Compact folded TELE cameras with optical image stabilization

Abstract

A camera including a first lens group G1 including Ni>l lens elements Li wherein 1≤i≤N1, an object-side optical path folding element (O-OPFE) for folding a first optical path (OP1) to a second optical path (OP2), a second lens group G2 including N2≥1 lens elements Li wherein 1≤i≤N2, wherein a first lens element of the second lens group faces the O-OPFE, and an image sensor, wherein the first lens group G1 is on the object side of the O-OPFE, the OP1 is defined by an optic axis of G1, the second lens group G2 is on the image side of the O-OPFE, the OP2 is defined by an optic axis of G2, the camera is arranged to provide optical image stabilization (OIS) by shifting direction of OP2, and an angle between OP1 and OP2 is less than 90 degrees. Related apparatus and methods are also described."

Description

[0001] COMPACT FOLDED TELE CAMERAS WITH OPTICAL IMAGE STABILIZATION

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The presently disclosed subject matter is generally related to the field of digital cameras, and more specifically to the field of digital cameras used in mobile devices.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Many of today’s portable handheld mobile devices (“mobile devices”, e.g. smartphones, tablets, headsets etc.) include one or more cameras which are compact in size, i.e. they have a relatively low height (or thickness), width and length, which is beneficial for use in compact mobile devices. Such cameras may include a wide field-of-view FOVW camera (“Wide” camera or “W” camera), and at least one additional camera, e.g. with a narrower (than FOVW) FOV (Telephoto or “Tele” camera with FOVT), or with an ultrawide field of view FOVUW (wider than FOVW, “UW” camera).

[0006] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0008] Fig. 1A is a simplified illustration of a folded Tele camera;

[0009] Fig. IB is a simplified illustration of a mobile device which includes a folded Tele camera such as shown in Fig. 1 A;

[0010] Fig. 1C is a simplified illustration of a dual camera which includes a folded Tele camera and a Wide camera;

[0011] Fig. ID is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figs. 1E-F are simplified illustrations of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Fig. 1G is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to the example embodiment of Figs. 1E-F; Fig. 1H is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to the example embodiment of Figs. 1E-G;

[0014] Fig. II is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to the example embodiment of Figs. 1E-H;

[0015] Fig. 1 J is a simplified illustration of components of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Fig. 2 is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Fig. 3 is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Fig. 4 which is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig. 5A which is a simplified illustration of a known embodiment of an optical filter-sensor;

[0020] Fig. 5B is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 5C is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig. 5D is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Fig. 5E is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig. 6A is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Fig. 6B is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figs. 7A-C are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figs. 8A-D are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figs. 9A-B are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figs. 10A-D are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0030] Figs. 11A-B are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0032] Multi-aperture cameras (or “multi-cameras”, of which a “dual-camera” having two cameras is an example) are today’s standard for portable handheld mobile devices (“mobile devices”, e.g. smartphones, tablets, headsets etc.). Multi-cameras are compact in size, i.e. they have a relatively low height (or thickness), width and length, which is beneficial for use in compact mobile devices.

[0033] Reference is now made to Fig. 1 A, which is a simplified illustration of a folded Tele camera.

[0034] Fig. 1A schematically illustrates an embodiment of a known folded Tele camera 100. Camera 100 comprises a lens 102, an optical path folding element (OPFE) 104, e.g., a prism or a mirror, and an image sensor 106 having a sensor height Hsensor (HS) (measured along a direction parallel to OP1). OPFE 104 folds a first optical path (“OP1”) 108 to a second optical path (OP2) 110. Lens 102 includes a plurality of N lens elements (here: N=7) numbered Li - L7, which is divided into two lens groups, a first group 102-G1 (“Gl ”) that includes Li - L4 and has a thickness TGI, is located at an object side of the OPFE and has a lens optical axis which is parallel to OP1, and a second lens group 102-G2 (“G2”) that includes L5-L7 and has a thickness TG2, is located at an image side of the OPFE and has a lens optical axis which is parallel to OP2, i.e. normal to image sensor 106. Lens elements included in Gl and G2 respectively do not move relative to each other, but they move together as one unit with respect to other components included in camera 100. In some examples, all lens elements of Gl and G2 respectively may be included in, and fixedly coupled to, a single lens barrel. An optical element (not shown) such as an IR filter may be located between 102-G2 and image sensor 106. Lens 102 has a lens width WL (measured along OP2). A distance between 102-G1 and OPFE 104 is ALO. A width of OPFE 104 (measured along a direction parallel to OP2) is WOPFE. OPFE 104 may be oriented at an angle of 45 degrees with respect to OP1 and OP2, so that for a height HOPFE of OPFE 104 yields HOPFE = WOPFE. A distance d(Gl-G2) between G1 and G2 is given by d(Gl-G2) = d(Gl-G2)i+d(Gl-G2)2, wherein d(Gl-G2)i is oriented along OP1 108 and d(Gl-G2)2 is oriented along OP2 110. A TTL of camera 100 is divided into TTL1 and TTL2. TTLi is parallel to OP1 108, TTL2 is parallel to OP2 110 and TTL=TTLI+TTL2. BFL is not divided into two perpendicular components. An aperture of camera 100 is numbered 112. Such folded cameras are for example disclosed in co-owned international patent application PCT - IB2023-060577, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0035] In some examples, G1 includes only one lens element. Such folded cameras are for example disclosed in co-owned international patent application PCT-IB2018-055450, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0036] A theoretical limit for a length of a camera module (“minimum module length” or “MLM”) and a first height of a camera module (“minimum module height” or “MHM”) and a second height of a camera module (“minimum shoulder height” or “MHS”), wherein MHM > MHS, including camera 100 is shown. MLM, MHM and MHS are defined by the smallest dimensions of the components included in camera 100. Hereinafter “MH” denotes “camera module height”, or simpler just “module height”, and “SH” denotes “camera shoulder height”, or simpler just “shoulder height”. The camera module includes a housing 114.

[0037] Reference is now made to Fig. IB, which is a simplified illustration of a mobile device which includes a folded Tele camera such as shown in Fig. 1 A.

[0038] Fig. IB shows schematically a mobile device 120 (e.g. a smartphone) including known folded Tele camera 100. Aperture 112 of camera 100 is located at rear surface 122, a front surface 124 may e.g., include a screen (not shown). Mobile device 120 has a regular region 126 of thickness (“T”) and a camera bump region 128 that is elevated by a height B over regular region 126. Bump region 128 has a bump length (“BL”) and a bump thickness that equals T+B. R1 of camera 100 may be integrated into bump region 128, and R2 may be integrated into regular region 126, as shown. For industrial design reasons, a small camera bump (i.e., a short BL) is desired. Camera 100 is integrated in the bump region only partially, what allows a relatively short BL. In general, and particularly for slim mobile devices, it is beneficial to minimize MHM and MHS. Especially, minimizing MHM is of interest, as it allows minimizing B. For compact camera, also minimizing MLM is beneficial. Especially, minimizing R1 is of interest, as it allows minimizing BL.

[0039] Reference is now made to Fig. 1 C, which is a simplified illustration of a dual camera which includes a folded Tele camera and a Wide camera.

[0040] Fig. 1C illustrates a known dual-camera 150, that comprises a folded zoom Tele camera 160 together with a W camera 180. Folded Tele camera 160 comprises an OPFE 162, e.g., a prism or mirror, a lens 170 with a plurality of lens elements (not visible in this representation) and an image sensor 166. OPFE folds an optical path from a OP1 172 to a OP2 174. W camera 180 comprises a lens 184 with an optical axis 186 and an image sensor 188.

[0041] A technical difficulty arising with camera 100 is that performing optical image stabilization (OIS) and focusing is relatively complex in terms of actuation and / or increases MHM. This amongst others as of the division of lens 102 into two groups.

[0042] It would be beneficial to have a folded Tele camera with a divided lens for achieving relatively low f / # which still allows to perform OIS and focusing with (1) simple actuation and (2) without increasing MHM and / or MHS.

[0043] According to some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a folded-camera module for a mobile device. The folded-camera module includes a lens. The lens has an effective focal length (EFL) in a range of 8mm<EFL<50mm and an f / # lesser than 3.5. The lens includes a first lens group (Gl) defining a first optical axis (OA1), and a second lens group (G2) defining a second optical axis (OA2). The folded- camera module includes an optical path folding element (OPFE), configured to fold said first optical axis onto said second optical axis. The first lens group is positioned at an object side of the optical path folding element, and the second lens group is positioned at an image side of the optical path folding element. The folded-camera module further comprises an image sensor, positioned at the image side of the second lens group.

[0044] In some embodiments, the folded-camera module is configured for obtaining data indicative of a movement of the folded camera module (e.g. a rotational movement). The folded-camera module is further configured for spatially adjusting at least one of the optical elements, that is, at least one of the first lens group, the second lens group, and the optical path folding element. The spatial adjustment of said optical element(s) is performed so as to compensate for an optical path shift of light entering into the folded camera module due to said movement. Compensating an optical path shift thereby provides optical image stabilization (OIS), in a first OIS direction (of a sensor plane in which said image sensor extends, also referred to as “direction of the image sensor”) and in a second (transverse) OIS direction (of said image sensor).

[0045] DEFINITIONS

[0046] In this application, the following symbols, terms and abbreviations may be understood according to the below explanations:

[0047] The term “total track length” (TTL) refers to a maximal distance, measured along an optical path between a point of the front surface si of a first lens element 11 and an image sensor, when the system is focused to an infinity object distance.

[0048] The term “back focal length” (BFL) refers to a minimal distance, measured along an axis parallel to the optical axis of a lens, between a point of a rear surface S2N of the last lens element LN and an image sensor, when the system is focused to an infinity object distance.

[0049] The term “effective focal length” (EFL) in a lens (assembly of lens elements Li to LN), refers to the distance between a rear principal point P' and a rear focal point F' of the lens.

[0050] The term f-number (f / #) refers to the ratio of the EFL to an entrance pupil diameter (or “aperture diameter” or “DA”).

[0051] The terms “optical lens system” and “lens system” may be interchangeable.

[0052] In some embodiments, the optical path through the camera module is folded by an optical path folding element (OPFE) which defines a first lens group positioned on the object side relative to the OPFE and a second lens group positioned on the image side relative to the OPFE. The first lens group (for example, 102-G1 in Figs. 1-2) may be referred to as Gl. The second lens group of a camera module (for example, 102-G2 in Figs. 1 A-C) may be referred to as G2. It is noted that when reference numbers referring to components of known cameras are mentioned, a person skilled in the art may find corresponding components of inventive embodiments described herein.

[0053] For the sake of simplicity, the same terms of the first lens group (or Gl) and the second lens group (or G2) are used in the various embodiments to refer to the lens group before (on the object side) and after (on the image side) the OPFE.

[0054] The term OA1 refers to the optical axis of the first lens group.

[0055] The term OA2 refers to the optical axis of the second lens group.

[0056] The term OP1 may refer to an axis parallel to OA1. OP1 can coincide with OA1 but may not necessarily coincide with OA1.

[0057] The term OP2 may refer to an axis parallel to OA2. OP2 can coincide with OA2 but may not necessarily coincide with OA2.

[0058] A lens may include a plurality of N lens elements, that may be indexed by Li, where “i” is an integer between 1 and N.

[0059] Li refer to the lens element closest to the object side. In other words, Li may refer to the first lens element that any light-ray, emitted from an object, may impinge upon.

[0060] LN may refer to the lens element closest to the image side, i.e., the side where the image sensor may be located. In other words, LN may refer to the last lens element that any light-ray, emitted from an object, may impinge upon.

[0061] Each lens element may have two surfaces, a “front surface” and a “rear surface”. The term "front surface" of a lens element refers to a surface of a lens element located closer to the entrance of the camera (camera object side). The term "rear surface" refers to the surface of a lens element located closer to the image sensor (camera image side).

[0062] A front surface of a lens element Li may be indexed by , and the respective rear surface S2L Alternatively, lens surfaces may be indexed by “Sk”, with k running from 1 to 2N. One or more of the front surface and the rear surface may be in some cases aspherical.

[0063] HL1 is the height of the first lens group.

[0064] In the present application, tables and corresponding figures detail lens-element parameters of different lens elements, for different exemplary embodiments. The following definitions and parameters may be used throughout the different exemplary embodiments:

[0065] The surface types are: a) Plano: flat surfaces, no curvature. b) Q type 1 (QT1) surface sag formula: c) Even Asphere (ASP) surface sag formula: where {z, r} are the standard cylindrical polar coordinates, c is the paraxial curvature of the surface, k is the conic parameter, rnormis generally one half of the surface’s clear aperture, Pn(0’4)are the Jacoby polynomials of parameters α=0 and =4. An(QT1 surfaces) and / or an(ASP surfaces) are the sag polynomial coefficients shown in the lens data tables.

[0066] Values for a clear-aperture, a term known in the art, may be denoted “CA”, and may be given as a clear aperture radius, i.e., as CA / 2.

[0067] A reference wavelength may be 555.0 nm.

[0068] Values representing length may be provided in millimetres.

[0069] Values for refraction index (“Index”) and Abbe # are unit-less.

[0070] Each lens element Li may have a respective focal length fl.

[0071] An FOV may be given as a half FOV (HFOV). The Tables may provide the clear aperture radius of an OPFE (for example, in Fig.2, prism 204). In some embodiments the CA radius may represent a circular optical active area of an OPFE.

[0072] For estimating theoretical limits for minimum (or “optical”) dimensions of a camera module that includes optical lens systems described herein, referring to Figs. 1A-1C as examples, the following parameters and interdependencies are introduced:

[0073] Module Length (“LM”).

[0074] Minimal module length (“MLM) is the theoretical limit for a length of a camera module that includes all components of camera 100, even for improved example embodiments described herein.

[0075] For achieving a realistic estimation for a camera module length (“LM’), one may add for example a length of 3.5mm to LM, i.e., LM = MLM +3.5mm. The additional length accounts for a lens stroke that may be required for optical image stabilization (OIS) as well as for image sensor packaging, housing, etc.

[0076] R1 - A first region (“Rl”) of MLM, associated with a first optical module height MHM.

[0077] Rl = max(WL, WQPFE). In some embodiments and as shown in Fig. 1A, WL > WQPFE, so that Rl is determined solely by 102-G1 and Rl = WL.

[0078] R2 - A second region (“R2”) of MLM that is associated with a second optical module height MHS, wherein MHS < MHM. R2 = LM-R1.

[0079] In general, and for a given MLM, from an industrial design point of view it may be beneficial to maximize R2 (minimize Rl).

[0080] “Minimal module height” (“MHM’) and “Module height” (“HM’) - MHM = HQPFE + ALO + TGI.

[0081] For achieving a realistic estimation for a camera module height, we calculate MH by adding an additional height of 1.5mm to MHM, i.e., HM = MHM+ 1.5mm. The additional length accounts for housing, lens cover etc.

[0082] In other examples, e.g., with an image sensor 106 occupying a lower y-value than OPFE 104, MHM may be MHM > HQPFE + ALO + TGI . In these examples, MHM is given by the difference between the lowest y- values occupied by image sensor 106 and the highest y-value occupied by 102-G1. MHS and “Shoulder height” (“HS”) - A second minimum module height (“MHS”) is the theoretical limit for a height of a camera module that includes all components of camera 100 in a second region (“R2”). MHS = min(HS, HOPFE). Image sensor 106 may have a width : height ratio of 4:3, so that a sensor diagonal (SD) may be calculated from a sensor height (SH) by SD=5 / 3 SH.

[0083] In some embodiments, for example, as shown in Fig. 1 A, MHS may be determined solely by image sensor 106, i.e., MHS = SH. In other examples such as e.g. embodiment 1000, MHS is determined by an image sensor such as image sensor 1006 as the top limit and by an OPFE such as OPFE 1004 as the bottom limit.

[0084] For achieving a realistic estimation for a real camera module height, shoulder height HS is calculated by adding an additional height of, for example, 1.5mm to MHS, i.e., HS = MHS +1.5mm. The additional height accounts for contacting sensor 106 as well as for housing.

[0085] BMin - A theoretical minimum for a height B of a camera bump such as 128. BMin = MHM -T.

[0086] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the presently disclosed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods and features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0087] All optical lens systems disclosed in the following can be used in (or incorporated in) a known folded camera such as a folded camera, and a resulting camera can be used in a mobile device such as mobile device. To clarify, all examples of optical lens systems disclosed herein are beneficial to be used in a smartphone, a tablet etc. Values and dimensions of a camera and a mobile device including optical lens systems disclosed herein are presented in Table 1. Table 1 uses definitions and explanations similar to those used with reference to FIGS. 1 A-C. All sizes as well as EFL are given in mm.

[0088] Overview

[0089] Various aspects of embodiments are generally introduced below. The various aspects may be recognized by a person skilled in the art as belonging to some or all of the embodiments described herein. An aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which folds the optical path along the camera such that the optical path from an entrance to the camera to an image sensor can be made longer within constraints of shoulder height, camera module height, and camera length or width. Where a typical camera may fold an optical path by 90 degrees, travelling in an optical path parallel to camera module surfaces, embodiments described herein show a longer, diagonal optical path. It is noted that any one of the embodiments describe herein can use such a design, whether the associated drawing shows a diagonal optic path or not.

[0090] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which folds the optical path twice along the camera such that an image sensor can be placed parallel to an entrance plane to the camera. Such an embodiment can potentially enable a camera design where the length or width of the image sensor do not directly dictate the height of the camera.

[0091] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which folds the optical path along the camera such that the optical path from an entrance to the camera to an image sensor can be made longer within constraints of shoulder height, camera module height, and camera length or width. Where a typical camera may fold an optical path twice, each time by 90 degrees, travelling in an optical path parallel to camera module surfaces, embodiments described herein show a longer, zigzag optical path, folded twice by angles different from 90 degrees.

[0092] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which provides a large aperture low f-number suitable for digital cameras used in mobile devices.

[0093] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which provides a focusing lens or focusing group of lenses placed following an OPFE along the optical path from an entrance to the camera to the image sensor.

[0094] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which provides focusing with a relatively small, or short, movement of a group of lenses placed following the object-side OPFE and the image sensor.

[0095] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which provides a low shoulder for a given sensor size, also defined a small MHS / SD ratio.

[0096] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which provides a large aperture for a given shoulder height or module height, that is, a large DA / MHS ratio or a large DA / MHM ration respectively.

[0097] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to an optical design of a camera which provides little or no difference in height between a module height and the shoulder height.

[0098] Another aspect of some embodiments relates to a large range of possible focus or sensor movement based on providing relatively large G1 + O-OPFE + G2 relative to the dimensions of the camera.

[0099] In embodiments disclosed herein, one or more lens elements (LI and maybe more, see columns 800 and 1000) is located at an object side of an O-OPFE, and the other lens elements are located at an image side of the O-OPFE. A lens may be described as belonging to a first lens group (“Gl”) and a second lens group (“G2”), as detailed in Table 1.

[0100] Table 1

[0101]

[0102] In FIGS. 12A-D of co-owned international patent application PCT / IB2023 / 060577, published as WO / 2024 / 084436, a “method 7” is disclosed to perform OIS. All embodiments disclosed herein are operational to perform OIS method 7. To perform OIS method 7 along a first OIS direction, an OPFE is rotated along an OPFE rotation axis perpendicular to the y-z-axes shown in Figs. 2-4 and Figs. 7A-B of the present disclosure, and perpendicular to both OP1 and OP2. G1 is rotated along a G1 rotation axis parallel to the OPFE rotation axis, whereas G1 rotation axis is located at a different position (or “location”) than OPFE rotation axis.

[0103] Reference is now made to Fig. ID, which is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] Fig. ID is intended to illustrate a simplified example of a 2-Fold camera, the optical design folds the optical path twice along the camera such that an image sensor can be placed parallel to an entrance plane to the camera. Such an embodiment can potentially enable a camera design where the length or width of the image sensor do not directly dictate the height of the camera.

[0105] Fig. ID depicts: a first lens group G1 having, in this non-limiting example, one lens, on an object side of a first OPFE; the first OPFE, in this non-limiting example a first prism marked as Prism 1 ; a second lens group G2 having, in this non-limiting example, 4 lenses, on an image sensor side of the first OPFE and an object side of a second OPFE; the second OPFE, in this non-limiting example a second prism marked as Prism 2; and an image sensor

[0106] Fig. ID also depicts dimensions applying to camera modules described with reference to various embodiments described in the present application: a module height, a module shoulder height, and a module length.

[0107] Fig. ID also depicts how in some embodiments the camera is designed to be able to optionally perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS):

[0108] For corrections of X-axis movements, G1 and Prism 1 are constructed so as to be controlled to rotate together around a Y-axis as marked Fig. ID; and

[0109] For corrections of Y-axis movements, Prism 1 is constructed to be controlled to rotate around an X-axis as marked in Fig. ID by a first angle a and the first lens group G1 is constructed to be controlled to rotate around the X-axis by a second angle 0 > a.

[0110] In some embodiments the camera is also configured to perform autofocus, by controlling G1 and prism 1 to move linearly together along the Y-axis.

[0111] Reference is now made to Figs. 1E-F, which are simplified illustrations of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] Figs. 1E-F are intended to illustrate another simplified example of a 2-Fold camera, the optical design folds the optical path twice along the camera such that an image sensor can be placed parallel to an entrance plane to the camera. Such an embodiment can potentially enable a camera design where the length or width of the image sensor do not directly dictate the height of the camera.

[0113] Figs. 1E-F depict: a first lens group G1 having, in this non-limiting example, one lens, on an object side of a first OPFE; the first OPFE, in this non-limiting example a first prism marked as Prism 1 ; a second lens group G2 on an image sensor side of the first OPFE and an object side of a second OPFE; the second OPFE, in this non-limiting example a second prism marked as Prism 2; and an image sensor

[0114] Fig. IE depicts the optical system focused to infinity.

[0115] Fig. IF depicts the optical system focused to 50 centimeters.

[0116] Fig IE shows G1 and Prism 1 closer to G2 that is shown in Fig. IF.

[0117] Reference is now made to Fig. 1G, which is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to the example embodiment of Figs. 1E-F.

[0118] Fig. 1G is intended to illustrate dimensions in the optical design shown in Figs. 1E- F.

[0119] Fig. 1G depicts a height Ho oriented parallel to a height of a mobile device and a length Lo oriented parallel to a screen included in the optical device.

[0120] In a non-limiting embodiment Ho = 8.45 mm.

[0121] In a non-limiting example, when the optical design is focused at infinity, as shown in Fig. IE, Lo = 25.75 mm.

[0122] In a non-limiting example, when the optical design is focused at 50 centimeters, as shown in Fig. IF, Lo = 26.61 mm.

[0123] Reference is now made to Fig. 1H, which is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to the example embodiment of Figs. 1E-G.

[0124] Fig. 1H is intended to illustrate a simplified example of a 2-Fold camera, performing OIS to compensate for movement in the Y-Z plane.

[0125] It is noted that the tilts of the optical elements are exaggerated in the drawing, for sake of better illustration.

[0126] As described above, the OIS is performed by rotating the lens group G1 and by rotating Prism 1. Fig. 1H shows a first axis of rotation 191 for the first lens group G1 and a second axis of rotation 192 for Prism 1. In a non-limiting example, the camera is focused at infinity and the camera is controlled to compensate for movement of an image in the field of view of the sensor by 1.5 degrees in the Y-Z plane.

[0127] In a non-limiting example, Prism 1 is rotated by a first angle around the X-axis, in this example α = 0.81 degrees, and G1 is rotated by a second angle, β > α around the X- axis, in this example 0 = 1.38 degrees.

[0128] Reference is now made to Fig. II, which is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to the example embodiment of Figs. 1E-H.

[0129] Fig. II is intended to illustrate the OIS shown in Fig. 1H by showing rays.

[0130] In the non-limiting example shown the camera is focused at infinity and the camera is controlled to compensate for movement of an image in the field of view of the sensor by an angle 193 of 1.5 degrees from a center direction.

[0131] When the OIS is not activated, the rays are focused at a first location 194.

[0132] When the OIS is activated, the rays are focused at a second location 195.

[0133] The tables below describe parameters of an example embodiment lens design:

[0134] Table A

[0135] Table B * Thickness is parallel to OP2, i.e., all elements after the first prism shift ways fromially to S3.

[0136] Table C

[0137] Table D

[0138] Table D (continued) Reference is now made to Fig. 1 J, which is a simplified illustration of components of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] Fig. 1 J is intended to illustrate a benefit of an optical design of a camera which folds the optical path along the camera such that the optical path from an entrance to the camera to an image sensor can be made longer within constraints of shoulder height, camera module height, and camera length or width.

[0140] Figure 1J shows a ray 1204 entering a camera 1201, impinging upon a first OPFE 1200a, changing direction by 90 degrees, continuing as a ray 1206a, impinging upon a second OPFE 1202a, and continuing as a ray 1208a to reach an image sensor 1212.

[0141] Fig. 1 J also shows a second arrangement where the ray 1204 enters the camera 1201, impinges upon the first OPFE which is arranged at a different angle, as OPFE 1200b, changes direction, continues as a ray 1206b, impinges upon the second OPFE which is arranged at a different angle, as OPFE 1200b, and continues as a ray 1210 and ray 1208b to reach the image sensor 1212.

[0142] The second arrangement shows the angle between the rays 1204 and 1206b to be less than 90 degrees, and the angle of the surface of the first OPFE to be more than 45 degrees to the ray 1204. The second arrangement also shows the angle between the rays 1206b and 1208b to be less than 90 degrees, and the angle of the surface of the second OPFE to be less than 45 degrees to the ray 1210.

[0143] A length of the path of 1204 + 1206b + 1210 + 1208b is longer than the path of 1204 + 1206a + 1208a, enabling a longer optical path within a same enclosure, a same camera module.

[0144] The length of the path of 1204 + 1206b + 1210 + 1208b is longer than the path of 1204 + 1206a + 1208a, just as the length of a diagonal edge of a right angled triangle is longer than a length of the right-angle edge.

[0145] Reference is now made to Fig. 2, which is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] Fig. 2 is intended to describe example embodiments which have one or more of the following features: a low shoulder for a given sensor size, where the ratio MHS / SD is small; a large aperture for a given shoulder or module height, where the ratio DA / MHS is large; and a large aperture for a given shoulder or module height, where the ratios DA / MHS and DA / MHM are large.

[0147] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein and numbered 200. In Fig. 2, lens system 200 is shown focused to infinity. Lens system 200 may comprise a lens 202, a first OPFE (by way of a non-limiting example, a prism) 204, a second OPFE (by way of a non-limiting example, a prism) 206, an optical element 207 and an image sensor 208. System 200 is shown with ray tracing. Optical element 207 is optional and may be, for example, an infra-red (IR) filter, and / or a glass image sensor dust cover. Lens 202 may be divided in two lens groups, 202-G1 that includes Li (“Gl”), and 202-G2 that includes L2 - L6 (“G2”). Optical rays that pass through 202-G1 may be reflected by prism 204, may pass through 202-G2, and may form an image on the image sensor 208. Fig. 2 shows 3 fields (image points) with 3 rays for each.

[0148] Lens 202 may include a plurality of N = 6 lens elements. The single lens element of 202-G1 may be axial-symmetric along a first optical (lens) axis (OP1) 212. The 5 lens elements of 202-G2 may be axial-symmetric along a second optical (lens) axis (OP2) 214. A third optical path (OP3) is marked 216.

[0149] Detailed optical data and surface data are given in Tables 2-3 for the example of the lens elements in Fig. 2 and in Fig. 3. The values provided for these examples are purely illustrative and according to other example embodiments, other values may be used.

[0150] Prism 204’ s light entrance surface 205 is oriented parallel to OP2 312. Prism 204’ s internal prism angle marked α = 42.8 degrees. Prism 204’ s light exiting surface 209 is oriented so that a central (or “o-field”) ray impinges on light exiting surface 209 with an angle of 90 degrees.

[0151] Reference is now made to Fig. 3, which is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0152] Fig. 3 is intended to describe example embodiments which have one or more of the following features: a low shoulder for a given sensor size, where the ratio MHS / SD is small; a large aperture for a given shoulder or module height, where the ratio DA / MHS is large; and a large aperture for a given shoulder or module height, where the ratios DA / MHS and DA / MHM are large.

[0153] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein and numbered 300. Optical lens system 300 includes components included also in optical lens system 200, but its second OPFE 306 is “mirrored” with respect to a plane spanned by the y-axis and by an axis perpendicular to the y-z-axes shown. For values that are different between optical lens system 300 and optical lens system 200, it is referred to Table 1.

[0154] Table 2

[0155] Table 3

[0156] Reference is now made to Fig. 4, which is a simplified illustration of an optical system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] Fig. 4 is intended to describe example embodiments which have one or more of the following features: a substantially uniform height, with little or even no difference between the shoulder and module height; and a large aperture for a given module height, where the ratio DA / MHM is large. Fig. 4 schematically illustrates an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein and numbered 400. In Fig. 4, lens system 400 is shown focused to infinity. Lens system 400 may comprise a lens 402, an OPFE (here, a prism) 404, an optical element 407 and an image sensor 408. System 400 is shown with ray tracing. Optical element 407 is optional and may be, for example, an infra-red (IR) filter, and / or a glass image sensor dust cover. Lens 402 may be divided in two lens groups, 402-G1 that includes Li (“Gl”), and 402-G2 that includes L2 - L6 (“G2”). Optical rays that pass through 402-G1 may be reflected by prism 3404, may pass through 402-G2, and may form an image on the image sensor 408. Fig. 4 shows 8 fields (image points) with 3 rays for each. Lens 402 may include a plurality of N = 6 lens elements. The single lens element of 402-G1 may be axial-symmetric along a first optical (lens) axis (OP1) 412. The 5 lens elements of 402-G4 may be axial-symmetric along a second optical (lens) axis (OP2) 414.

[0158] Detailed optical data and surface data are given in Tables 4-5 for the example of the lens elements in Fig. 4. The values provided for these examples are purely illustrative and according to other examples, other values can be used.

[0159] Prism 404’s light entrance surface 405 is oriented parallel to OP2 412. Prism 404’s internal prism angle marked α = 43.7 degrees. Prism 404’s light exiting surface 407 is oriented so that a central (or “o-field”) ray impinges on light exiting surface 407 with an angle of 90 degrees.

[0160] Table 4 Table 5

[0161] Reference is now made to Fig. 5A, which is a simplified illustration of a known embodiment of an optical filter-sensor.

[0162] Fig. 5A schematically illustrates a known embodiment of an optical filter-sensor system numbered 500. Optical filter-sensor system 500 includes a prism 506 fixedly attached to and carried by a prism holder 509, an optical filter 507 (for example, an IR filter) as well as an image sensor 508. Prism 506 folds a second OP 512 to a third OP 514. Optical filter 507 is located along third OP 514 and is oriented perpendicular to third OP 514. Optical filter-sensor system 500 has a height HFS measured along the z-axis. HFS is defined by 2x a height of a prism holder (not shown) HH, an air gap G between image sensor 508 and optical filter 507, a height of optical filter HF, an (optional) air gap G2 (not shown) between optical filter 507 and prism 506 and a height of prism Hp. In other words, HFS = 2x HH + G + HF + G2 + Hp. Here, HH may include a height of image sensor 508.

[0163] Typical values and ranges may be: HFS = 3mm - 15mm, beneficially HFS = 3mm - 1 Omm or HFS = 4mm - 8mm. HH = 0.05mm - 0.1mm, beneficially HH = 0.05mm - 0.5mm or HH = 0.1mm - 0.4mm

[0164] G = 0.2mm - 0.5mm or more

[0165] HF = 0.1mm - 0.5mm, beneficially HH = 0.15mm - 0.3mm

[0166] G2 = 0 - 0.2mm

[0167] Hp = 0.1mm - 0.5mm, beneficially HH = 0.15mm - 0.3mm

[0168] Optical filter-sensor system 500 may be used in a double-folded optical lens system such as for example optical lens system 200, or optical lens system 300 or optical lens system 700. In such examples, MHS is given by MHS = G + HF + G2 + Hp. It is noted that an appearance (or “presence”) of dust particles above a particular particle size in close proximity of image sensor 508 would negatively impact image quality. Often, this is prevented by enclosing (or “sealing”) image sensor 508 with optical filter 507. For this, optical filter 507 is sealed with prism holder 509 so that no such dust particles can enter the space (or “volume”) between image sensor 508 and optical filter 507. Such dust particles must kept a minimum distance away from image sensor 508, which is defined by G + HF. Often, HF is given, so that G defines the minimum distance and may thus not be reduced.

[0169] Reference is now made to Fig. 5B, which is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0170] Fig. 5B schematically illustrates an embodiment of an optical filter-sensor system disclosed herein and numbered 520. Optical filter-sensor system 520 is similar to optical filter-sensor system 500, except that optical filter 507 is located at a different position. In optical filter-sensor system 520, optical filter 507 is located along second OP 512 and is oriented perpendicular to second OP 512. HFS is defined by 2x a height of prism holder HH, an air gap G between image sensor 508 and optical filter 507 and a height of prism Hp, i.e. HFS = 2x HH + G + Hp. In optical filter-sensor system 520, dust particles above a particular particle size in close proximity of image sensor 508 are prevented by enclosing image sensor 508 with prism 506. For this, prism 506 is sealed with prism holder 509 so that no such dust particles can enter the space between image sensor 508 and prism 506. Prism 506 keeps such dust particles relatively far away from image sensor 508, so that G does not significantly impact a minimum distance of such dust particles to image sensor 508. In effect, G can be reduced for example to a mechanically meaningful minimal height, which may be lower than for a G of known optical filter-sensor system 500. For example, G may be in the range of G = 0.025mm - 0.3mm or more. Optical filter-sensor system 550 may be used in a double-folded optical lens system. In such examples, MHS is given by MHS = G + Hp. A relatively low MHS results in a relatively low Hs, which is beneficial for camera integration into slim mobile devices such as smartphones.

[0171] Reference is now made to Fig. 5C, which is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0172] Fig. 5C schematically illustrates yet another embodiment of an optical filter-sensor system disclosed herein and numbered 530. Optical filter-sensor system 530 is similar to optical filter-sensor system 530, except that optical filter 507 is fixedly coupled to OPFE 506.

[0173] Reference is now made to Fig. 5D, which is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0174] Fig. 5D schematically illustrates yet another embodiment of an optical filter-sensor system disclosed herein and numbered 540. Optical filter-sensor system 540 includes OPFE 506, optical filter 507 and a lens 542 including a plurality of N lens elements. A last lens element is marked LN. In optical filter-sensor system 540, optical filter 507 is fixedly attached to lens 542, specifically to LN.

[0175] Reference is now made to Fig. 5E, which is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0176] Fig. 5E schematically illustrates yet another embodiment of an optical filter-sensor system disclosed herein and numbered 550. Optical filter-sensor system 550 is identical to optical filter-sensor system 540, except that optical filter 507 is differently positioned. In optical filter-sensor system 550, optical filter 507 is integrated into lens 542, i.e. optical filter 507 is positioned between lens elements of lens 542.

[0177] Reference is now made to Fig. 6A, which is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0178] Fig. 6A shows a known embodiment of an optical filter-sensor system numbered 600. Optical filter-sensor system 600 includes a prism 606 fixedly attached to and carried by a prism holder 609, an optical filter 607 (for example, an IR filter) as well as an image sensor 608. Prism 606 folds a second OP 612 to a third OP 614. Optical filter 607 is located along third OP 614 and is oriented perpendicular to third OP 614. Optical filter-sensor system 600 has a height HFS measured along the z-axis. HFS is defined by 2x a height of prism holder HH, an air gap G between image sensor 608 and optical filter 607, a height of optical filter HF, an (optional) air gap G2 (not shown) between optical filter 607 and prism 606 and a height of prism Hp. In other words, HFS = 2x HH + G + HF + G2 + Hp. Here, HH may include a height of image sensor 608. Typical values and ranges may be:

[0179] HFS = 3mm - 15mm, beneficially HFS = 3mm - 10mm or HFS = 4mm - 8mm.

[0180] HH = 0.05mm - 0.1mm, beneficially HH = 0.05mm - 0.5mm or HH = 0.1mm - 0.4mm

[0181] G = 0.2mm - 0.5mm or more

[0182] HF = 0.1mm - 0.5mm, beneficially HH = 0.15mm - 0.3mm

[0183] G2 = 0 - 0.2mm

[0184] Hp = 0.1mm - 0.5mm, beneficially HH = 0.15mm - 0.3mm

[0185] In some embodiments the optical filter-sensor system 600 may be Fused in a double-folded optical lens system such as for example optical lens system 200 or optical lens system 300. In such examples, MHS is given by MHS = G + HF + G2 + Hp. It is noted that appearance of dust particles above a particular particle size in close proximity of image sensor 608 would negatively impact image quality. Often, this is prevented by enclosing (or “sealing”) image sensor 608 with optical filter 607. For this, optical filter 607 is sealed with prism holder 609 so that no such dust particles can enter the space (or “volume”) between image sensor 608 and optical filter 607. Such dust particles must kept a minimum distance away from image sensor 608, which is defined by G + HF. Often, HF is given, so that G defines the minimum distance and may thus not be reduced.

[0186] Reference is now made to Fig. 6B, which is a simplified illustration of an optical filter-sensor according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0187] Fig. 6B shows an embodiment of an optical filter-sensor system disclosed herein and numbered 650. Optical filter-sensor system 650 is identical to optical filter-sensor system 600, except that optical filter 607 is located at a different position. In optical filtersensor system 650, optical filter 607 is located along second OP 612 and is oriented perpendicular to second OP 612. HFS is defined by 2x a height of prism holder HH, an air gap G between image sensor 608 and optical filter 607 and a height of prism Hp, i.e. HFS = 2x HH + G + Hp. In optical filter-sensor system 650, dust particles above a particular particle size in close proximity of image sensor 608 are prevented by enclosing image sensor 608 with prism 606. For this, prism 606 is sealed with prism holder 609 so that no such dust particles can enter the space between image sensor 608 and prism 606. Prism 606 keeps such dust particles relatively far away from image sensor 608, so that G does not significantly impact a minimum distance of such dust particles to image sensor 608. In effect, G can be reduced for example to a mechanically meaningful minimal height, which may be lower than for a G of known optical filter-sensor system 600. For example, G may be in the range of G = 0.025mm - 0.3mm or more. Optical filter-sensor system 650 may be used in a double-folded optical lens system. In such examples, MHS is given by MHS = G + Hp. A relatively low MHS results in a relatively low Hs, which is beneficial for camera integration into slim mobile devices such as smartphones.

[0188] Reference is now made to Figs. 7A-C, which are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0189] Figs. 7A-C are intended to describe example embodiments which have at least one or more of the following features: a large aperture for a given module height and the ratio DA / MHS is large.

[0190] Figs. 7A-C illustrate an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein and numbered 700. In Fig. 7A, lens system 700 is shown focused to infinity. In Fig. 7B, lens system 700 is shown focused to an object at a distance of 50cm from optical lens system 700. In Fig. 7C, lens system 700 is shown when performing OIS as disclosed herein.

[0191] Lens system 700 may comprise a lens 702, an OPFE (here, a prism) 704, an optical element 707, a second OPFE (here, prism) 706 and an image sensor 708. Lens 702 may be divided in 702-G1 that includes Li (“Gl”) and 702-G2 that includes L2 - L6 (“G2”). Optical rays that pass through 702-G1 may be reflected by prism 704, may pass through 702-G2, may be reflected by prism 706 and may form an image on the image sensor 708. Figs. 7A- B shows 6 fields (image points) with 6 rays for each.

[0192] Lens 702 may include a plurality of N = 6 lens elements. The single lens element of 702-G1 may be axial-symmetric along a OP1 712. The 5 lens elements of 702-G4 may be axial- symmetric along OP2 714.

[0193] Detailed optical data and surface data are given in Tables 6 - 7 for the example of the lens elements in Figs. 7A-C. The values provided for these examples are purely illustrative and according to other examples, other values can be used. For focusing, Gl, OPFE 704 and G2 move together as one assembly relative to OPFE 706 and image sensor 708. In some examples, the focus movement may be performed parallel to OP2714. Table 8 shows focusing movements. In other examples, the focus movement may be performed parallel to the y-axis.

[0194] In Table 6, Thicknesses of prisms surfaces are given along the optical axis. Surface S4 is tilted by 43.9155° relative to S1-S3. Surfaces S5-S21 are tilted by 43.9155° relative to S4. Surface S22 is tilted by -43.9155° relative to S5-S21. Surfaces S23-S24 are tilted by -43.9155° relative to S22.

[0195] Prism 704’s light entrance surface 705 is oriented parallel to OP2 712. Prism 404’s internal prism angle marked α = 43.7 degrees. Prism 704’ s light exiting surface 709 is oriented so that a central (or “zero-field”) ray impinges on light exiting surface 709 with an angle of 90 degrees.

[0196] Table 6 Table 7

[0197] Table 7 Continued Table 7 Continued

[0198] Table 7 Continued (End of Table 7)

[0199] It is noted that all conic constants are zero.

[0200] Table 8

[0201] Reference is now made to Figs. 8A-D, which are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] Figs. 8A-D are intended to describe example embodiments which have one or more of the following features: focusing by adjusting lens group G2; a large aperture for a given shoulder height, where the ratio DA / MHS is large; and a large aperture for a given module height, where the ratio DA / MHM is large.

[0203] Figs. 8A-C illustrates an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein and numbered 800. In Fig. 8A, lens system 800 is shown focused to infinity. In Fig. 8B, lens system 800 is shown focused to an object at a distance of 50cm from optical lens system 800. In Fig. 8C, lens system 800 is shown as cut lens.

[0204] Lens system 800 may comprise a lens 802, an OPFE (here, a prism) 804, an optical element 808 and an image sensor 806. Lens 802 may be divided in 802-G1 that includes L1 - L2(“Gl”) and 802-G2 that includes L3- L6(“G2”). An EFL of G1 (“EFL-G1”) is 33.64mm, an EFL of G2 (“EFL-G2”) is 42.36mm. Optical rays that pass through Li may be reflected by prism 804, may pass through L2, 802-G2 and may form an image on the image sensor 806. Figs. 8A-C shows 8 fields with 7 rays for each.

[0205] Lens 802 may include a plurality of N = 6 lens elements. Li may be axial-symmetric along a OP1 812. The 5 lens elements L2- L6 may be axial-symmetric along OP2 814.

[0206] Detailed optical data and surface data are given in Tables 9 - 10 for the example of the lens elements in Figs. 8A-B. The values provided for these examples are purely illustrative and according to other examples, other values can be used. For focusing G2 is moved along OP2 812 relative to Gl, OPFE 804 and image sensor 806. Table 11 shows focusing movements.

[0207] A normal on prism 804’s light entrance surface 805 is oriented parallel to OP1 812. Prism 804’s internal prism angle marked α = 41.9 degrees. Prism 804’s light exiting surface 809 is oriented so that a central (or “zero-field”) ray impinges on light exiting surface 809 with an angle of 90 degrees. Light exiting surface 809 forms an angle of 2x(45 - a) = 6.2degrees with OP1 812. An angle 0 as marked is 0 = 96.2degrees.

[0208] Table 9 Table 10 Table 11

[0209] Figs. 8D illustrates schematically an optical lens system such as optical lens system 800. Table 12 lists several options for performing OIS with optical lens system 800. Table 12 refers to the notation of FIG. 8D.

[0210] Table 12

[0211] Reference is now made to Figs. 9A-B, which are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0212] Figs. 9A-B are intended to describe example embodiments which have one or more of the following features: focusing by adjusting lens group G2, with a small G2 stroke, that is, small movement of the G2 lens group; a large aperture for a given shoulder height, where the ratio DA / MHS is large; and a large aperture for a given module height, where the ratio DA / MHM is large.

[0213] Figs. 9A-B illustrate an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein and numbered 900. In Fig. 9A, lens system 900 is shown focused to infinity. In Fig. 9B, lens system 900 is shown focused to an object at a distance of 50cm from optical lens system 900.

[0214] Lens system 900 may comprise a lens 902, an OPFE (here, a prism) 904, an optical element 908 and an image sensor 906. Lens 902 may be divided in 902-G1 that includes L1 (“Gl”) and 902-G2 that includes L2- L7(“G2”). An EFL of G1 (“EFL-G1”) is 14.48mm, an EFL of G2 (“EFL-G2”) is -18.51mm. Optical rays that pass through Li may be reflected by prism 904, may pass through 902-G2 and may form an image on the image sensor 906. Figs. 9A-B shows 8 fields with 7 rays for each.

[0215] Lens 902 may include a plurality of N = 7 lens elements. Li may be axial-symmetric along a OP1 912. The 6 lens elements L2- L6 may be axial-symmetric along OP2 914.

[0216] Detailed optical data and surface data are given in Tables 13 - 14 for the example of the lens elements in Figs. 9A-B. The values provided for these examples are purely illustrative and according to other examples, other values can be used. For focusing G2 is moved along OP2 912 relative to Gl, OPFE 904 and image sensor 906. Table 15 shows focusing movements.

[0217] A normal on prism 904’s light entrance surface 905 is oriented parallel to OP1 912. Prism 904’s internal prism angle marked α = 39.85 degrees. Prism 904’s light exiting surface 909 is oriented so that a zero-field ray impinges on light exiting surface 909 with an angle of 90 degrees. Light exiting surface 909 forms an angle of 2x(45 - a) = 10.3degrees with OP1 912. An angle 0 as marked is 0 = 100.3degrees.

[0218] Table 13 Table 14

[0219] Table 14 Continued

[0220] Table 15

[0221] Reference is now made to Figs. 10A-D, which are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0222] Figs. 10A-D are intended to describe example embodiments which have one or more of the following features: focusing by adjusting lens group G2, with a small G2 stroke, that is, small movement of the G2 lens group; a large aperture for a given shoulder height, where the ratio DA / MHS is large; and a large aperture for a given module height, where the ratio DA / MHM is large.

[0223] Figs. 10A-D illustrate an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein and numbered 1000. In Fig. 10A, lens system 1000 is shown focused to infinity. In Fig. 10B, lens system 1000 is shown focused to an object at a distance of 15cm from optical lens system 1000. Figs. 10C-D show lens system 1000 when performing OIS as disclosed herein.

[0224] Lens system 1000 may comprise a lens 1002, an OPFE (here, a prism) 1004, an optical element 1008 and an image sensor 1006. Lens 1002 and OPFE 1004 together may form a folded lens that may be divided in 1002-G1 that includes Li - L3 and OPFE 1004 (“Gl”) and 1002-G2 that includes L4-L6(“G2”). AnEFL of Gl (“EFL-G1”) is 15.29mm, an EFL of G2 (“EFL-G2”) is -13.69mm. Optical rays that pass through Li may be reflected by prism 1004, may pass through L2 - L3, 1002-G2 and may form an image on the image sensor 1006. Figs. 10A-B shows 8 fields with 7 rays for each.

[0225] Lens 1002 may include a plurality of N = 6 lens elements. Li may be axial-symmetric along a OP1 1012. The 5 lens elements L2- L6 may be axial-symmetric along OP2 1014.

[0226] Detailed optical data and surface data are given in Tables 16 - 17 for the example of the lens elements in Figs. 10A-B. The values provided for these examples are purely illustrative and according to other examples, other values can be used. For focusing G2 is moved along OP2 1012 relative to G1 and image sensor 1006. Table 18 shows focusing movements.

[0227] A normal on prism 1004’s light entrance surface 1005 is oriented parallel to OP1 1012. Prism 1004’s internal prism angle marked α = 42.05 degrees. Prism 1004’s light exiting surface 1009 is oriented so that a zero-field ray impinges on light exiting surface 1009 with an angle of 90 degrees. Light exiting surface 1009 forms an angle of 2x(45 - α) = 5.9degrees with OP1 1012. An angle β as marked is 0 = 95.9degrees. Table 16 Table 17

[0228] Table 18

[0229] Fig. IOC shows lens system 1000 performing an OIS movement by a G1 rotation angle y = 0.445degrees with respect to a center (or “zero”) position. The rotation angle is not shown to scale but is exaggerated for the sake of better visualization. The rotation of G1 is around a pivot point 1016 that is located where OP1 1012 and OP2 1014 intersect.

[0230] Fig. 10D shows lens system 1000 performing an OIS movement by a G1 rotation angle y = 0.445degrees with respect to a center position. The rotation of G1 by y = 0.445degrees leads to a movement of an on-axis ray bundle by Ax = 0.424mm on image sensor 1006.

[0231] Reference is now made to Figs. 11A-B, which are simplified illustrations of an optical lens system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0232] Figs. 11 A-B illustrate an embodiment of an optical lens system disclosed herein and numbered 1100.

[0233] In Fig. 11 A, lens system 1100 is shown focused to infinity.

[0234] In Fig. 11B, lens system 1100 is shown focused to an object at a distance of 15cm from optical lens system 1100.

[0235] Lens system 1100 is operational to perform OIS as disclosed herein.

[0236] Lens system 1100 may comprise a lens 1102, an OPFE (in the non-limiting example of lens system 1100, a prism) 1104, an optical element 1108 and an image sensor 1106. Lens 1102 and OPFE 1104 together may form a folded lens that may be divided in 1102- G1 that includes Li - L3 and OPFE 1104 (“Gl”) and 1102-G2 that includes L4 - L7 (“G2”). Optical rays that pass through Li may be reflected by prism 1104, may pass through L2 - L3, 1102-G2 and may form an image on the image sensor 1106. Figs. 11 A-B shows 9 fields with 7 rays for each.

[0237] Lens 1102 may include a plurality of N = 7 lens elements. Li may be axial-symmetric along a OP1 1112. The 5 lens elements L2- L6 may be axial-symmetric along OP2 1114.

[0238] In some embodiments L7 may be a cut lens that is cut along an axis parallel to OP2 1114. The cut of L7 may be performed so that L7 does not affect MHS.

[0239] Detailed optical data and surface data are given in Tables 19 - 20 for the example of the lens elements in Figs. 11 A-B. The values provided for these examples are purely illustrative and according to other examples, other values can be used. For focusing, G2 is moved along OP2 1114 relative to Gl and image sensor 1106. Table 21 shows focusing movements.

[0240] A normal on prism 1104’s light entrance surface 1105 is oriented parallel to OP1 1112. Prism 1104’s internal prism angle marked α = 41.85 degrees. Prism 1104’s light exiting surface 1109 is oriented so that a zero-field ray impinges on light exiting surface 1109 with an angle of 90 degrees. Light exiting surface 1109 forms an angle of 2x(45 - α) = 6.3degrees with OP1 1112. An angle β as marked is 0 = 96.3degrees.

[0241] Lens system 1100 performs OIS as shown above for lens system 1000. For OIS, 1102-G1 (Li - L3 and OPFE 1104) is rotated with respect to 1102-G2 and image sensor 1106 along an axis perpendicular to the y-z coordinate shown. A 1102-G1 rotation angle y = 0.454degrees with respect to a center position shifts an on-axis ray bundle by 1 degree (or Ax = 0.434mm) on image sensor 1106. The rotation of Gl is around a pivot point 1116 that is located where OP1 1112 and OP2 1114 intersect. Table 19 Table 20

[0242] Table 20 (continued)

[0243] Table 21

[0244] It is appreciated that certain features of the presently disclosed subject matter, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate examples, may also be provided in combination in a single example. Conversely, various features of the presently disclosed subject matter, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single example, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0245] Unless otherwise stated, the use of the expression “and / or” between the last two members of a list of options for selection indicates that a selection of one or more of the listed options is appropriate and may be made. It should be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not to be construed as there being only one of that element.

[0246] All patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present disclosure.

[0247] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0248] Example 1: A camera, including: a lens having N > 4 lens elements Li wherein 1< i < N, an effective focal length EFL, an entrance pupil diameter DA and a f-number given by f / # = EFL / DA, wherein a first lens element Li faces an object side and a last lens element LN faces an image side, an image sensor having a full sensor diagonal SD and a sensor height SH, and a first object-sided optical path folding element O-OPFE for folding a first optical path OP1 to a second optical path OP2, a second image-sided optical path folding element I-OPFE for folding OP2 to a third optical path OP3, wherein the EFL is in the range of 10mm<EFL<35mm, wherein the camera is included a camera module having a first module region with an optical module height MHM and a second shoulder region with an optical shoulder region height MHS < MHM, both heights measured along OP1, wherein the camera module has an optical camera module length LM measured along OP2, wherein MHS < SH + 0.3mm, wherein DA > MHM - 1.4mm, wherein DA > MHS - 0.5mm, wherein LM < EFL+ 4.8mm, wherein the camera is operational to provide optical image stabilization OIS over an OIS angle of more than > ±1 degree.

[0249] Example 2: The camera of example 1, wherein Li is located at an object side of O- OPFE.

[0250] Example 3: The camera of example 2, wherein L2 - LN are located at an image side of O-OPFE and on an object side of I-OPFE.

[0251] Example 4: The camera of example 1, wherein MHS < SH + 0.5mm.

[0252] Example 5: The camera of example 1, wherein DA > MHM - 1.5mm.

[0253] Example 6: The camera of example 1, DA > MHS - 1mm. Example 7: The camera of example 1, wherein LM < EFL+ 5.8mm.

[0254] Example 8: The camera of example 1, wherein OIS is over an OIS angle of more than > ±1.5 degree.

[0255] Example 9: The camera of example 1, wherein the image sensor is oriented perpendicular to 0P1.

[0256] Example 10: The camera of example 3, wherein an aperture stop of the lens is located near L2.

[0257] Example 11 : The camera of example 1 , wherein one of the lens elements L2 - LN is a cut lens element.

[0258] Example 12: The camera of example 1, wherein the image sensor is located farther away from an object than OP2.

[0259] Example 13 : The camera of example 12, wherein the O-OPFE is oriented at an angle α with respect to OP1, and wherein 45 < α ≤ 60 degrees.

[0260] Example 14: The camera of example 13, wherein α > 46 degrees.

[0261] Example 15: The camera of example 13, wherein α > 47 degrees.

[0262] Example 16: The camera of example 1, wherein the image sensor is located closer to an object than OP2.

[0263] Example 17: The camera of example 16, wherein the O-OPFE is oriented at an angle α with respect to OP1, and whereinα < 45 degrees.

[0264] Example 18: The camera of example 17, wherein α < 44 degrees.

[0265] Example 19: The camera of example 17, wherein α < 43 degrees.

[0266] Example 20: The camera of example 1, wherein a chief ray angle is larger than 20 degrees.

[0267] Example 21: The camera of example 20, wherein a chief ray angle is larger than 21 degrees.

[0268] Example 22: The camera of example 20, wherein a chief ray angle is larger than 25 degrees.

[0269] Example 23: The camera of example 1, wherein a focal length of Li is fl, and wherein fl < EFL.

[0270] Example 24: The camera of example 3, wherein the camera is operational to perform OIS along a first OIS direction by rotating Li around a LI rotation axis by a first angle and simultaneously rotating the O-OPFE around a O-OPFE rotation axis by a second angle, wherein both the LI rotation axis and the O-OPFE rotation axis are perpendicular to both OP1 and OP2.

[0271] Example 25: The camera of example 24, wherein the camera is operational to perform OIS along a second OIS direction by rotating LI and the O-OPFE together as an assembly around a second rotation axis parallel to OP2.

[0272] Example 26: The camera of example 1, wherein the EFL is in the range of

[0273] 12.5mm<EFL<30mm.

[0274] Example 27: The camera of example 1, wherein the EFL is in the range of

[0275] 15mm<EFL<27.5mm.

[0276] Example 28: The camera of example 1, wherein the EFL is in the range of

[0277] 20mm<EFL<25mm.

[0278] Example 29: The camera of example 1, wherein the EFL is in the range of

[0279] 21 mm<EFL<23 mm.

[0280] Example 30: The camera of example 1, wherein f / # < 4.

[0281] Example 31: The camera of example 1, wherein f / # < 3.5.

[0282] Example 32: The camera of example 1, wherein f / # < 3.

[0283] Example 33: The camera of example 1, wherein f / # < 2.75.

[0284] Example 34: The camera of example 1, wherein SD / EFL>0.4.

[0285] Example 35: The camera of example 1, wherein a mechanical module height HM = MHM + 1 ,5mm, and wherein SD / HM > 0.95.

[0286] Example 36: The camera of example 35, wherein SD / HM > 1.

[0287] Example 37: The camera of example 35, wherein a mechanical module height HM = MHM + 1.5mm and wherein HM < 12.5mm.

[0288] Example 38: The camera of example 35, wherein a mechanical module height HM = MHM + 1.5mm and wherein HM < 11 mm.

[0289] Example 39: The camera of example 1, wherein N = 6, and wherein a power sequence of lens elements LI - L6 is according to Table 2 in the present disclosure.

[0290] Example 40: The camera of example 1, the camera having a total track length TTL, and wherein TTL / EFL < 1.5. Example 41: The camera of example 1, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL and a back focal length BFL, and wherein BFL / TTL > 0.25.

[0291] Example 42: The camera of example 1 , wherein the camera has an aperture diameter DA in the range 6mm < DA < 8mm.

[0292] Example 43: The camera of example 1, wherein all lens elements are made of plastic.

[0293] Example 44: A mobile device including the camera of any of the examples 1-43, the mobile device having a device thickness T and a camera bump height B measured along OP1, wherein the camera bump region has an elevated height T+B measured along OP1, and wherein the camera is fully incorporated into the camera bump.

[0294] Example 45: A mobile device including the camera of any of the examples 1-43, the mobile device having a device thickness T and a camera bump height B measured along OP1, wherein the camera bump region has an elevated height T+B measured along OP1, and wherein the module region is incorporated into the camera bump, and the shoulder region is not incorporated into the camera bump.

[0295] Example 46: The camera any of the examples 1 - 43, wherein the camera is included in a mobile device.

[0296] Example 47: The camera of example 46, wherein the mobile device is a smartphone.

[0297] Example 48: A camera, including: a lens having N > 4 lens elements Li wherein 1< i < N, an effective focal length EFL, an entrance pupil diameter DA and a f-number given by f / # = EFL / DA, wherein a first lens element Li faces an object side and a last lens element LN faces an image side, an image sensor having a full sensor diagonal SD and a sensor height SH, and an optical path folding element OPFE for folding a first optical path OP1 to a second optical path OP2, wherein the EFL is in the range of 10mm<EFL<35mm, wherein the camera is included a camera module having an optical module height MHM measured along OP1, wherein the camera module has an optical camera module length LM measured along OP2, wherein DA > MHM - 0.2mm, wherein LM < EFL+ 6mm, wherein MHM < SH + 2.7mm, wherein the camera is operational to provide optical image stabilization OIS over an OIS angle of more than > ±1 degree.

[0298] Example 49: The camera of example 48, wherein Li is located at an object side of the OPFE. Example 50: The camera of example 49, wherein L2 - LN are located at an image side of the OPFE.

[0299] Example 51: The camera of example 48, wherein DA > MHM - 1.2mm.

[0300] Example 52: The camera of example 48, wherein MHM < SH + 3mm.

[0301] Example 53: The camera of example 48, wherein MHM < SH + 4mm.

[0302] Example 54: The camera of example 48, wherein MHM < SH + 5mm.

[0303] Example 55: The camera of example 48, wherein OIS is over an OIS angle of more than > ±1.5 degree.

[0304] Example 56: The camera of example 48, wherein one of the lens elements L2 - LN is a cut lens element.

[0305] Example 57: The camera of example 48, wherein the OPFE is oriented at an angle P with respect to OP1, and wherein 45 < 0 < 60 degrees.

[0306] Example 58: The camera of example 57, wherein P > 46 degrees.

[0307] Example 59: The camera of example 57, wherein P > 47 degrees.

[0308] Example 60: The camera of example 48, wherein a focal length of Li is fl, and wherein fl < EFL.

[0309] Example 61 : The camera of example 50, wherein the camera is operational to perform OIS along a first OIS direction by rotating Li around a LI rotation axis by a first angle and simultaneously rotating the OPFE around a OPFE rotation axis by a second angle, wherein both the Li rotation axis and the OPFE rotation axis are perpendicular to both OP1 and OP2.

[0310] Example 62: The camera of example 61, wherein the camera is operational to perform OIS along a second OIS direction by rotating Li and the OPFE together as an assembly around a second rotation axis parallel to OP2.

[0311] Example 63: The camera of example 48, wherein the EFL is in the range of

[0312] 12.5mm<EFL<30mm.

[0313] Example 64: The camera of example 48, wherein the EFL is in the range of

[0314] 15mm<EFL<27.5mm.

[0315] Example 65: The camera of example 48, wherein the EFL is in the range of

[0316] 20mm<EFL<25mm. Example 66: The camera of example 48, wherein the EFL is in the range of 21 mm<EFL<24mm.

[0317] Example 67: The camera of example 48, wherein f / # < 4.

[0318] Example 68: The camera of example 48, wherein f / # < 3.

[0319] Example 69: The camera of example 48, wherein f / # < 2.75.

[0320] Example 70: The camera of example 48, wherein f / # < 2.5.

[0321] Example 71: The camera of example 48, wherein SD / EFL>0.5.

[0322] Example 72: The camera of example 48, wherein a mechanical module height HM = MHM + 1.5mm, and wherein SD / HM > 1.

[0323] Example 73: The camera of example 72, wherein SD / HM > 1.1.

[0324] Example 74: The camera of example 48, wherein a mechanical module height HM = MHM + 1.5mm and wherein HM < 12.5mm.

[0325] Example 75: The camera of example 48, wherein a mechanical module height HM = MHM + 1.5mm, and wherein HM < 11mm.

[0326] Example 76: The camera of example 48, wherein the OPFE is a prism.

[0327] Example 77: The camera of example 48, wherein N = 6, and wherein a power sequence of lens elements Li - L6 is according to Table 4 in the present disclosure.

[0328] Example 78: The camera of example 48, the camera having a total track length TTL, and wherein TTL / EFL < 1.5.

[0329] Example 79: The camera of example 48, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL and a back focal length BFL, and wherein BFL / TTL < 0.2.

[0330] Example 80: The camera of example 48, wherein the camera has an aperture diameter DA in the range 8mm < DA < 11 mm.

[0331] Example 81 : The camera of example 48, wherein all lens elements are made of plastic.

[0332] Example 82: A mobile device including the camera of any of the examples 48-81, the mobile device having a device thickness T and a camera bump height B measured along OP1, wherein the camera bump region has an elevated height T+B measured along OP1, and wherein the camera is fully incorporated into the camera bump.

[0333] Example 83: The camera any of the examples 48-81, wherein the camera is included in a mobile device. Example 84: The camera of example 83, wherein the mobile device is a smartphone.

[0334] Example 85: A camera, including a lens having N > 6 lens elements divided into a first lens group G1 and a second lens group G2, an effective focal length EFL, an entrance pupil diameter DA and a f-number given by f / # = EFL / DA, wherein a first lens element Li faces an object side and a last lens element LN faces an image side, an image sensor, and an optical path folding element OPFE for folding a first optical path OP1 to a second optical path OP2, wherein the EFL is in the range of 10mm<EFL<35mm, wherein the camera is included a camera module having an optical shoulder height MHS measured along OP1, wherein DA > MHS, wherein G2 is located at an image side of the OPFE, and wherein the camera is focused by moving G2 along OP2 relative to Gl, the OPFE and the image sensor, and wherein f / # < 2.5.

[0335] Example 86: The camera of example 85, wherein DA > l.lx MHS.

[0336] Example 87: The camera of example 85, wherein DA > 1.2x MHS.

[0337] Example 88: The camera of example 85, the camera module having an optical module height MHM > MHS measured along OP1, and wherein DA > MHM.

[0338] Example 89: The camera of example 85, wherein f / # < 2.25.

[0339] Example 90: The camera of example 85, wherein f / # < 2.1.

[0340] Example 91: The camera of example 85, wherein 20mm < EFL <30mm, and wherein DA is in the range 9mm < DA < 15mm.

[0341] Example 92: The camera of example 85, wherein 22.5mm< EFL <27.5mm, and wherein DA is in the range 10mm < DA < 14mm.

[0342] Example 93: The camera of example 85, wherein the camera is focused by moving G2 away from the image sensor.

[0343] Example 94: The camera of example 85, wherein the camera is focused by moving G2 away from the image sensor.

[0344] Example 95: The camera of example 85, wherein both Gl and G2 have positive lens powers.

[0345] Example 96: The camera of example 85, wherein Li is located at an object side of the OPFE.

[0346] Example 97: The camera of example 85, wherein L2 - LN are located at an image side of the OPFE. Example 98: The camera of example 85, wherein G1 includes one or more lens elements located at an object side of the OPFE and having a lens optical axis parallel to OP1 and one or more lens elements located at an image side of the OPFE and having a lens optical axis parallel to OP2.

[0347] Example 99: The camera of example 85, wherein G1 includes one lens element located at an object side of the OPFE and having a lens optical axis parallel to OP1 and one lens element located at an image side of the OPFE and having a lens optical axis parallel to OP2.

[0348] Example 100: The camera of example 85, wherein a reflecting surface of the OPFE is oriented at an angle a with respect to OP1, and wherein 40 < α ≤ 45 degrees.

[0349] Example 101 : The camera of example 100, wherein 41 < α ≤ 42 degrees.

[0350] Example 102: The camera of example 85, the image sensor having a full image sensor diagonal (SD), and wherein a ratio SD / EFL fulfills 0.35 < SD / EFL < 0.65.

[0351] Example 103: The camera of example 102, wherein 0.4 < SD / EFL < 0.5.

[0352] Example 104: The camera of example 85, wherein 20mm< EFL <30mm.

[0353] Example 105: The camera of example 85, wherein 22.5mm< EFL <27.5mm.

[0354] Example 106: The camera of example 85, wherein a focal length of Li is fi, and wherein fi < EFL.

[0355] Example 107: The camera of example 85, wherein LN is a cut lens element.

[0356] Example 108: The camera of example 85, wherein N = 6, and wherein a power sequence of lens elements Li - L6 is according to Table 9 in the present disclosure.

[0357] Example 109: The camera of example 85, wherein Li is made of glass, and wherein L2- LN are made of plastic.

[0358] Example 110: The camera of example 85, wherein the OPFE is a prism.

[0359] Example 111 : The camera of example 85, wherein a mechanical module height HM = MHM + 1.5mm, and wherein HM < 15mm.

[0360] Example 112: The camera of example 85, wherein a mechanical module height HM = MHM + 1.5mm, and wherein HM < 13.5mm.

[0361] Example 113: A mobile device including the camera of any of the examples 85-112, the mobile device having a device thickness T and a camera bump height B measured along 0P1, wherein the camera bump region has an elevated height T+B measured along OP1, and wherein the camera is fully incorporated into the camera bump.

[0362] Example 114: A mobile device including the camera of any of the examples 85-112, the mobile device having a device thickness T and a camera bump height B measured along OP1, wherein the camera bump region has an elevated height T+B measured along OP1, and wherein the module region is incorporated into the camera bump, and the shoulder region is not incorporated into the camera bump.

[0363] Example 115: The camera any of the examples 85-112, wherein the camera is included in a mobile device.

[0364] Example 116: The camera of example 115, wherein the mobile device is a smartphone.

[0365] Example 117: A camera including a first lens group G1 including Ni>l lens elements Li wherein l<i<Ni, an object-side optical path folding element (O-OPFE) for folding a first optical path (OP1) to a second optical path (OP2), a second lens group G2 including N2>1 lens elements Li wherein l<i<N2, wherein a first lens element of the second lens group faces the O-OPFE, and an image sensor, wherein a first lens element Li faces an object side, a last lens elements LN faces the image sensor, the first lens group G1 includes one or more lens elements located on the object side of the O-OPFE, the OP1 is defined by an optic axis of the one or more lens elements of G1 that are located on an object side of the O-OPFE, the second lens group G2 is on the image side of the O-OPFE, the OP2 is defined by an optic axis of the second lens group G2, the camera is arranged to provide optical image stabilization (OIS) by shifting direction of OP2 by an angle of ±1 degree or more from a central direction of OP2, the camera has an effective focal length EFL in a range of 10mm<EFL<35mm, and an angle between OP1 and OP2 is less than 90 degrees.

[0366] Example 118: The camera according to example 117 wherein an angle between a normal to a reflecting surface of the O-OPFE to OP1 is different from 45 degrees.

[0367] Example 119: The camera according to any one of examples 117-118 wherein an angle between a normal to a reflecting surface of the O-OPFE to OP1 is smaller than 45 degrees. Example 120: The camera according to any one of examples 117-119 wherein the O-OPFE is a prism and an angle between a normal to a reflecting surface of the O-OPFE to a light receiving surface of the O-OPFE is different from 45 degrees.

[0368] Example 121 : The camera according to any one of examples 117-120 wherein the camera has an f-number (f / #) given by f / # = EFL / DA and wherein f / # < 2.5.

[0369] Example 122: The camera according to any one of examples 117-121 wherein the camera is included in a camera module having an optical shoulder height MHS measured along OP1 and DA > MHS,

[0370] Example 123: The camera according to any one of examples 117-122 wherein the camera is focused by moving G2 along OP2 relative to Gl, the O-OPFE and the image sensor.

[0371] Example 124:The camera according to any one of examples 117-123, and further including an image- sensor side optical path folding element I-OPFE between G2 and the image sensor for folding the second optical path OP2 to a third optical path (OP3), the I- OPFE folds the OP2 to the OP3 by a second angle, and the angle between OP2 and OP3 second angle is less than 90 degrees.

[0372] Example 125: The camera according to example 124 wherein the angle between OP1 and OP2 is equal to the angle between OP2 and OP3.

[0373] Example 126: The camera of any one of examples 117-125, wherein one of the lens elements Li is a cut lens element.

[0374] Example 127: The camera according to any one of examples 117-126, wherein the camera includes exactly one lens element in the first lens group Gl .

[0375] Example 128: The camera according to any one of examples 117-127, wherein lens element L2 is attached to the O-OPFE.

[0376] Example 129: The camera according to any one of examples 117-127, wherein lens element L2 and lens element L3 are both attached to the O-OPFE.

[0377] Example 130: The camera according to any one of examples 117-129, including an optical filter between G2 and the image sensor.

[0378] Example 131 : The camera according to any one of examples 117-128, including an optical filter placed between G2 and the image sensor, at a distance from the image sensor, where the distance is in a range between 100 and 500 microns. Example 132: The camera according to any one of examples 117-131 wherein the camera has an entrance pupil diameter DA, an f-number (f / #) given by f / # = EFL / DA, the image sensor has a full sensor diagonal SD and a sensor height SH, the camera is included within a camera shoulder having a camera shoulder height MHS measured along OP1, and DA > MHS.

[0379] Example 133: The camera according to any one of examples 117-132 wherein f / # = EFL / DA is smaller than 3.

[0380] Example 134: The camera according to any one of examples 117-132 wherein f / # = EFL / DA is smaller than 2.5.

[0381] Example 135: The camera according to any one of examples 117-132 wherein f / # = EFL / DA is smaller than 2.25.

[0382] Example 136: The camera according to any one of examples 117-135 wherein EFL is in a range from 15 mm to 30 mm.

[0383] Example 137: The camera according to any one of examples 117-135 wherein EFL is in a range from 20 mm to 25 mm.

[0384] Example 138: A method of folding an optical path within a camera including providing a camera including a first lens group G1 including N>1 lens elements Li wherein l<i<N, an object-side optical path folding element (O-OPFE) for folding a first optical path (OP1) to a second optical path (OP2), a second lens group G2 including N>1 lens elements Li wherein l<i<N, wherein a first lens element Li of the second lens group faces the O- OPFE, and an image sensor, wherein the first lens group G1 is on the object side of the O- OPFE, the OP1 is defined by an optic axis of the first lens group Gl, the second lens group G2 is on the object side of the O-OPFE, the OP2 is defined by an optic axis of the second lens group G2, and the camera is included in a camera module having an optical module height MHM measured along OP1, wherein the camera module has an optical camera module length ML measured perpendicular to OP1, and using the O-OPFE to fold the OP1 to the OP2 by an angle different from 90 degrees, thereby increasing an effective focal length of the camera without increasing LM.

[0385] Example 139: The method according to example 138 wherein the angle is less than 90 degrees. Example 140: The method according to example 139 wherein the camera further includes an image- sensor side optical path folding element I-OPFE between G2 and the image sensor for folding the second optical path OP2 to a third optical path (OP3), and using the I-OPFE to folds the OP2 to the OP3 by a second angle which is less than 90 degrees.

[0386] Example 141 : The method according to example 140 wherein the between OP1 and OP2 is equal to the angle between OP2 and OP3.

[0387] Example 142: A camera, including a lens having N > 6 lens elements Li where 1< i

[0388] < N, an effective focal length EFL, an entrance pupil diameter DA and a f-number given by f / # = EFL / DA, wherein a first lens element Li faces an object side and a last lens element LN faces an image side, an image sensor having a full sensor diagonal SD and a sensor height SH, a first object-side optical path folding element O-OPFE for folding a first optical path OP1 to a second optical path OP2, a second image-side optical path folding element I- OPFE for folding OP2 to a third optical path OP3, wherein the EFL is in a range of 15mm

[0389] < EFL < 25mm, the camera includes a camera module having a first module region with an optical module height MHM and a second shoulder region with an optical shoulder region height MHS < MHM, both heights measured along OP1, the camera module has an optical camera module length LM measured along OP2, DA > MHS + 0.6mm, and the camera is operational to provide optical image stabilization OIS over an OIS angle of ±1 degree or more.

[0390] Example 143: The camera according to example 142 wherein a first lens element Li is located at the object side of the O-OPFE, and lens elements L2-LN are located at image side of the O-OPFE.

[0391] Example 144: The camera according to any one of examples 142-143 wherein the O-OPFE includes a prism.

[0392] Example 145: The camera according to any one of examples 142-144 wherein the I-OPFE includes a prism.

[0393] Example 146: The camera according to any one of examples 142-145, wherein a reflecting surface of the O-OPFE is oriented at an angle a with respect to OP1, and wherein 45 < α ≤ 60 degrees. Example 147: The camera according to any one of examples 142-146, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL, and TTL / EFL < 1.5.

[0394] Example 148: The camera according to any one of examples 142-146, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL and a back focal length BFL, and BFL / TTL > 0.25.

[0395] Example 149: A camera, including a lens having N > 6 lens elements Li where 1< i < N, an effective focal length EFL, an entrance pupil diameter DA and a f-number given by f / # = EFL / DA, wherein a first lens element LI faces an object side and a last lens element LN faces an image side, an image sensor having a full sensor diagonal SD and a sensor height SH, an optical path folding element OPFE for folding a first optical path OP1 to a second optical path OP2, wherein the EFL is in the range of 10mm < EFL < 35mm, the camera includes a camera module having an optical module height MHM measured along OP1, wherein the camera module has an optical camera module length LM measured along OP2, DA / MHM > 0.9, and the camera is operational to provide optical image stabilization OIS over an OIS angle of ±1 degree or more.

[0396] Example 150: The camera according to example 149 wherein DA / MHS > 1.1.

[0397] Example 151 : The camera according to any one of examples 149- 150 wherein a first lens element Li is located at an object side of the OPFE, and lens elements L2-LN are located at an image side of the OPFE.

[0398] Example 152: The camera according to any one of examples 149-151, wherein a reflecting surface of the OPFE is oriented at an angle β with respect to OP1, and wherein 45 < 0 < 60 degrees.

[0399] Example 153: The camera according to any one of examples 149-152, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL, and TTL / EFL < 1.5.

[0400] Example 154: The camera according to any one of examples 149-152, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL and a back focal length BFL, and wherein BFL / TTL < 0.2.

[0401] As such, those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, can appreciate that while the present invention has been described in terms of preferred examples, the concept upon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, systems and processes for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention.

[0402] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and algorithm steps described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. The described functionality can be implemented in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing any departure from the scope of the disclosure.

[0403] It will also be understood that the system according to the present disclosure may be, at least partly, implemented on a suitably programmed computer. Likewise, the present disclosure contemplates a computer program being readable by a computer for executing the method of the invention. The present disclosure further contemplates a non-transitory computer-readable memory tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the computer for executing the method of the present disclosure.

[0404] Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0405] It should be noted that the words “comprising”, "including" and "having" as used throughout the appended claims are to be interpreted to mean “including but not limited to”. The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases, and disjunctively present in other cases.

[0406] It is important, therefore, that the scope of the invention is not construed as being limited by the illustrative examples set forth herein. Other variations are possible within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. Other combinations and sub-combinations of features, functions, elements and / or properties may be claimed through amendment of the present claims or presentation of new claims in this or a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to different combinations or directed to the same combinations, whether different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are also regarded as included within the subject matter of the present description.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A camera comprising: a first lens group G1 comprising Ni>l lens elements Li wherein l<i<Ni; an object-side optical path folding element (O-OPFE) for folding a first optical path (OP1) to a second optical path (OP2); a second lens group G2 comprising N2>1 lens elements Li wherein l<i<N2, wherein a first lens element of the second lens group faces the O-OPFE; and an image sensor, wherein a first lens element Li faces an object side; a last lens elements LN faces the image sensor; the first lens group G1 comprises one or more lens elements located on the object side of the O-OPFE; the OP1 is defined by an optic axis of the one or more lens elements of G1 that are located on an object side of the O-OPFE; the second lens group G2 is on the image side of the O-OPFE; the OP2 is defined by an optic axis of the second lens group G2; the camera is arranged to provide optical image stabilization (OIS) by shifting direction of OP2 by an angle of ±1 degree or more from a central direction of OP2; the camera has an effective focal length EFL in a range of 10mm<EFL<35mm; and an angle between OP1 and OP2 is less than 90 degrees.

2. The camera according to claim 1 wherein an angle between a normal to a reflecting surface of the O-OPFE to OP1 is different from 45 degrees.

3. The camera according to any one of claims 1 -2 wherein an angle between a normal to a reflecting surface of the O-OPFE to OP1 is smaller than 45 degrees.

4. The camera according to any one of claims 1-3 wherein the O-OPFE is a prism and an angle between a normal to a reflecting surface of the O-OPFE to a light receiving surface of the O-OPFE is different from 45 degrees.

5. The camera according to any one of claims 1 -4 wherein the camera has an f-number (f / #) given by f / # = EFL / DA and wherein f / # < 2.5.

6. The camera according to any one of claims 1-5 wherein the camera is included in a camera module having an optical shoulder height MHS measured along OP1 and DA > MHS;7. The camera according to any one of claims 1-6 wherein the camera is focused by moving G2 along OP2 relative to G1 , the O-OPFE and the image sensor.

8. The camera according to any one of claims 1-7, and further comprising: an image- sensor side optical path folding element I-OPFE between G2 and the image sensor for folding the second optical path OP2 to a third optical path (OP3); the I-OPFE folds the OP2 to the OP3 by a second angle; and the angle between OP2 and OP3 second angle is less than 90 degrees.

9. The camera according to claim 8 wherein the angle between OP1 and OP2 is equal to the angle between OP2 and OP3.

10. The camera of any one of claims 1 -9, wherein one of the lens elements Li is a cut lens element.

11. The camera according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the camera includes exactly one lens element in the first lens group G1.

12. The camera according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein lens element L2 is attached to the O-OPFE.

13. The camera according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein lens element L2 and lens element L3 are both attached to the O-OPFE.

14. The camera according to any one of claims 1-13, comprising an optical filter between G2 and the image sensor.

15. The camera according to any one of claims 1-12, comprising an optical filter placed between G2 and the image sensor, at a distance from the image sensor, where the distance is in a range between 100 and 500 microns.

16. The camera according to any one of claims 1-15 wherein: the camera has an entrance pupil diameter DA; an f-number (f / #) given by f / # = EFL / DA; the image sensor has a full sensor diagonal SD and a sensor height SH; the camera is comprised within a camera shoulder having a camera shoulder height MHS measured along OP1; andDA ≥ MHS.

17. The camera according to any one of claims 1-16 wherein f / # = EFL / DA is smaller than 3.

18. The camera according to any one of claims 1-16 wherein f / # = EFL / DA is smaller than 2.5.

19. The camera according to any one of claims 1-16 wherein f / # = EFL / DA is smaller than 2.25.

20. The camera according to any one of claims 1-19 wherein EFL is in a range from 15 mm to 30 mm.

21. The camera according to any one of claims 1-19 wherein EFL is in a range from 20 mm to 25 mm.

22. A method of folding an optical path within a camera comprising: providing a camera comprising: a first lens group G1 comprising N>1 lens elements Li wherein l≤i≤N; an object-side optical path folding element (O-OPFE) for folding a first optical path (OP1) to a second optical path (OP2); a second lens group G2 comprising N>1 lens elements Li wherein l≤i≤N, wherein a first lens element Li of the second lens group faces the O-OPFE; and an image sensor, wherein the first lens group G1 is on the object side of the O-OPFE; the OP1 is defined by an optic axis of the first lens group G1 ; the second lens group G2 is on the object side of the O-OPFE; the OP2 is defined by an optic axis of the second lens group G2; and the camera is included in a camera module having an optical module height MHM measured along OP1, wherein the camera module has an optical camera module length ML measured perpendicular to OP1, and using the O-OPFE to fold the OP1 to the OP2 by an angle different from 90 degrees, thereby increasing an effective focal length of the camera without increasing LM.

23. The method according to claim 22 wherein the angle is less than 90 degrees.

24. The method according to claim 23 wherein: the camera further comprises an image- sensor side optical path folding element I- OPFE between G2 and the image sensor for folding the second optical path OP2 to a third optical path (OP3), and using the LOPFE to folds the OP2 to the OP3 by a second angle which is less than 90 degrees.

25. The method according to claim 24 wherein the between OP1 and OP2 is equal to the angle between OP2 and OP3.

26. A camera, comprising: a lens having N > 6 lens elements Li where 1< i < N, an effective focal length EFL, an entrance pupil diameter DA and a f-number given by f / # = EFL / DA, wherein a first lens element Li faces an object side and a last lens element LN faces an image side; an image sensor having a full sensor diagonal SD and a sensor height SH; a first object-side optical path folding element O-OPFE for folding a first optical path OP1 to a second optical path OP2; a second image-side optical path folding element LOPFE for folding OP2 to a third optical path OP3, wherein: the EFL is in a range of 15mm < EFL < 25mm; the camera comprises a camera module having a first module region with an optical module height MHM and a second shoulder region with an optical shoulder region height MHS < MHM, both heights measured along OP1 ; the camera module has an optical camera module length LM measured along OP2;DA > MHS + 0.6mm; and the camera is operational to provide optical image stabilization OIS over an OIS angle of ±1 degree or more.

27. The camera according to claim 26 wherein a first lens element Li is located at the object side of the O-OPFE, and lens elements L2-LN are located at image side of the O- OPFE.

28. The camera according to any one of claims 26-27 wherein the O-OPFE comprises a prism.

29. The camera according to any one of claims 26-28 wherein the LOPFE comprises a prism.

30. The camera according to any one of claims 26-29, wherein a reflecting surface of the O-OPFE is oriented at an angle a with respect to OP1, and wherein 45 < α ≤ 60 degrees.

31. The camera according to any one of claims 26-30, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL, and TTL / EFL < 1.5.

32. The camera according to any one of claims 26-30, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL and a back focal length BFL, and BFL / TTL > 0.25.

33. A camera, comprising: a lens having N > 6 lens elements Li where 1< i < N, an effective focal length EFL, an entrance pupil diameter DA and a f-number given by f / # = EFL / DA, wherein a first lens element LI faces an object side and a last lens element LN faces an image side; an image sensor having a full sensor diagonal SD and a sensor height SH; an optical path folding element OPFE for folding a first optical path OP1 to a second optical path OP2, wherein: the EFL is in the range of 10mm < EFL < 35mm; the camera comprises a camera module having an optical module height MHM measured along OP1, wherein the camera module has an optical camera module length LM measured along OP2;DA / MHM > 0.9; and the camera is operational to provide optical image stabilization OIS over an OIS angle of ±1 degree or more.

34. The camera according to claim 33 wherein DA / MHS > 1.1.

35. The camera according to any one of claims 33-34 wherein a first lens element Li is located at an object side of the OPFE, and lens elements L2-LN are located at an image side of the OPFE.

36. The camera according to any one of claims 33-35, wherein a reflecting surface of the OPFE is oriented at an angle 0 with respect to OP1, and wherein 45 < 0 < 60 degrees.

37. The camera according to any one of claims 33-36, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL, and TTL / EFL < 1.5.

38. The camera according to any one of claims 33-36, wherein the camera has a total track length TTL and a back focal length BFL, and wherein BFL / TTL < 0.2.

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