Flexible circuit for a camera with a movable image sensor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a movable flex circuit for a camera having a movable image sensor, and in particular provides a flex circuit that can accommodate movement of an image sensor within a camera. The flex circuit generally includes a plurality of planar segments that are interposed between a first end that is fixed relative to the image sensor and a second end that is fixed relative to one or more camera components. One or more of the planar segments twist as the image sensor moves within the camera.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The described implementations generally relate to flexible circuits that accommodate movement of image sensors within cameras. BACKGROUND

[0002] Cameras remain an important feature of consumer electronics devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. Space is very limited in these devices, and there is a demand for small form factor cameras that provide high quality imaging. Some cameras can be configured to move an image sensor relative to other components of the camera (e.g., a lens and / or a housing) to provide autofocus capabilities and / or image stabilization capabilities. In these cameras, it is necessary to transfer image data and other signals from the image sensor to other device components. Moving the image sensor can make this transfer difficult because the components carrying the signals from the image sensor need to be able to accommodate this movement, ideally. SUMMARY

[0003] Described herein are cameras with moveable image sensors and flexible circuits that can be used with these cameras. Generally, a flexible circuit can include multiple planar segments connected via one or more bends. The flexible circuit can be fixed relative to the image sensor and can be positioned within the camera such that movement of the image sensor along a first direction causes twisting of one or more of the segments.

[0004] Some implementations can include a camera including a lens, an image sensor positioned to receive light passing through the lens, and an actuator assembly configured to move the image sensor within the camera along a first direction. The camera can further include a flexible circuit including a first end, a second end, and a plurality of planar segments including a first segment connected to a second segment via a first bend and a third segment connected to the second segment via a second bend. The plurality of planar segments can connect the first end to the second end, the first end can be fixed relative to the image sensor and movable relative to the second end as the image sensor moves along the first direction, and the flexible circuit can be positioned such that the first segment twists as the image sensor moves along the first direction.

[0005] In some variations, the first segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the first segment is perpendicular to the first direction, and the third segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the third segment is perpendicular to the first direction. In some of these variations, the first segment is parallel to the third segment. In some variations, the second segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the second segment is parallel to the first direction. In other variations, the second segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the second segment is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0006] In some variations, the flexible circuit further includes a fourth segment, where the fourth segment is connected to the first segment at a third bend. The fourth segment can be connected to the first end at a fourth bend. The third segment is connected to the second end at a fifth bend. In some variations where the flexible circuit includes the fourth segment, the flexible circuit further includes a fifth segment, where the fifth segment is connected to the third segment at the fourth bend.

[0007] The camera can be configured such that the first direction is parallel to an optical axis of the camera. The camera can include a sensor holder fixed relative to the image sensor and a lens holder connected to the lens, where the second segment is positioned between the sensor holder and the lens holder. In other variations, the camera can include a sensor holder fixed relative to the image sensor and a lens holder connected to the lens, where the sensor holder is positioned between the second segment and the lens holder.

[0008] Other embodiments can include a camera including a lens, an image sensor positioned to receive light passing through the lens, an actuator assembly configured to move the image sensor along a first direction within the camera, and a flexible circuit including a plurality of planar segments connected via one or more bends. The flexible circuit can be connected to and positioned relative to the image sensor such that at least one of the plurality of planar segments twists during movement of the image sensor along the first direction.

[0009] In one of these variations, at least one of the plurality of planar segments includes a first segment, where a length of the first segment is oriented perpendicular to the first direction and a width of the first segment is oriented parallel to the first direction, and where the first segment twists about the length of the first segment during movement of the image sensor along the first direction. The flexible circuit can include a first end that is fixed relative to the image sensor, where the first segment is connected to the first end at a first bend. In some variations, the first direction is parallel to an optical axis of the camera.

[0010] Another embodiment describes an arrangement including a flexible circuit and an image sensor having an optical axis. The flexible circuit includes a first end, a second end, and a plurality of planar segments fixed relative to the image sensor, connecting the first end to the second end and including a first segment, a second segment, and a third segment. The first segment may be connected to the second segment at a first bend, and the second segment may be connected to the third segment at a third bend. The first segment may be oriented such that its normal vector is perpendicular to the optical axis of the image sensor, and the third segment may be oriented such that its normal vector is perpendicular to the optical axis of the image sensor. In some of these variations, the first segment is parallel to the third segment. In some variations, the second segment is oriented such that its normal vector is parallel to the optical axis of the image sensor. In other variations, the second segment is oriented such that its normal vector is perpendicular to the optical axis of the image sensor.

[0011] In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described herein, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and by studying the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0012] This disclosure will be readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals denote similar structural elements, and wherein:

[0013] FIG. 1A A perspective view of an exemplary camera with a movable image sensor and flexible circuitry is shown. FIG. 1B It shows FIG. 1A A schematic block diagram of exemplary components of a camera;

[0014] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B An exploded view and a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary camera, including flexible circuitry and an image sensor movable along the camera's optical axis, are shown respectively.

[0015] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B A perspective view of the flexible circuitry used with the camera described herein is shown;

[0016] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B Cross-sectional views of the first flexible circuit and the second flexible circuit variants are shown respectively;

[0017] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B The front and rear perspective views of the flexible circuit with the reinforcement layer are shown respectively.

[0018] FIG. 6Aperspective view of a variant of a flexible circuit for use with the cameras described herein. FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C perspective view of a variant of a flexible circuit for use with the cameras described herein. FIG. 6A top view of how the flexible circuit of FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B two configurations in exemplary variants of the cameras of

[0019] FIG. 7A perspective view of a variant of a flexible circuit for use with the cameras described herein. FIG. 7B top view of how the flexible circuit of FIG. 7A may be used with FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B exemplary variants of the cameras of

[0020] FIG. 8A perspective view of a variant of a flexible circuit for use with the cameras described herein. FIG. 8B top view of how the flexible circuit of FIG. 8A may be used with FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B exemplary variants of the cameras of

[0021] FIG. 9A perspective view of a variant of a flexible circuit for use with the cameras described herein. FIG. 9B top view of how the flexible circuit of FIG. 9A may be used with FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B exemplary variants of the cameras of

[0022] The use of cross-hatching or shading in the drawings is generally provided to clarify boundaries and / or facilitate ease of viewing of the present application. Thus, the presence or absence of cross-hatching or shading does not indicate or imply any preference or requirement for particular materials, material properties, element proportions, element sizes, commonality of like elements, or any other characteristic, attribute, or property of any element shown in the drawings.

[0023] Additionally, it is to be understood that the relative and absolute proportions and sizes of the various features and elements (and collections and groupings thereof) and the interposed boundaries, spacings, and positional relationships presented therein in the drawings are provided in the drawings merely to facilitate understanding of the various embodiments described herein and thus can not necessarily be presented or shown to scale and are not intended to indicate any preference or requirement for the embodiments shown to the exclusion of the embodiments described in connection therewith.

[0024] Directional terminology, such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "leading," "trailing," "upper," "lower," "over," "under," "above," "below," "left," "right," and the like, refers to the orientation of the components shown in some of the figures described below and are not intended to be limiting. Because components of various embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is used only for purposes of illustration and not to limit the embodiments in any way. The directional terminology is intended to be broadly construed, thus, for example, "front" and "back" can also mean "back" and "front" respectively, and "leading" and "trailing" can also mean "trailing" and "leading" respectively. Additionally, as used herein, the phrase "at least one of" followed by a listing of items refers to the list as a whole and not to each member of the list individually. The phrase "at least one of" is not intended to mean "one or more of the items in the list." For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" is intended to mean A, B, C, A-B, A-C, B-C, and A-B-C. Similarly, as used herein, the phrase "one or more of" followed by a listing of items refers to the list as a whole and not to each member of the list individually. The phrase "one or more of" is not intended to mean "one or more of the items in the list." For example, the phrase "one or more of A, B, and C" is intended to mean A, B, C, A-B, A-C, B-C, and A-B-C. Similarly, it is to be understood that the order of the elements provided with respect to a method described herein are not intended to be limiting unless specifically indicated otherwise. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0026] This patent application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 241,163, filed September 7, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated in their entirety by this reference.

[0027] Reference will now be made specifically to the representative embodiments illustrated in the drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. Rather, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

[0028] Described herein are flexible circuits that can be used in cameras having movable image sensors. Generally, the flexible circuits can include a plurality of planar segments connected via one or more flexures. The flexible circuits can be fixed relative to the image sensor and can be positioned within the camera such that movement of the image sensor along a first direction causes twisting of one or more of the plurality of segments. Such twisting can allow the flexible circuits to accommodate movement of the image sensor along the first direction while having a negligible impact on the overall footprint of the camera.

[0029] The flexible circuits described herein can be used in any suitable camera having a moveable image sensor. FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B Perspective and schematic block diagrams of a camera 100 that can utilize a flexible circuit 102 as described herein are shown. As shown, the camera can include a flexible circuit 102, an image sensor 104, a lens 106, an actuator assembly 108, and a housing 110. The housing 110 can be configured to at least partially enclose various components of the camera 100, and in some variations can be used to protect the internal camera components from electromagnetic interference (as well as to protect other components or devices external to the housing from electromagnetic interference from within the camera). The lens 106 includes one or more lens elements 116 that are configured to direct light received by the camera toward the image sensor 104. The lens 106 can also include a lens barrel 118 that houses some or all of the lens elements. In some cases, the camera 100 can be configured to have a folded optics arrangement, in which the camera 100 further includes one or more mirrors or prisms to redirect light captured by the camera. It will be appreciated that in a folded optics arrangement, the optical axis of the lens 106 and the camera 100 can extend in multiple directions (i.e., light folding elements such as prisms or mirrors can change the direction of the optical axis). For the purposes of this application, the optical axis of the camera is considered to be part of the optical axis of the lens when light is exiting the lens toward the image sensor. Additionally, for the purposes of this application, the optical axis of the image sensor is considered to be a vector normal to the plane of the image sensor that is generally parallel to the optical axis of the lens when light is exiting the lens toward the image sensor.

[0030] The image sensor 104 can receive light that passes through the lens 106, and can generate one or more signals that can convey information about the light received during imaging (these signals are conveyed off the image sensor 104 using the flexible circuit 102). The image sensor can be any suitable sensor, such as a CCD, CMOS sensor, etc. As noted above, the image sensor 104 can be configured to move within the camera (e.g., at least relative to the housing 110). For example, the image sensor 104 can be moved relative to the lens 106 along the optical axis of the camera 100 to adjust the focal length of the camera, which can allow the camera 100 to provide an auto-focus capability. Additionally or alternatively, the image sensor 104 can be moved relative to the lens in one or more directions that are perpendicular to the optical axis of the camera 100, which can allow the camera 100 to provide an optical image stabilization capability.

[0031] It should be appreciated that the described camera can be configured to perform both autofocus and optical image stabilization, or it can be configured to perform only one of these operations. Moreover, in some cases, the camera 100 can be further configured to adjust the position or power of the lens 106 to assist in the autofocus and / or optical image stabilization operations. This can be accomplished by moving one or more lens elements of the lens 106 relative to the image sensor 104. Additionally or alternatively, the lens 106 can include a variable focus lens element (e.g., a liquid lens) that can be actuated to adjust the power and / or optical axis of the lens element.

[0032] The autofocus and optical image stabilization operations can be performed by any suitable combination of image sensor 104 movement and lens 106 adjustment. As two non-limiting examples, U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. US2019 / 0141248 and US2021 / 0080807, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety, respectively describe: i) a camera that moves the image sensor perpendicular to the optical axis of the camera (for optical image stabilization) and moves the lens along the optical axis (for autofocus); and ii) a camera that moves the image sensor in three dimensions (for both autofocus and image stabilization). For purposes of this application, it is assumed that the image sensor 104 is capable of moving within the camera along at least one direction.

[0033] Returning to FIG. 1, the camera can further include an actuator assembly 108 configured to move the image sensor within the camera 100. The actuator assembly 108 generally includes an actuator 112 and a suspension arrangement 114. The actuator 112 is configured to generate the force needed to move the image sensor, and can include a voice coil motor, a comb drive, or the like. In embodiments in which the actuator 112 includes a voice coil motor, the voice coil motor can include a magnet and a coil, one of which can be fixed relative to the image sensor 104 (via either a direct connection to the image sensor or an indirect connection via one or more intermediate components), and the other of which can be fixed within the camera in a manner that allows the image sensor 104 to move relative thereto. The coil can be positioned within the magnetic field of the magnet such that when an electric current is driven through the coil, a Lorentz force can be generated that can form a relative movement between the coil and the magnet, which in turn can move the image sensor within the camera. It should be appreciated that some embodiments can include an actuator 112 having multiple voice coil motors, each of which can be used to generate a Lorentz force as described above. The previously incorporated by reference U.S. Patent Publication No. US2019 / 0141248 describes a non-limiting example of an actuator that utilizes a voice coil motor to move an image sensor within a camera.

[0034] The suspension arrangement 114 can be configured to suspend the image sensor 104 (and one or more other components connected thereto) within the camera 100, and can allow the image sensor 104 to move within the camera 100 in one or more directions. As a few non-limiting examples, the suspension arrangement 114 can include one or more suspension elements, such as flexures (e.g., leaf springs, suspension wires, flexure arms, etc.) and / or one or more bearings (e.g., ball bearings, roller bearings, etc.). In cases in which the suspension arrangement 114 includes one or more flexures, the flexures can provide a moveable connection between the image sensor (e.g., via a retaining structure that carries the image sensor) and one or more additional structures in the camera. In cases in which the suspension arrangement 114 includes one or more bearings, the bearings can be positioned between the moving image sensor 104 (e.g., via a retaining structure that carries the image sensor) and one or more additional structures in the camera, and can guide movement of the image sensor.

[0035] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B respectively, illustrate exploded perspective and cross-sectional side views of an example camera 200 that can use the flexible circuits described herein. As shown, the camera 200 can include a flexible circuit 202, an image sensor 204, and a lens 206 having a lens barrel 208 and a lens element 210 (a single lens element 210 is shown in FIG. 2A but it will be appreciated that the lens 206 can include multiple lens elements), each of which can be configured as described above with respect to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B The camera 200 can also include a housing 212 (which can be made of multiple housing elements), a lens holder 214 that can hold the lens 206 relative to the rest of the camera 200, a sensor mount 216 that can be fixed relative to the image sensor 204, and an actuator assembly 218.

[0036] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2BThis embodiment of the camera 200 shown in FIG. 2B can be configured such that the image sensor 204 is moved along only the optical axis 220 of the camera 200 (e.g., to provide an auto-focus capability), although it will be appreciated that different embodiments of the camera described herein can be configured to move the image sensor 204 along multiple directions. In particular, the actuator assembly 218 can be configured to move the sensor holder 216 relative to the lens holder 214 along a first direction (e.g., the optical axis 220). The sensor holder 216 is fixed relative to the image sensor 204 such that movement of the sensor holder 216 along the optical axis 220 also moves the image sensor 204 along the optical axis 220. The sensor holder 216 can be directly connected to the image sensor 204, or can be indirectly connected to the image sensor 204 via one or more intermediate components (e.g., via a substrate 222 that can be connected to both the image sensor 104 and the sensor holder 216). The sensor holder 216 can also be fixed relative to the first end of the flexible circuit 202 (via either a direct connection and / or an indirect connection via one or more intermediate components such as the substrate 222) such that movement of the sensor holder 216 also moves the first end of the flexible circuit 202.

[0037] In FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B In variations of the camera 200 shown in FIG. 2B, the actuator assembly 218 can include a voice coil motor actuator 224 (which includes a coil 226 and a magnet 228) and a suspension arrangement 230 that includes a ball bearing 232 (although the actuator assembly 218 can include any combination of the above-described actuators and suspension elements). As shown, the lens holder 214 can hold the coil 226, and the sensor holder 216 can hold the magnet 228, and an electrical current can be driven through the coil 226 to control movement between the coil 226 and the magnet 228 along the optical axis 220 (which in turn controls movement of the sensor holder 216 and the image sensor 104 along the optical axis 220). In other embodiments, the sensor holder 216 can hold the coil 226, while the lens holder 214 can hold the magnet 228. In some of these variations, the flexible circuit 202 can be configured to carry one or more signals (e.g., power signals and / or control signals) that can be used to control the electrical current through the coil 226 (e.g., via a driver (not shown) that can be carried by the sensor holder 216).

[0038] Ball bearings 232 can be positioned between and in contact with respective surfaces of lens holder 214 and sensor mount 216. Ball bearings 232 can allow sensor mount 216 to slide relative to lens holder 214, and can also limit movement of sensor mount 216 such that it moves in only a single direction (e.g., along optical axis 220). While shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B as having ball bearings 232, it should be understood that suspension arrangement 230 can include any suitable flexure element (or combination of flexure elements), such as those described above.

[0039] While lens holder 214 is shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B as a single structure that holds lens 206, holds magnet 228, and is in contact with ball bearings 232, it should be understood that the functions need not be performed by multiple separate structures. For example, lens holder 214 can instead be divided into multiple discrete components, each of which performs a different function (or combination of functions).

[0040] In some variations, camera 200 can include end stops 234. Generally, an end stop is a structure configured to limit movement of a component within camera 200 (which can prevent the component from contacting or otherwise interacting with other structures within the camera). In some cases, an end stop can be a separate insert placed within camera 200 for providing an end stop (such as end stop 234 shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B , while in other cases, one camera component can act as an end stop for another camera component (as will be described in greater detail below). It should be understood that for a given camera component (e.g., flexible circuit), camera 200 can include multiple end stops, each of which is configured to limit movement of the component in a given direction. Similarly, a given end stop can act as an end stop for multiple components.

[0041] For example, end stop 234 shown in FIG. 2B and FIG. 2A may be configured to limit downward movement of flexible circuit 202 (i.e., movement away from lens 206). In particular, end stop 234 can be positioned between a portion of flexible circuit 202 and housing 212. FIG. 2B Movement of the portion of flexible circuit 202 shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2BThe illustrated end stop 234 can be configured to act as an end stop for the sensor holder 216. As illustrated, the end stop 234 can be positioned between the sensor holder 216 and the housing 212 in one or more directions perpendicular to the optical axis 220 (embodiments of the end stop 234 are illustrated in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B FIGS. 13-15 as being positioned between the sensor holder 216 and the housing 212 in multiple directions), such that movement in any of these directions will ultimately cause the sensor holder 216 to contact the end stop 234 (and prevent or otherwise limit further movement of the sensor holder 216).

[0042] In general, it can be preferable for the flex circuit 202 to not contact any end stops during normal operation of the device, such that these end stops limit unintended movement of the flex circuit 202 during unexpected events (e.g., impact events that can occur when a camera is dropped or otherwise experiences significant motion that is not expected from normal device use). For example, the camera 200 and actuator assembly 218 can enable the sensor holder 216 (and image sensor 204) to move through a predetermined range of positions (“operational range”) during operation of the camera 200. Movement of the sensor holder 216 across the operational range, in the absence of external forces, will not cause the flex circuit 202 to contact an end stop. However, in an impact event, additional forces applied to the camera can cause additional movement of the flex circuit 202 within the camera, and the end stop can limit this additional movement.

[0043] As described above, the flex circuits described herein can be configured to connect a mobile image sensor. The flex circuit can be fixed relative to the image sensor, and can be positioned within a camera such that movement of the image sensor along a first direction causes a torsional strain (i.e., twisting about or in one or more of the segments). This torsional can allow the flex circuit to accommodate movement of the image sensor along the first direction while having a minimal impact on the overall camera size. For example, in variations in which the first direction is parallel to an optical axis of the camera, some of the flex circuits described below can not require any additional clearance along the optical axis (or camera bulk), which can be particularly advantageous when incorporating the camera into a thin form factor device in which space along the optical axis is particularly limited.

[0044] In general, the flexible circuits described herein can be made from a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) and can be formed in a flat sheet that can be folded to form the various shapes shown in the following embodiments. The folded flexible circuit can form a bend that acts as an interface between two adjoining planar segments of the flexible circuit, each adjacent planar segment will have a different planar orientation. Thus, multiple bends can be formed in the flexible circuit to create multiple planar segments, such as those described throughout this application, with each bend forming a boundary between adjacent planar segments. Additionally, the flexible circuit can include one or more turns, which for the purposes of this application refers to a change in direction within the plane of the flexible circuit. In other words, a turn is located within a segment, while a bend is located between different segments. The bends and turns help to define the shape and location of the various segments of the flexible circuit, and in turn, the overall shape of the flexible circuit.

[0045] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B A perspective view of a flexible circuit 300 for use with the cameras described herein is shown. As shown, the flexible circuit 300 includes a first end 302, a second end 304, and a plurality of planar segments connecting the first end 302 to the second end 304. As shown, the plurality of planar segments can include a first segment 306, a second segment 308, and a third segment 310. The first segment 306 can be connected to the second segment 308 at a first bend 312, while the second segment 308 can be connected to the third segment 310 at a second bend 314. FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B Also shown in the middle is an electrical connection pad 320 at the first end 302, which can allow the image sensor to form an electrical connection with the flexible circuit 300 via either a direct connection with the image sensor or a direct connection with a component such as a substrate that is electrically connected to the image sensor, and an optional reinforcement layer 316, which will be described in more detail below.

[0046] It should be understood that the first end 302 and the second end 304 (and the first and second ends of the various embodiments of the flexible circuit described herein) can each be formed as a corresponding planar segment, wherein each planar segment can be connected to a plurality of planar segments at a corresponding bend. The planar segment corresponding to the first end 302 can be used to connect the first end 302 to an image sensor (and can be positioned such that the normal vector of the planar segment is perpendicular to the normal vector of the image sensor). Similarly, the planar segment corresponding to the second end 304 can be used to connect the second end 304 to another camera component (e.g., a camera housing or another structure housed therein). It should also be understood that the second end 304 of the flexible circuit 300 is intended to cover a portion of the flexible circuit 300 fixed relative to a camera (or a component therein) to provide a fixing point for the first end 302 relative to the movement of the flexible circuit 300. In any variation of the flexible circuit described herein, the second ends of those flexible circuits can extend beyond what is shown herein and can include additional wire turns and / or bends (e.g., after the flexible circuit leaves the camera). Although three segments (first segment 306, second segment 308, and third segment 310) have been discussed above, it should be understood that the flexible circuit described herein may optionally include more than three segments located between the first and second ends of the flexible circuit, as will be described in more detail below. In fact, the flexible circuit 300 in... FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B The middle section is depicted as having an additional planar section 326 and a curved portion 328 located between the first section 306 and the first end 302 and between the third section 310 and the second end 304.

[0047] When the camera is configured to move the image sensor (not shown) along a first direction ( FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B When the segment 306 (described as arrow 318) moves, at least the first segment 306 and the third segment 310 can be vertically oriented such that the normal vector of the segment is perpendicular to the first direction 318. Preferably, the first segment 306 and the third segment 310 are also parallel to each other. Although the second segment 308 is also... FIG. 3B and FIG. 3B The second segment 308 is shown as being vertically oriented relative to the first direction 318, but in some variations, the second segment 308 may be horizontally oriented relative to the first direction 318, such that the normal vector of the second segment 308 is parallel to the first direction 318. It should be understood that when segments of the flexible circuit described herein are described as having a specific orientation, it is assumed that the flexible circuit is in a central position (i.e., not moved), and the orientation of a particular segment may temporarily change during movement of the image sensor away from the central position.

[0048] When the image sensor (not shown) is moved along the first direction 318, the first end 302 (which may be fixed relative to the image sensor) will move away from the second end 304 (which may be fixed relative to the camera housing), as... FIG. 3B As shown. This can then subject the first segment 306 and / or the third segment 310 to torsional strain (both the first segment 306 and the third segment 310 are under torsional strain). FIG. 3B Both are shown as undergoing torsion), and this torsion can accommodate relative movement between the first end 302 and the second end 304 (and the accompanying relative movement between the image sensor and the camera housing), wherein the overall resistance to movement is relatively low. The second segment 308 can rotate (e.g., about a first axis 322 perpendicular to the first direction, which in FIG. 4A In the variant shown, it is also perpendicular to the second segment 308 and acts as a lever arm to facilitate the torsion of the first segment 306 and the third segment 310. In some cases, depending on the flexible circuit design and the amount of movement along the first direction, the first segment 306 and / or the third segment 310 can each be positioned around a corresponding axis perpendicular to the first direction 318 and the first axis 322 (e.g., parallel to...). FIG. 4B The second axis 324 shown rotates. It should be understood that, for illustrative purposes, FIG. 4A The deformation shown is exaggerated, and according to the design on the camera, the relative movement between the first end 302 and the second end 304 along the first direction during normal operation can be relatively small relative to the height of the flexible circuit in the first direction.

[0049] Generally, the stiffness of different regions of a flexible circuit can depend on the dimensions of the individual planar segments of the flexible circuit as well as the thickness of the flexible circuit (and the choice of material). For example, it may be desirable for at least the first segment 306 and the third segment 310 to have relatively high aspect ratios, with one dimension being longer than the other. These segments can be positioned such that the length (i.e., the longer dimension) of the respective segment is oriented perpendicular to the first direction 318 and the width (i.e., the shorter dimension) is oriented parallel to the first direction 318. This can facilitate torsion about the length of the segment, which in turn can reduce the amount of force required to move the image sensor along the first direction. Additionally, the length of the flexible circuit 300 between the first end 302 and the second end 304 can also reduce the force required to move the image sensor along the first direction.

[0050] The choice of material and thickness of the layers in the stacked structure of flexible circuits can also affect the stiffness of the flexible circuits. FIG. 4B and FIG. 4A Cross-sectional views of variant forms of the first flexible circuit 400 and the second flexible circuit 402 are shown respectively. FIG. 3AAs shown, the first flex circuit 400 can include a base layer 404, one or more electrical traces 406 (which can be used to route signals to and from an image sensor), and an adhesive layer 408 and a cover layer 410. The base layer 404, adhesive layer 408, and cover layer 410 collectively function to insulate the electrical traces 406. These layers can be made of any suitable materials known in the art of flexible printed circuit board manufacturing. As non-limiting examples, the base layer 404 can be made of a dielectric material such as polyimide or polyester, the electrical traces 406 can be formed of a conductive material such as copper, and the cover layer can also be made of a dielectric material. The adhesive layer 408 can be made of any adhesive suitable for bonding the base layer 404 to the cover layer 410. It should be understood that the first flex circuit 400 need not contain the adhesive layer 408 and cover layer 410, but instead can include a single material (e.g., a dielectric coating such as a layer of photosensitive liquid polyimide) coated over the electrical traces 406 and base layer 404. The second flex circuit 402 is shown in FIG. 3B and can include the same layers as the first flex circuit 400 (which are labeled the same), but also includes a shielding layer 412 that can be formed of a material (e.g., silver, copper) capable of protecting the electrical traces 406 from electromagnetic interference. While the flex circuits are shown in FIG. 3A as having single-layer electrical traces 406, it should be understood that the flex circuits can include multi-layer electrical traces 406, with each layer of electrical traces separated from other layers of electrical traces 406 via one or more additional layers (e.g., dielectric layers).

[0051] In some variations, the flex circuits described herein can include one or more additional reinforcement layers that locally increase the stiffness of areas of the flex circuit. The reinforcement layers can locally increase in thickness (and, thereby, stiffness) and can be made of any suitable material or materials (e.g., plastic, metal alloy, etc.). For example, in the variation of the flex circuit 300 shown in FIG. 3B and FIG. 5A the flex circuit 300 can include a reinforcement layer 316 attached to the first end 302. When an image sensor (not shown) is fixed relative to the first end 302, the image sensor can at least partially overlap the reinforcement layer 316. In turn, the reinforcement layer 316 can provide additional structural support to the image sensor.

[0052] Additionally or alternatively, the flex circuits can include one or more reinforcement layers 316 positioned at some or all of the bends in the flex circuit. For example, in the variation of the flex circuit 300 shown in FIG. 5B and FIG. 6AIn variations of the flexible circuit 300 shown, the flexible circuit 300 can include a reinforcement layer 316 at each of the first bend 312 and the second bend 314. Placing a reinforcement layer 316 at a given bend can reduce stress concentrations (or other movements occurring near the bend) that can occur in the bend during twisting of adjacent sections of the flexible circuit.

[0053] Additionally, in some variations, the reinforcement layer can extend past the edges of the other layers of the flexible circuit. For example, FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B Front and back perspective views of a flexible circuit 500 having a reinforcement layer 502 at a bend 504 are shown. As shown, the reinforcement layer 502 can extend past the edges of the rest of the flexible circuit 500 such that a portion of the reinforcement layer 502 does not overlap the remaining layers of the flexible circuit 500. In variations where the flexible circuit can contact one or more end stops (e.g., during a drop event as described above), the reinforcement layer 502 can contact the end stop and act as a bumper, which in turn can reduce the likelihood of damage to the remaining layers of the flexible circuit. For example, if the reinforcement layer 502 extends beyond the remaining layers of the flexible circuit 500 in a first direction, movement of the flexible circuit 500 in the first direction can cause the reinforcement layer 502 to contact an end stop (not shown) first. In practice, the flexible circuit and camera can be preferably designed such that any contact between the flexible circuit and an end stop occurs between the reinforcement layer and the respective end stop.

[0054] While the flexible circuit is described above as having a first section, a second section, and a third section, it should be understood that the flexible circuits described herein can have more than three planar sections. For example, FIG. 6AA variation of the flexible circuit 600 is shown, having at least five segments connecting a first end of the flexible circuit 600 to a second end. As shown, the flexible circuit 600 may include a first end 602 (which may be fixed relative to an image sensor), a second end 604 (which may be fixed relative to another component of the camera), and multiple segments including a first segment 606, a second segment 608, and a third segment 610. The multiple segments may connect the first end 602 to the second end 604. The first segment 606 may connect to the second segment 608 at a first bend 612, and the second segment 608 may connect to the third segment 610 at a second bend 614. As shown, the first segment 606, the second segment 608, and the third segment 610 may each be vertically oriented such that the normal vector of each respective segment is perpendicular to a common direction (e.g., perpendicular to the optical axis of the camera at the image sensor). Preferably, the first segment 606 and the third segment 610 are also parallel to each other. When the first end 602 moves away from the second end 604 along the first direction 628, the first segment 606 and the third segment 610 can be twisted, wherein the second segment 608 acts as a lever arm, as described above. FIG. 6A and FIG. 6A The flexible circuit 600 is described in detail above. Additionally, the flexible circuit 600 may include one or more reinforcement layers 634, which may be positioned at any suitable portion of the flexible circuit 600, as described in more detail above.

[0055] like FIG. 6A As shown, the flexible circuit 600 may further include a fourth segment 616 and a fifth segment 620. The fourth segment 616 may be connected to the first segment 606 at the third bend 618 and may also be connected to the first end 602 at the fourth bend 622. The fifth segment 620 may be connected to the third segment 610 at the fifth bend 624 and may also be connected to the second end 604 at the sixth bend 626. In some variations, the fourth segment may include a wire turn (e.g., between the third bend 618 and the fourth bend 622) FIG. 6B The first coil 630 shown in the diagram causes the third bend 618 and the fourth bend 622 to bend about different (e.g., vertical) axes. Additionally or alternatively, the fifth segment 620 may include a coil (e.g., between the fifth bend 624 and the sixth bend 626) FIG. 6C The second coil 632 shown in the figure causes the fifth bend 624 and the sixth bend 626 to bend around different (e.g., vertical) axes.

[0056] exist FIG. 2AIn the variant shown, the fourth segment 616 and the fifth segment 620 can be vertically oriented such that the normal vector of each corresponding segment is perpendicular to the first direction 628. The fourth segment 616 and the fifth segment 620 can be parallel to each other and can also be located in a common plane (although it should be understood that the fourth segment 616 and the fifth segment 620 can be located in different planes).

[0057] In some variations, the fourth segment 616 and the fifth segment 618 can each be designed to have sufficient rigidity such that at least a portion of the fourth segment 616 is fixed in place relative to the first end 602, and at least a portion of the fifth segment 618 is fixed in place relative to the second end 604, for moving the flexible circuit across the operating range of the actuator assembly. By acting as fixed extensions of the first end 602 and the second end 604, the fourth segment 616 and the fifth segment 610 can facilitate torsion of the first segment 606 and the third segment 610.

[0058] FIG. 2B and FIG. 2A This illustrates how the flexible circuit 600 can be integrated into the above relative to FIG. 2B and FIG. 6B Top views of two configurations in exemplary variants of the described camera 200. FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C Common components will share the same labels, and certain components or portions thereof of camera 200 (e.g., lens holder 214 and the top portion of housing 212) have been omitted from the accompanying drawings to better illustrate other camera components. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6C As shown, the first end 602 of the flexible circuit 600 can be fixed relative to the image sensor 204 and relative to the sensor holder 216. The fourth segment 616 and the fifth segment 620 can be positioned on the common side of the camera, and multiple segments of the flexible circuit can be wound around or otherwise surrounded on all sides of the sensor holder 216. Additionally, the flexible circuit can be wound around a portion of the lens holder (not shown) that holds the coil 226.

[0059] exist FIG. 7A In the variant shown, camera 200 may need to allocate sufficient space to accommodate flexible circuitry 600 on each side of camera 200. In other variants, at least one segment of the multiple segments of flexible circuitry 600 may overlap with sensor support 216, which may allow for a further reduction in the space occupied by camera 200. For example, in FIG. 7AIn the illustrated variation, one of the segments (the second segment 608, as illustrated, but which can be a different segment in other variations) can span a segment of the sensor holder 216. In other words, this segment can be positioned between the sensor holder 216 and the lens holder, and can also be positioned such that the flex circuit is not positioned between the coil 226 and an adjacent wall of the housing (not shown). This can allow the flex circuit 600 to utilize other existing space between the sensor holder 216 and the lens holder 214. It should be appreciated that the camera 200 and flex circuit 600 can be configured such that the flex circuit 600 does not contact the lens holder 214 or the sensor holder 216 during normal operation (e.g., across an operating range), but can be further configured such that the lens holder and / or sensor holder 216 can act as an end stop for the flex circuit 600.

[0060] While the second segment 608 is illustrated as being oriented vertically in FIG. 6A , it should be appreciated that in some cases, the second segment of the flex circuit can be oriented horizontally such that the normal vector perpendicular to the second segment is parallel to the direction of motion of the image sensor. FIG. 7A One such perspective variation of a flex circuit 700 is illustrated. As illustrated, the flex circuit 700 can include multiple segments, including a first segment 702, a second segment 704, and a third segment 706. The first segment 702 can be connected to the second segment 704 at a first bend 708, while the second segment 704 can be connected to the third segment 706 at a second bend 710. As illustrated, the first segment 702 and the third segment 706 can each be oriented vertically such that the normal vector of each respective segment is perpendicular to a first direction (e.g., the direction of motion of the image sensor, as described above). Preferably, the first segment 702 and the third segment 706 are also parallel to one another. The second segment 704 is oriented horizontally such that the normal vector of the second segment 704 is parallel to the first direction. To facilitate the change in orientation between the first segment 702 and the second segment 704, the first segment 702 can include a turn of wire (illustrated as a turn 714), which can cause the first bend 708 to bend about an axis that is perpendicular to the axis about which the second bend 710 bends. FIG. 7B The second segment 704 can include a turn of wire (illustrated as a turn 712) that can cause the second bend 710 to bend about an axis that is parallel to the axis about which the first bend 708 bends. FIG. 2A The first bend 612 in the flex circuit 600 is illustrated as bending about an axis that is perpendicular to the axis about which the second bend 710 bends. Similarly, the third segment 706 can include a turn of wire (illustrated as a turn 712 in FIG. 2B , which will also change the direction of the axis about which the second bend 710 bends.

[0061] The first section 702 and the third section 706 can still be twisted with the second section 704 acting as a lever arm during image sensor movement, but the second section 704 can be positioned below a portion of the image sensor and / or sensor mount such that the image sensor and / or sensor mount are positioned between the second section 704 and the lens. This can allow for a reduction in the width or length of the camera at the expense of the width of the camera. By way of illustration, FIG. 2A a top view of an illustrative variant of the camera 200 described above with respect to FIG. 2B and FIG. 6A The common components from FIG. 6A and FIG. 8A will share the same labels, and certain components of the camera 200 or portions thereof (e.g., the lens holder 214 and the top portion of the housing 212) are omitted from the figures to better illustrate other camera components. As shown, the second section 704 can be positioned below a portion of both the image sensor 204 and the sensor mount 216 such that the image sensor 204 and the sensor mount 216 are positioned between the second section 704 and the lens 206 and / or lens holder 214 along the direction of motion of the image sensor 204.

[0062] The flexible circuit 700 can include a fourth section that can include turns and can be connected to the first section at a third bend and to the first end of the flexible circuit at a fourth bend, a fifth section that can include turns and can be connected to the third section at a fifth bend and to the second end of the flexible circuit at a sixth bend, and one or more reinforcement layers. These elements can be configured the same as the corresponding elements of the variant of the flexible circuit 600 from FIG. 7A and thus are labeled using the same reference labels used in FIG. 3A .

[0063] FIG. 3BAnother perspective variation of a flexible circuit 800 is shown having at least four planar segments positioned to connect a first end of the flexible circuit to a second end. As shown, the flexible circuit 800 can include a first end 802 (which can be fixed relative to an image sensor), a second end 804 (which can be fixed relative to another component of the camera), and a plurality of segments including a first segment 806, a second segment 808, and a third segment 810 connecting the first end 802 to the second end 804. The first segment 806 can be connected to the second segment 808 at a first bend 812, while the second segment 808 can be connected to the third segment 810 at a second bend 814. As shown, the first segment 806, the second segment 808, and the third segment 810 can each be oriented vertically such that a normal vector of each respective segment is perpendicular to a common first direction (e.g., along a direction of motion of the image sensor), however, it should be appreciated that the first segment 806, the second segment 808, and the third segment 810 can be configured such that the second segment 808 is oriented horizontally (as described above with respect to the flexible circuit 700 of FIG. 7). Preferably, the first segment 806 and the third segment 810 are also parallel to one another. When the first end 802 is moved away from the second end 804 along the first direction, the first segment 806 and the third segment 810 can twist, with the second segment 808 acting as a lever arm, as described above with respect to the flexible circuit 300 of FIG. 3 and the flexible circuit 700 of FIG. 7. Additionally, the flexible circuit 800 can include one or more reinforcement layers 828 that can be positioned at any suitable portion of the flexible circuit 800, as described in greater detail above. FIG. 8A FIG. 8A FIG. 8A

[0064] As shown, the flexible circuit 800 can also include a fourth segment 816. The fourth segment 816 can be connected to the first segment 806 at a third bend 818, and can also be connected to the first end 802 at a fourth bend 820. In some variations, the fourth segment can include a turn between the third bend 818 and the fourth bend 820 (e.g., the first turn 824 shown in FIG. 8A), such that the third bend 818 and the fourth bend 820 are bent about different (e.g., perpendicular) axes. The third segment 810 can be connected to the second end 804 at a fifth bend 822, and can include a turn between the second bend 814 and the fifth bend 822 (e.g., the second turn 826 shown in FIG. 8A), such that the second bend 814 and the fifth bend 822 are bent about different (e.g., perpendicular) axes. FIG. 8A FIG. 8B FIG. 2A

[0065] ​​​​​​In these variations, the second segment 808 and the fourth segment 816 can also twist during relative movement along the first direction between the first end and the second end (e.g., with the first segment 806 acting as a lever arm). However, in some of these variations, the flexible circuit 800 can be configured such that the first segment 806 and the third segment 810 are more susceptible to twisting than the second segment 808 and the fourth segment 816. If the operating range of the camera actuator assembly is small enough, the flexible circuit 800 can experience twisting in the first segment 806 and the third segment 810, but not in the second segment 808 or the fourth segment 816, when the flexible circuit 800 is moved within the operating range. While the first segment 806 and the third segment 810 are shown connected to the fourth segment 816 and the second end 804, respectively, in FIG. 2B other implementations, the third segment 810 can be connected to the fourth segment 816 (and to the first end 802 in tandem therewith), and the first segment 806 can be connected to the second end 804.

[0066] FIG. 2A A top view showing how the flexible circuit 800 can be integrated into an illustrative variation of the camera 200 described above with respect to FIG. 2B and FIG. 6B is shown. Common components from FIG. 9A and FIG. 7A will share the same labels, and certain components of the camera 200 or portions thereof (e.g., the lens holder 214 and the top portion of the housing 212) are omitted from the figure to better illustrate other camera components. As shown, multiple segments of the flexible circuit 800 can be wrapped around or otherwise surround the sensor holder 216 on all sides of the sensor holder 216. Additionally, the flexible circuit 800 can wrap around portions of the lens holder (not shown) that hold the coil 226. Each of the four segments of the flexible circuit 800 can be positioned adjacent to a different respective wall of the camera housing (not shown). In other cases, one or more segments of the flexible circuit 800 can be positioned to overlap at least a portion of the image sensor 204 and / or the sensor holder 216, as discussed above with respect to FIG. 3A .

[0067] FIG. 3BAnother perspective variation of the flexible circuit 900 is shown, having three segments connecting a first end of the flexible circuit 900 to a second end, with two of these segments connecting to the first and second ends respectively at corresponding bends. As shown, the flexible circuit 900 may include a first end 902 (which may be fixed relative to an image sensor), a second end 904 (which may be fixed relative to another component of a camera), and multiple planar segments including a first segment 906, a second segment 908, and a third segment 910 connecting the first end 902 to the second end 904. The first segment 906 may connect to the second segment 908 at a first bend 912, and the second segment 908 may connect to the third segment 910 at a second bend 914. As shown in the figure, the first segment 906, the second segment 908, and the third segment 910 can each be vertically oriented such that the normal vector of each corresponding segment is perpendicular to a common first direction (e.g., along the direction of motion of the image sensor). However, it should be understood that the first segment 906, the second segment 908, and the third segment 910 can be configured such that the second segment 908 is horizontally oriented (as described above relative to...). FIG. 9A (As described in the flexible circuit 700). Preferably, the first segment 906 and the third segment 910 are also parallel to each other. When the first end 902 moves away from the second end 904 along the first direction, the first segment 906 and the third segment 910 can be twisted, wherein the second segment 908 acts as a lever arm, as described above regarding FIG. 9B and FIG. 2A The flexible circuit 900 is described in detail above. Additionally, the flexible circuit 900 may include one or more reinforcement layers 924, which may be positioned at any suitable portion of the flexible circuit 900, as described in more detail above.

[0068] As described above, the first segment 906 may be connected to the first end 902 (which may then be connected to the image sensor) at the first bend 916. In some variations of these modifications, the first segment 906 may include a wire coil (e.g., a first wire coil 920) such that the first bend 912 and the third bend 916 are bent about different (e.g., vertical) axes. Similarly, the third segment 910 may be connected to the second end 904 at the fourth bend 918. In some variations of these modifications, the third segment 910 may include a wire coil (e.g., a second wire coil 922) such that the second bend 914 and the fourth bend 918 are bent about different (e.g., vertical) axes.

[0069] when FIG. 2BA variant of the flexible circuit 900 shown in FIG. 9A can be positioned adjacent to three sides of a camera when placed in a camera, which can allow for a reduced footprint of the camera relative to other embodiments of the flexible circuit described above in which the flexible circuit is positioned adjacent to four sides of the camera. For example, FIG. 2A A top view of an illustrative variant of the camera 200 described above with respect to FIG. 2B and FIG. 9B is shown. Common components from ​ and ​ will share the same labels, and certain components or portions of the camera 200 (e.g., the lens holder 214 and the top portion of the housing 212) are omitted from the figures to better illustrate other camera components. As shown, multiple segments of the flexible circuit 900 can be wrapped around or otherwise surround the sensor holder 216 on three sides of the sensor holder 216. While the flexible circuit 900 is positioned such that the flexible circuit 900 is not positioned between the coil 226 and an adjacent wall of the camera in ​ It should be appreciated, however, that it can be a different side of the camera 200 where the flexible circuit 900 is not present. Because the camera does not need a minimum spacing at this side to accommodate the flexible circuit 900, the footprint of the camera 200 can be reduced relative to designs where the flexible circuit is present at this side of the camera 200.

[0070] It should be appreciated that the flexible circuits and cameras described herein can be integrated into any suitable system. In some cases, the cameras can be made into standalone devices. In other embodiments, the cameras described herein can be incorporated into other electronic devices, such as mobile phones (e.g., smartphones), computers, tablets, gaming devices, peripherals thereof, and the like.

[0071] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practice the embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments and its practical applications. Thus, others skilled in the art will be able to understand the embodiments with reference to the documents discussed in detail above, and various modifications as are suitable for particular applications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The embodiments should therefore not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, but merely as being illustrative.

Claims

1. A camera, the camera comprising: a lens; an image sensor positioned to receive light through the lens; an actuator assembly configured to move the image sensor within the camera along a first direction; and a flexible circuit comprising: a plurality of planar segments including a first segment connected to a second segment via a first bend and a third segment connected to the second segment via a second bend; a first end; and a second end, wherein the plurality of planar segments connects the first end to the second end; wherein the first end is fixed relative to the image sensor and movable relative to the second end when the image sensor is moved along the first direction, and wherein the flexible circuit is positioned such that the first segment twists about a length of the first segment when the image sensor is moved along the first direction.

2. The camera of claim 1, wherein the first segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the first segment is perpendicular to the first direction, and the third segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the third segment is perpendicular to the first direction.

3. The camera of claim 2, wherein the first segment is parallel to the third segment.

4. The camera of claim 2, wherein the second segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the second segment is parallel to the first direction.

5. The camera of claim 2, wherein the second segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the second segment is perpendicular to the first direction.

6. The camera of claim 1, wherein the flexible circuit further comprises a fourth segment, wherein the fourth segment is connected to the first segment at a third bend.

7. The camera of claim 6, wherein the fourth segment is connected to the first end at a fourth bend.

8. The camera of claim 7, wherein the third segment is connected to the second end at a fifth bend.

9. The camera of claim 6, wherein the flexible circuit further comprises a fifth segment, wherein the fifth segment is connected to the third segment at a fourth bend.

10. The camera of claim 1, wherein the first direction is parallel to an optical axis of the camera.

11. The camera of claim 1, further comprising a sensor mount fixed relative to the image sensor and a lens holder connected to the lens, wherein the second segment is positioned between the sensor mount and the lens holder.

12. The camera of claim 1, further comprising a sensor mount fixed relative to the image sensor and a lens holder connected to the lens, wherein the sensor mount is positioned between the second segment and the lens holder.

13. A camera, the camera comprising: a lens; an image sensor positioned to receive light through the lens; an actuator assembly configured to move the image sensor within the camera along a first direction; and a flexible circuit comprising: a plurality of planar segments including a first segment connected to a second segment via a first bend and a third segment connected to the second segment via a second bend; a first end; and a second end, wherein the plurality of planar segments connects the first end to the second end; wherein the first end is fixed relative to the image sensor and movable relative to the second end when the image sensor is moved along the first direction, and wherein the flexible circuit is positioned such that the first segment twists about a length of the first segment when the image sensor is moved along the first direction. an actuator assembly configured to move the image sensor within the camera along a first direction; and a flexible circuit comprising a plurality of planar segments connected via one or more bends, wherein the flexible circuit is connected to and positioned relative to the image sensor such that at least one of the plurality of planar segments twists about a length of the at least one planar segment during movement of the image sensor along the first direction.

14. The camera of claim 13, wherein the at least one of the plurality of planar segments comprises a first segment, wherein a length of the first segment is oriented perpendicular to the first direction and a width of the first segment is oriented parallel to the first direction, and wherein the first segment twists about the length of the first segment during movement of the image sensor along the first direction.

15. The camera of claim 14, wherein the flexible circuit comprises a first end portion that is fixed relative to the image sensor, and wherein the first segment is connected to the first end portion at a first bend.

16. The camera of claim 13, wherein the first direction is parallel to an optical axis of the camera.

17. An apparatus comprising an image sensor, the apparatus comprising: the image sensor, the image sensor having an optical axis; and a flexible circuit comprising: a first end portion that is fixed relative to the image sensor; a second end portion; and a plurality of planar segments connecting the first end portion to the second end portion and comprising a first segment, a second segment, and a third segment, wherein the second segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the second segment is parallel to the optical axis of the image sensor; wherein the first segment is connected to the second segment at a first bend and the second segment is connected to the third segment at a third bend, and wherein the first segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the first segment is perpendicular to the optical axis of the image sensor and the third segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the third segment is perpendicular to the optical axis of the image sensor.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the first segment is parallel to the third segment.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the second segment is oriented such that a normal vector of the second segment is perpendicular to the optical axis of the image sensor.

Images