer carrier structure (e.g., a magnet holder314and/or a magnet frame). One or more coils may be coupled to the inner carrier structure (e.g., to the lens barrel310and/or a lens carrier). Furthermore, one or more magnets may be coupled to the outer carrier structure (e.g., to the magnet holder314). In some embodiments, the magnet holder314may extend at least partially around the first prism304, at least partially around the lens barrel310(and the lens group302), and/or at least partially around the second prism306. For instance, as shown inFIGS. 3A-3C, the magnet holder314may extend at least partially around the lens barrel310and the first prism304. The magnet holder314may be U-shaped in some embodiments.

The magnet holder314may have multiple sides and/or portions. For example, the magnet holder314may have a first side, a second side, and a third side. The first side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the side surfaces of the optical elements. The second side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the opposite side surfaces of the optical elements. The third side may be a distal/object side extending along the Y-axis, and may be positioned behind at least a portion of the reflecting surface side of the first prism304(e.g., such that the first prism304is disposed between the lens group302and the magnet holder314).

According to some examples, a first portion of the magnet holder314(e.g., the first side of the magnet holder314) may extend proximate a first side of the lens barrel310, a second portion of the magnet holder314(e.g., the second side of the magnet holder314) may extend proximate a second side of the lens barrel310that is opposite the first side of the lens barrel310, and a third portion of the magnet holder314(e.g. the third side of the magnet holder314) may be tucked under a portion of the first prism304and may extend from the first portion to the second portion, e.g., as shown inFIGS. 3A-3C. In some embodiments, the magnet holder314(and/or outer carrier structure) may have a different number of sides and/or a different combination of sides, e.g., as will be discussed below with reference to at leastFIGS. 4A-6C. WhileFIGS. 3A-3Cshow the magnet holder314partially encircling the optical elements of the folded optics arrangement (e.g., the first prism304, the lens group302, and the second prism306), it is understood that the magnet holder314may encircle the optical elements (e.g., as shown inFIGS. 5A-5C) in some embodiments.

As will be discussed below with reference toFIGS. 9A-9D, the lens barrel310may be suspended from the magnet holder314via a suspension arrangement. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnet holder314may be suspended from a fixed (or static) structure (e.g., fixed structure316) of the camera300via the suspension arrangement. The suspension arrangement may allow the lens barrel310to move relative to the magnet holder314. Furthermore, the suspension arrangement may allow the lens barrel310to move together with the magnet holder314relative to the fixed structure316. In various examples, the lens barrel310may be fixedly attached to the lens group302, and movement of the lens barrel310(e.g., due to actuation of one or more actuators of the actuator module312) may cause movement of the lens group302, such that the lens group302moves together with the lens barrel310. According to some embodiments, the fixed structure316may include a component of the camera300to which the carrier arrangement is moveably connected (e.g., via suspension elements). The fixed structure316may be fixed relative to movement of the carrier arrangement. Furthermore, the fixed structure316may be fixed relative to the first prism304, the second prism306, and/or the image sensor. In some examples, the fixed structure316may include multiple components that are joined or otherwise fixed relative to each other.

In various embodiments, the actuator module312may include one or more AF VCM actuators and/or one or more OIS VCM actuators. In some embodiments, the actuator module312may include an AF VCM actuator318(e.g., to provide AF movement), an OIS-Y VCM actuator320(e.g., to provide OIS-Y movement), and an OIS-X VCM actuator322(e.g., to provide OIS-X movement).

The AF VCM actuator318may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. In some examples, the AF VCM actuator318may include an AF magnet324(e.g., a single-pole magnet) and an AF coil326. The AF magnet324may be attached to the fixed structure316. The AF coil326may be attached to the magnet holder314. In some embodiments, the AF magnet324may have a longest dimension that is substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the AF coil326. In some embodiments, the AF coil326may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the AF coil326define a plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure316(e.g., the surface on which the AF magnet324is mounted) and/or substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. The AF magnet324and the AF coil326may be located proximate one another, and the AF coil326may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the AF magnet324to produce Lorentz forces that move the AF coil326, the magnet holder314, and/or the lens group302along an axis (e.g., along the X-axis) to provide AF movement (e.g., movement that shifts an image projected on the image sensor in one or more directions parallel to the Z-axis). The AF magnet324, being attached to the fixed structure316, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the AF coil326. In various embodiments, the AF VCM actuator318may be tucked within a space under a portion of the first prism304, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 3B. In this manner, the impact of the AF VCM actuator318on the dimension of the system along its long axis (e.g., the X-axis) and along its vertical axis (e.g., the Z-axis) may be reduced or eliminated.

In some embodiments, the OIS-Y VCM actuator320and the OIS-X VCM actuator322may share one or more OIS magnets328(also referred to herein as “shared OIS magnets”). In some embodiments, the shared OIS magnets328may be dual-pole magnets. The shared OIS magnets328may be attached to the magnet holder314, e.g., at opposing sides of the lens group302, as shown inFIGS. 3B and 3C.

According to some examples, the OIS-Y VCM actuator320may include one or more OIS-Y coils330. The OIS-Y coils330may be attached to the fixed structure316. In some embodiments, each OIS-Y coil330may be located below a respective shared OIS magnet328. The OIS-Y coils330may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets328to produce Lorentz forces that move the shared OIS magnets328, the magnet holder314, and/or the lens group302along an axis (e.g., along the Y-axis) to provide OIS-Y movement (e.g., movement that shifts an image projected on the image sensor in one or more directions parallel to the Y-axis). The OIS-Y coils330, being attached to the fixed structure316, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the shared OIS magnets328. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets328may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-Y coils330. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets328and the OIS-Y coils330may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets328and the OIS-Y coils330may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet324and the AF coil326in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-Y coils330may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-Y coils330define a respective plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure316(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils330are mounted).

According to some examples, the OIS-X VCM actuator322may include one or more OIS-X coils332. The OIS-X coils332may be attached to the lens barrel310. In some embodiments, each OIS-X coil332may be located between a respective shared OIS magnet328and the lens group302. The OIS-X coils332may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets328to produce Lorentz forces that move the OIS-X coils332, the lens barrel310, and the lens group302along an axis (e.g., along the Z-axis), relative to the magnet holder314and/or the fixed structure316, to provide OIS-X movement (e.g., movement that shifts an image projected on the image sensor in one or more directions parallel to the X-axis). In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets328may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-X coils332. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets328and the OIS-X coils332may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets328and the OIS-X coils332may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet324and the AF coil326in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-X coils332may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-X coils332define a respective plane that is substantially orthogonal to a surface of the fixed structure316(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils330are mounted).

In various embodiments, the camera300may include a substrate below the second prism306. An image sensor may be coupled to the substrate. In some embodiments, a filter (e.g., an infrared filter) may also be coupled to the substrate. For instance, the filter may be located above the image sensor such that light passes through the filter before reaching the image sensor. In some examples, the substrate may be parallel to the fixed structure316. Additionally, or alternatively, the fixed structure316may include the substrate and/or one or more other components.

In some embodiments, the camera300may include a first prism holder334that holds the first prism304. In some embodiments, the first prism304may be attached to one or more fixed (or static) structures of the camera300via the first prism holder334. For instance, the first prism holder334may be attached to a shield can336in some cases. Additionally, or alternatively, the camera300may include a second prism holder338that holds the second prism306. In some embodiments, the second prism306may be attached to one or more fixed (or static) structures of the camera300via the second prism holder338. For instance, the second prism holder338may be attached to the shield can336in some cases.

FIGS. 4A-4Beach illustrate a respective view of another example camera400having a folded optics arrangement and an example actuator arrangement for shifting a lens group of the camera400along multiple axes.FIG. 4Ashows a schematic side cross-sectional view of the camera400.FIG. 4Bshows a schematic front cross-sectional view of the camera400.

In some embodiments, the camera400may include a lens group402, a first prism404, and a second prism406, and an image sensor (not shown). The lens group402may include one or more lens elements disposed within a lens barrel408.

In various embodiments, the camera400may include an actuator module410that provides for shifting the lens group402along multiple axes, e.g., to provide AF and/or OIS movement. In some embodiments, the actuator module410may comprise a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator module that includes one or more VCM actuators. For instance, the actuator module410may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. The magnets and coils may magnetically interact (e.g., when electrical current is provided to the coils) to produce Lorentz forces that move the lens group402.

According to various embodiments, the camera400may include a carrier arrangement that includes an inner carrier structure (e.g., the lens barrel408and/or a lens carrier) and an outer carrier structure (e.g., a magnet holder412and/or a magnet frame). One or more coils may be coupled to the inner carrier structure (e.g., to the lens barrel408and/or a lens carrier). Furthermore, one or more magnets may be coupled to the outer carrier structure (e.g., to the magnet holder412). In some embodiments, the magnet holder412may extend at least partially around the first prism404, at least partially around the lens barrel408(and the lens group402), and/or at least partially around the second prism406. For instance, as shown inFIGS. 4A-4B, the magnet holder412may extend at least partially around the lens barrel408and the second prism406. The magnet holder412may be U-shaped in some embodiments.

The magnet holder412may have multiple sides and/or portions. For example, the magnet holder412may have a first side, a second side, and a third side. The first side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the side surface of the optical elements. The second side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the opposite side surface of the optical elements. The third side may be a proximal/image side extending along the Y-axis, and may be positioned in front of at least a portion of the reflecting surface side of the second prism406(e.g., such that the second prism406is disposed between the lens group402and the magnet holder412).

According to some examples, a first portion of the magnet holder412(e.g., the first side of the magnet holder412) may extend proximate a first side of the lens barrel408, a second portion of the magnet holder412(e.g., the second side of the magnet holder412) may extend proximate a second side of the lens barrel408that is opposite the first side of the lens barrel408, and a third portion of the magnet holder412(e.g., the third side of the magnet holder412) may extend in front of a portion of the second prism406, e.g., as shown inFIGS. 4A-4B. As will be discussed below with reference to FIGS.9A-9D, the lens barrel408may be suspended from the magnet holder412via a suspension arrangement. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnet holder412may be suspended from a fixed structure414of the camera400via the suspension arrangement. The suspension arrangement may allow the lens barrel408to move relative to the magnet holder412. Furthermore, the suspension arrangement may allow the lens barrel408to move together with the magnet holder412relative to the fixed structure414.

In various embodiments, the actuator module410may include one or more AF VCM actuators and/or one or more OIS VCM actuators. In some embodiments, the actuator module410may include an AF VCM actuator416(e.g., to provide AF movement), an OIS-Y VCM actuator418(e.g., to provide OIS-Y movement), and an OIS-X VCM actuator420(e.g., to provide OIS-X movement).

The AF VCM actuator416may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. In some examples, the AF VCM actuator416may include an AF magnet422(e.g., a single-pole magnet) and an AF coil424. The AF magnet422may be attached to the magnet holder412. The AF coil424may be attached to the fixed structure414. In some embodiments, the AF magnet422may have a longest dimension that is substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the AF coil424. In some embodiments, the AF coil424may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the AF coil424define a plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure414(e.g., the surface on which the AF coil424is mounted) and/or substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. The AF magnet422and the AF coil424may be located proximate one another, and the AF coil424may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the AF magnet422to produce Lorentz forces that move the AF magnet422, the magnet holder412, and/or the lens group402along an axis (e.g., along the X-axis) to provide AF movement. The AF coil424, being attached to the fixed structure414, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the AF magnet422. In various embodiments, the AF VCM actuator416may be located in front of a portion of the second prism406, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 4A.

In some embodiments, the OIS-Y VCM actuator418and the OIS-X VCM actuator420may share one or more OIS magnets426. In some embodiments, the shared OIS magnets426may be dual-pole magnets. The shared OIS magnets426may be attached to the magnet holder412, e.g., at opposing sides of the lens group402, as shown inFIGS. 4A and 4B.

According to some examples, the OIS-Y VCM actuator418may include one or more OIS-Y coils428. The OIS-Y coils428may be attached to the fixed structure414. In some embodiments, each OIS-Y coil428may be located below a respective shared OIS magnet426. The OIS-Y coils428may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets426to produce Lorentz forces that move the shared OIS magnets426, the magnet holder412, and/or the lens group402along an axis (e.g., along the Y-axis) to provide OIS-Y movement. The OIS-Y coils428, being attached to the fixed structure414, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the shared OIS magnets426. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets426may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-Y coils428. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets426and the OIS-Y coils428may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets426and the OIS-Y coils428may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet422and the AF coil424in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-Y coils428may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-Y coils428define a respective plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure414(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils428are mounted).

According to some examples, the OIS-X VCM actuator420may include one or more OIS-X coils430. The OIS-X coils430may be attached to the lens barrel408. In some embodiments, each OIS-X coil430may be located between a respective shared OIS magnet426and the lens group402. The OIS-X coils430may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets426to produce Lorentz forces that move the OIS-X coils430, the lens barrel408, and the lens group402along an axis (e.g., along the Z-axis), relative to the magnet holder412and/or the fixed structure414, to provide OIS-X movement. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets426may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-X coils430. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets426and the OIS-X coils430may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets426and the OIS-X coils430may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet422and the AF coil424in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-X coils430may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-X coils430define a respective plane that is substantially orthogonal to a surface of the fixed structure414(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils428are mounted).

FIGS. 5A-5Ceach illustrate a respective view of yet another example camera500having a folded optics arrangement and an example actuator arrangement for shifting a lens group of the camera500along multiple axes.FIG. 5Ashows a perspective view of some structural components of the camera500.FIG. 5Bshows a schematic side cross-sectional view of the camera500.FIG. 5Cshows a schematic front cross-sectional view of the camera500.

In some embodiments, the camera500may include a lens group502, a first prism504, and a second prism506, and an image sensor (not shown). The lens group502may include one or more lens elements disposed within a lens barrel508.

In various embodiments, the camera500may include an actuator module510that provides for shifting the lens group502along multiple axes, e.g., to provide AF and/or OIS movement. In some embodiments, the actuator module510may comprise a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator module that includes one or more VCM actuators. For instance, the actuator module510may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. The magnets and coils may magnetically interact (e.g., when electrical current is provided to the coils) to produce Lorentz forces that move the lens group502.

According to various embodiments, the camera500may include a carrier arrangement that includes an inner carrier structure (e.g., the lens barrel508and/or a lens carrier) and an outer carrier structure (e.g., a magnet holder512and/or a magnet frame). One or more coils may be coupled to the inner carrier structure (e.g., to the lens barrel508and/or a lens carrier). Furthermore, one or more magnets may be coupled to the outer carrier structure (e.g., to the magnet holder512). In some embodiments, the magnet holder512may extend at least partially around the first prism504, the lens barrel508(and the lens group502), and the second prism506, e.g., as shown inFIGS. 5A-5C.

The magnet holder512may have multiple sides and/or portions. For example, the magnet holder512may have a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. The first side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the side surfaces of the optical elements. The second side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the opposite side surfaces of the optical elements. The third side may be a distal/object side extending along the Y-axis, and may be positioned behind at least a portion of the reflecting surface side of the first prism504(e.g., such that the first prism504is disposed between the lens group502and the magnet holder512). The fourth side may be a proximal/image side extending along the Y-axis, and may be positioned in front of at least a portion of the reflecting surface side of the second prism506(e.g., such that the second prism506is disposed between the lens group502and the magnet holder512). In some non-limiting examples, the magnet holder512may encircle the optical elements of the folded optics arrangement (e.g., the first prism504, the lens group502, and the second prism506). In some examples, one or more of the sides of the magnet holder512may comprise two parts that are spaced apart from each other by a gap, so that the magnet holder512partially encircles the optical elements.

According to some examples, a first portion of the magnet holder512(e.g., the first side of the magnet holder512) may extend proximate a first side of the lens barrel508, a second portion of the magnet holder512(e.g., the second side of the magnet holder512) may extend proximate a second side of the lens barrel508that is opposite the first side of the lens barrel508, a third portion of the magnet holder512(e.g., the third side of the magnet holder512) may be tucked under a portion of the first prism504, and a fourth portion of the magnet holder512(e.g., the fourth side of the magnet holder512) may extend in front of the second prism506. As will be discussed below with reference toFIGS. 9A-9D, the lens barrel508may be suspended from the magnet holder512via a suspension arrangement. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnet holder512may be suspended from a fixed structure514of the camera500via the suspension arrangement. The suspension arrangement may allow the lens barrel508to move relative to the magnet holder512. Furthermore, the suspension arrangement may allow the lens barrel508to move together with the magnet holder512relative to the fixed structure514.

In various embodiments, the actuator module510may include one or more AF VCM actuators and/or one or more OIS VCM actuators. In some embodiments, the actuator module510may include an AF VCM actuator516(e.g., to provide AF movement), an OIS-Y VCM actuator518(e.g., to provide OIS-Y movement), and an OIS-X VCM actuator520(e.g., to provide OIS-X movement).

The AF VCM actuator516may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. In some examples, the AF VCM actuator516may include an AF magnet522(e.g., a single-pole magnet) and an AF coil524. The AF magnet522may be attached to the fixed structure514. The AF coil524may be attached to the magnet holder512. In some embodiments, the AF magnet522may have a longest dimension that is substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the AF coil524. In some embodiments, the AF coil524may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the AF coil524define a plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure514(e.g., the surface on which the AF magnet522is mounted) and/or substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. The AF magnet522and the AF coil524may be located proximate one another, and the AF coil524may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the AF magnet522to produce Lorentz forces that move the AF coil524, the magnet holder512, and/or the lens group502along an axis (e.g., along the X-axis) to provide AF movement. The AF magnet522, being attached to the fixed structure514, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the AF coil524. In various embodiments, the AF VCM actuator516may be tucked within a space under a portion of the first prism504, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 5B. In this manner, the impact of the AF VCM actuator516on the dimension of the system along the system X-axis and along the system Z-axis may be reduced or eliminated.

In some embodiments, the OIS-Y VCM actuator518and the OIS-X VCM actuator520may share one or more OIS magnets526. In some embodiments, the shared OIS magnets526may be dual-pole magnets. The shared OIS magnets526may be attached to the magnet holder512, e.g., at opposing sides of the lens group502, as shown inFIGS. 5B and 5C.

According to some examples, the OIS-Y VCM actuator518may include one or more OIS-Y coils528. The OIS-Y coils528may be attached to the fixed structure514. In some embodiments, each OIS-Y coil528may be located below a respective shared OIS magnet526. The OIS-Y coils528may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets526to produce Lorentz forces that move the shared OIS magnets526, the magnet holder512, and/or the lens group502along an axis (e.g., along the Y-axis) to provide OIS-Y movement. The OIS-Y coils528, being attached to the fixed structure514, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the shared OIS magnets526. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets526may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-Y coils528. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets526and the OIS-Y coils528may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets526and the OIS-Y coils528may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet522and the AF coil524in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-Y coils528may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-Y coils528define a respective plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure514(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils528are mounted).

According to some examples, the OIS-X VCM actuator520may include one or more OIS-X coils530. The OIS-X coils530may be attached to the lens barrel508. In some embodiments, each OIS-X coil530may be located between a respective shared OIS magnet526and the lens group502. The OIS-X coils530may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets526to produce Lorentz forces that move the OIS-X coils530, the lens barrel508, and the lens group502along an axis (e.g., along the Z-axis), relative to the magnet holder512and/or the fixed structure514, to provide OIS-X movement. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets526may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-X coils530. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets526and the OIS-X coils530may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets526and the OIS-X coils530may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet522and the AF coil524in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-X coils530may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-X coils530define a respective plane that is substantially orthogonal to a surface of the fixed structure514(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils528are mounted).

FIGS. 6A-6Ceach illustrate a respective view of still yet another example camera600having a folded optics arrangement and an example actuator arrangement for shifting a lens group of the camera600along multiple axes.FIG. 6Ashows a perspective view of some structural components of the camera600.FIG. 6Bshows a schematic side cross-sectional view of the camera600.FIG. 6Cshows a schematic front cross-sectional view of the camera600.

In some embodiments, the camera600may include a lens group602, a first prism604, and a second prism606, and an image sensor (not shown). The lens group602may include one or more lens elements disposed within a lens barrel608.

In various embodiments, the camera600may include an actuator module610that provides for shifting the lens group602along multiple axes, e.g., to provide AF and/or OIS movement. In some embodiments, the actuator module610may comprise a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator module that includes one or more VCM actuators. For instance, the actuator module610may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. The magnets and coils may magnetically interact (e.g., when electrical current is provided to the coils) to produce Lorentz forces that move the lens group602.

According to various embodiments, the camera600may include a carrier arrangement that includes an inner carrier structure (e.g., the lens barrel608and/or a lens carrier) and an outer carrier structure (e.g., a magnet holder612and/or a magnet frame). One or more coils may be coupled to the inner carrier structure (e.g., to the lens barrel608and/or a lens carrier). Furthermore, one or more magnets may be coupled to the outer carrier structure (e.g., to the magnet holder612). In some embodiments, the magnet holder612may extend at least partially around the first prism604, the lens barrel608(and the lens group602), and the second prism606, e.g., as shown inFIGS. 6A-6C.

The magnet holder612may have multiple sides and/or portions. For example, the magnet holder612may have a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. The first side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the side surfaces of the optical elements. The second side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the opposite side surfaces of the optical elements. The third side may be a distal/object side extending along the Y-axis, and may be positioned behind at least a portion of the reflecting surface side of the first prism604(e.g., such that the first prism604is disposed between the lens group602and the magnet holder612). The fourth side may be an upper side/portion extending above the lens group602and connecting the first side to the second side. In some embodiments, the fourth side may at least partially encompass an upper surface of the lens barrel608(and/or a lens carrier). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the fourth side may not encompass upper surfaces of the first prism604and/or the second prism606. There may be gap between an upper surface of the lens barrel608(and/or a lens carrier). The gap may provide sufficient clearance to allow movement of the lens barrel608(and/or a lens carrier) along the Z-direction (e.g., to provide OIS-X movement).

According to some examples, a first portion of the magnet holder612(e.g., the first side of the magnet holder612) may extend proximate a first side of the lens barrel608, a second portion of the magnet holder612(e.g., the second side of the magnet holder612) may extend proximate a second side of the lens barrel608that is opposite the first side of the lens barrel608, a third portion of the magnet holder612(e.g., the third side of the magnet holder612) may be tucked under a portion of the first prism604, and a fourth portion of the magnet holder612(e.g., the fourth side of the magnet holder612) may extend above the lens barrel608(e.g., from the first side of the lens barrel608, over the top of the lens barrel608, to the second side of the lens barrel608). The fourth side/portion may provide structural support to the magnet holder612. For example, by attaching a first end portion of the first side of the magnet holder612to a second end portion of the second side of the magnet holder612, the fourth side may improve the structural integrity of the magnet holder612, e.g., as compared to the three-sided magnet holders described above with reference toFIGS. 3A-4B. As will be discussed below with reference toFIGS. 9A-9D, the lens barrel608may be suspended from the magnet holder612via a suspension arrangement. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnet holder612may be suspended from a fixed structure614of the camera600via the suspension arrangement. The suspension arrangement may allow the lens barrel608to move relative to the magnet holder612. Furthermore, the suspension arrangement may allow the lens barrel608to move together with the magnet holder612relative to the fixed structure614.

In various embodiments, the actuator module610may include one or more AF VCM actuators and/or one or more OIS VCM actuators. In some embodiments, the actuator module610may include an AF VCM actuator616(e.g., to provide AF movement), an OIS-Y VCM actuator618(e.g., to provide OIS-Y movement), and an OIS-X VCM actuator620(e.g., to provide OIS-X movement).

The AF VCM actuator616may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. In some examples, the AF VCM actuator616may include an AF magnet622(e.g., a single-pole magnet) and an AF coil624. The AF magnet622may be attached to the fixed structure614. The AF coil624may be attached to the magnet holder612. In some embodiments, the AF magnet622may have a longest dimension that is substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the AF coil624. In some embodiments, the AF coil624may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the AF coil624define a plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure614(e.g., the surface on which the AF magnet622is mounted) and/or substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. The AF magnet622and the AF coil624may be located proximate one another, and the AF coil624may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the AF magnet622to produce Lorentz forces that move the AF coil624, the magnet holder612, and/or the lens group602along an axis (e.g., along the X-axis) to provide AF movement. The AF magnet622, being attached to the fixed structure614, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the AF coil624. In various embodiments, the AF VCM actuator616may be tucked within a space under a portion of the first prism604, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 6B. In this manner, the impact of the AF VCM actuator616on the dimension of the system along the system X-axis and along the system Z-axis may be reduced or eliminated.

In some embodiments, the OIS-Y VCM actuator618and the OIS-X VCM actuator620may share one or more OIS magnets626. In some embodiments, the shared OIS magnets626may be dual-pole magnets. The shared OIS magnets626may be attached to the magnet holder612, e.g., at opposing sides of the lens group602, as shown inFIGS. 6B and 6C.

According to some examples, the OIS-Y VCM actuator618may include one or more OIS-Y coils628. The OIS-Y coils628may be attached to the fixed structure614. In some embodiments, each OIS-Y coil628may be located below a respective shared OIS magnet626. The OIS-Y coils628may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets626to produce Lorentz forces that move the shared OIS magnets626, the magnet holder612, and/or the lens group602along an axis (e.g., along the Y-axis) to provide OIS-Y movement. The OIS-Y coils628, being attached to the fixed structure614, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the shared OIS magnets626. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets626may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-Y coils628. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets626and the OIS-Y coils628may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets626and the OIS-Y coils628may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet622and the AF coil624in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-Y coils628may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-Y coils628define a respective plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure614(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils628are mounted).

According to some examples, the OIS-X VCM actuator620may include one or more OIS-X coils630. The OIS-X coils630may be attached to the lens barrel608. In some embodiments, each OIS-X coil630may be located between a respective shared OIS magnet626and the lens group602. The OIS-X coils630may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets626to produce Lorentz forces that move the OIS-X coils630, the lens barrel608, and the lens group602along an axis (e.g., along the Z-axis), relative to the magnet holder612and/or the fixed structure614, to provide OIS-X movement. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets626may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-X coils630. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets626and the OIS-X coils630may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets626and the OIS-X coils630may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet622and the AF coil624in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-X coils630may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-X coils630define a respective plane that is substantially orthogonal to a surface of the fixed structure614(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils628are mounted).

FIGS. 7A-7Beach illustrate a respective view of still yet another example camera700having a folded optics arrangement and an example actuator arrangement for shifting a lens group of the camera700along multiple axes.FIG. 7Ashows a schematic side cross-sectional view of the camera700.FIG. 7Bshows a schematic front cross-sectional view of the camera700.

In some embodiments, the camera700may include a lens group702, a first prism704, and a second prism706, and an image sensor (not shown). The lens group702may include one or more lens elements disposed within a lens barrel708. Furthermore, in various embodiments the camera700may include a lens carrier710configured to hold the lens barrel708and/or the lens group702.

In various embodiments, the camera700may include an actuator module712that provides for shifting the lens group702along multiple axes, e.g., to provide AF and/or OIS movement. In some embodiments, the actuator module712may comprise a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator module that includes one or more VCM actuators. For instance, the actuator module712may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. The magnets and coils may magnetically interact (e.g., when electrical current is provided to the coils) to produce Lorentz forces that move the lens group702.

According to various embodiments, the camera700may include a carrier arrangement that includes an inner carrier structure (e.g., the lens carrier710and/or the lens barrel708) and an outer carrier structure (e.g., a magnet holder714and/or a magnet frame). As indicated inFIG. 7, instead of having a single component (e.g., a lens barrel) that holds the lens element(s) of the lens group702, the camera700may include multiple components (e.g., the lens barrel708in which one or more lens elements of the lens group702may be fixed, the lens carrier710that holds the lens barrel708, etc.) that collectively holds the lens group702and one or more portions (e.g., one or more coils) of the actuator module712, and that collectively couples with the magnet holder714(e.g., via suspension elements). The lens carrier710may be further subdivided into individual connected components in some embodiments. One or more coils may be coupled to the inner carrier structure (e.g., to the lens carrier710). Furthermore, one or more magnets may be coupled to the outer carrier structure (e.g., to the magnet holder714). In some embodiments, the magnet holder714may extend at least partially around the first prism704, at least partially around the lens carrier710(and the lens group702), and/or at least partially around the second prism706. For instance, as shown inFIGS. 7A-7B, the magnet holder714may extend at least partially around the lens carrier710and the first prism704. The magnet holder714may be U-shaped in some embodiments.

The magnet holder714may have multiple sides. For example, the magnet holder714may have a first side, a second side, and a third side, e.g., similar to the sides of the magnet holder314described above with reference toFIGS. 3A-3C. According to some examples, a first portion of the magnet holder714(e.g., the first side of the magnet holder714) may extend proximate a first side of the lens carrier710, a second portion of the magnet holder714(e.g., the second side of the magnet holder714) may extend proximate a second side of the lens carrier710that is opposite the first side of the lens carrier710, and a third portion of the magnet holder714(e.g., the third side of the magnet holder714) may be tucked under a portion of the first prism704and may extend from the first portion to the second portion, e.g., as shown inFIGS. 7A-7B. As will be discussed below with reference toFIGS. 9A-9D, the lens carrier710may be suspended from the magnet holder714via a suspension arrangement. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnet holder714may be suspended from a fixed structure716of the camera700via the suspension arrangement. The suspension arrangement may allow the lens carrier710to move relative to the magnet holder714. Furthermore, the suspension arrangement may allow the lens carrier710to move together with the magnet holder714relative to the fixed structure716.

In various embodiments, the actuator module712may include one or more AF VCM actuators and/or one or more OIS VCM actuators. In some embodiments, the actuator module712may include an AF VCM actuator718(e.g., to provide AF movement), an OIS-Y VCM actuator720(e.g., to provide OIS-Y movement), and an OIS-X VCM actuator722(e.g., to provide OIS-X movement).

The AF VCM actuator718may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. In some examples, the AF VCM actuator718may include an AF magnet724(e.g., a single-pole magnet) and an AF coil726. The AF magnet724may be attached to the fixed structure716. The AF coil726may be attached to the magnet holder714. In some embodiments, the AF magnet724may have a longest dimension that is substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the AF coil726. In some embodiments, the AF coil726may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the AF coil726define a plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure716(e.g., the surface on which the AF magnet724is mounted) and/or substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. The AF magnet724and the AF coil726may be located proximate one another, and the AF coil726may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the AF magnet724to produce Lorentz forces that move the AF coil726, the magnet holder714, and/or the lens group702along an axis (e.g., along the X-axis) to provide AF movement. The AF magnet724, being attached to the fixed structure716, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the AF coil726. In various embodiments, the AF VCM actuator718may be tucked within a space under a portion of the first prism704, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 7A. In this manner, the impact of the AF VCM actuator718on the dimension of the system along the system X-axis and along the system Z-axis may be reduced or eliminated.

In some embodiments, the OIS-Y VCM actuator720and the OIS-X VCM actuator722may share one or more OIS magnets728. In some embodiments, the shared OIS magnets728may be dual-pole magnets. The shared OIS magnets728may be attached to the magnet holder714, e.g., at opposing sides of the lens group702, as shown inFIGS. 7A and 7B.

According to some examples, the OIS-Y VCM actuator720may include one or more OIS-Y coils730. The OIS-Y coils730may be attached to the fixed structure716. In some embodiments, each OIS-Y coil730may be located below a respective shared OIS magnet728. The OIS-Y coils730may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets728to produce Lorentz forces that move the shared OIS magnets728, the magnet holder714, and/or the lens group702along an axis (e.g., along the Y-axis) to provide OIS-Y movement. The OIS-Y coils730, being attached to the fixed structure716, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the shared OIS magnets728. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets728may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-Y coils730. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets728and the OIS-Y coils730may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets728and the OIS-Y coils730may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet724and the AF coil726in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-Y coils730may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-Y coils730define a respective plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure716(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils730are mounted).

According to some examples, the OIS-X VCM actuator722may include one or more OIS-X coils732. The OIS-X coils732may be attached to the lens carrier710. In some embodiments, each OIS-X coil732may be located between a respective shared OIS magnet728and the lens group702. The OIS-X coils732may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets728to produce Lorentz forces that move the OIS-X coils732, the lens carrier710, and the lens group702along an axis (e.g., along the Z-axis), relative to the magnet holder714and/or the fixed structure716, to provide OIS-X movement. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets728may have respective longest dimensions that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions of the OIS-X coils732. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets728and the OIS-X coils732may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets728and the OIS-X coils732may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet724and the AF coil726in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-X coils732may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-X coils732define a respective plane that is substantially orthogonal to a surface of the fixed structure716(e.g., the surface on which the OIS-Y coils730are mounted).

FIG. 8Aillustrates an example autofocus (AF) actuator800a, e.g., for a camera having a folded optics arrangement. According to some embodiments, the AF actuator800amay be a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator. For instance, the AF actuator800amay include a single-pole magnet802aand a coil804a. The single-pole magnet802amay be attached to a fixed structure806aof the camera. The coil804amay be attached to a magnet holder808aof the camera. In various embodiments, the AF actuator800amay be tucked within a space under a portion of a first prism810a, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 8A. In some examples, the magnet holder808amay have a portion812athat faces the first prism810aand that is shaped (e.g., chamfered, beveled, etc.) to reduce space consumed by the magnet holder808aunder the first prism810a. The shape of the portion812amay allow the magnet holder808ato have an increased range of movement under the first prism810aand/or may reduce the likelihood of contact between the magnet holder808aand the first prism810a.

In some embodiments, the magnet802amay have a longest dimension (e.g., along the Y-axis) that is substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the coil804a. The coil804amay be oriented such that directions of current flow through the coil804adefine a plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure806a(e.g., the surface on which the magnet802ais mounted) and/or substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. The coil804amay be located above the magnet802a. Furthermore, the magnet802aand the coil804amay be located proximate one another, and the coil804amay be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the magnet802ato produce Lorentz forces that move the coil804a, the magnet holder808a, and/or the lens group along an axis (e.g., along the X-axis) to provide AF movement.

FIG. 8Billustrates another example AF actuator800b, e.g., for a camera having a folded optics arrangement. According to some embodiments, the AF actuator800bmay be a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator. For instance, the AF actuator800bmay include a dual-pole magnet802band a coil804b. The dual-pole magnet802bmay be attached to a fixed structure806bof the camera. The coil804bmay be attached to a magnet holder808bof the camera. In various embodiments, the AF actuator800bmay be tucked within a space under a portion of a first prism810b, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 8B. In some examples, the magnet holder808bmay have a portion812bthat faces the first prism810band that is shaped (e.g., chamfered, beveled, etc.) to reduce space consumed by the magnet holder808bunder the first prism810b. The shape of the portion812bmay allow the magnet holder808bto have an increased range of movement under the first prism810band/or may reduce the likelihood of contact between the magnet holder808band the first prism810b.

In some embodiments, the magnet802bmay have a longest dimension (e.g., along the Y-axis) that is substantially parallel to a longest dimension of the coil804b. The coil804bmay be oriented such that directions of current flow through the coil804bdefine a plane that is substantially parallel to a surface of the fixed structure806b(e.g., the surface on which the magnet802bis mounted) and/or substantially parallel to the X-Y plane. The coil804bmay be located above the magnet802b. Furthermore, the magnet802band the coil804bmay be located proximate one another, and the coil804bmay be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the magnet802bto produce Lorentz forces that move the coil804b, the magnet holder808b, and/or the lens group along an axis (e.g., along the X-axis) to provide AF movement.

FIGS. 9A-9Deach illustrates a respective view of an example suspension arrangement900for a camera having a folded optics arrangement.FIG. 9Ashows a perspective view of the suspension arrangement900.FIG. 9Bshows a top view of the suspension arrangement900.FIG. 9Cshows a top detail view of a portion of the suspension arrangement900.FIG. 9Dshows a bottom detail view of a portion of the suspension arrangement900.

In some embodiments, the camera may include a lens group902, e.g., between two prisms as discussed above with reference toFIGS. 1 and 3A-7B. The lens group902may include one or more lens elements disposed within a lens barrel904. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the camera may include a lens carrier906configured to hold the lens barrel904and/or the lens group902. For instance, the lens carrier906may at least partially surround the lens barrel904in some embodiments.

In various embodiments, the lens carrier906(and/or lens barrel904) may be suspended from a magnet holder908via the suspension arrangement900. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnet holder908may be suspended from a fixed structure (not shown) via the suspension arrangement900. The suspension arrangement900may allow the lens carrier906to move relative to the magnet holder908. Furthermore, the suspension arrangement900may allow the lens carrier906to move together with the magnet holder908relative to the fixed structure.

According to some embodiments, the suspension arrangement900may include a set of one or more top springs910(not shown inFIG. 9D) attached to respective top corner portions of the magnet holder908and the lens carrier906. For instance,FIGS. 9A-9Bshow four top springs910, each of which includes a respective first end that is attached to a respective corner portion of the magnet holder908, and a second end that is attached to a corresponding corner portion of the lens carrier906(e.g., a corner portion of the lens carrier906that is located proximate the respective corner portion of the magnet holder908). Furthermore, a respective suspension wire912may extend downward from each of the top springs910. A bottom end portion914of the respective suspension wire912may be attached to a fixed (or static) structure, e.g., a fixed base structure of the camera. In various embodiments, any number of the top springs910may be connected such that they form a single piece of material having individual portions that can independently flex. Reducing the number of individual pieces in this manner may be desirable from a manufacturing standpoint.

According to some embodiments, the suspension arrangement900may include a set of one or more bottom springs916(not shown inFIG. 9C) attached to respective bottom corner portions of the magnet holder908and the lens carrier906. For instance,FIGS. 9A-9Bshow four bottom springs916, each of which includes a respective first end that is attached to a respective corner portion of the magnet holder908, and a second end that is attached to a corresponding corner portion of the lens carrier906. In some embodiments, a respective suspension wire (not shown) may extend upward from each of the bottom springs916. A top end portion of the respective suspension wire may be attached to a fixed structure of the camera.

In some embodiments one or more suspension elements used for suspending the magnet holder908may be decoupled from one or more suspension elements used for suspending the lens carrier906. For example, as indicated inFIG. 9A, the top spring910may have a fixed portion918that is fixed relative to the magnet holder908. The top spring910may have a first portion920that can flex relative to the magnet holder908and that is connected to the suspension wire912for suspending the magnet holder908. Furthermore, the top spring910may have a second portion922that can independently flex relative to the magnet holder908and that is connected to the lens carrier906(e.g., at fixed portion924that is fixed relative to the lens carrier906) for suspending the lens carrier906. In some embodiments, the first portion920and the second portion922may be made from separate pieces of material.

In some embodiments, one or more of the top springs910and/or one or more of the bottom springs916may not be positioned at corners of the magnet holder908and/or the lens carrier906. For example, one or more of the springs may be positioned along sides of the magnet holder908and/or the lens carrier906. Furthermore, the top springs910and/or the bottom springs916may have more (or fewer) than four springs. In some embodiments, the top springs910may have the same number of springs as the bottom springs916. In other embodiments, the top springs910may have a different number of springs than the bottom springs916.

In some embodiments, one or more lens elements of the lens group902may define an optical axis that is substantially parallel to a plane defined by the set of top springs910. Additionally, or alternatively, the optical axis may be substantially parallel to a plane defined by the set of bottom springs916. Furthermore, a plane defined by the set of top springs910may be substantially parallel to a plane defined by the set of bottom springs916. In some instances, the suspension wires912may extend in directions that are substantially orthogonal to the optical axis, a plane defined by the set of top springs910, and/or a plane defined by the set of bottom springs916.

In various embodiments, the suspension arrangement900may provide compliance and/or stiffness for controlled movement of the lens carrier906and/or the magnet holder908. According to some examples, the suspension wires912may flex to allow controlled AF movement (e.g., along the X-axis) and/or OIS-Y movement (e.g., along the Y-axis) of the magnet holder908together with the lens carrier906. In some instances, e.g., during such AF and/or OIS-Y movement, the set of top springs910and/or the set of bottom springs916may not flex (or may flex substantially less than the suspension wires912). In various embodiments, the suspension wires912may provide compliance for such AF and/or OIS-Y movement in a controlled manner, and may provide sufficient stiffness to resist X-Y plane movement of the lens carrier (and the lens group102) during OIS-X movement. According to some examples, the set of top springs910and/or the set of bottom springs916may flex to allow controlled OIS-X movement (e.g., the Z-axis) of the lens carrier906relative to the magnet holder908. In some instances, e.g., during such OIS-X movement, the suspension wires912may not flex (or may flex substantially less than the set of top springs910and/or the set of bottom springs916). In various embodiments, the top springs910and/or the bottom springs916may provide compliance for such OIS-X movement in a controlled manner, and may provide sufficient stiffness to resist Z-axis movement of the lens carrier906(and the lens group902) during OIS-Y and/or AF movement.

In some embodiments, the camera and/or the suspension arrangement900may include a damper that dampens movement of one or more of the suspension wires912. For instance, the suspension wires912may be at least partially disposed within a viscoelastic material926(e.g., a viscoelastic gel). In some examples, one or more protrusions928may protrude from the magnet holder908and form one or more pockets within which the viscoelastic material926may be disposed. In some instances, the viscoelastic material926may be injected into a pocket through a hole in a base structure (not shown) that at least partially surrounds the magnet holder908. For example, an insertion needle (not shown) may be inserted through the hole in the base structure to access the pocket and inject the viscoelastic material926into the pocket. In some embodiments, the protrusions928may extend from corner portions of the magnet holder908, e.g., as shown inFIG. 9A. WhileFIG. 9Ashows protrusions928that form pockets configured to contain, at least in part, the viscoelastic material926, it should be understood that the viscoelastic material926may be disposed within pockets formed differently, e.g., via pockets formed of protrusions from a structure other than the magnet holder908, pockets formed via a combination of the magnet holder908and one or more other structures, etc. The viscoelastic material926may be located along any portion(s) of the length of a suspension wire912. In some embodiments, the viscoelastic material926may be located along a central portion of the length of a suspension wire912.

In various embodiments, the suspension arrangement900may be used to carry signals (e.g., power and/or control signals) from the fixed structure of the camera to the magnet holder908and/or the lens carrier906. For example, suspension wires912may carry the signals from the fixed structure to top springs910. The top springs910may carry the signals (e.g., via first portion920and fixed portion918) from the suspension wires912to the magnet holder908, and the signals may be routed to one or more coils attached to the magnet holder908. Additionally, or alternatively, the top springs910may carry the signals (e.g., via second portion922and fixed portion924) from the suspension wires912to the lens carrier906, and the signals may be routed to one or more coils attached to the lens carrier906. Various portions of the suspension arrangement, the magnet holder908, and/or the lens carrier906may be formed of electrically conductive material and/or may include electrical traces for carrying/routing the signals, e.g., from the fixed structure to the coils.

FIGS. 10A-10Eeach illustrates a respective view of an example position sensor arrangement1000for a camera having a folded optics arrangement.FIG. 10Ashows a perspective view of the position sensor arrangement1000. The position sensor arrangement1000may include position sensors for position sensing with respect to AF movement, OIS-Y movement, and OIS-X movement.FIG. 10Bshows a detail view that focuses on position sensing with respect to AF movement.FIGS. 10C-10Deach shows a respective detail view that focuses on position sensing with respect to OIS-Y movement.FIG. 10Eshows a detail view that focuses on position sensing with respect to OIS-X movement.

According to various embodiments, the position sensor arrangement1000may include an AF movement position sensor arrangement1002, an OIS-Y movement position sensor arrangement1004, and/or an OIS-X movement position sensor arrangement1006.

In some embodiments, the AF movement position sensor arrangement1002may include one or more AF position sensors1008and one or more corresponding AF probe magnets1010. The AF position sensors1008may be magnetic field sensors (e.g., Hall sensors, tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) sensors, giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors, etc.) in various embodiments. An AF position sensor1008may be disposed proximate a corresponding AF probe magnet1010such that the AF position sensor1008is capable of sensing one or more magnetic field components of the corresponding AF probe magnet1010, e.g., as the AF probe magnet1010moves relative to the AF position sensor1008.

In some examples, the AF probe magnet1010may be attached to a magnet holder1012. The magnet holder1012may be configured to hold one or more magnets (e.g., shared OIS magnets1014). Furthermore, the magnet holder1012may be configured to hold one or more coils (e.g., AF coil1016). In some embodiments, the AF position sensor1008may be attached to a fixed (or static) structure of the camera. For instance, the fixed structure may be a flex circuit1018that is common to (or shared by) some or all of the position sensors of the position sensor arrangement1000. That is, some or all of the position sensors of the position sensor arrangement1000may be attached to the flex circuit1018. Additionally, or alternatively, the flex circuit1018may include one or more coils (e.g., OIS-Y coils1020).

In various embodiments, the AF movement position sensor arrangement1002may include two AF position sensors1008and two corresponding AF probe magnets1010. A first AF position sensor1008and a first corresponding AF probe magnet1010may form a first pair. A second AF position sensor1008and a second corresponding AF probe magnet1010may form a second pair that is opposite the first pair with respect to the system X-axis, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 10A. By having two such pairs, rotation about the system Z-axis due to system X-axis displacement may be cancelled out in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the OIS-Y movement position sensor arrangement1004may include one or more OIS-Y position sensors1022. The OIS-Y position sensors1022may be magnetic field sensors (e.g., Hall sensors, TMR sensors, GMR sensors, etc.) in various embodiments. An OIS-Y position sensor1022may be disposed proximate a corresponding shared OIS magnet1014(e.g., a dual-pole magnet) such that the OIS-Y position sensor1022is capable of sensing one or more magnetic field components of the corresponding shared OIS magnet1014, e.g., as the shared OIS magnet1014moves relative to the OIS-Y position sensor1022.

In some cases, the OIS-Y position sensor1022may be attached to a fixed (or static) structure of the camera. For instance, the fixed structure may be the flex circuit1018that is common to (or shared by) some or all of the position sensors of the position sensor arrangement1000. In some embodiments, the OIS-Y position sensor1022may be attached to the flex circuit1018below the shared OIS magnet1014and/or below the OIS-Y coil1020, e.g., as indicated inFIGS. 10C-10D.

In various embodiments, the OIS-Y movement position sensor arrangement1004may include two OIS-Y position sensors1022and two corresponding shared OIS magnets1014. A first OIS-Y position sensor1022and a first corresponding shared OIS magnet1014may form a first pair. A second OIS-Y position sensor1022and a second corresponding shared OIS magnet1014may form a second pair that is opposite the first pair with respect to the system X-axis, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 10A. By having two such pairs, rotation about the system Z-axis due to system Y-axis displacement may be cancelled out in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the OIS-X movement position sensor arrangement1006may include one or more OIS-X position sensors1024and one or more corresponding OIS-X probe magnets1026. The OIS-X position sensors1024may be magnetic field sensors (e.g., Hall sensors, TMR sensors, GMR sensors, etc.) in various embodiments. An OIS-X position sensor1024may be disposed proximate a corresponding OIS-X probe magnet1026such that the OIS-X position sensor1024is capable of sensing one or more magnetic field components of the corresponding OIS-X probe magnet1026, e.g., as the OIS-X probe magnet1026moves relative to the OIS-X position sensor1024.

In some examples, the OIS-X probe magnet1026may be attached to a lens carrier1028(or a lens barrel). The lens carrier1028may be configured to hold a lens barrel1030and/or a lens group1032(e.g., a lens group having one or more lens elements disposed within the lens barrel1030). Furthermore, the lens carrier1028may be configured to hold one or more coils (e.g., OIS-X coils1034). In some embodiments, the OIS-X position sensor1024may be attached to a fixed (or static) structure of the camera. For instance, the fixed structure may be the flex circuit1018that is common to (or shared by) some or all of the position sensors of the position sensor arrangement1000.

In various embodiments, the OIS-X movement position sensor arrangement1006may include two OIS-X position sensors1024and two corresponding OIS-X probe magnets1026. A first OIS-X position sensor1024and a first corresponding OIS-X probe magnet1026may form a first pair. A second OIS-X position sensor1024and a second corresponding OIS-X probe magnet1026may form a second pair that is opposite the first pair with respect to the system X-axis, e.g., as indicated inFIGS. 10A and 10E. By having two such pairs, rotation about the system Z-axis (due to system Z-axis displacement) and/or external field effects may be cancelled out in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the flex circuit1018may be coupled to (e.g., in electrical contact with) an image sensor package1036. Additionally, or alternatively, the image sensor package1036may be coupled to (e.g., in electrical contact with) another flex circuit1038.

FIG. 11illustrates a perspective view of an example camera1100having a folded optics arrangement, with a shield can1102covering at least a portion of the internal components of the camera1100.

In some embodiments, the shield can1102may include a first portion1102aand a second portion1102b. The first portion1102amay cover at least a first prism and a lens group of the camera1100in some examples. The second portion1102bmay cover at least a second prism in some examples. WhileFIG. 11indicates the shield can1102may include two portions (e.g., the first portion1102aand the second portion1102b), it should be understood that the shield can1102may be a single component in some embodiments. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the shield can1102may include more than two portions.

According to some examples, the shield can1102may define an aperture1104above the first prism such that light may enter the camera1100and reach the first prism. In some cases, the aperture1104may be enclosed and/or sealed, e.g., via a transparent window. As such, dust particles may be prevented from entering the camera1100through the aperture1104and negatively impacting optical performance of the first prism and/or other components of the camera1100in some instances. Although not illustrated inFIG. 11, the camera1100may include one or more openings configured to allow ventilation.

In some cases, the camera1100may include a flex circuit1106disposed below the first prism, the lens group, the second prism, the lens carrier (and/or lens barrel), the magnet holder, and/or the fixed structure. The flex circuit1106may include an interface configured to allow the camera1100to interface with one or more other components external to the camera1100. The flex circuit1106may be used to convey data signals and electrical power to and from the camera1100. For instance, the flex circuit1106may be used to convey image signals from the image sensor to one or more processors external to the camera1100.

In some embodiments, the camera1100may include a stiffener1108at least partially below the flex circuit1106. For instance, the stiffener1108may be a folded stiffener, e.g., as shown inFIG. 11. According to some examples, the folded stiffener1108may include a base portion below the flex circuit1106and tab portions that are each folded from the base portion to cover a respective side of the camera1100and/or the shield can1102. In some cases, the folded stiffener1108may include three tab portions, with each tab portion covering a portion of a respective one of three sides of the camera1100and/or the shield can1102. A fourth side of the camera1100and/or the shield can1102may not have a corresponding tab portion that covers a portion of it. For instance, the fourth side may be a side at which the flex circuit1106extends outwardly to one or more components that are external to the camera1100.

FIGS. 12A-12Billustrate a flow diagram of an example method1200for assembling a camera having a folded optics arrangement. At1202, the method1200may include coupling a lens carrier of the camera with one or more coils (e.g., OIS-X coils). At1204, the method1200may include coupling a magnet holder of the camera with one or more magnets (e.g., shared OIS magnets), one or more coils (e.g., an AF coil), and/or suspension springs. At1206, the method1200may include coupling the lens carrier with the magnet holder via the suspension springs. At1208, the method1200may include coupling the magnet holder with a fixed structure of the camera via suspension wires. At1210, the method1200may include coupling a first prism of the camera with the fixed structure. At1212, the method1200may include coupling the fixed structure with a shield can of the camera. At1214, the method1200may include coupling a lens group with the lens carrier. At1216, the method1200may include performing active alignment with a second prism of the camera. Furthermore, at1216, the method1200may include coupling the second prism, a substrate, a flex circuit, and/or a stiffener with one or more components of the camera.

FIGS. 13A-13Ceach illustrate a respective view of another example camera1300having a folded optics arrangement and an example actuator arrangement for shifting a lens group of the camera along multiple axes.FIG. 13Ashows a perspective view of some structural components of the camera.FIG. 13Bshows a schematic side cross-sectional view of the camera1300, where the cross-section is taken along section lines13B-13B shown inFIG. 13A.FIG. 13Cshows a schematic front cross-sectional view of the camera, where the cross-section is taken along section lines13C-13C shown inFIG. 13A.

In some embodiments, the camera1300may include a lens group1302, a first prism1304, a second prism1306, and an image sensor1308(shown inFIG. 13B). The lens group1302may include one or more lens elements1310disposed within a lens barrel1312.

In various embodiments, the camera1300may include an actuator module that provides for shifting the lens group1302along multiple axes, e.g., to provide AF and/or OIS movement. In some embodiments, the actuator module may comprise a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator module that includes one or more VCM actuators. For instance, the actuator module may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. The magnets and coils may magnetically interact (e.g., when electrical current is provided to the coils) to produce Lorentz forces that move the lens group1302.

According to various embodiments, the camera1300may include a carrier arrangement that includes an inner carrier structure and an outer carrier structure. For example, the inner carrier structure may include a lens carrier1314(which may hold the lens barrel1312). The outer carrier structure may include a magnet holder1316. One or more coils may be coupled to the lens carrier1314and/or to the magnet holder1316. Furthermore, one or more magnets may be coupled to the magnet holder1316. In some embodiments, the magnet holder1316may extend at least partially around the folded optics arrangement. The magnet holder1316may have multiple sides and/or portions, such as the sides/portions of any of the magnet holders described above with reference toFIGS. 3A-8B.

In a non-limiting example, the magnet holder1316may have a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. The first side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the side surfaces of the optical elements. The second side may be a lateral side extending along the X-axis and along the opposite side surfaces of the optical elements. The third side may be a distal/object side extending along the Y-axis, and may be positioned behind at least a portion of the reflecting surface side of the first prism1304(e.g., such that the first prism1304is disposed between the lens group1302and the magnet holder1316). The fourth side may be a proximal/image side extending along the Y-axis, and may be positioned in front of at least a portion of the reflecting surface side of the second prism1306(e.g., such that the second prism1306is disposed between the lens group1302and the magnet holder1316). In some non-limiting examples, the magnet holder1316may encircle the optical elements of the folded optics arrangement (e.g., the first prism1304, the lens group1302, and the second prism1306).

According to some examples, a first portion of the magnet holder1316(e.g., the first side of the magnet holder1316) may extend proximate a first side of the lens carrier1314, a second portion of the magnet holder1316(e.g., the second side of the magnet holder1316) may extend proximate a second side of the lens carrier1314that is opposite the first side of the lens carrier1314, a third portion of the magnet holder1316(e.g., the third side of the magnet holder1316) may be tucked under a portion of the first prism1304, and a fourth portion of the magnet holder1316(e.g., the fourth side of the magnet holder1316) may extend in front of the second prism1306. As discussed above with reference toFIGS. 9A-9D, the lens carrier1314may be suspended from the magnet holder1316via a suspension arrangement. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnet holder1316may be suspended from a fixed structure (e.g., fixed structure1318) of the camera1300via the suspension arrangement. The suspension arrangement may allow the lens carrier1314to move relative to the magnet holder1316. Furthermore, the suspension arrangement may allow the lens carrier1314to move together with the magnet holder1316relative to the fixed structure1318.

In various embodiments, the actuator module may include one or more AF VCM actuators and/or one or more OIS VCM actuators. In some embodiments, the actuator module may include an AF VCM actuator1320(e.g., to provide AF movement, as indicated inFIG. 13B), an OIS-Y VCM actuator1322(e.g., to provide OIS-Y movement, as indicated inFIG. 13C), and an OIS-X VCM actuator1324(e.g., to provide OIS-X movement, as indicated inFIG. 13C).

The AF VCM actuator1320may include one or more magnets and one or more coils. In some examples, the AF VCM actuator1320may include an AF magnet1326(e.g., a dual-pole magnet) and an AF coil1328. The AF magnet1326may be attached to the fixed structure1318. In some examples, a first portion of the AF magnet1326may have a N-S polarity in a first direction, and a second portion of the AF magnet1326may have a N-S polarity in a second direction that is opposite the first direction, e.g., as indicated by the N-S polarity directions shown inFIG. 13B. The first portion may be parallel to the second portion in some embodiments. The AF coil1328may be attached to the magnet holder1316. In some embodiments, the AF magnet1326may have a longest dimension (e.g., along the Y-axis) that is substantially parallel to a longest dimension (e.g., along the Y-axis) of the AF coil1328. In some embodiments, the AF coil1328may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the AF coil1328define a plane that is parallel to the X-Y plane. The AF magnet1326and the AF coil1328may be located proximate one another, and the AF coil1328may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the AF magnet1326to produce Lorentz forces that move the AF coil1328, the magnet holder1316, and/or the lens group1302along an axis (e.g., along the X-axis) to provide AF movement (e.g., movement that shifts an image projected on the image sensor in one or more directions parallel to the Z-axis). The AF magnet1326, being attached to the fixed structure1318, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the AF coil1328. In various embodiments, the AF VCM actuator1320may be tucked within a space under a portion of the first prism1304, e.g., as indicated inFIG. 13B. In this manner, the impact of the AF VCM actuator1320on the dimension of the system along its long axis (e.g., the X-axis) and along its vertical axis (e.g., the Z-axis) may be reduced or eliminated.

In some embodiments, the OIS-Y VCM actuator1322and the OIS-X VCM actuator1324may share one or more OIS magnets1330. In some embodiments, the shared OIS magnets1330may be dual-pole magnets. In some examples, a first portion of a shared OIS magnet1330may have a N-S polarity in a first direction, and a second portion of the shared OIS magnet1330may have a N-S polarity in a second direction that is opposite the first direction, e.g., as indicated by the N-S polarity directions shown inFIG. 13C. The first portion may be parallel to the second portion in some embodiments. The shared OIS magnets1330may be attached to the magnet holder1316, e.g., at opposing sides of the lens group1302, as shown inFIG. 13C.

According to some examples, the OIS-Y VCM actuator1322may include one or more OIS-Y coils1332. The OIS-Y coils1332may be attached to the fixed structure1318. In some embodiments, each OIS-Y coil1332may be located below a respective shared OIS magnet1330. The OIS-Y coils1332may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets1330to produce Lorentz forces that move the shared OIS magnets1330, the magnet holder1316, and/or the lens group1302along an axis (e.g., along the Y-axis) to provide OIS-Y movement (e.g., movement that shifts an image projected on the image sensor in one or more directions parallel to the Y-axis). The OIS-Y coils1332, being attached to the fixed structure1318, may remain stationary relative to the movement of the shared OIS magnets1330. In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets1330may have respective longest dimensions (e.g., along the X-axis) that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions (e.g., along the X-axis) of the OIS-Y coils1332. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets1330and the OIS-Y coils1332may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension (e.g., along the X-axis) of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets1330and the OIS-Y coils1332may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet1326and the AF coil1328in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-Y coils1332may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-Y coils1332define a respective plane that is parallel to the X-Y plane.

According to some examples, the OIS-X VCM actuator1324may include one or more OIS-X coils1334. The OIS-X coils1334may be attached to the lens carrier1314. In some embodiments, each OIS-X coil1334may be located between a respective shared OIS magnet1330and the lens group1302. The OIS-X coils1334may be electrically driven to magnetically interact with the shared OIS magnets1330to produce Lorentz forces that move the OIS-X coils1334, the lens carrier1314, and the lens group1302along an axis (e.g., along the Z-axis), relative to the magnet holder1316and/or the fixed structure1318, to provide OIS-X movement (e.g., movement that shifts an image projected on the image sensor in one or more directions parallel to the X-axis). In some embodiments, each of the shared OIS magnets1330may have respective longest dimensions (e.g., along the X-axis) that are substantially parallel to respective longest dimensions (e.g., along the X-axis) of the OIS-X coils1334. In some embodiments, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets1330and the OIS-X coils1334may be substantially parallel to a longest dimension (e.g., along the X-axis) of the system. Furthermore, the respective longest dimensions of the shared OIS magnets1330and the OIS-X coils1334may be substantially orthogonal to the respective longest dimensions of the AF magnet1326and the AF coil1328in some embodiments. According to various embodiments, the OIS-X coils1334may be oriented such that directions of current flow through the OIS-X coils1334define a respective plane that is orthogonal to the X-Y plane (e.g., parallel to the X-Z plane).

As indicated inFIGS. 13B and 13C, the lens carrier1314may at least partially encompass the lens barrel1312and/or the lens group1302. For example, a first portion of the lens carrier1314may at least partially encompass a first side of the lens barrel1312. A second portion of the lens carrier1314may at least partially encompass a second side of the lens barrel1312that is opposite the first side. A third portion of the lens carrier1314may at least partially encompass a third side of the lens barrel1312. In some embodiments, the third portion may extend below the lens barrel1312and from the first portion to the second portion.

In various embodiments, the camera1300may include a substrate1336below the second prism1306. The image sensor1308may be coupled to the substrate1336. In some embodiments, a filter (e.g., an infrared filter)1338may also be coupled to the substrate. For instance, the filter1338may be located above the image sensor1308such that light passes through the filter1338before reaching the image sensor1308. In some examples, the substrate1336may define a plane that is parallel to the fixed structure1318and/or the X-Y plane. Additionally, or alternatively, the fixed structure1318may include the substrate1336and/or one or more other components of the camera1300.

In some embodiments, the camera1300may include a first prism holder1340(shown inFIG. 13A) that holds the first prism1304. In some embodiments, the first prism1304may be attached to one or more fixed structures of the camera1300via the first prism holder1340. Additionally, or alternatively, the camera1300may include a second prism holder1342that holds the second prism1306. In some embodiments, the second prism holder1342may be attached to one or more fixed structures of the camera1300via the second prism holder1342.

FIG. 14shows an example camera1400that has a folded optics arrangement and that has a lower portion with a reduced dimension along the X-axis (e.g., as compared to that of a lower portion of the camera1300ofFIGS. 13A-13C). In some embodiments, the camera1400may have some components that are the same as, or similar to, components of the camera1300described above with reference toFIGS. 13A-13C. For example, as indicated inFIG. 14, the folded optics arrangement of the camera1400may include a lens group1402, a first prism1404, a second prism1406, and an image sensor1408. The camera1400may include an AF VCM actuator, an OIS-Y VCM actuator, and an OIS-X VCM actuator, each of which may include one or more magnets and one or more coils, as discussed above.

In various embodiments, the camera1400may include an AF VCM actuator1410that is located under the first prism1404. As indicated inFIG. 14, the AF VCM actuator1410(and other components near it) may be located within a first space beneath a first portion of the first prism1404, leaving a second space (e.g., as generally indicated by dashed rectangle1412) as available free space (space that is not consumed by the camera1400) beneath a second portion of the first prism1404. The first space (and the first portion) may be located (along the X-axis) between the lens group1402and the second space1412(and the second portion).

In some embodiments, a system may include multiple cameras. As a non-limiting example, the system may include the camera1400and a second camera (not shown) that is adjacent to the camera1400. At least a portion of the second camera may be disposed within the second space1412described above. In this manner, the camera1400may partially overlap with the second camera, and the dimension of the multi-camera system along the X-axis may be reduced. The multi-camera system may have more than two cameras in some embodiments. According to some examples, the cameras may be the same. In other embodiments, one or more cameras of the system may be different than one or more other cameras of the system.

FIGS. 15A-15Ceach illustrate a respective view of another example position sensor arrangement1500, e.g., for a camera having a folded optics arrangement.FIG. 15Ashows a perspective view of the position sensor arrangement1500. The position sensor arrangement1500may include position sensors for position sensing with respect to AF movement, OIS-X movement, and OIS-Y movement.FIG. 15Bshows a cross-sectional view that focuses on position sensing with respect to AF movement.FIG. 15Cshows a cross-sectional view that focuses on position sensing with respect to OIS-X and OIS-Y movement.

According to various embodiments, the position sensor arrangement1500may include an AF movement position sensor arrangement1502, an OIS-Y movement position sensor arrangement1504, and/or an OIS-X movement position sensor arrangement1506.

In some embodiments, the AF movement position sensor arrangement1502may include one or more AF position sensors1508and one or more corresponding AF probe magnets1510, e.g., as shown inFIGS. 15A and 15B. The AF position sensors1508may be magnetic field sensors (e.g., Hall sensors, tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) sensors, giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors, etc.) in various embodiments. An AF position sensor1508may be disposed proximate a corresponding AF probe magnet1510such that the AF position sensor1508is capable of sensing one or more magnetic field components of the corresponding AF probe magnet1510, e.g., as the AF probe magnet1510moves (e.g., along the Z-axis) relative to the AF position sensor1508.

In some examples, the AF probe magnet1510may be attached to a magnet holder1512. The magnet holder1512may be configured to hold one or more magnets (e.g., shared OIS magnets1514shown inFIGS. 15A and 15C). Furthermore, the magnet holder1512may be configured to hold one or more coils, such as an AF coil (not shown). In some embodiments, the AF position sensor1508may be attached to a fixed (or static) structure of the camera. For instance, the fixed structure may be a flex circuit1516that is common to (or shared by) some or all of the position sensors of the position sensor arrangement1500. That is, some or all of the position sensors of the position sensor arrangement1500may be attached to the flex circuit1516. Additionally, or alternatively, the flex circuit1516may include one or more coils (e.g., OIS-Y coils1518).

In various embodiments, the AF movement position sensor arrangement1502may include two AF position sensors1508and two corresponding AF probe magnets1510. A first AF position sensor1508and a first corresponding AF probe magnet1510may form a first pair. A second AF position sensor1508and a second corresponding AF probe magnet1510may form a second pair that is opposite the first pair with respect to an X-Z plane that intersects one or more optical elements of the folded optics arrangement (e.g., first prism1520). As indicated by the arrows on the AF probe magnets1510inFIG. 15A(and by the hatching inFIG. 15B), the AF probe magnet1510of the first pair may have a N-S polarity direction that is opposite that of the AF probe magnet1510of the second pair. By having two such pairs, rotation about the system Z-axis due to system X-axis displacement may be cancelled out in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the OIS-Y movement position sensor arrangement1504may include one or more OIS-Y position sensors1522, e.g., as shown inFIGS. 15A and 15C. In a non-limiting example, the OIS-Y movement position sensor arrangement1504may include a single OIS-Y position sensor1522. The OIS-Y position sensor1522may be a magnetic field sensor (e.g., Hall sensors, TMR sensors, GMR sensors, etc.) in various embodiments. The OIS-Y position sensor1522may be disposed proximate a shared OIS magnet1514(e.g., a dual-pole magnet) such that the OIS-Y position sensor1522is capable of sensing one or more magnetic field components of the corresponding shared OIS magnet1514, e.g., as the shared OIS magnet1514moves (e.g., along the Y-axis) relative to the OIS-Y position sensor1522. In some embodiments, due to the magnitude of the magnetic field produced by the shared OIS magnet1514, the OIS-Y movement position sensor arrangement1504may not require a separate probe magnet and/or more than one OIS-Y movement position sensors.

In some cases, the OIS-Y position sensor1522may be attached to a fixed (or static) structure of the camera. For instance, the fixed structure may be the flex circuit1516that is common to (or shared by) some or all of the position sensors of the position sensor arrangement1500. In some embodiments, the OIS-Y position sensor1522may be attached to the flex circuit1516below the shared OIS magnet1514and/or below the OIS-Y coil1518, e.g., as indicated inFIGS. 15A and 15C.

In some embodiments, the OIS-X movement position sensor arrangement1506may include one or more OIS-X position sensors1524and one or more corresponding OIS-X probe magnets1526. The OIS-X position sensors1524may be magnetic field sensors (e.g., Hall sensors, TMR sensors, GMR sensors, etc.) in various embodiments. An OIS-X position sensor1524may be disposed proximate a corresponding OIS-X probe magnet1526such that the OIS-X position sensor1524is capable of sensing one or more magnetic field components of the corresponding OIS-X probe magnet1526, e.g., as the OIS-X probe magnet1526moves (e.g., along the Z-axis) relative to the OIS-X position sensor1524.

In some examples, the OIS-X probe magnet1526may be attached to a lens carrier1528(or a lens barrel). The lens carrier1528may be configured to hold a lens barrel1530and/or a lens group1532(e.g., a lens group having one or more lens elements disposed within the lens barrel1530). Furthermore, the lens carrier1528may be configured to hold one or more coils (e.g., OIS-X coils1534shown inFIG. 15C). In some embodiments, the OIS-X position sensor1524may be attached to a fixed (or static) structure of the camera. For instance, the fixed structure may be the flex circuit1516that is common to (or shared by) some or all of the position sensors of the position sensor arrangement1500.

In various embodiments, the OIS-X movement position sensor arrangement1506may include two OIS-X position sensors1524and two corresponding OIS-X probe magnets1526. A first OIS-X position sensor1524and a first corresponding OIS-X probe magnet1526may form a first pair. A second OIS-X position sensor1524and a second corresponding OIS-X probe magnet1526may form a second pair that is opposite the first pair with respect to an X-Z plane that intersects the lens group1532. As indicated by the arrows on the OIS-X probe magnets1526inFIG. 15A(and by the hatching inFIG. 15C), the OIS-X probe magnet1526of the first pair may have a N-S polarity direction that is opposite that of the OIS-X probe magnet1526of the second pair. By having two such pairs, rotation about the system Z-axis (due to system Z-axis displacement) and/or external field effects may be cancelled out in some embodiments.

In a non-limiting embodiment, the AF position sensor arrangement1502may include two AF position sensors1508(e.g., two TMR sensors), the OIS-Y position sensor arrangement1504may include an OIS-Y position sensor1522(e.g., a Hall sensor), and the OIS-X position sensor arrangement1506may include two OIS-X position sensors1524(e.g., two TMR sensors).

FIGS. 16A-16Billustrate an example camera1600that has a folded optics arrangement and that includes a module can1602with retention elements (e.g., protrusions, tabs, etc.). In some embodiments, the camera1600may include some components that are the same as, or similar to, components of the cameras described above (e.g., camera1300inFIGS. 13A-13C). For example, the folded optics arrangement of the camera1600may include a lens group1604, a first prism1606, and a second prism1608. In some embodiments, the camera1600may include an AF VCM actuator, an OIS-Y VCM actuator, and an OIS-X VCM actuator, each of which may include one or more magnets and one or more coils, as discussed above.

In some embodiments, the module can1602may include one or more retention elements used to retain one or more components substantially in place, e.g., to prevent the components from moving in directions parallel to the Z-axis during drop events. Retention elements may be used for prism retention and/or for lens barrel retention. For example, the module can1602may include a first set of one or more retention elements1610for retaining the first prism1606, a second set of one or more retention elements1612for retaining the lens barrel1614(and/or a lens carrier) that holds the lens group1604, and/or a third set of one or more retention elements1616for retaining the second prism1608.

According to some embodiments, each retention element may be configured to engage a corresponding portion of the component for which it is used to retain. For example, the first set of retention elements1610(for retaining the first prism1606) may include a first retention element1618a, a second retention element1618b, and a third retention element1618cthat each protrude inward from a base portion1620of the module can1602. The retention elements1618may be configured to be in contact with one or more corresponding portions1622of the first prism1606and/or a component attached to the first prism1606(e.g., a prism holder). In some embodiments, the retention elements1618may be formed to contiguously extend along multiple sides (e.g., three sides) of the first prism1606, e.g., as shown inFIG. 16A. In other embodiments, the retention elements1618may discontinuously extend along one or more sides of the first prism1606. An adhesive may be used to attach the retention elements1618to the corresponding portions1622.

The second set of retention elements1612(for retaining the lens barrel1614) may include a first retention element1624aand a second retention element1624bthat each protrude inward from the base portion1620of the module can1602. The retention elements1624may be configured to be in contact with one or more corresponding portions1626of the lens barrel1614and/or a component attached to the lens barrel1614(e.g., a lens carrier). The first retention element1624amay be disposed proximate a first side of the lens barrel1614, and the second retention element1624bmay be disposed proximate a second side of the lens barrel1614that is opposite the first side. An adhesive may be used to attach the retention elements1624to the corresponding portions1626.

The third set of retention elements1616(for retaining the second prism1608) may include a first retention element1628a, a second retention element1628b, and a third retention element1628cthat each protrude inward from the base portion1620of the module can1602. The retention elements1628may be configured to be in contact with one or more corresponding portions1630of the second prism1608and/or a component attached to the second prism1608(e.g., a prism holder). In some embodiments, the retention elements1628may be formed to contiguously extend along multiple sides (e.g., three sides) of the second prism1608, e.g., as shown inFIG. 16A. In other embodiments, the retention elements1628may discontinuously extend along one or more sides of the second prism1608. An adhesive may be used to attach the retention elements1628to the corresponding portions1630.

In some examples, the module can1602may be a secondary shield can. As indicated inFIG. 16B, the camera1600may include a primary shield can1632that at least partially encompasses some internal components of the camera1600.

FIG. 17illustrates a bottom perspective view of an example base structure1700(e.g., for a camera having a folded optics arrangement, such as those described above) having an example base bridge1702that provides structural support to the base structure1700. In some embodiments, a substrate1704may be attached to the base structure1700. An image sensor1706may be attached to the substrate1704. Furthermore, a flex circuit board1708may be attached to the base structure1700.

In some other base structures, due to having an elongated shape (e.g., along the X-axis), an undesirable bending deformation may occur at one substrate side near the center, near a window/open area, and/or near an image sensor, e.g., during a drop event. The base bridge1702described here may be used to reinforce the window area and provide structural support to the substrate1704so as to reduce or prevent undesirable bending deformation. In some embodiments, the base bridge1702may extend (e.g., along the Y-axis) proximate a side of the substrate1704and/or proximate the image sensor1706.

Multifunction Device Examples

Embodiments of electronic devices, user interfaces for such devices, and associated processes for using such devices are described. In some embodiments, the device is a portable communications device, such as a mobile telephone, that also contains other functions, such as PDA and/or music player functions. Example embodiments of portable multifunction devices include, without limitation, the iPhone®, iPod Touch®, and iPad® devices from Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. Other portable electronic devices, such as laptops, cameras, cell phones, or tablet computers, may also be used. It should also be understood that, in some embodiments, the device is not a portable communications device, but is a desktop computer with a camera. In some embodiments, the device is a gaming computer with orientation sensors (e.g., orientation sensors in a gaming controller). In other embodiments, the device is not a portable communications device, but is a camera.

The various applications that may be executed on the device may use at least one common physical user-interface device, such as the touch-sensitive surface. One or more functions of the touch-sensitive surface as well as corresponding information displayed on the device may be adjusted and/or varied from one application to the next and/or within a respective application. In this way, a common physical architecture (such as the touch-sensitive surface) of the device may support the variety of applications with user interfaces that are intuitive and transparent to the user.

Attention is now directed toward embodiments of portable devices with cameras.FIG. 18illustrates a block diagram of an example portable multifunction device1800that may include one or more cameras (e.g., the cameras described above with reference toFIGS. 1-16), in accordance with some embodiments. Cameras1864are sometimes called “optical sensors” for convenience, and may also be known as or called an optical sensor system. Device1800may include memory1802(which may include one or more computer readable storage mediums), memory controller1822, one or more processing units (CPUs)1820, peripherals interface1818, RF circuitry1808, audio circuitry1810, speaker1811, touch-sensitive display system1812, microphone1813, input/output (I/O) subsystem1806, other input or control devices1816, and external port1824. Device1800may include multiple optical sensors1864. These components may communicate over one or more communication buses or signal lines1803.

It should be appreciated that device1800is only one example of a portable multifunction device, and that device1800may have more or fewer components than shown, may combine two or more components, or may have a different configuration or arrangement of the components. The various components shown inFIG. 18may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, including one or more signal processing and/or application specific integrated circuits.

Memory1802may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, flash memory devices, or other non-volatile solid-state memory devices. Access to memory1802by other components of device1800, such as CPU1820and the peripherals interface1818, may be controlled by memory controller1822.

Peripherals interface1818can be used to couple input and output peripherals of the device to CPU1820and memory1802. The one or more processors1820run or execute various software programs and/or sets of instructions stored in memory1802to perform various functions for device1800and to process data.

In some embodiments, peripherals interface1818, CPU1820, and memory controller1822may be implemented on a single chip, such as chip1804. In some other embodiments, they may be implemented on separate chips.

Audio circuitry1810, speaker1811, and microphone1813provide an audio interface between a user and device1800. Audio circuitry1810receives audio data from peripherals interface1818, converts the audio data to an electrical signal, and transmits the electrical signal to speaker1811. Speaker1811converts the electrical signal to human-audible sound waves. Audio circuitry1810also receives electrical signals converted by microphone1813from sound waves. Audio circuitry1810converts the electrical signal to audio data and transmits the audio data to peripherals interface1818for processing. Audio data may be retrieved from and/or transmitted to memory1802and/or RF circuitry1808by peripherals interface1818. In some embodiments, audio circuitry1810also includes a headset jack (e.g.,1912,FIG. 19). The headset jack provides an interface between audio circuitry1810and removable audio input/output peripherals, such as output-only headphones or a headset with both output (e.g., a headphone for one or both ears) and input (e.g., a microphone).

I/O subsystem1806couples input/output peripherals on device1800, such as touch screen1812and other input control devices1816, to peripherals interface1818. I/O subsystem1806may include display controller1856and one or more input controllers1860for other input or control devices. The one or more input controllers1860receive/send electrical signals from/to other input or control devices1816. The other input control devices1816may include physical buttons (e.g., push buttons, rocker buttons, etc.), dials, slider switches, joysticks, click wheels, and so forth. In some alternate embodiments, input controller(s)1860may be coupled to any (or none) of the following: a keyboard, infrared port, USB port, and a pointer device such as a mouse. The one or more buttons (e.g.,1908,FIG. 19) may include an up/down button for volume control of speaker1811and/or microphone1813. The one or more buttons may include a push button (e.g.,1906,FIG. 19).

Touch-sensitive display1812provides an input interface and an output interface between the device and a user. Display controller1856receives and/or sends electrical signals from/to touch screen1812. Touch screen1812displays visual output to the user. The visual output may include graphics, text, icons, video, and any combination thereof (collectively termed “graphics”). In some embodiments, some or all of the visual output may correspond to user-interface objects.

Touch screen1812has a touch-sensitive surface, sensor or set of sensors that accepts input from the user based on haptic and/or tactile contact. Touch screen1812and display controller1856(along with any associated modules and/or sets of instructions in memory1802) detect contact (and any movement or breaking of the contact) on touch screen1812and converts the detected contact into interaction with user-interface objects (e.g., one or more soft keys, icons, web pages or images) that are displayed on touch screen1812. In an example embodiment, a point of contact between touch screen1812and the user corresponds to a finger of the user.

Device1800also includes power system1862for powering the various components. Power system1862may include a power management system, one or more power sources (e.g., battery, alternating current (AC)), a recharging system, a power failure detection circuit, a power converter or inverter, a power status indicator (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)) and any other components associated with the generation, management and distribution of power in portable devices.

Device1800may also include one or more optical sensors or cameras1864.FIG. 18shows an optical sensor1864coupled to optical sensor controller1858in I/O subsystem1806. Optical sensor1864may include charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) phototransistors. Optical sensor1864receives light from the environment, projected through one or more lens, and converts the light to data representing an image. In conjunction with imaging module1843(also called a camera module), optical sensor1864may capture still images or video. In some embodiments, an optical sensor1864is located on the back of device1800, opposite touch screen display1812on the front of the device, so that the touch screen display1812may be used as a viewfinder for still and/or video image acquisition. In some embodiments, another optical sensor is located on the front of the device so that the user's image may be obtained for videoconferencing while the user views the other video conference participants on the touch screen display.

Device1800may also include one or more proximity sensors1866.FIG. 18shows proximity sensor1866coupled to peripherals interface1818. Alternately, proximity sensor1866may be coupled to input controller1860in I/O subsystem1806. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor1866turns off and disables touch screen1812when the multifunction device1800is placed near the user's ear (e.g., when the user is making a phone call).

Device1800includes one or more orientation sensors1868. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors1868include one or more accelerometers (e.g., one or more linear accelerometers and/or one or more rotational accelerometers). In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors1868include one or more gyroscopes. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors1868include one or more magnetometers. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors1868include one or more of global positioning system (GPS), Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), and/or other global navigation system receivers. The GPS, GLONASS, and/or other global navigation system receivers may be used for obtaining information concerning the location and orientation (e.g., portrait or landscape) of device1800. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors1868include any combination of orientation/rotation sensors.FIG. 18shows the one or more orientation sensors1868coupled to peripherals interface1818. Alternately, the one or more orientation sensors1868may be coupled to an input controller1860in I/O subsystem1806. In some embodiments, information is displayed on the touch screen display1812in a portrait view or a landscape view based on an analysis of data received from the one or more orientation sensors1868.

In some embodiments, the software components stored in memory1802include operating system1826, communication module (or set of instructions)1828, contact/motion module (or set of instructions)1830, graphics module (or set of instructions)1832, text input module (or set of instructions)1834, Global Positioning System (GPS) module (or set of instructions)1835, arbiter module1858and applications (or sets of instructions)1836. Furthermore, in some embodiments memory1802stores device/global internal state1857. Device/global internal state1857includes one or more of: active application state, indicating which applications, if any, are currently active; display state, indicating what applications, views or other information occupy various regions of touch screen display1812; sensor state, including information obtained from the device's various sensors and input control devices1816; and location information concerning the device's location and/or attitude.

Communication module1828facilitates communication with other devices over one or more external ports1824and also includes various software components for handling data received by RF circuitry1808and/or external port1824. External port1824(e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB), FIREWIRE, etc.) is adapted for coupling directly to other devices or indirectly over a network (e.g., the Internet, wireless LAN, etc.). In some embodiments, the external port is a multi-pin (e.g., 30-pin) connector.

Contact/motion module1830may detect contact with touch screen1812(in conjunction with display controller1856) and other touch sensitive devices (e.g., a touchpad or physical click wheel). Contact/motion module1830includes various software components for performing various operations related to detection of contact, such as determining if contact has occurred (e.g., detecting a finger-down event), determining if there is movement of the contact and tracking the movement across the touch-sensitive surface (e.g., detecting one or more finger-dragging events), and determining if the contact has ceased (e.g., detecting a finger-up event or a break in contact). Contact/motion module1830receives contact data from the touch-sensitive surface. Determining movement of the point of contact, which is represented by a series of contact data, may include determining speed (magnitude), velocity (magnitude and direction), and/or an acceleration (a change in magnitude and/or direction) of the point of contact. These operations may be applied to single contacts (e.g., one finger contacts) or to multiple simultaneous contacts (e.g., “multitouch”/multiple finger contacts). In some embodiments, contact/motion module1830and display controller1856detect contact on a touchpad.

Contact/motion module1830may detect a gesture input by a user. Different gestures on the touch-sensitive surface have different contact patterns. Thus, a gesture may be detected by detecting a particular contact pattern. For example, detecting a finger tap gesture includes detecting a finger-down event followed by detecting a finger-up (lift off) event at the same position (or substantially the same position) as the finger-down event (e.g., at the position of an icon). As another example, detecting a finger swipe gesture on the touch-sensitive surface includes detecting a finger-down event followed by detecting one or more finger-dragging events, and subsequently followed by detecting a finger-up (lift off) event.

Graphics module1832includes various known software components for rendering and displaying graphics on touch screen1812or other display, including components for changing the intensity of graphics that are displayed. As used herein, the term “graphics” includes any object that can be displayed to a user, including without limitation text, web pages, icons (such as user-interface objects including soft keys), digital images, videos, animations and the like.

In some embodiments, graphics module1832stores data representing graphics to be used. Each graphic may be assigned a corresponding code. Graphics module1832receives, from applications etc., one or more codes specifying graphics to be displayed along with, if necessary, coordinate data and other graphic property data, and then generates screen image data to output to display controller1856.

Text input module1834, which may be a component of graphics module1832, provides soft keyboards for entering text in various applications (e.g., contacts1837, e-mail1840, IM1841, browser1847, and any other application that needs text input).

GPS module1835determines the location of the device and provides this information for use in various applications (e.g., to telephone1838for use in location-based dialing, to camera1843as picture/video metadata, and to applications that provide location-based services such as weather widgets, local yellow page widgets, and map/navigation widgets).

Applications1836may include the following modules (or sets of instructions), or a subset or superset thereof:contacts module1837(sometimes called an address book or contact list);telephone module1838;video conferencing module1839;e-mail client module1840;instant messaging (IM) module1841;workout support module1842;camera module1843for still and/or video images;image management module1844;browser module1847;calendar module1848;widget modules1849, which may include one or more of: weather widget1849-1, stocks widget1849-2, calculator widget1849-3, alarm clock widget1849-4, dictionary widget1849-5, and other widgets obtained by the user, as well as user-created widgets1849-6;widget creator module1850for making user-created widgets1849-6;search module1851;video and music player module1852, which may be made up of a video player module and a music player module;notes module1853;map module1854; and/oronline video module1855.

Examples of other applications1836that may be stored in memory1802include other word processing applications, other image editing applications, drawing applications, presentation applications, JAVA-enabled applications, encryption, digital rights management, voice recognition, and voice replication.

In conjunction with touch screen1812, display controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, and text input module1834, contacts module1837may be used to manage an address book or contact list (e.g., stored in application internal state1857), including: adding name(s) to the address book; deleting name(s) from the address book; associating telephone number(s), e-mail address(es), physical address(es) or other information with a name; associating an image with a name; categorizing and sorting names; providing telephone numbers or e-mail addresses to initiate and/or facilitate communications by telephone1838, video conference1839, e-mail1840, or IM1841; and so forth.

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, audio circuitry1810, speaker1811, microphone1813, touch screen1812, display controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, and text input module1834, telephone module1838may be used to enter a sequence of characters corresponding to a telephone number, access one or more telephone numbers in address book1837, modify a telephone number that has been entered, dial a respective telephone number, conduct a conversation and disconnect or hang up when the conversation is completed. As noted above, the wireless communication may use any of a variety of communications standards, protocols and technologies.

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, audio circuitry1810, speaker1811, microphone1813, touch screen1812, display controller1856, optical sensor1864, optical sensor controller1858, contact module1830, graphics module1832, text input module1834, contact list1837, and telephone module1838, videoconferencing module1839includes executable instructions to initiate, conduct, and terminate a video conference between a user and one or more other participants in accordance with user instructions.

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, touch screen1812, display controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, and text input module1834, e-mail client module1840includes executable instructions to create, send, receive, and manage e-mail in response to user instructions. In conjunction with image management module1844, e-mail client module1840makes it very easy to create and send e-mails with still or video images taken with camera module1843.

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, touch screen1812, display controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, and text input module1834, the instant messaging module1841includes executable instructions to enter a sequence of characters corresponding to an instant message, to modify previously entered characters, to transmit a respective instant message (for example, using a Short Message Service (SMS) or Multimedia Message Service (MMS) protocol for telephony-based instant messages or using XMPP, SIMPLE, or IMPS for Internet-based instant messages), to receive instant messages and to view received instant messages. In some embodiments, transmitted and/or received instant messages may include graphics, photos, audio files, video files and/or other attachments as are supported in a MMS and/or an Enhanced Messaging Service (EMS). As used herein, “instant messaging” refers to both telephony-based messages (e.g., messages sent using SMS or MMS) and Internet-based messages (e.g., messages sent using XMPP, SIMPLE, or IMPS).

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, touch screen1812, display controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, text input module1834, GPS module1835, map module1854, and music player module1846, workout support module1842includes executable instructions to create workouts (e.g., with time, distance, and/or calorie burning goals); communicate with workout sensors (sports devices); receive workout sensor data; calibrate sensors used to monitor a workout; select and play music for a workout; and display, store and transmit workout data.

In conjunction with touch screen1812, display controller1856, optical sensor(s)1864, optical sensor controller1858, contact module1830, graphics module1832, and image management module1844, camera module1843includes executable instructions to capture still images or video (including a video stream) and store them into memory1802, modify characteristics of a still image or video, or delete a still image or video from memory1802.

In conjunction with touch screen1812, display controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, text input module1834, and camera module1843, image management module1844includes executable instructions to arrange, modify (e.g., edit), or otherwise manipulate, label, delete, present (e.g., in a digital slide show or album), and store still and/or video images.

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, touch screen1812, display system controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, and text input module1834, browser module1847includes executable instructions to browse the Internet in accordance with user instructions, including searching, linking to, receiving, and displaying web pages or portions thereof, as well as attachments and other files linked to web pages.

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, touch screen1812, display system controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, text input module1834, e-mail client module1840, and browser module1847, calendar module1848includes executable instructions to create, display, modify, and store calendars and data associated with calendars (e.g., calendar entries, to do lists, etc.) in accordance with user instructions.

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, touch screen1812, display system controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, text input module1834, and browser module1847, widget modules1849are mini-applications that may be downloaded and used by a user (e.g., weather widget549-1, stocks widget549-2, calculator widget1849-3, alarm clock widget1849-4, and dictionary widget1849-5) or created by the user (e.g., user-created widget1849-6). In some embodiments, a widget includes an HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) file, a CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) file, and a JavaScript file. In some embodiments, a widget includes an XML (Extensible Markup Language) file and a JavaScript file (e.g., Yahoo! Widgets).

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, touch screen1812, display system controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, text input module1834, and browser module1847, the widget creator module1850may be used by a user to create widgets (e.g., turning a user-specified portion of a web page into a widget).

In conjunction with touch screen1812, display system controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, and text input module1834, search module1851includes executable instructions to search for text, music, sound, image, video, and/or other files in memory1802that match one or more search criteria (e.g., one or more user-specified search terms) in accordance with user instructions.

In conjunction with touch screen1812, display system controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, audio circuitry1810, speaker1811, RF circuitry1808, and browser module1847, video and music player module1852includes executable instructions that allow the user to download and play back recorded music and other sound files stored in one or more file formats, such as MP3 or AAC files, and executable instructions to display, present or otherwise play back videos (e.g., on touch screen1812or on an external, connected display via external port1824). In some embodiments, device1800may include the functionality of an MP3 player.

In conjunction with touch screen1812, display controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, and text input module1834, notes module1853includes executable instructions to create and manage notes, to do lists, and the like in accordance with user instructions.

In conjunction with RF circuitry1808, touch screen1812, display system controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, text input module1834, GPS module1835, and browser module1847, map module1854may be used to receive, display, modify, and store maps and data associated with maps (e.g., driving directions; data on stores and other points of interest at or near a particular location; and other location-based data) in accordance with user instructions.

In conjunction with touch screen1812, display system controller1856, contact module1830, graphics module1832, audio circuitry1810, speaker1811, RF circuitry1808, text input module1834, e-mail client module1840, and browser module1847, online video module1855includes instructions that allow the user to access, browse, receive (e.g., by streaming and/or download), play back (e.g., on the touch screen or on an external, connected display via external port1824), send an e-mail with a link to a particular online video, and otherwise manage online videos in one or more file formats, such as H.264. In some embodiments, instant messaging module1841, rather than e-mail client module1840, is used to send a link to a particular online video.

In some embodiments, device1800is a device where operation of a predefined set of functions on the device is performed exclusively through a touch screen and/or a touchpad. By using a touch screen and/or a touchpad as the primary input control device for operation of device1800, the number of physical input control devices (such as push buttons, dials, and the like) on device1800may be reduced.

FIG. 19depicts illustrates an example portable multifunction device1800that may include one or more cameras (e.g., the cameras described above with reference toFIGS. 1-16B), in accordance with some embodiments. The device1800may have a touch screen1812. The touch screen1812may display one or more graphics within user interface (UI)1900. In this embodiment, as well as others described below, a user may select one or more of the graphics by making a gesture on the graphics, for example, with one or more fingers1902(not drawn to scale in the figure) or one or more styluses1903(not drawn to scale in the figure).

Device1800may also include one or more physical buttons, such as “home” or menu button1904. As described previously, menu button1904may be used to navigate to any application1836in a set of applications that may be executed on device1800. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the menu button1904is implemented as a soft key in a GUI displayed on touch screen1812.

In one embodiment, device1800includes touch screen1812, menu button1904, push button1906for powering the device on/off and locking the device, volume adjustment button(s)1908, Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card slot1910, head set jack1912, and docking/charging external port1924. Push button1906may be used to turn the power on/off on the device by depressing the button and holding the button in the depressed state for a predefined time interval; to lock the device by depressing the button and releasing the button before the predefined time interval has elapsed; and/or to unlock the device or initiate an unlock process. In an alternative embodiment, device1800also may accept verbal input for activation or deactivation of some functions through microphone1813.

It should be noted that, although many of the examples herein are given with reference to optical sensor(s)/camera(s)1864(on the front of a device), one or more rear-facing cameras or optical sensors that are pointed opposite from the display may be used instead of, or in addition to, an optical sensor(s)/camera(s)1864on the front of a device.

Example Computer System

Various embodiments of a camera motion control system as described herein, including embodiments of magnetic position sensing, as described herein may be executed in one or more computer systems2000, which may interact with various other devices. Note that any component, action, or functionality described above with respect toFIGS. 1-19may be implemented on one or more computers configured as computer system2000ofFIG. 20, according to various embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, computer system2000includes one or more processors2010coupled to a system memory2020via an input/output (I/O) interface2030. Computer system2000further includes a network interface2040coupled to I/O interface2030, and one or more input/output devices2050, such as cursor control device2060, keyboard2070, and display(s)2080. In some cases, it is contemplated that embodiments may be implemented using a single instance of computer system2000, while in other embodiments multiple such systems, or multiple nodes making up computer system2000, may be configured to host different portions or instances of embodiments. For example, in one embodiment some elements may be implemented via one or more nodes of computer system2000that are distinct from those nodes implementing other elements.

In various embodiments, computer system2000may be a uniprocessor system including one processor2010, or a multiprocessor system including several processors2010(e.g., two, four, eight, or another suitable number). Processors2010may be any suitable processor capable of executing instructions. For example, in various embodiments processors2010may be general-purpose or embedded processors implementing any of a variety of instruction set architectures (ISAs), such as the x86, PowerPC, SPARC, or MIPS ISAs, or any other suitable ISA. In multiprocessor systems, each of processors2010may commonly, but not necessarily, implement the same ISA.

System memory2020may be configured to store camera control program instructions2022and/or camera control data accessible by processor2010. In various embodiments, system memory2020may be implemented using any suitable memory technology, such as static random access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), nonvolatile/Flash-type memory, or any other type of memory. In the illustrated embodiment, program instructions2022may be configured to implement a lens control application2024incorporating any of the functionality described above. Additionally, existing camera control data2032of memory2020may include any of the information or data structures described above. In some embodiments, program instructions and/or data may be received, sent or stored upon different types of computer-accessible media or on similar media separate from system memory2020or computer system2000. While computer system2000is described as implementing the functionality of functional blocks of previous Figures, any of the functionality described herein may be implemented via such a computer system.

In one embodiment, I/O interface2030may be configured to coordinate I/O traffic between processor2010, system memory2020, and any peripheral devices in the device, including network interface2040or other peripheral interfaces, such as input/output devices2050. In some embodiments, I/O interface2030may perform any necessary protocol, timing or other data transformations to convert data signals from one component (e.g., system memory2020) into a format suitable for use by another component (e.g., processor2010). In some embodiments, I/O interface2030may include support for devices attached through various types of peripheral buses, such as a variant of the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus standard or the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard, for example. In some embodiments, the function of I/O interface2030may be split into two or more separate components, such as a north bridge and a south bridge, for example. Also, in some embodiments some or all of the functionality of I/O interface2030, such as an interface to system memory2020, may be incorporated directly into processor2010.

Network interface2040may be configured to allow data to be exchanged between computer system2000and other devices attached to a network2085(e.g., carrier or agent devices) or between nodes of computer system2000. Network2085may in various embodiments include one or more networks including but not limited to Local Area Networks (LANs) (e.g., an Ethernet or corporate network), Wide Area Networks (WANs) (e.g., the Internet), wireless data networks, some other electronic data network, or some combination thereof. In various embodiments, network interface2040may support communication via wired or wireless general data networks, such as any suitable type of Ethernet network, for example; via telecommunications/telephony networks such as analog voice networks or digital fiber communications networks; via storage area networks such as Fibre Channel SANs, or via any other suitable type of network and/or protocol.

Input/output devices2050may, in some embodiments, include one or more display terminals, keyboards, keypads, touchpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other devices suitable for entering or accessing data by one or more computer systems2000. Multiple input/output devices2050may be present in computer system2000or may be distributed on various nodes of computer system2000. In some embodiments, similar input/output devices may be separate from computer system2000and may interact with one or more nodes of computer system2000through a wired or wireless connection, such as over network interface2040.

As shown inFIG. 20, memory2020may include program instructions2022, which may be processor-executable to implement any element or action described above. In one embodiment, the program instructions may implement the methods described above. In other embodiments, different elements and data may be included. Note that data may include any data or information described above.

The methods described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof, in different embodiments. In addition, the order of the blocks of the methods may be changed, and various elements may be added, reordered, combined, omitted, modified, etc. Various modifications and changes may be made as would be obvious to a person skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The various embodiments described herein are meant to be illustrative and not limiting. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. Accordingly, plural instances may be provided for components described herein as a single instance. Boundaries between various components, operations and data stores are somewhat arbitrary, and particular operations are illustrated in the context of specific illustrative configurations.

Additional Descriptions of Embodiments (Example Clauses)

Clause 1: A camera, comprising: a folded optics arrangement to fold a path of light, the folded optics arrangement comprising: a first prism; a second prism; and a lens group disposed between the first prism and the second prism, wherein the lens group includes one or more lens elements; an image sensor to capture light that has passed through the first prism, the lens group, and the second prism; a carrier arrangement, comprising: an inner carrier structure coupled to the lens group; and an outer carrier structure coupled to the inner carrier structure; and an actuator module to: move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least a first direction; and move the inner carrier structure relative to the outer carrier structure in at least a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction.

Clause 2: The camera of Clause 1, wherein the actuator module comprises: an autofocus (AF) voice coil motor (VCM) actuator to move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least the first direction; a first optical image stabilization (OIS) VCM actuator to move the inner carrier structure relative to the outer carrier structure in at least the second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction; and a second OIS VCM actuator to move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least a third direction that is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction.

Clause 3: The camera of Clause 2, wherein: the AF VCM actuator is to move the lens group in at least the first direction, to provide AF movement of the image, projected on the image sensor, in at least the second direction; the first OIS VCM actuator is to move the lens group in at least the second direction, to provide OIS movement of the image in at least the first direction; and the second OIS VCM actuator is to move the lens group in at least the third direction, to provide OIS movement of the image in at least the third direction.

Clause 4: The camera of any of Clauses 1-3, wherein: the actuator module comprises: one or more magnets; and one or more coils; the inner carrier structure comprises a lens carrier to which at least one coil of the one or more coils is attached; the outer carrier structure comprises a magnet holder to which at least one magnet of the one or more magnets is attached; and the outer carrier structure at least partially encircles the folded optics arrangement.

Clause 5: The camera of any of Clauses 1-4, further comprising: a suspension arrangement to suspend the lens group and allow movement of the lens group along multiple axes, the suspension arrangement comprising: a leaf spring attached to the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure, so as to allow movement of the lens group and the inner carrier structure together, relative to the outer carrier structure, in at least the second direction; and suspension wires to allow movement of the lens group, the inner carrier structure, and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in one or more directions orthogonal to the second direction, wherein a suspension wire of the suspension wires comprises: a first end portion attached to the leaf spring; and a second end portion attached to a fixed structure that is stationary relative to movement of the lens group.

Clause 6: A device, comprising: one or more processors; memory storing program instructions executable by the one or more processors to control operation of a camera; and the camera, comprising: a folded optics arrangement to fold a path of light, the folded optics arrangement comprising: a first prism; a second prism; and a lens group disposed between the first prism and the second prism, wherein the lens group includes one or more lens elements; an image sensor to capture light that has passed through the first prism, the lens group, and the second prism; a carrier arrangement, comprising: an inner carrier structure coupled to the lens group; and an outer carrier structure coupled to the inner carrier structure; and an actuator module to: move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least a first direction; and move the inner carrier structure relative to the outer carrier structure in at least a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction.

Clause 7: The device of Clause 6, wherein the actuator module comprises: an autofocus (AF) voice coil motor (VCM) actuator to move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least the first direction; a first optical image stabilization (OIS) VCM actuator to move the inner carrier structure relative to the outer carrier structure in at least the second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction; and a second OIS VCM actuator to move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least a third direction that is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction.

Clause 8: The device of Clause 7, wherein the one or more processors are further to: cause the AF VCM actuator to move the lens group in at least the first direction, to provide AF movement of the image, projected on the image sensor, in at least the second direction; cause the first OIS VCM actuator to move the lens group in at least the second direction, to provide OIS movement of the image in at least the first direction; and cause the second OIS VCM actuator to move the lens group in at least the third direction, to provide OIS movement of the image in at least the third direction.

Clause 9: The device of any of Clauses 6-8, wherein the outer carrier structure at least partially encircles the folded optics arrangement.

Clause 10: The device of any of Clauses 6-9, wherein: the actuator module comprises: one or more magnets; and one or more coils; the inner carrier structure comprises a lens carrier to which at least one coil of the one or more coils is attached; and the outer carrier structure comprises a magnet holder to which at least one magnet of the one or more magnets is attached.

Clause 11: The device of Clause 10, wherein at least one other coil of the one or more coils is attached to the magnet holder.

Clause 12: The device of any of Clauses 6-11, wherein: the first prism comprises: an object side through which light enters the first prism; and a first reflecting surface side comprising a first reflective surface to redirect the light towards the lens group; and the second prism comprises: a second reflecting surface side comprising a second reflective surface to redirect the light towards the image sensor; and an image side through which the light exits the first prism, the image side proximate the image sensor.

Clause 13: The device of Clause 12, wherein: the first reflecting surface side is angled relative to the object side of the first prism; and the actuator module comprises a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator having at least one magnet and at least one coil disposed within a space under the first reflecting surface side.

Clause 14: The device of any of Clauses 6-13, wherein the camera further comprises: a suspension arrangement to suspend the lens group and allow movement of the lens group along multiple axes, the suspension arrangement comprising: a leaf spring attached to the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure, so as to allow movement of the lens group and the inner carrier structure together, relative to the outer carrier structure, in at least the second direction; and suspension wires to allow movement of the lens group, the inner carrier structure, and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in one or more directions orthogonal to the second direction, wherein a suspension wire of the suspension wires comprises: a first end portion attached to the leaf spring; and a second end portion attached to a fixed structure that is stationary relative to movement of the lens group.

Clause 15: The device of any of Clauses 6-14, wherein: the first prism and the second prism are positioned along an optical axis defined by the lens group; and the image sensor defines a plane that is parallel to the optical axis.

Clause 16: A folded optics system, comprising: a lens group including one or more lens elements; a first prism to redirect light to the lens group; a second prism to receive the light from the lens group and redirect the light to an image sensor; an inner carrier structure to couple with the lens group; an outer carrier structure to couple with the inner carrier structure; and an actuator module to: move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least a first direction; and move the inner carrier structure relative to the outer carrier structure in at least a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction.

Clause 17: The folded optics system of Clause 16, wherein the actuator module comprises: an autofocus (AF) voice coil motor (VCM) actuator to move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least the first direction; a first optical image stabilization (OIS) VCM actuator to move the inner carrier structure relative to the outer carrier structure in at least the second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction; and a second OIS VCM actuator to move the inner carrier structure and the outer carrier structure together, relative to the image sensor, in at least a third direction that is orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction.

Clause 18: The folded optics system of any of Clauses 16-17, wherein: the actuator module comprises: one or more magnets; and one or more coils; a first portion of the actuator module is attached to the inner carrier structure; a second portion of the actuator module is attached to the outer carrier structure; and a third portion of the actuator module is attached to a base structure that is fixed relative to movement of the lens group.

Clause 19: The folded optics system of any of Clauses 16-18, wherein the outer carrier structure is to at least partially encircle the lens group, the first prism, and the second prism.

Clause 20: The folded optics system of any of Clauses 16-19, wherein: the lens group is disposed between the first prism and the second prism; and the first prism and the second prism are positioned along an optical axis defined by the lens group.

Other allocations of functionality are envisioned and may fall within the scope of claims that follow. Finally, structures and functionality presented as discrete components in the example configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or component. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of embodiments as defined in the claims that follow.