PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9810917-B2
Application Number: US-201414294104-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Passive damping for optical image stabilization

Abstract:
Passive dampers (e.g., a viscoelastic material such as a silicon gel) may be applied at one or more locations within an actuator module between a moving component (an optics assembly) and a fixed component (e.g., a cover attached to a base). The passive dampers act to passively dampen the motion of the optics assembly on the XY plane within the actuator module during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly when subjected to external excitation or disturbance, and may also provide Z (optical) axis damping and impact protection. Process control and automation manufacturing and assembly methods for an OIS voice coil motor (VCM) actuator module including passive dampers are described, as well as design elements that provide for the integrity and reliability of the passive dampers over the life cycle of the actuator module.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An apparatus, comprising:
 an optics assembly comprising an optics component, wherein the optics assembly is configured to move within the apparatus on one or more axes orthogonal to an optical axis of the optics component; 
 a fixed component comprising a base on which the optics assembly is disposed and a shield can that substantially covers the optics assembly; and 
 one or more passive dampers disposed in a space between an upper surface of the optics assembly that is substantially orthogonal to the optical axis and an inner surface of the shield can, wherein the passive dampers contact the upper surface of the optics assembly and the inner surface of the shield can, and wherein the passive dampers disposed in the space between and in contact with the upper surface of the optics assembly and the inner surface of the shield can are configured to passively dampen motions of the optics assembly within the apparatus. 
 
     
     
       2. The apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the apparatus includes an optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanism configured to move the optics assembly within the apparatus on one or more axes orthogonal to an optical axis of the optics component in response to external excitation or disturbance to stabilize an image plane formed by the optics component at an image sensor. 
     
     
       3. The apparatus as recited in  claim 2 , wherein the OIS mechanism is a voice coil motor (VCM) technology actuator. 
     
     
       4. The apparatus as recited in  claim 2 , wherein the passive dampers are configured to passively dampen movements of the optics assembly by the OIS mechanism. 
     
     
       5. The apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the apparatus includes a focusing mechanism configured to move the optics component within the optics assembly along the optical axis to provide focusing of an image plane formed by the optics component at an image sensor. 
     
     
       6. The apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the passive dampers are configured to dampen movements of the optics assembly on an XY plane orthogonal to an optical (Z) axis of the optics component. 
     
     
       7. The apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the passive dampers are configured to dampen movements of the optics assembly on an optical (Z) axis of the optics component or to reduce impact shock of the optics assembly within the apparatus during optical (Z) axis displacement. 
     
     
       8. The apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the optics assembly is suspended by a plurality of wires on the base of the apparatus, each wire substantially parallel to the optical axis of the optics component, wherein the shield can is coupled to the base. 
     
     
       9. The apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the upper surface of the optics assembly includes a pocket or cavity at each passive damper location that is configured to contain material of the passive damper during optical (Z) axis displacement. 
     
     
       10. The apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein each passive damper is composed of a viscoelastic material that contacts the upper surface of the optics assembly and the inner surface of the shield can to provide passive damping to motions of the optics assembly within the apparatus. 
     
     
       11. The apparatus as recited in  claim 10 , wherein the viscoelastic material is a silicon gel. 
     
     
       12. The apparatus as recited in  claim 1 , wherein the optics assembly further comprises an actuator component, wherein the actuator component is coupled to the optics component by one or more springs that provide optical (Z) axis movement to the optics component relative to the actuator component, and wherein the passive dampers are disposed between a top surface of the actuator component and the inner surface of the shield can. 
     
     
       13. A method, comprising:
 assembling a base assembly for an optical image stabilization (OIS) voice coil motor (VCM) actuator module; 
 assembling an optics assembly for the OIS VCM actuator module; 
 applying a passive damping material at one or more locations on a top surface of the optics assembly substantially orthogonal to an optical axis of the optical assembly; and 
 mounting a shield can to the base assembly over the optics assembly, wherein said mounting leaves a space between the top surface of the optics assembly and an inner surface of the shield can and permits movement of the optical assembly relative to the shield can, wherein the passive damping material at the one or more locations on the top surface of the optics assembly contacts corresponding locations on the inner surface of the shield can; 
 wherein the passive damping material disposed in the space between and in contact with the top surface of the optics assembly and the inner surface of the shield can is configured to apply passive damping to motions of the optics assembly within the OIS VCM actuator module. 
 
     
     
       14. The method as recited in  claim 13 , further comprising suspending the optics assembly on the base assembly using two or more suspension wires. 
     
     
       15. The method as recited in  claim 13 , wherein said applying a passive damping material at one or more locations on a top surface of the optics assembly comprises:
 dispensing the passive damping material at the one or more locations on the top surface of the optics assembly; 
 performing a vertical automated optical inspection (AOI) to determine if the passive damping material is properly positioned at the locations on the top surface of the optics assembly and to determine that the extent of the material that was dispensed at the locations is within minimum and maximum boundaries; 
 curing the passive damping material that was deposited at the one or more locations on the top surface of the optics assembly; and 
 performing an automated optical inspection (AOI) profile scan to determine if the cured passive damping material at the one or more locations is within a height H tolerance and within a diameter D tolerance. 
 
     
     
       16. The method as recited in  claim 15 , wherein the passive damping material is a silicon gel, and wherein said curing the passive damping material is performed by application of ultraviolet (UV) light to the silicon gel. 
     
     
       17. The method as recited in  claim 13 , wherein the optics assembly comprises an actuator magnet component and an optics component, wherein the actuator magnet component is coupled to the optics component by one or more springs that provide optical (Z) axis movement to the optics component relative to the actuator magnet component, and wherein the passive damping material is applied at locations on a top surface of the actuator magnet component. 
     
     
       18. A camera, comprising:
 a photosensor configured to capture light projected onto a surface of the photosensor; and 
 an actuator module comprising:
 an optics assembly configured to refract light from an object field located in front of the camera onto the photosensor; 
 a base on which the optics assembly is disposed and a shield can that substantially covers the optics assembly; 
 an optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanism configured to move the optics assembly within the actuator module and relative to the shield can on one or more axes orthogonal to an optical axis of the camera to stabilize an image plane formed by the optics assembly at the photosensor; and 
 one or more passive dampers disposed in a space between an upper surface of the optics assembly and an inner surface of the shield can, wherein the upper surface is substantially orthogonal to the optical axis, wherein the passive dampers contact the upper surface of the optics assembly and the inner surface of the shield can, and wherein the passive dampers disposed in the space between and in contact with the upper surface of the optics assembly and the inner surface of the shield can are configured to passively dampen movements of the optics assembly by the OIS mechanism. 
 
 
     
     
       19. The camera as recited in  claim 18 , wherein the OIS mechanism is a voice coil motor (VCM) technology actuator. 
     
     
       20. The camera as recited in  claim 18 , wherein the passive dampers are composed of a viscoelastic material that contacts the upper surface of the optics assembly and the inner surface of the shield can to provide passive damping to motions of the optics assembly within the actuator module on an XY plane orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera.

Description:
PRIORITY INFORMATION 
     This application claims benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/931,490 entitled “PASSIVE DAMPING FOR OPTICAL IMAGE STABILIZATION VOICE COIL MOTORS” filed Jan. 24, 2014, the content of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Technical Field 
     This disclosure relates generally to control of the motion of camera components. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     The advent of small, mobile multipurpose devices such as smartphones and tablet or pad devices has resulted in a need for high-resolution, small form factor cameras for integration in the devices. Some small form factor cameras may incorporate optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanisms that may sense and react to external excitation or disturbance by adjusting location of the optical lens on the X and/or Y axis in an attempt to compensate for unwanted motion of the lens. Some small form factor cameras may incorporate an autofocus (AF) mechanism whereby the object focal distance can be adjusted to focus an object plane or field in front of the camera at an image plane to be captured by an image sensor (also referred to herein as a photosensor). In some such autofocus mechanisms, the optical lens is moved as a single rigid body along the optical axis (referred to as the Z axis) of the camera to refocus the camera. In addition, high image quality is easier to achieve in small form factor cameras if lens motion along the optical axis is accompanied by minimal parasitic motion in the other degrees of freedom, for example on the X and Y axes orthogonal to the optical (Z) axis of the camera. Thus, some small form factor cameras that include autofocus mechanisms may also incorporate optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanisms that may sense and react to external excitation or disturbance by adjusting location of the optical lens on the X and/or Y axis in an attempt to compensate for unwanted motion of the lens. 
     SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS 
     An apparatus for controlling motions of an optics component (e.g., a lens or lens system) relative to an image sensor within a camera may include an actuator mechanism for controlling the position of the optics component relative to the image sensor along two axes (X, Y) orthogonal to the optical (Z) axis of the camera. The apparatus may be referred to herein as an actuator module. In some embodiments, an optics assembly that includes the optics component and at least some components of the actuator mechanism may be suspended on a plurality of wires or beams over a base of the actuator module, with the image sensor disposed at or below the base. Each suspension wire may be substantially parallel to the optical axis. In at least some embodiments, the wires are capable of bending deformations that allow the optics assembly to move in linear directions orthogonal to the optical axis (i.e., on the XY plane). The actuator mechanism may provide optical image stabilization (OIS) for the camera, and in some embodiments may be implemented as a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator mechanism. The actuator module may, for example, be used as or in a miniature or small form factor camera suitable for small, mobile multipurpose devices such as cell phones, smartphones, and pad or tablet devices. In at least some embodiments, the actuator module may also include a focusing mechanism for moving the optics component along an optical (Z) axis within the optics assembly. 
     Embodiments of passive damping techniques for an actuator module that includes an optics assembly are described herein. In embodiments, a passive damping component (e.g., a gel such as a silicon gel, or other material) may be applied at one or more locations within the actuator module. The passive damping components may be referred to herein as passive dampers. In at least some embodiments, the locations where the passive dampers are applied are at the top of a moving component of the actuator module (e.g., the optics assembly), between the moving component and a fixed component of the actuator module (e.g., a cover attached to a base of the actuator module). In some embodiments, the locations where the passive dampers are applied may be between a magnet holder component of the optics assembly and the fixed component, where the magnet holder component is part of the actuator mechanism. 
     The application of the passive dampers at these locations, physical properties of the passive damping material (e.g., a silicon gel) such as viscoelasticity, and the contact of the passive dampers with a surface of the moving component (e.g., an optics assembly) and with a surface of the fixed component (e.g., a cover fixed to a base) may act to passively dampen motion of the optics assembly on the XY plane within the actuator module during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly when subjected to external excitation or disturbance. In some embodiments, the passive dampers may also provide Z axis damping and reduce impact shock on the optics assembly. Further, this location of the passive dampers may be a favorable design for process control and automation during manufacturing and assembly of an OIS VCM actuator module. In addition, at least some embodiments may include design elements that provide for the integrity and reliability of the passive damping material (e.g., damping gel) over the life cycle of the actuator module. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIGS. 1A and 1B  illustrate motion of an optics component within an actuator module, according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates instability of an optical image stabilization (OIS) voice coil motor (VCM) actuator under an external excitation or disturbance that is equal to natural resonant frequency. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates stabilization of an OIS VCM actuator under an external excitation or disturbance that is equal to natural resonant frequency using passive damping, according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  shows a side view of an example embodiment of an actuator module that may, for example, be used in small form factor cameras, according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIG. 5A  shows a top view of the actuator module of  FIG. 4  with the cover removed. 
         FIG. 5B  shows the actuator module of  FIG. 4  separated into three subassemblies—a base assembly, an optics assembly, and a cover—according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 6 and 7  show alternative configurations for a magnet holder or yoke in an actuator module. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a side view of an example actuator module that shows passive damping components (e.g., damping gel) located between an upper surface of the optics assembly and an inner surface of a fixed component such as a cover, according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIG. 9  shows a top view of the actuator module of  FIG. 8  with the cover removed, and shows example locations for passive damping components on an upper surface of an optics assembly. 
         FIGS. 10A through 10D  show alternative locations for passive damping components on the upper surface of an optics assembly. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates compression of the passive damping components during a drop test, according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate an embodiment that includes a pocket to contain the passive damping component (e.g., damping gel) during compression as illustrated in  FIG. 11 , according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 13A through 13E  graphically illustrate an example manufacturing process for an actuator module that may be used in a small form factor camera, according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 14A through 14D  graphically illustrate an example method for damping gel application during a manufacturing process for an actuator module, according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIG. 15  is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing an actuator module that may be used in a small form factor camera, according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIG. 16  is a flowchart of a method for damping gel application during the manufacturing process of  FIG. 15 , according to at least some embodiments. 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a schematic view of a magnet and coil configuration, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 18  depicts a schematic of magnet and coil configuration, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 19  depicts a schematic representation of actuator coil connectivity, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 20  depicts a system for optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 21  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 22  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 23  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 24  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 25  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 26  is a flowchart of calculations used in a method for optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. 
         FIG. 27  illustrates a block diagram of a portable multifunction device with a camera in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 28  depicts a portable multifunction device having a camera in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 29  illustrates an example computer system configured to implement aspects of the system and method for camera control, according to some embodiments. 
     
    
    
     This specification includes references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment.” The appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner consistent with this disclosure. 
     “Comprising.” This term is open-ended. As used in the appended claims, this term does not foreclose additional structure or steps. Consider a claim that recites: “An apparatus comprising one or more processor units . . . .” Such a claim does not foreclose the apparatus from including additional components (e.g., a network interface unit, graphics circuitry, etc.). 
     “Configured To.” Various units, circuits, or other components may be described or claimed as “configured to” perform a task or tasks. In such contexts, “configured to” is used to connote structure by indicating that the units/circuits/components include structure (e.g., circuitry) that performs those task or tasks during operation. As such, the unit/circuit/component can be said to be configured to perform the task even when the specified unit/circuit/component is not currently operational (e.g., is not on). The units/circuits/components used with the “configured to” language include hardware—for example, circuits, memory storing program instructions executable to implement the operation, etc. Reciting that a unit/circuit/component is “configured to” perform one or more tasks is expressly intended not to invoke 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph, for that unit/circuit/component. Additionally, “configured to” can include generic structure (e.g., generic circuitry) that is manipulated by software and/or firmware (e.g., an FPGA or a general-purpose processor executing software) to operate in manner that is capable of performing the task(s) at issue. “Configure to” may also include adapting a manufacturing process (e.g., a semiconductor fabrication facility) to fabricate devices (e.g., integrated circuits) that are adapted to implement or perform one or more tasks. 
     “First,” “Second,” etc. As used herein, these terms are used as labels for nouns that they precede, and do not imply any type of ordering (e.g., spatial, temporal, logical, etc.). For example, a buffer circuit may be described herein as performing write operations for “first” and “second” values. The terms “first” and “second” do not necessarily imply that the first value must be written before the second value. 
     “Based On.” As used herein, this term is used to describe one or more factors that affect a determination. This term does not foreclose additional factors that may affect a determination. That is, a determination may be solely based on those factors or based, at least in part, on those factors. Consider the phrase “determine A based on B.” While in this case, B is a factor that affects the determination of A, such a phrase does not foreclose the determination of A from also being based on C. In other instances, A may be determined based solely on B. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     An apparatus for controlling motions of an optics component relative to an image sensor within a camera may include an actuator mechanism for controlling the position of the optics component relative to the image sensor along two axes (X, Y) orthogonal to the optical (Z) axis of the camera. The apparatus may be referred to herein as an actuator module. In some embodiments, an optics assembly that includes the optics component and that may also include at least some components of the actuator mechanism (e.g., magnets and/or coils) may be suspended on a plurality of wires or beams over a base of the actuator module, with the image sensor disposed at or below the base. Each suspension wire may be substantially parallel to the optical axis. In at least some embodiments, the wires are capable of bending deformations that allow the optics assembly to move in linear directions orthogonal to the optical axis (i.e., on the XY plane). The actuator mechanism may provide optical image stabilization (OIS) for the camera, and in some embodiments may be implemented as a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator mechanism. The actuator module may, for example, be used as or in a miniature or small form factor camera suitable for small, mobile multipurpose devices such as cell phones, smartphones, and pad or tablet devices. In at least some embodiments, the actuator module may also include a focusing mechanism for moving the optics component along an optical (Z) axis within the optics assembly. 
     In embodiments of passive damping techniques for an actuator module that includes an optics assembly as described herein, a passive damping component (e.g., a gel such as a silicon gel, or other material) may be applied at one or more locations within the actuator module. The passive damping components may be referred to herein as passive dampers. 
     In at least some embodiments, the locations where the passive dampers are applied within the actuator module are at the top of a moving component of the actuator module (e.g., the optics assembly), between the moving component and a fixed component of the actuator module (e.g., a cover attached to a base of the actuator module). In some embodiments, the locations where the passive dampers are applied may be between a magnet holder component of the optics assembly and the fixed component, where the magnet holder component is part of the actuator mechanism. However, it is to be noted that passive dampers as described herein may be applied at one or more other locations within an actuator module as described herein instead of or in addition to locations at the top of the moving assembly. For example, in some embodiments, instead of or in addition to locating passive dampers at the top of the moving assembly between the moving assembly and the fixed component (e.g., a cover attached to a base of the actuator module), passive dampers may be located at the bottom of the moving assembly between the moving assembly and the fixed component (e.g., the base of the actuator module). 
     The application of the passive dampers at these locations, physical properties of the passive damping material (e.g., a silicon gel) such as viscoelasticity, and the contact of the passive dampers with a surface of the moving component (e.g., an optics assembly) and with a surface of the fixed component (cover) act to passively dampen motion of the optics assembly on the XY plane within the actuator module during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly when subjected to external excitation or disturbance. 
     In some embodiments, in addition to damping motion on the XY plane, the passive dampers (e.g., damping gel) located on top of the moving component (e.g., an optics assembly) and disposed between the moving component and the fixed component may also act as a damper or “shock absorber” for a drop test event (Z axis damping), for example as illustrated in  FIGS. 11, 12A, and 12B . This may improve drop test reliability, damping acceleration and reducing impact shock of the suspended mechanism (the optics assembly) within the actuator module. 
     Further, the location of the passive dampers on top of the moving component (e.g., an optics assembly) and between the moving component and a fixed component (a cover) may be a favorable location for process control and automation during manufacturing and assembly of an actuator module. In addition, at least some embodiments may include design elements that provide for the integrity and reliability of the passive damping material (e.g., damping gel) over the life cycle of the actuator module. 
     Passive Damping for Optical Image Stabilization 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B  illustrate motion of an optics component  1002  within an actuator module  1000 , according to at least some embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 1A , an actuator module  1000  may provide optical image stabilization (OIS) for the optics component  1002 . In at least some embodiments, the actuator module  1000  may implement a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator mechanism. An actuator module  1000  such as an OIS VCM actuator module may provide motion to optics component  1002  in the XY plane. In addition, in some embodiments, motion may also be provided to optics component  1002  on the Z (optical) axis, for example by a focusing mechanism of the actuator module  1000  for moving the optics component  1002  along the optical (Z) axis within the actuator module  1000 . The XY plane motion is, for example, for optical image stabilization (OIS) relative to a photosensor in a camera. The Z axis motion may, for example, be for optical focusing or autofocus purposes in cameras that incorporate focusing/autofocus mechanisms. Example embodiments of an optical image stabilization (OIS) voice coil motor (VCM) actuator are illustrated as actuator module  3000  in  FIGS. 4, 5A-5B, 6, and 7 . Details of example embodiments, implementations, and methods of operations of OIS VCM actuators such as the example actuator module  3000  shown in these Figures are provided in  FIGS. 17 through 26  and in the section titled Example actuator modules. Embodiments of the actuator module  3000  may, for example, be used in a miniature or small form factor camera suitable for small, mobile multipurpose devices such as cell phones, smartphones, and pad or tablet devices. Example, non-limiting embodiments of devices that may incorporate these small form factor cameras are given in  FIGS. 27 and 28 . 
       FIG. 1B  illustrates components of an example actuator module  1000  that provides X, Y and Z motions for an optics component  1002 , according to at least some embodiments. In some embodiments, an optics assembly of the actuator module  1000  may include an optics component  1002  that is coupled to an actuator component  1004  by upper and/or lower springs  1030  and  1032 . Note that the object field side of the optics component  1002  may be referred to as the top or upper side or surface of the actuator module  1000  and optics assembly, while the photosensor side of the optics component  1002  may be referred to as the bottom or lower side or surface of the actuator module  1000  and optics assembly. The actuator component  1004  may, for example, include magnets used in a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator mechanism. The springs  1030  and  1032  may be flexible to allow motion of the optics component  1002  on the Z axis relative to the actuator component  1004 . The actuator mechanism may be configured to move the optics component  1002  on the Z axis within the actuator module  1000  to provide focusing or autofocus for the camera. The optics assembly, which includes at least optics component  1002 , actuator component  1004 , and springs  1030  and  1032 , may be suspended within the actuator module  1000  on two or more suspension wires  1020 . For example, the suspension wires  1020  may be mounted to base  1008 , and the optics assembly may be suspended on the wires  1020  at the outer portion of the upper springs  1030 . The suspension wires  1020  may be flexible to allow motion of the optics assembly, and thus of the optics component  1002 , on the XY axes orthogonal to the Z (optical) axis of the optics component  1002 . The actuator component  1002  may be configured to move the optics assembly and thus the optics component  1002  on the XY axes within the actuator module  1000  to provide optical image stabilization (OIS) for the camera. 
     A challenge with optical image stabilization (OIS) within an actuator module  1000  of a camera is the capacity to control the optics component  1002  and to displace the optics component  1002  accurately back to the optical center relative to the XY plane when subject to external excitation or disturbance.  FIG. 2  illustrates instability of an OIS voice coil motor (VCM) actuator under an external excitation or disturbance that is equal to a natural resonant frequency. In at least some embodiments, an OIS VCM actuator mechanism has, by design, specific natural resonant frequency modes noted as F 0 , F 1 , . . . F n . Factors including one or more of structure, material, geometry, assembly, mass, and so on may affect these natural resonant frequency modes.  FIG. 2  shows a spike at natural resonant frequency mode F 0 . In XY excitation, the first order of natural resonant frequency F 0  for an OIS VCM actuator mechanism is typically low, for instance around 60 Hz. 
     In terms of controlling the actuator mechanism, it may be difficult to stabilize the optics under an external excitation or disturbance that is equal to a natural resonant frequency of the actuator mechanism, which may limit the performance of the control system for the actuator mechanism. If the system falls into one of these frequencies under an external excitation, the moving component of the actuator module may exhibit higher amplitude of movement, shown as the gain in  FIG. 2 . As a result, the system may become unstable. When the system becomes unstable, image quality is adversely affected. 
     In order to improve the stability of systems including but not limited to OIS VCM actuator systems, a solution is to use one or more passive damping techniques.  FIG. 3  illustrates stabilization of an OIS VCM actuator under an external excitation or disturbance that is equal to a natural resonant frequency using a passive damping technique, according to at least some embodiments. The dashed line shows how a passive damping technique may smooth the spike at natural resonant frequency mode F 0 . 
     An example passive damping technique involves the application of a non-rigid, viscous and/or elastic (or viscoelastic) substance or material at one or more locations within a system, an example of which is a silicon gel that may be applied at location(s) within the system and activated by the application of UV light. Silicon damping gels have been applied in various systems for improving stability and increasing control performance. However, note that other gels, substances, materials, and/or mechanisms may be used in various passive damping techniques. 
       FIGS. 4, 5A-5B, 6, and 7  illustrate embodiments of an example actuator module in which embodiments of a passive damping technique as described herein may be applied. In particular, embodiments of the passive damping technique may be applied within an actuator module  3000  as illustrated in  FIGS. 4 and 5A  to stabilize and increase control performance during optical image stabilization (OIS) of an optics assembly  4000  suspended on wires  3020  within an actuator module  3000  as shown in  FIG. 5B . Details of example embodiments, implementations, and methods of operations of OIS VCM actuators such as the example actuator module  3000  shown in these Figures are provided in  FIGS. 17 through 26  and in the section titled Example actuator modules. 
       FIG. 4  shows a side view of an example embodiment of an actuator module  3000  that may, for example, be used in small form factor cameras, according to at least some embodiments, and in which embodiments of a passive damping technique may be applied.  FIG. 5A  shows a top view of the actuator module  3000  of  FIG. 4  with the cover removed.  FIG. 5B  shows the actuator module  3000  of  FIG. 4  separated into three subassemblies—a base assembly  4002 , an optics assembly  4000 , and a cover  3012 —according to at least some embodiments. In particular,  FIG. 5B  shows an optics assembly  4000  that may be suspended on wires  3020  of the base assembly  4002  of actuator module  3000  of  FIGS. 4 and 5A , but removed from the assembled actuator module  3000 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B , an actuator module  3000  may include a base assembly  4002 , an optics assembly  4000 , and a cover  3012 . Cover  3012  may be attached to the base assembly  4002 , substantially enclosing the optics assembly  4000  while leaving an aperture to allow light from an object field in front of the actuator module  3000  to reach the optics  3002  and leaving an opening in base assembly  4002  to allow light refracted from optics  3002  to reach the image sensor  3050 . Base assembly  4002  may include one or more of, but is not limited to, a base  3008 , one or more magnet displacement sensors  3010 , and suspension wires  3020 . In at least some embodiments, there are four suspension wires  3020 . An optics assembly  4000  may be suspended on the base assembly  4002  by suspension of the upper springs  3030  of optics assembly  4000  on the suspension wires  3020 . Optics assembly  4000  may include one or more of, but is not limited to, optics  3002 , optics holder  3004 , magnet holder(s)  3006 , upper spring(s)  3030 , and lower spring(s)  3032 . The upper and lower spring(s) may be collectively referred to herein as optics springs. In optics assembly  4000 , an optics  3002  component (e.g., a lens or lens assembly) may be screwed, mounted or otherwise held in or by an optics holder  3004 . In at least some embodiments, the optics  3002 /optics holder  3004  assembly may be suspended from or attached to the magnet holder  3006  by upper spring(s)  3030 , and lower spring(s)  3032 . Note that upper spring(s)  3030  and lower spring(s)  3032  are flexible to allow the optics assembly  4000  a range of motion along the Z (optical) axis for optical focusing, and wires  3020  are flexible to allow a range of motion on the XY plane orthogonal to the optical axis for optical image stabilization. However, note that motion of the optics assembly  4000  on the Z axis and on the XY plane in actuator module  3000  as illustrated in  FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B  is undamped. In other words, the optics springs provide an undamped Z motion, while the suspension wires  3020  provide an undamped XY motion. 
     Note that, in some embodiments, an optics assembly  4000  of an actuator module  3000  may not include magnets and magnet holder(s)  3006 , but may include a yoke or other structure  3006  that may be used to help support the optics assembly on suspension wires  3020  via upper sprigs  3030 . However in some embodiments, optics assembly  4000  may not include elements  3006 . In general, other embodiments of an optics assembly  4000  may include fewer or more components than the example optics assembly  4000  shown in  FIG. 5B . Also note that, while embodiments show the optics assembly  4000  suspended on wires  3020 , other mechanisms may be used to suspend an optics assembly  4000  in other embodiments. 
     Also note that, while embodiments of an actuator module  3000  are generally illustrated and described as allowing Z axis motion for the optics component  3002  within the optics assembly  4000  for focusing in addition to XY plane motion for OIS, embodiments of the passive damping techniques as described herein may also be applied in actuator modules in which the optics are not configured to move on the Z axis to provide passive damping for XY plane motion of an OIS mechanism. 
       FIG. 5A  shows a top view of an example actuator module  3000 , according to at least some embodiments, and is not intended to be limiting. In  FIG. 5A , base  3008  and suspension wires  3020  are components of base assembly  4002  as shown in  FIG. 5B , while optics  3002 , optics holder  3004 , magnet holders  3006 , lower optics spring  3032 , and upper optics spring  3030  are components of optics assembly  4000  as shown in  FIG. 5B . The cover  3012  is not shown in  FIG. 5A .  FIG. 5A  shows example locations for four suspension wires  3020  at the corners of the base assembly  4002  of the actuator module  3000 , an example location/configuration of upper optics springs  3030  that suspend optics assembly  4000  on suspension wires  3020  and to which magnet holder(s) and optics holder  3004  are attached and thus suspended, and an example location/configuration of lower optics spring  3032  attached to the bottoms or lower surfaces of magnet holder(s) and optics holder  3004 . Note that more or fewer suspension wires  3020  may be used in some embodiments. 
     In the example configuration shown in  FIG. 5A , four separate magnet holders  3006  are shown disposed around optics holder  3004 , each attached to optics springs  3030  and  3032 , and each typically holding one of four magnets used in the example actuator module  3000 .  FIGS. 6 and 7  show alternative configurations for a magnet holder or yoke in an actuator module  3000 .  FIG. 6  shows an embodiment in which there are two magnet holders  3006 , each holding two magnets, with one magnet holder  3006  located on each side of optics holder  3004 .  FIG. 7  shows an embodiment in which there is a single magnet holder  3006  assembly that surrounds optics holder  3004  and that holds the four magnets. Note that more or fewer magnets may be used in some embodiments. 
     In embodiments of passive damping techniques for an actuator module as described herein, referring to  FIG. 5B  and to  FIGS. 8, 9, and 10A-10D , the location(s) where the passive damping gel (or other passive damper) is applied is/are at the top of the moving assembly (the optics assembly  4000 ) and between the moving assembly (the optics assembly  4000 ) and a fixed component (e.g., cover  3012 , attached to base  4002 ). In some embodiments, the locations where the passive dampers are applied may be between a magnet holder  3006  component of the optics assembly  4000  and the fixed component (cover  3012 ). 
     The location of the passive damping material at locations at the top of the optics assembly  4000  and between the optics assembly  4000  and the cover  3012  may be a favorable location for process control and automation during manufacturing and assembly of an actuator module  3000 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 13 through 16 . In addition, at least some embodiments may include design elements that provide for the integrity and reliability of the damping gel over the life cycle of the actuator module  3000 , for example design elements as illustrated in  FIGS. 11, 12A, and 12B . 
     However, it is to be noted that passive dampers as described herein may be applied at one or more other locations within an actuator module  3000  instead of or in addition to locations at the top of the optics assembly  4000  and between the optics assembly and the cover  3012 . For example, in some embodiments, instead of or in addition to locating passive dampers at the top of the optics assembly  4000  between the optics assembly  4000  and the cover  3012  of the actuator module  3000 , passive dampers may be located at the bottom of the optics assembly  4000  between the optics assembly  4000  and the base  3008  of the actuator module  3000 . For example, in some embodiments, the locations where the passive dampers are applied may be between a magnet holder  3006  component of the optics assembly  4000  and magnet displacement sensors  3010  attached to base  3008 . 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a side view of an example actuator module  3000  as illustrated in  FIGS. 5A through 7 , and shows one or more locations of passive damping components, mechanisms, or materials  3040  (e.g., a damping gel such as a silicon damping gel), as applied or situated between an upper surface of the optics assembly  4000  and an inner surface of a cover  3012  as shown in  FIG. 5B , according to at least some embodiments. For simplicity, each passive damping component in the module  3000  may be referred to as a passive damper  3040 . In at least some embodiments, each passive damper  3040  may be an application of a silicon damping gel that may, for example, be cured by application of UV light. However, note that other gels, materials, substances, or mechanisms may be used as passive dampers  3040  at the locations shown in  FIGS. 8 through 10D  instead of or in addition to silicon damping gel dampers  3040 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 8  with reference to  FIG. 5B , in at least some embodiments, the passive dampers (e.g.,  3040 A and  3040 B) may be applied or disposed between the top of optics assembly  4000  and the inner surface of cover  3012 . In various embodiments, passive dampers  3040  (e.g., silicon gel) may be applied to upper spring(s)  3030 , to magnet holder(s)  3006 , or to both. In any case, each passive damper  3040  contacts the top or upper surface of optics assembly  4000  and the inner surface of a fixed component of actuator module  3000  (e.g., cover  3012  when cover  3012  is attached to the base assembly  4002 ). 
     The application or disposition of passive dampers  3040  at these locations, physical properties of the passive damper  3040  material (e.g., a silicon gel) such as viscosity and/or elasticity (viscoelasticity), and the contact of the passive dampers with a surface of the moving component (optics assembly  4000 ) and with a surface of the fixed component (cover  3012 ) act to passively dampen the motion of optics assembly  4000  on the XY plane within the actuator module  3000  during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly  4000  when subjected to external excitation or disturbance. 
     In some embodiments, in addition to damping motion on the XY plane, the passive dampers  3040  (e.g., damping gel) located on top of the optics assembly  4000  and disposed between the optics assembly  4000  and the cover  3012  may also act as a damper or “shock absorber” for a drop test event (Z axis damping), for example as illustrated in  FIGS. 11, 12A, and 12B . This may improve drop test reliability, damping acceleration and reducing impact shock of the optics assembly  4000  within the actuator module  3000 . 
     In addition, the location of the passive dampers  3040  at the top of the optics assembly  4000  and between the optics assembly  4000  and the cover  3012  may be a favorable location for process control and automation during manufacturing and assembly of an actuator module  3000 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 13 through 16 . In addition, at least some embodiments may include design elements that provide for the integrity and reliability of the passive dampers  3040  over the life cycle of the actuator module  3000 , for example design elements as illustrated in  FIGS. 11, 12A, and 12B . 
     However, as previously noted, passive dampers  3040  may be applied at one or more other locations within an actuator module  3000  instead of or in addition to locations at the top of the optics assembly  4000  and between the optics assembly and the cover  3012  as shown in  FIG. 8 . 
       FIG. 9  shows a top view of the actuator module  3000  of  FIG. 8  with the cover  3012  removed, and shows example locations for damping components on an upper surface of the optics assembly  4000 . In this example, four passive dampers  3040  are disposed at locations substantially on top of the magnet holder(s)  3006  of the optics assembly  4000 , with two dampers  3040  on each side of the actuator module  3000 . In some embodiments, passive dampers  3040  may be applied to an upper surface of magnet holder(s)  3006 . However, in some embodiments, passive dampers  3040  may instead (or in addition) be applied to a surface of upper optics spring(s)  3030  which may extend over the upper surface of holder(s)  3006 .  FIGS. 6 and 7  show alternative configurations for a magnet holder  3006  or yoke in an actuator module  3000  as shown in  FIG. 9 . Note that, while  FIG. 9  show general locations for upper optics springs  3030  relative to other components of the actuator module  3000 , the shapes shown are not limiting. Upper optics spring(s)  3030  may be substantially continuous sheets of a material of fairly simple shapes as shown in  FIG. 9 , may be much more complex shapes with gaps between arms, extensions, or complex windings of the spring  3030 , may be composed of two or more separate portions instead of one portion on each side of optics holder  3004 , or may be a single spring component similar in shape to the magnet holder  3006  shown in  FIG. 7 . 
       FIGS. 10A through 10D  show several example alternative locations for passive dampers  3040  on the upper surface of the optics assembly, and are not intended to be limiting.  FIG. 10A  shows two passive dampers  3040  disposed at locations substantially on top of the upper optics springs  3030  of the optics assembly  4000 , with one damper on each side of the actuator module  3000 .  FIG. 10B  shows four passive dampers  3040  disposed at locations substantially above the suspension wires  3020  and on top of the upper optics springs  3030  of the optics assembly  4000 , with two dampers on each side of the actuator module  3000 .  FIG. 10C  shows a configuration similar to that of  FIG. 10A , with two additional passive dampers  3040  on each side of actuator module  3000  and located at the outer extents of the upper optics springs  3020  at or near the optics holder  3004 .  FIG. 10D  shows a configuration similar to that of  FIG. 9 , with four passive dampers  3040  on each side of the actuator module  3000 , and with two passive dampers  3040  disposed on top of each magnet holder  3006  instead of one. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8  in reference to  FIG. 5B , in at least some embodiments, a passive damping material (e.g., a damping gel) may be applied on the upper side of the optics assembly  4000  and between the optics assembly  4000  which is configured to move in the XY plane for OIS within actuator module  3000 , and a fixed component of the actuator module  3000  (e.g., cover  3012  (e.g., an electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield or screening can) attached to base assembly  4002 ). Benefits of this location for passive damping may include, but are not limited to, the following. 
     Applying the passive dampers  3040  between the moving mechanism (optics assembly  4000 ) and a fixed mechanism (cover  3012 ) of the actuator module  3000  may improve the level of damping performance and damping ratio (Q factor) as the relative motion between the moving and static parts reduces significantly. Note that this may impact gel volume, as less gel may be required to provide a target Q damping ratio. As a result, this may improve the manufacturability, dispense and cycle time. 
     By locating the passive dampers  3040  on top of the optics assembly  4000 , the damping gel is further away from temperature sources such as the image sensor  3050  (e.g., a CMOS or CCD photosensor) and the voice coil motor (VCM) coils which may typically be located in or on base  3008 . This may act to improve damping performance by reducing variation of the viscoelastic or other properties of the material (e.g., silicon gel) related to temperature. 
     In addition to damping an initial frequency mode F 0  as illustrated in  FIG. 3  (XY plane damping), the passive dampers  3040  located on top of the optics assembly  4000  and disposed between the assembly  4000  and the cover  3012  may also act as a damper or “shock absorber” for a drop test event (Z axis damping), as illustrated in  FIGS. 11, 12A, and 12B . This may improve drop test reliability, damping acceleration and reducing impact shock of the suspended mechanism (optics assembly  4000 ). 
     By locating the passive dampers  3040  on top of the optics assembly  4000 , the damping gel can easily be dispensed during manufacturing and assembly of an actuator module  3000 , since the passive damping is applied at an accessible location. The actuator module  3000  assembly process can be very specific, but typically the EMI shield can (cover  3012 ) is mounted last. In addition, this allows for improved process control and automation when applying the passive damping. Thus, this location of the passive damping material on top of the optics assembly  4000  may be a favorable design for process control and automation during manufacturing and assembly of an OIS VCM actuator module. An example manufacturing and assembly process is illustrated in  FIGS. 13 through 16 . 
     Passive Damper Integrity and Reliability 
     At least some embodiments may include design elements that provide for the integrity and reliability of the passive damping material (e.g., damping gel) over the life cycle of the actuator module  3000 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 11, 12A, and 12B .  FIG. 11  illustrates compression of the damping components (damper modules  3040 ) during a drop test of an actuator module  3000 , according to at least some embodiments. As illustrated in  FIG. 11 , in the event of a drop test, there is a Z displacement of the structure (optics assembly  4000 ) on the Z axis, which may compress the passive damper  3040  (e.g., damping gel) material. Thus, at least some embodiments may deposit each passive damper  3040  material at or in a site such as pocket, step, cavity, indentation, etc. on the top or upper surface of the optics assembly  4000  that may act to contain the passive damper  3040  material and help prevent the material from squeezing out or spreading too much during Z displacement events.  FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate an embodiment that includes a pocket in a top surface or component of an optics assembly  4000  to contain the passive damper  3040  (e.g., damping gel) material during compression against the cover  3012  during a Z axis displacement event as illustrated in  FIG. 11 , according to at least some embodiments. Note that the size (L×W×H) and/or shape of the pocket may be designed in accordance with the volume of the passive damper  3040  (e.g., damping gel) material. In other words, the pocket may be designed with a size and shape that can accommodate most or all of the passive damper  3040  (e.g., damping gel) material during compression resulting from a Z axis displacement. 
     Manufacturing, Process Control, and Automation Methods 
       FIGS. 13A through 13E  graphically illustrate an example manufacturing process for an actuator module  3000  as shown in  FIG. 8  that may be used in a small form factor camera, according to at least some embodiments, and is not intended to be limiting. The process is shown at a high level, with five major stages or steps shown in  FIGS. 13A through 13E .  FIG. 15  is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing an actuator module  3000  that may be used in a small form factor camera, according to at least some embodiments. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13A  and at  3200  of  FIG. 15 , a base assembly for an actuator module  3000  is assembled. An example base assembly  4002  is shown in  FIG. 5B . However, the suspension wires  3020  may not initially be attached to the base assembly  4002 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 13B  and at  3210  of  FIG. 15 , an optics assembly is assembled. An example optics assembly  4000  is shown in  FIG. 5B . Note that the manufacturing steps represented in  FIGS. 13A and 13B  and at  3200  and  3210  of  FIG. 15  may be performed substantially in parallel, e.g. on separate production lines that merge at  FIG. 13C . 
     As shown in  FIG. 13C  and at  3220  of  FIG. 15 , the optics assembly (e.g., an optics assembly  4000 ) may be suspended on/attached to the base assembly (e.g., base assembly  4002 ) via suspension wires  3020 , e.g., four wires or beams disposed at the corners of the base. In at least some embodiments, the optics assembly is suspended on the wires  3020  via upper optics spring  3030  components of the assembly  4000 . The wires  3020  may provide motion to the optics assembly  4000  on the XY plane for optical image stabilization (OIS). 
     As shown in  FIG. 13D  and at  3230  of  FIG. 15 , the passive damping material (e.g., a damping gel such as a silicon gel) is deposited on the upper surface of the optics assembly  4000 .  FIGS. 14A through 14D  graphically illustrate an example method for passive damper  3040  (e.g., damping gel) material application as shown in  FIG. 13D .  FIG. 16  provides an example of a manufacturing method that may be performed at  3230  of  FIG. 15  to apply damping gel to location(s) on an upper surface of an optics assembly  4000 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 13E  and at  3240  of  FIG. 15 , a cover (e.g., a cover  3012  with an opening for the optics  3002  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) may be attached to the base assembly  4002 , substantially enclosing the optics assembly  4000  while leaving an aperture in cover  3012  to allow light from an object field in front of the module  3000  to reach the optics  3002  and leaving an opening in base assembly  4002  to allow light refracted from optics  3002  to reach the image sensor  3050 . The cover  3012  and base assembly  4002  form a fixed or static portion of the actuator module  3000 , while the optics assembly  4000  is a moving portion of the actuator module  3000 . The passive damping material applied in  FIG. 13D  may be disposed between the upper surface of the optics assembly  4000  and the inner surface of the cover  3012  when attached to the base assembly  4002 . In at least some embodiments, each passive damper  3040  contacts the top or upper surface of the optics assembly  4000  and the inner surface of the fixed component of actuator module  3000  (e.g., the cover  3012  when cover  3012  is attached to the base assembly  4002 ). 
     The application of the passive dampers  3040  at these locations, physical properties of the passive damper  3040  material (e.g., a silicon gel) such as viscoelasticity, and the contact of the passive dampers with a surface of the moving component (optics assembly  4000 ) and with a surface of the fixed component (cover  3012 ) act to passively dampen the motion of optics assembly  4000  on the XY plane within the actuator module  3000  during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly  4000  when subjected to external excitation or disturbance, and may also provide Z axis damping and reduce impact shock for the optics assembly  4000  as illustrated in  FIGS. 11, 12A, and 12B . 
       FIGS. 14A through 14D  graphically illustrate an example method for passive damping material (e.g., a damping gel such as a silicon gel) application as shown at  FIG. 13D  and at  3230  of  FIG. 15 , according to at least some embodiments, and is not intended to be limiting. The method may involve one or more of, but is not limited to, four stages or steps as shown as  FIGS. 14A through 14D .  FIG. 16  is a flowchart of a method for passive damping material application at element  3230  of the method shown in  FIG. 15 , according to at least some embodiments, and is not intended to be limiting. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14A  and at  3232  of  FIG. 16 , the passive damper  3040  material (e.g., a silicon damping gel) is dispensed to one or more locations on the upper surface of an optics assembly  4000  as described herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14B  and at  3234  of  FIG. 16 , a vertical automated optical inspection (AOI) may be performed to determine if the passive damper  3040  material is properly positioned on the optics assembly  4000  surface, and to determine that the extent of the material that was dispensed is within minimum and maximum boundaries. Note that this boundary check may also check the volume of damping material that was deposited. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14C  and at  3236  of  FIG. 16 , the passive damper  3040  material may be cured. For example, a silicon damping gel may be cured via the application of ultraviolet (UV) light by a UV light source at a distance d from the optics assembly surface. 
     As shown at in  FIG. 14D  and at  3238  of  FIG. 16 , an automated optical inspection (AOI) profile scan may be performed to determine if the passive damper  3040  material as cured at  FIG. 14C and 3236  of  FIG. 16  is within a height H tolerance and within a diameter D tolerance on the surface of the optics assembly  4000 . 
     Example Actuator Modules 
     In some embodiments of an actuator module, a voice coil motor (VCM) mechanism is used as an actuator mechanism. In VCM actuators, a current carrying conductor in a magnetic field experiences a force proportional to the cross product of the current in the conductor and the magnetic field. This force is known as the Lorentz force. In some embodiments, the Lorentz force is greatest if the direction of the magnetic field is orthogonal to the direction of the current flow, and the resulting force on the conductor is orthogonal to both. The Lorentz force is proportional to the magnetic field density and the current through the conductor. 
     Some embodiments may use an actuator designed to have a substantially constant magnetic field cutting the coil for all positions of the actuator, such that the force produced is proportional to the current through the conductor. Some embodiments make further use of voice coil motor (VCM) technology and include an actuator mechanism suitable for improving power consumption, performance, reducing size, and adding extra functionality, including optical image stabilization. 
       FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B  are used to illustrate an example actuator module that may, for example, be used in small form factor cameras, according to some embodiments.  FIG. 4  shows a side view of the actuator module  3000  including cover  3012 , while  FIG. 5A  shows a top view of the actuator module  3000  with the cover removed.  FIG. 5B  shows the actuator module of  FIG. 4  separated into three subassemblies—a base assembly  4002 , an optics assembly  4000 , and a cover  3012 —according to at least some embodiments. In particular,  FIG. 5B  shows an optics assembly  4000  that may be suspended on wires  3020  in the base assembly  4002  of actuator module  3000  of  FIGS. 4 and 5A , but removed from the assembled actuator module  3000 . 
     In an example, non-limiting embodiment, actuator module  3000  may have a footprint of 9.9 mm (X) by 7.8 mm (Y), which are the linear dimensions orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera lens (optics  3002 ). The height is 3.3 mm (Z), which is parallel to the lens optical axis. Some embodiments may be designed to accommodate a diminished dimension Z, as the camera height limits the thickness of the cellphone, smartphone, tablet, or other multifunction device, which can be a competitive differentiator between multifunction device designs. Note that these dimensions are all given by way of example, and various embodiments may be larger or smaller in size in one or more of the X, Y, and/or Z dimensions. 
     Embodiments may enable favorable control over the dimension Y of actuators, which can be commercially valuable, as some embodiments may be used in cameras that are typically located above the display screen in smartphones or other multifunction devices. At least some embodiments of an actuator module  3000  may include, but are not limited to, upper springs  3030 A and  3030 B, lower springs  3032 A and  3032 B, a lens carrier or optics holder  3004 , optical image stabilization (OIS) suspension wires  3020 , and a cover  3012  such as a screening can. In at least some embodiments, base  3008  may be or may include an optical image stabilization flexible printed circuit (OIS FPC) with embedded coils. In at least some embodiments, there may be four OIS suspension wires  3020 . In at least some embodiments, the wires  3020  may be located at or near the corners of the actuator module  3000  assembly. 
     In at least some embodiments, the actuator module  3000  includes magnet holder(s)  3006 , which may also be referred to herein as a magnet yoke, optics yoke, or simply yoke. While  FIG. 5A  shows magnet holder  3006  as including four separate sections, each section holding one of the four magnets, in some embodiments magnet holder may instead include two separate sections or components as shown in  FIG. 6 , with one section  3006 A on one side of optics holder  3004  and the other section  3006 B on the other side of optics holder  3004 , or alternatively may be assembled a single structure that surrounds optics holder  3004  as shown in  FIG. 7 . The actuator may also include optical image stabilization coils, which in some embodiments may be integrated with or attached to base  3008 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 4  and  FIGS. 5A-5B , in at least some embodiments, a basic autofocus voice coil motor (VCM) configuration of actuator module  3000  consists of a single autofocus coil (not shown) wound onto a lens carrier (optics holder  3004 ), into which the lens or lens assembly (optics  3002 ) may be subsequently mounted. For example, optics holder  3004  may be internally threaded, and a lens may be configured to screw into the holder  3004 . A yoke component (magnet holder(s)  3006 ) supports and houses four magnets (not shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B , but shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ) in the corners. Each magnet is poled so as to generate a magnetic field, the useful component of which for the autofocus function is orthogonal to the optical (Z) axis of the camera/lens, and orthogonal to the plane of each magnet proximate to the autofocus coil, and where the field for all four magnets are all either directed towards the autofocus coil, or away from it, so that the Lorentz forces from all four magnets act in the same direction along the optical axis. 
     The yoke (e.g., magnet holder(s)  3006 ) may act as a support chassis structure for the optics assembly  4000  of the actuator module  3000 . The lens carrier (optics holder  3004 ) may be suspended on the yoke by an upper autofocus (AF) spring  3030  and a lower optics spring  3032 . In this way, when an electric current is applied to the autofocus coil, Lorentz forces are developed due to the presence of the four magnets, and a force substantially parallel to the optical (Z) axis is generated to move the lens carrier (optics holder  3004 ), and hence the lens (optics  3002 ), along the optical (Z) axis, relative to the support structure of the optics assembly  4000  of the actuator module  3000 , so as to focus the lens. In addition to suspending the lens carrier (optics holder  3004 ) and substantially eliminating parasitic motions, the upper spring  3030  and lower spring  3032  may also resist the Lorentz forces, and hence convert the forces to a displacement of the lens. 
     This basic architecture shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B  is typical of some embodiments, in which optical image stabilization (OIS) functionality includes moving the entire optics assembly  4000  of the actuator module  3000  in linear (XY) directions orthogonal to the optical (Z) axis, in response to user handshake or other external excitations, as detected by some means, such a two or three axis gyroscope, which senses angular velocity. A motion of interest is the changing angular tilt of the camera in pitch and yaw directions, which can be compensated by linear movements of the lens relative to the image sensor and on the X and Y axes orthogonal to the optical (Z) axis. 
     At least some embodiments may achieve this two independent degree-of-freedom motion by using two pairs of optical image stabilization coils, each pair acting together to deliver controlled motion in one linear axis orthogonal to the optical axis, and each pair delivering controlled motion in a direction substantially orthogonal to the other pair. In at least some embodiments, these optical image stabilization coils may be fixed to the camera actuator support structure, and when current is appropriately applied, optical image stabilization coils may generate Lorentz forces on the entire optics assembly  4000  of the actuator module  3000 , moving it in the XY plane as desired. The required magnetic fields for the Lorentz forces are produced by the same four magnets that enable to the Lorentz forces for the autofocus function. However, since the directions of motion of the optical image stabilization movements are orthogonal to the autofocus movements, it is the fringing field of the four magnets that are employed, which have components of magnetic field in directions parallel to the optical axis. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates a schematic view of a magnet and coil configuration, according to some embodiments.  FIG. 17  is a schematic representation  900  of a cross-section through one magnet  902 , the autofocus coil  904  and an optical image stabilization coil  906 . A magnetic field component  908  is ‘horizontal’ and enables the Lorentz force for the autofocus function  910 . However, also note that the fringing field  912  cuts through each half of the optical image stabilization coil  906 , with the ‘vertical’ component of the field  912  in the opposite direction in each half of the optical image stabilization coil  906 . Note also that since the optical image stabilization coil  906  is contiguous, the direction of current flow in each half of the optical image stabilization coil  906  is also opposite. This is illustrated by the ‘dots’  914  in each wire of one half of optical image stabilization coil  906  indicating current coming out of the page, while the ‘crosses’  916  in each wire of the other half of optical image stabilization coil  906  indicating current going into the page. Hence the Lorentz force  918  generated in each half of optical image stabilization coil  906  is in the same direction, in this case to the right. And the Lorentz force in the autofocus coil  910  is upwards. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B , in at least some embodiments, the suspension of the optics assembly  4000  on the actuator module  3000  support structure (i.e., the base assembly  4002 ) may be achieved by the use of four corner wires  3020 , for example wires with a circular cross-section. Each wire  3020  acts as a flexure beams capable of bending with relatively low stiffness, thus allowing motion in both optical image stabilization degrees-of-freedom (the X and Y axes). However, wire  3020  is in some embodiments relatively stiff in directions parallel to the optical (Z) axis, as this would require the wire to stretch or buckle, thus substantially preventing parasitic motions in these directions. In addition, the presence of four such wires, appropriately separated allows them to be stiff in the parasitic tilt directions of pitch and yaw, thus substantially preventing relative dynamic tilt between the lens and image sensor. This may be seen by appreciating that each wire  3020  is stiff in directions that require it to change in length, and hence the fixed points at the ends of each wire (eight points in total) will substantially form the vertices of a parallelepiped for all operational positions of the optical image stabilization mechanism. 
     Note that owing to the tough shock and drop testing requirements for multifunction devices, some embodiments may provide a means to decouple the optical image stabilization suspension wires from motions of the optics assembly  4000  along the optical axis caused by such shock. The decoupling means can be stiff at operational loads, but sufficiently compliant to accommodate the allowable motion of the optics assembly  4000 , and hence prevent the corner wires from stretching and plastically deforming. The decoupling structure (which may be referred to as a wire mount) may be embodied as an extension to the autofocus upper spring  3030  in each corner. In this way the corner wires  3020  may be joined to the optics assembly  4000  via relatively short flexure springs, which are stiff, but allow some motion in extreme conditions. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 , in some embodiments the magnets may be positioned at the corners of actuator module  3000 , where the magnets, and the poling directions, are substantially 45 degrees to each side of the actuator module. However, in some embodiments, the magnets may be otherwise arranged or positioned, for example with the magnets at the sides instead of at the corners. 
     Referring briefly to  FIG. 17 , the use of the fringing field  912  of the magnet  902  implies that, in some embodiments, each optical image stabilization coil  906  has a larger footprint (width) than the thickness of the magnet. Some embodiments may exploit the observation that, for some applications, the X dimension of the camera is less important than the Y dimension, and the magnets and optical image stabilization coils are moved around the lens to eliminate any impact on the Y dimension. 
     Some embodiments may still maintain the 45-degree angle of the magnets and optical image stabilization coils, so that each pair of optical image stabilization coils produces forces substantially orthogonal to the other. However, now each of optical image stabilization coils produces a force that no longer acts through the optical axis, and hence generates a torque around the lens. To combat this, it may be noted that the torque produced by each of optical image stabilization coils is nominally equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the torque produced by its diagonally opposite partner, hence there is nominally no net torque from the pair of optical image stabilization coils. 
     In addition, some embodiments provide a mapping to convert the handshake tilt as measured by a tilt sensor (most typically a gyroscope) to movement of the lens in the directions of the two 45 degree axes. In some embodiments, this configuration of magnets and optical image stabilization coils eliminates the impact on the camera Y dimension from the presence of these components, and the use of the fringing field. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B , in some embodiments, the yoke (magnet holder  3006 ) forms a support structure for the optics assembly  4000 , such that there are no molded support structure components to the optics assembly  4000 . In some embodiments, the Y dimension of the camera may be determined by a stack up of dimensions, for example:
         the lens (optics  3002 ) diameter;   the thickness of the lens carrier (optics holder  3004 );   a gap between optics holder  3004  and the magnet holder  3006  (which may be needed to allow relative motion and manufacturing and assembly tolerances);   the thickness of the magnet holder  3006 ;   a gap between the magnet holder  3006  and the cover (e.g., screening can)  3012  (which may be needed to allow the optical image stabilization motion and manufacturing and assembly tolerances); and   the thickness of the cover  3012 .       

     In at least some embodiments, the use of the yoke (magnet holder(s)  3006 ) as a support structure for the optics assembly  4000  may reduce a part of this stack, as the optics holder  3004  thickness may typically be 0.1 mm to 0.15 mm. Other variations that may be used in embodiments may include using a lens without a thread, and/or eliminating the lens carrier (optics holder  3004 ) altogether and mounting the autofocus coil directly on the lens (optics  3002 ). 
     In addition, some embodiments may split the autofocus coil into four corner coils so that the autofocus coil does not impact the Y dimension. However, such embodiments frequently use multi-pole magnets, which may reduce the fringing field and hence reduce the Lorentz forces for a given current in the optical image stabilization mechanism. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B , in some embodiments, the use of the yoke (magnet holder(s)  3006 ) as the support structure for the optics assembly  4000  may also impact the Z dimension of the actuator module  3000 . The upper spring(s)  3030  may be mounted directly onto the optics holder  3004 , and hence the Z dimension of the structure may be minimized. In at least some embodiments, the electrical connections to the autofocus coil are made by splitting the upper spring  3030  into two pieces, and soldering one end of the autofocus coil to each half of the upper spring  3030 . The electrical signals are then routed down the corner wires (not shown) to the optical image stabilization flexible printed circuit, which in some embodiments forms the base  3008  of, or is integrated with the base  3008  of, the actuator module  3000 , and incorporates the embedded optical image stabilization coils (not shown). This electrical path employs electrical isolation from upper spring  3030  to the optics holder  3004 , which is typically a deep drawn from a soft magnetic and electrically conductive sheet metal material. In some embodiments, this is achieved by coating the optics holder  3004  with some kind of non-conductive coating. As an alternative, some kind of thin insulating gasket or other layer is interposed between upper spring  3030  and optics holder  3004  in some embodiments. In either case, magnet holder(s)  3006  provide the structural support function of the optics assembly  4000 , and form a rigid mount for upper spring  3030 . 
     Some embodiments include mechanical connections of both upper spring  3030  and lower spring  3032  to the lens carrier (optics holder  3004 ), typically using a heatstaking process, whereby typically regions of upper spring  3030  and lower spring  3032  with holes are fitted over plastic posts on the optics holder  3004 , which are then heated and pressed to form mushroom heads, hence retaining the upper spring  3030  and lower spring  3032 . In some embodiments, these mechanical connections between the optics holder  3004  and upper spring  3030  and lower spring  3032  are disposed along the X-direction of the optics holder  3004  (i.e. they are closest to the two short sides of the actuator module  3000 ). In these embodiments, there are no mounting points in positions that would impact the Y dimension of the camera. 
     Some embodiments are designed to minimize the Z dimension of the actuator module  3000 . Owing to the use of the yoke (magnet holder(s)  3006 ) as the support structure to which the upper spring  3030  is effectively bonded (albeit potentially through some kind of thin interposing layer), Upper spring  3030  is at the top of the optics assembly  4000 . In some embodiments, the method of attaching the corner wires to the upper spring  3030  is to make a solder joint on the top and more accessible side of the upper spring  3030  and wire in the corners. This means that a solder ball is accommodated on the top side of the upper spring  3030 . In this way, the some embodiments solve this issue by forming the corners of the upper spring  3030  to make room for the solder ball without impacting the Z dimension. This forming process may introduce variability into these corner regions of the upper spring  3030 , and hence may be undesirable from a manufacturing perspective. However a tolerance analysis shows that, in some embodiments, this variability has a negligible effect on factors such as stiffness and tilt, and hence may be viable. 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B , some embodiments may incorporate the use of magnet displacement sensors  3010  (e.g., Hall sensors) as position sensors of the optical image stabilization mechanism. While shown on top of base  3008 , in some embodiments sensors  3010  may instead be integrated with, or below, base  3008 . In at least some embodiments, sensors  3010  may sense the position of the optics assembly  4000  based on the same fringing field as used by the optical image stabilization coils to generate the Lorentz forces. In this way, extra magnets for use with the sensors  3010  may be avoided. 
     Voice Coil Motor Drive Scheme 
       FIGS. 4 and 5A-5B  illustrate an example actuator module that may, for example, be used in small form factor cameras, according to some embodiments. Some embodiments of an actuator module  3000  may provide a drive scheme for an actuator mechanism of a miniature or small form factor camera, such as may be used in a mobile handheld device or other multifunction device. Some embodiments provide a voice coil motor actuator configuration, which uses ‘fixed’ magnets and a moving coil around a lens carrier, on or in which is mounted a lens. Some embodiments further incorporate a method for arranging the actuator mechanism and a method of driving the actuator mechanism with linear current and voltage sources so as to avoid electrical noise that may disturb the quality of the camera images, or other sensitive devices in the product. 
     In some embodiments, an actuator module  3000  includes four separate autofocus coils, one in each corner of the actuator module  3000 , each accompanied by its own magnet. In some embodiments, there is a size advantage to this arrangement, because the autofocus coil no longer proceeds all the way around the lens carrier, and hence reduces or minimizes the size of the actuator module  3000 . In order to deliver Lorentz forces in the same direction from each side of each coil, some embodiments use dual-pole magnets, where the domains in different portions of the magnet are aligned in opposite directions. 
       FIG. 18  depicts a schematic of magnet and coil configuration, according to some embodiments. A magnet  1700  and accompanying magnetic field  1702  are shown in conjunction with a coil  1704 . Electric current into the page  1706  and electric current out of the page  1708  are shown, as are force on the coil  1710   a - 1710   b.    
       FIG. 19  depicts a schematic representation of actuator coil connectivity, according to some embodiments. There are four separate coils  1502   a - 1502   d  and magnets  1504   a - 1504   d , and four terminals  1506   a - 1506   d , with the other terminal of each of coil  1502   a - 1502   d  connected together. Some embodiments may be configured to drive the different coils  1502   a - 1502   d  independently. In this way it is possible to deliver active tilt control of the lens relative to the image sensor, in addition to active focus control, so long as it is possible to drive the coils  1502   a - 1502   d  to control tilt about two axes orthogonal to each other and both orthogonal to the optical axis. 
     In some embodiments, this is achieved by operating the coils  1502   a - 1502   d  so that diagonally opposite coils  1502   a - 1502   d  deliver control of the tilt about an axis close to the other diagonal. In addition, coils  1502   a - 1502   d  adjacent to each other are wound, or electrically connected opposite to each other, or the magnets must be poled oppositely. So that for example if one of coils  1502   a - 1502   d  is driven with a ‘positive’ current, and the adjacent one of coils  1502   a - 1502   d  is driven with a ‘negative’ current, then the Lorentz forces from both on the lens carrier will be in the same direction along the optical axis. In addition, in some embodiments all coils  1502   a - 1502   d  are capable of being driven with currents of either polarity, so that the actuators are bi-directional. This means that if diagonally opposite coils  1502   a - 1502   d  are driven with electrical current of the same polarity, they will both generate forces on the lens carrier in the same direction parallel to the lens optical axis. 
     Some embodiments include a method of driving these coils  1502   a - 1502   d  using multiple linear current drives. Such embodiments are advantageous as it minimizes the electrical noise that could adversely affect the quality of the images captured by the image sensor, or other components in the product that might be susceptible to noise. 
     Some embodiments demonstrate that the four coils may be configured and driven to achieve three degrees of controlled motion of the lens relative to the image sensor: linear movement parallel to the optical axis and tilts about axes orthogonal to the optical axis. In some embodiments, these extra tilt degrees of freedom augment camera performance by substantially eliminating the relative tilt between the lens optical axis, and an axis orthogonal to the plane of the image sensor. Nominally these axes should be parallel, however manufacturing tolerances, and inertial effects of the lens can introduce parasitic relative tilts. 
     For example, manufacturing tolerances may mean that for a given camera, when at its neutral position, the lens optical axis is naturally tilted to an axis orthogonal to the plane of the image sensor. In addition, further tolerances may mean that at different focal positions (or optical image stabilization positions if present), the relative tilt may be different. In addition, particularly for complex and size constrained mechanisms, such as the optical image stabilization positions mechanism, the center of gravity of the lens is not necessarily located as the center of the lens suspension structure, meaning that different orientations of the camera may alter the tilt of the lens relative to the image sensor (known as posture dependent tilt). Hence, for these reasons, the addition of active tilt compensation, potentially based on a factory calibration, on sensors that detect the orientation of the camera, or on feedback from captured images, will be advantageous to camera performance and image quality. 
     In some embodiments, the actuator arrangement controls the movement of the lens relative to the image sensor in three degrees of freedom, however the actuator mechanism is made up of four separate coils, each of which is potentially driven with different electric currents. Hence there appears to be a static indeterminacy. Another way of describing the problem is that a necessary constraint on the electrical drive of the system is that the electrical currents through the four coils must all sum to zero, so that in practice there are not four independent choices of electrical current through the coil: only three. 
     Some embodiments address this problem by driving three of the four coils with bi-directional programmable current sources, for example terminals 1, 2 and 3, whilst terminal 4 is then driven with a voltage source. The voltage source effectively ensures the voltage of the central node, to which one terminal of each coil is connected, is held at a roughly known or constant voltage, via the resistance of the coil 4. The voltage source can sink or source as much current as is necessary to ensure the currents sum to zero. The voltage source does not determine the current through coil 4, this is determined by the combined currents through coils 1, 2 and 3. In practice the Lorentz force sensitivity of each coil will show variability due to manufacturing tolerances. In addition, the different programmable current sources for terminals 1, 2 and 3 will also show variability due to manufacturing tolerances. These and other sources of variability will alter the actual angle and position of the Lens relative to the image sensor for a given series of programmed currents. All these effects can be accounted for by performing a calibration process, whereby for a series of currents applied to the different terminals, the actual position and angle of the lens is measured. Parameters in the control algorithms that alter the effective gain and offset of each coil and magnet can then be determined, and used to accurately position and tilt the lens. 
     Optics Image Stabilization System and Methods 
       FIG. 20  depicts a system for optical image stabilization in an actuator assembly  3000 , according to some embodiments. A camera control  2100  includes various components described below. A gyroscope  2102  or other motion/position sensor transmits a derivative of orientation angle with respect to time to an integration unit  2104 , which transmits an orientation angle to a high-pass filter  2106 . High-pass filter  2106  filters this angle to transmit a signal to a subtraction unit  2108 , which also receives input from a position sensing processor  2114 . The subtractive output of subtraction unit  2109  is transmitted to an optical image stabilization controller  2110 , which sends signals to activate actuators coupled to position sensors  2112 . Position sensors coupled to actuators  2112  transmit a signal to the position sensor processor  2114 . 
       FIG. 21  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization in an actuator assembly  3000 , according to some embodiments. An optical image stabilization equilibrium position is estimated (block  2200 ). The optical image stabilization controller target position is locked at the optical image stabilization equilibrium position (block  2210 ). A determination is made as to whether change in orientation of the multifunction device exceeded a threshold (block  2220 ). If the change has exceeded the threshold, the process returns to step  2200 , which is described above. If the change has not exceeded the threshold, then the process returns to step  2210 , which is described above. 
       FIG. 22  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization in an actuator assembly  3000 , according to some embodiments. For a camera lens in a multifunction device (e.g., optics  3002  in  FIG. 4 ), an equilibrium position of the camera lens relative to a photosensor of the multifunction device (image sensor  3050  in  FIG. 4 ) is calculated, such that the equilibrium position of the camera lens relative to the photosensor is a position of the camera lens relative to the photosensor at which displacement of the camera lens due to springs in a lens actuator mechanism offsets displacement of the camera lens due to gravity (block  2300 ). A current position of the camera lens relative to the photosensor is detected (block  2310 ). A displacement of the lens by the actuator mechanism necessary to move the lens to the equilibrium position is calculated (block  2320 ). Using a motor in the actuator mechanism, force is applied to the lens to generate the displacement (block  2330 ). In at least some embodiments, passive dampers  3040  as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , located between a moving portion (e.g., an optics assembly  4000  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) and a fixed component (e.g., a cover  3012  attached to a base assembly  4002  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) of the actuator module  3000  may act to passively dampen the motion of the optics assembly  4000  on the XY plane within the OIS VCM actuator module  3000  during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly  4000  when subjected to external excitation or disturbance, and may also provide Z axis damping and reduce impact shock on the optics assembly  4000 . 
       FIG. 23  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization in an actuator assembly  3000 , according to some embodiments. Using a gyroscope or other motion/position sensor, a determination is made as to whether a change to an orientation of the multifunction device has exceeded a threshold (block  2400 ). A new equilibrium position of the camera lens relative to the photosensor of the multifunction device is calculated (block  2410 ). A new displacement of the lens by the actuator mechanism necessary to move the lens to the new equilibrium position is calculated (block  2420 ). Using a motor in the actuator mechanism, force is applied to the lens to generate the new displacement (block  2430 ). In at least some embodiments, passive dampers  3040  as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , located between a moving portion (e.g., an optics assembly  4000  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) and a fixed component (e.g., a cover  3012  attached to a base assembly  4002  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) of the actuator module  3000  may act to passively dampen the motion of the optics assembly  4000  on the XY plane within the OIS VCM actuator module  3000  during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly  4000  when subjected to external excitation or disturbance, and may also provide Z axis damping and reduce impact shock on the optics assembly  4000 . 
       FIG. 24  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization in an actuator assembly  3000 , according to some embodiments. Using a gyroscope or other motion/position sensor, a determination is made as to whether a change to an orientation of the multifunction device has exceeded a threshold (block  2500 ). A new displacement of the lens by the actuator mechanism necessary to move the lens to the equilibrium position is calculated (block  2510 ). Using a motor in the actuator mechanism, force is applied to the lens to generate the displacement (block  2520 ). In at least some embodiments, passive dampers  3040  as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , located between a moving portion (e.g., an optics assembly  4000  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) and a fixed component (e.g., a cover  3012  attached to a base assembly  4002  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) of the actuator module  3000  may act to passively dampen the motion of the optics assembly  4000  on the XY plane within the OIS VCM actuator module  3000  during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly  4000  when subjected to external excitation or disturbance, and may also provide Z axis damping and reduce impact shock on the optics assembly  4000 . 
       FIG. 25  is a flowchart of a method for optical image stabilization in an actuator assembly  3000 , according to some embodiments. Using a Hall sensor, a determination is made as to whether a change to the position of the camera lens relative to the photosensor of the multifunction device has exceeded a threshold (block  2600 ). A new equilibrium position of the camera lens relative to the photosensor of the multifunction device is calculated (block  2610 ). A new displacement of the lens by the actuator mechanism necessary to move the lens to the new equilibrium position is calculated (block  2620 ). Using a motor in the actuator mechanism, force is applied to the lens to generate the displacement (block  2630 ). In at least some embodiments, passive dampers  3040  as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , located between a moving portion (e.g., an optics assembly  4000  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) and a fixed component (e.g., a cover  3012  attached to a base assembly  4002  as shown in  FIG. 5B ) of the actuator module  3000  may act to passively dampen the motion of the optics assembly  4000  on the XY plane within the OIS VCM actuator module  3000  during optical image stabilization (OIS) of the optics assembly  4000  when subjected to external excitation or disturbance, and may also provide Z axis damping and reduce impact shock on the optics assembly  4000 . 
       FIG. 26  is a flowchart of calculations that may be used in a method for optical image stabilization in an actuator assembly  3000 , according to some embodiments. An orientation of the multifunction device and a gravity vector may be derived from a gyroscope or other motion/position sensor device (block  2700 ). In some embodiments, deriving an orientation of the multifunction device and a gravity vector may include filtering motion/position (e.g., gyroscopic) data to eliminate low-frequency motion components of motion of the multifunction device. A position at which a spring vector is equal in magnitude and opposite in position to the gravity vector may be calculated (block  2710 ). 
     Multifunction Device Examples 
     Embodiments of electronic devices in which embodiments of actuator modules  3000  as described herein may be used, user interfaces for such devices, and associated processes for using such devices are described. In some embodiments, the device is a portable communications device, such as a mobile telephone, that also contains other functions, such as PDA and/or music player functions. Other portable electronic devices, such as laptops, cell phones, pad devices, or tablet computers with touch-sensitive surfaces (e.g., touch screen displays and/or touch pads), may also be used. It should also be understood that, in some embodiments, the device is not a portable communications device, but is a desktop computer with a touch-sensitive surface (e.g., a touch screen display and/or a touch pad). In some embodiments, the device is a gaming computer with orientation sensors (e.g., orientation sensors in a gaming controller). In other embodiments, the device is not a portable communications device, but is a camera. 
     In the discussion that follows, an electronic device that includes a display and a touch-sensitive surface is described. It should be understood, however, that the electronic device may include one or more other physical user-interface devices, such as a physical keyboard, a mouse and/or a joystick. 
     The device typically supports a variety of applications, such as one or more of the following: a drawing application, a presentation application, a word processing application, a website creation application, a disk authoring application, a spreadsheet application, a gaming application, a telephone application, a video conferencing application, an e-mail application, an instant messaging application, a workout support application, a photo management application, a digital camera application, a digital video camera application, a web browsing application, a digital music player application, and/or a digital video player application. 
     The various applications that may be executed on the device may use at least one common physical user-interface device, such as the touch-sensitive surface. One or more functions of the touch-sensitive surface as well as corresponding information displayed on the device may be adjusted and/or varied from one application to the next and/or within a respective application. In this way, a common physical architecture (such as the touch-sensitive surface) of the device may support the variety of applications with user interfaces that are intuitive and transparent to the user. 
     Attention is now directed toward embodiments of portable devices with cameras.  FIG. 27  is a block diagram illustrating portable multifunction device  100  with camera  164  in accordance with some embodiments. Camera  164  is sometimes called an “optical sensor” for convenience, and may also be known as or called an optical sensor system. Embodiments of an actuator module  3000  that includes passive damping for optical image stabilization (OIS) may be used in the optical sensor/camera(s)  164  of a device  100 . 
     Device  100  may include memory  102  (which may include one or more computer readable storage mediums), memory controller  122 , one or more processing units (CPU&#39;s)  120 , peripherals interface  118 , RF circuitry  108 , audio circuitry  110 , speaker  111 , touch-sensitive display system  112 , microphone  113 , input/output (I/O) subsystem  106 , other input or control devices  116 , and external port  124 . Device  100  may include one or more optical sensors  164 . These components may communicate over one or more communication buses or signal lines  103 . 
     It should be appreciated that device  100  is only one example of a portable multifunction device, and that device  100  may have more or fewer components than shown, may combine two or more components, or may have a different configuration or arrangement of the components. The various components shown in  FIG. 27  may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, including one or more signal processing and/or application specific integrated circuits. 
     Memory  102  may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, flash memory devices, or other non-volatile solid-state memory devices. Access to memory  102  by other components of device  100 , such as CPU  120  and the peripherals interface  118 , may be controlled by memory controller  122 . 
     Peripherals interface  118  can be used to couple input and output peripherals of the device to CPU  120  and memory  102 . The one or more processors  120  run or execute various software programs and/or sets of instructions stored in memory  102  to perform various functions for device  100  and to process data. 
     In some embodiments, peripherals interface  118 , CPU  120 , and memory controller  122  may be implemented on a single chip, such as chip  104 . In some other embodiments, they may be implemented on separate chips. 
     RF (radio frequency) circuitry  108  receives and sends RF signals, also called electromagnetic signals. RF circuitry  108  converts electrical signals to/from electromagnetic signals and communicates with communications networks and other communications devices via the electromagnetic signals. RF circuitry  108  may include well-known circuitry for performing these functions, including but not limited to an antenna system, an RF transceiver, one or more amplifiers, a tuner, one or more oscillators, a digital signal processor, a CODEC chipset, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, memory, and so forth. RF circuitry  108  may communicate with networks, such as the Internet, also referred to as the World Wide Web (WWW), an intranet and/or a wireless network, such as a cellular telephone network, a wireless local area network (LAN) and/or a metropolitan area network (MAN), and other devices by wireless communication. The wireless communication may use any of a variety of communications standards, protocols and technologies, including but not limited to Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), high-speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), high-speed uplink packet access (HSUPA), wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) (e.g., IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g and/or IEEE 802.11n), voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Wi-MAX, a protocol for e-mail (e.g., Internet message access protocol (IMAP) and/or post office protocol (POP)), instant messaging (e.g., extensible messaging and presence protocol (XMPP), Session Initiation Protocol for Instant Messaging and Presence Leveraging Extensions (SIMPLE), Instant Messaging and Presence Service (IMPS)), and/or Short Message Service (SMS), or any other suitable communication protocol, including communication protocols not yet developed as of the filing date of this document. 
     Audio circuitry  110 , speaker  111 , and microphone  113  provide an audio interface between a user and device  100 . Audio circuitry  110  receives audio data from peripherals interface  118 , converts the audio data to an electrical signal, and transmits the electrical signal to speaker  111 . Speaker  111  converts the electrical signal to human-audible sound waves. Audio circuitry  110  also receives electrical signals converted by microphone  113  from sound waves. Audio circuitry  110  converts the electrical signal to audio data and transmits the audio data to peripherals interface  118  for processing. Audio data may be retrieved from and/or transmitted to memory  102  and/or RF circuitry  108  by peripherals interface  118 . In some embodiments, audio circuitry  110  also includes a headset jack (e.g.,  212 ,  FIG. 2 ). The headset jack provides an interface between audio circuitry  110  and removable audio input/output peripherals, such as output-only headphones or a headset with both output (e.g., a headphone for one or both ears) and input (e.g., a microphone). 
     I/O subsystem  106  couples input/output peripherals on device  100 , such as touch screen  112  and other input control devices  116 , to peripherals interface  118 . I/O subsystem  106  may include display controller  156  and one or more input controllers  160  for other input or control devices. The one or more input controllers  160  receive/send electrical signals from/to other input or control devices  116 . The other input control devices  116  may include physical buttons (e.g., push buttons, rocker buttons, etc.), dials, slider switches, joysticks, click wheels, and so forth. In some alternative embodiments, input controller(s)  160  may be coupled to any (or none) of the following: a keyboard, infrared port, USB port, and a pointer device such as a mouse. The one or more buttons (e.g.,  208 ,  FIG. 2 ) may include an up/down button for volume control of speaker  111  and/or microphone  113 . The one or more buttons may include a push button (e.g.,  206 ,  FIG. 2 ). 
     Touch-sensitive display  112  provides an input interface and an output interface between the device and a user. Display controller  156  receives and/or sends electrical signals from/to touch screen  112 . Touch screen  112  displays visual output to the user. The visual output may include graphics, text, icons, video, and any combination thereof (collectively termed “graphics”). In some embodiments, some or all of the visual output may correspond to user-interface objects. 
     Touch screen  112  has a touch-sensitive surface, sensor or set of sensors that accepts input from the user based on haptic and/or tactile contact. Touch screen  112  and display controller  156  (along with any associated modules and/or sets of instructions in memory  102 ) detect contact (and any movement or breaking of the contact) on touch screen  112  and converts the detected contact into interaction with user-interface objects (e.g., one or more soft keys, icons, web pages or images) that are displayed on touch screen  112 . In an example embodiment, a point of contact between touch screen  112  and the user corresponds to a finger of the user. 
     Touch screen  112  may use LCD (liquid crystal display) technology, LPD (light emitting polymer display) technology, or LED (light emitting diode) technology, although other display technologies may be used in other embodiments. Touch screen  112  and display controller  156  may detect contact and any movement or breaking thereof using any of a variety of touch sensing technologies now known or later developed, including but not limited to capacitive, resistive, infrared, and surface acoustic wave technologies, as well as other proximity sensor arrays or other elements for determining one or more points of contact with touch screen  112 . In an example embodiment, projected mutual capacitance sensing technology may be used. 
     Touch screen  112  may have a video resolution in excess of 100 dots per inch (dpi). In some embodiments, the touch screen has a video resolution of approximately 160 dpi. The user may make contact with touch screen  112  using any suitable object or appendage, such as a stylus, a finger, and so forth. In some embodiments, the user interface is designed to work primarily with finger-based contacts and gestures, which can be less precise than stylus-based input due to the larger area of contact of a finger on the touch screen. In some embodiments, the device translates the rough finger-based input into a precise pointer/cursor position or command for performing the actions desired by the user. 
     In some embodiments, in addition to the touch screen, device  100  may include a touchpad (not shown) for activating or deactivating particular functions. In some embodiments, the touchpad is a touch-sensitive area of the device that, unlike the touch screen, does not display visual output. The touchpad may be a touch-sensitive surface that is separate from touch screen  112  or an extension of the touch-sensitive surface formed by the touch screen. 
     Device  100  also includes power system  162  for powering the various components. Power system  162  may include a power management system, one or more power sources (e.g., battery, alternating current (AC)), a recharging system, a power failure detection circuit, a power converter or inverter, a power status indicator (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)) and any other components associated with the generation, management and distribution of power in portable devices. 
     Device  100  may also include one or more optical sensors or cameras  164 .  FIG. 27  shows an optical sensor coupled to optical sensor controller  158  in I/O subsystem  106 . Optical sensor  164  may include charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) phototransistors. Optical sensor  164  receives light from the environment, projected through one or more lens, and converts the light to data representing an image. In conjunction with imaging module  143  (also called a camera module), optical sensor  164  may capture still images or video. In some embodiments, an optical sensor is located on the back of device  100 , opposite touch screen display  112  on the front of the device, so that the touch screen display may be used as a viewfinder for still and/or video image acquisition. In some embodiments, another optical sensor is located on the front of the device so that the user&#39;s image may be obtained for videoconferencing while the user views the other videoconference participants on the touch screen display. 
     Device  100  may also include one or more proximity sensors  166 .  FIG. 27  shows proximity sensor  166  coupled to peripherals interface  118 . Alternatively, proximity sensor  166  may be coupled to input controller  160  in I/O subsystem  106 . In some embodiments, the proximity sensor turns off and disables touch screen  112  when the multifunction device is placed near the user&#39;s ear (e.g., when the user is making a phone call). 
     Device  100  includes one or more orientation sensors  168 . In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors include one or more accelerometers (e.g., one or more linear accelerometers and/or one or more rotational accelerometers). In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors include one or more gyroscopes. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors include one or more magnetometers. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors include one or more of global positioning system (GPS), Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), and/or other global navigation system receivers. The GPS, GLONASS, and/or other global navigation system receivers may be used for obtaining information concerning the location and orientation (e.g., portrait or landscape) of device  100 . In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors include any combination of orientation/rotation sensors.  FIG. 27  shows the one or more orientation sensors  168  coupled to peripherals interface  118 . Alternatively, the one or more orientation sensors  168  may be coupled to an input controller  160  in I/O subsystem  106 . In some embodiments, information is displayed on the touch screen display in a portrait view or a landscape view based on an analysis of data received from the one or more orientation sensors. 
     In some embodiments, the software components stored in memory  102  include operating system  126 , communication module (or set of instructions)  128 , contact/motion module (or set of instructions)  130 , graphics module (or set of instructions)  132 , text input module (or set of instructions)  134 , Global Positioning System (GPS) module (or set of instructions)  135 , arbiter module  159  and applications (or sets of instructions)  136 . Furthermore, in some embodiments memory  102  stores device/global internal state  157 , as shown in  FIGS. 1A and 3 . Device/global internal state  157  includes one or more of: active application state, indicating which applications, if any, are currently active; display state, indicating what applications, views or other information occupy various regions of touch screen display  112 ; sensor state, including information obtained from the device&#39;s various sensors and input control devices  116 ; and location information concerning the device&#39;s location and/or attitude. 
     Operating system  126  (e.g., Darwin, RTXC, LINUX, UNIX, OS X, WINDOWS, or an embedded operating system such as VxWorks) includes various software components and/or drivers for controlling and managing general system tasks (e.g., memory management, storage device control, power management, etc.) and facilitates communication between various hardware and software components. 
     Communication module  128  facilitates communication with other devices over one or more external ports  124  and also includes various software components for handling data received by RF circuitry  108  and/or external port  124 . External port  124  (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB), FIREWIRE, etc.) is adapted for coupling directly to other devices or indirectly over a network (e.g., the Internet, wireless LAN, etc.). 
     Contact/motion module  130  may detect contact with touch screen  112  (in conjunction with display controller  156 ) and other touch sensitive devices (e.g., a touchpad or physical click wheel). Contact/motion module  130  includes various software components for performing various operations related to detection of contact, such as determining if contact has occurred (e.g., detecting a finger-down event), determining if there is movement of the contact and tracking the movement across the touch-sensitive surface (e.g., detecting one or more finger-dragging events), and determining if the contact has ceased (e.g., detecting a finger-up event or a break in contact). Contact/motion module  130  receives contact data from the touch-sensitive surface. Determining movement of the point of contact, which is represented by a series of contact data, may include determining speed (magnitude), velocity (magnitude and direction), and/or an acceleration (a change in magnitude and/or direction) of the point of contact. These operations may be applied to single contacts (e.g., one finger contacts) or to multiple simultaneous contacts (e.g., “multitouch”/multiple finger contacts). In some embodiments, contact/motion module  130  and display controller  156  detect contact on a touchpad. 
     Contact/motion module  130  may detect a gesture input by a user. Different gestures on the touch-sensitive surface have different contact patterns. Thus, a gesture may be detected by detecting a particular contact pattern. For example, detecting a finger tap gesture includes detecting a finger-down event followed by detecting a finger-up (lift off) event at the same position (or substantially the same position) as the finger-down event (e.g., at the position of an icon). As another example, detecting a finger swipe gesture on the touch-sensitive surface includes detecting a finger-down event followed by detecting one or more finger-dragging events, and subsequently followed by detecting a finger-up (lift off) event. 
     Graphics module  132  includes various known software components for rendering and displaying graphics on touch screen  112  or other display, including components for changing the intensity of graphics that are displayed. As used herein, the term “graphics” includes any object that can be displayed to a user, including without limitation text, web pages, icons (such as user-interface objects including soft keys), digital images, videos, animations and the like. 
     In some embodiments, graphics module  132  stores data representing graphics to be used. Each graphic may be assigned a corresponding code. Graphics module  132  receives, from applications etc., one or more codes specifying graphics to be displayed along with, if necessary, coordinate data and other graphic property data, and then generates screen image data to output to display controller  156 . 
     Text input module  134 , which may be a component of graphics module  132 , provides soft keyboards for entering text in various applications (e.g., contacts  137 , e-mail  140 , IM  141 , browser  147 , and any other application that needs text input). 
     GPS module  135  determines the location of the device and provides this information for use in various applications (e.g., to telephone  138  for use in location-based dialing, to camera module  143  as picture/video metadata, and to applications that provide location-based services such as weather widgets, local yellow page widgets, and map/navigation widgets). 
     Applications  136  may include the following modules (or sets of instructions), or a subset or superset thereof:
         contacts module  137  (sometimes called an address book or contact list);   telephone module  138 ;   video conferencing module  139 ;   e-mail client module  140 ;   instant messaging (IM) module  141 ;   workout support module  142 ;   camera module  143  for still and/or video images;   image management module  144 ;   browser module  147 ;   calendar module  148 ;   widget modules  149 , which may include one or more of: weather widget  149 - 1 , stocks widget  149 - 2 , calculator widget  149 - 3 , alarm clock widget  149 - 4 , dictionary widget  149 - 5 , and other widgets obtained by the user, as well as user-created widgets  149 - 6 ;   widget creator module  150  for making user-created widgets  149 - 6 ;   search module  151 ;   video and music player module  152 , which may be made up of a video player   module and a music player module;   notes module  153 ;   map module  154 ; and/or   online video module  155 .       

     Examples of other applications  136  that may be stored in memory  102  include other word processing applications, other image editing applications, drawing applications, presentation applications, JAVA-enabled applications, encryption, digital rights management, voice recognition, and voice replication. 
     In conjunction with touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , and text input module  134 , contacts module  137  may be used to manage an address book or contact list (e.g., stored in application internal state  192  of contacts module  137  in memory  102  or memory  370 ), including: adding name(s) to the address book; deleting name(s) from the address book; associating telephone number(s), e-mail address(es), physical address(es) or other information with a name; associating an image with a name; categorizing and sorting names; providing telephone numbers or e-mail addresses to initiate and/or facilitate communications by telephone  138 , video conference  139 , e-mail  140 , or IM  141 ; and so forth. 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , audio circuitry  110 , speaker  111 , microphone  113 , touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , and text input module  134 , telephone module  138  may be used to enter a sequence of characters corresponding to a telephone number, access one or more telephone numbers in address book  137 , modify a telephone number that has been entered, dial a respective telephone number, conduct a conversation and disconnect or hang up when the conversation is completed. As noted above, the wireless communication may use any of a variety of communications standards, protocols and technologies. 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , audio circuitry  110 , speaker  111 , microphone  113 , touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , optical sensor  164 , optical sensor controller  158 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , text input module  134 , contact list  137 , and telephone module  138 , videoconferencing module  139  includes executable instructions to initiate, conduct, and terminate a video conference between a user and one or more other participants in accordance with user instructions. 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , and text input module  134 , e-mail client module  140  includes executable instructions to create, send, receive, and manage e-mail in response to user instructions. In conjunction with image management module  144 , e-mail client module  140  makes it very easy to create and send e-mails with still or video images taken with camera module  143 . 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , and text input module  134 , the instant messaging module  141  includes executable instructions to enter a sequence of characters corresponding to an instant message, to modify previously entered characters, to transmit a respective instant message (for example, using a Short Message Service (SMS) or Multimedia Message Service (MMS) protocol for telephony-based instant messages or using XMPP, SIMPLE, or IMPS for Internet-based instant messages), to receive instant messages and to view received instant messages. In some embodiments, transmitted and/or received instant messages may include graphics, photos, audio files, video files and/or other attachments as are supported in a MMS and/or an Enhanced Messaging Service (EMS). As used herein, “instant messaging” refers to both telephony-based messages (e.g., messages sent using SMS or MMS) and Internet-based messages (e.g., messages sent using XMPP, SIMPLE, or IMPS). 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , text input module  134 , GPS module  135 , map module  154 , and music player module  146 , workout support module  142  includes executable instructions to create workouts (e.g., with time, distance, and/or calorie burning goals); communicate with workout sensors (sports devices); receive workout sensor data; calibrate sensors used to monitor a workout; select and play music for a workout; and display, store and transmit workout data. 
     In conjunction with touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , optical sensor(s)  164 , optical sensor controller  158 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , and image management module  144 , camera module  143  includes executable instructions to capture still images or video (including a video stream) and store them into memory  102 , modify characteristics of a still image or video, or delete a still image or video from memory  102 . 
     In conjunction with touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , text input module  134 , and camera module  143 , image management module  144  includes executable instructions to arrange, modify (e.g., edit), or otherwise manipulate, label, delete, present (e.g., in a digital slide show or album), and store still and/or video images. 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , touch screen  112 , display system controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , and text input module  134 , browser module  147  includes executable instructions to browse the Internet in accordance with user instructions, including searching, linking to, receiving, and displaying web pages or portions thereof, as well as attachments and other files linked to web pages. 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , touch screen  112 , display system controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , text input module  134 , e-mail client module  140 , and browser module  147 , calendar module  148  includes executable instructions to create, display, modify, and store calendars and data associated with calendars (e.g., calendar entries, to do lists, etc.) in accordance with user instructions. 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , touch screen  112 , display system controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , text input module  134 , and browser module  147 , widget modules  149  are mini-applications that may be downloaded and used by a user (e.g., weather widget  149 - 1 , stocks widget  149 - 2 , calculator widget  1493 , alarm clock widget  149 - 4 , and dictionary widget  149 - 5 ) or created by the user (e.g., user-created widget  149 - 6 ). In some embodiments, a widget includes an HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) file, a CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) file, and a JavaScript file. In some embodiments, a widget includes an XML (Extensible Markup Language) file and a JavaScript file (e.g., Yahoo! Widgets). 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , touch screen  112 , display system controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , text input module  134 , and browser module  147 , the widget creator module  150  may be used by a user to create widgets (e.g., turning a user-specified portion of a web page into a widget). 
     In conjunction with touch screen  112 , display system controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , and text input module  134 , search module  151  includes executable instructions to search for text, music, sound, image, video, and/or other files in memory  102  that match one or more search criteria (e.g., one or more user-specified search terms) in accordance with user instructions. 
     In conjunction with touch screen  112 , display system controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , audio circuitry  110 , speaker  111 , RF circuitry  108 , and browser module  147 , video and music player module  152  includes executable instructions that allow the user to download and play back recorded music and other sound files stored in one or more file formats, such as MP3 or AAC files, and executable instructions to display, present or otherwise play back videos (e.g., on touch screen  112  or on an external, connected display via external port  124 ). In some embodiments, device  100  may include the functionality of an MP3 player. 
     In conjunction with touch screen  112 , display controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , and text input module  134 , notes module  153  includes executable instructions to create and manage notes, to do lists, and the like in accordance with user instructions. 
     In conjunction with RF circuitry  108 , touch screen  112 , display system controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , text input module  134 , GPS module  135 , and browser module  147 , map module  154  may be used to receive, display, modify, and store maps and data associated with maps (e.g., driving directions; data on stores and other points of interest at or near a particular location; and other location-based data) in accordance with user instructions. 
     In conjunction with touch screen  112 , display system controller  156 , contact module  130 , graphics module  132 , audio circuitry  110 , speaker  111 , RF circuitry  108 , text input module  134 , e-mail client module  140 , and browser module  147 , online video module  155  includes instructions that allow the user to access, browse, receive (e.g., by streaming and/or download), play back (e.g., on the touch screen or on an external, connected display via external port  124 ), send an e-mail with a link to a particular online video, and otherwise manage online videos in one or more file formats, such as H.264. In some embodiments, instant messaging module  141 , rather than e-mail client module  140 , is used to send a link to a particular online video. 
     Each of the above identified modules and applications correspond to a set of executable instructions for performing one or more functions described above and the methods described in this application (e.g., the computer-implemented methods and other information processing methods described herein). These modules (i.e., sets of instructions) need not be implemented as separate software programs, procedures or modules, and thus various subsets of these modules may be combined or otherwise re-arranged in various embodiments. In some embodiments, memory  102  may store a subset of the modules and data structures identified above. Furthermore, memory  102  may store additional modules and data structures not described above. 
     In some embodiments, device  100  is a device where operation of a predefined set of functions on the device is performed exclusively through a touch screen and/or a touchpad. By using a touch screen and/or a touchpad as the primary input control device for operation of device  100 , the number of physical input control devices (such as push buttons, dials, and the like) on device  100  may be reduced. 
     The predefined set of functions that may be performed exclusively through a touch screen and/or a touchpad include navigation between user interfaces. In some embodiments, the touchpad, when touched by the user, navigates device  100  to a main, home, or root menu from any user interface that may be displayed on device  100 . In such embodiments, the touchpad may be referred to as a “menu button.” In some other embodiments, the menu button may be a physical push button or other physical input control device instead of a touchpad. 
       FIG. 28  illustrates a portable multifunction device  100  having a touch screen  112  in accordance with some embodiments. The touch screen may display one or more graphics within user interface (UI)  200 . In this embodiment, as well as others described below, a user may select one or more of the graphics by making a gesture on the graphics, for example, with one or more fingers  202  (not drawn to scale in the Figure) or one or more styluses  203  (not drawn to scale in the figure). 
     Device  100  may also include one or more physical buttons, such as “home” or menu button  204 . As described previously, menu button  204  may be used to navigate to any application  136  in a set of applications that may be executed on device  100 . Alternatively, in some embodiments, the menu button is implemented as a soft key in a graphics user interface (GUI) displayed on touch screen  112 . 
     In one embodiment, device  100  includes touch screen  112 , menu button  204 , push button  206  for powering the device on/off and locking the device, volume adjustment button(s)  208 , Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card slot  210 , head set jack  212 , and docking/charging external port  124 . Push button  206  may be used to turn the power on/off on the device by depressing the button and holding the button in the depressed state for a predefined time interval; to lock the device by depressing the button and releasing the button before the predefined time interval has elapsed; and/or to unlock the device or initiate an unlock process. In an alternative embodiment, device  100  also may accept verbal input for activation or deactivation of some functions through microphone  113 . 
     It should be noted that, although many of the examples herein are given with reference to optical sensor/camera  164  (on the front of a device), a rear-facing camera or optical sensor that is pointed opposite from the display may be used instead of or in addition to an optical sensor/camera  164  on the front of a device. Embodiments of an actuator module  3000  that includes passive damping for optical image stabilization (OIS) may be used in the optical sensor/camera(s)  164   
     Example Computer System 
       FIG. 29  illustrates an example computer system  2900  that may be configured to include or execute any or all of the embodiments described above. In different embodiments, computer system  2900  may be any of various types of devices, including, but not limited to, a personal computer system, desktop computer, laptop, notebook, tablet, slate, pad, or netbook computer, cell phone, smartphone, PDA, portable media device, mainframe computer system, handheld computer, workstation, network computer, a camera or video camera, a set top box, a mobile device, a consumer device, video game console, handheld video game device, application server, storage device, a television, a video recording device, a peripheral device such as a switch, modem, router, or in general any type of computing or electronic device. 
     Various embodiments of a camera motion control system as described herein, may be executed in one or more computer systems  2900 , which may interact with various other devices. Note that any component, action, or functionality described above with respect to  FIGS. 1 through 26  may be implemented on one or more computers configured as computer system  2900  of  FIG. 29 , according to various embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, computer system  2900  includes one or more processors  2910  coupled to a system memory  2920  via an input/output (I/O) interface  2930 . Computer system  2900  further includes a network interface  2940  coupled to I/O interface  2930 , and one or more input/output devices  2950 , such as cursor control device  2960 , keyboard  2970 , and display(s)  2980 . In some cases, it is contemplated that embodiments may be implemented using a single instance of computer system  2900 , while in other embodiments multiple such systems, or multiple nodes making up computer system  2900 , may be configured to host different portions or instances of embodiments. For example, in one embodiment some elements may be implemented via one or more nodes of computer system  2900  that are distinct from those nodes implementing other elements. 
     In various embodiments, computer system  2900  may be a uniprocessor system including one processor  2910 , or a multiprocessor system including several processors  2910  (e.g., two, four, eight, or another suitable number). Processors  2910  may be any suitable processor capable of executing instructions. For example, in various embodiments processors  2910  may be general-purpose or embedded processors implementing any of a variety of instruction set architectures (ISAs), such as the x829, PowerPC, SPARC, or MIPS ISAs, or any other suitable ISA. In multiprocessor systems, each of processors  2910  may commonly, but not necessarily, implement the same ISA. 
     System memory  2920  may be configured to store camera control program instructions  2922  and/or camera control data accessible by processor  2910 . In various embodiments, system memory  2920  may be implemented using any suitable memory technology, such as static random access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), nonvolatile/Flash-type memory, or any other type of memory. In the illustrated embodiment, program instructions  2922  may be configured to implement a lens control application  2924  incorporating any of the functionality described above. Additionally, existing camera control data  2932  of memory  2920  may include any of the information or data structures described above. In some embodiments, program instructions and/or data may be received, sent or stored upon different types of computer-accessible media or on similar media separate from system memory  2920  or computer system  2900 . While computer system  2900  is described as implementing the functionality of functional blocks of previous Figures, any of the functionality described herein may be implemented via such a computer system. 
     In one embodiment, I/O interface  2930  may be configured to coordinate I/O traffic between processor  2910 , system memory  2920 , and any peripheral devices in the device, including network interface  2940  or other peripheral interfaces, such as input/output devices  2950 . In some embodiments, I/O interface  2930  may perform any necessary protocol, timing or other data transformations to convert data signals from one component (e.g., system memory  2920 ) into a format suitable for use by another component (e.g., processor  2910 ). In some embodiments, I/O interface  2930  may include support for devices attached through various types of peripheral buses, such as a variant of the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus standard or the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard, for example. In some embodiments, the function of I/O interface  2930  may be split into two or more separate components, such as a north bridge and a south bridge, for example. Also, in some embodiments some or all of the functionality of I/O interface  2930 , such as an interface to system memory  2920 , may be incorporated directly into processor  2910 . 
     Network interface  2940  may be configured to allow data to be exchanged between computer system  2900  and other devices attached to a network  2985  (e.g., carrier or agent devices) or between nodes of computer system  2900 . Network  2985  may in various embodiments include one or more networks including but not limited to Local Area Networks (LANs) (e.g., an Ethernet or corporate network), Wide Area Networks (WANs) (e.g., the Internet), wireless data networks, some other electronic data network, or some combination thereof. In various embodiments, network interface  2940  may support communication via wired or wireless general data networks, such as any suitable type of Ethernet network, for example; via telecommunications/telephony networks such as analog voice networks or digital fiber communications networks; via storage area networks such as Fibre Channel SANs, or via any other suitable type of network and/or protocol. 
     Input/output devices  2950  may, in some embodiments, include one or more display terminals, keyboards, keypads, touchpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other devices suitable for entering or accessing data by one or more computer systems  2900 . Multiple input/output devices  2950  may be present in computer system  2900  or may be distributed on various nodes of computer system  2900 . In some embodiments, similar input/output devices may be separate from computer system  2900  and may interact with one or more nodes of computer system  2900  through a wired or wireless connection, such as over network interface  2940 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 29 , memory  2920  may include program instructions  2922 , which may be processor-executable to implement any element or action described above. In one embodiment, the program instructions may implement the methods described above. In other embodiments, different elements and data may be included. Note that data may include any data or information described above. 
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate that computer system  2900  is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the scope of embodiments. In particular, the computer system and devices may include any combination of hardware or software that can perform the indicated functions, including computers, network devices, Internet appliances, PDAs, wireless phones, pagers, etc. Computer system  2900  may also be connected to other devices that are not illustrated, or instead may operate as a stand-alone system. In addition, the functionality provided by the illustrated components may in some embodiments be combined in fewer components or distributed in additional components. Similarly, in some embodiments, the functionality of some of the illustrated components may not be provided and/or other additional functionality may be available. 
     Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that, while various items are illustrated as being stored in memory or on storage while being used, these items or portions of them may be transferred between memory and other storage devices for purposes of memory management and data integrity. Alternatively, in other embodiments some or all of the software components may execute in memory on another device and communicate with the illustrated computer system via inter-computer communication. Some or all of the system components or data structures may also be stored (e.g., as instructions or structured data) on a computer-accessible medium or a portable article to be read by an appropriate drive, various examples of which are described above. In some embodiments, instructions stored on a computer-accessible medium separate from computer system  2900  may be transmitted to computer system  2900  via transmission media or signals such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals, conveyed via a communication medium such as a network and/or a wireless link. Various embodiments may further include receiving, sending or storing instructions and/or data implemented in accordance with the foregoing description upon a computer-accessible medium. Generally speaking, a computer-accessible medium may include a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium or memory medium such as magnetic or optical media, e.g., disk or DVD/CD-ROM, volatile or non-volatile media such as RAM (e.g. SDRAM, DDR, RDRAM, SRAM, etc.), ROM, etc. In some embodiments, a computer-accessible medium may include transmission media or signals such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals, conveyed via a communication medium such as network and/or a wireless link. 
     The methods described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof, in different embodiments. In addition, the order of the blocks of the methods may be changed, and various elements may be added, reordered, combined, omitted, modified, etc. Various modifications and changes may be made as would be obvious to a person skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The various embodiments described herein are meant to be illustrative and not limiting. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. Accordingly, plural instances may be provided for components described herein as a single instance. Boundaries between various components, operations and data stores are somewhat arbitrary, and particular operations are illustrated in the context of specific illustrative configurations. Other allocations of functionality are envisioned and may fall within the scope of claims that follow. Finally, structures and functionality presented as discrete components in the example configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or component. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of embodiments as defined in the claims that follow.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20140602
Publication Date: 20171107
Grant Date: 20171107
Priority Date: 20140124
Inventors: HUBERT AURELIEN R.
BRODIE DOUGLAS S.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04N23/57", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/687", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/57", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/687", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/6812", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/55", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/6812", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N23/55", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/2257", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B7/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B27/646", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/2254", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49885", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/23258", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N5/23287", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49885", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B7/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49885", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B7/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B27/646", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G02B27/646", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 53678883