Large aperture continuous zoom folded tele camera

Abstract

To provide a continuous zoom folded camera.SOLUTION: A folded digital camera comprises: a lens including a plurality of N lens elements marked Li where 1≤i≤N and an optical path folding element (OPFE), wherein a first lens element L1 faces an object side and a last lens element LN faces an image side, wherein at least one of the plurality of lens elements is located at an object side of the OPFE and has a first optical axis, wherein at least one other of the plurality of lens elements is located at an image side of the OPFE and has a second optical axis, and wherein the lens has an effective focal length (EFL) and a f-number (f / #); and an image sensor. The EFL can be varied continuously between a minimal EFLMIN and a maximum EFLMAX by independent movement of lens elements and of the OPFE along the second optical lens axis, and EFLMAX / EFLMIN>1.5.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2A

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 247,336, filed September 23, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] (Technical field) The subject matter of this disclosure relates generally to the field of digital cameras.

[0003] (definition) In this application, and for optical and other properties referred to throughout the description and drawings, the following symbols and abbreviations are used for all terms known in the art.

[0004] Total Track Length (TTL): The maximum distance measured along an axis parallel to the optical axis of the lens between a point on the front surface S1 of the first lens element L1 and the image sensor when the system is focused at infinite object distance.

[0005] Effective focal length (EFL): Lens (lens element assembly L1 to L N ) the distance between the rear principal point P' and the rear focal point F' of the lens.

[0006] f-number (f / #): The ratio of the EFL to the entrance pupil diameter.

[0007] (background) Multi-aperture cameras (or "multi-cameras"), of which a "dual camera" having two cameras is an example, are included in virtually all current portable electronic mobile devices ("mobile devices", e.g., smartphones, tablets, etc.). Multi-cameras typically have a wide field of view (or "angle") FOV. W camera ("wide" camera or "W" camera) and e.g. (FOV W Narrower field of view (FOV) Tand at least one additional camera having a telephoto or "tele" camera with a zoom factor of 3, 5, or 10. Generally, the spatial resolution of the tele camera is constant and may be, for example, 3, 5, or 10 times the resolution of the W camera. This is referred to as a tele camera with a "zoom factor" (ZF) of 3, 5, or 10, respectively. The ZF is the zoom factor of the tele camera (EFL T ) will be decided by the EFL.

[0008] As an example, consider a dual camera with a W camera and a telecamera with a ZF of 5. When zooming in on a scene, we can use the image data from the W camera, which is digitally zoomed up to a ZF of 5. If ZF≧5, we can use the image data from the telecamera, which is digitally zoomed in if ZF>5. In some scenes, a high ZF is desired to capture images with high resolution. In other scenes, a high ZF reduces the FOV. T A high ZF is undesirable because the image may be too narrow (digitally zoomed) and therefore wide. MIN , and maximum ZF, ZF MAX Telecameras capable of providing continuous zoom factors between are described, for example, in commonly owned International Patent Applications Nos. PCT / IB202 / 061078 and PCT / IB2022 / 052515.

[0009] Figure 1A shows the width W OPFE1 shows a known folded telecamera 100 comprising an optical path bending element (OPFE) 102 having a lens 104 with multiple lens elements (not visible in this view) contained in a lens barrel 110 located a distance ΔLO from the OPFE 102, and an image sensor 106. The OPFE 102 bends the optical path (OP) from a first OP 112 onto a second OP 108 that forms the optical axis of the lens 104. The lens 104 is located on the image side of the OPFE 102. The theoretical lower limits for the length of the camera module ("minimum module length" or "MML") and the height of the camera module including the camera 100 ("minimum module height" or "MMH") are shown. MML and MMH are defined by the smallest dimensions of the components contained in the camera 100. TTL is calculated as TTL=MML-W OPFE -ΔLO, so TTL is TTL <MML-W OPFE is geometrically bounded by

[0010] 1B shows a known dual camera 150 comprising a folded telecamera 100 and a (vertical or "upright") W camera 130 including a lens 132 with multiple lens elements (not visible in this view) and an image sensor 138. Lens 132 is contained in a lens barrel 134. W camera 130 has an OP 136.

[0011] FIG. 1C schematically shows in cross-section a known mobile device 160 (e.g., a smartphone) having an external back surface 162 and including a folded telecamera 100. The aperture of camera 100 is located on the back surface 162. The front surface 164 of mobile device 160 may include a screen (not visible). Mobile device 160 has a regular region 166 of thickness (“T”) and a camera bump region 168 that is higher by height B across the regular region. The bump region 168 has a bump length (“BL”) and a bump thickness T + B. Generally, as shown here, camera 100 is fully integrated within bump region 168, and MML and MMH define lower limits for the dimensions of bump region 168, i.e., BL and T + B. Conversely, a given dimension of bump region 168 results in upper limits for MML and MMH as well as the components included. In particular, the aperture diameter (“DA”) or “entrance pupil” of camera 100 satisfies DA < MMH. For industrial design reasons, a compact camera bump (i.e., short BL and small B) is desired. For a folded camera such as 100 compared to a vertical camera such as 130 and a given bump thickness T + B, a larger TTL corresponding to a larger ZF can be achieved, which is desirable. However, a large TTL goes with an undesirably large BL.

[0012] It would be beneficial to have a continuous zoom folded telecamera with an aperture diameter DA that provides a further larger EFL at a low f / # and still occupies a small area of the camera bump of the mobile device.

[0013] (Summary) In various exemplary embodiments, a lens comprising a plurality of N lens elements marked with L i where 1 ≦ i ≦ N and OPFE, with the first lens element L1 facing the object side and the last lens element L Nfacing an image side, at least one of the plurality of lens elements being located on the object side of the OPFE and having an associated first optical axis, and at least one other of the plurality of lens elements being located on the image side of the OPFE and having an associated second optical axis, the lens having an EFL and f / #; and an image sensor having a sensor diagonal (SD), wherein the EFL can be adjusted to a minimum EFL by independent movement of the lens elements and the OPFE along the second optical axis. MIN and maximum EFL MAX The EFL can be continuously changed between MAX / EFL MIN A foldable digital camera is provided, the foldable digital camera having a saturation of 1.5.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lens is divided into two lens groups, numbered G1 and G2, and continuous variation of the EFL is achieved by independent movement of each of G1 and G2. In some embodiments, G1 includes three lens element subgroups G1-1, G1-2, G1-3, and OPFE, where G1-1 is located on the object side of OPFE and G1-2 and G1-3 are located on the image side of OPFE. In some embodiments, G2 includes two lens element subgroups G2-1 and G2-2, where G2-1 is located on the image side of G1-2 and G2-2 is located on the image side of G1-3. In such embodiments, G1-1 may include one lens element, and each of G1-2, G1-3, G2-1, and G2-2 may include two lens elements.

[0015] In some embodiments, the EFL can be continuously varied by independently varying the positions of G1 and G2 along the second optical axis and by moving G1+G2 together relative to the image sensor along the second optical axis.

[0016] In some embodiments, G1 and G2 can be moved together as one lens with respect to the image sensor for focusing. In some embodiments, the image sensor can be operable to move with respect to both G1 and G2 for optical image stabilization (OIS). The movement of the image sensor for OIS may occur in two directions, where the two directions are perpendicular to the normal on the image sensor and perpendicular to each other. In some embodiments, a camera as described above or below can be included in a camera module having a shoulder height SH and DA > SH. In some embodiments, SH ranges from 4 mm < SH < 10 mm. In some embodiments, 5 mm < SH < 8 mm.

[0017] In some embodiments, DA > 1.1×SH. In some embodiments, DA > 1.2×SH. In some embodiments, DA > 1.2×SH. In some embodiments, DA is in the range of 5 mm < DA < 11 mm and f / # is in the range of 1.8 < f / # < 6.0. In some embodiments, DA is in the range of 7 mm < DA < 10 mm and f / # is in the range of 2.0 < f / # < 5.0.

[0018] In some embodiments, the camera is included in a camera module having a camera module height MH in the range of 6 mm < MH < 12 mm. In some embodiments, 7 mm < MH < 11 mm. SH is in the range of 4 mm < SH < 10 mm and MH is in the range of 6 mm < MH < 12 mm. In some embodiments, the ratio SH / MH < 0.9, or < 0.8 or even < 0.7.

[0019] For example, the f / # at EFL MIN is f / # MIN and the f / # at EFL MAX is f / # MAX and the ratio f / # MAX / f / # MIN <EFL MAX / EFL MIN is. In some embodiments, f / # MAX / f / #MIN <EFL MAX / 1.1xEFL MIN is.

[0020] In some embodiments, the lens may be a truncated lens, where all lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE are truncated with an axis parallel to the second optical axis.

[0021] In some embodiments, the lens may be a truncated lens, where all lens elements located on the object side of the OPFE are truncated along an axis parallel to the first optical axis and all lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE are truncated along an axis parallel to the second optical axis.

[0022] In some embodiments with a truncated lens, the lens is truncated 30% relative to the axisymmetric lens diameter. In some such examples, SH is reduced by more than 20% by truncation relative to an axisymmetric lens having the same lens diameter measured along an axis perpendicular to the first and second optical axes of the lens. In some such examples, the ratio of SH / DA is reduced by more than 10%.

[0023] In some embodiments, G1-1 includes L1, for example, L1 has a focal length f1, where f1<1.1×EFL MIN This becomes:

[0024] In some embodiments, L1 is made of glass.

[0025] In some examples, N = 9. In some embodiments, the power sequence of lens elements L1-L9 is plus-minus-minus-plus-minus-plus-minus-minus-plus.

[0026] In some embodiments, L2 is a first lens element located on the image side of the OPFE, and the spacing between the OPFE and L2 is d M-L marked with d M-L does not change with successive changes in EFL. In some embodiments, the ratio d M-L / TTL < 7.5%.

[0027] In some embodiments, the last lens element L N is positive.

[0028] L1 is the only lens element located on the object side of the OPFE, the distance between L1 and the OPFE is ΔLO, and the ratio ΔLO / TTL < 1%. In some examples, ΔLO / TTL < 0.5%.

[0029] In some examples, the OPFE can be a mirror.

[0030] For example, EFL MAX / EFL MIN > 1.75. For example, EFL MAX / EFL MIN > 1.9.

[0031] For example, 30 mm < EFL MAX < 50 mm, 10 mm < EFL MIN < 30 mm.

[0032] In some examples, SD can be in the range of 3 mm < SD < 10 mm.

[0033] In various exemplary embodiments, a mobile device including a camera as described above or below, a mobile device having a device thickness T and a camera bump region is provided, the bump region has a high thickness T + B, the first region of the camera is incorporated into the camera bump region, and the second region of the camera is not incorporated into the camera bump. The mobile device can be a smartphone. In some such mobile devices, N = 9, the first region of the camera includes L1 and the OPFE, and the second region of the camera includes lens elements L2 - L9 and an image sensor. In some examples, the mobile device can further include a second camera, the second camera includes a second camera lens having a second EFL (EFL2), and EFL2 < EFL MIN is true.

[0034] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Non-limiting examples of the embodiments disclosed herein are described below with reference to the figures accompanying this specification, listed after this paragraph. The drawings and description are intended to clarify and clarify the embodiments disclosed herein and should not be considered limiting in any way.

[0035] FIG. 1A shows a known folding telecamera.

[0036] FIG. 1B shows a known dual camera.

[0037] FIG. 1C shows a schematic representation of a known mobile device having an exterior and including a folded telecamera.

[0038] FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a folded telecamera disclosed herein.

[0039] FIG. 2B shows, in cross section, a schematic representation of a mobile device having an exterior surface and dimensions as described in FIG. 1C, including a folded telecamera as in FIG. 2A.

[0040] FIG. 2C illustrates one embodiment of an autofocus (AF) mechanism for the folded camera of FIG. 2A.

[0041] FIG. 2D shows an embodiment of an OIS mechanism for the folded camera of FIG. 2A.

[0042] FIG. 3A schematically illustrates an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein in a first zoom state.

[0043] FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 3A disclosed herein in a second zoom state.

[0044] FIG. 3C is a diagram showing the lens stroke required to continuously zoom the optical lens system of FIGS. 3A-3B.

[0045] FIG. 3D schematically illustrates another embodiment of an optical lens system as disclosed herein in a first zoom state.

[0046] FIG. 3E schematically illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 3D disclosed herein in a second zoom state.

[0047] Figure 4A shows the orthogonal projection IP of two collision points IP1 and IP2 on a plane P. orth,1 , IP orth,2 Shows.

[0048] Figure 4B shows the orthogonal projection IP of the two collision points IP3 and IP4 on the plane P. orth,3 , IP orth,4 Shows.

[0049] FIG. 5A provides a definition of the transparent height (CH).

[0050] FIG. 5B provides a definition of a clear aperture (CA).

[0051] Figure 6 shows the H L and H opt Provide a definition of

[0052] FIG. 7 shows a lens barrel including a plurality of truncated lens elements and a lens housing.

[0053] (Detailed explanation) In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the subject matter of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods and features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0054] 2A shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a folded continuous zoom telecamera disclosed herein and designated 200. The camera 200 includes a lens 202 having a plurality of N lens elements. In the lens 202, for example, N=4. The lens elements in the lens 202 are numbered L1-L4, with L1 facing the object side. Each lens element L i (where "i" is an integer from 1 to N), L1 is axisymmetric along a first optical (lens) axis 212, and L2-L4 are axisymmetric along a second optical (lens) axis 208. Lens 202 further includes an OPFE 204 that folds OP 212 into OP 208. Camera 200 also includes an image sensor 206. The camera elements may be contained within a housing 214.

[0055] The lens 202 is divided into two or more lens groups G1 (here, including L1, OPFE 204, and L2) and G2 (here, including L3 and L4), and the lens elements included in G1 are located both on the object side of the OPFE 204 (L1) and on the image side of the OPFE 204 (L2). G2 is located on the image side of the OPFE 204.

[0056] To estimate the theoretical limits of the minimum dimensions of a camera module including an optical lens system such as those presented in FIGS. 2A-2D and 3A-3E, the following parameters and interdependencies are introduced:

[0057] (MML and "Module Length" ("ML")) The minimum module length (“MML”) is the theoretical lower limit of the length of the camera module including all components of the camera 200 .

[0058] MML=max(Z Lens , Z OPFE )-Z Sensor , max(Z Lens , Z OPFE ) is the length that the lens 202 occupies along the z-axis (Z Lens ) or the length occupied by OPFE204 (Z OPFE ) is the maximum value of Z Sensoris the minimum length that the image sensor 206 occupies along the z-axis. In some embodiments, MML=Z, as shown in FIGS. Lens -Z Sensor Z so that Lens >Z OPFE Let's say.

[0059] To arrive at a realistic estimate for the length of the camera module ("ML"), for example, one can add 3.5 mm to the MML, i.e., ML = MML + 3.5 mm (see Table 4). The additional length accounts for lens stroke that may be required for AF, OIS, as well as image sensor packaging, housing, etc. The highest value of MML when considering all possible EFLs is used to calculate ML. This is because the EFL MAX It is given by the value of MML at the time.

[0060] (R1) A first region ("R1") of the MML associated with a first minimum module height MMH1, which is the theoretical lower limit of the height of the camera module including all components of the camera 200 located at R1.

[0061] R1=max(WL, W OPFE ), where WL is the width of G1 measured along the z-axis and W OPFE is the width of the OPFE 204 measured along the z-axis. In some embodiments, W > W, as shown in FIGS. OPFE and therefore R1 is determined only by G1, and R1=WL.

[0062] Given a particular MML, it is beneficial to minimize R1 since it provides a lower bound on the bump length (BL) (see Figure 2A).

[0063] (R2) The second region ("R2") of the MML is associated with a second minimum module height MMH2, while MMH2 <MMH1である。

[0064] R2 = MML-R1.

[0065] For a given MML, and to minimize BL, it is beneficial to maximize R2 (minimize R1).

[0066] (MMH1 and "Module Height" ("MH")) MMH1=H OPFE +ΔLO+TG1, and H OPFE is the height of the OPFE 204 (OPFE 204 is oriented at 45 degrees to both the y-axis and z-axis, so H OPFE =W OPFE ), ΔLO is the distance between the center of G1 and the OPFE 204.

[0067] In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 3A-B, the lens elements of lens 202 have a lower y value than OPFE 204, so that MMH1 has the highest y value (Y G1 ) and the lowest y value of the lens 202 (Y Lens ):MMH1=Y G1 -Y Lens In some embodiments using a truncated lens, as shown in Figures 3D-E, Y Lens >Y OPFE , and MMH1 is not limited by the lens and H OPFE Y, as limited only by Lens is increased.

[0068] To realistically estimate the height of the camera module, calculate MH by adding an additional height of 1.5 mm to MMH1, i.e., MH = MMH1 + 1.5 mm (see Table 4). The additional length accounts for the AF as well as the lens stroke that may be required for the housing, lens cover, etc.

[0069] (MMH2 and "shoulder height" ("SH")) The second minimum module height (“MMH2”) is the lower theoretical limit for the height of the camera module including all components of camera 200 at R2.

[0070] MMH2 = max(HS, H Lens ), HS is the height of the image sensor 206, and H Lens is the height of the tallest lens element of lens 202 located at R2, both measured along the y-axis.

[0071] In some examples, as shown in Figure 2A, MMH2 may be determined by image sensor 206, i.e., MMH2 = HS. In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 3A-E, MMH2 may be determined by the lowest Y value of mirror 304 on one side and the height of lens elements L2-L9 on the other side.

[0072] To achieve a realistic estimate of the shoulder height of an actual camera, the shoulder height SH is calculated by adding, for example, 1.5 mm of additional height to MMH2, i.e., SH = MMH2 + 1.5 mm (see Table 4). The additional height accounts for electrical and mechanical contact with the sensor 206 and the housing.

[0073] A first advantage of folded camera 200 over known folded cameras such as camera 100 is that the aperture diameter DA of camera 200 is not necessarily limited by SH. Typically, in folded cameras, all lens elements are located on the image side of the OPFE such that SH physically limits DA and SH>DA. This is not the case with camera 200, which allows DA>SH, allowing for a relatively low f / # even with a large ZF.

[0074] Furthermore, given a particular size of an OPFE, such as OPFE 204 (e.g., limited by T and / or B), camera 200 can provide a larger DA, enabling a relatively low f / # even with a large ZF. This is due to the location of L1 (or more generally, one or more lens elements included in G1 located on the object side of the OPFE) on the object side of OPFE 204. The refractive power of L1 reduces the diameter of the light cone entering folded camera 200 before the light cone strikes OPFE 204 for a particular size of OPFE, allowing more light to enter the camera than known folded cameras that do not have lenses located on the object side of the OPFE.

[0075] The TTL of camera 200 is oriented not along one dimension, but along two dimensions. The first portion ("TTL1") is parallel to OP 212, and the second portion TTL2 ("TTL2") is parallel to OP 208. TTL is given by TTL = TTL1 + TTL2. Therefore, TTL is given by TTL <MML-W OPFE Therefore, for a given MML, the TTL can be significantly larger than in the case of camera 100.

[0076] FIG. 2B schematically illustrates, in cross section, a mobile device 220 (e.g., a smartphone) having an outer surface 222 and the dimensions described in FIG. 1C , including a folded telecamera 200 as disclosed herein. A camera bump area is marked at 228. A front surface 224 of the mobile device 220 may include, for example, a screen (not visible). R1 of the camera 200 is integrated into 224 at a height T+B, while R2 of the camera 200 is integrated into a normal device area 226 at a height T. Compared to a mobile device 160 in which the camera 100 is fully integrated into the bump area, a mobile device 220 in which the camera 200 is only partially integrated into the bump area can have a smaller BL, or, for example, an additional camera can be integrated into 228, which is beneficial for industrial design reasons. In general, for slim mobile devices, it is beneficial to minimize MMH1 and MMH2.

[0077] FIG. 2C illustrates how autofocus (AF) is performed in the camera 200 in one example. FIG. 2D illustrates schematically how optical image stabilization (OIS) is performed in the camera 200 in one example. The lens 202, including the OPFE 204, is shown in the same orientation as in FIGS. 2A-2B. For illustrative purposes, FIGS. 2C and 2D show only the components of the camera 200 that are moved for AF or OIS, respectively. The lens 202, including the OPFE 204, moves as a unit relative to the image sensor (not shown) along an axis parallel to the z-axis for AF, as indicated by arrow 232. The moving lens 202, including the OPFE 204 as a unit, means that the spacing between the N lens elements (here, L1-L4) between the lens 202 and the OPFE 204 does not change. Only the distance to the image sensor (not shown) changes. Because the lens (including the OPFE) moves relative to the image sensor, it is sometimes referred to as "lens AF."

[0078] Image sensor 206 is shown in the same orientation as in FIGS. 2A-2B. Image sensor 206 is moved relative to lens 202 (not shown here) including OPFE 204 (not shown here) along a first sensor OIS axis ("OIS1") parallel to the x-axis to perform OIS along the first axis, as indicated by arrow 234. Image sensor 206 is moved relative to lens 202 (not shown here) including OPFE 204 (not shown here) along a second sensor OIS axis ("OIS2") parallel to the y-axis to perform OIS along the second axis, as indicated by arrow 236. Because the image sensor is moved relative to the other camera components, one can be referred to as the "sensor OIS."

[0079] 3A-3E illustrate optical lens systems disclosed herein. All of the illustrated lens systems can be included in folded cameras and mobile devices, such as those shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. Note that all of the embodiments disclosed herein can be beneficially used in smartphones.

[0080] Figure 3A shows the EFL MIN 1A schematically illustrates an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein, designated 300, in a first, minimum zoom state of =20 mm. Lens system 300 includes a lens 302 including an OPFE 304 (here illustratively a mirror), an optical element 309, and an image sensor 306. System 300 is shown in ray tracing. Optical element 309 is optional and may be, for example, an infrared (IR) filter and / or a glass image sensor dust cover. In other embodiments, OPFE 304 may be a prism.

[0081] The lens 302 includes a mirror 304 and a plurality of N lens elements L i In this example, the lens 302 has N=9. L1 is the lens element closest to the object side, and L Nis the lens element closest to the image side, i.e., the side where the image sensor is located. This order applies to all lenses and lens elements disclosed herein. L1 is axisymmetric along the first optical (lens) axis 312, and L2-L9 are axisymmetric along the second optical (lens) axis 308. Each lens element L i is the surface of each front surface S 2i-1 (The index "2i-1" is the number of anterior surfaces) and each posterior surface S 2i (the index "2i" is the number of the posterior surface), where "i" is an integer from 1 to N. This numbering convention will be used throughout the description. Alternatively, as will be done throughout this specification, the lens surfaces may be referred to as "S k " and k is between 1 and 2N.

[0082] In all optical systems disclosed herein, the camera aperture is determined by L1.

[0083] As used herein, the term "front surface" of each lens element refers to the surface of the lens element that is located closer to the entrance of the camera (camera object side), and the term "rear surface" refers to the surface of the lens element that is located closer to the image sensor (camera image side).

[0084] Figure 3B shows the EFL MAX 3C shows optical lens system 300 in a second, maximum zoom state of ZF = 40 mm. To change ZF, G2 is moved relative to G1, and image sensor 306 and additionally G1+G2 are moved together as one lens relative to image sensor 306 (to focus at infinity), as described in Table 3 and FIG. 3C. For focusing at a finite distance, G1 and G2 are moved together as one lens relative to image sensor 306.

[0085] Mirror 304 is oriented at a 45-degree angle relative to the y-axis and z-axis. A ray of light passes through G1-1, is reflected by mirror 304, passes sequentially through G1-2, G2-1, G1-3, and G2-2, and is imaged onto image sensor 306. Figures 3A-B and 3D-E show five fields with three rays per field.

[0086] MMH1 and MMH2 are defined by L2-L9, with MMH2 specifically defined by the largest lens element, L6. The values are shown in Table 4. Detailed optical and surface data are given in Tables 1-3 for the example lens elements of Figures 3A-B and 3D-E. The values provided for these examples are purely illustrative, and other values may be used according to other examples.

[0087] The surface types are defined in Table 1. The surface coefficients are defined in Table 2. The surface types are as follows:

[0088] a) Plano: Flat surface, no curvature b) Q Type 1 (QT1) Surface Sagging Type:

[0089]

number

[0090] where {z, r} are the reference cylindrical polar coordinates, c is the paraxial curvature of the surface, k is the conic parameter, and r norm is generally half the clear opening of the surface, and A n are the polynomial coefficients shown in the lens data table. The Z axis is positive relative to the image. The CA value is given as the clear aperture radius, i.e., CA / 2. CA can vary with different EFLs, and the clear aperture values are given in Table 4. These values are also used to calculate the F / # in Table 3. The reference wavelength is 555.0 nm. Units are in mm, except for the refractive index ("index") and Abbe #. For each lens element L i is the focal length f shown in Table 1 iThe FOV is given as half FOV (HFOV). The definitions of surface type, Z-axis, CA value, reference wavelength, units, focal length, and HFOV are valid for all further presented tables. The mirror width is 9.4 mm x 7.1 mm and is tilted at 45°. The semi-diameter of the mirror is defined by a circle surrounding the mirror. The thickness for the mirror is relative to the optical axis. EFL MIN and EFL MAX The movements between the lens elements required to continuously switch between the HFOV and f / # are shown in Table 3.

[0091] [Table 1]

[0092] [Table 2]

[0093] [Table 3]

[0094] 3C shows the movement of each component of lens 302 relative to image sensor 306, which is required to continuously switch between different EFLs (i.e., ZFs) so that focus at infinity is maintained. Based on that movement, two lens groups G1 and G2 can be defined. G1 includes L1, mirror 304, L2, L3, L6, and L7. G2 includes L4, L5, L8, and L9.

[0095] Continuous changes in EFL are obtained by independent relative motion of G1 and G2 and by joint motion of G1+G2 relative to the image sensor, both along the optical axis 308. All components included in G1 and G2, respectively, are rigidly coupled to each other, meaning that they can move relative to other components included in the optical system 300, for example, relative to the image sensor 306, but do not move relative to each other. Explicitly, G1-1 does not move relative to the mirrors 304, G1-2, and G1-3. G2-1 does not move relative to G2-2. As shown, the maximum stroke of motion of G2 relative to the sensor 306 is 8.7 mm, and the maximum stroke of motion of G1 relative to the sensor 306 is 4.0 mm.

[0096] 3A-B, G1 includes three lens element groups G1-1 (including L1), G1-2 (including L2 and L3), and G1-3 (including L6 and L7). G2 includes lens element groups G2-1 (including L4 and L5) and G2-2 (including L8 and L9). The numbering of G1-1, G1-2, etc. is done according to the position of the lens element groups along optical paths 312 and 308, respectively, starting from the object side of camera 300.

[0097] d M-L is the distance measured between mirror 304 and L2 as shown in Figures 3A-3D, and d M-L does not change, i.e., when changing ZF, there is no relative motion between mirror 304 and L2.

[0098] FIG. 3D illustrates the EFL MIN 1 illustrates another embodiment of an optical lens system, designated 350, in a first, minimum zoom state of .times. ...

[0099] L1 is cut to 8 mm (D / 2=4 mm), i.e. WL1=8 mm.

[0100] Cut L2-L9 to 4.6 mm (D / 2 = 2.3 mm).

[0101] The L1 cut is made along a direction parallel to the y-axis and reduces WL1, which is measured along the z-axis. For optical lens system 300, this results in a smaller R1 and a smaller MML. The L2-L9 cuts are made along the z-axis and reduce the width of the lens element, which is measured along the y-axis. This results in optical lens system 300 having a smaller MMH1 and a smaller MMH2.

[0102] Referring to the coordinate system shown in Figure 7, the y-direction (WL Y ) is the width of the lens WL measured along the x-direction (WL X ) measured along the WL, i.e., WL Y <WL X The cutting is performed so that

[0103] Relative to the diameter of the largest lens element of 302 (L6), 302-C is cut approximately 30%. At the time of cutting, MMH1 and MMH2 are no longer defined by L2-L9, but are instead defined by mirror 304. Relative to the uncut lens 302, the SH of cut lens 302-C is reduced by 18% and the SH / DA ratio is reduced by 12% (see Table 4).

[0104] Figure 3E shows the EFL MAX 3 shows optical lens system 350 in a second maximum zoom state of =40 mm.

[0105] Table 4 summarizes the values and ratios of various features included in lens systems 300 and 350 shown in FIGS. 3A-3E (d M-L , ΔLO, SD, TTL, MML, DA, H L6, MMH, R1, R2, SH, MH are given in mm). The values in the column "Ratio 350 / 300" are calculated by dividing the respective value achieved with optical lens system 350 by the value achieved with optical lens system 300. The values in the column "Range" represent preferred ranges that may be included in other embodiments.

[0106] DA is the aperture diameter. For every lens system, an effective aperture diameter is given.

[0107] H L6 is the height of the largest lens element located on the image side of mirror 304.

[0108] F / # MIN and F / # MAX are EFL MIN and EFL MAX Represents F / # in

[0109] [Table 4]

[0110] As explained below, the transparent height value CH(S k ) for 1≦k≦2N on each surface S k can be defined for the transparent aperture value CA(S k ) for 1≦k≦2N on each surface S k can be defined for CA(S k ) and CH(S k ) is the surface S of each lens element k The CH term is defined with reference to Figure 5A, and the CA term is defined with reference to Figure 5B below.

[0111] Also, the height ("H Li ", 1≦i≦N) are the respective L i is defined for H Li is the lens element L i For each lens element L, measured along an axis perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens element iFor a given lens element, the height is greater than or equal to the clear height value CH and the clear aperture value CA of the front and rear surfaces of this given lens element. Typically, for an axisymmetric lens element, H Li is the lens element L as seen in Figure 6 i Normally, for an axisymmetric lens element, H Li =max{CA(S 2i-1 ), CA(S 2i )} + mechanical part size. Generally, in lens design, the mechanical part size is defined as that which does not contribute to the optical properties of the lens. Therefore, there are two heights of the lens: the optical height H of the optically active area 602 opt (corresponding to the CA value) and the lens H of the entire lens area 604 covering the optically active and optically inactive areas. L The mechanical components and their characteristics are defined below. H Li The contribution of mechanical component dimensions to is typically 200-1000 μm.

[0112] As shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and 5A, 5B, the surface S k Each ray passing through (1≦k≦2N) will hit an impact point IP on this surface. The ray enters the camera 200 from the surface S1 and hits S 2N Some rays pass through the surface S k can collide with the surface S but cannot / does not reach the image sensor 206. k For CH(S), only rays that can form an image on the image sensor 206 are considered. k ) is defined as the distance between the two closest possible parallel lines (see lines 500 and 502 in FIG. 5A, which lie on a plane P perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens element). In the representations of FIGS. 4A and 4B, plane P is parallel to plane XY, and the orthogonal projections IP of all impact points IP on plane P are orth is perpendicular to the optical axis 402 so that CH(S k ) is the surface Sk (front and back surfaces, 1≦k≦2N).

[0113] CH(S k The definition of ) refers to light rays that can "form" an image on an image sensor, and is therefore independent of the object currently being imaged. Thus, even if the object currently being imaged is located against a black background that does not produce light, the definition does not refer to this black background, as it refers to any optical light rays that can "reach" the image sensor to form an image (e.g., optical light rays emitted by a background that emits light, as opposed to a black background).

[0114] For example, FIG. 4A shows the optical axis 402 . The orthogonal projection IP of the two collision points IP1 and IP2 on the plane P perpendicular to orth,1 , IP orth,2 For example, in the representation of FIG. 4A, the surface S k is convex.

[0115] Figure 4B shows the orthogonal projection IP of the two collision points IP3 and IP4 on the plane P. orth,3 , IP orth,4 For example, in the representation of FIG. 4B, the surface S k is concave.

[0116] In FIG. 5A, surface S on surface P k Orthogonal projection IP of all collision points IP of orth is located between parallel lines 500 and 502. Therefore, CH(S k ) is the distance between line 500 and line 502.

[0117] As shown in Figure 5B, a clear aperture CA(S k ) is the diameter of a circle on a given surface S k (for 1≦k≦2N), the circle is located in a plane P perpendicular to the optical axis 402, and the orthogonal projection IP of all collision points on the plane P is orth is the smallest possible circle that encloses CH(S k As mentioned above for CA(S k) is also independent of the object currently being imaged.

[0118] As shown in Figure 5B, the circumscribed orthogonal projections IP of all collision points on the plane P are orth is the circle 510. The diameter of the circle 510 is S k This stipulates:

[0119] FIG. 7 shows a lens barrel 700 including multiple cut lens elements and a lens housing 704. A first cut lens element L1 702 is visible. L1 is the width along the x-axis ("WL"). X "), which is the width along the z-axis ("WL Z "), i.e., WL X >WL Z The x-axis, y-axis, and y-axis are oriented in the same directions as in FIGS. 3A to 3B and 3D to 3E.

[0120] It will be appreciated that certain features of the presently disclosed subject matter, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the presently disclosed subject matter, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0121] Unless otherwise stated, the use of the term "and / or" between the last two members of a list of alternatives for selection indicates that one or more of the listed alternatives is appropriate and may be selected.

[0122] When a claim or the specification refers to "a" or "an" element, it is to be understood that such reference should not be construed as referring to only one of that element.

[0123] All patents and patent applications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference herein. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present disclosure. (Different aspects of the present invention) [Item 1] L where 1 ≤ i ≤ N i and an optical path bending element (OPFE), wherein the first lens element L1 faces the object side and the last lens element L N facing the image side; an image sensor, At least one of the plurality of lens elements is located on an object side of the OPFE and has an associated first optical axis; at least one other of the plurality of lens elements is located on an image side of the OPFE and has an associated second optical axis; the lens has an effective focal length (EFL) and an f-number (f / #); The EFL can be adjusted to a minimum EFL by independent movement of the lens elements along the second optical lens axis. MIN and maximum EFL MAX and can be continuously changed between EFL MAX / EFL MIN >1.5, camera. [Item 2] Item 1. The camera of item 1, wherein the camera is included in a camera module having an aperture diameter DA and having a shoulder with a shoulder height SH, where DA>SH. [Item 3] The lens is divided into two lens groups marked G1 and G2, 2. The camera of item 1, wherein the continuous change in EFL is obtained by independent movement of G1 and G2. [Item 4] G1 includes three lens element subgroups G1-1, G1-2, G1-3, and the OPFE, G1-1 is located on the object side of the OPFE, The camera according to item 3, wherein G1-2 and G1-3 are located on the image side of the OPFE. [Item 5] G2 includes lens element subgroups G2-1 and G2-2, G2-1 is located on the image side of G1-2 and on the object side of G1-3, The camera according to item 3, wherein G2-2 is located on the image side of G1-3. [Item 6] The camera according to item 3, wherein G1 and G2 are operable to move together as one lens with respect to the image sensor for focusing. [Item 7] The camera according to item 3, wherein the image sensor is operable to move with respect to both G1 and G2 for optical image stabilization (OIS). [Item 8] The movement of the image sensor for OIS is performed in two directions, The camera according to item 8, wherein the two directions are perpendicular to the normal on the image sensor and perpendicular to each other. [Item 9] The camera according to item 2, wherein DA > 1.1 × SH. [Item 10] The camera according to item 2, wherein DA > 1.2 × SH. [Item 11] The camera according to item 2, wherein DA > 1.3 × SH. [Item 12] The camera according to item 1, included in a camera module having a shoulder height SH in the range of 4 mm < SH < 10 mm. [Item 13] The camera according to item 1, included in a camera module having a shoulder height SH in the range of 5 mm < SH < 8 mm. [Item 14] The camera according to item 1, included in a camera module having a camera module height MH in the range of 6 mm < MH < 12 mm. [Item 15] The camera according to item 1, included in a camera module having a camera module height MH in the range of 7 mm < MH < 11 mm. [Item 16] Included in a camera module having a shoulder with a shoulder height SH and a camera module height MH, where the SH is in the range of 4 mm < SH < 10 mm, where the MH is in the range of 6 mm < MH < 12 mm, The camera according to item 1, where the ratio SH / MH < 0.9. [Item 17] The camera according to item 16, where SH / MH < 0.8. [Item 18] The camera according to item 17, where SH / MH < 0.7. [Item 19] EFL MIN where the f / # at EFL MIN is f / # EFL MAX where the f / # at EFL MAX is f / # The ratio f / # MAX / f / # MIN <EFL MAX / EFL MIN The camera according to item 1. [Item 20] f / # MAX / f / # MIN <EFL MAX / 1.1xEFL MIN The camera according to item 19. [Item 21] G1-1 includes one lens element, The camera according to item 4, where each of G1-2, G1-3, G2-1, and G2-2 includes two lens elements. [Item 22] The lens is a cut lens, The camera according to item 1, wherein all lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE are cut along an axis parallel to the second optical axis. [Item 23] The lens is a cut lens, all lens elements located on the object side of the OPFE are cut along an axis parallel to the first optical axis, The camera according to item 1, wherein all lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE are cut along an axis parallel to the second optical axis. [Item 24] The camera is included in a camera module having a shoulder with a shoulder height SH, The lens is a cut lens, the lens is cut by 30% with respect to the axisymmetric lens diameter, The camera according to item 1, wherein the SH is reduced by more than 10% by the cutting with respect to an axisymmetric lens having the same lens diameter measured along an axis perpendicular to the first and second optical axes of the lens. [Item 25] The camera has an aperture diameter DA, The camera is included in a camera module having a shoulder with a shoulder height SH, The lens is a cut lens, the lens is cut by 30% with respect to the axisymmetric lens diameter, The camera according to item 1, wherein the ratio of SH / DA is reduced by more than 10%. [Item 26] The camera according to item 4, wherein G1-1 includes L1. [Item 27] DA is in the range of 5 mm < DA < 11 mm, The camera according to item 2, wherein f / # is in the range of 1.8 < f / # < 6.0. [Item 28] DA is in the range of 7 mm < DA < 10 mm, The camera according to item 2, wherein f / # is in the range of 2.0 < f / # < 5.0. [Item 29] 2. The camera according to item 1, wherein L1 is made of glass. [Item 30] The focal length of L1 is f1, f1<1.1×EFL MIN Item 2. The camera according to item 1, [Item 31] Item 1. The camera according to item 1, wherein N=9. [Item 32] Item 32. The camera according to item 31, wherein the power sequence of lens elements L1-L9 is plus-minus-minus-plus-minus-plus-minus-minus-plus. [Item 33] L2 is the first lens element located on the image side of the OPFE, The distance between the OPFE and L2 is d M-L and marked d M-L Item 2. The camera according to item 1, wherein the EFL is constant and does not change with continuous changes in the EFL. [Item 34] the camera has full track length TTL; d M-L The ratio of TTL to d M-L Item 34. The camera according to item 33, wherein / TTL<7.5%. [Item 35] the camera has full track length TTL; L1 is the only lens element located on the object side of the OPFE, The distance between L1 and the OPFE is ΔLO, Item 1. The camera according to item 1, wherein ΔLO / TTL<1%. [Item 36] Item 37. The camera according to item 36, wherein ΔLO / TTL<0.5%. [Item 37] Item 2. The camera of item 1, wherein the OPFE is a mirror. [Item 38] EFL MAX / EFL MIN Item 1. The camera according to item 1, wherein the .lambda. [Item 39] EFL MAX / EFL MIN > 1.9, the camera according to item 1. [Item 40] 30mm < EFL MAX < 50mm, and 10mm < EFL MIN < 30mm, the camera according to item 1. [Item 41] The image sensor has a sensor diagonal SD, SD is in the range of 3mm < SD < 10mm, the camera according to item 1. [Item 42] A mobile device including the camera according to item 1, The mobile device has a device thickness T and a camera bump area, The bump area has an increased thickness T + B, The first area of the camera is incorporated into the camera bump area, [[ID=三十二]]The second area of the camera is not incorporated into the camera bump, a mobile device. [Item 43] N = 9, and The first area of the camera includes L1 and the OPFE, The second area of the camera includes lens elements L2 - L9 and the image sensor, the mobile device according to item 42. [Item 44] The mobile device further includes a second camera having a second effective focal length EFL2, EFL2 < EFL MIN is the mobile device according to item 42. [Item 45] The mobile device is a smartphone, the mobile device according to item 42.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0124] [Figure 1A] Figure 1A shows a known folding telecamera. [Figure 1B]FIG. 1B shows a known dual camera. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C shows a schematic representation of a known mobile device having an exterior and including a folded telecamera. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a folded telecamera disclosed herein. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B shows, in cross section, a schematic representation of a mobile device having an exterior surface and dimensions as described in FIG. 1C, including a folded telecamera as in FIG. 2A. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C illustrates one embodiment of an autofocus (AF) mechanism for the folded camera of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D shows an embodiment of an OIS mechanism for the folded camera of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A schematically illustrates an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein in a first zoom state. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 3A disclosed herein in a second zoom state. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is a diagram showing the lens stroke required to continuously zoom the optical lens system of FIGS. 3A-3B. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3D schematically illustrates another embodiment of an optical lens system as disclosed herein in a first zoom state. [Figure 3E] FIG. 3E schematically illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 3D disclosed herein in a second zoom state. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows the orthogonal projections IPorth,1 and IPorth,2 of two collision points IP1 and IP2 on a plane P. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows the orthogonal projections IPorth,3 and IPorth,4 of the two collision points IP3 and IP4 on the plane P. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A provides a definition of the transparent height (CH). [Figure 5B]FIG. 5B provides a definition of a clear aperture (CA). [Figure 6] Figure 6 provides the definitions of HL and Hopt. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a lens barrel including a plurality of truncated lens elements and a lens housing.

Claims

1. L where 1≦i≦N ｉ and an optical path bending element (OPFE), wherein the first lens element L １ faces the object side, and the last lens element L Ｎ facing the image side; an image sensor, at least one of the plurality of lens elements is located on an object side of the OPFE and has an associated first optical axis; at least one other of the plurality of lens elements is located on an image side of the OPFE and has an associated second optical axis; the lens has an effective focal length (EFL); The EFL can be adjusted by independent movement of the lens elements along the second optical lens axis to a minimum EFL of ＭＩＮ and maximum EFL ＭＡＸ and can be continuously changed between EFL ＭＡＸ / EFL ＭＩＮ ≧1.5, A camera, wherein the image sensor is operable to be moved relative to both G1 and G2 for optical image stabilization (OIS) and for focusing.

2. 2. The camera of claim 1, wherein the camera is included in a camera module having an aperture diameter DA and a shoulder having a shoulder height SH, the shoulder height SH being equal to a height measured in the direction of the first optical axis selected from the height of the image sensor or the height of a taller lens element of the plurality of lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE, plus 1.5 mm, and DA > SH.

3. G1 includes three lens element subgroups G1-1, G1-2, and G1-3 and the OPFE; G1-1 is located on the object side of the OPFE, The camera of claim 1 , wherein G1-2 and G1-3 are located on the image side of the OPFE.

4. G2 includes lens element subgroups G2-1 and G2-2; G2-1 is located on the image side of G1-2 and on the object side of G1-3, 2. The camera according to claim 1, wherein G2-2 is located on the image side of G1-3.

5. the movement of the image sensor for OIS is in two directions; The camera of claim 1 , wherein the two directions are perpendicular to a normal on the image sensor and perpendicular to each other.

6. 2. The camera of claim 1, included in a camera module having a shoulder having a shoulder height SH and a camera module height MH, wherein the shoulder height SH is equal to a height measured in the direction of the first optical axis selected from the height of the image sensor or the height of a taller lens element among the plurality of lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE, plus 1.5 mm, wherein SH is in the range of 4 mm < SH < 10 mm, and MH is in the range of 6 mm < MH < 12 mm, and the ratio SH / MH < 0.

9.

7. The camera is an EFL ＭＩＮ The f number in ＭＩＮ and EFL ＭＡＸ The f number in ＭＡＸ and the ratio f / # ＭＡＸ / f / # ＭＩＮ <EFL ＭＡＸ / EFL ＭＩＮ 2. The camera of claim 1, wherein:

8. The camera is an EFL ＭＩＮ The f number in ＭＩＮ and EFL ＭＡＸ The f number in ＭＡＸ and f / # ＭＩＮ <3 and f / # ＭＡＸ 2. The camera of claim 1, wherein <5.

9. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the lens is a truncated lens, and all lens elements located on the image side of the OPFE are truncated along an axis parallel to the second optical axis.

10. Said L ２ is the first lens element located on the image side of the OPFE, The OPFE and L ２ The distance between Ｍ－Ｌ and marked d Ｍ－Ｌ 2. The camera of claim 1, wherein .lamda..times ...

11. The camera of claim 1 , wherein the OPFE is a mirror.

12. 30mm<EFL ＭＡＸ < 50 mm, 10mm<EFL ＭＩＮ 2. The camera of claim 1, wherein the focal length is <30 mm.

13. the image sensor has a sensor diagonal SD; The camera of claim 1 , wherein SD is in the range 3 mm<SD<10 mm.

14. G1-1 is L １ The camera of claim 1 , comprising:

15. 3. The camera of claim 2, wherein the camera has an f-number f / #, DA in the range 5 mm<DA<11 mm, and f / # in the range 1.8<f / #<6.

0.

16. 16. The camera of claim 1, wherein the mobile device has a device thickness T and a camera bump area, the bump area having an elevated bump thickness T+B, a first area of the camera integrated into the camera bump area, and a second area of the camera not integrated into the camera bump.

17. The mobile device has a second effective focal length EFL ２ and a second camera having an EFL. ２ <EFL ＭＩＮ 17. The camera of claim 16, wherein:

18. The camera of claim 16, wherein the mobile device is a smartphone.

19. L where 1≦i≦N ｉ and an optical path bending element (OPFE), wherein the first lens element L １ faces the object side, and the last lens element L Ｎ facing the image side; an image sensor, at least one of the plurality of lens elements is located on an object side of the OPFE and has an associated first optical axis; at least one other of the plurality of lens elements is located on an image side of the OPFE and has an associated second optical axis; the lens has an effective focal length (EFL); The EFL can be adjusted by independent movement of the lens elements along the second optical lens axis to a minimum EFL of ＭＩＮ and maximum EFL ＭＡＸ and can be continuously changed between EFL ＭＡＸ / EFL ＭＩＮ ≧1.5, A camera, wherein the image sensor is operable to be moved relative to both G1 and G2 for optical image stabilization (OIS) and for focusing.

20. Lens element L １ -L ９ 20. The camera of claim 19, wherein the power sequence is plus-minus-minus-plus-minus-plus-minus-minus-plus.

Images