Camera related features of a mobile phone or computing device
AssigneeApple Inc.
InventorsLee E. Hooton, Douglas S. Brodie, Matthew D. Hill, Nicholas G. Merz, Scott A. Myers, Terence N. Tam
Life of this patent
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Abstract
This application relates primarily to various apparatus and method for securing and protecting a camera module within a device housing. The securing and protecting elements are configured to take up minimal space within the device housing so that available space for the camera module is maximized. In some embodiments the securing elements can also include grounding features.
Claims20
A camera module securing assembly for securing a camera module within a device housing, the camera module securing assembly comprising:
- a camera retention strap having a first end and a second end, the second end opposite the first end that attaches to the device housing;
- wherein the camera retention strap limits movement of the camera module and provides a cushioning against an external force;
- and
- a cowling comprising:
- a fastener that secures the cowling to an internal surface of the device housing;
- and
- a retention arm that receives the second end of the camera retention strap and secures the camera module.
A protective assembly providing protection against external forces to a front surface of a camera module in a portable electronic device, comprising:
- an elastomeric shock mount mechanically coupled to the front surface of the camera module, the front surface including a lens portion;
- an elastomeric camera retention strap extending along a back surface of the camera module;
- a metal trim ring having a plurality of alignment pins configured to pass through a plurality of openings in the elastomeric shock mount and into openings disposed along the front surface of the camera module;
- and
- wherein the elastomeric camera retention strap and elastomeric shock mount cooperate to dissipate the external forces applied to the camera module.
A method for securing a camera module in an electronic device housing, comprising:
- fastening a cowling within the electronic device housing, the cowling having a first retention arm;
- providing a camera retention strap having a first end and a second end;
- inserting the first end of the camera retention strap into a recess within the electronic device housing;
- installing the camera module in the electronic device housing between the cowling and the first end of the camera retention strap, the camera module continuously engaging a portion of the cowling;
- and
- engaging the second end of the camera retention strap with the first retention arm.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.