Methods and apparatus for implementing and/or using a camera device

This invention describes a thin camera system that combines multiple individual camera units. Some of these units use a mirror to fold the light path, allowing for a longer lens system in a shallow device, while at least one unit does not use a mirror. The claims specifically describe a device with at least three camera units arranged vertically on a surface, where one mirror-based unit has a larger opening than the mirror-less unit.

Why it matters: Since 2019, the widespread adoption of periscope lenses in smartphones has validated the use of folded optics for thin devices, and computational photography has advanced significantly in combining images from diverse camera modules. This invention's specific multi-camera, mirror-folding architecture is now more feasible and relevant for achieving advanced optical capabilities in ultra-thin electronics.

Status: Not in forceListed as no longer active. The specific reason is not in the record we hold.
How hard to build: SpecializedCustom optics, image sensors, precise alignment

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