Prisms for camera modules

Abstract

To provide techniques regarding camera modules which include a prism, and a lens assembly and image sensor positioned adjacent to a common side of the prism.SOLUTION: A camera module may be configured such that light enters a prism (e.g., from a lens assembly) via a first surface and exits the prism (e.g., toward an image sensor) via the same first surface. The prism may be operable to move with respect to both the lens assembly and the image sensor via an actuator. The prism may include opaque masks extending from a second surface that is opposite the first surface and into a body of the prism. The structure described can help reduce the overall package size of the camera module because of the configuration of the prism.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application is a non-provisional patent application of and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 631,867, entitled "Prisms for Camera Modules," filed April 9, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The embodiments described herein relate to camera modules, and in particular to camera modules in which light is directed to and collected from a common surface of a prism. [Background technology]

[0003] Most consumer electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, are equipped with cameras. With the release of new generations of consumer electronic devices, improvements in camera quality and / or functionality are required. As the size of electronic devices continues to decrease, optical systems become increasingly complex to provide the same or improved performance in a smaller package size. One way to reduce the package size of an optical system along one or more dimensions is to use folded optical elements, such as prisms, to fold light along one or more additional axes from the initial axis along which the light enters the optical system. While the use of prisms can help reduce the footprint of a camera along one or more dimensions, there is a continuing need to reduce the size of cameras while improving performance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments described herein relate to a camera module including a prism. Some embodiments are directed to a camera module including a prism, a lens assembly, an image sensor, and an actuator. The prism may include a body formed from an optically transparent material. The body may define a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The lens assembly may be positioned to direct light from a scene to the first surface of the body. The image sensor may be positioned to receive light directed through the prism that exits the first surface of the body. An actuator may be coupled to the prism and configured to move the prism relative to both the lens assembly and the image sensor.

[0005] In some variations, the body may also define a third surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces, the third surface connecting the first surface to the second surface, and a fourth surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces. In some cases, the third and fourth surfaces are configured to reflect light traveling through the prism. In some examples, the third surface is inclined relative to the fourth surface.

[0006] In some variations, the prism further includes a first opaque mask extending from the second surface into the body. In some examples, the prism includes a plurality of opaque masks, the plurality of opaque masks including the first opaque mask, and each opaque mask of the plurality of opaque masks extends from the second surface of the prism toward the body.

[0007] In some examples described herein, the actuator includes a voice coil motor. In yet other examples, the optically transparent material includes glass.

[0008] Some embodiments described herein are directed to a camera module having a prism, a lens assembly, and an image sensor. The prism may include a body formed from an optically transparent material, the body defining a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. Further, the prism may include an opaque mask extending into the body from the second surface. The lens assembly may be configured to direct light from a scene to the first surface of the body. The image sensor is configured to receive light directed through the prism that exits the first surface of the body.

[0009] In some cases, the opaque masks described herein have a rectangular shape. In some variations, the opaque mask is a first opaque mask, and the prism further includes a second opaque mask and a third opaque mask, each of the first and second opaque masks extending from the second surface into the body, and the first, second, and third opaque masks being laterally spaced apart along the second surface. In some examples, the body defines a third surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces and a fourth surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces. In this example, the third surface is positioned such that light entering the first surface from the lens assembly is directed toward the third surface. The first opaque mask may be positioned between the third surface and the second opaque mask, and the third opaque mask may be positioned between the second opaque mask and the fourth surface.

[0010] In some cases, the height of a portion of the second opaque mask is less than the individual heights of a portion of the first opaque mask and a portion of the third opaque mask. In some examples, the first opaque mask defines a central portion and a peripheral portion, and the central portion has a height less than the height of the peripheral portion. The height of the peripheral portion may be the same as the body.

[0011] The camera modules described herein may include a lens assembly, an image sensor, and a prism. The prism may be positioned to receive light from a scene through the lens assembly and transmit the light through the prism to the image sensor. The prism may define a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, a third surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces, and a fourth surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces. The prism may be configured such that, when light is received from the lens assembly, the light enters the prism through the first surface, reflects off the third surface toward the first surface, reflects off the first surface toward the fourth surface, reflects off the fourth surface toward the first surface, and exits the prism through the first surface.

[0012] In some cases, at least a portion of the periphery of the first surface is covered by an opaque coating. In some examples, the opaque coating is a first opaque coating, and the prism further includes a second opaque coating covering the second surface. In some embodiments, the prism also includes a first reflective coating covering at least a first portion of the prism's third surface and a second reflective coating covering at least a first portion of the prism's fourth surface. The prism may also include a third opaque coating covering a second portion of the prism's third surface and at least partially surrounding the first reflective coating, and a fourth opaque portion covering a second portion of the prism's fourth surface and at least partially surrounding the second reflective coating. In some cases, the prism's body may define first, second, third, and fourth surfaces, and a plurality of opaque masks may extend from the prism's second surface toward the body between the third and fourth surfaces.

[0013] Reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the disclosure to the single embodiment encompassed. To the contrary, the disclosure provided herein is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that are included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments and as defined by the appended claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1A] 1 illustrates a rear view of an exemplary electronic device that may include one or more camera modules incorporating the prisms described herein.

[0015] [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram illustrating components of an example electronic device described herein.

[0016] [Figure 2] 1 shows an elevation view of a camera module with a prism.

[0017] [Figure 3A] 1 shows an elevation view of an example camera module described herein having a lens assembly and an image sensor positioned on a common side of a prism.

[0018] [Figure 3B] 3B shows a bottom view of the trapezoidal prism of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] 3B shows a plan view of the prism of FIG. 3A.

[0019] [Figure 4A] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary camera module comprising a prism with multiple opaque masks extending from a common surface into the prism. [Figure 4B] 4B shows a perspective view of the prism of FIG. 4A.

[0020] [Figure 4C]4B shows a cross-sectional view of an opaque mask that may be part of the prism of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4D] 4B shows a cross-sectional view of an opaque mask that may be part of the prism of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4E] 4B shows a cross-sectional view of an opaque mask that may be part of the prism of FIG. 4A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The use of the same or similar reference numbers in different drawings indicates similar, related or identical items.

[0022] The use of cross-hatching or shading in the accompanying figures is generally provided to clarify boundaries between adjacent elements and also to facilitate legibility of the figures. Accordingly, neither the presence nor absence of cross-hatching or shading is intended to convey or indicate any preference or requirement for particular materials, material properties, element proportions, element dimensions, commonalities of similarly illustrated elements, or any other characteristics, attributes, or properties with respect to any element shown in the accompanying figures.

[0023] Additionally, it will be understood that the proportions and dimensions (whether relative or absolute) of the various features and elements (and collections and groups thereof), as well as the boundaries, separations and relationships presented therebetween, are provided in the accompanying figures merely to facilitate understanding of the various embodiments described herein, and as such may not necessarily be presented or drawn to scale, and are not intended to imply any preference or requirement for the illustrated embodiment to the exclusion of the embodiment described with reference thereto.

[0024] Embodiments described herein relate to a camera module having a lens assembly, an image sensor, and a prism, with the lens assembly and image sensor disposed adjacent to a common side of the prism. The prism may be coupled to an actuator that moves the prism relative to both the lens assembly and / or the image sensor, thereby enabling the camera to incorporate autofocus functionality with a smaller footprint. In some cases, the prism includes one or more opaque masks that extend into the body of the prism and help control light passing through the prism (e.g., by blocking stray light). The one or more opaque masks may be configured to block stray light within the prism to reduce flare.

[0025] Prisms may be used within camera modules to reduce the size of the camera without reducing the focal length and / or overall camera functionality. One use of prisms in cameras is as a light-folding component of an optical assembly. For example, a camera module may include a lens assembly configured to collect light from a scene (e.g., a user taking a picture of the environment surrounding the camera module). The collected light then enters a prism, which bends the light multiple times along different optical paths before reaching the image sensor. This may reduce the package size of the optical system along one or more dimensions while maintaining the focal length of the optical assembly. For example, a camera module may incorporate a prism whereby light entering the prism is configured to reflect off different surfaces of the prism (and thereby fold the light along one or more additional axes) before exiting the prism. In some examples, the camera module is designed so that light reflects off one or more surfaces using total internal reflection. In these examples, these surfaces may not be covered by a reflective coating (e.g., a mirror coating), allowing light to exit the prism through these surfaces.

[0026] The prisms described herein can reduce the packaging size of a camera module. In some examples, the camera module can be configured such that both the lens assembly and the image sensor are positioned adjacent to a common surface of the prism. More specifically, the prism can define two opposing faces, each having a distinct surface (e.g., a first surface corresponding to the first face of the prism and a second surface corresponding to the second face of the prism) and two faces defining sloping surfaces (e.g., a third surface and a fourth surface). The lens assembly and the image sensor are positioned adjacent to a common side of the prism so that light can enter the prism through the first surface of the common side, reflect off two or more surfaces (e.g., sloping surfaces and / or again the first surface), and exit through the same first surface. In some cases, the prism can be coupled to an actuator, which can be operable to move the prism in a direction perpendicular to at least the first surface (e.g., toward and away from both the lens assembly and the image sensor). Because both the lens assembly and the image sensor are positioned adjacent to a common side, the prism can be configured to move away from the lens assembly and the image sensor simultaneously, resulting in a shorter prism movement distance for an equivalent change in the camera's focal length.

[0027] In some embodiments, a prism may be configured so that light can enter, reflect, and exit the same surface (e.g., a first surface). For example, light may first enter the prism through a region of the first surface. Once inside the prism, the light may travel through a first sloping surface where it may reflect. This first sloping surface then reflects the light back toward the first surface. At the first surface, the light may bounce again (e.g., via total internal reflection) and reach a different, second sloping surface. The light then reflects off a second sloping surface and reaches the first surface again before exiting the prism.

[0028] The prism may include a body. The prism body may be formed from an optically transparent material and may be configured to transmit light within the prism. The prism body may define the size and shape of the prism. For example, the body may define the exterior surface of the prism and / or the surface of the prism through which light enters, reflects, and exits the prism.

[0029] In some examples, the prism can further include an opaque mask disposed to extend within the body of the prism. The opaque mask may extend from a surface of the prism opposite the first surface (e.g., the second surface) into the body toward the first surface. The opaque mask may be light-absorbing (e.g., formed from one or more light-absorbing materials) so that light incident thereon (e.g., stray light) can be blocked or absorbed by the opaque mask. In some cases, the prism may include multiple opaque masks separated laterally along the second surface. Each of the opaque masks may extend toward the first surface. In some examples, the opaque masks extend perpendicular to the second surface. In other examples, the opaque masks extend obliquely relative to the second surface, generally in a direction toward the first surface.

[0030] In some cases, the dimensions and / or shapes of portions of the opaque masks may differ from one another. For example, one or more of the opaque masks may have a shape in which different portions of the mask have different heights relative to the second surface. For example, a mask may have a central portion (e.g., defining a "U" shape) and one or more peripheral portions, where the central portion has a height that is less than the height(s) of the peripheral portions. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the opaque masks may have a rectangular shape. Depending on the shape of the prism and the configuration of the multiple opaque masks, the second surface may not be configured to reflect light. In some examples, the surfaces of the prisms optionally include opaque and / or reflective coatings that help absorb and / or reflect light incident on each surface, respectively.

[0031] As described herein, "light-absorbing" and "light-transmitting" are used in the context of a camera's imaging capabilities. For example, the camera modules described herein may be configured to capture and measure light at one or more wavelengths. For example, some camera modules are configured to measure light at visible wavelengths (e.g., to capture RGB images). Additionally or alternatively, camera modules may be configured to measure light at one or more infrared wavelengths. Thus, although these cameras may be exposed to a wide range of wavelengths of light, the images captured by these cameras reflect only a specific set of wavelengths (also referred to herein as the camera module's "operating wavelength range").

[0032] Thus, when optical components of a camera module are described herein as being "light transmissive," it should be understood that the optical components are transmissive to at least the operating wavelength range of the camera. In this manner, a given optical component (e.g., a lens) can route light within the operating wavelength range to the image sensor. These components may, but need not, be transmissive at additional wavelengths.

[0033] Similarly, when an optical component of a camera module is described herein as "light-absorbing," the component is configured to absorb light having wavelengths in the operating wavelength range of the camera. "Light-absorbing" can refer to a material that absorbs light having wavelengths in the operating wavelength range of the camera. For example, a light-absorbing material can absorb light in the visible range, the infrared range, a combination thereof, etc., depending on the operating wavelength range of a given camera module. The light-absorbing component can optionally absorb light at additional wavelengths beyond those included in the operating wavelength range of the camera module.

[0034] These aforementioned and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to Figures 1A-4E, but those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description provided herein with respect to these figures is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0035] 1A shows a back view of an electronic device 100 that can incorporate one or more cameras utilizing example camera modules described herein. The electronic device 100 can include multiple camera modules, such as a first camera module 102, a second camera module 104, and a third camera module 106. While three camera modules are depicted, it should be understood that the electronic device 100 can include more or fewer camera modules (e.g., including one or more camera modules on a front or other surface of the camera module). Some or all of the camera modules 102, 104, 106 can include an optical assembly having a prism as described in more detail herein.

[0036] The electronic device may optionally include a flash module 108, a depth sensor 110, etc. The flash module 108 can provide illumination for some or all of the field of view of the device's camera module(s). This can assist image capture operations in low-light settings. Additionally or alternatively, the device 100 may further include a depth sensor 110 that can calculate depth information for a portion of the environment around the device 100. Specifically, the depth sensor 110 can calculate depth information within a coverage area (i.e., the widest lateral range for which the depth sensor 110 can provide depth information). The coverage area of ​​the depth sensor 110 may at least partially overlap with the field of view of one or more of the optical assemblies. The depth sensor 110 may be any suitable system capable of calculating distances between the depth sensor 110 and various points in the environment around the device 100.

[0037] 1B shows exemplary components of electronic device 100. In some embodiments, electronic device 100 has a bus 112 operably coupling I / O section 114 to one or more computer processors 116 and memory 118. I / O section 114 can be connected to a display 120, which can have touch-sensitive components 122 and, optionally, an intensity sensor 124 (e.g., a contact intensity sensor). Additionally, I / O section 114 can be connected to a communication unit 126 that receives application and operating system data using, for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), cellular, and / or other wireless communication techniques. Electronic device 100 can include one or more user input mechanisms, including a first user input mechanism 128 and / or a second user input mechanism 130. First user input mechanism 128 is optionally, for example, a rotatable input device or a depressible and rotatable input device. In some examples, the second user input mechanism 130 is optionally a button. The electronic device 100 optionally includes various sensors, such as a GPS sensor 132, an accelerometer 134, an orientation sensor 136 (e.g., a compass), a gyroscope 138, a motion sensor 140, a camera module 102, and / or combinations thereof, all of which may be operably connected to the I / O section 114.

[0038] The memory 118 of the electronic device 100 may include one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media for storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors 116, can cause the processors 116 to perform the techniques described herein, for example. A computer-readable storage medium may be any medium that can tangibly contain or store computer-executable instructions used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. In some embodiments, the storage medium is a transient computer-readable storage medium. In some embodiments, the storage medium is a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Non-transitory computer-readable storage media may include, but are not limited to, magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, and / or semiconductor storage devices. Examples of such storage devices include magnetic disks, optical disks based on CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray technology, as well as persistent solid-state memory such as flash and solid-state drives.

[0039] Processor 116 may include, for example, a processor, microprocessor, programmable logic array (PLA), programmable array logic (PAL), generic array logic (GAL), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other programmable logic device (PLD) configurable to execute the operating system and applications of electronic device 100 and to facilitate image capture and in-field calibration as described herein. Processor 116 is sometimes referred to herein as a processing circuit.

[0040] As described herein, the terms "processor" and "processing circuitry" refer to any software- and / or hardware-implemented data processing device or circuitry that is physically and / or structurally configured to instantiate one or more classes or objects that are purposefully configured to perform particular transformations of data, including operations expressed as code and / or instructions contained in a program stored in and accessible from memory. The terms are intended to encompass a single processor or processing unit, multiple processors, multiple processing units, analog or digital circuits, or any other suitably configured computing element or combination of elements. Electronic device 100 is not limited to the components and configuration of FIG. 1B and may include other or additional components in multiple configurations.

[0041] 2 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a camera module 200 including a prism 202, a lens assembly 204, and an image sensor 208. In this camera module 200, the lens assembly 204 and the image sensor 208 are disposed on either side of the prism 202. Due to the folded optical configuration of the prism 202, light travels along an optical axis 206 that is folded in multiple directions. The optical axis 206 may have multiple segments 206a-c. As shown, light travels along a first segment 206a of the optical axis 206 and enters the camera module 200 (e.g., through the lens assembly 204 and into the folding prism 202 at the top). The light then undergoes multiple folds within the prism 202 (e.g., along a second segment 206b of the optical axis 206 that is disposed along a different direction than the first segment 206a, and a third segment 206c of the optical axis 206 that is disposed along a different direction than the second segment 206b) before exiting the prism 202 along a third segment 206c. At the third segment 206c, the light exits the folding prism 202 (e.g., at the bottom surface opposite the top surface) and reaches the image sensor 208. In this configuration, the prism 202 is between the lens assembly 204 and the image sensor 208.

[0042] The camera module 200 may be configured to adjust focus by providing relative movement between the image sensor 208 and the prism 202 along the third segment 206c of the optical axis 206 (e.g., by moving the image sensor 208 with respect to the prism 202). In some examples, the image sensor 208 may be coupled to an actuator that moves the image sensor 208 away from and toward the prism 202. In other examples, an actuator may be coupled to the prism, thereby moving the prism away from the lens assembly 204 toward the image sensor 208, or away from the image sensor 208 toward the lens assembly 204. By positioning the image sensor below the prism 202, a clearance C exists between the prism 202 and the image sensor 208, which may add to the overall footprint of the camera module 200 along the third segment 206c of the optical axis 206. In examples where the prism 202 and the image sensor 208 are moving relative to one another (e.g., for focusing purposes), the magnitude of the clearance C may be increased to accommodate this movement.

[0043] In contrast to FIG. 2 , FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate an exemplary camera module 300 according to an example of the present disclosure. As depicted in FIG. 3A , camera module 300 has lens assembly 304 and image sensor 308 disposed on a common side of prism 302, thereby providing a reduced form factor for a given focal length of camera module 300 compared to camera module 200 of FIG. 2 . Specifically, by disposing lens assembly 304 and image sensor 308 adjacent to a common surface, the height of camera module 300 can be reduced. As an added advantage, if prism 302 is movable (e.g., via actuator 310), prism 302 can be configured to move away from image sensor 308 simultaneously as it moves away from lens assembly 304. Such simultaneous movement can double the change in focal length for a given working distance compared to camera module 200 of FIG. 2 .

[0044] Prism 302 can include a body 312 formed from an optically transparent material. In some examples, the optically transparent material includes glass, although in other variations, other optically transparent materials, such as plastic, can be used to form the body. In some variations, body 312 is formed from a single piece. In other variations, body 312 is assembled from multiple separate pieces (each of which may be formed from the same or different optically transparent material) that are connected to form body 312.

[0045] The body 312 of the prism 302 can at least partially define each face of the prism 302. In particular, the body 312 can have a first surface 302a. The first surface 302a is positioned such that the lens assembly 304 and the image sensor 308 are adjacent to this first surface, and such that light is received / emitted through the first surface 302a. Additionally, the body 312 can define a second surface 302b of the prism 302 opposite the first surface 302a. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the first surface 302a is parallel to the second surface 302b, while in other examples, the first surface 302a may be angled relative to the second surface 302b.

[0046] In some embodiments, the body 312 may also define a third surface 302c and a fourth surface 302d. Each of the third surface 302c and the fourth surface 302d may be at an oblique angle relative to the first surface 302a and the second surface 302b, respectively. In some cases, the third surface 302c may be a first sloped surface, and the fourth surface 302d may be a second sloped surface. In some cases, the third surface 302c connects the first surface 302a and the second surface 302b to each other. Similarly, the fourth surface 302d may connect the first surface 302a to the second surface 302b. In some cases, the third surface 302c and the fourth surface 302d may be at an oblique angle relative to each other. In other cases, the third surface 302c and the fourth surface 302d may be at a right angle relative to each other. In some cases (e.g., when first surface 302a and second surface 302b are parallel to one another), surfaces 302a-302d may define a trapezoid, and prism 302 may be a trapezoidal prism. While only surfaces 302a-302d are depicted in FIG. 3A, prisms having additional surfaces, faces, and / or angles are envisioned. In some cases, first surface 302a may be larger (e.g., in terms of surface area) than second surface 302b. In some examples, third surface 302c and fourth surface 302d may be the same size.

[0047] As depicted in FIG. 3A , lens assembly 304 receives light from a scene (e.g., a user of a smart device taking a picture) and directs the light into prism 302 along a first segment 306a of optical axis 306 of camera module 300. Lens assembly 304 may include a series of lenses coupled to one another (e.g., held in a fixed relationship relative to one another, movably coupled relative to one another). Lens assembly 304 may be disposed within a lens barrel (not shown) of the camera module and positioned behind a cover window of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 100 of FIG. 1A ). Lens assembly 304 is positioned such that light from the scene received through the cover window is routed by lens assembly 304 to prism 302. Typically, lenses of lens assembly 304 are formed from one or more optically transmissive materials, such as glass or plastic, to facilitate routing light from the scene within the operating wavelength range of camera module 300 to prism 302 and then to image sensor 308.

[0048] Prism 302 is configured such that light introduced into the prism from lens assembly 304 through first surface 302a is routed to exit prism 302 at first surface 302a. More specifically, prism 302 receives light traveling along a first segment 306a of optical axis 306 at first surface 302a. The light then travels within prism 302 and reaches third surface 302c, where it may reflect. In some examples, as shown in the bottom view of prism 302 in FIG. 3B , third surface 302c may include a first reflective coating 316 on a portion of third surface 302c, such that light incident on first reflective coating 316 reflects from third surface 302c. In some variations, the first reflective coating 316 may be centered within the third surface 302c so that the first reflective coating 316 does not reach the edges of the third surface 302c. In other variations, the first reflective coating 316 may extend to one or more edges of the third surface 302c. In some variations, the periphery of the third surface 302c (e.g., at least partially surrounding the first reflective coating 316) may be uncoated (e.g., a portion of the third surface 302c is defined by exposed material of the body 312). In other examples, the periphery of the third surface 302c may include an opaque coating at least partially surrounding the first reflective coating 316 (e.g., partially or completely surrounding the first reflective coating 316) configured to prevent stray light from entering the prism through the third surface 302c. In some variations, the opaque coating may also be positioned at least partially over the first reflective coating 316.

[0049] Returning to FIG. 3A , following light reflection from the third surface 302c, the light may travel through the prism 302 (e.g., via the second segment 306b of the optical axis 306) and reach the first surface 302a. In some examples, at the first surface 302a, the light is redirected again via total internal reflection. For example, the angle of incidence of the light may be steeper (e.g., greater with respect to the vertical Z-axis) than the critical angle determined by the refractive index relationship between the prism 302 and air (or other external medium). Once the light is reflected from the first surface 302a, the light may travel through the prism (e.g., via the third segment 306c of the optical axis 307) and reach the fourth surface 302d. At the fourth surface 302d, the light may be reflected again and travel through the prism 302 (e.g., via the fourth segment 306d of the optical axis 306).

[0050] 3B , similar to the third surface 302c, the fourth surface 302d can include an additional second reflective coating 318. In some variations, the second reflective coating 318 can be centered within the fourth surface 302d such that the second reflective coating 318 does not reach the edges of the fourth surface 302d. In other variations, the second reflective coating 318 can extend to one or more edges of the fourth surface 302d. In some variations, the periphery of the fourth surface 302d (e.g., at least partially surrounding the second reflective coating 318) can be uncoated (e.g., a portion of the fourth surface 302d is defined by exposed material of the body 312). In other examples, the periphery of the fourth surface 302d may include an opaque coating that at least partially surrounds (e.g., partially or completely surrounds) the second reflective coating 318 and is configured to prevent stray light from entering the prism through the fourth surface 302d. In some variations, the opaque coating may also be positioned at least partially over the second reflective coating 318.

[0051] In some embodiments, the surface area of ​​the first reflective coating 316 on the third surface 302c and the surface area of ​​the second reflective coating 318 on the fourth surface 302d may be different. For example, to accommodate changes in the beam size of light ultimately reaching the image sensor 308, the first reflective coating 316 on the third surface 302c may be smaller than the reflective coating on the fourth surface 302d. The beam of light reaching the fourth surface 302d may be wider due to the expansion of the collected light as it travels through the prism 302, allowing for a wider range of coverage to be used on the fourth surface 302d. In some examples, the third surface 302c and the fourth surface 302d may have different angles and / or different surface areas relative to the first surface 302a. Thus, the size of the reflective coating may vary proportionally to the size of the surface it covers. In some cases, the sizes of the first reflective coating 316 and the second reflective coating 318 may be the same.

[0052] 3A , light reflected from fourth surface 302d may then reach first surface 302a, exit prism 302, and reach image sensor 308. As described herein, image sensor 308 may be any suitable image sensor configured to generate one or more signals that communicate information about the received light. For example, image sensor 308 may be a CCD, a CMOS sensor, etc.

[0053] 3A, the prism 302 is configured so that light enters the prism from the lens assembly 304 and reaches the image sensor 308 without reflecting off the second surface 302b. In some cases, the prism 302 is configured so that light that reaches the image sensor 308 (e.g., light for imaging purposes excluding stray light) does not reach the second surface 302b. In some cases, the second surface 302b may include an opaque coating 320 or other opaque structure that absorbs stray light, as shown in FIG.

[0054] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3A , the prism 302 may include an opaque mask 314 extending from the second surface 302 b into the body 312. In some cases, the opaque mask 314 is bonded to the body 312 or a portion of the body 312. In some variations, the opaque mask 314 may extend perpendicularly (e.g., orthogonally from the second surface 302 b) in a direction toward the first surface 302 a. In some examples, the opaque mask 314 may extend obliquely in a direction from the second surface 302 b toward the first surface 302 a. In some examples, a portion of the opaque mask 314 (e.g., as viewed from the Y direction, not shown) may extend to the first surface 302 a. Additionally or alternatively, the opaque mask in the Y axis (along the width of the prism 302) may extend across the entire width of the body. However, in some cases, the width of the opaque mask may vary. For example, the opaque mask may include two portions positioned adjacently around the periphery of the body. In this configuration, the opaque mask is configured to absorb stray light at the edges of the body 312 while allowing light to travel through a central region of the body 312. In other cases, the opaque mask 314 may not extend to both edges, or may extend to only one edge of the body 312. An additional opaque coating may be placed over a portion of the edge surface to prevent stray light from causing artifacts in the image and / or to prevent external light from entering the prism.

[0055] Prism 302 can define light-blocking and light-transmitting regions along a plane of prism 302 where opaque mask 314 is disposed, such that light intersecting the plane either passes through the light-transmitting regions or is blocked by the light-blocking regions. In these examples, light passing through prism 302 between lens assembly 304 and image sensor 308 can pass through the light-transmitting regions. If prism 302 includes multiple opaque masks, each opaque mask can define light-blocking and light-transmitting regions in a different corresponding plane of prism 302. Examples of opaque masks that can be incorporated into prism 302 are described herein with respect to Figures 4A-4E.

[0056] As described herein, camera module 300 is configured so that light entering camera module 300 enters and exits prism 302 at a common surface, e.g., first surface 302a. FIG. 3C shows a plan view of prism 302. In some variations, as depicted, first surface 302a may include an opaque coating 322. Opaque coating 322 may at least partially define one or more windows 324 in first surface 302a through which light can enter and exit prism 302. Opaque coating 322 may be configured to absorb light incident on opaque coating 322. In this manner, stray light incident on opaque coating 322 (e.g., stray light already entering prism 302 and / or stray light external to the prism) may be at least partially absorbed by opaque coating 322. In this manner, opaque coating 322 can reduce the amount of stray light within camera module 300 that reaches image sensor 308.

[0057] In some variations, the opaque coating 322 is positioned along at least a portion of the perimeter of the first surface 302a. In some of these variations, the opaque coating 322 is positioned to extend along the entire perimeter of the first surface 302a. In these cases, the opaque coating 322 may define one or more windows 324 that are completely surrounded by the opaque coating 322 (e.g., the windows 324 do not extend to the edges of the first surface 302a). In other variations, the opaque coating 322 extends partially along the perimeter of the first surface 302a. In these examples, the opaque coating 322 may define one or more windows 324 that extend to one or more edges of the first surface 302a. While a single window 324 is shown in FIG. 3C , it should be understood that in other examples, the opaque coating 322 may at least partially define multiple separate windows within the first surface 302a.

[0058] In some variations, the window 324 may be an uncoated portion of the first surface 302a. In these examples, the optically transparent material forming the body 312 of the prism 302 may be in direct contact with any surrounding material (e.g., air). In other variations, the window 324 may be at least partially covered with one or more coatings (e.g., one or more anti-reflective coatings) that still allow light to enter and / or exit the prism 302 through the window 324. Additionally, the opaque coating 322 may be configured to at least partially define the window 324, which may have any suitable shape. In some variations, the window 324 may have a rectangular shape. In other variations, such as that shown in FIG. 3C , the window 324 may have a shape that includes a first rectangular portion 324a having a first width along the Y-axis of the prism 302 and a second rectangular portion 324b having a second, larger width along the Y-axis of the prism 302. In some of these variations, prism 302 may be positioned such that lens assembly 304 directs light toward first rectangular portion 324a. In these examples, this light can enter prism 302 through first rectangular portion 324a of window 324 and exit prism 302 through second rectangular portion 324b (e.g., after reflecting within prism 302 as described herein). The variation in width of window 324 can accommodate the variation in the width of the light as it travels through prism 302.

[0059] In some variations, one or more components of the camera module 300 may be selectively movable to provide autofocus and / or optical image stabilization functionality for the camera module 300. In some variations, the image sensor 308 may be selectively movable relative to the prism 302 (e.g., using an actuator). For example, in some variations, the image sensor 308 may be selectively movable relative to the prism 302 along segment 306d (e.g., along the Z axis of the coordinate system shown in FIG. 3A) to provide optical image stabilization functionality for the camera module. Additionally or alternatively, the camera module 300 may be configured to selectively generate relative movement between the prism 302 and the image sensor 308 along segment 306d (e.g., the Z axis). For example, in the variation shown in FIG. 3A, the camera module 300 may be configured to selectively move the prism 302 within the camera module 300. Specifically, the prism 302 may be coupled to an actuator 310. 3A , actuator 310 may be configured to move prism 302 in direction D, which is parallel to segment 306d. In some examples, actuator 310 is operable to simultaneously move prism 302 relative to both lens assembly 304 and image sensor 308. Thus, the track length required to move prism 302 is half in this configuration compared to a system with a comparable focal length. This configuration can reduce the overall height of camera module 300 because it uses less actuator travel to achieve a comparable focal length.

[0060] In some examples, the lens assembly 304 and the image sensor 308 may be coupled to a fixed portion of the housing of the camera module 300, and the actuator 310 and the prism 302 may be positioned in a bin or carriage within the housing that is movably coupled to the fixed portion. In some examples, the lens assembly 304 and / or the image sensor 308 may be independently movable relative to each other and relative to the prism 302.

[0061] In other examples, the image sensor 308 or the lens assembly 304 may be configured to move with the prism 302. For example, in some variations, the actuator 310 may be configured to move the image sensor 308 and the prism 302 together relative to the lens assembly 304. In another example, the actuator 310 may be configured to move the lens assembly 304 and the prism 302 relative to the image sensor 308.

[0062] In some embodiments, the actuator 310 may include a voice coil motor (VCM), a comb drive, or the like. For example, the actuator 310 may include a magnet fixed relative to the prism 302 (e.g., coupled to a carrier carrying the prism 302) and a coil configured to move the magnet via a Lorentz force along an axis (e.g., to move the prism 302 along a direction D, which may be parallel to the first segment 306a and the fourth segment 306d of the optical axis 306). In some examples, the actuator 310 may include ball bearings, an alignment assembly, or the like to guide the movement of the carrier carrying the prism 302. The actuator 310 may include any suitable actuator configuration, as would be readily understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0063] While the embodiment of prism 302 shown in FIGS. 3A-3B is shown as including a single opaque mask 314 extending into the body 312 of prism 302, FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate a variation of a camera module 400 having a prism 402 with multiple opaque masks 414a-414c extending into the body 412 of prism 402. Specifically, FIG. 4A illustrates an elevational view of camera module 400 and prism 402. Camera module 400 may be otherwise configured in any manner as described herein with respect to camera module 300 of FIGS. 3A-3C. For example, the variation of camera module 400 shown in FIG. 4A includes a lens assembly 404, an image sensor 408, and an actuator 410. Similarly, prism 402 may be positioned and configured to operate similarly to prism 302 of camera module 300 of FIGS. 3A-3C. Specifically, the prism 402 may be configured to receive light from the lens assembly 404 through the first surface 402a of the prism, fold the light along the plurality of segments 406, and direct the light to exit the prism 402 through the first surface 402a. The camera module 400 may be configured such that the light, after exiting the first surface 402a of the prism 402, is directed to the image sensor 408.

[0064] 4A-4E, the plurality of opaque masks 414a-414c includes three opaque masks (e.g., a first opaque mask 414a, a second opaque mask 414b, and a third opaque mask 414c). Each of the first, second, and / or third masks 414a-414c may be part of the prism 402 and may be coupled to the body 412 in any manner described herein. The first, second, and / or third masks 414a-414c are disposed along the second surface 402b and extend into the body 412 (e.g., toward the first surface 402a) such that stray light is absorbed and blocked, while light entering or exiting the prism 402 to generate an image does not reach any of the first, second, or third opaque masks 414a-414c. In some embodiments, the first opaque mask 414a is disposed between the third surface 402c and the second opaque mask 414b. In some cases, the first opaque mask 414a may be closer to the third surface 402c than the fourth surface 402dd. The second opaque mask 414b may be between the first opaque mask 414a and the third opaque mask 414c. The third opaque mask 414c may be between the fourth surface 402d and the second opaque mask 414b. In some cases, the third opaque mask 414c may be closer to the fourth surface 402d than the third surface 402c. With respect to the direction of travel of light entering prism 402 from lens assembly 404, the light first passes through a first light-transmitting area defined by first opaque mask 414a, then passes through a second light-transmitting area defined by second opaque mask 414b, and then passes through a third light-transmitting area defined by third opaque mask 414c before exiting prism 402.

[0065] 4B shows a perspective view of prism 402. In this view, reflective and / or opaque coatings that may be coupled to surfaces 402a-402d are omitted for clarity. As shown, each of first, second, and third opaque masks 414a-414c may extend along at least a portion of width W across body 412 of prism 402 (e.g., along the Y-axis). In addition, each of first, second, and third opaque masks 414a-414c may be separated along a length L of prism 402 defined along the X-axis, and more specifically, along the length of second surface 402b (along the X-axis). In this configuration, each of the first, second, and third opaque masks 414a-414c is positioned transversely relative to the length of the prism 402 so that light traversing the prism 402 along a particular trajectory (e.g., received by the lens assembly 404 and directed to the image sensor 408) passes over each of the plurality of opaque masks 414a-414c. Stray light traversing the prism along an undesired trajectory is blocked by one of the plurality of opaque masks 414a-414c.

[0066] 4C-4E show cross-sectional views of the first, second, and third opaque masks 414a-414c, respectively. As shown, each of the first, second, and / or third opaque masks 414a-414c can define a different pattern configured to block stray light from different regions / portions of the prism 402 to reduce glare. For example, FIG. 4C depicts the first opaque mask 414a defining a "U" shape with a central portion 426 (having a first height h1) disposed between peripheral portions 428. In some cases, the opaque mask portions in the peripheral portions 428 may have a respective second height greater than the first height h1. In the central portion 426 of the first opaque mask 414a, the optically transparent material 432 can extend from the first surface 402a (see FIG. 4A) to the interface with the opaque material 430. Similarly, the third opaque mask 414c depicted in FIG. 4E may have a similar "U" shape, with a height h3 at the central portion 426 being smaller than the height at the peripheral portion 428 of the prism 402. In some examples, the heights h1 and h3 may be different. In other examples, the heights h1 and h3 may be the same. The third opaque mask 414c region may also define a light-transmitting material 432 that extends to its boundary with the opaque material 430. Generally, light reaching the image sensor travels through the light-transmitting material 432. In contrast, stray light (e.g., from an external light source) is blocked by the opaque material 430. The light-transmitting material 432 in FIGS. 4C and 4E may be the same as the light-transmitting material of the body 412. In some examples, as shown, the individual height of the opaque material 430 at the peripheral portion 428 may be the height H of the prism 402 (see FIG. 4B). For example, in each peripheral portion 428, the opaque material 430 from the first opaque mask 414a may extend from the first surface 402a of the prism 402 to the second surface 402b of the prism 402. The third opaque mask 414c may have a shape similar to that described for the first opaque mask 414a. This shape blocks stray light traveling near the edges (e.g., sides, surfaces) of the prism 402, helping to further reduce potential glare and / or other artifacts in the image.

[0067] As depicted in FIG. 4D , the opaque mask (e.g., second opaque mask 414b) may be rectangular in shape. For example, second opaque mask 414b may extend at a uniform height h2 along the width of the prism. In some embodiments, h2 may be greater than h1 and h3 (e.g., at the central portion 426). In other examples, h2 may be the same as h1 and h3 (e.g., at the central portion). Similar to first opaque mask 414a and third opaque mask 414c described above, optically transparent material 432 may extend from first surface 402a (see FIG. 4A ) to the interface with the opaque material. Opaque material 430 may then extend from the interface to second surface 402b (see FIG. 4A ). In some cases, the height and shape of each of opaque masks 414a-414c may depend on other variables, such as the opaque material 430 used and / or the size within prism 402.

[0068] 1A-4E, and various alternatives and variations thereof, are generally presented for purposes of explanation and to facilitate understanding of the organization and structure of the systems as described herein. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that some of the specific details presented herein may not be required to practice the specifically described embodiments or their equivalents.

[0069] The foregoing description, for convenience of explanation, uses specific terminology to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art after reading this description that specific details are not required to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art after reading this description that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings.

Claims

1. a body formed from a light-transmitting material, a first surface, and a prism having a body defining a second surface opposite the first surface; a lens assembly positioned to direct light from a scene onto the first surface of the body; an image sensor positioned to receive light that exits the first surface of the body and is directed through the prism; an actuator coupled to the prism and configured to move the prism relative to both the lens assembly and the image sensor; A camera module comprising:

2. The body includes: a third surface inclined relative to the first surface and the second surface, the third surface connecting the first surface with the second surface; a fourth surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces; the third surface and the fourth surface are configured to reflect light traveling through the prism. The camera module of claim 1 .

3. The camera module of claim 2 , wherein the third surface is angled relative to the fourth surface.

4. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the prism further comprises a first opaque mask extending from the second surface into the body.

5. the prism comprises a plurality of opaque masks; the plurality of opacity masks includes the first opacity mask; each opaque mask of the plurality of opaque masks extends from the second surface of the prism toward the body; The camera module according to claim 4 .

6. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the actuator includes a voice coil motor.

7. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the optically transparent material comprises glass.

8. a body formed from a light-transmitting material, a first surface; and a prism having a body defining a second surface opposite the first surface; an opaque mask extending from the second surface into the body; a lens assembly configured to direct light from a scene onto the first surface of the body; an image sensor configured to receive light directed through the prism that exits the first surface of the body; A camera module comprising:

9. The camera module of claim 8 , wherein the opaque mask is rectangular in shape.

10. the opacity mask is a first opacity mask; the prism further comprises a second opaque mask and a third opaque mask, the first opaque mask and the second opaque mask each extending from the second surface into the body; the first opaque mask, the second opaque mask, and the third opaque mask are laterally spaced apart along the second surface. The camera module according to claim 8 .

11. The body includes: a third surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces; and a fourth surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces, the fourth surface being positioned such that light incident on the first surface from the lens assembly is directed towards the third surface; the first opaque mask is disposed between the third surface and the second opaque mask; the third opaque mask is disposed between the second opaque mask and the fourth surface. The camera module of claim 10.

12. 12. The camera module of claim 11, wherein a height of a portion of the second opaque mask is less than a height of each of a portion of the first opaque mask and a portion of the third opaque mask individually.

13. the first opaque mask defining a central portion and a peripheral portion; The central portion has a height that is less than the height of the peripheral portion. The camera module of claim 11.

14. The camera module according to claim 13 , wherein the peripheral portion has the same height as the main body.

15. a lens assembly; an image sensor; a prism positioned to receive light from a scene through the lens assembly and transmit light through the prism to the image sensor, the prism comprising: a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface; a third surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces; and a fourth surface inclined relative to the first and second surfaces; When the prism receives the light from the lens assembly, the light enters the prism through the first surface; Light entering the prism through the first surface is reflected by the third surface toward the first surface; the light reflected from the third surface is reflected from the first surface toward the fourth surface; the light reflected from the first surface is reflected from the fourth surface toward the first surface; The light reflected from the fourth surface exits the prism through the first surface. Camera module.

16. 16. The camera module of claim 15, wherein at least a portion of the periphery of the first surface is covered by an opaque coating.

17. the opaque coating is a first opaque coating; the prism further includes a second opaque coating overlying the second surface.

17. The camera module of claim 16.

18. The prism is a first reflective coating covering at least a first portion of the third surface of the prism; a second reflective coating covering at least a first portion of the fourth surface of the prism.

18. The camera module of claim 17.

19. The prism is a third opaque coating covering a second portion of the third surface of the prism and at least partially surrounding the first reflective coating; a fourth opaque portion covering a second portion of the fourth surface of the prism and at least partially surrounding the second reflective coating.

20. The prism is a body defining the first surface, the second surface, the third surface, and the fourth surface; 16. The camera module of claim 15, comprising a plurality of opaque masks extending from the second surface of the prism toward the body between the third surface and the fourth surface.

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