Stabilization components for image sensors

Abstract

A sensor stabilization assembly includes: a housing including a first portion of a first electromagnetic assembly and a first portion of a second electromagnetic assembly and defining a housing aperture; a first frame having a first guide allowing relative movement between the first frame and the housing and defining the first frame aperture; and a second frame having a second guide allowing relative movement between the second frame and the first frame. The second frame includes: a second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly adapted to interact with the first portion to cause the first frame and the second frame to move relative to the housing; and a second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly adapted to interact with the first portion to cause the second frame to move relative to the first frame and the housing. A sensor is coupled to the second frame to capture light passing through the housing aperture and the first frame aperture.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification generally relates to an optical image stabilizer (OIS). Background Art

[0002] The electronic device can include a camera system. The camera system can use optical image stabilization techniques to compensate for shake and vibration. Optical image stabilization can include moving the lens to counteract unwanted movement of the electronic device. For camera systems with larger and heavier camera lenses, moving the lens is more difficult. Summary of the invention

[0003] An actuator assembly for use in stabilizing an image sensor is disclosed. The assembly can be incorporated into an electronic device including an imaging system such as a camera system. The disclosed technology can be used to counteract unwanted motion of the electronic device to stabilize video images captured by the image sensor and improve the clarity of the captured image. The disclosed technology stabilizes video and images captured by the image sensor by moving the image sensor relative to a housing and a lens.

[0004] Optical image stabilization can be achieved by adjusting the relative position between the camera lens and the image sensor to counteract the movement of the camera, for example, due to hand shake. Instead of moving the lens relative to the image sensor, the image sensor can be moved relative to the lens to compensate for hand shake. The image sensor can have a lighter weight than the lens. Therefore, movement of the image sensor rather than the lens can reduce power consumption, increase movement speed and thus improve stabilization quality, and improve the reliability of the camera system.

[0005] As additional description of the embodiments described below, the present disclosure describes the following embodiments.

[0006] Embodiment 1 relates to a sensor stabilization assembly, comprising: a housing, the housing comprising a first portion of a first electromagnetic assembly and a first portion of a second electromagnetic assembly, and defining a housing aperture; a first frame, the first frame being movably mounted to an underside of the housing and having a plurality of first guides allowing relative movement between the first frame and the housing along a first direction, the first frame defining a first frame aperture; a second frame, the second frame being movably mounted to an underside of the first frame and having a plurality of second guides allowing relative movement between the second frame and the first frame along a second direction transverse to the first direction, wherein: the second frame comprises a second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly The invention relates to a method of electromagnetically controlling a first frame and a second frame comprising: a first electromagnetic assembly having a second portion, the second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly being adapted to electromagnetically interact with the first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly when the first electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause both the first frame and the second frame to move relative to the housing in a first direction; a second frame comprising a second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly being adapted to electromagnetically interact with the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly when the second electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause the second frame to move relative to both the first frame and the housing in a second direction; and a sensor coupled to the second frame, the sensor being configured to move with the second frame in the first and second directions and to capture light passing through an aperture of the housing and an aperture of the first frame.

[0007] Embodiment 2 is a component of embodiment 1, wherein the lower side of the housing defines a plurality of first grooves oriented along a first direction; and each of the plurality of first guide members includes a first protrusion extending from the top side of the first frame to a corresponding first groove in the plurality of first grooves defined by the lower side of the housing.

[0008] Embodiment 3 is the assembly of embodiment 2, wherein each of the plurality of first grooves defines a first wedge shape, and the shape of the first protrusion of each of the plurality of first guides conforms to the first wedge shape defined by the corresponding first groove.

[0009] Embodiment 4 is a component of any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein: the lower side of the first frame defines a plurality of second grooves oriented along a second direction; and each of the plurality of second guide members includes a second protrusion extending from the top side of the second frame to a corresponding second groove in the plurality of second grooves defined by the lower side of the first frame.

[0010] Embodiment 5 is the assembly of embodiment 4, wherein each of the plurality of second grooves defines a second wedge shape, and the shape of the second protrusion of each of the plurality of second guides conforms to the second wedge shape defined by the corresponding second groove.

[0011] Embodiment 6 is the assembly of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of first guides inhibit relative movement between the first frame and the housing along the second direction.

[0012] Embodiment 7 is the assembly of any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of second guides inhibit relative movement between the second frame and the first frame along the first direction.

[0013] Embodiment 8 is a component of any one of Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the outer periphery of the first frame forms a first rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction; the plurality of first guide members include four first guide members; and each of the four first guide members is located at a corresponding corner of the four corners of the first rectangle.

[0014] Embodiment 9 is a component of any one of Embodiments 1 to 8, wherein: the outer periphery of the second frame forms a second rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction; the plurality of second guide members include four second guide members; and each of the four second guide members is located at a corresponding corner of the four corners of the second rectangle.

[0015] Embodiment 10 is the assembly of any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the outer perimeter of the first frame and the outer perimeter of the second frame have the same size and shape.

[0016] Embodiment 11 is a component of any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein: the shell aperture is defined by the inner periphery of the shell; the first frame aperture is defined by the inner periphery of the first frame; and the inner periphery of the shell and the inner periphery of the first frame have the same size and shape.

[0017] Embodiment 12 is the assembly of any of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein each of the first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly includes a magnet; and each of the second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly includes a coil.

[0018] Embodiment 13 is the assembly of any of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein: the first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly is transverse to the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly; and the second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly is transverse to the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly.

[0019] Embodiment 14 is the component of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein: the housing aperture forms a rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction; the first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly abut different sides of the housing aperture; the outer periphery of the second frame forms a rectangle in the plane defined by the first direction and the second direction; and the second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly abut different sides of the second frame.

[0020] Embodiment 15 is the assembly of any of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein each of the plurality of first guides and each of the plurality of second guides comprises a rolling element bearing.

[0021] Embodiment 16 is the assembly of any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the housing supports the auto focus carrier to move up and down along a third direction transverse to the first direction and the second direction.

[0022] Embodiment 17 is the assembly of any one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the assembly is located inside the electronic device and the housing is immovable relative to the electronic device.

[0023] Embodiment 18 is the assembly of any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein: the sensor is connected to the fixed circuit board with a flexible conductor to receive the electrical signal from the fixed circuit board via the flexible conductor; and the fixed circuit board is fixed relative to the housing.

[0024] Embodiment 19 is a component of any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein the sensor comprises an image sensor.

[0025] Embodiment 20 relates to a sensor stabilization assembly, comprising: a housing, the housing comprising a first portion of a first electromagnetic assembly and a first portion of a second electromagnetic assembly, and defining a housing aperture; a first frame, the first frame being movably mounted to a lower side of the housing and having a plurality of first guides allowing relative movement between the first frame and the housing along a first direction, the first frame defining a first frame aperture; a second frame, the second frame being movably mounted to a lower side of the first frame and having a plurality of second guides allowing relative movement between the second frame and the first frame along a second direction transverse to the first direction, wherein: an outer periphery of the first frame forms a first rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction, each of the plurality of first guides being located at a corresponding corner of the first rectangle; an outer periphery of the second frame is formed in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction A second rectangle is formed in a plane defined by the first and second directions, each of the plurality of second guides being located at a corresponding corner of the second rectangle; the second frame comprises a second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly, the second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly being adapted to electromagnetically interact with the first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly when the first electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause both the first frame and the second frame to move relative to the housing along the first direction; the second frame comprises a second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly, the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly being adapted to electromagnetically interact with the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly when the second electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause the second frame to move relative to both the first frame and the housing along the second direction; and a sensor coupled to the second frame, the sensor being configured to move with the second frame in the first and second directions and to capture light passing through the housing aperture and the first frame aperture.

[0026] Among other advantages, embodiments are characterized by improved reliability, faster movement speed resulting in improved stabilization quality, and reduced power consumption. In some examples, the weight of the mobile sensor base is about three times lighter than the mobile lens carrier. Performing optical image stabilization by adjusting the lens position in a camera system with a heavy lens can degrade reliability and increase power consumption. Therefore, reliability, power consumption, resonant frequency, and movement speed can all benefit from the movement of a lighter component such as an image sensor rather than a heavier component such as a lens.

[0027] The details of one or more implementations of the subject matter of the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims.

[0028] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example sensor stabilization assembly.

[0030] Figure 2 yes Figure 1Exploded view of the sensor stabilization assembly.

[0031] Figure 3A and 3B is a perspective view of an example sensor stabilization assembly with an autofocus carrier moving up and down relative to the assembly's housing.

[0032] Figure 4A and 4B is a perspective view of an example sensor stabilization assembly with a second frame moved laterally relative to a first frame and a housing of the assembly.

[0033] Figure 5A and 5B is a perspective view of an example sensor stabilization assembly with first and second frames moved laterally relative to a housing of the assembly.

[0034] Figure 6 An example flow chart of a process for operating a sensor stabilization assembly is shown.

[0035] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a mobile device.

[0036] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a mobile device.

[0037] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an electronic control module for a mobile device.

[0038] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of an example sensor stabilization assembly. In some examples, assembly 100 is located inside an electronic device and housing 102 is immobile relative to the electronic device. In some examples, assembly 100 is part of a camera system of the electronic device. Assembly 100 can be used to focus and stabilize an image sensor of a camera system.

[0040] For reference, in Figure 1 . The Cartesian coordinate system is shown in FIG. The Cartesian coordinate system defines a first direction (x direction) and a second direction (y direction) that is transverse (e.g., orthogonal or perpendicular) to the first direction. The Cartesian coordinate system also defines a third direction (z direction) that is transverse (e.g., orthogonal or perpendicular) to both the first direction and the second direction. The x direction and the y direction define an xy plane that is transverse to the z direction. The xy plane can be considered to be any plane that is parallel to both the x-axis and the y-axis of the Cartesian coordinate system.

[0041] In this disclosure, movement along the z-direction can be movement in the positive or negative z-direction and is referred to as up and down movement. Movement along the x-direction or y-direction can be movement in the positive or negative direction and is referred to as lateral movement. The bottom of the assembly can be defined by the position of the bottom surface of the assembly base 136 in the z-direction. The top of the assembly can be defined by the top surface of the housing 102 opposite the bottom of the assembly in the z-direction. The underside of a component of the assembly can be defined as the surface of the component facing the assembly base 136 in the z-direction.

[0042] The sensor stabilization assembly 100 includes a housing 102 supporting an autofocus carrier 104. The housing can have an outer perimeter that forms a polygonal shape in the xy plane. For example, the outer perimeter of the housing can have a rectangular shape, a square shape, etc. The example housing has a rectangular shape, each side of the rectangle having a length of 40 millimeters (mm) or less. In some examples, each side of the rectangle can have a length of, for example, 36 mm or less, 24 mm or less, 12 mm or less, 10 mm or less, etc.

[0043] The housing 102 has an inner periphery defining a housing aperture 106. In the xy plane, the inner periphery is concentric with the outer periphery. In the example assembly 100, the housing aperture 106 forms a rectangular shape in a plane defined by the x-direction and the y-direction. The autofocus carrier 104 defines a carrier aperture 103. In the example assembly 100, the carrier aperture 103 forms a circular shape in a plane defined by the x-direction and the y-direction. The carrier aperture 103 is narrower than the housing aperture 106, for example, the carrier aperture 103 has a smaller diameter than the diameter of the housing aperture 106. The carrier aperture 103 and the housing aperture 106 are substantially aligned with each other in the xy plane.

[0044] During operation of the assembly 100, the auto-focus carrier 104 can move up and down (e.g., in the z-direction) within the housing aperture 106. The auto-focus carrier 104 can support an optical lens, such as a camera lens. For example, a camera lens can be mounted on the auto-focus carrier 104 so that the lens spans the carrier aperture 103. The auto-focus carrier 104 can move the lens up and down in the z-direction to adjust the focus of the camera.

[0045] The assembly 100 also includes a first frame 110 and a second frame 120. The assembly 100 includes a sensor coupled to the second frame 120. During operation of the sensor stabilization assembly 100, the housing 102 remains rigid, or substantially stationary, relative to the electronic device. Each of the autofocus carrier 104, the first frame 110, and the second frame 120 can be movable relative to the housing 102 and relative to the electronic device.

[0046] The assembly also includes an assembly base 136 that does not move relative to the housing 102. The assembly base 136 supports a base circuit board for generating control signals for at least a portion of the assembly 100. The base circuit board can be coupled to the underside of the assembly base 136. The auto-focus circuit board 116 electrically connects the auto-focus carrier 104 to the base circuit board supported by the assembly base 136. The auto-focus circuit board 116 can be, for example, a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0047] Figure 1 The assembly 100 is shown with each of the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 in a centered position. The centered position can be a static position for the assembly 100, for example, the position of the assembly when no current is applied to drive the position of the first frame or the second frame. In the centered position, the edges of the housing 102, the first frame 110, and the second frame 120 can be substantially aligned in the z direction.

[0048] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded view of the sensor stabilization assembly. Figure 2 During operation of the assembly 100, light passes through the lens, through the housing aperture 106 and the carrier aperture 103, through the first frame aperture 119, through the filter 126, and is captured by the sensor 130. The sensor 130 can be, for example, an image sensor. The sensor 130 can be immobile relative to the second frame 120 of the assembly.

[0049] The autofocus carrier 104 supports a bipolar autofocus magnet 105. The autofocus circuit board 116 includes an autofocus coil and an autofocus hall sensor supported by the inner side of the autofocus circuit board 116. The autofocus magnet 105 is substantially aligned with the autofocus coil and with the autofocus hall sensor in the xy plane.

[0050] The autofocus coil and the autofocus magnet 105 can electromagnetically interact to drive the autofocus carrier 104 to move up and down in the z direction. For example, a current flowing through the autofocus coil in a first direction can induce a magnetic field that electromagnetically interacts with the autofocus magnet 105 to cause the autofocus carrier 104 to move upward, and a current flowing through the autofocus coil in a second direction opposite to the first direction can induce a magnetic field that electromagnetically interacts with the autofocus magnet 105 to cause the autofocus carrier 104 to move downward.

[0051] A Hall sensor or Hall effect sensor is a type of sensor that uses the Hall effect to detect the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field. The output voltage of a Hall sensor is proportional to the field strength. An autofocus Hall sensor can be used to measure the displacement of the autofocus carrier 104 in the z-direction.

[0052] The auto focus circuit board 116 is coupled to the assembly base 136 and transmits an auto focus driving signal between the base circuit board 135 and the auto focus coil. The auto focus circuit board 116 also transmits an auto focus sensing signal between the auto focus hall sensor and the base circuit board 135. The auto focus circuit board 116 can be soldered to the assembly base 136.

[0053] As the auto-focus carrier 104 moves up and down, the auto-focus bearing 112 reduces the friction between the auto-focus carrier and the housing 102. The auto-focus bearing 112 can be located at each corner of the auto-focus carrier 104. The auto-focus bearing 112 can include a rolling element bearing, such as a ball bearing.

[0054] Housing 102 supports the electromagnetic assembly parts for driving second frame 120 to move sensor 130 in the x-direction and in the y-direction, such as by carrying. For example, assembly 100 includes a first electromagnetic assembly including magnet 109 and coil 129, and a second electromagnetic assembly including magnet 108 and coil 128.

[0055] Housing 102 includes a first portion of a first magnetic assembly, such as magnet 109. Housing 102 also includes a first portion of a second magnetic assembly, such as magnet 108. Magnet 108 is transverse to magnet 109. Magnet 108 and magnet 109 can be rigidly coupled to housing 102. Housing aperture 106 can form a polygon, such as a rectangle, in the xy plane. Magnet 108 and magnet 109 can abut different sides of housing aperture 106.

[0056] The underside of the housing 102 defines a plurality of first grooves 113 oriented along a first direction, such as the x-direction. In the example assembly 100 , the underside of the housing 102 defines a first groove 113 at each corner of the housing 102 .

[0057] The first frame 110 is movably mounted to the underside of the housing 102. The first frame 110 has an outer perimeter that forms a polygonal shape, such as a rectangle, in the xy plane. The first frame 110 has an inner perimeter that defines a first frame aperture 119. In some examples, the inner perimeter of the first frame 110 and the inner perimeter of the housing 102 have the same size and shape. The first frame aperture 119 is substantially aligned with the housing aperture 106 in the z direction.

[0058] The first frame 110 includes a plurality of first guides 118. In the example assembly 100, the plurality of first guides 118 include four first guides. The first frame 110 forms a first rectangle in the xy plane, and each of the four first guides 118 is located at a corresponding corner of the four corners of the first rectangle. The guides 118 of the first frame allow relative movement between the first frame 110 and the housing 102 along the x direction. The guides 118 can inhibit relative movement between the first frame 110 and the housing 102 along the y direction.

[0059] Each of the plurality of first guides 118 includes a first protrusion 117 extending from the top side of the first frame 110. The first protrusion 117 extends into the corresponding first groove 113. In some examples, each of the plurality of first grooves 113 defines a first wedge shape, and the shape of the first protrusion 117 of each of the plurality of first guides 118 conforms to the first wedge shape defined by the corresponding first groove 113. For example, the groove 113 has a shape similar to a wedge or a triangular prism. The first protrusion 117 has a substantially wedge-like or triangular shape. The first protrusion 117 conforms to the shape of the groove 113 so that the first protrusion 117 fits into the groove 113 with a minimum gap between the edge of the first protrusion 117 and the side of the groove 113.

[0060] Each of the plurality of first guides 118 can include a rolling element bearing. The rolling element bearing can include a rolling element such as a first ball 114. The first ball 114 reduces friction between the housing 102 and the first frame 110. During operation of the assembly 100, the first frame 110 can move laterally relative to the housing 102 in the x-direction. As the first frame 110 moves laterally, the first protrusion 117 slides along the groove 113 in the x-direction. The first ball 114 rolls to reduce friction between the housing 102 and the first frame 110.

[0061] The underside of the first frame 110 defines a plurality of second grooves 115 oriented along a second direction, such as the y-direction. In the example assembly 100 , the underside of the first frame 110 defines a second groove 115 at each corner of the first frame 110 .

[0062] The second frame 120 is movably mounted to the lower side of the first frame 110. The second frame 120 has an outer periphery forming a polygonal shape, such as a rectangle, in the xy plane. In some examples, the outer periphery of the first frame 110 and the outer periphery of the second frame have the same size and shape.

[0063] The second frame 120 includes a plurality of second guides 121. In the example assembly 100, the plurality of second guides 121 include four second guides 121. The second frame 120 forms a rectangle in the xy plane, and each of the four second guides 121 is located at a corresponding corner of the four corners of the rectangle. The guides 121 of the second frame 120 allow relative movement between the second frame 120 and the first frame 110 along the y direction. The guides 118 can inhibit relative movement between the second frame 120 and the first frame 110 along the x direction.

[0064] Each of the plurality of second guides 121 includes a second protrusion 127 extending from the top side of the second frame 120. The second protrusion 127 extends into the corresponding second groove 115. In some examples, each of the plurality of second grooves 115 defines a second wedge shape, and the shape of the second protrusion 127 of each of the plurality of second guides 121 conforms to the second wedge shape defined by the corresponding second groove 115. For example, the groove 115 has a shape similar to a wedge or a triangular prism. The second protrusion 127 has a substantially wedge-like or triangular shape. The second protrusion 127 conforms to the shape of the groove 115 so that the second protrusion 127 fits into the groove 115 with a minimum gap between the edge of the second protrusion 127 and the side of the groove 115.

[0065] Each of the plurality of second guides 121 can include a rolling element bearing. The rolling element bearing can include a rolling element such as a second ball 124. The second ball 124 reduces friction between the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. During operation of the assembly 100, the second frame 120 can move laterally relative to the first frame 110 in the y direction. As the second frame 120 moves laterally, the second protrusion 127 slides along the groove 115 in the y direction. The second ball 124 rolls to reduce friction between the first frame 110 and the second frame 120.

[0066] The second frame 120 supports the electromagnetic assembly parts for driving the second frame 120 to move the sensor 130 in the x-direction and the y-direction. For example, the second frame 120 includes a second part of the first electromagnetic assembly, such as coil 129. The second frame 120 also includes a second part of the second electromagnetic assembly, such as coil 128. Coil 128 and coil 129 can be rigidly coupled to the second frame 120. The second frame 120 can form a polygon, such as a rectangle, in the xy plane. Coil 128 and coil 129 can abut different sides of the second frame 120.

[0067] Each of coils 128 and 129 forms at least one loop (possibly many loops) in the xy plane. Each loop has a longer dimension and a shorter dimension. The longer dimension of coil 128 is transverse to the longer dimension of coil 129. For example, the longer dimension of coil 128 extends in the x direction, and the longer dimension of coil 129 extends in the y direction.

[0068] The coil 129 is adapted to electromagnetically interact with the magnet 109 when the first electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause both the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 to move relative to the housing along the x-direction. For example, when the first electromagnetic assembly is energized, the coil 129 interacts with the magnet 109 to cause the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 to move in tandem along the x-direction.

[0069] The coil 128 is adapted to electromagnetically interact with the magnet 108 when the second electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause the second frame 120 to move along the y-direction relative to both the first frame 110 and the housing 102 .

[0070] In some examples, the second frame supports a plurality of Hall sensors. A first Hall sensor (not shown) can be positioned adjacent to coil 128. A second Hall sensor 125 can be positioned adjacent to coil 129. The first Hall sensor can be used to measure the displacement of the second frame 120 along the y direction. The second Hall sensor 125 can be used to measure the displacement of the second frame 120 along the x direction. The Hall sensors can output a voltage measurement proportional to the displacement of the second frame 120. The base circuit board 135 can then adjust the current to the coils 128, 129 based on the voltage output from the corresponding Hall sensor.

[0071] The sensor 130 can be supported by a sensor base 134. For example, the sensor base 134 can be attached to the underside of the sensor 130 by an adhesive material. The sensor base 134 is mechanically coupled to the second frame 120. The sensor base 134 can be mechanically coupled to the second frame 120, for example, by an adhesive material, by brazing, etc. In some examples, the sensor 130 is located between the second frame 120 and the sensor base 134 in the z direction.

[0072] The sensor 130 has an outer perimeter that forms a rectangle in the xy plane. The size of the outer perimeter of the sensor 130 in the xy plane can be smaller than the size of the outer perimeter of the housing 102, smaller than the size of the outer perimeter of the first frame 110, smaller than the size of the outer perimeter of the second frame 120, or any combination of these. In some examples, the outer perimeter of the sensor 130 has the same size and shape as the inner perimeter of the first frame 110. The sensor 130 can be an image sensor having a diameter of, for example, 40 mm or less, 16 mm or less, 10 mm or less, etc.

[0073] The sensor 130 can capture light that passes through the housing aperture 106 and the first frame aperture 119, for example, generally along the z-direction. The second frame 120 supports a filter 126. The filter 126 is aligned with the housing aperture 106 and the first frame aperture 119 in the z-direction. The filter 126 can be a blue filter, such as a blue glass filter. The blue glass filter can filter out light of a specific wavelength, such as infrared light. The blue glass filter can allow red-green-blue light to be transmitted to the sensor 130.

[0074] The sensor 130 is connected to a fixed circuit board, such as a base circuit board 135, with a flexible conductor 132. The flexible conductor 132 can be, for example, an FPCB, a wire, etc. The sensor 130 can receive an electrical signal from the base circuit board 135 via the flexible conductor 132. The sensor 130 can transmit an image sensor signal to the base circuit board 135 through the flexible conductor 132.

[0075] In some examples, flexible conductor 132 can be connected to two adjacent sides of sensor 130. For example, flexible conductor 132 can be connected to a first side of sensor 130 to carry signals routed from the sensor vertical connection pads, and can be connected to a second side of sensor 130 to carry signals routed from the sensor horizontal connection pads.

[0076] The fixed circuit board can be fixed relative to the housing. For example, the fixed circuit board can be supported by the assembly base 136. Transmitting signals between the sensor 130 and the fixed circuit board via the flexible conductor 132 can allow movement of the sensor 130 relative to the fixed circuit board. For example, the flexible conductor 132 can flex or bend to allow movement of the sensor 130 in the x-direction, the y-direction, or both.

[0077] The assembly base 136 can support and fix the circuit board. The assembly base 136 can also protect the moving parts of the assembly 100, such as the sensor 130, the first frame 110 and the second frame 120.

[0078] Figure 3A and 3B is a perspective view of an example sensor stabilization assembly where the autofocus carrier moves up and down.

[0079] refer to Figure 3A When current is applied to the autofocus coil, the electromagnetic field generated by the autofocus coil interacts with the autofocus magnet 105 to exert a force in the z-direction on the autofocus carrier 104. The force exerted on the autofocus carrier 104 in the z-direction causes the autofocus carrier 104 to move relative to the housing 102 in the z-direction.

[0080] Changing the direction of the current flowing through the auto-focus coil can reverse the direction of movement of the auto-focus carrier 104. For example, current flowing in a first direction, such as clockwise, can cause the auto-focus carrier 104 to move upward, such as in Figure 3A Changing the current to flow in a second direction, such as counterclockwise, can cause the auto-focus carrier 104 to move downward, as shown in Figure 3B as shown in .

[0081] Figure 4A and 4B is a perspective view of an example sensor stabilization assembly with a second frame laterally moved relative to a first frame and housing of the assembly. A closed loop control system includes regulating current through a coil based on measurements from a Hall sensor of the assembly.

[0082] refer to Figure 4A , when current is applied to the coil 128, the electromagnetic field generated by the coil 128 interacts with the magnet 108 to exert a force on the second frame 120 in the y direction. The guide 121 of the second frame 120 allows relative movement between the second frame 120 and the first frame 110 in the y direction. Therefore, the force exerted on the second frame 120 in the y direction causes the second frame 120 to move in the y direction relative to the first frame 110 and the housing 102. The first frame 110 and the housing 102 remain stationary.

[0083] Changing the direction of the current flowing through the coil 128 can reverse the direction of movement of the second frame 120. For example, current flowing in a first direction, such as clockwise, can cause the second frame 120 to move to the right, such as in Figure 4A Changing the current to flow in a second direction, such as counterclockwise, can cause the second frame 120 to move leftward, as shown in Figure 4B as shown in .

[0084] Changing the current amplitude can adjust the amount of movement of the second frame 120. For example, a higher current amplitude flowing through the coil 128 can cause the second frame 120 to move a greater distance in the y direction away from the center compared to a lower current amplitude. In one example, the fixed circuit board can apply a current of 10.0 milliamperes (mA) to the coil 128. The current that should be applied to the coil 128 can cause the second frame 120 to move to a first position to the right of the center in the y direction. The fixed circuit board can then increase the current for the coil 128 to 11.0 mA. The increase in the current for the coil 128 can cause the second frame 120 to move to the right in the y direction, so that the second frame 120 moves to a second position further to the right than the first position.

[0085] In some examples, the fixed circuit board can apply a constant current to the coil 128 to maintain a steady-state position of the sensor 130 relative to the housing. In some examples, the fixed circuit board can adjust the current to the coil 128 based on the movement of the housing 102. For example, to counteract the movement of the housing 102 to the left, the fixed circuit board can apply a current to the coil 128 to cause the sensor 130 to move to the left. By moving the sensor 130 to the left, an object in the field of view of the sensor can be maintained in the same or similar position relative to the sensor 130 compared to the position of the object relative to the sensor before the movement of the housing 102. This can improve image quality by reducing motion blur in the image when housing movement occurs.

[0086] In some examples, the stationary circuit board can increase the current to the coil 128 to overcome the static and rotational friction of the rolling element bearing to move the sensor 130 in the y-direction. Once the sensor 130 is moved to the desired position in the y-direction, the stationary circuit board can reduce the current to the coil 128 to maintain the sensor in a steady-state position relative to the housing 102.

[0087] Figure 5A and 5B is a perspective view of an example sensor stabilization assembly with a first frame and a second frame moved laterally relative to a housing of the assembly. Figure 5A , when current is applied to the coil 129, the electromagnetic field generated by the coil 129 interacts with the magnet 109 to exert a force on the second frame 120 in the x-direction. The guide 121 of the second frame 120 prohibits relative movement between the second frame and the first frame in the x-direction. The guide 118 of the first frame allows relative movement between the first frame 110 and the housing 102 in the x-direction. Therefore, the force exerted on the second frame 120 in the x-direction causes both the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 to move relative to the housing 102 in the x-direction. The first frame 110 and the second frame 120 move in tandem along the x-direction. For example, each of the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 can move the same distance along the x-direction.

[0088] Changing the direction of the current flowing through the coil 129 can reverse the direction of movement of the first frame 110 and the second frame 120. For example, current flowing in a first direction, such as clockwise, can cause the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 to move outward in the x-direction, such as Figure 5A Changing the current to flow in the second direction, for example, counterclockwise, can cause the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 to move inwardly in the x-direction, as shown. Figure 5B shown.

[0089] As mentioned above Figure 4A and4B As described, the displacement of the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 in the x-direction can be controlled by adjusting the current amplitude. For example, the fixed circuit board can adjust the current to the coil 129 to control the movement of the sensor in the x-direction. The fixed circuit board can apply the current to the coil 128, to the coil 129, to both, or to neither. In some examples, the fixed circuit board can apply the current to both the coil 129 and the coil 128 to offset the movement of the housing in multiple directions.

[0090] Figure 6 An example flow chart of a process 600 for operating a sensor stabilization assembly is shown. The process 600 includes moving a sensor coupled to a second frame of an assembly in a first direction by energizing a first magnetic assembly to cause both the second frame and the first frame to move in a first direction relative to a housing of the assembly (602). For example, the sensor 130 is coupled to the second frame 120 of the assembly 100. By energizing the first magnetic assembly including the magnet 109 and the coil 129, the sensor 130 is able to move in a first direction, such as in the x-direction. Energizing the first magnetic assembly causes the first frame 110 and the second frame 120 to move in tandem relative to the housing 102 in the x-direction, such as in Figure 5A and 5B as shown in .

[0091] Process 600 includes moving a sensor coupled to a second frame of the assembly in a second direction transverse to the first direction by energizing a second magnetic assembly to cause the second frame to move relative to both the first frame and the housing in a second direction (604). For example, sensor 130 is coupled to second frame 120 of assembly 100. Sensor 130 is capable of moving in a second direction, such as a y-direction, by energizing a second magnetic assembly including magnet 108 and coil 128. Energizing the second magnetic assembly causes second frame 120 to move independently relative to first frame 110 and housing 102 in the y-direction, such as in Figure 4A and 4B as shown in .

[0092] While the preceding figures cover a specific embodiment of a sensor stabilization assembly, namely sensor stabilization assembly 100, more generally, the principles embodied in this example can also be applied to other designs. For example, while sensor stabilization assembly 100 has a substantially square footprint (i.e., in the xy plane), other shapes are possible, such as substantially rectangular, elliptical, or circular.

[0093] The magnets of the sensor stabilizing assembly 100 can be ferromagnets, neodymium magnets, or ferrite magnets, such as one composed of iron and nickel. In some embodiments, one or more of the magnets of the sensor stabilizing assembly 100 can be replaced by an electromagnet. In some embodiments, the sensor stabilizing assembly 100 can include a high magnetic permeability material.

[0094] In general, the sensor stabilization assembly described above can be used in a variety of applications. For example, in some embodiments, the sensor stabilization assembly 100 can be used to stabilize an image sensor of a camera of an electronic device. Such an assembly can be integrated into a mobile device, such as a mobile phone. For example, referring to Figure 7 , the mobile device 700 includes a device chassis 702 and a touch panel display 704 including a flat panel display (e.g., an OLED or LCD display panel) with an integrated panel audio amplifier. The mobile device 700 interacts with the user in various ways, including by displaying images and receiving touch inputs via the touch panel display 704. Typically, the mobile device has a depth (in the z direction) of approximately 10 mm or less, a width (in the x direction) of 60 mm to 80 mm (e.g., 68 mm to 72 mm), and a height (in the y direction) of 100 mm to 160 mm (e.g., 138 mm to 144 mm). Mobile phones are particularly challenging in terms of stability because they are portable devices that are affected by a variety of environmental conditions and user behavior during image capture. A robust image stabilization system can improve user experience and satisfaction.

[0095] Figure 7 It also shows the corresponding Figure 8 The dashed lines in the cross-section directions are shown. Figure 8 , a cross-section of a mobile device 700 illustrates a device chassis 702 and a touch panel display 704. The device chassis 702 has a depth measured along the z-direction and a width measured along the x-direction. The device chassis 702 also has a back panel formed by a portion of the device chassis 702 that extends primarily in the xy plane. The mobile device 700 includes a sensor stabilizing assembly 100 housed behind a display 704 in the chassis 702 and attached to a back side of the display 704. For example, a PSA is capable of attaching the sensor stabilizing assembly 100 to the display 704. Typically, the sensor stabilizing assembly 100 is sized to fit within a volume constrained by other components housed in the chassis, including an electronic control module 820 and a battery 830.

[0096] Typically, the disclosed actuator is controlled by an electronic control module, such as electronic control module 820. Typically, the electronic control module is comprised of one or more electronic components that receive input from one or more sensors and / or signal receivers of the mobile phone, process the input, and generate and transmit signal waveforms that control the operation of the sensor stabilization assembly 100.

[0097] refer to Fig. 9 , an exemplary electronic control module 820 of a mobile device, such as the mobile device 700, includes a processor 910, a memory 920, a display driver 930, a signal generator 940, an input / output (I / O) module 950, and a network / communication module 960. These components are in electrical communication with each other (e.g., via a signal bus 902) and with the sensor stabilization assembly 100.

[0098] Processor 910 can be implemented as any electronic device capable of processing, receiving or transmitting data or instructions. For example, processor 910 can be a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a combination of such devices.

[0099] The memory 920 has various instructions, computer programs, or other data stored thereon. The instructions or computer programs may be configured to perform one or more of the operations or functions described with respect to the mobile device. For example, the instructions may be configured to control or coordinate the operation of the display of the device via the display driver 930, the signal generator 940, one or more components of the I / O module 950, one or more communication channels accessible via the network / communication module 960, one or more sensors (e.g., biometric sensors, temperature sensors, accelerometers, optical sensors, air pressure sensors, humidity sensors, etc.), and / or the sensor stabilization component 100.

[0100] The signal generator 940 is configured to generate an AC waveform having a varied amplitude, frequency, and / or pulse envelope suitable for the sensor stabilization assembly 100. Although depicted as a separate component, in some embodiments, the signal generator 940 can be part of the processor 910. In some embodiments, the signal generator 940 can include an amplifier, for example, as an integrated or separate component thereof.

[0101] The memory 920 can store electronic data that can be used by the mobile device. For example, the memory 920 can store electronic data or content, such as, for example, audio and video files, documents and applications, device settings and user preferences, timing and control signals or data for various modules, data structures or databases, etc. The memory 920 can also store instructions for reconstructing various types of waveforms that can be used by the signal generator 940 to generate signals for the sensor stabilization assembly 100. The memory 920 can be any type of memory, such as, for example, random access memory, read-only memory, flash memory, removable memory, or other types of storage elements, or combinations of such devices.

[0102] As briefly discussed above, the electronic control module 820 may include Fig. 9 The various input and output components shown in FIG. 1 are used as I / O modules 950. Although the components of I / O modules 950 are shown in FIG. Fig. 9 950, but the mobile device may include a plurality of different input components, including buttons, microphones, switches, and dials for accepting user input. In some embodiments, the components of the I / O module 950 may include one or more touch sensors and / or force sensors. For example, the display of the mobile device may include one or more touch sensors and / or one or more force sensors that enable a user to provide input to the mobile device.

[0103] Each of the components of I / O module 950 may include dedicated circuitry for generating signals or data. In some cases, a component may generate or provide feedback for application-specific input corresponding to a prompt or user interface object presented on a display.

[0104] As noted above, the network / communication module 960 includes one or more communication channels. These communication channels can include one or more wireless interfaces that provide communication between the processor 910 and an external device or other electronic device. Typically, the communication channel can be configured to transmit and receive data and / or signals that can be interpreted by the instructions executed on the processor 910. In some cases, the external device is a part of an external communication network configured to exchange data with other devices. Typically, the wireless interface can include but is not limited to radio frequency, light, sound and / or magnetic signals and can be configured to operate via a wireless interface or protocol. Example wireless interfaces include radio frequency cellular interfaces, optical fiber interfaces, acoustic interfaces, Bluetooth interfaces, near field communication interfaces, infrared interfaces, USB interfaces, Wi-Fi interfaces, TCP / IP interfaces, network communication interfaces, or any traditional communication interfaces.

[0105] In some implementations, one or more of the communication channels of the network / communication module 960 may include a wireless communication channel between the mobile device and another device, such as another mobile phone, a tablet, a computer, etc. In some cases, the output, audio output, tactile output, or visual display element may be directly transmitted to other devices for output. For example, an audible alarm or a visual warning may be transmitted from the mobile device 700 to the mobile phone for output on the device, and vice versa. Similarly, the network / communication module 960 may be configured to receive an input provided on another device to control the mobile device. For example, an audible alarm, a visual notification, or a tactile alarm (or an instruction thereof) may be transmitted from an external device to the mobile device for presentation.

[0106] The actuator technology disclosed herein can be used in an image sensor system, such as a camera system. The camera system can be integrated with a panel. The panel can be, for example, a display system based on OLED or LCD technology. The panel can be part of a smartphone, a tablet computer, or a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch or a head-mounted device, such as smart glasses).

Claims

1. A sensor stabilization assembly, comprising: a housing including a first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and a first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly, and the housing defining a housing aperture; a first frame movably mounted to an underside of the housing and having a plurality of first guides allowing relative movement between the first frame and the housing in a first direction, the first frame defining a first frame aperture; a second frame movably mounted to a lower side of the first frame and having a plurality of second guides allowing relative movement between the second frame and the first frame in a second direction transverse to the first direction, wherein: the second frame comprising a second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly, the second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly being adapted to electromagnetically interact with the first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly when the first electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause both the first frame and the second frame to move relative to the housing in the first direction; and the second frame comprising a second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly, the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly being adapted to electromagnetically interact with the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly when the second electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause the second frame to move relative to both the first frame and the housing in the second direction; as well as A sensor coupled to the second frame is configured to move with the second frame in the first direction and the second direction and to capture light passing through the housing aperture and the first frame aperture.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The underside of the housing defines a plurality of first grooves oriented along the first direction; and Each of the plurality of first guides includes a first protrusion extending from a top side of the first frame into a corresponding first groove of the plurality of first grooves defined by the lower side of the housing.

3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein: Each of the plurality of first grooves defines a first wedge shape, and the first protrusion of each of the plurality of first guides has a shape that conforms to the first wedge shape defined by the corresponding first groove.

4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The underside of the first frame defines a plurality of second grooves oriented along the second direction; and Each of the plurality of second guides includes a second protrusion extending from a top side of the second frame into a corresponding second groove of the plurality of second grooves defined by the lower side of the first frame.

5. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein: Each of the plurality of second grooves defines a second wedge shape, and the second protrusion of each of the plurality of second guides has a shape that conforms to the second wedge shape defined by the corresponding second groove.

6. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of first guides prohibit relative movement between the first frame and the housing along the second direction.

7. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of second guides inhibit relative movement between the second frame and the first frame along the first direction.

8. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The outer periphery of the first frame forms a first rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction; The plurality of first guides include four first guides; and Each of the four first guides is located at a corresponding corner of four corners of the first rectangle.

9. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The outer periphery of the second frame forms a second rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction; The plurality of second guides include four second guides; and Each of the four second guides is located at a corresponding corner among the four corners of the second rectangle.

10. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: An outer periphery of the first frame and an outer periphery of the second frame have the same size and shape.

11. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The housing aperture is defined by an inner periphery of the housing; The first frame aperture is defined by an inner perimeter of the first frame; and The inner periphery of the housing and the inner periphery of the first frame have the same size and shape.

12. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: each of the first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly comprises a magnet; and Each of the second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly includes a coil.

13. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly is transverse to the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly; and The second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly is transverse to the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly.

14. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The housing aperture forms a rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction; The first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly abut different sides of the housing aperture; An outer periphery of the second frame forms a rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction; and The second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly are adjacent to different sides of the second frame.

15. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of first guides and each of the plurality of second guides includes a rolling element bearing.

16. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The housing supports an auto focus carrier that moves up and down along a third direction that is transverse to the first direction and the second direction.

17. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The assembly is located inside the electronic device and the housing is immovable relative to the electronic device.

18. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The sensor is connected to a fixed circuit board with a flexible conductor to receive an electrical signal from the fixed circuit board via the flexible conductor; and The fixed circuit board is fixed relative to the housing.

19. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein: The sensor includes an image sensor.

20. A sensor stabilization assembly, comprising: a housing including a first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly and a first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly, and the housing defining a housing aperture; a first frame movably mounted to an underside of the housing and having a plurality of first guides allowing relative movement between the first frame and the housing in a first direction, the first frame defining a first frame aperture; a second frame movably mounted to a lower side of the first frame and having a plurality of second guides allowing relative movement between the second frame and the first frame in a second direction transverse to the first direction, wherein: The outer periphery of the first frame forms a first rectangle in a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction, each of the plurality of first guides being located at a corresponding corner of the first rectangle; The outer periphery of the second frame forms a second rectangle in the plane defined by the first direction and the second direction, each of the plurality of second guides being located at a corresponding corner of the second rectangle; the second frame comprising a second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly, the second portion of the first electromagnetic assembly being adapted to electromagnetically interact with the first portion of the first electromagnetic assembly when the first electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause both the first frame and the second frame to move relative to the housing in the first direction; and the second frame comprising a second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly, the second portion of the second electromagnetic assembly being adapted to electromagnetically interact with the first portion of the second electromagnetic assembly when the second electromagnetic assembly is energized to cause the second frame to move relative to both the first frame and the housing in the second direction; as well as A sensor coupled to the second frame is configured to move with the second frame in the first direction and the second direction and to capture light passing through the housing aperture and the first frame aperture.

Images