Camera lens shift ball bearing voice coil motor actuator with flat coil

Abstract

The invention relates to a camera lens shift ball bearing voice coil motor actuator with a flat coil. An actuator assembly for a camera includes a plurality of carriers each configured to allow an optical assembly to move along a respective axis of an optical axis, a first axis orthogonal to the optical axis, and a second axis orthogonal to the first axis and the optical axis. A ball bearing for the carrier allows movement along the axis. The actuators move the optical assembly along the axis via the respective carriers in response to receiving the current. The coils of at least two actuators for movement of the optical assembly along the at least two axes face a direction parallel to the optical axis. A gap between magnets and associated coils of at least two actuators for movement of the optical assembly along the at least two axes remains constant during movement of the optical assembly along each of the optical axis, the first axis, and the second axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates in its entirety to a lens-shifting ball bearing camera actuator having a voice coil motor (VCM) optical image stabilization (OIS) coil arranged in a flat orientation. Background Technology

[0002] Related technical descriptions

[0003] The emergence of small, mobile multi-purpose devices such as smartphones and tablets or tablets has led to a demand for high-resolution, small-form-factor cameras integrated into these devices. Some cameras incorporate an autofocus (AF) mechanism that adjusts the focal length of the object to focus the object plane in front of the camera onto the image plane to be captured by the image sensor. Additionally, some cameras incorporate optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanisms that sense and respond to external stimuli / disturbances by adjusting the position of the optical lenses on the X and / or Y axes, attempting to compensate for unwanted lens movement. Attached Figure Description

[0004] Figure 1 Examples of components of an example camera with an actuator module or component according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 1 A top view of the camera's exterior is shown.

[0005] Figure 2 Examples of components of an example camera with an actuator module or component according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the camera is shown.

[0006] Figure 3 Examples of actuator modules or components according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 3 A perspective view of the actuator module or component is shown.

[0007] Figure 4 An example actuator assembly base is illustrated according to at least some embodiments of an actuator module or assembly that can, for example, provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 4 A perspective view of the base of the actuator assembly of the actuator module or component is shown.

[0008] Figure 5 Assemblies of an example actuator assembly base and first OIS carrier of an actuator module or assembly according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can for example be used to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 5 Perspective views of an actuator assembly base and first OIS carrier of an actuator module or assembly are shown.

[0009] Figure 6 Assemblies of an example actuator assembly base, first OIS carrier and second OIS carrier of an actuator module or assembly according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can for example be used to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 6 Perspective views of an actuator assembly base, first OIS carrier and second OIS carrier of an actuator module or assembly are shown.

[0010] Figure 7 Assemblies of an example actuator assembly base, first OIS carrier, second OIS carrier and AF carrier of an actuator module or assembly according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can for example be used to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 7 Perspective views of an actuator assembly base, first OIS carrier, second OIS carrier and AF carrier of an actuator module or assembly are shown.

[0011] Figure 8 Assemblies of an example actuator module or assembly according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can for example be used to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 8 Exploded views of an actuator module or assembly are shown.

[0012] Figure 9 And Figure 10 Assemblies of other example actuator modules or assemblies according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can for example be used to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 9 Exploded views of another actuator module or assembly are shown. Figure 10 Exploded views of yet another actuator module or assembly are shown.

[0013] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of an example device that can include a camera according to some embodiments is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 12A schematic block diagram of an example computing device, referred to as a computer system, that can include or host embodiments of a camera, in accordance with some embodiments, is illustrated.

[0015] This specification includes references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment.” Occurrences of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. Particular features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0016] “includes,” that term is open-ended. As used in the appended claims as well as in the following detailed description, the term “includes” does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Consider a claim that states a “device includes one or more processor units...” Such claim does not exclude, for example, the presence of other components such as network interface units, graphics circuitry, etc.

[0017] “configured to,” various units, circuits, or other components can be described or claimed as “configured to” perform a task or tasks. In such contexts, “configured to” is used to connote structure by indicating that a unit / circuit / component includes structure (e.g., circuitry) that performs the task or tasks during operation. As such, the unit / circuit / component can be said to be configured to perform the task or tasks even when the specified unit / circuit / component is not currently operational (e.g., is not on). Units / circuits / components used with “configured to” can include hardware— for example, circuitry, memory storing program instructions executable to implement the operation, etc. Reciting that a unit / circuit / component is “configured to” perform one or more tasks is expressly

[0018] “first,” “second,” etc. As used herein, these terms are merely labels and do not imply any type of ordering (e.g., spatial, temporal, logical, etc.). For example, a buffer circuit can be described herein as performing a write operation of a “first” value and a “second” value. The terms “first” and “second” do not necessarily imply that the first value must be written before the second value.

[0019] “Based on,” as used herein, is used to describe one or more factors that affect a determination. This term is not exclusive, i.e., the determination can be based on additional factors not listed. In some examples, a determination can be based solely on those factors or solely on those factors and no other factors. In other examples, a determination can be based on those factors and / or other factors.

[0020] It will also be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first contact could be termed a second contact, and, similarly, a second contact could be termed a first contact, without departing from the intended scope. The first contact and the second contact are both contacts, but they are not the same contact.

[0021] The terminology used in the description herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the description and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further 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 components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0022] As used herein, the term “if’ can be construed to mean “when” or “in response to a determination” or “in response to a detection” depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase “if determined” or “if [stated condition or event] is detected” can be construed to mean “upon a determination” or “in response to a determination” or “upon a detection” or “in response to a detection” of [stated condition or event], depending on the context. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Various embodiments described herein relate to actuator modules or assemblies that can be used in cameras having optical assemblies that are capable of movement. In some examples, the cameras can include camera equipment equipped with controls, magnets, and voice coil motors to improve the efficiency of miniature actuation mechanisms for compact camera modules. More specifically, in some embodiments, compact camera modules include actuators for providing functionality such as autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS). One approach to providing very compact actuator assemblies is to provide AF and OIS actuators for movement and / or displacement of the optical assembly.

[0024] Compact cameras (e.g., camera modules) can be used across a variety of mobile devices from cellular phones to AR / VR devices. Many cameras can implement AF actuators in order to improve focusing performance and support lower F-numbers, and OIS actuators to compensate for camera shake and movement. In some applications, camera actuator assemblies can include multiple carriers, ball bearings, and associated actuators to move the optical assembly in x, y, and / or z directions. In many cases, the actuator assemblies can include, for example: a base; an AF carrier positioned on the base; a first OIS carrier positioned on and / or above the AF carrier; and a second OIS carrier attached to the optical assembly and positioned on and / or above the first OIS carrier, AF carrier, and / or base in a direction along an optical axis from an image sensor to the optical assembly.

[0025] With these configurations, various carriers house or include fixedly attached magnets, while the fixed base houses or includes fixed coils to align with respective magnets of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator. For example, a first magnet attached to the AF carrier can align with a coil on a first wall of the base, such that when the coil receives a current, the AF carrier can experience a Lorentz force due to the magnet that moves the AF carrier, the first OIS carrier, the second OIS carrier, and the optical assembly along an optical axis via the ball bearings for AF. In other words, with the AF carrier positioned below the first OIS carrier, the second OIS carrier, and the optical assembly, when the AF carrier moves along the optical axis to produce AF movement of the optical assembly, both the first OIS carrier and the second OIS carrier can move along the optical axis. A second magnet attached to the second OIS carrier can align with a coil on a second wall of the base adjacent to the first wall, such that when the coil receives a current, the second OIS carrier can experience a Lorentz force due to the magnet that moves the first OIS carrier, the second OIS carrier, and the optical assembly along a first axis orthogonal to the optical axis for OIS stabilization (e.g., in the x-direction or the y-direction). In other words, with the first OIS carrier positioned below the second OIS carrier and the optical assembly, when the first OIS carrier moves along the first axis to produce OIS movement of the optical assembly (e.g., in the x-direction or the y-direction), both the first OIS carrier and the second OIS carrier can move along the first axis. Further, a third magnet attached to the second OIS carrier can align with another coil on a third wall of the base adjacent to the second wall and opposite the first wall, such that when the coil receives a current, the second OIS carrier can experience a Lorentz force due to the magnet that moves the second OIS carrier and the optical assembly along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis and the optical axis for OIS stabilization (e.g., in the y-direction or the x-direction). In other words, with the second OIS carrier and the optical assembly positioned above the first OIS carrier, only the second OIS carrier can move along the second axis to produce OIS movement of the optical assembly (e.g., in the y-direction or the x-direction).

[0026] However, due to the relative position of the carriers and the position of the magnets and coils relative to each other and to the carriers, the air gap or distance between the magnets and the associated coils can vary for at least two of the actuators. In other words, at least two of the first air gap between the magnets and coils for AF movement of the optical assembly, the second air gap between the magnets and coils for OIS movement of the optical assembly along the first axis, or the third air gap between the magnets and coils for OIS movement of the optical assembly along the second axis can vary in distance. For example, because the AF carrier does not move along either of the first axis or the second axis for OIS movement, the air gap between the magnets included by the AF carrier and the coils on the first wall of the base remains constant for AF actuation. However, because the second carrier includes magnets for OIS movement of the optical assembly along the first axis and the second axis, and because the coils for OIS movement of the optical assembly are fixed on the walls of the base, the air gap distance between the first pair of coils and magnets for OIS movement of the optical assembly along the first axis changes with OIS movement of the optical assembly along the second axis, and the air gap distance between the second pair of coils and magnets for OIS movement of the optical assembly along the second axis changes with OIS movement of the optical assembly along the first axis.

[0027] Actuators with variable air gaps between the magnet and coil pairs introduce several problems. For example, when the variable distance air gap is relatively large, additional power via current through the coils of the magnet and coil pair can be needed in order to maintain control over movement of the optical assembly resulting from the Lorentz force from the magnet and coil pair. Similarly, when the variable distance air gap is relatively large and no additional power via current through the coils of the magnet and coil pair is available, then the actuator can be unable to maintain control over movement of the optical assembly using the Lorentz force from the magnet and coil pair.

[0028] Conversely, actuator modules or assemblies with magnet and coil pairs having constant air gaps allow for constant power via current through the coils of the magnet and coil pair for maintaining control over movement of the optical assembly resulting from the Lorentz force from the magnet and coil pair throughout the range of travel. Similarly, when the actuator module or assembly with magnet and coil pairs having constant air gaps has no additional power available via current through the coils of the magnet and coil pair, then the actuator can still be able to maintain control over movement of the optical assembly using the Lorentz force from the magnet and coil pair throughout the range of travel.

[0029] As described herein, cameras are provided having actuator modules or assemblies having multiple carriers that utilize ball bearings and VCM AF and OIS actuators for AF and OIS movement of an optical assembly. The actuator assembly can include a flat OIS coil and a magnet and coil pair having a constant air gap for at least two of AF movement of the optical assembly, OIS movement of the optical assembly along a first axis, and OIS movement of the optical assembly along a second axis. For example, the actuator assembly can include a base having both a first OIS coil for OIS movement of the optical assembly along a first axis and a second OIS coil for OIS movement of the optical assembly along a second axis. The first OIS coil can be positioned on a first seat or arm of the base and the second OIS coil can be positioned on a second seat or arm of the base adjacent the first arm. Each of the first and second OIS coils can be positioned flat against the respective first and second arms of the base. For example, each of the first and second OIS coils can be positioned on the first and second arms of the base, respectively, such that a wider surface of each of the first and second OIS coils faces in a direction parallel to an optical axis or orthogonal to a light receiving surface of an image sensor.

[0030] Further, the actuator module or assembly can include at least one OIS carrier positioned between the base and the AF carrier. For example, the actuator assembly can include, in a direction along the optical axis from the image sensor to the optical assembly: the base; a first OIS carrier positioned on and / or over the base; the AF carrier positioned on and / or over the first OIS carrier and the base; and a second OIS carrier attached to the optical assembly and positioned on and / or over the AF carrier, the first OIS carrier, and the base. As described herein, this configuration can allow the air gap between at least two of the first OIS magnet and coil pair, the second OIS magnet and coil pair, and the AF magnet and coil pair to remain constant with movement of the optical assembly along each of the optical axis, the first axis, and the second axis. As another example, the actuator assembly can include, in a direction along the optical axis from the image sensor to the optical assembly: the base; a first OIS carrier positioned on and / or over the base; a second OIS carrier positioned on and / or over the first OIS carrier and the base; and the AF carrier attached to the optical assembly and positioned on and / or over the second OIS carrier, the first OIS carrier, and the base. As described herein, this configuration can allow the air gap between all three of the first OIS magnet and coil pair, the second OIS magnet and coil pair, and the AF magnet and coil pair to remain constant with movement of the optical assembly along each of the optical axis, the first axis, and the second axis.

[0031] Reference will now be made in detail to implementations, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth 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 implementations can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the implementations.

[0032] Figure 1 Components of an example camera 100 having an actuator module or assembly that can be used, for example, to provide autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) through lens movement in a small form factor camera are illustrated in accordance with at least some implementations. Figure 1 A top view of the exterior of the camera 100 is shown. The camera 100 can include a lens 102, a lens carrier 104, an actuator module or assembly 106, and an image sensor 108. The camera 100 can include other components as well, such as a processor, a memory, a power source, and / or the like. Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7, Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 One or more features that are the same as or similar to the features described or illustrated in the text. Figure 1 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or system, and is applicable to the implementations described throughout this disclosure.

[0033] In various embodiments, camera 100 may include an optical assembly 103, a shield 110, a housing 113, and an electrical connector 104, the optical assembly having one or more lenses 102 defining an optical axis (z) 101. The shield 110 may form an outer wall of the top portion (and in some cases a side portion) of camera 100, and form one or more camera shoulders. The housing 113 may form an outer wall of the bottom portion of camera 100. The electrical connector 104 may extend from the housing 113 (and the shield 110) and may electrically connect camera 100 to an external device. For example, camera 100 may be... Figure 11 The illustrated camera 1104b or Figure 12 The illustrated camera 1208 is the same as or similar to a camera. Therefore, the electrical connector 104 can extend from the housing 113 and can electrically connect the camera 100 to the housing 113 respectively. Figure 11 The device 1100 or illustrated herein Figure 12 The computer system 1200 is illustrated herein. In some aspects, the shield 110 may be mechanically coupled to the base via a housing 113 attached to both the shield 110 and the base. As described herein, the camera 100 may include AF and OIS optical components.

[0034] Figure 2 Examples of components of an example camera 100 with actuator modules or components according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of camera 100 is shown. Camera 100 may include components relative to... Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 One or more features that are the same as or similar to the features described or illustrated in the text. Figure 2The example X-Y-Z coordinate system shown can be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems, and can be applicable to the implementations described throughout the present disclosure.

[0035] As Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1, camera 100 can include optical assembly 103, which includes one or more lenses 102 centered about optical axis (z) 101, shield 110, printed circuit board (or substrate) 234, image sensor 108, plurality of position sensors 230, housing 113, and actuator assembly 200 / 900 / 1000. Shield 110, which is coupled to housing 113, can contain actuator assembly 200 / 900 / 1000, printed circuit board 234, image sensor 108, and plurality of position sensors 230. Actuator assembly 200 / 900 / 1000 can be attached to optical assembly 103 for moving optical assembly 103 for moving the optical assembly for AF and OIS, as described herein.

[0036] Figure 3 FIG. 2 illustrates components of an example actuator module or assembly 200, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera, in accordance with at least some embodiments. Figure 3 A perspective view of actuator module or assembly 200 is shown. Actuator assembly 200 can include one or more features that are the same as or similar to features described or illustrated in Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 . Figure 3 The example X-Y-Z coordinate system shown can be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems, and can be applicable to the implementations described throughout the present disclosure.

[0037] As Figure 3As shown, the actuator assembly 200 includes an actuator base 302 and a plurality of carriers, including a first OIS carrier 304, a second OIS carrier 306, and an AF carrier 308. The first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, and the AF carrier 308 can form a vertical carrier stack, such that the AF carrier 308 can be stacked on and / or above the second OIS carrier 306, the second OIS carrier 306 can be stacked on and / or above the first OIS carrier 304, and the first OIS carrier 304 can be positioned below both the AF carrier 308 and the second OIS carrier 306. An optical assembly 103 can be securely attached to the AF carrier 308.

[0038] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first OIS carrier 304 can be positioned on the actuator assembly base 302. Therefore, when the image sensor (e.g., Figure 2 When the image sensor 108 is positioned below the actuator assembly base 302 on the side of the actuator assembly base 302 opposite to the optical assembly 103, the vertical stack of carriers can be arranged in the following order from the image sensor to the optical assembly 103: actuator assembly base 302, first OIS carrier 304, second OIS carrier 306, and AF carrier 308. Positioning at least one of the first OIS carrier 304 or the second OIS carrier 306 between the AF carrier 308 and the actuator assembly base 302 allows the air gap between at least two magnet and coil pairs of the actuator assembly 200 to remain constant through each of the AF movement of the optical assembly 103, the OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis, and the OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the second axis. As further illustrated herein, positioning both the first OIS carrier 304 and the second OIS carrier 306 between the AF carrier 308 and the actuator assembly base 302 allows the air gap between all three magnet and coil pairs of the actuator assembly 200 to remain constant through each of the AF movement of the optical assembly 103, the OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis, and the OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the second axis.

[0039] The actuator assembly base 302 can be stationary relative to the first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, and the AF carrier 308. The actuator assembly base 302 can also include a ball bearing that engages with and moves within a track formed on an object side of the actuator assembly base 302 and an image side of the first OIS carrier 304. Accordingly, the ball bearing of the actuator assembly base 302 and the track formed on the object side of the actuator assembly base 302 and the image side of the first OIS carrier 304 can allow the first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, and the AF carrier 308 to move along a first axis 320 (e.g., orthogonal to the optical axis 101) for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. Further, the first OIS carrier 304 can include a ball bearing that engages with and moves within a track formed on an object side of the first OIS carrier 304 and an image side of the second OIS carrier 306. Accordingly, the ball bearing of the first OIS carrier 304 and the track formed on the object side of the first OIS carrier 304 and the image side of the second OIS carrier 306 can allow the second OIS carrier 306 and the AF carrier 308 to move independently of the first OIS carrier 304 and along a second axis 322 (e.g., orthogonal to the optical axis 101 and the first axis 320) for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. Further, the second OIS carrier 306 can include a ball bearing that engages with and moves within a track formed on a side of the second OIS carrier 306 and an overhanging wall of the AF carrier 308. Accordingly, the ball bearing of the second OIS carrier 306 and the track formed on a side of the second OIS carrier 306 and an overhanging wall of the AF carrier 308 can allow the AF carrier 308 to move independently of the first OIS carrier 304 and the second OIS carrier 306 and along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103.

[0040] Figure 4 An example actuator assembly base 302 of an actuator module or assembly 200 is illustrated, in accordance with at least some embodiments, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 4 A perspective view of the actuator assembly base 302 of the actuator module or assembly 200 is shown. The actuator assembly base 302 and the actuator assembly 200 can include a ball bearing that engages with and moves within a track formed on an object side of the actuator assembly base 302 and an image side of the first OIS carrier 304. Accordingly, the ball bearing of the actuator assembly base 302 and the track formed on the object side of the actuator assembly base 302 and the image side of the first OIS carrier 304 can allow the first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, and the AF carrier 308 to move along a first axis 320 (e.g., orthogonal to the optical axis 101) for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. Further, the first OIS carrier 304 can include a ball bearing that engages with and moves within a track formed on an object side of the first OIS carrier 304 and an image side of the second OIS carrier 306. Accordingly, the ball bearing of the first OIS carrier 304 and the track formed on the object side of the first OIS carrier 304 and the image side of the second OIS carrier 306 can allow the second OIS carrier 306 and the AF carrier 308 to move independently of the first OIS carrier 304 and along a second axis 322 (e.g., orthogonal to the optical axis 101 and the first axis 320) for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. Further, the second OIS carrier 306 can include a ball bearing that engages with and moves within a track formed on a side of the second OIS carrier 306 and an overhanging wall of the AF carrier 308. Accordingly, the ball bearing of the second OIS carrier 306 and the track formed on a side of the second OIS carrier 306 and an overhanging wall of the AF carrier 308 can allow the AF carrier 308 to move independently of the first OIS carrier 304 and the second OIS carrier 306 and along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103. Figure 1 、 Figure 2 ,Figure 3 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 the features described or illustrated in the other Figures. Figure 4 The example X-Y-Z coordinate system shown can be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems, and can be applicable to embodiments described throughout the present disclosure.

[0041] As shown in Figure 4 , the actuator assembly base 302 can include a first arm 401, a second arm 403 adjacent to the first arm 401, a third arm 405 adjacent to the second arm 403 and opposite the first arm 401, and a fourth arm 407 adjacent to the third arm 405 and the first arm 401 and opposite the second arm 403. A first OIS ball bearing 418 and a corresponding first OIS track 420 are positioned on the object side of at least three of the corners where the first arm 401, the second arm 403, the third arm 405, and the fourth arm 407 intersect. As described herein, the first OIS ball bearing 418 and the corresponding first track 420 (and also formed on the image side of the first OIS carrier 304) can allow the first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, and the AF carrier 308 to move the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320 (e.g., in the x-direction or alternatively in the y-direction). The actuator assembly base 302 can also include a first OIS coil 410 positioned on the first arm 401 and a second OIS coil 412 positioned on the second arm 403. As described further herein, the first OIS coil 410 positioned on the first arm 401 can be vertically aligned (e.g., along an axis parallel to the optical axis 101) with a first OIS magnet fixedly attached to the second OIS carrier 306. Similarly, the second OIS coil 412 positioned on the second arm 403 can be vertically aligned (e.g., along an axis parallel to the optical axis 101) with a second OIS magnet fixedly attached to the second OIS carrier 306. The first OIS coil 410 together with the first OIS magnet can be used to move the first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, and the AF carrier 308 along the first axis 320 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 in, for example, the y-direction. Similarly, the second OIS coil 412 together with the second OIS magnet can be used to move the second OIS carrier 306 and the AF carrier 308 along the second axis 322 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 in, for example, the x-direction.

[0042] Additionally, as shown in Figure 4As shown in FIG. 4A, the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 can be positioned on the first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302 and the second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 302, respectively, in a flat orientation. In other words, a wider side or a side with the largest surface area of each of the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 can face in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101 and / or perpendicular to a surface of the image sensor (e.g., the image sensor 108 as exemplified in Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 4A, the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 can be positioned on the first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302 and the second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 302, respectively, in a flat orientation. In other words, a wider side or a side with the largest surface area of each of the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 can face in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101 and / or perpendicular to a surface of the image sensor (e.g., the image sensor 108 as exemplified in

[0043] Figure 5 An example actuator assembly base 302 and first OIS carrier 304 of an actuator module or assembly 200 according to at least some embodiments are exemplified, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 5 A perspective view of the actuator assembly base 302 and the first OIS carrier 304 of the actuator module or assembly 200 is shown. The actuator assembly base 302, the first OIS carrier 304, and the actuator module or assembly 200 can include one or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or exemplified with respect to Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8 Figure 9 Figure 10 Figure 11 Figure 12 The example X-Y-Z coordinate system shown can be used to discuss aspects of the components and / or systems, and can be applicable to embodiments described throughout the present disclosure. Figure 5

[0044] As exemplified in FIG. 4A, the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 can be positioned on the first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302 and the second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 302, respectively, in a flat orientation. In other words, a wider side or a side with the largest surface area of each of the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 can face in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101 and / or perpendicular to a surface of the image sensor (e.g., the image sensor 108 as exemplified in Figure 5 ​​​​​​​​​​​As shown in FIG. 3, the actuator assembly 200 includes an actuator assembly base 302 and a first OIS carrier 304. The first OIS carrier 304 includes a first arm 501, a second arm 503 adjacent to the first arm 501, a second OIS ball bearing 518, and a second OIS track 520. The first arm 501 of the first OIS carrier 304 can be positioned over the first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302, and the second arm 503 of the first OIS carrier 304 can be positioned over the second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 302. The second OIS ball bearing 518 is positioned in the second OIS track 520 at an end of the first arm 501 of the first OIS carrier 304, at an end of the second arm 503 of the first OIS carrier 304, and where the first arm 501 and the second arm 503 of the OIS carrier 304 intersect. The second OIS ball bearing 518 and the second OIS track 520 can be vertically aligned with the first OIS ball bearing 418 and the first OIS track 420.

[0045] The first OIS carrier 304, together with the second OIS carrier 306, is configured to move the optical assembly 103 along both the first axis 320 and the second axis 322 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. For example, as described herein, the first OIS carrier 304 can include an OIS track on an image side of the first OIS carrier 304 that, together with the first OIS ball bearing 418 and the first OIS track 420 of the actuator assembly base 302, allows for movement of the first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, the AF carrier 308 along the first axis 320. Because the optical assembly 103 is fixedly attached to the AF carrier 308, movement of the AF carrier 308 along the first axis 320 allows for movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320. The second OIS ball bearing 518 and the second OIS track 520, together with an OIS track on an image side of the second OIS carrier 306, allow for movement of the second OIS carrier 306 and the AF carrier 308 along the second axis 322. Because the optical assembly 103 is fixedly attached to the AF carrier 308, movement of the AF carrier 308 along the second axis 322 allows for movement of the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322.

[0046] Additionally, as described herein, the first OIS coil 410 positioned on the first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302 and below the first arm 501 of the first OIS carrier 304 can be vertically aligned (e.g., along an axis parallel to the optical axis 101) with the first OIS magnet fixedly attached to the second OIS carrier 306. Similarly, the second OIS coil 412 positioned on the second arm 403 and below the second arm 503 of the first OIS carrier 304 can be vertically aligned (e.g., along an axis parallel to the optical axis 101) with the second OIS magnet fixedly attached to the second OIS carrier 306. The first OIS coil 410 together with the first OIS magnet can be used to move the first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, and the AF carrier 308 along the first axis 320 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 in, for example, the y-direction. Similarly, the second OIS coil 412 together with the second OIS magnet can be used to move the second OIS carrier 306 and the AF carrier 308 along the second axis 322 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 in, for example, the x-direction.

[0047] Figure 6 An example actuator assembly base 302, first OIS carrier 304, and second OIS carrier 306 of an actuator module or assembly 200 according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 6 A perspective view of the actuator assembly base 302, first OIS carrier 304, and second OIS carrier 306 of the actuator module or assembly 200 is shown. The actuator assembly 200 can include one or more features that are the same as or similar to features described or illustrated in Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 . Figure 6 The example X-Y-Z coordinate system shown can be used to discuss aspects of the components and / or systems, and can be applicable to embodiments described throughout the present disclosure.

[0048] As Figure 6As shown in FIG. 3, the actuator assembly 200 includes an actuator assembly base 302, a first OIS carrier 304, and a second OIS carrier 306. The second OIS carrier 306 includes a first wall 601, a second wall 603 adjacent to the first wall 601, a third wall 605 adjacent to the second wall 603 and opposite the first wall 601, and a fourth wall 607 adjacent to the third wall 605 and the first wall 601 and opposite the second wall 603. The first wall 601 of the second OIS carrier 306 can be positioned above the first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302 and the first arm 501 of the first OIS carrier 304. The second wall 603 of the second OIS carrier 306 can be positioned above the second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 302 and the second arm 503 of the first OIS carrier 304. The third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 can be positioned above the third arm 405 of the actuator assembly base 302. The fourth wall 607 of the second OIS carrier 306 can be positioned above the fourth arm 407 of the actuator assembly base 302.

[0049] The second OIS carrier 306 can include an OIS track positioned in a corner of the second OIS carrier 306 on an image side surface of the second OIS carrier 306. For example, the OIS track can be positioned on the image side surface of the second OIS carrier 306 where the fourth wall 607 intersects the first wall 601, where the first wall 601 intersects the second wall 603, and where the second wall 603 intersects the third wall 605. The OIS track formed on the image side surface of the second OIS carrier 306, together with the second OIS track 520, can hold the second OIS ball bearing 518 for movement of the second OIS carrier 306, the AF carrier 308, and the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103.

[0050] The second OIS carrier 306 also includes a first OIS magnet 614 and a second OIS magnet 616. The first OIS magnet 614 can be positioned on and / or within the first wall 601 such that the first OIS magnet 614 is vertically aligned (e.g., in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101) with the first OIS coil 410 positioned on the first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302. When the first OIS coil 410 receives a current, a magnetic field generated by the first OIS magnet 614 generates a Lorentz force to move the first OIS carrier 304, the second OIS carrier 306, the AF carrier 308, and thus the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. Because the first OIS carrier 304 and the second OIS carrier 306 are positioned below the AF carrier, and because the first OIS coil 410 is positioned on the first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302 in a flat orientation, the air gap between the first OIS coil 410 and the first OIS magnet 614 remains constant when the optical assembly 103 is moved along each of the first axis 320 for x-direction OIS movement, the second axis 322 for y-direction OIS movement, and the optical axis 101 for z-direction AF movement.

[0051] Similarly, the second OIS magnet 616 can be positioned on and / or within the second wall 603 such that the second OIS magnet 616 is vertically aligned (e.g., in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101) with the second OIS coil 412 positioned on the second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 302. When the second OIS coil 412 receives a current, a magnetic field generated by the second OIS magnet 616 generates a Lorentz force to move the second OIS carrier 306 and the AF carrier 308, and thus the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. During OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322, the first OIS carrier 304 positioned below the second OIS carrier 306, the AF carrier 308, and the optical assembly 103 can not move. Because the first OIS carrier 304 remains stationary during movement of the optical assembly along the second axis 322, the second OIS carrier 306 is positioned below the AF carrier, and the second OIS coil 412 is positioned on the second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 302 in a flat orientation, the air gap between the second OIS coil 412 and the second OIS magnet 616 remains constant when the optical assembly 103 is moved along each of the first axis 320 for x-direction OIS movement, the second axis 322 for y-direction OIS movement, and the optical axis 101 for z-direction AF movement.

[0052] The second OIS carrier 306 also includes an AF coil 628, an AF ball bearing 618, and an AF track 620. The AF coil 628 can be positioned on and / or within a third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306. As described herein, the AF carrier 308 can include an overhanging wall that extends over the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 and extends downward along an outer surface of the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101). An AF magnet positioned on and / or within the overhanging wall can be aligned with the AF coil 628 to move the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103. As described herein at least with respect to Figure 8 The electrical interconnects, which can be flexible and extend around and / or through the actuator assembly 200, can electrically connect the AF coil 628 on the moving second OIS carrier 306 with a fixed portion of the actuator assembly 200 (e.g., the actuator assembly base 302) or a fixed component of the camera 100 for providing electrical current to the AF coil 628 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103. In some aspects, the electrical interconnects and another electrical channel or wire can provide electrical connections between the coil and the driver to provide a particular amount of electrical current to a particular coil of the VCM to actuate the optical assembly 113.

[0053] The AF track 620 can be formed into an outer surface of the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306. As described herein, the AF carrier 308 can also include an AF track positioned on a surface of the overhanging wall facing the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 and aligned with the AF track 620 of the second OIS carrier 306. The AF track on the overhanging wall of the AF carrier 308 and the AF track 620 of the second OIS carrier 306 can contain the AF ball bearing 618 to allow movement of the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103.

[0054] Figure 7 An example actuator assembly base 302, first OIS carrier 304, second OIS carrier 306, and AF carrier 308 of an actuator module or assembly 200 according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 7 A perspective view of the actuator assembly base 302, first OIS carrier 304, second OIS carrier 306, and AF carrier 308 of the actuator module or assembly 200 is shown. The actuator assembly 200 can include a first OIS carrier 304 that is coupled to the actuator assembly base 302 and a second OIS carrier 306 that is coupled to the first OIS carrier 304. The actuator assembly 200 can also include an AF carrier 308 that is coupled to the second OIS carrier 306.Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 described or illustrated in the features that are the same or similar to one or more features. Figure 7 The example X-Y-Z coordinate system shown can be used to discuss aspects of components and / or systems, and can be applicable to embodiments described throughout the present disclosure.

[0055] As shown in Figure 7 , the actuator assembly 200 includes an actuator assembly base 302, a first OIS carrier 304, a second OIS carrier 306, and an AF carrier 308. The AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 can be fixedly attached to one another such that when the AF carrier moves along the first axis 320, the second axis 322, and / or the optical axis 101, the optical assembly 103 also moves along the first axis 320 for OIS movement in the x-direction, along the second axis 322 for OIS movement in the y-direction, and / or along the optical axis 101 for AF movement in the z-direction, respectively. The optical assembly 103 is positioned through the AF carrier 308 to allow light to pass through the AF carrier 308 and through openings in the second OIS carrier 306, the first OIS carrier 304, and the actuator assembly base 302 such that light can pass through the lenses of the optical assembly 103 and to an image sensor (e.g., the image sensor 108) for capturing an image.

[0056] The AF carrier 308 includes an overhang wall 720 with an AF magnet 702. The overhang wall 720 extends over the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 and extends downward along an outer surface of the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101). The AF magnet 702 positioned on and / or within the overhang wall 720 can be aligned with the AF coil 628 to move the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103. An AF track can be positioned on a surface of the overhang wall 720 facing the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 and aligned with the AF track 620 of the second OIS carrier 306. The AF track on the overhang wall of the AF carrier 308 and the AF track 620 of the second OIS carrier 306 can contain the AF ball bearing 618 to allow movement of the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103.

[0057] As described herein, the AF magnet 702 positioned with the overhang wall 720 of the AF carrier 308 can be aligned with the AF coil 628. When the AF coil 328 receives a current via an electrical interconnect, a magnetic field generated by the AF magnet 702 generates a Lorentz force to move the AF carrier 308, and thus the optical assembly 103, along the optical axis 101. The AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 can move with the movement of the second OIS carrier 306 along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. Because the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 can move with the movement of the second OIS carrier 306 along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322, the air gap between the AF coil 628 and the AF magnet 702 can remain constant with the OIS movement of the optical assembly 103.

[0058] In some aspects, the AF carrier 308 can not include the overhang wall 720. Instead, the AF magnet 702 can be positioned on the AF carrier 308 such that the AF magnet 702 is positioned closer to the optical axis than the AF coil 628. In this case, AF ball bearing tracks can be formed on an outer vertical surface of the AF carrier 308 adjacent to the AF magnet 702 and on an inner vertical surface of the second OIS carrier 306 adjacent to the AF coil 628 such that ball bearings are held between the AF carrier 308 and the second OIS carrier 306 for AF movement of the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103.

[0059] Figure 8 Components of an example actuator module or assembly 200 according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may, for example, be used to provide AF and OIS through lens movement in a small form factor camera. Figure 8 An exploded view of the actuator module or assembly 200 is shown. The actuator assembly 200 can include one or more features that are the same as or similar to features described or illustrated in Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 . Figure 8 The example X-Y-Z coordinate system shown can be used to discuss aspects of the components and / or systems, and can be applicable to embodiments described throughout the present disclosure.

[0060] As described in Figure 8As shown in FIG. 8, the actuator assembly 200 can be positioned above a filter 836 and an image sensor 108, both of which are attached to a printed circuit board (PCB) 234. The position sensor 230 can be aligned with the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 located on the actuator assembly base 302 and with the AF magnet 702 on the AF carrier 308 to determine the relative position of the carrier, and thus the optical assembly 103, during OIS and AF motion.

[0061] The actuator assembly 200 can include an actuator assembly base 302 having the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412. As described herein, the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 can be positioned in a flat orientation on a first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 302 and a second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 302, respectively. In other words, a wider side or a side having a greatest surface area of each of the first OIS coil 410 and the second OIS coil 412 can face in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101 and / or perpendicular to a surface of the image sensor (e.g., the image sensor 108 illustrated in FIG. 8) for generating a strong Lorentz force with the first OIS magnet and the second OIS magnet, respectively, to control OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322. Figure 2 The actuator assembly base 302 (and the first OIS carrier 904 and the second OIS carrier 908) can include an opening (e.g., centered on the optical axis 101) therethrough to allow light to be received by the image sensor 108 via a lens of the optical assembly 103.

[0062] The first OIS ball bearing 418 can be positioned between the actuator assembly base 302 and the first OIS carrier 304 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320 (e.g., along the x-direction or along the y-direction). The second OIS ball bearing 518 can be positioned between the first OIS carrier 304 and the second OIS carrier 306 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322 (e.g., along the y-direction or along the x-direction). The second OIS carrier 306 can also include a first OIS magnet 614 for interacting with the first OIS coil 410 on the actuator assembly base 302 for moving the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320 (e.g., along the x-direction or along the y-direction). The second OIS carrier 306 can also include a second OIS magnet 616 for interacting with the second OIS coil 412 on the actuator assembly base 302 for moving the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322 (e.g., along the y-direction or along the x-direction). In addition, the second OIS carrier 306 can include an AF coil 628 and an AF ball bearing 618. The AF coil 628 can interact with the AF magnet 702 positioned on the overhang wall 720 of the AF carrier 308 for providing AF movement of the optical assembly 103. An electrical interconnect 802 that can be flexible and extend around and / or through the actuator assembly 200 can electrically connect the AF coil 628 on the moving second OIS carrier 306 with a fixed portion of the actuator assembly 200 (e.g., the actuator assembly base 302) or a fixed component of the camera 100 for providing electrical current to the AF coil 628 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103.

[0063] The AF carrier 308 includes an overhang wall 720 with an AF magnet 702. The overhang wall 720 extends over the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 and extends downward along an outer surface of the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101). The AF magnet 702 positioned on and / or within the overhang wall 720 can be aligned with the AF coil 628 to move the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103. An AF track can be positioned on a surface of the overhang wall 720 facing the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 306 and aligned with the AF track 620 of the second OIS carrier 306. The AF track on the overhang wall 720 of the AF carrier 308 and the AF track 620 of the second OIS carrier 306 can contain the AF ball bearing 618 to allow movement of the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103.

[0064] As described herein, the AF magnet 702, positioned together with the cantilever wall 720 of the AF carrier 308, can be aligned with the AF coil 628. When the AF coil 328 receives current via an electrical interconnect, the magnetic field generated by the AF magnet 702 produces a Lorentz force that causes the AF carrier 308 to move, and thus causes the optical assembly 103 to move along the optical axis 101. The AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 can move along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322 as the second OIS carrier 306 moves, for the OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. Because the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103 can move along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322 as the second OIS carrier 306 moves, the air gap between the AF coil 628 and the AF magnet 702 can remain constant as the optical assembly 103 moves along the OIS.

[0065] The actuator module or component 200 may include at least one OIS carrier positioned between the actuator component base 302 and the AF carrier 308. For example, such as Figure 8 As shown, the actuator assembly 200 may include, along the optical axis 101 from the image sensor 108 to the optical assembly 103,: an actuator assembly base 302; a first OIS carrier 304 positioned on and / or above the actuator assembly base 302; a second OIS carrier 306 positioned on and / or above the first OIS carrier 304 and the actuator assembly base 302; and an AF carrier 308 attached to the optical assembly 103 and positioned on and / or above the second OIS carrier 306, the first OIS carrier 304, and the actuator assembly base 302. This configuration and positioning of the magnets and coils allows the air gap between all three magnet and coil pairs in the first OIS magnet and coil pair, the second OIS magnet and coil pair, and the AF magnet and coil pair to remain constant as the optical assembly moves along each of the optical axis, the first axis, and the second axis.

[0066] Figure 9 and Figure 10 Other example actuator modules or components 900 and 1000 according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 9 An exploded view of another actuator module or component 900 is shown. Figure 10 An exploded view of yet another actuator module or component 1000 is shown. Actuator components 900 and 1000 may include, relative to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 ,Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 One or more features that are the same as or similar to the features described or illustrated in the text. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of components and / or systems, and is applicable to the implementations described throughout this disclosure.

[0067] like Figure 9 As shown, actuator assembly 900 may include, with Figure 3 to Figure 8 The actuator assembly 900 may have the same or similar features as the actuator assembly 200. The actuator assembly 900 may include an actuator assembly base 902 having a first OIS coil 910 and a second OIS coil 912. The first OIS coil 910 and the second OIS coil 912 may be positioned in a planar orientation on a first arm 401 and a second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 902, respectively. In other words, the wider side or side with the largest surface area of ​​each of the first OIS coil 910 and the second OIS coil 912 may face a direction parallel to the optical axis 101 and / or perpendicular to the surface of the image sensor (e.g., image sensor 108) to generate strong Lorentz forces with the first OIS magnet 912 and the second OIS magnet 916, respectively, to control the OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322. The actuator assembly base 902 (and the first OIS carrier 904 and the second OIS carrier 908) may include an opening therethrough (e.g., centered on the optical axis 101) to allow light to be received by the image sensor 108 via a lens of the optical assembly 103.

[0068] In addition, instead of positioning the AF coil on the second OIS carrier 906, the actuator assembly base 902 may include a vertical wall having an AF coil 918 positioned thereon. As described herein, the AF coil 918, when receiving current, can interact with an AF magnet 920 positioned on the AF carrier 908 to generate a Lorentz force for moving the AF carrier 908 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101.

[0069] The first OIS ball bearing 922 can be positioned between the actuator assembly base 902 and the first OIS carrier 904 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320. The second OIS ball bearing 924 can be positioned between the first OIS carrier 904 and the second OIS carrier 906 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322. The second OIS carrier 906 can also include a first OIS magnet 912 for interacting with the first OIS coil 910 on the actuator assembly base 902 for movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320. The second OIS carrier 906 can also include a second OIS magnet 916 for interacting with the second OIS coil 914 on the actuator assembly base 902 for movement of the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322. Because the first OIS carrier 904 and the second OIS carrier 906 are positioned directly above the actuator assembly base 902 (e.g., such that the AF carrier is not positioned below or between the first OIS carrier 902 and the second OIS carrier 904), the air gap between the first OIS coil 910 and the first OIS magnet 912 can remain constant. Similarly, because the first OIS carrier 904 and the second OIS carrier 906 are positioned directly above the actuator assembly base 902 (e.g., such that the AF carrier is not positioned below or between the first OIS carrier 902 and the second OIS carrier 904), the air gap between the second OIS coil 914 and the second OIS magnet 916 can remain constant.

[0070] The AF carrier 308 includes an overhanging wall 909 with an AF magnet 920. The overhanging wall 909 extends above the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 906 and extends downward along the outer surface of the wall of the second OIS carrier 906 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101) until the AF magnet 920 is positioned adjacent to the AF coil 918 on the actuator assembly base 902. The AF magnet 920 positioned on and / or within the overhanging wall 909 can be aligned with the AF coil 918 to move the AF carrier 908 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103. An AF track can be positioned on the surface of the overhanging wall 909 facing the third wall 605 of the second OIS carrier 906 and aligned with the AF track of the second OIS carrier 906. The AF track on the overhanging wall 909 of the AF carrier 908 and the AF track of the second OIS carrier 906 can contain an AF ball bearing 926 to allow movement of the AF carrier 908 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103.

[0071] As described herein, the AF magnet 920, positioned together with the overhang wall 909 of the AF carrier 908, can be aligned with the AF coil 918 on the actuator assembly base 902. When the AF coil 918 receives current, the magnetic field generated by the AF magnet 920 produces a Lorentz force that causes the AF carrier 908 to move, and thus causes the optical assembly 103 to move along the optical axis 101. The AF carrier 908 and the optical assembly 103 can move along with the second OIS carrier 906 along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103. However, since the AF carrier 908 and the optical assembly 103 can move along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322 as the second OIS carrier 906 moves, and the actuator assembly base 902 remains stationary relative to the first OIS carrier 904, the second OIS carrier 906 and the AF carrier 908, the air gap between the AF coil 918 and the AF magnet 920 can still change as the OIS of the optical assembly 103 moves.

[0072] This configuration and positioning of the magnets and coils allows the air gap between at least two of the first OIS magnet and coil pair, the second OIS magnet and coil pair, and the AF magnet and coil pair to remain constant as the optical assembly 103 moves along each of the optical axis, the first axis, and the second axis.

[0073] like Figure 10 As shown, the actuator assembly 1000 may include, along the optical axis 101 from the image sensor 108 to the optical assembly 103, an actuator assembly base 1002; a first OIS carrier 1004 positioned on and / or above the actuator assembly base 1002; an AF carrier 1008 positioned on and / or above the first OIS carrier 1004 and the actuator assembly base 1002; and a second OIS carrier 1006 attached to the optical assembly 103 and positioned on and / or above the AF carrier 1008, the first OIS carrier 1004, and the actuator assembly base 1002.

[0074] Actuator assembly 1000 may include and Figure 3 to Figure 8 The actuator assembly 200 has the same or similar features and is similar to Figure 9The actuator assembly 1000 can include the same or similar features as the actuator assembly 900. The actuator assembly 1000 can include an actuator assembly base 1002 having a first OIS coil 1010 and a second OIS coil 1014. The first OIS coil 1010 and the second OIS coil 1014 can be positioned in a flat orientation on a first arm 401 of the actuator assembly base 1002 and a second arm 403 of the actuator assembly base 1002, respectively. In other words, a wider side or a side having a greatest surface area of each of the first OIS coil 1010 and the second OIS coil 1014 can face in a direction parallel to the optical axis 101 and / or perpendicular to a surface of the image sensor (e.g., the image sensor 108) for generating a strong Lorentz force with the first OIS magnet 1012 and the second OIS magnet 1016, respectively, to control OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320 and the second axis 322. The actuator assembly base 1002 (and the first OIS carrier 1004 and the second OIS carrier 1008) can include an opening (e.g., centered on the optical axis 101) therethrough to allow light to be received by the image sensor 108 via a lens of the optical assembly 103.

[0075] Further, instead of the AF coil being positioned on the second OIS carrier 1006, the actuator assembly base 902 can include a vertical wall having the AF coil 1018 positioned thereon. As described herein, the AF coil 1018, when receiving a current, can interact with an AF magnet 1020 positioned on the AF carrier 1008 to generate a Lorentz force for moving the AF carrier 1008 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101.

[0076] A first OIS ball bearing 1022 can be positioned between the actuator assembly base 1002 and the first OIS carrier 1004 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320. A second OIS ball bearing 1024 can be positioned between the AF carrier 1008 and the second OIS carrier 1006 for OIS movement of the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322. The AF carrier 1008 can also include a first OIS magnet 1012 for interacting with a first OIS coil 1010 on the actuator assembly base 1002 for moving the optical assembly 103 along the first axis 320. The second OIS carrier 1006 can include a second OIS magnet 1016 for interacting with a second OIS coil 1014 on the actuator assembly base 902 for moving the optical assembly 103 along the second axis 322. Because of the arrangement of the magnets and coils and because the AF carrier 1008 is positioned between the first OIS carrier 1004 and the second OIS carrier 1006 such that the first OIS carrier 1004, the AF carrier 1008, and the second OIS carrier 1006 move in the x-direction (e.g., into and out of the page), the air gap between the first OIS coil 1010 and the first OIS magnet 1012 can remain constant. However, because of the arrangement of the magnets and coils and because the AF carrier 1008 is positioned between the first OIS carrier 1004 and the second OIS carrier 1006 such that movement of the AF carrier 1008 along the optical axis 101 causes movement of the second OIS carrier 1006 along the optical axis 101, the air gap between the second OIS coil 1014 and the second OIS magnet 1016 can vary as the AF carrier 1008 moves along the optical axis 101 for AF.

[0077] The AF carrier 1008 includes an AF magnet 1020. The AF magnet 920 is positioned adjacent to and aligned with the AF coil 1018 on the actuator assembly base 1002 to move the AF carrier 908 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101 for AF movement of the optical assembly 103. The AF track and AF ball bearings 1026 can be positioned on the vertical wall of the first OIS carrier 1004 to allow movement of the AF carrier 1008, the second OIS carrier 1006, and the optical assembly 103. When the AF coil 1018 receives a current, a magnetic field generated by the AF magnet 1020 creates a Lorentz force to move the AF carrier 1008, and thus the second OIS carrier 1006 and the optical assembly 103 along the optical axis 101. Because of the arrangement of the magnets and coils and because of the arrangement of the first OIS carrier 1002 such that the first OIS carrier 1004, the AF carrier 1008, and the second OIS carrier 1006 move in the x-direction (e.g., into and out of the page) and the OIS movement of the second OIS carrier 1006 in the y-direction (e.g., left and right across the page) does not cause movement of the AF carrier 1008 and the actuator assembly base 1002, the air gap between the AF magnet 1020 and the AF coil 1018 remains constant.

[0078] The configuration and arrangement can allow the air gap between at least two of the first OIS magnet and coil pair, the second OIS magnet and coil pair, and the AF magnet and coil pair to remain constant as the optical assembly 103 moves along each of the optical axis, the first axis, and the second axis.

[0079] It should be appreciated that for ball bearings and associated tracks, a pre-load plate positioned on an opposite side of the coil from the magnet can be used to retain the ball bearings in the associated tracks. For example, with respect to the actuator assembly 200, the second OIS carrier 306 can include a pre-load in the third wall 605 adjacent to the AF coil 628 and on a side of the AF coil 628 distal from the AF magnet 702. The magnetic attraction of the pre-load plate toward the AF magnet 702 forces the AF ball bearings 618 and the AF track 620 toward the AF track on the overhanging wall 720, thereby securing the AF ball bearings 618 into the track for AF movement of the AF carrier 308 and the optical assembly 103.

[0080] It should be understood that in some embodiments, the first OIS magnet (e.g., first OIS magnet 614), the second OIS magnet (e.g., second OIS magnet 616), and the AF magnet (e.g., AF magnet 720) may be bipolar magnets. A bipolar magnet comprises a pair of magnets positioned opposite each other such that at each end of the bipolar magnet pair, the positive end of one magnet is adjacent to the negative end of the other magnet. This configuration produces a smaller (e.g., possibly more concentrated) magnetic field, such that coils adjacent to the bipolar magnet are within the range of the magnetic field, while other objects near the bipolar magnet (e.g., including other VCMs) are outside the range of the bipolar magnet's magnetic field. Therefore, the bipolar magnetic element reduces interference between adjacent or nearby VCM actuators (e.g., nearby camera modules) and actuator assemblies and other components of the camera.

[0081] Figure 11 Examples of embodiments include cameras (e.g., as described herein with respect to...) Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 12 A schematic diagram of example device 1100 (described). In some embodiments, device 1100 may be a mobile device and / or a multi-functional device. In various embodiments, device 1100 may be any of a variety of types of devices, including but not limited to: personal computer systems, desktop computers, laptops, notebook computers, tablet computers, all-in-one computers, tablet computers or netbooks, mainframe computers, handheld computers, workstations, network computers, cameras, set-top boxes, mobile devices, augmented reality (AR) and / or virtual reality (VR) headsets, consumer devices, video game controllers, handheld video game devices, application servers, storage devices, televisions, video recording equipment, peripheral devices (such as switches, modems, routers), or any type of computing or electronic device in general.

[0082] In some embodiments, device 1100 may include a display system 1102 (e.g., including a display and / or a touch-sensitive surface) and / or one or more cameras 1104. In some non-limiting embodiments, the display system 1102 and / or one or more forward-facing cameras 1104a may be disposed on the front side of device 1100, for example, as shown in the image. Figure 11as indicated. Additionally or alternatively, one or more rear-facing cameras 1104b can be disposed at a rear side of device 1100. In some embodiments including multiple cameras 1104, some or all of the cameras can be the same as or similar to one another. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the cameras can be different from one another. In various embodiments, the positions and / or arrangements of cameras 1104 can be different from those indicated in FIG. 11B. Figure 11

[0083] wherein device 1100 can include a memory 1106 (e.g., including an operating system 1108 and / or application / program instructions 1110), one or more processors and / or controllers 1112 (e.g., including CPUs, memory controllers, display controllers, and / or camera controllers, etc.), and / or one or more sensors 1116 (e.g., orientation sensors, proximity sensors, and / or location sensors, etc.). In some embodiments, device 1100 can communicate with one or more other devices and / or services, such as computing device 1118, cloud services 1120, etc., via one or more networks 1122. For example, device 1100 can include a network interface (e.g., network interface 1110) that enables device 1100 to send and receive data with network 1122. Additionally or alternatively, device 1100 can be capable of communicating with other devices via wireless communications using any of a variety of communication standards, protocols, and / or technologies.

[0084] Figure 12 A schematic block diagram of an example computing device, referred to as computer system 1200, is illustrated that can include or host embodiments of a camera (e.g., as described herein with respect to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 ). Further, computer system 1200 can implement methods for controlling operation of a camera and / or for performing image processing on images captured with the camera. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, device 1200 (described herein with respect to Figure 12 ) can include some or all of the functional components of computer system 1200 described herein.

[0085] ​The computer system 1200 can be configured to perform any or all of the embodiments described above. In different embodiments, the computer system 1200 can be any of a variety of types of devices including, but not limited to: a personal computer system, desktop computer, laptop, notebook, tablet, all-in-one, slate, 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 electronics device; a video game console; a handheld video game device; an application server; a storage device; a television; a video recording device; a peripheral device such as a switch, modem, router; or any other type of computing or electronic device.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the computer system 1200 includes one or more processors 1202 coupled to a system memory 1204 via an input / output (I / O) interface 1206. The computer system 1200 further includes one or more cameras 1208 coupled to the I / O interface 1206. The computer system 1200 also includes a network interface 1210 coupled to the I / O interface 1206, and one or more input / output devices 1212, such as a cursor control device 1214, a keyboard 1216, and a display 1218. In some cases, it is contemplated that embodiments can be implemented using a single instance of the computer system 1200 while in other embodiments multiple such systems, or multiple nodes making up the computer system 1200, can be configured to host different portions or instances of the embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, some elements can be implemented via one or more nodes of the computer system 1200 that are distinct from those nodes used to implement other elements.

[0087] In various embodiments, the computer system 1200 can be a uniprocessor system including one processor 1202, or a multiprocessor system including several processors 1202 (e.g., two, four, eight, or another suitable number). The processor(s) 1202 can be any suitable processor capable of executing instructions. For example, in various embodiments, the processor(s) 1202 can be general- purpose or embedded processors implementing any of a variety of instruction set architectures (ISAs), such as the x86, PowerPC, SPARC, or MIPS ISAs, or any other suitable ISA. In multiprocessor systems, each of the processor(s) 1202 can typically, but is not required to, implement the same ISA.

[0088] The system memory 1204 can be configured to store program instructions 1220 accessible to the processor 1202. In various embodiments, the system memory 1204 can be implemented using any suitable memory technology, such as static random access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), nonvolatile / Flash-type memory, or any other type of memory. Additionally, the existing camera control data 1222 of the memory 1204 can include any of the above- described information or data structures. In some embodiments, the program instructions 1220 and / or data 1222 can be received, transmitted or stored on a different type of computer-accessible medium, or similar medium, that is separate from the system memory 1204 or computer system 1200. In various embodiments, some or all of the functionality described herein can be implemented via such a computer system 1200.

[0089] In one embodiment, the I / O interface 1206 can be configured to coordinate I / O traffic between the processor 1202, the system memory 1204, and any peripheral devices in the device, including peripheral interface(s) 1210 or other peripheral interfaces, such as input / output devices 1212. In some embodiments, the I / O interface 1206 can perform any necessary protocol, timing or other data transformations to convert data signals from one component (e.g., system memory 1204) into a format suitable for use by another component (e.g., the processor 1202). In some embodiments, the I / O interface 1206 can include support for devices attached through various types of peripheral buses, such as a variant of the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus standard or the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard, for example. In some embodiments, the functionality of the I / O interface 1206 can be divided between two or more separate components, such as a northbridge and a southbridge, for example. Also, in some embodiments some or all of the functionality of the I / O interface 1206, such as an interface to system memory 1204, can be incorporated directly into the processor 1202.

[0090] The network interface 1210 can be configured to allow data to be exchanged between the computer system 1200 and other devices attached to the network 1224 (e.g., a carrier or proxy device) or between nodes of the computer system 1200. In various embodiments, the network 1224 can include one or more networks including, but not limited to, a local area network (LAN), a general 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 1210 can support communication via wired or wireless general data networks, such as any suitable type of Ethernet network, as well as for communication via telecommunications / telephony networks such as analog voice networks or digital fiber communications networks (e.g., a Voice over Internet Protocol network), as well as for communication via storage area networks (such as Fibre Channel SANs), or any other suitable type of network and / or protocol.

[0091] In some embodiments, the input / output device(s) 1212 can include one or more display terminals, keyboards, keypads, touchpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other devices suitable to input or output data By way of example, the input / output device(s) 1212 can include a

[0092] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the computer system 1200 is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the scope of embodiments The computer system and devices can include any combination of hardware or software that can perform the indicated functions, including computers, network devices, internet appliances, PDAs, wireless telephones, pagers, etc Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the computer system 1200 can be connected to other devices that are not illustrated, or instead can operate as a stand-alone system In addition, the functionality provided by the illustrated components can in some embodiments be combined in fewer components or distributed in additional components In some embodiments, the functionality of some of the illustrated components can not be provided, and / or other additional functionality can be available

[0093] Those skilled in the art will also recognize that while various items are illustrated as being stored in memory or on storage devices during use, these items, or portions thereof, may be transferred between memory and other storage devices for memory management and data integrity purposes. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some or all of these software components may be executed in memory on another device and communicate with the illustrated computer system via inter-computer communication. Some or all of the system components or data structures may also be stored (e.g., as instructions or structured data) on a computer-accessible medium or portable article of manufacture for reading by a suitable drive, various examples of which are described above. In some embodiments, instructions stored on a computer-accessible medium separate from computer system 1200 may be transmitted to computer system 1200 via a transmission medium or signal (such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals transmitted via communication media such as networks and / or wireless links). Various embodiments may also include receiving, transmitting, or storing instructions and / or data implemented according to the above description on a computer-accessible medium. Generally, computer-accessible media may include non-transitory computer-readable storage media or memory media, such as magnetic or optical media, like discs or DVD / CD-ROMs, and volatile or non-volatile media, such as RAM (e.g., SDRAM, DDR, RDRAM, SRAM, etc.), ROM, etc. In some embodiments, computer-accessible media may include transmission media or signals, such as electrical signals, electromagnetic signals, or digital signals transmitted via communication media such as networks and / or wireless links.

[0094] In various implementations, the methods described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the order of the blocks of the method may be changed, and various elements may be added, reordered, combined, omitted, modified, etc. Various modifications and changes will be apparent to those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure. The various implementations described herein are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. Thus, multiple instances may be provided for a component described herein as a single instance. The boundaries between various components, operations, and data repositories are somewhat arbitrary, and specific operations are illustrated within the context of a particular illustrative configuration. Other allocations of functionality are contemplated, which may fall within the scope of the appended claims. Finally, the structure and functionality of the discrete components presented in the example configuration may be implemented as combined structures or components. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of the implementations as defined in the following claims.

[0095] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 682,309, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A camera, the camera comprising: An optical component having one or more lenses defining an optical axis; Actuator assembly, wherein the actuator assembly includes: A plurality of carriers, wherein a respective carrier among the plurality of carriers is configured to allow the optical component to move along a respective axis among the optical axis, a first axis orthogonal to the optical axis, and a second axis orthogonal to the first axis and the optical axis; Multiple ball bearings are used in the respective carriers. The respective ball bearing among the plurality of ball bearings is used to allow movement along the respective axis; as well as A plurality of actuators, wherein a respective actuator of the plurality of actuators is configured to move the optical component along a respective axis via the respective carrier in response to receiving a current, wherein the coils of at least two actuators of the plurality of actuators for moving the optical component along at least two of the respective axes face a direction parallel to the optical axis, and wherein the respective gap between the magnet and the associated coil of the at least two actuators of the plurality of actuators for moving the optical component along at least two of the respective axes remains constant during the movement of the optical component along each of the optical axis, the first axis, and the second axis.

2. The camera of claim 1, wherein the plurality of carriers includes at least a first optical image stabilization (OIS) carrier, a second OIS carrier, and an autofocus (AF) carrier arranged in a stacked configuration along the optical axis.

3. The camera of claim 2, wherein the AF carrier is fixedly attached to the optical assembly, and wherein the second OIS carrier is positioned between the AF carrier and the first OIS carrier along the optical axis.

4. The camera of claim 3, wherein the plurality of actuators includes a first OIS actuator, a second OIS actuator, and an AF actuator, and wherein the coil of the AF actuator is positioned on the second OIS carrier.

5. The camera of claim 3, further comprising a base positioned on the image side of the plurality of carriers, wherein the plurality of actuators includes a first OIS actuator, a second OIS actuator, and an AF actuator, and wherein the coil of the AF actuator is positioned on a wall of the base.

6. The camera of claim 2, wherein the first OIS carrier is attached to the optical assembly, and wherein the AF carrier is positioned between the first OIS carrier and the second OIS carrier along the optical axis.

7. The camera of claim 6, further comprising a base positioned on the image side of the plurality of carriers, wherein the plurality of actuators includes a first OIS actuator, a second OIS actuator, and an AF actuator, and wherein the coil of the AF actuator is positioned on a wall of the base.

8. An apparatus, said apparatus comprising: One or more processors; The memory stores program instructions that can be executed by the one or more processors to control the operation of the camera; and The camera, the camera includes: An optical component having one or more lenses defining an optical axis; Actuator assembly, wherein the actuator assembly includes: A plurality of carriers, wherein a respective carrier among the plurality of carriers is configured to allow the optical component to move along a respective axis among the optical axis, a first axis orthogonal to the optical axis, and a second axis orthogonal to the first axis and the optical axis; A plurality of ball bearings for the respective carrier, wherein a respective ball bearing among the plurality of ball bearings is configured to allow movement along the respective axis; and A plurality of actuators, wherein a respective actuator of the plurality of actuators is configured to move the optical component along a respective axis via the respective carrier in response to receiving a current, wherein the coils of at least two actuators of the plurality of actuators for moving the optical component along at least two of the respective axes face a direction parallel to the optical axis, and wherein the respective gap between the magnet and the associated coil of the at least two actuators of the plurality of actuators for moving the optical component along at least two of the respective axes remains constant during the movement of the optical component along each of the optical axis, the first axis, and the second axis.

9. The device of claim 8, further comprising a base positioned on the image side of the plurality of carriers, wherein the coil for moving the optical component along the respective axes and facing the at least two of the plurality of actuators in a direction parallel to the optical axis is positioned on a support of the base.

10. The device of claim 8, wherein the plurality of carriers includes at least a first optical image stabilization (OIS) carrier, a second OIS carrier, and an autofocus (AF) carrier arranged in a stacked configuration along the optical axis.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the AF carrier is fixedly attached to the optical component, and wherein the second OIS carrier is positioned between the AF carrier and the first OIS carrier along the optical axis.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the plurality of actuators includes a first OIS actuator, a second OIS actuator, and an AF actuator, and wherein the coil of the AF actuator is positioned on the second OIS carrier.

13. The device of claim 10, wherein the plurality of OIS actuators includes at least one magnet, and wherein the at least one magnet of the plurality of OIS actuators is fixedly attached to the second carrier and vertically aligned with the at least one coil of the plurality of OIS actuators.

14. The device of claim 10, wherein the first OIS carrier, the second OIS carrier, and the AF carrier are arranged in a stacked configuration along the optical axis, wherein the AF carrier is fixedly attached to the optical assembly, and wherein the second OIS carrier is positioned along the optical axis between the AF carrier and the first OIS assembly.

15. An actuator assembly, the actuator assembly comprising: A plurality of carriers, wherein a respective carrier among the plurality of carriers is configured to allow an optical component to move along a respective axis of an optical axis, a first axis orthogonal to the optical axis, and a second axis orthogonal to the first axis and the optical axis; A plurality of ball bearings are used in the respective carrier, wherein a respective ball bearing among the plurality of ball bearings is used to allow movement along the respective axis; and A plurality of actuators, wherein a respective actuator of the plurality of actuators is configured to move the optical component along a respective axis via the respective carrier in response to receiving a current, wherein the coils of at least two actuators of the plurality of actuators for moving the optical component along at least two of the respective axes face a direction parallel to the optical axis, and wherein the respective gap between the magnet and the associated coil of the at least two actuators of the plurality of actuators for moving the optical component along at least two axes remains constant during the movement of the optical component along each of the optical axis, the first axis and the second axis.

16. The actuator assembly of claim 15, wherein the plurality of carriers includes at least a first optical image stabilization (OIS) carrier, a second OIS carrier, and an autofocus (AF) carrier arranged in a stacked configuration along the optical axis.

17. The actuator assembly of claim 16, wherein the AF carrier is fixedly attached to the optical assembly, and wherein the second OIS carrier is positioned between the AF carrier and the first OIS carrier along the optical axis.

18. The actuator assembly of claim 17, wherein the plurality of actuators includes a first OIS actuator, a second OIS actuator, and an AF actuator, and wherein the coil of the AF actuator is positioned on the second OIS carrier.

19. The actuator assembly of claim 17, further comprising a base positioned on the image side of the plurality of carriers, wherein the plurality of actuators includes a first OIS actuator, a second OIS actuator, and an AF actuator, and wherein a coil of the AF actuator is positioned on a wall of the base.

20. The actuator assembly of claim 15, further comprising an electrical interconnect configured to bend and supply current from a fixed assembly of the camera to a coil of one of the actuators positioned on a movable carrier among the plurality of carriers.

Images