Camera actuator with moving coil and dynamically flexible circuit

Abstract

Various embodiments include a camera having an actuator having one or more moving coils and a dynamic flex circuit. In some embodiments, the camera can include a movable frame fixedly coupled with a lens group or an image sensor. The actuator can be a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that moves the movable frame relative to one or more fixed structures of the camera. The VCM actuator can include a coil coupled with the movable frame and a magnet coupled with the fixed structure. The dynamic flex circuit can be configured to provide an electrical connection between the coil and the fixed structure, and a portion of the dynamic flex circuit can provide a service loop to allow for movement of the movable frame by the VCM actuator.

Description

Background Technology Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to the architecture for cameras having sensor shift actuators and / or suspension arrangements.

[0003] Related technical descriptions

[0004] The emergence of small, mobile multi-purpose devices such as smartphones and tablets or tablets has led to a demand for high-resolution, small-form-factor cameras integrated into these devices. Some small-form-factor cameras incorporate optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanisms that sense and react to external stimuli / disturbances by adjusting the position of optical lenses on the X and / or Y axes, attempting to compensate for unwanted lens movement. Some small-form-factor cameras incorporate autofocus (AF) mechanisms that adjust the focal length of the object so that the object plane in front of the camera is focused on the image plane captured by the image sensor. In some of these autofocus mechanisms, the optical lens moves as a single rigid body along the camera's optical axis to refocus the camera. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Figure 1 A schematic side sectional view of an example camera with a movable image sensor according to some embodiments is shown.

[0006] Figures 2A to 2F A view of an example camera with a sensor displacement actuator and one or more bearing suspension arrangements is shown according to some embodiments. Figure 2A Showing a top exploded perspective view of the camera. Figure 2B This shows an exploded perspective view of the bottom of the camera. Figure 2C The camera is shown in top view. Figure 2D A side sectional view of the camera is shown. Figure 2E A perspective view of a portion of a camera may be shown, which may include a lens shift actuator for moving the lens group. Figure 2F An example of a folded flexible circuit for connection to the base structure of a camera is shown.

[0007] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an example flexible circuit arrangement according to some embodiments is shown, which can be used to transmit electrical signals to, from, and / or within a camera configured with a sensor shift actuator.

[0008] Figure 4 The diagram shows a top exploded perspective view of an example flexible circuit arrangement according to some embodiments, which can be used to transmit electrical signals to, from, and / or within a camera configured with a sensor shift actuator.

[0009] Figure 5 An exploded bottom perspective view of another example flexible circuit arrangement according to some embodiments is shown, which can be used to transmit electrical signals to, from, and / or within a camera configured with a sensor shift actuator.

[0010] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an example flexural arrangement according to some embodiments is shown, which can be used to transmit electrical signals to, from, and / or within a camera configured with a sensor displacement actuator.

[0011] Figure 7 The top exploded perspective view shows an example flexural suspension arrangement that can be used in a camera with a sensor displacement actuator, according to some embodiments.

[0012] Figure 8 A schematic block diagram of some components of an example camera having an actuator and a dynamic flexible circuit according to some embodiments is shown, along with a perspective view of an example dynamic flexible circuit having one or more moving coils.

[0013] Figure 9 A side sectional view of an example camera according to some embodiments is shown, which may include an actuator with one or more moving coils and dynamic flexible circuitry.

[0014] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of an example device according to some embodiments is shown, which may include a camera with a sensor displacement actuator and / or suspension arrangement.

[0015] Figure 11 A schematic block diagram of an example computer system according to some embodiments is shown, which may include a camera with sensor displacement actuators and / or suspension arrangements.

[0016] This specification includes references to "one embodiment" or "implementation". The use of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Specific features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner consistent with this disclosure.

[0017] The term "comprising" is open-ended. As used in the appended claims, it does not exclude additional structures or steps. Consider the following cited claim: "An apparatus comprising one or more processor units..." Such claims do not exclude the inclusion of additional components (e.g., network interface units, graphics circuitry, etc.).

[0018] "Configured as" refers to various units, circuits, or other components that can be described or stated as being "configured as" to perform one or more tasks. In such a context, "configured as" is used to imply a structure (e.g., a circuit) that includes a unit / circuit / component that performs one or more tasks during operation. Thus, a unit / circuit / component is allegedly configured to perform the task even when the specified unit / circuit / component is currently inoperable (e.g., not switched on). Units / circuits / components used with the language "configured as" include hardware such as circuits, memory storing program instructions that can be executed to perform the operation, etc. Referring to a unit / circuit / component as being "configured as" to perform one or more tasks is explicitly intended to exclude reference to 35 U.S.SC §112(f) for that unit / circuit / component. Furthermore, "configured as" can include general structures (e.g., general circuits) manipulated by software and / or firmware (e.g., FPGAs or general-purpose processors executing software) in a manner capable of performing one or more tasks to be solved. "Configured to" may also include adjusting the manufacturing process (e.g., a semiconductor manufacturing facility) to manufacture equipment (e.g., an integrated circuit) suitable for performing one or more tasks.

[0019] "First," "second," etc. As used herein, these terms serve as labels for the nouns preceding them and do not imply any type of ordering (e.g., spatial, temporal, logical, etc.). For example, a buffer circuit may be described herein as performing write operations on a "first" value and a "second" value. The terms "first" and "second" do not necessarily imply that the first value must be written before the second value.

[0020] "Based on." As used herein, this term describes one or more factors that influence the determination. This term does not exclude additional factors influencing the determination. That is, the determination may be based solely on these factors or at least partially on them. Consider the phrase "A is determined based on B." In this case, B is the factor influencing the determination of A, and such phrases do not exclude the possibility that the determination of A may also be based on C. In other instances, A may be determined solely on B.

[0021] It will also be understood that while the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the intended scope, a first contact may be referred to as a second contact, and similarly, a second contact may be referred to as a first contact. Both the first contact and the second contact are contacts, but they are not the same contact.

[0022] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also cover the plural forms unless the context otherwise expressly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the items listed in connection with the description. It will also be understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used in this specification specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0023] As used herein, depending on the context, the term "if" can be interpreted as meaning "when..." or "in response to determination" or "in response to detection". Similarly, depending on the context, the phrase "if it is determined..." or "if [the stated condition or event] is detected" can be interpreted as meaning "when it is determined..." or "in response to determination..." or "when [the stated condition or event] is detected" or "in response to detection". Detailed Implementation

[0024] Some embodiments include a camera having a sensor shift actuator and / or a suspension arrangement. In some embodiments, the sensor shift actuator can move an image sensor in multiple directions relative to the camera's lens group. For example, the actuator can move the image sensor in a direction orthogonal to the camera's optical axis, for example, to provide optical image stabilization (OIS) functionality. In some embodiments, the camera may include a lens shift actuator for moving the lens group relative to the image sensor in a direction parallel to the optical axis, for example, to provide focusing and / or autofocus (AF) functionality. According to some embodiments, one or more suspension arrangements (e.g., bearing suspension arrangements, flexural suspension arrangements, etc.) can suspend the image sensor and / or lens group from the camera's base structure. For example, a corresponding bearing suspension arrangement may include one or more platforms configured to move on ball bearings to allow movement implemented by an actuator. In some examples, a flexural suspension arrangement may include multiple flexures that suspend the image sensor and allow movement implemented by an actuator.

[0025] Alternatively or concurrently, some embodiments include a camera having an actuator and dynamic flexible circuitry, the actuator having one or more movable coils. For example, the camera may include a movable frame fixedly coupled to a lens group or image sensor. The actuator may be a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that moves the movable frame relative to one or more fixed structures of the camera. The VCM actuator may include a coil coupled to the movable frame such that the coil moves with the movable frame. Furthermore, the VCM actuator may include a magnet coupled to the fixed structure. The dynamic flexible circuitry may be configured to provide an electrical connection between the coil and the fixed structure. A portion of the dynamic flexible circuitry may provide sufficient service loops to allow movement of the movable frame implemented by the VCM actuator. The dynamic flexible circuitry may be configured to transmit electrical signals between the fixed structure and the coil via an electrical connection. According to various embodiments, the dynamic flexible circuitry may include a fixed end portion, a movable end portion, and / or an intermediate portion. The fixed end portion may be fixedly coupled to the fixed structure. The movable end portion may be fixedly coupled to the coil. The intermediate section can extend from the fixed end section to the movable end section and can provide a service circuit that allows movement of the movable frame realized by the VCM actuator.

[0026] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed description in order to provide a thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that some embodiments may be implemented without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the embodiments.

[0027] This document describes implementation schemes for cameras with sensor shift actuators and / or suspension arrangements. Arrangements discussed throughout generally include cameras with movable image sensors and / or movable lens groups, for example, to provide optical image stabilization (OIS) and / or focusing (e.g., autofocus (AF)) during imaging. Figure 1 A generalized example of this camera 100 is shown. Figure 1 The exemplary XYZ coordinate system shown can be applied to the implementations discussed throughout this disclosure.

[0028] In various embodiments, camera 100 may include lens group 102, image sensor 104, one or more actuators 106, and / or one or more suspension arrangements 108. Lens group may include one or more lens elements 110 defining an optical axis 112. Image sensor may capture image data based on light that has passed through lens group 102. Figure 1Examples of generalized locations for the positioning of components of the actuator 106 and suspension arrangement 108 are provided herein. Figures 2A to 7 The actuators and suspension arrangements that may be included in the camera 100 are described in more detail.

[0029] In various embodiments, actuator 106 may include a sensor shift actuator for moving image sensor 104 (e.g., relative to lens group 102) and / or a lens shift actuator for moving lens group 102 (e.g., relative to image sensor 104). In some embodiments, actuator 106 may include one or more OIS actuators configured to move the image sensor in multiple directions orthogonal to optical axis 112, for example, to provide OIS movement in a first direction 114 (e.g., the Y-axis direction) and a second direction 116 (e.g., the X-axis direction) orthogonal to the first direction 114. Furthermore, actuator 106 may include one or more focusing actuators (e.g., AF actuators) configured to move lens group 102 in a direction parallel to optical axis 112, for example, to provide focusing movement (e.g., AF movement) in a third direction 118 (e.g., the Z-axis direction) orthogonal to the first and second directions 114 and 116. In some embodiments, actuator 106 may additionally or alternatively be configured to move image sensor 104 in a third direction 118 and / or move lens group 102 in a first direction 114 and / or a second direction 116. In various embodiments, actuator 106 may include one or more voice coil motor (VCM) actuators, such as those referenced herein. Figures 2A to 4 As described. It should be understood that in some embodiments, actuator 106 may additionally or alternatively include one or more other types of actuators (e.g., piezoelectric actuators, comb-driven actuators, etc.).

[0030] like Figure 1 As indicated, in some embodiments, camera 100 may generally include an OIS-Y sensor shift portion 120, an OIS-X sensor shift portion 122, and / or an AF lens shift portion 124. In various embodiments, some of the same components of camera 100 may be included in multiple of the OIS-Y sensor shift portion 120, OIS-X sensor shift portion 122, and AF lens shift portion 124. For example, in some embodiments, image sensor 104 may be included in both the OIS-X sensor shift portion 122 and the OIS-Y sensor shift portion 120. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the OIS-X sensor shift portion 122 may be considered part of the OIS-Y sensor shift portion 120. Figure 1The illustration shows that the OIS-Y sensor shift portion 120 is indicated by two different types of shadows (also referred to herein as "first shadow" and "second shadow"), one of which is also used to indicate the OIS-X sensor shift portion 122. The first and second shadows for the OIS-Y sensor shift portion 120 indicate a portion of the camera 100 that moves together in a first direction 114 (e.g., the Y-axis direction), and the second shadow for the OIS-X sensor shift portion 122 indicates a portion of the camera 100 that moves in a second direction 116 (e.g., the X-axis direction) (e.g., independently of the portion shaded by the first shadow). The OIS-Y sensor shift portion 120 can be moved in the first direction 114 via actuator 106 to provide OIS-Y movement of the image on the image sensor 104. The OIS-X sensor shift portion 122 can be moved in the second direction 116 via actuator 106 to provide OIS-X movement of the image on the image sensor 104. Figure 1 The AF lens shift portion 124 of the third shadow (which has a different type from the first and second shadows) in the illustration can be moved in a third direction 118 via actuator 106 to provide focus movement of the image on image sensor 104.

[0031] In various embodiments, suspension arrangement 108 may include one or more bearing suspension arrangements. For example, as referenced herein... Figures 2A to 2F As discussed, one or more OIS bearing suspension arrangements may be configured to suspend the image sensor 104 from the base structure 126 of the camera 100. Additionally or alternatively, one or more AF bearing suspension arrangements may be configured to suspend the lens assembly 102 from the base structure 126. In various embodiments, each bearing suspension arrangement may include one or more platforms. For example, in some non-limiting embodiments, the OIS bearing suspension arrangement may include multiple platforms (e.g., X platform 208 and Y platform 210 in FIG. 2), and the AF bearing suspension arrangement may include a single platform (e.g., Z platform 212 in FIG. 2), and each platform may be configured to move on ball bearings to allow movement implemented by the actuator 106. In some embodiments, each platform in the platform may include a corresponding movable structure (e.g., retainer, frame, and / or platform, etc.) coupled to one or more components of camera 100 to suspend such components from base structure 126, and the corresponding movable structure may move on ball bearings in at least one direction (e.g., via actuators) to correspondingly move the component coupled thereto. It should be understood that in some embodiments, suspension arrangement 108 may additionally or alternatively include one or more other types of suspension arrangements (e.g., spring, cable, and / or flexure suspension arrangements, etc.), such as those referenced herein. Figure 7The example discussed is a flexural suspension arrangement 700.

[0032] Figures 2A to 2F A view of an example camera 200 with a sensor displacement actuator and one or more bearing suspension arrangements is shown. Figure 2A Showing a top exploded perspective view of camera 200. Figure 2B An exploded perspective view of the bottom of camera 200 is shown. Figure 2C A top view of camera 200 is shown. Figure 2D A side sectional view of camera 200 is shown. Figure 2E A perspective view of a portion of a camera 200 may be shown, which may include a lens shift actuator for moving the lens group. Figure 2F An example of a folded flexible circuit for connection to the base structure of a camera 200 is shown. In some embodiments, the camera 200 may include a lens group 202, an image sensor package 204 (e.g., including an image sensor 206), one or more actuators (e.g., including a sensor shift actuator and / or a lens shift actuator), one or more bearing suspension arrangements (e.g., including an X platform 208, a Y platform 210, and / or a Z platform 212), and / or a base structure 214. According to some embodiments, the camera 200 may be associated with the base structure referenced herein. Figure 1 The camera described is the same as or similar to 100.

[0033] Lens group 202 may include defining an optical axis (e.g. Figure 1 One or more lens elements (e.g., optical axis 112) in the optical axis (112) Figure 1 The image sensor 206 can be configured to capture image data based on light passing through the lens group 202. In some embodiments, the image sensor 206 may be attached to a substrate 216. In some embodiments, the image sensor package 204 may include the image sensor 206, the substrate 216, a filter 218 (e.g., an infrared filter), and / or one or more circuit layers (e.g., flexible circuitry 220). The circuit layers may be used to transmit electrical signals, for example, between electrical components of the image sensor package 206 (e.g., electrical components mounted to the circuit layers) and / or between the image sensor package 206 and one or more other parts of the camera (e.g., via an electrical interface between the circuit layers and one or more other circuits). In various embodiments, the image sensor package 204 may be coupled to one or more platforms arranged in an OIS bearing suspension configuration. For example, the image sensor package 204 may be fixedly coupled to an X platform 208 such that the image sensor package 204 can move with the X platform 208 in the X-axis direction, for example, via an actuator (e.g., in a lockstep manner). In some embodiments, references herein are made to... Figure 1The described OIS-X sensor shifting section 122 may include an image sensor package 204 and an X platform 208. Furthermore, the image sensor package 204 may be coupled to a Y platform 210 via the X platform 208, such that the image sensor package 204 and the X platform 208 can move together with the Y platform 210 in the Y-axis direction, for example via an actuator. In some embodiments, references herein are made to... Figure 1 The described OIS-Y sensor shifting section 120 may include an image sensor package 204, an X platform 208, and a Y platform 210. Additionally or alternatively, the lens group 202 may be coupled to one or more platforms arranged with a focusing (and / or AF) bearing suspension. For example, the lens group 202 may be fixedly coupled to a Z platform 212 such that the lens group 202 can move together with the Z platform 212 (e.g., in a step-lock manner), for example, via an actuator. In some embodiments, references herein are made to... Figure 1 The described AF lens shifting portion 124 may include a lens group 202 and a Z-platform. In various embodiments, the Z-platform 212 may include a lens holder. According to some embodiments, the lens group 202 may be at least partially contained within the lens barrel 222, and the lens barrel 222 may be fixedly attached to the Z-platform 212.

[0034] In various embodiments, actuator and / or bearing suspension arrangements can be used for controlled movement of lens assembly 202 and / or image sensor 204. Base structure 214 can be in a fixed position relative to the movement of X platform 208, Y platform 210 and / or Z platform 212.

[0035] According to various embodiments, the actuator can be used to move the lens assembly 202 and / or the image sensor 206, for example, via movement of the X platform 208, Y platform 210, and / or Z platform 212. In some embodiments, the actuator may include one or more voice coil motor (VCM) actuators. The VCM actuator may include one or more coils (e.g., OIS coils and / or AF coils) that can electromagnetically interact with one or more magnets (e.g., OIS magnets and / or AF magnets) to generate a Lorentz force that moves the lens assembly 202 and / or the image sensor 206 (e.g., via controlled movement in a direction permitted by the platform arranged by bearing suspension).

[0036] In some embodiments, the actuator may include an OIS-X VCM actuator (e.g., to provide OIS-X movement), an OIS-Y VCM actuator (e.g., to provide OIS-Y movement), and an AF VCM actuator (e.g., to provide AF movement). For example, the OIS-X VCM actuator may include one or more OIS-X coils 224 and one or more OIS-X magnets 226, such as... Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2D As indicated in the diagram. In some embodiments, the OIS-X coil 224 may be coupled to the X platform 208. For example, the OIS-X coil 224 may be attached to and / or embedded in the flexible circuit 220. The flexible circuit 220 may be coupled to the X platform 208, for example, via direct attachment and / or via attachment to one or more other components, such as components of the image sensor package 204. The OIS-X magnet 226 may be attached to the base structure 214, for example, to the underside of the base structure 214. The OIS-X magnet 226 and the OIS-X coil 224 may be positioned close to each other such that they can interact electromagnetically with each other to displace the image sensor 206 together with the X platform 208 in the X-axis direction (e.g., relative to the lens group 202 and / or the base structure 214) to provide OIS-X movement of the image on the image sensor 206.

[0037] In some implementations, the OIS-Y VCM actuator may include one or more OIS-Y coils 228 and one or more OIS-Y magnets 230, for example, Figure 2A As indicated in the diagram. In some embodiments, the OIS-Y coil 228 may be coupled to the X platform 208. For example, the OIS-Y coil 228 may be attached to and / or embedded in the flexible circuit 220. As previously mentioned, the flexible circuit 220 may be coupled to the X platform 208. The OIS-Y magnet 230 may be attached to the base structure 214, for example, to the underside of the base structure 214. The OIS-Y magnet 230 and the OIS-Y coil 228 may be positioned close to each other such that they may interact electromagnetically with each other to displace the image sensor 206 together with the X platform 208 and the Y platform 210 in the Y-axis direction (e.g., relative to the lens group 202 and / or the base structure 214) to provide OIS-Y movement of the image on the image sensor 206.

[0038] In some implementations, the AF VCM actuator may include one or more AF coils 232 and one or more AF magnets 234, for example, Figures 2A to 2F As indicated herein. In some embodiments, the AF coil 232 may be attached to the base structure 214. The AF magnet 234 may be attached to the Z platform 212. The AF magnet 234 and the AF coil 232 may be positioned close to each other such that they can interact electromagnetically with each other to displace the lens assembly 202 together with the Z platform 212 in the Z-axis direction (e.g., relative to the image sensor 206 and / or the base structure 214) to provide AF movement of the image on the image sensor 206. While some aspects of the actuator may be referred to herein as “AF,” it should be understood that in some embodiments, such aspects may additionally or alternatively be referred to as “focusing.”

[0039] According to various embodiments, the bearing suspension arrangement may include an X-platform 208, a Y-platform 210, and / or a Z-platform 212. For example, an OIS bearing suspension arrangement may include an X-platform 208 and a Y-platform 210. As previously discussed, in some embodiments, an image sensor 206 may be coupled to the X-platform 208 and the Y-platform 210. An AF bearing suspension arrangement may include a Z-platform 212, and a lens assembly 202 may be coupled to the Z-platform 212.

[0040] Furthermore, the bearing suspension arrangement may include one or more ball bearings (e.g., made of steel, ceramic, etc.). In some embodiments, the OIS bearing suspension arrangement may include one or more X-translation ball bearings 236 and / or one or more Y-translation ball bearings 238. The AF bearing suspension arrangement may include one or more Z-translation ball bearings 240. While some aspects of the suspension arrangement may be referred to herein as "AF," it should be understood that in some embodiments, such aspects may additionally or alternatively be referred to as "focus."

[0041] In some embodiments, the X-platform 208 may be disposed below the Y-platform 210 and / or the base structure 214. The X-platform 208 may be configured to translate in the X-axis direction, for example, via an X-translation ball bearing 236 disposed between the undersides of the X-platform 208 and the Y-platform 210. According to some examples, the X-axis translational movement may be used to provide OIS-X movement of an image on the image sensor 206. In some embodiments, the X-translation ball bearing 236 may reside within one or more X-translation tracks 242, for example, defined by the X-platform 208 and / or the Y-platform 210. The respective X-translation tracks in the X-translation tracks 242 may be oriented in the same direction to allow constrained movement in a common direction (e.g., the X-axis direction). The underside of the Y-platform 210 may be shaped to facilitate defining one or more grooves, recesses, cavities, etc., that at least partially form the X-translation tracks 242. Alternatively or concurrently, the upper portion of the X-platform 208 may be shaped to facilitate defining one or more grooves, recesses, cavities, etc., that at least partially form the X-translation track 242. In some embodiments, the X-translation ball bearing 236 may be disposed within a corresponding space of the X-translation track 242, the space being sized to accommodate the X-translation ball bearing 236 between the lower side of the Y-platform 210 and the upper portion of the X-platform 208. In some non-limiting embodiments, the X-translation track 242 may include multiple segments. For example, such as Figure 2A As indicated, the X-translation track 242 may include four segments positioned at the corners of the X-platform 208. Although the X-platform 208 is... Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2DThe component shown is associated with the image sensor package 204, but in some embodiments, some or all of the aspects described herein with respect to the X-platform 208 may alternatively be included in one or more components of the image sensor package 204. For example, the substrate 216 itself may serve as the X-platform 208, rather than the camera 200 including the X-platform 208 as a component formed separately from the substrate 216.

[0042] In some embodiments, the Y-platform 210 may be disposed above the X-platform 208 and / or below the base structure 214. According to some embodiments, the Y-platform 210 may be U-shaped or otherwise shaped to allow at least a portion of the Z-platform 212 to reside in the same plane (e.g., the XY plane) as at least a portion of the Y-platform 210. The Y-platform 210 may be configured to translate in the Y-axis direction, for example, via a Y-translation ball bearing 238 disposed between the Y-platform 208 and the underside of the base structure 214. According to some examples, Y-axis translational movement may be used to provide OIS-Y movement of an image on the image sensor 206. In some embodiments, the Y-translation ball bearing 238 may reside within one or more Y-translation tracks 244, for example, defined by the Y-platform 210 and / or the base structure 214. The respective Y-translation tracks 244 may be oriented in the same direction to allow constrained movement in a common direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). The lower side of the base structure 214 may be shaped to facilitate defining one or more grooves, recesses, cavities, etc., that at least partially form the Y-translation track 244. Alternatively, the upper portion of the Y-platform 210 may be shaped to facilitate defining one or more grooves, recesses, cavities, etc., that at least partially form the Y-translation track 244. In some embodiments, the Y-translation ball bearing 238 may be disposed within a corresponding space of the Y-translation track 244, the space being sized to accommodate the Y-translation ball bearing 238 between the lower side of the base structure 214 and the upper portion of the Y-platform 210. In some non-limiting embodiments, the Y-translation track 244 may include multiple segments. For example, such as... Figure 2A As indicated, the Y translation track 244 may include four segments located at the corners of the Y platform 210.

[0043] In some embodiments, the Z-platform 212 may be at least partially surrounded by the X-platform 208, the Y-platform 210, and / or the base structure 214. The Z-platform 212 may be configured to translate in the Z-axis direction, for example, via a Z-translation ball bearing 240 disposed between a first portion of the Z-platform 212 and a side portion of the base structure 214. According to some examples, the Z-axis translational movement may be used to provide AF movement of the image on the image sensor 206. In some embodiments, the Z-translation ball bearing 240 may reside within one or more Z-translation tracks 246, for example, defined by the Z-platform 212 and / or the base structure 214. The corresponding Y-translation tracks in the Z-translation tracks 246 may be oriented in the same direction to allow constrained movement in a common direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction). The inner side of the base structure 214 may be shaped to facilitate defining one or more grooves, recesses, cavities, etc., that at least partially form the Z-translation tracks 246. Alternatively or concurrently, the side portion of the first part of the Z-platform 212 may be shaped to facilitate defining one or more grooves, recesses, cavities, etc., that at least partially form the Z-translation track 246. In some embodiments, the Z-translation ball bearing 240 may be disposed within a corresponding space of the Z-translation track 246, the space being sized to accommodate the Z-translation ball bearing 240 between the side portion of the base structure 214 and the side portion of the first part of the Z-platform 212. In some non-limiting embodiments, the Z-translation track 246 may include multiple segments. For example, such as... Figure 2A As indicated, the Z translation track 246 may include two sections located on opposite sides of the first portion of the Z platform 212 relative to the AF magnet 234 (which may be attached to the same side of the Z platform 212 as the Z translation ball bearing 240 and the Z translation track 246).

[0044] According to some embodiments, the lens assembly 202 may be fixedly coupled to a second portion of the Z-platform 212. In some examples, the second portion of the Z-platform 212 may at least partially surround the lens assembly 202 (and / or lens barrel 222). According to some embodiments, the Z-platform 212 may extend from a first portion (which may be positioned close to the side of the base structure 214) to a second portion (which may be positioned close to the lens assembly 202) in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis (e.g., in the X-axis direction), for example, as a cantilever. In various embodiments, the Z-platform 212 may suspend the lens assembly 202 above the image sensor 206, for example, such that the image sensor 206 and the lens assembly 202 are positioned along the optical axis.

[0045] In various embodiments, the camera 200 and / or bearing suspension arrangement may include one or more ferrite components (e.g., formed of iron, stainless steel, etc.) that magnetically interact with one or more magnets to preload the ball bearings of the bearing suspension arrangement, for example, in a load direction based at least in part on the attractive force between the magnets and the ferrite components.

[0046] In some embodiments, the ferrite component 248 may be positioned below the OIS-Y magnet 230 to preload the X translation ball bearing 236 and / or the Y translation ball bearing 238 using a load in the Z-axis direction. For example, as Figure 2A and Figure 2D As indicated, the ferrite component 248 may be surrounded by the OIS-Y coil 228 and / or connected to the flexible circuit 220. Figure 2A Two ferrite components 248 are shown within the inner circumference of the OIS-Y coil 228; however, in various embodiments, the camera 200 and / or the OIS bearing suspension arrangement may include fewer or more ferrite components 248 for preloading the X-translation ball bearing 236 and / or the Y-translation ball bearing 238. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more other magnets (not shown) may be included to magnetically interact with the ferrite components 248, thereby preloading the X-translation ball bearing 236 and / or the Y-translation ball bearing 238.

[0047] In some embodiments, the ferrite component 250 may be positioned close to the AF magnet 234 to preload the ball bearing 240 by Z-translating it in a direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction (e.g., in the X-axis direction). For example, as Figures 2C to 2F As indicated, the ferrite component 250 may be disposed between the AF magnet 234 and the side of the camera 200. Figures 2C to 2F A ferrite component 250 is shown for preloading the Z-translation ball bearing 240; however, in various embodiments, the camera 200 and / or AF bearing suspension arrangement may include one or more ferrite components 250 for preloading the Z-translation ball bearing 240. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, one or more other magnets (not shown) may be included to magnetically interact with the ferrite component 250, thereby preloading the Z-translation ball bearing 240.

[0048] In various embodiments, camera 200 may include flexible circuitry 254 (also referred to herein as “dynamic flexible circuitry”) that can be coupled to image sensor package 204. For example, dynamic flexible circuitry 254 may include one or more fixed end portions 256 ( Figure 2A and Figure 2B ), movable end portion 258 ( Figure 2B and Figure 2D ) and / or the middle part 260 ( Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2DThe fixed end portion 256 may be connected to a fixed structure, such as, but not limited to, the base structure 214 and / or additional flexible circuitry 262 (e.g., fixed flexible circuitry) attached to the base structure 214, for example, such as... Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2E and Figure 2F As indicated in the diagram. The movable end portion 258 can be coupled to the image sensor 204 such that the movable end portion 258 moves together with the image sensor 206 (e.g., in a lock-step manner with the image sensor). In some embodiments, the movable end portion 258 can be attached to the underside of the image sensor package 204. For example, in some embodiments, the movable end portion 258 can be attached to the bottom surface of the flexible circuitry 220 of the image sensor package 204, such as... Figure 2B and Figure 2D As indicated in the diagram. The intermediate portion 260 may extend from the fixed end portion 256 to the movable end portion 258. The intermediate portion 260 may be configured to allow the movable end portion 258 to move relative to the fixed end portion 256 (e.g., together with the image sensor 206). In some embodiments, the camera 200 may be configured to transmit electrical signals (e.g., power and / or control signals) between the fixed structure (e.g., flexible circuit 262) and the image sensor package 204 via a dynamic flexible circuit 254. Additionally or alternatively, the dynamic flexible circuit 254 may be configured to transmit electrical signals (e.g., power and / or control signals) along at least a portion of the electrical connection path between the fixed flexible circuit 262 (which may be attached to the base structure 214) and the image sensor 206. Figure 2F An example of a folded flexible circuit 262a for connection to a base structure 214 is shown. In some embodiments, the flexible circuit 262a may be in a flat state, and then... Figure 2F As indicated by the arrows and fold lines, it is folded into a folded state (flexible circuit 262b), which wraps around a portion of the base structure 214.

[0049] According to various embodiments, one or more portions of the dynamic flexible circuit 254 may extend along (and / or near) one or more corresponding sides of the camera 200, for example, to make efficient use of space, which may enable a reduction in the size of the camera 200 in its X and / or Y dimensions. For example, the movable end portion 258 may extend along the underside of the camera 200, and the dynamic flexible circuit 254 may include a straight region and one or more curved regions, such that the intermediate portion 260 and the fixed end portion 256 include one or more folding legs extending along the side of the camera 200 parallel to the optical axis, for example, as... Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2DAs indicated herein. Additional aspects of the dynamic flexible circuitry and / or other flexible circuitry that may be included in the camera 200 are referenced herein. Figure 3 To describe.

[0050] In some embodiments, camera 200 may include one or more position sensors (e.g., magnetic field sensors, such as Hall sensors, tunneling magnetoresistive (TMR) sensors, giant magnetoresistive (GMR) sensors, etc.) for position sensing with reference to OIS-X movement, OIS-Y movement, and / or AF movement. For example, camera 200 may include position sensor 264 for position sensing with reference to OIS-X movement and / or OIS-Y movement. In some embodiments, position sensor 264 may be positioned close to OIS-X coil 224, for example, to be able to detect changes in the magnetic field force of OIS-X magnet 226 as OIS-X coil 224 moves in the X-axis and / or Y-axis directions. In a non-limiting example, position sensor 264 may be coupled to flexible circuit 220 and / or may be at least partially surrounded by the inner circumference of OIS-X coil 224. Furthermore, camera 200 may include position sensor 266 for position sensing with reference to AF movement. In some implementations, the position sensor 264 may be positioned close to the AF coil 232, for example, to detect changes in the magnetic force of the AF magnet 234 as the AF magnet 234 moves in the Z-axis direction. In a non-limiting example, the position sensor 266 may be coupled to the base structure 214 (e.g., attached to the fixed flexible circuit 262) and / or may be at least partially surrounded by the inner periphery of the AF coil 232.

[0051] In various embodiments, camera 200 may include one or more other electrical components 268 coupled to image sensor package 206. For example, electrical component 268 may include flexible circuitry 220 mounted to image sensor package 206 or otherwise coupled to such flexible circuitry, one or more driver integrated circuits (e.g., driver integrated circuits including coils for driving actuators), and / or one or more position sensors, etc. In some non-limiting embodiments, electrical component 266 may include a position sensor (e.g., for position sensing with reference to OIS-X movement and / or OIS-Y movement), which may be oriented differently from position sensor 264. In some embodiments, such position sensor may be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field force of the actuator's probe magnet and / or another driving magnet, and in some embodiments, the actuator may be attached to base structure 214 (e.g., in a structure composed of…). Figure 2A (The location indicated by arrow 270 in the image).

[0052] Figure 3 This illustrates what can be used in cameras configured with sensor shift actuators (e.g., Figure 1Camera 100 and / or Figures 2A to 2F A schematic diagram of an example flexible circuit arrangement 300 for transmitting electrical signals in a camera 200 is shown. The flexible circuit arrangement 300 may include a dynamic flexible circuit 302, which may be related to the references herein. Figure 2A and Figure 2C The described dynamic flexible circuit 254 is the same as or similar. Furthermore, the flexible circuit arrangement 300 may include one or more circuit layers (e.g., flexible circuit 304, which may be connected to...). Figure 2A and Figure 2D The flexible circuit 220 of the image sensor package 204 is the same as or similar to that of the image sensor package 204 in this document, and / or the fixed flexible circuit 306 (which may be referenced herein). Figures 2A to 2F (The described fixed flexible circuit 262 is the same as or similar). In various embodiments, the flexible circuit arrangement 300 may be configured to transmit electrical signals between a bearing-suspended platform (e.g., X-platform 308) and the camera's base structure 310.

[0053] In some embodiments, the fixed flexible circuit 306 may be attached to the base structure 310 and / or the AF coil 232. Furthermore, the fixed flexible circuit 306 may extend along or near one or more sides of the base structure 310. For example, as... Figure 3 As indicated, the fixed flexible circuit 306 may include a straight region and one or more curved regions. In some embodiments, the fixed flexible circuit 306 may be aligned with an optical axis (e.g., Figure 1 It extends along the inner and / or outer side of the base structure 310 in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis 112.

[0054] In some embodiments, the flexible circuit arrangement 300 may include a flexible circuit electrical interface 312 at which a dynamic flexible circuit 302 may be coupled to a flexible circuit 304 or a fixed flexible circuit 306, for example, such that the dynamic flexible circuit 302 can be used to transmit electrical signals from the flexible circuit 304 (and / or the image sensor package and / or one or more other components of the X platform 308) to the fixed flexible circuit 306, and / or vice versa. For example, a flexible circuit electrical interface 312a may include one or more electrical connections between a movable portion of the dynamic flexible circuit 302 and the flexible circuit 304 and / or the image sensor package. Furthermore, a second flexible circuit electrical interface 312b and / or a third flexible circuit electrical interface 312c may include electrical connections between corresponding fixed end portions of the dynamic flexible circuit 302 and the fixed flexible circuit 306.

[0055] In some non-limiting examples, power from the driver integrated circuit (which can be mounted to the flexible circuit 304) can be delivered to the AF coil 232 via the flexible circuit arrangement 300. For example, drive current can be delivered from the flexible circuit 304 to the dynamic flexible circuit 302 via a first flexible circuit electrical interface 312a, then from the dynamic flexible circuit 302 to the fixed flexible circuit 306 via a second flexible circuit electrical interface 312b and / or a third flexible circuit electrical interface 312c, and then from the fixed flexible circuit 306 to the AF coil 232 to drive the AF coil 232.

[0056] In some non-limiting examples, a portion of the fixed flexible circuitry 306 (and / or one or more other portions of the flexible circuitry arrangement 300) may be detached from the camera module, such that the flexible circuitry arrangement is configured to be positioned between the camera module and one or more components outside the camera (such as devices, e.g., ...). Figure 10 Equipment 1000 Figure 11 The computer system 1100 (or similar) transmits specific signals (e.g., signals associated with image data captured via image sensor 206, signals associated with image data captured via image sensor 206, and signals associated with image data captured via image sensor 206) to an image signal processor (ISP). Figure 2A and Figure 2D Signals associated with position sensor data captured by position sensors 264 and 266 (e.g., signals). Flexible circuit arrangement 300 can be used via a substrate (e.g., connected to image sensor 206 and flexible circuit 304) Figure 2A and Figure 2C The substrate 216 in the image sensor 206 transmits signals. Alternatively or alternatively, the flexible circuit arrangement 300 can be used to transmit control signals (e.g., signals from the controller of the ISP associated with actuator commands) to the driver integrated circuit for driving the actuator coil.

[0057] Figure 4 An exploded top perspective view of an example flexible circuit arrangement 400 is shown, which can be used to transmit electrical signals to a camera configured with a sensor shift actuator (e.g., Figure 1 Camera 100 and / or Figures 2A to 2D The camera 200 transmits electrical signals from and / or transmits electrical signals within the camera. The flexible circuit arrangement 400 may include a flexible circuit 402 that is electrically connected to a fixed flexible circuit 262 attached to the base structure 214. For example, as... Figure 4 As indicated, the flexible circuit 402 may include an exposed ACF pad 404 that can be attached to a corresponding exposed ACF pad 406 of the fixed flexible circuit 262 (e.g., via ACF bonding, reflow soldering, and / or ultrasonic bonding).

[0058] In some implementations, the fixed flexible circuit 262 may also be used with a dynamic flexible circuit (e.g., Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2D Dynamic flexible circuit 254 in Figure 3 Dynamic flexible circuit 302, etc.) and / or one or more circuit layers (e.g., dynamic ... Figure 2A and Figure 2D Flexible circuit 220 in Figure 3 The flexible circuit 304, etc., is connected. As previously discussed, this configuration enables the transmission of electrical signals between the image sensor package (and / or the image sensor) and the fixed flexible circuit 262 via the dynamic flexible circuit and / or one or more circuit layers.

[0059] According to various embodiments, the flexible circuit 402 can transmit electrical signals between the fixed flexible circuit 262 and one or more components outside the camera, such as devices (e.g., Figure 10 Equipment 1000 Figure 11 The image signal processor (ISP) in computer systems such as 1100. Figure 4 As indicated, a portion 408 of the flexible circuit 402 is detached from and extends away from the camera module, such that the flexible circuit 402 is configured to transmit electrical signals between the camera module and components external to the camera. In some embodiments, a reinforcement 410 may be mounted on a portion of the flexible circuit 402, for example, to provide structural support to the flexible circuit arrangement 400 and / or the camera. The reinforcement 410 may surround a portion of the camera. For example, the reinforcement 410 may have an upper wall covering the upper portion of the camera and side walls covering the side portions of the camera. In some embodiments, the reinforcement 410 may not include the side walls located at the side of the camera through which the portion 408 of the flexible circuit 402 exits the camera module. In some embodiments, the reinforcement 410 may have side walls located at the side of the camera through which the portion 408 of the flexible circuit 402 exits the camera module, but the side walls may be configured to allow the portion 408 of the flexible circuit 402 to exit the camera module.

[0060] Figure 5 An exploded bottom perspective view of another example flexible circuit arrangement 500 is shown, which can be used to transmit electrical signals to a camera configured with a sensor shift actuator (e.g., Figure 1 Camera 100 and / or Figures 2A to 2D The camera 200 in the middle transmits electrical signals from and / or transmits electrical signals within the camera. The flexible circuit arrangement 500 may include a flexible circuit 502 that is electrically connected to a fixed flexible circuit 504 attached to the base structure 214. For example, as... Figure 5As indicated, the flexible circuit 502 may include exposed solder pads 506 that can be attached to corresponding exposed solder pads 508 of the fixed flexible circuit 504 (e.g., via ACF bonding, reflow soldering, and / or ultrasonic bonding). A portion of the fixed flexible circuit 504 including the exposed solder pads 508 may be disposed on the support frame 510 of the base structure 214, for example, as... Figure 5 As indicated in the document.

[0061] In some implementations, the fixed flexible circuit 504 can also be used with a dynamic flexible circuit (e.g., Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2D Dynamic flexible circuit 254 in Figure 3 Dynamic flexible circuit 302, etc.) and / or one or more circuit layers (e.g., dynamic ... Figure 2A and Figure 2D Flexible circuit 220 in Figure 3 The flexible circuit 304, etc., is connected, for example, as indicated herein by reference to the connection of flexible circuit 262 and / or flexible circuit 306 with dynamic flexible circuit and / or one or more circuit layers. As previously discussed, this configuration enables the transmission of electrical signals between the image sensor package (and / or image sensor) and the fixed flexible circuit 504 via dynamic flexible circuit and / or one or more circuit layers.

[0062] According to various embodiments, the flexible circuit 502 can transmit electrical signals between the fixed flexible circuit 504 and one or more components outside the camera, such as devices (e.g., ...). Figure 10 Equipment 1000 Figure 11 The image signal processor (ISP) in computer systems such as 1100. Figure 5 As indicated, a portion 512 of the flexible circuit 402 may extend away from the camera module, such that the flexible circuit 502 is configured to transmit electrical signals between the camera module and components outside the camera.

[0063] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an example flexural arrangement 600 is shown, which can be used to transmit electrical signals to a camera configured with a sensor displacement actuator (e.g., Figure 1 Camera 100 and / or Figures 2A to 2D The camera 200 in the camera transmits electrical signals from and / or transmits electrical signals within the camera. The flexural arrangement 600 may include a flexure 602 configured to transmit electrical signals (e.g., referenced herein) between a suspended platform (e.g., X-platform 604) and a base structure 606 of the camera. Figures 2A to 5(Discussed signals). In some embodiments, the flexure 602 may have an electrical interface 608a with the X-platform 604 (and / or one or more components connected to the X-platform 604) and an electrical interface 608b with the base structure 606 (and / or one or more components connected to the base structure 606), for example, as Figure 6 As indicated in the document. According to some embodiments, the flexural element 602 and / or the X-platform 604 may be coupled with the flexible circuit 610 (e.g., as shown in the document). Figure 2A and Figure 2D Flexible circuit 220 in Figure 3 Flexible circuit 304, etc.) and / or image sensor package including image sensor 206 (e.g. Figure 2A The image sensor package 204 is electrically connected in place. Alternatively or concurrently, the flexure 602 may be connected to a fixed flexible circuit (e.g., Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2E and Figure 2F Flexible circuits 262 in Figure 3 The fixed flexible circuit 306, etc., is electrically connected to the base structure 606 and / or the AF coil 232.

[0064] Figure 7 This demonstrates the ability to use sensor-shifting actuators (e.g.) Figure 1 The sensor shift actuator and / or sensor shift actuator of camera 100 in Figures 2A to 2D An exploded top perspective view of an example flexural suspension arrangement 700 used in a camera (the sensor shift actuator of camera 200). In some embodiments, the flexural suspension arrangement 700 may be used in a camera in addition to or as an alternative to at least a portion of the bearing suspension arrangement described herein. For example, the flexural suspension arrangement 700 may be used to separate the image sensor package 204 (and / or image sensor 206) from the base structure (e.g., Figure 1 The base structure 126 in Figures 2A to 2F The image sensor is suspended from its base structure 214 and / or one or more other fixed structures of the camera. According to some embodiments, the flexural suspension arrangement 700 may allow controlled XY movement of the image sensor, for example, to provide OIS movement of the image on the image sensor in multiple directions. In some embodiments, the flexural suspension arrangement 700 may additionally or alternatively allow controlled movement of the image sensor relative to the lens group in a direction parallel to the optical axis (e.g., the Z-axis direction), for example, to provide AF movement of the image on the image sensor.

[0065] In some embodiments, the flexure suspension arrangement 700 may include a frame 702 comprising one or more circuit layers located on an inner (dynamic) platform 704 and an outer (fixed) platform 706 whose movement relative to the inner platform is fixed. Furthermore, the flexure suspension arrangement 700 may include a flexure 708 connecting the inner platform 704 to the outer platform 706, for example, such as... Figure 7 As indicated in the diagram. The internal platform 704 can interact with one or more circuit layers of the image sensor package 204 (e.g., ...). Figure 2A and Figure 2D Flexible circuit 220 in Figure 3 The flexible circuit 304, etc., is connected to the image sensor package 204 (and / or image sensor 206) and the internal platform 704, allowing electrical signals to be transmitted between the image sensor package 204 (and / or image sensor 206) and the internal platform 704. The flexure 708 may include electrical traces that enable the flexure 708 to transmit electrical signals between the internal platform 704 and the external platform 706. In some embodiments, the frame 702 and / or the external platform 706 may include exposed tabs 710 for electrically connecting the flexure suspension arrangement 700 to one or more other flexible circuits (e.g., fixed flexible circuits 262 attached to the base structure 214), which can be used to transmit electrical signals within the camera and / or between the camera and one or more components outside the camera, for example, as referenced herein. Figures 2A to 6 (As discussed). Alternatively or alternatively, the exposed tabs 710 may be disposed on a portion of the flexure suspension arrangement 700 extending away from the camera module and / or away from the camera module to the outside of the camera, such that the flexure suspension arrangement 700 may be used to transmit electrical signals between the image sensor package 204 (and / or the image sensor 206) and the components outside the camera.

[0066] According to various embodiments, the flexure 708 may be configured to be relatively more compliant in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis (e.g., the XY plane) compared to a direction parallel to the optical axis (e.g., the Z-axis direction). That is, the flexure 708 may have higher stiffness in the Z-axis direction relative to its stiffness in the XY plane. In some embodiments, the compliance of the flexure 708 in the XY plane allows the internal platform 704 to move in the XY direction together with the image sensor package 204 (and / or the image sensor 206) according to OIS movement achieved by the sensor shift actuator. In some embodiments, the stiffness of the flexure in the Z-axis direction allows the flexible suspension arrangement 700 to suspend and / or restrict movement in the Z-axis direction from the camera's fixed structure.

[0067] Figure 8A schematic block diagram of some components of an example camera 800 having an actuator and dynamic flexible circuitry according to some embodiments is shown, along with a perspective view of an example dynamic flexible circuitry having one or more movable coils. In various embodiments, the camera 800 may include a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator (e.g., including one or more coils 802 and one or more magnets 804), dynamic flexible circuitry 806, a movable frame 808, and one or more fixed structures (and / or one or more flexible circuitries) 810. Figure 8 As indicated, the fixed portion 812 of the camera 800 may include a magnet 804, a fixed structure 810, and a fixed portion of the dynamic flexible circuit 806. The movable portion 814 of the camera 800 may include a coil 802, a movable frame 808, and a movable portion of the dynamic flexible circuit 806. In various examples, the movable portion 814 of the camera 800 may include components movable relative to the fixed portion 812 of the camera 800.

[0068] According to various embodiments, the movable frame 808 may include a lens holder (and / or a lens tube). Lens assembly (e.g.) Figure 1 The lens assembly 102 can be fixedly connected to the lens holder, so that the lens assembly and the lens holder can be positioned relative to the image sensor (e.g., Figure 1 The image sensor 104 in the image sensor assembly can be moved (e.g., using a VCM actuator). In other embodiments, the movable frame 808 may include a platform. The image sensor package, including the image sensor, may be fixedly coupled to the platform such that the image sensor package can move relative to the lens group together with the platform (e.g., using a VCM actuator). In some embodiments, the VCM actuator may be used to move the lens group and / or the image sensor in at least one direction parallel to the optical axis defined by the lens group, for example, to provide an autofocus (AF) function. Additionally or alternatively, the VCM actuator may be used to move the lens group and / or the image sensor in one or more directions orthogonal to the optical axis, for example, to provide an optical image stabilization (OIS) function.

[0069] In some embodiments, coil 802 may be fixedly connected to movable frame 808, such that coil 802 moves together with movable frame 808. Additionally, magnet 804 may be fixedly connected to fixed structure 810. A corresponding set of one or more coils 802 may be positioned close to a corresponding set of one or more magnets 804, such that coil 802 can electromagnetically interact with magnet 804 to generate a Lorentz force that moves movable frame 808.

[0070] In various embodiments, the dynamic flexible circuit 806 may provide an electrical connection between the coil 802 and the fixed structure 810. A portion of the dynamic flexible circuit 806 may provide sufficient service loops to allow movement of the movable frame 808 implemented by the VCM actuator. The dynamic flexible circuit 806 may be configured to transmit electrical signals between the fixed structure 810 and the coil 802 via the electrical connection. According to some embodiments, the dynamic flexible circuit 806 may include one or more fixed end portions 816, one or more movable end portions 818, and / or one or more intermediate portions 820. The fixed end portions 816 may be fixedly coupled to the fixed structure 810. The movable end portions 818 may be fixedly coupled to the coil 802. The intermediate portions 820 may extend from the fixed end portions 816 to the movable end portions 818. Furthermore, the intermediate portions 820 may provide service loops to allow movement of the movable frame 808 implemented by the VCM actuator. In various embodiments, the intermediate portion 820 may include a radial region, a curved region, a fold, and / or legs that enable movement in one or more degrees of freedom (DOF). In some non-limiting embodiments, the dynamic flexible circuitry 806 may enable the movable frame 808 to move in three DOFs, for example, to provide AF and OIS functionality.

[0071] In some embodiments, camera 800 may include one or more position sensors 822 for detecting the position of movable frame 808. Position sensors 822 may be fixedly coupled to dynamic flexible circuit 806. Furthermore, position sensors 822 may be located near coil 802 and / or magnet 804. For example, in some embodiments, position sensors 822 may be attached to a movable portion 818 of dynamic flexible circuit 806.

[0072] According to some implementation schemes, the fixed end portion 816 of the dynamic flexible circuit 806 can be similar to that described herein. Figure 3 The described method, for example, involves connection to one or more other flexible circuits via an electrical interface. For instance, the fixed end portion 816 may have a direct electrical connection to other flexible circuits, or an indirect electrical connection via a conductive path through the fixed structure 810. Other flexible circuits may be able to route electrical signals between the dynamic flexible circuit 806 and at least one of one or more external components outside the image sensor package (e.g., when the movable frame 808 is a lens holder) or outside the camera 800.

[0073] In various embodiments, the movable frame 808 may be suspended from the fixed structure 810, for example, via one or more of the suspension arrangements described herein.

[0074] Figure 9 The illustration may include a moving coil (e.g.) Figure 8Coil 802 in the middle) and dynamic flexible circuits (e.g. Figure 8 A side sectional view of an example camera 900 with an actuator for the dynamic flexible circuit 806 in the image. Unless otherwise specified herein, Figure 9 China and Israel Figure 2D The reference number markings of the components can be compared with the reference. Figures 2A to 2D The components described are the same.

[0075] In some embodiments, the VCM actuator of camera 900 may include coil 902 and one or more magnets 904 (e.g. Figure 8 (Magnet 804 in the middle). Coil 902 may be fixedly connected to a movable frame (e.g., lens holder 212) and dynamic flexible circuit 906. For example, coil 902 may be attached to a movable end portion of dynamic flexible circuit 906 (e.g., Figure 8 The movable end portion 818) and / or at least partially embedded within the movable end portion. The magnet 904 can be attached to one or more fixed structures (e.g., Figure 8 The fixing structure 810 in the middle, such as the base structure 214. In various embodiments, the fixing end portion (e.g., Figure 8 The fixed end portion 816 may be coupled to a fixed structure and / or one or more other flexible circuits as described herein. In some examples, the dynamic flexible circuit 906 may have an electrical interface with the dynamic flexible circuit 254, which is coupled to the image sensor 206.

[0076] In some implementations, camera 900 may include position sensor 908 (e.g., Figure 8 The position sensor 822 is fixedly connected to the dynamic flexible circuit 906. For example, the position sensor 908 may be attached to a movable end portion of the dynamic flexible circuit 906. The position sensor 908 can be used to detect changes in the magnetic field, such as when the position sensor 908 (together with the coil 902 and the lens group 202) moves relative to the magnet 904 in the Z-axis direction. In some non-limiting examples, the position sensor 908 may be surrounded by the coil 902.

[0077] Figure 10 The diagram illustrates an example device 1000 according to some embodiments, which may include a camera (e.g., with a sensor displacement actuator and / or bearing suspension arrangement). Figure 1 Camera 100 Figures 2A to 2D(e.g., camera 200). In some embodiments, device 1000 can be a mobile device and / or a multi-functional device. In various embodiments, device 1000 can be any of a variety of types of devices, including but not limited to: personal computer systems, desktop computers, laptops, notebook computers, tablet computers, all-in-one computers, tablet computers or netbooks, mainframe computers, handheld computers, workstations, network computers, cameras, set-top boxes, mobile devices, augmented reality (AR) and / or virtual reality (VR) headsets, consumer devices, video game controllers, handheld video game devices, application servers, storage devices, televisions, video recording equipment, peripherals (such as switches, modems, routers), or any type of computing or electronic device in general.

[0078] In some embodiments, device 1000 may include a display system 1002 (e.g., including a display and / or a touch-sensitive surface) and / or one or more cameras 1004. In some non-limiting embodiments, the display system 1002 and / or one or more forward-facing cameras 1004a may be disposed on the front side of device 1000, for example, as shown in the image. Figure 10 As indicated. Additionally or alternatively, one or more rear-facing cameras 1004b may be disposed at the rear of the device 1000. In some embodiments including a plurality of cameras 1004, some or all of the cameras may be identical or similar to each other. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the cameras may be different from each other. In various embodiments, the position and / or arrangement of the cameras 1004 may vary. Figure 10 Those that were indicated.

[0079] Among other things, device 1000 may include memory 1006 (e.g., including operating system 1008 and / or application / program instructions 1010), one or more processors and / or controllers 1012 (e.g., including CPU, memory controller, display controller and / or camera controller, etc.) and / or one or more sensors 1016 (e.g., orientation sensor, proximity sensor and / or position sensor, etc.). In some embodiments, device 1000 may communicate with one or more other devices and / or services (such as computing device 1018, cloud service 1020, etc.) via one or more networks 1022. For example, device 1000 may include a network interface (e.g., Figure 11 The network interface 1110 enables device 1000 to transmit data to and receive data from network 1022. Additionally or alternatively, device 1000 may be able to communicate wirelessly with other devices using any of a variety of communication standards, protocols and / or technologies.

[0080] Figure 11A schematic block diagram of an example computing device, referred to as computer system 1100, is shown. This computer system may include or host an embodiment of a camera having sensor displacement actuators and / or suspension arrangements, for example, as referenced herein. Figures 1 to 10 As described herein. Furthermore, the computer system 1100 can implement methods for controlling camera operation and / or for performing image processing on images captured by the camera. In some embodiments, the device 1000 (referenced herein) Figure 10 The (described) may additionally or alternatively include some or all of the functional components of the computer system 1100 described herein.

[0081] Computer system 1100 may be configured to perform any or all of the embodiments described above. In different embodiments, computer system 1100 may be any of a variety of types of devices, including but not limited to: personal computer systems, desktop computers, laptops, notebook computers, tablet computers, all-in-one computers, tablet computers or netbooks, mainframe computers, handheld computers, workstations, network computers, cameras, set-top boxes, mobile devices, augmented reality (AR) and / or virtual reality (VR) headsets, consumer devices, video game controllers, handheld video game devices, application servers, storage devices, televisions, video recording equipment, peripheral devices (such as switches, modems, routers), or any type of computing or electronic device in general.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, computer system 1100 includes one or more processors 1102 coupled to system memory 1104 via input / output (I / O) interface 1106. Computer system 1100 also includes one or more cameras 1108 coupled to I / O interface 1106. Computer system 1100 also includes a network interface 1110 coupled to I / O interface 1106, and one or more input / output devices 1112, such as cursor control device 1114, keyboard 1116, and display 1118. In some cases, it is conceivable that the embodiment can be implemented using a single instance of computer system 1100, while in other embodiments, multiple such systems or multiple nodes constituting computer system 1100 may be configured to host different parts or instances of the embodiment. For example, in one embodiment, some elements may be implemented via one or more nodes of computer system 1100 that are different from those nodes implementing other elements.

[0083] In various embodiments, computer system 1100 may be a single-processor system including one processor 1102, or a multiprocessor system including several processors 1102 (e.g., two, four, eight, or another suitable number). Processor 1102 may be any suitable processor capable of executing instructions. For example, in various embodiments, processor 1102 may be a general-purpose or embedded processor implementing any of a variety of instruction set architectures (ISAs) (such as x86, PowerPC, SPARC, or MIPS ISA or any other suitable ISA). In a multiprocessor system, each processor in processor 1102 may, but is not required to, implement the same ISA.

[0084] System memory 1104 may be configured to store program instructions 1120 accessible by processor 1102. In various embodiments, system memory 1104 may be implemented using any suitable memory technology, such as static random access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), non-volatile / flash memory, or any other type of memory. Additionally, existing camera control data 1122 in memory 1104 may include any of the aforementioned information or data structures. In some embodiments, program instructions 1120 and / or data 1122 may be received, transmitted, or stored on a different type of computer-accessible medium or similar medium separate from system memory 1104 or computer system 1100. In various embodiments, some or all of the functions described herein may be implemented via such computer system 1100.

[0085] In one embodiment, I / O interface 1106 may be configured to coordinate I / O communication between processor 1102, system memory 1104, and any peripheral devices in the device, including network interface 1110 or other peripheral device interfaces such as input / output devices 1112. In some embodiments, I / O interface 1106 may perform any necessary protocol, timing, or other data conversions to convert data signals from one component (e.g., system memory 1104) into a format suitable for use by another component (e.g., processor 1102). In some embodiments, I / O interface 1106 may include support for devices attached, for example, via various types of peripheral buses (e.g., variants of the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus standard or the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard). In some embodiments, the functionality of I / O interface 1106 may be partitioned into two or more separate components, such as a northbridge and a southbridge. Furthermore, in some embodiments, some or all of the functionality of I / O interface 1106 (such as an interface to system memory 1104) may be directly incorporated into processor 1102.

[0086] Network interface 1110 may be configured to allow data exchange between computer system 1100 and other devices (e.g., bearers or agent devices) attached to network 1124, or between nodes of computer system 1100. In various embodiments, network 1124 may include one or more networks, including but not limited to local area networks (LANs) (e.g., Ethernet or enterprise networks), wide area networks (WANs) (e.g., the Internet), wireless data networks, some other electronic data network, or some combination thereof. In various embodiments, network interface 1110 may support communication via wired or wireless general-purpose data networks (such as any suitable type of Ethernet network), for example; via telecommunications / telephone networks (such as analog voice networks or digital fiber optic communication networks); via storage area networks (such as Fibre Channel SANs), or via any other suitable type of network and / or protocol.

[0087] In some implementations, input / output device 1112 may include one or more display terminals, keyboards, keypads, touchpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other device suitable for inputting or accessing data by one or more computer systems 1100. Multiple input / output devices 1112 may be present in computer system 1100 or distributed across various nodes of computer system 1100. In some implementations, similar input / output devices may be separate from computer system 1100 and may interact with one or more nodes of computer system 1100 via wired or wireless connections (such as through network interface 1110).

[0088] Those skilled in the art will understand that computer system 1100 is merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of embodiments. Specifically, computer systems and devices may include any combination of hardware or software capable of performing the indicated functions, including computers, network devices, internet devices, PDAs, wireless telephones, pagers, etc. Computer system 1100 may also be connected to other devices not shown, or conversely, may operate as a stand-alone system. Furthermore, the functionality provided by the illustrated components may, in some embodiments, be combined into fewer components or distributed across additional components. Similarly, in some embodiments, the functionality of some of the illustrated components may not be provided, and / or other additional functions may be available.

[0089] Those skilled in the art will also recognize that while various items are shown as being stored in memory or on storage devices during use, these items, or portions thereof, may be transferred between memory and other storage devices for memory management and data integrity purposes. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some or all of these software components may be executed in memory on another device and communicate with the illustrated computer system via inter-computer communication. Some or all of the system components or data structures may also be stored (e.g., as instructions or structured data) on a computer-accessible medium or portable article of manufacture for reading by a suitable drive, various examples of which are described above. In some embodiments, instructions stored on a computer-accessible medium separate from computer system 1100 may be transmitted to computer system 1100 via a transmission medium or signal (such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals transmitted via communication media such as networks and / or wireless links). Various embodiments may also include receiving, transmitting, or storing instructions and / or data implemented according to the above description on a computer-accessible medium. Generally, computer-accessible media may include non-transitory computer-readable storage media or memory media, such as magnetic or optical media, like discs or DVD / CD-ROMs, and volatile or non-volatile media, such as RAM (e.g., SDRAM, DDR, RDRAM, SRAM, etc.), ROM, etc. In some embodiments, computer-accessible media may include transmission media or signals, such as electrical signals, electromagnetic signals, or digital signals transmitted via communication media such as networks and / or wireless links.

[0090] In various implementations, the methods described herein can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the order of the blocks of the method can be changed, and various elements can be added, reordered, combined, omitted, modified, etc. Various modifications and changes will be apparent to those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure. The various implementations described herein are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. Thus, multiple examples may be provided for a component described herein as a single example. The boundaries between various components, operations, and data repositories are somewhat arbitrary, and specific operations are shown in the context of a particular exemplary configuration. Other allocations of functionality are contemplated, which may fall within the scope of the appended claims. Finally, the structures and functions of discrete components presented in exemplary configurations can be implemented as combined structures or components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of the implementations as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A camera, the camera comprising: A lens group, comprising one or more lens elements; An image sensor is used to capture image data based on light that has passed through the lens group; A movable frame, which is fixedly connected to the lens group or the image sensor; One or more fixed structures; A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator for moving the movable frame relative to the one or more fixed structures, the VCM actuator comprising: A coil, the coil being fixedly connected to the movable frame such that the coil moves together with the movable frame; and A magnet, the magnet being fixedly connected to one or more fixed structures; and A flexible circuit provides an electrical connection between the coil and the one or more fixed structures, wherein a portion of the flexible circuit provides a service loop that allows movement of the movable frame implemented by the VCM actuator, and wherein the flexible circuit transmits electrical signals between the one or more fixed structures and the coil via the electrical connection. The flexible circuit includes one or more folded portions extending from one or more sides adjacent to the camera and parallel to the optical axis defined by the one or more lens elements.

2. The camera according to claim 1, wherein the flexible circuit comprises: A fixed end portion, wherein the fixed end portion is fixedly connected to the one or more fixed structures; A movable end portion, which is fixedly connected to the coil; and The intermediate portion extends from the fixed end portion to the movable end portion and provides the service loop.

3. The camera of claim 1, wherein the movable frame includes a lens holder fixedly connected to the lens group.

4. The camera according to claim 3, wherein: The flexible circuit is the first flexible circuit; The one or more fixed structures include at least one of the following: Base structure; or A fixed portion of a second flexible circuit is attached to the base structure, wherein the second flexible circuit is capable of routing electrical signals between the first flexible circuit and at least one of the following: An image sensor package including the image sensor; or One or more external components located outside the camera.

5. The camera according to claim 3, wherein: The one or more fixed structures include a base structure; and The camera also includes: A bearing suspension arrangement for suspending the lens bracket from the base structure, wherein the lens bracket is configured to move on ball bearings to allow movement achieved by the VCM actuator.

6. The camera according to claim 1, wherein: The movable frame includes a platform that is fixedly connected to the image sensor; The one or more fixed structures include a base structure; and The camera also includes: A bearing suspension arrangement for suspending the platform from the base structure, wherein the platform is configured to move on ball bearings to allow movement enabled by the VCM actuator.

7. The camera according to claim 1, further comprising: A position sensor for detecting the position of the movable frame, wherein the position sensor is fixedly connected to the flexible circuit and positioned close to the coil.

8. An apparatus, said apparatus comprising: One or more processors; The memory stores program instructions that can be executed by the one or more processors to control the operation of the camera; and The camera, the camera includes: A lens group, comprising one or more lens elements; An image sensor is used to capture image data based on light that has passed through the lens group; A movable frame, which is fixedly connected to the lens group or the image sensor; One or more fixed structures; A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator for moving the movable frame relative to the one or more fixed structures, the VCM actuator comprising: A coil, the coil being fixedly connected to the movable frame such that the coil moves together with the movable frame; and A magnet, the magnet being fixedly connected to one or more fixed structures; and A flexible circuit provides an electrical connection between the coil and the one or more fixed structures, wherein a portion of the flexible circuit provides a service loop that allows movement of the movable frame implemented by the VCM actuator, and wherein the flexible circuit transmits electrical signals between the one or more fixed structures and the coil via the electrical connection. The flexible circuit includes one or more folded portions extending from one or more sides adjacent to the camera and parallel to the optical axis defined by the one or more lens elements.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the flexible circuit comprises: A fixed end portion, wherein the fixed end portion is fixedly connected to the one or more fixed structures; A movable end portion, which is fixedly connected to the coil; and The intermediate portion extends from the fixed end portion to the movable end portion and provides the service loop.

10. The device of claim 8, wherein the movable frame includes a lens holder fixedly coupled to the lens group.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein: The flexible circuit is the first flexible circuit; The one or more fixed structures include at least one of the following: Base structure; or A fixed portion of a second flexible circuit is attached to the base structure, wherein the second flexible circuit is capable of routing electrical signals between the first flexible circuit and at least one of the following: An image sensor package including the image sensor; or One or more external components located outside the camera.

12. The device according to claim 10, wherein: The one or more fixed structures include a base structure; and The camera also includes: A bearing suspension arrangement for suspending the lens bracket from the base structure, wherein the lens bracket is configured to move on ball bearings to allow movement achieved by the VCM actuator.

13. The device according to claim 8, wherein: The movable frame includes a platform that is fixedly connected to the image sensor; The one or more fixed structures include a base structure; and The camera also includes: A bearing suspension arrangement for suspending the platform from the base structure, wherein the platform is configured to move on ball bearings to allow movement enabled by the VCM actuator.

14. The device of claim 8, wherein the camera further comprises: A position sensor for detecting the position of the movable frame, wherein the position sensor is fixedly connected to the flexible circuit and positioned close to the coil.

15. The device of claim 8, wherein the one or more processors are configured to cause the VCM actuator to move the lens group in at least one direction parallel to the optical axis defined by the one or more lens elements.

16. A flexible circuit for a camera, the flexible circuit comprising: A fixed end portion, the fixed end portion being used for connection with one or more fixing structures of the camera; A movable end portion, the movable end portion being connected to a movable coil of the camera's voice coil motor (VCM) actuator, wherein the movable coil interacts electromagnetically with a fixed magnet of the VCM actuator to generate a Lorentz force that causes the movable frame of the camera to move together with the movable coil relative to the one or more fixed structures. and The intermediate portion, used for transmitting electrical signals between the fixed end portion and the movable end portion, provides a service loop that allows movement of the movable frame, implemented by the VCM actuator. The flexible circuit includes one or more folded portions extending from one or more sides adjacent to the camera and parallel to the optical axis defined by one or more lens elements of the camera.

17. The flexible circuit of claim 16, wherein the movable end portion is connected to the movable coil such that the electrical signal can supply drive current to the movable coil.

18. The flexible circuit according to claim 16, wherein: The movable frame is a lens holder, and a lens group comprising one or more lens elements of the camera is attached to the lens holder; and The middle portion is used to allow the movable end portion to move together with the lens assembly.

19. The flexible circuit according to claim 16, wherein: The movable frame is a platform, and an image sensor package, including an image sensor, is attached to the platform; and The middle portion is used to allow the movable end portion to move together with the image sensor.

20. The flexible circuit of claim 16, wherein the intermediate portion includes one or more curved regions; The movable frame is a platform, and an image sensor package, including an image sensor, is attached to the platform; and The middle portion is used to allow the movable end portion to move together with the image sensor.

Images