Compact image capture assembly using multiple lenses and image sensors to provide an extended zoom range

An optical image capture assembly for use in an electronic camera, wherein the camera is contained by an enclosure that includes the optical image capture assembly and provides a front surface through which respective lenses of the optical image capture assembly protrude, said assembly comprising:

• a first optical subassembly comprising a first image sensor for generating a first sensor output and a first lens for forming a first image of a scene on the first image sensor;
• a second optical subassembly comprising a second image sensor for generating a second sensor output and a zoom lens pointing in the same direction as the first lens and forming a second image of the scene on the second image sensor, wherein the zoom lens is adjustable between a minimum focal length and a maximum focal length to provide the second image, and wherein at least one of the first lens and the zoom lens comprises a folded optical system including an outer objective and relay optics for forming an image through a folded optical path between the outer objective and its respective image sensor in order to conserve space within the enclosure;
• and
• means for supporting the first and second optical subassemblies within the enclosure whereby the first lens and the zoom lens, including the outer objective of the folded optical system, protrude through the front surface of the enclosure and are substantially coplanar with said front surface.