System for pop-up camera

Abstract

A camera module for a portable electronic device is provided. The camera module includes a movable lens barrel including an objective lens assembly defining one or more lens elements in coaxial retention on an optical axis. The camera module includes a retractable cover window. The lens barrel is provided in an operational state and a retracted state, and the cover window has corresponding extended and retracted positions. The camera further includes an actuator provided with a drive motor; a pop-up assembly actuated by the actuator. The pop-up assembly includes a drive cam arranged for rotational drive by the actuator, a holder for receiving the lens barrel, and an image sensor for imaging a field of view of the objective lens assembly when the lens barrel is in the operational state.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with the application number 202280005503.0 and the invention title "System for Pop-up Camera" filed on January 9, 2023. Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to the following U.S. Provisional Patent Applications: 63 / 159,660 filed on March 11, 2021, 63 / 230,972 filed on August 9, 2021, 63 / 276,072 filed on November 5, 2021, 63 / 280,244 filed on November 17, 2021, 63 / 280,732 filed on November 18, 2021, 63 / 285,144 filed on December 2, 2021, and 63 / 298,335 filed on January 11, 2022, the entire contents of all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] This application generally relates to the field of digital cameras. More specifically, this application relates to digital cameras having a pop-up component. Background art

[0004] Camera modules in smartphones and tablet computers typically need to have a low thickness (slim) in order to fit into the housings of these devices. The measure of "slimness" is typically referred to in the art by the term "total travel length" or TTL (total lens length). As shown in Figure 1-A, TTL is typically defined as the distance from the outermost lens to the image sensor of the camera module.

[0005] Methods of enhancing camera performance can particularly include increasing the size of the image sensor. The benefits of a larger image sensor include: improved performance in low light conditions, better resolution, and higher color fidelity. However, increasing the size of the image sensor requires increasing the TTL of the module to maintain a similar field of view (FOV). In fact, as Figure 1B shown, for a rectangular image sensor with a diagonal length of S, the size of the image sensor, the field of view (FOV), and the effective focal length (EFL) are related by the following relationship:

[0006] Therefore, in order not to reduce the FOV and increase the diagonal length S of the image sensor, it is necessary to increase the EFL. Since EFL < TTL, increasing the EFL means increasing the TTL. But the need to increase the TTL conflicts with the aforementioned requirement for a small thickness, which represents a technical challenge.

[0007] A standard technique for addressing this challenge includes a camera module with a pop-out component that allows the camera module to switch between a retracted state (in which the camera module is not operational) and an extended state (in which the camera module is operational). An example of this technique is disclosed, for instance, in common international patent publication number WO2021 / 059097. This pop-out technology allows the camera to increase its TTL only when in use and decrease its TTL when not in use. Clearly, a slim profile is only required when the camera is not operational (e.g., when the smartphone is in a pocket). Therefore, designing the module to extend and retract as needed addresses these conflicting requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the subject matter of this application, a camera module for a portable electronic device is provided, the camera module comprising: a lens barrel including an objective lens assembly coaxially holding one or more lens elements defining an optical axis, the lens barrel being configured to move axially between an operating state and a retracted state; a cover window disposed above the lens barrel and configured to move axially between a retracted position and an extended position; an actuator including a drive motor; a cover window pop-out assembly actuated by the actuator, the pop-out assembly including a drive cam configured to be rotated by the drive motor, the drive cam being connected to the cover window such that rotation of the drive cam causes the cover window to move axially between the retracted position and the extended position; a bracket configured (optionally concentrically) to receive the lens barrel; a lens barrel pop-out assembly configured to move the lens barrel axially from the retracted state to the operating state; and an image sensor configured to image the field of view of the objective lens assembly when the lens barrel is in the operating state.

[0009] Unless otherwise stated, all actuators mentioned in this specification are ejection actuators used to eject camera lenses, lens barrels, or other camera components.

[0010] In addition to the features described above, a camera module relating to this aspect of the subject matter of this application may optionally include one or more of the following features (i) to (xlv) in any technically possible combination or arrangement: i. The cover window is configured to push the lens barrel into the retracted state when the lens barrel is in the operating state and when the cover window pop-up component controls the cover window to move from the extended position to the retracted position; ii. A rear housing, configured to accommodate the camera module, and a front housing, configured to axially hold the drive cam on the rear housing while allowing the drive cam to rotate; iii. A front ball bearing connected between the front housing and the drive cam, and / or a rear ball bearing connected between the drive cam and the rear housing; iv. The tube pop-out assembly and the cover window pop-out assembly work together; v. Protective seals, configured to maintain the airtightness of the camera module; vi. One or more static lens elements are arranged to be stationary relative to the rear housing; vii. The actuator consists of a worm and a worm wheel. The worm is configured to be powered by a drive motor, and the worm wheel is connected to the worm and the drive cam, so that the rotation of the worm drives the rotation of the drive cam. viii. The bracket is connected to the drive cam, so that the rotation of the drive cam causes the bracket to move axially, and the cover is fixedly connected to the bracket, so that the axial movement of the bracket causes the cover to move between the retracted position and the extended position; ix. The bracket is connected to the drive cam to form a helical cam mechanism, and the lens barrel ejection assembly includes a fixed connection between the lens barrel and the bracket, such that the rotation of the drive cam causes the bracket to move the lens barrel between a retracted state and an operational state; x. A frictional connection between the drive cam and the worm gear, the connection being configured to be overcome when a compressive force greater than a predetermined threshold is applied to the support; xi. At least one cam helical groove in the drive cam is configured to cooperate with at least one bracket helical groove in the bracket to surround at least one corresponding bearing ball capable of transmitting motion from the drive cam to the bracket.

[0011] xii. The support includes a support tube and at least one support spiral groove formed on the outer surface of the support tube; xiii. The drive cam includes a cam cylinder concentric with the support cylinder outward, and at least one cam helical groove is formed on the inner surface of the cam cylinder; xiv. The rear housing includes one or more housing axial grooves configured to engage with one or more bracket axial grooves in the bracket to surround at least one or more corresponding positioning bearing balls capable of maintaining the concentricity of the bracket relative to the rear housing.

[0012] xv. The support includes a support tube, and one or more axial grooves formed on the inner surface of the support tube; xvi. The rear housing includes a central cylinder, and one or more housing axial grooves formed on the outer surface of the central cylinder; xvii. The camera module includes a preload spring, which is configured to bias the support to prevent recoil; xviii. The support includes a support cylinder, and the drive cam includes a cam cylinder concentrically outwardly with the support cylinder, and one or more emergency pins that project radially outwardly from the support cylinder and engage with one or more corresponding emergency helical grooves in the cam cylinder, such that the one or more emergency pins engage with the one or more emergency helical grooves only when a compressive force greater than a predetermined threshold is applied axially to the support; xix. The camera module includes a rear housing configured to house the camera module, and a drive cam including at least one radial pin that engages with the support by protruding through at least one corresponding helical groove in the support, thereby enabling axial movement of the support when the drive cam rotates. The at least one pin also protrudes through at least one corresponding axial groove in the rear housing to maintain the concentricity of the support relative to the housing. The actuator also includes a worm gear, which is configured to be powered by a drive motor; and a worm wheel, which is connected to the worm gear and the drive cam, such that rotation of the worm gear drives rotation of the drive cam, wherein the worm wheel and the drive cam are integrally formed. xxi. The bracket is spring-loaded to prevent recoil and absorb mechanical vibration; xxii. In the event of mechanical vibration, the spring also disengages the actuator from the drive cam, and after the impact stops, the spring reconnects the actuator to the drive cam; xxiii. The actuator includes a worm gear configured to be powered by a drive motor; and a worm wheel connected to the worm gear and a drive cam, such that rotation of the worm gear drives rotation of the drive cam and an intermediate gear between the worm gear and the worm wheel. xxiv. The worm is configured to slide along the shaft, and the actuator includes a spring that loads the worm to prevent backlash and optionally absorb mechanical vibrations; xxv. At least one lens element in the objective lens assembly is cut to form a D-cut lens, thereby releasing the volume of the D-cut; xxvi. Removing 10% to 30% of the optical height of a D-type cut lens; xxvii. The shape of the lens barrel frame conforms to the D-cut lens, thus freeing up the D-cut volume between the lens barrel and the support; xxviii. The camera module also includes an autofocus (AF) module integrated within a D-shaped cut-out volume; xxix. The difference between the diameter of the microscope tube and the diameter of the support is less than 3mm, and optionally less than 1mm; The AF module includes an axial connector disposed between the lens barrel and the support, allowing the lens barrel to move axially relative to the support. The xxxi. AF module also includes a permanent magnet fixed to the outer wall of the lens barrel; and an electromagnetic coil fixed to the inner wall of the support, wherein the coil is configured such that when the lens barrel is in operation, the current in the coil can induce an axial force on the permanent magnet, thereby causing axial movement of the lens barrel and activating the camera module's autofocus capability; xxxii. The permanent magnet and the electric coil form the lens barrel ejection assembly, and are further configured such that when the cover window moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the current in the electric coil can induce an axial force on the permanent magnet to bring the lens barrel from the retracted state to the operational state; xxxiii. The support includes a stop that is configured to restrict the retraction movement of the cylinder relative to the support; xxxiv. The relative movement between the support and the cylinder caused by the AF module is within 0.1 mm to 5 mm; The xxxv. AF module also includes a drive circuit and a position sensor, the drive circuit being configured to control the AF module, and the position sensor being used to determine the position of the lens barrel relative to the support. The xxxvi. AF module also includes a printed circuit board (PCB) fixed to the inner wall of the bracket, with the drive circuitry and coils mounted on the PCB; xxxvii. The AF module also includes current supply wiring for supplying current to the AF module, the current supply wiring being embedded in the flexural portion and including wires for circuit wiring; xxxviii. The flexural portion has a stiffness below a predetermined threshold; xxxix. The cover window assembly is configured to provide an axial clearance between the lens in the working position and the cover window in the extended position; The lens barrel ejection assembly includes a biasing mechanism configured to move the lens barrel to the operating state (or at least move towards the autofocus range) when the lens barrel is in the retracted state. xli. The cover window is configured to push the lens barrel into a retracted state when the lens barrel is in operation, and the cover window is controlled by the cover window pop-out assembly to move from the extended position to the retracted position; xlii. The cover window is configured to keep the telescope in the retracted position when the telescope is in the retracted position; xliii. The cover window is configured to release the biasing mechanism when it is controlled to move from the retracted position to the extended position; The biasing mechanism includes a compression spring; The biasing mechanism includes a magnetic spring.

[0013] According to another aspect of the subject matter of this application, this aspect provides a camera module including a lens barrel comprising an objective lens assembly that defines one or more lens elements coaxially along an optical axis, the lens barrel having an operating state and a retracted state; a support configured to receive the lens barrel, the lens barrel being axially movable relative to the support; a magnetic spring assembly comprising: at least one permanent magnet fixed to the lens barrel; a ferromagnetic yoke fixed to the support, wherein the magnetic spring is configured to cause the lens barrel to axially move relative to the support from the retracted state toward the operating state; and an image sensor configured to image the field of view of the objective lens assembly when the lens barrel is in the operating state.

[0014] In addition to the features described above, the camera module of this application may optionally include one or more of the following features (i) to (xxiii) and corresponding sub-features in any technically possible combination or arrangement: i. The permanent magnet is fixed to the outer wall of the lens barrel; ii. The range of movement caused by the interaction between the ferromagnetic yoke and the permanent magnet is within 0.5 mm to 10 mm; iii. The extension stroke of the lens barrel is greater than 10%, 15%, 20%, or 30% of the height of the camera module in its retracted state; iv. The extension stroke of the lens barrel is less than half the height of the camera module in its retracted state; v. The camera module also includes a retractable cover window, which is positioned above the lens barrel and is axially movable relative to the support between a retracted position and an extended position. The retractable cover window is configured to hold the lens barrel in the retracted position when in the retracted position, and to provide axial clearance between the lens barrel in operation and the cover window in the extended position when in the extended position. vi. The retractable cover is configured to move the lens barrel from the operating state to the retracted state when the cover moves from the extended position to the retracted position; vii. The retractable cover window is configured to push the lens barrel into a retracted state when the lens barrel is in operation, and the cover window is controlled by the cover window pop-out assembly to move from the extended position to the retracted position; viii. The camera module includes a cover window pop-out assembly configured to controllably move the cover window from a retracted position to an extended position; ix. The magnetic spring is also configured to hold the cylinder in the operating position; x. The lens barrel and the support shaft are axially connected by using at least one or more axial rails and one or more corresponding bearing balls, which are surrounded therebetween.

[0015] xi. At least one lens in the objective lens assembly is cut to form a D-cut lens, thereby releasing the D-cut volume; xii. 10% to 30% of the optical height of the D-type cut lens is removed; xiii. The shape of the lens frame conforms to the D-cut lens, thus freeing up the D-cut volume between the lens barrel and the support; xiv. The camera module also includes an AF module integrated within a D-shaped cut volume; xv. The difference between the diameter of the microscope tube and the diameter of the support is less than 3 mm, and optionally less than 1 mm; xvi. The AF module includes at least one electrical coil fixed to the inner wall of the support; wherein the electrical coil is configured such that when the lens is moved toward the operating state into the autofocus range, the current in the at least one electrical coil can induce an axial force on at least one permanent magnet, thereby causing the lens barrel to move axially toward the operating state and enabling the autofocus function of the camera module; xvii. The axial movement caused by the AF module is within the range of 0.5mm to 2.5mm; xviii. The AF module also includes a drive circuit and a position sensor. The drive circuit is configured to control the AF module, and the position sensor is used to determine the position of the lens barrel. The xix. AF module also includes a PCB fixed to the inner wall of the bracket, with the drive circuitry and coils mounted on the PCB; The AF module also includes current supply wiring for supplying current to the AF module, the current supply wiring being embedded in the flexural portion and including wires for circuit wiring; xxi. The flexural portion has a stiffness below a predetermined threshold; xxii. The camera module also includes an optical image stabilization (OIS) system, which is configured to move the image sensor; xxiii. The camera module also includes the OIS system mentioned in the third aspect of this application.

[0016] Another aspect of this application provides an optical image stabilization (OIS) system for a camera module, which allows a lens barrel to move in a plane parallel to the image sensor of the camera module. The OIS system forms a layered structure comprising: a bottom frame mounted on a circuit board; a middle frame mounted on and axially connected to the bottom frame to enable axial movement relative to the bottom frame in a first axial direction parallel to the PCB plane; a top frame fixedly connected to a bracket of the camera module, mounted on and axially connected to the middle frame to enable axial displacement relative to the middle frame in a second axial direction parallel to the PCB plane (transverse to the first axial direction); and first and second induction motors configured to controllably drive axial movement of the middle frame in the first axial direction and drive axial movement of the top frame in the second axial direction.

[0017] Another aspect of this application provides a camera module including a lens barrel comprising an objective lens assembly that coaxially holds one or more lens elements defining an optical axis, the lens barrel being configured to move axially between an operating state and a retracted state; a support configured to concentrically house the lens barrel, the lens barrel being axially movable relative to the support; an image sensor configured to image the field of view of the objective lens assembly when the lens barrel is in the operating state; an AF module including an induction motor generating linear motion, the induction motor being positioned in a radial gap between the support and the lens barrel, and configured to cause axial movement of the lens barrel relative to the support when the lens barrel is in the operating state to achieve autofocus; and an OIS system for allowing the lens barrel to... Moving in a plane parallel to the image sensor, the OIS system forms a layered structure, which includes: a bottom frame fixed relative to the image sensor; a middle frame mounted on and axially connected to the bottom frame so as to be axially movable relative to the bottom frame in a first axial direction parallel to the image sensor; a top frame fixedly connected to a bracket, which is mounted on and axially connected to the middle frame so as to be axially movable relative to the middle frame in a second axial direction parallel to the PCB plane (transverse to the first axial direction); and first and second OIS induction motors configured to controllably drive the axial movement of the middle frame in the first axial direction and the axial movement of the top frame in the second axial direction.

[0018] In addition to the features described above, the camera module of this application subject matter may optionally include one or more of the following features (i) to (xiii) and corresponding sub-features in any technically possible combination or arrangement: i. A PCB, wherein the first and second OIS induction motors include first and second coils mounted on the PCB; ii. The image sensor is mounted on the PCB board; iii. The top frame is connected to the base of the bracket; iv. The connection between the bottom frame and the middle frame, and the connection between the middle frame and the top frame, are formed by a first set of tracks and a second set of tracks, which respectively enable the top frame to move axially along a first magnetic axis on the middle frame and enable the middle frame to move axially along a second magnetic axis on the bottom frame; v. At least one of the first and second sets of guide rails also surrounds the bearing balls; vi. A cylinder ejection assembly, configured to drive the cylinder between a retracted state and an operational state; vii. A retractable cover window, positioned above the mirror tube and axially movable relative to the support between a retracted and an extended position; viii. Where the height of the OIS system is less than 50%, 30%, 25%, or 15% of the height of the camera module in its retracted state; ix. A current supply wiring for supplying current to the AF module, the current supply wiring being embedded in a flexure portion including wiring for circuitry, the flexure portion being supported on a top frame, and the support including through-holes for allowing the flexure portion to reach the AF module; x. The extension stroke of the lens barrel is greater than 10%, 15%, 20%, or 30% of the height of the camera module in its retracted state; xi. The extension stroke of the lens barrel is less than half the height of the camera module in its retracted state; xii. An optical filter configured to filter out a predetermined portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be detected by an image sensor; xiii. The objective lens assembly comprises four or more lenses.

[0019] According to another aspect of the subject matter of this application, an electronic portable device is provided, which includes a camera module according to any of the foregoing aspects.

[0020] According to another aspect of the subject matter of this application, a camera module for a portable electronic device is provided. The camera module includes: a lens, an objective lens assembly including one or more lens elements coaxially holding a defining optical axis, the lens barrel being axially movable between an operating state and a retracted state; an actuator including a drive motor; a cover window pop-out assembly actuated by the actuator, the pop-out assembly including a drive cam configured to be rotatably driven by the drive motor, the drive cam being coupled to the cover window such that rotation of the drive cam causes the cover window to move axially between a retracted position and an extended position; a support configured to concentrically receive the lens barrel; the window pop-out assembly being configured to push the lens axially from the retracted state to the operating state, thereby defining the height of the window pop-out assembly; and an image sensor configured to image the field of view of the objective lens assembly when the lens is in the operating state. Additionally, in the pop-out state, the window pop-out assembly may not contact the lens.

[0021] In this application, the following terms and their derivatives may be understood according to the following interpretations: The term "Total Length of Motion" (TTL) can refer to the maximum distance measured along an axis parallel to the optical axis of the camera module, between a point on the front surface of the farthest lens element and the image sensor of the camera module when the camera module is at infinity focus. The height of the camera module can be greater than the TTL because it may also include a rear housing and cover window.

[0022] The terms "horizontal plane," "XY plane," or "sensor plane" can refer to a plane parallel to the image sensor of the camera module. The term "vertical" can refer to a direction perpendicular to the horizontal sensor plane. The optical axis of the camera module can extend parallel to the vertical axis and can be extended to what is called the Z-axis.

[0023] The terms "up / down," "top / bottom," and "top / bottom" can refer to differences in the Z-coordinate. The terms "height" and "depth" refer to vertical distance (in the Z-direction), while "width" and "length" refer to horizontal distance (in the X or Y direction). Terms such as "vertical" or "horizontal" do not imply the orientation of the camera module during use. During use or manufacturing, the camera module can be oriented in any suitable direction, such as laterally.

[0024] The terms “inner” and “outer”, and their derivatives such as “inward” and “outward”, can be defined with reference to the optical axis of a camera module, where an element closer to the optical axis than another element is called the inner element, and if it is farther away, it is called the outer element. Similarly, the inner surface or wall of an element is defined as the surface closer to the optical axis than the outer surface of the same element.

[0025] The terms "proximal" and "distal" can be used to refer to elements that are relatively close to the image sensor along the Z-axis. If one element is farther from the sensor than another element, that element can be referred to as the distal end, and the other element can be referred to as the proximal end.

[0026] The term "linkage" can refer to a mechanical connection between two (or more) elements that enables the transmission of motion from one element to another. The term "linkage" can also include a direct connection (abutment) between elements that are indirectly connected (linked). For example, an axial connection can refer to a mechanical connection that allows two elements to move axially relative to each other. A fixed connection between two elements can refer to a connection in which any motion of one element is transmitted to the same motion of the other element, such as when the two elements are attached to each other. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To better understand the subject matter disclosed in this application and to illustrate how this application can be implemented in practice, embodiments will now be described by way of non-limiting example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A-1B The definitions of various terms, such as TTL and EFL, used throughout this application are illustrated. Figure 2A-2B Schematic diagrams showing a general camera module in an inactive mode and an active mode, respectively, according to some embodiments of the first aspect of this application; Figures 3A-3D An isometric side view of a camera module with respect to an embodiment of the first aspect of this application is shown in inactive and active modes. Figures 4A-4E Showing Figures 3A-3D Isometric side view of the various components of the camera module shown; Figure 5 Showing Figures 3A-3D An exploded view of the various components of the camera module shown; Figure 6 Showing Figures 3A-3D Another exploded view of the camera module shown; Figure 7 Showing Figure 6 An exploded view of the components of the camera module shown; Figures 8A-8B They were shown respectively Figures 3A-3D The image shows cross-sectional views of the camera module in inactive and active modes. Figures 9A-9B An isometric side view of a camera module with respect to another embodiment of the first aspect of this application, in both inactive and active modes, is shown. Figures 10A-10B The internal components of the camera module in Figure 9 are shown in both the retracted and extended states; Figure 11 The additional internal components of the camera module in Figure 9 are shown when it is in the extended state; Figure 12A-12D Components of a camera module with respect to other embodiments of the first aspect of this application are shown; Figure 13 An exploded view of a camera module according to another embodiment of the first aspect of this application is shown; Figures 14A-14B Showing Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the camera module in two vertically orthogonal planes; Figure 15A Showing Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of some components of the camera module in a horizontal plane, and Figure 15B Corresponding cross-sectional views of some components of a camera module without a D-shaped cut lens, according to other embodiments of this application, are shown; Figures 16A-16C The examples of regular lenses and D-cut lenses are shown in general; Figures 17A-17B Various component views of the autofocus module according to embodiments of the present invention are shown; Figures 18A-18B The diagram illustrates a general camera module in both inactive and active modes, relating to the second aspect of this application. Figure 19 for Figures 18A-18B A magnetic diagram showing the camera module in a retracted state.

[0028] Figures 20A-20B The camera modules of the embodiments of the second aspect are shown in cross-sectional views; Figures 21A-21B for Figures 20A-20B The camera module is shown in cross-sectional isometric views in both inactive and active modes, with some components hidden.

[0029] Figures 22A-22B Experimental data on magnetic springs with different structures according to embodiments of the second aspect of this application are presented; Figures 23A-23C A schematic diagram of an OIS module relating to an embodiment of the third aspect of this application is shown in general. Figure 24 An OIS system with respect to an embodiment of the third aspect of this application is shown; Figures 25A-25B The embodiments of this application are shown respectively. Figure 24 Exploded view and isometric side view of the camera module of the OIS system in the image; Figure 26The isometric side view of the lens barrel of the camera module shown in FIG25 illustrates some embodiments of this application; Figures 27A-27B Several individual components of the camera module in FIG25 are shown in some embodiments of this application; Figure 28 A standalone element of the camera module shown in FIG25, which relates to some embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Figure 2A-2B The diagram illustrates a camera module 100 according to a general embodiment of the first aspect of this application, in both an inactive mode and an active mode. The camera module 100 may be included in portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and PDAs (handheld computers).

[0031] Camera module 100 includes a lens barrel 120, a bracket 130 configured to coaxially house the lens barrel 120, and an image sensor 160. The lens barrel 120 includes an objective lens assembly that coaxially holds one or more lens elements 125 defining the optical axis Z of the camera module. Camera module 100 also includes a retractable cover window 150. The bracket 130 may be configured to form a sleeve surrounding the lens barrel 120. The cover window 150 typically includes a protective surface with an opening, preferably located at the center of the protective surface. This opening may be closed by a sealing element that allows light to pass through. The protective surface of the cover window 150 may be exposed to the external environment, i.e., as the element in camera module 100 furthest from the image sensor 160. The cover window 150 may be configured to be axially movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the retracted position and the extended position corresponding to a proximal axial position and a distal axial position of the cover window relative to the image sensor 160, respectively. The lens barrel 120 also has an operating state and a retracted state, corresponding to the proximal and distal axial positions of the lens barrel relative to the image sensor 160, respectively. In the operating state, the image sensor 160 can be positioned in the focal plane or imaging plane of the objective lens assembly. In the operating mode of the camera module, the cover window 150 can be in the extended position and the lens barrel 120 can be in the operating state, while in the non-operating mode of the camera module, the cover window 150 can be in the retracted position and the lens barrel 120 can be in the retracted state. The movement of the cover window 150 and the lens barrel 120 between the retracted / extended position and the retracted / operating state can be coordinated to allow the camera module 100 to selectively operate in the operating or non-operating mode. The camera module 100 may include a coordinating mechanism / controller for coordinating the movement of the cover window and the lens barrel. In the non-operating mode, the camera module can be disabled, i.e., the camera module cannot image the field of view of the objective lens assembly. The operating mode corresponds to the pop-up state of the camera module 100, where the TTL (and module height) of the camera module is greater than the TTL (and module height) of the camera module in the retracted state (also known as cTTL).

[0032] In the retracted position, the cover 150 may be positioned near the farthest surface of the lens barrel 120 in the retracted state. In some embodiments, the cover 150 in the retracted position may abut against the farthest surface (e.g., an edge) of the lens barrel 120 in the retracted state. In the extended position, the cover 150 may be positioned to provide an axial gap to the lens barrel 120, which is in an operational state. The height difference between the extended and retracted states of the camera module 100 may be greater than 10%, greater than 20%, or greater than 30% of the height of the camera module in the retracted state. The camera module 100 may also include a cover pop-out assembly 110 configured to controllably move the cover 150 axially between the retracted and extended positions. The cover pop-out assembly 110 may be configured to reversibly move the cover between the retracted and extended positions, that is, to move the cover from the retracted position to the extended position and vice versa.

[0033] Camera module 100 may further include lens barrel pop-out assembly 111 (in Figure 2A-2B(Indicated by dashed lines), this component is configured to cause the lens barrel 120 to move axially from a retracted state to an operational state when the cover window moves from a retracted position to an extended position. In some embodiments, the lens barrel pop-out component may be configured to move the lens barrel 120 axially between the retracted and operational states (i.e., reversibly). It should be noted below that the term "movement between a position / state / mode" should refer to reversible movement, i.e., bidirectional. The term "movement from one position / state / mode to another position / state / mode" may refer only to unidirectional movement. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the lens barrel pop-out component may be implemented through a fixed connection / attachment between the lens barrel 120 and the cover window 150, such that axial movement of the cover window 150 causes axial movement of the lens barrel 120. Therefore, in these embodiments, the cover window pop-out component 110 may actually be configured to controllably move the lens barrel 120 together with the cover window 150. In other words, the cover window pop-out component 110 can perform movement of the cover window 150 between retracted and extended positions and movement of the lens barrel 120 between the retracted and operational states. In some other embodiments, the lens barrel ejection assembly may include a biasing mechanism configured to bias the lens barrel toward an operating state when the lens barrel is in a retracted state. A cover window in the retracted position may be configured to hold the lens barrel in the retracted state. The cover window may be configured to release the biasing mechanism when it moves from the retracted position to the extended position. The cover window may be further configured to return it from the operating state to the retracted state when the lens barrel moves from the extended position to the retracted position. In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism may be implemented by a magnetic spring, which will be described in more detail below, especially with respect to the second aspect of this application. In other embodiments, the biasing mechanism may be implemented by a mechanical spring. In other embodiments, the lens barrel ejection assembly may be implemented by an induction motor that generates linear motion, which will be described in detail below, especially with... Figure 13 Related to Figure 14. For example, the telescope tube ejection assembly may include a permanent magnet fixed to the outer wall of the telescope tube and an electric coil fixed to the inner wall of the support. The magnet and the electric coil may be configured such that the current in the electric coil can induce an axial force on the permanent magnet so as to bring the telescope tube from the retracted state to the operational state, at least when the cover window moves from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0034] The camera assembly 100 further includes a actuator 140 with a drive motor configured to control the cover glass pop-out assembly 110. In embodiments with a separate lens barrel pop-out assembly 111, the actuator 140 of the cover glass pop-out assembly can serve as the actuator for the lens barrel pop-out assembly. In some embodiments, the lens barrel pop-out assembly can be driven independently of the drive of the cover glass pop-out assembly. The cover glass pop-out assembly 110 may include a drive cam (not shown) configured to be rotated by the actuator 140.

[0035] The cover 150 can be connected to a drive cam such that rotation of the drive cam in a first rotational direction can axially move the cover 150 from a retracted position to an extended position. Rotation of the drive cam in a second, opposite rotational direction can axially move the cover 150 from the retracted position to the extended position. The rotation of the drive cam can be about a rotational axis parallel to the Z-axis. Compared to axial drive cams of the prior art, the implementation of a rotary drive cam provides a significant improvement in the utilization of available space in the camera module. The camera module 100 may include a housing (not shown) for housing the cover pop-out assembly 110. The retractable cover 150 may be configured to be axially movable relative to the housing. The drive cam can be rotatably connected to the housing via one or more bearing balls enclosed in one or more corresponding arcuate or circular grooves formed within the housing. These connections utilizing bearing balls in arcuate / peripheral grooves provide smooth and accurate movement with no backlash and minimal friction. In some embodiments, the drive cam may be axially clamped between the rear housing and the front housing, and the coupling of the drive cam to the housing may include a lower coupling and an upper coupling, each coupling including one or more bearing balls enclosed in one or more corresponding arcuate or circular grooves formed in the rear housing and the front housing, respectively.

[0036] In some embodiments, the objective lens assembly may include four or more lenses within the lens barrel. In some embodiments, the objective lens assembly may further include one or more static lenses disposed outside the lens barrel 120. These one or more static lens elements may be configured to be static relative to the housing of the camera module 100.

[0037] The camera module 100 may further include an autofocus module (not shown). In some embodiments, the autofocus module may be configured to move the lens barrel 120 along the optical axis Z when the lens barrel 120 is in the operational state. In these embodiments, the cover window 150 may be configured to provide an axial clearance with the lens barrel in the operational state when in the extended position. Furthermore, the lens barrel 120 may include a lens element having a D-cut shape, which is described in detail below. Figure 12AAs shown in -C. For example, 10% to 50% of the optical height of any D-cut lens is removed. The lens barrel 120 can be formed to conform to the D-cut shape, thereby creating a D-cut volume in the gap between the support 130 and the lens barrel 120. This allows the difference between the diameter of the lens barrel 120 and the diameter of the support 130 to be less than 0.5 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 2 mm, or less than 3 mm. The image sensor can typically have a 4:3 aspect ratio. The lens can be cut along an axis parallel to the boundary defining the height of the image sensor so that the smaller lens side can be aligned with the smaller sensor side (sensor height). An autofocus module can be integrated into the D-cut volume between the support 130 and the lens barrel 120. The autofocus module may include an axial coupling provided between the lens barrel 120 and the support 130 so that the lens barrel 120 can be axially moved relative to the support 130. The autofocus module may include a voice coil motor (“VCM”), or more generally, an induction motor, for generating linear motion to axially displace the lens barrel 120 relative to the support 130. The axial movement of the lens barrel 120 caused by the autofocus module can range from 0.1 mm to 5 mm. The autofocus module may include drive circuitry (i.e., an autofocus controller) configured to control the autofocus module. The autofocus module may further include a current supply line. In some embodiments, the current supply line may be provided by a floating cable. In other embodiments, the current supply line may be provided by a deformable flexure to allow movement of the autofocus module in the vertical direction and / or at least one horizontal direction. In some other embodiments, the autofocus module may be an autofocus-based sensor configured to move sensor 160 along the optical axis Z.

[0038] Camera module 100 may further include an OIS system (not shown) configured to compensate for movement of the camera module during imaging. In some embodiments, the OIS system may be configured to move lens barrel 120 along two lateral axes (e.g., the X and Y axes) in a horizontal plane. The OIS system may be configured according to the specific description below regarding a third aspect of this application. The OIS system may include a bottom frame fixed relative to sensor 160, an intermediate frame configured to move relative to the bottom frame in one lateral direction (e.g., the X direction), and a top frame configured to move relative to the intermediate frame in another lateral direction (e.g., the Y direction). A bracket 130 may be mounted on the top frame, and the intermediate and top frames may be controllably driven along the X and Y axes using a VCM (or more generally, an induction motor that generates linear motion). This allows the height of the OIS system to be less than 15%, 25%, 30%, or 50% of the height of the camera module in its retracted state. In some other embodiments, the OIS system may be an OIS-based sensor configured to move sensor 160 within the sensor plane along two lateral axes (e.g., the X and Y axes). The OIS system may be additionally or alternatively configured to move the sensor to rotate it along a rotation axis of yaw, pitch, and / or roll. The OIS system may include an OIS controller configured to operate the OIS.

[0039] Generally, camera module 100 may be waterproof. Camera module 100 may include a protective seal configured to maintain the camera module 100's impermeability in its retracted, operational, and intermediate states. Camera module 100 may also be dustproof and is configured to meet an IP68 ingress protection rating.

[0040] The camera module 100 may also include an optical filter for filtering out a predetermined portion of the electromagnetic spectrum detectable by the image sensor. This can filter out invisible radiation, such as infrared radiation.

[0041] Generally, the dimensions of the camera module 100 can be within the following ranges: the camera module, including the actuator, can be housed within a circle with a diameter of 6 to 50 mm. The diameter of the cover window can be between 5 and 40 mm. The height of the camera module in its non-operating (retracted) mode can be between 6 and 18 mm, while in its operating (pop-up) mode, the height can be between 7 and 30 mm. The height variation between the non-operating and operating modes of the camera module can be between 1 and 15 mm.

[0042] Figures 3 to 8 show the various elements of a camera module 200 according to an embodiment of the first aspect of this application.

[0043] Figures 3A-3B The camera module 200 was displayed in both non-operating and operating modes. Figure 3C-3D The same scenario is illustrated, with camera module 200 integrated into smartphone device 10. Camera module 200 includes a lens barrel 220 and a bracket 230 configured to coaxially accommodate the lens barrel 220 (see...). Figure 4C (For example), a retractable cover window 250 and an image sensor 260. The lens barrel 220 includes an objective lens assembly. This objective lens assembly can coaxially accommodate multiple (e.g., six) lens elements 225 (see example). Figures 8A-8B (For example), the lens element defines the optical axis Z of the camera module. The support 230 may include a peripheral shoulder for accommodating the flange of the lens barrel 220. The lens barrel 220 may be coaxially disposed within the support 230. The lens barrel 220 is fixedly coupled to the support. For example, the lens barrel 220 may be glued to the support 230 via an active alignment process. The cover window 250 may be configured to be axially movable between a retracted position and an extended position, corresponding to the proximal and distal axial positions of the cover window relative to the image sensor 260, respectively. The lens barrel 220 may also have an operating state and a retracted state, corresponding to the proximal and distal axial positions of the lens barrel relative to the image sensor 260, respectively. In the operating state of the lens barrel, the image sensor 260 may be positioned within the focal plane or imaging plane of the objective lens assembly. In the camera module's operating mode, the cover window 250 can be in the extended position, and the lens barrel 220 can be in the operational state. In the camera module's non-operating mode, the cover window 250 can be in the retracted position, and the lens barrel 220 can be in the retracted state. In the operational state, the image sensor 260 is placed in the focal plane or image plane of the objective lens assembly. In the retracted state, the camera module may be disabled, meaning it may not be able to image the field of view of the lens assembly. The lens barrel's operational state corresponds to the pop-up (operating) mode of the camera module 200, where the camera module's TTL is greater than the TTL of the camera module in the non-operating mode.

[0044] The camera module 200 also includes a cover window pop-up assembly configured to controllably move a cover window pop-up assembly 210, the cover window pop-up assembly 210 being configured to controllably move a cover window 250 axially between a retracted position and an extended position. The cover window pop-up assembly is configurable for reversibly moving the cover window between the retracted and extended positions, i.e., moving the cover window from the retracted position to the extended position and vice versa.

[0045] The objective lens assembly may also include a static lens 280 disposed outside the lens barrel 220. The cover window pop-out assembly is configurable to control the air gap between the static lens 280 and the lens barrel 220. The cover window pop-out assembly includes a drive cam 210 (see...). Figures 4A-4E(For example) It cooperates with the bracket 230 via a coupling mechanism described in more detail below. As above, the lens barrel 220 can be fixedly mounted within the bracket 230. Additionally, the cover window 250 can be fixedly mounted on the bracket 230 (see...). Figures 8A-8B (For example). The bracket 230 is coupled to the drive cam such that rotation of the drive cam in the first rotational direction causes the bracket 230 to move vertically upward, thereby causing the cover window 250 and lens 220 to move axially from the retracted / collapsed position to the extended / operated position. Rotation of the drive cam in the second opposite rotational direction causes the bracket 230 to move vertically downward, thereby causing the cover window 250 and lens 220 to move axially from the extended / operated position to the retracted / collapsed position.

[0046] Camera module 200 may also include rear housing 265 (see Figures 4A-4E (For example), it is configured to accommodate the pop-out assembly 210 and the bracket 230. The static lens 280 can be fixed to the rear housing 265. The retractable cover 250 can be arranged to be axially movable relative to the rear housing 265. The retractable cover 250 can be configured to move controllably between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the cover 250 can be positioned on the farthest surface adjacent to the lens 220. The cover 250 in the retracted position can abut against the farthest surface of the lens 220 (see example). Figures 8A-8B (For example). As described in more detail below, the pop-up component 210 can be further configured to controllably move the retractable cover 250 and the lens 220. The cover 250 can be axially fixed relative to the bracket 320.

[0047] Continue to refer to Figures 4A-4E The actuator 240 may include a motor 245 and a worm drive, the worm drive including a worm 246 and a worm wheel 247. The worm wheel 247 may form a ring that meshes with the worm 246. The motor 245 may be configured to rotate the worm 246 along its longitudinal axis. The worm 246 may be configured to rotate the worm wheel 247 about a Z-axis when the worm wheel 247 rotates. The motor 245 may be a stepper motor. To switch the camera module from a pop-up state (also known as an extended state), the motor 245 may drive the worm wheel 247 in a second rotational direction via the worm 246. To switch the camera module from a retracted state to a pop-up state, the motor 245 may drive the worm wheel 247 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction via the worm 246.

[0048] Furthermore, the drive cam 210 may include a cam cylinder 213 and a cam flange 214 at its base. The cam flange 214 may include three radial portions projecting outward from the base of the cam cylinder 213. The drive cam 210 may also include a radial position sensor 255. The drive cam 210 may be coaxially positioned relative to an optical axis outside the bracket 230. The drive cam 210 may be axially clamped between the rear housing 265 and the front housing 270. The front housing 270 may form a locking ring fixed to the rear housing 265 for holding the drive cam on the rear housing 265. The drive cam 210 may be connected to the front housing and the rear housing via ball bearing connectors 271, 272, respectively, allowing the lens 230 to rotate relative to the front housing 265 and the rear housing 270. The ball bearing connectors 271, 272 may include a plurality of bearing balls and arcuate or peripheral grooves for receiving the bearing balls. The bearing balls provide low-friction bearings and precise motor control capabilities. Furthermore, the drive cam 210 can be frictionally connected to the worm gear 247, such that the rotation of the worm gear 247 is entirely transmitted to the drive cam 210. The frictional coupling between the drive cam 210 and the worm gear 247 can be configured to be overcome when a contraction force greater than a predetermined threshold is applied to the support. In other words, the frictional contact between the drive cam 210 and the worm gear 247 can be configured to allow slippage between the worm gear 247 and the drive cam 210 exceeding a predetermined torque. This provides a protection mechanism in case excessive torque is applied between the drive cam 210 and the worm gear 247.

[0049] The bracket 230 may include a bracket cylinder 233 coaxially disposed inside the cam cylinder 213. The bracket cylinder 233 and the cam cylinder 213 may be connected to form a helical cam, such that the rotational motion of the cam cylinder 213 is converted into the axial motion of the bracket cylinder 233. More specifically, the coupling between the bracket cylinder 233 and the drive cam cylinder 213 may include one or more (e.g., three) helical grooves 215 on the inner wall of the cam cylinder 213, configured to cooperate with one or more (e.g., three) helical grooves 235 on the outer wall of the bracket cylinder 233 to surround one or more bearing balls 237, such that motion can be transmitted from the cam cylinder 213 to the bracket cylinder 233. The helical grooves on the inner wall of the cam cylinder and the helical grooves on the outer wall of the bracket cylinder may have different inclinations relative to the optical axis. Furthermore, the bracket 230 and the rear housing 265 may be connected using an axial connector. The axial connection between the bracket 230 and the rear housing 265 may include one or more (e.g., three) axial grooves 236 on the inner wall of the bracket cylinder 233, the axial grooves 236 being configured to interact with one or more (e.g., three) corresponding axial grooves 266 on the outer wall of the center cylinder 269 of the rear housing 265. The center cylinder 269 may be coaxially placed inside the bracket cylinder 233. The bracket cylinder 233 may be radially clamped between the cam cylinder 213 and the center cylinder 269. The axial connection between the bracket 230 and the rear housing 265 may also include one or more (e.g., three) alignment bearing balls 267, the alignment bearing balls 267 being surrounded by the axial grooves 236, 266 in the bracket 230 and the rear housing 265 respectively, the bearing balls being able to maintain the concentricity of the bracket 230 relative to the rear housing 265. Optionally, one of the axial grooves 239 in the bracket 230 may be flexible (i.e., made of a material with greater flexibility than the bracket material) to allow lateral preloading. This ensures smooth, precise, and repeatable movement of the support 230.

[0050] In operation, the pop-up component operates according to the following transmission chain: (1) a motor 245 (rotary motor) connected to a worm gear 246 drives a worm wheel 247 to rotate; (2) the worm wheel 247 drives a drive cam 210 (helical cam) to rotate through frictional contact; (3) the drive cam generates a linear up / down motion of the bracket 230 through helical coupling (two helices formed by helical grooves 215, helical grooves 235, and bearing balls 237); (4) the bracket 230 (linear slider) is guided by a preloaded linear bearing, which is achieved by an axial connection between the bracket 230 and the rear housing 265. When the lens barrel 220 and the cover window are fixedly connected to it, the linear up / down motion of the bracket 230 is transmitted to the lens barrel 220 and the cover window.

[0051] The camera module 200 may also include an emergency device configured to protect the helical cam mechanism in the event of excessive force applied to the bracket while the camera module is in operation. This provides emergency protection to prevent damage to the device and camera in the event of an emergency. The emergency device may include one or more (e.g., three) emergency pins 238 that project radially outward from the outer wall of the bracket cylinder 233 and engage with one or more (e.g., three) corresponding emergency helical grooves 216 within the cam cylinder 213, such that the emergency pins 238 only engage with the emergency helical grooves when an axial compressive force greater than a predetermined threshold is applied to the bracket 230 (which is in the operating state). The emergency pins can provide a larger contact area in the event of excessive compressive force applied to the bracket 230.

[0052] Camera module 200 may also include a protective seal 285 (see example in Figure 8) configured to maintain the hermeticity of the camera module 200 in its retracted, operational, and intermediate states. The protective seal may be configured to be dustproof. The protective seal may be configured to meet an IP68 protection rating. Seal 285 may be a diaphragm. The diaphragm may form a foldable (e.g., retractable relative to the Z-axis) sleeve. One end of the sleeve may be secured to the outer peripheral edge of bracket 230, and the other end of the sleeve may be secured to the inner peripheral edge of front housing 270. Camera module 200 may also include a stationary cover 290 (see... Figure 6 (as in the example of Figure 8), which is configured to cover components not covered by the cover window 250, such as the front housing 270. The stationary cover 290 and the cover window 250 can together form the housing cover of the camera module.

[0053] Camera module 200 may also include one or more preloaded compression springs 268 configured to axially bias bracket 230 to prevent recoil. One or more springs 268 may be positioned between the flange of rear housing 265 and the flange of bracket 230. When only one spring is provided, the spring 268 may be concentrically positioned inside the center cylinder 269 and outside the lens barrel 220. In some embodiments, more than one (e.g., three) springs are provided, distributed about the optical axis (e.g., distributed at 120-degree intervals between springs). More than one spring may be positioned inside the center cylinder 269 and outside the lens barrel 220. Multiple springs may also be compressed in the operating state of bracket 230. Camera module 200 may also include an autofocus module (not shown). The autofocus module is configured to move sensor 260 along the optical axis Z to provide autofocus capability when the camera module is in operating mode. In other embodiments, the autofocus module may be configured to move the lens barrel along the optical axis Z to perform autofocus. Camera module 200 may also include an OIS system to provide stabilization capability. The OIS system can be configured to move sensor 260 along the X and Y axes in the sensor plane. The OIS system can be additionally or alternatively configured to move the sensor for rotating the sensor along yaw, pitch, and / or roll rotation axes.

[0054] Generally, the dimensions of the camera module 200 can be within the following range: the camera module, including the actuator, can be fitted into a circle with a diameter of 6 to 50 mm. The diameter of the cover window can be between 5 and 40 mm. In the non-operating (retracted) mode, the height of the camera module can be between 6 and 18 mm, while in the operating (pop-up) mode, it may be between 7 and 60 mm. The height variation between the non-operating and operating modes of the camera module can be between 1 and 15 mm.

[0055] Figure 9 to Figure 11 A camera module 300 according to another embodiment of the first aspect of this application is shown.

[0056] Camera module 300 includes a lens barrel (not shown), a bracket 330, a retractable cover window 350, and an image sensor 360. The lens barrel includes an objective lens assembly. The objective lens assembly can coaxially support multiple lens elements that define the optical axis Z of the camera module perpendicular to the plane of the image sensor 360. The bracket 330 can coaxially house the lens barrel. The lens barrel 220 can be slidably housed in the bracket 330, i.e., axially movable relative to the bracket 330. In other embodiments, the lens barrel can be fixedly mounted in the bracket 330, for example, by gluing it into the bracket 330 using an active alignment process. As described above, the cover window 350 has an extended position (see...). Figure 9B and Figure 10B ) and retraction position (see Figure 9A and Figure 10A The cover window 350 may also include a window panel (not shown, for example, made of glass) disposed on the upper edge of the cover window 350 to seal the lens barrel and isolate it from the external environment. The lens barrel may have an operating state and a retracted state. In the operating state, the image sensor 360 is located in the focal plane or image plane of the objective lens assembly. In the retracted state, the camera module can be disabled, i.e., the camera module cannot image the field of view of the lens assembly. The operating state of the lens barrel corresponds to the pop-up mode of the camera module 300, wherein the TTL of the camera module is greater than the TTL of the camera module in the non-operating mode.

[0057] The camera module 300 also includes a cover window pop-out assembly configured to controllably move the cover window 350 between a retracted position and an extended position. The pop-out assembly includes a drive cam 310 that cooperates with a bracket 330 via a connecting mechanism (described in more detail below). The cover window 350 can be fixedly connected to the bracket 330 such that movement of the bracket 330 can be transmitted to the cover window 350. The cover window pop-out assembly is controlled by an actuator 340. The bracket 330 is connected to the drive cam such that rotation of the drive cam 310 in a first rotational direction causes the bracket 330 to move vertically upwards, thereby moving the cover window axially from the retracted position to the extended position. Rotation of the drive cam 310 in a second, opposite rotational direction causes the bracket 330 to move vertically downwards, thereby moving the cover window axially from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0058] The camera module 300 may also include a rear housing 365, which is configured to accommodate the pop-out assembly and the bracket 330. A retractable cover window 350 may be arranged to be axially movable relative to the rear housing 365. In the retracted position, the cover window 350 may be arranged on the bracket and positioned axially close to the farthest surface of the lens barrel. As described in more detail below, a drive cam 310 is configured to controllably and retractably move the cover window 350 and the bracket 330.

[0059] Actuator 340 may include motor 345 and worm drive, which includes worm 346 and worm wheel. The worm wheel may form a ring including a protrusion 348 engaging with the worm. In this embodiment, the worm wheel may be integrally formed with drive cam 310. Drive cam may include cam cylinder 313 and a flange at its base. Protrusion 348 may project radially from the flange. Motor 345 may be configured to rotate the worm along its longitudinal axis. The worm may be configured to rotate drive cam 310 about the Z-axis when it rotates via the geared protrusion 348. Motor 345 may be a stepper motor. To switch the operating mode of the camera module (also known as the pop-up state), motor 345 may actuate drive cam 310 via the worm in a second rotational direction. To switch the camera module from an inactive mode to an active mode, motor 345 may actuate drive cam 310 via the worm in a first rotational direction (opposite to the second rotational direction). Actuator 340 may also include a preload spring 349 configured to ensure that worm gear 346 and worm wheel remain in direct contact via protrusion 348. Furthermore, in the operational state, when camera module 300 tends to retract under an external force greater than a predetermined threshold, the preload spring 349 can act as a shock absorber or drop absorber. This external force may be collinear with the movement trajectory of the pop-up module to retract the camera. The predetermined threshold may be defined as a force significantly stronger than the force applied by stepper motor 345 for popping and retracting the bracket, lens barrel, and cover. For example, such an external force may be generated by a user dropping an electronic portable device including a pop-up camera comprising camera module 300. For example, the force may be approximately 5 N or greater.

[0060] When an external force is applied to the ejector module 300, the preload spring 349 is extended. Due to the extension of the spring 349, the worm gear protrusion 348 disengages from the worm 346; that is, the distance between the worm gear protrusion 348 and the worm 346 increases, and at a certain point, the teeth of the worm gear protrusion 348 no longer contact the teeth of the worm 346. This is advantageous because the external force is not applied to any component included in the ejector actuator 340, such as the stepper motor 345. When the external force stops, the preload spring 349 contracts, causing the worm gear protrusion 348 to re-engage with the worm 346, i.e., the teeth of the worm gear protrusion 348 return to contact the teeth of the worm 346.

[0061] The rear housing 365 may include a central cylinder 369 coaxially positioned inside the cam cylinder 313 (see...). Figure 11Furthermore, the bracket 330 may include a bracket cylinder coaxially positioned inside the central cylinder 369. The bracket cylinder and the cam cylinder 313 may be connected to form a helical cam, such that the rotational motion of the cam cylinder 313 is converted into the axial motion of the bracket cylinder. More specifically, the connection between the bracket cylinder and the drive cam cylinder 313 may include one or more (e.g., three) helical (or angled) grooves 315a-315c, the helical grooves 315a-315c being configured to correspond to one or more (e.g., three) corresponding axial grooves 316 and one or more (e.g., three) corresponding through holes through the central cylinder 369 of the rear housing 365. Pins 320a-320c may be fixedly connected to the through holes in the bracket 300. The through holes in the bracket 330 may conform to the shape of the pins 320a-320c. To switch the pop-up camera, including the pop-up module 300, from pop-up mode (also known as operating mode) to non-operating mode, the stepper motor 345 actuates the worm gear protrusion 348, causing the drive cam 310 to rotate clockwise. The circular motion of the drive cam 310 in the xy-plane is converted into linear motion of pins 320a-320c in the positive z-axis direction by three angled (helical) pin-slot mechanisms 315a-315c and three vertical (axial) pin-slot mechanisms 316. To switch the pop-up camera, including the pop-up module 300, from inactive to pop-up mode, a stepper motor 345 actuates the worm gear protrusion 348, causing it to rotate counterclockwise. The circular motion of the drive cam 310 in the xy-plane is converted into linear motion of pins 320a-320c in the negative z-axis direction by the three angled pin-slot mechanisms 315a-315c and three vertical pin-slot mechanisms 316. The bracket 330 and the cover window 350 perform the same linear motion as pins 320a-320c.

[0062] Camera module 300 may include a lens barrel ejection assembly configured to axially move the lens barrel from a retracted state to an operational state. The lens barrel ejection assembly may also be configured to axially move the lens barrel from the operational state to a retracted state. In some embodiments, the lens barrel ejection assembly may include a magnetic spring. In some other embodiments, the lens barrel ejection assembly may include an induction motor that generates linear motion. For example, the lens barrel ejection assembly may include a permanent magnet fixed to the outer wall of the lens barrel and an electric coil fixed to the inner wall of the support. The magnet and the electric coil may be configured such that, at least when the cover window ejects from the retracted position to the extended position, a current in the electric coil can induce an axial force on the permanent magnet to bring the lens from the retracted state to the operational state. Furthermore, the magnet and the electric coil may be configured such that a current in the electric coil can induce an axial force on the permanent magnet to bring the lens barrel from the operational state to the retracted state, at least when the cover window moves from the extended position to the retracted position. In other embodiments, the cover window 350 may be configured to push the lens barrel into a retracted state when the lens barrel is in operation and the cover window 350 is controlled by the cover window pop-out assembly to move from an extended position to a retracted position.

[0063] The camera module 300 may also include an AF module (not shown) configured to move the lens along the optical axis Z when the lens barrel is in operation. The AF module may include the above-described coil and permanent magnet (or generally a VCM, or more generally an induction motor that generates linear motion), and is also configured to generate an axial force to perform autofocus when the lens is in operation. In some other embodiments, the AF module may be configured to move the sensor 360 along the optical axis Z.

[0064] Camera module 300 may also include an optical image stabilization system (OIS, not shown). In some embodiments, the OIS system may be configured to move lens barrel 120 in a horizontal plane along two lateral axes (e.g., the X-axis and Y-axis). The OIS system may be configured according to a third aspect of this application described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the OIS system may be configured to move sensor 360 in a sensor plane along two lateral axes (e.g., the X-axis and Y-axis). The OIS system may additionally or alternatively be configured to move the sensor for rotating the sensor along yaw, pitch, and / or roll rotation axes. Camera module 300 may be configured to be waterproof. The camera module may include a protective seal configured to maintain the hermeticity of the camera module 300 in a retracted state, an operational state, and an intermediate state. Camera module 300 may also be dustproof and configured to meet an IP68 protection rating. Camera module 300 may also include an optical filter configured to filter out predetermined portions of the electromagnetic spectrum detectable by the image sensor. This is capable of filtering invisible radiation such as infrared radiation.

[0065] Typically, the dimensions of the camera module 300 can be within the following range: the camera module, including the actuator, can be fitted into a circle with a diameter between 6 and 50 mm. The diameter of the cover window can be between 5 and 40 mm. In the non-operating (retracted) mode, the height of the camera module can be between 6 and 18 mm, while in the operating (pop-up) mode, it may be between 7 and 30 mm. The height variation between the non-operating and operating modes of the camera module can be between 1 and 15 mm.

[0066] Figure 12A-12D Another embodiment of the pop-up module (for a camera module denoted as 400) provided in several embodiments of this application is shown. Pop-up module 400 includes a drive cam 410 and an actuator 440. A pop-up module similar to module 400 can be used in a camera module as described in this application, for example, as shown in Figure 9- Figure 11 The camera module in the system.

[0067] The pop-up module 400 may include a lens holder (not shown), a lens barrel (not shown), a cover window (not shown), and a rear housing (not shown). The pop-up actuator 440 may include a worm gear 446, a gear 450, a worm wheel 447, a stepper motor 445, and a motor housing 443. The worm wheel may include a transmission device 448 configured to engage with the gear 450. To switch the pop-up camera, including the pop-up module 400, from an active mode to an inactive mode and from an inactive mode to an active mode, the stepper motor 445 drives the worm gear 446 in a first rotational direction and a second rotational direction opposite to the first direction, respectively. The gear 450 and the worm wheel 447 transmit the rotation of the worm gear into a circular motion of a drive cam 410, which is then converted into linear motion of the window track 410 parallel or antiparallel to the vertical direction indicated by the Z-axis, in a manner similar to that described above for the camera module 300. Furthermore, the pop-up actuator 440 includes a spring 449 that acts as a drop absorber. The pop-up module 400 includes a drive cam 410 and three angled recesses for switching the pop-up camera from a pop-up state to a retracted state and vice versa.

[0068] When an external force greater than a predetermined threshold is applied during operation, tending to retract the camera module 400, the spring 449 can act as a shock absorber. The direction of this external force can be collinear with the movement of the pop-up module to retract the camera. The predetermined threshold can be defined as a force significantly stronger than the force applied by the stepper motor 445 for popping out and retracting the bracket, lens, and cover. For example, such an external force could be generated by a user dropping an electronic portable device including a pop-up camera, which comprises the camera module 400. For example, this force could be approximately 5 N or greater. (Refer to...) Figure 12CSpring 449 can be in a loaded state. As shown, an external force causes the worm gear 446 to exhibit a significant linear movement as indicated by arrow A, causing spring 449 to contract (or "load") and drive cam 410 to move linearly in the direction indicated by arrow B. After the external force stops, the spring force exerted on the worm gear 446 by the loaded spring 449 causes the worm gear 446 to exhibit a significant amount of linear movement, causing drive cam 410 to move linearly in the opposite direction to arrow B until the pop-up module 400 returns to its pop-up state. Through the contraction of spring 449, the described mechanism is used to smoothly absorb vibrations from a pop-up camera including the pop-up module 400, for example, in the event of a drop of a device such as a smartphone including a pop-up camera. Without spring 449, such a drop could damage components included in the pop-up module 400. Therefore, spring 449 can be considered a "drop absorber spring" because it provides a "drop absorber" or "shock absorber". The rotational ratio of the worm 446 to the gear 450 to the drive cam 410 can be 10-1000:2-50:1, meaning that for a worm 446 with a rotational ratio of 10-1000, the gear 450 can rotate 2-50 times, while the drive cam 410 can rotate once. The length (“L”) of the spring 449 can be 2-10 mm, and its force can be 0.5-10 N. The linear motion (“M”) of the worm 446 can be 0.5-10 mm. The tooth angle of the worm 446 can be 0-10 degrees, and the diameter (or “pitch circle diameter”) of the worm 446 can be 1-5 mm. Figure 12D The pop-out actuator 440 is shown in an exploded view. The pop-out actuator may include a lever 441 configured to transmit force generated by a stepper motor 445 to a worm gear 546. Furthermore, the lever 441 may guide a spring 449 and be supported by a bearing 442.

[0069] Figure 13 Figure 14 illustrates another embodiment of the camera module 500 provided in the first aspect of this application. Figure 9 shows an exploded view of the camera module 500. Figures 14A-14B Showing Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the camera module in operation on two perpendicular vertical planes.

[0070] Camera module 500 includes a lens barrel 520, a support 530 configured to receive the lens barrel 520, and an image sensor 560. Camera module 500 also includes a cover window 550. The lens barrel 520 may include an objective lens assembly. The objective lens assembly may coaxially hold multiple (e.g., four) lens elements (not shown) defining the optical axis Z of camera module 500. The support 530 may include a support tube including one or more peripheral shoulder recesses in its inner wall. The shoulder recesses may be configured to support one or more radially outwardly projecting peripheral flange protrusions (hooks) of the lens 520. One or more peripheral shoulder recesses and corresponding one or more peripheral flange protrusions may cooperate to form a stop to limit axial movement of the lens barrel 520 relative to the support tube in the sensor direction (i.e., downward).

[0071] The cover window 550 is configurable to be axially movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the retracted position corresponding to the proximal and distal axial positions of the cover window relative to the image sensor 560, respectively. The lens barrel 520 may also have an operating state and a retracted state corresponding to the proximal and distal axial positions of the lens barrel relative to the image sensor 560, respectively. In the operating state, the image sensor 560 can be positioned in the focal plane or imaging plane of the objective lens assembly. In the camera module's operating mode, the cover window 550 can be in the extended position and the lens barrel 520 can be in the operating state; while in the camera module's non-operating mode, the cover window 550 can be in the retracted position and the lens barrel 520 can be in the retracted state. The lens barrel 520 can be coaxially positioned inside the support 530. In the operating state, the image sensor 560 is located in the focal plane or image plane of the objective lens assembly. In the retracted state, the camera module can be disabled, i.e., the camera module cannot image the field of view of the objective lens assembly. The operating state of the lens barrel corresponds to the pop-up (operation) mode of the camera module 500, in which the TTL of the camera module is greater than the TTL of the camera module in the non-operation mode.

[0072] The camera module 500 may include a lens barrel ejection assembly configured to axially move the lens barrel from a retracted state to an operational state. The lens barrel ejection assembly may also be configured to axially move the lens barrel from the operational state to the retracted state.

[0073] The camera module 500 may further include a cover window pop-out assembly configured to controllably move the cover window 550 axially between a retracted position and an extended position. The cover window pop-out assembly may be configured to reversibly move the cover window between the retracted and extended positions, i.e., move the cover window from the retracted position to the extended position and vice versa. The cover window pop-out assembly includes a drive cam 510 that cooperates with a bracket 530 via a coupling mechanism (described in more detail below). The bracket 530 is connected to the drive cam such that rotation of the drive cam in a first rotational direction causes the cover window 550 to move axially from the retracted position to the extended position. Rotation of the drive cam in the opposite second rotational direction causes the cover window 550 to move axially from the extended position to the retracted position. The cover window 550 may be configured to push the lens barrel 520 into a retracted state when the lens barrel 520 is in operation and the cover window 550 is operated by the cover window pop-out assembly to move from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0074] In the retracted position, the cover window 550 can be positioned near the farthest surface of the retracted lens barrel 520. The retracted cover window 550 can abut against the farthest surface of the retracted lens barrel 520. In the extended position, the cover window 550 can be configured to provide an axial clearance relative to the farthest surface of the lens barrel 520. As described in more detail below, the barrel ejection assembly can be configured to controllably move the lens barrel 520 while the support 530 moves axially. The camera module 500 may also include a back housing 565, which is configured to receive the ejection assembly and the support 530. The retractable cover window 550 can be arranged to be axially movable relative to the back housing 565.

[0075] Actuator 540 may include motor 545 and worm drive, the worm drive including worm and worm wheel (as described above). Figure 4A The worm wheel can form a ring that meshes with the worm. In this embodiment, the worm wheel can be integrally formed with the drive cam 510. Therefore, the drive cam can have a wheel shape. The motor 545 can be configured to rotate the worm along its longitudinal axis. The worm can be configured to rotate the worm wheel / drive cam 510 about the Z-axis when it rotates. The motor 545 can be a stepper motor. To switch the camera module from an operating (pop-up) mode to an inactive (retracted) mode, the motor 545 can actuate the drive cam 510 via the worm in a second rotational direction. To switch the camera module from an inactive mode to an active mode, the motor 545 can actuate the drive cam 510 via the worm in a first rotational direction opposite to the second rotational direction. The drive cam can be axially fixed relative to the housing by a locking ring 572.

[0076] The support cylinder 530 can be coaxially positioned inside the drive cam 510. The support 530 can be fixedly connected to the cover window 550, such that axial movement of the support is transmitted to the cover window. The support cylinder 530 and the drive cam 510 can be connected to form a helical cam, such that rotational movement of the drive cam 510 is converted into axial movement of the support 530. The drive cam 510 may include one or more (e.g., three) radial pins 511 engaging the support 530. The radial pins 511 can project inward from the drive cam 510 into one or more (e.g., three) corresponding helical grooves 531 formed on the outer wall of the support cylinder. The support may include one or more (e.g., three) support radial pins 532 that project from the outer wall of the support through at least one corresponding axial groove in the central cylinder of the rear housing 565 to maintain the concentricity of the support 530 relative to the rear housing 565.

[0077] The lens barrel 520 can be connected to the support 530 via an axial connector that allows the lens barrel 520 to move axially relative to the support 530. The axial connection between the support 530 and the lens barrel 520 may include two axial rails 522a, 522b formed in the gap between the lens barrel 520 and the support 530, and bearing balls 521 encapsulated in the axial rails 522a, 522b (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 14A and 15A The axial track can extend along two axes parallel to the Z-axis. The axial connection between the support 530 and the lens barrel 520 enables autofocus capability in operation by allowing fine modification of the axial position of the lens barrel 520 relative to the sensor 560. In other words, the bearing ball 521 allows the lens 520 to move along the Z-axis, which is required for autofocus capability. To perform AF, the lens barrel can move relative to the support 530 and the image sensor 560 parallel to the Z-axis. For example, in… Figure 13As can be seen, the camera module may include an autofocus (AF) module 590. The AF module 590 may include a VCM configured to axially move the lens 520 relative to the support 530. The VCM may be positioned in the gap between the support 530 and the lens 520. The VCM may include at least one (e.g., two) permanent magnets 591 fixed to the outer wall of the lens 520 and at least one (e.g., two) coils 592 fixed to the inner wall of the support 530. The coils 592 may be configured such that when the lens 520 is in an operational state, the current in the coils 592 can induce an axial force on the permanent magnets 591, thereby causing axial movement of the lens barrel 592 relative to the support 530. This allows the autofocus capability of the camera module 500 to be enabled. The autofocus capability provides axial movement between 0.1 mm and 5 mm. The AF module 590 may further include drive circuitry configured to operate the AF module and a position sensor (not shown) for determining the position of the lens barrel 520. The AF module 590 may also include a PCB (printed circuit board) 594, which can be fixed to the inner wall of the bracket. Drive circuitry and an electrical coil 592 can be mounted on the PCB 594. The camera module 500 may also include current supply wiring for supplying current to the AF module 590. The current supply wiring extends from a main PCB on which a sensor 560 can be mounted to the PCB 594 on which at least one electrical coil 592 is mounted. The current supply line can be implemented as a flexible element 593, the bending portion 593 being configured to elastically deform between a retracted state and an operational state of the lens barrel, such as... Figures 17A-17B As shown. The stiffness of the flexible element 593 can be selected to be as small as possible. The AF module 590 may further include a yoke 597, which is made of a ferromagnetic material and configured such that the magnetic interaction between the yoke 597 and at least one permanent magnet 591 fixed to the lens barrel 520 provides a horizontal preload component, which helps to keep the bearing balls 521 enclosed in the axial tracks 522a, 522b. In addition, the magnetic interaction between the yoke and the magnet can axially lift the lens barrel 520 from the support 530. The yoke 597 may, for example, be positioned in a gap outside the PCB 594 that accommodates the AF module 590.

[0078] The lens barrel ejection assembly can be implemented using the VCM of the AF module. The magnet and coil can also be configured such that the current in the coil induces an axial force on the permanent magnet, so as to bring the lens barrel from the retracted state to the operational state at least when the cover window ejects from the retracted position to the extended position. Axial movement of the support can be transmitted to the coil mounted on the support, and the current applied to the coil induces an axial force in the magnet on the barrel, thereby causing axial movement of the barrel. In other words, the lens barrel is electromagnetically moved when the support moves mechanically by a drive cam. In other embodiments, when the support moves axially, the barrel can be axially moved from the retracted state to the operational state by mechanical interaction between the shoulder recess and the flange protrusion. Alternatively, the shoulder recess and flange protrusion can serve as stops in special cases, such as power failure or when the VCM is outside the autofocus range. Furthermore, the magnet and coil can be configured such that the current in the coil induces an axial force on the permanent magnet, so as to bring the lens from the operational state to the retracted state at least when the cover window moves from the extended position to the retracted position.

[0079] In some embodiments, at least one lens element in the objective lens assembly is cut to form a D-cut lens, thereby releasing the D-cut volume, such as Figure 16A and 16B As shown. The lens can be cut along one side (or both sides in other examples) by 10% to 40%, preferably 10% to 30%. This means the minimum optical height H OPT-CUT It can be compared to the maximum optical lens height H OPT 10% to 50% less. Figures 16A-16C Definitions related to lens cutting are described. Figure 16A It shows a lens with height H L and optical lens height H OPT An axisymmetric lens element. Lens height H L Equal to the optical lens height H OPT Add the dimensions of the mechanical components, shown in dashed lines. The mechanical contribution is typically between 200 and 1000 micrometers. Figure 16B It shows that along X has with Figure 16A The image shows a cut lens element with the same lens height as an axisymmetric lens. The cut lens element is measured along different axes, resulting in H... L and H OPT Different. For example, the maximum optical lens height H OPT (Measured along Y) Greater than the minimum optical lens H OPT-CUT (Measured along X). The lens element is cut approximately 25% relative to the Y-axis along one side. This means H OPT-CUT ≈0.75×H OPT . Figure 16CA cut lens barrel is shown, comprising multiple cut lens units that together form a cut lens. The cut lens is cut along both sides relative to the Y-axis. During cutting, the width W of the lens barrel... L Greater than the height H of the lens tube L The pop-up camera of this application, compared to an axisymmetric lens barrel, utilizes the volume saved by a lens cut along one side about the Y-axis to compactly integrate the AF module 590 into the pop-up camera. In other words, the external shape of the lens barrel can preferably conform to a D-shaped cut lens, thereby creating a D-shaped cut volume between the lens barrel 520 and the support 530. Figure 15A As shown, the autofocus module 590 can preferably be integrated into the D-shaped cut space between the barrel 520 and the bracket 530. This allows for limiting the space requirements for mounting a lens-based AF module on the camera module 500. In other words, by cutting the lens, the lens barrel carrying the lens can be smaller than that used for an axisymmetric lens, thus saving cut volume. The autofocus module can be located within the cut volume, thus allowing for a compact circular pop-up camera industrial design. The applicant has found that the additional space required for integrating the AF actuator can be reduced by approximately 90% compared to a pop-up camera with an axisymmetric lens, where the axisymmetric lens has a D-shaped cut of approximately 20% along the Y-axis on one side. Figures 15A-15B As shown, integrating autofocus into a free D-shaped cut volume between the lens barrel and the support allows for limiting the increase in the diameter of the camera module due to the AF module to less than 3mm or less than 6mm.

[0080] The camera module 500 may also include a protective seal 585, which is configured to maintain the airtightness of the camera module 500 in its retracted state, operational state, and intermediate state. The protective seal 585 may be dustproof. The protective seal 585 may be configured to meet an IP68 protection rating. The protective seal 585 may be a diaphragm. The protective seal 585 may form a foldable sleeve. One end of the sleeve may be secured to the outer peripheral edge of the bracket 530, and the other end of the sleeve may be secured to the inner peripheral edge of the front housing 570.

[0081] The camera module 500 may also include an optical image stabilization system to provide stabilization capabilities. The OIS system is configurable to move the sensor 560 along the X and Y axes in the sensor plane. The OIS system may additionally or alternatively be configured to move the sensor by rotating it along yaw, pitch, and / or roll rotation axes, preferably along the yaw (Z) and pitch (X) rotation axes.

[0082] Typically, the dimensions of the camera module 500 can be within the following range: the camera module, including the actuator, can be fitted into a circle with a diameter between 6 and 50 mm. The diameter of the cover window can be between 5 and 40 mm. The height of the camera assembly in the inactive (retracted) state can be between 6 and 18 mm, while in the active (pop-up) state, the height can be between 7 and 30 mm. The height variation of the camera module between the non-operating and operating modes can be between 1 and 15 mm.

[0083] Figures 18A-18B A schematic diagram showing a general camera module 600 according to an embodiment of the second aspect of this application in a retracted state and an extended state is presented.

[0084] Camera module 600 includes a lens barrel 620, a bracket 630 configured to receive the lens barrel 620, and an image sensor 660. Camera module 600 may further include a retractable cover window 650. Lens barrel 620 includes an objective lens assembly. The objective lens assembly can coaxially hold a plurality (e.g., four) of lens elements 625 defining the optical axis Z of camera module 600. Bracket 630 may include a bracket lens barrel for receiving the lens barrel 620. Lens barrel 620 may be coaxially disposed within bracket 630. Lens barrel 620 may be connected to bracket 630 to allow axial displacement of lens barrel 620 relative to bracket 630. Lens barrel 620 and bracket 630 may be axially connected using at least one or more (e.g., two) axial rails and corresponding one or more (e.g., two) bearing balls enclosed therebetween. Bracket 630 may be coupled to be axially fixed relative to image sensor 660 and relative to the Z-axis. Lens barrel 620 has an operating state and a retracted state. In the operating state, the image sensor 660 is located in the focal plane or imaging plane of the objective lens assembly. In the retracted state, the camera module can be disabled, meaning the camera module cannot image the field of view of the objective lens assembly. The lens's operating state corresponds to the pop-up (operational) mode of the camera module 600, in which the TTL of the camera module is greater than the TTL of the camera module in the non-operational mode.

[0085] The camera module 600 also includes a barrel ejection assembly configured to controllably move the lens barrel 620 from a retracted state to an operational state. The barrel ejection assembly includes a magnetic spring assembly 610 configured to deflect the lens barrel 620 in the operational state. The magnetic spring assembly 610 includes at least one permanent magnet 670 fixed to the lens barrel 620 and a ferromagnetic yoke 680 fixed to a support 630. The magnetic spring 610 is configured to cause axial movement of the lens barrel 620 relative to the support 630 from a retracted state to an operational state. The magnetic spring assembly can be positioned in the gap between the support 630 and the lens barrel 620. At least one permanent magnet 670 can be fixed to an outer wall of the lens barrel 620. The yoke 680 can be fixed to an inner wall of the support barrel. In other words, this aspect provides a method of using the magnetic force applied to the yoke by a permanent magnet to generate a vertical deflecting force on the lens barrel 620 via a spring. Figure 19 It demonstrates the magnetic force F applied to magnet 670 and its vertical ejection component F. POP and horizontal preload component F PRE A schematic diagram. Horizontal preload component F PRE This helps maintain the bearing balls enclosed in the axial track between the coupling lens tube 620 and the support 630. For example... Figures 22A-22B As shown in the schematic diagram of the embodiment in Figures 18-21, the magnetic force F depends on the position and orientation of the magnet 670 relative to the ferromagnetic yoke 680, and specifically on the initial offset distance D between the yoke and the magnet in the contracted state. OFF The magnetic spring assembly can be configured to generate a spring-loaded force capable of overcoming the weight of the lens when the weight of the lens barrel resists axial movement of the lens barrel from a retracted state to an operational state. In some embodiments, the magnetic spring assembly can be configured such that the spring-loaded force in the retracted state can be from about 0.5g to 4g.

[0086] The retractable cover 650 can also be configured to move axially controllably between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the cover 650 can be positioned against the farthest surface (e.g., edge) of the retracted mirror barrel 620. In the extended position, the cover 650 can be positioned to provide an axial clearance with the farthest surface of the mirror barrel 620 in the operating state. The movement of the cover 650 between the retracted and extended positions and the movement of the mirror barrel 620 between the retracted and extended positions can work together. The axial movement of the cover 650 can be driven by a cover pop-out assembly 611, which is controlled by an actuator 640. In the retracted position, the cover 650 can be configured to hold the mirror barrel 620 in the retracted position. In other words, the cover in the retracted position can overcome the magnetic force of the magnetic spring assembly 610. In the extended position, the cover can be configured to create an axial clearance with the mirror barrel 620 in the operating state. Axial clearance allows the lens barrel 620 to move axially from the operating state, thereby enabling autofocus capability. The cover 650 can also be configured to move the lens from the operating state to the retracted state when the cover is operated via the cover pop-out assembly 611 to move from the extended position to the retracted position. In other words, when the cover is moved from the extended position to the retracted position under the operation of the cover pop-out assembly 611, the cover can push the lens and retract the lens barrel 620 into the retracted state. When the cover 650 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the lens barrel 620 is released, and magnetic force can drive the lens barrel 620 to transition back to the operating state. In some embodiments, the cover pop-out assembly can be any of the cover pop-out assemblies described in Figures 9-12. In some embodiments, the cover pop-out assembly can be driven by a compression spring. The compression spring can bias the cover towards the extended position. The cover can be held in the retracted position by a latching mechanism. The latching mechanism can be actuated, for example, by a user requesting use of a camera on a portable electronic device on which a camera module is mounted, or by the user mechanically manipulating the camera module (e.g., by pushing the cover). The spring can be pre-compressed by the user moving the cover to the retracted position, for example by pushing the cover down until the latching mechanism locks the cover latch in the retracted position.

[0087] The camera module 600 may further include an AF module, which includes at least one electrical coil fixed to the inner wall of the support tube. The electrical coil may be configured such that when the lens barrel moves toward the operating state into the autofocus range, a current in the at least one electrical coil can induce an axial force on at least one permanent magnet to cause axial movement of the lens barrel and enable the camera module's autofocus capability. The autofocus range may refer to a position along the Z-axis, for which the electrical coil can sense a force capable of axial movement of the lens. A magnetic spring assembly 610 may be configured to move the lens barrel within the autofocus range. In some embodiments, the autofocus module may allow the lens barrel 620 to be held in the operating state. In some embodiments, a pop-out force may allow the barrel 620 to be held in the operating state. It is understood that the pop-out force in the operating state may be significantly smaller than the pop-out force in the retracted state. The magnetic spring can be released in the operating state, and the small pop-out force can then be overcome by the interaction of the autofocus coil and the permanent magnet to focus the camera. The AF module may further include a drive circuit system configured to control the AF module and an optional position sensor (not shown) to determine the vertical position of the lens barrel 620. The AF module may also include a PCB (printed circuit board) that can be fixed to the inner wall of the bracket. The drive circuitry and coils can be mounted on the PCB. The camera module 600 may also include current supply wiring for supplying current to the AF module. The current supply wiring extends from the main PCB where the sensor 660 is mounted to a PCB on which at least one coil is mounted.

[0088] Lens barrel 620 may include one or more lens units having at least one D-cut shape. For example, 10% to 50% of the optical height of any D-cut lens may be removed. Lens barrel 620 may conform to the D-cut shape, thereby freeing up the D-cut volume between bracket 630 and lens barrel 620. AF module may preferably be integrated into the D-cut volume between bracket 630 and lens barrel 620. This allows for limiting the increase in camera module diameter due to AF module and limiting the difference ΔD between the diameter of lens barrel 620 and the diameter of bracket 630 to less than 0.05 mm, less than 0.5 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 3 mm, or less than 6 mm.

[0089] The camera module 600 may also include an optical image stabilization system to provide stabilization capabilities. The OIS (optical image stabilization) system is configured to move the sensor 660 along the X and Y axes in the sensor plane. The OIS system may additionally or alternatively be configured to move the sensor by rotating it along yaw, pitch, and / or roll axes of rotation, preferably along the yaw (Z) and pitch (X) axes of rotation. In some embodiments, the OIS system may additionally or alternatively be provided by using, for example, the OIS components according to the third aspect of this application, to move the support 630 and the lens along the X and Y axes in the sensor plane.

[0090] Typically, camera module 600 may be configured to be waterproof. The camera module may include a protective seal configured to maintain its airtightness in a retracted state, an operational state, and an intermediate state. Camera module 600 may also include an optical filter configured to filter out predetermined portions of the electromagnetic spectrum detectable by an image sensor. This may enable the filtering of invisible radiation such as infrared radiation.

[0091] Typically, the dimensions of the camera module 600 can be within the following range: the camera module, including the actuator, can be fitted into a circle with a diameter between 6 and 50 mm. The diameter of the cover window can be between 5 and 40 mm. In the non-operating (retracted) mode, the height of the camera module can be between 6 and 18 mm, while in the operating (pop-up) mode, it can be between 7 and 30 mm. The height variation of the camera module between the non-operating and operating modes can be between 1 and 15 mm.

[0092] Figures 20A-20B Cross-sectional views of the camera module 700 in non-operating mode and operating mode, respectively, are shown in the embodiments of the second aspect of this application. Figures 21A-21B Showing Figures 20A-20B Isometric views of the cross-section of the camera module component when the camera module is in the retracted and extended states, respectively.

[0093] Camera module 700 includes a lens barrel 720, a support 730 configured to receive the lens barrel 720, and an image sensor 760. Camera module 700 may further include a retractable cover window (not shown) controlled by a cover window pop-out assembly and an actuator (not shown). Lens barrel 720 includes an objective lens assembly. The objective lens assembly defines four lens elements 725a-725d and holds them coaxially along the optical axis Z of camera module 700. Lens barrel 720 includes lens elements with two D-shaped notches. Lens barrel 720 conforms to the D-shaped notch shape, thereby releasing the D-shaped notch volume between support 730 and lens barrel 720.

[0094] The support 730 includes a support tube for receiving the lens barrel 720. The lens barrel 720 is coaxially positioned inside the support 730. The lens barrel 720 is connected to the support 730 to allow axial displacement of the lens barrel 720 relative to the support 730. The lens barrel 720 and the support 730 are axially connected by using two axial rails and corresponding bearing balls surrounding them. The support 730 is mounted on an OIS assembly that is axially fixed relative to the image sensor 760 and relative to the Z-axis. The OIS assembly will be described in detail below with respect to the third aspect of this application. The lens barrel 720 has an operating state and a retracted state. In the operating state, the image sensor 760 is located in the focal plane or imaging plane of the objective lens assembly. In the retracted state, the camera module can be disabled, i.e., the camera module cannot image the field of view of the objective lens assembly. The operating state corresponds to the pop-up mode of the camera module 700, in which the TTL of the camera module is greater than the TTL of the camera module in the non-operating mode.

[0095] The camera module 700 also includes a pop-out assembly configured to controllably move the lens barrel 720 from a retracted state to an operational state. The pop-out assembly includes a magnetic spring assembly 710 configured to bias the lens barrel 720 into the operational state. The magnetic spring assembly 710 includes at least one permanent magnet 770 fixed to the lens barrel 720 and a ferromagnetic yoke 780 fixed to the support 730. The magnetic spring assembly 710 is configured to axially move the lens barrel 720 relative to the support 730 from the retracted state to the operational state. The magnetic spring assembly 710 is disposed in the gap between the support 730 and the lens barrel 720. At least one permanent magnet 770 is fixed to the outer wall of the lens barrel 720. The ferromagnetic yoke 780 is fixed to the inner wall of the support barrel.

[0096] Camera module 700 includes an AF module, which includes at least one electrical coil fixed to the inner wall of the support barrel. The AF module is integrated in a D-shaped cut space between the support 730 and the lens barrel 720. The electrical coil is configured such that when the lens barrel moves toward the operating state into the autofocus range, the current in the at least one electrical coil can induce an axial force on at least one permanent magnet 770 to cause axial movement of the lens barrel and enable the camera module's autofocus capability. The autofocus range may refer to a position along the Z-axis, for which the electrical coil can sense a force capable of axial movement of the lens. A magnetic spring assembly 710 is configured to move the lens barrel 720 within the autofocus range. In some embodiments, the AF module may allow the lens barrel 720 to remain in the operating state. In some embodiments, the spring force of the magnetic spring assembly 710 may allow the lens barrel 720 to remain in the operating state.

[0097] Typically, the dimensions of the camera module 700 can be within the following range: the camera module, including the actuator, can be fitted into a circle with a diameter between 6 and 50 mm. The diameter of the cover window can be between 5 and 40 mm. In the non-operating (retracted) mode, the height of the camera module can be between 6 and 18 mm, while in the operating (pop-up) mode, it can be between 7 and 30 mm. The height variation of the camera module between the non-operating and operating modes can be between 1 and 15 mm.

[0098] Figures 22A-22B The paper demonstrates the spring force and preload force of the magnetic spring along the Z-axis for different offset distances between the yoke and the magnet in the contracted state. Figure 22A As can be seen, the data for yoke offset distances of 1.8mm, 2.1mm, and 2.4mm are provided, and the ejection force varies with the yoke offset distance. It can be determined that the yoke offset distance providing the ejection force is sufficient to lift the lens barrel or directly enter the operating state within the autofocus range. For example... Figure 22B As shown, the preload force also varies with the yoke offset distance and the magnet stroke.

[0099] Figures 23A-23C The OIS system 800 provided in the third aspect embodiment of this application is generally described and schematically illustrated. Compared to a standard system, the OIS system of this application may have a low shoulder (i.e., the dimension along the Z-axis). The OIS system 800 may be configured to move the lens barrel of the camera module relative to the sensor. The OIS system 800 may be configured to provide displacement of the objective lens assembly in two lateral directions in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens barrel. The OIS system 800 may be configured as a bracket to support the camera module provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0100] OIS system 800 includes a bottom OIS frame 840, a middle OIS frame 830, and a top OIS frame 820. These are referred to simply as "frames" below. The bottom frame, middle frame, and top frame are typically monolithic flat structures extending into the OIS plane. The OIS frames may have a plate shape. Each OIS frame may include a hollow central portion to allow light to illuminate the image sensor. OIS system 800 may be configured to be mounted above an image sensor (not shown) defining a horizontal plane. The bottom frame 840 may be configured to be fixedly connected relative to the image sensor. The bottom frame 840 may be configured to be mounted on a PCB, with the sensor centered on the sensor, such that the OIS plane is parallel to the sensor plane. The middle frame 830 may be configured to be mounted on the bottom frame 840. The middle frame 830 may be coupled to be axially displaceable relative to the bottom frame 840 in a direction Y parallel to the horizontal sensor plane. The middle frame 830 may be coupled to the bottom frame 840 to resist axial displacement in a direction X transverse to the Y direction and parallel to the sensor plane. For example, the intermediate frame 830 may have one degree of freedom in the Y direction only relative to the bottom frame 840. In some embodiments, the bottom frame 840 and the intermediate frame 830 may include one or more parallel rails in the Y direction to allow axial displacement / displacement of the intermediate frame 830 relative to the bottom frame 840. In some embodiments, the one or more parallel rails may enclose bearing balls to ensure a low-friction connection between the intermediate frame 830 and the bottom frame 840. The top frame 820 may be configured to be mounted on the intermediate frame 830. The top frame 820 may be connected to be axially movable relative to the intermediate frame 830 in the X direction, transverse to the Y direction and parallel to the sensor plane. The top frame 820 may be connected to the intermediate frame 830 to resist axial displacement in the Y direction, transverse to the X direction. For example, the top frame 820 may have one degree of freedom in the X direction only relative to the intermediate frame 830. In some embodiments, the top frame 820 and the intermediate frame 830 may include one or more parallel rails in the X direction to allow axial displacement of the top frame 820 relative to the intermediate frame 830. In some embodiments, one or more parallel rails may enclose bearing balls to ensure a low-friction connection between the intermediate frame 830 and the top frame 820. The top frame 820 may be configured to securely support a bracket cylinder 810 of the camera module. The bracket cylinder 810 may be configured to house a lens cylinder. In some embodiments, the bracket cylinder 810 may be integrally formed with the top frame 820.

[0101] The OIS system 800 may also include a VCM mechanism (or more generally, a linear motion induction motor mechanism) configured to selectively move the top frame 820 relative to the intermediate frame in the X direction. The VCM mechanism may also be configured to selectively move the intermediate frame 830 (and the top frame 820, carried on the intermediate frame 830 together with the intermediate frame 830) relative to the bottom frame 840 in the Y direction. In other words, the VCM mechanism may be configured to selectively move the top frame 820 according to the X and / or Y axes. The VCM mechanism may include one VCM for driving the OIS along the X direction and another VCM for driving the OIS along the Y direction. The OIS system 800 may include a first permanent magnet and a second permanent magnet defining a first magnetic axis and a second magnetic axis, respectively. In some embodiments, the first and second permanent magnets may be fixed to the top frame 820 such that the first and second magnetic axes are collinear with the X and Y axes, respectively. In some embodiments, one permanent magnet may be fixed to the top frame 820 such that its magnetic axis is parallel to the X axis, while the other permanent magnet is fixed to the intermediate frame 830 such that its magnetic axis is parallel to the Y axis. A first permanent magnet with its magnetic axis parallel to the X-axis and a second permanent magnet with its magnetic axis parallel to the Y-axis may be referred to as the X magnet and the Y magnet, respectively. Furthermore, the OIS system 800 may include a first coil and a second coil, configured to cooperate with the first and second permanent magnets, respectively. The first and second permanent magnets are configured such that current in the first and / or second coils can induce axial forces on the first and / or second permanent magnets, thereby causing axial movement of the top frame in the X and / or Y directions. In some embodiments, the OIS system 800 may also include additional magnet groups and corresponding coils. The OIS system 800 may also include a controller. The OIS system 800 may also include a Hall position sensor to allow feedback on the position of the frame. The OIS system 800 may also include a magnetic yoke positioned in the sensor plane such that the magnetic forces applied to the yoke by the X and Y magnets hold the layered structure together, thereby keeping the bearing balls enclosed in the track.

[0102] The OIS system 800 can be integrated into the camera module provided in the second aspect of this application. The bracket of the camera module can be fixedly connected to the top frame 820 of the OIS system 800, such that movement of the top frame is transmitted to the bracket. In some embodiments, the bracket can be integrally formed with the top frame 820.

[0103] The external dimensions of the OIS system 800 allow it to be fitted into a circle with a diameter between 6 and 50 mm.

[0104] Figure 24An OIS system 900 with respect to a third aspect of this application is shown. The OIS system 900 includes a bottom frame 940, a middle frame 930, and a top frame 920. The top frame 920 is fixedly connected to a cylinder 910 via a flange 922 extending radially from its base. The cylinder 910 is generally similar to the bracket 730 described with reference to FIG20. Specifically, the cylinder 910 is configured to coaxially accommodate the lens barrel while allowing axial movement of the lens barrel along the Z direction via vertical axial connectors 915a to 915b. Furthermore, the lens barrel 910 is configured to accommodate an AF module (particularly a ferromagnetic yoke and an electric coil) for moving the lens barrel, such that the lens barrel is received therein, as described above. The underside of the flange 922 is configured to hold first and second permanent magnets. The bottom frame 940 can be configured to be fixed to a PCB. The bottom frame 940 and the middle frame 930 can be axially connected using an axial connection mechanism that allows movement in the Y direction. For example, the axial connection mechanism (also known as a track connection) may include bottom protrusions 945a-945d that project from the upper surface of the bottom frame 940 and engage with an intermediate track (i.e., an axial groove, not visible in the figure) formed on the lower surface of the intermediate frame 930. The bottom protrusions 945a-945d may extend axially in a Y direction parallel to the image sensor plane. At least some, and preferably each, of the bottom protrusions 945a-945d may be formed by an axial protrusion having a predetermined (e.g., triangular) cross-sectional shape. At least some, and preferably each, of the protrusions 945a-945d may include a recess configured to receive bearing balls. The intermediate track may be configured to face the bottom protrusions 945a-945d and have the same predetermined (e.g., triangular) cross-sectional shape to accommodate the bottom protrusions 945a-945d. This allows the intermediate frame 930 to slide along the Y-direction on the bottom frame 940, while preventing planar movement in the X-direction perpendicular to the Y-direction and parallel to the image sensor. The top frame 920 and the intermediate frame 930 can be axially connected using an axial connection mechanism that allows relative movement of the device along the X-direction. For example, the axial connection mechanism may include similar tracks as described above connecting the bottom frame 940 and the intermediate frame 930, including intermediate protrusions 935a-935d and top tracks 925a-925d, to allow the top frame 920 to move relative to the intermediate frame 930 in the X-direction.

[0105] Figures 25-28 illustrate a camera module 1000 according to an embodiment of this application. Figures 25A-25B The camera module 1000 is shown in exploded view and assembled isometric view. Figure 26-28An isolated component of the camera module 1000 is shown. The camera module 1000 combines the second aspect of this application (i.e., generally, a lens ejection mechanism actuated by a magnetic spring) and the third aspect (i.e., generally, a three-layer OIS system for shifting the lens barrel in a plane parallel to the image sensor).

[0106] Camera module 1000 may include a lens barrel 1020, a support 1030 configured to receive the lens barrel 1020, and an image sensor 1060. Camera module 1000 may further include a retractable cover window (not shown) controlled by a cover window pop-out assembly and an actuator (not shown). Lens barrel 1020 includes an objective lens assembly. The objective lens assembly defines and holds a plurality of lens elements of camera module 1000 coaxially along the optical axis Z. Lens barrel 102 includes a lens element having at least one D-cut shape. Lens barrel 1020 conforms to the D-cut shape, thereby releasing the D-cut volume between support 1030 and lens barrel 1020.

[0107] The support 1030 includes a support tube for receiving the lens barrel 1020. The lens barrel 1020 is coaxially disposed inside the support 1030. The lens barrel 1020 is connected to the support 1030 to allow axial displacement of the lens barrel 1020 relative to the support 1030. The lens barrel 1020 and the support 1030 are axially connected by using one or more (e.g., two) axial rails 1022a, 1022b and corresponding one or more (e.g., two) bearing balls enclosed therebetween. The support 1030 is mounted on an OIS system 900 (see reference). Figure 24Image sensor 1060 is mounted on main PCB 1100. Bottom frame 940 is mounted on main PCB 1100 above the center of image sensor 1060. Bottom frame 940 and intermediate frame 930 are axially connected using an axial connection mechanism that allows intermediate frame 930 to move relative to bottom frame 940 in the Y direction. Top frame 920 and intermediate frame 930 are axially connected using an axial connection mechanism that allows top frame 920 to move relative to intermediate frame 930 in the X direction. Support 1030 is fixedly connected to top frame 920 via flange 922. Support 1030 can be integrally formed with top frame 920. The bottom of flange 922 can be configured to hold first permanent magnet 921a and second permanent magnet 923 such that their magnetic axes are parallel to the X-axis and Y-axis, respectively. Additional magnet 921b can be positioned such that its magnetic axis is parallel to the X-direction and symmetrical with respect to the optical axis to first permanent magnet 921a. Furthermore, it should be understood that the first coils 924a-924b and the second coil 926 are respectively configured to cooperate with the first permanent magnets 921a-921b and the second permanent magnet 923, and are configured such that the current in the first coils 924a-924b and / or the second coil 926 can induce an axial force on the first permanent magnets 921a-921b and / or the second permanent magnet 923, thereby causing axial movement of the top frame in the X and / or Y directions. The first coils 924a-924b and the second coil 926 can be mounted on the main PCB 1100. The main PCB 1100 may include electrical connections for the image sensor 1060, the first coils 924a-924b and the second coil 926, and for the AF module described below. In some embodiments, the camera module 1000 may additionally include an additional OIS system configured to move the image sensor 1060.

[0108] Lens 1020 has an operating state and a retracted state. In the operating state, image sensor 1060 is positioned in the focal plane or imaging plane of the objective lens assembly. In the retracted state, the camera module can be disabled, meaning the camera module cannot image the field of view of the objective lens assembly. The operating state corresponds to the pop-up state of camera module 1000, in which the TTL of the camera module is greater than the TTL of the camera module in the retracted state.

[0109] The camera module 1000 also includes a pop-out assembly configured to controllably move the lens 1020 from a retracted state to an operational state. The pop-out assembly includes a magnetic spring assembly configured to bias the lens 1020 into the operational state. The magnetic spring assembly includes at least one permanent magnet 1070 fixed to the lens 1020 and a ferromagnetic yoke 1080 fixed to a support 1030. The magnetic spring assembly is configured to cause the lens 1020 to move axially relative to the support 1030 from the retracted state toward the operational state. The magnetic spring assembly is positioned in the gap between the support 1030 and the lens barrel 1020. At least one (e.g., two) permanent magnets 1070 are fixed to the outer wall of the lens 1020. The yoke 1080 is fixed to the inner wall of the support barrel 1030.

[0110] A retractable cover (not shown) can also be configured to move axially controllably between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the cover can be positioned against the farthest surface of the retracted lens barrel and hold the lens barrel in the retracted position. In the extended position, the cover can be positioned to provide axial clearance with the lens barrel in the operating state. The movement of the cover between the retracted and extended positions and the movement of the lens barrel between the retracted and extended positions can be coordinated. The axial movement of the cover can be driven by a cover pop-out assembly controlled by a brake. The cover pop-out assembly can be one of the mechanisms shown with reference to FIG9-12, or a spring-based mechanism as previously described in camera module 600. In the retracted position, the cover can be configured to hold the lens barrel in the retracted position. In other words, the cover in the retracted position can overcome the magnetic force of the magnetic spring assembly. The cover can also be configured to move the lens barrel from the operating state to the retracted state when the cover is controlled by the cover pop-out assembly to move the cover from the extended position to the retracted position. In other words, when the cover window moves from the extended position to the retracted position, it can push the mirror barrel and retract it into the retracted state. When the cover window moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the mirror barrel is released and the magnetic spring can drive the mirror barrel toward the operating state.

[0111] The camera module 1000 also includes an AF module comprising at least one autofocus coil 1092 fixed to the inner wall of the support tube 1030. The AF module is integrated into a D-shaped cut space between the support tube 1030 and the lens barrel 1020. This limits the increase in diameter due to the AF module. The autofocus coil 1092 is configured such that when the lens barrel 1020 moves toward the operating state into the autofocus range, the current in the at least one coil can induce an axial force on at least one permanent magnet 1070 to cause axial movement of the lens barrel and enable the autofocus capability of the camera module 1000. The autofocus range may refer to multiple locations along the Z-axis for which the autofocus coil 1092 can induce a force capable of axially moving the lens barrel. A magnetic spring assembly is configured to move the lens 1020 within the autofocus range. In some embodiments, the AF module may allow the lens 1020 to remain in the operating state. In some embodiments, the spring force of the magnetic spring assembly may allow the lens 1020 to remain in the operating state. The AF module may also include drive circuitry configured to control the AF module and a position sensor (not shown) for determining the position of lens 1020. The AF module may also include an autofocus PCB that can be fixed to the inner wall of bracket 1030. Drive circuitry and coil 1092 may be mounted on the PCB. Camera module 1000 may also include current supply wiring for supplying current to the AF module. The current supply wiring may extend from a main PCB 1100 on which sensor 1060 can be mounted to a PCB on which at least one coil 1092 is mounted to supply current to the AF module. Main PCB 1100 may include a foldable PCB portion 1110 that can be folded to reach the upper surface of top frame 920. The current supply wiring may also include a planar flexure 1120 configured to fit onto the upper surface of top frame 920. Flexure 1120 may include wires for circuit wiring. Flexure 1120 may be electrically connected to the foldable PCB portion 1110 of main PCB 1100. The bent portion 1120 can be electrically connected to the autofocus PCB. The flexure 1120 may include four electrical channels 1121a-1121d for providing control signals to the AF module. Two channels may be used to control the autofocus electronic coil 1092, and two channels may be used to control the drive circuitry and position sensor. The bent portion 1120 may include an autofocus connection port 1122a, which includes four connection points for connecting to the AF module. The cylinder 1030 may be configured to allow these electrical connections to pass through and may, for example, include through-holes (orifices) for receiving the electrical connections. The flexure 1120 may also include a PCB connection port 1122b, which includes four connection points for connecting to the main PCB 1100.The flexure 1120 may include a flexure ring 1123 disposed around the base of the support tube and a flexure profile 1124 disposed on the outer periphery of the top frame 920. Electrical channels 1121a-1121d may each individually engage the flexure profile 1124 and the flexure ring 1123. In some other embodiments, the autofocus connection port 1122a and the PCB connection port 1222b may be directly connected, for example, using a floating cable, thus eliminating the need for the planar flexure 1120.

[0112] In other words, a magnetic spring allows the lens to move linearly in a direction parallel to the lens's optical axis. This allows the pop-up camera to switch between an (operational) pop-up state and a (non-operational) retracted state. To switch the pop-up camera between the retracted and pop-up states, the cover glass moves linearly in a direction parallel to the lens's optical axis simultaneously with or before the lens barrel is moved. The travel distance of the lens switching movement between the retracted and pop-up states can be between 0.5mm and 10mm. Due to relatively low precision requirements, this lens barrel switching movement can be performed in an open-loop configuration. In the pop-up state, the AF module can linearly move the lens to perform autofocus. The travel distance of this autofocus movement can be between 0.5mm and 5mm. Due to higher precision requirements for performing autofocus, the autofocus movement can be performed in a closed-loop configuration. It should be noted that, compared to OIS-based sensors, lens-based OIS actuators typically require additional space within the camera module. The OIS system disclosed in this application has a design that mitigates this problem. Specifically, the OIS system 900 can have a flat, layered structure in which movable mechanical components are located at the base of the camera module. The height of the flat, layered structure can be less than 3 mm, typically about 2 mm or less, in contrast, the height of the camera module can be between 5 and 15 mm, typically 8 to 10 mm, for example, about 9 mm. The OIS system of this application avoids increasing the diameter of the camera module's cover window and achieves a low-shoulder design.

[0113] Typically, the dimensions of the camera module 1000 can be within the following range: the camera module, including the actuator, can be fitted into a circle with a diameter between 6 and 50 mm. The diameter of the cover window can be between 5 and 40 mm. In the non-operating (retracted) mode, the height of the camera module can be between 6 and 18 mm, while in the operating (pop-up) mode, it can be between 7 and 30 mm. The height variation of the camera module between the non-operating and operating modes can be between 1 and 15 mm.

[0114] It should be noted that the various features described in different embodiments can be combined according to all possible combinations of techniques.

[0115] It should be understood that this application is not limited in its application to the details set forth in the specification contained herein or shown in the accompanying drawings. This application is capable of having other embodiments and can be practiced and performed in various ways. Therefore, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. Consequently, those skilled in the art will understand that the concepts upon which this application is based can readily be used as the basis for designing other structures, methods, and systems for achieving certain objectives related to the subject matter of this application.

[0116] Those skilled in the art will readily understand that various modifications and alterations can be applied to the embodiments of this application described above without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A camera module, characterized in that, The camera module includes: The lens barrel includes an objective lens assembly that coaxially holds one or more lens elements defining an optical axis, and the lens barrel includes an operating state and a retracted state; A support, the support being configured to house the lens barrel, the lens barrel being axially movable relative to the support; A magnetic spring assembly, comprising at least one permanent magnet fixed to the lens barrel and a ferromagnetic yoke fixed to the carrier, the magnetic spring assembly being configured to axially move the lens barrel relative to the support from the retracted state to the operational state; and An image sensor is configured to image the field of view of the objective lens assembly when the lens barrel is in the operating state.

2. The camera module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The permanent magnet is fixed to the outer wall of the lens barrel.

3. The camera module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The displacement range produced by the interaction between the ferromagnetic yoke and the permanent magnet is 0.5 mm to 10 mm.

4. The camera module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The extension stroke of the lens barrel is greater than 10%, 15%, 20%, or 30% of the height of the camera module in the retracted state.

5. The camera module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The extension stroke of the lens barrel is less than half the height of the camera module in the retracted state.

6. The camera module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The camera module further includes a retractable cover window disposed above the lens barrel and axially movable relative to the carrier between a retracted position and an extended position. The retractable cover window is configured to: hold the lens barrel in a retracted state in the retracted position and create an axial gap between the lens barrel in the operating state and the cover window in the extended position in the extended position.

7. The camera module as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The retractable cover is configured such that when the lens barrel is in the operating state and the cover is driven by the cover pop-out component to move from the extended position to the retracted position, the cover pushes the lens barrel into the retracted state.

8. The camera module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The camera module further includes a cover pop-out component for controllably moving the cover from a retracted position to an extended position.

9. The camera module as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The magnetic spring assembly is further configured to participate in maintaining the lens barrel in an operational state.

10. The camera module as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The lens barrel and the support are axially coupled through at least one or more axial guide rails and at least one or more corresponding bearing balls clamped in the axial guide rails.

11. The camera module as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the lens elements in the objective lens assembly is cut to form a D-cut lens, thereby freeing up the D-cut space.

12. The camera module as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, 10% to 30% of the optical height of the D-type cut lens is removed.

13. The camera module as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The frame shape of the lens barrel is adapted to the D-shaped cut lens so that the D-shaped cut space between the lens barrel and the support is released.

14. The camera module as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The camera module also includes an autofocus module integrated within the D-shaped cut space.

15. The camera module as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The diameter difference between the lens barrel and the support is less than 3 mm.

16. The camera module as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The diameter difference between the lens barrel and the support is less than 1 mm.

17. The camera module as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The autofocus module further includes at least one electric coil fixed to the inner wall of the bracket, wherein the electric coil is configured such that when the lens barrel moves from the operating state to the autofocus range, the current in the at least one electric coil can induce an axial force on the at least one permanent magnet, thereby driving the lens barrel to move axially to the operating state and enabling the camera module to autofocus.

18. The camera module as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The axial movement driven by the autofocus module ranges from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm.

19. The camera module as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The autofocus module also includes a drive circuit configured to control the autofocus module and a position sensor for determining the position of the lens barrel.

20. The camera module as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that, The autofocus module also includes a printed circuit board fixed to the inner wall of the bracket, and the drive circuit and the coil are mounted on the printed circuit board.

21. The camera module as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The camera module also includes a current supply line for supplying current to the autofocus module, the current supply line being embedded in a flexure comprising circuit wiring wires.

22. The camera module as claimed in claim 21, characterized in that, The flexural element has a stiffness below a predetermined threshold.

23. The camera module as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The camera module further includes an optical image stabilization system configured to move the image sensor.

24. A portable electronic device comprising a camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

25. The portable electronic device of claim 24, wherein the portable electronic device is a smartphone.

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