Folded Camera AF and OIS Using Lens Shift and OPFE Tilt
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folded-lens dual-aperture cameras face challenges in maintaining compact size while incorporating auto-focus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanisms, as conventional OIS methods either increase camera height or introduce image roll and computational complexity.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves dividing OIS functionality between lens module movement along one axis and OPFE tilt around a parallel axis, using flexible hanging members and coil-magnet pairs to achieve AF and OIS without increasing camera height, by shifting the lens module in the Y direction for AF and tilting the OPFE around the Y axis for OIS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional OIS methods are used in folded-lens dual-aperture cameras, then image stabilization is achieved, but camera height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The OIS function is segmented into two independent mechanisms: lens module movement along the optical axis and OPFE tilt around a parallel axis. This segmentation allows each component to contribute to stabilization without requiring increased overall camera height, as each mechanism operates independently within the existing compact structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces tilting the OPFE around an axis parallel to the optical axis, adding a rotational degree of freedom in a new dimension. This dimensional change enables OIS compensation without linear height increase, as the tilt mechanism operates within the lateral space rather than extending the optical path length.
2Reliability
If conventional OIS methods are used in folded-lens dual-aperture cameras, then image stabilization is achieved, but computational fusion time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting OIS into lens movement and OPFE tilt, the patent reduces the computational complexity required for image fusion. Each segmented mechanism can be controlled independently with simpler algorithms, reducing the time required to process and fuse images from multiple aperture cameras compared to a unified complex OIS system.
3Reliability
If conventional OIS methods are used in folded-lens dual-aperture cameras, then image stabilization is achieved, but image roll is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation of OIS into lens module movement and OPFE tilt allows independent control of each mechanism to compensate for different types of camera shake. The lens movement handles lateral stabilization while the OPFE tilt compensates for angular deviations, preventing the introduction of image roll that would occur with a single unified OIS mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the OPFE by allowing it to tilt around an axis parallel to the optical axis, rather than moving linearly as in conventional systems. This parameter change enables the OPFE to compensate for angular camera shake without introducing lateral image displacement or roll, maintaining image orientation stability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach maintains a compact camera design by effectively compensating for camera tilt, reducing computational fusion time, and preventing undesired image roll, thus enhancing image stabilization without increasing the camera's physical height.
Implementation Method 1
coil-magnet pairs to achieve AF and OIS
Implementation Method 2
flexible hanging members
Implementation Method 3
optical path folding element (referred to hereinafter as "OPFE") e.g. a prism or a mirror
Data Source
AI summary
Compact folded camera modules having auto-focus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) capabilities and multi-aperture cameras including such modules. In an embodiment, a folded camera module includes an optical path folding element (OPFE) for folding light from a first optical path with a first optical axis to a second optical path with a second optical axis perpendicular to the first optical axis, an image sensor and a lens module carrying a lens with a symmetry axis parallel to the second optical axis. The lens module can be actuated to move in first and second orthogonal directions in a plane perpendicular to the first optical axis, the movement in the first direction being for auto-focus and the movement in the second direction being for OIS. The OPFE can be actuated to tilt for OIS.