Large aperture continuous zoom folding telephoto camera

Abstract

A large-aperture continuous zoom folding telephoto camera, the folding digital camera includes a lens, the lens includes a plurality of N lens elements labeled as L i and an optical path folding element (OPFE), where 1 ≤ i ≤ N, where a first lens element L1 faces an object side, and a last lens element L N faces an image side, where at least one of the plurality of lens elements is located on an object side of the OPFE and has an associated first optical axis, where at least one other of the plurality of lens elements is located on an image side of the OPFE and has an associated second optical axis, where the lens has an effective focal length (EFL) and an f-number (f / #), and an image sensor has a sensor diagonal (SD), where by independent movement of the lens element and the OPFE along the second optical lens axis, the EFL can be continuously varied between a minimum EFL MIN and a maximum EFL MAX , and where EFL MAX / EFL MIN > 1.5.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 247,336 filed on September 23, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The subject matter of the present disclosure generally relates to the field of digital cameras. Background Art

[0004] definition

[0005] In this application and throughout the description and drawings referring to optical and other characteristics, the following symbols and abbreviations are used, which are terms well known in the art.

[0006] Total Track Length (TTL): When the system is focused at an infinite object distance, a first lens element L 1 The maximum distance between a point on the front surface S1 of a lens and an image sensor measured along an axis parallel to the optical axis of a lens.

[0007] Effective focal length (EFL): The focal length of a lens (lens element L 1 To L N ), the distance between a rear principal point P' and a rear focus F' of the lens.

[0008] f-number (f / #): the ratio of the EFL to the entrance pupil diameter.

[0009] background

[0010] Multi-aperture cameras (or "multi-cameras", of which a "dual camera" with two cameras is an example) are included in almost all portable electronic mobile devices ("mobile devices", such as smartphones, tablets, etc.) currently. Multi-cameras usually include a wide field of view (or "angle") FOV W camera (a "wide" camera or "W" camera), and at least one additional camera, e.g., with a narrower (than FOV W Narrow) field of view (with FOV T Telephoto or "tele" camera). Typically, the spatial resolution of the telephoto camera is constant and can be, for example, 3 times, 5 times, or 10 times higher than the resolution of the W camera. This is called the telephoto camera with a "zoom factor" (ZF) of 3, 5, or 10, respectively. ZF is determined by the EFL (EFL) of the telephoto camera. T ) decided.

[0011] For example, consider a dual camera with a W camera and a telephoto camera with a ZF of 5. When zooming to a scene, the image data of the W camera can be used, which is digitally zoomed to a ZF of 5. For ZF ≥ 5, the image data of the telephoto camera can be used, which is digitally zoomed to a ZF> 5. In some scenarios, a high ZF is required to capture high-resolution images. In other scenarios, due to the FOV T It may be too narrow due to high ZF, which is undesirable except when only image data of a (digital zoom) wide camera is available. For example, in the commonly owned international patent applications Nos. PCT / IB2021 / 061078 and PCT / IB2022 / 052515, there are described methods that can provide minimum ZF, ZF MIN and maximum ZF, ZF MAX A telephoto camera with a continuous zoom factor between .

[0012] Figure 1A A conventional folded telephoto camera 100 is shown, including a camera having a width W OPFE An optical path folding element (OPFE) 102, a lens 104 having a plurality of lens elements (not visible in this illustration) included in a lens barrel 110 at a distance ΔLO from the OPFE 102, and an image sensor 106. The OPFE 102 folds an optical path (Optical Path, OP) from a first OP 112 to a second OP 108 forming an optical axis of the lens 104. The lens 104 is located on an image side of the OPFE 102. The theoretical lower limits of a length ("minimum module length" or "MML") of a camera module including the camera 100 and a height ("minimum module height" or "MMH") of the camera module are shown. MML and MMH are defined by the minimum size of the elements included in the camera 100. TTL is given by TTL = MML - W OPFE – ΔLO is obtained, so TTL is geometrically affected by TTL <MML - W OPFE restrictions.

[0013] Figure 1B A known dual camera 150 is shown, which includes a folded telephoto camera 100 and a (vertical or "upright") W camera 130, which includes a lens 132 having multiple lens elements (not visible in this figure) and an image sensor 138. The lens 132 is included in a lens barrel 134. The W camera 130 has an OP136.

[0014] Figure 1CA known mobile device 160 (e.g., a smart phone) is schematically shown in a cross-sectional view. The mobile device 160 has an external rear surface 162 and includes a folded telephoto camera 100. The aperture of the camera 100 is located on the rear surface 162. A front surface 164 of the mobile device 160 may include a screen (not visible). The mobile device 160 has a conventional region 166 of a thickness (“T”) and a camera bump region 168 that is raised a height B above the conventional region. The bump region 168 has a bump length (“BL”) and a bump thickness T + B. Typically and as shown here, the camera 100 is fully integrated within the bump region 168 such that MML and MMH define the lower limits of the dimensions of the bump region 168, i.e., BL and T + B. Conversely, the given dimensions of the bump region 168 constitute the upper limits of MML and MMH and the parts included. In particular, an aperture diameter (“DA”) or “entrance pupil” of the camera 100 satisfies DA < MMH. For industrial design reasons, a compact camera bump (i.e., a short BL and a small B) is desired. Compared to a vertical camera (such as 130), for a given bump thickness T + B, a folded camera (such as 100) can achieve a greater TTL, corresponding to a greater ZF, which is desired. However, a large TTL is accompanied by a large BL, which is not desired.

[0015] It would be beneficial to have a continuously variable zoom folded telephoto camera with an aperture diameter DA that can provide a large EFL at a low f / # and still only occupy a small area of the camera bump of the mobile device. Summary of the Invention

[0016] In various exemplary embodiments, a folded digital camera is provided, including: a lens including a plurality (N) of lens elements labeled L i and an optical path folding element (OPFE), where 1 ≤ i ≤ N, where a first lens element L 1 faces an object side, and a last lens element L N faces an image side, where at least one of the plurality of lens elements is located on the object side of the OPFE and has an associated first optical axis, where at least one other of the plurality of lens elements is located on the image side of the OPFE and has an associated second optical axis, where the lens has an EFL and an f / #; and an image sensor having a sensor diagonal (SD), where by independent movement of the lens elements and the OPFE along the second optical lens axis, the EFL can be continuously varied between a minimum EFL MIN and a maximum EFL MAX and where EFL MAX / EFL MIN> 1.5.

[0017] In some examples, the lens is divided into two lens groups numbered G1 and G2, and the continuous change of the EFL is obtained by the independent movement of G1 and G2 respectively. In some examples, G1 includes three lens element subgroups G1-1, G1-2, G1-3 and the OPFE, where G1-1 is on the object side of the OPFE and where G1-2 and G1-3 are on the image side of the OPFE. In some examples, G2 includes two lens element subgroups G2-1 and G2-2, where G2-1 is on the image side of G1-2 and where G2-2 is on the image side of G1-3. In such an embodiment, G1-1 may include one lens element and where G1-2, G1-3, G2-1 and G2-2 may each include two lens elements.

[0018] In some examples, the EFL can be continuously changed by independently changing the positions of G1 and G2 along the second optical axis and by moving G1+G2 together along the second optical axis relative to the image sensor.

[0019] In some examples, G1 and G2 can be moved together as one lens relative to the image sensor for focusing. In some examples, the image sensor is operably moved relative to G1 and G2 for optical image stabilization (OIS). The movement of the image sensor for optical image stabilization is performed in two directions, and the two directions are perpendicular to a normal on the image sensor and perpendicular to each other.

[0020] In some examples, a camera as described above or below can be included in a camera module having a shoulder height SH, and DA > SH. In some examples, SH is in the range of 4 mm < SH < 10 mm. In some examples, 5 mm < SH < 8 mm.

[0021] In some examples, DA > 1.1xSH. In some examples, DA > 1.2xSH. In some examples, DA > 1.2xSH. In some examples, DA is in the range of 5 mm < DA < 11 mm, and f / # is in the range of 1.8 < f / # < 6.0. In some examples, DA is in the range of 7 mm < DA < 10 mm, and f / # is in the range of 2.0 < f / # < 5.0.

[0022] In some examples, a camera is included in a camera module having a camera module height MH in the range of 6 mm < MH < 12 mm. In some examples, 7 mm < MH < 11 mm. In some examples, where SH is in the range of 4 mm < SH < 10 mm and MH is in the range of 6 mm < SH < 12 mm, a ratio SH / MH < 0.9, or < 0.8 or even < 0.7.

[0023] In some examples, an f / # at EFL MIN is f / # MIN , an f / # at EFL MAX is f / # MAX , and where a ratio f / # MAX / f / # MIN < EFL MAX / EFL MIN . In some examples, f / # MAX / f / # MIN < EFL MAX / 1.1x EFL MIN .

[0024] In some examples, the lens may be a cut lens, and all lens elements located on an image side of the OPFE are cut along an axis parallel to the second optical axis.

[0025] In some examples, the lens may be a cut lens, where all lens elements located on an object side of the OPFE are cut along an axis parallel to the first optical axis, and all lens elements located on an image side of the OPFE are cut along an axis parallel to the second optical axis.

[0026] In some examples with a cut lens, the lens is cut 30% with respect to an axisymmetric lens diameter. In some such examples, with respect to an axisymmetric lens having the same lens diameter measured along an axis perpendicular to the first and second optical axes of the lens, the SH is reduced by > 20% by the cut. In some such examples, a ratio SH / DA is reduced by > 10%.

[0027] In some examples, G1-1 includes L 1 . In some examples, L 1 has a focal length of f1, and f1 < 1.1xEFL MIN .

[0028] In some examples, L1 is made of glass.

[0029] In some examples, N = 9. In some examples, the lens L 1- L 9 The focal power sequence of 9 is positive - negative - negative - positive - negative - positive - negative - negative - positive.

[0030] In some examples, L 2 is the first lens element located on the image side of the OPFE, and a distance between the OPFE and the L 2 is marked as d M-L , and d M-L does not change due to the continuous change of the EFL. In some examples, a ratio d M-L / TTL < 7.5%.

[0031] In some examples, the last lens L N is positive.

[0032] In some examples, L 1 is the only lens element located on the object side of the OPFE, a distance between the L 1 and the OPFE is ΔLO, and a ratio ΔLO / TTL < 1%. In some examples, ΔLO / TTL < 0.5%.

[0033] In some examples, the OPFE can be a mirror.

[0034] In some examples, EFL MAX / EFL MIN > 1.75. In some examples, EFL MAX / EFL MIN > 1.9.

[0035] In some examples, 30 mm < EFL MAX < 50 mm and 10 mm < EFL MIN < 30 mm.

[0036] In some examples, SD can be in the range of 3 mm < SD < 10 mm.

[0037] In various exemplary embodiments, a mobile device including a camera as described above or below is provided. A mobile device has a device thickness T and a camera bump region, where the bump region has a lift thickness T + B, where a first region of the camera is included in the camera bump region, and where a second region of the camera is not included in the camera bump. The mobile device can be a smartphone. In some such mobile devices, N = 9, the first region of the camera includes L 1 and the OPFE, and the second region of the camera includes lens elements L 2 - L 9In some examples, the mobile device may further include a second camera, wherein the second camera includes a second EFL (EFL 2 ) of a second camera lens, wherein EFL 2 <EFL MIN . BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Non-limiting examples of the embodiments disclosed herein are described below with reference to the drawings listed after this paragraph.Description The drawings and the description are intended to illustrate and clarify the embodiments disclosed herein and should not be considered limiting in any way.

[0039] Figure 1A A known folded telephoto camera is shown.

[0040] Figure 1B A known dual camera is shown.

[0041] Figure 1C A known mobile device is schematically shown, the known mobile device having an external rear surface and including a folded telephoto camera.

[0042] Figure 2A An embodiment of the folded telephoto camera disclosed in this article is schematically shown.

[0043] Figure 2B The cross-sectional view schematically shows a Figure 1C A mobile device of the size described, the mobile device having an outer rear surface and comprising Figure 2A A folding telephoto camera.

[0044] Figure 2C Shows Figure 2A An embodiment of an auto focus (AF) mechanism of the folding camera.

[0045] Figure 2D Shown for Figure 2A An embodiment of an OIS mechanism of the folding camera.

[0046] Figure 3A An embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein is schematically shown in a first zoom state.

[0047] Figure 3B Schematically shows the disclosed Figure 3A The described embodiment.

[0048] Figure 3C Shows continuous zoom FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B A lens stroke required for the optical lens system.

[0049] Figure 3D Another embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein is schematically shown in a first zoom state.

[0050] Figure 3E Schematically shows the disclosed Figure 3D The described embodiment.

[0051] Figure 4A Two impact points IP are shown 1 and IP 2 Orthographic projection IP on a plane P orth,1 、IP orth,2 .

[0052] Figure 4B Two impact points IP are shown 3 and IP 4 Orthographic projection IP on plane P orth,3 、IP orth,4 .

[0053] Figure 5A The definition of clear height (CH) is provided.

[0054] Figure 5B Provides the definition of clear aperture (CA).

[0055] Figure 6 Provides H L and H opt Definition of .

[0056] Figure 7 A lens barrel including a plurality of cut lens elements and a lens housing is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] In the following detailed description, a lot of specific details will be given to provide a thorough understanding. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods will not be specifically described to avoid obscuring the present invention.

[0058] Figure 2A An embodiment of a folded continuous zoom telephoto camera disclosed herein and numbered 200 is schematically shown. The camera 200 includes a lens 202 having NN lens elements. In the lens 202, for example, N=4. The lens elements in the lens 202 are numbered L 1 -L 4 , where L 1 Each lens element L i(where "i" is an integer between 1 and N). 1 Axisymmetric along a first optical (lens) axis 212, L 2 -L 4 The lens 202 is axially symmetric along a second optical (lens) axis 208. The lens 202 also includes an OPFE 204 folded from the OP 212 to the OP 208. The camera 200 also includes an image sensor 206. The camera elements may be included in a housing 214.

[0059] The lens 202 is divided into two or more lens groups G1 (including L 1 , OPFE 204 and L 2 ) and G2 (here including L 3 and L 4 ), including a lens element in G1 located on an object side (L 1 ) and one image side (L 2 ). G2 is located on one image side of the OPFE 204.

[0060] To estimate the inclusion of e.g. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D and FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E To address the theoretical limitations of the minimum size of an optical lens system for a camera module, we introduce the following parameters and their interdependencies.

[0061] MML and "Module Length" ("ML")

[0062] - Minimum module length (“MML”) is the theoretical lower limit of a length of a camera module including all parts of camera 200 .

[0063] - MML = max(Z Lens , Z OPFE ) - Z Sensor ,max(Z Lens , Z OPFE ) is the lens 202 along the z-axis (Z Lens ) or OPFE 204(Z OPFE ) occupies a maximum length, and Z Sensor is the minimum length of image sensor 206 along the z-axis. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B As shown, Z Lens >Z OPFE , so MML = Z Lens –Z Sensor .

[0064] - To achieve a realistic estimate of the length ("ML") of the camera module, a length of, for example, 3.5 mm can be added to the MML, i.e., ML = MML + 3.5 mm (see Table 4). The additional length takes into account the lens travel that may be required for AF, OIS, and image sensor packaging, housing, etc. To calculate ML, the highest value of MML is calculated by taking into account all possible EFLs that may be used. MAX The MML value of is given.

[0065] R1

[0066] - A first region ("R1") of the MML, associated with a first minimum module height MMH1. MMH1 is a theoretical lower limit of a height of a camera module including all parts of the camera 200 located in R1.

[0067] -R1=max(WL,W OPFE ), where WL is the width of G1 measured along the z-axis, W OPFE is the width of OPFE 204 measured along the z-axis. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E As shown, WL>W OPFE , so R1 is determined independently by G1, and R1 = WL.

[0068] - Given a particular MML, see Figure 2A , minimizing R1 is beneficial because it places a lower limit on the bump length (BL).

[0069] R2

[0070] - A second region ("R2") of the MML is associated with a second minimum module height MMH2, and MMH2 <MMH1。

[0071] - R2 = MML-R1.

[0072] - For a given MML and in order to minimize BL, it is beneficial to maximize R2 (minimize R1).

[0073] MMH1 and "Module Height" ("MH")

[0074] -MMH1 = H OPFE + ΔLO + TG1, H OPFE is the height of OPFE 204 (OPFE 204 is oriented at 45 degrees relative to both the y-axis and the z-axis, so H OPFE = W OPFE), ΔLO is the distance between the center of G1 and OPFE 204.

[0075] - In some examples and as FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B As shown, the lens elements in lens 202 have lower y-values ​​than OPFE 204, so MMH1 is composed of the highest y-value (Y G1 ) and the lowest y-value (Y Lens ) determines: MMH1 = Y G1 – Y Lens In some examples where a cut lens is used and as FIG. 3D to FIG. 3E As shown, Y Lens is lifted, so Y Lens >Y OPFE , and if Figure 2B As shown, MMH1 is not restricted by the lens, but only by H OPFE limit.

[0076] - To achieve a realistic estimate of the height of a camera module, we calculate MH by adding an additional height of 1.5mm to MMH1, i.e. MH = MMH1 + 1.5mm (see Table 4). The additional length takes into account the lens travel that may be required for AF and housing, lens cover, etc.

[0077] MMH2 and "shoulder height" ("SH")

[0078] A second minimum module height ("MMH2") is a theoretical lower limit on a height of a camera module including all elements of camera 200 in R2.

[0079] -MMH2=max(HS,H Lens ), HS is the height of the image sensor 206, and H Lens is the height of the tallest lens element of lens 202 located in R2, both measured along the y-axis.

[0080] - In some examples and such Figure 2A As shown, MMH2 can be determined by the image sensor 206, that is, MMH2=HS. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E As shown, MMH2 can be formed by the lowest Y-value of the reflector 304 on one side and the lens element L on the other side. 2 -L 9 is determined by the height.

[0081] - In order to achieve a realistic estimate of the shoulder height of a real camera, the shoulder height SH is calculated by adding an additional height to MMH2, for example 1.5 mm, i.e. SH = MMH2 +1.5 mm (see Table 4). The additional height takes into account the electrical and mechanical contact with the sensor 206 and the housing.

[0082] The first advantage of the folded camera 200 over a known folded camera such as the camera 100 is that the aperture diameter DA of the camera 200 is not necessarily limited by SH. Typically, in a folded camera, all lens elements are located on an image side of the OPFE, so SH physically limits DA, and SH>DA. Being able to have DA>SH and allowing relatively low f / # even at high ZF is not the case with the camera 200.

[0083] Additionally, given an OPFE of a particular size such as OPFE 204 (e.g., limited by T and / or B), camera head 200 can provide a larger DA, allowing for a relatively low f / # even at high ZF. This is based on L 1 The fact that L is located on an object side of OPFE 204 (or more generally, includes one or more lens elements located on an object side of the OPFE in G1). 1 The refractive index reduces the diameter of a cone of light entering the folded camera 200 before it strikes the OPFE 204, allowing a greater amount of light to enter the camera for a particular size of OPFE than known folded cameras that do not have any lenses located on the object side of an OPFE.

[0084] The TTL of camera 200 is not oriented in one dimension, but in two dimensions. The first part ("TTL1") is parallel to OP 212, and the second part TTL2 ("TTL2") is parallel to OP 208. TTL is derived from TTL=TTL1+TTL2. Therefore, TTL is not affected by TTL. <MML-W OPFE geometric limitations, so for a given MML, a TTL can be significantly greater than the TTL of camera 100.

[0085] Figure 2B The cross-sectional view schematically shows a Figure 1CA mobile device of the described dimensions, the mobile device having an external rear surface 200 and including a folded telephoto camera 200 as disclosed herein. The camera bump area is marked as 228. A front surface 224 of the mobile device 220 may, for example, include a screen (not visible). R1 ​​of the camera 200 is integrated into 224 of height T+B, while R2 of the camera 200 is integrated into the conventional device area 226 of height T. The mobile device 220 in which the camera 200 is only partially integrated into the bump area may have a smaller BL compared to the mobile device 160 in which the camera 100 is fully integrated into the bump area, or, for example, integrate additional cameras into 228, which may be beneficial for industrial design reasons. In general, for slim mobile devices, it is beneficial to minimize MMH1 and MMH2.

[0086] Figure 2C In one example, it is shown how to perform autofocus (AF) in the camera 200. Figure 2D Schematically illustrates how optical image stabilization (OIS) is performed in a camera 200 in one example. The lens 202 including the OPFE 204 is arranged with FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B For illustration purposes, Figure 2C and Figure 2D Only the elements of the camera 200 that are moved for AF or OIS, respectively, are shown. As indicated by arrow 232, the lens 202 including the OPFE 204 is moved as a unit relative to the image sensor (not shown) along an axis parallel to the z-axis for AF. The moving lens 202 including the OPFE 204 as a unit means that N lens elements (here L 1 -L 4 ) and the distance between lens 202 and OPFE 204 do not change. Only the distance to the image sensor (not shown) changes. Since the lens (including OPFE) moves relative to the image sensor, it can be said that "lens auto-focus (AF)".

[0087] Image sensor 206 is shown with FIG. 2A to FIG. 2BThe image sensor 206 moves relative to the lens 202 (not shown here) including the OPFE 204 (not shown here) along a first sensor OIS axis ("OIS1") parallel to the x-axis as indicated by arrow 234 to perform OIS along a first axis. The image sensor 206 moves relative to the lens 202 (not shown here) including the OPFE 204 (not shown here) along a second sensor OIS axis ("OIS2") parallel to the y-axis as indicated by arrow 236 to perform OIS along a second axis. Since the image sensor moves relative to the other camera elements, it can be said to be "sensor OIS".

[0088] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E The optical lens system disclosed in this article is shown. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B As shown, all lens systems shown can be included in a folded camera and a mobile device. It should be noted that all embodiments disclosed herein are beneficial for use in a smartphone.

[0089] Figure 3A An embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein is schematically shown. The optical lens system is in an EFL MIN =20mm in the first, minimum zoom state, numbered 300. Lens system 300 includes a lens 302, an optical element 309, and an image sensor 306. Lens 302 includes OPFE 304 (here illustratively a mirror). System 300 and ray tracing are shown. Optical element 309 is optional and can be, for example, an infrared (IR) filter and / or a glass image sensor dust cover. In other embodiments, OPFE 304 can be a prism.

[0090] The lens 302 includes a reflector 304 and N lens elements L i In this example of lens 302, N = 9. 1 is the lens element closest to the object side, and L N is the lens element closest to the image side, i.e., the side where the image sensor is located. This order applies to all lenses and lens elements disclosed herein. 1 Axisymmetric along a first optical (lens) axis 312, L 2 -L 9 Axisymmetric along the second optical (lens) axis 308. Each lens element L i including a corresponding front surface S 2i-1 (the label "2i-1" is the number of the front surface) and a corresponding rear surface S 2i(The reference "2i" is the number of the back surface), where "i" is an integer between 1 and N. This numbering convention is used throughout the description. Alternatively, as is done throughout this description, lens surfaces are labeled "S k ”, where k ranges from 1 to 2N.

[0091] In all optical lens systems disclosed herein, the aperture diameter DA of the camera is L 1 Decide.

[0092] As used herein, the term "front surface" of each lens element refers to the surface of a lens element located near the entrance of the camera (the object side of the camera), and the term "back surface" refers to the surface of a lens element located near the image sensor (the image side of the camera).

[0093] Figure 3B Shown in the second, maximum zoom state with an EFL MAX =40mm optical lens system 300. As shown in Table 3 and Figure 3C As described in , to change ZF, G2 moves relative to G1 and image sensor 306, and G1+G2 moves together as a lens relative to image sensor 306 (for focusing to infinity). To focus to a finite distance, G1 and G2 move together as a lens relative to image sensor 306.

[0094] The reflector 304 is oriented at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the y-axis and the z-axis. Light passes through G1-1, is reflected by the reflector 304, passes through G1-2, G2-1, G1-3, G2-2 in sequence, and forms an image on the image sensor 306. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B and FIG. 3D to FIG. 3E Five fields are shown, each with 3 rays.

[0095] MMH1 and MMH2 are expressed by L 2 -L 9 Definition, in particular, MMH2 is defined by the largest lens element L 6 Definitions. Values ​​are given in Table 4. Detailed optical and surface data are given in Tables 1-3 for FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B and FIG. 3D to FIG. 3E The values ​​provided for these examples are purely illustrative, and other values ​​may be used according to other examples.

[0096] The surface types are defined in Table 1. The coefficients of the surfaces are defined in Table 2. The surface types are:

[0097] a) Plano: flat surface with no curvature

[0098] b) Q type 1 (QT1) surface sag formula:

[0099]

[0100]

[0101]

[0102]

[0103]

[0104]

[0105]

[0106] where {z, r} are standard cylindrical polar coordinates, c is the paraxial curvature of the surface, k is the conic parameter, and r norm It is usually half of the net aperture of the surface, and A n are the polynomial coefficients shown in the lens data table. The Z axis is positive toward the image. CA values ​​are given as a clear aperture radius, i.e. CA / 2. CA varies with EFL, and values ​​for an effective aperture diameter are given in Table 4. These values ​​are also used to calculate an F / # in Table 3. The reference wavelength is 555.0 nm. Units are millimeters, except for refractive index ("Index") and Abbe number (Abbe #). Each lens element L as given in Table 1 i have a respective focal length f i The FOV is given as half the FOV (HFOV). The definitions of surface type, Z axis, CA value, reference wavelength, units, focal length and HFOV apply to all further presented tables. The width of the reflector is 9.4 mm x 7.1 mm and is tilted 45 degrees. The radius (semi-diameter) of the reflector is defined by the circle around it. The thickness relative to the reflector is relative to the optical axis. Table 3 gives the thickness of the reflector at EFL MIN and EFL MAX between FOV and f / #, and the movement between lens elements required to continuously switch between FOV and f / #.

[0107]

[0108]

[0109]

[0110] Figure 3C The movement of each element of the lens 302 relative to the image sensor 306 is shown, which requires continuous switching between different EFLs (i.e., ZFs) so as to maintain focus to infinity. Based on the movement, two lens groups G1 and G2 can be defined. G1 includes L 1 , reflector 304, L 2 , L 3 , L 6 and L 7 G2 includes L 4 , L 5 , L 8 and L 9 .

[0111] The continuous variation of the EFL is obtained by independent relative motion of G1 and G2 and by moving G1+G2 together relative to the image sensor, both of which are performed along the optical axis 308. All elements included in G1 and G2, respectively, are fixedly coupled to each other, which means that they can move relative to other elements included in the optical system 300, for example relative to the image sensor 306, but they do not move relative to each other. Specifically, G1-1 does not move relative to the reflector 304, G1-2 and G1-3. G2-1 does not move relative to G2-2. As shown, the maximum movement stroke of G2 relative to the sensor 306 is 8.7 mm, and the maximum movement stroke of G1 relative to the sensor 306 is 4.0 mm.

[0112] like FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B As shown, G1 includes three lens groups G1-1 (including L 1 )、G1-2(including L 2 and L 3 ) and G1-3 (including L 6 and L 7 ). G2 includes lens group G2-1 (including L 4 and L 5 ) and G2-2 (including L8 and L 9 ). Starting from the object side of the camera 300, the numbering of G1-1, G1-2, etc. is completed according to the position of the lens element group along the optical path 312 and 308 respectively.

[0113] like FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B and FIG. 3D to FIG. 3E As shown, d M-L is the reflector 304 and L 2 The distance between the two. M-L will not change with the continuous change of EFL, that is, when changing ZF, the reflector 304 and L 2 There is no relative motion between them.

[0114] Figure 3D Another embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein is schematically shown, and the optical lens system is in the EFL MIN =20mm in the first, minimum zoom state is numbered 350. Lens system 350 includes lens 302-C, which includes a reflector 304, an optical element 309 (optional) and an image sensor 306. Lens 350 is obtained by cutting the lens elements of optical lens system 300:

[0115] -L 1 It is cut into 8mm (D / 2=4mm), that is, WL1=8mm.

[0116] -L 2 -L 9 Cut into 4.6mm (D / 2=2.3mm).

[0117] L 1 The cutting is performed along a direction parallel to the y-axis, which reduces WL1 measured along the z-axis. For optical lens system 300, this results in a smaller R1 and a smaller MML. 2 -L 9 The cutting is performed in a direction parallel to the z-axis, reducing the width of the lens element measured along the y-axis. For optical lens system 300, this results in a smaller MMH1 and a smaller MMH2.

[0118] Reference Figure 7 The coordinate system shown in FIG. 1 is such that the cutting is performed so that along a y direction (“WL Y ”) is smaller than the width WL of a lens measured along an x-direction (“WL X ”) measured a WL, that is, WL Y <WL X (See Figure 7 ).

[0119] Relative to the diameter of the largest lens element in 302 (L6), 302-C is cut by about 30%. 2 -L 9 is not defined, but rather defined by the reflector 304. Relative to the uncut lens 302, for the cut lens 302-C, SH is reduced by 18% and the ratio SH / DA is reduced by 12% (see Table 4).

[0120] Figure 3E Shown in the second, maximum zoom state with an EFL MAX =40mm optical lens system 350.

[0121] Table 4 summarizes the FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E The values ​​and ratios of the various features in lens systems 300 and 350 are shown. M-L ,ΔLO,SD,TTL,MML,DA,H L6 , MMH, R1, R2, SH, MH are given in millimeters). The values ​​in the "Ratio 350 / 300" column are calculated by dividing a corresponding value obtained in optical lens system 350 by a value obtained in optical lens system 300. The values ​​in the "Range" column represent preferred ranges that may be included in other examples.

[0122] - DA is the aperture diameter. For all lens systems, an effective aperture diameter is given.

[0123] -H L6 is the height of the largest lens element located on an image side of the reflector 304 .

[0124] -F / # MIN and F / # MAX Represented in EFL MIN and EFL MAX F / #.

[0125]

[0126]

[0127] As described below, for every surface S with 1 ≤ k ≤ 2N k Define a net height value CH(S k ), and can be any surface S with 1 ≤ k ≤ 2N k Define a net aperture value CA (S k ). CA(S k ) and CH(S k ) defines each surface S of each lens element k The following CH terms refer to Figure 5A Definitions, and the CA terms refer to Figure 5B definition.

[0128] In addition, for each lens element L i Define a height (“H Li ”, for 1 ≤ i ≤ N). For each lens element L i , H Li corresponds to the lens element L measured along an axis perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens element iFor a given lens element, the height is greater than or equal to the net height CH and the net aperture CA of the front and back surfaces of the given lens element. Generally, for an axisymmetric lens element, such as Figure 6 As shown, H Li is the lens element L i The diameter of the lens element. Usually, for an axisymmetric lens element, H Li = max{CA(S 2i-1 ), CA(S 2i )} + mechanical component size. Usually, in lens design, the mechanical component size is defined as not contributing to the optical properties of the lens. Due to this, one defines two heights of the lens: an optical height H of the optical effective range 602 and an optical height H of the optical effective range 602. opt (corresponding to the CA value) and a geometric (or mechanical) height H of the lens covering the entire lens range 604 of an optically effective range and an optically ineffective range L The mechanical parts and their properties are defined as follows. The mechanical part dimensions are H Li The contribution is typically 200-1000µm.

[0129] like Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 5A , Figure 5B As shown, through a surface S k Each ray (for 1≤k≤2N) hits this surface at an impact point IP. The ray enters the camera 200 from the surface S1 and passes through the surface S 2 To S 2N Some light can hit any surface S k But cannot / will not reach the image sensor 206. For a given surface S k , only the light that can form an image on the image sensor 206 is considered. k ) is defined as the distance between the two closest parallel lines (see Figure 5A Lines 500 and 502 located on a plane P orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens element). Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the representation, the plane P is parallel to the plane XY and orthogonal to the optical axis 402, so that the orthogonal projection IP of all impact points IP on the plane P orth Located between the two parallel lines. Each surface S k (front and back surfaces, 1 ≤ k ≤ 2N) define CH(S k ).

[0130] CH(S k) is independent of the object currently being imaged, as it refers to the light that "can" form the image on the image sensor. Thus, even if the object currently being imaged is located against a black background that produces no light, the definition does not refer to this black background, as it refers to any light that "can" reach the image sensor to form an image (e.g., light emitted by a luminous background, as opposed to a black background).

[0131] For example, Figure 4A Two impact points IP are shown 1 and IP 2 Orthogonal projection IP on plane P orthogonal to optical axis 402 orth,1 、IP orth,2 For example, in Figure 4A In the representation of k It is convex.

[0132] Figure 4B Two impact points IP are shown 3 and IP 4 The orthographic projection IP on plane P orth,3 、IP orth,4 For example, in Figure 4B In the representation of k It is concave.

[0133] exist Figure 5A In the middle, a surface S k Orthographic projection IP of all impact points IP on plane P orth Located between parallel lines 500 and 502. CH(S k ) is therefore the distance between lines 500 and 502.

[0134] like Figure 5B It is known and shown that for every given surface S k (for 1≤k≤2N), a clear aperture CA(S k ) is defined as the diameter of a circle, wherein the circle is the smallest possible circle lying in a plane P orthogonal to the optical axis 402 and surrounding all orthogonal projections IP of all impact points on the plane P orth As above with respect to CH(S k ), CA(S k ) also does not depend on the object currently being imaged.

[0135] like Figure 5B As shown, the circumscribed orthographic projection IP of all impact points IP on plane P orth is a circle 510. The diameter of the circle 510 defines CA(S k ).

[0136] Figure 7 A lens barrel 700 is shown including a plurality of cut lens elements and a lens housing 704. The first cut lens element L 1 702 is visible. L 1 along the x-axis (“WL X ”) is greater than the width along the z-axis (“WL Z ”) of the width, namely WL X >WL Z The x-axis, y-axis and y-axis are oriented with Figure 3A Figure 3B and FIG. 3D to FIG. 3E same.

[0137] It should be understood that for clarity, specific features of the present invention described in different embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, the various features of the present invention described in a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0138] Unless otherwise stated, the use of the expression "and / or" between the first two members of a list of selection options indicates that one or more of the options in the list are applicable and can be selected.

[0139] It should be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference should not be construed as meaning there is only one of that element.

[0140] All patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated in their entirety by reference, just as if each individual patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, the citation or identification of any reference in this application should not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art for the present invention.

Claims

1. A camera, include: A lens, including a i N lens elements and an optical path folding element OPFE, where 1 ≤i ≤N, wherein a first lens element L 1 Facing an object side, and a last lens element L N Facing one side, wherein at least one of the N lens elements is located on an object side of the OPFE and has an associated first optical axis, wherein at least one other of the N lens elements is located on an image side of the OPFE and has an associated second optical axis, wherein the lens has an effective focal length EFL and an f-number f / #; and an image sensor, By independently moving the lens elements only along the second optical axis, the EFL can be at a minimum EFL MIN and a maximum EFL MAX and EFL MAX / EFL MIN >1.5, and wherein the camera has an aperture diameter DA and is comprised by a camera module having a shoulder having a shoulder height SH, and wherein DA >1.1 x SH, wherein the SH measured along a direction of the first optical axis is equal to 1.5 mm plus the higher of: the height of the image sensor or the highest of the N lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE.

2. The camera of claim 1, wherein the lens is divided into two lens groups labeled G1 and G2, and wherein the continuous variation of the EFL is obtained by independent movement of G1 and G2.

3. The camera as claimed in claim 2, wherein G1 includes three lens element subgroups G1-1, G1-2, G1-3 and the OPFE, and G2 includes lens element subgroups G2-1 and G2-2, wherein G2-1 is located on an image side of G1-2 and an object side of G1-3, and wherein G2-2 is located on an image side of G1-3.

4. The camera of claim 2, wherein G1 and G2 are operable to move together as one lens relative to the image sensor for focusing.

5. The camera of claim 1, wherein DA > 1.2 x SH.

6. The camera of claim 1, wherein DA > 1.3 x SH.

7. The camera as claimed in claim 1 is included in a camera module, wherein the camera module has a shoulder, and the shoulder has a shoulder height SH in the range of 4mm<SH<10mm.

8. The camera as claimed in claim 1 is included in a camera module, wherein the camera module has a shoulder, and the shoulder has a shoulder height SH in the range of 5mm<SH<8mm.

9. The camera of claim 1, included in a camera module, wherein the camera module has a camera module height MH in the range of 6 mm < MH < 12 mm, MH equals MMH1+1.5 mm, wherein MMH1 equals H OPFE +ΔLO+TG1,H OPFE is the height of OPFE, ΔLO is the distance between OPFE and the first lens element L1, TG1 is L 1 Thickness.

10. The camera of claim 1, included in a camera module, wherein the camera module has a camera module height MH in the range of 7 mm < MH < 11 mm, MH equals MMH1+1.5 mm, wherein MMH1 equals H OPFE +ΔLO+TG1,H OPFE is the height of OPFE, ΔLO is the distance between OPFE and the first lens element L1, TG1 is L 1 Thickness.

11. The camera of claim 1, included in a camera module, the camera module having a shoulder and a camera module height MH, the shoulder having a shoulder height SH, wherein the SH is in the range of 4 mm < SH < 10 mm, and the MH is in the range of 6 mm < SH < 12 mm, and wherein a ratio SH / MH < 0.9, MH equals MMH1 + 1.5 mm, wherein MMH1 equals H OPFE ΔLO+TG1,H OPFE is the height of OPFE, ΔLO is the distance between OPFE and the first lens element L1, TG1 is L 1 Thickness.

12. The camera of claim 11, wherein SH / MH <0.

8.

13. The camera of claim 11, wherein SH / MH <0.

7.

14. The camera of claim 1, wherein an f / # is at EFL MIN is f / # MIN , one of the f / # is in EFL MAX is f / # MAX , and one of the ratios f / # MAX / f / # MIN < EFL MAX / EFL MIN .

15. The camera of claim 14, wherein f / # MAX / f / # MIN < EFL MAX / 1.1xEFL MIN .

16. The camera of claim 1, wherein the lens is a cut lens, and wherein all lens elements on the image side of the OPFE are cut along an axis parallel to the second optical axis.

17. The camera of claim 1, wherein DA is in the range of 5 mm < DA < 11 mm, and wherein f / # is in the range of 1.8 < f / # < 6.

0.

18. The camera of claim 1, wherein DA is in the range of 7 mm < DA < 10 mm, and wherein f / # is in the range of 2.0 < f / # < 5.

0.

19. The camera of claim 1, wherein L 1 It is made of glass.

20. The camera of claim 1, wherein L 1 The focal length is f 1 , and where f 1 <1.1xEFL MIN .

21. The camera of claim 1, wherein N=9.

22. The camera of claim 21, wherein the lens L 1 -L 9 The focal length sequence is positive-negative-negative-positive-negative-positive-negative-negative-positive.

23. The camera of claim 1, wherein L 2 is the first lens element located on the image side of the OPFE, and wherein the OPFE and the L 2 The distance between them is marked as d M-L , and where d M-L Does not change due to continuous changes in EFL.

24. The camera of claim 23, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL, and wherein d M-L and TTL ratio is d M-L / TTL <7.5%.

25. The camera of claim 1, wherein the OPFE is a reflector.

26. The camera of claim 1, wherein the EFL MAX / EFL MIN >1.

75.

27. The camera of claim 1, wherein the EFL MAX / EFL MIN >1.

9.

28. The camera of claim 1, wherein 30 mm <EFL MAX <50mm and 10mm <EFL MIN <30mm.

29. The camera of claim 1, wherein the image sensor has a sensor diagonal SD, and wherein SD is in the range of 3 mm < SD < 10 mm.

30. A mobile device comprising the camera of claim 1, wherein the mobile device has a device thickness T and a camera bump area, wherein the bump area has a raised thickness T+B, wherein a first area of ​​the camera is included in the camera bump area, and wherein a second area of ​​the camera is not included in the camera bump area.

31. The mobile device of claim 30, wherein N=9, wherein the first area of ​​the camera includes L 1 and the OPFE, and wherein the second region of the camera includes a lens element L 2 -L 9 and the image sensor.

32. The mobile device of claim 30, wherein the mobile device further comprises a second effective focal length EFL 2 A second camera, and wherein EFL 2 <EFL MIN .

33. The mobile device of claim 30, wherein the mobile device is a smart phone.

34. A camera, include: A lens, including a i N lens elements and an optical path folding element OPFE, where 1 ≤i ≤N, wherein a first lens element L 1 Facing an object side, and a last lens element L N facing an image side, wherein at least one of the N lens elements is located on an object side of the OPFE and has an associated first optical axis, wherein at least one other of the N lens elements is located on an image side of the OPFE and has an associated second optical axis, wherein the lens has an effective focal length EFL and an f-number f / #; and an image sensor, wherein the lens is divided into two lens groups labeled G1 and G2, wherein G1 includes three lens element subgroups G1-1, G1-2, G1-3 and the OPFE, wherein G1-1 is located on the object side of the OPFE and wherein G1-2 and G1-3 are located on the image side of the OPFE, and The EFL can be adjusted to a minimum EFL by independent movement of lens elements G1-3 and G2 only along the second optical axis. MIN and a maximum EFL MAX and EFL MAX / EFL MIN >1.

5.

35. The camera of claim 34, wherein G2 comprises lens element subsets G2-1 and G2-2, wherein G2-1 is located on an image side of G1-2 and an object side of G1-3, wherein G2-2 is located on an image side of G1-3.

36. The camera of claim 34, wherein G1 and G2 are operable to move together as one lens relative to the image sensor for focusing.

37. The camera as claimed in claim 34 is included in a camera module, wherein the camera module has a shoulder, and the shoulder has a shoulder height SH in the range of 4mm < SH < 10mm, wherein the SH measured along a direction of the first optical axis is equal to 1.5mm plus a higher one selected from the following heights: the height of the image sensor or the highest height of the N lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE.

38. The camera as claimed in claim 34 is included in a camera module, wherein the camera module has a shoulder, and the shoulder has a shoulder height SH in the range of 5mm < SH < 8mm, wherein the SH measured along a direction of the first optical axis is equal to 1.5mm plus a higher one selected from the following heights: the height of the image sensor or the highest height of the N lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE.

39. The camera of claim 34, included in a camera module, the camera module having a camera module height MH in the range of 6 mm < MH < 12 mm, MH equals MMH1 + 1.5 mm, wherein MMH1 equals H OPFE +ΔLO+TG1,H OPFE is the height of OPFE, ΔLO is the distance between OPFE and the first lens element L1, TG1 is L 1 Thickness.

40. The camera of claim 34, included in a camera module, the camera module having a camera module height MH in the range of 7 mm < MH < 11 mm, MH equals MMH1 + 1.5 mm, wherein MMH1 equals H OPFE +ΔLO+TG1,H OPFE is the height of OPFE, ΔLO is the distance between OPFE and the first lens element L1, TG1 is L 1 Thickness.

41. The camera of claim 34, included in a camera module, the camera module having a shoulder and a camera module height MH, the shoulder having a shoulder height SH, wherein the SH is in the range of 4 mm < SH < 10 mm, and the MH is in the range of 6 mm < SH < 12 mm, and wherein a ratio SH / MH < 0.9, wherein the SH measured along a direction of the first optical axis is equal to 1.5 mm plus the higher of the following heights: the height of the image sensor or the highest height of the N lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE, MH is equal to MMH1+1.5 mm, wherein MMH1 is equal to H OPFE +ΔLO+TG1,H OPFE is the height of OPFE, ΔLO is the distance between OPFE and the first lens element L1, TG1 is L 1 Thickness.

42. A camera as claimed in claim 41, wherein SH / MH <0.

8.

43. A camera as claimed in claim 41, wherein SH / MH <0.

7.

44. The camera of claim 34, wherein an f / # is at EFL MIN is f / # MIN , one of the f / # is in EFL MAX is f / # MAX , and one of the ratios f / # MAX / f / # MIN < EFL MAX / EFL MIN .

45. The camera of claim 44, wherein f / # MAX / f / # MIN < EFL MAX / 1.1xEFL MIN .

46. ​​The camera of claim 34, wherein G1-1 comprises one lens element and wherein G1-2, G1-3, G2-1 and G2-2 each comprise two lens elements.

47. The camera of claim 34, wherein the lens is a cut lens, and wherein all lens elements on the image side of the OPFE are cut along an axis parallel to the second optical axis.

48. The camera of claim 34, wherein G1-1 includes L 1 .

49. The camera of claim 34, wherein L 1 It is made of glass.

50. The camera of claim 34, wherein L 1 The focal length is f 1 , and where f 1 <1.1xEFL MIN .

51. The camera of claim 34, wherein N=9.

52. The camera of claim 51, wherein the lens L 1 -L 9 The focal length sequence is positive-negative-negative-positive-negative-positive-negative-negative-positive.

53. The camera of claim 34, wherein L 2 is the first lens element located on the image side of the OPFE, and wherein the OPFE and the L 2 The distance between them is marked as d M-L , and where d M-L Does not change due to continuous changes in EFL.

54. The camera of claim 53, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL, and wherein d M-L and TTL ratio is d M-L / TTL <7.5%.

55. The camera of claim 34, wherein the OPFE is a reflector.

56. The camera of claim 34, wherein the EFL MAX / EFL MIN >1.

75.

57. The camera of claim 34, wherein the EFL MAX / EFL MIN >1.

9.

58. The camera of claim 34, wherein 30 mm <EFL MAX <50mm and 10mm <EFL MIN <30mm.

59. The camera of claim 34, wherein the image sensor has a sensor diagonal SD, and wherein SD is in the range of 3 mm < SD < 10 mm.

60. A mobile device comprising the camera of claim 34, wherein the mobile device has a device thickness T and a camera bump area, wherein the bump area has a raised thickness T+B, wherein a first area of ​​the camera is included in the camera bump area, and wherein a second area of ​​the camera is not included in the camera bump area.

61. The mobile device of claim 60, wherein N=9, wherein the first area of ​​the camera includes L 1 and the OPFE, and wherein the second region of the camera includes a lens element L 2 -L 9 and the image sensor.

62. The mobile device of claim 60, wherein the mobile device further comprises a second effective focal length EFL 2 A second camera, and wherein EFL 2 <EFL MIN .

63. The mobile device of claim 60, wherein the mobile device is a smart phone.

Images