Optical image stabilization with voice coil motor for moving image sensor

Abstract

The invention relates to optical image stabilization with voice coil motors for moving image sensors. In some embodiments, a camera actuator includes an actuator base, an auto-focus voice coil motor, and an optical image stabilization voice coil motor. In some embodiments, an auto-focus voice coil motor includes a lens holder mounting attachment movably mounted to an actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the base, and an auto-focus coil fixedly mounted to the lens holder mounting attachment, and a force generator for generating a force for moving the lens holder in a direction of an optical axis of one or more lenses of the lens holder. In some embodiments, an optical image stabilization voice coil motor includes an image sensor bracket movably mounted to an actuator base, and an optical image stabilization coil movably mounted to the image sensor bracket within a magnetic field of a shared magnet, and a force generator for generating forces for moving the image sensor holder in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese invention patent application with application date of March 10, 2017, application number 201780016528.X, and invention name “Optical image stabilization with voice coil motor for moving image sensor”. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to position control, and more particularly to position management in auto focus camera components with optical image stabilization. Background Art

[0003] The advent of small mobile multi-purpose devices such as smart phones and tablet or slate devices has led to a need for high-resolution small form factor cameras to be integrated into the devices. Some small form factor cameras may incorporate an optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanism that can sense and react to external stimuli / disturbances by adjusting the position of the optical lens on the X-axis and / or Y-axis in an attempt to compensate for unwanted movement of the lens. Some small form factor cameras may incorporate an autofocus (AF) mechanism by which the focus of an object can be adjusted so that the object plane in front of the camera is focused at the image plane captured by the image sensor. In some such autofocus mechanisms, the optical lens moves along the optical axis of the camera (referred to as the Z-axis) as a single rigid body to refocus the camera.

[0004] Furthermore, high image quality is more easily achieved in a small form factor camera if the lens motion along the optical axis is accompanied by minimal parasitic motion in other degrees of freedom, such as in the X and Y axes that are orthogonal to the optical (Z) axis of the camera. Therefore, some small form factor cameras that include autofocus mechanisms may also incorporate an optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanism that can sense and react to external stimuli / disturbance by adjusting the position of the optical lens in the X and / or Y axes in an attempt to compensate for unwanted motion of the lens. Summary of the invention

[0005] In some embodiments, the camera actuator includes an actuator base, an autofocus voice coil motor, and an optical image stabilization voice coil motor. In some embodiments, the autofocus voice coil motor includes a lens holder mounting attachment movably mounted to the actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the base, and an autofocus coil fixedly mounted to the lens holder mounting attachment for generating a force for moving the lens holder in the direction of an optical axis of one or more lenses of the lens holder. In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization voice coil motor includes an image sensor holder movably mounted to the actuator base, and a plurality of optical image stabilization coils movably mounted to the image sensor holder within the magnetic field of the shared magnets for generating a force for moving the image sensor holder in multiple directions orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0006] Some embodiments may include a flexure module that can be used in an optical image stabilization VCM actuator (e.g., an optical image stabilization actuator) of a camera. The flexure module may include a dynamic platform and a static platform. In various examples, the flexure module may include one or more flexures. The flexure may be configured to mechanically connect the dynamic platform to the static platform. In addition, the flexure may be configured to provide stiffness (e.g., in-plane flexure stiffness) to the VCM actuator while allowing the dynamic platform to move along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the camera. In various embodiments, the flexure module may include one or more flexure stabilizer members. The flexure stabilizer member may be configured to mechanically connect the flexures to each other so that the flexure stabilizer member prevents interference between the flexures connected by the flexure stabilizer member. In some examples, the flexure module may include an electrical trace configured to transmit a signal from the dynamic platform to the static platform. The electrical trace may be routed from the dynamic platform to the static platform via the flexure, the flexure stabilizer member, and / or the flexible circuit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary camera having an actuator module or assembly according to at least some embodiments is shown, which can be used, for example, to provide autofocus through movement of an optical assembly and / or optical image stabilization through movement of an image sensor in a small form factor camera.

[0008] Figures 3 to 5 Components of an exemplary camera having an actuator module or assembly are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide autofocus through movement of an optical assembly and / or optical image stabilization through movement of an image sensor in a small form factor camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 3 An exploded view of the camera is shown. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the camera is shown. Figure 5 A perspective view of the exterior of the camera is shown.

[0009] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary lateral motion voice coil motor (VCM) that may be used, for example, in a camera to provide optical image stabilization is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0010] 7A to 7C Exemplary embodiments of frames and flexures for cameras having actuator modules or assemblies according to at least some embodiments are shown, which actuator modules or assemblies can be used, for example, to provide autofocus through movement of optical components and / or optical image stabilization through movement of an image sensor in a small form factor camera.

[0011] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8BEach shows a view of an exemplary flexure module of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that can be used, for example, in a camera to provide optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. Fig. 8A A top view of an exemplary flexure module is shown. Figure 8B A perspective view of an exemplary flexure module is shown.

[0012] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Each shows a partial top view of a respective exemplary flexure module configuration according to some embodiments. In some cases, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L One or more embodiments of the exemplary flexure module configuration may be used in a flexure module of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator. A VCM actuator may be used, for example, in a camera to provide optical image stabilization.

[0013] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10J A view of an exemplary flexure and / or traces according to some embodiments is shown. In some cases, one or more embodiments of the exemplary flexure can be used in a flexure module of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator. The VCM actuator can be used, for example, in a camera to provide optical image stabilization.

[0014] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B Each shows a view of an exemplary flexure module of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that can be used, for example, in a camera to provide optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B In an exemplary flexure module, an exemplary flexure module may include electrical traces routed from a dynamic frame to a static frame via a flexure. Fig.11A A top view of an exemplary flexure module is shown. Fig. 11B A perspective view of an exemplary flexure module is shown.

[0015] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B Each shows a view of an exemplary flexure module of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that can be used, for example, in a camera to provide optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B In one embodiment, an exemplary flex module may include one or more flexible circuits configured to route electrical traces from a dynamic frame to a static frame. Fig. 12A A top view of an exemplary flexure module is shown. Fig. 12B A perspective view of a flexure module is shown.

[0016] Fig.13 A flow chart of an exemplary method of transmitting a signal from a dynamic stage of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator to a static stage of the VCM actuator according to some embodiments.

[0017] Fig.14 A block diagram of a portable multifunction device with a camera according to some embodiments is shown.

[0018] Fig.15 A portable multifunction device with a camera according to some embodiments is shown.

[0019] Fig.16 An exemplary computer system that may include a camera according to some embodiments is shown. According to some embodiments, the exemplary computer system may be configured to implement various aspects of systems and methods for camera control.

[0020] This specification includes references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment." The appearance of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. The particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner consistent with the present disclosure.

[0021] "Comprising". This term is open ended. As used in the appended claims, this term does not exclude additional structures or steps. Consider the following cited claim: "An apparatus comprising one or more processor units..." Such a claim does not exclude the apparatus from including additional components (e.g., a network interface unit, graphics circuitry, etc.).

[0022] "Configured to". Various units, circuits, or other components may be described or described as "configured to" perform one or more tasks. In such contexts, "configured to" is used to imply a structure (e.g., a circuit) that performs the one or more tasks during operation by indicating that the unit / circuit / component includes the structure. In this way, it can be said that the unit / circuit / component can be configured to perform the task even when the specified unit / circuit / component is currently inoperable (e.g., not turned on). The units / circuits / components used with the "configured to" language include hardware-e.g., circuits, memories storing executable program instructions to implement operations, etc. The reference to a unit / circuit / component "configured to" perform one or more tasks is explicitly intended not to invoke the sixth paragraph of 35 U.S.C. §112 for the unit / circuit / component. In addition, "configured to" may include a general structure (e.g., a general circuit) manipulated by software and / or firmware (e.g., an FPGA or a general processor executing software) to operate in a manner capable of performing one or more tasks to be solved. "Configured to" may also include adapting a manufacturing process (eg, a semiconductor fabrication facility) to produce a device (eg, an integrated circuit) suitable for implementing or performing one or more tasks.

[0023] "First," "second," etc. As used herein, these terms act as labels for the nouns that precede 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 a write operation of 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.

[0024] "Based on". As used herein, this term is used to describe one or more factors that influence a determination. This term does not exclude additional factors that influence a determination. That is, a determination may be based solely on these factors or at least in part on these factors. Consider the phrase "A is determined based on B". In this case, B is a factor that influences the determination of A, and such a phrase does not exclude that the determination of A may also be based on C. In other examples, A may be determined based solely on B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Introduction to Magnetic Sensing for Autofocus Position Detection

[0026] Some embodiments include camera devices equipped with controls, magnets, and voice coil motors for improving the effectiveness of micro-actuation mechanisms of compact camera modules. More specifically, in some embodiments, compact camera modules include actuators for delivering functions such as autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS). One method of delivering a very compact actuator for OIS is to use a voice coil motor (VCM) arrangement.

[0027] In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization actuator is designed so that the imaging sensor is mounted on the OIS frame, and the OIS frame translates along X and Y (while the autofocus actuator translates along Z, where Z is the optical axis of the camera). The electromechanical components for moving the image sensor consist of a static platform and a dynamic platform. The imaging sensor (wire bonding, flip chip, BGA) is mounted on the dynamic platform and the electrical signal traces are led from the dynamic platform to the static platform to provide a connection with the image sensor. The in-plane flexure connects the dynamic platform to the static platform and supports the electrical signal traces. The OIS coil is mounted on the dynamic platform. In some embodiments, the OIS permanent magnet is mounted on the static platform to provide additional Lorentz force (e.g., when the in-plane flexure stiffness is high).

[0028] Some embodiments include a camera. The camera may include a lens, an image sensor, and a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator. The lens may include one or more lens elements defining an optical axis. The image sensor may be configured to capture light passing through the lens. In addition, the image sensor may be configured to convert the captured light into an image signal.

[0029] In some embodiments, the camera actuator includes an actuator base, an autofocus voice coil motor, and an optical image stabilization voice coil motor. In some embodiments, the autofocus voice coil motor includes a lens holder mounting attachment movably mounted to the actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the base, and an autofocus coil fixedly mounted to the lens holder mounting attachment for generating a force for moving the lens holder in the direction of an optical axis of one or more lenses of the lens holder. In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization voice coil motor includes an image sensor holder movably mounted to the actuator base, and a plurality of optical image stabilization coils movably mounted to the image sensor holder within the magnetic field of the shared magnets for generating a force for moving the image sensor holder in multiple directions orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0030] Some embodiments provide an actuator system that utilizes a first AF VCM (voice coil motor) and a second OIS VCM to respectively achieve sensor displacement. In some embodiments, the AF VCM actuator allows the optical device to translate along the optical axis. In some embodiments, the OIS VCM actuator allows the image sensor to translate in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis. In some embodiments, the sensor is mounted on a flat flexure, wherein the electrical traces connecting the image sensor and / or I / O terminals are implemented using an additive metal deposition process (e.g., a high precision additive copper deposition process) directly on the flexure, and wherein the in-plane translation force is a result of the VCM designed around the moving coil architecture.

[0031] In some embodiments, eliminating the OIS "optical shift" design that relies on vertical beams (suspension wires) reduces reliability challenges by relying on the OIS sensor shift and flat flexure design to provide lower required yield strength and larger cross-section, both of which improve reliability.

[0032] In some embodiments, displacing the sensor allows for a reduction in moving mass, thus providing significant benefits in power consumption compared to OIS "optical shift" designs. In some embodiments, fabrication is accomplished with electrical traces deposited directly on the OIS flexure (e.g., using an additive metal deposition process), which enables a smaller package size while meeting I / O requirements.

[0033] In some embodiments, the image sensor holder also includes one or more flexible members for mechanically connecting the image sensor fixed relative to the image sensor holder to the frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0034] In some embodiments, the image sensor holder further includes one or more flexible members for mechanically and electrically connecting the image sensor fixed relative to the image sensor holder to the frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor, and the flexure includes electrical signal traces.

[0035] In some embodiments, the image sensor holder also includes one or more flexible members for mechanically and electrically connecting the image sensor fixed relative to the image sensor holder to the frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor, and the flexure includes a metal flexure carrying electrical signal traces, which are electrically isolated from the metal flexure via an insulator (e.g., one or more polyamide insulation layers).

[0036] In some embodiments, the image sensor holder also includes one or more flexible members for mechanically and electrically connecting the image sensor fixed relative to the image sensor holder to the frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor, and the flexure includes a metal flexure carrying multiple layers of electrical signal traces, which are electrically isolated from the metal flexure and each other via an insulator.

[0037] In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization coil is mounted on a flexible printed circuit that carries power to the coil for operation of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0038] In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization coil is corner mounted on a flexible printed circuit that is mechanically connected to the actuator base and mechanically isolated from the autofocus voice coil motor.

[0039] In some embodiments, a bearing surface end stop is mounted to the base for limiting the movement of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0040] In some embodiments, the camera includes a lens in a lens holder, an image sensor for capturing a digital representation of light passing through the lens, an axial motion voice coil motor for focusing light from the lens onto the image sensor by moving a lens assembly including the lens along an optical axis of the lens, and a lateral motion voice coil motor.

[0041] In some embodiments, an axial motion voice coil motor includes a suspension assembly for movably mounting a lens holder to an actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the actuator base, and a focus coil fixedly mounted to the lens holder and mounted to the actuator base via the suspension assembly.

[0042] In some embodiments, a lateral motion voice coil motor includes an image sensor frame member, one or more flexible members for mechanically connecting the image sensor frame member to a frame of the lateral motion voice coil motor, and a plurality of lateral motion coils movably mounted to the image sensor frame member within a magnetic field of a shared magnet for generating forces for moving the image sensor frame member in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0043] In some embodiments, the image sensor holder further includes one or more flexible members for mechanically and electrically connecting the image sensor fixed relative to the image sensor holder to the frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor, and the flexure includes electrical signal traces.

[0044] In some embodiments, the image sensor holder also includes one or more flexible members for mechanically and electrically connecting the image sensor fixed relative to the image sensor holder to the frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor, and the flexure includes a metal flexure carrying electrical signal traces, which are electrically isolated from the metal flexure via an insulator.

[0045] In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization coil is mounted on a flexible printed circuit that carries power to the coil for operation of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0046] In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization coil is corner mounted on a flexible printed circuit that is mechanically connected to the actuator base and mechanically isolated from the autofocus voice coil motor.

[0047] In some embodiments, a bearing surface end stop is mounted to the base for limiting the movement of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0048] In some embodiments, support surface end stops are mounted to the actuator base for limiting movement of the image sensor along the optical axis.

[0049] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the detailed description that follows, numerous specific details are given in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that some embodiments may be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, processes, components, circuits, and networks are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the embodiments.

[0050] It will also be understood that, although the terms "first", "second", etc. may be used to describe various elements in this article, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, without departing from the expected scope, the first contact may be referred to as the second contact, and similarly, the second contact may be referred to as the first contact. Both the first contact and the second contact are contacts, but they are not the same contact.

[0051] The terms used in the description herein are only for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms of "one", "a kind of" and "the" are intended to also cover the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term "and / or" used herein refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more items in the items listed in association. It will also be understood that the terms "including" and / or "comprising" when used in this specification specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their grouping.

[0052] As used herein, the term "if" may be interpreted to mean "when" or "upon" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context. Similarly, the phrases "if it is determined that" or "if [a stated condition or event] is detected" may be interpreted to mean "upon determining that" or "in response to determining that" or "upon detecting [a stated condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [a stated condition or event]," depending on the context.

[0053] Figure 1 and Figure 2An exemplary camera 100 having an actuator module or assembly is shown, which can be used, for example, to provide autofocus by motion of an optical assembly and / or optical image stabilization by motion of an image sensor in a small form factor camera, according to at least some embodiments. The camera 100 can include an optical assembly 102. The optical assembly 102 can carry one or more lenses 104 (also referred to herein as "lenses"). In some cases, the optical assembly can be movably connected to an actuator base. The lens 104 can be held by a lens barrel, which can in turn be connected to a lens holder 106, but it should be understood that the lens barrel and the lens holder 106 can be common components in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the camera 100 includes an image sensor 108 for capturing a digital representation of light passing through the lens 104. The camera 100 can include an axial motion (autofocus) voice coil motor 110 for focusing light from the lens 104 on the image sensor 108 by moving the optical assembly 102 including the lens 104 along the optical axis of the lens 104. In some examples, the axial motion voice coil motor 110 includes a suspension assembly 112 for movably mounting the lens holder 106 to an actuator base 114. In addition, the axial motion voice coil motor 110 can include a plurality of shared magnets 116 mounted to the actuator base 114, and a focus coil 118 fixedly mounted to the lens holder 106 and mounted to the actuator base 114 via the suspension assembly 112. In some embodiments, the actuator base 114 can be constructed from a plurality of separate components.

[0054] In various embodiments, the camera 100 includes a lateral motion (optical image stabilization (OIS)) voice coil motor 120. The lateral motion voice coil motor 120 may include an image sensor frame member 122, one or more flexible members 124 (also referred to herein as "flexures", "flexure arms" or "spring arms") for mechanically connecting the image sensor frame member 122 (also referred to herein as a "dynamic platform" or "inner frame") to a frame (also referred to herein as a "static platform" or "outer frame") of the lateral motion voice coil motor 126, and a plurality of OIS coils 132. Figure 2 As shown, the OIS coils 132 may be mounted to the dynamic platform 122 within the magnetic field 138 of the shared magnet 116 for generating forces 140 for moving the dynamic platform 122 in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis of the lens 104 .

[0055] In some embodiments, the dynamic platform 122, the flexure 124 for mechanically connecting the dynamic platform 122 to the static platform 126, and the static platform 126 are a single metal or other flexible piece. In some embodiments, the flexure 124 mechanically and / or electrically connects the image sensor 108 fixed relative to the dynamic platform 122 to the static platform 126, and the flexure 124 includes an electrical signal trace 130. In some embodiments, the flexure 124 includes a metal flexure carrying the electrical signal trace 130, and the electrical signal trace 130 is electrically isolated from the metal flexure via an insulator.

[0056] In some examples, the OIS coil 132 is mounted on a flexible printed circuit (FPC) 134 that carries power to the OIS coil 132 for operation of the lateral motion (OIS) voice coil motor 120. In some embodiments, the flexible printed circuit 134, the dynamic platform 136, the flexure 124, and / or the static platform 126 can be connected to the top surface of the actuator base 114.

[0057] In some embodiments, a bearing surface end stop 136 is mounted to the actuator base 114 for limiting the movement of the image sensor 108 along the optical axis.

[0058] For OIS coil control, in some embodiments, control circuitry (not shown) may be located on the dynamic platform 122 and / or the FPC 134, and power may be directed to the control circuitry via one or more of the flexures 124. In other cases, the control circuitry may be located outside of the dynamic platform 122, and the excitation signal may be carried from the control circuitry to the OIS coil 132 via one or more of the flexures 124.

[0059] Figures 3 to 5 Components of an exemplary camera 300 having an actuator module or assembly are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide autofocus (AF) through movement of an optical assembly and / or optical image stabilization (OIS) through movement of an image sensor in a small form factor camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 3 An exploded view of camera 300 is shown. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of camera 300 is shown. Figure 5 300. In various embodiments, the camera 300 may include an optical assembly 302, a shield 304, a magnet holder 306, a magnet 308, a lens holder 310, an AF coil 312, a base 314, an OIS coil 316, an OIS FPC 318, an image sensor 320, an OIS frame 322 (e.g., as described herein). 7A to 11B One or more embodiments of the flex module), and / or electrical traces 324.

[0060] In various examples, the shield 304 can be mechanically attached to the base 314. The camera 300 can include an axial motion (AF) voice coil motor (VCM) (e.g., as described above with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The axial motion VCM 110 discussed above) and / or the lateral motion (OIS) VCM (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 2 304, and the lateral motion VCM 120 is shown in FIG. 305. In some cases, the axial motion VCM may include an optical assembly 302, a magnet holder 306, a magnet 308, a lens holder 310, and / or an AF coil 312. In addition, the lateral motion VCM may include an OIS coil 316, an OIS FPC 318, an image sensor 320, an OIS frame 322, and / or electrical traces 324. In some examples, the axial motion VCM (or a portion thereof) may be connected to the shield 304, and the lateral motion VCM (or a portion thereof) may be connected to the base 314.

[0061] In some embodiments, the OIS FPC 318 and / or the OIS frame 322 may be connected to the bottom surface of the base 314. In some examples, the base 314 may define one or more recesses and / or openings having a plurality of different cross-sections. For example, the lower portion of the base 314 may have or define a recess and / or opening whose cross-section is sized to receive the OIS frame 322. The upper portion of the base 314 may define a recess and / or opening whose cross-section is sized to receive the OIS FPC 318. The upper portion may have an inner profile corresponding to the outer profile of the OIS FPC 318. This can help maximize the amount of material included in the base 314 (e.g., for providing structural rigidity to the base 314) while still providing at least a minimum spacing between the OIS FPC 318 and the base 314.

[0062] In some non-limiting examples, the OIS FPC 318 and the image sensor 320 may be separately attached to the OIS frame 322. For example, a first set of one or more electrical traces may be routed between the OIS FPC 318 and the OIS frame 322. Another second set of one or more electrical traces may be routed between the image sensor and the OIS frame 322. In other embodiments, the image sensor 320 may be attached to or otherwise integrated into the OIS FPC 318 such that the image sensor 320 is connected to the OIS frame 322 via the OIS FPC 318, such as described below with reference to Figure 6 described.

[0063] Figure 6A cross-sectional view of an exemplary lateral motion voice coil motor (VCM) 600 that can be used, for example, in a camera to provide optical image stabilization (OIS) according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the lateral motion VCM 600 may include an OIS frame 602, an image sensor 604, an OIS flat printed circuit (FPC) 606, and / or an OIS coil 608. The OIS frame 602 may include a dynamic platform 610, a static platform 612, and one or more flexures 614. The flexures 614 may connect the dynamic platform 610 to the static platform 612. In some examples, one or more of the flexures 614 may include one or more electrical traces 616 routed between the static platform 612 and the dynamic platform 610 and / or the OIS FPC 606.

[0064] In some embodiments, the image sensor 604 can be attached to or otherwise integrated into the OIS FPC 606 such that the image sensor 604 is connected to the OIS frame 602 via the OIS FPC 606, such as Figure 6 . In some examples, there can be one or more trace connections 618 between the OIS FPC 606 and the OIS frame 602. In some cases, the OIS frame 602 can have a hole 620 extending therethrough, and a portion of the OIS FPC 606 and / or the image sensor 604 can extend at least partially through the hole 620. In some cases, this can allow for a reduction in the z-height (e.g., the height of the VCM 600 lateral to the optical axis of the camera).

[0065] In some examples, OIS FPC 606 can extend from dynamic platform 610 such that a portion of OIS FPC 606 is positioned above flexure 614 (e.g., in a plane above flexure 614). In some examples, at least a portion of each of OIS coils 608 is positioned above flexure 614. This arrangement can facilitate miniaturization of lateral motion VCM 600 and / or camera because dynamic platform 610 does not need to be sized to accommodate both image sensor 604 and OIS coil 608.

[0066] 7A to 7CAn exemplary embodiment of a frame and flexure 700 of a camera having an actuator module or assembly according to at least some embodiments is shown, which actuator module or assembly can be used, for example, to provide autofocus through movement of an optical assembly and / or optical image stabilization through movement of an image sensor in a small form factor camera. An image sensor 702 is disposed on or otherwise coupled to a dynamic platform 704 of an OIS frame, which is connected to a static platform 706 of the OIS frame via flexures 708 carrying electrical traces 710. The traces 710 can be electrically insulated (e.g., from each other, from other flexures 708, from the OIS frame, etc.) via insulators 712, such as Figure 7C . Trace 710 may be formed of a metal material (eg, copper). In some examples, trace 710 may be formed using an additive metal deposition process such as an additive copper deposition process. Similarly, insulator 712 may be formed of polyimide.

[0067] In some embodiments, the OIS frame may include multiple flexure groups. Each flexure group may be a plurality of flexures 708 connected to a common side of the dynamic platform 704 and a common side of the static platform 706. In some examples, at least one flexure group is configured such that the flexure 708 is connected to one side of the dynamic platform 704 and a non-corresponding side of the static platform 706. That is, each side of the dynamic platform 704 may face a corresponding side of the static platform 706, and the flexure 708 may include at least one bend or curved portion to traverse the corner and reach the non-corresponding side of the static platform 706, such as Fig. 7A and Figure 7B as shown in .

[0068] In some cases, one or more sides of the dynamic platform 704 and / or the static platform 706 may include multiple flexure groups. Fig. 7A As shown, the first side of the dynamic platform 704 may include two flexure groups. One flexure group may connect the first side of the dynamic platform 704 to the first non-corresponding side of the static platform 706, and the other flexure group may connect the first side of the dynamic platform 704 to the second non-corresponding side of the static platform 706. In some cases, the first non-corresponding side and the second non-corresponding side of the static platform 706 may face away from each other. The second side of the dynamic platform 704 may include two flexure groups connected in a similar manner to the static platform 706. In some cases, the first side and the second side of the dynamic platform 704 may face away from each other.

[0069] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B Each shows a view of an exemplary flexure module 800 that may be used, for example, in a camera to provide optical image stabilization, according to some embodiments. Fig. 8AA top view of the flexure module 800 is shown. Figure 8B A perspective view of a flexure module 800 is shown.

[0070] In some embodiments, the flexure module 800 can be provided in a camera (e.g., Figures 1 to 5 The flexure module 800 may include a dynamic platform 802 and a static platform 804. In some examples, the dynamic platform 802 and / or the static platform 804 may be configured as described herein. Figures 1 to 7C and FIG. 9A to FIG. 13 However, various other configurations of dynamic platform 802 and / or static platform 804 suitable for use with a VCM actuator are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0071] In various examples, the flexure module 800 can include one or more flexures 806. The flexures 806 can be configured to mechanically connect the dynamic platform 802 to the static platform 804. The flexures 806 can be configured to provide stiffness (e.g., in-plane flexure stiffness) to the VCM actuator while allowing the dynamic platform 802 (and the image sensor fixed relative to the dynamic platform 802) to move along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the camera. In this way, the image sensor can be displaced along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis to provide optical image stabilization functionality. In addition, as described herein with reference to Figures 1 to 7C , FIG. 10B to FIG. 10E , FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B ,and Fig.13 As described, one or more flexures 806 may include electrical traces configured to transmit signals (eg, image signals generated by an image sensor that is fixed relative to dynamic platform 802 ) from dynamic platform 802 to static platform 804 .

[0072] In various embodiments, the flexure module 800 may include one or more flexure stabilizer members 808. The flexure stabilizer members 808 may be configured to mechanically connect the flexures 806 to one another such that the flexure stabilizer members 808 prevent interference between the flexures 806 connected by the flexure stabilizer members 808. For example, the flexure stabilizer members 808 may be configured to prevent the flexures 806 from colliding and / or tangling with one another, for example, in a drop event, a vibration event, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the flexure stabilizer members 808 may be configured to limit movement of the flexures 806 to which the flexure stabilizer members 808 are connected and / or stabilize relative movement between the flexures 806 to which the flexure stabilizer members 808 are connected. Furthermore, the flexure stabilizer members 808 may be arranged along various portions of the flexures 806 to provide in-plane stiffness as desired in the flexure module 800, for example, to meet optical image stabilization design requirements. Some non-limiting examples of flexure stabilizer member configurations are described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Give a description.

[0073] In some embodiments, the flexures 806 may be arranged in one or more flexure groups 810 or arrays, each of which includes a plurality of flexures 806. For example, FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B As shown, the flexure module 800 includes a first flexure group 810a, a second flexure group 810b, a third flexure group 810c, and a fourth flexure group 810d. In some examples, the flexures 806 of the flexure groups 810 may be parallel to each other along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis. In some cases, the flexures 806 of one flexure group 810 (e.g., the first flexure group 810a) may not be parallel to the flexures 806 of another flexure group 810 (e.g., the second flexure group 810b). In some cases, one or more of the flexure groups 810 may include one or more flexure stabilizer members 808. For example, each of the flexure groups 810 may include one or more flexure stabilizer members 808. In addition, one or more of the flexure groups 810 may include one or more curved (or "turn") portions. In some cases, at least one of the flexure groups 810 may include a flexure stabilizer member 808 disposed at a curved portion. For example, in FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B , each of the flexure groups 810 bends at three respective bends, and a respective flexure stabilizer member 808 connects the flexures 806 of the respective flexure group 810 at one respective bend of the three respective bends.

[0074] In some examples, the dynamic platform 802 and / or the static platform 804 may include one or more offsets 812 (e.g., depressions, extensions, etc.). In some cases, one or more flexures 806 may be connected to the dynamic platform 802 and / or the static platform 804 at the offsets 812. For example, FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B As shown, the dynamic platform 802 may include two recessed offsets 812 at opposite sides of the dynamic platform 802. However, in some embodiments, the dynamic platform 802 and / or the static platform 804 may include another offset configuration. Some non-limiting examples of offset configurations are described below with reference to FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L to describe.

[0075] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Each shows a partial top view of a respective exemplary flexure module configuration according to some embodiments. In some cases, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L One or more embodiments of the exemplary flexure module configuration may be used in a flexure module of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator (e.g., as described herein with reference to FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B and FIG. 11A to FIG. 12B The VCM actuator can be used, for example, in a camera (e.g., as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5The camera is used to provide optical image stabilization.

[0076] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L The exemplary flexure module configurations provide some non-limiting examples of design feature variations that may be used in one or more embodiments of the flexure modules, VCM actuators, and / or cameras described herein.

[0077] Fig. 9A A partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900a according to some embodiments is shown. The flexure module configuration 900a includes a dynamic platform 902a, a static platform 904a, a flexure 906a, and a flexure stabilizer member 908a. The flexure 906a can be part of a flexure group extending from the dynamic platform 902a to the static platform 904a. One side of the dynamic platform 902a can define a recessed portion where the flexure 906a is attached to the dynamic platform 902a. The non-corresponding side of the static platform 904a can define an extension of the static platform 904a where the flexure 906a is attached. In its extension from the recessed portion of the dynamic platform 902a to the extension of the static platform 904a, the flexure group may include one or more bends. For example, the flexure group may include a first bend for traversing a first corner formed by a recess of the dynamic platform 902a, a second bend for traversing a corner adjacent to both sides of the dynamic platform 902a, and a third bend for orienting the flexure group toward an extension of the static platform 904a. In some examples, respective portions of the flexure group may be oriented to be orthogonal to the recess of the dynamic platform 902a and / or to an extension of the static platform 904a at or near respective connection locations. In some embodiments, the recess of the dynamic platform 902a may allow for an increased length of the flexure 906a, which in turn may provide additional flexibility to the flexure 906a.

[0078] Fig. 9B FIG. 1 shows a partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900b according to some embodiments. The flexure module configuration 900b includes a dynamic platform 902b, a static platform 904b, a flexure 906b, and a flexure stabilizer member 908b. In some embodiments, the dynamic platform 902b, the static platform 904b, and the flexure 906b can be configured similarly to the above referenced Fig. 9A The dynamic platform 902a, static platform 904a, and flexure 906a are shown. However, the flexure module configuration 900b may include multiple flexure stabilizer members 908b. For example, each bend of the flexure group may include a corresponding flexure stabilizer member 908b.

[0079] Fig. 9CA partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900c according to some embodiments is shown. The flexure module configuration 900c includes a dynamic platform 902c, a static platform configuration 904c, a flexure 906c, and a flexure stabilizer member 908c. The flexure 906c can be part of a flexure group extending from the dynamic platform 902c to the static platform 904c. One side of the dynamic platform 902c can define a first extension of the flexure 906c attached to the dynamic platform 902c there. The non-corresponding side of the static platform 904c can define a second extension of the flexure 906c attached to the static platform 904c there. In its extension from the first extension of the dynamic platform 902c to the second extension of the static platform 904c, the flexure group may include one or more bends. For example, the flexure group may include a first bend for traversing the corners adjacent to both sides of the dynamic platform 902c, and a second bend for orienting the flexure group toward the second extension of the static platform 904c. In some embodiments, the first extension of the dynamic platform 902c can allow for a reduced length of the flexure 906c and / or a reduced amount of bending of the flexure 906c, which in turn can provide increased stiffness of the flexure 906c.

[0080] In some embodiments, the extensions and / or recesses of the dynamic platform and / or the static platform can change the direction in which the flexure is attached relative to the dynamic platform and / or the static platform. For example, in FIG8C , the flexure 906c is connected to the second extension of the static platform 904c, so that the flexure 906c extends from the second extension in a direction toward the corresponding side of the dynamic platform 902c (and therefore, the flexure 906c bends to avoid contact with the corresponding side of the dynamic platform 902c), while the flexure 906c is connected to the first extension of the dynamic platform 902c in a direction toward the non-corresponding side of the static platform 904c (and therefore, the flexure 906c does not need to bend to avoid contact with the corresponding side of the static platform 904c).

[0081] In some examples, the second extension of the static platform 904c can be used to provide additional space for routing traces (eg, for grounding of guard traces, as described below with reference to Fig.10I described above).

[0082] Fig.9DA partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900d according to some embodiments is shown. The flexure module configuration 900d includes a dynamic platform 902d, a static platform 904d, and a flexure 906d. The flexure 906d may be a part of a flexure group extending from the dynamic platform 902d to the static platform 904d. One side of the dynamic platform 902d may define a first extension, and the flexure 906d is attached to the dynamic platform 902d at the first extension. The non-corresponding side of the static platform 904d may define a second extension, and the flexure 906d is attached to the static platform 904d at the second extension. In its extension from the first extension of the dynamic platform 902d to the second extension of the static platform 904d, the flexure group may include one or more bends. For example, the flexure group may include a bend to traverse the corners adjacent to the two sides of the dynamic platform 902d (which may include, for example, bevels, fillets, etc.). In some embodiments, the first extension of the dynamic platform 902d can allow for a reduced length of the flexure 906d and / or a reduced amount of bending of the flexure 906d, which in turn can provide increased stiffness of the flexure 906d.

[0083] In some examples, certain electrical traces (and the signals they carry) may be susceptible to physical deformation. Where different electrical traces have different thicknesses and / or strengths, the electrical traces may be routed along different flexures 906d and / or different types of flexures 906d, for example based at least in part on the sensitivity of the electrical traces. Fig.9D In the embodiment of the present invention, the flexure group may include flexures 906d of different shapes and / or thicknesses. From the outermost flexure 906d to the innermost flexure 906d, the first (outermost) flexure 906d and the second flexure 906d have a first shape and a first thickness that are consistent throughout the flexure, the third flexure 906d has a second shape and a second thickness that vary at different parts of the flexure, and the fourth (innermost) flexure 906d has a third shape and a third thickness that vary at different parts of the flexure. In some cases, the first shape, the second shape, and / or the third shape may be different from each other. In some embodiments, each of the second shape and the third shape may include a corresponding bend that is chamfered. In some cases, the fourth (innermost) flexure 906d may include a chamfered bend near the chamfered corner of the dynamic platform 902d. In addition, the fourth (innermost) flexure 906d may define a through hole at or near the chamfered bend.

[0084] Fig.9E A partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900e is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure module configuration 900e includes a dynamic platform 902e, a static platform 904e, and a flexure 906e.

[0085] Fig.9FA partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900f is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure module configuration 900f includes a dynamic platform 902f, a static platform 904f, flexures 906f, and flexure stabilizer members 908f.

[0086] Figure 9G A partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900g is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure module configuration 900g includes a dynamic platform 902g, a static platform 904g, and a flexure 906g.

[0087] Figure 9H A partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900h is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure module configuration 900h includes a dynamic platform 902h, a static platform 904h, and a flexure 806h.

[0088] Fig.9I A partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900i according to some embodiments is shown. The flexure module configuration 900i includes a dynamic platform 902i, a static platform 904i, a flexure 906i, and a flexure stabilizer member 908i. In some embodiments, the static platform 904i may include a chamfered corner near the outermost flexure 906i. In some cases, the inner surface of the static platform 904i may have a profile that follows the profile of the flexure 906i and at least a portion of the outer profile of the dynamic platform 902i. Such an arrangement may be used to provide at least a minimum spacing between the flexure 906i and the dynamic platform 902i and / or the static platform 904i. It should be understood that these components may have different profiles, but some other profiles may reduce the available area of ​​the dynamic platform and / or the static platform, and / or increase the overall size of the OIS frame.

[0089] Figure 9J A partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900j is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure module configuration 900j includes a dynamic platform 902j, a static platform 904j, and a flexure 906j.

[0090] Figure 9K A partial top view of a flexure module configuration 900k is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure module configuration 900k includes a dynamic platform 902k, a static platform 904k, flexures 906k, and flexure stabilizer members 908k.

[0091] Figure 9L A partial top view of a flexure module configuration 9001 is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure module configuration 9001 includes a dynamic platform 9021, a static platform 9041, flexures 9061, and flexure stabilizer members 9081.

[0092] For flexures, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9LSome of the exemplary flexure module configurations of show variations of flexures including, but not limited to, one or more of the following:

[0093] (1a) The number of flexures may vary. For example, a flexure module may include one or more flexures. In a particular example, a flexure module may include three to six flexures in a flexure group. As a non-limiting example, Fig. 9A The flexure group shown in FIG. 1 includes five flexures, and Figure 9J The flexure group shown in includes four flexures. The number of flexures in a flexure group can affect the stiffness of the flexure group. In some cases, a greater number of flexures can correspond to a higher stiffness of the flexure group.

[0094] (2a) The flexures may be parallel to each other. For example, 9A to 9C , Fig.9E , Fig.9F , Figure 9H , Fig.9I , Figure 9K and Figure 9L The flexure groups shown in have flexures that are parallel to each other. However, the flexures do not have to be parallel to each other. For example, Fig.9D , Figure 9G and Figure 9J The flexure set shown in includes flexures that are not parallel to each other.

[0095] (3a) The flexures may be parallel to the edges of the frame (e.g., the edges of the dynamic platform and / or static platform of the flexure module). FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Each of the flexures includes a portion of one or more flexures parallel to the dynamic platform and / or the static platform. In some examples, a portion of one or more flexures of the flexure group may not be parallel to the dynamic platform and / or the static platform.

[0096] or static platforms. For example, Figure 9G , portions of flexure 906g are not parallel to dynamic platform 902g or static platform 904g.

[0097] (4a) The flexures may be evenly spaced apart from one another. As a non-limiting example, 9A to 9C , Fig.9E , Fig.9F , Figure 9H , Fig.9I , Figure 9K and Figure 9L The flexure groups shown in include flexures that are evenly spaced from each other. In other examples, the flexures may not be evenly spaced from each other. For example, Fig.9D , Figure 9G and Figure 9J The flexure set shown in includes flexures that are unevenly spaced from one another.

[0098] (5a) The width of the flexure may vary along the flexure and / or between the flexures. For example, Fig.9D The set of flexures shown in includes flexures having such width variations.

[0099] (6a) The flexure may include features (e.g., depressions, extensions, pores, etc.). For example,

[0100] Fig.9D The flexure set shown in includes an innermost flexure defining a void.

[0101] (7a) The cross-section of the flexure may be rectangular, concave and / or convex, for example as described below with reference to FIG. 10A to FIG. 10J described.

[0102] (8a) The flexure may be a solid material, a cladding or a switching beam, for example as described below with reference to FIG. 10A to FIG. 10J described.

[0103] For the bending of a flexure (or group of flexures), FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Some indications of exemplary flexure module configurations include, but are not limited to, bending variations of one or more of the following:

[0104] (1b) The flexure may include one or more bends. For example, Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B The flexure shown in has three bends, and Fig. 9C The flexure shown in has two bends,

[0105] and Fig.9D The flexure shown in has one bend.

[0106] (2b) The bend angle can be different. In some examples, the bend angle can be 90 degrees. For example, Fig. 9A The flexure group shown in includes a bend with a 90 degree turning angle. However, in other examples, the turning angle may be an angle other than 90 degrees. For example, Figure 9G The innermost flexure shown in has a bend with a hinge angle other than 90 degrees.

[0107] (3b) The radius of the bend can be different. For example, Fig.9D and Figure 9J The flexure set shown in FIG. 1 includes flexures that are bent with different turning radii.

[0108] For flexure stabilizer members, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Some of the exemplary flexure module configurations of show variations of flexure stabilizer members including, but not limited to, one or more of the following:

[0109] (1c) One or more flexure stabilizer members may connect the flexures. Fig. 9A middle,

[0110] A single flexure stabilizer member connects the flexures at one of the three bends in the flexure group. Fig. 9B In the embodiment, three flexure stabilizer members are used to connect the flexures, wherein

[0111] Each flexure connects the flexures at a corresponding bend in the flexure group.

[0112] (2c) Flexure stabilizer members may connect some or all of these flexures.

[0113] In FIG9A , the flexure stabilizer member connects all flexures of the flexure group. Fig.9F and Figure

[0114] The set of flexures shown in 9L includes a flexure stabilizer member connecting some (but not all) of the flexures. In some cases, a flexure stabilizer member may be used to connect two adjacent flexures to each other without connecting those flexures to any other flexures.

[0115] (3c) The location of the flexure stabilizer member may be anywhere on the flexure. In some examples, the location of the flexure stabilizer member may be different between flexures. For example, Fig.9F and Figure 9L In the embodiment, the position of the flexure stabilizer member is different between the flexures. In addition, in Fig.9F In some embodiments, the number of flexure stabilizer members connecting the flexures is different. Some of these flexures are connected via two flexure stabilizer members, while other flexures are connected via three flexure stabilizer members. In some cases, the width and / or thickness of the flexure stabilizer members can be different, with some being wider and / or thicker than others, such as Fig.9F as shown in .

[0116] (4c) The angle between the flexure stabilizer member and the flexure can be different. In some examples,

[0117] The angle between the flexure stabilizer member and the flexure can be 90 degrees, for example Fig. 9A

[0118] to Fig. 9C , Fig.9F , Fig.9I and Figure 9L However, in other examples, this angle may be an angle other than 90 degrees, such as Figure 9K as shown in .

[0119] For the offset of the dynamic platform and / or static platform, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Some of the exemplary flexure module configurations of show variations in offsets including, but not limited to, one or more of the following:

[0120] (1d) The deflection may exist at the flexure root where the flexure is connected to the dynamic platform and / or the static platform, for example FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L shown.

[0121] (2d) The offset may be, for example, a recessed portion, an extruded portion, etc. For example, Fig. 9A , Fig. 9B , Fig.9F and Figure 9K The depression at the dynamic platform and the extension at the static platform are shown. Fig. 9C , Fig.9D , Fig.9E , Figure 9G , Fig.9I , Figure 9J and Figure 9L The extension at the dynamic platform and the extension at the static platform are shown.

[0122] For the flexure connection angles to the dynamic and / or static platforms, FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Some of the exemplary flexure module configurations of show variations in flexure connection angles including, but not limited to, one or more of the following:

[0123] (1e) The flexure connection angle can be different. In some examples, the flexure connection angle can be 90 degrees, for example 9A to 9D , Fig.9F , Figure 9H and Figures 9J to 9L shown.

[0124] However, in other examples, the flexure connection angle may be an angle other than 90 degrees, such as Fig.9E , Figure 9G and Fig.9I as shown in .

[0125] (2e) Different flexures may have different flexure connection angles, for example Figure 9G as shown in .

[0126] (3e) For dynamic platforms and / or static platforms with an offset, the flexures may be connected to any available edge of the offset. In some cases, the flexures may be connected to an edge of the offset that is parallel to the side of the dynamic platform or static platform that defines the offset, such as 9A to 9C , Fig.9F , Figure 9H and Figure 9K In some examples, the flexure may be connected to an edge of the offset that is orthogonal to the side of the dynamic platform or static platform that defines the offset, such as Fig.9D , Figure 9J and Figure 9L In some cases, the flexure may be connected to an offset angled edge that is angled with respect to the side of the dynamic platform or static platform that defines the offset, such as Fig.9E , Figure 9G and Fig.9I In some embodiments, the beveled edges can be used to individually adjust the lengths of the different flexures.

[0127] For a flexure pattern (which in some cases may include a pattern formed by flexures and flexure stabilizer members), FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L Some of the exemplary flexure module configurations of show variations in flexure patterns including, but not limited to, one or more of the following:

[0128] (1f) The flexure pattern may be symmetrical. For example, the flexure pattern may be symmetrical along at least two axes (eg, the x-axis and the y-axis) that are orthogonal to the optical axis. For example, Figure 3 , Fig. 7A , Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The deflection pattern shown in is symmetrical along two axes.

[0129] (1g) The flexure pattern may be asymmetric. For example, the flexure pattern may be asymmetric along at least one axis (eg, the x-axis or the y-axis) that is orthogonal to the optical axis. For example, the flexure pattern may include FIG. 9A to FIG. 9L The multiple different configurations of the flexure module configurations shown in make the flexure pattern asymmetric along the x-axis and / or the y-axis.

[0130] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10J 1 shows a view of an exemplary flexure and / or trace according to some embodiments. In some cases, one or more embodiments of the exemplary flexure may be used in a flexure module of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator (e.g., as described herein with reference to FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B and FIG. 11A to FIG. 12B The VCM actuator can be used, for example, in a camera (e.g., as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5 The camera is used to provide optical image stabilization.

[0131] Fig. 10A 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a flexure 1000a according to some embodiments. For example, a cross-sectional view of the flexure 1000a can be taken along a plane parallel to the optical axis. The flexure 1000a can have a width dimension (in Fig. 10A denoted as "w" in the Fig. 10A In some examples, the height dimension may be greater than the width dimension. For example, in a particular embodiment, the height dimension may be approximately 120 microns and the width dimension may be approximately 30 microns. It should be understood that the height dimension and / or the width dimension may be any other suitable dimension.

[0132] Fig. 10B A cross-sectional view of a flexure 1000b according to some embodiments is shown. The flexure 1000b may include an electrical trace 1002b. The electrical trace 1002b may be configured to transmit a signal (e.g., an image signal) from a dynamic platform to a static platform. The electrical trace 1002b may be routed along at least a portion of the flexure 1000b. In some examples, the electrical trace 1002b may be located at the top portion of the flexure 1000b. However, in other examples, the electrical trace 1002b may be additionally or alternatively located at the middle and / or bottom portion of the flexure 1000b. In some cases, the electrical trace 1002b may be a conductive material. For example, the electrical trace 1002b may be a copper deposition on the flexure 1000b. In some embodiments, the electrical trace 1002b may be electrically insulated. For example, the electrical trace 1002b may be at least partially coated with a dielectric material 1004b (e.g., polyimide).

[0133] Fig. 10C 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a flexure 1000c according to some embodiments. The flexure 1000c may include a plurality of electrical traces 1002c (eg, as described above with reference to Fig. 10B 1002c). The electrical traces 1002c may be oriented horizontally side by side so that a horizontal plane passes through the electrical traces 1002c. The electrical traces 1002c may be routed along at least a portion of the flexure 1000c. In some examples, the electrical traces 1002c may be located at a top portion of the flexure 1000c. However, in other examples, the electrical traces 1002c may additionally or alternatively be located at a middle and / or bottom portion of the flexure 1000c. In some embodiments, the electrical traces 1002c may be electrically insulated from the rest of the flexure 1000c and / or from each other. For example, the electrical traces 1002c may each be at least partially coated with a dielectric material 1004c (e.g., polyimide).

[0134] Fig. 10D 1000d according to some embodiments. The flexure 1000d may include a plurality of electrical traces 1002d (eg, as described above with reference to Fig. 10B1002d). The electrical traces 1002d may be oriented vertically side by side so that a vertical plane passes through the electrical traces 1002d. The electrical traces 1002d may be routed along at least a portion of the flexure 1000d. In some examples, the electrical traces 1002d may be located at a top portion of the flexure 1000d. However, in other examples, the electrical traces 1002d may be additionally or alternatively located at a middle and / or bottom portion of the flexure 1000d. In some embodiments, the electrical traces 1002d may be electrically insulated from the rest of the flexure 1000d and / or from each other. For example, the electrical traces 1002d may each be at least partially coated with a dielectric material 1004d (e.g., polyimide).

[0135] Fig. 10E 1000e according to some embodiments. The flexure 1000e may include a plurality of electrical traces 1002e (eg, as described above with reference to Fig. 10B 1002d. The electrical traces 1002d may be electrically insulated from the rest of the flexure 1000e and / or from each other. For example, the electrical traces 1002d may each be at least partially coated with a dielectric material 1004e (e.g., polyimide).

[0136] Fig.10F 1000f according to some embodiments. The flexure 1000f can be formed of a variety of materials. For example, the flexure 1000f can include a first material 1002f sandwiching a second material 1004f. In some examples, the first material 1002f and / or the second material 1004f can include or be one or more electrical traces (e.g., as described above with reference to Fig. 10B The electrical trace 1002b).

[0137] Figure 10G A cross-sectional view of a flexure 1000g is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure 1000g may include a concave portion 1002g.

[0138] Fig. 10H A cross-sectional view of a flexure 1000h is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure 1000h may include a raised portion 1002h.

[0139] Fig.10IA cross-sectional view of a flexure configuration 1000i is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the flexure configuration 1000i can include a first flexure 1002i, a second flexure 1004i, a third flexure 1006i, and / or a fourth flexure 1008i.

[0140] In some embodiments, the OIS frame can be formed of a conductive material (e.g., copper alloy, stainless steel, etc.) so that the flexure itself can serve as a ground path between the static platform and the dynamic platform. In addition, ground traces can be added to shield high-frequency lines (e.g., a pair of lines that carry image signals from the image sensor to the image signal processor). For example, each of the first flexure 1002i and the second flexure 1004 can include a signal trace 1010i (e.g., two signal traces, such as Fig.10I 1010i). In addition, one or more common shield traces 1012i may overlie the signal trace 1010i to shield the signal trace 1010i. The signal traces 1010i and / or the common shield traces 1012i may be electrically insulated from each other, from the rest of the corresponding flexure, and / or from other flexures via an insulator 1014i. In some cases, the portion with the signal trace 1010i, the common shield trace 1012i, and the insulator 1014i may be wider than the underlying portion of the corresponding flexure, such that at least a portion of the insulator 1014i and / or one or more of the traces 1012i, 1014i extends beyond the width of the underlying portion of the corresponding flexure.

[0141] In some examples, it may be desirable to selectively choose which traces are placed on different flexures. For example, where one of the traces and flexures carries a power signal to a dynamic platform (e.g., to an image sensor and / or OIS control circuitry) and a trace on another flexure carries an image signal from an image sensor, it may be desirable to position a ground trace on the flexure between the power-carrying flexure and the signal-carrying flexure. For example, a third flexure 1006i may include a ground trace 1016i, and a fourth flexure 1008i may include a power trace 1018i. The third flexure 1006i (which includes the ground trace 1016i) may be positioned between the second flexure 1004i (which may carry an image signal via the signal trace 1010i) and the fourth flexure 1008i (which may carry power via the power trace 1008i). In some cases, the ground trace 1016i may be a reference different from the ground of the OIS frame itself. Additionally, in some cases, it may be desirable to route one or more power traces along the shortest flexure on the OIS frame. Similarly, image-carrying traces may also be prioritized for shorter flexures, while other traces (e.g., carrying information between the OIS frame and an axial motion (autofocus) voice coil motor (VCM) actuator) may have longer trace lengths.

[0142] Fig.10J A top view of a flexure configuration 1000j is shown according to some embodiments. The flexure configuration 1000j may include a flexure 1002j that routes a signal trace 1004j and a shield trace 1006j from a dynamic platform 1008j to a static platform 1010j. The signal trace 1004j and / or the shield trace 1006j may be electrically connected to the OIS frame at one or more points along the dynamic platform 1008j, the static platform 1010j, and / or the flexure 1002j. Fig.10J As shown, in some embodiments, the signal trace 1004j and the shield trace 1006 may follow different paths on the dynamic platform 1008j and the static platform 1010j to allow the shield trace 1006 to be electrically connected to the dynamic platform 1008j and the static platform 1010j, such as using a via 1012j.

[0143] In various embodiments, the present invention (e.g., with reference to FIG. 8A to FIG. 9L and FIG. 11A to FIG. 12B ) may have one or more of the flexure stabilizer members described herein (e.g., with reference to FIG. 10A to FIG. 10J ) one or more similar or identical cross-sections in the flexure.

[0144] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B Each shows a method that can be used, for example, in a camera (e.g., as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5 100 is a view of an exemplary flexure module 1100 of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator used to provide optical image stabilization in a camera as described above. Fig.11A A top view of the flexure module 1100 is shown. Fig. 11B A perspective view of the flexure module 1100 is shown. Electrical traces may be routed from the dynamic platform 1102 to the static platform 1104 via the flexures 1106 and / or the flexure stabilizer members 1108, for example as described above with reference to FIG. 10A to FIG. 10J In some examples, electrical traces can be routed from one or more electrical connection elements 1110 disposed on the dynamic platform 1102 to one or more electrical connection elements 1112 disposed on the static platform 1112 via one or more flexures 1106 and / or one or more flexure stabilizer members 1108 .

[0145] The electrical connection elements 1110 may be disposed along one or more portions (or sides) of the dynamic platform 1102. For example, the electrical connection elements 1110 may be disposed along one or more flexure roots where the flexure 1106 is connected to the dynamic platform 1102. Similarly, the electrical connection elements 1112 may be disposed along one or more portions (or sides) of the static platform 1104. For example, the electrical connection elements 1112 may be disposed along one or more flexure roots where the flexure 1106 is connected to the static platform 1104. In some examples, the electrical connection elements 1110 may be configured to electrically couple to the image sensor and / or another component (e.g., a flip chip, a substrate, etc.) coupled to the image sensor. Thus, the dynamic platform 1102 can be configured to receive a signal (e.g., an image signal) from the image sensor via the electrical connection element 1110, and the signal can be transmitted from the electrical connection element 1110 of the dynamic platform 1102 to the electrical connection element 1112 of the static platform 1104 via one or more electrical traces routed along the flexure 1106 and / or the flexure stabilizer member 1108.

[0146] exist Fig.11A and Fig. 11B In the embodiment, the electrical connection elements 1112 are located on a common side of the static platform 1104. However, in some embodiments, the electrical connection elements may be located on multiple sides of the static platform. For example, Fig. 7A The electrical connection elements are shown on two different sides of the static platform.

[0147] In some embodiments, when there are electrical traces on both sides of the flexure 1106 (e.g., Fig. 10E 1102) there may be vias through the dynamic platform 1102 such that the electrical connection elements 1110 are located on a common side of the dynamic platform 1102. For the static platform, the electrical traces may be brought up to a common surface using vias (e.g., to facilitate connections) or may be located on different surfaces (which may be advantageous in some cases to reduce the size of the OIS frame).

[0148] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B Each shows a method that can be used, for example, in a camera (e.g., as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5 A view of a flexure module 1200 of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator used in a camera to provide optical image stabilization. Fig. 12A A top view of the flexure module 1200 is shown. Fig. 12B A perspective view of a flex module 1200 is shown. The flex module 1200 may include one or more flex circuits 1202 configured to route one or more electrical traces 1204 from a dynamic platform 1206 to a static platform 1208.

[0149] In some examples, electrical traces 1204 may be routed via one or more flex circuits 1202 from one or more electrical connection elements 1210 disposed on dynamic platform 1206 to one or more electrical connection elements 1212 disposed on static platform 1208 .

[0150] The electrical connection elements 1210 may be disposed along one or more portions (or sides) of the dynamic platform 1206. Similarly, the electrical connection elements 1212 may be disposed along one or more portions (or sides) of the static platform 1208. In some examples, the electrical connection elements 1210 may be configured to electrically couple with the image sensor and / or another component (e.g., a flip chip, a substrate, etc.) coupled to the image sensor. Thus, the dynamic platform 1206 may be configured to receive a signal (e.g., an image signal) from the image sensor via the electrical connection elements 1210, and the signal may be transmitted from the electrical connection elements 1210 of the dynamic platform 1206 to the electrical connection elements 1212 of the static platform 1208 via one or more electrical traces 1204 routed along the one or more flexible circuits 1202.

[0151] In some embodiments, the flexible circuit 1202 may include a first end secured to the dynamic platform 1206 (e.g., via an adhesive), a second end secured to the stationary platform 1208 (e.g., via an adhesive), and a middle portion between the first end and the second end. The second end of the flexible circuit 1202 may be opposite to the first end of the flexible circuit 1202. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the middle portion of the flexible circuit 1202 may include an amount of slack that facilitates relative movement between the first end and the second end of the flexible circuit 1202. The amount of slack may be determined based at least in part on the stiffness of the flex module 1200. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the flexible circuit 1202 may include a flexible material. In some embodiments, a plurality of flexible circuits 1202 may be disposed adjacent to each other to form a flexible circuit array.

[0152] In some examples, in addition to routing electrical traces via one or more flexible circuits 1204, flexure module 1200 may also route electrical traces via flexures 1214 and / or flexure stabilizer members 1216, such as described above with reference to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B described.

[0153] Fig.131 is a flow chart of an exemplary method 1300 for transmitting a signal (e.g., an image signal) from a dynamic platform of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator to a static platform of the VCM actuator according to some embodiments. At 1302, method 1300 may include receiving one or more signals at the dynamic platform. For example, the signal may be a signal generated by an image sensor. At 1304a, method 1300 may include transmitting the signal from the dynamic platform to the static platform at least in part via electrical traces routed on / in one or more flexure arms and / or one or more flexure stabilizer members of the VCM actuator, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B Additionally or alternatively, at 1304b, method 1300 may include transmitting a signal from the dynamic platform to the static platform at least in part via electrical traces routed on / within one or more flexible circuits of the VCM actuator, e.g., as described above with reference to FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B described.

[0154] Multi-function device example

[0155] Embodiments of electronic equipment, user interfaces of such equipment and the related processes using such equipment are described herein.In some embodiments, the equipment is a portable communication device, such as a mobile phone, that also includes other functions such as a PDA and / or a music player function.Other portable electronic devices, such as a laptop, a camera, a mobile phone, or a tablet computer may also be used.It should also be understood that in some embodiments, the equipment is not a portable communication device, but a desktop computer with a camera.In some embodiments, the equipment is a gaming computer with an orientation sensor (such as an orientation sensor in a game controller).In other embodiments, the equipment is not a portable communication device, but a camera.

[0156] In the following discussion, an electronic device including a display and a touch-sensitive surface is described. However, it should be understood that the electronic device may include one or more other physical user interface devices, such as a physical keyboard, mouse, and / or joystick.

[0157] The device typically supports a variety of applications, such as one or more of the following: a drawing application, a presentation application, a word processing application, a website creation application, a disk editing application, a spreadsheet application, a gaming application, a telephony application, a video conferencing application, an email application, an instant messaging application, a fitness support application, a photo management application, a digital camera application, a digital video camera application, a web browsing application, a digital music player application, and / or a digital video player application.

[0158] Various applications executable on the device may use at least one common physical user interface device, such as a touch-sensitive surface. One or more functions of the touch-sensitive surface and corresponding information displayed on the device may be adjusted and / or varied from one application to another and / or within a corresponding application. In this way, a common physical architecture of the device (such as a touch-sensitive surface) may support a variety of applications with a user interface that is intuitive and transparent to the user.

[0159] Attention is now turned to embodiments of portable devices having cameras. Fig.14 A camera module (eg, as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5 14. The camera 1464 is sometimes referred to as an "optical sensor" for convenience, and may also be referred to as or called an optical sensor system. Device 1400 may include memory 1402 (which may include one or more computer-readable storage media), memory controller 1422, one or more processing units (CPUs) 1420, peripheral device interface 1418, RF circuit 1408, audio circuit 1410, speaker 1411, touch-sensitive display system 1412, microphone 1413, input / output (I / O) subsystem 1406, other input or control devices 1416, and external port 1424. Device 1400 may include one or more optical sensors 1464. These components may communicate via one or more communication buses or signal lines 1403.

[0160] It should be understood that device 1400 is only one example of a portable multifunction device and that device 1400 may have more or fewer components than shown, may combine two or more components, or may have a different configuration or arrangement of the components. Fig.14 The various components shown in the drawings may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, including one or more signal processing circuits and / or application specific integrated circuits.

[0161] The memory 1402 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory, such as one or more disk storage devices, flash memory devices, or other non-volatile solid-state memory devices. Access to the memory 1402 by other components of the device 1400 (such as the CPU 1420 and the peripheral device interface 1418) may be controlled by a memory controller 1422.

[0162] The peripheral device interface 1418 can be used to couple the input peripheral devices and output peripheral devices of the device to the CPU 1420 and the memory 1402. The one or more processors 1420 run or execute various software programs and / or instruction sets stored in the memory 1402 to perform various functions of the device 1400 and process data.

[0163] In some embodiments, peripherals interface 1418, CPU 1420, and memory controller 1422 can be implemented on a single chip, such as chip 1404. In some other embodiments, they can be implemented on separate chips.

[0164] RF (radio frequency) circuit 1408 receives and sends RF signals, also known as electromagnetic signals. RF circuit 1408 converts electrical signals into / from electromagnetic signals and communicates with a communication network and other communication devices via electromagnetic signals. RF circuit 1408 may include well-known circuits for performing these functions, including but not limited to an antenna system, an RF transceiver, one or more amplifiers, a tuner, one or more oscillators, a digital signal processor, a codec chipset, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, memory, and the like. RF circuit 1408 may communicate with a network and other devices via wireless communications, such as the Internet (also known as the World Wide Web (WWW)), an intranet, and / or a wireless network (such as a cellular telephone network, a wireless local area network (LAN), and / or a metropolitan area network (MAN)). The wireless communication may use any of a variety of communication standards, protocols and technologies, including, but not limited to, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (WI-Fi) (e.g., IEEE 802.11a, IEEE802.11b, IEEE 802.11g and / or IEEE 802.11n), Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Wi-MAX, protocols for email (e.g., Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP) and / or Post Office Protocol (POP)), instant messaging (e.g., Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol (XMPP), Session Initiation Protocol for Instant Messaging and Presence Utilizing Extensions (SIMPLE), Instant Messaging and Presence Service (IMPS)), and / or Short Message Service (SMS), or any other suitable communication protocol including communication protocols not yet developed on the filing date of this document.

[0165] The audio circuit 1410, speaker 1411, and microphone 1413 provide an audio interface between a user and the device 1400. The audio circuit 1410 receives audio data from the peripheral device interface 1418, converts the audio data into electrical signals, and transmits the electrical signals to the speaker 1411. The speaker 1411 converts the electrical signals into sound waves audible to humans. The audio circuit 1410 also receives electrical signals converted from sound waves by the microphone 1413. The audio circuit 1410 converts the electrical signals into audio data and transmits the audio data to the peripheral device interface 1418 for processing. The audio data can be retrieved from the memory 1402 and / or the RF circuit 1408 by the peripheral device interface 1418 and / or transmitted to the memory and / or the RF circuit. In some embodiments, the audio circuit 1410 also includes a headset jack (e.g., Fig.15 The headset jack provides an interface between the audio circuit 1410 and a removable audio input / output peripheral device, such as an output-only headset or a headset with both output (e.g., a single or dual-ear headset) and input (e.g., a microphone).

[0166] The I / O subsystem 1406 couples input / output peripherals on the device 1400, such as a touch screen 1412 and other input control devices 1416, to a peripheral device interface 1418. The I / O subsystem 1406 may include a display controller 1456 and one or more input controllers 1460 for other input or control devices. The one or more input controllers 1460 receive / send electrical signals from / to other input or control devices 1416. Other input control devices 1416 may include physical buttons (e.g., push buttons, rocker buttons, etc.), dials, slider switches, joysticks, click wheels, etc. In some alternative embodiments, the one or more input controllers 1460 may be coupled to (or not coupled to) any of the following: a keyboard, an infrared port, a USB port, and a pointing device such as a mouse. The one or more buttons (e.g., Fig.15 1508 in the example) may include an increase / decrease button for volume control of the speaker 1411 and / or the microphone 1413. The one or more buttons may include a push button (e.g., Fig.15 1506 in ).

[0167] The touch-sensitive display 1412 provides an input interface and an output interface between the device and the user. The display controller 1456 receives electrical signals from the touch screen 1412 and / or sends electrical signals to the touch screen 1412. The touch screen 1412 displays visual output to the user. The visual output may include graphics, text, icons, videos, and any combination thereof (collectively referred to as "graphics"). In some embodiments, some or all of the visual output may correspond to user interface objects.

[0168] The touch screen 1412 has a touch-sensitive surface, sensor, or sensor group that accepts input from a user based on tactile and / or haptic contact. The touch screen 1412 and display controller 1456 (together with any associated modules and / or instruction sets in memory 1402) detect contact on the touch screen 1412 (and any movement or interruption of the contact) and convert the detected contact into interaction with a user interface object (e.g., one or more soft keys, icons, web pages, or images) displayed on the touch screen 1412. In an exemplary embodiment, the point of contact between the touch screen 1412 and the user corresponds to the user's finger.

[0169] The touch screen 1412 may use LCD (liquid crystal display) technology, LPD (light emitting polymer display) technology, or LED (light emitting diode) technology, although other display technologies may be used in other embodiments. The touch screen 1412 and display controller 1456 may detect contact and any movement or interruption thereof using any of a variety of touch sensing technologies now known or to be developed later, as well as other proximity sensor arrays or other elements for determining one or more points of contact with the touch screen 1412, including but not limited to capacitive technology, resistive technology, infrared technology, and surface acoustic wave technology. In an exemplary embodiment, projected mutual capacitance sensing technology is used.

[0170] The touch screen 1412 may have a video resolution of more than 800 dpi. In some embodiments, the touch screen has a video resolution of about 860 dpi. The user may use any suitable object or appendage such as a stylus, finger, etc. to contact the touch screen 1412. In some embodiments, the user interface is designed to work primarily through finger-based contacts and gestures, which may not be as precise as stylus-based input due to the larger contact area of ​​a finger on the touch screen. In some embodiments, the device converts rough finger-based input into precise pointer / cursor positions or commands for performing the actions desired by the user.

[0171] In some embodiments, in addition to the touch screen, the device 1400 may include a touch pad (not shown) for activating or deactivating specific functions. In some embodiments, the touch pad is a touch-sensitive area of ​​the device that, unlike the touch screen, does not display visual output. The touch pad can be a touch-sensitive surface separate from the touch screen 1412, or an extension of the touch-sensitive surface formed by the touch screen.

[0172] Device 1400 also includes a power system 1462 for powering the various components. Power system 1462 may include a power management system, one or more power sources (e.g., batteries, alternating current (AC)), a recharging system, power fault detection circuits, power converters or inverters, power status indicators (e.g., light emitting diodes (LEDs)), and any other components associated with the generation, management, and distribution of power in a portable device.

[0173] Device 1400 may also include one or more optical sensors or cameras 1464 . Fig.14 An optical sensor 1464 coupled to an optical sensor controller 1458 in the I / O subsystem 1406 is shown. The optical sensor 1464 may include a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) phototransistor. The optical sensor 1464 receives light projected through one or more lenses from the environment and converts the light into data representing an image. In conjunction with the imaging module 1443 (also referred to as a camera module), the optical sensor 1464 can capture static images or videos. In some embodiments, the optical sensor 1464 is located on the rear of the device 1400, opposite to the touch screen display 1412 on the front of the device, so that the touch screen display 1412 can be used as a viewfinder for static image and / or video image acquisition. In some embodiments, another optical sensor is located on the front of the device so that the user can obtain an image of the user for video conferencing while watching other video conference participants on the touch screen display.

[0174] Device 1400 may also include one or more proximity sensors 1466 . Fig.14 A proximity sensor 1466 is shown coupled to peripherals interface 1418. Alternatively, proximity sensor 1466 can be coupled to input controller 1460 in I / O subsystem 1406. In some embodiments, when multifunction device 1400 is placed near a user's ear (e.g., when the user is making a phone call), proximity sensor 1466 turns off and disables touch screen 1412.

[0175] The device 1400 includes one or more orientation sensors 1468. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1468 include one or more accelerometers (e.g., one or more linear accelerometers and / or one or more rotational accelerometers). In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1468 include one or more gyroscopes. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1468 include one or more magnetometers. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1468 include one or more of a global positioning system (GPS), a global navigation satellite system (GLONASS), and / or other global navigation system receivers. GPS, GLONASS, and / or other global navigation system receivers can be used to obtain information about the position and orientation (e.g., longitudinal or transverse) of the device 1400. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1468 include any combination of orientation / rotation sensors. Fig.14 One or more orientation sensors 1468 are shown coupled to the peripherals interface 1418. Alternatively, the one or more orientation sensors 1468 can be coupled to the input controller 1460 in the I / O subsystem 1406. In some embodiments, information is displayed on the touch screen display 1412 in a portrait view or a landscape view based on an analysis of data received from the one or more orientation sensors 1468.

[0176] In some embodiments, the software components stored in the memory 1402 include an operating system 1426, a communication module (or instruction set) 1428, a contact / motion module (or instruction set) 1430, a graphics module (or instruction set) 1432, a text input module (or instruction set) 1434, a global positioning system (GPS) module (or instruction set) 1435, an arbitrator module 1458, and an application (or instruction set) 1436. In addition, in some embodiments, the memory 1402 stores a device / global internal state 1457. The device / global internal state 1457 includes one or more of the following: an active application state, which indicates which applications (if any) are currently active; a display state, which indicates what applications, views, or other information occupy various areas of the touch screen display 1412; a sensor state, including information obtained from various sensors and input control devices 1416 of the device; and position information about the position and / or posture of the device.

[0177] The operating system 1426 (e.g., Darwin, RTXC, LINUX, UNIX, OS X, WINDOWS, or an embedded operating system such as VxWorks) includes various software components and / or drivers for controlling and managing general system tasks (e.g., memory management, storage device control, power management, etc.), and facilitates communication between various hardware and software components.

[0178] The communication module 1428 facilitates communication with other devices through one or more external ports 1424, and also includes various software components for processing data received by the RF circuit 1408 and / or the external port 1424. The external port 1424 (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB), FireWire, etc.) is suitable for coupling directly to other devices or indirectly via a network (e.g., the Internet, wireless LAN, etc.). In some embodiments, the external port is a multi-pin (e.g., 30-pin) connector.

[0179] The contact / motion module 1430 can detect contact with the touch screen 1412 (in conjunction with the display controller 1456) and other touch-sensitive devices (e.g., a touchpad or physical click wheel). The contact / motion module 1430 includes multiple software components for performing various operations related to the detection of contact, such as determining whether contact has occurred (e.g., detecting a finger press event), determining whether there is movement of the contact and tracking the movement on the touch-sensitive surface (e.g., detecting one or more finger drag events), and determining whether the contact has terminated (e.g., detecting a finger lift event or contact interruption). The contact / motion module 1430 receives contact data from the touch-sensitive surface. Determining the movement of a contact point may include determining the rate (magnitude), velocity (magnitude and direction), and / or acceleration (change in magnitude and / or direction) of the contact point, and the movement of the contact point is represented by a series of contact data. These operations can be applied to a single contact point (e.g., a finger contact point) or multiple simultaneous contacts (e.g., "multi-touch" / multiple finger contacts). In some embodiments, the contact / motion module 1430 and the display controller 1456 detect contact on a touchpad.

[0180] The contact / motion module 1430 can detect gesture inputs made by a user. Different gestures on a touch-sensitive surface have different contact patterns. Therefore, a gesture can be detected by detecting a specific contact pattern. For example, detecting a single-finger tap gesture includes detecting a finger press event, and then detecting a finger lift (lift-off) event at the same location (or substantially the same location) as the finger press event (e.g., at an icon location). For another example, detecting a finger swipe gesture on a touch-sensitive surface includes detecting a finger press event, then detecting one or more finger drag events, and then detecting a finger lift (lift-off) event.

[0181] Graphics module 1432 includes a number of known software components for rendering and displaying graphics on touch screen 1412 or other display, including components for changing the intensity of displayed graphics. As used herein, the term "graphics" includes any object that can be displayed to a user, including, without limitation, text, web pages, icons (such as user interface objects including soft keys), digital images, videos, animations, etc.

[0182] In some embodiments, the graphics module 1432 stores data representing graphics to be used. Each graphic may be assigned a corresponding code. The graphics module 1432 receives one or more codes specifying the graphics to be displayed from an application program or the like, and also receives coordinate data and other graphic attribute data if necessary, and then generates screen image data for output to the display controller 1456.

[0183] The text input module 1434, which may be a component of the graphics module 1432, provides a soft keyboard for entering text in a variety of applications (e.g., contacts 1437, email 1440, instant messaging 1441, browser 1447, and any other application requiring text input).

[0184] The GPS module 1435 determines the location of the device and provides such information for use in various applications (e.g., to the phone 1438 for location-based dialing; to the camera 1443 as picture / video metadata; and to applications that provide location-based services, such as the Weather widget, the Local Pages widget, and the Maps / Navigation widget).

[0185] The application 1436 may include the following modules (or instruction sets) or a subset or superset thereof:

[0186] The contacts module (sometimes called an address book or contact list);

[0187] Telephone module;

[0188] Video conferencing module;

[0189] Email client module;

[0190] Instant messaging (IM) module;

[0191] Fitness support module;

[0192] A camera module for still images and / or video images;

[0193] Image management module;

[0194] Browser module;

[0195] Calendar module;

[0196] A widget module, which may include one or more of the following: a weather widget, a stock widget, a calculator widget, an alarm clock widget, a dictionary widget, and other widgets acquired by the user and widgets created by the user;

[0197] A widget creator module for forming user-created widgets;

[0198] Search module;

[0199] Video and music player module, which can be composed of a video player module and a music player module;

[0200] Notepad module;

[0201] Map module; and / or

[0202] Online video module.

[0203] Examples of other applications 1436 that may be stored in memory 1402 include other word processing applications, other image editing applications, drawing applications, presentation applications, JAVA-enabled applications, encryption, digital rights management, voice recognition, and voice replication.

[0204] Each module and application identified above corresponds to a set of executable instructions for performing one or more of the above functions and methods described in this application (e.g., computer-implemented methods and other information processing methods described herein). These modules (i.e., instruction sets) do not have to be implemented as independent software programs, processes, or modules, so various subsets of these modules can be combined or otherwise rearranged in various embodiments. In some embodiments, memory 1402 can store subsets of the above modules and data structures. In addition, memory 1402 can store additional modules and data structures not described above.

[0205] In some embodiments, device 1400 is a device where the operation of a predefined set of functions on the device is performed exclusively through a touch screen and / or a touch pad. By using a touch screen and / or a touch pad as the primary input control device for the operation of device 1400, the number of physical input control devices (such as push buttons, dials, etc.) on device 1400 can be reduced.

[0206] A predefined set of functions that can be uniquely performed by a touch screen and / or a touchpad include navigating between user interfaces. In some embodiments, the touchpad, when touched by a user, navigates the device 1400 to a main menu, a home menu, or a root menu from any user interface that may be displayed on the device 1400. In such embodiments, the touchpad may be referred to as a "menu button." In some other embodiments, the menu button may be a physical push button or other physical input control device, rather than a touchpad.

[0207] Fig.15 A camera module (eg, as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5 14. Device 1400 may include touch screen 1412. Touch screen 1412 may display one or more graphics within user interface (UI) 1500. In this embodiment, as well as other embodiments described below, a user may select one or more of the graphics by gesturing on the graphics, for example with one or more fingers 1502 (not drawn to scale in the figures) or with one or more styluses (not shown).

[0208] The device 1400 may also include one or more physical buttons, such as a "home" button or a menu button 1504. As previously described, the menu button 1504 may be used to navigate to any application 1436 in a set of applications executable on the device 1400. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the menu button 1504 is implemented as a soft key in a GUI displayed on the touch screen 1412.

[0209] In one embodiment, the device 1400 includes a touch screen 1412, a menu button 1504, a push button 1506 for turning the device on and off and locking the device, one or more volume adjustment buttons 1508, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card slot 1510, a headset jack 1512, and a docking / charging external port 1424. The push button 1506 can be used to turn the device on and off by pressing the button and keeping the button pressed for a predefined time interval; lock the device by pressing the button and releasing the button before the predefined time interval has passed; and / or unlock the device or initiate an unlocking process. In an alternative embodiment, the device 1400 can also accept voice input for activating or deactivating some functions through a microphone 1413.

[0210] It should be noted that although many of the examples herein are given with reference to the optical sensor / camera 1464 (on the front of the device), a rearward-facing camera or optical sensor pointing away from the display may be used in place of or in addition to the optical sensor / camera 1464 on the front of the device.

[0211] Exemplary Computer System

[0212] Fig.16 A camera module (eg, as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5 The computer system 1600 may be configured to perform any or all of the embodiments described above. In various embodiments, the computer system 1600 may be any of various types of devices, including, but not limited to, a personal computer system, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, a tablet computer, an all-in-one computer, a tablet or netbook computer, a mainframe computer system, a handheld computer, a workstation, a network computer, a camera, a set-top box, a mobile device, a consumer device, a video game console, a handheld video game device, an application server, a storage device, a television, a video recording device, a peripheral device (such as a switch, a modem, a router), or generally any type of computing or electronic device.

[0213] Various embodiments of the camera motion control system described herein (including embodiments of magnetic position sensing, as described herein) may be executed in one or more computer systems 1600, which may interact with various other devices. Note that, according to various embodiments, the above description with respect to Figures 1 to 15 Any component, action or functionality described may be implemented in a configuration Fig.16 1600. In the illustrated embodiment, the computer system 1600 includes one or more processors 1610 coupled to a system memory 1620 via an input / output (I / O) interface 1630. The computer system 1600 also includes a network interface 1640 coupled to the I / O interface 1630, and one or more input / output devices 1650, such as a cursor control device 1660, a keyboard 1670, and one or more displays 1680. In some cases, it is contemplated that the embodiments may be implemented using a single instance of the computer system 1600, while in other embodiments, multiple such systems or multiple nodes making up the computer system 1600 may be configured to host different portions or instances of the embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, some elements may be implemented via one or more nodes of the computer system 1600 that are different from those nodes that implement other elements.

[0214] In various embodiments, computer system 1600 may be a uniprocessor system including one processor 1610, or a multiprocessor system including several processors 1610 (e.g., two, four, eight, or another suitable number). Processor 1610 may be any suitable processor capable of executing instructions. For example, in various embodiments, processor 1610 may be a general-purpose processor or embedded processor that implements any of a variety of instruction set architectures (ISAs), such as x86, PowerPC, SPARC, or MIPS ISAs, or any other suitable ISAs. In a multiprocessor system, each processor 1610 may typically, but not necessarily, implement the same ISA.

[0215] The system memory 1620 may be configured to store camera control program instructions 1622 and / or camera control data that may be accessed by the processor 1610. In various embodiments, the system memory 1620 may be implemented using any suitable memory technology, such as static random access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), non-volatile / flash type memory, or any other type of memory. In the illustrated embodiment, the program instructions 1622 may be configured to implement a lens control application 1624 that incorporates any of the functionality described above. Additionally, the existing camera control data 1632 of the memory 1620 may include any of the information or data structures described above. In some embodiments, the program instructions and / or data may be received, sent, or stored on different types of computer accessible media or similar media that are independent of the system memory 1620 or the computer system 1600. Although the computer system 1600 is described as implementing the functionality of the functional blocks of the preceding figures, any functionality described herein may be implemented by such a computer system.

[0216] In one embodiment, the I / O interface 1630 may be configured to coordinate I / O communications between the processor 1610, the system memory 1620, and any peripheral devices (including the network interface 1640 or other peripheral device interfaces, such as the input / output device 1650) in the device. In some embodiments, the I / O interface 1630 may perform any necessary protocol, timing, or other data conversion to convert data signals from one component (e.g., the system memory 1620) into a format suitable for use by another component (e.g., the processor 1610). In some embodiments, the I / O interface 1630 may include support for devices attached, for example, via various types of peripheral device buses (e.g., a variation of the peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus standard or the universal serial bus (USB) standard). In some embodiments, the functions of the I / O interface 1630 may be divided into two or more separate components, such as a north bridge and a south bridge, for example. In addition, in some embodiments, some or all of the functions of the I / O interface 1630 (such as an interface to the system memory 1620) may be directly incorporated into the processor 1610.

[0217] The network interface 1640 may be configured to allow data to be exchanged between the computer system 1600 and other devices (e.g., carriers or proxy devices) attached to the network 1685 or between nodes of the computer system 1600. In various embodiments, the network 1685 may include one or more networks, including, but not limited to: a local area network (LAN) (e.g., an Ethernet or an enterprise network), a wide area network (WAN) (e.g., the Internet), a wireless data network, some other electronic data network, or some combination thereof. In various embodiments, the network interface 1640 may support communication via a general data network, wired or wireless (e.g., such as any suitable type of Ethernet network), via a telecommunications / telephone network (such as an analog voice network or a digital fiber optic communication network); via a storage area network (such as a Fiber Channel SAN), or via other suitable types of networks and / or protocols.

[0218] Input / output devices 1650 may include, in some embodiments, one or more display terminals, keyboards, keypads, touch pads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other device suitable for inputting or accessing data by one or more computer systems 1600. Multiple input / output devices 1650 may be present in computer system 1600, or may be distributed across various nodes of computer system 1600. In some embodiments, similar input / output devices may be separate from computer system 1600 and may interact with one or more nodes of computer system 1600 via a wired or wireless connection (such as, via network interface 1640).

[0219] like Fig.16As shown, memory 1620 may include program instructions 1622, which may be executable by a processor to implement any element or action described above. In one embodiment, the program instructions may execute the method described above. In other embodiments, different elements and data may be included. It should be noted that the data may include any data or information described above.

[0220] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that computer system 1600 is merely illustrative, and is not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments. In particular, computer systems and devices may include any combination of hardware or software that can perform the indicated functions, including computers, network equipment, Internet equipment, personal digital assistants, wireless phones, pagers, etc. Computer system 1600 may also be connected to other devices not shown or may otherwise be operated as an independent system. In addition, the functions provided by the shown components may be combined in fewer components or distributed in additional components in some embodiments. Similarly, in some embodiments, the functions of some shown components may not be provided, and / or other additional functions may be available for use.

[0221] Those skilled in the art will also recognize that, although various items are shown as being stored in memory or on storage devices during use, for the purpose of memory management and data integrity, these items or parts thereof may be transmitted between memory and other storage devices. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some or all of these software components may be executed in a memory on another device, and communicate with the computer system shown via inter-computer communication. Some or all of the system components or data structures in 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 to be read by a suitable driver, and its various examples are described above. In some embodiments, instructions stored on a computer accessible medium separated from the computer system 1600 may be transmitted to the computer system 1600 via a transmission medium or signal (such as, an electrical signal, an electromagnetic signal, or a digital signal), and the transmission medium or signal is transmitted via a communication medium (e.g., a network and / or a wireless link). Various embodiments may further include receiving, sending, or storing instructions and / or data implemented according to the above description on a computer accessible medium. Generally speaking, a computer-accessible medium may include a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium or memory medium, such as a magnetic medium or an optical medium, for example a disk or a DVD / CD-ROM, a volatile or non-volatile medium, such as a RAM (e.g., SDRAM, DDR, RDRAM, SRAM, etc.), a ROM, etc. In some embodiments, a computer-accessible medium may include a transmission medium or signal, such as an electrical signal, an electromagnetic signal, or a digital signal transmitted via a communication medium such as a network and / or a wireless link.

[0222] In different embodiments, the methods described herein can be implemented in software, hardware or a combination thereof. In addition, the order of the frames of the method can be changed, and various elements can be added, reordered, combined, omitted, modified, etc. For those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure, various modifications and changes can be made. The various embodiments described herein are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many variations, modifications, additions and improvements are possible. Therefore, multiple instances can be provided for the components described as a single instance in this article. The boundaries between various components, operations and data repositories are arbitrary to a certain extent, and specific operations are shown in the context of a specific exemplary configuration. Other allocations of functions are expected, and they may fall within the scope of the appended claims. Finally, the structure and function presented as discrete components in the exemplary configuration may be implemented as a combined structure or component. These and other variations, modifications, additions and improvements may fall within the scope of the embodiments defined in the following claims.

[0223] Additional description of implementation scheme :

[0224] Clause 1: A camera comprising:

[0225] A lens, wherein the lens is located in a lens holder;

[0226] an image sensor for capturing a digital representation of light passing through the lens;

[0227] an axial motion voice coil motor for focusing light from the lens on the image sensor by moving a lens assembly including the lens along an optical axis of the lens, wherein

[0228] The axial motion voice coil motor comprises

[0229] a suspension assembly for movably mounting the lens holder to an actuator base,

[0230] a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the actuator base, and

[0231] a focus coil fixedly mounted to the lens holder and mounted to the actuator base via the suspension assembly; and

[0232] Lateral motion voice coil motor, where

[0233] The lateral motion voice coil motor comprises

[0234] Image sensor frame member,

[0235] one or more flexible members for mechanically connecting the image sensor frame member to the frame of the lateral motion voice coil motor, and

[0236] a plurality of lateral motion coils mounted to the image sensor frame member within the magnetic field of the shared magnet for generating forces for moving the image sensor frame member in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0237] The flexible member mechanically and electrically connects the image sensor disposed in the image sensor holder to the frame of the lateral motion voice coil motor, and

[0238] The flexible member includes electrical signal traces.

[0239] Clause 3: A camera according to any one of clauses 1-2, wherein

[0240] The flexible member includes a metal flexure carrying electrical signal traces that are electrically isolated from the metal flexure by a polyamide insulation layer.

[0241] Clause 4: A camera according to any one of clauses 1-3, wherein

[0242] The lateral motion coil is mounted on a flexible printed circuit that carries power to the lateral motion coil for operation of the lateral motion voice coil motor.

[0243] Clause 5: A camera according to any one of clauses 1-4, wherein

[0244] The optical image stabilization coil is corner mounted on a flexible printed circuit that is mechanically connected to the actuator base and mechanically isolated from the autofocus voice coil motor.

[0245] Clause 6: A camera according to any one of clauses 1-5, wherein

[0246] A bearing surface end stop is mounted to the base for limiting the movement of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0247] Clause 7: A camera according to any one of clauses 1-6, wherein

[0248] A bearing surface end stop is mounted to the actuator base for limiting movement of the image sensor along the optical axis.

[0249] Clause 8: A camera according to any of clauses 1-7, wherein the lateral motion voice-controlled motor further comprises:

[0250] One or more flexure stabilizer members are configured to mechanically connect flexible members of the one or more flexible members to each other such that the one or more flexure stabilizer members prevent interference between the flexible members.

[0251] Clause 9: The camera of clause 8, wherein:

[0252] The flexible member includes a first flexible member and a second flexible member that are parallel to each other; and

[0253] The one or more flexure stabilizer members include a flexure stabilizer member connecting a first flexure arm to a second flexure arm and extending along an axis orthogonal to the first flexure arm and the second flexure arm.

[0254] Clause 10: A camera actuator comprising:

[0255] Actuator base;

[0256] Autofocus voice coil motor,

[0257] The automatic focus voice coil motor comprises

[0258] a lens holder movably mounted to the actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the base,

[0259] an autofocus coil fixedly mounted to the lens for generating a force in the direction of an optical axis of one or more lenses of the lens holder;

[0260] as well as

[0261] Optical image stabilization voice coil motor, where

[0262] The optical image stabilization voice coil motor comprises

[0263] an image sensor bracket movably mounted to the actuator base, and

[0264] a plurality of optical image stabilization coils mounted to the image sensor holder within the magnetic field of the shared magnet for generating forces for moving the image sensor holder in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0265] The image sensor holder also includes one or more flexible members for mechanically connecting an image sensor disposed in the image sensor holder to a frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0266] Clause 12: A camera actuator according to any one of clauses 10-11, wherein

[0267] The image sensor holder further comprises one or more flexible members for mechanically and electrically connecting the image sensor disposed in the image sensor holder to the frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor, and

[0268] The flexible member includes electrical signal traces.

[0269] Clause 13: A camera actuator according to any one of clauses 10-12, wherein

[0270] The image sensor holder further comprises one or more flexible members for mechanically and electrically connecting the image sensor disposed in the image sensor holder to the frame of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor, and

[0271] The flexible member includes a metal flexure carrying electrical signal traces that are electrically isolated from the metal flexure by a polyamide insulation layer.

[0272] Clause 14: A camera actuator according to any one of clauses 10-13, wherein

[0273] The optical image stabilization coil is mounted on a flexible printed circuit that carries power to the coil for operation of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0274] Clause 15: A camera actuator according to any one of clauses 10-14, wherein

[0275] The optical image stabilization coil is corner mounted on a flexible printed circuit that is mechanically connected to the actuator base and mechanically isolated from the autofocus voice coil motor.

[0276] Clause 16: A camera actuator according to any one of clauses 10-15, wherein

[0277] A bearing surface end stop is mounted to the base for limiting movement of the optical image stabilization voice coil motor.

[0278] Clause 17: A mobile multifunctional device comprising:

[0279] A camera module, the camera module comprising:

[0280] a lens comprising one or more lens elements defining an optical axis;

[0281] an image sensor configured to capture light passing through the lens and convert the captured light into an image signal;

[0282] A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator, the VCM actuator comprising:

[0283] an inner frame coupled to the image sensor and configured to receive the image signal;

[0284] an outer frame surrounding the inner frame along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis; and

[0285] a plurality of spring arms configured to mechanically connect the inner frame to the outer frame; and

[0286] an electrical trace configured to transmit the image signal from the inner frame to the outer frame;

[0287] Display; and

[0288] One or more processors configured to:

[0289] causing the VCM actuator to move the first frame relative to the second frame in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis; and

[0290] The display is caused to present an image based at least in part on one or more of the image signals that have been transmitted from the inner frame to the outer frame by the electrical traces.

[0291] Clause 18: The mobile multifunction device of clause 17, wherein the VCM actuator further comprises:

[0292] One or more flexure stabilizer members configured to mechanically connect spring arms of the plurality of spring arms such that the flexure stabilizer members restrict movement of the spring arms along the plane orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0293] Clause 19: The mobile multifunctional device of clause 18, wherein:

[0294] The plurality of spring arms include:

[0295] a first array of spring arms parallel to one another; and

[0296] a second array of spring arms that are parallel to each other, wherein the spring arms of the second array are not parallel to the spring arms of the first array; and

[0297] The one or more flexure stabilizer members include:

[0298] a first set of one or more flexure stabilizer members connecting the spring arms of the first array to each other along a first axis orthogonal to the optical axis; and

[0299] A second set of one or more flexure stabilizer members aligns the spring arms of the second array relative to each other along a second axis orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0300] This connection;

[0301] Clause 20: The mobile multifunction device of any of clauses 17-19, wherein at least a portion of the electrical traces are routed from the inner frame to the outer frame via one or more of the plurality of spring arms.

[0302] Article 21: A camera comprising:

[0303] a lens comprising one or more lens elements defining an optical axis;

[0304] an image sensor configured to capture light passing through the lens and convert the captured light into an image signal; and

[0305] A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator, the VCM actuator comprising:

[0306] a first frame coupled to the image sensor such that:

[0307] The image sensor moves with the first frame; and

[0308] The first framework receives the image signal;

[0309] Second frame;

[0310] a plurality of flexure arms configured to mechanically connect the first frame to the second frame; and

[0311] one or more flexure stabilizer members configured to mechanically connect flexure arms of the plurality of flexure arms to one another such that the one or more flexure stabilizer members prevent interference between the flexure arms;

[0312] The VCM actuator is configured to move the first frame so that the image sensor moves relative to the second frame in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0313] The flexure arm comprises a first flexure arm and a second flexure arm parallel to each other;

[0314] The one or more flexure stabilizer members include a flexure stabilizer member connecting the first flexure arm to the second flexure arm and extending along an axis orthogonal to the first flexure arm and the second flexure arm.

[0315] Clause 23: A camera according to any one of clauses 21-22, further comprising:

[0316] A flexible circuit, the flexible circuit comprising:

[0317] secured to a first end portion of said first frame; and

[0318] secured to a second end of the second frame;

[0319] One or more electrical traces configured to transmit the image signal from the first frame to the second frame, wherein at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces are routed from the first frame to the second frame via the flexible circuit.

[0320] Clause 24: A camera according to any one of clauses 21-23, further comprising:

[0321] One or more electrical traces configured to transmit the image signal from the first frame to the second frame, wherein at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces are routed from the first frame to the second frame via one or more of the plurality of flexure arms.

[0322] Clause 25: The camera of clause 24, wherein:

[0323] The flexure arm comprises a first flexure arm and a second flexure arm;

[0324] The one or more flexure stabilizer members include a flexure stabilizer member connecting the first flexure arm to the second flexure arm; and

[0325] The at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces are further routed from the first flexure arm to the second flexure arm via the flexure stabilizer member.

[0326] Clause 26: A camera according to any one of clauses 21-25, further comprising:

[0327] A flexible circuit, the flexible circuit comprising:

[0328] secured to a first end portion of said first frame; and

[0329] secured to a second end of the second frame;

[0330] The electrical traces are configured to transmit the image signal from the first frame to the

[0331] Sent to the second frame, where:

[0332] The electrical traces include a first set of one or more electrical traces and a second set of one or more electrical traces;

[0333] At least a portion of the first set of one or more electrical traces are routed from the first frame to the second frame via the flexible circuit; and

[0334] At least a portion of the second set of one or more electrical traces are routed from the first frame to the second frame via a flexure arm of the plurality of flexure arms.

[0335] Clause 27: A camera according to any of clauses 21-26, wherein:

[0336] The first framework includes:

[0337] a first portion extending along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis;

[0338] a second portion extending along the plane; and

[0339] a curved portion extending along the plane and connecting the first portion to the second portion;

[0340] The plurality of flexure arms include respective flexure arms each including:

[0341] a corresponding first portion parallel to said first portion of said first frame;

[0342] a corresponding second portion parallel to said second portion of said first frame; and

[0343] The respective first portion is connected to a respective bent portion of the respective second portion.

[0344] Clause 28: The camera of clause 27, wherein:

[0345] The one or more flexure stabilizer members include a flexure stabilizer member connecting the respective flexure arms to each other along an axis orthogonal to the respective bends of the respective flexure arms.

[0346] Clause 29: A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator comprising:

[0347] one or more actuator magnets;

[0348] one or more actuator coils;

[0349] a dynamic platform configured to be coupled to an image sensor of a camera;

[0350] a static platform configured to be static relative to the dynamic platform;

[0351] a plurality of spring arms configured to mechanically connect the dynamic platform to the static platform, the plurality of spring arms comprising a first spring arm and a second spring arm; and

[0352] one or more flexure stabilizer members, the one or more flexure stabilizer members including a flexure stabilizer member configured to mechanically connect the first spring arm to the second spring arm such that the flexure stabilizer member stabilizes relative motion between the first spring arm and the second spring arm along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis;

[0353] Wherein the one or more actuator magnets and the one or more actuator coils are configured to magnetically interact to move the dynamic platform relative to the static platform in a plurality of directions orthogonal to an optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the camera.

[0354] Clause 30: The VCM actuator of clause 29, wherein:

[0355] The dynamic platform is further configured to receive an image signal;

[0356] The VCM actuator further comprises:

[0357] A flexible circuit, the flexible circuit comprising:

[0358] connected to a first end of said first frame;

[0359] connected to a second end of the second frame; and

[0360] an intermediate portion between the first end and the second end;

[0361] the flexible circuit comprising electrical traces configured to transmit the image signal from the dynamic stage to the static stage; and

[0362] The intermediate portion of the flexible circuit includes an amount of slack that facilitates relative movement between the first end of the flexible circuit and the second end of the flexible circuit.

[0363] Clause 31: A VCM actuator according to any of clauses 29-30, wherein:

[0364] The dynamic platform is further configured to receive an image signal;

[0365] The VCM actuator further comprises:

[0366] A first flexible circuit, the first flexible circuit comprising:

[0367] A first end connected to a first side of the first frame; and

[0368] a second end connected to the first side of the second frame;

[0369] A second flexible circuit, the second flexible circuit comprising:

[0370] a first end portion connected to a second side of the first frame different from the first side of the first frame;

[0371] a second end portion connected to a second side of the second frame different from the second side of the second frame;

[0372] Each of the first and second flexible circuits includes electrical traces configured to transmit the image signal from the dynamic platform to the static platform.

[0373] Clause 32: A VCM actuator according to any one of clauses 29-31, wherein:

[0374] The dynamic platform is further configured to receive an image signal; and

[0375] The first spring arm and the second spring arm each include one or more electrical traces configured to transmit one or more of the image signals from the dynamic stage to the static stage.

[0376] Clause 33: The VCM actuator of clause 32, wherein:

[0377] The one or more electrical traces include:

[0378] a first electrical trace routed along a first side of the first spring arm; and

[0379] A second electrical trace is routed along a second side of the first spring arm opposite the first side of the first spring arm.

[0380] Clause 34: A VCM actuator according to any one of clauses 29-33, wherein:

[0381] The plurality of spring arms and the one or more flexure stabilizer members are integrally formed.

[0382] Clause 35: A mobile multifunctional device comprising:

[0383] A camera module, the camera module comprising:

[0384] a lens comprising one or more lens elements defining an optical axis;

[0385] an image sensor configured to capture light passing through the lens and convert the captured light into an image signal;

[0386] A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator, the VCM actuator comprising:

[0387] an inner frame coupled to the image sensor and configured to receive the image signal;

[0388] an outer frame, the outer frame surrounding the inner frame along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis;

[0389] a plurality of spring arms configured to mechanically connect the inner frame to the outer frame; and

[0390] one or more flexure stabilizer members configured to mechanically connect spring arms of the plurality of spring arms such that the flexure stabilizer members restrict movement of the spring arms along the plane orthogonal to the optical axis; and

[0391] an electrical trace configured to transmit the image signal from the inner frame to the outer frame;

[0392] Display; and

[0393] One or more processors configured to:

[0394] causing the lateral motion VCM actuator to move the first frame relative to the second frame in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis; and

[0395] The display is caused to present an image based at least in part on one or more of the image signals that have been transmitted from the inner frame to the outer frame by the electrical traces.

[0396] Clause 36: The mobile multifunctional device of clause 35, wherein:

[0397] The plurality of spring arms include:

[0398] a first array of spring arms parallel to one another; and

[0399] a second array of spring arms that are parallel to each other, wherein the spring arms of the second array are not parallel to the spring arms of the first array; and

[0400] The one or more flexure stabilizer members include:

[0401] a first set of one or more flexure stabilizer members connecting the spring arms of the first array to each other along a first axis orthogonal to the optical axis; and

[0402] A second set of one or more flexure stabilizer members aligns the spring arms of the second array relative to each other along a second axis orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0403] This connection;

[0404] Clause 37: The mobile multifunctional device of clause 36, wherein:

[0405] The inner frame defines a perimeter orthogonal to the optical axis;

[0406] A first portion of the perimeter is recessed or extruded relative to a second portion of the perimeter adjacent to the first portion; and

[0407] The first array of spring arms is connected to the inner frame at the first portion of the perimeter.

[0408] Clause 38: The mobile multifunctional device of clause 36, wherein:

[0409] The first array of spring arms comprises:

[0410] a plurality of straight portions, each of the plurality of straight portions extending along a respective axis orthogonal to the optical axis, the plurality of straight portions including a first straight portion and a second straight portion; and

[0411] a plurality of curved portions, the plurality of curved portions including a first curved portion connecting the first straight portion to the second straight portion along the plane orthogonal to the optical axis; and

[0412] The first set of one or more flexure stabilizer members comprises:

[0413] a first flexure stabilizer member configured to

[0414] A connection within the first straight portion connects the spring arms of the first array to each other; and

[0415] a second flexure stabilizer member configured to

[0416] A connection in the second straight portion connects the spring arms of the first array to each other;

[0417] Clause 39: A mobile multifunctional device according to any of clauses 35-38, wherein:

[0418] The plurality of spring arms and the one or more flexure stabilizer members form a pattern that is symmetrical along at least two axes orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0419] Clause 40: A mobile multifunctional device according to any of clauses 35-38, wherein:

[0420] The plurality of spring arms and the one or more flexure stabilizer members form a pattern that is asymmetric along at least one axis orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0421] Other allocations of functionality are contemplated and may fall within the scope of the appended claims. Finally, structures and functions presented as discrete components in the exemplary configurations may be implemented as combined structures or components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of the embodiments as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator, comprising: a dynamic platform configured to be coupled to an image sensor of a camera so that the image sensor moves with the dynamic platform; Static platform; a plurality of flexure arms mechanically connecting the dynamic platform to the static platform; as well as one or more electrical traces that transmit the image signal from the dynamic platform to the static platform, wherein at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces are routed from the dynamic platform to the static platform via one or more of the plurality of flexure arms; The VCM actuator is configured to move the dynamic platform so that the image sensor moves relative to the static platform in multiple directions orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera.

2. The VCM actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more flexure arms include a first flexure arm and a second flexure arm; as well as The one or more electrical traces include: a first electrical trace routed along a first side of the first flexure arm; as well as A second electrical trace is routed along a second side of the second flexure arm, the second side being opposite the first side of the first flexure arm.

3. The VCM actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more flexure arms include a metal flexure body that carries the at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces; as well as The at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces is electrically isolated from the metal flexure via one or more insulating layers. 4 . The VCM actuator of claim 3 , wherein the one or more insulating layers comprise one or more polyimide layers. 5 . The VCM actuator of claim 1 , wherein the one or more flexure arms include a first flexure arm and a second flexure arm that are parallel to each other.

6. The VCM actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more flexure arms include a first flexure arm and a second flexure arm; The VCM actuator further comprises: one or more flexure stabilizer members mechanically connecting flexure arms of the plurality of flexure arms to one another such that the one or more flexure stabilizer members prevent interference between the flexure arms, the one or more flexure stabilizer members including a flexure stabilizer member connecting the first flexure arm to the second flexure arm; as well as The at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces are also routed from the first flexure arm to the second flexure arm via the flexure stabilizer member. 7 . The VCM actuator of claim 6 , wherein the flexure stabilizer member connecting the first flexure arm to the second flexure arm extends along an axis orthogonal to the first flexure arm and the second flexure arm.

8. The VCM actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The dynamic platform includes: a first portion extending along a plane orthogonal to the optical axis; a second portion extending along the plane; and a curved portion extending along the plane and connecting the first portion to the second portion; and The plurality of flexure arms include respective flexure arms each including: a corresponding first portion, the corresponding first portion being parallel to the first portion of the first frame; a corresponding second portion, the corresponding second portion being parallel to the second portion of the first frame; and A respective curved portion connects the respective first portion to the respective second portion.

9. A camera comprising: a lens positioned in a lens holder, wherein the lens comprises one or more lens elements defining an optical axis; an image sensor that captures light passing through the lens and converts the captured light into an image signal; as well as A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator, the VCM actuator comprising: a dynamic platform configured to be coupled to the image sensor so that the image sensor moves together with the dynamic platform; Static platform; a plurality of flexure arms mechanically connecting the dynamic platform to the static platform; and one or more electrical traces that transmit the image signal from the dynamic platform to the static platform, wherein at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces are routed from the dynamic platform to the static platform via one or more of the plurality of flexure arms; The VCM actuator is configured to move the dynamic platform so that the image sensor moves relative to the static platform in multiple directions orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera.

10. The camera of claim 9, wherein: The one or more flexure arms include a first flexure arm and a second flexure arm; as well as The one or more electrical traces include: a first electrical trace routed along a first side of the first flexure arm; as well as A second electrical trace is routed along a second side of the second flexure arm, the second side being opposite the first side of the first flexure arm.

11. The camera of claim 9, wherein: The one or more flexure arms include a metal flexure body that carries the at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces; as well as The at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces is electrically isolated from the metal flexure via one or more insulating layers.

12. The camera of claim 9, further comprising: A flexible circuit, the flexible circuit comprising: secured to the first end of the dynamic platform; and affixed to a second end of the static platform; in: The at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces routed from the dynamic platform to the static platform via the one or more flexure arms includes at least a portion of a first group of one or more electrical traces of the one or more electrical traces; and At least a portion of a second set of one or more of the one or more electrical traces are routed from the dynamic platform to the static platform via the flexible circuit.

13. The camera of claim 9, wherein: The VCM actuator is an optical image stabilization (OIS) VCM actuator; and The OIS VCM actuator also includes a plurality of OIS coils mounted to the dynamic stage within a magnetic field of a plurality of shared magnets mounted to an actuator base for generating forces for moving the dynamic stage in the plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis.

14. The camera of claim 13, wherein an OIS coil of the plurality of OIS coils is mounted on the flexible circuit.

15. The camera of claim 13, further comprising: Auto Focus AF VCM Actuator, including: the lens holder being movably mounted to the actuator base; and An AF coil is fixedly mounted to the lens holder within the magnetic field of the shared magnet for generating a force for moving the lens holder in the direction of the optical axis.

16. A multifunctional device comprising: A camera, the camera comprising: a lens positioned in a lens holder, wherein the lens comprises one or more lens elements defining an optical axis; an image sensor that captures light passing through the lens and converts the captured light into an image signal; and A voice coil motor (VCM) actuator, the VCM actuator comprising: a dynamic platform configured to be coupled to the image sensor so that the image sensor moves together with the dynamic platform; Static platform; a plurality of flexure arms mechanically connecting the dynamic platform to the static platform; and one or more electrical traces that transmit the image signal from the dynamic platform to the static platform, wherein at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces are routed from the dynamic platform to the static platform via one or more of the plurality of flexure arms; wherein the VCM actuator is configured to move the dynamic platform so that the image sensor moves relative to the static platform in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera; one or more processors; and A memory storing program instructions executable by the one or more processors to control the operation of the camera and to perform one or more other functions of the multifunction device.

17. The multifunctional device according to claim 16, wherein: The one or more flexure arms include a first flexure arm and a second flexure arm; as well as The one or more electrical traces include: a first electrical trace routed along a first side of the first flexure arm; as well as A second electrical trace is routed along a second side of the second flexure arm, the second side being opposite the first side of the first flexure arm.

18. The multifunctional device according to claim 16, wherein: The one or more flexure arms include a metal flexure body that carries the at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces; as well as The at least a portion of the one or more electrical traces is electrically isolated from the metal flexure via one or more insulating layers.

19. The multifunctional device of claim 18, wherein the one or more insulating layers comprise one or more polyimide layers.

20. The multifunctional device according to claim 16, further comprising: monitor; wherein the program instructions are executable by the one or more processors to: causing the OIS VCM actuator to move the dynamic stage relative to the static stage in the plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis; as well as The display is caused to present an image based at least in part on one or more of the image signals transmitted from the dynamic platform to the static platform via the electrical traces.

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