BACKGROUND Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to optical devices, and more specifically to variable focus devices that may be used in compact camera systems and lens systems.

Description of the Related Art

[0002] Compact cameras are increasingly being miniaturized and integrated in devices such as smartphones and tablets. It is desirable for such cameras to capture images at high resolutions and/or image quality. However, some existing compact cameras tend to capture images at lower resolutions and/or image quality than can be achieved with larger cameras. Thus, there is a demand to continually miniaturize cameras while also increasing resolution and/or improving image quality of such cameras.

[0003] Some compact cameras may include autofocus (AF) and/or optical image stabilization (OIS) mechanisms and functionality. To provide AF, the object focal distance can be adjusted to focus an obj ect plane or field in front of the camera at an image plane to be captured by an image sensor. As an example, a lens of the camera may move along an optical axis to achieve AF. To provide OIS, the lens of the camera may move in directions orthogonal to the optical axis to compensate for movement of the camera and/or a device that includes the camera, e.g., due to handshake. SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS

[0004] Some embodiments include a camera system. The camera system may include a lens stack, an image sensor, and a variable focus device. The lens stack may include one or more lens elements (e.g., within a body of the camera system). Furthermore, the lens elements of the lens stack may define an optical axis. The image sensor may be configured to capture light projected onto a surface of the image sensor. The variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis and between the lens stack and the image sensor. In various embodiments, the variable focus device may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities without the variable focus device causing movement of the lens stack. For instance, the optical functionalities may include variable optical power for correcting one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of an image captured at least partly via the image sensor. In some examples, the image may correspond to a macro image capture that includes field curvature effects, and the variable focus device may be configured to compensate for the field curvature effects.

[0005] In some examples, the variable focus device may be a bottom (or "lower") variable focus device, and the camera system may further include a top (or "upper") variable focus device. The bottom variable focus device may be disposed proximate a bottom (or "lower") side of the lens stack. The top variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis and proximate a top (or "upper") side of the lens stack that is opposite the bottom side of the lens stack. In some cases, the top variable focus device may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities without the top variable focus device causing movement of the lens stack. For instance, the optical functionalities provided by the top variable focus device may include autofocus and/or optical image stabilization.

[0006] In some examples, the camera system may include a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator configured to move the lens stack along the optical axis (e.g., to provide autofocus functionality for the camera system) and/or along a plane that is orthogonal to the optical axis (e.g., to provide optical image stabilization for the camera system). In some cases, the camera system may not include the top variable focus device, but may instead include the VCM actuator. That is, the VCM actuator may provide the optical functionalities that the top variable focus device would otherwise provide. However, in other cases, the camera system may include the VCM actuator and the top variable focus device. Furthermore, the camera system may include multiple top variable focus devices, bottom variable focus devices, and/or multiple VCM actuators.

[0007] Some embodiments include a mobile device (e.g., a mobile multifunction device). The mobile device may include a camera module, a display, and/or one or more processors. The camera module may include a lens stack, a photosensor, and a variable focus device. The lens stack may include one or more lens elements (e.g., within a body of the camera module). Furthermore, the lens elements may define an optical axis. The photosensor may be configured to capture light projected onto a surface of the photosensors. The variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis and between the lens stack and the photosensor. In various embodiments, the variable focus device may be configured to vary its optical power without causing movement of the lens stack.

[0008] In various examples, the mobile device may include one or more processors. The processor(s) may be configured to cause the variable focus device to vary its optical power to correct one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of an image captured at least partly via the photosensor. Furthermore, in some cases, the mobile device may include a display, and the processor(s) may be configured to cause the display to present the image.

[0009] In some examples, the variable focus device may be a bottom (or "lower") variable focus device, and the camera module may further include a top (or "upper") variable focus device. The bottom variable focus device may be disposed proximate a bottom (or "lower") side of the lens stack. The top variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis and proximate a top (or "upper") side of the lens stack that is opposite the bottom side of the lens stack. In some cases, the top variable focus device may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities without the top variable focus device causing movement of the lens stack. For instance, the optical functionalities provided by the top variable focus device may include autofocus and/or optical image stabilization.

[0010] Some embodiments include a method. The method may include actuating a first microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator of a top (or "upper") variable focus device of a camera to vary an optical power of the top variable focus device. For instance, the optical power of the top variable focus device may be varied to focus on at least a portion of an image captured at least partly via a photosensor of the camera. In some examples, the top variable focus device may be disposed along an optical axis and proximate a first side of a lens stack of the camera. The lens stack may include one or more lens elements that define the optical axis.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method may include actuating a second MEMS actuator of a bottom (or "lower") variable focus device of the camera to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device. For instance, the optical power of the bottom variable focus device may be varied to correct one or more aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of the image. In some examples, the bottom variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis, proximate a second side of the lens stack that is opposite the first side of the lens stack, and between the lens stack and the photosensor.

[0012] In various examples, the first MEMS actuator of the top variable focus device may be actuated by applying a first voltage to the first MEMS actuator. Furthermore, the second MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device may be actuated by applying a second voltage to the second MEMS actuator. In some cases, the method may include determining the second voltage based at least in part on the first voltage.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example camera module that includes a lens stack and one or multiple variable focus devices, in accordance with some embodiments. [0014] FIG. 2 A illustrates a top view of an example variable focus device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the example variable focus device of FIG. 2A, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0016] FIGS. 3A-3B each illustrate a cross-sectional view of an example variable focus device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic side view of an example top variable focus device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0018] FIGS. 5A-5C each illustrate a schematic side view of another example top variable focus device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0019] FIGS. 6A-6C each illustrate a schematic side view of yet another example top variable focus device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic side view of an example bottom variable focus device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic side view of another example bottom variable focus device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an example method of actuating an actuator of a variable focus device to correct one or more optical aberrations of an image, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an example method of applying a voltage to an actuator of a variable focus device to correct one or more optical aberrations of an image, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an example method of driving an actuator of a variable focus device to apply one or more visual effects to an image, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0025] FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic side view of an example camera module having an example voice coil motor (VCM) actuator for moving an optical package, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of an example portable multifunction device that may include one or more variable focus devices and/or one or more camera modules, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 14 illustrates an example portable multifunction device that may include one or more variable focus devices and/or one or more camera modules, in accordance with some embodiments. [0028] FIG. 15 illustrates an example computer system that may include one or more variable focus devices and/or one or more camera modules, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0029] This specification includes references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment." The appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner consistent with this disclosure.

[0030] "Comprising." This term is open-ended. As used in the appended claims, this term does not foreclose additional structure or steps. Consider a claim that recites: "An apparatus comprising one or more processor units ... ". Such a claim does not foreclose the apparatus from including additional components (e.g., a network interface unit, graphics circuitry, etc.).

[0031] "Configured To." Various units, circuits, or other components may be described or claimed as "configured to" perform a task or tasks. In such contexts, "configured to" is used to connote structure by indicating that the units/circuits/components include structure (e.g., circuitry) that performs those task or tasks during operation. As such, the unit/circuit/component can be said to be configured to perform the task even when the specified unit/circuit/component is not currently operational (e.g., is not on). The units/circuits/components used with the "configured to" language include hardware— for example, circuits, memory storing program instructions executable to implement the operation, etc. Reciting that a unit/circuit/component is "configured to" perform one or more tasks is expressly intended not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, for that unit/circuit/component. Additionally, "configured to" can include generic structure (e.g., generic circuitry) that is manipulated by software and/or firmware (e.g., an FPGA or a general-purpose processor executing software) to operate in manner that is capable of performing the task(s) at issue. "Configure to" may also include adapting a manufacturing process (e.g., a semiconductor fabrication facility) to fabricate devices (e.g., integrated circuits) that are adapted to implement or perform one or more tasks.

[0032] "First," "Second," etc. As used herein, these terms are used as labels for nouns that they precede, and do not imply any type of ordering (e.g., spatial, temporal, logical, etc.). For example, a buffer circuit may be described herein as performing write operations for "first" and "second" values. The terms "first" and "second" do not necessarily imply that the first value must be written before the second value.

[0033] "Based On." As used herein, this term is used to describe one or more factors that affect a determination. This term does not foreclose additional factors that may affect a determination. That is, a determination may be solely based on those factors or based, at least in part, on those factors. Consider the phrase "determine A based on B." While in this case, B is a factor that affects the determination of A, such a phrase does not foreclose the determination of A from also being based on C. In other instances, A may be determined based solely on B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Various embodiments disclosed herein include a variable focus device that may be used in a camera. For instance, the variable focus device may be configured to vary its optical power to correct optical aberrations of images captured via the camera. In some examples, an image captured via the camera may correspond to a macro image capture (e.g., an image captured in a macro mode) that includes field curvature effects, and the variable focus device may be configured to correct the field curvature effects. As used herein, the term "macro" may refer to macro photography, in which the size of a subject in the image and/or the size of the subject on the image sensor is greater than life size. In some embodiments, the variable focus device may be a bottom variable focus device disposed between a lens stack of the camera and an image sensor of the camera. Furthermore, in some cases, the camera may include a top variable focus device disposed opposite the bottom variable focus device with respect to the lens stack. The top variable focus device may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities, such as autofocus and/or optical image stabilization. Additionally, or alternatively, the camera may include a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator configured to move the lens stack to provide autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality.

[0035] Some embodiments include a camera system. The camera system may include a lens stack, an image sensor, and a variable focus device. The lens stack may include one or more lens elements (e.g., within a body of the camera system). Furthermore, the lens elements of the lens stack may define an optical axis. The image sensor may be configured to capture light projected onto a surface of the image sensor. The variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis and between the lens stack and the image sensor. In various embodiments, the variable focus device may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities without the variable focus device causing movement of the lens stack. For instance, the optical functionalities may include variable optical power for correcting one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of an image captured at least partly via the image sensor. In some examples, the variable focus device may change its optical power without changing the position of the variable focus device. For instance, a shape of the variable focus device may be adjusted to change the optical power of the variable focus device without changing the position of the variable focus device. As discussed below, the variable focus device may include a flexible lens in some embodiments. In some instances, the shape of the flexible lens may be adjusted to change the optical power of the variable focus device without changing the position of the variable focus device. Furthermore, the variable focus device may allow for modifications to the optical power of an overall imaging unit (e.g., the camera system) without requiring physical movement of any lenses in the lens stack (or the lens stack as a whole).

[0036] In some examples, the variable focus device may be a bottom (or "lower") variable focus device, and the camera system may further include a top (or "upper") variable focus device. The bottom variable focus device may be disposed proximate a bottom (or "lower") side of the lens stack. The top variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis and proximate a top (or "upper") side of the lens stack that is opposite the bottom side of the lens stack. In some cases, the top variable focus device may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities without the top variable focus device causing movement of the lens stack. For instance, the optical functionalities provided by the top variable focus device may include autofocus and/or optical image stabilization.

[0037] In various embodiments, the bottom variable focus device may include a first actuator. The bottom variable focus device may be configured to vary its optical power at least partly responsive to actuation of the first actuator. Additionally, or alternatively, the top variable device may include a second actuator. The top variable focus device may be configured to vary its optical power at least partly responsive to actuation of the second actuator.

[0038] According to some embodiments, the camera system may include a controller configured to cause the top variable focus device to vary its optical power to focus on at least a portion of the image captured at least partly via the image sensor. For instance, the controller may be configured to cause the top variable focus device to vary its optical power at least partly via actuation of the second actuator of the top variable focus device. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller may be configured to cause the bottom variable focus device to vary its optical power to correct the one or more optical aberrations of the image. For instance, the controller may be configured to cause the bottom variable focus device to vary its optical power at least partly via actuation of the first actuator of the bottom variable focus device. In some instances, the controller may additionally or alternatively be configured to cause the bottom variable focus device to vary its optical power based at least in part on the actuation of the second actuator of the top variable focus device.

[0039] In some embodiments, the bottom variable focus device may be a bottom solid-state microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device that includes a first flexible lens. The first flexible lens may be disposed along the optical axis. Likewise, the top variable focus device may be a top solid-state MEMS device that includes a second flexible lens. The second flexible lens may be disposed along the optical axis. In some cases, the bottom variable focus device may include a first MEMS actuator configured to change a shape of the first flexible lens (or a "deformable membrane") to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device. For instance, the first MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device may be configured to change a shape of the first flexible lens at least partly responsive to application of a voltage to the first MEMS actuator. Additionally, or alternatively, the top variable focus device may include a second MEMS actuator configured to change a shape of the second flexible lens (or a "deformable membrane") to provide autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization. For instance, the second MEMS actuator of the top variable focus device may be configured to change a shape of the second flexible lens at least partly responsive to application of a voltage to the second MEMS actuator.

[0040] In some examples, the camera system may include a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator configured to move the lens stack along the optical axis (e.g., to provide autofocus functionality) and/or along a plane that is orthogonal to the optical axis (e.g., to provide optical image stabilization). In some cases, the camera system may not include the top variable focus device, but may instead include the VCM actuator. That is, the VCM actuator may provide the optical functionalities that the top variable focus device would otherwise provide. However, in other cases, the camera system may include the VCM actuator and the top variable focus device. Furthermore, the camera system may include multiple top variable focus devices, bottom variable focus devices, and/or multiple VCM actuators.

[0041] Some embodiments include a mobile device (e.g., a mobile multifunction device). The mobile device may include a camera module, a display, and/or one or more processors. The camera module may include a lens stack, a photosensor, and a variable focus device. The lens stack may include one or more lens elements (e.g., within a body of the camera module). Furthermore, the lens elements may define an optical axis. The photosensor may be configured to capture light projected onto a surface of the photosensors. The focus device may be disposed along the optical axis and between the lens stack and the photosensor. In various embodiments, the variable focus device may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities without the variable focus device causing movement of the lens stack. For instance, the optical functionalities may include variable optical power.

[0042] In various examples, the mobile device may include one or more processors. The processor(s) may be configured to cause the variable focus device to vary its optical power to correct one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of an image captured at least partly via the photosensor. Furthermore, in some cases, the mobile device may include a display, and the processor(s) may be configured to cause the display to present the image. [0043] In some examples, the variable focus device may be a bottom (or "lower") variable focus device, and the camera module may further include a top (or "upper") variable focus device. The bottom variable focus device may be disposed proximate a bottom (or "lower") side of the lens stack. The top variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis and proximate a top (or "upper") side of the lens stack that is opposite the bottom side of the lens stack. In some cases, the top variable focus device may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities without the top variable focus device causing movement of the lens stack. For instance, the optical functionalities provided by the top variable focus device may include autofocus and/or optical image stabilization.

[0044] In various embodiments, the bottom variable focus device may include a first deformable membrane and a first microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator. The first MEMS actuator may be configured to change a shape of the first deformable membrane to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device. Additionally, or alternatively, the top variable focus device may include a second deformable membrane and a second MEMS actuator. The second MEMS actuator may be configured to change a shape of the second deformable membrane to vary an optical power of the top variable focus device.

[0045] In some examples, the bottom variable focus device may include a deformable membrane, fluid, one or more actuator members (also referred to herein as the "actuator member"), and a base substrate. The fluid may be enclosed within a cavity of the bottom variable focus device. The actuator member may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid within the cavity such that at least a portion of the deformable membrane deforms to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device. The cavity may be at least partially defined by the deformable membrane and the base substrate.

[0046] In some examples, the bottom variable focus device may include a first deformable membrane, fluid, a first set of one or more actuator members, a second deformable membrane, and a second set of one or more actuator members. The fluid may be enclosed within a cavity of the bottom variable focus device. The first set of one or more actuator members may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid enclosed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the first deformable membrane deforms to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device. Furthermore, the second set of one or more actuator members may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid enclosed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the second deformable membrane deforms to vary the optical power of the bottom variable focus device. The cavity may be at least partially defined by the first deformable membrane and the second deformable membrane. In some cases, the first deformable membrane and/or the second deformable membrane may be disposed along the optical axis.

[0047] In some embodiments, the top variable focus device may include a first deformable membrane, a first fluid enclosed within a first cavity of the top variable focus device, and a first set of one or more actuator members. The first set of one or more actuators may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the first fluid enclosed within the first cavity such that at least a portion of the first deformable membrane deforms to enable optical image stabilization functionality. Furthermore, the top variable focus device may include a second deformable membrane, a second fluid enclosed within a second cavity of the top variable focus device, and a second set of one or more actuator members. The second set of one or more actuator members may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the second fluid enclosed within the second cavity such that at least a portion of the second deformable membrane deforms to enable autofocus functionality. In some examples, the top variable focus device may include a substrate disposed between the first deformable membrane and the second deformable membrane. The first cavity may be at least partially defined by the first deformable membrane and the base substrate. The second cavity may be at least partially defined by the second deformable membrane and the base substrate. In some cases, the first deformable membrane and/or the second deformable membrane may be disposed along the optical axis.

[0048] In some embodiments, the top variable focus device may include a first deformable membrane, fluid enclosed within a cavity of the top variable focus device, and a first set of one or more actuator members. The first set of one or more members may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid enclosed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the first deformable membrane deforms to enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality. Furthermore, the top variable focus device may include a second deformable membrane and a second set of one or more actuator members. The second set of one or more actuator members may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid enclosed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the second deformable membrane deforms to enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality. The cavity may at least partially be defined by the first deformable membrane and the second deformable membrane. In some cases, the first deformable membrane and/or the second deformable membrane may be disposed along the optical axis.

[0049] In some examples, the top variable focus device may include a deformable membrane, fluid, one or more actuator members (also referred to herein as the "actuator member"), and a base substrate. The fluid may be enclosed within a cavity of the top variable focus device. The actuator member may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid within the cavity such that at least a portion of the deformable membrane deforms to enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality. The cavity may be at least partially defined by the deformable membrane and the base substrate.

[0050] In various examples, the bottom variable focus device may include a first actuator, and the top variable focus device may include a second actuator. The bottom variable focus device may be configured to vary its optical power at least partly responsive to actuation of the first actuator. Similarly, the top variable focus device may be configured to vary its optical power at least partly responsive to actuation of the second actuator. To cause the variable focus device to vary its optical power to correct one or more optical aberrations of an image, the processor(s) may be further configured to cause, at least partly via actuation of the second actuator, the bottom variable focus device to vary its optical power to focus on at least a portion of the image. The processor(s) may be further configured to cause the top variable focus device to vary its optical power at least partly via actuation of the first actuator and based at least in part on the actuation of the second actuator.

[0051] Some embodiments include a method. The method may include actuating a first microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator of a top (or "upper") variable focus device of a camera to vary an optical power of the top variable focus device. For instance, the optical power of the top variable focus device may be varied to focus on at least a portion of an image captured at least partly via a photosensor of the camera. In some examples, the top variable focus device may be disposed along an optical axis and proximate a first side of a lens stack of the camera. The lens stack may include one or more lens elements that define the optical axis.

[0052] In some embodiments, the method may include actuating a second MEMS actuator of a bottom (or "lower") variable focus device of the camera to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device. For instance, the optical power of the bottom variable focus device may be varied to correct one or more aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of the image. In some examples, the bottom variable focus device may be disposed along the optical axis, proximate a second side of the lens stack that is opposite the first side of the lens stack, and between the lens stack and the photosensor.

[0053] In various examples, the first MEMS actuator of the top variable focus device may be actuated by applying a first voltage to the first MEMS actuator. Furthermore, the second MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device may be actuated by applying a second voltage to the second MEMS actuator. In some cases, the method may include determining the second voltage based at least in part on the first voltage.

[0054] According to various examples, actuating the second MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device may cause a deflection of one or more actuator members of the second MEMS actuator. The deflection of the one or more actuator members may displace fluid enclosed within a cavity of the bottom variable focus device such that at least a portion of a first deformable membrane of the bottom variable focus device deforms to vary the optical power of the bottom variable focus device. In some embodiments, the cavity of the bottom variable focus device may be at least partially defined by the first deformable membrane. Furthermore, the cavity of the bottom variable focus device may be at least partially defined by a second deformable membrane of the bottom variable focus device and/or a base substrate of the bottom variable focus device.

[0055] In some examples, actuating the second MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device may occur while the camera is in a first mode. Furthermore, the method may include transitioning from the first mode of the camera to a second mode of the camera. While in the second mode, at least one image may be captured at least partly via the photosensor. The method may include determining one or more visual effects to be applied to the image. As a non-limiting example, applying one or more visual effects may include deliberately blurring a particular portion of the image. In some embodiments, the method may further include driving, while the camera is in the second mode and based at least in part on transitioning from the first mode to the second mode, the second MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device independently of actuation of the first MEMS actuator of the top variable focus device. Furthermore, driving the second MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device may include actuating the second MEMS actuator to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device to apply one or more visual effects to the image.

[0056] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example camera module 100 (or "camera system", "camera device", etc.) that includes a lens stack 102, a photosensor 104, and one or multiple variable focus devices, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0057] In some embodiments, the camera module 100 may include a variable focus device 106. The variable focus device 106 may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities. For instance, the optical functionalities provided by the variable focus device 106 may include variable optical power for correcting one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of an image captured at least partly via the photosensor 104. In some instances, the variable focus device 106 may be configured to provide the optical functionalities without causing movement of the lens stack 102.

[0058] In some examples, the variable focus device 106 may be a bottom (or "lower") variable focus device 106, and the camera module 100 may further include a top (or "upper") variable focus device 108. The bottom variable focus device 106 may be disposed proximate a bottom (or "lower") side of the lens stack 102. In some cases, the bottom variable focus device 106 may be disposed between the lens stack 102 and the photosensor 104. The top variable focus device 108 may be disposed proximate a top (or "upper") side of the lens stack 102 that is opposite the bottom side of the lens stack 102. In some cases, the top variable focus device 108 may be configured to provide one or more optical functionalities without the top variable focus device 108 causing movement of the lens stack. For instance, the optical functionalities provided by the top variable focus device 108 may include autofocus and/or optical image stabilization.

[0059] According to some non-limiting examples, the top variable focus device 108 may be configured to focus the camera module 100 on at least a portion of an image. The image may include one or more optical aberrations. In some examples, the optical aberration(s) may be based at least in part on the focusing of the top variable focus device 108. For instance, the top variable focus device 108 may be used to focus the camera module 100 to capture the image while in a macro mode of the camera module 100 and/or while within a macro range of the lens system of the camera module 100, which may result in field curvature effects on the image. The bottom variable focus device 106 may be configured to correct and/or compensate for the field curvature effects on the image.

[0060] In various embodiments, the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may include an optical actuator (e.g., one or more of the actuators described below with reference to FIGS. 2A-11), such as an optical microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator. The lens stack 302 may include one or more refractive lens elements that define an optical axis. In some embodiments, the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may be disposed along the optical axis. In some examples, the lens stack 102 may be mounted or affixed inside a holder 110; the holder 110 and lens stack 102 assembly may collectively be referred to as a lens barrel. In some embodiments, the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may be located on or within the holder 110. For instance, the bottom variable focus device 106 may be located on the image side of the lens stack 102, while the top variable focus device 108 may be located on the object side of the lens stack 102 in front of a first lens of the lens stack 102. However, in some embodiments, the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may be located outside of the holder 110. Furthermore, the photosensor 104 may be located on the image side of the lens stack 102, and the lens barrel 110 may be attached to a substrate 310 that holds the photosensor 308.

[0061] In some examples, the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may also be referred to as a solid-state autofocus (SSAF) module (or component, device, or the like), a solid-state optical image stabilization (SSOIS) module (or component, device, or the like), a solid-state variable focus device (SSVF) variable focus module (or component, device, or the like), and/or a variable power optical module (or component, device, or the like). Furthermore, in some examples, the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may include a deformable membrane (e.g., the deformable membranes described below with reference to FIGS. 2A-11), which may also be referred to as a "flexible lens". The optical functionalities provided by the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may be achieved by changing a shape of the deformable membrane to affect light rays passing through the deformable membrane, rather than by physically moving the lens barrel as in conventional AF and/or OI S cameras.

[0062] By using the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108, there may no longer be a requirement to physically move the lens barrel with respect to the photosensor 104. This may have a significant impact on the X-Y size of the camera system by reducing the size of the camera module 100 in the X-Y dimensions when compared to some other camera modules.

[0063] The addition of the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may increase the Z dimension of the lens assembly. However, as the displacement of the lens barrel may no longer required, a much smaller nominal distance between the lens barrel and the camera system cover window can be achieved. This may offset the majority or all of the net increase in the Z dimension due to the addition of the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108.

[0064] In some embodiments, the camera module 100 may include a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator (e.g., the VCM actuator of the camera module 1200 described below with reference to FIG. 12) for moving at least the lens stack 102 relative to the photosensor 104 to provide autofocus and/or optical image stabilization to the camera module 100. For instance, the VCM actuator may move the lens stack 102 along the optical axis and/or along a plane that is orthogonal to the optical axis. In some cases, the optical functionalities provided by the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 may be configured to complement and/or supplement the autofocus and/or optical image stabilization functionality provided to the camera module 100 by the VCM actuator.

[0065] In some embodiments, the camera module 100 may have a folded optical arrangement (not shown) in which one or more mirrors, prisms, or the likes creates one or more folds in the optical path of the camera module. In these instances, the variable focus devices 106, 108 and lens stack 102 may have any suitable positioning relative to the one or more folds. In some instances, the bottom variable focus device 106 and the lens stack 102 may be positioned along a common optical path segment (i.e., no folds positioned between the lens stack 102 and the bottom variable focus device 106) or along different optical path segments (i.e., at least one fold positioned between the lens stack 102 and the bottom variable focus device 106). In embodiments that include a top variable focus device 108, the top variable focus device 108 may be positioned along a common optical path segment with the lens stack 102 and/or the bottom variable focus device 106, or may be positioned along a different optical path segment from both the lens stack 102 and the bottom variable focus device 106. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the lens stack 102 may be divided into two or more groups that may be positioned along different optical path segments.

[0066] In some embodiments, the top variable focus device 108, the lens stack 102, and/or the bottom variable focus device 106 may be independently adjustable and/or moveable (e.g., via one or more actuators) to provide various optical functionalities (e.g., zoom, focus, optical image stabilization, etc.).

[0067] FIG. 2A illustrates a top view of an example variable focus device 200 (e.g., the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 described above with reference to FIG. 1), in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the example variable focus device 200, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0068] The variable focus device 200 may include, but is not limited to, a substrate 202 (e.g., a clear glass or plastic substrate), a flexible optical element 204 (e.g., a flexible lens), and an actuator 206 component that is configured to change the shape of the flexible optical element 204 to provide adaptive optical functionality for a camera. The flexible optical element 204 may include a flexible membrane 208 and a fluid 210 (e.g., optical oil) in one or more cavities between the flexible membrane 208 and a surface of the substrate 202. The actuator 206 may be configured to change the shape of the flexible optical element 204 to provide one or more optical functionalities for a camera, e.g., as discussed in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 3A- 3B. While Fig. 2B shows the flexible optical element 204 with a curved membrane 208, in some embodiments the flexible optical element 204 may be made substantially flat to focus at infinity. While Fig. 2B shows the substrate 202 as rectangular or square, the substrate 202 may be other shapes (e.g., round).

[0069] FIGS. 3A-3B each illustrate a cross-sectional view of an example variable focus device 300 (e.g., the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 described above with reference to FIG. 1), in accordance with some embodiments. As discussed in further detail below, FIG. 3A shows the variable focus device 300 in a first state, and FIG. 3B shows the variable focus device 300 in a second state.

[0070] In some embodiments, the variable focus device 300 may include a deformable membrane 302. In various embodiments, the deformable membrane 302 may be a flexible lens element having a shape that can be changed to provide one or more optical functionalities. For instance, the optical functionalities may include variable optical power, autofocus, and/or optical image stabilization. The variable focus device 300 may include a fluid 304 (e.g., an optical oil) enclosed within a cavity 306 that is at least partially defined by the deformable membrane 302. One or more actuator members 308 (also referred to herein as the "actuator member") may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid 304 such that at least a portion of the deformable membrane 302 deforms to provide the optical functionalities. For instance, in some embodiments, the actuator member 308 may include a piezoelectric material that deflects in response to an applied voltage.

[0071] In some examples, the actuator member 308 may be part of an optical microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator (e.g., a piezoelectric MEMS actuator). FIG. 3A illustrates a first position of the actuator member 308. In some examples, application of a voltage to the actuator member 308 may cause the actuator member 308 to deflect in at least one direction (e.g., the direction indicated by the arrow 310 in FIG. 3A). For instance, FIG. 3B illustrates an example second position of the actuator member 110 when deflected in response to application of a voltage.

[0072] In various embodiments, the variable focus device 300 may include a base substrate 312 (e.g., a glass substrate, a silicon substrate, etc.). In some cases, the base substrate 312 may at least partially define the cavity 306 within which the fluid 304 is enclosed. At least a portion of the base substrate 312 may be opposite at least a portion of the deformable membrane 302 with respect to the cavity 306. Additionally, or alternatively, at least a portion of the base substrate 312 may be opposite at least a portion of the actuator member 308 with respect to the cavity 306. In various examples, at least a portion of the base substrate 1 16 may be opposite at least a portion another substrate 314 (e.g., a silicon substrate, a glass substrate, etc.) with respect to the cavity 306.

[0073] In some examples, the variable focus device 300 may include one or more intermediate layers 316 (also referred to herein as the "intermediate layer"). For instance, the intermediate layer 316 may be disposed between the actuator member 308 and the substrate 314. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the variable focus device may include one or more cavity spacers 318 (also referred to herein as the "cavity spacer"). For instance, the cavity spacer 318 may be disposed between the deformable membrane 302 and the base substrate 312. The cavity spacer 318 may be configured to provide spacing between the base substrate 312 and one or more other components (e.g., the deformable membrane 302) of the variable focus device 300. In some examples, the cavity spacer 318 may at least partially define the cavity 306.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the first state of the variable focus device 300 depicted in FIG. 3 A may correspond to a state in which the actuator member 308 is not actuated (or the actuator member 308 being "released"). Furthermore, the second state of the variable focus device 300 depicted in FIG. 3B may correspond to a state in which the actuator member 308 is actuated. In some instances, the actuator member 308 may be actuated by applying a voltage to the MEMS actuator, as described in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 9-11. In some examples, the actuator member 308 may be configured to deflect towards the cavity 306 upon actuation.

[0075] In various embodiments, different actuation voltages (e.g., voltages applied to the MEMS actuator) may cause the actuator member 308 to deflect by different amounts. For example, a first actuation voltage may correspond to a first deflection amount (or a first deflection distance) of the actuator member 308. A second actuation voltage may correspond to a second deflection amount (or a second deflection distance) of the actuator member 308 that is different than the first deflection amount. For instance, the second actuation voltage may be greater than the first actuation voltage, and the second deflection amount may be greater than the first deflection amount. Furthermore, different respective portions of the actuator member 308 and/or different respective actuator members 308 may be actuated with different respective actuation voltages to cause the deformable membrane 302 to change shape according to desired optical properties and/or functionality. For instance, the deformable membrane 302 may be shaped, at least partly responsive to actuation of the actuator member 310, to refract light such that the variable focus device 300 provides the optical functionalities of the bottom variable focus device 106 and/or the top variable focus device 108 described above with reference to FIG. 1.

[0076] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic side view of an example top variable focus device 400 (e.g., the top variable focus device 108 described above with reference to FIG. 1), in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the top variable focus device 400 may include a first deformable membrane 402, a first fluid 404 enclosed within a first cavity of the top variable focus device 400, and a first set of one or more actuator members 406 (e.g., one or more of the actuators described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3B and 9-11) (also referred to herein as the "first actuator member 406"). The first actuator member 406 may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the first fluid 404 enclosed within the first cavity such that at least a portion of the first deformable membrane 402 deforms to enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality for a camera (e.g., the camera module 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1). For instance, as depicted in FIG. 4, the first deformable membrane 402 may be shaped in a slanted configuration to provide optical image stabilization functionality. The slanted configuration may cause the first deformable membrane 402 to refract light such that the light shifts relative to an image sensor of the camera, e.g., to compensate for movement of the camera. [0077] Furthermore, the top variable focus device 400 may include a second deformable membrane 408, a second fluid 410 enclosed within a second cavity of the top variable focus device 400, and a second set of one or more actuator members 412 (e.g., one or more of the actuators described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3B and 9-11) (also referred to herein as the "second actuator member 412"). The second actuator member 412 may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the second fluid 410 enclosed within the second cavity such that at least a portion of the second deformable membrane 408 deforms to enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality. For instance, as depicted in FIG. 4, the second deformable membrane 408 may be shaped in a concave configuration (e.g., to form a converging lens) to provide autofocus functionality.

[0078] According to some embodiments, the top variable focus device 400 may be configured to shape the first deformable membrane 402 and/or the second deformable membrane 408 in an autofocus-dedicated or an optical image stabilization-dedicated manner. For instance, the first deformable membrane 402 may be dedicated to enabling autofocus functionality and the second deformable membrane 404 may be dedicated to enabling optical image stabilization functionality, or vice-versa. In other embodiments, top variable focus device 400 may be configured to shape the first deformable membrane 402 and/or the second deformable membrane 408 to enable both autofocus functionality and optical image stabilization functionality, e.g., as also described below with reference to FIGS. 5C and 6C.

[0079] In some examples, the top variable focus device 400 may include one or more substrates 414 (e.g., a glass substrate, a silicon substrate, etc.) (hereinafter referred to as the "substrate 414") disposed between the first deformable membrane 402 and the second deformable membrane 408. The first cavity may be at least partially defined by the first deformable membrane 402 and the substrate 414. The second cavity may be at least partially defined by the second deformable membrane 408 and the substrate 414. In some cases, the first deformable membrane 402 and/or the second deformable membrane 408 may be disposed along an optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the camera.

[0080] In FIG. 4, the first actuator member 406 and the second actuator member 412 are shown as schematic blocks. In various embodiments, those schematic blocks may further represent other components (e.g., one or more components of the variable focus device 300 described above with reference to FIG. 3) of the top variable focus device 400.

[0081] FIGS. 5A-5C each illustrate a schematic side view of another example top variable focus device 500 (e.g., the top variable focus device 108 described above with reference to FIG. 1), in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the top variable focus device 500 may include a first deformable membrane 502, a fluid 504 (e.g., an optical oil) enclosed within a cavity of the top variable focus device 500, and a first set of one or more actuator members 506 (e.g., one or more of the actuators described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3B and 9-11) (also referred to herein as the "first actuator member 506"). The actuator member 506 may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid 504 enclosed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the first deformable membrane 502 deforms to enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality for a camera (e.g., the camera module 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1).

[0082] Furthermore, the top variable focus device 500 may include a second deformable membrane 508 and a second set of one or more actuator members 510 (e.g., one or more of the actuators described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3B and 9-11) (also referred to herein as the "second actuator member 510"). The second actuator member 510 may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid 504 enclosed within the cavity such that at least a portion of the second deformable membrane 508 deforms to enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality. The cavity may at least partially be defined by the first deformable membrane 502 and the second deformable membrane 508. In some cases, the first deformable membrane 502 and/or the second deformable membrane 508 may be disposed along an optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the camera.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the top variable focus device 500 may be configured to shape, via the first actuator member 506 and the second actuator member 510, the first deformable membrane 502 and the second deformable membrane 508, respectively, such that the deformable membranes 502 and 508 cooperatively enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality. For instance, as depicted in FIG. 5A, the deformable membranes 502 and 508 are each shaped in a slanted configuration to cooperatively enable optical image stabilization functionality. The slanted configuration may cause the deformable membranes 502 and 508 to refract light such that the light shifts relative to an image sensor of the camera, e.g., to compensate for movement of the camera. As depicted in FIG. 5B, the deformable membranes 502 and 508 are each shaped in a concave configuration (e.g., to form a converging lens) to cooperatively enable autofocus functionality. As depicted in FIG. 5C, the deformable membranes 502 and 508 are each shaped in a concave-and-slanted configuration to cooperatively enable both autofocus functionality and optical image stabilization functionality.

[0084] In FIG. 5, the first actuator member 506 and the second actuator member 510 are shown as schematic blocks. In various embodiments, those schematic blocks may further represent other components (e.g., one or more components of the variable focus device 300 described above with reference to FIG. 3) of the top variable focus device 500. [0085] FIGS. 6A-6C each illustrate a schematic side view of yet another example top variable focus device 600 (e.g., the top variable focus device 108 described above with reference to FIG. 1), in accordance with some embodiments. In some examples, the top variable focus device 600 may include a deformable membrane 602, a fluid 604 (e.g., an optical oil), one or more actuator members (e.g., one or more of the actuators described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3B and 9-11) (also referred to herein as the "actuator member 606"), and a base substrate 608 (e.g., a glass substrate, a silicon substrate, etc.). The fluid 604 may be enclosed within a cavity of the top variable focus device 600. The actuator member 606 may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid 604 within the cavity such that at least a portion of the deformable membrane 602 deforms to enable autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality for a camera (e.g., the camera module 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1). The cavity may be at least partially defined by the deformable membrane 602 and the base substrate 608. In some cases, the deformable membrane 602 may be disposed along an optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the camera.

[0086] According to some embodiments, the top variable focus device 600 may be configured to shape, via the actuator member 606, the deformable membrane 602 such that the deformable membrane 602 enables autofocus functionality and/or optical image stabilization functionality. For instance, as depicted in FIG. 6A, the deformable membrane 602 is shaped in a slanted configuration to enable optical image stabilization functionality. The slanted configuration may cause the deformable membrane 602 to refract light such that the light shifts relative to an image sensor of the camera, e.g., to compensate for movement of the camera. As depicted in FIG. 6B, the deformable membrane 602 is shaped in a concave configuration (e.g., to form a converging lens) to enable autofocus functionality. As depicted in FIG. 6C, the deformable membrane 602 is shaped in a concave-and-slanted configuration to enable both autofocus functionality and optical image stabilization functionality.

[0087] In FIG. 6, the actuator member 606 is shown as schematic blocks. In various embodiments, those schematic blocks may further represent other components (e.g., one or more components of the variable focus device 300 described above with reference to FIG. 3) of the top variable focus device 600.

[0088] FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic side view of an example bottom variable focus device 700 (e.g., the bottom variable focus device 106 described above with reference to FIG. 1), in accordance with some embodiments. In some examples, the bottom variable focus device 700 may include a deformable membrane 702, a fluid 704 (e.g., an optical oil), one or more actuator members 706 (e.g., one or more of the actuators described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3B and 9-11) (also referred to herein as the "actuator member 706"), and a base substrate 708 (e.g., a glass substrate, a silicon substrate, etc.). The fluid 704 may be enclosed within a cavity of the bottom variable focus device 700. The actuator member 706 may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid 704 within the cavity such that at least a portion of the deformable membrane 702 deforms to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device 700. The cavity may be at least partially defined by the deformable membrane 702 and the base substrate 708. In some cases, the deformable membrane 702 may be disposed along an optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the camera.

[0089] According to some embodiments, the bottom variable focus device 700 may be configured to shape, via the actuator member 706, the deformable membrane 702 such that the deformable membrane 702 enables one or more optical functionalities, e.g., variable optical power for correcting one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of an image. For instance, as depicted in FIG. 7, the deformable membrane 702 is shaped in a concave configuration (e.g., to form a converging lens) to enable focusing functionality for a camera (e.g., the camera module 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1).

[0090] In FIG. 7, the actuator member 706 is shown as schematic blocks. In various embodiments, those schematic blocks may further represent other components (e.g., one or more components of the variable focus device 300 described above with reference to FIG. 3) of the top variable focus device 700.

[0091] FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic side view of another example bottom variable focus device 800 (e.g., the bottom variable focus device 106 described above with reference to FIG. 1), in accordance with some embodiments. In some examples, the bottom variable focus device 800 may include a first deformable membrane 802, a fluid 802 (e.g., an optical oil), a first set of one or more actuator members 806 (e.g., one or more of the actuators described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-3B and 9-11) (also referred to herein as the "first actuator member 806"), a second deformable membrane 808, and a second set of one or more actuator members 810 (e.g., one or more of the actuators described herein with reference to FIGS. 1 -3B and 9-11) (also referred to herein as the "second actuator member 810"). The fluid 804 may be enclosed within a cavity of the bottom variable focus device 800. The first actuator member 806 may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid 804 such that at least a portion of the first deformable membrane 802 deforms to vary an optical power of the bottom variable focus device 800. Furthermore, the second actuator member 810 may be configured to be deflectable to cause displacement of the fluid 804 such that at least a portion of the second deformable membrane 808 deforms to vary the optical power of the bottom variable focus device 800. The cavity may be at least partially defined by the first deformable membrane 802 and the second deformable membrane 808. In some cases, the first deformable membrane 802 and/or the second deformable membrane 808 may be disposed along an optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the camera.

[0092] According to some embodiments, the bottom variable focus device 800 may be configured to shape, via the first actuator member 806 and the second actuator member 810, the first deformable membrane 802 and the second deformable membrane 808, respectively, such that the deformable membranes 802 and 808 cooperatively enable one or more optical functionalities, e.g., variable optical power for correcting one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of an image. For instance, as depicted in FIG. 8, the deformable membranes 802 and 808 are each shaped in a concave configuration (e.g., to form a converging lens) to cooperatively enable focusing functionality for a camera (e.g., the camera module 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1).

[0093] In FIG. 8, the first actuator member 806 and the second actuator member 810 are shown as schematic blocks. In various embodiments, those schematic blocks may further represent other components (e.g., one or more components of the variable focus device 300 described above with reference to FIG. 3) of the top variable focus device 700.

[0094] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an example method 900 of actuating an actuator of a variable focus device to correct one or more optical aberrations of an image, in accordance with some embodiments. At 902, the method 900 may include actuating a first microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator of a top variable focus device (e.g., a variable focus device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the top variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1-6C) of a camera (e.g., the camera module 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1). For instance, the first MEMS actuator may be actuated to focus on at least a portion of an image captured at least partly via a photosensor of the camera.

[0095] At 904, the method 900 may include actuating a second MEMS actuator (of a bottom variable focus device (e.g., a variable focus device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the bottom variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1-6C) of the camera. For instance, the second MEMS actuator may be actuated to correct one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of the image. In various embodiments, the second MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device may be actuated based at least in part on actuation of the first MEMS actuator of the top variable focus device, e.g., as discussed in further detail below with reference to FIG. 10.

[0096] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an example method 1000 of applying a voltage to an actuator of a variable focus device to correct one or more optical aberrations of an image, in accordance with some embodiments. At 1002, the method 1000 may include applying a first voltage to a first microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator of a top variable focus device (e.g., a variable focus device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the top variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1-6C) of a camera (e.g., the camera module 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1). For instance, the first voltage may be applied to the first MEMS actuator to focus on at least a portion of an image captured at least partly via a photosensor of the camera.

[0097] At 1004, the method 1000 may include determining a second voltage to apply to a second MEMS actuator of a bottom variable focus device (e.g., a variable focus device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the bottom variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1-6C) of the camera. For instance, the second voltage may be determined based at least in part on the first voltage applied to the first MEMS actuator of the top variable focus device of the camera. In various examples, the second voltage may correspond to a voltage that would cause the bottom variable focus device to correct one or more optical aberrations (e.g., field curvature effects) of the image.

[0098] In various examples, the second voltage may be determined by accessing a lookup table that maps actuation voltages of the top variable focus device with corresponding actuation voltages of the bottom variable focus device. The lookup table may include a mapping of the second voltage to the first voltage. By knowing the first voltage, the second voltage may be determined using the lookup table. Additionally, or alternatively, the lookup table may include any other parameter that may be used to correlate actuation of the top variable focus device with actuation of the bottom variable focus device. For instance, a capacitance may be measured with respect to actuation of the top variable focus device, and actuation of the bottom variable focus device may be driven based at least in part on the measured capacitance, e.g., by looking up the measured capacitance in the lookup table and determining a corresponding actuation parameter (e.g., a voltage) to apply to the bottom variable focus device. In this manner, a measurement from the top variable focus device may be used as feedback and provided as an input to a drive signal for actuating the bottom variable focus device. In other embodiments, however, the top variable focus device and the bottom variable focus device may be driven independently.

[0099] At 1006, the method 1000 may include applying the second voltage to the second MEMS actuator of the bottom variable focus device. For instance, the second voltage may be applied to the second MEMS actuator to correct one or more optical aberrations of the image. In various examples, the optical aberrations of the image that are corrected by the bottom variable focus device may be at least partly caused by the autofocus functionality provided by the top variable focus device. For instance, the top variable focus device may be used to provide focus in a macro image capture. As a result, the image may include field curvature effects. For example, corners of the image may be blurry. The second voltage applied to the second MEMS actuator may cause the bottom variable focus device to vary its optical power to correct and/or compensate for the blurriness in the image.

[00100] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an example method 1100 of driving an actuator of a variable focus device (e.g., a variable focus device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the bottom variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1-6C) to apply one or more visual effects to an image, in accordance with some embodiments. At 1102, the method 1100 may include transitioning from a first mode of a camera to a second mode of the camera. For instance, the first mode may correspond to default operation of the camera, and the second mode may correspond to particular purpose operation of the camera. In some embodiments, the second mode may enable the camera to apply, at least partly via the variable focus device, one or more visual effects on an image. As a non-limiting example, applying one or more visual effects may include deliberately blurring a particular portion of the image. Furthermore, the second mode may enable a bottom variable focus device to be controlled independently of a top variable focus device, whereas control of the bottom variable focus device is at least partly dependent on actuation of the top variable focus device in the first mode.

[00101] At 1104, the method 1100 may include capturing, while the camera is in the second mode, an image. At 1106, the method 1100 may include determining one or more visual effects to be applied to the image. For instance, determination of the visual effects may be based at least in part on user input. Additionally, or alternatively, determination of the visual effects may be based at least in part on contextual information related to the image capture, which may include ambient information (e.g., ambient lighting). At 1108, the method 1100 may include driving, while the camera is in the second mode and based at least in part on the transition, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator of a bottom variable focus device independently of actuation of a MEMS actuator of a top variable focus device to apply the one or more visual effects to the image.

[00102] FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic side view of an example camera module 1200 having an example voice coil motor (VCM) actuator for moving an optical package 1202, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the example camera module 1200 may include one or more variable focus devices (e.g., in accordance with one or more embodiments of the variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1-11). As shown in FIG. 12, the actuator 1200 may include a base or substrate 1204 and a cover 1206. The base 1204 may include and/or support one or more position sensors (e.g., Hall sensors, TMR sensors, GMR sensors, etc.) 1208, one or more optical image stabilization coils 1210, and one or more suspension wires 1212, which may at least partly enable magnetic sensing for autofocus and/or optical image stabilization position detection, e.g., by detecting movements of position sensor magnets 1214.

[00103] In some embodiments, the actuator 1200 may include one or more autofocus coils 1216 and one or more actuator magnets 1218, which may at least partly enable autofocus functionality such as moving the optical package 1202 along the z axis and/or along an optical axis defined by one or more lenses of the optical package 1202. In some examples, at least one position sensor magnet 1214 may be disposed proximate to at least one autofocus coil 1216. In some embodiments, at least one position sensor magnet 1214 may be coupled to at least one autofocus coil 1216. For instance, the autofocus coils 1216 may each define a central space that is encircled by the respective autofocus coil 1216. The position sensor magnets 1214 may be disposed within the central spaces encircled by the autofocus coils 1216. Additionally or alternatively, the position sensor magnets 1214 may be attached to support structures (not shown) that are fixed to the autofocus coils 1216. For example, a support structure, to which a position sensor magnet 1214 is attached, may be disposed within a central space encircled by an autofocus coil 1216 and the support structure may be fixed to the autofocus coil 1216.

[00104] In some embodiments, the actuator 1200 may include four suspension wires 1212. The optical package 1202 may be suspended with respect to the base 1204 by suspending one or more upper springs 1220 on the suspension wires 1212. In some embodiments, the actuator may include one or more lower springs 1222. In the optical package 1202, an optics component (e.g., one or more lens elements, a lens assembly, etc.) may be screwed, mounted or otherwise held in or by an optics holder. Note that upper spring(s) 1220 and lower spring(s) 1222 may be flexible to allow the optical package 1202 a range of motion along the Z (optical) axis for optical focusing, and suspension wires 1212 may be flexible to allow a range of motion on the x-y plane orthogonal to the optical axis for optical image stabilization. Also note that, while embodiments show the optical package 1202 suspended on wires 1212, other mechanisms may be used to suspend the optical package 1202 in other embodiments.

[00105] In various embodiments, the camera module may include an image sensor 1224. The image sensor 1224 may be disposed below the optical package 1202 such that light rays may pass through one or more lens elements of the optical package 1202 (e.g., via an aperture at the top of the optical package 1202) and to the image sensor 1224.

[00106] FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of an example portable multifunction device 1300 that may include one or more variable focus devices (e.g., in accordance with one or more embodiments of the variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1 -1 1) and/or one or more camera modules (e.g., in accordance with one or more embodiments of the camera modules described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 12), in accordance with some embodiments. Camera(s) 1364 is sometimes called an "optical sensor" for convenience, and may also be known as or called an optical sensor system. Device 1300 may include memory 1302 (which may include one or more computer readable storage mediums), memory controller 1322, one or more processing units (CPUs) 1320, peripherals interface 1318, RF circuitry 1308, audio circuitry 1310, speaker 1311, touch-sensitive display system 1312, microphone 1313, input/output (I/O) subsystem 1306, other input or control devices 1316, and external port 1324. Device 1300 may include one or more optical sensors 1364. These components may communicate over one or more communication buses or signal lines 1303.

[00107] It should be appreciated that device 1300 is only one example of a portable multifunction device, and that device 1300 may have more or fewer components than shown, may combine two or more components, or may have a different configuration or arrangement of the components. The various components shown in FIG. 13 may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, including one or more signal processing and/or application specific integrated circuits.

[00108] Memory 1302 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, flash memory devices, or other non-volatile solid-state memory devices. Access to memory 1302 by other components of device 1300, such as CPU 1320 and the peripherals interface 1318, may be controlled by memory controller 1322.

[00109] Peripherals interface 1318 can be used to couple input and output peripherals of the device to CPU 1320 and memory 1302. The one or more processors 1320 run or execute various software programs and/or sets of instructions stored in memory 1302 to perform various functions for device 1300 and to process data.

[00110] In some embodiments, peripherals interface 1318, CPU 1320, and memory controller 1322 may be implemented on a single chip, such as chip 1304. In some other embodiments, they may be implemented on separate chips.

[00111] RF (radio frequency) circuitry 1308 receives and sends RF signals, also called electromagnetic signals. RF circuitry 1308 converts electrical signals to/from electromagnetic signals and communicates with communications networks and other communications devices via the electromagnetic signals. RF circuitry 1308 may include well-known circuitry for performing these functions, including but not limited to an antenna system, an RF transceiver, one or more amplifiers, a tuner, one or more oscillators, a digital signal processor, a CODEC chipset, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, memory, and so forth. RF circuitry 1308 may communicate with networks, such as the Internet, also referred to as the World Wide Web (WWW), an intranet and/or a wireless network, such as a cellular telephone network, a wireless local area network (LAN) and/or a metropolitan area network (MAN), and other devices by wireless communication. The wireless communication may use any of a variety of communications standards, protocols and technologies, including but not limited to Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), high- speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), high-speed uplink packet access (HSUPA), wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) (e.g., IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802. l lg and/or IEEE 802.11η), voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Wi-MAX, a protocol for e-mail (e.g., Internet message access protocol (IMAP) and/or post office protocol (POP)), instant messaging (e.g., extensible messaging and presence protocol (XMPP), Session Initiation Protocol for Instant Messaging and Presence Leveraging Extensions (SIMPLE), Instant Messaging and Presence Service (IMPS)), and/or Short Message Service (SMS), or any other suitable communication protocol, including communication protocols not yet developed as of the filing date of this document.

[00112] Audio circuitry 1310, speaker 1311, and microphone 1313 provide an audio interface between a user and device 1300. Audio circuitry 1310 receives audio data from peripherals interface 1318, converts the audio data to an electrical signal, and transmits the electrical signal to speaker 1311. Speaker 1311 converts the electrical signal to human-audible sound waves. Audio circuitry 1310 also receives electrical signals converted by microphone 1313 from sound waves. Audio circuitry 1310 converts the electrical signal to audio data and transmits the audio data to peripherals interface 1318 for processing. Audio data may be retrieved from and/or transmitted to memory 1302 and/or RF circuitry 1308 by peripherals interface 1318. In some embodiments, audio circuitry 1310 also includes a headset jack (e.g., 1412, FIG. 14). The headset jack provides an interface between audio circuitry 1310 and removable audio input/output peripherals, such as output-only headphones or a headset with both output (e.g., a headphone for one or both ears) and input (e.g., a microphone).

[00113] I/O subsystem 1306 couples input/output peripherals on device 1300, such as touch screen 1312 and other input control devices 1316, to peripherals interface 1318. I/O subsystem 1306 may include display controller 1356 and one or more input controllers 1360 for other input or control devices. The one or more input controllers 1360 receive/send electrical signals from/to other input or control devices 1316. The other input control devices 1316 may include physical buttons (e.g., push buttons, rocker buttons, etc.), dials, slider switches, joysticks, click wheels, and so forth. In some alternate embodiments, input controller(s) 1360 may be coupled to any (or none) of the following: a keyboard, infrared port, USB port, and a pointer device such as a mouse. The one or more buttons (e.g., 1408, FIG. 14) may include an up/down button for volume control of speaker 1311 and/or microphone 1313. The one or more buttons may include a push button (e.g., 1406, FIG. 14).

[00114] Touch-sensitive display 1312 provides an input interface and an output interface between the device and a user. Display controller 1356 receives and/or sends electrical signals from/to touch screen 1312. Touch screen 1312 displays visual output to the user. The visual output may include graphics, text, icons, video, and any combination thereof (collectively termed "graphics"). In some embodiments, some or all of the visual output may correspond to user- interface objects.

[00115] Touch screen 1312 has a touch-sensitive surface, sensor or set of sensors that accepts input from the user based on haptic and/or tactile contact. Touch screen 1312 and display controller 1356 (along with any associated modules and/or sets of instructions in memory 1302) detect contact (and any movement or breaking of the contact) on touch screen 1312 and converts the detected contact into interaction with user-interface objects (e.g., one or more soft keys, icons, web pages or images) that are displayed on touch screen 1312. In an example embodiment, a point of contact between touch screen 1312 and the user corresponds to a finger of the user.

[00116] Touch screen 1312 may use LCD (liquid crystal display) technology, LPD (light emitting polymer display) technology, or LED (light emitting diode) technology, although other display technologies may be used in other embodiments. Touch screen 1312 and display controller 1356 may detect contact and any movement or breaking thereof using any of a variety of touch sensing technologies now known or later developed, including but not limited to capacitive, resistive, infrared, and surface acoustic wave technologies, as well as other proximity sensor arrays or other elements for determining one or more points of contact with touch screen 1312. In an example embodiment, projected mutual capacitance sensing technology is used.

[00117] Touch screen 1312 may have a video resolution in excess of 800 dpi. In some embodiments, the touch screen has a video resolution of approximately 860 dpi. The user may make contact with touch screen 1312 using any suitable object or appendage, such as a stylus, a finger, and so forth. In some embodiments, the user interface is designed to work primarily with finger-based contacts and gestures, which can be less precise than stylus-based input due to the larger area of contact of a finger on the touch screen. In some embodiments, the device translates the rough finger-based input into a precise pointer/cursor position or command for performing the actions desired by the user.

[00118] In some embodiments, in addition to the touch screen, device 1300 may include a touchpad (not shown) for activating or deactivating particular functions. In some embodiments, the touchpad is a touch-sensitive area of the device that, unlike the touch screen, does not display visual output. The touchpad may be a touch-sensitive surface that is separate from touch screen 1312 or an extension of the touch-sensitive surface formed by the touch screen.

[00119] Device 1300 also includes power system 1362 for powering the various components. Power system 1362 may include a power management system, one or more power sources (e.g., battery, altemating current (AC)), a recharging system, a power failure detection circuit, a power converter or inverter, a power status indicator (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)) and any other components associated with the generation, management and distribution of power in portable devices.

[00120] Device 1300 may also include one or more optical sensors or cameras 1364. FIG. 13 shows an optical sensor 1364 coupled to optical sensor controller 1358 in I/O subsystem 1306. Optical sensor 1364 may include charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) phototransistors. Optical sensor 1364 receives light from the environment, projected through one or more lens, and converts the light to data representing an image. In conjunction with imaging module 1343 (also called a camera module), optical sensor 1364 may capture still images or video. In some embodiments, an optical sensor 1364 is located on the back of device 1300, opposite touch screen display 1312 on the front of the device, so that the touch screen display 1312 may be used as a viewfinder for still and/or video image acquisition. In some embodiments, another optical sensor is located on the front of the device so that the user's image may be obtained for videoconferencing while the user views the other video conference participants on the touch screen display.

[00121] Device 1300 may also include one or more proximity sensors 1366. FIG. 13 shows proximity sensor 1366 coupled to peripherals interface 1318. Alternately, proximity sensor 1366 may be coupled to input controller 1360 in I/O subsystem 1306. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor 1366 turns off and disables touch screen 1312 when the multifunction device 1300 is placed near the user's ear (e.g., when the user is making a phone call).

[00122] Device 1300 includes one or more orientation sensors 1368. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1368 include one or more accelerometers (e.g., one or more linear accelerometers and/or one or more rotational accelerometers). In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1368 include one or more gyroscopes. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1368 include one or more magnetometers. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1368 include one or more of global positioning system (GPS), Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), and/or other global navigation system receivers. The GPS, GLONASS, and/or other global navigation system receivers may be used for obtaining information concerning the location and orientation (e.g., portrait or landscape) of device 1300. In some embodiments, the one or more orientation sensors 1368 include any combination of orientation/rotation sensors. FIG. 13 shows the one or more orientation sensors 1368 coupled to peripherals interface 1318. Alternately, the one or more orientation sensors 1368 may be coupled to an input controller 1360 in I/O subsystem 1306. In some embodiments, information is displayed on the touch screen display 1312 in a portrait view or a landscape view based on an analysis of data received from the one or more orientation sensors 1368.

[00123] In some embodiments, the software components stored in memory 1302 include operating system 1326, communication module (or set of instructions) 1328, contact/motion module (or set of instructions) 1330, graphics module (or set of instructions) 1332, text input module (or set of instructions) 1334, Global Positioning System (GPS) module (or set of instructions) 1335, arbiter module 1358 and applications (or sets of instructions) 1336. Furthermore, in some embodiments memory 1302 stores device/global internal state 1357. Device/global internal state 1357 includes one or more of: active application state, indicating which applications, if any, are currently active; display state, indicating what applications, views or other information occupy various regions of touch screen display 1312; sensor state, including information obtained from the device's various sensors and input control devices 1316; and location information concerning the device's location and/or attitude.

[00124] Operating system 1326 (e.g., Darwin, RTXC, LINUX, UNIX, OS X, WINDOWS, or an embedded operating system such as VxWorks) includes various software components and/or drivers for controlling and managing general system tasks (e.g., memory management, storage device control, power management, etc.) and facilitates communication between various hardware and software components.

[00125] Communication module 1328 facilitates communication with other devices over one or more external ports 1324 and also includes various software components for handling data received by RF circuitry 1308 and/or external port 1324. External port 1324 (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB), FIREWIRE, etc.) is adapted for coupling directly to other devices or indirectly over a network (e.g., the Internet, wireless LAN, etc.). In some embodiments, the external port is a multi-pin (e.g., 30-pin) connector.

[00126] Contact/motion module 1330 may detect contact with touch screen 1312 (in conjunction with display controller 1356) and other touch sensitive devices (e.g., a touchpad or physical click wheel). In some embodiments, contact/motion module 1330 and display controller 1356 detect contact on a touchpad. Contact/motion module 1330 may detect a gesture input by a user. Different gestures on the touch-sensitive surface have different contact patterns. Graphics module 1332 includes various known software components for rendering and displaying graphics on touch screen 1312 or other display, including components for changing the intensity of graphics that are displayed. As used herein, the term "graphics" includes any object that can be displayed to a user, including without limitation text, web pages, icons (such as user-interface objects including soft keys), digital images, videos, animations and the like. Text input module 1334, which may be a component of graphics module 1332, provides soft keyboards for entering text in various applications (e.g., contacts, e-mail, and any other application that needs text input). GPS module 1335 determines the location of the device and provides this information for use in various applications 1336 (e.g., to a camera application as picture/video metadata).

[00127] Applications 1336 may include one or more modules (e.g., a contacts module, an email client module, a camera module for still and/or video images, etc.) Examples of other applications 1336 that may be stored in memory 1302 include other word processing applications, other image editing applications, drawing applications, presentation applications, JAVA-enabled applications, encryption, digital rights management, voice recognition, and voice replication. Each of the modules and applications correspond to a set of executable instructions for performing one or more functions described above and the methods described in this application (e.g., the computer-implemented methods and other information processing methods described herein). These modules (i.e., sets of instructions) need not be implemented as separate software programs, procedures or modules, and thus various subsets of these modules may be combined or otherwise re-arranged in various embodiments. In some embodiments, memory 1302 may store a subset of the modules and data structures identified above. Furthermore, memory 1302 may store additional modules and data structures not described above.

[00128] FIG. 14 depicts illustrates an example portable multifunction device 1300 that may include one or more variable focus devices (e.g., in accordance with one or more embodiments of the variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1-11) and/or one or more camera modules (e.g., in accordance with one or more embodiments of the camera modules described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 12), in accordance with some embodiments. The device 1300 may have a touch screen 1312. The touch screen 1312 may display one or more graphics within user interface (UI) 1400. In this embodiment, as well as others described below, a user may select one or more of the graphics by making a gesture on the graphics, for example, with one or more fingers 1402 (not drawn to scale in the figure) or one or more styluses 1403 (not drawn to scale in the figure).

[00129] Device 1300 may also include one or more physical buttons, such as "home" or menu button 1404. As described previously, menu button 1404 may be used to navigate to any application 1336 in a set of applications that may be executed on device 1300. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the menu button 1404 is implemented as a soft key in a GUI displayed on touch screen 1312. [00130] In one embodiment, device 1300 includes touch screen 1312, menu button 1404, push button 1406 for powering the device on/off and locking the device, volume adjustment button(s) 1408, Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card slot 1410, head set jack 1412, and docking/charging external port 1324. Push button 1406 may be used to turn the power on/off on the device by depressing the button and holding the button in the depressed state for a predefined time interval; to lock the device by depressing the button and releasing the button before the predefined time interval has elapsed; and/or to unlock the device or initiate an unlock process. In an alternative embodiment, device 1300 also may accept verbal input for activation or deactivation of some functions through microphone 1313.

[00131] It should be noted that, although many of the examples herein are given with reference to optical sensor(s) / camera(s) 1364 (on the front of a device), one or more rear-facing cameras or optical sensors that are pointed opposite from the display may be used instead of, or in addition to, an optical sensor(s) / camera(s) 1364 on the front of a device.

[00132] FIG. 15 illustrates an example computer system 1500 that may include one or more variable focus devices (e.g., in accordance with one or more embodiments of the variable focus devices described above with reference to FIGS. 1-11) and/or one or more camera modules (e.g., in accordance with one or more embodiments of the camera modules described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 12), in accordance with some embodiments. The computer system 1500 may be configured to execute any or all of the embodiments described above. In different embodiments, computer system 1500 may be any of various types of devices, including, but not limited to, a personal computer system, desktop computer, laptop, notebook, tablet, slate, pad, or netbook computer, mainframe computer system, handheld computer, workstation, network computer, a camera, a set top box, a mobile device, a consumer device, video game console, handheld video game device, application server, storage device, a television, a video recording device, a peripheral device such as a switch, modem, router, or in general any type of computing or electronic device.

[00133] Various embodiments of a camera motion control system as described herein, including embodiments of magnetic position sensing, as described herein may be executed in one or more computer systems 1500, which may interact with various other devices. Note that any component, action, or functionality described above with respect to Figures 1-14 may be implemented on one or more computers configured as computer system 1500 of FIG. 15, according to various embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, computer system 1500 includes one or more processors 1510 coupled to a system memory 1520 via an input/output (I/O) interface 1530. Computer system 1500 further includes a network interface 1540 coupled to I/O interface 1530, and one or more input/output devices 1550, such as cursor control device 1560, keyboard 1570, and display(s) 1580. In some cases, it is contemplated that embodiments may be implemented using a single instance of computer system 1500, while in other embodiments multiple such systems, or multiple nodes making up computer system 1500, may be configured to host different portions or instances of embodiments. For example, in one embodiment some elements may be implemented via one or more nodes of computer system 1500 that are distinct from those nodes implementing other elements.

[00134] In various embodiments, computer system 1500 may be a uniprocessor system including one processor 1510, or a multiprocessor system including several processors 1510 (e.g., two, four, eight, or another suitable number). Processors 1510 may be any suitable processor capable of executing instructions. For example, in various embodiments processors 1510 may be general-purpose or embedded processors implementing any of a variety of instruction set architectures (ISAs), such as the x86, PowerPC, SPARC, or MIPS ISAs, or any other suitable ISA. In multiprocessor systems, each of processors 1510 may commonly, but not necessarily, implement the same ISA.

[00135] System memory 1520 may be configured to store camera control program instructions 1522 and/or camera control data accessible by processor 1510. In various embodiments, system memory 1520 may be implemented using any suitable memory technology, such as static random access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), nonvolatile/Flash-type memory, or any other type of memory. In the illustrated embodiment, program instructions 1522 may be configured to implement a lens control application 1524 incorporating any of the functionality described above. Additionally, existing camera control data 1532 of memory 1520 may include any of the information or data structures described above. In some embodiments, program instructions and/or data may be received, sent or stored upon different types of computer-accessible media or on similar media separate from system memory 1520 or computer system 1500. While computer system 1500 is described as implementing the functionality of functional blocks of previous Figures, any of the functionality described herein may be implemented via such a computer system.

[00136] In one embodiment, I/O interface 1530 may be configured to coordinate I/O traffic between processor 1510, system memory 1520, and any peripheral devices in the device, including network interface 1540 or other peripheral interfaces, such as input/output devices 1550. In some embodiments, I/O interface 1530 may perform any necessary protocol, timing or other data transformations to convert data signals from one component (e.g., system memory 1520) into a format suitable for use by another component (e.g., processor 1510). In some embodiments, I/O interface 1530 may include support for devices attached through various types of peripheral buses, such as a variant of the Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus standard or the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard, for example. In some embodiments, the function of I/O interface 1530 may be split into two or more separate components, such as a north bridge and a south bridge, for example. Also, in some embodiments some or all of the functionality of I/O interface 1530, such as an interface to system memory 1520, may be incorporated directly into processor 1510.

[00137] Network interface 1540 may be configured to allow data to be exchanged between computer system 1500 and other devices attached to a network 1585 (e.g., carrier or agent devices) or between nodes of computer system 1500. Network 1585 may in various embodiments include one or more networks including but not limited to Local Area Networks (LANs) (e.g., an Ethernet or corporate network), Wide Area Networks (WANs) (e.g., the Internet), wireless data networks, some other electronic data network, or some combination thereof. In various embodiments, network interface 1540 may support communication via wired or wireless general data networks, such as any suitable type of Ethernet network, for example; via telecommunications/telephony networks such as analog voice networks or digital fiber communications networks; via storage area networks such as Fibre Channel SANs, or via any other suitable type of network and/or protocol.

[00138] Input/output devices 1550 may, in some embodiments, include one or more display terminals, keyboards, keypads, touchpads, scanning devices, voice or optical recognition devices, or any other devices suitable for entering or accessing data by one or more computer systems 1500. Multiple input/output devices 1550 may be present in computer system 1500 or may be distributed on various nodes of computer system 1500. In some embodiments, similar input/output devices may be separate from computer system 1500 and may interact with one or more nodes of computer system 1500 through a wired or wireless connection, such as over network interface 1540.

[00139] As shown in FIG. 15, memory 1520 may include program instructions 1522, which may be processor-executable to implement any element or action described above. In one embodiment, the program instructions may implement the methods described above. In other embodiments, different elements and data may be included. Note that data may include any data or information described above.

[00140] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that computer system 1500 is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the scope of embodiments. In particular, the computer system and devices may include any combination of hardware or software that can perform the indicated functions, including computers, network devices, Internet appliances, PDAs, wireless phones, pagers, etc. Computer system 1500 may also be connected to other devices that are not illustrated, or instead may operate as a stand-alone system. In addition, the functionality provided by the illustrated components may in some embodiments be combined in fewer components or distributed in additional components. Similarly, in some embodiments, the functionality of some of the illustrated components may not be provided and/or other additional functionality may be available.

[00141] Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that, while various items are illustrated as being stored in memory or on storage while being used, these items or portions of them may be transferred between memory and other storage devices for purposes of memory management and data integrity. Alternatively, in other embodiments some or all of the software components may execute in memory on another device and communicate with the illustrated computer system via inter-computer communication. Some or all of the system components or data structures may also be stored (e.g., as instructions or structured data) on a computer-accessible medium or a portable article to be read by an appropriate drive, various examples of which are described above. In some embodiments, instructions stored on a computer-accessible medium separate from computer system 1500 may be transmitted to computer system 1500 via transmission media or signals such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals, conveyed via a communication medium such as a network and/or a wireless link. Various embodiments may further include receiving, sending or storing instructions and/or data implemented in accordance with the foregoing description upon a computer-accessible medium. Generally speaking, a computer- accessible medium may include a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium or memory medium such as magnetic or optical media, e.g., disk or DVD/CD-ROM, volatile or non-volatile media such as RAM (e.g. SDRAM, DDR, RDRAM, SRAM, etc.), ROM, etc. In some embodiments, a computer-accessible medium may include transmission media or signals such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals, conveyed via a communication medium such as network and/or a wireless link.

[00142] The methods described herein may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof, in different embodiments. In addition, the order of the blocks of the methods may be changed, and various elements may be added, reordered, combined, omitted, modified, etc. Various modifications and changes may be made as would be obvious to a person skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The various embodiments described herein are meant to be illustrative and not limiting. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. Accordingly, plural instances may be provided for components described herein as a single instance. Boundaries between various components, operations and data stores are somewhat arbitrary, and particular operations are illustrated in the context of specific illustrative configurations. Other allocations of functionality are envisioned and may fall within the scope of claims that follow. Finally, structures and functionality presented as discrete components in the example configurations may be implemented as a combined structure or component. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of embodiments as defined in the claims that follow.