Camera actuator with single stage optical image stabilization (OIS) assembly

Abstract

A camera actuator with a single stage optical image stabilization (OIS) assembly. A camera includes an image sensor, an optical assembly having one or more lenses, and an actuator assembly configured to move one of the image sensor or the optical assembly. The actuator assembly includes an optical image stabilization (OIS) carrier. The OIS carrier is configured to move one of the image sensor or the optical assembly along two orthogonal axes for OIS. The actuator assembly further includes a plurality of surfaces on the OIS carrier. Surface portions of the plurality of surfaces are configured to be in physical contact with another surface of another component to allow a sliding movement or a rolling movement between the surface portions of the plurality of surfaces and the another surface of the another component to allow the OIS carrier to move along the two orthogonal axes. The actuator assembly further includes an OIS actuator configured to move the OIS carrier along the two orthogonal axes.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 799,264, filed May 2, 2025, entitled “CAMERA ACTUATOR WITH SINGLE STAGEOPTICAL IMAGE STABILIZATION (OIS) ASSEMBLY,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates in its entirety to a camera module having a voice coil motor (VCM) optical image stabilization (OIS) actuator assembly for lens shifting using a single-stage OIS carrier. Background Technology

[0003] Related technical descriptions The emergence of small, mobile multi-purpose devices, such as smartphones and tablets or tablet devices, has led to a demand for integrating high-resolution, small-form-factor cameras into these devices. Some cameras may include an autofocus (AF) mechanism that adjusts the focal length of an object so that the plane of the object in front of the camera is focused on the image plane that the image sensor is capturing. Additionally, some cameras may include an optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanism that senses and reacts to external stimuli / disturbances by adjusting the position of an optical lens on the X and / or Y axes, attempting to compensate for unwanted lens movement. Attached Figure Description

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

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

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

[0007] Figure 4 Examples of actuator modules or components according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the actuator module or component is shown.

[0008] Figure 5 Examples of actuator modules or components according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the actuator module or component is shown.

[0009] Figure 6 Examples of actuator modules or components according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of the actuator module or component is shown.

[0010] Figure 7 Examples of rotational limiting mechanisms are illustrated according to at least some embodiments of actuator modules or components, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 7 A top view of the rotation limiting mechanism of the actuator module or component is shown.

[0011] Figure 8a Examples of rotational limiting mechanisms are illustrated according to at least some embodiments of actuator modules or components, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 8a A perspective view of the rotation limiting mechanism is shown.

[0012] Figure 8b Examples of rotational limiting mechanisms are illustrated according to at least some embodiments of actuator modules or components, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 8b A perspective view of the rotation limiting mechanism is shown.

[0013] Figure 8c Examples of rotational limiting mechanisms are illustrated according to at least some embodiments of actuator modules or components, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 8c A perspective view of the rotation limiting mechanism is shown.

[0014] Figure 9Components of an OIS carrier surface according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 9 The top view and cross-sectional view of the OIS carrier surface are shown.

[0015] Figure 10 Other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown.

[0016] Figure 11 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 11 The top view and cross-sectional view of the OIS carrier surface are shown.

[0017] Figure 12 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown.

[0018] Figure 13 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown.

[0019] Figure 14 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown.

[0020] Figure 15 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown.

[0021] Figure 16 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 16A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown.

[0022] Figure 17 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown.

[0023] Figure 18 A schematic diagram illustrating an example device that may include a camera according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0024] Figure 19 A schematic block diagram of an example computing device, referred to as a computer system, is illustrated according to some embodiments, which may include or host a camera.

[0025] This specification includes references to "one embodiment" or "implementation". The use of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Specific features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner consistent with this disclosure.

[0026] The term "comprising" is open-ended. As used in the appended claims, it does not exclude additional structures or steps. Consider the following cited claim: "An apparatus comprising one or more processor units..." Such claims do not exclude the inclusion of additional components (e.g., network interface units, graphics circuitry, etc.).

[0027] "Configured as" refers to various units, circuits, or other components that can be described or stated as being "configured as" to perform one or more tasks. In such a context, "configured as" is used to imply a structure (e.g., a circuit) that includes a unit / circuit / component that performs this one or more tasks during operation. Thus, a unit / circuit / component is allegedly configured to perform the task even when the specified unit / circuit / component is currently inoperable (e.g., not switched on). Units / circuits / components used with the "configured as" language include hardware—e.g., circuits, memory storing program instructions that can be executed to perform the operation, etc. Referring to a unit / circuit / component as being "configured as" to perform one or more tasks is explicitly intended for that unit / circuit / component. NoReferencing paragraph 6 of 35 USC § 112. Additionally, “configured to” can include a general-purpose structure (e.g., a general-purpose circuit) manipulated by software and / or firmware (e.g., an FPGA or a general-purpose processor executing the software) in a manner capable of performing one or more tasks to be solved. “Configured to” can also include adjusting manufacturing processes (e.g., a semiconductor fabrication facility) to manufacture devices (e.g., integrated circuits) suitable for implementing or performing one or more tasks.

[0028] "First," "second," etc. As used herein, these terms serve as labels for the nouns preceding them and do not imply any type of ordering (e.g., spatial, temporal, logical, etc.). For example, a buffer circuit may be described herein as performing write operations on a "first" value and a "second" value. The terms "first" and "second" do not necessarily imply that the first value must be written before the second value.

[0029] "Based on." As used herein, this term describes one or more factors that influence a determination. This term does not exclude additional factors that may influence the determination. That is, the determination may be based solely on these factors or at least partially on them. Consider the phrase "based on B to determine...". In this case, B is a factor influencing the determination of A, and such phrases do not exclude the possibility that the determination of A may also be based on C. In other instances, A may be determined solely on B.

[0030] It will also be understood that while the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the intended scope, a first contact may be referred to as a second contact, and similarly, a second contact may be referred to as a first contact. Both the first and second contacts are contacts, but they are not the same contact.

[0031] The terminology used in this description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also cover the plural forms unless the context otherwise clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will also be understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used in this specification specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0032] As used herein, depending on the context, the term "if" can be interpreted as meaning "when..." or "in response to determination" or "in response to detection". Similarly, depending on the context, the phrase "if it is determined..." or "if [the stated condition or event] is detected" can be interpreted as meaning "when it is determined..." or "in response to determination..." or "when [the stated condition or event] is detected" or "in response to detection". Detailed Implementation

[0033] The various embodiments described herein relate to actuator modules or components that can be used in cameras with movable optical components. In some examples, the camera may include camera equipment equipped with controls, magnets, and voice coil motors useful for improving the effectiveness of miniature actuation mechanisms in a compact camera module. More specifically, in some embodiments, the compact camera module includes actuators for providing functions such as autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS). One approach to providing a very compact actuator assembly is to provide OIS actuation for movement and / or displacement of the optical components via a single carrier.

[0034] Compact cameras (e.g., camera modules) are used in a wide range of mobile devices, from cellular phones to AR / VR devices. Many cameras implement AF actuators to improve focusing performance and support lower aperture numbers, and OIS actuators to compensate for camera shake and movement. In some applications, camera actuator assemblies may include multiple carriers, ball bearings, and associated actuators to move optical components in the x, y, and / or z directions. For OIS systems of camera actuator assemblies, two separate stages for x-lens shifting or movement and y-lens shifting or movement (typically in ball bearing applications) can present significant challenges. While effective, this two-stage approach can introduce complexity from additional parts, potentially increasing the likelihood of failure modes, raising costs, and requiring more space within the design (e.g., z-space). For example, each stage in the two stages may require its own set of components, such as bearings and raceways, which can result in a mechanically complex system that can be cumbersome in space-constrained compact applications. This complexity can not only complicate assembly, but also pose reliability risks over time due to the increased number of moving parts, especially in scenarios such as drop incidents, where components may shift or become misaligned, leading to nonlinear behavior that affects performance.

[0035] To address these issues, camera actuator systems can feature single-stage OIS systems capable of combining xy lens shifts or movements. Single-stage OIS systems significantly reduce complexity by minimizing the number of parts, thereby reducing costs, enhancing reliability, and, crucially, saving space. In some aspects, single-stage OIS systems can have sliding surfaces or constrained ball bearing regions (e.g., instead of ball bearings and raceway systems), which enables low-friction, repeatable actuation in both the x and y directions. To maintain contact and stability with the single-stage OIS system, magnetic preload can be used to ensure that the sliding surfaces or constrained ball bearing regions remain offset relative to each other. Additionally, to minimize or prevent rotational movement of optical components with a single-stage OIS system, rotation limiting mechanisms can be included to provide higher torsional stiffness, thereby reducing and / or preventing unwanted rotation while maintaining lower stiffness in the xy plane. The single-stage OIS system presented herein is not only simpler than many other OIS systems that include multi-stage OIS systems, but also maintains performance by ensuring precise, repeatable motion.

[0036] As described herein, a camera with an actuator module or assembly is provided, the camera having a single carrier and an OIS actuator for OIS movement of an optical assembly. The actuator assembly may include a single OIS carrier having an aperture extending through the OIS carrier for receiving a lens carrier. A lens carrier having one or more lenses may be placed on one or more surfaces of the OIS carrier such that the lens carrier moves together with the OIS carrier in the x and y directions for OIS movement. The OIS carrier may be vertically (e.g., along the optical axis) positioned between a shield or housing and a base. The housing may include a spacer having one or more top surfaces for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces of the OIS carrier. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing and / or spacer and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet attached to the OIS carrier, can bias the carrier toward the housing and / or spacer to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface of the OIS carrier and the respective top surface of the housing and / or spacer for movement of the OIS carrier relative to the housing and / or spacer in the x and y directions (e.g., sliding movement). Alternatively, the base may include one or more bottom surfaces for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more respective lower surfaces of the OIS carrier. In some aspects, engagement can be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the base and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet attached to the OIS carrier, can bias the carrier toward the base to facilitate maintaining engagement between the lower surface of the OIS carrier and the respective bottom surface of the base for movement of the OIS carrier relative to the base in the x and y directions (e.g., sliding movement).

[0037] As mentioned herein, the OIS carrier may include an OIS magnet. For example, the OIS carrier may include an OIS magnet positioned within one arm of the OIS carrier and another OIS magnet positioned within an adjacent arm of the OIS carrier. The arms may extend in a direction orthogonal to the adjacent arms. Thus, one OIS magnet in one arm can be used for OIS movement of the OIS carrier and lens carrier in the x-direction, and the other OIS magnet in the adjacent arm can be used for OIS movement of the OIS carrier and lens carrier in the y-direction. A base may be positioned below the OIS carrier in the z-direction along the optical axis. The base may include OIS coils having boundary sides facing the OIS carrier for interaction with the OIS magnets. For example, the base may include an OIS coil vertically aligned with an OIS magnet positioned within one arm of the OIS carrier and another OIS coil vertically aligned with another OIS magnet positioned within an adjacent arm of the OIS carrier. When the OIS coil receives a current, the current interacts with the magnetic field generated by the vertically aligned OIS magnet, thereby causing the OIS carrier and lens carrier to move for OIS. For example, when one OIS coil receives current, the current interacts with a magnetic field generated by a vertically aligned OIS magnet within one arm of the OIS carrier, causing the OIS carrier and lens carrier to move in the x-direction via a sliding engagement between the upper surface of the OIS carrier and the top surface of the spacer for OIS. As another example, when another OIS coil receives current, the current interacts with a magnetic field generated by a vertically aligned OIS magnet within an adjacent arm of the OIS carrier, causing the OIS carrier and lens carrier to move in the y-direction via a sliding engagement between the upper surface of the OIS carrier and the top surface of the spacer for OIS. In some aspects, the spacer and / or housing may include sidewalls for limiting the distance the OIS carrier can move in the x and y directions. In some aspects, each OIS coil positioned on the base may be paired with a positioning sensor for determining the relative positioning of the OIS carrier in the x and y directions. For example, an OIS coil that interacts with an OIS magnet to cause OIS movement of the OIS carrier in the x-direction may be paired with a positioning sensor to determine the relative positioning of the OIS carrier and lens carrier in the x-direction. As another example, another OIS coil that interacts with another OIS magnet to make the OIS carrier move in the y direction can be paired with another positioning sensor to determine the relative positioning of the OIS carrier and the lens carrier in the y direction.

[0038] In some aspects, and as described herein, the OIS carrier may include a pair of vertical raceways mating with a pair of vertical carrier tracks on the lens carrier. The mated vertical raceways and vertical carrier tracks may each contain one or more ball bearings. Since the lens carrier rests on the OIS carrier, the lens carrier can be moved vertically relative to the OIS carrier along the z-direction (e.g., along the optical axis) using the pair of vertical raceways and vertical carrier tracks containing ball bearings as guides for AF. In some aspects, for example, when the camera module does not perform AF lens shifting, the lens carrier may be fixedly attached to the OIS carrier. To enable AF movement of the lens carrier relative to the OIS carrier, the OIS carrier may include an AF coil. The AF coil may be positioned on an arm of the OIS carrier, for example, opposite an arm of the OIS carrier having one of the OIS magnets. Additionally or alternatively, the AF coil may be positioned between AF carrier raceways on the arm or wall of the OIS carrier.

[0039] The OIS carrier may also include AF coil electrical connectors for supplying current from a fixed component of the camera to the AF coil. For example, the AF coil electrical connector may be electrically connected to the AF coil and may be wound along and around the outer periphery of the OIS carrier for electrical connection to the fixed component of the camera supplying current. In some aspects, the AF coil connectors may be a pair of AF coil electrical connectors, wherein one AF coil electrical connector is electrically connected to the AF coil and wound along and around half of the outer periphery of the OIS carrier on one side, and the other AF coil electrical connector is also electrically connected to the AF coil and wound along and around the other half of the outer periphery of the OIS carrier on the opposite side, such that the two AF coil electrical connectors respectively reach the same fixed component of the camera for supplying and returning current. In some aspects, the AF coil electrical connectors may be flexible to allow or permit movement of the OIS carrier while maintaining electrical connection with the AF coil and the fixed component of the camera.

[0040] Additionally, to enable AF movement of the lens carrier, the lens carrier may include an AF magnet. The AF magnet may be positioned on a wall or side surface of the lens carrier such that, when the lens carrier is positioned with the OIS carrier, the AF magnet is adjacent to an AF coil positioned with the OIS carrier. For example, the AF magnet may be positioned on a wall or side surface of the lens carrier that is not adjacent to or close to an arm of the lens carrier that contains an OIS magnet but alternatively contains an AF coil. Alternatively or additionally, the AF magnet may be positioned on a wall or side surface of the lens carrier and positioned between AF carrier tracks on the lens carrier such that the AF magnet on the lens carrier is positioned adjacent to an AF coil on the OIS carrier. When the AF coil on the OIS carrier receives current from a fixed component of the camera and via an AF coil electrical connector, the current interacts with the magnetic field generated by the adjacent AF magnet positioned on the lens carrier, thereby moving the lens carrier for AF. For example, when the AF coil on the OIS carrier receives current from the camera's mounting components and via the AF coil electrical connector, the current interacts with the magnetic field generated by adjacent AF magnets positioned on the lens carrier, causing the lens carrier to move relative to the OIS carrier in the z-direction (e.g., along the optical axis) away from the OIS carrier and base via ball bearings in the paired AF carrier tracks and AF carrier raceways. As another example, when the AF coil on the OIS carrier receives current from the camera's mounting components and via the AF coil electrical connector, the current interacts with the magnetic field generated by adjacent AF magnets positioned on the lens carrier, causing the lens carrier to move relative to the OIS carrier in the z-direction (e.g., along the optical axis) towards the OIS carrier and base via ball bearings in the paired AF carrier tracks and AF carrier raceways.

[0041] Because the lens carrier moves in the x and / or y directions for OIS, uncontrolled rotation of the lens carrier about the optical axis may occur. This uncontrolled rotation can introduce positioning errors, leading to degradation of x and y accuracy and / or image quality. In some aspects, a rotation limiting mechanism can be provided to the lens carrier to introduce rotational stiffness about the optical axis while providing little or no stiffness for the OIS and AF movement of the lens carrier. For example, the rotation limiting mechanism may be fixedly attached to a shield at one section and fixedly attached to at least one of the lens carrier or the OIS carrier at another section. Alternatively, the rotation limiting mechanism may be fixedly attached to the OIS carrier at one section and fixedly attached to the lens carrier at another section. The rotation limiting mechanism can allow the lens carrier to perform OIS and / or AF movement while limiting rotational movement about the optical axis. In some aspects, the rotation limiting mechanism may include one or more springs (e.g., one or more flexural arms), one or more magnet-coil pairs, and / or one or more magnet-plate pairs.

[0042] It should be understood that while the description provided herein includes an OIS carrier for providing OIS movement of optical components (e.g., lens carriers), the OIS carrier may alternatively be used for OIS movement of an image sensor. For example, the image sensor may be rested and / or fixedly attached to the object-side surface of the OIS carrier or within the central portion of the OIS carrier, such that the OIS carrier allows the image sensor to move in the x and / or y directions, as described herein with respect to optical components. Additionally or alternatively, the lens carrier may be replaced by an image sensor carrier that holds the image sensor and rests it on the OIS carrier. The OIS carrier holding the image sensor resting on the OIS carrier can move in the x and y directions to perform OIS movement of the image sensor. Additionally, the image sensor carrier can move relative to the OIS carrier in the z direction via AF actuators and AF ball bearings, raceways, and tracks to perform AF movement of the image sensor. In some implementations, although the lens carrier may be replaced by the image sensor carrier to perform AF movement of the image sensor instead of AF movement of the lens carrier, the lens carrier or lens barrel may be positioned on the object side of the image sensor and the image sensor carrier.

[0043] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed description in order to provide a thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that some embodiments may be implemented without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of the embodiments.

[0044] Figure 1 Components of an example camera 100 having an actuator module or component according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 1 A top view of the exterior of camera 100 is shown. Camera 100 may include components related to... Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 1 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0045] In various embodiments, camera 100 may include an optical assembly 103, a shield 110, a housing 113, and an electrical connector 104, the optical assembly having one or more lenses 102 defining an optical axis (z) 101. The shield 110 may form an outer wall of the top portion (and in some cases a side portion) of camera 100, and form one or more camera shoulders. The housing 113 may form an outer wall of the bottom portion of camera 100. The electrical connector 104 may extend from the housing 113 (and the shield 110) and may electrically connect camera 100 to an external device. For example, camera 100 may be... Figure 18 The illustrated camera 1804b or Figure 19The illustrated camera 1908 is the same as or similar to this camera. Thus, electrical connector 104 can extend from housing 113 and can electrically connect camera 100 to each other. Figure 18 The illustrated device 1800 or Figure 19 The illustrated computer system 1900. In some aspects, the shield 110 may be mechanically coupled to the base via a housing 113 attached to both the shield 110 and the base. As described herein, the camera 100 may include AF and OIS optical components.

[0046] Figure 2 Components of an example camera 100 having an actuator module or component according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of camera 100 is shown. Camera 100 may include components related to... Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 2 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, camera 100 may include an optical assembly 103, a shield 110, a printed circuit board (or substrate) 234, an image sensor 108, a plurality of positioning sensors 230, a housing 113, and an actuator assembly 200. The optical assembly includes one or more lenses 102 centered on an optical axis (z) 101. The shield 110, coupled to housing 113, may include actuator assembly 200, printed circuit board 234, image sensor 108, and a plurality of positioning sensors 230. Actuator assembly 200 may be attached to optical assembly 103 for moving optical assembly 103, thereby enabling AF and OIS movement of the optical assembly as described herein.

[0048] Figure 3Components of an example actuator module or component 200 according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the actuator module or component 200 is shown. Figure 4 Components of an example actuator module or component 200 according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the actuator module or component 200 is shown. Figure 5 Components of an example actuator module or component 200 according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the actuator module or component 200 is shown. Figure 6 Components of an example actuator module or component 200 according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of actuator module or component 200 is shown. Actuator component 200 may include components related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0049] like Figure 3As shown, an actuator module or assembly 200 for a camera is provided, and the actuator module or assembly has a single carrier and an OIS actuator for OIS movement of an optical assembly 103. The actuator assembly 200 may include a single OIS carrier 304 having a hole extending through the OIS carrier for receiving a lens carrier or AF carrier 316. A lens carrier 316 having one or more lenses may rest on one or more surfaces of the OIS carrier 304 such that the lens carrier 316 moves together with the OIS carrier 304 in the x and y directions to perform OIS movement of the lens carrier 316. In some aspects, the OIS carrier 304 may have a pair of vertical raceways 314a that pair with a pair of vertical carrier tracks 314b of the lens carrier 316. The paired vertical raceways 314a and vertical carrier tracks 314b may each contain one or more ball bearings 402 (e.g., Figure 4 (As illustrated). Since the lens carrier 316 rests on and / or within the OIS carrier 304, the lens carrier 316 can be vertically moved relative to the OIS carrier 304 along the z-direction (e.g., along the optical axis 101) using paired vertical raceways 314a and vertical carrier tracks 314b (with ball bearings 402) as guides for AF. In some aspects, for example, when the camera module does not perform AF lens shifting, the lens carrier 316 can be fixedly attached to the OIS carrier 304.

[0050] The OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the shield / housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, when the OIS carrier 304 is biased toward the housing 110 and / or the spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or the spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or the spacer 302 in the x and y directions, a gap can be formed between the OIS carrier 304 and the base 318 (e.g., between the bottom surface 310d of the base 318 and the lower surface 310b of the OIS carrier 304), thereby eliminating friction that may exist between the OIS carrier 304 and the base 318. Alternatively, the base 318 may include one or more bottom surfaces 310d for engagement (e.g., physical contact) with one or more corresponding lower surfaces 310b of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement can be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet positioned within the base 318 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304 can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the base 318 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the lower surface 310b of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding bottom surface 310d of the base 318 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the base 318 in the x and y directions.

[0051] As mentioned herein, the OIS carrier 308 may include an OIS magnet 308. For example, the OIS carrier 304 may include an OIS magnet 308 positioned within one arm of the OIS carrier 304 and another OIS magnet 308 positioned in an adjacent arm of the OIS carrier 304. The arms may extend in a direction orthogonal to the adjacent arms. Thus, one OIS magnet 308 in one arm can be used for OIS movement of the OIS carrier 304 and the lens carrier 316 in the x-direction, and the other OIS magnet 308 in the adjacent arm can be used for OIS movement of the OIS carrier 304 and the lens carrier 316 in the y-direction. The base 318 may be positioned below the OIS carrier 304 in the z-direction (e.g., along the optical axis 101). The base 318 may include an OIS coil 320, wherein the boundary sides of the OIS coil 320 face the OIS carrier 304 for interaction with the OIS magnet 308. For example, the base 318 may include an OIS coil 320 vertically aligned with an OIS magnet 308 positioned within an arm of the OIS carrier 304, and another OIS coil 320 vertically aligned with another OIS magnet 308 positioned within an adjacent arm of the OIS carrier 304. When an OIS coil 320 receives current, the current passing through the OIS coil 320 interacts with the magnetic field generated by the vertically aligned OIS magnet 308, thereby causing the OIS carrier 304 and the lens carrier 316 to move for OIS. For example, when one OIS coil 320 receives current, the current passing through the OIS coil 320 interacts with the magnetic field generated by the vertically aligned OIS magnet 308 within one arm of the OIS carrier 304, thereby causing the OIS carrier 304 and the lens carrier 316 to move in the x-direction via a sliding engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the top surface 310c of the spacer 302 for OIS. As another example, when another OIS coil 320 receives current, the current passing through the other OIS coil 320 interacts with the magnetic field generated by the vertically aligned OIS magnet 308 within the adjacent arm of the OIS carrier 304, thereby causing the OIS carrier 304 and the lens carrier 316 to move in the y-direction for OIS via a sliding engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the top surface 310c of the spacer 302. In some aspects, the spacer 302 and / or the housing 110 may include sidewalls for limiting the distance the OIS carrier 304 can move in the x and y directions. In some aspects, each OIS coil of the OIS coils 320 positioned on the base 318 may be paired with a positioning sensor for determining the relative positioning of the OIS carrier 304 in the x and y directions. For example, an OIS coil 320 that interacts with an OIS magnet 308 to enable OIS movement of an OIS carrier 304 in the x-direction can be paired with a positioning sensor to determine the relative positioning of the OIS carrier 304 and the lens carrier 316 in the x-direction.As another example, another OIS coil 320, which interacts with another OIS magnet 308 to enable OIS movement of the OIS carrier 304 in the y direction, can be paired with another positioning sensor to determine the relative positioning of the OIS carrier 304 and the lens carrier 316 in the y direction.

[0052] In some respects and as described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may include a pair of vertical raceways 314a mating with a pair of vertical carrier tracks 314b on the lens carrier 316. The mating vertical raceways 314a and vertical carrier tracks 314b may each include one or more ball bearings 402. Since the lens carrier 316 rests on and / or within the OIS carrier 304 (and is not fixedly attached to the OIS carrier 304), the lens carrier 316 can be moved vertically relative to the OIS carrier 316 in the z-direction (e.g., along the optical axis 101) using the paired vertical raceways 314a and vertical carrier tracks 314b containing the ball bearings 402 as guides for AF. To enable AF movement of the lens carrier 316 relative to the OIS carrier 304, the OIS carrier 304 may include an AF coil 312. The AF coil 312 may be positioned on an arm of the OIS carrier 304, for example, opposite an arm of the OIS carrier 304 having one of the OIS magnets 308. Additionally or alternatively, the AF coil 312 may be positioned between AF carrier raceways 314a on the arm or wall of the OIS carrier 304. The OIS carrier 304 may also include an AF coil electrical connection 306 for supplying current from a camera mounting component to the AF coil 312. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the AF coil electrical connector 306 is electrically connected to the AF coil 312 and can be wound along and around the outer periphery of the OIS carrier 304 (e.g., so as not to interfere with the lens carrier 316) for electrical connection to a fixed component of the camera that supplies current. In some aspects, the AF coil electrical connector 306 can be a pair of AF coil electrical connectors 306, wherein one AF coil electrical connector 306 is electrically connected to the AF coil 312 and wound along and around half of the outer periphery of the OIS carrier 304 on one side, and the other AF coil electrical connector 306 is also electrically connected to the AF coil 312 and wound along and around the other half of the outer periphery of the OIS carrier 304 on the opposite side, such that the two AF coil electrical connectors 306 respectively reach the same fixed component of the camera for supplying and returning current. In some aspects, the AF coil electrical connector 306 can be flexed to allow or permit OIS movement of the OIS carrier 304 while maintaining electrical connection with the AF coil 312 and the fixed component of the camera.

[0053] Additionally, to enable AF movement of the lens carrier 316, the lens carrier 316 may include an AF magnet 313. The AF magnet 313 may be positioned on a wall or side surface of the lens carrier 316 such that when the lens carrier 316 is positioned with the OIS carrier 304, the AF magnet 313 may be adjacent to the AF coil 312 positioned with the OIS carrier 304. For example, the AF magnet 313 may be positioned on a wall or side surface of the lens carrier 316 that is not adjacent to or close to an arm of the OIS carrier 304, which includes an OIS magnet 308 but alternatively includes an AF coil 312. Additionally or alternatively, the AF magnet 313 may be positioned on a wall or side surface of the lens carrier and positioned between AF carrier tracks 314b on the lens carrier 316, such that the AF magnet 313 on the lens carrier 316 is positioned adjacent to the AF coil 312 on the OIS carrier 304. When the AF coil 312 on the OIS carrier 304 receives current from the camera's mounting components and via the AF coil electrical connector 306, the current through the AF coil 312 interacts with the magnetic field generated by the adjacent AF magnet 313 positioned on the lens carrier 316, thereby causing the lens carrier to move for AF. For example, when the AF coil 312 on the OIS carrier 304 receives current from the camera's mounting components and via the AF coil electrical connector 306, the current through the AF coil 312 interacts with the magnetic field generated by the adjacent AF magnet 313 positioned on the lens carrier 316, thereby causing the lens carrier 316 to move relative to the OIS carrier 304 in the z-direction (e.g., along the optical axis 101) away from the OIS carrier 304 and the base 318 via the ball bearings 402 within the paired AF carrier raceways 314a and AF carrier tracks 314b. As another example, when the AF coil on the OIS carrier receives current from the camera's fixed components and via the AF coil electrical connector, the current interacts with the magnetic field generated by the adjacent AF magnet positioned on the lens carrier, thereby causing the lens carrier to move relative to the OIS carrier in the z-direction (e.g., along the optical axis) toward the OIS carrier and base via ball bearings in the paired AF carrier tracks and AF carrier raceways.

[0054] Because the lens carrier 316 moves in the x and / or y directions for OIS (Optical Image Interpretation), uncontrolled or unintentional rotation of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101 may occur. This uncontrolled rotation can introduce positioning errors, leading to degradation of x and y accuracy and / or image quality. Figure 6As shown, the actuator module or assembly 200 may additionally include a rotation limiting mechanism 602 for providing torsional or rotational stiffness to the lens carrier 316. For example, the rotation limiting mechanism 602 may be provided to the lens carrier 306 to introduce rotational stiffness of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101 while providing little or no stiffness for OIS and AF movement. For example, the rotation limiting mechanism 602 may be fixedly attached to the housing 110 and fixedly attached to at least one of the lens carrier 316 or the OIS carrier 304. Alternatively, the rotation limiting mechanism 602 may be fixedly attached to the OIS carrier 304 and fixedly attached to the lens carrier 316. The rotation limiting mechanism 602 may allow the lens carrier 316 to perform OIS and / or AF movement while limiting rotational movement of the lens carrier 316 (and the OIS carrier 304) about the optical axis 101. In some aspects, for OIS and / or AF sensor displacement implementations, rotation restriction mechanism 602 can allow OIS and / or AF movement of the image sensor (e.g., image sensor carrier and image sensor) while restricting rotational movement of the image sensor (e.g., image sensor carrier and image sensor) about optical axis 101.

[0055] Figure 7 Components of an example rotation limiting mechanism 602a, which is an actuator module or component according to at least some embodiments, are illustrated. This actuator module or component can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 7 A top view of a rotation limiting mechanism 602a of an actuator module or component is shown. The rotation limiting mechanism 602a may include components related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 7 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0056] As described herein, due to the movement of the lens carrier 316 in the x and / or y directions for OIS, uncontrolled or unintentional rotation of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101 may occur. Uncontrolled rotation of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101 can introduce positioning errors, resulting in degradation of x and y accuracy and / or image quality. Figure 7 As shown, the actuator module or assembly 200 may additionally include a rotation limiting mechanism 602a for providing torsional or rotational stiffness to the lens carrier 316. For example, a rotation limiting mechanism 602s may be provided to the lens carrier 306 to introduce rotational stiffness of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101 while providing little or no stiffness for the OIS and / or AF movement of the lens carrier 316. For example, the rotation limiting mechanism 602a may be fixedly attached to the housing 110 at an outer section 702 and fixedly attached to at least one of the lens carrier 316 or the OIS carrier 304 at an inner section 704. Alternatively, the rotation limiting mechanism 602a may be fixedly attached to the OIS carrier 304 at an outer section 702 and fixedly attached to the lens carrier 316 at an inner section 704. Compared to the inner section 702, the outer section 704 may be static or fixed, and the inner section moves together with one or more moving parts of the actuator assembly (e.g., OIS carrier 304 and / or lens carrier 316). One or more flexible arms 706, each extending between the outer section 702 and the inner section 704, may allow OIS and / or AF movement of the lens carrier 316 (and OIS carrier 304) while restricting rotational movement of the lens carrier 316 (and OIS carrier 304) about the optical axis 101. In some aspects, the one or more flexible arms 706 may include one or more springs for allowing OIS and / or AF movement of the lens carrier 316 (and OIS carrier 304) while restricting rotational movement of the lens carrier 316 (and OIS carrier 304) about the optical axis 101. In some aspects, the one or more flexible arms 706 may include electrical traces therein or on them for providing electrical communication between the outer section 702 and the inner section 704. For example, when the rotation limiting mechanism 602a is attached to both the static component of the camera and the OIS carrier, electrical traces can be used to supply power to, for example, an AF coil positioned on the OIS carrier 304 for AF movement of the lens carrier 316. The rotation limiting mechanism 602a can restrict rotational movement of the lens carrier 316 (and the OIS carrier 304) about the optical axis 101 while allowing the lens carrier 316 to perform OIS and / or AF movement.

[0057] Figure 8aComponents of an example rotation limiting mechanism 602b, which is an actuator module or component according to at least some embodiments, are illustrated. This actuator module or component can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 8a A perspective view of the rotation limiting mechanism 602b is shown. The rotation limiting mechanism 602b may include components related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 8a The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0058] As described herein, uncontrolled or unintentional rotation of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101 may occur due to the movement of the lens carrier 316 in the x and / or y directions for OIS. Uncontrolled rotation of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101 can introduce positioning errors, resulting in deterioration of x and y accuracy and / or image quality. In addition to or as an alternative to rotation limiting mechanisms 602 or 602a, the actuator assembly 200 may include a rotation limiting mechanism 602b to correct for uncontrolled or unintentional rotation of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101. For example, four pairs of rotating magnets 910 and rotating coils 912 may be used to correct for uncontrolled or unintentional rotation of the lens carrier 316 about the optical axis 101. Figure 8aAs shown, the base 318a may include a plurality of rotating coils 912 positioned at the corners of the base 318a. A rotating magnet 910 may be fixedly attached to the side of the OIS carrier facing the base 318a, such that the rotating magnet 910 is vertically aligned with the rotating coils 912. In the event of uncontrolled or unintentional rotation of the lens carrier 316 and the OIS carrier 304 about the optical axis 101, current may be supplied through one or more of the rotating coils 912, such that the current through the one or more rotating coils 912 interacts with the magnetic field from the respective rotating magnet 910 to rotate the OIS carrier 304, thereby rotatably aligning the OIS carrier 304 with the base 318a. In some aspects, rotating magnets 910 and rotating coils 912 may be used in addition to or as alternatives to the OIS magnets 308 and OIS coils 320 described herein.

[0059] Figure 8b Components of an example rotation limiting mechanism 602c, which is an actuator module or component according to at least some embodiments, are illustrated. This actuator module or component can be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 8b A perspective view of the rotation limiting mechanism 602c is shown. The rotation limiting mechanism 602c may include components related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 8b The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0060] In some aspects, the rotation limiting mechanism 602c may include one or more pairs of magnets and plates. For example, as Figure 8bAs shown, the rotation limiting mechanism 602c may include a first rotating plate 930a, a second rotating plate 930b, a first rotating magnet 932a, and a second rotating magnet 932b. The base 318b may include the first rotating magnet 932a and the second rotating magnet 932b attached to the base at the same corner. The first rotating plate 930a (e.g., a metal plate attracted or repelled by the magnetic field of the magnet) and the second rotating plate 930b (e.g., a metal plate attracted or repelled by the magnetic field of the magnet) may be attached to the same corner of the OIS carrier 304b and to the same side of the OIS carrier 304b facing the base 318b, such that the first rotating plate 930a is vertically aligned and adjacent to the first rotating magnet 932a, and the second rotating plate 930b is vertically aligned and adjacent to the second rotating magnet 932b. When uncontrolled or unintentional rotation of the lens carrier 316 and the OIS carrier 304b occurs around the optical axis 101, the first rotating plate 930a can interact with the magnetic field from the first rotating magnet 932a, and the second rotating plate 930b can interact with the magnetic field from the second rotating magnet 932b, causing the OIS carrier 304b to move, pull, hold, or quickly return to alignment with the base 318b.

[0061] Figure 8c Components of an example rotation limiting mechanism 602d according to at least some embodiments of an actuator module or component are illustrated, which may be used, for example, to provide AF and OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 8c A perspective view of the rotation limiting mechanism 602d is shown. The rotation limiting mechanism 602d may include components related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 8c The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0062] In some aspects, the rotation limiting mechanism 602d may include one or more pairs of magnets and plates. For example, as Figure 8c As shown, the rotation limiting mechanism 602d may include a first rotating plate 950a, a second rotating plate 950b, a first rotating magnet 952a, and a second rotating magnet 952b. The base 318c may include a first rotating magnet 952a and a second rotating magnet 952b attached to adjacent corners of the base 318c. The first rotating plate 950a (e.g., a metal plate attracted or repelled by a magnet via a magnetic field) and the second rotating plate 950b (e.g., a metal plate attracted or repelled by a magnet via a magnetic field) may be attached to adjacent corners of the OIS carrier 304c and to the same side of the OIS carrier 304c facing the base 318c, such that the first rotating plate 950a is vertically aligned and adjacent to the first rotating magnet 952a, and the second rotating plate 950b is vertically aligned and adjacent to the second rotating magnet 952b. When uncontrolled or unintentional rotation of the lens carrier 316 and the OIS carrier 304c occurs around the optical axis 101, the first rotating plate 950a can interact with the magnetic field from the first rotating magnet 952a, and the second rotating plate 950b can interact with the magnetic field from the second rotating magnet 952b, causing the OIS carrier 304c to move, pull, hold, or quickly return to alignment with the base 318c.

[0063] Figure 9 Components of an OIS carrier surface according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 9 The top view and cross-sectional view of the OIS carrier surface are shown. Figure 9 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 9 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0064] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include the upper surface 1102 (e.g., ... Figure 9 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1104 (as shown). Figure 9 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 9 As shown, one or more ball bearings 1006 may be positioned between the upper surface 1102 and the lower surface 1104. Since the upper surface 1102 and the lower surface 1104 are flat surfaces, the ball bearings 1106 can roll in the xy plane. Therefore, by using the upper surface 1102, the lower surface 1104, and the ball bearings 1106 with the OIS carrier 304 and the housing 110, the OIS carrier 304 can be moved in both the x and y directions to perform OIS movement of the lens carrier 316.

[0065] Figure 10 Other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are illustrated, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown. Figure 10 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 10 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0066] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302, vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include an upper surface 1202 (e.g., ...). Figure 10 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1204 (as shown). Figure 10 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 10 As shown, cylinder 1206 can be positioned between upper surface 1202 and lower surface 1204. Since upper surface 1202 and lower surface 1204 are flat surfaces, cylinder 1206 can slide in the xy plane. Therefore, by using upper surface 1202, lower surface 1204 and cylinder 1206 together with OIS carrier 304 and housing 110, OIS carrier 304 can be moved in both the x and y directions to perform OIS movement of lens carrier 316.

[0067] Figure 11 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 11 The top view and cross-sectional view of the OIS carrier surface are shown. Figure 11 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2, Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 11 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0068] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include an upper surface 1302 formed by a block 1306 (e.g., ...). Figure 11 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1304 (as shown). Figure 11 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 11As shown, block 1306 can be positioned against lower surface 1204 for sliding contact with lower surface 1304. Since the upper surface 1302 and lower surface 1304 on block 1306 are flat surfaces, block 1306 can slide in the xy plane. Upper surface 1302 and lower surface 1304 can include surfaces with the lowest possible friction for sliding movement. In some aspects, the material forming upper surface 1302 can be a polymer suitable for low-wear and low-friction applications (e.g., nylon, acetal, HDPE), and the material forming lower surface 1302 can be a polymer for low-friction sliding between the two mating surfaces, such as LCP or PPA. Therefore, using the upper surface 1302 and lower surface 1304 of block 1306 with OIS carrier 304 and housing 110 allows OIS carrier 304 to move in both the x and y directions for OIS movement of lens carrier 316.

[0069] Figure 12 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 12 The top view and cross-sectional view of the OIS carrier surface are shown. Figure 12 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 12 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0070] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include an upper surface 1402 formed by block 1406 (e.g., ...). Figure 12 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1404 (as shown). Figure 12 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 12 As shown, block 1406 can be positioned against lower surface 1404 to achieve sliding contact between upper surface 1402 and lower surface 1404. Additionally, lower surface 1404 may include lubricant 1408 positioned thereon and lubricant groove 1410 located in lower surface 1404 for supplying lubricant 1408 to lower surface 1404. Since upper surface 1402 and lower surface 1404 on block 1406 are flat surfaces, block 1406 can slide in the xy plane. Lubricant 1408 can generate a low-friction interaction between upper surface 1402 and lower surface 1404 for sliding movement. Therefore, using upper surface 1402 and lower surface 1404 of block 1406, along with lubricant 1408 and lubricant groove 1410, as well as OIS carrier 304 and housing 110, allows OIS carrier 304 to move in both the x and y directions for OIS movement of lens carrier 316.

[0071] Figure 13 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown. Figure 13 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5, Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 13 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0072] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include an upper surface 1502 (e.g., ...). Figure 13 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1504 (as shown). Figure 13 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 13 As shown, disk 1506 can be positioned between upper surface 1502 and lower surface 1504. Disk 1506 may comprise a low-friction plastic material or ceramic. Because upper surface 1202 and lower surface 1204 are flat surfaces, and because disk 1506 comprises a low-friction plastic material or ceramic, disk 1506 can slide in the xy plane. Therefore, using upper surface 1502, lower surface 1504, and disk 1506 with OIS carrier 304 and housing 110 allows OIS carrier 304 to move in both the x and y directions for OIS movement of lens carrier 316.

[0073] Figure 14 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown. Figure 14 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 14 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0074] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include an upper surface 1602 (e.g., ...). Figure 14 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1604 (as shown). Figure 14 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 16As shown, disk 1606 can be positioned between upper surface 1602 and lower surface 1604. Disk 1606 may contain graphite for low-friction movement. Since upper surface 1602 and lower surface 1604 are flat surfaces, and since disk 1606 contains graphite for low-friction movement, disk 1606 can slide in the xy plane. Therefore, by using upper surface 1602, lower surface 1604, and disk 1606 with OIS carrier 304 and housing 110, OIS carrier 304 can be moved in both the x and y directions for OIS movement of lens carrier 316.

[0075] Figure 15 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown. Figure 15 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 15 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0076] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include an upper surface 1702 formed by block 1706 (e.g., ...). Figure 17 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1704 (as shown). Figure 17 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 15 As shown, block 1706 can be positioned against lower surface 1704 to achieve sliding contact between upper surface 1702 and lower surface 1704. Additionally, upper surface 1702 may include upper insert 1708 (e.g., a metal insert), and lower surface 1704 may include lower insert 1712. Upper insert 1708 may include upper coating 1710, such as DLC (diamond-like carbon PvD coating) or a ceramic coating. Similarly, lower insert 1712 may include lower coating 1714, such as DLC (diamond-like carbon PvD coating) or a ceramic coating. Because upper surface 1702 and lower surface 1704 on block 1706 are flat surfaces and include upper insert 1708, lower insert 1712, upper coating 1710, and lower coating 1714, block 1406 can slide in the xy plane. The lower coating 1714 on the lower insert 1712 and the upper coating 1701 on the upper insert 1708 can generate a low-friction interaction between the upper surface 1702 and the lower surface 1704 for sliding movement. Therefore, using the upper surface 1702 and the lower surface 1704 of the block 1706 with the OIS carrier 304 and the housing 110 allows the OIS carrier 304 to move in both the x and y directions for OIS movement of the lens carrier 316.

[0077] Figure 16 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 16A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown. Figure 16 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 16 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0078] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302, vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include an upper surface 1802 formed by block 1806 (e.g., ...). Figure 16 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1804 (as shown). Figure 16 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 16As shown, block 1806 can be positioned against lower surface 1804 to achieve sliding contact between upper surface 1802 and lower surface 1804. Additionally, lower surface 1804 may include lubricant 1808 positioned thereon and lubricant grooves 1810 located in lower surface 1804 for supplying lubricant 1808 onto lower surface 1804. In some aspects, lubricant 1808 may include small particles 1812 (e.g., nanoparticles) to further reduce friction by using lubricant 1808 between upper surface 1802 and lower surface 1804. Because upper surface 1802 and lower surface 1804 on block 1806 are flat surfaces, block 1806 can slide in the xy plane. Lubricant 1808 with small particles 1812 can generate low-friction interaction between upper surface 1802 and lower surface 1804 for sliding movement. Therefore, by using the upper surface 1802 and lower surface 1804 of block 1806 together with lubricant 1808 and lubricant groove 1810, as well as OIS carrier 304 and housing 110, the OIS carrier 304 can be moved in both the x and y directions to perform OIS movement of lens carrier 316.

[0079] Figure 17 Examples of other components of OIS carrier surfaces according to at least some embodiments are shown, which can be used, for example, to provide OIS by lens movement in a small-form-factor camera. Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the surface of the OIS carrier is shown. Figure 17 The features described and / or illustrated in the figure may include those related to... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 One or more features that are the same as or similar to those described or illustrated in these figures. Figure 17 The example XYZ coordinate system shown can be used to discuss various aspects of the components and / or systems, and is applicable to the embodiments described throughout this disclosure.

[0080] As described herein, the OIS carrier 304 may be positioned vertically (e.g., along the optical axis 101) between the housing 110 and the base 318. The housing 110 may include a spacer 302 having one or more top surfaces 310c for engaging (e.g., making physical contact) with one or more corresponding upper surfaces 310a of the OIS carrier 304. In some aspects, engagement may be used for sliding movement between two flat surfaces or rolling movement between a flat surface and a circular surface. A preloaded magnet, positioned within the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 and vertically aligned with the OIS magnet 308 attached to the OIS carrier 304, can bias the OIS carrier 304 toward the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 to facilitate maintaining engagement between the upper surface 310a of the OIS carrier 304 and the corresponding top surface 310c of the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 for movement (e.g., sliding movement) of the OIS carrier 304 relative to the housing 110 and / or spacer 302 in the x and y directions. In some aspects, the top surface 310c may include an upper surface 1902 formed by block 1906 (e.g., ...). Figure 17 As shown), and the upper surface 310a may include the lower surface 1904 (as shown). Figure 17 (As shown). Additionally, as... Figure 17 As shown, block 1906 can be positioned against lower surface 1904 to achieve sliding contact between upper surface 1902 and lower surface 1904. Additionally, lower surface 1904 may include lubricant 1908 positioned thereon. Furthermore, upper surface 1902 and / or lower surface 1904 may include a mirror-polished surface 1912 to reduce friction between upper surface 1902 and lower surface 1904. Since upper surface 1902 and lower surface 1904 on block 1906 are flat surfaces, block 1906 can slide in the xy-plane. Lubricant 1908 and the mirror-polished surface 1912 on upper surface 1902 and / or lower surface 1904 can create a low-friction interaction between upper surface 1902 and lower surface 1904 for sliding movement. Therefore, by using the upper surface 1902 and lower surface 1904 of block 1906 together with lubricant 1908 and mirror-polished surface 1912, as well as OIS carrier 304 and housing 110, OIS carrier 304 can be moved in both the x and y directions to perform OIS movement of lens carrier 316.

[0081] Figure 18 Examples of embodiments include cameras (e.g., as described herein regarding...) Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the example device 2000 (described). In some embodiments, device 2000 may be a mobile device and / or a multi-functional device. In various embodiments, device 2000 may be any of a variety of types of devices, including but not limited to: personal computer systems, desktop computers, laptops, notebook computers, tablet computers, all-in-one computers, tablet computers or netbook computers, mainframe computers, handheld computers, workstations, network computers, cameras, set-top boxes, mobile devices, augmented reality (AR) and / or virtual reality (VR) headsets, consumer devices, video game controllers, handheld video game devices, application servers, storage devices, televisions, video recording equipment, peripheral devices (such as switches, modems, routers), or any type of computing or electronic device in general.

[0082] In some embodiments, device 2000 may include display system 2002 (e.g., including a display and / or a touch-sensitive surface) and / or one or more cameras 2004. In some non-limiting embodiments, display system 2002 and / or one or more forward-facing cameras 2004a may be disposed on the front side of device 2000, for example, as shown in the image. Figure 18 As indicated. Additionally or alternatively, one or more rear-facing cameras 2004b may be located at the rear of the device 2000. In some embodiments including multiple cameras 2004, some or all of the cameras may be identical or similar to each other. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the cameras may be different from each other. In various embodiments, the position and / or arrangement of the cameras 2004 may vary. Figure 18 The cameras indicated in the document.

[0083] Among other things, device 2000 may include memory 2006 (e.g., including operating system 2008 and / or application / program instructions 2010), one or more processors and / or controllers 2012 (e.g., including CPU, memory controller, display controller and / or camera controller, etc.) and / or one or more sensors 2016 (e.g., orientation sensor, proximity sensor and / or positioning sensor, etc.). In some embodiments, device 2000 may communicate with one or more other devices and / or services, such as computing device 2018, cloud service 2020, etc., via one or more networks 2022. For example, device 2000 may include a network interface (e.g., network interface 2010) that enables device 2000 to transmit data to and receive data from network 2022. Additionally or alternatively, device 2000 may be able to communicate wirelessly with other devices using any of a variety of communication standards, protocols and / or technologies.

[0084] Figure 19 A schematic block diagram of an example computing device, referred to as computer system 2100, is illustrated. This computing device may include or host an implementation of a camera (e.g., as described herein). Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8a , Figure 8b , Figure 8c , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 (As described herein). Additionally, computer system 2100 can implement methods for controlling camera operation and / or for performing image processing on images captured by the camera. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, device 2000 (referenced herein) Figure 18 The components described herein may include some or all of the functional components of the computer system 2100 described herein.

[0085] Computer system 2100 may be configured to execute any or all of the above-described embodiments. In different embodiments, computer system 2100 may be any of a variety of types of devices, including but not limited to: personal computer systems, desktop computers, laptops, notebook computers, tablet computers, all-in-one computers, tablet computers or netbooks, mainframe computers, handheld computers, workstations, network computers, cameras, set-top boxes, mobile devices, augmented reality (AR) and / or virtual reality (VR) headsets, consumer devices, video game controllers, handheld video game devices, application servers, storage devices, televisions, video recording equipment, peripheral devices (such as switches, modems, routers), or any type of computing or electronic device in general.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, computer system 2100 includes one or more processors 2102 coupled to system memory 2104 via input / output (I / O) interface 2106. Computer system 2100 also includes one or more cameras 2108 coupled to I / O interface 2106. Computer system 2100 also includes a network interface 2110 coupled to I / O interface 2106, and one or more input / output devices 2112 such as cursor control device 2114, keyboard 2116, and display 2118. In some cases, it is contemplated that an embodiment may be implemented using a single instance of computer system 2100, while in other embodiments, multiple such systems or multiple nodes constituting computer system 2100 may be configured to host different portions or instances of the embodiment. For example, in one embodiment, some elements may be implemented via one or more nodes of computer system 2100 that are different from those implementing other elements.

[0087] In various embodiments, computer system 2100 may be a single-processor system including one processor 2102 or a multiprocessor system including several processors 2102 (e.g., two, four, eight, or another suitable number). Processor 2102 may be any suitable processor capable of executing instructions. For example, in various embodiments, processor 2102 may be a general-purpose processor or embedded processor implementing any of a variety of instruction set architectures (ISAs) (such as x86, PowerPC, SPARC, or MIPS ISA, or any other suitable ISA). In a multiprocessor system, each processor in processor 2102 may, but is not required to, implement the same ISA.

[0088] System memory 2104 may be configured to store program instructions 2120 accessible to processor 2102. In various embodiments, system memory 2104 may be implemented using any suitable memory technology, such as static random access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), non-volatile / flash memory, or any other type of memory. Additionally, existing camera control data 2122 in memory 2104 may include any of the aforementioned information or data structures. In some embodiments, program instructions 2120 and / or data 2122 may be received, transmitted, or stored on a different type of computer-accessible medium or similar medium separate from system memory 2104 or computer system 2100. In various embodiments, some or all of the functions described herein may be implemented via such computer system 2100.

[0089] In one embodiment, I / O interface 2106 may be configured to coordinate I / O traffic between processor 2102, system memory 2104, and any peripheral devices (including network interface 2110 or other peripheral device interfaces, such as input / output devices 2112) within the device. In some embodiments, I / O interface 2106 may perform any necessary protocol, timing, or other data conversions to convert data signals from one component (e.g., system memory 2104) into a format suitable for use by another component (e.g., processor 2102). In some embodiments, I / O interface 2106 may include support for devices attached, for example, via various types of peripheral buses (such as the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus standard or variants of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard). In some embodiments, the functionality of I / O interface 2106 may be partitioned into two or more separate components, such as a northbridge and a southbridge. Furthermore, in some embodiments, some or all of the functionality of I / O interface 2106 (such as an interface to system memory 2104) may be directly incorporated into processor 2102.

[0090] Network interface 2110 may be configured to allow data exchange between computer system 2100 and other devices (e.g., bearers or agent devices) attached to network 2124, or between nodes of computer system 2100. In various embodiments, network 2124 may include one or more networks, including but not limited to local area networks (LANs) (e.g., Ethernet or enterprise networks), wide area networks (WANs) (e.g., the Internet), wireless data networks, some other electronic data network, or some combination thereof. In various embodiments, network interface 2110 may support communication via wired or wireless general-purpose data networks (such as any suitable type of Ethernet network); communication via telecommunications / telephone networks (such as analog voice networks or digital fiber optic communication networks); communication via storage area networks (such as Fibre Channel SANs); or communication via any other suitable type of network and / or protocol.

[0091] In some implementations, input / output device 2112 may include one or more display terminals, keyboards, keypads, touchpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other device suitable for inputting or accessing data by one or more computer systems 2100. Multiple input / output devices 2112 may be present within computer system 2100 or distributed across various nodes of computer system 2100. In some implementations, similar input / output devices may be separate from computer system 2100 and may interact with one or more nodes of computer system 2100 via wired or wireless connections (such as through network interface 2110).

[0092] Those skilled in the art will understand that computer system 2100 is merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of embodiments. Specifically, computer systems and devices may include any combination of hardware or software capable of performing the indicated functions, including computers, network devices, internet devices, personal digital assistants, wireless telephones, pagers, etc. Computer system 2100 may also be connected to other devices not illustrated, or alternatively may operate as a stand-alone system. Furthermore, the functionality provided by the illustrated components may, in some embodiments, be combined into fewer components or distributed across additional components. Similarly, in some embodiments, the functionality of some of the illustrated components may not be provided, and / or other additional functions may be available.

[0093] Those skilled in the art will also recognize that while various items are illustrated as being stored in memory or on storage devices during use, these items, or portions thereof, may be transferred between memory and other storage devices for memory management and data integrity purposes. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some or all of these software components may be executed in memory on another device and communicate with the illustrated computer system via inter-computer communication. Some or all of the system components or data structures may also be stored (e.g., as instructions or structured data) on a computer-accessible medium or portable article of manufacture for reading by a suitable drive, various examples of which are described above. In some embodiments, instructions stored on a computer-accessible medium separate from computer system 2100 may be transmitted to computer system 2100 via a transmission medium or signal (such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals transmitted via communication media such as networks and / or wireless links). Various embodiments may also include receiving, transmitting, or storing instructions and / or data implemented according to the above description on a computer-accessible medium. Generally, computer-accessible media can include non-transitory computer-readable storage media or memory media, such as magnetic or optical media, like discs or DVD / CD-ROMs, and volatile or non-volatile media, such as RAM (e.g., SDRAM, DDR, RDRAM, SRAM, etc.), ROM, etc. In some embodiments, computer-accessible media can include transmission media or signals, such as electrical signals, electromagnetic signals, or digital signals transmitted via communication media such as networks and / or wireless links.

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

Claims

1. A camera, the camera comprising: Image sensor; An optical component having one or more lenses; and An actuator assembly configured to move one of the image sensor or the optical assembly, wherein the actuator assembly includes: An optical image stabilization (OIS) carrier, wherein the OIS carrier is configured to move one of the image sensor or the optical assembly along two orthogonal axes to perform OIS. The OIS carrier has multiple surfaces, wherein surface portions of the multiple surfaces are configured to physically contact another surface of another component to allow sliding or rolling movement between the surface portions of the multiple surfaces and the other surface of the other component, thereby allowing the OIS carrier to move along the two orthogonal axes. An OIS actuator is configured to move the OIS carrier along the two orthogonal axes.

2. The camera of claim 1, wherein the actuator assembly further comprises a rotation limiting mechanism configured to: while allowing one of the image sensor or the optical assembly to translate along the two orthogonal axes, restrict the image sensor or the optical assembly to rotate about an axis orthogonal to the two orthogonal axes.

3. The camera according to claim 1, wherein the rotation limiting mechanism comprises at least one of the following: a flexural arm, a coil and magnet pair, or a plate and magnet pair.

4. The camera of claim 1, wherein the surface portion of the plurality of surfaces and the other surface of the other component comprise a flat surface.

5. The camera of claim 1, wherein the other component includes a spacer located inside the shield of the camera.

6. The camera of claim 1, wherein the surface portion of the plurality of surfaces comprises a flat surface, and wherein the other component comprises a ball bearing.

7. The camera of claim 1, wherein the surface portion of the plurality of surfaces comprises a flat surface, and wherein the other component comprises a cube or a cylinder.

8. The camera of claim 7, wherein the cube or the cylinder comprises graphite.

9. The camera of claim 1, wherein at least one of the surface portions of the plurality of surfaces or the other surface of the other component comprises a coating.

10. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: One or more processors; The memory stores program instructions that can be executed by the one or more processors to control the operation of the camera; and The camera, the camera includes: Image sensor; An optical assembly having one or more lenses; and An actuator assembly configured to move one of the image sensor or the optical assembly, wherein the actuator assembly includes: An optical image stabilization (OIS) carrier, wherein the OIS carrier is configured to move one of the image sensor or the optical assembly along two orthogonal axes to perform OIS. The OIS carrier has multiple surfaces, wherein surface portions of the multiple surfaces are configured to physically contact another surface of another component to allow sliding or rolling movement between the surface portions of the multiple surfaces and the other surface of the other component, thereby allowing the OIS carrier to move along the two orthogonal axes. An OIS actuator is configured to move the OIS carrier along the two orthogonal axes.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the actuator assembly further comprises a rotation limiting mechanism configured to: while allowing one of the image sensor or the optical assembly to translate along the two orthogonal axes, restrict rotational movement of the image sensor or the optical assembly about an axis orthogonal to the two orthogonal axes.

12. The device of claim 10, wherein the rotation limiting mechanism comprises at least one of: a flexural arm, a coil and magnet pair, or a plate and magnet pair.

13. The device of claim 10, wherein the actuator assembly further comprises an autofocus (AF) carrier for holding one of the image sensor or the optical assembly, wherein the AF carrier is configured to allow the image sensor or the optical assembly, implemented by the AF actuator, to move along an axis orthogonal to the two orthogonal axes.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the actuator assembly further comprises a rotation limiting mechanism configured to: while allowing the image sensor or the optical assembly to translate along the two orthogonal axes and to translate along the axis orthogonal to the two orthogonal axes, restrict the image sensor or the optical assembly to rotate about the axis orthogonal to the two orthogonal axes.

15. The device of claim 10, wherein the surface portions of the plurality of surfaces comprise a lubricant.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the lubricant comprises a plurality of friction-reducing particles.

17. The device of claim 15, wherein the surface portion of the plurality of surfaces includes a reservoir configured to supply the lubricant to the surface portion.

18. The device of claim 10, wherein at least one of the surface portions of the plurality of surfaces or the other surface of the other component comprises a mirror-polished surface.

19. An actuator assembly, the actuator assembly comprising: An optical image stabilization (OIS) carrier, wherein the OIS carrier is configured to move one of the image sensor or optical components along two orthogonal axes to perform OIS; The OIS carrier has multiple surfaces, wherein surface portions of the multiple surfaces are configured to physically contact another surface of another component to allow sliding or rolling movement between the surface portions of the multiple surfaces and the other surface of the other component, thereby allowing the OIS carrier to move along the two orthogonal axes; and An OIS actuator is configured to move the OIS carrier along the two orthogonal axes.

20. The actuator assembly of claim 19, further comprising a base positioned on the image side of the OIS carrier, wherein the OIS actuator comprises: A first magnet is positioned in the first arm of the OIS carrier; A second magnet is positioned in the second arm of the OIS carrier and adjacent to the first arm; A first coil, positioned on the base and aligned with the first magnet in a direction parallel to an axis orthogonal to the two orthogonal axes; and The second coil is positioned on the base and aligned with the second magnet in a direction parallel to the axis orthogonal to the two orthogonal axes.

Images