Apple Inc.
Camera lens tilt detection and correction

Abstract:

Methods and apparatus for detecting and correcting for lens tilt in cameras. The common mode signal may be derived from autofocus position (AP) sensors and used as a measure of the autofocus position of the lens on the Z axis. The differential mode signal may also be derived from the AP sensor signals. The differential mode signal may indicate that the lens is or is not tilted, and if tilted may indicate the direction and magnitude of the tilt. The differential mode signal may be used to apply a tilt correction transform to image data based on the strength and direction of the signal. The differential mode signal may also be used to translate the lens on an axis orthogonal to the Z axis to partially correct for lens tilt to align the image plane with the photosensor.