Camera module with moving prism

Abstract

A camera module having a moving prism is provided. The camera includes an optical assembly including one or more lenses. The camera also includes an image sensor, a prism, and an actuator. The prism is configured to receive light that has passed through the one or more lenses, reflect the received light multiple times, and transmit the received light to the image sensor in a direction parallel to the optical axis. The image sensor and the one or more lenses are located on the same side of the prism. The actuator is configured to move the prism along an axis parallel to the optical axis for autofocus (AF).

Description

[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 554,826, filed on February 16, 2024, entitled “Camera Module with Moving Prism,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a camera module, and particularly to a camera module having a moving prism for autofocus (AF). Background Art

[0003] The emergence of small, mobile, multi-purpose devices such as smartphones and tablets or slates has led to a demand for high-resolution, small-form-factor cameras integrated into these devices. Some cameras may incorporate an optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanism that can sense and react to external stimuli / perturbations by adjusting the position of the optical lens on the X-axis and / or Y-axis in an attempt to compensate for unwanted lens movement. Additionally, some cameras may incorporate an autofocus (AF) mechanism that can adjust the focus of an object so that the object plane in front of the camera is focused on the image plane to be captured by the image sensor. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a camera is provided, comprising: an optical assembly including one or more lenses defining an optical axis; an image sensor; a prism configured to receive light that has passed through the one or more lenses, reflect the received light multiple times, and transmit the received light to the image sensor in a direction parallel to the optical axis, wherein the image sensor and the one or more lenses are located on the same side of the prism; and an actuator configured to move the prism along an axis parallel to the optical axis for autofocus AF.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an actuator assembly for a camera is provided, comprising: an autofocus AF actuator module, the autofocus actuator module comprising: a prism, the prism being configured to receive light through a surface, reflect the light multiple times within the prism, and output light through the surface and toward an image sensor, and an actuator, the actuator being configured to move the prism along an axis orthogonal to the surface of the prism for autofocus AF; and wherein the AF actuator module is configured to be coupled to an optical image stabilization (OIS) actuator module, the optical image stabilization (OIS) actuator module being configured to move the image sensor for OIS.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a device is provided, comprising: a display; a camera; one or more processors; and a memory storing program instructions executable by the one or more processors to display an image captured by the camera on the display; and the camera comprising: an optical assembly having one or more lenses, an image sensor, a prism, the prism being configured to receive light that has passed through the one or more lenses, to reflect the received light multiple times, and to transmit the received light to the image sensor in a direction parallel to an optical axis, wherein the image sensor and the one or more lenses are located on the same side of the prism; and an actuator being configured to move the prism along an axis parallel to the optical axis for autofocus AF. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Components of two example cameras utilizing respective prisms positioned along an optical path between respective optical assemblies and respective image sensor assemblies are illustrated, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of a first example camera is shown. Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of a second example camera is shown.

[0008] Figure 2 Components of an example camera are illustrated having a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 2 A perspective view of the exterior of the camera is shown.

[0009] Figure 3 Components of an example camera are illustrated having a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the camera is shown.

[0010] Figure 4 An example autofocus (AF) actuator assembly for a camera is illustrated according to at least some embodiments and includes a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera. Figure 4 Shown is a perspective exploded view of the AF actuator assembly.

[0011] Figure 5 An example optical image stabilization (IOS) actuator assembly for a camera having a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, is illustrated in accordance with at least some embodiments. Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of an OIS actuator assembly is shown.

[0012] Figure 6 Example methods of assembling an AF actuator assembly for a camera having a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, are illustrated in accordance with at least some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Example flexures are illustrated for a camera having a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 7A and Figure 7B Perspective and cross-sectional views of the respective flexures are shown.

[0014] Figure 8A and Figure 8B Example flexures are illustrated for a camera having a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 8A and Figure 8B Perspective and cross-sectional views of the respective flexures are shown.

[0015] Figure 9 A schematic diagram illustrating an example device that may include a camera according to some embodiments is illustrated.

[0016] Figure 10 Illustrated is a schematic block diagram of an example computing device, referred to as a computer system, that may include or host embodiments of a camera, according to some embodiments.

[0017] 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.

[0018] The term "comprising" is open-ended. As used in the appended claims, the term does not exclude additional structures or steps. Consider the following recited 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.).

[0019] “Configured to”. Various units, circuits, or other components may be described or recited as being “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. Thus, the unit / circuit / component is said to be configured to perform the task even when the specified unit / circuit / component is not currently operational (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 the operation, etc. Reference to a unit / circuit / component being “configured to” perform one or more tasks is expressly intended not to invoke the sixth paragraph of 35 U.S.C. §112 with respect to that unit / circuit / component. Furthermore, “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-purpose processor executing software) to operate in a manner capable of performing the 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.

[0020] "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 for 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.

[0021] "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 the determination. That is, the determination may be based solely on these factors, or at least in part on these factors. Consider the phrase "based on B, the determination of ..." 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.

[0022] It will also be understood that, although the terms "first," "second," etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are simply used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first contact may be referred to as a second contact, and similarly, a second contact may be referred to as a first contact, without departing from the intended scope. Both the first contact and the second contact are contacts, but they are not the same contact.

[0023] The terms used in this description are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also encompass the plural form, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the terms "and / or" used herein refer to and encompass any and all possible combinations of one or more items in the items listed in association. It will also be understood that the terms "comprises" 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 groupings.

[0024] 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 phrase "if it is determined that" or "if [stated condition or event] is detected" may be interpreted to mean "upon determining that" or "in response to determining that" or "upon detecting [stated condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [stated condition or event]," depending on the context. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Various embodiments described herein relate to a camera (e.g., a camera module) having a movable prism positioned between an optical assembly and an image sensor. The camera may include autofocus (AF). For example, the camera may include an AF actuator assembly to move the prism toward (e.g., in the +z direction) both the optical assembly and the image sensor to change (e.g., decrease) the focal length of the camera, and to move the prism away from (e.g., in the -z direction) both the optical assembly and the image sensor to change (e.g., increase) the focal length of the camera. The prism (e.g., a trapezoidal prism) may include an odd number of reflection points (e.g., three (3) reflection points) such that light received by the prism from a first direction (e.g., from the optical assembly) is received at a first point in a plane orthogonal to the first direction (e.g., aligned with the optical assembly) and output toward the first direction (e.g., toward the image sensor adjacent to the optical assembly) at a second point in the plane orthogonal to the first direction (e.g., at a different location than the first point, aligned with the image sensor). In some aspects, at least one of the optical assembly or the image sensor also moves along the first direction to additionally change the focal length of the camera. In some aspects, the optical assembly and the image do not move in the first direction, and thus do not change the focal length of the camera. Thus, only movement of the prism in the first direction changes the focal length of the camera. In some aspects, the camera can include optical image stabilization (OIS). For example, the camera can include an OIS actuator assembly to move the image sensor in a direction orthogonal to the first direction (e.g., x-direction, y-direction).

[0026] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, 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 practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, processes, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the embodiments.

[0027] Figure 1A and Figure 1B Components of two example cameras utilizing respective prisms positioned along an optical path between respective optical assemblies and respective image sensor assemblies are illustrated, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of a first example camera 10 is shown. Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of a second example camera 100 is shown. The camera 10 and the camera 100 of FIG. 1 may include Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 One or more features that are the same or similar to the features described or illustrated. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The example XYZ coordinate system shown may be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems and may apply to embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0028] like Figure 1AAs shown, camera 10 may include an optical assembly 03, a prism 50, and an image sensor 08. Optical assembly 03, prism 50, and image sensor 08 may be positioned at different heights relative to each other (e.g., in the z-direction). For example, optical assembly 03 may be positioned at a higher position than prism 50 and image sensor 08. Prism 50 may be positioned at a lower height than optical assembly 03 and at a greater (e.g., higher) height than image sensor 08. Image sensor 08 may be positioned at a lower position than optical assembly 03 and prism 50. Prism 50 may receive light along optical path 02, which is parallel to optical axis 01 and passes through optical assembly 03. Upon receiving the light, prism 50 may displace the light (e.g., in the x-direction) and output the light in a direction parallel to optical axis 01, away from optical assembly 03, and toward image sensor 08. Prism 50 may displace the light by reflecting the light off an even number of reflection points (e.g., reflective surfaces) before outputting the light toward image sensor 08.

[0029] like Figure 1A As shown, the prism 50 can shift light by receiving light from the optical component 03 along the optical path 02. The light received by the prism 50 can continue along the optical path 02 and can be reflected off a first reflection point 61 (e.g., a first reflection surface) within the prism 50, can continue along the optical path 02 and can be reflected off a second reflection point 62 (e.g., a second reflection surface) within the prism 50, can continue along the optical path 02 and can be reflected off a third reflection point 63 (e.g., a third reflection surface) within the prism 50, and can continue along the optical path 02 and can be reflected off a fourth reflection point 64 (e.g., a fourth reflection surface) within the prism 50, and then be output by the prism 50 along the optical path 02 and in a direction parallel to the optical axis 01, in a direction away from the optical component 03, and toward the image sensor 08 to be received by the image sensor 08.

[0030] Due to the configuration of prism 50 (e.g., having an even number of reflection points), optical assembly 03 can be positioned above prism 50 (e.g., in the z direction) to enable prism 50 to receive light from optical assembly 03 along optical path 02, and image sensor 08 can be positioned below prism 50 (e.g., in the z direction) to enable prism 50 to output the received light to image sensor 08 along optical path 02. As such, moving prism 50 in the vertical direction (e.g., in the z direction) does not change the focal length of camera 10. Therefore, in addition to using OIS actuator assembly 80 to move image sensor 08 (e.g., in the x direction, in the y direction) for OIS movement, camera 10 can also rely on using AF actuator assembly 70 to move image sensor 08 in the z direction for AF movement to change the focal length of camera 10.

[0031] However, the configuration of camera 10 has several disadvantages. For example, because optical assembly 03, prism 50, and image sensor 08 are positioned in a stacked or shifted, but vertically stacked, configuration along the z-direction, the height 150 of camera 10 is at least the sum of the heights of optical assembly 03, prism 50, and image sensor 08 (e.g., and its associated components, including those used for AF and OIS). Furthermore, the space between image sensor 08 and housing 13 should be sufficiently large or high enough to accommodate the AF movement of image sensor 08. As further described herein, the additional space or clearance allocated between image sensor 08 and housing 13 (e.g., any exterior wall of the camera) to accommodate the AF movement of image sensor 08 may retain a greater amount of heat, and therefore not dissipate as much heat, from camera 10, compared to the smaller space or clearance that would be used for an image sensor that does not move for AF, but only for OIS. As such, image sensor 08 may not function efficiently and / or effectively (e.g., limiting the length of a 4K video session) due to the greater ambient heat retention and poorer heat dissipation. Furthermore, the camera 10 may be a component of a mobile phone or mobile communication device (hereinafter referred to as a "mobile phone") having a display screen. For example, a mobile phone may be connected to Figure 9 The illustrated device 900 or Figure 10 The computer system 1000 is the same as or similar to the illustrated computer system. As another example, the display screen may be the same as Figure 9 Display system 902 or Figure 10 As another example, the camera 10 may be the same as or similar to the display 1018 in FIG. Figure 9 Camera 904b or Figure 10 08 in the mobile phone. The display screen may be positioned on a surface of the mobile phone opposite the optical assembly 03. Therefore, due to the stacked configuration of the optical assembly 03, prism 50, and image sensor 08, image sensor 08 may have to dissipate heat through the mobile phone's display screen. This may further reduce the camera 10's ability to dissipate heat from the image sensor 08 and / or reduce the functionality and / or lifespan of the display screen. Furthermore, because the optical assembly 03, prism 50, and image sensor 08 are positioned in a stacked or shifted, but vertically stacked, configuration along the z-direction, relying on movement of prism 50 for AF movement is not possible, as moving prism 50 toward the optical assembly 03 or toward the image sensor 08 does not increase the length of the optical path 02. Additionally, relying on movement of the optical assembly 03 for AF, rather than movement of the image sensor 08, further increases the height 150 (e.g., in the z-direction) of the camera 10. Furthermore, due to the configuration of optical assembly 03, prism 50, and image sensor 08, changes in the focal length of camera 10 may be limited by and / or restricted to the distance that image sensor 08 can move vertically (e.g., in the z direction) for AF.

[0032] like Figure 1B As shown, camera 100 may include optical assembly 103, prism 250, and image sensor 208. Unlike optical assembly 103, prism 50, and image sensor 208 of camera 10, both optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 (e.g., and associated components of image sensor 208, including those used for optical isolation) may be positioned adjacent to each other and at the same height (e.g., at the same location along the z-direction). Prism 250 may be positioned below both optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 (e.g., along the z-direction). Prism 250 may receive light along optical path 202 that is parallel to optical axis 101 and passes through optical assembly 103. Upon receiving the light, prism 250 may shift the light (e.g., in the x-direction) and output the light in a direction parallel to optical axis 101, in the z-direction toward optical assembly 103, and for reception by adjacent image sensor 208. Prism 250 may shift light by reflecting the light off an odd number of reflection points (eg, reflective surfaces) before outputting the light toward image sensor 208 .

[0033] like Figure 1B As shown, prism 250 can shift light by receiving light from optical component 103 along optical path 202. The light received by prism 250 can continue along optical path 202 and can be reflected off a first reflection point 161 (e.g., a first reflection surface) within prism 250, can continue along optical path 202 and can be reflected off a second reflection point 162 (e.g., a second reflection surface) within prism 50, and can continue along optical path 202 and can be reflected off a third reflection point 163 (e.g., a third reflection surface) within prism 250, and then be output by prism 250 along optical path 202 and in a direction parallel to optical axis 101, in a z-direction toward optical component 103, and directly toward image sensor 208 adjacent to optical component 103 to be received by image sensor 208.

[0034] Due to the configuration of prism 250 (e.g., having an odd number of reflection points), optical assembly 103 can be positioned above prism 250 (e.g., in the z-direction) to enable prism 250 to receive light from optical assembly 103 along optical path 202, and image sensor 208 can be positioned adjacent to optical assembly 103 and above prism 250 (e.g., in the z-direction) to enable prism 250 to output received light to image sensor 208 along optical path 202. Thus, moving prism 250 in the vertical direction (e.g., in the z-direction) can change the focal length of camera 100. Therefore, camera 100 can rely on using AF actuator assembly 270 to move prism 250 in the z-direction for AF movement to change the focal length of camera 100. Image sensor 208 can still be moved using OIS actuator assembly 280 for OIS (e.g., movement in the x-direction, movement in the y-direction).

[0035] The configuration of camera 100 has several advantages over camera 10 and other similar cameras. For example, because optical assembly 03 and image sensor 08 are adjacent to each other, positioned at the same height as each other (e.g., in the z-direction), and positioned above prism 250, camera 100 has a height 151 that is less than camera 10's height 150 and is the sum of the heights of optical assembly 03, prism 50, and the distance between prism 250 and housing 113 for AF movement of prism 250 (e.g., and associated components of prism 250, including those used for AF). Because image sensor 208 (e.g., and associated components of image sensor 208, including those used for OIS movement of image sensor 208) is adjacent to optical assembly 103 and the height of optical assembly 103 is greater than the height of image sensor 208 (and associated components), camera 100 has a height 151 that is less than camera 10's height 150 by at least the height of image sensor 208 and associated components. Furthermore, the space or gap between image sensor 208 and shield 110 (e.g., any adjacent exterior wall of the camera) need not accommodate AF movement because prism 250, rather than image sensor 208, moves in the z-direction for AF. As such, the space or gap between shield 110 and image sensor 208 is smaller than the space or gap between housing 13 and image sensor 208 of camera 10.

[0036] As further described herein, the reduced space or gap allotted between image sensor 208 and shield 110 (e.g., any adjacent exterior wall of the camera) to accommodate the size and shape of components associated with and including image sensor 208 (e.g., and image sensor 208 having no AF movement) compared to the space or gap between image sensor 08 and housing 13 of camera 10 may retain a smaller amount of heat, and thus dissipate more heat from camera 100 compared to camera 10. In this manner, image sensor 208 may function more efficiently and / or effectively (e.g., enabling increased length of 4k video sessions) due to less ambient heat retention and faster dissipation. Additionally, camera 100 may be a component of a cell phone having a display screen. For example, the cell phone may be coupled to a display screen. Figure 9 The illustrated device 900 or Figure 10 The computer system 1000 is the same as or similar to the illustrated computer system. As another example, the display screen may be the same as Figure 9 Display system 902 or Figure 10 As another example, the camera 100 may be the same as or similar to the display 1018 in FIG. Figure 9 Camera 904b or Figure 10The display screen can be positioned on a surface of the phone opposite the optical assembly 103 and the image sensor 208. Therefore, due to the adjacent positioning of the image sensor 208 (e.g., in the x- and y-directions), the image sensor 208 can dissipate heat through the surface of the phone opposite the display screen. This can further increase the camera 100's ability to dissipate heat from the image sensor 208 and / or improve the functionality and / or lifespan of the display screen.

[0037] Furthermore, because optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 are positioned adjacent to one another and higher or above prism 250 in the z-direction, AF actuator assembly 280 can be used to move prism 250 to change the length of optical path 202 (and therefore the focal length of camera 100). For example, moving prism 250 away from both optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 can increase the length of optical path 202, and therefore the focal length of camera 100, and moving prism 250 toward both optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 can decrease the length of optical path 202, and therefore the focal length of camera 100. Furthermore, due to the configuration of optical assembly 103, prism 250, and image sensor 208, the change in focal length of camera 100 can be greater than the distance prism 250 can be moved vertically (e.g., in the z-direction) for AF. For example, because prism 250 is moved toward both optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 for AF to reduce the length of optical path 202 and reduce the focal length of camera 100, the length of optical path 202 and the focal length of camera 100 can be reduced by a factor of two compared to the distance that prism 250 is moved toward both optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208. Similarly, because prism 250 is moved away from both optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 for AF to increase the length of optical path 202 and increase the focal length of camera 100, the length of optical path 202 and the focal length of camera 100 can be increased by a factor of two compared to the distance that prism 250 is moved away from both optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208. Thus, camera 100 can have a greater focal length (e.g., a longer optical zoom) than camera 10. Furthermore, camera 100 can have a greater AF travel range (e.g., greater than 1 millimeter (mm)) than camera 10 (e.g., to achieve a minimum or shorter focus distance).

[0038] Figure 2 and Figure 3 Components of an example camera 100 are illustrated with a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 2 A perspective view of the exterior of the camera 100 is shown. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of camera 100 is shown. Figure 2 and Figure 3The camera 100 may include Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 One or more features that are the same or similar to the features described or illustrated. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The example XYZ coordinate system shown may be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems and may apply to embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0039] In various embodiments, the camera 100 may include an optical assembly 103 having one or more lenses 204 defining an optical axis (z) 101 and a lens barrel 205, a shield or housing 110, a housing or base 113, and electrical connectors 104. The shield 110 may form the outer wall of a top portion (and in some cases, a side portion) of the camera 100 and form one or more camera shoulders. The housing 113 may form the outer wall of a bottom portion (and in some cases, a side portion) of the camera 100. The electrical connectors 104 may extend from the housing 113 (and / or shield 110) and may electrically connect the camera 100 to an external device. For example, the camera 100 may be connected to a Figure 9 The illustrated camera 904b or Figure 10 The illustrated camera 1008 is the same as or similar to the camera 1008. Thus, the electrical connector 104 can extend from the housing 113 and can electrically connect the camera 100 to the respective Figure 9 The illustrated device 900 or Figure 10 The illustrated computer system 1000. In some aspects, the camera 100 may include auto focus (AF) (e.g., movement of the prism 250 in a single direction (e.g., a single dimension, the z direction) (e.g., Figure 3 The optical assembly 103 may be positioned within the frame 302 of the camera 100 and / or may include optical image stabilization (OIS) (eg, movement of the image sensor 208 in one or more directions (eg, x-direction, y-direction).

[0040] As described herein, camera 100 may also include AF actuator assembly 270, prism 250, prism cover 252, and prism carrier 254. Prism 250 may be moved in the z direction (eg, via AF actuator assembly 270) for AF. Figure 3As shown, both the optical assembly 103 and the image sensor 208 (e.g., and associated components of the image sensor 208, including those used for OIS) can be positioned adjacent to each other and at the same height as each other (e.g., at the same location in the z-direction). In some aspects, the optical assembly 103 and the image sensor 208 may not move in the z-direction for AF. The prism 250 can be positioned below both the optical assembly 103 and the image sensor 208 (e.g., in the z-direction). The prism 250 can receive light along an optical path 202 that is parallel to the optical axis 101 and passes through the optical assembly 103. Upon receiving the light, the prism 250 can shift the light (e.g., in the x-direction) and output the light in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101, in the z-direction toward the optical assembly 103, and for receipt by the adjacent image sensor 208. The prism 250 can shift the light by reflecting the light off an odd number (e.g., three (3)) of reflection points (e.g., reflective surfaces) before outputting the light toward the image sensor 208. In some aspects, prism 250 can be a trapezoidal prism, but can additionally or alternatively be any prism that reflects received light off an odd number of reflective points or surfaces within prism 250. In some aspects, prism 250 can be any prism that receives light from a direction at a first point in a plane and outputs light toward the same direction but at a second point in the same plane that is different from the first point.

[0041] For example, prism 250 can shift light by receiving light from optical assembly 103 along optical path 202. The light received by prism 250 can continue along optical path 202 and can be reflected off a first reflection point 161 (e.g., a first reflection surface) within prism 250, can continue along optical path 202 and can be reflected off a second reflection point 162 (e.g., a second reflection surface) within prism 50, and can continue along optical path 202 and can be reflected off a third reflection point 163 (e.g., a third reflection surface) within prism 250, and then be output by prism 250 along optical path 202 and in a direction parallel to optical axis 101, in a z-direction toward optical assembly 103, and directly toward image sensor 208 adjacent to optical assembly 103 to be received by image sensor 208. It should be understood that the surface of second reflection point 162 can be a transmissive surface of prism 250 that allows light to pass therethrough. However, due to the angle at which the first reflection point 160 folds the optical path 202 toward the second reflection point 162 , the total internal reflection (TIR) may be large enough so that the transmissive surface may become a reflective surface (internally reflective surface) at the second reflection point 162 rather than a transmissive surface.

[0042] Due to the configuration of prism 250, optical assembly 103 can be positioned above prism 250 (e.g., in the z-direction) to enable prism 250 to receive light from optical assembly 103 along optical path 202, and image sensor 208 can be positioned adjacent to optical assembly 103 and above prism 250 (e.g., in the z-direction) to enable prism 250 to output received light to image sensor 208 along optical path 202. Thus, moving prism 250 in a vertical direction (e.g., in the z-direction) can change the focal length of camera 100. Consequently, camera 100 can rely on using AF actuator assembly 270 to move prism 250 in the z-direction for AF movement to change the focal length of camera 100. Image sensor 208 can still be moved for OIS (e.g., in the x-direction, in the y-direction) using OIS actuator assembly 280.

[0043] As described herein, AF actuator assembly 270 can move prism 250 in the z-direction to change the focal length of camera 100. For example, camera 100 may include prism 250 held by prism carrier 254 and covered with prism cover 252 on a surface of prism 250 opposite optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208. As further described herein, AF actuator assembly 270 can include a magnet fixedly attached to prism 250 and / or prism carrier 254 so that the magnet moves with prism 250, and a coil positioned adjacent to the magnet and fixedly attached to a static portion of camera 100. The magnet and coil together can be a voice coil motor (VCM). The magnetic field from the magnet can interact with the current flowing through the coil, generating a Lorentz force that causes prism 250 to move toward optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 (e.g., in the +z direction) to reduce optical path 202 and decrease the focal length of camera 100. Similarly, the magnetic field from the magnet can interact with the current flowing through the coil, generating a Lorentz force to move prism 250 away from optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 (e.g., in the -z direction) to increase optical path 202 and increase the focal length of camera 100. In some aspects, optical assembly 103 can be static such that it does not move for AF.

[0044] In some aspects, the AF actuator assembly 270 may also include one or more sets of ball bearings and one or more tracks formed in the inner surfaces of the prism carrier 254 and the frame 302. A preload plate positioned opposite the coil from the magnet can pull the prism carrier 254 toward the preload plate via the magnet, thereby allowing the prism carrier 254 to move vertically using the one or more sets of ball bearings pressed against one or more corresponding tracks. In addition, a position sensor located within the coil can be used to determine the position of the prism 250 in the z-direction.

[0045] In various embodiments, the camera 100 may further include a flexible circuit 220, an OIS actuator assembly, a substrate 234 (e.g., an OIS FPC, a printed circuit board, etc.), an image sensor 208, and a filter 209 positioned below the image sensor 208 (e.g., in the z-direction). As described herein, the image sensor 208 may be positioned above the prism 250 (e.g., in the z-direction) and adjacent to the optical assembly (e.g., in the x-direction). The image sensor 208 may be attached to or otherwise integrated into the substrate 234 such that the image sensor 208 is connected to the OIS frame or the flexible circuit 220 via the substrate 234. For example, the dynamic platform of the flexible circuit 220 may hold the substrate 234 for mounting one or more electronic components and / or the image sensor 208. In some aspects, the substrate 234 may include an opening having a cross-sectional dimension suitable for allowing light to pass therethrough while also receiving or holding the filter 209 and the image sensor 208. The substrate 234 may hold the filter 209 and the image sensor 208 around the perimeter of the opening. In some aspects, the image sensor 208 can be held on the top surface of the substrate 234, while the filter 209 can be positioned between the prism 250 and the image sensor 208. These configurations can allow the substrate 234 to hold the image sensor 208 (and in some cases the filter 209) while also allowing light from the lens 204 of the optical assembly 103 to pass through the prism 250, through the filter 209, and be received by the image sensor 208 for image capture. In other embodiments, the substrate 234 and the image sensor 208 can be separately attached to the OIS frame or flexible circuit 220. For example, a first set of one or more electrical traces can be routed between the substrate 234 and the OIS frame or flexible circuit 220. A second, different set of one or more electrical traces can be routed between the image sensor 208 and the OIS frame or flexible circuit 221.

[0046] The flexible circuit 220 can have a variety of different configurations. Figure 8BAs further described, the flexible circuit 220 may include a dynamic platform, a static platform, and a plurality of flexure arms. The flexible circuit 220 may be connected to the static portion of the camera (e.g., the inner surface of the shield 110 and / or the housing 113) via the static platform. The flexible circuit 220 may also hold the substrate 234, the image sensor 208, and the filter 209 via the dynamic platform. The plurality of flexure arms may provide flexible mechanical and electrical coupling between the static and dynamic platforms. For example, the flexure arms may allow the dynamic platform to move relative to the static platform (e.g., and the rest of the camera 100) in one or more directions (e.g., x-direction, y-direction) using components of the OIS actuator assembly 280. The flexure arms (e.g., using one or more electrical traces on each of the flexure arms) may enable electrical signal and power communication between the image sensor 208 and other electrical components of the camera 100. The relatively flat or two-dimensional configuration of the flexible circuit having the dynamic platform, the static platform, and the plurality of flexure arms connecting the static platform to the dynamic platform simplifies the manufacture of the camera 100 because the amount of flexure 220 components extending in the z-direction is minimized.

[0047] Alternatively, and as at least herein with respect to Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B and Figure 8A As further described, the flexible circuit 220 can include various configurations having flexible arms, bends between the flexible arms, and / or movable end portions. The movable end portions can hold the substrate 234, the image sensor 208, and the filter 209. The flexible arms, the bends between the flexible arms, and / or the movable end portions can provide a flexible mechanical coupling between the image sensor 208 and the static portion of the camera 100. The flexible arms can allow for movement in one or more directions (e.g., x-direction, y-direction) of the movable end portions via the OIS actuator assembly 280. The bends between the flexible arms can enable the flexible circuit 220 to wrap around the inner perimeter of the camera 100 (e.g., around the perimeter of the camera 100 but within the housing 110). The flexible arms, the bends between the flexible arms, the intermediate arm regions, and / or the movable end portions enable electrical signal and power communication between the image sensor 208 and the static portion of the camera 100.

[0048] As described herein, the OIS actuator assembly 280 can move the image sensor 208 (e.g., including the flexible circuit 220, substrate 234, and filter 209) for OIS (e.g., in the x-direction, in the y-direction). The OIS actuator assembly 280 can include at least two magnets and a coil for each of the corresponding magnets. For example, the OIS actuator assembly 280 can include a first magnet positioned in a fixed position below the flexible circuit 220 such that the first magnet extends longitudinally in the y-direction. A first coil can be positioned on the flexible circuit 220 above the first magnet (e.g., in the z-direction) such that the first coil extends longitudinally in the y-direction. The first coil can be attached to the flexible circuit 220 and can move with movement of the image sensor 208, substrate 234, and flexible circuit 220. The first magnet and first coil can together form a voice coil motor (VCM). The magnetic field from the first magnet can interact with the current flowing through the first coil, generating a Lorentz force that moves the image sensor 208 in the y-direction via the flexible circuit 220 for OIS. Similarly, the OIS actuator assembly 280 may include a second magnet positioned in a fixed position below the flexible circuit 220 such that the second magnet extends longitudinally in the x-direction. A second coil may be positioned on the flexible circuit 220 above the second magnet (e.g., in the z-direction) such that the second coil extends longitudinally in the x-direction. The second coil may be attached to the flexible circuit 220 and may move with movement of the image sensor 208, substrate 234, and flexible circuit 220. The second magnet and second coil may together form a voice coil motor (VCM). The magnetic field from the second magnet may interact with the current flowing through the second coil, thereby generating a Lorentz force to move the image sensor 208 in the x-direction via the flexible circuit 220 for OIS.

[0049] As further described herein, close proximity between magnet groups can result in unwanted magnetic attraction forces. For example, an OIS magnet positioned in close proximity to a speaker magnet and / or magnets of another camera of an electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone) can result in unwanted magnetic attraction between the OIS magnet and the speaker magnet and / or between the OIS magnet and the magnets of the other camera. Furthermore, moving magnets (e.g., magnets attached to the substrate 234 and / or the flexible circuit 220, rather than magnets fixedly attached to a static portion of the camera 100) can be more susceptible to unwanted magnetic attraction forces between the OIS magnet and other groups of magnets. These unwanted magnetic attraction forces can pull groups of moving magnets off-center or offset, thereby reducing their ability or potential to interact with their respective coils to generate Lorentz forces. As such, additional power may be required to overcome the reduced ability or potential of off-center or offset magnets to provide adequate actuation and / or functionality. In contrast, fixed magnets (such as the first and second magnets of the OIS actuator assembly 280 as described herein) are inherently stronger because they are largely unaffected by and / or unaffected by unwanted magnetic attractions. Additionally, fixed magnets (such as the first and second magnets of the OIS actuator assembly 280 as described herein) can allow for more efficient and / or compact packaging of the camera 100, which can allow for more space within the camera 100 for positioning components (such as a larger speaker and / or a larger battery).

[0050] In some aspects, the image sensor 208 and the flexible circuit 220 can be used for both AF and OIS. For example, AF can be implemented using the prism 250, the image sensor 208, and the flexible circuit 220. As another example, AF can be implemented using the optical assembly 103, the prism 250, the image sensor 208, and the flexible circuit 220. In this manner, an AF actuator assembly can be implemented with the image sensor 208, the substrate 234, and the flexible circuit 220 to implement AF movement of the image sensor 208. Furthermore, the space or gap between the image sensor 208 and the shield 110 (e.g., any adjacent exterior wall of the camera) may need to be sufficiently large (e.g., tall or large) to accommodate AF movement. However, the larger the space or gap between the image sensor 208 and the shield 110, the more heat is retained within the camera 100 and near the image sensor 208, and the less or slower the heat can be dissipated from the camera 100. As such, using image sensor 208 and flex circuit 220 for AF in addition to OIS may reduce or degrade the functionality and / or efficiency of image sensor 208 (e.g., resulting in a reduced length of a 4k video session) due to greater retention and slower dissipation of heat around image sensor 208.

[0051] In some aspects, image sensor 208 may be movable only for OIS and not for AF. In this case, AF may be achieved by moving prism 250, as described herein. Using image sensor 208 for OIS rather than AF has some advantages over using image sensor 208 for both OIS and AF. Without AF, the space or gap between image sensor 208 and shield 110 (e.g., any adjacent exterior wall of the camera) may be smaller (e.g., shorter, narrower, or smaller) than when an image sensor is used for AF. With a smaller gap, less heat may be retained within camera 100 and / or adjacent to image sensor 208, and more heat from image sensor 208 and actuator components (e.g., OIS actuator component 208) may be dissipated from camera 100 and adjacent to image sensor 208 through shield 110. As such, using image sensor 208 and flexible circuit 220 solely for OIS may increase or improve the functionality and / or efficiency of image sensor 208 (e.g., enabling increased length of 4k video sessions) due to less heat retention around image sensor 208 and slower heat dissipation.

[0052] It should be noted that the camera 100 may be a component of a mobile phone having a display screen. Figure 9 The illustrated device 900 or Figure 10 The computer system 1000 is the same as or similar to the illustrated computer system. As another example, the display screen may be the same as Figure 9 Display system 902 or Figure 10 The display screen can be positioned on a surface of the phone opposite the optical assembly 103 and the image sensor 208. Therefore, because the image sensor 208 is positioned adjacent (e.g., in the x- and y-directions), heat from the image sensor 208 can be dissipated through the phone's surface opposite the display screen (e.g., shield 110 rather than housing 113). This further increases the camera 100's ability to dissipate heat from the image sensor 208 and / or improves the functionality and / or lifespan of the display screen.

[0053] Figure 4 An example autofocus (AF) actuator assembly 270 is illustrated for a camera according to at least some embodiments and includes a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera. Figure 4 A perspective exploded view of the AF actuator assembly 270 is shown. Figure 4 The AF actuator assembly 270 may include Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 One or more features that are the same or similar to the features described or illustrated. Figure 4 The example XYZ coordinate system shown may be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems and may apply to embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, camera 100 may include prism 250 and prism carrier 254. Camera 100 may also include frame 302 that holds prism carrier 254 and receives optical assembly 103 including lens 204 and lens barrel 205. Frame 302 may include space therein for not only receiving prism carrier 254 but also allowing prism carrier 254 (e.g., holding prism 250) to move up and down in the z-direction for AF. For example, frame 302 may have space therein to receive prism carrier 254 holding prism 250 and allow prism carrier 254 holding prism 250 to move vertically in the z-direction toward and away from lens 204 and image sensor 208 via AF actuator assembly 270. In this manner, frame 302 may allow prism 250 to be moved in the z-direction (e.g., via AF actuator assembly 270) for AF.

[0055] The frame 302 can also be configured to reside within the shield 110 and the housing 113 and to hold the prism carrier 254 and the prism 250 residing within the prism carrier 254, so that light can be received by the prism 250 from the lens 204 and provided by the prism 250 to the image sensor 208 (not shown) adjacent to the lens 204. For example, the prism 250 can be positioned below both the optical assembly 103 and the image sensor 208 (not shown) (e.g., in the z-direction). The prism 250 can receive light along an optical path parallel to the optical axis 101 and passing through the optical assembly 103. Upon receiving the light, the prism 250 can shift the light (e.g., in the x-direction) and output the light in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101, in the z-direction toward the optical assembly 103, and for reception by the adjacent image sensor 208. Prism 250 can shift light by reflecting light off an odd number (e.g., three (3)) of reflection points (e.g., reflective surfaces) before outputting the light toward image sensor 208. In some aspects, prism 250 can be a trapezoidal prism, but can additionally or alternatively be any prism that reflects received light off an odd number of reflection points or reflective surfaces within prism 250.

[0056] Prism 250 can shift light by receiving light from optical component 103 along optical path 202. The light received by prism 250 can continue along the optical path and can be reflected off a first reflection point (e.g., a first reflection surface) within prism 250, can continue along the optical path and can be reflected off a second reflection point (e.g., a second reflection surface) within prism 250, and can continue along the optical path and can be reflected off a third reflection point (e.g., a third reflection surface) within prism 250, and then be output by prism 250 along the optical path and in a direction parallel to optical axis 101, in a z-direction toward optical component 103, and directly toward image sensor 208 adjacent to optical component 103 to be received by image sensor 208.

[0057] Due to the configuration of prism 250 (e.g., having an odd number of reflection points), optical assembly 103 can be positioned above prism 250 (e.g., in the z-direction) held by prism carrier 254 so that prism 250 can receive light from optical assembly 103 along optical path 202, and image sensor 208 can be positioned adjacent to optical assembly 103 and above prism 250 (e.g., in the z-direction) so that prism 250 can output received light to image sensor 208 along optical path 202. Thus, moving prism 250 in the vertical direction (e.g., in the z-direction) can change the focal length of camera 100. Therefore, camera 100 can rely on using AF actuator assembly 270 to move prism 250 in the z-direction for AF movement to change the focal length of camera 100. Image sensor 208 can still be moved using OIS actuator assembly 280 for OIS (e.g., in the x-direction, in the y-direction).

[0058] As described herein, AF actuator assembly 270 can move prism 250 in the z-direction to change the focal length of camera 100. For example, camera 100 may include prism 250 held by prism carrier 254 and covered with prism cover 252 at a surface of prism 250 opposite optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208. AF actuator assembly 270 can include magnet 308 fixedly attached to prism 250 and / or prism carrier 254 so that magnet 308 moves with prism 250, and coil 309 positioned adjacent to the magnet and fixedly attached to a static portion of camera 100. Magnet 308 and coil 309 together can be a voice coil motor (VCM). The magnetic field from magnet 308 can interact with the current flowing through coil 309 to generate a Lorentz force to move prism 250 toward optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 (e.g., in the +z direction) to reduce optical path 202 and reduce the focal length of camera 100. Similarly, the magnetic field from magnet 308 can interact with the current flowing through coil 309 to generate a Lorentz force to move prism 250 away from optical assembly 103 and image sensor 208 (e.g., in the -z direction) to increase optical path 202 and increase the focal length of camera 100. In some aspects, optical assembly 103 can be static so that it does not move for AF. Alternatively, optical assembly 103 can use another AF actuator assembly to further change the length of the optical path and the focal length of camera 100.

[0059] In some aspects, the AF actuator assembly 270 may also include one or more sets of ball bearings and one or more tracks formed in the inner surfaces of the prism carrier 254 and the shield / housing 110 and / or the housing 113. A preload plate positioned opposite the coil 309 from the magnet 308 can pull the prism carrier 254 toward the preload plate 254 via the magnet 308, thereby allowing the prism carrier 254 to move vertically using the one or more sets of ball bearings pressed against the one or more corresponding tracks. Additionally, a position sensor 311 located within the coil 309 can be used to determine the position of the prism 250 along the z-direction.

[0060] Figure 5 An example optical image stabilization (OIS) actuator assembly 280 is illustrated for a camera 100 having a moving prism 250 positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera 100, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of the OIS actuator assembly 280 is shown. Figure 5 The OIS actuator assembly 280 may include Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 One or more features that are the same or similar to the features described or illustrated. Figure 5 The example XYZ coordinate system shown may be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems and may apply to embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0061] like Figure 5As shown, camera 100 includes image sensor 208, substrate 234, filter 209, and OIS actuator assembly 280. OIS actuator assembly 280 can move image sensor 208 (e.g., along with flexible circuit 220, substrate 234, and filter 209) for OIS (e.g., in the x-direction, in the y-direction). OIS actuator assembly 280 can include at least two magnets 408 held by a magnet holder 406 (e.g., a static portion of camera 100) and a coil 409 for each of the corresponding magnets. For example, OIS actuator assembly 280 can include a first magnet 408a positioned in a fixed position below flexible circuit 220 such that first magnet 408a extends longitudinally in the y-direction. A first coil 409a can be positioned on flexible circuit 220 above first magnet 408a (e.g., in the z-direction) such that first coil 409a extends longitudinally in the y-direction. A first coil 409a can be attached to the flexible circuit 220 and can move with movement of the image sensor 208, substrate 234, and flexible circuit 220. The first magnet 408a and first coil 409a can together form a voice coil motor (VCM). The magnetic field from the first magnet 408a can interact with the current flowing through the first coil 409a, generating a Lorentz force that moves the image sensor 208 in the y-direction via the flexible circuit 220 (e.g., holding substrate 234) (not shown) for OIS. Similarly, the OIS actuator assembly 280 can include a second magnet 408b positioned in a fixed position below the flexible circuit 220, such that the second magnet 408b extends longitudinally in the x-direction. The second coil 409b can be positioned on the flexible circuit 220 above the second magnet 408b (e.g., in the z-direction), such that the second coil 409b extends longitudinally in the x-direction. The second coil 409b can be attached to the flexible circuit 220 and can move with the movement of the image sensor 208, substrate 234, and flexible circuit 220. The second magnet 408b and the second coil 409b can together form a voice coil motor (VCM). The magnetic field from the second magnet 408b can interact with the current flowing through the second coil 409b, thereby generating a Lorentz force to move the image sensor 208 in the x-direction via the flexible circuit 220 for OIS. The first magnet 408a and the second magnet 408b can be received and positioned within the magnet housing 402 to securely position the respective magnets below the respective coils. A suspension assembly can be used to move the flexible circuit 220, substrate 234, and image sensor 208. For example, the suspension assembly can use one or more of ball bearings, springs, or suspension wires to move the flexible circuit 220, substrate 234, and image sensor 208.

[0062] As further described herein, close proximity between magnet groups can result in unwanted magnetic attraction forces. For example, OIS magnets positioned in close proximity to speaker magnets of an electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone) can result in unwanted magnetic attraction between the OIS magnets and the speaker magnets. Furthermore, moving magnets (e.g., magnets attached to the substrate 234 and / or the flexible circuit 220, rather than magnets fixedly attached to a static portion of the camera 100) can be more susceptible to unwanted magnetic attraction forces between the OIS magnets and other groups of magnets. These unwanted magnetic attraction forces can pull the groups of moving magnets off-center or offset, thereby reducing their ability or potential to interact with their respective coils to generate Lorentz forces. Thus, additional power may be required to overcome the reduced ability or potential of eccentric or offset magnets to provide adequate actuation and / or functionality. In contrast, fixed magnets (such as the first and second magnets 408a, 408b of the OIS actuator assembly 280, as described herein) are inherently more robust because they are largely unaffected by and / or unaffected by unwanted magnetic attraction forces. Additionally, fixed magnets (such as the first magnet 408a and the second magnet 408b of the OIS actuator assembly 280 as described herein) may allow for more efficient and / or compact packaging of the camera 100, which may allow for more space within the camera 100 for positioning components (such as a larger speaker and / or a larger battery).

[0063] Figure 6 Illustrated is an example method 600 of assembling an AF actuator assembly for a camera having a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 6 The method 600 may include Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 One or more features that are the same or similar to the features described or illustrated. Figure 6 The example XYZ coordinate system shown may be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems and may apply to embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0064] At step 701, method 600 may include rotating the prism carrier 254 upside down and positioning the prism 250 within the prism carrier 254. For example, the prism carrier 254 may be positioned within a frame 302 that holds the prism carrier 254 and allows the prism carrier 254 to move in a vertical direction (e.g., a z-direction). The frame 302 and the prism carrier 254 may be rotated upside down so that the prism carrier 254 can receive the prism 250. At step 703, glue 502 may be dispensed onto the lateral sides of the prism 250 between the prism 250 and the prism carrier 254 for adhesion therebetween. For example, after the prism 250 is inserted or positioned within the prism carrier 254, glue 502 may be dispensed onto a first long side of the prism 250 between the prism 250 and the prism carrier 254. In addition, after the prism 250 is inserted or positioned into the prism carrier 254, glue 502 can be dispensed between the prism 250 and the prism carrier 254 on a second long side of the prism 250 opposite the first long side of the prism 254. Applying glue 502 can securely secure the prism 250 to the prism carrier 254 for reliable AF movement as described herein. At step 705, a prism cover 252 can be provided, and glue 522 can be dispensed between the prism cover 252 and the prism carrier 254 and on the prism cover 252 so that the prism cover 252 can be securely positioned on the surface of the prism 250 and so that the prism 250 can be securely fastened to the prism carrier 254. For example, after applying glue 502 between the prism 250 and the prism carrier 254, glue 522 can be dispensed on the prism cover 252 and the prism cover 252 can be positioned on the surface of the prism 250. Glue 522 can adhere the prism cover 252 to the prism 250. Glue 522 can also be dispensed between the prism cover 252 and the prism carrier 254, thereby securing both the prism 250 and the prism cover 252 to the prism carrier 254. The prism cover 252 can provide a more rectangular shape to the prism 250 (rather than, for example, the trapezoidal shape of the prism 250 alone), so that the prism 252 can fit securely within the prism carrier 254 for reliable AF movement.

[0065] Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A and Figure 8B Example flexures are illustrated for a camera having a moving prism positioned along an optical path between an optical assembly and an image sensor assembly, which can, for example, change the focal length of the camera, according to at least some embodiments. Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A and Figure 8B Perspective and cross-sectional views of the respective flexures are shown. Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8Aand Figure 8B Example flexures may include those related to Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 One or more features that are the same or similar to the features described or illustrated. Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A and Figure 8B The example XYZ coordinate system shown may be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems and may apply to embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0066] like Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the camera 100 and / or the OIS actuator assembly 280 may also include a flexible circuit 220 for holding the substrate 234, the image sensor 208, and the filter 209 and for allowing (e.g., by bending) the OIS of the image sensor 208 to move. The flexible circuit 220 may have a variety of different configurations. For example, Figure 7AAs shown, camera 100a may have an OIS actuator assembly 280a that includes a flexible circuit 220a having flexible arms 710a, a bend region 712a between the flexible arms, a movable end portion 716a, and / or an electrical connector 718a. The movable end portion 716a may hold substrate 234, image sensor 208, and filter 209 and include an opening therethrough to allow light from prism 250 to reach image sensor 208. The electrical connector 718a may connect the flexible circuit 220a to the coil 309 of the AF actuator assembly 270, so that one or more actuators connected to the flexible circuit 220a can control both AF movement of prism 250 and OIS movement of image sensor 208. The flexible arms 710a, the bend region 712a between the flexible arms, and / or the movable end portion 716a may provide a flexible mechanical coupling between image sensor 208 and the static portion of the camera. The flexible arms 710a may allow for movement in one or more directions (e.g., x-direction, y-direction) of the movable end portions 716a via the OIS actuator assembly 280. The bend regions 712a between the flexible arms 710a may enable the flexible circuit 220a to be wrapped around the inner perimeter and back side of the camera (e.g., around the perimeter of the camera but within the housing 110). The flexible arms 710a, the bend regions 712a between the flexible arms, and / or the movable end portions 716a may enable electrical signal and power communication between the image sensor 208, the coil 309, and the static portion of the camera 100 via the electrical connector 718a. Figure 7A As shown, the configuration of the flex circuit 220a includes a shield extending in the x-direction and outwardly from the optics side of the camera to accommodate the flex circuit 220a being wrapped around the back side of the camera.

[0067] As another example, Figure 7BAs shown, camera 100b may have an OIS actuator assembly 280b that includes a flexible circuit 220b having flexible arms 710b, a bend region 712b between the flexible arms, a movable end portion 716b, and / or an electrical connector 718b. The movable end portion 716b may hold substrate 234, image sensor 208, and filter 209 and include an opening therethrough to allow light from prism 250 to reach image sensor 208. The electrical connector 718b may connect the flexible circuit 220b to the coil 309 of the AF actuator assembly 270, so that one or more actuators connected to the flexible circuit 220b can control both AF movement of prism 250 and OIS movement of image sensor 208. The flexible arms 710b, the bend region 712b between the flexible arms, and / or the movable end portion 716b may provide a flexible mechanical coupling between image sensor 208 and the static portion of the camera. The flexible arms 710b may allow for movement in one or more directions (e.g., x-direction, y-direction) of the movable end portions 716b via the OIS actuator assembly 280. The bend regions 712b between the flexible arms 710b may enable the flexible circuit 220b to be wrapped around the inner perimeter and front side of the camera (e.g., around the perimeter of the camera 100 but within the housing 110). The flexible arms 710b, the bend regions 712b between the flexible arms, and / or the movable end portions 716b may enable electrical signal and power communication between the image sensor 208, the coil 309, and the static portion of the camera 100 via the electrical connector 718b. Figure 7B As shown, the configuration of the flex circuit 220b includes a shield extending in the x-direction and outwardly from the image sensor side of the camera to accommodate the flex circuit 220b being wrapped around the front side of the camera.

[0068] As yet another example, Figure 8AAs shown, camera 100c may have an OIS actuator assembly 280c that includes a flexible circuit 220c having flexible arms 710c, a bend region 712c between the flexible arms, a movable end portion 716c, and / or an electrical connector 718c. The movable end portion 716c may hold substrate 234, image sensor 208, and filter 209 and include an opening therethrough to allow light from prism 250 to reach image sensor 208. The electrical connector 718c may connect the flexible circuit 220c to coil 309 of AF actuator assembly 270, so that one or more actuators connected to the flexible circuit 220c can control both AF movement of prism 250 and OIS movement of image sensor 208. The flexible arms 710c, the bend region 712c between the flexible arms, and / or the movable end portion 716c may provide a flexible mechanical coupling between image sensor 208 and the static portion of the camera. The flexible arms 710c can allow movement in one or more directions (e.g., x-direction, y-direction) of the movable end portion 716c via the OIS actuator assembly 280. The bend regions 712c between the flexible arms 710c can enable the flexible circuit 220c to be wrapped around the inner perimeter and bottom side of the camera (e.g., around the perimeter of the camera but within the housing 110). The flexible arms 710c, the bend regions 712c between the flexible arms, and / or the movable end portion 716c can enable electrical signal and power communication between the image sensor 208, the coil 309, and the static portion of the camera via the electrical connector 718c. Figure 8A As shown, the configuration of the flex circuit 220c includes a shield extending in the x-direction and outwardly from the image sensor side of the camera to accommodate the flex circuit 220c being wrapped around the bottom side of the camera.

[0069] As yet another example, Figure 8BAs shown, camera 100d may have an OIS actuator assembly 280d that includes a flexible circuit 220d having a dynamic platform 720, a static platform 724, and a plurality of flexure arms 722. Flexible circuit 220d may be connected to the inner surface of shield 110 and / or housing 113 via static platform 724. Flexible circuit 220d may also hold substrate 234, image sensor 208, and filter 209 via dynamic platform 720. The plurality of flexure arms 722 may provide a flexible mechanical and electrical coupling between static platform 724 and dynamic platform 720 to allow power and signal communication between image sensor 208, coils 409a and 409b, and coil 309 and one or more drivers and other electrical components internal and / or external to the camera. For example, the flexure arms 722 can allow the dynamic platform 720 to move relative to the static platform 724 (e.g., and the rest of the camera) in one or more directions (e.g., x-direction, y-direction) using components of the OIS actuator assembly 280. The flexure arms 722 (e.g., using one or more electrical traces on each of the flexure arms 722) can enable electrical signal and power communication between the image sensor 208, the coils 409a and 409b, and other electrical components of the camera. The relatively flat or two-dimensional configuration of the flexible circuit 220d having the dynamic platform 724, the static platform 720, and the plurality of flexure arms 722 connecting the static platform 720 to the dynamic platform 724 simplifies the manufacture of the camera because the amount of flexible circuit 220d components extending in the z-direction is minimized.

[0070] Figure 9 Illustrated in accordance with some embodiments may include a camera (e.g., as herein referred to Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B and Figure 101 and 1 . In some embodiments, device 900 can be a mobile device and / or a multifunction device. In various embodiments, device 900 can 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, an augmented reality (AR) and / or virtual reality (VR) headset, a consumer device, a video game controller, 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.

[0071] In some embodiments, the device 900 may include a display system 902 (e.g., including a display and / or a touch-sensitive surface) and / or one or more cameras 904. In some non-limiting embodiments, the display system 902 and / or one or more forward-facing cameras 904a may be disposed on the front side of the device 900, e.g., Figure 9 Additionally or alternatively, one or more rear-facing cameras 904b may be disposed at the rear side of the device 900. In some embodiments including multiple cameras 904, some or all of the cameras may be identical or similar to one another. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the cameras may be different from one another. In various embodiments, the location and / or arrangement of the cameras 904 may differ from one another. Figure 9 Those cameras indicated in .

[0072] The device 900 may include, among other things, a memory 906 (e.g., including an operating system 908 and / or application / program instructions 910), one or more processors and / or controllers 912 (e.g., including a CPU, a memory controller, a display controller, and / or a camera controller, etc.), and / or one or more sensors 916 (e.g., an orientation sensor, a proximity sensor, and / or a position sensor, etc.). In some embodiments, the device 900 may communicate with one or more other devices and / or services such as a computing device 918, a cloud service 920, etc. via one or more networks 922. For example, the device 900 may include a network interface (e.g., a network interface 910) that enables the device 900 to transmit data to the network 922 and to receive data from the network. Additionally or alternatively, the device 900 may be capable of communicating with other devices via wireless communication using any of a variety of communication standards, protocols, and / or technologies.

[0073] Figure 10A schematic block diagram of an example computing device, referred to as computer system 1000, is illustrated, which may include or house an embodiment of a camera (e.g., as described herein with reference to Figure 1A 、 Figure 1B 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 7B 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B and Figure 9 In addition, the computer system 1000 may implement methods for controlling the operation of a camera and / or for performing image processing on images captured with the camera. In some embodiments, the device 1000 (herein referred to as Figure 10 The ) may additionally or alternatively include some or all of the functional components of the computer system 1000 described herein.

[0074] The computer system 1000 can be configured to perform any or all of the embodiments described above. In various embodiments, the computer system 1000 can 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, an augmented reality (AR) and / or virtual reality (VR) headset, a consumer device, a video game controller, 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.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, computer system 1000 includes one or more processors 1002 coupled to system memory 1004 via an input / output (I / O) interface 1006. Computer system 1000 also includes one or more cameras 1008 coupled to I / O interface 1006. Computer system 1000 also includes a network interface 1010 and one or more input / output devices 1012, such as a cursor control device 1014, a keyboard 1016, and a display 1018, coupled to I / O interface 1006. In some cases, it is contemplated that embodiments may be implemented using a single instance of computer system 1000, while in other embodiments, multiple such systems or multiple nodes comprising computer system 1000 may be configured to host different portions or instances of embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, some elements may be implemented via one or more nodes of computer system 1000 that are different from those nodes that implement other elements.

[0076] In various embodiments, computer system 1000 can be a uniprocessor system including one processor 1002, or a multiprocessor system including a plurality of processors 1002 (e.g., two, four, eight, or another suitable number). Processor 1002 can be any suitable processor capable of executing instructions. For example, in various embodiments, processor 1002 can be a general-purpose or embedded processor that implements any of a variety of instruction set architectures (ISAs), such as the x86, PowerPC, SPARC, or MIPS ISAs, or any other suitable ISAs. In a multiprocessor system, each of processors 1002 can typically, but not necessarily, implement the same ISA.

[0077] System memory 1004 can be configured to store program instructions 1020 accessible by processor 1002. In various embodiments, system memory 1004 can 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. Additionally, existing camera control data 1022 of memory 1004 can include any of the aforementioned information or data structures. In some embodiments, program instructions 1020 and / or data 1022 can be received, sent, or stored on different types of computer-accessible media separate from system memory 1004 or computer system 1000, or on similar media. In various embodiments, some or all of the functionality described herein can be implemented via such a computer system 1000.

[0078] In one embodiment, the I / O interface 1006 can be configured to coordinate I / O communications between the processor 1002, the system memory 1004, and any peripheral devices in the device (including the network interface 1010 or other peripheral device interfaces, such as the input / output device 1012). In some embodiments, the I / O interface 1006 can perform any necessary protocol, timing, or other data conversion to convert data signals from one component (e.g., the system memory 1004) into a format suitable for use by another component (e.g., the processor 1002). In some embodiments, the I / O interface 1006 can include support for devices attached, for example, via various types of peripheral busses (such as a variant of the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus standard or the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard). In some embodiments, the functionality of the I / O interface 1006 can be divided into two or more separate components, such as a north bridge and a south bridge, for example. Furthermore, in some embodiments, some or all of the functionality of the I / O interface 1006 (such as the interface to the system memory 1004) can be incorporated directly into the processor 1002.

[0079] The network interface 1010 can be configured to allow data to be exchanged between the computer system 1000 and other devices (e.g., carriers or proxy devices) attached to the network 1024, or between nodes of the computer system 1000. In various embodiments, the network 1024 can include one or more networks, including, but not limited to, a local area network (LAN) (e.g., an Ethernet or an intranet), 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 1010 can support, for example, communication via a wired or wireless general data network (such as any suitable type of Ethernet network); communication via a telecommunications / telephone network (such as an analog voice network or a digital fiber optic communication network); communication via a storage area network (such as a Fibre Channel SAN), or communication via any other suitable type of network and / or protocol.

[0080] In some embodiments, input / output devices 1012 may include one or more display terminals, keyboards, keypads, trackpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other device suitable for inputting or accessing data by one or more computer systems 1000. Multiple input / output devices 1012 may be present in computer system 1000 or may be distributed across various nodes of computer system 1000. In some embodiments, similar input / output devices may be separate from computer system 1000 and may interact with one or more nodes of computer system 1000 through a wired or wireless connection, such as through network interface 1010.

[0081] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that computer system 1000 is merely illustrative, and is not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments. Specifically, computer system and equipment may include any combination of hardware or software that can perform the indicated function, including computers, network equipment, internet equipment, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless telephones, pagers, etc. Computer system 1000 may also be connected to other devices not illustrated, or may otherwise operate as an independent system. In addition, the functions provided by the illustrated components may be combined in fewer components or distributed in additional components in some embodiments. Similarly, in some embodiments, the functions of some components in the illustrated components may not be provided, and / or other additional functions may be available.

[0082] Those skilled in the art will also recognize that, although various items are illustrated 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 can be transmitted between memory and other storage devices. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some or all of these software components can be executed in the memory on another device and communicate with the illustrated computer system via inter-computer communication. Some or all of the system components or data structures can also be stored on a computer-accessible medium or portable article (for example, as instructions or structured data) to be read by a suitable driver, and its various examples are described above. In some embodiments, the instructions stored on the computer-accessible medium separated from the computer system 1000 can be transferred to the computer system 1000 by a transmission medium or signal (such as an electrical signal, an electromagnetic signal or a digital signal transmitted by a communication medium such as a network and / or a wireless link). Various embodiments can also include receiving, sending or storing instructions and / or data implemented according to the above description on a computer-accessible medium. Generally speaking, computer-accessible media may include non-transitory computer-readable storage media or memory media, such as magnetic or optical media, for example, disks or DVD / CD-ROMs, volatile or non-volatile media, such as RAM (e.g., SDRAM, DDR, RDRAM, SRAM, etc.), ROM, etc. In some embodiments, computer-accessible media may include transmission media or signals, such as electrical signals, electromagnetic signals, or digital signals transmitted via a communication medium, such as a network and / or a wireless link.

[0083] In different embodiments, the methods described herein can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof. In addition, the order of the method blocks can be changed, and various elements can be added, reordered, combined, omitted, modified, etc. For those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure, it is obvious that 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 single instances in this article. The boundaries between various components, operations, and data repositories are arbitrary to a certain extent, and specific operations are illustrated in the context of specific example configurations. Other allocations of functions are contemplated and may fall within the scope of the appended claims. Finally, the structure and function presented as discrete components in the example 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.

Claims

1. A camera comprising: an optical assembly comprising one or more lenses defining an optical axis; Image sensor; a prism configured to receive light that has passed through the one or more lenses, perform multiple reflections on the received light, and transmit the received light to the image sensor in a direction parallel to the optical axis, wherein the image sensor and the one or more lenses are located on the same side of the prism; and An actuator is configured to move the prism along an axis parallel to the optical axis for autofocus AF.

2. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is configured to move the prism along the axis parallel to the optical axis for AF, thereby changing the distance between the prism and both the optical assembly and the image sensor such that the focal length of the camera changes by a factor of two relative to the distance the prism moves in one dimension.

3. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the light received by the prism is reflected an odd number of times within the prism.

4. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is configured to move the prism a distance along the axis parallel to the optical axis away from both the image sensor and the optical assembly for AF, thereby increasing the focal length of the camera.

5. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is configured to move the prism a distance along the axis parallel to the optical axis toward both the image sensor and the optical assembly for AF, thereby reducing the focal length of the camera.

6. The camera of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator having a magnet that moves with the prism and a coil attached to a component of the camera that does not move with movement of the prism.

7. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the actuator is a first actuator, the camera further comprising a second actuator and a flexible circuit holding the image sensor, and wherein the second actuator is configured to move the image sensor and the flexible circuit along two different axes, both orthogonal to the optical axis.

8. The camera of claim 7, wherein the second actuator comprises: a first coil that moves with movement of the image sensor and the flexible circuit along a first of the two different axes; a first magnet attached to a component of the camera that does not move with movement of the image sensor and flex circuit along the first of the two different axes; a second coil that moves with movement of the image sensor and the flexible circuit along a second of the two different axes; as well as A second magnet is attached to a component of the camera that does not move with movement of the image sensor and flexible circuit along the second of the two different axes.

9. An actuator assembly for a camera, comprising: An automatic focus AF actuator module, the automatic focus actuator module comprising: a prism configured to receive light through a surface, reflect the light multiple times within the prism, and output the light through the surface and toward an image sensor, and an actuator configured to move the prism along an axis normal to the surface of the prism for autofocus AF; and The AF actuator module is configured to be coupled to an optical image stabilization (OIS) actuator module, and the optical image stabilization (OIS) actuator module is configured to move the image sensor for OIS.

10. The actuator assembly of claim 9, further comprising: The OIS actuator module includes the image sensor and a flexible circuit, wherein the OIS actuator module is configured to move the image sensor in one or more directions orthogonal to the axis for OIS.

11. The actuator assembly of claim 9, wherein the light received by the prism is reflected an odd number of times within the prism.

12. The actuator assembly of claim 9, wherein the prism comprises a trapezoidal prism.

13. The actuator assembly of claim 9, wherein the AF actuator module comprises a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator having a magnet that moves with the prism and a coil that is fixed relative to the magnet and the prism.

14. A device comprising: monitor; camera; one or more processors; and a memory storing program instructions executable by the one or more processors to cause an image captured by the camera to be displayed on the display; and The camera includes: an optical assembly having one or more lenses, Image sensor, a prism configured to receive light that has passed through the one or more lenses, perform multiple reflections on the received light, and transmit the received light to the image sensor in a direction parallel to the optical axis, wherein the image sensor and the one or more lenses are located on the same side of the prism; and An actuator is configured to move the prism along an axis parallel to the optical axis for autofocus AF.

15. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the actuator is configured to move the prism along the axis parallel to the optical axis for AF, thereby changing the distance between the prism and both the optical assembly and the image sensor such that the focal length of the camera changes by a factor of two relative to the distance the prism moves in one dimension.

16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the light received by the prism is reflected an odd number of times within the prism.

17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the actuator is configured to move the prism a distance along the axis parallel to the optical axis away from both the image sensor and the optical assembly for AF, thereby increasing the focal length of the camera.

18. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the actuator is configured to move the prism a distance along the axis parallel to the optical axis toward both the image sensor and the optical assembly for AF, thereby reducing the focal length of the camera.

19. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the actuator comprises a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator having a magnet that moves with the prism and a coil attached to a portion of the camera that does not move with movement of the prism.

20. The device of claim 14, wherein the optical assembly is positioned on a wall of a housing of the device opposite the display, and wherein the image sensor is positioned adjacent to the optical assembly and adjacent to the wall to dissipate heat from the image sensor through the wall.

Images