Lens system

Abstract

To provide a lens system.SOLUTION: The lens system includes an image sensor having a sensor diagonal length SD, a lens having a field of view FOV of less than 80 degrees and an f-number f / #, and having N ≥ 6 lens elements L1 to LN arranged along a lens optical axis OA starting from L1 from an object side to an image side. The lens has a popped-out total track length TTL <15mm and a back focal distance BFL in a popped-out state, and has a retracted total track length c-TTL in a retracted state, wherein the lens system is configured to switch from the popped-out state to the retracted state by retracting the BFL to a retracted back focal distance c-BFL, and is configured to switch from the retracted state to the popped-out state by performing the reverse operation, wherein the ratio c-TTL / TTL ≤ 0.9 and f / #≤ 1.8.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8A

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 383,721, filed November 15, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 492,538, filed March 28, 2023, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 495,148, filed April 10, 2023, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 518,110, filed August 8, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 507,108, filed June 9, 2023, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] [Field] This disclosure relates generally to digital cameras. More particularly, this disclosure relates to digital cameras having pop-out ("PO") mechanisms and pop-out lenses.

[0003] [Definition] In this application, the following symbols and abbreviations are used for optical and other properties referred to throughout the specification and drawings. All of these terms are known in the art: 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.

[0004] Back focal length (BFL): The smallest distance, measured along an axis parallel to the optical axis of the lens, between a point on the rear surface S2N of the last lens element LN and the image sensor when the system is focused at infinite object distance.

[0005] Effective focal length (EFL): In a lens (assembly of lens elements L1 to LN), 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 digital cameras (or multi-cameras) are standard on today's mobile electronic devices (or simply "mobile devices", e.g., smartphones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, headsets, etc.). Typically, a multi-camera includes a wide camera that functions as the mobile device's main (or "primary") camera, an ultrawide (UW) camera, and an (optional) telecamera. The main (or wide) camera has a wide camera sensor and a wide camera field of view (FOV) of approximately 65-95 degrees. W ) (approximately 20mm to 35mm 35eq.FL), and the UW camera has a UW camera sensor and a UW camera field of view (FOV) of approximately 105 to 130 degrees. UW >FOV W ) (approximately 10 mm to 16 mm 35 eq. FL), and the telecamera has a telecamera sensor and a telecamera field of view (FOV) of approximately 10 to 40 degrees. T <FOV W) (approximately 50 mm to 250 mm 35 eq. FL). A major challenge is to design wide cameras that support increasingly high image quality (IQ) and yet fit into thin mobile devices, e.g., device heights of <12.5 mm. To improve IQ, increasingly larger image sensors are being incorporated into mobile devices. Such large image sensors may have an optical format larger than 1 / 2", i.e., they may have a sensor diagonal ("SD") of SD > 8 mm (e.g., 1 / 1.5" (SD = 10.7 mm), or 1 / 1" (SD = 16 mm)). PO cameras allow for the incorporation of large image sensors while supporting a slim thickness for mobile devices that include the PO camera. PO cameras are described, for example, in commonly owned International Patent Application PCT / IB2020 / 058697.

[0008] 1A shows a schematic definition of various camera entities such as TTL, EFL, and BFL. In most small lenses used in multi-cameras mounted on mobile devices, for example, in the case of wide-angle lenses, TTL is larger than EFL, as shown in FIG. 1A.

[0009] 1B shows an exemplary camera with a lens. The camera has an image sensor with a field of view (FOV), EFL, and sensor width S. For a (rectangular) image sensor with a constant width / height ratio, the (full) image sensor diagonal (SD) is proportional to the width and height of the sensor. A typical width / height ratio for an image sensor is 4:3. For example, the SD of a 1 / 1.2" sensor is 14.3 mm. The diagonal FOV is related to the EFL and SD by the following equation:

[0010]

number

[0011] This means that a camera with a larger image sensor but a similar FOV will require a larger EFL. While it is desirable to have a larger image sensor in a wide camera, W To maintain this, a larger EFL is required, which results in a larger TTL, making it undesirable for inclusion in slim mobile devices.

[0012] FIG. 1C schematically illustrates a mobile device 100 including a known point-of-care (POC) camera ("POC") 110 in a first state ("collapsed state") in which the camera is not in use (or is inactive). In the collapsed state, the POC 110 has a first TTL ("collapsed TTL" or "c-TTL"), as noted. The c-TTL conforms to the height dimensions of modern mobile devices, i.e., in the collapsed state, the PO camera 110 does not exceed the height (or thickness) of the mobile device 100. The height of the mobile device 100 may include a raised area ("camera bump," or simply "bump") of the mobile device 100 where multiple cameras are included. The c-TTL may be in the range of 5 to 15 mm.

[0013] FIG. 1D schematically illustrates the mobile device 100 including the POC 110 in a second state (the "pop-out state, or "PO" state) . Generally, only in the PO state does the POC operate as a camera. In the PO state, the POC 110 has a second TTL ("TTL") as noted. Because TTL > c-TTL, the POC 110 exceeds the height of the mobile device 100. In other words, in the PO state, the POC 110 protrudes (or "pops out") from the mobile device 100. Typically, the thickness ("T") of a mobile device is approximately T = 5 mm to 20 mm. The TTL may be in the range of 6 to 25 mm. The POC may protrude approximately 1 mm to 15 mm from the mobile device 100.

[0014] To switch the POC 110 from the PO state to the retracted state, an active actuator, such as a stepping motor or a shaped metal alloy (SMA) actuator, is required. "Active" in this case means that power is required for actuation. In many cases, an active actuator is not required to switch the POC 110 from the retracted state to the PO state; a passive actuator, for example, based on spring force, is sufficient. In this disclosure, the term "passive" indicates that power is not required for the actuator and / or actuation. Recently, "foldable mobile devices" such as "foldable phones" ("FPs") have emerged (e.g., the Samsung Galaxy Fold or the Samsung Galaxy Flip). FPs can be "folded." Folding an FP achieves compactness, which is desirable. Unfolding an FP provides a large screen area for the primary screen, which is also desirable. Generally, in the folded state, the primary screen of an FP is inactive.

[0015] POCs including SMA actuators are described, for example, in commonly owned International Patent Application PCT / IB2022 / 056646. Often, SMA actuators use SMA wire. SMA wire is beneficial for use in mobile devices because it is inexpensive, lightweight, and compact, allowing it to be used for low-power, low-noise, compact actuators. Typically, SMA wire can operate under load for, for example, 25,000 cycles. This is a disadvantage when used in mobile devices, where operation for 100,000 cycles may be required.

[0016] It would be beneficial to have a wide camera lens design that supports PO wide cameras that include large image sensors, for example, 1 / 1.33" or larger (ie, with SD≧12mm).

[0017] It would be beneficial to have a fully passive POC included in a mobile device, i.e., a relatively slim camera that still provides a large zoom effect or uses a large image sensor, and that does not require active actuation when switching from a PO state to a retracted state and back. Such a fully passive POC is disclosed herein.

[0018] It would be beneficial to have an SMA actuator for use in a mobile device that is capable of operating for a relatively large number of cycles (e.g., up to 100,000 cycles), and such an SMA actuator camera is disclosed herein.

[0019] 〔overview〕 In various embodiments, a lens system for a compact digital camera is provided, comprising: an image sensor having a sensor diagonal SD; a lens having a field of view FOV and including N=9 lens elements L1 to L9 arranged along a lens optical axis OA starting from L1 and proceeding from the object side to the image side; Including, Each lens element L i (1≦i≦N) is the magnitude |f i Each focal length f with | i and The plurality of lens elements are divided into two lens groups G1 and G2 separated by a big gap BG; the lenses have a pop-out total track length TTL<20 mm in the PO state and a retracted total track length c-TTL in the retracted state; the lens system is configured to switch from a PO state to a contracted state by contracting the BG to a contracted big gap c-BG, and vice versa; BG>0.2×TTL, SD ≥ 12 mm, A lens system is provided in which the ratio c-TTL / SD≦0.65.

[0020] In various embodiments, a lens system for a compact digital camera having a PO state and a retracted state, comprising: an image sensor having a sensor diagonal SD; Starting from L1, N lens elements L1 to L are arranged along the lens optical axis OA from the object side to the image side. N a lens having (1≦i≦N); Including, Each lens element L i is the clear aperture diameter DA Li and Each lens element L i is the field of view FOV and f-number (f / #) in the PO state, and the lens thickness T Lens a back focal length BFL, an effective focal length EFL, and a total track length TTL<20 mm; The lens system is configured to switch from the PO state to the contracted state by contracting the BFL to the contracted back focal length c-BFL, and to switch from the contracted state to the PO state by performing the reverse operation. BFL > 0.2×TTL, SD ≥ 15 mm, A lens system is provided with a ratio c-TTL / SD < 0.7.

[0021] In various embodiments, a foldable mobile device including a passive pop-out camera (POC), The passive POC A pop-out lens, An image sensor, A passive pop-out (PO) actuator, And includes The foldable mobile device is deployable by a deployment operation and foldable by a folding operation, Both operations are performed by the user, The POC A PO state in which the POC is operable and has a total track length TTL, A contracted state in which the POC has and a contracted c-TTL < TTL, And has The passive PO actuator operates to utilize the folding operation to switch the passive POC from the PO state to the contracted state, A foldable mobile device is provided in which the passive PO actuator operates to utilize the deployment operation to switch the passive POC from the contracted state to the PO state.

[0022] In various embodiments, a foldable mobile device including a passive bendable pop-out camera (POC), The passive bendable POC A lens, A mirror, An image sensor; a passive pop-out actuator; A camera housing, Including, the foldable mobile device is unfoldable by an unfolding action and foldable by a folding action; Both actions are performed by the user, the lens is disposed on the object side of the mirror, The camera housing includes: Module height H M a module region having Shoulder height H S <H M a shoulder region having and The passive bending POC is The passive bending POC is active and has a module height H M and a PO state having The passive bending POC has a contraction module height c-H M <H M and a contracted state having and the passive PO actuator is operative to utilize the folding action to switch the passive bending POC from a PO state to a contracted state; A foldable mobile device is provided, wherein the passive PO actuator is operable to utilize the unfolding motion to switch the passive bending POC from a retracted state to a PO state.

[0023] In various embodiments, a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator included in a camera includes: a plurality of P≧2 SMA wires; a moving element operable to actuate components included in said camera; Including, the camera is included in a mobile electronic device; each SMA wire of the plurality of P SMA wires is operable for M cycles; a plurality of P SMA wires are guided by the moving element; a force for actuating the component included in the camera is provided by one SMA wire of the plurality P of SMA wires; P of the SMA wires are subsequently used to provide an SMA actuator that allows the SMA actuator to operate over an extended number of cycles, P×M.

[0024] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Non-limiting examples of embodiments disclosed herein are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, listed after this paragraph. Identical structures, elements, or components that appear in more than one figure are generally numbered the same in all figures in which they appear. Where identical elements are shown and numbered in only one figure, they shall have the same number in all figures in which they appear. The drawings and descriptions are intended to illustrate and clarify the embodiments disclosed herein and should not be considered limiting in any way. Figure 1A shows the definition of various entities such as TTL and EFL in a schematic way; Figure 1B shows the definition of FOV, EFL, and S for the thin lens approximation or conversion; FIG. 1C schematically illustrates a mobile device including a known PO camera (“POC”) in a first state (“retracted state”); FIG. 1D schematically shows the mobile device of FIG. 1C in a second (popped-out) state; FIG. 2A shows a schematic representation of the PO optical lens system disclosed herein in a PO state focused at infinity; Figure 2B shows a schematic representation of the PO system of Figure 2A in a contracted state; FIG. 2C shows an example of a 1G PO optical lens system including a PO lens disclosed herein in the PO state; Figure 2D shows the PO system of Figure 2C in a contracted state; FIG. 3 shows an example of a 2G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. FIG. 4 shows another example of a 2G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. FIG. 5 shows an example of a 1G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. FIG. 6 illustrates yet another example of a 2G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. FIG. 7 shows another example of a 1G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. FIG. 8A shows a cross-sectional side view of a foldable mobile phone including a passive PO camera disclosed herein in a partially unfolded state. FIG. 8B shows a cross-sectional side view of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 8A in a folded state. FIG. 8C shows a cross-sectional side view of an enlarged portion of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 8A in a folded state. FIG. 9A shows a cross-sectional side view of another foldable mobile phone including a passive PO camera disclosed herein in a partially unfolded state. FIG. 9B shows a cross-sectional side view of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 9A in a folded state. FIG. 9C shows a cross-sectional side view of an enlarged portion of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 9A in a folded state. FIG. 10A shows a cross-sectional side view of another foldable mobile phone including a passive PO camera disclosed herein in a partially unfolded state. FIG. 10B shows a cross-sectional side view of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 10A in a folded state. FIG. 11A shows a cross-sectional side view of another foldable mobile phone including a passive PO camera disclosed herein in a partially unfolded state. FIG. 11B shows a cross-sectional side view of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 11A in a folded state. FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a shape memory alloy actuator disclosed herein.

[0025] Detailed Description FIG. 2A shows a prior art example of a "2-group" (or "2G") pop-out ("PO") optical lens system 200, including a PO lens 202 and an image sensor 204. The PO optical lens system 200 is shown in the PO state or widened (focused to infinity) state. The PO lens 202 is divided into two lens groups separated by a big gap (BG). The first lens group is the object-side lens group ("G1") and the second lens group is the sensor-side lens group ("G2"). The thickness of G1 is T G1 The lens 202 includes a plurality of N lens elements Li, where i is an integer from 1 to N, and N can be, for example, 5 to 10. Li is the lens element closest to the object side, and LN is 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. Each lens element Li has a respective front surface S2i-1 (the subscript "2i-1" refers to the front surface number) and a respective back surface S2i (the subscript "2i" refers to the back surface number). This numbering convention is used throughout this specification. Alternatively, as used throughout this specification, a lens surface is referred to as "Sk," where k is 1 to 2N. The front and back surfaces may be aspherical in some cases. However, this is not limiting.

[0026] As used herein, the term "front surface" of each lens element refers to the surface of the lens element that is located toward the entrance of the camera (the object side of the camera), and the term "rear surface" refers to the surface of the lens element that is located toward the entrance of the camera (the object side of the camera). The term "surface" refers to the surface of a lens element that is located closer to the image sensor (the image side of the camera).

[0027] Each lens group includes one or more lens elements Li. G1 may include ≧5 elements, and G2 may include 1-2 elements. G2 may act as a field lens, as known in the art.

[0028] FIG. 2B shows the 2G PO optical lens system 200 in a contracted state. The big gap BG is contracted to a contracted BG (labeled "c-BG"), i.e., the distance between G1 and G2 is reduced, resulting in a contracted TTL ("c-TTL"). The c-BG can be in the range of 0.1 mm to 5 mm. Only the BG changes. Other distances in the PO optical lens system 200 (e.g., BFL, or the distance between the lens elements included in each of G1 and G2) do not change.

[0029] Figure 2C shows the lens thickness T Lens 1 shows another example of a 1G PO optical lens system 250 including a PO lens 252 having a .times. ...

[0030] FIG. 2D shows the 1G PO optical lens system 250 in a contracted state. The BFL is contracted to a contracted BFL (denoted "c-BFL"), i.e., the distance between the lens 252 and the image sensor 254 is reduced, resulting in a contracted TTL ("c-TTL"). The fundamental lower limit of c-TTL is the thickness of the lens 252 ("TTL"). Lens "), i.e., c‐TTL>T Lens In reality, c‐TTL=T Lens +c-BFL. Here, c-BFL = 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm or more. That is, c-TTL = T Lens +0.2mm~T Lens It will be more than +1.5mm.

[0031] The 2G PO optical lens system 200 is operable for use in a PO camera. The resulting POC operates as a camera only in the PO state. In the retracted state, the POC does not operate as a camera, i.e., is inactive.

[0032] The 1G PO optical lens system 250 is a “1-group” (or “1G”) PO optical lens system. That is, the lens 252 moves as a unit. That is, the distance between the lens elements included in the lens 252 does not change when switching from the PO state to the retracted state; only the BFL changes. The 2G PO optical lens system 200 and the 1G PO optical lens system 250 may be included in (or operable to be included in) a POC. To perform optical image stabilization (OIS), the POC may use several methods known in the art. Such methods may be “lens shift OIS” (for OIS, the lens is moved relative to the image sensor and the mobile device hosting the camera) or “sensor shift OIS” (for OIS, the image sensor is moved relative to the lens and the mobile device hosting the camera).

[0033] All of the PO optical lens systems disclosed herein can be used in the POC embodiments described in commonly owned PCT patent application PCT / IB2020 / 058697.

[0034] All PO optical lens systems disclosed below are shown in the PO state in which the POC containing the optical lens system is operational.

[0035] In the retracted state, all 2G PO optical lens system embodiments have a c-BG of 0.2 mm to 4.0 mm. A small c-BG is beneficial for achieving slim camera modules that can be incorporated into slim mobile devices such as smartphones. The cTTL can be in the range of 9.94 mm to 13.9 mm. In the retracted state, all 1G PO optical lens system embodiments have a c-BFL of 0.2 mm to 3.0 mm. A small c-BFL is beneficial for achieving slim camera modules that can be incorporated into slim mobile devices such as smartphones. The cTTL can be in the range of 9.26 mm to 13.22 mm. For clarity, all lens systems disclosed herein can be beneficially included in or incorporated into mobile devices such as smartphones.

[0036] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a 2G PO optical lens system, designated 300, disclosed herein. Lens system 300 includes a PO lens 302 divided into two lens groups G1 and G2 and having a lens optical axis 308, an image sensor 304, and, optionally, an optical element 306. Optical element 306 may be, for example, an infrared (IR) filter and / or a glass image sensor dust cover. Image sensor 304 may have an SD of 21.5 mm. G1 includes seven lens elements (L1-L7), and G2 includes two lens elements (L8-L9). Light rays pass through lens 302 and are imaged onto image sensor 304. FIG. 3 illustrates six fields, each with four light rays.

[0037] Detailed optical data and surface data of the PO lens 302 are shown in Tables 1 and 2. Table 1 shows the surface types, and Table 2 shows the aspherical coefficients. The surface types are as follows: a) Plano: Flat surface, no curvature.

[0038] b) Q type 1 (QT1) surface sag formula:

[0039]

number

[0040] c) Even Asphere (ASP) surface sag formula:

[0041]

number

[0042] where {z,r} are standard cylindrical polar coordinates, c is the paraxial curvature of the surface, k is the conic parameter, and r norm is roughly half the clear aperture (CA) of the surface, and A n are the aspheric coefficients given in the lens data table. The Z axis is positive towards the image side. The CA value is given as the clear aperture radius, i.e., D / 2. The reference wavelength is 555.0 nm. All values ​​are in mm except for the refractive index ("index") and Abbe number. Each lens element Li has a respective focal length fi given in Table 1. The FOV is given as half FOV (HFOV).

[0043] [Table 1] JPEG2026015550000006.jpg13169

[0044] [Table 2] JPEG2026015550000008.jpg103169

[0045] The power sequence of the lens elements L1 to L9 is as follows: +-+--+-+- (plus-minus-plus-minus-minus-plus-minus-plus-minus). That is, the PO lens 302 includes four positive lens elements and five negative lens elements. Both L8 and L9 are respectively designated "Max_SAG L8 " and "Max_SAG L9 " and have large maximum SAGs of 3.8 mm and 3.5 mm.

[0046] L1 is made of glass; EFL G1 and EFL G2 and have the opposite sign but the same magnitude. That is, |EFL G1 |and|EFL G2 | and differ from each other by less than 3%; The thickness of G1 is approximately 4.5 times greater than that of G2; f9 and EFL G2 are of the same sign and similar magnitude, i.e., f9 and EFL G2 and differ from each other by less than 4%; f6 is the strongest lens element of lens 306. The strength of f6 is 1.5 times (3 / 2 times) more than that of lens 306; L4 and L5 are close to each other. L4~L5 is less than 2% of the TTL; The ratio of c‐TTL to SD is 0.46–0.64; The ratio between BG and TTL is 0.33; The ratio of BG to cTTL is 0.35–0.49; The ratio of cTTL to TTL is 0.68–0.94; The ratio of cTTL to EFL is 0.86–1.19; Max SAG of L8 (Max_SAG L8 ) is 5.25 times larger than the thickness of L8; Max SAG of L9 (Max_SAG L9 ) is 4.04 times larger than the thickness of L9.

[0047] FIG. 4 shows another example of a 2G PO optical lens system disclosed herein, designated 400. The lens system 400 includes a PO lens 402 divided into two lens groups G1 and G2 and having a lens optical axis 408, an image sensor 404, and optionally, an optical element 406. The image sensor 404 may have an SD of 21.5 mm. G1 includes eight lens elements (L1-L8), and G2 includes one lens element (L9). Detailed optical and surface data of the PO lens 402 are listed in Tables 3-4. Table 3 lists the surface types, and Table 4 lists the aspheric coefficients.

[0048] L1 and L6 are made of glass; EFL G1 and EFL G2 and have the opposite sign but the same magnitude. That is, |EFL G1 |and|EFL G2 | and differ from each other by less than 25%; The central thickness of G1 is approximately 7 times greater than that of G2; f9 and EFL G2 are of the same sign and similar magnitude, i.e., f9 and EFL G2 and differ from each other by less than 2%; f6 is the strongest lens element of lens 406. The strength of f6 is about 1.5 times (3 / 2 times) that of lens 406; L5 and L6 are close to each other; The ratio of cTTL to SD is 0.49–0.65; The ratio between BG and TTL is 0.27; The ratio of BG to cTTL is 0.27–0.36; The ratio of cTTL to TTL is 0.75–0.98; The ratio of cTTL to EFL was 0.92–1.21; and The lens power sequence from L1 to L9 is plus-plus-plus-minus-minus-plus-plus-plus-minus, i.e., the PO lens 402 includes six positive lens elements and three negative lens elements.

[0049] [Table 3]

[0050] [Table 4] JPEG2026015550000011.jpg96169

[0051] FIG. 5 shows an example of a 1G PO optical lens system disclosed herein, designated 500. The lens system 500 includes a PO lens 502 having a lens optical axis 508, an image sensor 504, and optionally, an optical element 506. The image sensor 504 may have an SD of 21.5 mm. The PO lens 502 includes eight lens elements (L1-L8). Light rays pass through the lens 502 and are imaged onto the image sensor 504. Detailed optical and surface data of the PO lens 502 are listed in Tables 5-6. Table 5 lists the surface types, and Table 6 lists the aspheric coefficients.

[0052] [Table 5]

[0053] [Table 6] JPEG2026015550000014.jpg79169

[0054] FIG. 6 shows another example of a 2G PO optical lens system disclosed herein, designated 600. The lens system 600 includes a PO lens 602 divided into two lens groups G1 and G2 and having a lens optical axis 608, an image sensor 604, and optionally, an optical element 606. The image sensor 604 may have an SD of 21.5 mm. G1 includes eight lens elements (L1-L8), and G2 includes one lens element (L9). Detailed optical and surface data of the PO lens 602 are listed in Tables 7 and 8. Table 7 lists the surface types, and Table 8 lists the aspheric coefficients.

[0055] [Table 7]

[0056] [Table 8] JPEG2026015550000017.jpg149169 JPEG2026015550000018.jpg152169

[0057] FIG. 7 shows an example of a 1G PO optical lens system disclosed herein, designated 700. The lens system 700 includes a PO lens 702 having a lens optical axis 708, an image sensor 704, and, optionally, an optical element 706. The image sensor 704 may have an SD of 21.5 mm. The PO lens 702 includes six lens elements (L1-L6). Light rays pass through the lens 702 and are imaged onto the image sensor 704. Detailed optical and surface data for the PO lens 702 are listed in Tables 9-10. Table 9 lists the surface types, and Table 10 lists the aspheric coefficients.

[0058] Due to the lens shape of L6, only the BG extending from the points of L6 closest to the image sensor 706 and the optical element 706 can be contracted, rather than the entire BFL.

[0059] [Table 9]

[0060] [Table 10] JPEG2026015550000021.jpg111169

[0061] Table 11 shows the values ​​and ranges for optical lens systems 300, 400, 500, 600, and 700 disclosed herein.

[0062] -SD, TTL, c-TTL, BG, c-BG, BFL, c-BFL, EFL, EFL G1 , EFL G2 , T G1 , T G2 , T Lens , f5, f6, f9, AGT L4~L5 , Max_SAG is in mm; Half-field-of-view ("HFOV") is in degrees, and f-number ("f / #") is unitless.

[0063] Image sensor 304, image sensor 404, image sensor 504, and image sensor 604 may have an SD of 21.5 mm ("4 / 3" sensor" or "1 / 0.8" sensor").

[0064] -AGT L4~L5 represents the average thickness of the air gap between L4 and L5. "Average thickness" in this case means the average of the distance between L4 and L5, taking into account all y values ​​from 0 (i.e., from an optical axis such as optical axis 308) to D / 2 (i.e., the highest edge).

[0065] -c‐BG MIN and c‐BG MAX represent the minimum and maximum values ​​of the contracted BG, respectively. MIN and c‐BG MAXIt can have any value between

[0066] -c‐BFL MIN and c‐BFL MAX represent the minimum and maximum values ​​of contracted BFL, respectively. c-BFL and c-BFL MIN and c‐BFL MAX It can have any value between

[0067] -c‐TTL MIN and c‐TTL MAX and c-TTL represent the minimum and maximum values ​​of the contraction TTL, respectively. MIN and c‐TTL MAX It can have any value between

[0068] -T Lens , T G1 , and T G2 represent the central thickness of the lens, or the central thickness of G1 and G2, respectively. The central thickness is measured at the lens optical axis.

[0069] -f5, f6, and f9 refer to the focal lengths of L5, L6, and L9, respectively.

[0070] [Table 11] JPEG2026015550000023.jpg33169

[0071] 8A-8B illustrate an exemplary foldable mobile phone ("FP") 800 including an inner passive POC 802 disclosed herein. "Inner" in this case means that the FOV 808 of the camera 802 is located on the same side as the "primary screen" of the FP 800. The primary screen is the largest screen (i.e., having the largest screen area) included in the FP 800. The FP 800 includes a hinge axis 810 connecting a first wing 812 to a second wing 818, the hinge axis 810 being operable to allow the FP 800 to unfold and fold. The hinge axis 810 is oriented perpendicular to the x-y plane. The first wing 812 includes a first outer (or "world-facing") side 814 and a first inner (or "user-facing") side 816. The second wing 818 includes a second outer side 820 and a second inner side 822. Generally, the primary screen of the FP 800 spans both the first inner side 816 and the second inner side 822. When the FP 800 is unfolded, the primary screen is usable in its entirety, and the inner passive POC 802 is operable (or "active") as a user-facing (or "selfie") camera. In some embodiments, the first outer side 814 and / or the second outer side 820 also include a screen. When the FP 800 is folded, the aperture of the inner passive POC 802 is covered by the second wing 818. The inner passive POC 802 is configured to rotate relative to the passive POC actuator (FIG. 8C), the lens optical axis ("OA"), and the lens thickness T L and an image sensor 806. The inner passive POC 802 is contained in and surrounded by a camera module housing (or simply, "camera housing") 809.

[0072] Figure 8A shows the FP800 in a partially deployed state where the passive POC802 is in the PO state. In the PO state, the inner passive POC802 has a TTL and is active as a camera, i.e., the PO lens 804 is operable to form a sharp (or clear) image of the scene on the image sensor 806. In the PO state, the height (“H C ”) of the camera housing 809 is determined by the TTL and a mechanical “penalty” (“p”), and H C = TTL + p. Here, p can be in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm. That H C is low is beneficial for use in a slim mobile device such as a smartphone. Here, and hereinafter, H C , the TTL, and p are measured along the z-axis.

[0073] Figure 8B shows the FP800 in a folded state. In the folded state, the inner passive POC802 is in a contracted state. In the contracted state, the passive POC has a c-TTL < TTL and is not active as a camera. The deployment operation for switching between the folded state (Figure 8B) and the deployed state (Figure 8A) is indicated by arrow 824. The folding operation for switching between the partially deployed state (Figure 8A) and the folded state (Figure 8B) is indicated by arrow 826. Generally, the deployment operation and the folding operation are manually performed by the user. The height (“H”) of each of the first wing 812 and the second wing 818 is shown. The first wing 812 has a normal region with a height (“H”) and a bump region with a height H + B that is higher. Here, “B” is the bump height. The bump region protrudes from the first inner side surface 816. The inner passive POC802 is incorporated in the bump region, and the inner passive POC802 receives light from the scene facing the first inner side surface 816. In the contracted state, the camera housing 809 has a collapsed height (“c-H C ”) < H C . c-H C is c-HC = c‐TTL+p. c‐H C Since H≦H, there is no camera bump in the contracted state. In other embodiments, there may be a reduced camera bump in the contracted state. "Reduced" in this case means that the camera bump has a lower B compared to the PO state. Here and below, H, B, c-H C , and c‐TTL is measured along the z axis.

[0074] 8C shows a close-up portion 830 of the FP 800 in a folded state, with the inner passive POC 802 in a contracted state. Portion 830 illustrates a passive PO actuator 832 as disclosed herein. The passive PO actuator 832 includes a spring 834. At an upper end, the spring 834 is fixedly attached to the first outer side 814, or more generally, to a component included in the first wing 812 that does not move relative to the first wing 812. At a lower end, the spring 834 is fixedly attached to a PO lens barrel that includes the PO lens 804. In the contracted state, the spring 834 is operable to store kinetic energy and provide a spring force as indicated by arrow 836. That is, the spring 834 is loaded. When the user unfolds the FP 800, the spring 834 relaxes and the spring force actuates (or "pops out") the inner passive POC 802, i.e., the inner passive POC 802 switches to the PO state. When the user folds the FP 800, the spring 834 compresses and loads, causing the inner passive POC 802 to switch to the retracted state. Note that when the FP 800 is folded by the user, the passive POC 802 simultaneously switches from the PO state to the retracted state. When the FP 800 is unfolded by the user, the passive POC 802 simultaneously switches from the retracted state to the PO state. No active actuation is required, as is desired for a mobile device such as an FP.

[0075] In some embodiments, a mechanical spring may be used, as shown here. In other embodiments, a magnetic spring may be used. The magnetic spring may include a magnet and a yoke, or may include two magnets. Such magnetic springs are described, for example, in commonly owned International Patent Applications PCT / IB2022 / 052194 and PCT / IB2023 / 054411.

[0076] 9A-9B exemplarily illustrate an FP 900 including an outer passive POC 902 as disclosed herein. "Outer" in this case means that the FOV 908 of the passive POC 902 is located on the opposite side of the primary screen of the FP 900. The FP 900 includes all of the components as described in FIGS. 8A-8B, except for the different passive POCs. In both the folded and unfolded states of the FP 900, the aperture of the FOV 908 of the outer passive POC 902 receives light from the scene. The outer passive POC 902 includes a passive PO actuator (FIG. 9C), a PO lens 904, and an image sensor 906. The outer passive POC 902 is contained in a camera housing 909.

[0077] 9A shows the FP 900 in a partially deployed state with the outer passive POC 902 in the PO state. A bump region protrudes from the first outer side 814. The outer passive POC 902 is embedded in the bump region and receives light from a scene facing the first outer side 814.

[0078] FIG. 9B shows the FP 900 in a folded state, with the outer passive POC in a contracted state.

[0079] FIG. 9C shows a close-up portion 930 of the FP 900 in a folded state, with the outer passive POC 902 in a retracted state. The portion 930 shows a passive PO actuator 932, as disclosed herein, including a magnetic spring 940. The magnetic spring 940 includes a first magnet 942 fixedly attached to the PO lens barrel containing the PO lens 804 and a second magnet 944 fixedly attached to the second wing 818. The first magnet 942 and the second magnet 944 are selected and oriented to attract each other. In the retracted state, the first magnet 942 and the second magnet 944 are in relative proximity to each other. As a result, magnetic energy is stored and the magnetic spring 940 operates to provide a magnetic spring force, indicated by arrow 946. The magnetic spring force causes the outer passive POC 902 to retract. When the user unfolds the FP 900, the magnetic spring 940 relaxes and no magnetic spring force is provided. Another spring included in the outer passive POC 902 may provide a spring force that pops out the outer passive POC 902, i.e., the outer passive POC 902 is switched to the PO state. The first magnet 942 and the second magnet 944 are spaced apart relative to each other. When the user folds the FP 900, the first magnet 942 and the second magnet 944 approach each other again, and the outer passive POC 902 is switched to the retracted state. Note that when the user folds the FP 900, the outer passive POC 902 simultaneously switches from the PO state to the retracted state. When the user unfolds the FP 900, the outer passive POC 902 simultaneously switches from the retracted state to the PO state. As desired for a mobile device such as an FP, no active actuation is required.

[0080] 10A-10B show an exemplary FP 1000 including an outer passive POC 1002 as disclosed herein. The FP 1000 includes all of the components described in FIGS. 8A-8B, except for the different passive POC. The outer passive POC 1002 includes a passive PO actuator 1010, a PO lens 1004, and an image sensor 1006 as disclosed herein, and is contained within a camera housing 1009.

[0081] FIG. 10A shows the FP 1000 in a partially deployed state with the passive POC 1002 in the PO state.

[0082] FIG. 10B shows the FP 1000 in a folded state, with the passive POC in a contracted state. A bump region protrudes from the first outer side 814. The outer passive POC 1002 is embedded in the bump region and receives light from a scene facing the first outer side 814. The PO actuator 1010 includes a plurality of O gear wheels (O=3 in this case): a first gear wheel 1012, a second gear wheel 1014, and a third gear wheel 1016. The PO actuator 1010 is disposed at or near the hinge axis 810. For example, the PO actuator 1010 may be disposed at a distance of up to 25 mm from the hinge axis 810. In fact, the outer passive POC 1002 is also disposed relatively close to the hinge axis 810. For example, the POC 1002 may be disposed at a distance of up to 50 mm from the hinge axis 810. The PO actuator 1010 utilizes an action, such as an unfolding action indicated by arrow 824 or a folding action indicated by arrow 826, to switch the outer passive POC 1002 from the PO state to the retracted state, as indicated by arrow 1018. Vice versa. That is, the PO actuator 1010 converts the rotational unfolding or folding action of the first wing 812 and the second wing 818 about the hinge axis 810 into a linear movement of the PO lens barrel, including the PO lens 804, along the z-axis relative to the image sensor 806. Note that when the FP 1000 is folded by the user, the outer passive POC 1002 simultaneously switches from the PO state to the retracted state. When the FP 1000 is unfolded by the user, the outer passive POC 1002 simultaneously switches from the retracted state to the PO state. Active actuation is not required, as desired for a mobile device such as an FP.

[0083] 11A-11B illustrate an exemplary FP 1100 including an outer passive POC 1102 disclosed herein. FIG. 11A shows the FP 1100 in a partially deployed state, with the outer passive POC 1102 in a PO state. The FP 1100 includes all of the components described in FIGS. 8A-8B, except for the different passive POCs. The outer passive POC 1102 receives light from a scene facing the first outer side 814. In the PO state, the outer passive POC 1102 can operate as a folded camera, as known in the art. The outer passive POC 1102 includes a passive PO actuator (not shown), a lens 1104, a mirror 1108, and an image sensor 1106, and is contained in a camera housing 1109. The outer passive POC 1102 is operable to receive light along a first optical path (“OP1”) parallel to the z-axis. The OA of the lens 1104 is parallel to OP1. In the PO state, the mirror 1108 is oriented at an angle of approximately 45 degrees relative to the z-axis, and reflected light propagates along a second optical path (“OP2”) parallel to the z-axis toward the image sensor 1106. The lens 1104 is positioned on the object side of the mirror 1108. This provides a relatively low f / # for a given camera height, making it beneficial for use in mobile devices such as FPs. Such cameras are described, for example, in commonly owned International Patent Application No. PCT / IB2022 / 055745. In the PO state, the camera housing 1109 has a raised first ("module") region containing the PO lens 1104 and mirror 1108, and a second ("shoulder") region containing the image sensor 1106. The module region is L , the height of the mirror 1108, and the air gap of approximately 0.1 mm to 2.5 mm between the PO lens 1104 and the mirror 1108. M ” ) of the module area of ​​the camera housing 1009 measured along the z-axis. M ") is MH Mand mechanical "penalty" ("p"), H M =MH M + p, where p can be in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm. The shoulder region is defined as the minimum shoulder height ("MH"). S ") <MH M This is determined by the height of the image sensor 1106 measured along the z-axis. The height of the shoulder region of the camera housing 1009 measured along the z-axis ("H S ") is MH S and mechanical "penalty" ("p"), H S =MH S +p, where p can be in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm. M and H S The low H is beneficial for use in slim mobile devices such as smartphones. S <H M Therefore, the shoulder area can be integrated into the normal area of ​​height H. Only the module area is integrated into the bump area. In other words, the outer passive POC 1102 is only partially integrated into the bump area, which is beneficial for achieving a relatively small bump area. Here and below, the height, air gap, MH M , H M , M.H. S , H S , and p is measured along the z axis.

[0084] 11B shows the FP 1100 in a folded state, with the outer passive POC 1102 in a retracted state. To switch from the PO state to the retracted state, the PO lens 1104 is moved linearly toward the second wing 818. The mirror 1108 is moved rotationally about 45 degrees about an axis perpendicular to OP1 and OP2 so as to form an angle of about 0 degrees with the Y axis, and is further moved linearly toward the second wing 818. "About" in this case means a variation of, for example, ±10 degrees or ±5 degrees. Each movement is relative to the MH Mc‐MH M <MH M contracts to H M is c‐H M <H M where c‐H M =c‐MH M +p, but c‐H so that the camera bump is not needed in the contracted state. M ≦H. MH S does not change. To provide actuation of the respective movements of the PO lens 1104 and mirror 1108, the outer passive POC 1102 may include a passive PO actuator, such as passive PO actuator 932 (FIG. 9C) including a magnetic spring, or may include a passive PO actuator, such as passive PO actuator 1010 (FIGS. 10A-10B) including multiple gear wheels.

[0085] 12 illustrates an SMA actuator 1200 disclosed herein. The SMA actuator 1200 is operable for (or "over") a relatively large number of cycles (see below for an example) when used in a camera of a mobile device such as a smartphone. The SMA actuator 1200 includes a moving element 1202. The moving element 1202 operates to move relative to the mobile device that includes it, for example, to switch from a power-on-close (POC) state to a retracted state and vice versa, to focus a lens, or to move a lens or image sensor for optical image stabilization (OIS). The moving element 1202 includes a plurality of rails P (where P=4): a first rail 1212, a second rail 1214, a third rail 1216, and a fourth rail 1218. SMA actuator 1200 includes a plurality of P SMA wires 1220 (in this case, P=4): a first SMA wire 1222, a second SMA wire 1224, a third SMA wire 1226, and a fourth SMA wire 1228. Each of the P SMA wires 1220 is disposed on and guided by one of the P rails 1210. A preload is applied between the P SMA wires 1220 and the P rails 1210 to prevent the P SMA wires 1220 from separating (or "derailing") from the moving element 1202. SMA actuator 1200 also includes a plurality of P first crimps 1230 and a plurality of P second crimps 1232. That is, overall, SMA actuator 1200 includes 2P crimps. Each crimp in the plurality of P first crimps 1230 and the plurality of P second crimps 1232 is fixedly attached to one end of a respective SMA wire in the P SMA wires 1220, as shown. The crimps provide mechanical and electrical connections. In other embodiments, the plurality of P rails and P SMA wires may each include P=2-25.

[0086] The movement of the moving element 1202 may be rotational movement along a rotation axis 1204 parallel to the z-axis. The rotation axis 1204 may be located at the center of the moving element 1202. In other embodiments, the movement of the moving element 1202 may be linear movement in the x-y plane, as indicated by arrow 1206. To actuate such linear or rotational movement, the SMA actuator 1200 is operable to drive a current through one of the P SMA wires 1220. That is, during actuation, only one of the P SMA wires 1220 is actuated. In other words, the SMA actuator 1200 actuates the P SMA wires 1220 sequentially. For example, during a first period, only the first SMA wire 1222 is actuated, during a second period, only the second SMA wire 1224 is actuated, during a third period, only the third SMA wire 1226 is actuated, and during a fourth period, only the fourth SMA wire 1228 is actuated. This can be useful for extending (or lengthening) the number of cycles that SMA actuator 1200 can operate. For example, a single SMA wire may be capable of operating under load for M cycles, but the SMA actuator's specifications may require operation for P×M cycles. By operating P SMA wires in series as detailed above, the P×M cycle specification can be met. For example, a single SMA wire, such as first SMA wire 1222, may be capable of operating under load for M=25,000 cycles, but the SMA actuator's specifications may require operation for 4×M=100,000 cycles. By operating four SMA wires 1220 in series as detailed above, the 100,000 cycle specification can be met. In this example, the relatively large number of cycles is 100,000 cycles. In other embodiments, the relatively large number of cycles may be in the range of five thousand (5,000) cycles to five hundred thousand (500,000) cycles.

[0087] While the present disclosure has been described in terms of specific embodiments and generally associated methods, modifications and permutations of the embodiments and methods will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure is not to be understood as being limited by the specific embodiments described herein, but rather as being limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

[0088] It will be appreciated that certain features of the subject matter disclosed herein, 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 subject matter disclosed herein, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination.

[0089] Unless otherwise stated, the use of the phrase "and / or" between the last two of a list of alternatives indicates that selecting one or more of the alternatives in the list is appropriate and may be performed.

[0090] When a claim or the specification refers to an element preceded by the article "a" or "an," it is to be understood that such a reference is not to be construed as indicating the presence of only one of the element.

[0091] All patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual patent and patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Furthermore, 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. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0092] [Figure 1A] 1 shows a schematic definition of various entities such as TTL and EFL. [Figure 1B]The definitions of FOV, EFL, and S for the thin lens approximation or conversion are given below. [Figure 1C] 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a mobile device including a known point-of-care camera ("POC") in a first state ("retracted state"). [Figure 1D] 1D shows a schematic representation of the mobile device of FIG. 1C in a second (popped-out) state; [Figure 2A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a PO optical lens system disclosed herein in a PO state focused at infinity. [Figure 2B] 2B shows a schematic diagram of the PO system of FIG. 2A in a contracted state. [Figure 2C] 1 shows an example of a 1G PO optical lens system including a PO lens disclosed herein in the PO state. [Figure 2D] 2D shows the PO system of FIG. 2C in a contracted state. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates an example of a 2G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates another example of a 2G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates an example of a 1G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates yet another example of a 2G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates another example of a 1G PO optical lens system disclosed herein. [Figure 8A] 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of a foldable mobile phone including a passive PO camera disclosed herein in a partially unfolded state. [Figure 8B] 8B shows a cross-sectional side view of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 8A in a folded state. [Figure 8C] 8B shows a cross-sectional side view of an enlarged portion of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 8A in a folded state. [Figure 9A]1 shows a cross-sectional side view of another foldable mobile phone including a passive PO camera disclosed herein in a partially unfolded state. [Figure 9B] 9B shows a cross-sectional side view of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 9A in a folded state. [Figure 9C] 9B shows a cross-sectional side view of an enlarged portion of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 9A in a folded state. [Figure 10A] 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of another foldable mobile phone including a passive PO camera disclosed herein in a partially unfolded state. [Figure 10B] 10B shows a cross-sectional side view of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 10A in a folded state. [Figure 11A] 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of another foldable mobile phone including a passive PO camera disclosed herein in a partially unfolded state. [Figure 11B] 11B shows a cross-sectional side view of the foldable mobile phone of FIG. 11A in a folded state. [Figure 12] 1 shows a perspective view of a shape memory alloy actuator disclosed herein.

Claims

1. 1. A lens system comprising: an image sensor having a sensor diagonal length SD; The field of view FOV is less than 80 degrees and has an f-number f / #, and L １ N (N≧6) lens elements L are arranged along the lens optical axis OA from the object side to the image side, starting from １ ~L Ｎ a lens having Including, the lens has a pop-out total track length TTL<15 mm and a back focal length BFL in a pop-out state, and a retracted total track length c-TTL in a retracted state; the lens system is configured to switch from the popped-out state to the retracted state by retracting the back focal length lens to a retracted back focal length c-BFL, and vice versa; the ratio c-TTL / TTL≦0.9; A lens system wherein f / #≦1.

8.

2. 10. The lens system of claim 1, wherein f / #≦1.

7.

3. 10. The lens system of claim 1, wherein f / #≦1.

6.

4. 10. The lens system of claim 1, wherein f / #≦1.

5.

5. The lens system of claim 1 , wherein c-TTL / TTL≦0.

8.

6. The lens system of claim 1 , wherein SD≧12 mm.

7. 2. The lens system of claim 1, wherein 13 mm≦TTL≦14 mm.

8. The lens system of claim 1 , wherein BFL>0.15×TTL.

9. The lens system of claim 1 , wherein BFL>0.2×TTL.

10. The lens system of claim 1 , wherein BFL>0.3×TTL.

11. 2. The lens system of claim 1, wherein c-TTL / SD<0.

9.

12. The lens system of claim 1 , wherein c-TTL / SD<0.

8.

13. The lens system of claim 1 , wherein c-TTL / SD<0.

7.

14. The lens system of claim 1 , wherein all N lens elements are made of plastic.

15. 2. The lens system of claim 1, wherein N=6.

16. L １ From L ６ 16. The lens system of claim 15, wherein the sequence of lens powers from is minus-plus-minus-plus-minus-plus.

17. A lens system according to any preceding claim, wherein the lens system is included in a pop-out camera.

18. The lens system of claim 17 , wherein the pop-out camera is included in a mobile device.

19. The lens system of claim 18 , wherein the mobile device is a smartphone.

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