Wide-angle compact optical image stabilization for folded cameras

Abstract

A folded camera module comprising: an optical path folding element (OPFE) for folding light from a first optical path towards a second optical path having an OPFE height HP measured along the first optical path; a lens having an effective focal length in the range of 5-40 mm; an image sensor; a module frame surrounding the folded camera module, the module frame having a module height HM measured along a direction parallel to the first optical path; and an OPFE actuator including a voice coil motor (VCM) for rotating the OPFE about a first axis of rotation and about a second axis of rotation perpendicular to the first axis of rotation to move a field of view (FOV) of a folding camera in two directions, where the FOV movement exceeds + / -1 degrees about each of a first optical image stabilization (OIS) direction and a second OIS direction, where HMlt; hP + 4 mm, and wherein the ratio HP / HM is greater than 0.6.

Description

[0001] Division Explanation

[0002] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 202480001675.X with an application date of February 8, 2024. Technical Field

[0003] The examples disclosed herein generally relate to digital cameras, and more particularly to optical stabilization of images obtained using a folding digital camera. Background Art

[0004] Compact digital cameras known as "folding cameras" with folding optics are known, for example, see the co-owned International Patent Application PCT / IB2016 / 057366. In handheld mobile electronic devices such as smart phones, tablets, etc. (or simply referred to as "mobile devices"), a folding telephoto (T) camera (also referred to herein as "FTC") is typically part of a multi-camera system and is accompanied by one or more additional cameras, such as an ultra-wide (UW) camera and / or a wide (W) camera. The ultra-wide camera has a larger field of view (FOV W ) than that of the wide camera, where the FOV UW ) is greater than the FOV of the folding telephoto camera W T .

[0005] Figure 1A Perspectively schematically shows a camera 100 known in the art. The dual camera 100 includes an FTC 101 and a conventional (or vertical) camera 130. The FTC 101 includes: an optical path folding element (OPFE) 102, an image sensor 106, and a lens (not shown) held in a lens barrel 110. The optical axis of the lens is labeled 108. The OPFE 102 is operable to fold a first optical path (OP1) 112 into a second optical path (OP2) 114, where OP2 114 is substantially parallel to the lens optical axis 108. The camera 130 can be a W camera or a UW camera. The camera 130 includes: a lens 132 held in a lens barrel 134, and an image sensor 138. The optical axis of the lens 132 is labeled 136 and is oriented parallel to OP1 112. On the shown x-y-z coordinate axes, OP1 112 is oriented parallel to the y-axis, while OP2 114 is oriented parallel to the z-axis.

[0006] Scanning zoom cameras ("SZ" cameras or "SZC") are known, see for example the co-owned International Patent Application PCT / IB2016 / 057366. Figure 1B Schematically shows the FOV 140 of a dual camera, which includes the FOV of a wide camera W ​142 and the FOV of the Scanning Zoom Camera SZ 144. As shown, the FOV SZ 144 can be two-dimensionally scanned (or moved) within the FOV W 142, as indicated by the four arrows. A compact and cost-effective way to implement an operable SZC for two-dimensional scanning is to rotate (or "tilt") the OPFE (e.g., a prism) of the folded zoom camera along two rotational axes. However, this introduces "Point of View (POV) aberration", which must be corrected after capturing the corresponding SZC image, as detailed, for example, in the co-owned international patent application PCT / IB2021 / 056311. Generally speaking, the presence of POV aberration increases the complexity of the dual camera and poses a risk of incomplete correction.

[0007] Modern cameras such as the dual camera 100 typically include Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to mitigate unwanted camera movement (commonly referred to as handshake) caused by the user's hand movement. For OIS, the optical components are moved to reduce the movement of the imaged object on the camera's image sensor. In other words, the FOV is moved so that it is stabilized on the image sensor. Typically, for OIS, the OPFE such as OPFE 102 is moved relative to the lens and the image sensor ("prismatic OIS"). An Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), known in the art and included in a mobile device that also includes the dual camera 100, can provide motion data of the mobile device. For example, the motion data of the mobile device can be six degrees of freedom. The motion data of the mobile device can be used to provide OIS. For OIS along the first ("Yaw") direction, the OPFE 102 rotates around a yaw rotation axis 112 parallel to OP1 112. For OIS along the second ("Pitch") direction, the OPFE 102 rotates around a pitch rotation axis 116 that is parallel to the x-axis and perpendicular to both OP1 112 and OP2 114. To improve the image quality of a folded camera such as the folded camera 101 even in harsh situations such as relatively strong unwanted camera movement, a relatively large FOV movement of, for example, ±1 degree or greater along the yaw direction and the pitch direction is required. To provide a relatively large FOV movement, relatively large actuators and / or large camera modules are typically required.

[0008] It is desirable and advantageous to have a large-motion prismatic OIS actuator. Additionally, it is advantageous to have a dual camera that includes an SZC that does not produce POV aberration. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In various exemplary embodiments, a folding camera module is provided, including: an OPFE for folding light from a first optical path toward a second optical path substantially perpendicular to the first optical path; a lens having a lens optical axis along the second optical path, the lens having an effective focal length EFL in the range of 5 - 40 mm; an image sensor; a module frame surrounding the folding camera module, the module frame having an inner wall pointing to the OPFE, a module height H measured along a direction parallel to the first optical path M , a module length L measured along a direction parallel to the second optical path M and a module width W measured along a direction perpendicular to both the first optical path and the second optical path M ; an OPFE actuator including a single voice coil motor (VCM) for rotating the OPFE about a first rotation axis and about a second rotation axis perpendicular to the first rotation axis to perform OIS about a first OIS direction and a second OIS direction respectively, wherein the OIS is greater than ±1 degree about each of the first OIS direction and the second OIS direction, wherein a minimum distance Y between the OPFE and the inner wall of the module frame at the extreme rotation OPFE position measured along a direction parallel to the second optical path Min satisfies Y Min ≤2 mm, where Y Min / L M ≤0.075, where a minimum distance X between the OPFE and the inner wall of the module frame at the extreme rotation OPFE position measured along a direction perpendicular to both the first optical path and the second optical path Min satisfies X Min ≤3 mm, and where X Min / W M ≤0.25.

[0010] In some examples, the rotation of the OPFE about the first rotation axis uses three support positions.

[0011] In some examples, the first rotation axis is located within the region that also includes the OPFE.

[0012] In some examples, the second rotation axis is located within the region that also includes the OPFE.

[0013] In some examples, Y Min / L M ≤0.05. In some examples, X Min / W M ≤0.2. In some examples, X Min ≤2.75 mm and Y Min ≤1.75 mm. In some examples, X Min ≤2.5 mm and Y Min≤1.5 mm. In some examples, X Min ≤2.25 mm and Y Min ≤1.25 mm.

[0014] In some examples, the OIS can be greater than ±2 degrees about each of a first OIS direction and a second OIS direction. In some examples, the OIS can be greater than ±3 degrees about each of the first OIS direction and the second OIS direction. In some examples, the OIS can be greater than ±4 degrees about each of the first OIS direction and the second OIS direction. In some examples, the OIS can be greater than ±5 degrees about each of the first OIS direction and the second OIS direction.

[0015] In some examples, the OPFE is a prism.

[0016] In some examples, W M can be in the range of 7.5 - 15 mm and L M can be in the range of 15 - 30 mm. In some examples, H M can be in the range of 4 - 15 mm. In some examples, H M can be in the range of 5 - 10 mm.

[0017] In some examples, the OPFE has an OPFE height H measured along a direction parallel to the first optical path P and an OPFE width W measured along a direction perpendicular to both the first optical path and the second optical path P , where at the zero - rotation OPFE position, the OPFE is located at a horizontal distance h - D PH and a vertical distance v - D PH from the inner wall of the module frame, and where W P / h - D PH > 1.75 and H P / v - D PH > 1.75.

[0018] In some examples, W P / h - D PH > 2 and H P / v - D PH > 2. In some examples, W P / h - D PH > 2.5 and H P / v - D PH > 2.5. In some examples, W P / h - D PH > 3 and H P / v - D PH > 3. In some examples, W P / h - DPH > 3.25 and H P / v - D PH > 3.25.

[0019] In some examples, H M < H P + 4 mm. In some examples, H M < H P + 2.5 mm.

[0020] In some examples, the ratio H P / H M can be in the range of 0.7 - 0.8.

[0021] In some examples, W P can be in the range of 3 - 20 mm.

[0022] In some examples, the EFL can be in the range of 10 - 25 mm.

[0023] In some examples, the OPFE actuator includes a yaw stage, a pitch stage, and a frame, and the yaw stage, the pitch stage, and the frame move relative to each other. In some examples, the pitch stage moves with the yaw stage.

[0024] In some examples, the yaw stage includes two magnets, and the frame includes two coils: a first coil and a second coil. In some examples, the frame and the module frame are made of one piece. In some examples, the yaw stage includes a position sensing unit that includes one or more magnets. In some examples, the pitch stage includes a position sensing unit that includes two or more magnets. In some examples, the relative movement between the yaw stage, the pitch stage, and the frame is achieved by a plurality of ball bearings.

[0025] In some examples, to rotate the OPFE about a second axis of rotation, the current in the first coil flows in the same direction as the current in the second coil. In some examples, to rotate the OPFE about a first axis of rotation, the current in the first coil flows in the opposite direction to the current in the second coil.

[0026] In some examples, the folding camera module can be included in a mobile device. In some examples, the mobile device further includes a wide camera that has a wide camera field of view FOV T greater than the FOV W . In some examples, the mobile device further includes an IMU. In some examples, the mobile device can be a smart phone. In some examples, the mobile device can be a tablet. Description of the Drawings

[0027] The non - limiting examples of the embodiments disclosed herein are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings listed after this paragraph. The drawings and the description are intended to illustrate and clarify the embodiments disclosed herein and should not be considered restrictive in any way. In different drawings, the same elements may be denoted by the same numbers.

[0028] Figure 1A A known dual - camera including a folding camera is schematically shown;

[0029] Figure 1B A known dual - camera field of view including a folding camera field of view of a folding scanning zoom camera is schematically shown;

[0030] Figure 2A A folding camera module including a folding camera that can be used for large - stroke OIS as disclosed herein is shown in perspective view;

[0031] Figure 2B The... folding camera module without the top cover is shown in the same view Figure 2A ...

[0032] Figure 2C The... folding camera module is shown in a top view Figure 2B ...

[0033] Figure 3A The yaw stage is shown in a top view;

[0034] Figure 3B The yaw stage is shown in a bottom view;

[0035] Figure 3C The yaw stage is shown in perspective view;

[0036] Figure 3D The frame (or housing) of the... folding camera module is shown in a top view Figures 2A to 2C ...

[0037] Figure 3E The frame is shown in perspective view;

[0038] Figure 3F The... folding camera module is shown in a side view Figure 2A ...

[0039] Figure 3G The top of the... folding camera module is shown in a top view Figures 2A to 2C ...

[0040] Figure 3H The top of the... folding camera module with OPFE is shown, where OPFE is shown in a Yaw Figures 2A to 2C ... state relative to the yaw rotation axis; Max ...

[0041] Figure 3I Shows the yaw stage without OPFE, where the OPFE is in Yaw with respect to the yaw rotation axis Max state;

[0042] Figure 3J Shows the Figures 2A to 2C top of the folded camera module with OPFE, where the OPFE is shown in the "Yaw Min " state;

[0043] Figure 3K Shows the yaw stage without OPFE, where the OPFE is in Yaw with respect to the yaw rotation axis Min state;

[0044] Figure 3L Shows the voice coil motor (VCM) disclosed herein in perspective view;

[0045] Figure 3M Shows in bottom view the Figures 2A to 2C VCM included in the Figure 3L folded camera module;

[0046] Figure 3N Shows in perspective bottom view the Figure 3L VCM included in the OPFE holder;

[0047] Figure 4A Shows the Figures 2A to 2C pitch stage of the folded camera module including OPFE in front view;

[0048] Figure 4B Shows in side view the Figure 4A pitch stage and OPFE, where the OPFE is shown in the "pitch zero state" with respect to the pitch direction;

[0049] Figure 4C Shows in side view the pitch stage with OPFE, where the OPFE is shown in Pitch with respect to the pitch rotation axis Max state;

[0050] Figure 4D Shows in side view the pitch stage with OPFE, where the OPFE is shown in Pitch with respect to the pitch rotation axis Min state.

[0051] Figure 5A Shows in side view another pitch stage disclosed herein, where the OPFE is shown in the yaw zero state with respect to the yaw rotation axis;

[0052] Figure 5B is shown in perspective view Figure 5A of the pitch stage, where the OPFE is shown in the yaw zero state relative to the axis of rotation;

[0053] Figure 5C is shown in perspective view including the pitch stage in the frame in the Yaw Min state relative to the yaw axis of rotation; Figure 5A of the pitch stage;

[0054] Figure 5D is shown in perspective view including the pitch stage in the frame in the Yaw Max state relative to the yaw axis of rotation; Figure 5A of the pitch stage.

[0055] Figure 6A is shown in perspective view a scanning zoom camera (SZC) as disclosed herein;

[0056] Figure 6B is shown in side view Figure 6A the components of the SZC shown in;

[0057] Figure 6C is shown in perspective view Figure 6B the components shown in;

[0058] Figure 7A is shown in perspective view the SZC in the first limit rotation state relative to the second axis of rotation Figure 6A of;

[0059] Figure 7B is shown in perspective view the SZC in the central rotation state relative to the second axis of rotation Figure 6A of;

[0060] Figure 7C is shown in perspective view the SZC in the second limit rotation state relative to the second axis of rotation Figure 6A of;

[0061] Figure 8A is shown in side view the components shown in the first limit rotation state relative to the second axis of rotation Figure 6B of;

[0062] Figure 8B is shown in side view the components shown in the central rotation state relative to the second axis of rotation Figure 6B of;

[0063] Figure 8C is shown in side view the components shown in the second limit rotation state relative to the second axis of rotation Figure 6B of;

[0064] Figure 9AThe component shown in Figure 6B is shown in a side view in a first extreme rotation state relative to a first rotation axis; Figure 6B ;

[0065] Figure 9B The component shown in Figure 6B is shown in a side view in a central rotation state relative to a first rotation axis; Figure 6B ;

[0066] Figure 9C The component shown in Figure 6B is shown in a side view in a second extreme rotation state relative to a first rotation axis; Figure 6B ;

[0067] Figure 10A Another component of the SZC shown in Figure 6A is shown in a side view; Figure 6A ;

[0068] Figure 10B The component shown in Figure 10A is shown in a first perspective view; Figure 10A ;

[0069] Figure 10C The component shown in Figure 10A is shown in a second perspective view. Figure 10A ; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] Figure 2A An embodiment of a folding camera module numbered 200 is shown in a perspective view. The folding camera module includes a folding camera that can be used for large-stroke OIS as disclosed herein. The folding camera module 200 has a hole 202 formed (or defined or determined) by an OPFE 204 included in an OPFE holder 206 ( Figure 2B , Figure 2C ). The folding camera module 200 further includes a lens barrel 212 having a lens (not shown) and an image sensor 215 ( Figure 2C ), and the lens has a lens optical axis 214. The lens may have an effective focal length ("EFL") in the range of 5 mm to 40 mm or in the range of 10 mm to 25 mm. The folding camera module 200 is covered by a top shield 216. The length L M , width W M , and height H M of the folding camera module 200 are marked. The folding camera module 200 is operable to perform large-stroke OIS by rotating the prism 204 by ±1 degree or more about a first yaw rotation axis 222 and a second pitch rotation axis 224. Rotating the prism 204 about the two rotation axes can be used to achieve two effects:

[0071] 1. Changing the position of the FOV of the folding camera included in the folding camera module 200, that is, scanning the scene using the FOV of the folding camera.

[0072] 2. Reduce the unwanted handshake of a mobile device including the folding camera module 200 (about two axes).

[0073] Figure 2B The folding camera module 200 without the top shield 216 is shown in another perspective view. Figure 2C The folding camera module 200 without the top shield 216 is shown in a top view. The folding camera module 200 is surrounded by a module frame (or simply referred to as "frame" or "housing") 218. The frame 218 has two different functions: 1) serving as the bottom shield (or housing) of the folding camera module 200, i.e., the frame 218 surrounds most of the camera components included in the folding camera module 200; and 2) serving as the fixed part of the OPFE holder 206, which engages (or interacts) with the yaw stage and pitch stage 210 for actuating the OPFE 204, as described below. The frame 218 can be made of plastic, for example. Here, the OPFE 204 is a prism. In other examples, the OPFE 204 can be a mirror. The OPFE 204 has an OPFE (i.e., prism) length L P , an OPFE width W P and an OPFE height H P , as indicated by the markings.

[0074] In Figures 2B to 2C , the OPFE 204 is shown in the zero rotation state. The "zero rotation state" here refers to the state that represents (1) the center of the pitch rotation stroke defined by the minimum pitch rotation angle Pitch Min and the maximum pitch rotation angle Pitch Max , and (2) the center of the yaw rotation stroke defined by the minimum yaw rotation angle Yaw Min and the maximum pitch rotation angle Yaw Max . In the zero rotation state, the "boundary" (i.e., edge or surface) of the OPFE 204 is oriented parallel to the inner wall (or surface) 219 of the frame 218. In the zero position, the OPFE 204 is located at a "vertical" distance v-D PH and a "horizontal" distance h-D PH from the inner wall 219 of the frame 218, as shown in the figure. The same applies to all other boundaries mentioned.

[0075] Referring to Figure 2C , "horizontal" here means the fact that h-D is measured along the horizontal direction (parallel to the x-axis in the shown x-y-z coordinate system), while "vertical" here means the fact that v-D is measured along the vertical direction (parallel to the y-axis). The yaw rotation axis 222 is oriented perpendicular to PH PH Figure 2C ​​The coordinate system shown, where the pitch rotation axis 224 is oriented parallel to the x-axis. The yaw rotation axis 222 is located (or positioned) within the region that also includes the OPFE 204. Rotating the OPFE 204 by 1 degree about the yaw rotation axis 222 and by 2 degrees about the pitch rotation axis 224 moves the FOV of the folded camera by 1 degree in the yaw rotation direction and by 2 degrees in the pitch rotation direction, as is known in the art. That is, to achieve an FOV movement of angle α in both the yaw rotation direction and the pitch rotation direction, one rotates the OPFE 204 by α about the yaw rotation axis 222 and by 0.5xα about the pitch rotation axis 224. Here, the FOV movement will perform OIS.

[0076] For a compact camera, it is advantageous to minimize both v-D PH and h-D PH . In some examples, the folded camera module 200 and the OPFE 204 can have the following dimensions:

[0077] -L M = 29mm, W M = 13.5mm, and H M = 6.8mm.

[0078] -L P = H P = 5mm, W P = 7.8mm.

[0079] -v-D PH = 1.5mm, h-D PH = 2.2mm.

[0080] These result in the ratios W P / h-D PH = 3.5 and H P / v-D PH = 3.3, and H P / H M = 0.74H M = H P + 1.8mm. In other examples, the ratio H P / H M can be in the range of 0.6 - 0.9, and can satisfy H M < H P + 4mm. In other examples, the ratio H P / H M can be in the range of 0.7 - 0.8, and can satisfy H M < H P + 2.5mm or H M < H P + 2mm.

[0081] In other examples of a folding camera module that includes a folding camera operable for large-stroke OIS, the values and ranges can be as given in Table 1.

[0082] The OPFE holder 206 is divided into the following three parts: a yaw stage 208, a frame 218, and a pitch stage 210, which can move rotatably relative to each other for actuating the OPFE 204. As described below, the relative movements are as follows:

[0083] - The yaw stage 208 rotates relative to the frame 218 about a yaw rotation axis 222 for OIS about a first OIS direction (“yaw rotation direction”).

[0084] - When the yaw stage 208 rotates relative to the frame 218, the pitch stage 210 moves together with (or “rides on”) the yaw stage 208.

[0085] - The pitch stage 210 rotates relative to the yaw stage 208 and relative to the frame 218 about a pitch rotation axis 224 for OIS about a second OIS direction (“pitch rotation direction”). In addition, the folding camera module 200 includes a lens actuator 220 that is operable to move the lens barrel 212 together with the lens. For example, the lens actuator 220 can move the lens barrel 110 along an axis parallel to the lens optical axis 214 for focusing.

[0086] Figure 3A The yaw stage 208 is shown in a top view. For better visibility, the yaw stage 208 is shown without the OPFE 204. The yaw stage 208 includes a yaw position sensing unit (PSU) 304, which includes a magnet 306 fixedly coupled to the yaw stage 208 and a magnetic flux measurement device (MFMD) 308 fixedly coupled to the frame 218. The yaw PSU 304 is operable to sense the relative movement between the yaw stage 208 and the frame 218. The yaw stage 208 has a left arm 310, a right arm 312, and a center arm 320. The top side of the yaw stage 208 includes: a slot 314 included in the left arm 310 and a cavity (or hole) 316 included in the right arm 312.

[0087] Figure 3B The yaw stage 208 (with the OPFE 204) is shown in a bottom view. The bottom side of the yaw stage 208 includes: a cavity 322 in the center arm 320, a first hole (or void) 324 in the left arm 310, and a second hole 326 in the right arm 312.

[0088] Figure 3CThe yaw stage 208 is shown in a perspective view. The slot 314 in the left arm 310 and the cavity 316 in the right arm 312 are visible.

[0089] Figure 3D The frame 218 of the folding camera module 200 is shown in a top view. Figure 3E The frame 218 is shown in a perspective view. The frame 218 includes a cavity 330, a third hole 332, and a fourth hole 334. The yaw stage 208 can move relative to the frame 218 by means of the following three ball bearings: The first ball bearing is formed by restricting a first ball (not shown) within a first enclosed volume formed by a first hole 324 (included in the yaw stage 208) and a third hole 332 (included in the frame 218); the second ball bearing is formed by restricting a second ball (not shown) within a second volume formed by a second hole 326 (included in the yaw stage 208) and a fourth hole 334 (included in the frame 218); and the third ball bearing is formed by restricting a third ball (not shown) within a third volume formed by a cavity 322 (included in the yaw stage 208) and a cavity 330 (included in the frame 218). The position of the first ball bearing is defined by the first hole 324, the position of the second ball bearing is defined by the cavity 316, and the position of the third ball bearing is defined by the cavity 322. When the prism 204 rotates about the yaw rotation axis 222, the third ball bearing serves as a pivot point (representing the first support position), and both the first ball bearing and the second ball bearing serve as tracks (representing the second support position and the third support position). This means that the overall rotation of the prism 204 about the yaw rotation axis 222 uses three support positions.

[0090] The third ball bearing (along the z-axis) is positioned at a first position "Z" F1 ", which is relatively close to the bottom of the frame 218 when compared with the positions of the first ball bearing and the second ball bearing. "Bottom" refers to the lowest dimension of the frame 218 along the z-axis. Relative to the third ball bearing, the first ball bearing and the second ball bearing (along the z-axis) are positioned at the same second elevated position "Z" F1 ", as shown in the figure. We refer to the first position as the "first layer" and the second position as the "second layer". The first layer is separated from the second layer by a first distance (or height) H1 along the z-axis. The second layer is separated from the top of the frame 218 by a second distance (or height) H2. As shown in the figure, H1≈H2≈H F2 / 2. Note that it is advantageous to position the first ball bearing and the second ball bearing at the second layer because it leaves free space or free volume in the first stage. The front surface of the first layer is labeled 331. M

[0091] ​In some examples, as shown, magnet 306 has a circular (or "spherical") shape. The circular shape can make the shape of magnet 306 concentric with respect to the pivot point. The circular shape is advantageous for precisely measuring rotation about the yaw rotation axis 222, i.e., for providing an accurate yaw PSU 304. This is because the distance (air gap) between magnet 306 and MFMD 308 is relatively constant, i.e., it only changes by a relatively small amount. In other examples, magnet 306 can have a rectangular (or "planar") shape. This planar shape is advantageous for manufacturing a low-cost folding camera module 200.

[0092] Figure 3F A side view shows the frame 218 of the folding camera module 200. The frame 218 includes a first notch 336, a second notch 338, a third notch 340, a fourth notch 342, and a fifth notch 344. Due to notch 336, MFMD 308 can measure the magnetic field of magnet 306.

[0093] Figure 3G A top view shows the top of the folding camera module 200. OPFE 204 is shown in a "yaw zero state" with respect to the yaw rotation axis 222. "Yaw zero state" here refers to the OPFE yaw rotation state, which represents the center of the yaw rotation stroke defined by the minimum yaw rotation angle Yaw Min and the maximum yaw rotation angle Yaw Max

[0094] Figure 3H The top of the folding camera module 200 with OPFE 204 is shown, where OPFE 204 is in the Yaw Max state. Here, "Yaw Max state" refers to the OPFE yaw rotation state representing the first limit (here the maximum) yaw rotation angle. In the Yaw Max state, OPFE 204 is located at the minimum distance Y Min measured along the y-axis from the inner edge (or boundary) of the frame 218, the first minimum distance X1 Min measured along the x-axis, and the second minimum distance X2 Min measured along the x-axis, as shown. In the folding camera module 200, Y Min = 1.1 mm, X1 Min = 2.0 mm and X2 Min = 1.9 mm. The ratio Y Min / L M when LM = 29 mm is Y Min / L M = 0.037. When W M ​X1 when = 13.5 mm Min / W M and X2 Min / W M The ratio of is X1 Min / W M = 0.148 and X2 Min / W M = 0.141.

[0095] In other examples, the minimum distance such as the distance X1 Min and X2 Min can be equal to or less than 5 mm, or more preferably ≤ 3 mm, or ≤ 2.75 mm, or ≤ 2.5 mm or even 2.25 mm. The ratio X Min / W M can be in the range of 0.05 to 0.25. Y Min can be ≤ 5 mm, or more preferably ≤ 2 mm, or ≤ 1.75 mm, or ≤ 1.5 mm, or even ≤ 1.25 mm. The ratio Y Min / L M can be in the range of 0.015 to 0.075.

[0096] Figure 3I Shows the yaw stage 208 without the OPFE 204, and the OPFE 204 is in the Yaw Max state with respect to the yaw rotation axis 222. Figure 3I Also shows the position of the magnet 306 relative to the MFMD 308 in this state.

[0097] Figure 3J Shows the top of the folding camera module 200 with the OPFE, where the OPFE 204 is in the Yaw Min state in the pitch rotation direction with respect to the yaw rotation axis 222. Here, "Yaw Min state" refers to the OPFE yaw rotation state representing the second limit (here the minimum) yaw rotation angle. In the Yaw Min state, the OPFE 204 is located at the minimum distance Y Min measured along the y-axis away from the inner boundary of the frame 218, the first minimum distance X1 Min measured along the x-axis, and the second minimum distance X2 Min measured along the x-axis, as shown in the figure.

[0098] Figure 3K Shows the yaw stage 208 without the OPFE 204, where the OPFE 204 is in the "Yaw Min state" with respect to the yaw rotation axis 222. Figure 3KThe position of the magnet 306 relative to the MFMD 308 in this state is also shown.

[0099] In Figure 3H and Figure 3J it can be seen that a part of the yaw stage 208 can enter one of the second notch 338 and the third notch 340 at the position of the mark 346, or enter the fourth notch 342 and the fifth notch 344 at the position of the mark 348. This is advantageous for implementing a compact folding camera module.

[0100] Figure 3L A VCM numbered 350 disclosed herein is shown in a perspective view. Figure 3M The VCM 350 included in the folding camera module 200 is shown in a bottom view. Figure 3N The VCM 350 included in the OPFE holder 206 is shown in a perspective bottom view. The VCM 350 is operable to cause rotational movement of the OPFE 204 about the yaw rotation axis 222 and the pitch rotation axis 224. The VCM 350 includes a first magnet 352 and a second magnet 354 (both fixedly coupled to the yaw stage 208) and a first coil 356 and a second coil 358 (both fixedly coupled to the frame 218). In addition, the VCM 350 includes a first yoke (or preload yoke) 360 and a second yoke (or preload yoke) 362. The two yokes are fixedly coupled to the frame 218. The yokes are operable to return the VCM 350 to the zero position and prevent the part included in the OPFE holder 206 from disengaging. The first magnet 352 has a first magnet dead zone (DZ) 352, and the second magnet 354 has a second magnet DZ 355. As Figure 3M approximately shown, the pitch rotation axis 224 coincides with the first magnet DZ 352 and the second magnet DZ 355. The first magnet 352 and the second magnet 354 together cover (or use) a relatively large bottom area of the OPFE holder 206. The fact that the magnets cover a relatively large bottom area of the OPFE holder 206 is advantageous because it allows a relatively strong and fast but still compact VCM. This is achieved by placing the first ball bearing and the second ball bearing in the second layer. The free space or free volume generated in the first layer can be used to locate the magnets.

[0101] Figure 4A The pitch stage 210 and the OPFE holder 206 having the OPFE 204 are shown in a front view. The pitch stage 210 includes a first pitch PSU 402 having a first pitch magnet 404 and a first pitch MFMD 406, and a second pitch PSU 408 having a second pitch magnet 410 and a second pitch MFMD 412.

[0102] Figure 4BThe pitch stage 210 with the OPFE 204 is shown in a side view. The OPFE 204 is shown in a "pitch zero state" relative to the pitch rotation direction. The "pitch zero state" here refers to the OPFE pitch rotation state representing the center of the pitch rotation stroke defined by the minimum pitch rotation angle Pitch Min and the maximum pitch rotation angle Pitch Max In the pitch zero state, the first pitch PSU 402 is in the zero state. The OPFE holder 206 includes a shock (or drop) absorber mechanism 414. The shock absorber mechanism 414 is operable to prevent the yaw stage 208 and the pitch stage 210 from disengaging from each other and / or from the OPFE holder 206. The pitch rotation axis 224 is oriented parallel to the x-axis (i.e., perpendicular to the shown coordinate system).

[0103] The first pitch PSU 402 and the second pitch PSU 408 are placed concentrically with respect to the yaw rotation axis 222. Note that the first pitch PSU 402 and the second pitch PSU 408 are relatively far apart from each other, and in addition, they are relatively far apart from the yaw PSU 304. This is advantageous because there is virtually no electromagnetic crosstalk between each of the yaw PSU 304, the first pitch PSU 402, and the second pitch PSU 408. In the direction along the y-axis, the pitch rotation axis 224 is placed (or positioned) within the region that also includes the OPFE 204.

[0104] Figure 4C The pitch stage 210 is shown in a side view, where the OPFE 204 is shown in a "Pitch Max state". Here, the "Pitch Max state" refers to the OPFE pitch rotation state representing the maximum pitch rotation angle. In the Pitch Max state, the first pitch PSU 402 is in the maximum state.

[0105] Figure 4D The pitch stage 210 is shown in a side view, where the OPFE 204 is shown in a "Pitch Min state". The "Pitch Min state" here refers to the OPFE pitch rotation state representing the minimum pitch rotation angle. In the Pitch Min state, the first pitch PSU 402 is in the minimum state.

[0106] At Figure 3NIn [the figure], it can be seen that the magnet 404 has a circular shape. The circular shape can be approximated such that the shape of the magnet 404 is concentric with respect to the pivot point. This circular shape is advantageous for the precise first pitch PSU 402. This is because the distance between the magnet 404 and the MFMD 406 is relatively constant when rotating about the pitch rotation axis. In other embodiments, the magnet 404 can have a rectangular (or "flat") shape. This flat shape may be advantageous for the low-cost folding camera module 200. The pitch stage 210 can move relative to the yaw stage 208 via two ball bearings: The first ball bearing is formed by confining a fourth ball (not shown) within a fourth volume formed by a groove 314 (included in the yaw stage 208) and a groove (not shown, included in the pitch stage 210), and the second ball bearing is formed by confining a fifth ball (not shown) within a fifth volume formed by a cavity 316 (included in the yaw stage 208) and a cavity (not shown, included in the pitch stage 210).

[0107] Referring to Figure 3L and Figure 3M , it is noted that the VCM 350 is configured to stop the rotation of the OPFE 204 about both a yaw rotation axis such as the yaw rotation axis 222 and a pitch rotation axis such as the pitch rotation axis 224. That is, the VCM 350 has a first operating mode operable to actuating yaw rotation, and the VCM 350 has a second operating mode operable to actuating pitch rotation.

[0108] Actuate yaw rotation

[0109] To rotate the OPFE 204 in the yaw rotation direction, the current flowing through the first coil 356 (or induced in the first coil 356) is directed to be opposite to the current flowing through the coil 358.

[0110] Actuate pitch rotation

[0111] To rotate the OPFE 204 in the pitch rotation direction, the current flowing through the first coil 356 (or induced in the first coil 356) is directed to be the same as the current flowing through the coil 358.

[0112] Table 1 gives the values and ranges of the components disclosed herein. L M ,H M ,W M ,L P ,H P ,W P ,Y Min ,X1 Min ,X2 Min ,v-D PH and h-D PHGiven in mm, Yaw Min , Yaw Max , Pitch Min , Pitch Max , Yaw FOV and Pitch FOV are given in degrees.

[0113]

[0114]

[0115] Table 1

[0116] Figure 5A Another pitch stage numbered 500 is shown in a side view, which is operatively included in a folding camera module such as the folding camera module 200 and includes an OPFE 204. Figure 5B The pitch stage 500 is shown in a perspective view. In Figures 5A - 5B , the OPFE 204 is shown in a "yaw zero state" relative to the yaw rotation axis. The yaw zero state is centered between the minimum yaw rotation position and the maximum yaw rotation position ( Figures 5C to 5D ). The pitch stage 500 includes a first stop 502 and a second stop 504, both of which are fixedly coupled to the pitch stage 500.

[0117] Figure 5B An assembly of the first stop 502 and the second stop 504 is shown. The pitch stage 500 includes a hole 506, which is operable to receive the stop 502. Inserting (or pushing) the stop 502 into the hole 506 may be sufficient to fixedly couple the stop 502 to the pitch stage 500. The pitch stage 500 also includes another hole (not shown) for receiving the stop 504. The stops 502 and 504 may be made of, for example, a rubber material.

[0118] Figure 5C Another pitch stage 500 in the Yaw Min state included in the frame 218 is shown. In Yaw Min state, the stop 502 contacts the front surface 331 of the first layer. This contact prevents further rotation of the pitch stage 500 in the yaw rotation direction. Figure 5D Another pitch stage 500 in the Yaw Max state included in the frame 218 is shown. In the Yaw Max state, the stop 504 (not visible here) may contact another front surface of the first layer, thereby preventing further rotation of the pitch stage 500 in the yaw rotation direction.

[0119] Figure 6AThe SZC 600 as disclosed herein is shown in a perspective view. The SZC 600 has an SZC FOV (“FOV SZC ”) and includes a static (or “fixed”) portion 602, a moving portion 604, and an SZC aperture 606. For a host device including the SZC 600, the static portion 602 does not move, and the moving portion 604 moves. The moving portion 604 rotates along a first rotation axis 608 oriented parallel to the x-axis and a second rotation axis 610 oriented parallel to the y-axis. The static portion 602 includes an opening (or “funnel”) 612.

[0120] Figure 6B The moving portion 604 is shown in a side view. The SZC 600 includes: a prism 614 representing the SZC aperture 606, a lens 616, and an image sensor 618. The moving portion 604 further includes a flexure (or “flexible cable”) 620 operable to electrically connect the moving portion 604 to the static portion 602. The moving portion 604 further includes a track assembly 640 that includes a first track 642, a second track 644, a third track 646, and a fourth track 648. The track assembly 640 can interact with another track assembly (not shown) included in the static portion 602 to allow the moving portion 604 to rotate relative to the static portion 602 about the second rotation axis 610.

[0121] The height “H”, width (“W”), and length (“L”) of the SZC 600 can be in the ranges of H = 5 mm - 30 mm, W = 10 mm - 80 mm, and L = 10 mm - 100 mm, advantageously H = 10 mm - 25 mm, W = 20 mm - 50 mm, and L = 25 mm - 75 mm. The lens 616 can have an effective focal length (“EFL”) in the range of 2 mm - 40 mm, advantageously, the EFL is in the range of 2 mm - 20 mm. The image sensor 618 can have an image sensor (full) diagonal (“SD”) in the range of 2 mm - 20 mm, advantageously, the SD is in the range of 2 mm - 15 mm. Here, the SZC 600 has an FOV of approximately 75 degrees (approximately 28 mm 35 mm equivalent focal length) SZC . In other examples, the FOV SZC can be in the range of approximately 15 degrees to 100 degrees.

[0122] Figure 6CThe moving part 604 is shown in a perspective view. Here, the prism 614, the lens 616, and the image sensor 618 are covered by the cover 650. The SZC 600 includes a second rotation actuator 660 that is operable to actuate the rotation of the moving part 604 about the second rotation axis 610. Here, the second rotation actuator 660 is a voice coil motor (VCM) that includes a first coil 662 and a second coil 664, both of which are fixedly coupled to the static part 602. The second rotation actuator 660 also includes a first magnet 666 and a second magnet 668, both of which are fixedly coupled to the moving part 604.

[0123] Figures 7A to 7C The SZC 600 is shown in a perspective view in several rotational states relative to the second rotation axis 610. Figures 8A to 8C The SZC 600 is shown in a perspective view in several rotational states relative to the second rotation axis 610. Figure 7A and Figure 8A respectively show the SZC 600 in a first limit rotational state. Figure 7B and Figure 8B respectively show the SZC 600 in a central rotational state. Generally, and referring to a dual camera including the SZC 600 and a wide camera having a FOV W >FOV SZC in the central rotational state, the FOV SZC is centered about the second rotation axis 610 with a FOV W as the center. Figure 7C and Figure 8C respectively show the SZC 600 in a second limit rotational state. The first limit rotational state and the second limit rotational state relative to the second rotation axis 610 may correspond to rotations within a range of ±10 degrees to ±45 degrees, such as ±30 degrees or ±25 degrees. In some examples, the wide camera may capture wide image data of the FOV W The camera controller may be configured to analyze the wide image data and scan the scene using the FOV SZC based on the analysis of the wide image data.

[0124] Figures 9A to 9C The SZC 600 is shown in a side view in several rotational states relative to the first rotation axis 608. Figure 9A Shows the SZC 600 in a first limit rotational state. Figure 9B Shows the SZC 600 in a central rotational state. Generally, and referring to a dual camera including the SZC 600 and a wide camera, in the central rotational state, the FOV SZC is centered about the first rotation axis 608 with a FOV W as the center. Figure 9CThe SZC 600 is shown in a second limit rotation state. The first limit rotation state and the second limit rotation state with respect to the first rotation axis 608 may correspond to rotations within the range of ±5 degrees to ±30 degrees, such as ±7.5 degrees or ±15 degrees. We note that the SZC 600 does not produce view point aberration, which is advantageous.

[0125] Figure 10A A part of the moving portion 604 is shown in a side view. Figure 10B A part of the moving portion 604 is shown in a first perspective view. Figure 10C A part of the moving portion 604 is shown in a second perspective view. The SZC 600 includes a first rotation actuator 1010 that is operable to actuated the rotation of the prism 614 about the first rotation axis 608. Here, the first rotation actuator 1010 is a VCM including a first coil 1012 and a second coil 1014, and both the first coil 1012 and the second coil 1014 are fixedly coupled to the moving portion 604. The first rotation actuator 1010 further includes a first magnet 1016 and a second magnet (not visible), both of which are fixedly coupled to the prism 614. The prism 614 is included in the prism holder 1018 and is fixedly coupled to the prism holder 1018. The prism holder 1018 includes a stray light mask 1020 that is operable to prevent unwanted stray light from reaching the image sensor 618.

[0126] Although the present disclosure has been described in accordance with certain embodiments and methods commonly associated therewith, changes and permutations of the embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure should be understood as not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but only defined by the scope of the appended claims.

[0127] Unless otherwise specified, the use of the expression "and / or" between the last two members of a list of options for selection indicates that the selection of one or more of the listed options is appropriate and possible.

[0128] It should be understood that when the claims or the specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference should not be construed as meaning only one of such elements.

[0129] In addition, for clarity, the term "substantially" is used herein to imply the possibility of variation in values within an acceptable range. According to one example, the term "substantially" used herein should be construed as implying a possible variation of up to 5% above or below any specified value. According to another example, the term "substantially" used herein should be construed as implying a possible variation of up to 2.5% above or below any specified value. According to another example, the term "substantially" used herein should be construed as implying a possible variation of up to 1% above or below any specified value.

[0130] All patents and / or patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual reference were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference herein. In addition, the citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention.

Claims

1. A folding camera module, comprising: An optical path folding element OPFE is used to direct light from the first optical path toward an OPFE having an OPFE height H measured along the first optical path. P The second optical path is folded, A lens having an effective focal length EFL in the range of 5-40 mm; Image sensor; A module frame surrounding the folded camera module, the module frame having a module height H measured along a direction parallel to the first optical path M ;as well as an OPFE actuator including a voice coil motor (VCM) for rotating the OPFE about a first rotation axis and about a second rotation axis perpendicular to the first rotation axis to move the field of view (FOV) of the folded camera in two directions, wherein the FOV motion exceeds ±1 degree around each of a first optical image stabilization (OIS) direction and a second OIS direction, Among them, H M <H P +4mm, and Among them, the ratio H P / H M Greater than 0.

6.

2. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The FOV motion is used to perform OIS around the first OIS direction and the second OIS direction, respectively.

3. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The FOV movement is used to scan a scene using the FOV of the folded camera.

4. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: H M <H P +2.5mm。 5. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: H M <H P +2mm。 6. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: H M In the range of 4-15mm.

7. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: H M In the range of 5-10mm.

8. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The OPFE actuator includes a single VCM for rotating the OPFE.

9. The folding camera module according to claim 8, wherein: The single VCM includes a first coil and a second coil, wherein in order to rotate the OPFE about the first rotation axis, the current in the first coil flows in a direction opposite to the current in the second coil, and wherein in order to rotate the OPFE about the second rotation axis, the current in the first coil flows in the same direction as the current in the second coil.

10. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The OPFE actuator includes three ball bearings, and one of the ball bearings is positioned closer to the bottom of the module frame than the other two ball bearings.

11. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The module frame has an inner wall pointing toward the OPFE, and wherein a minimum distance Y between the OPFE and the inner wall at an extreme rotation OPFE position measured along a direction parallel to the second optical path is Min Meet Y Min ≤2mm.

12. The folding camera module according to claim 11, wherein: Y Min ≤1.25mm。 13. The folding camera module according to claim 11, wherein: The module frame has a module length L measured along a direction parallel to the second optical path. M , and where Y Min / L M ≤0.

075.

14. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The module frame has an inner wall pointing toward the OPFE, and a minimum distance X between the OPFE and the inner wall at an extreme rotation OPFE position measured along a direction perpendicular to both the first optical path and the second optical path is Min Satisfy X Min ≤3mm.

15. The folding camera module according to claim 14, wherein: X Min ≤2.25mm。 16. The folding camera module according to claim 14, wherein: The camera module has a module width W measured along a direction perpendicular to both the first optical path and the second optical path. M , and where X Min / W M ≤0.

25.

17. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The FOV motion exceeds ±2 degrees around each of the two directions.

18. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The FOV moves over ±5 degrees around each of the two directions.

19. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The OPFE is a prism.

20. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The OPFE has an OPFE width W measured along a direction perpendicular to both the first optical path and the second optical path. P , wherein, in the zero rotation OPFE position, the OPFE is located at a horizontal distance hD away from the inner wall of the module frame PH and vertical distance vD PH Where, and where W P / hD PH >1.75 and H P / vD PH >1.

75.

21. The folding camera module according to claim 20, wherein: W P / hD PH >3 and H P / vD PH >3.

22. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The EFL is in the range of 10-25 mm.

23. The folding camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The single VCM includes a first coil and a second coil, wherein in order to rotate the OPFE about the first rotation axis, the current in the first coil flows in a direction opposite to the current in the second coil, and wherein in order to rotate the OPFE about the second rotation axis, the current in the first coil flows in the same direction as the current in the second coil.

24. The folding camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein: The folding camera module is included in a mobile device.

25. The folding camera module according to claim 24, wherein: The mobile device is a smartphone.

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