Camera module and electronic device including the same

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a camera module including a first lens barrel including a first support portion that supports a lens accommodated in the first lens barrel on an object side of the first lens barrel, and a second lens barrel including a second support portion that supports a lens accommodated in the second lens barrel on an image side of the second lens barrel, wherein the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are configured to be coupled to each other by a protrusion and a groove. The present disclosure also relates to an electronic device including the camera module.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0119074, filed on September 16, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a camera module that can prevent the lens from separating from the lens barrel. Background Technology

[0004] The camera module includes a lens barrel configured to house multiple lenses. The lens barrel has an internal space in which the lenses can be arranged in ascending order of size. For example, the internal space of the lens barrel may gradually widen from one side to the other to sequentially house a first lens with the smallest size and a lens with the largest size. Because the other side of the lens barrel is wide enough to accommodate the largest lens, the lens can be easily separated from the lens barrel. Therefore, to prevent lens separation, the outermost lens is secured by inserting a press-fit ring into the other side of the lens barrel or by applying adhesive to the other side of the lens barrel. However, as the number of lenses arranged in the lens barrel gradually increases, securing the lenses by press-fit rings and adhesives becomes difficult.

[0005] The above information is presented as background information only to aid in understanding this disclosure. No determination or assertion is made as to whether any of the above content can be used as prior art with respect to this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The summary portion of this invention is intended to provide a brief overview of the chosen inventive concepts, which will be further described in the detailed description portion below. This summary portion is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] In one general aspect, the camera module includes a first lens barrel and a second lens barrel, the first lens barrel including a first support portion on the object side of the first lens barrel supporting a lens housed in the first lens barrel, and the second lens barrel including a second support portion on the image side of the second lens barrel supporting a lens housed in the second lens barrel, wherein the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are configured to be connected to each other by protrusions and grooves.

[0008] The camera module may also include a first lens group disposed in a first lens barrel and a second lens group disposed in a second lens barrel.

[0009] The first lens group may include multiple lenses.

[0010] The maximum diameter of the lens constituting the first lens group can be smaller than the maximum diameter of the lens constituting the second lens group.

[0011] The first lens barrel may include a stepped portion for supporting the lenses of the first lens group in the first receiving space of the first lens barrel.

[0012] The camera module may also include a gap-retaining member disposed between the first lens housed in the first lens barrel and the second lens housed in the second lens barrel when the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are connected to each other by protrusions and grooves.

[0013] The maximum diameter of the gap-holding component can be greater than the maximum diameter of the second lens.

[0014] When the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are connected to each other by protrusions and grooves, the space in which adhesive is filled can be located between the protrusions and grooves.

[0015] Protrusions and grooves may include threads to mate with each other.

[0016] The electronic device may include a camera module and a surface on which the camera module is mounted. The camera module also includes an image sensor configured to convert incident light signals through the lens of the first lens barrel and the lens of the second lens barrel into electrical signals when the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are connected to each other by protrusions and grooves.

[0017] In another general aspect, the camera module includes a first lens barrel and a second lens barrel, the first lens barrel including a first support portion on the object side of the first lens barrel supporting a lens housed in the first lens barrel, and the second lens barrel including a second support portion on the image side of the second lens barrel supporting a lens housed in the second lens barrel, wherein the first lens barrel is configured to be fitted into the second lens barrel, and the maximum diameter of the first lens barrel is smaller than the maximum diameter of the second lens barrel.

[0018] The camera module may also include a gap-holding member disposed between the first lens housed in the first lens barrel and the second lens housed in the second lens barrel when the first lens barrel is assembled into the second lens barrel.

[0019] The inner circumferential surface of the clearance retaining member may include an inclined portion.

[0020] The second support portion can be arranged at certain intervals along the inner circumferential surface of the second lens barrel.

[0021] When the first lens barrel is assembled into the second lens barrel, the space in which the adhesive is applied can be located between the outer peripheral surface of the first lens barrel and the inner peripheral surface of the second lens barrel.

[0022] The electronic device may include a camera module and a surface on which the camera module is mounted. The camera module also includes an image sensor configured to convert incident light signals through the lenses of the first and second lens barrels into electrical signals when the first lens barrel is assembled into the second lens barrel.

[0023] In another general aspect, the camera module includes: a first lens barrel having a first support portion disposed on the object side of the first lens barrel, the first support portion supporting a first lens housed in the first lens barrel; a second lens barrel having a second support portion disposed on the image side of the second lens barrel, the second support portion supporting a second lens housed in the second lens barrel; a coupling member connecting the first lens barrel to the second lens barrel; and an image sensor configured to convert light signals incident through the first lens and the second lens into electrical signals.

[0024] The electronic device may include a camera module and a surface on which the camera module is mounted, wherein the coupling component includes a protrusion located on the object side of the second lens barrel, the protrusion being coupled to a groove or outer diameter on the image side of the first lens barrel.

[0025] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of a camera module according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The image shows an assembled cross-sectional view of the camera module.

[0028] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of a camera module according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0029] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The image shows an assembled cross-sectional view of the camera module.

[0030] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of a camera module according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The image shows an assembled cross-sectional view of the camera module.

[0032] Figure 7This is an exploded view of a camera module according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The image shows an assembled cross-sectional view of the camera module.

[0034] Figure 9 This is an exploded view of a camera module according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0035] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The image shows an assembled cross-sectional view of the camera module.

[0036] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed embodiments, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For purposes of clarity, illustration, and convenience, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the relative dimensions, scale, and depiction of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. Detailed Implementation

[0037] In the following description, although examples of this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that the examples are not limited thereto.

[0038] The following detailed embodiments are provided to help readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described in this application. However, various changes, modifications, and equivalents to the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described in this application will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure. For example, the order of operations described in this application is merely illustrative, and is not limited to the order set forth in this application, except for operations that must occur in a specific order, but can be changed, as will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure. Furthermore, for clarity and conciseness, descriptions of functions and structures that are well-known in the art may be omitted.

[0039] The features described in this application may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the examples described in this application. Rather, the examples described in this application are provided merely to illustrate some of the many possible ways in which the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described in this application will be apparent upon understanding this disclosure.

[0040] It should be noted that in this application, the term "may" is used in relation to examples or implementations, such as with regard to what an example or implementation may include or implement, meaning that there exists at least one example or implementation that includes or implements such features, and that all examples and implementations are not limited thereto.

[0041] Throughout this specification, when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is described as being "on," "connected to," or "attached to" another element, the element may be directly "on," directly "connected to," or directly "attached to" the other element, or there may be one or more other elements between the element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is described as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another element, there are no other elements between the element and the other element. As used herein, a "part" of an element may include the entire element or a portion of the entire element smaller than the entire element.

[0042] As used in this application, the term “and / or” includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items; similarly, “at least one” includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items.

[0043] Although terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used in this application to describe various components, parts, regions, layers, or portions, these components, parts, regions, layers, or portions are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish one component, part, region, layer, or portion from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the examples described in this application, the first component, first part, first region, first layer, or first portion mentioned in these examples may also be referred to as a second component, second part, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0044] Spatial relative terms such as “above,” “above,” “below,” and “below” may be used in this application for descriptive convenience to describe the relationship of one element relative to another, as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to covering the orientation depicted in the drawings, these spatial relative terms are intended to also cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as being “above” or “above” another element would be located “below” or “below” that other element. Thus, depending on the spatial orientation of the device, the term “above” covers both orientations of “above” and “below”. The device may also be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative terms used in this application should be interpreted accordingly.

[0045] The terminology used in this application is for describing various examples only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural form as well. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, numbers, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0046] Variations in the shapes shown in the accompanying drawings may occur due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the examples described in this application are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the accompanying drawings, but include shape variations that may occur during manufacturing.

[0047] The features of the examples described in this application can be combined in various ways that will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure. Furthermore, although the examples described in this application have multiple configurations, other configurations that will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure are also possible.

[0048] The camera module described in this specification can be installed in mobile electronic products. For example, the camera module can be installed in mobile phones, laptops, etc. However, the scope of use of the camera module according to the exemplary embodiments is not limited to the above-described electronic products. For example, the camera module can be installed in any electronic device on which a camera module can be mounted on its front and / or rear surfaces.

[0049] One aspect of this disclosure provides a camera module including a lens barrel configured to prevent separation of the lens from the lens barrel.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 A camera module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0051] The camera module 12 according to this embodiment may include a first lens barrel 100 and a second lens barrel 200. However, the components of the camera module 12 are not limited to the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. For example, the camera module 12 may also include a drive unit that drives the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction or in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction, an image sensor 900 that converts light signals into electrical signals, and a substrate 910 on which the image sensor 900 is mounted, etc.

[0052] The first lens barrel 100 may have a substantially truncated conical shape. However, the shape of the first lens barrel 100 is not limited to a truncated conical shape. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The first lens barrel 100 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have different dimensions. For example, the outer diameter BED1 of one end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the outer diameter BXD1 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). Furthermore, the outer diameter BED1 of one end of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0053] The first lens barrel 100 may be configured to house one or more lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 12. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may house a first lens group 300. The first lens group 300 may be positioned closer to the object side than another lens group. For example, the first lens group 300 may include a first lens positioned closest to the object side. The first lens group 300 may include multiple lenses. For example, the first lens group 300 may include five or more lenses. However, the number of lenses constituting the first lens group 300 is not limited to five. For example, the first lens group 300 may also include six or more lenses.

[0054] The first lens barrel 100 can be configured to house multiple lenses therein. For example, the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100 can be formed to extend in the direction of the optical axis C. The first lens barrel 100 can align the positions of the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other. For example, a stepped portion 130 for aligning the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other can be formed in the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100. The stepped portion 130 can be formed according to the size and number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, when the first lens group 300 housed in the first lens barrel 100 includes six lenses, six stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102. However, the number of stepped portions 130 formed in the internal space 102 is not limited to the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the stepped portion 130 of the internal space 102 can be formed by the sum of the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the number of gap-holding members. Specifically, when the five lenses and two gap-holding members are housed in the first lens barrel 100, seven stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102.

[0055] The stepped portion 130 can widen from one side of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side. For example, the stepped portion 130 can widen from one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side (image side, image sensor side).

[0056] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may include a first support portion 110 for preventing the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 from separating towards one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. The first support portion 110 may be configured to contact the first lens 310 located at the foremost position of the first lens group 300. For example, the first support portion 110 may have a stepped claw or protrusion shape that contacts the flange portion of the first lens 310. The first support portion 110 may be formed at the front end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. Specifically, all lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 may be sequentially arranged behind the first support portion 110 (on the image side of the first support portion 110). The first support portion 110 may be configured to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the flange portion of the first lens 310 to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. The first support portion 110 may be configured to align with the position of the first lens 310. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the edge of the first lens 310 to align the position of the first lens 310.

[0057] The first support portion 110 can form an opening for light to enter. The size BD1 of the opening formed by the first support portion 110 can be substantially the same as the effective diameter ED1 of the foremost lens (the lens closest to the object side) of the first lens group 300. The first support portion 110 can achieve a wide field of view for the camera module 12. For example, one surface 112 of the first support portion 110 can be inclined to facilitate light entry.

[0058] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for connecting the first lens barrel 100 to the second lens barrel 200. For example, a groove 120 may be formed at the other end of the first lens barrel 100. The groove 120 may be formed continuously or discontinuously in the circumferential direction of the first lens barrel 100. For example, the groove 120 may be formed in a circular shape around the optical axis C, or it may be formed around the optical axis C at predetermined intervals. The groove 120 may be formed to have predetermined dimensions. For example, the width W1 and depth DP1 of the groove 120 may be substantially the same as the thickness W2 and height DP2 of the protrusion 220 fitted into the groove 120, respectively.

[0059] The second lens barrel 200 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the second lens barrel 200 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The second lens barrel 200 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have substantially the same size. For example, the outer diameter BED2 of one end (object side) of the second lens barrel 200 may be substantially the same as the outer diameter BXD2 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). The second lens barrel 200 may be configured to accommodate a lens that is larger than the lens accommodated in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the maximum inner diameter or inner diameter BETD2 of one end of the second lens barrel 200 may be larger than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0060] The second lens barrel 200 can be configured to house other lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 12. For example, the second lens barrel 200 can house a second lens group 400. The second lens group 400 can be positioned closer to the image side than the first lens group 300. For example, the second lens group 400 may include a lens positioned closest to the image side. The second lens group 400 may include one or more lenses. For example, the second lens group 400 may include one lens. However, the number of lenses constituting the second lens group 400 is not limited to one. For example, the second lens group 400 may also include two or more lenses. The second lens group 400 may include lenses that are substantially larger than the lenses of the first lens group 300. For example, the maximum diameter of the lenses constituting the second lens group 400 may be greater than the maximum diameter of the lenses constituting the first lens group 300.

[0061] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may include a second support portion 210 for preventing lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 from separating toward one side (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may protrude toward the internal space 202 of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may be formed at the rear end (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. Specifically, all lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 may be sequentially arranged in front of the second support portion 210 (on the object side of the second support portion 210). The second support portion 210 may contact the last lens 410 of the second lens group 400. For example, the second support portion 210 may contact the flange portion of the last lens 410 to prevent the last lens 410 from separating toward the image side and to align the position of the last lens 410. For example, the second support portion 210 may contact the edge of the last lens 410 to align the position of the last lens 410. The second support portion 210 may be configured to prevent flare. For example, the inner peripheral surface of the second support portion 210 may form a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis C to mitigate flare phenomena that may be caused by the final lens 410.

[0062] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for connecting the second lens barrel 200 to the first lens barrel 100. For example, a protrusion 220 may be formed at one end of the second lens barrel 200. The protrusion 220 may be formed continuously or discontinuously in the circumferential direction of the second lens barrel 200. For example, the protrusion 220 may be formed in a circular shape around the optical axis C, or it may be formed around the optical axis C at predetermined intervals. The protrusion 220 may be formed to have predetermined dimensions. For example, the thickness W2 and height DP2 of the protrusion 220 may be substantially the same as the width W1 and depth DP1 of the groove 120, respectively.

[0063] The first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be securely connected to each other via a protrusion 220 fitted into the groove 120. Therefore, the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be prevented from separating from each other due to external impact. To further securely connect the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200, an adhesive can be applied to the surface of the groove 120 and / or the protrusion 220.

[0064] In the camera module 12 including the components described above, lens separation due to external impact can be prevented. For example, in the camera module 12, separation of one or more lenses toward the object side or image side can be suppressed by the first support portion 110 of the first lens barrel 100 and the second support portion 210 of the second lens barrel 200. Furthermore, in the camera module 12, phenomena such as lifting, shaking, and wobbling of the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be suppressed by the strong connection between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. Therefore, the camera module 12 according to this exemplary embodiment can improve image capture quality through the optical system housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200.

[0065] Next, other exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will be described.

[0066] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 A camera module according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0067] The camera module 14 according to this embodiment may include a first lens barrel 100, a second lens barrel 200, and a gap maintaining member 500. However, the components of the camera module 14 are not limited to the first lens barrel 100, the second lens barrel 200, and the gap maintaining member 500. For example, the camera module 14 may also include a drive unit that drives the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction or in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction, an image sensor 900 that converts light signals into electrical signals, and a substrate 910 on which the image sensor 900 is mounted, etc.

[0068] The first lens barrel 100 may have a substantially truncated conical shape. However, the shape of the first lens barrel 100 is not limited to a truncated conical shape. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The first lens barrel 100 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have different dimensions. For example, the outer diameter BED1 of one end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the outer diameter BXD1 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). Furthermore, the outer diameter BED1 of one end of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0069] The first lens barrel 100 may be configured to house one or more lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 14. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may house a first lens group 300. The first lens group 300 may be positioned closer to the object side than another lens group. For example, the first lens group 300 may include a first lens positioned closest to the object side. The first lens group 300 may include multiple lenses. For example, the first lens group 300 may include five or more lenses. However, the number of lenses constituting the first lens group 300 is not limited to five. For example, the first lens group 300 may also include six or more lenses.

[0070] The first lens barrel 100 can be configured to house multiple lenses therein. For example, the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100 can be formed to extend in the direction of the optical axis C. The first lens barrel 100 can align the positions of the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other. For example, a stepped portion 130 for aligning the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other can be formed in the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100. The stepped portion 130 can be formed according to the size and number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, when the first lens group 300 housed in the first lens barrel 100 includes six lenses, six stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102. However, the number of stepped portions 130 formed in the internal space 102 is not limited to the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the stepped portion 130 of the internal space 102 can be formed by the sum of the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the number of gap-holding members. Specifically, when the five lenses and two gap-holding members are housed in the first lens barrel 100, seven stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102.

[0071] The stepped portion 130 can widen from one side of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side. For example, the stepped portion 130 can widen from one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side (image side, image sensor side).

[0072] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may include a first support portion 110 for preventing the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 from separating towards one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. The first support portion 110 may be configured to contact the first lens 310 located at the foremost position of the first lens group 300. For example, the first support portion 110 may have a stepped claw or protrusion shape that contacts the flange portion of the first lens 310. The first support portion 110 may be formed at the front end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. Specifically, all lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 may be sequentially arranged behind the first support portion 110 (on the image side of the first support portion 110). The first support portion 110 may be configured to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the flange portion of the first lens 310 to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. The first support portion 110 may be configured to align with the position of the first lens 310. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the edge of the first lens 310 to align the position of the first lens 310.

[0073] The first support portion 110 can form an opening for light to enter. The size BD1 of the opening formed by the first support portion 110 can be substantially the same as the effective diameter ED1 of the foremost lens (the lens closest to the object side) of the first lens group 300. The first support portion 110 can achieve a wide field of view for the camera module 14. For example, one surface 112 of the first support portion 110 can be inclined to facilitate light entry.

[0074] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for connecting the first lens barrel 100 to the second lens barrel 200. For example, a groove 120 may be formed at the other end of the first lens barrel 100. The groove 120 may be formed continuously or discontinuously in the circumferential direction of the first lens barrel 100. For example, the groove 120 may be formed in a circular shape around the optical axis C, or it may be formed around the optical axis C at predetermined intervals. The groove 120 may be formed to have predetermined dimensions. For example, the width W1 and depth DP1 of the groove 120 may be substantially the same as the thickness W2 and height DP2 of the protrusion 220 fitted into the groove 120, respectively.

[0075] The second lens barrel 200 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the second lens barrel 200 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The second lens barrel 200 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have substantially the same size. For example, the outer diameter BED2 of one end (object side) of the second lens barrel 200 may be substantially the same as the outer diameter BXD2 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). The second lens barrel 200 may be configured to accommodate a lens larger than the lens accommodated in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the maximum inner diameter or inner diameter BETD2 of one end of the second lens barrel 200 may be larger than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0076] The second lens barrel 200 can be configured to house other lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 14. For example, the second lens barrel 200 can house a second lens group 400. The second lens group 400 can be positioned closer to the image side than the first lens group 300. For example, the second lens group 400 may include a lens positioned closest to the image side. The second lens group 400 may include one or more lenses. For example, the second lens group 400 may include one lens. However, the number of lenses constituting the second lens group 400 is not limited to one. For example, the second lens group 400 may also include two or more lenses. The second lens group 400 may include lenses that are substantially larger than the lenses of the first lens group 300. For example, the maximum diameter of the lenses constituting the second lens group 400 may be greater than the maximum diameter of the lenses constituting the first lens group 300.

[0077] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may include a second support portion 210 for preventing lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 from separating toward one side (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may protrude toward the internal space 202 of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may be formed at the rear end (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. Specifically, all lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 may be sequentially arranged in front of the second support portion 210 (on the object side of the second support portion 210). The second support portion 210 may contact the last lens 410 of the second lens group 400. For example, the second support portion 210 may contact the flange portion of the last lens 410 to prevent the last lens 410 from separating toward the image side and to align the position of the last lens 410. The second support portion 210 may be configured to prevent flare. For example, the inner peripheral surface of the second support portion 210 may form a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis C to mitigate flare phenomena that may be caused by the final lens 410.

[0078] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for connecting the second lens barrel 200 to the first lens barrel 100. For example, a protrusion 220 may be formed at one end of the second lens barrel 200. The protrusion 220 may be formed continuously or discontinuously in the circumferential direction of the second lens barrel 200. For example, the protrusion 220 may be formed in a circular shape around the optical axis C, or it may be formed around the optical axis C at predetermined intervals. The protrusion 220 may be formed to have predetermined dimensions. For example, the thickness W2 and height DP2 of the protrusion 220 may be substantially the same as the width W1 and depth DP1 of the groove 120, respectively.

[0079] A gap-holding member 500 may be disposed between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. For example, the gap-holding member 500 may be disposed between the lens 360 disposed at the rearmost position of the first lens barrel 100 and the lens 410 disposed at the foremost position of the second lens barrel 200. The gap-holding member 500 is used to maintain the gap between the lenses at a size according to the optical design. For example, the gap between the lens 360 and the lens 410 can be adjusted by changing the thickness of the gap-holding member 500. The gap-holding member 500 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 may be greater than the maximum diameter of the lens 410 disposed at the foremost position of the second lens barrel 200. However, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 does not necessarily have to be greater than the maximum diameter of the lens 410. For example, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 may be smaller than the maximum diameter of the lens 410.

[0080] The gap retaining member 500 can be used to mitigate flare phenomena. For example, the inner peripheral surface 510 of the gap retaining member 500 can form a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis C to mitigate flare phenomena that may occur between lenses 360 and 410. The gap retaining member 500 can be configured to align the optical axes of lenses 360 and 410 with each other. For example, the gap retaining member 500 and lenses 360 and 410 can be configured to engage with each other via protrusions, grooves, or other connecting structures, such that the relative positions of the gap retaining member 500 and lenses 360 and 410 can be aligned with each other through connecting contacts.

[0081] The first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be securely connected to each other via a protrusion 220 fitted into the groove 120. Therefore, the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be prevented from separating from each other due to external impact. To further securely connect the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200, an adhesive can be applied to the surface of the groove 120 and / or the protrusion 220.

[0082] In the camera module 14, which includes the components described above, lens separation due to external impact can be prevented. For example, in the camera module 14, separation of one or more lenses toward the object side or image side can be suppressed by the first support portion 110 of the first lens barrel 100 and the second support portion 210 of the second lens barrel 200. Furthermore, in the camera module 14, the strong connection between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can suppress phenomena such as lifting, shaking, and wobbling of the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. Therefore, the camera module 14 according to this exemplary embodiment can improve image capture quality through the optical system housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200.

[0083] Furthermore, in the camera module 14 according to this embodiment, the lenses can be in close contact with each other and their optical axes can be aligned with each other through the gap retaining member 500. Therefore, the defect rate that may occur during the assembly process of the camera module 14 can be reduced.

[0084] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 A camera module according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

[0085] The camera module 16 according to this embodiment may include a first lens barrel 100 and a second lens barrel 200. However, the components of the camera module 16 are not limited to the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. For example, the camera module 16 may also include a drive unit that drives the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction or in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction, an image sensor 900 that converts light signals into electrical signals, and a substrate 910 on which the image sensor 900 is mounted. In addition, the camera module 16 may also include a gap holding member 500 according to the above exemplary embodiment.

[0086] The first lens barrel 100 may have a substantially truncated conical shape. However, the shape of the first lens barrel 100 is not limited to a truncated conical shape. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The first lens barrel 100 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have different dimensions. For example, the outer diameter BED1 of one end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the outer diameter BXD1 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). Furthermore, the outer diameter BED1 of one end of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0087] The first lens barrel 100 can be configured to house one or more lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 16. For example, the first lens barrel 100 can house a first lens group 300. The first lens group 300 can be positioned closer to the object side than another lens group. For example, the first lens group 300 may include a first lens positioned closest to the object side. The first lens group 300 may include multiple lenses. For example, the first lens group 300 may include five or more lenses. However, the number of lenses constituting the first lens group 300 is not limited to five. For example, the first lens group 300 may also include six or more lenses.

[0088] The first lens barrel 100 can be configured to house multiple lenses therein. For example, the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100 can be formed to extend in the direction of the optical axis C. The first lens barrel 100 can align the positions of the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other. For example, a stepped portion 130 for aligning the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other can be formed in the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100. The stepped portion 130 can be formed according to the size and number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, when the first lens group 300 housed in the first lens barrel 100 includes six lenses, six stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102. However, the number of stepped portions 130 formed in the internal space 102 is not limited to the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the stepped portion 130 of the internal space 102 can be formed by the sum of the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the number of gap-holding members. Specifically, when the five lenses and two gap-holding members are housed in the first lens barrel 100, seven stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102.

[0089] The stepped portion 130 can widen from one side of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side. For example, the stepped portion 130 can widen from one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side (image side, image sensor side).

[0090] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may include a first support portion 110 for preventing the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 from separating toward one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. The first support portion 110 may be configured to contact the first lens 310 located at the foremost position of the first lens group 300. For example, the first support portion 110 may have a stepped claw or protrusion shape that contacts the flange portion of the first lens 310. The first support portion 110 may be formed at the front end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. Specifically, all lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 may be sequentially arranged behind the first support portion 110 (on the image side of the first support portion 110). The first support portion 110 may be configured to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the flange portion of the first lens 310 to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. The first support portion 110 may be configured to align with the position of the first lens 310. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the edge of the first lens 310 to align the position of the first lens 310.

[0091] The first support portion 110 can form an opening for light to enter. The size BD1 of the opening formed by the first support portion 110 can be substantially the same as the effective diameter ED1 of the foremost lens (the lens closest to the object side) of the first lens group 300. The first support portion 110 can achieve a wide field of view for the camera module 16. For example, one surface 112 of the first support portion 110 can be inclined to facilitate light entry.

[0092] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for connecting the first lens barrel 100 to the second lens barrel 200. For example, a groove 120 in which a thread 122 is formed may be formed at the other end of the first lens barrel 100. The groove 120 may be continuously formed in the circumferential direction of the first lens barrel 100.

[0093] The second lens barrel 200 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the second lens barrel 200 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The second lens barrel 200 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have substantially the same size. For example, the outer diameter BED2 of one end (object side) of the second lens barrel 200 may be substantially the same as the outer diameter BXD2 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). The second lens barrel 200 may be configured to accommodate a lens larger than the lens accommodated in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the maximum inner diameter or inner diameter BETD2 of one end of the second lens barrel 200 may be larger than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0094] The second lens barrel 200 can be configured to house other lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 16. For example, the second lens barrel 200 can house a second lens group 400. The second lens group 400 can be positioned closer to the image side than the first lens group 300. For example, the second lens group 400 may include a lens positioned closest to the image side. The second lens group 400 may include one or more lenses. For example, the second lens group 400 may include one lens. However, the number of lenses constituting the second lens group 400 is not limited to one. For example, the second lens group 400 may also include two or more lenses. The second lens group 400 may include lenses that are substantially larger than the first lens group 300. For example, the maximum diameter of the lenses constituting the second lens group 400 may be larger than the maximum diameter of the lenses constituting the first lens group 300.

[0095] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may include a second support portion 210 for preventing lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 from separating toward one side (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may protrude toward the internal space 202 of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may be formed at the rear end (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. Specifically, all lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 may be sequentially arranged in front of the second support portion 210 (on the object side of the second support portion 210). The second support portion 210 may contact the last lens 410 of the second lens group 400. For example, the second support portion 210 may contact the flange portion of the last lens 410 to prevent the last lens 410 from separating toward the image side and to align the position of the last lens 410. The second support portion 210 may be configured to prevent flare. For example, the inner peripheral surface of the second support portion 210 may form a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis C to mitigate flare phenomena that may be caused by the final lens 410.

[0096] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for connecting the second lens barrel 200 to the first lens barrel 100. For example, a protrusion 220 with threads 222 may be formed at one end of the second lens barrel 200. The protrusion 220 may be formed continuously in the circumferential direction of the second lens barrel 200.

[0097] The first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be interconnected by a threaded engagement between the groove 120 and the protrusion 220. Therefore, the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be separated from each other without being caused by external impact.

[0098] In the camera module 16 including the components described above, lens separation due to external impact can be prevented. For example, in the camera module 16, separation of one or more lenses toward the object side or image side can be suppressed by the first support portion 110 of the first lens barrel 100 and the second support portion 210 of the second lens barrel 200. Furthermore, in the camera module 16, phenomena such as lifting, shaking, and wobbling of the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be suppressed by the strong connection between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. Therefore, the camera module 16 according to this exemplary embodiment can improve image capture quality through the optical system housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200.

[0099] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 A camera module according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is described.

[0100] The camera module 18 according to this embodiment may include a first lens barrel 100, a second lens barrel 200, and a gap-holding member 500. However, the components of the camera module 18 are not limited to the first lens barrel 100, the second lens barrel 200, and the gap-holding member 500. For example, the camera module 18 may also include a drive unit that drives the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction or in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction, an image sensor 900 that converts light signals into electrical signals, and a substrate 910 on which the image sensor 900 is mounted, etc.

[0101] The first lens barrel 100 may have a substantially truncated conical shape. However, the shape of the first lens barrel 100 is not limited to a truncated conical shape. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The first lens barrel 100 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have different dimensions. For example, the outer diameter BED1 of one end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the outer diameter BXD1 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). Furthermore, the outer diameter BED1 of one end of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0102] The first lens barrel 100 may be configured to house one or more lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 18. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may house a first lens group 300. The first lens group 300 may be positioned closer to the object side than another lens group. For example, the first lens group 300 may include a first lens positioned closest to the object side. The first lens group 300 may include multiple lenses. For example, the first lens group 300 may include five or more lenses. However, the number of lenses constituting the first lens group 300 is not limited to five. For example, the first lens group 300 may also include six or more lenses.

[0103] The first lens barrel 100 can be configured to house multiple lenses therein. For example, the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100 can be formed to extend in the direction of the optical axis C. The first lens barrel 100 can align the positions of the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other. For example, a stepped portion 130 for aligning the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other can be formed in the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100. The stepped portion 130 can be formed according to the size and number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, when the first lens group 300 housed in the first lens barrel 100 includes six lenses, six stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102. However, the number of stepped portions 130 formed in the internal space 102 is not limited to the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the stepped portion 130 of the internal space 102 can be formed by the sum of the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the number of gap-holding members. Specifically, when the five lenses and two gap-holding members are housed in the first lens barrel 100, seven stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102.

[0104] The stepped portion 130 can widen from one side of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side. For example, the stepped portion 130 can widen from one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side (image side, image sensor side).

[0105] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may include a first support portion 110 for preventing the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 from separating towards one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. The first support portion 110 may be configured to contact the first lens 310 located at the foremost position of the first lens group 300. For example, the first support portion 110 may have a stepped claw or protrusion shape that contacts the flange portion of the first lens 310. The first support portion 110 may be formed at the front end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. Specifically, all lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 may be sequentially arranged behind the first support portion 110 (on the image side of the first support portion 110). The first support portion 110 may be configured to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the flange portion of the first lens 310 to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. The first support portion 110 may be configured to align with the position of the first lens 310. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the edge of the first lens 310 to align the position of the first lens 310.

[0106] The first support portion 110 can form an opening for light to enter. The size BD1 of the opening formed by the first support portion 110 can be substantially the same as the effective diameter ED1 of the foremost lens (the lens closest to the object side) of the first lens group 300. The first support portion 110 can achieve a wide field of view for the camera module 18. For example, one surface 112 of the first support portion 110 can be inclined to facilitate light entry.

[0107] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for connecting the first lens barrel 100 to the second lens barrel 200. For example, a groove 120 may be formed at the other end of the first lens barrel 100. The groove 120 may be formed continuously or discontinuously in the circumferential direction of the first lens barrel 100. For example, the groove 120 may be formed in a circular shape around the optical axis C, or it may be formed around the optical axis C at predetermined intervals. The groove 120 may be formed to have predetermined dimensions. For example, the width W1 and depth DP1 of the groove 120 may be substantially the same as the thickness W2 and height DP2 of the protrusion 220 fitted into the groove 120, respectively.

[0108] The first lens barrel 100 may further include components for securely attaching the first lens barrel 100 to the second lens barrel 200. For example, a hole 240 connected to the recess 120 may be formed in the outer peripheral surface of the first lens barrel 100. The hole 240 may be formed to have significant dimensions. For example, the hole 240 may be formed to have dimensions sufficient to accommodate the adhesive 800. Furthermore, the hole 240 may serve as a channel for filling the recess 120 with the adhesive 800. Figure 8 As shown, the adhesive 800 introduced through the hole 240 can fill the space formed between the groove 120 and the protrusion 220.

[0109] The second lens barrel 200 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the second lens barrel 200 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The second lens barrel 200 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have substantially the same size. For example, the outer diameter BED2 of one end (object side) of the second lens barrel 200 may be substantially the same as the outer diameter BXD2 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). The second lens barrel 200 may be configured to accommodate a lens that is larger than the lens accommodated in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the maximum inner diameter or inner diameter BETD2 of one end of the second lens barrel 200 may be larger than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0110] The second lens barrel 200 can be configured to house other lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 18. For example, the second lens barrel 200 can house a second lens group 400. The second lens group 400 can be positioned closer to the image side than the first lens group 300. For example, the second lens group 400 may include a lens positioned closest to the image side. The second lens group 400 may include one or more lenses. For example, the second lens group 400 may include one lens. However, the number of lenses constituting the second lens group 400 is not limited to one. For example, the second lens group 400 may also include two or more lenses. The second lens group 400 may include lenses that are substantially larger than the lenses of the first lens group 300. For example, the maximum diameter of the lenses constituting the second lens group 400 may be greater than the maximum diameter of the lenses constituting the first lens group 300.

[0111] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may include a second support portion 210 for preventing lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 from separating toward one side (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may protrude toward the internal space 202 of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may be formed at the rear end (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. Specifically, all lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 may be sequentially arranged in front of the second support portion 210 (on the object side of the second support portion 210). The second support portion 210 may contact the last lens 410 of the second lens group 400. For example, the second support portion 210 may contact the flange portion of the last lens 410 to prevent the last lens 410 from separating toward the image side and to align the position of the last lens 410. The second support portion 210 may be configured to prevent flare. For example, the inner peripheral surface of the second support portion 210 may form a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis C to mitigate flare phenomena that may be caused by the final lens 410.

[0112] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for connecting the second lens barrel 200 to the first lens barrel 100. For example, a protrusion 220 may be formed at one end of the second lens barrel 200. The protrusion 220 may be formed continuously or discontinuously in the circumferential direction of the second lens barrel 200. For example, the protrusion 220 may be formed in a circular shape around the optical axis C, or it may be formed around the optical axis C at predetermined intervals. The protrusion 220 may be formed to have predetermined dimensions. For example, the thickness W2 and height DP2 of the protrusion 220 may be substantially the same as the width W1 and depth DP1 of the groove 120, respectively.

[0113] A gap-holding member 500 may be disposed between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. For example, the gap-holding member 500 may be disposed between the lens 360 disposed at the rearmost position of the first lens barrel 100 and the lens 410 disposed at the foremost position of the second lens barrel 200. The gap-holding member 500 is used to maintain the gap between the lenses at a size according to the optical design. For example, the gap between the lens 360 and the lens 410 can be adjusted by changing the thickness of the gap-holding member 500. The gap-holding member 500 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 may be greater than the maximum diameter of the lens 410 disposed at the foremost position of the second lens barrel 200. However, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 does not necessarily have to be greater than the maximum diameter of the lens 410. For example, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 may be smaller than the maximum diameter of the lens 410.

[0114] The gap retaining member 500 can be used to mitigate flare phenomena. For example, the inner peripheral surface 510 of the gap retaining member 500 can form a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis C to mitigate flare phenomena that may occur between lenses 360 and 410. The gap retaining member 500 can be configured to align the optical axes of lenses 360 and 410 with each other. For example, the gap retaining member 500 and lenses 360 and 410 can be configured to engage with each other via protrusions, grooves, or other connecting structures, such that the relative positions of the gap retaining member 500 and lenses 360 and 410 can be aligned with each other through connecting contacts.

[0115] The first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be pre-connected to each other by means of a protrusion 220 fitted into a groove 120, and then permanently and firmly connected to each other by means of adhesive 800 injected through a hole 240. Specifically, while the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 are temporarily connected to each other by means of a groove 120 and a protrusion 220, the connection position between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be adjusted. Thereafter, when the connection position between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 is aligned to the error level, the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be firmly connected to each other by means of adhesive 800 injected through a hole 240.

[0116] In the camera module 18 including the components described above, lens separation due to external impact can be prevented. For example, in the camera module 18, separation of one or more lenses toward the object side or image side can be suppressed by the first support portion 110 of the first lens barrel 100 and the second support portion 210 of the second lens barrel 200. Furthermore, in the camera module 18, phenomena such as lifting, shaking, and wobbling of the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be suppressed by the strong connection between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. Therefore, the camera module 18 according to this exemplary embodiment can improve image capture quality through the optical system housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200.

[0117] Furthermore, in the camera module 18 according to this exemplary embodiment, even after the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 are attached to each other, the positions of the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be aligned with each other, and thus high resolution can be achieved.

[0118] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 A camera module according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure is described.

[0119] The camera module 20 according to this embodiment may include a first lens barrel 100, a second lens barrel 200, and a gap maintaining member 500. However, the components of the camera module 20 are not limited to the first lens barrel 100, the second lens barrel 200, and the gap maintaining member 500. For example, the camera module 20 may also include a drive unit that drives the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction or in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction, an image sensor 900 that converts light signals into electrical signals, and a substrate 910 on which the image sensor 900 is mounted, etc.

[0120] The first lens barrel 100 may have a substantially truncated conical shape. However, the shape of the first lens barrel 100 is not limited to a truncated conical shape. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The first lens barrel 100 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have different dimensions. For example, the outer diameter BED1 of one end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the outer diameter BXD1 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). Furthermore, the outer diameter BED1 of one end of the first lens barrel 100 may be smaller than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0121] The first lens barrel 100 may be configured to house one or more lens groups constituting the optical system of the camera module 20. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may house a first lens group 300. The first lens group 300 may be positioned closer to the object side than another lens group. For example, the first lens group 300 may include a first lens positioned closest to the object side. The first lens group 300 may include multiple lenses. For example, the first lens group 300 may include five or more lenses. However, the number of lenses constituting the first lens group 300 is not limited to five. For example, the first lens group 300 may also include six or more lenses.

[0122] The first lens barrel 100 can be configured to house multiple lenses therein. For example, the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100 can be formed to extend in the direction of the optical axis C. The first lens barrel 100 can align the positions of the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other. For example, a stepped portion 130 for aligning the lenses housed in the internal space 102 with each other can be formed in the internal space 102 of the first lens barrel 100. The stepped portion 130 can be formed according to the size and number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, when the first lens group 300 housed in the first lens barrel 100 includes six lenses, six stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102. However, the number of stepped portions 130 formed in the internal space 102 is not limited to the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the stepped portion 130 of the internal space 102 can be formed by the sum of the number of lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the number of gap-holding members. Specifically, when the five lenses and two gap-holding members are housed in the first lens barrel 100, seven stepped portions 130 can be formed in the internal space 102.

[0123] The stepped portion 130 can widen from one side of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side. For example, the stepped portion 130 can widen from one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100 toward the other side (image side, image sensor side).

[0124] The first lens barrel 100 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the first lens barrel 100 may include a first support portion 110 for preventing the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 from separating towards one side (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. The first support portion 110 may be configured to contact the first lens 310 located at the foremost position of the first lens group 300. For example, the first support portion 110 may have a stepped claw or protrusion shape that contacts the flange portion of the first lens 310. The first support portion 110 may be formed at the front end (object side) of the first lens barrel 100. Specifically, all lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 may be sequentially arranged behind the first support portion 110 (on the image side of the first support portion 110). The first support portion 110 may be configured to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the flange portion of the first lens 310 to prevent the first lens 310 from separating. The first support portion 110 may be configured to align with the position of the first lens 310. For example, the first support portion 110 may contact the edge of the first lens 310 to align the position of the first lens 310.

[0125] The first support portion 110 can form an opening for light to enter. The size BD1 of the opening formed by the first support portion 110 can be substantially the same as the effective diameter ED1 of the foremost lens of the first lens group 300. The first support portion 110 can achieve a wide field of view for the camera module 20. For example, one surface 112 of the first support portion 110 can be inclined to facilitate light entry.

[0126] The second lens barrel 200 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the second lens barrel 200 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may have another shape within the range in which one or more lenses can be accommodated. The second lens barrel 200 may have a shape in which one end and the other end have substantially the same size. For example, the outer diameter BED2 of one end (object side) of the second lens barrel 200 may be substantially the same as the outer diameter BXD2 of the other end (image side, image sensor side). The second lens barrel 200 may be configured to accommodate a lens that is larger than the lens accommodated in the first lens barrel 100. For example, the inner diameter BETD2 of one end of the second lens barrel 200 may be larger than the inner diameter BXTD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100.

[0127] The second lens barrel 200 can be configured to house another lens group constituting the optical system of the camera module 20. For example, the second lens barrel 200 can house a second lens group 400. The second lens group 400 can be positioned closer to the image side than the first lens group 300. For example, the second lens group 400 may include a lens positioned closest to the image side. The second lens group 400 may include one or more lenses. For example, the second lens group 400 may include one lens. However, the number of lenses constituting the second lens group 400 is not limited to one. For example, the second lens group 400 may also include two or more lenses. The second lens group 400 may include lenses that are substantially larger than the lenses of the first lens group 300. For example, the maximum diameter of the lens constituting the second lens group 400 may be greater than the maximum diameter of the lens constituting the first lens group 300.

[0128] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for preventing lens separation. For example, the second lens barrel 200 may include a second support portion 210 for preventing the lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 from separating toward one side (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may protrude toward the internal space 202 of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may be formed continuously or may be formed at predetermined intervals along the inner peripheral surface of the second lens barrel 200. The second support portion 210 may be formed at the rear end (image side) of the second lens barrel 200. Specifically, all lenses housed in the second lens barrel 200 may be sequentially arranged in front of the second support portion 210 (object side of the second support portion 210). The second support portion 210 may contact the last lens 410 of the second lens group 400. For example, the second support portion 210 may contact the flange portion of the last lens 410 to prevent the last lens 410 from separating toward the image side and to align the position of the last lens 410. The second support portion 210 may be configured to prevent flare. For example, the inner peripheral surface of the second support portion 210 may form a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis C to mitigate flare phenomena that may be caused by the final lens 410.

[0129] The second lens barrel 200 may include components for connecting the second lens barrel 200 to the first lens barrel 100. For example, a receiving portion 250 for receiving the rear end of the first lens barrel 100 and a stepped claw 260 contacting the rear end of the first lens barrel 100 may be formed on one side of the second lens barrel 200. The receiving portion 250 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the inner diameter BETD2 of the receiving portion 250 may be larger than the maximum diameter of the first lens barrel 100 or the outer diameter BXD1 of the other end of the first lens barrel 100. Grooves or spaces in which adhesive can be injected and filled may be formed in the first lens barrel 100 or the second lens barrel 200. For example, a space in which adhesive 800 can be injected may be formed between the outer peripheral surface of the first lens barrel 100 and the receiving portion 250 of the second lens barrel 200.

[0130] A gap-holding member 500 may be disposed between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. For example, the gap-holding member 500 may be disposed between the lens 360 disposed at the rearmost position of the first lens barrel 100 and the lens 410 disposed at the foremost position of the second lens barrel 200. The gap-holding member 500 is used to maintain the gap between the lenses at a size according to the optical design. For example, the gap between the lens 360 and the lens 410 can be adjusted by changing the thickness of the gap-holding member 500. The gap-holding member 500 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 may be greater than the maximum diameter of the lens 410 disposed at the foremost position of the second lens barrel 200. However, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 does not necessarily have to be greater than the maximum diameter of the lens 410. For example, the maximum diameter of the gap-holding member 500 may be smaller than the maximum diameter of the lens 410.

[0131] The gap retaining member 500 can be used to mitigate flare phenomena. For example, the inner peripheral surface 510 of the gap retaining member 500 can form a predetermined angle relative to the optical axis C to mitigate flare phenomena that may occur between lenses 360 and 410. The gap retaining member 500 can be configured to align the optical axes of lenses 360 and 410 with each other. For example, the gap retaining member 500 and lenses 360 and 410 can be configured to engage with each other via protrusions, grooves, or other connecting structures, such that the relative positions of the gap retaining member 500 and lenses 360 and 410 can be aligned with each other through connecting contacts.

[0132] In the camera module 20 including the components described above, lens separation due to external impact can be prevented. For example, in the camera module 20, separation of one or more lenses toward the object side or image side can be suppressed by the first support portion 110 of the first lens barrel 100 and the second support portion 210 of the second lens barrel 200. Furthermore, in the camera module 20, phenomena such as lifting, shaking, and wobbling of the lenses housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200 can be suppressed by the robust connection between the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200. Therefore, the camera module 20 according to this exemplary embodiment can improve image capture quality through the optical system housed in the first lens barrel 100 and the second lens barrel 200.

[0133] As described above, according to one or more exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the phenomenon of lens separation from lens barrel can be prevented.

[0134] While specific exemplary embodiments have been shown and described above, it will be apparent upon understanding this disclosure that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein should be understood in a descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes. The description of features or aspects in each example should be understood as applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Appropriate results may still be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described system, architecture, device, or circuit are combined in different ways and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited by the specific embodiments but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be understood to be included in this disclosure.

Claims

1. Camera module, including: A first lens barrel includes a first support portion, which supports a lens housed in the first lens barrel on the object side of the first lens barrel. The second lens barrel includes a second support portion, which supports a lens housed in the second lens barrel on the image side of the second lens barrel. as well as The driving unit drives the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction or in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction. The first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are configured to be connected to each other by protrusions and grooves; The camera module further includes a gap-maintaining member, which is disposed between the first lens housed in the first lens barrel and the second lens housed in the second lens barrel when the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are connected to each other via the protrusion and the groove. The gap-holding member is configured to engage with the first lens and the second lens via a second protrusion and a second groove. The gap is located between the top surface of the protrusion of the second lens barrel and the bottom surface of the groove of the first lens barrel.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, further comprising: The first lens group is disposed in the first lens barrel; as well as The second lens group is disposed in the lens barrel of the second lens.

3. The camera module according to claim 2, wherein, The first lens group includes multiple lenses.

4. The camera module according to claim 2, wherein, The maximum diameter of the lens constituting the first lens group is smaller than the maximum diameter of the lens constituting the second lens group.

5. The camera module according to claim 2, wherein, The first lens barrel includes a stepped portion, which is used to support the lens of the first lens group in a first receiving space of the first lens barrel.

6. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, The maximum diameter of the gap-holding member is greater than the maximum diameter of the second lens.

7. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, When the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are connected to each other by the protrusion and the groove, the space therein to be filled with adhesive is located between the protrusion and the groove.

8. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, The protrusion and the groove include mating threads.

9. Electronic devices, including: The camera module according to claim 1, further comprising an image sensor configured to convert incident light signals through the lens of the first lens barrel and the lens of the second lens barrel into electrical signals when the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are connected to each other via the protrusion and the groove; and The surface on which the camera module is mounted.

10. Camera module, including: A first lens barrel includes a first support portion, which supports a lens housed in the first lens barrel on the object side of the first lens barrel. The second lens barrel includes a second support portion, which supports a lens housed in the second lens barrel on the image side of the second lens barrel. as well as The driving unit drives the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction or in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction. The first lens barrel is configured to be assembled into the second lens barrel, and The maximum diameter of the first lens barrel is smaller than the maximum diameter of the second lens barrel; The camera module further includes a gap-maintaining member, which is positioned between the lens located at the rearmost position in the first lens barrel and the lens located at the frontmost position in the second lens barrel when the first lens barrel is assembled into the second lens barrel. The gap-holding member is configured to engage with the lens at the last position and the lens at the foremost position via a second protrusion and a second groove. The first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are configured to be connected to each other by protrusions and grooves. The gap is located between the top surface of the protrusion of the second lens barrel and the bottom surface of the groove of the first lens barrel.

11. The camera module according to claim 10, further comprising: The first lens group is disposed in the first lens barrel; as well as The second lens group is disposed in the lens barrel of the second lens.

12. The camera module according to claim 11, wherein, The maximum diameter of the lens constituting the first lens group is smaller than the maximum diameter of the lens constituting the second lens group.

13. The camera module according to claim 10, wherein, The inner circumferential surface of the gap retaining member includes an inclined portion.

14. The camera module according to claim 10, wherein, The second support portion is provided at intervals along the inner circumferential surface of the second lens barrel.

15. The camera module according to claim 10, wherein, When the first lens barrel is assembled into the second lens barrel, the space in which the adhesive is applied is located between the outer peripheral surface of the first lens barrel and the inner peripheral surface of the second lens barrel.

16. Electronic devices, including: The camera module of claim 10, further comprising an image sensor configured to convert incident light signals through the lens of the first lens barrel and the lens of the second lens barrel into electrical signals when the first lens barrel is assembled into the second lens barrel; and The surface on which the camera module is mounted.

17. A camera module, including: The first lens barrel includes a first support portion disposed on the object side of the first lens barrel, the first support portion supporting a lens housed at the foremost position in the first lens barrel; The second lens barrel includes a second support portion disposed on the image side of the second lens barrel, the second support portion supporting a lens housed in the last position within the second lens barrel; A connecting component connects the first lens barrel to the second lens barrel; The driving unit drives the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction or in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction; as well as An image sensor configured to convert light signals incident through the first lens and the second lens into electrical signals; The camera module further includes a gap-maintaining member, which is disposed between the first lens housed in the first lens barrel and the second lens housed in the second lens barrel when the first lens barrel is connected to the second lens barrel. The gap-holding member is configured to engage with the first lens and the second lens via a second protrusion and a second groove. The first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are configured to be connected to each other by protrusions and grooves. The gap is located between the top surface of the protrusion of the second lens barrel and the bottom surface of the groove of the first lens barrel.

18. Electronic devices, including: The camera module according to claim 17; as well as The surface on which the camera module is mounted The connecting component includes a protrusion located on the object side of the second lens barrel, which is connected to a groove or outer diameter on the image side of the first lens barrel.

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