Stuart Brodie

In some embodiments, a camera actuator includes an actuator base, an autofocus voice coil motor, and an optical image stabilization voice coil motor. In some embodiments, the autofocus voice coil motor includes a lens carrier mounting attachment moveably mounted to the actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the base, and an autofocus coil fixedly mounted to the lens carrier mounting attachment for producing forces for moving a lens carrier in a direction of an optical axis of… Show more

In some embodiments, a camera actuator includes an actuator base, an autofocus voice coil motor, and an optical image stabilization voice coil motor. In some embodiments, the autofocus voice coil motor includes a lens carrier mounting attachment moveably mounted to the actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the base, and an autofocus coil fixedly mounted to the lens carrier mounting attachment for producing forces for moving a lens carrier in a direction of an optical axis of one or more lenses of the lens carrier. In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization voice coil motor includes an image sensor carrier moveably mounted to the actuator base, and optical image stabilization coils moveably mounted to the image sensor carrier within the magnetic fields of the shared magnets, for producing forces for moving the image sensor carrier in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis. Show less

Some embodiments provide an apparatus for controlling the motion of a camera component. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an actuator module. The actuator module includes a plurality of magnets. Each magnet of the plurality of magnets is poled with magnetic domains substantially aligned in the same direction throughout each magnet. The apparatus further includes a coil rigidly disposed around a lens. Each magnet of the plurality of magnets contributes to the forces to adjust focus of… Show more

Some embodiments provide an apparatus for controlling the motion of a camera component. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an actuator module. The actuator module includes a plurality of magnets. Each magnet of the plurality of magnets is poled with magnetic domains substantially aligned in the same direction throughout each magnet. The apparatus further includes a coil rigidly disposed around a lens. Each magnet of the plurality of magnets contributes to the forces to adjust focus of the lens based on Lorentz forces generated from the coil. Show less

Some embodiments include a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that includes an additive coil structure for shifting a lens along one or multiple axes. The additive coil structure may include a base portion configured to couple with a lens carrier and at least partially surround a perimeter of the lens carrier. In various examples, the additive coil structure may include folded portions that individually include a respective coil that is located proximate a respective magnet. According to… Show more

Some embodiments include a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that includes an additive coil structure for shifting a lens along one or multiple axes. The additive coil structure may include a base portion configured to couple with a lens carrier and at least partially surround a perimeter of the lens carrier. In various examples, the additive coil structure may include folded portions that individually include a respective coil that is located proximate a respective magnet. According to various embodiments, the additive coil structure may be formed using an additive process. Show less

A folded camera may include folded optics arrangement positioned optically in front of an image sensor. The folded optics arrangement may include one or more light-folding elements and a lens group having one or more lens elements. Light may pass through the folded optics arrangement, within which the light be folded or redirected by the light-folding element, to focus on an image plane on the image sensor. The folded camera may include a shape-memory actuator having one or more shape-memory… Show more

A folded camera may include folded optics arrangement positioned optically in front of an image sensor. The folded optics arrangement may include one or more light-folding elements and a lens group having one or more lens elements. Light may pass through the folded optics arrangement, within which the light be folded or redirected by the light-folding element, to focus on an image plane on the image sensor. The folded camera may include a shape-memory actuator having one or more shape-memory elements, whose lengths and/or shapes may be controlled by regulating individual temperatures of the shape-memory elements. The shape-memory actuator may move the lens group relative to the image sensor to implement various autofocus (AF) functions. The folded camera may include a voice coil motor (VCM) which may be controlled to move the image sensor relative to the lens group to perform various optical image stabilization (OIS) functions. Show less

Some embodiments include a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator configured to shift a lens and/or an image sensor along multiple axes. The VCM actuator may include a bottom flexure and a top flexure that connect one or more dynamic members to one or more static members. The VCM actuator may include stationary magnets and coils held by dynamic members. In some cases, the VCM actuator may be configured to move the image sensor along an optical axis, to move the image sensor in directions… Show more

Some embodiments include a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator configured to shift a lens and/or an image sensor along multiple axes. The VCM actuator may include a bottom flexure and a top flexure that connect one or more dynamic members to one or more static members. The VCM actuator may include stationary magnets and coils held by dynamic members. In some cases, the VCM actuator may be configured to move the image sensor along an optical axis, to move the image sensor in directions orthogonal to the optical axis, and/or to tilt the image sensor relative to the orthogonal axis. In some examples, the VCM actuator may be configured to move the image sensor in directions orthogonal to the optical axis, to move the lens along the optical axis, and/or to tilt the lens relative to the optical axis. Show less

A hybrid sensor shift platform for an optical image stabilization (OIS) actuator mechanism in compact camera modules includes two or more substrates. A top substrate is composed of an organic material (e.g., a resin) to reduce mass, reduce magnetic interaction with permanent magnets, and improve reliability. One or more lower substrates of the hybrid sensor shift platform are ceramic substrates that provide the benefits of ceramics for connection to the image sensor. The organic substrate is… Show more

A hybrid sensor shift platform for an optical image stabilization (OIS) actuator mechanism in compact camera modules includes two or more substrates. A top substrate is composed of an organic material (e.g., a resin) to reduce mass, reduce magnetic interaction with permanent magnets, and improve reliability. One or more lower substrates of the hybrid sensor shift platform are ceramic substrates that provide the benefits of ceramics for connection to the image sensor. The organic substrate is connected via a solder bond process to the lower ceramic substrate(s). The connection between the substrates is reinforced with an under-fill of epoxy that surrounds the solder bonds, thus creating a full interface between the substrates within the overlap. Show less

A camera may include an image sensor and an optics assembly that may include a light folding element and a lens group having one or more lenses. The light folding element be placed optically between the image sensor and the lens group, and may redirect light passing through the lens group to the image sensor.

Some embodiments include a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that includes an additive coil structure for shifting a lens along one or multiple axes. The additive coil structure may include a base portion configured to couple with a lens carrier and at least partially surround a perimeter of the lens carrier. In various examples, the additive coil structure may include folded portions that individually include a respective coil that is located proximate a respective magnet. According to… Show more

Some embodiments include a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that includes an additive coil structure for shifting a lens along one or multiple axes. The additive coil structure may include a base portion configured to couple with a lens carrier and at least partially surround a perimeter of the lens carrier. In various examples, the additive coil structure may include folded portions that individually include a respective coil that is located proximate a respective magnet. According to various embodiments, the additive coil structure may be formed using an additive process. Show less

In some embodiments, a camera actuator includes an actuator base, an autofocus voice coil motor, and an optical image stabilization voice coil motor. In some embodiments, the autofocus voice coil motor includes a lens carrier mounting attachment moveably mounted to the actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the base, and an autofocus coil fixedly mounted to the lens carrier mounting attachment for producing forces for moving a lens carrier in a direction of an optical axis of… Show more

In some embodiments, a camera actuator includes an actuator base, an autofocus voice coil motor, and an optical image stabilization voice coil motor. In some embodiments, the autofocus voice coil motor includes a lens carrier mounting attachment moveably mounted to the actuator base, a plurality of shared magnets mounted to the base, and an autofocus coil fixedly mounted to the lens carrier mounting attachment for producing forces for moving a lens carrier in a direction of an optical axis of one or more lenses of the lens carrier. In some embodiments, the optical image stabilization voice coil motor includes an image sensor carrier moveably mounted to the actuator base, and optical image stabilization coils moveably mounted to the image sensor carrier within the magnetic fields of the shared magnets, for producing forces for moving the image sensor carrier in a plurality of directions orthogonal to the optical axis. Show less

A camera module includes a lens carrier that houses a lens, electrical components of optical path modifiers positioned on the lens carrier, an image sensor, and a controller that is to generate commands for operating the optical path modifiers. A printed circuit assembly positioned on the lens carrier is electrically coupled to suspension wires. The printed circuit assembly includes a printed circuit that has installed thereon a serial bus communications interface circuit that is to receive the… Show more

A camera module includes a lens carrier that houses a lens, electrical components of optical path modifiers positioned on the lens carrier, an image sensor, and a controller that is to generate commands for operating the optical path modifiers. A printed circuit assembly positioned on the lens carrier is electrically coupled to suspension wires. The printed circuit assembly includes a printed circuit that has installed thereon a serial bus communications interface circuit that is to receive the commands from the controller through one of the suspension wires, and a translation circuit that is to translate the commands into control signals that are to operate or drive the optical path modifiers via the electrical components and according to the commands, respectively. Other embodiments are also described. Show less

Compact camera modules that may be used in small form factor devices. The camera module may include a lens holder configured to receive one or more lens elements and a photosensor. In some embodiments, the lens holder may define a first recess for receiving the lens elements and a second recess for receiving one or more other components, such as the photosensor. In some embodiments, the photosensor may be configured to communicate with a flex circuit board without coupling the photosensor to a… Show more

Compact camera modules that may be used in small form factor devices. The camera module may include a lens holder configured to receive one or more lens elements and a photosensor. In some embodiments, the lens holder may define a first recess for receiving the lens elements and a second recess for receiving one or more other components, such as the photosensor. In some embodiments, the photosensor may be configured to communicate with a flex circuit board without coupling the photosensor to a substrate to form a flip chip that communicates with the flex circuit board. The photosensor may be optically aligned with the lens elements and bonded to the lens holder such that the photosensor is fixed in an aligned position and at least partially enclosed by the lens holder. Show less

A camera module includes a lens barrel holder and a substrate. The substrate may include a circuit board embedded in the substrate. The circuit board may include multiple electrical components mounted to a first side of the circuit board, where the electrical components are not exposed outside. The circuit board may also include multiple electrical connections on another side of the circuit board, an image sensor mounted to the electrical connections, and an upper opening in the circuit board… Show more

A camera module includes a lens barrel holder and a substrate. The substrate may include a circuit board embedded in the substrate. The circuit board may include multiple electrical components mounted to a first side of the circuit board, where the electrical components are not exposed outside. The circuit board may also include multiple electrical connections on another side of the circuit board, an image sensor mounted to the electrical connections, and an upper opening in the circuit board for light to pass through. The substrate may include an upper opening configured to receive, at least partially inside the substrate, a lower portion of the lens barrel holder. The substrate may include a lower opening connected to the upper opening and configured to receive the image sensor. The lens barrel holder may include extensions, such as a flange or tabs, and an adhesive bond between the extensions and the substrate. Show less

Some embodiments provide an apparatus for controlling the motion of a camera component. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an actuator module. The actuator module includes a plurality of magnets. Each magnet of the plurality of magnets is poled with magnetic domains substantially aligned in the same direction throughout each magnet. The apparatus further includes a coil rigidly disposed around a lens. Each magnet of the plurality of magnets contributes to the forces to adjust focus of… Show more

Some embodiments provide an apparatus for controlling the motion of a camera component. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an actuator module. The actuator module includes a plurality of magnets. Each magnet of the plurality of magnets is poled with magnetic domains substantially aligned in the same direction throughout each magnet. The apparatus further includes a coil rigidly disposed around a lens. Each magnet of the plurality of magnets contributes to the forces to adjust focus of the lens based on Lorentz forces generated from the coil. Show less

In some embodiments, an apparatus includes an optics assembly housing an optics component. In some embodiments, the optics assembly is configured to move within the apparatus. In some embodiments, the optics assembly is suspended by a plurality of wires on a base component of the apparatus. In some embodiments, one or more passive dampers disposed around the plurality of wires. In some embodiments, the passive dampers are configured to passively dampen motions of the optics assembly within the… Show more

In some embodiments, an apparatus includes an optics assembly housing an optics component. In some embodiments, the optics assembly is configured to move within the apparatus. In some embodiments, the optics assembly is suspended by a plurality of wires on a base component of the apparatus. In some embodiments, one or more passive dampers disposed around the plurality of wires. In some embodiments, the passive dampers are configured to passively dampen motions of the optics assembly within the apparatus, and each of the one or more passive dampers radially surrounds a portion of a length of a respective one of the plurality of wires over a portion of the length of the respective one of the plurality of wires. Show less

Some embodiments provide an actuator module for optical image stabilization of a lens assembly relative to an image sensor in a camera. In some embodiments, the actuator module includes a coil mounting structure. One or more optical image stabilization (OIS) coils is mounted to the coil mounting structure. The actuator module further includes a lens assembly structure configured to hold a lens assembly. One or more autofocus coils is affixed to the lens assembly structure. The actuator module… Show more

Some embodiments provide an actuator module for optical image stabilization of a lens assembly relative to an image sensor in a camera. In some embodiments, the actuator module includes a coil mounting structure. One or more optical image stabilization (OIS) coils is mounted to the coil mounting structure. The actuator module further includes a lens assembly structure configured to hold a lens assembly. One or more autofocus coils is affixed to the lens assembly structure. The actuator module further includes a spring assembly for coupling the coil mounting structure to the lens assembly structure, such that the lens assembly structure is movable relative to the coil mounting structure. The actuator module further includes a plurality of trapezoidal magnets affixed to the lens assembly structure for magnetic interaction with one or more of the one or more optical image stabilization coils and the one or more autofocus coils. Show less

In some embodiments, an image sensor mechanically coupled to a base of a camera module. A coil assembly is mechanically coupled to the base of the camera module. The coil assembly includes terminals for connections to respective ones of coils through leads routed through thin areas leading to coil housings. The coils include optical image stabilization coils mounted perpendicular to the image sensor on each of a plurality of faces of the camera actuator module.

In some embodiments, the actuator module includes an voice coil motor base, a coil rigidly attached to the voice coil motor base, a lens movement mechanism suspended on the voice coil motor base by a suspension means configured to limit relative motion in linear directions orthogonal to an optical axis of the miniature camera, and a plurality of magnets rigidly mounted to the lens movement mechanism.

A camera module including a camera module carrier having a lens actuator attached thereto and at least two conductive carrier traces that are electrically connected to electrical contact points of the lens actuator. The camera module having a lens barrel connected to the camera module carrier, the lens barrel having a first conductive barrel trace and a second conductive barrel trace formed therein, the first conductive barrel trace and the second conductive barrel trace forming an alternating… Show more

A camera module including a camera module carrier having a lens actuator attached thereto and at least two conductive carrier traces that are electrically connected to electrical contact points of the lens actuator. The camera module having a lens barrel connected to the camera module carrier, the lens barrel having a first conductive barrel trace and a second conductive barrel trace formed therein, the first conductive barrel trace and the second conductive barrel trace forming an alternating pattern of first contact regions and second contact regions along a top edge of the lens barrel and being electrically connected to respective ones of the at least two conductive carrier traces such that electrical signals can be routed between the camera module carrier and the lens barrel. The camera module further including an electronic device electrically connected to the lens actuator by the camera module carrier and the lens barrel. Show less

An artificial muscle structure has an electro-active polymer (EAP) layer having a frusto-conical shape and whose tip has an opening formed therein for use as a camera variable aperture. First, second and third electrode segments are formed on a rear face of the EAP layer. The second segment is positioned in a gap between the first and third segments so as to be electrically isolated from the first and third segments. The second segment has an opening formed therein that is aligned with the… Show more

An artificial muscle structure has an electro-active polymer (EAP) layer having a frusto-conical shape and whose tip has an opening formed therein for use as a camera variable aperture. First, second and third electrode segments are formed on a rear face of the EAP layer. The second segment is positioned in a gap between the first and third segments so as to be electrically isolated from the first and third segments. The second segment has an opening formed therein that is aligned with the opening in the EAP layer. A complementary electrode is formed on a front face of the EAP layer. Other embodiments are also described. Show less

An actuator module for optical image stabilization of a lens assembly relative to an image sensor in a camera includes a coil mounting structure. A plurality of optical image stabilization (OIS) coils is mounted to the coil mounting structure. Some embodiments include a lens assembly structure configured to hold a lens assembly. A plurality of magnets is affixed to the lens assembly structure. Some embodiments include a spring assembly for coupling the coil mounting structure to the lens… Show more

An actuator module for optical image stabilization of a lens assembly relative to an image sensor in a camera includes a coil mounting structure. A plurality of optical image stabilization (OIS) coils is mounted to the coil mounting structure. Some embodiments include a lens assembly structure configured to hold a lens assembly. A plurality of magnets is affixed to the lens assembly structure. Some embodiments include a spring assembly for coupling the coil mounting structure to the lens assembly structure, such that the lens assembly structure is movable relative to the coil mounting structure in a plane orthogonal to an optical axis of the lens assembly. The lens assembly comprises a light input side and an opposing light exit side for providing light for an image to an image sensor. The plurality of OIS coils is mounted closer to the light input side than the plurality of magnets. Show less

A compact optic design is disclosed in which an image capture device's cover glass (or other transparent material) is imbued with optic power and affixed directly to the device's housing. A lens barrel, in which one or more additional lens elements are mounted, may be aligned with the optical lens formed by the cover glass and an image sensor to provide a complete camera module.

This application relates primarily to various apparatus and method for securing and protecting a camera module within a device housing. The securing and protecting elements are configured to take up minimal space within the device housing so that available space for the camera module is maximized. In some embodiments the securing elements can also include grounding features.

A camera module has an image sensor and a lens assembly that includes a lens barrel having a first cylindrical portion that includes an externally threaded portion and a second cylindrical portion that has a larger diameter than the externally threaded portion. A lens moving mechanism includes a movable sleeve having internal threads that receive the externally threaded portion of the lens assembly. The lens moving mechanism is coupled to the image sensor such that the second cylindrical… Show more

A camera module has an image sensor and a lens assembly that includes a lens barrel having a first cylindrical portion that includes an externally threaded portion and a second cylindrical portion that has a larger diameter than the externally threaded portion. A lens moving mechanism includes a movable sleeve having internal threads that receive the externally threaded portion of the lens assembly. The lens moving mechanism is coupled to the image sensor such that the second cylindrical portion of the lens assembly is closest to the image sensor. The camera module is assembled by inserting the lens assembly into the lens moving mechanism from the side closest to the image sensor. An installation tool engages the second cylindrical portion to rotate the lens assembly and engage the externally threaded portion of the lens assembly with an internally threaded portion of a movable sleeve in the lens moving mechanism. Show less

A camera module includes a body having recesses in a first datum surface. A filleted edge may join the recesses to the first datum surface. An image sensor is coupled to the body at a known distance from the first datum surface. A movable lens mechanism includes a fixed portion and a movable portion. The fixed portion is coupled to the body. The movable portion includes a lens assembly and protrusions arranged to fit within the recesses in the first datum surface and to define a second datum… Show more

A camera module includes a body having recesses in a first datum surface. A filleted edge may join the recesses to the first datum surface. An image sensor is coupled to the body at a known distance from the first datum surface. A movable lens mechanism includes a fixed portion and a movable portion. The fixed portion is coupled to the body. The movable portion includes a lens assembly and protrusions arranged to fit within the recesses in the first datum surface and to define a second datum surface. A resilient stop plate covers the recesses in the first datum surface with an elastic sheet material. A spring may hold the protrusions in contact with the resilient stop plate when the movable lens mechanism is unpowered. The resilient stop plate may include a rigid support plate coupled to the body by heat staking. The elastic sheet material may be viscoelastic. Show less

A camera module has an image sensor and a lens assembly that includes a lens barrel having a first cylindrical portion that includes an externally threaded portion and a second cylindrical portion that has a larger diameter than the externally threaded portion. A lens moving mechanism includes a movable sleeve having internal threads that receive the externally threaded portion of the lens assembly. The lens moving mechanism is coupled to the image sensor such that the second cylindrical… Show more

A camera module has an image sensor and a lens assembly that includes a lens barrel having a first cylindrical portion that includes an externally threaded portion and a second cylindrical portion that has a larger diameter than the externally threaded portion. A lens moving mechanism includes a movable sleeve having internal threads that receive the externally threaded portion of the lens assembly. The lens moving mechanism is coupled to the image sensor such that the second cylindrical portion of the lens assembly is closest to the image sensor. The camera module is assembled by inserting the lens assembly into the lens moving mechanism from the side closest to the image sensor. An installation tool may engage the second cylindrical portion to rotate the lens assembly and engage the threaded portions. Features may be provided to retain the lens assembly in the lens moving mechanism before joining the threaded portions. Show less

An optical navigation device for a computer application includes a radiation source capable of producing a beam of radiation, a sensor for receiving an image, and an optical element for identifying movement of the feature to thereby enable a computer action to be carried out. The optical element is formed from a single piece and includes at least one frustrated total internal reflection (F-TIR) surface capable of affecting frustrated total internal reflection of the beam of radiation in the… Show more

An optical navigation device for a computer application includes a radiation source capable of producing a beam of radiation, a sensor for receiving an image, and an optical element for identifying movement of the feature to thereby enable a computer action to be carried out. The optical element is formed from a single piece and includes at least one frustrated total internal reflection (F-TIR) surface capable of affecting frustrated total internal reflection of the beam of radiation in the presence of the feature to thereby generate the image. Show less

An optical navigation device includes an optical transmission element, operable in use to transmit light from an illumination source to a sensor via a mousing surface, and a housing unit. The optical transmission element may have an alignment shaft. Ideally the optical transmission element and housing unit are assembled to a substrate by snap-fit. The alignment shaft ensures that the optics are properly aligned to the substrate and the light source and sensor thereon.

A camera module lens cap is provided to protect a camera module in a mobile device where the camera module is exposed. The camera module lens cap includes an optically transparent member for positioning adjacent a camera lens, and a housing for carrying the optically transparent member. The housing includes an overhanging lip for engaging a base of the camera module.

Multiple pole connectors are used in applications such as data communications networks and telecommunications networks. To enable such networks to transmit increased volume of data, it is necessary to increase the operating frequency, and hence the data transfer rate. To ensure compatibility with existing lower operating frequency networks, it is desirable to provide data communications connectors that can operate at high data rates while still remaining backward compatible with older, lower… Show more

Multiple pole connectors are used in applications such as data communications networks and telecommunications networks. To enable such networks to transmit increased volume of data, it is necessary to increase the operating frequency, and hence the data transfer rate. To ensure compatibility with existing lower operating frequency networks, it is desirable to provide data communications connectors that can operate at high data rates while still remaining backward compatible with older, lower data rate systems. Show less

A digital image sensor includes a planar substrate with one or more bonding pads on one side and a silicon chip with one or more bonding pads. The silicon chip is attached on the planar substrate through the one or more bonding pads. The attachment of the silicon chip to the planar substrate is performed in a manner such that the silicon chip, when attached, has a curved shape.

An optical navigation device includes an optical transmission element, operable in use to transmit light from an illumination source to a sensor via a mousing surface, and a housing unit. The optical transmission element may have an alignment shaft. Ideally the optical transmission element and housing unit are assembled to a substrate by snap-fit. The alignment shaft ensures that the optics are properly aligned to the substrate and the light source and sensor thereon.