Patent Description:
An emitter and receiver pair can be used to determine dimensional information. The emitter can radiate light onto an object. The light reflected from the object is directed toward, and collected by, the receiver. In some instances, the emitter-receiver pair is placed in an electronic device. As a result, the emitter-receiver pair may be subject to external forces exerted on the electronic device and transmitted to the emitter-receiver pair. In instances where the emitter-receiver pair is calibrated and subsequently relies upon a spatial relationship between the emitter and the receiver, any relative shifting, or movement, of one of the components (that is, the receiver or the emitter) causes the emitter-receiver pair to fall out of calibration, thereby causing the emitter-receiver pair to erroneously determine the dimensional information of the object. As a result, the electronic device may not function properly. <CIT> and <CIT> disclose electronic devices with a camera. <CIT> discloses a support assembly and a mobile terminal. The support assembly comprises a multi-contact shrapnel and a metal support. <CIT> discloses Notched Display Layers. <CIT> discloses a camera module and a camera device. <CIT> discloses an electronic device camera module with alignment structures.

The invention is defined by the appended independent claim <NUM>.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein.

Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment.

In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the described embodiments.

The following disclosure relates to an electronic device that includes a vision system designed to assist in providing recognition of an object, or objects. In some instances, the vision system is designed to provide facial recognition of a face of a user of the electronic device. The vision system may include a camera module designed to capture an image, which may include a two-dimensional image. The vision system may further include a light emitting module designed to emit several light rays toward the object. The light rays may project a dot pattern onto the object. Further, the light emitting module may emit light in the frequency spectrum of invisible light, such as infrared light (or IR light). The vision system may further include an additional camera module designed to receive at least some of the light rays reflected from the object, and as a result, receive the dot pattern subsequent to the light rays being reflected by the object. The additional camera module may include a light filter designed to filter out light in that is not within the frequency spectrum of light emitted from the light emitting module. As an example, the light filter may include an IR light filter designed to block light that is outside the frequency range for IR light. The additional camera module may provide the dot pattern (or a two-dimensional image of the dot pattern) to a processor in the electronic device.

The light emitting module is designed to emit light rays such that when the object is flat (resembling a two-dimensional object), the projected dot pattern resembles a "uniform" dot pattern in which the dots are equally spaced apart in rows and columns. However, when the object includes a three-dimensional object (such as a face), the projected dot pattern may include a "non-uniform" dot pattern in which a separation distance between some adjacent dots differs from a separate distance of other adjacent dots. The variation in separation distances between adjacent dots corresponds some structural features of the object being closer to the light emitting module (and in particular, closer to the electronic device) as compared to other structural features. For example, adjacent dots projected onto relatively closer structural features of the object may be separated by a distance that is less than that of structural features of the object that are relatively further away. The relative separation distances of adjacent dots, along with a two-dimensional image of the object, may be used by the processor determine a third, additional dimension of the object such that a three-dimensional profile of the object is created. As a result, the vision system may assist in providing a three-dimensional representation of the object.

The vision system may be installed in the electronic device using a bracket assembly. The bracket assembly may include one or more bracket sub-assemblies, with a bracket sub-assembly including one or more bracket components. Once the camera modules and the light emitting module are installed in the bracket assembly, the bracket assembly is designed to maintain a fixed distance between the aforementioned modules. This includes instances when an external force is exerted on the electronic device (that carries the vision system and the bracket assembly), such as when the electronic device is dropped. When this occurs, the modules and the bracket assembly may shift relative to other components of the electronic device. However, the bracket assembly is designed to prevent or substantially limit relative movement of the modules with respect to each other. When modules are installed and relative movement of the modules is prevented or substantially limited, the modules may continue to accurately provide the aforementioned three-dimensional object recognition without re-calibration. Also, in order to provide stiffness and rigidity to prevent bending, the bracket assembly may include multiple bracket components welded and/or adhesively secured together, and may include multiple bends and inclined sections.

In order to facilitate the assembly process over traditional processes, the bracket assembly - subsequent to placement into an enclosure, or housing, of the electronic device - may not be mechanically fastened or affixed to the enclosure (although electrical connections may be established between the modules carried by the bracket assembly and a component(s) disposed in the enclosure). In order to align the bracket assembly in the enclosure in a desired manner, the electronic device may include an alignment module secured with a transparent cover (such as a cover glass). The alignment module may include multiple openings, each of which is designed to receive a module of the vision system. During an assembly operation while the transparent cover is assembled with the enclosure, the alignment module is designed to engage at least one of the modules. The engagement provides a force that adjusts or moves the bracket assembly, relative to the enclosure, to a desired location in the enclosure (or within an internal volume defined by the enclosure). The adjustment/movement may include movement in one or more dimensions (of a Cartesian coordinate system). Accordingly, the bracket assembly may be referred to as a "self-aligning bracket assembly" due to its ability to move about the enclosure and become aligned by the alignment module without any prefixing or pre-fastening of the bracket assembly.

In order to enhance the appearance, the electronic device may include masking layers designed to hide, or at least partially hide, the modules and the bracket assembly. As an example, the electronic device may include a transparent cover that includes various layers of ink. Some ink layers applied to the transparent cover include an opaque material that generally hides the modules and the bracket assembly, while other layers applied to the transparent cover include an appearance that matches (in terms of color) the appearance of the opaque material. However, these other layers may be designed to allow light, in the form of IR light or visible light, to pass. These light permissive layers may be located in openings of the opaque material. As a result, the camera module used to capture an image may be covered by an ink layer may that permits visible light to pass, while the light emitting module and the additional camera module may each be covered by an ink layer may that permits IR light to pass.

The alignment module can be adhered to the transparent cover in a manner that aligns openings of the alignment modules with some of the openings of the opaque material that are filled by light permissive layers. When the transparent cover is assembled with the enclosure, the modules are aligned with some of the openings of the alignment module. To limit or prevent movement of the bracket assembly, the bracket assembly may include flexible spring elements that support the bracket assembly. The spring elements are designed to flex or bend in response to compression forces from the transparent cover and the enclosure. In response, the spring elements may provide a counterforce that biases the bracket assembly (and the modules carried by the bracket assembly) in a direction toward the transparent cover, thereby increasing an engagement force between the bracket assembly and the alignment module. The increased engagement force may further maintain the bracket assembly in a fixed position and prevent unwanted movement of the bracket assembly (and the modules carried by the bracket assembly). Moreover, when the bracket assembly is formed from a metal, the bracket assembly may provide an electrical grounding path for the modules as the spring element may engage an electrical grounding material within the internal volume defined by the enclosure. For example, the enclosure may include a metal layer in contact with the spring elements. To further assist in electrical grounding, the modules may be adhered to the bracket assembly by an electrically conductive adhesive.

Traditional assembly processes may pre-fasten the bracket assembly and its components into a housing of the electronic device, followed by attaching the transparent cover to the housing. The traditional assembly processes may also include bracket assemblies and transparent covers sorted in bins, in which a bin may include bracket assemblies that fall into one of several predetermined ranges (of size), and another bin that may include transparent covers (with applied ink layers) that fall into one of several sizes that pair with a bracket assembly in with a given range. However, the electronic devices described herein include ink layers applied to the transparent cover without predetermining the specific bracket assembly and modules to be used with the electronic device, as the modules carried by the can be properly aligned with their respective ink layers with the assistance of the alignment module.

<FIG> illustrates a front isometric view of an embodiment of a system <NUM> that includes a vision system <NUM>, or vision subsystem, and a bracket assembly <NUM> designed to carry the vision system <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the vision system <NUM> may include several operational components (including optical components), with each operational component providing a specific function. For example, the vision system <NUM> may include a first camera module <NUM>, a light emitting module <NUM>, and a second camera module <NUM>. The first camera module <NUM>, or first operational component, is designed to capture an image of an object (not shown). The light emitting module <NUM>, or second operational component, is designed to emit light, in the form of multiple light rays, in a direction toward the object. Accordingly, the light emitting module <NUM> may be referred to as a light emitter. In some instances, the light emitting module <NUM> emits light that is not visible by the human eye. For example, the light emitting module <NUM> may emit IR light. The second camera module <NUM>, or third operational component, is designed to receive at least some of the light rays that are emitted from the light emitting module <NUM>, subsequent to the light rays reflecting from the object. Accordingly, the second camera module <NUM> may be referred to as a light receiver. Also, the second camera module <NUM> may include a filter designed to filter out other types of light outside the frequency range of the light rays emitted from the light emitting module <NUM>. As an example, the filter (located within the second camera module <NUM> or over a lens of the second camera module <NUM>) may permit only IR light emitted from the light emitting module <NUM> to enter the second camera module <NUM>.

The vision system <NUM> is designed to assist in object recognition. In this regard, the vision system <NUM> may use the first camera module <NUM> to generate a two-dimensional image of the object. In order to determine spatial relationships between various features of the object, the light rays emitted from the light emitting module <NUM> may project a dot pattern onto the object (or objects). When the light generated from the light emitting module <NUM> is reflected from the object, the second camera module <NUM> captures the reflected light to create an image of the projected dot pattern on the object. The projected dot pattern can be used to form a depth map of the object, with the depth map corresponding to a three-dimensional counterpart of the object. The combination of the image (taken by the first camera module <NUM>) and the dot pattern (taken by the second camera module <NUM>) projected onto the image can be used to develop a three-dimensional profile of the object. In this regard, when the vision system <NUM> is in an electronic device (not shown), the vision system <NUM> can assist the electronic device in providing a facial recognition of a face of a user of the electronic device. This will be further discussed below.

The bracket assembly <NUM> may include a first bracket <NUM> coupled to a second bracket <NUM>. The coupling may include welding, adhering, fastening, clipping, or the like. The first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM> may include a rigid material, such as steel or aluminum. However, other materials, such as plastic (including a molded plastic), are possible. In order for the vision system <NUM> to provide accurate object recognition, the space or distance between the modules should remain constant, or at least substantially constant. In other words, any relative movement of a module of the vision system <NUM> with respect to the remaining modules should be prevented or substantially limited. The bracket assembly <NUM> is designed to provide a rigid system that houses the modules and also prevents relative movement of any module with respect to the remaining modules. Further, when the vision system <NUM> and the bracket assembly <NUM> are positioned in an electronic device, external forces exerted on the electronic device (such as a drop of the electronic device against a structure) may cause the vision system <NUM> and the bracket assembly <NUM> to move or shift in the electronic device. However, any movement of bracket assembly <NUM> may correspond to an equal amount of movement of each of the modules of the vision system <NUM> such that relative movement of the modules of the vision system <NUM> is prevented. Moreover, in some instances, the bracket assembly <NUM> is not held or affixed to an enclosure of the electronic device by fasteners, adhesives, clips, or other rigid fixture-type structures. This will be further discussed below.

Each of the modules of the vision system <NUM> may include a flexible circuit, or flex connector, designed to electrically couple a module to a circuit board (not shown) to place the vision system <NUM> in electrical communication with one or more processor circuits (not shown) positioned on the circuit board. For example, the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> may include a first flexible circuit <NUM>, a second flexible circuit <NUM>, and a third flexible circuit <NUM>, respectively, with each of the flexible circuits, or flex connectors, extending from their respective modules and out of bracket assembly <NUM>. Also, as shown, the first flexible circuit <NUM> may overlap the second flexible circuit <NUM> in order to align the flexible circuits in a desired manner.

<FIG> illustrates a rear isometric view of the system <NUM> shown in <FIG>, showing additional features of the bracket assembly <NUM>. As shown, the second bracket <NUM> may include spring elements, such as a first spring element <NUM> and a second spring element <NUM>, that extend from a surface of the second bracket <NUM>. When the bracket assembly <NUM> is positioned in an electronic device (not shown), the spring elements may engage an enclosure (or some other structural feature in the enclosure) of the electronic device and support the bracket assembly <NUM> and the modules. Further, the spring elements may act as biasing elements that bias the bracket assembly <NUM> in a direction away from the enclosure. For instance, when a transparent cover (such as a cover glass) is secured with the enclosure, the transparent cover and/or the enclosure may apply compression forces on the bracket assembly <NUM>, causing bending or flexing of the first spring element <NUM> and the second spring element <NUM>. However, the first spring element <NUM> and the second spring element <NUM> are designed to provide a counterforce that biases the bracket assembly <NUM> toward the transparent cover and against an alignment module (discuss later), thereby providing a securing force for the bracket assembly <NUM> (and the vision system <NUM>). This will be further shown below. Also, in some instances, a cutting operation used to cut the second bracket <NUM> to form the first spring element <NUM> and the second spring element <NUM> may cut only a portion of the second bracket <NUM> such that the second bracket <NUM> does not include through holes, or openings, in locations corresponding to the first spring element <NUM> and the second spring element <NUM>. As a result, the second bracket <NUM> maintains a continuous, uninterrupted support layer for the modules in location corresponding to the first spring element <NUM> and the second spring element <NUM>.

In order to electrically couple the modules to a circuit board, the flexible circuits may include connectors. For example, the first flexible circuit <NUM>, the second flexible circuit <NUM>, and the third flexible circuit <NUM> may include a first connector <NUM>, a second connector <NUM>, and a third connector <NUM>, respectively. Also, the second bracket <NUM> may include a through hole <NUM>, or opening, in a location corresponding to the light emitting module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). This allows for a heat sinking element (not shown) to pass through the through hole <NUM> and thermally couple to the light emitting module <NUM> in order to dissipate heat from the light emitting module <NUM> and prevent overheating during use.

<FIG> show a system <NUM> that is fully assembled with the vision system <NUM> carried by the bracket assembly <NUM>. In other words, the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM> can combine to receive and secure the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM>. In this regard, the aforementioned modules may enhance or increase the overall rigidity of the system <NUM>. For example, the modules may occupy spaces or voids between the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM>, while also engaging the first bracket <NUM> and/or the second bracket <NUM>. Accordingly, the modules may prevent the bracket assembly <NUM> from unwanted twisting or bending.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of the system <NUM> shown in <FIG>, showing the bracket assembly <NUM>, the modules, and additional features. For purposes of simplicity, the flexible circuits are removed from the modules. Although the first bracket <NUM> is designed to combine with the second bracket <NUM> to hold and maintain the modules in a fixed position, the first bracket <NUM> may include through holes to accommodate the modules. For example, the first bracket <NUM> may include a through hole <NUM> designed to receive a barrel of the first camera module <NUM>. The first bracket <NUM> may further include a through hole <NUM> designed to receive a raised portion of the light emitting module <NUM>. The first bracket <NUM> may include a through hole <NUM> designed to receive a barrel of the second camera module <NUM>. Accordingly, the aforementioned barrels and raised portions may protrude through the first bracket <NUM> via the respective through holes.

The first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM> may be secured together by, for example, a welding operation. For example, the first bracket <NUM> may include a recessed region that defines a flat or planar portion that is welded to a corresponding recessed region of the second bracket <NUM>. As shown, the recessed region of the second bracket <NUM> includes several circular weld spots (not labeled). In addition to welding the bracket elements together, adhesives may be used to further secure the modules. For example, the first camera module <NUM> may secure with the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM> by adhesive elements <NUM> and an adhesive <NUM>, respectively. Also, the light emitting module <NUM> may secure with the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM> by an adhesive element <NUM> and an adhesive element <NUM>, respectively. Also, the second camera module <NUM> may secure with the first bracket <NUM> and the second bracket <NUM> by adhesive elements <NUM> and an adhesive element <NUM>, respectively. In some embodiments, at least some of the aforementioned adhesives include an electrically conductive adhesive. In this manner, the modules may be electrically coupled with the first bracket <NUM> and/or the second bracket <NUM>. Further, when the first bracket <NUM> is secured with the second bracket <NUM>, the modules may be electrically grounded to an electronic device (not shown) by way of the first spring element <NUM> and/or the second spring element <NUM>. This will be shown below. Furthermore, the aforementioned bracket elements (including the spring elements), being formed from a metal, may also provide a thermally conductive pathway that allows heat dissipation of at least one of the modules of the vision system <NUM> by way of at least one of the bracket elements.

Due in part to bracket assemblies described herein being used as rigid components designed to maintain the modules in a fixed position, at least some part of a bracket assembly may be reinforced to enhance the overall strength. For example, <FIG> illustrates an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a bracket <NUM>, showing the bracket <NUM> formed from several structural components, in accordance with some described embodiments. The bracket <NUM> may substitute for the first bracket <NUM> (previously shown) and may be used with bracket assemblies described herein. As shown, the bracket <NUM> includes a multi-piece assembly that includes a first bracket part <NUM>, a second bracket part <NUM>, and a third bracket part <NUM>. In this regard, the bracket <NUM> may be referred to as a bracket sub-assembly.

The first bracket part <NUM> may include a first section <NUM> designed to receive a module, such as the first camera module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The first bracket part <NUM> may further include a second section <NUM> designed to receive a module, such as the second camera module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The first bracket part <NUM> may further include third section <NUM>, or recessed section, that is recessed with respect to the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM>. The third section <NUM> may be recessed in order to receive an additional component or components. This will be further shown below. Also, the third section <NUM> may include a through hole <NUM>, or opening, that assists in aligning one of the aforementioned components.

In order to form the first bracket part <NUM>, the first bracket part <NUM> may undergo a cutting and stamping operation. The stamping operation may shape the first bracket part <NUM> and provide the first bracket part <NUM> with additional structural rigidity. For example, the stamping operation may form a first inclined section <NUM> between the first section <NUM> and the third section <NUM>. The first inclined section <NUM> may prevent the first section <NUM> from bending or pivoting (along the Y-axis) with respect to the third section <NUM> along an intersection that joins the first section <NUM> and the third section <NUM>. Also, the stamping operation may form a second inclined section <NUM> between the second section <NUM> and the third section <NUM>. The second inclined section <NUM> may prevent the second section <NUM> from bending or pivoting (along the Y-axis) with respect to the third section <NUM> along an intersection that joins the second section <NUM> and the third section <NUM>. In this manner, when the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> are prevented from rotational movement with respect to the third section <NUM>, the modules (such as the first camera module <NUM> and the second camera module <NUM> shown in <FIG>) are prevented from relative movement with respect to each other, thereby maintaining the vision system <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) is unaltered state.

The second bracket part <NUM> may be secured (by welding, soldering, and/or other adhering methods) to an internal region of the first bracket part <NUM>. The second bracket part <NUM> may be designed to carry a module, such as the light emitting module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). In this regard, the second bracket part <NUM> may be referred to as a module carrier. By initially forming the second bracket part <NUM> separate from the first bracket part <NUM>, and then securing the second bracket part <NUM> with the first bracket part <NUM>, a joint (or joints) formed between the first bracket part <NUM> and the second bracket part <NUM> provides additional stability and rigidity. The joint(s) may further fix the second bracket part <NUM> with respect to the first bracket part <NUM>, and accordingly, may fix a module and prevent the module carried by the second bracket part <NUM> from relative movement with respect to other modules. Also, the third bracket part <NUM> may act as a support member or supporting element that extends substantially across a dimension (such as a length along the X-axis) of the first bracket part <NUM>. The third bracket part <NUM> may be secured with the first bracket part <NUM> through any manner previously described for securing the second bracket part <NUM> with the first bracket part <NUM>. Several circular weld spots (not labeled) are shown along the first section <NUM>, the second section <NUM>, and the third section <NUM> of the first bracket part <NUM>. The third bracket part <NUM> may prevent both the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM> from bending or pivoting (along the Y-axis) with respect to the third section <NUM>. As a result, the third bracket part <NUM> may prevent a module (or modules) from relative movement with respect to other modules of a vision system (such as the vision system <NUM> shown in <FIG>). Also, as shown in <FIG>, the second section <NUM> may include an extension <NUM> and a clamp <NUM> secured with the extension <NUM>. The clamp <NUM> may be used to secure a second bracket (not shown) with the bracket <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a rear view of an alternate embodiment of a bracket <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. The bracket <NUM> may substitute for the second bracket <NUM> (previously shown) and may be used with bracket assemblies described herein. Also, the bracket <NUM> can be used in conjunction with the first bracket <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) or the bracket <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). Regarding the bracket <NUM> in <FIG>, the bracket <NUM> may include a first section <NUM> and a second section <NUM> designed to pair with the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM>, respectively, of the bracket <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). It should be noted that the bracket <NUM> should be rotated <NUM> degrees around the Y-axis prior to combining with the bracket <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The bracket <NUM> may further include a third section <NUM>, or recessed section, that is recessed with respect to the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM>. The third section <NUM> may be recessed in order to engage the third section <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). In this regard, the bracket <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) may be secured with the bracket <NUM> at their respective third sections by, for example, welding, fastening, clipping, adhering, or the like. Also, the third section <NUM> may include a through hole <NUM>, or opening, that assists in aligning one of the aforementioned components. The bracket <NUM> may further include a fourth section <NUM> designed to receive a module, such as a light emitting module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). In order to draw heat from a light emitting module, the fourth section <NUM> may include a through hole <NUM>, or opening, designed to receive a heat sinking element (not shown) that thermally couples to the light emitting module.

The bracket <NUM> may further include a first spring element <NUM> and a second spring element <NUM>, each of which is designed to flex against a structure (such as a housing or enclosure) and provide a biasing force away from the structure. Also, the second section <NUM> may include a support column <NUM> designed to pair with the clamp <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), thereby further securing the bracket <NUM> with the bracket <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) to further secure the modules.

<FIG> illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of a vision system <NUM> positioned in a bracket assembly <NUM>, showing the bracket assembly <NUM> maintaining spatial relationships between the modules, in accordance with some described embodiments. The vision system <NUM> and the bracket assembly <NUM> may include any features described herein for a vision system and a bracket assembly, respectively. As shown, the vision system <NUM> may include a first camera module <NUM>, a light emitting module <NUM>, and a second camera module <NUM>. When positioned in the bracket assembly <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM> is separated by from the second camera module <NUM> by a distance <NUM>. In particular, the distance <NUM> represents a distance between a center point <NUM> of the light emitting module <NUM> (shown in the enlarged view) and a center point <NUM> of the second camera module <NUM>. The bracket assembly <NUM> is designed to maintain the center point <NUM> with in a range <NUM>, or tolerance, to ensure that the center point <NUM> of the light emitting module <NUM> is within an acceptable range or tolerance of the distance <NUM> from the center point <NUM> of the second camera module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the range <NUM> is less than <NUM> millimeter. In some embodiments, the range <NUM> is approximately <NUM> to <NUM> micrometers. In a particular embodiment, the range <NUM> is <NUM> micrometers, or at least approximately <NUM> micrometers. It should be noted that the bracket assembly <NUM> is designed to maintain the first camera module <NUM> at a predetermined distance from the second camera module <NUM>. By maintaining these distances, the bracket assembly <NUM> ensures the vision system <NUM> can accurately and reliably provide information related to object recognition. Further, when the bracket assembly <NUM> and the vision system <NUM> are positioned in an electronic device (not shown), any external load or force to the electronic device that causes movement of the bracket assembly <NUM> may also cause the same amount of movement to each module of the vision system <NUM> so that there is little or no relative movement among the modules with respect to other modules.

<FIG> illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of a light emitting module <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the light emitting module <NUM> may include a light emitter <NUM> held by a substrate <NUM>. In some embodiments, the light emitter <NUM> emits light in the non-visible spectrum, such as IR light. Further, the light emitter <NUM> can be designed to emit IR laser light. However, in some embodiments (not shown in <FIG>), the light emitter <NUM> produces light other than IR light. The light emitting module <NUM> may further include an optical structure <NUM> positioned over the light emitter <NUM>. The optical structure <NUM> may include a transparent material (such as glass) folded into multiple portions. The optical structure <NUM> is designed to reflect or bend a light emitted from the light emitter <NUM> within the optical structure <NUM> in order to provide an increased optical path for the light. This will be shown below.

The light emitting module <NUM> may further an optical element <NUM> positioned over the optical structure <NUM> in a manner such that light received by, and reflected from, the optical structure <NUM> passes through the optical element <NUM>. The optical element <NUM> may secure with the optical structure <NUM> by an adhesive <NUM>. In some embodiments, the optical element <NUM> is a diffractive optical element. In this manner, the light received from the optical structure <NUM>, which may include a one-dimensional light beam, may be split into a two-dimensional array or pattern of light to create a dot pattern of light. The array of light may then exit the optical element <NUM>. This will be shown below.

Also, in some instances, the light emitted by the light emitter <NUM> may include a relatively high intensity. However, after exiting the optical element <NUM> as a dot pattern, the intensity may be sufficiently reduced, and as a result, the light from the light emitting module <NUM> is safe for human use. In order to account for instances in which the optical element <NUM> is removed from the optical structure <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM> may further include a flexible circuit <NUM> secured with the optical element <NUM>. The flexible circuit <NUM> may also secure with the substrate <NUM> and may electrically couple to the light emitter <NUM>. The flexible circuit <NUM> may use the optical element <NUM> as a "plate" and form a parallel-plate capacitor with the optical element <NUM> by supplying an electrical charge to a plate (not shown) of the flexible circuit <NUM>. In this manner, when the optical element <NUM> is removed from the optical structure <NUM> (or is otherwise no longer positioned over the light exiting the optical structure <NUM>), the flexible circuit <NUM> detects a change in capacitance, and provides an input used to power down the light emitter <NUM> and prevent the light emitter <NUM> from emitting light. Accordingly, the flexible circuit <NUM> acts as a safety mechanism to prevent high intensity light from exiting the optical structure <NUM> without also passing through the optical element <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of the light emitting module <NUM> shown in <FIG>, further showing additional features of the light emitting module <NUM>. For purposes of illustration, the flexible circuit <NUM> is removed. Also, a partial cross sectional view of the substrate <NUM> is shown in order to view the light emitter <NUM> and a heat sinking element <NUM> thermally coupled to the light emitter <NUM>. The heat sinking element <NUM> is designed to draw heat away from the light emitter <NUM> during use. As shown, the light emitter <NUM> generates a light beam (shown as a dotted line <NUM>) that passes through the optical structure <NUM>. The optical structure <NUM> causes the light beam to reflect several times (within the optical structure <NUM>) such that the optical path increases do a desired optical "length. " The light beam exits the optical structure <NUM> and enters the optical element <NUM>, where the light beam is split into multiple light rays (represented by multiple dotted lines <NUM>). The optical element <NUM> is designed to project a desired dot pattern. In some embodiments, the projected dot pattern includes an array of dots, with adjacent dots equidistantly spaced apart from one another. This will be shown below.

When a bracket assembly and a vision system carried by the bracket assembly are placed in an electronic device, the bracket assembly may not be directly secured to a structural component (such as a housing or enclosure) of the electronic device. However, the electronic device is designed to align the bracket assembly, and accordingly, the vision system, in a precise manner. <FIG> illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an alignment module <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. The alignment module <NUM> can be fastened (by adhesives, as an example) to a transparent cover of an electronic device, with the transparent cover providing a protective cover to a display assembly for the electronic device. In this manner, while the transparent cover is lowered onto the enclosure, the alignment module <NUM> is designed to engage the vision system, causing both the vision system and the bracket assembly to move or shift (relative to the enclosure) to a desired location in the electronic device. This will be shown and described below.

As shown, the alignment module <NUM> may include a first section <NUM> that includes an opening <NUM> that defines a through hole. The opening <NUM> is designed to receive at least a portion of a module of a vision system, such as the first camera module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). In particular, the opening <NUM> may include a size and shape to receive a barrel of the module. The alignment module <NUM> may further include a second section <NUM> that includes an opening <NUM> that defines a through hole. The opening <NUM> is designed to receive at least a portion of a module of a vision system, such as the second camera module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). In particular, the opening <NUM> may include a size and shape to receive a barrel of the module. The opening <NUM> and the opening <NUM> in the first section <NUM> and the second section <NUM>, respectively, may provide alignment structures for the alignment module <NUM>.

While the aforementioned openings of the alignment module <NUM> are designed to receive at least a portion of a module, the openings may include different configurations that assist the alignment module <NUM> in shifting the modules to a desired location in the electronic device. For example, the first section <NUM> may include an extended portion <NUM> that includes a contoured region <NUM> that defines a reduced diameter of the opening <NUM> from a first end (such as the bottom end) to a second end (such as the top end) of the alignment module <NUM>. Also, the extended portion <NUM> may wrap around a majority of the opening <NUM>. In this manner, when a module (or a barrel of a module) extends through the first section <NUM>, the extended portion <NUM> - having a contoured region <NUM> that wraps around a majority of the opening <NUM> - provides a relatively high precision, and minimal tolerance, alignment to the module. In this manner, the remaining modules may also be aligned with relatively high precision, as a result of the modules moving in harmony in the bracket assembly that carries the remaining modules and prevents relative movement of the modules. The second section <NUM> of the alignment module <NUM> may include an extended portion <NUM> that forms a generally semicircular design such that a diameter of the opening <NUM> in the second section <NUM> remains generally constant. In other words, the second section <NUM> does not include a contoured region. The second section <NUM> may be used to provide an angular alignment to a module when the module (or a barrel of the module) extends through the opening <NUM>. The angular alignment provided by the second section <NUM> may compliment the high precision alignment of the first section <NUM>, thereby providing precise and controlled alignment of the modules within an electronic device.

In addition to providing alignment to modules of a vision system, the alignment module <NUM> may be used to seat and align additional components. For example, an electronic device (not shown) that includes an alignment module <NUM> may further include an audio module <NUM> designed to emit acoustical energy in the form of audible sound. The audio module <NUM> may include a snout <NUM>. The alignment module <NUM> may include an opening <NUM> that receives the snout <NUM>. In order to prevent liquid ingress at the opening <NUM>, a sealing element <NUM> may be positioned in the opening <NUM> and engaged with the snout <NUM>. The sealing element <NUM> may include a liquid-resistant and compliant material, such as liquid silicone rubber.

An electronic device that includes the alignment module <NUM> may further include a microphone <NUM> designed to receive acoustical energy. In order to provide an acoustical pathway, the alignment module <NUM> may include an opening <NUM>. As shown, the opening <NUM> may include a diagonal through hole opening. Also, an electronic device that includes the alignment module <NUM> may further include a sensor <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sensor <NUM> includes an ambient light sensor designed to detect an amount light intensity incident on the electronic device. The sensor <NUM> may provide an input to the electronic device, with the input used to control an additional light source used by a vision system within the electronic device. This will be discussed below. In order to accommodate the sensor <NUM>, the alignment module <NUM> may include a rail <NUM> designed to secure the sensor <NUM>. Also, an electronic device that includes the alignment module <NUM> may further include a sensor <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sensor <NUM> includes a proximity sensor that determines whether a user is approximately within a predetermined distance from the sensor <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> can be used to provide an input to a processor (not shown in <FIG>) of the electronic device that is used to, for example, control a display assembly (not shown in <FIG>) of the electronic device. As an example, the input provided by the sensor <NUM> may correspond to a determination that the user is within predetermined distance of an electronic device (not shown in <FIG>), with the input used as a determination whether the display assembly is on or off.

In some instances, the vision system may require additional lighting to provide reliable object recognition. As a result, an electronic device that includes the alignment module <NUM> may further include a lighting element <NUM>. The alignment module <NUM> may include an opening <NUM> designed to receive the lighting element <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lighting element <NUM> is a floodlight designed to illuminate during low-light conditions. The sensor <NUM> may determine when external light intensity incident on the electronic device, or a component of the electronic device (such as a transparent protective layer), constitutes a low-light condition, or a condition of relatively low external light. Also, in some instances, the alignment module <NUM> is formed from a molding operation, such as an injection molding operation. In this regard, a moldable plastic material may be used to form the alignment module <NUM>. As a result, the alignment module <NUM> may include an overall relatively low strength, as compared to an all-metal alignment module. However, the alignment module <NUM> may include multiple rails that increase the strength and rigidity of the alignment module <NUM>. For example, the alignment module <NUM> may include a first rail <NUM> and a second rail <NUM>. The first rail <NUM> and the second rail <NUM> may include a metal. Also, during a molding operation of the alignment module <NUM>, the first rail <NUM> and the second rail <NUM> may be inserted into a molded cavity (not shown). Accordingly, the first rail <NUM> and the second rail <NUM> may be referred to as insert molded elements. Also, the first rail <NUM> and the second rail <NUM> may define, or at least partially define, the opening <NUM>.

Also, in some instances, the alignment module <NUM> may include a moldable material that blocks light within a certain spectrum. For example, in some embodiments, the alignment module <NUM> includes a material that blocks or shields some components from IR light. For example, the alignment module <NUM> may include an IR blocking material that blocks IR light having a wavelength of approximately <NUM> micrometers or higher. In this manner, the microphone <NUM> can be shielded from "noise" created by IR light.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of the lighting element <NUM> shown in <FIG>, showing additional features of the lighting element <NUM>. The lighting element <NUM> may include a light emitter <NUM> and a Doppler module <NUM>. The light emitter <NUM> may include non-visible light, such as IR light. The Doppler module <NUM> is designed to detect motion. In this regard, the Doppler module <NUM> may assist in determining whether to activate the light emitter <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of an alignment module <NUM> positioned over a bracket assembly <NUM> and a vision system <NUM> positioned in the bracket assembly <NUM>, prior to an assembly operation. The alignment module <NUM>, the vision system <NUM>, and the bracket assembly <NUM> may include any features described herein for an alignment module, a vision system, and a bracket assembly, respectively. As shown, the bracket assembly <NUM> includes a first section <NUM>, a second section <NUM>, and a third section <NUM> designed to interact with a first section <NUM>, a second section <NUM>, and a third section <NUM>, respectively, of the alignment module <NUM>. Also, the bracket assembly <NUM> is designed to carry a first camera module <NUM>, a light emitting module <NUM>, and a second camera module <NUM>.

The alignment module <NUM> may align and/or carry several components, such as an audio module <NUM>, a microphone <NUM>, a sensor <NUM> (positioned behind the audio module <NUM>), and a lighting element <NUM>. The alignment module <NUM> may also align and/or carry a proximity sensor (not shown in <FIG>). The alignment module <NUM> may be designed to position the aforementioned components at least partially in the third section <NUM> (or recessed section). Also, the audio module <NUM>, the microphone <NUM>, the sensor <NUM>, and the lighting element <NUM> may electrically couple to a flexible circuit <NUM> that can electrically couple to a processor (not shown in <FIG>). The first section <NUM> of the alignment module <NUM> may further include an opening <NUM> designed to receive a barrel <NUM> of the first camera module <NUM>. The first section <NUM> may further include an extended portion <NUM> having a contoured region <NUM> (similar to the contoured region <NUM>, shown in <FIG>) that defines a reduced diameter of the opening <NUM> of the first section <NUM> from a first end (such as the bottom end) to a second end (such as the top end) of the alignment module <NUM>, with the extended portion <NUM> wrapping around a majority of the opening <NUM>. The second section <NUM> may include an opening <NUM> designed to receive a barrel <NUM> of the second camera module <NUM>. The second section <NUM> of the alignment module <NUM> may include an extended portion <NUM> (similar to the extended portion <NUM>, shown in <FIG>) that forms a generally semicircular design such that a diameter of the opening <NUM> in the second section <NUM> remains generally constant.

During an assembly operation of an electronic device (not shown in <FIG>), the alignment module <NUM>, secured with a transparent cover (not shown in <FIG>), is lowered down toward the vision system <NUM> and the bracket assembly <NUM>. While the transparent cover is lowered, the alignment module <NUM> may contact the barrel <NUM> of the first camera module <NUM>, as an example, and apply a force to the first camera module <NUM> that causes the bracket assembly <NUM>, along with the components of the vision system <NUM>, to shift to a desired location in the electronic device. This will be further shown below.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of the alignment module <NUM>, the vision system <NUM>, and the bracket assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>, further showing the alignment module <NUM> and several modules and components in relation to the alignment module <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the alignment module <NUM> is positioned over and onto the bracket assembly <NUM>. Also, the opening <NUM> of the first section <NUM> of the alignment module <NUM> may conform more closely to size and shape of the barrel <NUM> of the first camera module <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>), as compared to the conformity of the opening <NUM> of the second section <NUM> with respect to the barrel <NUM> of the second camera module <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>). In this regard, the alignment module <NUM> can provide a "fine," or precise, positioning of vision system <NUM> by using the opening <NUM> of the first section <NUM>. Further, the alignment module <NUM> can provide an angular positioning of vision system <NUM> by using the opening <NUM> of the second section <NUM>. Also, while the light emitting module <NUM> is generally not integrated with the alignment module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM> can nonetheless be properly aligned based on the alignment module <NUM> shifting the bracket assembly <NUM>, which corresponds to a shift and alignment of the light emitting module <NUM>. Also, the alignment module <NUM> includes a rail <NUM> used to secure and align the sensor <NUM>. As shown, the sensor <NUM> may be positioned between a portion of the alignment module <NUM> and the rail <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of an electronic device <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. In some embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> is a tablet computing device. In other embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> is a wearable electronic device. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> is a portable electronic device, commonly referred to as a smartphone. According to the invention, the electronic device <NUM> includes an enclosure <NUM> that may include a bottom wall (not shown) and several sidewall components, such as a first sidewall component <NUM>, a second sidewall component <NUM>, a third sidewall component <NUM>, and a fourth sidewall component <NUM>. The sidewall components may combine with the bottom wall to define an internal volume, or cavity, to hold the internal components of the electronic device <NUM>. In some embodiments, the bottom wall includes a non-metal, such as glass, plastic, or other transparent material. Also, in some embodiments, the first sidewall component <NUM>, the second sidewall component <NUM>, the third sidewall component <NUM>, and the fourth sidewall component <NUM> include a metal, such as steel (including stainless steel), aluminum, or an alloy that includes aluminum and/or steel. Further, each of the aforementioned sidewall components may be separated and isolated from each other by a filler material that includes a non-metal such that the sidewall components are electrically isolated from each other. For example, the enclosure <NUM> may include a first filler material <NUM> that separates the first sidewall component <NUM> from the second sidewall component <NUM> and the fourth sidewall component <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM> may further include a second filler material <NUM> that separates the third sidewall component <NUM> from the second sidewall component <NUM> and the fourth sidewall component <NUM>. The first filler material <NUM> and the second filler material <NUM> may include a molded plastic and/or a molded resin. In some instances, at least one of first filler material <NUM> and the second filler material <NUM> includes an antenna component (not shown in <FIG>).

The electronic device <NUM> further includes a transparent cover <NUM> that secures over the enclosure <NUM>, and in particular, the aforementioned sidewall components of the enclosure <NUM>. In this regard, the first sidewall component <NUM>, the second sidewall component <NUM>, the third sidewall component <NUM>, and the fourth sidewall component <NUM> may provide an edge region that defines an opening that receives the transparent cover <NUM>. The transparent cover <NUM> may include a material such as glass or sapphire, or another suitable transparent material. When formed from glass, the transparent cover <NUM> may be referred to as a cover glass. Also, the transparent cover <NUM> may further include a through hole <NUM>, or opening. The through hole <NUM> is labeled in the enlarged view. The electronic device <NUM> may further include an audio module (for example, the audio module <NUM> shown in <FIG>) aligned with the through hole <NUM> in order to allow acoustical energy generated from the audio module to exit the electronic device <NUM> via the through hole <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> further includes a display assembly <NUM> (shown as a dotted line) that is covered or overlaid by the transparent cover <NUM>. Accordingly, the transparent cover <NUM> may be referred to as a protective layer. The display assembly <NUM> may include multiple layers, with each layer serving one or more particular functions. This will be further shown below. The electronic device <NUM> may further include a display cover <NUM> that is covered by the transparent cover <NUM> and defines a border around the display assembly <NUM>. In particular, the display cover <NUM> may substantially cover an outer edge of the display assembly <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> may include control inputs. For example, the electronic device <NUM> may include a first button <NUM> and a second button <NUM>, each of which is design to allow for a user input to control the display assembly <NUM>. The first button <NUM> and/or the second button <NUM> may be used to actuate a switch (not shown in <FIG>), thereby generating an input to a processor (not shown in <FIG>).

As shown, the transparent cover <NUM> may include a rectilinear design defined by the sidewall components of the enclosure <NUM>. However, as shown in <FIG>, the display assembly <NUM> (and at least some of its associated layers) includes a notch <NUM> formed in the display assembly <NUM>. The notch <NUM> is also labeled in the enlarged view. The notch <NUM> may represent a reduced surface area of the display assembly <NUM> (as compared to that of the transparent cover <NUM>). The electronic device includes a masking layer <NUM> applied to the underside, or bottom surface, of the transparent cover <NUM> in a location corresponding to the notch <NUM>. The masking layer <NUM> may include an ink material (or materials) that provides an appearance (in terms of color) that is substantially similar to the appearance of the display assembly <NUM> (when the display assembly <NUM> is off). For example, both the masking layer <NUM> and the display assembly <NUM> may include a dark appearance that resembles black. Also, in some instances, the display cover <NUM> may include an appearance (in terms of color) that is similar to both the masking layer <NUM> and the display assembly <NUM> (when the display assembly <NUM> is off).

Generally, the masking layer <NUM> includes an opaque material that blocks the passage of light, and accordingly, may obscure vision into the electronic device <NUM>. However, according to the invention, the masking layer <NUM> includes several openings that represent a void in the masking layer <NUM>. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, the masking layer <NUM> may include a first opening <NUM> and a second opening <NUM>. When the electronic device <NUM> includes a vision system (such as the vision system <NUM> shown in <FIG>), the first camera module (such as the first camera module <NUM> shown in <FIG>) and the light emitting module (such as the light emitting module <NUM> shown in <FIG>) may align with the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM>, respectively. The masking layer <NUM> may further include a third opening <NUM> and a fourth opening <NUM>. The vision system (such as the vision system <NUM> shown in <FIG>) may include a second camera module (such as the second camera module <NUM> shown in <FIG>) and a lighting element (such as the lighting element <NUM> shown in <FIG>) that align with the third opening <NUM> and the fourth opening <NUM>, respectively. The masking layer <NUM> may further include a fifth opening <NUM>. When the electronic device <NUM> includes a sensor (such as the sensor <NUM> shown in <FIG>), the sensor may align with the fifth opening <NUM>. Also, in order to provide consistency, the size and shape of the through hole <NUM> (in the x-y plane) may be identical, or at least substantially similar, to that of the fifth opening <NUM>. While the masking layer <NUM> is shown as having several openings, each of the openings may be filled with a material that provides at least some masking and/or some consistency in appearance (in terms of color). In this regard, the openings may be not be easily seen by a user, thereby hiding the sensor and the modules of the vision system, and the overall consistency of the electronic device <NUM> is at least partially maintained in terms of appearance. Also, as shown in the enlarged view, the first opening <NUM>, the second opening <NUM>, the third opening <NUM>, and the fourth opening <NUM> may be centered with the masking layer <NUM> in both the X- and Y-dimensions. Further, the through hole <NUM> and the fifth opening <NUM> may be centered with respect to the masking layer <NUM> in both the X- and Y-dimensions.

However, the materials used to cover the openings of the masking layer <NUM> may differ. For example, <FIG> illustrates a cross sectional view taken along line A-A in <FIG>, showing a location of the transparent cover <NUM>, the masking layer <NUM> secured with the transparent cover <NUM>, and several layers of material secured with the transparent cover <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the openings of the masking layer <NUM> may be filled. For example, the first opening <NUM>, the second opening <NUM>, the third opening <NUM>, and the fourth opening <NUM> may include a first material <NUM>, a second material <NUM>, a third material <NUM>, and a fourth material <NUM>, respectfully. In some embodiments, the first material <NUM>, the second material <NUM>, the third material <NUM>, and the fourth material <NUM> include an ink material that permits IR light passage, while blocking other forms of light (outside the IR frequency range of light). This allows modules (not shown) of a vision system to emit IR light through the aforementioned materials and the transparent cover <NUM>, while also allowing reflected IR light to enter through the transparent cover <NUM> and the aforementioned materials such that the IR light is received by some of the modules (such as the second camera module <NUM>, shown in <FIG>). Generally, the material used to fill the openings may include any material that permits light passage associated with light emitted by the modules of the vision system, while blocking other types of light that does not fall within a predetermined frequency range. Also, in some embodiments, the openings are symmetrically displaced around the through hole <NUM>. For example, the first opening <NUM> may be displaced from the through hole <NUM> at a distance that is the same as that between the fourth opening <NUM> and the through hole <NUM>. Also, the second opening <NUM> may be displaced from the through hole <NUM> at a distance that is the same as that between the third opening <NUM> and the through hole <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a cross sectional view taken along line B-B in <FIG>, showing a different location of the transparent cover <NUM> and a material positioned in an opening of the masking layer <NUM>. As shown, the fifth opening <NUM> may be filled by a fifth material <NUM>. In some embodiments, the fifth material <NUM> includes a material that permits visible light passage, while blocking other forms of light. This allows a sensor (such as the sensor <NUM> shown in <FIG>) to receive visible light through the fifth material <NUM> and the transparent cover <NUM>. Referring again to <FIG>, the first material <NUM>, the second material <NUM>, the third material <NUM>, the fourth material <NUM>, and the fifth material <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) may not only provide a specific function of light passage, but also may provide an appearance (in terms of color) that at least partially resembles the appearance of the masking layer <NUM>. In this manner, the materials that fill the openings can generally blend with the masking layer <NUM>, in terms of appearance, such that the openings are less noticeable.

<FIG> illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device <NUM> taken along line C-C in <FIG>, showing various layers of the display assembly <NUM>. For purposes of illustration and simplicity, several components (such as a circuit board, battery, rear camera, flexible circuits) are removed. As shown, the transparent cover <NUM> may secure with the sidewall components (the second sidewall component <NUM> and the fourth sidewall component <NUM> are shown) by way of a frame <NUM> that is adhesively secured with both the transparent cover <NUM> and the sidewall components by an adhesive (not labeled), which may include pressure sensitive adhesive. The display assembly <NUM> includes a touch input layer <NUM> designed to form a capacitive coupling by way of a touch input to the transparent cover <NUM>. The display assembly <NUM> further includes a display layer <NUM> designed to present visual information in the form of textual information, still images, and/or video images. An input to the touch input layer <NUM> may generate a control input to control what is presented on the display layer <NUM>. The display assembly <NUM> may further include a force touch layer <NUM> designed to determine an amount of force applied to the transparent cover <NUM>. A control input can be generated when the force applied to the transparent cover <NUM> equals or exceeds a predetermined amount of force, as determined by the force touch layer <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a plan view of the electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG>, with the transparent cover and the display assembly removed. As shown, the electronic device <NUM> includes a bracket assembly <NUM> that carries a vision system <NUM> positioned in the enclosure <NUM>. The bracket assembly <NUM> and the vision system <NUM> may include any features described herein for a bracket assembly and a vision system, respectively. As shown, the vision system <NUM> includes a first camera module <NUM>, a light emitting module <NUM>, and a second camera module <NUM>. The first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> may include any features described herein for a first camera module, a light emitting module, and a second camera module, respectively. The bracket assembly <NUM> is not only designed to carry and protect the aforementioned modules, but also to maintain a predetermined distance or separation between the modules and limit or prevent relative movement of the modules with respect to other modules.

The electronic device <NUM> may further include a circuit board <NUM> that includes one or more processor circuits (not shown), such as integrated circuits, that provide the main processing functions of the electronic device <NUM>. Each module may include a flexible circuit that electrically couples to the circuit board <NUM>. For example, the first camera module <NUM> includes a first flexible circuit <NUM> used to electrically couple the first camera module <NUM> to the circuit board <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM> may include a second flexible circuit <NUM> used to electrically couple the light emitting module <NUM> to the circuit board <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> may include a third flexible circuit <NUM> used to electrically couple the second camera module <NUM> to the circuit board <NUM>. With the exception of the electrical and mechanical connections between the circuit board <NUM> and the aforementioned flexible circuits of the modules, no mechanical connections exist between the bracket assembly <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM> (or another other structural features in the enclosure <NUM>). Accordingly, the bracket assembly <NUM> is allowed to "roam" or "float" (that is, move) in the enclosure <NUM> prior to a final assembly. However, when the transparent cover <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) is secured with the enclosure <NUM>, the bracket assembly <NUM> can be aligned in the enclosure <NUM> and generally limited in movement. This will be further shown and discussed below. Also, the enclosure <NUM> may include a bottom wall <NUM>, or back wall. The bottom wall <NUM> may be integrally formed with the sidewall components to define a unibody structure, or may include a separate structural material(s) that are coupled together during an assembly operation. Also, the bottom wall <NUM> may include an opening <NUM> that allow an additional camera module (not shown in <FIG>) to captures images. The additional camera module can be designed to capture images in a direction opposite to that of the first camera module <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a plan view of the transparent cover <NUM> shown in <FIG>, further showing an alignment module <NUM> secured with the transparent cover <NUM>. The alignment module <NUM> (shown as dotted lines) is secured with an underside (also referred to as a rear surface or backside) of the transparent cover <NUM> by, for example, an adhesive. Also, the alignment module <NUM> may include any features described herein for an alignment module. The alignment module <NUM> may be secured with the transparent cover <NUM>, and provides a desired alignment of the vision system <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). For example, while the transparent cover <NUM> is being assembly with the enclosure <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), the alignment module <NUM> can align the first camera module <NUM> and the light emitting module <NUM> (both shown in <FIG>) with the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM>, respectively, of the masking layer <NUM>. Further, when the transparent cover <NUM> is secured with the enclosure <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), the alignment module <NUM> can align the second camera module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) with the third opening <NUM> of the masking layer <NUM>. The materials that fill the openings (shown in <FIG>) are not labeled in <FIG> for purposes of simplicity. Although not shown, additional components can be aligned using the alignment module <NUM>. For example, the alignment module <NUM> may align a lighting element (such as the lighting element <NUM> shown in <FIG>) with the fourth opening <NUM>. The alignment module <NUM> may further align an audio module and a microphone (such as the audio module <NUM> and the microphone <NUM> shown in <FIG>) with the through hole <NUM> of the transparent cover <NUM>. The alignment module <NUM> may further align a sensor (such as the sensor <NUM> shown in <FIG>) with the fifth opening <NUM>.

While the bracket assembly <NUM> is designed to carry the vision system <NUM> (both shown in <FIG>), the alignment module <NUM> is also designed to carry components (in addition to providing alignment to the components). For example, <FIG> illustrates a cross sectional view of the transparent cover <NUM> and the alignment module <NUM> secured with the transparent cover <NUM>, further showing an audio module <NUM>, a microphone <NUM>, and a lighting element <NUM>. The audio module <NUM>, the microphone <NUM>, and the lighting element <NUM> may include any features described herein for an audio module, a microphone, and a lighting element, respectively. Although not shown, a sensor may be carried by the alignment module <NUM> in a manner previously described. In order to hide the audio module <NUM> and the microphone <NUM> from view, an acoustic mesh <NUM> may secure (by adhesives, for example) to the transparent cover <NUM> and cover the through hole <NUM>, thereby covering the audio module <NUM> and the microphone <NUM>. The acoustic mesh <NUM> may include a material that permits acoustical energy to pass through the acoustic mesh <NUM>. As shown, the alignment module <NUM> may align the audio module <NUM> and the microphone <NUM> with the through hole <NUM> to allow the audio module <NUM> and the microphone <NUM> to access the ambient environment.

In some instances, the alignment module <NUM> may be modified to provide additional surface area. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, the alignment module <NUM> may include a rib <NUM> designed to receive an adhesive <NUM> that secures the alignment module <NUM> with the transparent cover <NUM>. As shown, the acoustic mesh <NUM> is positioned between the alignment module <NUM> and the transparent cover <NUM>. However, in some embodiments (not shown), the acoustic mesh <NUM> is not positioned between the alignment module <NUM> and the transparent cover <NUM>. The rib <NUM> may provide the alignment module <NUM> with additional surface area, thereby allowing for additional space for the adhesive <NUM>. This may prevent the adhesive <NUM> from flowing into the audio module <NUM> and altering the acoustical energy emitted by the audio module <NUM> in an undesired manner. Although not labeled, the alignment module <NUM> may include additional ribs designed in a manner similar to that of the rib <NUM>. In some embodiments, the audio module <NUM> includes a recessed region <NUM>, or trough, that is proximate to the rib <NUM>. In this manner, if the adhesive <NUM> extends beyond the rib <NUM>, the adhesive <NUM> may be caught or trapped in the recessed region <NUM>, and the adhesive <NUM> remains out of the audio module <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of a transparent cover <NUM> and an alignment module <NUM> secured with the transparent cover <NUM>, further showing an audio module <NUM> that is modified to secure to the transparent cover <NUM>. The transparent cover <NUM>, the alignment module <NUM>, and the audio module <NUM> may include any features previously described for a transparent cover, an alignment module, and an audio module, respectively. As shown, the audio module <NUM> may be extended (as compared to the audio module <NUM> shown in <FIG>) and may include ribs, such as a first rib <NUM> and a second rib <NUM>, used to receive an adhesive <NUM>. Rather than modifying the alignment module <NUM>, the audio module <NUM>, by way of the first rib <NUM> and the second rib <NUM>, can adhesively secure to the transparent cover <NUM>. Also, the audio module <NUM> may be modified to carry a microphone <NUM> such that both the audio module <NUM> and the microphone <NUM> can access the ambient environment via a through hole <NUM> of the transparent cover <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an assembly operation of the electronic device <NUM>. In order to properly align the vision system <NUM> in a desired manner, the bracket assembly <NUM> is placed in the enclosure <NUM> and is not affixed to the enclosure <NUM>. In other words, the bracket assembly <NUM> is (initially) free to move relative to the enclosure <NUM>. During the assembly operation, the alignment module <NUM> may engage one of the modules of the vision system <NUM>, which in turn provides a lateral moving force of the vision system <NUM> and the bracket assembly <NUM> in order to align the vision system <NUM> with openings in the masking layer <NUM>. Once the assembly operation is complete, the bracket assembly <NUM> may be in a fixed positioned in the enclosure <NUM> by engagement forces from the alignment module <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM>, but is not otherwise affixed to the enclosure <NUM> by fasteners, clips, screws, adhesives, etc..

<FIG> illustrates a cross sectional view partially showing the electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG>, showing an assembly operation between the transparent cover <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device <NUM> may include a circuit <NUM> that is electrically and mechanically coupled to the audio module <NUM>, the microphone <NUM>, the lighting element <NUM>, and a sensor (not shown in <FIG>). The circuit <NUM> may include a flexible circuit that is electrically and mechanically connected to a circuit board (such as the circuit board <NUM> shown in <FIG>), thereby placing the audio module <NUM>, the microphone <NUM>, the lighting element <NUM>, and the sensor in communication with the circuit board. Also, the alignment module <NUM> is adhesively secured with the transparent cover <NUM>. The alignment module <NUM> is aligned with the transparent cover <NUM> such that when the audio module <NUM> is positioned in an opening (not labeled) of the alignment module <NUM>, the audio module <NUM> is aligned with the through hole <NUM> of the transparent cover <NUM>. Further, the microphone <NUM> may be aligned with a diagonal opening (not labeled) of the alignment module <NUM>, and at least partially aligned with the through hole <NUM>. Also, the lighting element <NUM> maybe positioned in an opening (not labeled) of the alignment module <NUM>, and in particular, the lighting element <NUM> may align with an opening of the masking layer <NUM>. This will be further discussed below. Also, the lighting element <NUM> may include a heat dissipation structure <NUM> designed to draw heat from the lighting element <NUM> during use of the lighting element <NUM>, thereby providing a thermal sink to prevent overheating of the lighting element <NUM>. The heat dissipation structure <NUM> may be coupled with the circuit <NUM>.

The bracket assembly <NUM> may include a first bracket <NUM> and a second bracket <NUM> secured with the first bracket <NUM> to hold the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> of the vision system <NUM>. Although not labeled, the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> may each include a flexible circuit. Also, although not labeled, the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> may each include an adhesive that secures the modules to the bracket assembly <NUM>. The adhesive may include an electrically conductive adhesive that electrically couples the modules to the bracket assembly <NUM>. The first bracket <NUM> may include a multi-piece assembly, similar to the bracket <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). In this regard, the first bracket <NUM> may include a first bracket part <NUM> and a second bracket part <NUM> secured with the first bracket part <NUM>. The second bracket part <NUM> may be referred to as a module carrier that holds the light emitting module <NUM>. The first bracket part <NUM> may attach to the second bracket <NUM> and the second bracket part <NUM> by welding, as an example, thereby electrically coupling the brackets and the parts together. Other attachment methods that electrically couple the brackets and parts together are possible. The second bracket <NUM> may include a first spring element <NUM> and a second spring element <NUM> that are used to support the bracket assembly <NUM> and the vision system <NUM>.

The bottom wall <NUM> may include a transparent material, such as glass or the like. In this regard, the bottom wall <NUM> may include a material that is different from the sidewall components shown in <FIG>. However, in some embodiments (not shown), the bottom wall <NUM> is formed from a metal and the sidewall components (also formed from the metal) are integrally formed from the bottom wall <NUM>. Although not shown, the bottom wall <NUM> may include a mask that provides an opaque material across a major surface of the bottom wall <NUM>. Also, the first spring element <NUM> and the second spring element <NUM> may engage a metal layer <NUM> disposed on the bottom wall <NUM>. As a result, the metal layer <NUM> may provide an electrical ground for the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> by way of adhesives and various structural features of the bracket assembly <NUM>, including the aforementioned spring elements. In some instances, the metal layer <NUM> is electrically coupled to the sidewall components (shown in <FIG>).

The second bracket <NUM> may include an opening that allows a heat sinking element <NUM> to thermally couple with the light emitting module <NUM>, either by direct contact with the light emitting module <NUM> or by way of a block (not labeled), as shown in <FIG>. The heat sinking element <NUM> may include a rolled graphite layer that is thermally coupled to the metal layer <NUM>. Accordingly, the metal layer <NUM> may provide electrical and thermal dissipation. Regarding the latter, the metal layer <NUM> may be referred to as a heat sink or thermal regulator.

<FIG> illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG>, further showing the transparent cover <NUM> being lowered toward the enclosure <NUM>. As shown in Step <NUM>, the transparent cover <NUM> moves in a direction toward the enclosure <NUM> in order to secure the transparent cover <NUM> to the enclosure <NUM>. As the transparent cover <NUM> is lowered, the alignment module <NUM> may engage a module of the vision system <NUM> (labeled in <FIG>). For example, as shown in <FIG>, the alignment module <NUM> engages the first camera module <NUM>. As shown in Step <NUM>, the force provided by the alignment module <NUM> to the first camera module <NUM> (by way of the transparent cover <NUM> moving toward the enclosure <NUM>) causes the first camera module <NUM> to shift in the x-direction, which in turn causes the bracket assembly <NUM> and the remaining modules to shift along the X-axis (in the "negative" direction). The shifting, or movement, of the modules causes the modules to align in the electronic device <NUM> in a desired manner. This will be shown below. In this manner, the first camera module <NUM> may be referred to as an alignment feature that is used by the alignment module <NUM> to align the modules. However, in some embodiments (not shown in <FIG>), the alignment module <NUM> engages a different module of the bracket assembly <NUM>. Also, it should be noted that despite the movement or shifting of the modules, the bracket assembly <NUM> maintains the spacing between i) the first camera module <NUM> and the second camera module <NUM>, ii) light emitting module <NUM> and the second camera module <NUM>, and iii) the first camera module <NUM> and the light emitting module <NUM>.

While Step <NUM> shows the bracket assembly <NUM> and the modules being shifted in a particular direction, the bracket assembly <NUM> and the modules may shift in a different direction based the original position of the bracket assembly <NUM> and the modules in the electronic device <NUM>. For example, when the alignment module <NUM> engages a different location of the first camera module <NUM> (as opposite the location shown in <FIG>), the bracket assembly <NUM> and the modules may shift in the opposite direction in order to align the modules in the electronic device <NUM>. Further, although not shown, the engagement between the alignment module <NUM> and the first camera module <NUM> may provide a force that causes the bracket assembly <NUM> and the modules to move in a direction perpendicular to the X-Z plane, such as a "Y-direction" that is into and out of the page. The engagement between the alignment module <NUM> and the first camera module <NUM> may provide a force that causes the bracket assembly <NUM> and the modules to move in two directions, such as along the X-axis as well as a direction perpendicular to the X-Z plane. Accordingly, in order to properly align the modules, the alignment module <NUM> may provide a force that moves the modules in two different dimensions.

<FIG> illustrates a cross sectional view of the electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG>, with the transparent cover <NUM> secured with the enclosure <NUM>. The vision system <NUM> is aligned with the electronic device <NUM> subsequent to the alignment module <NUM> causing the vision system <NUM> and the bracket assembly <NUM> to shift. Further, as shown in the enlarged view, when the vision system <NUM> is aligned in the electronic device <NUM>, the first camera module <NUM> is aligned with the first material <NUM> disposed in the first opening <NUM> of the masking layer <NUM>. The term "aligned" refers to the first material <NUM> being positioned over the first camera module <NUM> such that the masking layer <NUM> does not block the line of view for the first camera module <NUM>. Also, the light emitting module <NUM> is aligned with the second material <NUM> disposed in the second opening <NUM> of the masking layer <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> is aligned with the third material <NUM> disposed in the third opening <NUM> of the masking layer <NUM>. Also, the lighting element <NUM>, when positioned in the alignment module <NUM>, is aligned with the fourth material <NUM> disposed in the fourth opening <NUM> of the masking layer <NUM>.

Also, the first spring element <NUM> and the second spring element <NUM> may flex in response to compression forces from the transparent cover <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM>. However, the first spring element <NUM> and the second spring element <NUM> may provide a biasing force, or counterforce, in a direction of an arrow <NUM>. The biasing force may increase the engagement force between the bracket assembly <NUM> and the alignment module <NUM>. As a result, the bracket assembly <NUM> may be held in place without any direct fixtures or fasteners that permanently fasten the bracket assembly <NUM> to the enclosure <NUM> or the transparent cover <NUM>. In this manner, the vision system <NUM> is mechanically isolated from the enclosure <NUM>, as the components of the vision system <NUM> are suspended by the bracket assembly <NUM> (which is not affixed to the enclosure <NUM>) such that the components of the vision system <NUM> are not in contact with the enclosure <NUM>. The mechanical isolation of the vision system <NUM> with respect to the enclosure <NUM> allows the components of the vision system <NUM> to move freely, in accordance with any movement of the bracket assembly <NUM>, without obstruction from the enclosure <NUM> or any affixation or engagement between the vision system <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM>. Although an external force or load force exerted on the electronic device <NUM> may cause movement of the bracket assembly <NUM> relative to the enclosure <NUM>, the bracket assembly <NUM> can maintain a constant separation between the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM><NUM><NUM>. This ensures the components of the vision system <NUM> remain at a fixed and predetermined distance from each other, and may not require a re-calibration setting. Accordingly, any movement of the bracket assembly <NUM> may correspond to an equal amount of movement of the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> such that there is no relative movement between the modules. Furthermore, due in part to the mechanical isolation of the vision system <NUM>, a force to the enclosure <NUM> that causes the enclosure <NUM> to bend, warp, or otherwise become altered may result in the further compression of the first spring element <NUM> and/or the second spring element <NUM> without i) affecting the fixed distance between the components of the vision system <NUM>, and ii) causing mechanical contact between components of the vision system <NUM> and the enclosure <NUM>.

Also, the openings of the masking layer <NUM>, and in turn, the material in the openings, may be separated from the through hole <NUM> by equal distances, and accordingly, some of the openings are symmetrically positioned around the through hole <NUM>. For example, a center point of the first opening <NUM> is positioned a first distance <NUM> from a center point of the through hole <NUM>, and a center point of the fourth opening <NUM> is positioned a second distance <NUM> from the center point of the through hole <NUM>. The first distance <NUM> may be the same, or at least substantially similar to, the second distance <NUM>. Also, a center point of the second opening <NUM> is positioned a third distance <NUM> from the center point of the through hole <NUM>, and a center point of the third opening <NUM> is positioned a fourth distance <NUM> from the center point of the through hole <NUM>. The third distance <NUM> may be the same, or at least substantially similar to, the fourth distance <NUM>. These symmetric relationships may enhance the overall appearance of the electronic device <NUM>. Also, when the assembly operation is complete, the heat dissipation structure <NUM> and the heat sinking element <NUM> are coupled to the first bracket part <NUM> and the metal layer <NUM>, respectively. This places the lighting element <NUM> and the light emitting module <NUM> in thermal contact with the first bracket part <NUM> and the metal layer <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an alternate cross sectional view of the electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG>, showing the positioning of some of the components within the electronic device <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. As shown, the first bracket part <NUM> (associated with the first bracket <NUM> in <FIG>) and the second bracket <NUM> may extend beyond the transparent cover <NUM>, in the Y-dimension, and may be at least partially covered by the first sidewall component <NUM> (also shown in <FIG>). In some instances, the first sidewall component <NUM> provides not only a protective structure but also forms part of an antenna assembly designed as a transceiver to send and receive radio frequency ("RF") communication in the form of RF energy. Further, an antenna component (not shown in <FIG>) of the antenna assembly may be proximate to the first bracket part <NUM> and/or the second bracket <NUM>. In this regard, due in part to the first bracket part <NUM> and/or the second bracket <NUM> being formed from metal, the bracket assembly <NUM> may electrically couple to and potentially affect the performance of the antenna assembly. However, the bracket assembly <NUM> can be grounded to the metal layer <NUM> in a manner previously described (see <FIG>), and accordingly, may provide a reference ground for the antenna component. As a result, the bracket assembly <NUM> may complement the use of the antenna assembly so as not to impede the antenna assembly.

The first camera module <NUM> may be secured with the first bracket part <NUM> by an adhesive layer <NUM>. In some instances, the adhesive layer <NUM> may include an electrically conductive adhesive, thereby electrically coupling the first camera module <NUM> with the first bracket part <NUM>. Accordingly, due to the bracket assembly <NUM> being electrically coupled to the metal layer <NUM>, the first camera module <NUM> may be electrically coupled to the metal layer <NUM> such that the first camera module <NUM> can be electrically grounded. Also, the first camera module <NUM> may be electrically and mechanically coupled to the first flexible circuit <NUM> that is further electrically and mechanically coupled to the circuit board <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The first flexible circuit <NUM> may be secured with the second bracket <NUM> by an adhesive layer <NUM>. Also, the first flexible circuit <NUM> may pass through an opening between the second bracket <NUM> and a third bracket part <NUM>. The third bracket part <NUM> may include any features previously described for the third bracket part <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). Accordingly, the third bracket part <NUM> may act as a support member or supporting element that extends substantially across a dimension (such as a length) of the first bracket part <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a plan view of a dot pattern <NUM> generated by a light source, in accordance with some described embodiments. The dot pattern <NUM> may include a light pattern having several dots projected onto a flat object <NUM>. The dot pattern <NUM> may be generated from light produced by a light emitting module, such as the light emitting module <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). In this regard, the dot pattern <NUM> may include IR light that is not visible by the human eye. Also, the dots of the dot pattern <NUM> may be spaced equidistantly apart in rows and columns, when projected onto the flat object <NUM>. In other words, the pitch between adjacent dots is equal when the dot pattern <NUM> is projected onto the flat object <NUM>. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, the dot pattern <NUM> may include a first dot <NUM> and a second dot <NUM> adjacent to the first dot <NUM>. The first dot <NUM> is separated from the second dot <NUM> by a first distance <NUM>. The dot pattern <NUM> may include a third dot <NUM> and a fourth dot <NUM> adjacent to the third dot <NUM>. The third dot <NUM> is separated from the fourth dot <NUM> by a first distance <NUM> that is the same as, or substantially similar to, the first distance <NUM>. Also, the first dot <NUM> is adjacent to the third dot <NUM> and separated from the third dot <NUM> by a third distance <NUM> that is the same as, or substantially similar to, the first distance <NUM>. The second dot <NUM> is adjacent to the fourth dot <NUM> and separated from the fourth dot <NUM> by a fourth distance <NUM> that is the same as, or substantially similar to, the first distance <NUM>.

The flat object <NUM>, having no change or variance in depth, allows for the equidistant spacing of the dots of the dot pattern <NUM> (described above). In this regard, an electronic device (not shown) that includes a vision system having a light emitting module previously described may use the equidistant spacing of the dots to determine the flat object <NUM> is flat. However, when the object is not flat, the dots of the dot pattern <NUM> may no longer be spaced equidistantly apart.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate an electronic device that includes a vision system having features for a vision system described herein. This vision system can be used to provide object recognition, including facial recognition, of a three-dimensional object using information provided by a dot pattern having several sets of adjacent dots that are spaced apart at different distances as compared to other sets of adjacent dots.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of an electronic device <NUM> using a vision system <NUM> to determine dimensional information of a user <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. The electronic device <NUM> and the vision system <NUM> may include any features described herein for an electronic device and a vision system, respectively. Accordingly, the vision system <NUM> may include a light emitting module (not shown) designed to emit light rays <NUM> in accordance with a dot pattern, such as the dot pattern <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). However, when the light rays <NUM> are directed to an object having features with different depths (corresponding to different distances from the electronic device <NUM>), some of the light rays <NUM> will reach the user <NUM> before others. As a result, the light rays <NUM> may project a dot pattern onto the user <NUM> in which the dots are not spaced equidistantly apart. This will be shown and described below. As commonly known, a face of the user <NUM> may include various features - eyes, ears, nose, lips, etc. - that can define different depths of the user <NUM>, and accordingly, different distances from the electronic device <NUM>. For example, two adjacent light rays may project adjacent dots onto a nose <NUM> of the user <NUM> that are closer together than two adjacent light rays that project adjacent dots onto an ear <NUM> of the user <NUM>. The arrangement of the dots can form a dot pattern that represents a unique profile stored on the electronic device <NUM>, and subsequently used by the electronic device <NUM> to recognize the user <NUM> in order to provide a user authentication, as a non-limiting example. Also, the light rays <NUM> shown in <FIG> may represent a fraction of the total light rays. In other words, a light emitting module described herein may emit more lights rays than what is shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a plan view of a dot pattern <NUM> projected onto an image <NUM> of the user <NUM>, showing various spatial relationships of dots of the dot pattern <NUM> with respect to each other. It should be noted that the dot pattern <NUM> projected onto the user <NUM> is the result of the light rays <NUM> emitted from the electronic device <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). The image <NUM> shown in <FIG> may be an image captured and produced by a first camera module described herein of the vision system <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). As shown, the image <NUM> may include a two-dimensional profile (in the X-Y plane) of the user <NUM> with the dot pattern <NUM> projected onto the image <NUM> of the user <NUM>. Based on the dot pattern <NUM>, the two-dimensional profile of the user <NUM> can be used by the electronic device <NUM> to create a depth map.

Due in part to the user <NUM> having various facial features that represent different depths, or distances from the electronic device <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), the dot pattern <NUM> may include adjacent dots that are spaced apart in manner different than other dots. In other words, the pitch between adjacent dots varies when the dot pattern <NUM> is projected onto the user <NUM> (or another other object that includes three-dimensional features). For example, the dot pattern <NUM> may include a first dot <NUM> and a second dot <NUM> adjacent to the first dot <NUM>, with the first dot <NUM> and the second dot <NUM> projected onto the ear <NUM> and separated by a distance <NUM>. The dot pattern <NUM> may further include a third dot <NUM> and a fourth dot <NUM> adjacent to the third dot <NUM>, with the third dot <NUM> and the fourth dot <NUM> projected onto the nose <NUM> and separated by a distance (not labeled) that is less than the distance <NUM> between the first dot <NUM> and the second dot <NUM>. As a result, the electronic device <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) can compare spacing between adjacent dots projected onto one feature, such as the nose <NUM>, as well as adjacent dots projected onto another feature, such as the ear <NUM>, use the comparison to determine one feature is closer than another feature. Also, the location of the adjacent dots, and their associated spacing, can be stored by the electronic device <NUM> (using memory), which can further be used to determine the user <NUM>.

The electronic device <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) can retrieve and process the spacing or distance between all adjacent dots in the dot pattern <NUM>, and determine several additional features of the user <NUM>. The image <NUM>, in conjunction with the spacing information of adjacent dots of the dot pattern <NUM> projected onto the image <NUM>, can be used to build a unique profile of the user <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) may compare the profile against a known or preset (reference) profile of the user <NUM>, and determine whether the user <NUM> is carrying the electronic device <NUM>. If a sufficient match between the captured profile of the user <NUM> and the reference profile of the user <NUM> is determined, the electronic device <NUM> may use the match as a virtual password and the unlock the electronic device <NUM>, which may include switching on a display assembly (such as the display assembly <NUM> shown in <FIG>) from a locked screen to an unlocked screen thereby granting the user <NUM> access to the various features and contents of the electronic device <NUM>. While the object shown and described in <FIG> and <FIG> shows a face of the user <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM> may provide object recognition of other three-dimensional objects other than the user <NUM> of the electronic device <NUM>, such as inorganic objects.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic diagram of an electronic device <NUM>. The electronic device <NUM> may be representative of other embodiments of electronic devices described herein. The electronic device <NUM> may include storage <NUM>. The storage <NUM> may include one or more different types of storage such as hard disk drive storage, nonvolatile memory (such as flash memory or other electrically-programmable read-only memory), volatile memory (such as battery-based static or dynamic random-access memory).

The electronic device <NUM> may include processor circuitry <NUM> having one or more processors that communicate with several peripheral devices via a bus system <NUM>. The processor circuitry <NUM> may be used to control the operation of the electronic device <NUM>, and may include a processor (such as a microprocessor) and other suitable integrated circuits. In some embodiments, the processor circuitry <NUM> and the storage <NUM> run software on the electronic device <NUM>. For example, the software may include object recognition software. In this regard, the electronic device <NUM> may include output devices <NUM> and input devices <NUM> that supply data to the electronic device <NUM>, and also allow data to be provided from the electronic device <NUM> to external devices. The output devices <NUM> may include a light emitting module of a vision system designed to project a light pattern (such as a dot pattern) onto an object, and is used in conjunction with the object recognition software. The output devices <NUM> may further include a lighting element used during low-light (dim) applications. Additionally, the output devices <NUM> may include a display layer (associated with a display assembly) and an audio module.

The input devices <NUM> may include multiple camera modules. For instances, one of the camera modules can be used to capture an image and is used in conjunction with the object recognition software. Another camera module can be used to receive the light pattern from the light emitting module. Using the object recognition software, the light pattern can be superimposed onto the captured image and the electronic device <NUM> can determine what the object is. For example, the object recognition software can be used for facial recognition. The object recognition software can use the camera modules and light emitting module to provide an initial scan of the object, and can store the initial scan as a profile on the storage <NUM>. The initial scan may be referred to as a reference image or reference scan. Then, the object recognition software can be used to scan a subsequent object and create a profile of the subsequent object to determine whether the subsequent object matches the initially stored profile on the storage <NUM>. The "match" between the reference image and a subsequent image may be based upon a software or algorithm on the storage <NUM> that requires a comparison (between the reference image and the subsequent image) to meet or exceed a threshold match. For example, if a comparison between the reference image and a subsequently captured image is <NUM> percent or greater, a "match" is determined. The percent match setting can be adjusted (higher or lower) if necessary. The processor circuitry <NUM> can determine whether the match is made. The processor circuitry <NUM> may signal the electronic device <NUM> to unlock, thereby allowing a user to interact with the electronic device <NUM>. Otherwise, if a comparison between the reference image and the subsequent image does not meet or exceed threshold match (as determined by the processor circuitry <NUM>), the processor circuitry <NUM> may signal the display of the electronic device to display a fail message, or signal to the user that permission to use the electronic device is not granted. Additionally, the input devices <NUM> may include buttons, switches, touch input and force touch layers (associated with a display assembly). Also, the electronic device <NUM> may include a power supply (such as a battery) that provides electrical energy to the storage <NUM>, the processor circuitry <NUM>, the output devices <NUM>, and the input devices <NUM>.

While some vision systems described herein are generally located at or near an uppermost portion of an electronic device, <FIG> show electronic devices that include a vision system with modules positioned at different locations throughout an electronic device. Although not shown, the electronic devices in <FIG> may include any features described herein for an electronic device, a vision system, and a bracket assembly.

<FIG> illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device <NUM> that includes a vision system <NUM> held by a bracket assembly <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. The vision system <NUM> is designed to provide recognition of an object, which may include facial recognition of a user of the electronic device <NUM>. The vision system <NUM> may include a first camera module <NUM> designed to capture an image of the object. The vision system <NUM> may further include a light emitting module <NUM> is designed to generate light rays that are projected onto the object into the form of light rays. The vision system <NUM> may further include a second camera module <NUM> is designed to receive the dot pattern that is projected onto the object. As shown, the bracket assembly <NUM> may space the modules of the vision system according to a triangular arrangement. However, other possible arrangements are possible. The bracket assembly <NUM> may maintain separation, by a predetermined distance, between the first camera module <NUM> and the light emitting module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM> and the second camera module <NUM>, and the first camera module <NUM> and the second camera module <NUM>. A transparent cover and display assembly (both not shown in <FIG>) of the electronic device <NUM> may be modified in order to allow the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> to function in a manner that provides the object recognition. This may include removal or realignment of the display assembly, as an example.

<FIG> illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiment of an electronic device <NUM> that includes a vision system <NUM> held by a bracket assembly <NUM>, in accordance with some described embodiments. The vision system <NUM> is designed to provide recognition of an object, which may include facial recognition of a user of the electronic device <NUM>. The vision system <NUM> may include a first camera module <NUM> designed to capture an image of the object. The vision system <NUM> may further include a light emitting module <NUM> is designed to generate light rays that are projected onto the object into the form of light rays. The vision system <NUM> may further include a second camera module <NUM> is designed to receive the dot pattern that is projected onto the object. As shown, the bracket assembly <NUM> may space the modules of the vision system according to a triangular arrangement. However, other possible arrangements are possible. The bracket assembly <NUM> may maintain separation, by a predetermined distance, between the first camera module <NUM> and the light emitting module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM> and the second camera module <NUM>, and the first camera module <NUM> and the second camera module <NUM>. Further, as shown, the bracket assembly <NUM> may position the aforementioned modules in corners of the electronic device <NUM>. A transparent cover and display assembly (both not shown in <FIG>) of the electronic device <NUM> may be modified in order to allow the first camera module <NUM>, the light emitting module <NUM>, and the second camera module <NUM> to function in a manner that provides the object recognition. This may include removal or realignment of the display assembly, as an example. However, due in part to the modules being positioned in the corners, the amount of removal or realignment of the display assembly may be limited.

<FIG> illustrates a flowchart <NUM> describing a method for assembling a vision system for recognition of an object, in accordance with some described embodiments. The flowchart <NUM> may describe a vision system used for facial recognition. In step <NUM>, a first camera module carried with a bracket assembly. The first camera module is configured to capture an image of an object. Also, the bracket assembly may include multiple brackets pieces, such as a first bracket and a second bracket.

In step <NUM>, a first camera module is secured with the bracket assembly. The first camera module is configured to capture an image of the object. The first camera module may capture visible light reflected from the object.

In step <NUM>, a light emitting module is secured with the bracket assembly. The light emitting module is configured to emit light that projects a dot pattern onto the object. The light emitting module may emit IR light. Further, the light emitting module may emit lights rays in accordance with a dot pattern of light.

In step <NUM>, a second camera module is secured with the bracket assembly. The second camera module can be carried by the bracket assembly. Also, the second camera module is configured to capture the dot pattern projected onto the object. For example, the second camera module may capture a reflected portion of the dot pattern projected onto the object. In this manner, a processor that receives the image and the reflected portion of the dot pattern can provide recognition of the object. The second camera may include a filter designed to receive only light generated by the light emitting module, or at least light in the frequency range of light generated by the light emitting module. Further, the dot pattern, which can be formed by light rays, may include several adjacent dots that are separated by distances that are different than distances of other adjacent dots. The object can be determined by the image, in conjunction with the light rays received by the second camera module. Further, the bracket assembly may provide structural rigidity such that any movement of the bracket assembly corresponds to the same amount of movement of the modules, so as to prevent relative movement of the modules.

The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data, which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

Claim 1:
A portable electronic device (<NUM>), comprising:
an enclosure (<NUM>) that defines an internal volume;
a transparent cover (<NUM>) secured with the enclosure (<NUM>);
a display assembly (<NUM>) covered by the transparent cover (<NUM>), the display assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
a display layer (<NUM>) and a touch input layer (<NUM>), the display layer (<NUM>) and the touch input layer (<NUM>) defining a notch (<NUM>) representing a reduced surface area of the display assembly (<NUM>) as compared to that of the transparent cover (<NUM>);
a bracket assembly (<NUM>) disposed between the transparent cover (<NUM>) and the enclosure (<NUM>);
a vision system (<NUM>) configured for object recognition and carried by the bracket assembly (<NUM>) in the internal volume such that the vision system (<NUM>) is uncovered from the display assembly (<NUM>) by the notch (<NUM>), the vision system (<NUM>) comprising:
a first camera module (<NUM>) configured to capture an image of an object;
a light emitting module (<NUM>) configured to project a dot pattern onto the object;
a second camera module (<NUM>) configured to capture at least some of the dot pattern that is reflected from the object; and
a masking layer (<NUM>) defining openings (<NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein the portable electronic device (<NUM>) is characterized by further comprising:
an alignment module (<NUM>) adhered to the transparent cover (<NUM>), the alignment module (<NUM>) including openings (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to receive portions of the first and second camera modules (<NUM>, <NUM>) and the light emitting module (<NUM>) wherein the alignment module (<NUM>) is configured to align the first and second camera modules (<NUM>, <NUM>) with the openings (<NUM>, <NUM>) in the masking layer (<NUM>).