Camera device

Abstract

One embodiment includes a housing, a coil holder disposed in the housing, a lens barrel coupled to the coil holder, a coil disposed in the coil holder, a magnet disposed in the housing to face the coil, and the magnet moves the coil holder in an optical axis direction by interaction with the coil, a liquid lens disposed on the lens barrel, and a pressurizing unit disposed between an upper surface of the coil holder and the liquid lens, and the pressurizing unit pressurizes the liquid lens by movement of the coil holder.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present embodiment relates to a camera device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Since it is difficult to apply a voice coil motor (VCM) technology used in an existing general camera module to a camera module of a super small size and low power consumption, researches thereon are actively conducted.

[0003] In a case where a camera module is mounted on a small electronic product such as a smart phone, the camera module can be frequently subjected to an impact during use, and the camera module can be slightly shaken due to a user's hand shake while photographing. In consideration of this, a technology for additionally mounting an anti-shake device to a camera module has recently been developed.

[0004] Meanwhile, 3D content is applied to many fields such as education, manufacturing, autonomous driving, and game and cultural fields. In order to acquire 3D content, a depth map is required. Depth information is information indicating a distance in space, and indicates perspective information of one point with respect to another point of a 2D image.

[0005] Recently, as a method of acquiring depth information, a time of flight (TOF) method has received attention. According to the TOF method, a distance of an object is calculated by measuring a time of flight, that is, a time when light is emitted and reflected. The greatest advantage of the TOF method is that distance information in a 3D space can be quickly provided in real time. In addition, a user can obtain accurate distance information without applying a separate algorithm or hardware correction. Furthermore, accurate depth information can be obtained by measuring a very close object, or even a moving object.

[0006] However, in the case of the current TOF method, there is a problem in that resolution is low in information that can be obtained per frame.

[0007] In order to improve resolution, the number of pixels of a sensor can be increased, but in this case, there is a problem in that a volume of a camera device and manufacturing costs are greatly increased. SUMMARY

[0008] TECHNICAL SUBJECT

[0009] A first embodiment of the present application provides a lens module capable of increasing a size of a convex lens of a first lens portion and finely adjusting a focal length, and a camera module and an optical device including the same.

[0010] The technical problem to be solved in the first embodiment of the present application is not limited to the above technical problem, and another technical problem not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present application pertains from the following description.

[0011] The second embodiment of the present application aims to provide a camera device capable of improving resolution by use in a TOF method.

[0012] More specifically, the present application aims to provide a camera device usable for super resolution (SR) technology.

[0013] Technical Solution

[0014] The lens module according to the first embodiment of the present application includes a housing, a bobbin provided in the housing, a lens barrel coupled to the bobbin, a coil provided in the bobbin, a magnet provided in the housing to face the coil and moving the bobbin in an optical axis direction by interaction with the coil, a liquid lens provided on the lens barrel, and a pressing portion provided between an upper surface of the bobbin and the liquid lens and pressing the liquid lens by movement of the bobbin.

[0015] The pressing portion can be provided between the upper surface of the bobbin and the liquid lens.

[0016] The pressing portion can be spaced apart from the lens barrel.

[0017] A distance between the pressing portion and an inner surface of the housing in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be less than a distance between an outer surface of the lens barrel and the inner surface of the housing in the horizontal direction.

[0018] The liquid lens can include a receptor, a liquid contained in the receptor, and a membrane for sealing the liquid in the receptor, and the pressing portion can be configured to contact the membrane.

[0019] A distance between the optical axis and the pressing portion in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be greater than a distance between the optical axis and the outer surface of the lens barrel in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0020] The pressing portion can be provided outside the lens barrel.

[0021] The lens module includes an upper elastic member coupled to the bobbin and the housing, a coupling portion coupled to the upper elastic member is formed on an upper surface of the bobbin, and an upper surface of the pressing portion can be located closer to the liquid lens than an upper surface of the coupling portion.

[0022] The lens module can include an upper plate and a side plate extending from the upper plate, include a cover member to accommodate the housing, and the above-described receptacle can be coupled to an inner surface of the upper plate of the cover member.

[0023] Alternatively, the lens module can include a cover member including an upper plate and a side plate extending from the upper plate to accommodate the housing, and a bracket disposed between the cover member and the housing and accommodating the receptacle.

[0024] The pressing portion can be a protruding portion integrally formed with the coil holder and protrude from an upper surface of the coil holder.

[0025] The pressing portion can be a pressing frame separately formed from the coil holder, an upper surface of the pressing frame being in contact with the liquid lens, and a lower surface of the pressing frame can be in contact with an upper surface of the coil holder.

[0026] The pressing portion can be provided in the lens barrel.

[0027] The camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application includes a bracket including an upper plate and a side plate extending from the upper plate, a liquid lens disposed on the upper plate of the bracket, a magnet coupled to the liquid lens, a substrate disposed on the side plate of the bracket, and a coil coupled to the substrate and facing the magnet, wherein the liquid lens includes a transparent and elastically extensible membrane, a body forming a cavity together with the membrane, a liquid disposed in the cavity, and a lens forming member in contact with the membrane and adjusting a curvature of the membrane, wherein the side plate of the bracket includes a first side plate and a second side plate disposed opposite the first side plate, wherein the substrate includes a first substrate disposed on the first side plate of the bracket and a second substrate disposed on the second side plate of the bracket, and wherein the coil can include a first coil and a second coil disposed on the first substrate, and a third coil and a fourth coil disposed on the second substrate.

[0028] The above-described magnet includes a first magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the first coil, a second magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the second coil, a third magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the third coil, and a fourth magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the fourth coil, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are disposed on one side of the lens forming member, and wherein the third magnet and the fourth magnet can be disposed on the other side of the lens forming member.

[0029] The outer side surface of the first magnet and the outer side surface of the second magnet can face in the same direction, and the outer side surface of the third magnet and the outer side surface of the fourth magnet can face in the same direction.

[0030] The outer side surface of the first magnet and the outer side surface of the second magnet are disposed on the same plane, and the outer side surface of the third magnet and the outer side surface of the fourth magnet can be disposed on the same plane.

[0031] The bracket includes a first hole formed in the first side plate and a second hole formed in the second side plate, wherein the first coil and the second coil are disposed in the first hole of the bracket, and wherein the third coil and the fourth coil can be disposed in the second hole of the bracket.

[0032] The upper portion of the first magnet has an N-pole polarity, the lower portion of the first magnet has an S-pole polarity, the upper portion of the second magnet has an S-pole polarity, and the lower portion of the second magnet can have an N-pole polarity.

[0033] The lens forming member includes a yoke, and the magnet can be disposed on the yoke and between the yoke and the coil.

[0034] The lens forming member includes a window for pressing the above-mentioned film and a frame coupled to the window, wherein the above-mentioned magnet can be disposed on the frame.

[0035] The frame includes a body portion and leg portions extending outward from the body portion, the body portion includes a hole, and the body portion is coupled to the above-mentioned window, wherein the leg portions can include: first and second leg portions extending in a first direction from one side surface of the body portion and spaced apart from each other; and third and fourth leg portions extending in a second direction opposite to the first direction from the other side surface of the body portion and spaced apart from each other.

[0036] Each of the first to fourth leg portions can include a hole formed at a position corresponding to a portion of the magnet.

[0037] The bracket can include a protrusion protruding from an outer surface of a side plate of the bracket, and the substrate can include a hole into which the protrusion of the bracket is inserted.

[0038] The above-mentioned camera device includes: a printed circuit board; a sensor disposed on the printed circuit board; a base disposed on the printed circuit board; a lens coupled to the base; and a filter disposed on the base and disposed between the lens and the sensor, wherein the liquid lens can be disposed at a position corresponding to the lens.

[0039] The base can be directly coupled to an upper surface of the printed circuit board, and the base can be integrally formed such that a space between the sensor and the filter can be sealed by the base.

[0040] The above-mentioned board includes a terminal disposed at a lower end portion, and the terminal of the board can be coupled to the above-mentioned printed circuit board.

[0041] The optical device according to the second embodiment of the present application includes a light emitting module and a camera device, wherein the camera device can receive light irradiated from the light emitting module.

[0042] A camera device according to a second embodiment of the present invention includes a bracket including an upper plate and a side plate extending from the upper plate; a liquid lens disposed on the upper plate of the bracket; a magnet coupled to the liquid lens; a substrate disposed on the side plate of the bracket; and a coil coupled to the substrate and facing the magnet, wherein the liquid lens includes a transparent and elastically extensible membrane, a body forming a cavity with the membrane, a liquid disposed in the cavity, and a lens forming member in contact with the membrane to control a curvature of the membrane, wherein the side plate of the bracket includes a first side plate and a second side plate disposed opposite the first side plate, and wherein the coil can include a first coil and a second coil disposed on the first side plate of the bracket, and a third coil and a fourth coil disposed on the second side plate of the bracket.

[0043] A camera device according to a second embodiment of the present invention includes a liquid lens; a magnet coupled to the liquid lens; and a coil facing the magnet, wherein the liquid lens includes a transparent and elastically extensible membrane, a body forming a cavity between the body and the membrane, a liquid disposed in the cavity, and a lens forming member in contact with the membrane to control a curvature of the membrane, wherein the curvature of the membrane is controlled by an interaction between the coil and the magnet to cause the liquid lens to acquire an image moving a distance of 0.25 times a size of a pixel in a first direction, acquire an image moving a distance of 0.25 times the size of the pixel in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, acquire an image moving a distance of 0.25 times the size of the pixel in a third direction opposite the first direction, and can acquire an image moving a distance of 0.25 times the size of the pixel in a fourth direction opposite the second direction.

[0044] The first to fourth directions can be diagonal directions of the pixel.

[0045] A camera device according to a second embodiment of the present invention includes a liquid lens; a magnet coupled to the liquid lens; and a coil facing the magnet, wherein the liquid lens includes a transparent and elastically extensible membrane, a body forming a cavity between the body and the membrane, a liquid disposed in the cavity, and a lens forming member in contact with the membrane to control a curvature of the membrane, wherein the curvature of the membrane is controlled by an interaction between the coil and the magnet to cause the liquid lens to acquire an image moving a distance of 0.5 times a size of a pixel in a first direction, acquire an image moving a distance of 0.5 times the size of the pixel in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, acquire an image moving a distance of 0.5 times the size of the pixel in a third direction opposite the first direction, acquire an image moving a distance of 0.5 times the size of the pixel in a fourth direction opposite the second direction, and the first to fourth directions can be directions pointing to four sides of the pixel.

[0046] Advantageous effects

[0047] In the first embodiment of the present application, since the pressing frame is located outside the lens barrel, the size of the convex lens of the first lens portion in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be increased.

[0048] Further, in the first embodiment of the present application, since the focal length of the second lens portion is adjusted by the lens driving device, and at the same time, the focal length of the first lens portion is adjusted by the protruding portion of the pressing coil holder, the focal length of the lens module can be finely adjusted.

[0049] Further, the effects obtainable in the first embodiment of the present application are not limited to those described above, and other effects not mentioned above will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0050] With the second embodiment of the present application, even if the number of pixels of the sensor is not greatly increased, depth information can be acquired with high resolution.

[0051] Further, a high resolution image can be obtained from a plurality of low resolution images acquired by the camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application by SR technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0052] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a lens module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0053] Figure 2a is a perspective view of Figure 1 the lens module in

[0054] Figure 2b is a perspective view of Figure 2a the lens driving device in

[0055] Figure 3a is a cross-sectional view of the first lens portion according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0056] Figure 3b is a cross-sectional view of the first lens portion according to another example embodiment.

[0057] Figure 4a is a perspective view of the coil holder.

[0058] Figure 4b is a perspective view of the coil holder and the coil.

[0059] Figure 5a is a perspective view of the housing.

[0060] Figure 5b is a perspective view of the housing and the magnet.

[0061] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the circuit board and the position sensor.

[0062] Figure 7 The base, lower elastic member, circuit board, and position sensor are shown.

[0063] Figure 8a is a cross-sectional view of the lens module in AB direction in Figure 2a

[0064] Figure 8b is a cross-sectional view of the lens module in CD direction in Figure 2a

[0065] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the lens barrel and the lens.

[0066] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the first lens portion, the second lens portion, and the coil holder.

[0067] Figure 11 A modified embodiment of the coil holder 110 in Figure 4a

[0068] is a cross-sectional view of the lens module according to the modified embodiment in Figure 12 Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the lens module according to another embodiment.

[0069] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the lens driving device and the second lens portion coupled in

[0070] Figure 14 Figure 13 is a perspective view of the second lens portion in

[0071] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the second lens portion in Figure 13

[0072] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the lens module in AB direction in Figure 14

[0073] is an exploded perspective view of the lens module according to another embodiment. Figure 17

[0074] is a perspective view of the second lens portion in Figure 18 Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the lens module in AB direction in

[0075] Figure 19 Figure 17 is an exploded perspective view of the lens module according to another embodiment.

[0076] Figure 20 is a perspective view of the second lens portion in

[0077] ​​​​​​​Figure 21 is Figure 20 a cross-sectional view of the lens module in AB direction in

[0078] Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view of the lens module according to another embodiment.

[0079] Figure 23 is Figure 22 a combined perspective view of the lens module in

[0080] Figure 24 is Figure 23 a cross-sectional view of the lens module in CD direction in

[0081] Figure 25 is an exploded perspective view of the holder and the first lens portion.

[0082] Figure 26 shows a pressing region of the first lens portion pressed by the pressing portion according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0083] Figure 27a is a conceptual view of the camera module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0084] Figure 27b is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to another embodiment.

[0085] Figure 28 is a perspective view of the portable terminal according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0086] Figure 29 is Figure 28 a block diagram of the portable terminal shown in

[0087] Figure 30 is a perspective view of the camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0088] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A in Figure 30

[0089] Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B in Figure 30

[0090] Figure 33 is an exploded perspective view of the camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0091] Figure 34 is an exploded perspective view of the camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application, viewed from a different direction than Figure 33

[0092] Figure 35 ​​​is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0093] Figure 36 is a perspective view of a part of a camera device in Figure 35

[0094] Figure 37 is a perspective view showing a liquid lens and a driving unit according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0095] Figure 38 is a perspective view of a camera module according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0096] Figure 39 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a concept of driving a liquid lens according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0097] Figure 40 is a view for explaining a method of driving a liquid lens according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0098] Figure 41 is a conceptual diagram conceptually sequentially showing a plurality of images acquired for super resolution (SR) technology in a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0099] Figure 42 is a diagram sequentially showing images of a first frame to a fourth frame acquired for SR technology in a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0100] Hereinafter, a plurality of preferred embodiments of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0101] However, the technical idea of the present application is not limited to certain embodiments to be described, but can be implemented in various forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of the present application, one or a plurality of constituent elements can be selectively combined or replaced between embodiments.

[0102] Further, unless explicitly defined and described, the terms used in the embodiments of the present application, including technical and scientific terms, can be interpreted as meanings that can be commonly understood by those skilled in the art, and the commonly used terms can be interpreted in the meaning considering the related technical context, such as the terms defined in a dictionary.

[0103] Further, the terms used in the present specification are used to describe the embodiments, and are not intended to limit the present application.

[0104] ​In the present specification, the singular form can include the plural form unless explicitly stated in the phrase in the singular form, and when described as "at least one of A, B, and C (or more)," it can include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, and C.

[0105] Also, in describing components of embodiments of the present application, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) can be used. These terms are used only to distinguish the components from other components, and the terms do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

[0106] Also, when one component is described as being "connected," "coupled," or "interconnected" to another component, the component can not only be directly connected, coupled, or interconnected to the other component, but can also include a case where another component is interposed therebetween.

[0107] Also, when described as being formed or disposed "on (over)" or "under" each component, "on (over)" or "under" means that it not only includes a case where the two components directly contact each other, but also includes a case where one or more other components are formed or disposed between the two components. Also, when indicated as "on (over)" or "under," not only the meaning based on the upward direction of one component can be included, but also the meaning of the downward direction can be included.

[0108] For ease of description, a Cartesian coordinate system (x, y, z) is used to describe the lens driving apparatus according to embodiments, but other coordinate systems can be used for description, and embodiments are not limited thereto. In each drawing, the x-axis and the y-axis refer to directions perpendicular to the z-axis, and the z-axis is the optical axis direction; the z-axis direction, i.e., the optical axis OA direction, is referred to as a "first direction"; the x-axis direction is referred to as a "second direction"; and the y-axis direction can be referred to as a "third direction."

[0109] The lens module according to embodiments can perform an "autofocus function." Here, the autofocus function refers to automatically forming an image of a subject on the surface of an image sensor.

[0110] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a lens module 200-1 according to a first embodiment of the present application; Figure 2a is Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the lens module 200-1 in Figure 2b is Figure 2a is an exploded perspective view of a lens driving apparatus 100-1 in Figure 3a is a cross-sectional view of a first lens part 310 according to a first embodiment of the present application; Figure 3b is a cross-sectional view of a first lens part 310 according to another embodiment; Figure 4ais a perspective view of the coil holder; Figure 4b is a perspective view of the coil holder and the coil; Figure 5a is a perspective view of the housing; Figure 5b is a perspective view of the housing and the magnet; Figure 6 is a perspective view of the circuit board 190 and the position sensor 170; Figure 7 shows the base 210, the lower elastic member 160, the circuit board 190, and the position sensor 170; Figure 8a is Figure 2a is a cross-sectional view of the lens module 200-1 in the AB direction; Figure 8b is Figure 2a is a cross-sectional view of the lens module 200-1 in the CD direction; Figure 9 is a perspective view of the lens barrel 400 and the lens 420; Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the first lens part 310, the second lens part 400, and the coil holder 110.

[0111] Referring to Figures 1 to 10 , the lens module 200-1 can include the first lens part 310, the second lens part 400, and the lens driving device 100-1.

[0112] Hereinafter, the lens module can be expressed by replacing it with "camera module", and the "lens driving device" can be alternatively called a lens driver, a VCM (Voice Coil Motor), an Actuator, or a lens moving device, etc.

[0113] Hereinafter, the term "coil unit" can be expressed by replacing it with a coil unit or a coil body, and the term "elastic member" can be expressed by replacing it with an elastic unit or a spring.

[0114] Further, in the following description, the term "terminal" can be expressed by replacing it with a pad, an electrode, a conductive layer, or a bonding portion.

[0115] The lens module 200-1 can perform an auto-focusing function through the lens driving device coupled to the first lens part 310 and the second lens part 400.

[0116] For example, the first lens part 310 can include a liquid lens. For example, the curvature of the liquid lens of the first lens part 310 can be changed by a pressing part, and thus the focal length of the lens module 200-1 can be adjusted.

[0117] For example, the first lens part 310 can be a liquid lens or a variable focal length lens.

[0118] For example, the first lens portion 310 can include a liquid 313, a receptor 312, and a film 311. For example, the liquid can be a fluid.

[0119] The liquid 313 can be transparent, non-volatile, and chemically stable. In addition, the liquid 313 can have a low viscosity, and thus, have good fluidity.

[0120] The liquid 313 can be a material capable of transmitting light.

[0121] For example, the liquid 313 can be silicone or liquid silicone. In addition, the liquid 313 can include, but is not limited to, transparent hydrocarbon-based oil, ester-based oil, ether-based oil, perfluoropolyether oil, etc.

[0122] The receptor 312 serves to accommodate the liquid 313. The receptor 312 can be expressed by replacing it with "container", "accommodation portion", or "support portion".

[0123] When viewed from above, the shape of the receptor 312 can be polygonal (e.g., quadrangular), but is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, can have a circular or elliptical shape.

[0124] For example, a groove portion 319 can be provided at a corner of the receptor 312. The groove portion 319 can be a shape recessed from the side surface of the corner of the receptor 312.

[0125] For example, the liquid 313 can be disposed or accommodated within the receptor 312. For example, the receptor 312 can include an accommodation portion 315 for accommodating the liquid 313. For example, the accommodation portion 315 can be a cavity, a recess, a hole, or a hollow.

[0126] The receptor 312 can be supported by the cover member 300. For example, the receptor 312 can be coupled with the cover member 300.

[0127] For example, the upper surface of the receptor 312 can be coupled or fixed to the inner surface of the upper plate of the cover member 300. For example, the upper surface of the receptor 312 can be coupled or fixed to the inner surface of the upper plate 301 of the cover member 300 by means of an adhesive. Alternatively, the receptor 312 can include a first coupling portion, and the cover member 300 can include a second coupling portion coupled to the first coupling portion of the receptor 312.

[0128] In another embodiment, at least a portion of the upper surface of the receptor 212 and / or the film 311 can be coupled, connected, or fixed to the inner surface of the upper plate 301 of the cover member 300.

[0129] Since the receptacle 312 is located on a path through which light passes, it can be implemented using a material having light transmissivity, but is not limited thereto.

[0130] The accommodation portion 315 can have a circular shape when viewed from above, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, the accommodation portion 315 can have an elliptical shape or a polygonal shape. As such, the present embodiment can be implemented in various shapes of the cavity if the liquid 313 can be accommodated in the cavity of the receptacle 312.

[0131] The film 311 serves to restrict the liquid 313 within the accommodation portion 315 of the receptacle 312. The film 311 can be represented by replacing with a thin film or a fluidization film. For example, the film 311 can seal the liquid 313 within the receptacle 312.

[0132] Referring to Figure 3a For example, the film 311 can have a shape surrounding the liquid 313 located within the accommodation portion 315, but is not limited thereto.

[0133] For example, the accommodation portion 315 can have a hole or a hole shape, and the film 311 can be located on the upper side and the lower side of the liquid 313, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the film 311 can include a first film 311A disposed on an upper surface of the receptacle 312 and a second film 311B disposed on a lower surface of the receptacle 312, and the liquid 313 can be located between the first layer 311A and the second layer 311B. At this time, the lower surface of the receptacle 312 can be a surface facing the yoke 110 in the optical axis OA direction, and the upper surface of the receptacle 312 can be a surface located on the opposite side of the lower surface of the receptacle 312.

[0134] For example, referring to Figure 3b The film 311 can serve to restrict the liquid 313 within the accommodation portion 315 together with the receptacle 312. The accommodation portion 315 can be in the form of a groove, the liquid 313 can be disposed within the groove, and the film 311 can seal an opening of the groove. For example, Figure 3b The film 311 in

[0135] Since the film 311 is disposed on a path through which light passes, it can have light transmissivity.

[0136] The film 311 can have a circular shape when viewed from above, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. According to another embodiment, the film 311 can have an elliptical shape or a polygonal shape when viewed from above. As such, the film 311 can be implemented in various shapes as long as the liquid 313 can be restricted by the receptacle 312.

[0137] The membrane 311 can include a material having elasticity such that its shape can be deformed by being pressed by the pressing portion.

[0138] To this end, the membrane 311 can be a transparent elastic optical membrane. Specifically, the membrane 311 can have high elastic properties and can be chemically stable.

[0139] For example, the membrane 311 can be made of a material such as a polymer, glass, or plastic.

[0140] For example, the membrane 311 can be made of a polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS) elastomer, a poly methyl phenyl siloxane (PMPS) elastomer, a fluorosilicon elastomer, and a poly ether elastomer, a propylene oxide elastomer, or a poly ester elastomer.

[0141] To confine the liquid 313 together with the receptacle 312, the planar area (or diameter) of the membrane 311 can be greater than the planar area (or diameter) of the accommodation portion 315. The driving force transmitted to the membrane 311 from the pressing portion can be applied to the liquid 313 while being applied to the receptacle 312 and dispersed.

[0142] The lens driving apparatus 100-1 can include a pressing portion for applying a driving force to the membrane 311 of the first lens portion 310.

[0143] The lens driving apparatus 100-1 can move the second lens portion 400 in the optical axis direction.

[0144] The lens driving apparatus 100-1 can include a coil holder 110, a coil 120, and a magnet 130 coupled to the second lens portion 400. Due to the interaction between the coil 120 and the magnet 130, the coil holder 110 can be moved in the optical axis direction. At this time, the coil holder 110 can be a pressing portion for pressing the membrane 311 by transmitting a driving force to the membrane 311 of the first lens portion 310.

[0145] The lens driving apparatus 100-1 can further include at least one of a housing 140, an upper elastic member 150, a lower elastic member 160, a cover member 300, and a base 210.

[0146] In addition, the lens driving apparatus 100-1 can further include a position sensor 170 and a sensing magnet 180.

[0147] Further, the lens driving apparatus 100-1 can further include a circuit board 190 electrically connected to the position sensor 170. Further, the lens driving apparatus 100-1 can further include a balance magnet 185.

[0148] The cover member 300 can be coupled to the base 210 and can form an accommodation space together with the base 210. For example, the cover member 300 can accommodate the coil holder 110 and the lens barrel 400 disposed inside the housing 140.

[0149] The cover member 300 has an open lower portion and can be in the form of a box composed of an upper plate 301 and side plates 302, and the lower portion of the cover member 300 can be coupled to the upper portion of the base 210 and the upper portion of the cover member 300. The shape of the upper plate 301 of the cover member 300 can be a polygon, such as a square or an octagon. The side plates of the cover member 300 can correspond to or face the side portions 141 of the housing 140, and both can be disposed in parallel to each other.

[0150] In the upper plate 301, the cover member 300 can include an opening 303 to expose the second lens portion 400 coupled to the coil holder 110 to external light. The material of the cover member 300 can be a non-magnetic material, such as SUS, to prevent adhesion to the magnet 130, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the cover member 300 can be formed of a magnetic material to function as a yoke portion, thereby increasing an electromagnetic force due to interaction between the coil 120 and the magnet 130.

[0151] Referring to Figure 4a and 4b , the coil holder 110 can be equipped with the second lens portion 400 disposed in the housing 140 and moved in the direction of the optical axis OA. The coil holder 110 can be represented by replacing it with a "lens holder" or a "lens accommodation portion".

[0152] The coil holder 110 can have an opening 13 through which the second lens portion 400 is installed.

[0153] For example, the opening 13 can be a through-hole that penetrates the coil holder 110 in the direction of the optical axis OA, and the opening 13 can have a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0154] The coil holder 110 can include at least one first coupling portion 113 formed on the upper surface 14A, the first coupling portion 113 being coupled and fixed to the hole 151a of the inner frame 151 of the upper elastic member 150.

[0155] The coil holder 110 can include at least one second coupling portion 117 formed on the lower surface 15B, which is coupled and fixed to the hole 161a of the inner frame 161 of the lower elastic member 160.

[0156] For example, the first coupling portion 113 has a groove shape, and the second coupling portion 117 has a protrusion shape, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, each of the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion can be a groove, a protrusion, or a flat shape.

[0157] The coil holder 110 can include a first disengagement groove 112a provided in a region of the upper surface 15A, corresponding to or aligned with the first frame connection portion 153 of the upper elastic member 150. The first disengagement groove 112a can be a shape recessed from the upper surface 15A of the coil holder 110.

[0158] In addition, the coil holder 110 can include a second disengagement groove 112b provided in a region of the lower surface, corresponding to or aligned with the second frame connection portion 163 of the lower elastic member 160. The second disengagement groove 112b can be a shape recessed from the lower surface 15B of the coil holder 110.

[0159] When the coil holder 110 moves in the first direction by the first disengagement groove 112a and the second disengagement groove 112b of the coil holder 110, the spatial interference between the first frame connection portion 153, the second frame connection portion 163, and the coil holder 110 can be eliminated, and accordingly, the first frame connection portion 153 and the second frame connection portion 163 can be more easily elastically deformed.

[0160] In another embodiment, each of the first frame connection portion and the second frame connection portion and the coil holder is designed not to interfere with each other, and thus the first disengagement groove and / or the second disengagement groove of the coil holder can not need to be provided.

[0161] The coil holder 110 can include a first stopper 114 protruding in the upward side direction from the upper surface. For example, since the height of the protruding portion 111 (to be described later) is higher than the height of the first stopper 114, the first stopper 114 can be omitted in another embodiment.

[0162] In addition, the coil holder 110 can include a second stopper 116 protruding in the downward side direction from the lower surface. When the coil holder 110 moves in the first direction to perform autofocus, even if the coil holder 110 moves beyond a prescribed range due to external impact, and the like, the first stopper 114 and the second stopper 116 of the coil holder 110 can function to prevent the upper surface or the lower surface of the coil holder 110 from directly colliding with the inner wall of the cover member 300, the lower surface of the receptacle 312, or the upper surface of the base 210.

[0163] The coil holder 110 can include at least one groove 105 for disposing the coil 120 on the side surface or the outer side surface.

[0164] The coil 120 can be directly wound or wound in the groove 105 of the coil holder 110, such that the coil 120 is disposed or fixed in the groove 105 of the coil holder 110, or rotated clockwise or counterclockwise with respect to the optical axis OA.

[0165] The shape and number of the groove 105 of the coil holder 110 can correspond to the shape and number of the coil disposed on the outer side surface of the coil holder 110. In another embodiment, the coil holder 110 can not have a groove for fixing the coil, and the coil can be directly wound or wound on the outer side surface of the coil holder 110 without the need for a groove to fix.

[0166] The coil holder 110 can include a first side and a second side.

[0167] In another embodiment, the first side of the coil holder 110 can be denoted as a "first side surface", and the second side can be denoted as a "second side surface". The first side of the coil holder 110 can correspond to or face the magnet 130. Each second side of the coil holder 110 can be disposed between two adjacent first sides. For example, the groove 105 of the coil holder 110 can be disposed in a ring shape in the first side and the second side of the coil holder 110, but is not limited thereto.

[0168] The coil 120 can be a driving coil disposed on the outer side surface of the coil holder 110, and electromagnetically interacts with the magnet 130 disposed on the housing 140.

[0169] For example, the coil 120 can be disposed or wound within the groove 105 of the coil holder 110.

[0170] A driving signal (for example, a driving current or voltage) can be applied to the coil 120 to generate an electromagnetic force by interaction with the magnet 130. The driving signal applied to the coil 120 can be a direct current signal and / or an alternating current signal.

[0171] The AF movable unit can be moved in a first direction, for example, in an upward direction (+Z-axis direction) or a downward direction (-Z-axis direction), by an electromagnetic force generated due to interaction between the coil 120 and the magnet 130.

[0172] The lens driving device can have a unidirectional driving and bidirectional driving capability for auto-focusing at the same time. Here, the unidirectional driving refers to moving the AF movable unit in one direction, for example, an upward direction (for example, +Z-axis direction) based on the initial position of the AF movable unit, and the bidirectional driving refers to moving the AF movable unit in two directions (for example, upward or downward direction) based on the initial position of the AF movable unit.

[0173] By controlling the strength and / or polarity (for example, direction of current flow) of the driving signal applied to the coil 120, and by adjusting the strength and / or direction of the electromagnetic force through the interaction between the coil 120 and the magnet 130, the movement of the AF movable unit in the first direction can be controlled, thereby performing an auto-focusing function.

[0174] The AF movable unit can include the coil holder 110 elastically supported by the upper elastic member 150 and the lower elastic member 160, and a component mounted on the coil holder 110 to move together with the coil holder 110. For example, the AF movable unit can include the coil holder 110, the coil 120, and / or the second lens part 400 mounted on the coil holder 110.

[0175] For example, the coil 120 can be disposed on the coil holder 110 to have a closed loop shape. For example, the coil 120 can have a closed loop shape wound in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around the optical axis, and can be wound or disposed on the outer side surface of the coil holder 110.

[0176] In another embodiment, the coil 120 can be implemented in the form of a coil ring wound or disposed in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction around an axis perpendicular to the optical axis, and the number of coil rings can be the same as the number of magnets 130, but is not limited thereto.

[0177] The coil 120 can be electrically connected to at least one of the upper elastic member 150 or the lower elastic member 160, and can be electrically connected to the circuit board 190 through the upper elastic member 150 or / and the lower elastic member 160. For example, the coil 120 is coupled to two of the upper springs of the upper elastic member 150 by solder or a conductive adhesive, or it can be coupled to two of the lower springs of the lower elastic member, but is not limited thereto.

[0178] For example, the coil 120 disposed on the coil holder 110 can overlap the magnet 130 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0179] The sensing magnet 180 is disposed on the coil holder 110. For example, a groove 118a for accommodating or placing the sensing magnet 180 can be formed on the coil holder 110. The balance magnet 185 can be disposed on the coil holder 110. For example, the coil holder 110 can have a groove 118b that accommodates or disposes the balance magnet 185.

[0180] Each of the sensing magnet 180 and the balancing magnet 185 can be a single pole magnetization magnet or a double pole magnetization magnet.

[0181] Due to the interaction between the first coil 120 and the first magnet 130, the sensing magnet 180 can move together with the coil holder 110 in the optical axis direction OA, the first position sensor 170 can detect the magnetic field intensity of the sensing magnet 180 moving in the optical axis direction, and can output an output signal according to the detection result. For example, the control unit 830 of the camera module or the control unit 780 of the terminal can detect the displacement of the coil holder 110 in the optical axis direction based on the output signal output by the first position sensor 170.

[0182] By disposing the balancing magnet 180 on the coil holder 110 so that they face each other in a direction perpendicular to the sensing magnet 180 and the optical axis, the influence of the magnetic field of the sensing magnet 180 can be eliminated, and the weight balance of the AF movable unit can be adjusted, so that an accurate AF operation can be performed.

[0183] In another embodiment, the position sensor 170 can be disposed on the coil holder 110, and the sensing magnet and the balancing magnet are disposed in the housing 140 (in response to the position sensor 170), or can be disposed on the cover member 300 in response to the position sensor 170.

[0184] The housing 140 accommodates the coil holder 110 inside it, and the coil 120 is disposed therein.

[0185] Reference Figure 5a to 5b The housing 140 can be a column shape having an opening as a whole, and can include a side portion and a corner portion.

[0186] The housing 140 can include an opening that accommodates the coil holder 110, and the opening can be in the form of a through hole that penetrates the housing 140 in the optical axis direction.

[0187] The side portion 141 of the housing 140 can correspond to the first side portion 110b-1 of the coil holder 110, and the second side portion 142 of the housing 140 can correspond to the second side portion 110b-2 of the coil holder 110, but is not limited thereto.

[0188] Among the side portions 141-1 to 141-4 of the housing 140, the magnets 130 (130-1 to 130-4) can be disposed or mounted, and among the corner portions 142-1 to 142-4 of the housing 140, for example, 142-1, the position sensor 170 can be disposed, but is not limited thereto.

[0189] In another embodiment, the magnets can be disposed at the corner portion of the housing, and the position sensor can be disposed on any one of the side portions of the housing.

[0190] The housing 140 can include a magnet seat portion 141a provided in the side portions 141-1 to 141-4 to support or accommodate the magnets 130-1 to 130-4.

[0191] For example, the magnet seat portion 141a can be in the form of a hole penetrating the side portions 141-1 to 141-4 of the housing 140, but is not limited thereto, and can be in the form of a recess in another embodiment.

[0192] Each of the side portions 141-1 to 141-4 of the housing 140 can be provided in parallel to any corresponding portion of the side plate of the cover member 300.

[0193] Further, in order to prevent the upper surface of the housing 140 from directly colliding with the inner surface of the cover member 300 or the lower surface of the receptacle 312, a stopper 143 can be provided on the upper surface of the housing 140.

[0194] At least one first coupling portion 144 for coupling with the hole 152a of the first outer frame 152 of the upper elastic member 150 can be provided on the upper surface of the housing 140. Further, at least one second coupling portion 147 for coupling with the hole 162a of the second outer frame 162 of the lower elastic member 160 can be provided on the lower surface of the housing 140.

[0195] For example, each of the first coupling portion 144 and the second coupling portion 147 can have a protrusion shape, but is not limited thereto, and can have a recess or a flat shape in another embodiment.

[0196] In order to prevent the lower surface or the bottom of the housing 140 from colliding with the base 210 (to be described later), the housing 140 can include at least one stopper 145 protruding from the lower surface.

[0197] The guide groove 148 toward the recessed portion 212 of the base 210 can be provided on the lower portion or the lower surface of the corner portions 142-1 to 142-4 of the housing 140.

[0198] For example, the guide groove 148 of the housing 140 and the recessed portion 212 of the base 210 can be coupled to each other by an adhesive, and the housing 140 can be coupled to the base 210.

[0199] The magnets 130 can be provided in the housing 140.

[0200] For example, in the initial position of the coil holder 110, the magnets 130 can be provided in the housing 140 such that at least a portion thereof overlaps the coil 120 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA.

[0201] For example, the initial position of the coil holder 110 is an initial position of the AF movable unit (e.g., coil holder) in a state in which no power or driving signal and sensing signal is applied to the coil 120, and can be a position in which the AF movable unit is placed, since the upper elastic member 150 and the lower elastic member 160 are elastically deformed only by the weight of the AF movable unit.

[0202] In addition to this, when gravity acts in a direction from the coil holder 110 to the base 210, or conversely, when gravity acts in a direction from the base 210 to the coil holder 110, the initial position of the coil holder 110 can be a position in which the AF movable unit is placed. The AF movable unit can include the coil holder 110 and components mounted on the coil holder 110, such as the coil 120.

[0203] The shape of the magnet 130 can be a rectangular parallelepiped shape, the shape of which corresponds to the side portions 141-1 to 141-4 of the housing 140, but is not limited thereto, and a surface facing the coil 120 can be formed to correspond to or coincide with the curvature of the corresponding surface of the coil 120.

[0204] The magnet 130 can be a single pole magnetization magnet, which is disposed such that a first surface facing the coil 120 is an N pole and a second surface opposite the first surface is an S pole, but is not limited thereto, and the N pole and the S pole can be reversed. In another embodiment, the magnet 140 can be a double pole magnetization magnet.

[0205] For example, the magnet 130 can be a double pole magnetization magnet that is divided into two parts in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. For example, the magnet 130 can include a first magnet portion, a second magnet portion, and a non-magnetic partition wall disposed between the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion.

[0206] For example, the first magnet portion can be located at the upper portion, the second magnet portion can be located at the lower portion, and the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion can be spaced apart from each other, but are not limited thereto.

[0207] The non-magnetic partition wall is a portion that is substantially free of magnetism, can include a portion having a very small polarity, and can be filled with air or made of a non-magnetic material.

[0208] In this embodiment, the number of magnets 130 is four, but is not limited thereto, the number of magnets 130 can be at least two or more, and the surface of the magnet 130 facing the coil 120 can be formed in a plane, but is not limited thereto, and can be formed in a curved surface.

[0209] The magnet 130 can be disposed on at least two or more side portions of the housing 140 facing each other, and can be disposed to face each other.

[0210] For example, the magnets 130-1 to 130-4 can be disposed on the side portions 141-1 to 141-4 of the housing 140. Two pairs of magnets 130-1 to 130-4 facing each other and intersecting each other can be disposed on the side portions 141-1 to 141-4 of the housing 140. At this time, the plane of each of the magnets 130-1 to 130-4 can have a substantially rectangular shape, or a triangular shape or a rhombic shape different from this.

[0211] In Figure 5a to 5b In the illustrated embodiment, the magnets 130-1 to 130-4 are disposed in the housing 140, but are not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the housing 140 can be omitted, and the magnets 130-1 to 130-4 and the position sensor 170 can be disposed on the cover member 300.

[0212] In another embodiment, the magnets 130-1 to 130-4 and the position sensor 170 can be disposed in the cover member 300 without omitting the housing 140.

[0213] When the magnets and the position sensor are disposed in the cover member, the magnets can be disposed on the side plates of the cover member 300, and the position sensor can be disposed at the corner portion of the cover member 300, at this time, the corner portion of the cover member can be located between the side plates of the cover member 300.

[0214] In another embodiment, the magnets can be disposed on the coil holder 110, and the coils can be disposed in the housing.

[0215] Referring to Figure 6 The position sensor 170 can be disposed, fixed, or coupled to the housing 140. The circuit board 190 can be disposed in the housing 140, and can be electrically connected to the position sensor 170. For example, the position sensor 170 can be disposed or mounted on the circuit board 190 disposed in the housing 140.

[0216] For example, a recess 142a for mounting or disposing the circuit board 190 can be disposed in one side portion (for example, 141-1) of the housing 140, but is not limited thereto. The circuit board 190 can be coupled to the housing 140 by an adhesive or the like.

[0217] The circuit board 190 can include a body 190-1 and an extension portion 190-2 connected to the body 190-1.

[0218] The body 190-1 can be equipped with a plurality of terminals 19-1 to 19-n (a natural number, where n > 1) for electrical connection to the outside. For example, the plurality of terminals 19-1 to 19-n can be disposed on one line at the lower end of the outer side surface of the body 190-1.

[0219] The body 190-1 can be provided on the outer side surface of any one side portion (e.g., 142-2) of the housing 140, adjacent to the first corner portion 142-1 of the housing 140. The body 190-1 can include a lower portion 91a having terminals 19-1 to 19-n, and an upper portion 91b protruding upward from the lower portion 91a. In the lower portion 91a of the body 190-1, a recess or an opening 51 can be provided to expose the magnet 130-2 provided at any one side portion of the housing 140.

[0220] In the lower portion 91a of the body 190-1, coupling portions 5a and 5b for connection with the outer frames 162 of the lower springs 160a and 160b can be provided.

[0221] The upper portion 91b of the body 190-1 can be connected to a side region of the upper surface of the lower portion 91a of the body 190-1, and can be connected to the extension portion 190-2.

[0222] The extension portion 190-2 can be provided on the first corner portion 142-1, one end (e.g., the body 190-1) provided on the side portion (e.g., 142-2) of the housing 140, and can be bent from one end of the upper portion 91b of the body 190-1. For example, a bent portion 191 can be formed between the upper portion 91b of the body 190-1 and the extension portion 190-2.

[0223] On the first surface of the extension portion 190-2 of the circuit board 190, a pad for electrically connecting to the position sensor 170 can be provided, and the pad of the circuit board 190 can be electrically connected to any one of the plurality of terminals 19-1 to 19-n corresponding terminals through a wire or a circuit pattern provided on the circuit board 190. The plurality of terminals 19-1 to 19-n can include a terminal electrically connected to the position sensor 170.

[0224] The position sensor 170 can be provided on the first surface or the inner side surface of the extension portion 190-2 of the circuit board 190. Here, the first surface of the extension portion 190-2 mounted on the housing 140 can be the inner side surface of the housing 140 or a surface facing the outer side surface of the coil holder 110.

[0225] The position sensor 170 can be provided at any one of the corner portions (e.g., 142-1) of the housing 140, and can detect the position of the coil holder 110 by sensing a magnetic field generated by the sensing magnet 180.

[0226] The position sensor 170 can detect the strength of the magnetic field generated by the sensing magnet 180 mounted on the coil holder 110 according to the movement of the coil holder 110, and can output an output signal (e.g., an output voltage) according to the detection result.

[0227] The position sensor 170 can be implemented in the form of a driver including a Hall sensor, or can be implemented as a single position detection sensor such as a Hall sensor. The position sensor 170 can include four terminals (e.g., two input terminals and two output terminals), and can be electrically connected to the circuit board 190.

[0228] For example, a driving signal input to any terminal of the circuit board 190 can be provided to the position sensor 170, and an output of the position sensor 170 can be output through the other terminal of the circuit board 190.

[0229] Referring to Figure 7 The upper elastic member 150 and the lower elastic member 160 are coupled to the coil former 110 and the housing 140, and support the coil former 110.

[0230] For example, the upper elastic member 150 can be coupled with the upper portion, the upper surface, or the upper end of the coil former 110 and the upper portion, the upper surface, or the upper end of the housing 140; and the lower elastic member 160 can be coupled with the lower portion, the lower surface, or the lower end of the coil former 110 and the lower portion, the lower surface, or the lower end of the housing 140.

[0231] At least one of the upper elastic member 150 or the lower elastic member 160 can be divided into two or more. In another embodiment, the upper elastic member 150 or the lower elastic member 160 can not be separated or divided.

[0232] The upper elastic member 150 and the lower elastic member 160 can be implemented as a leaf spring, but are not limited thereto, and can be implemented as a coil spring, a wire suspension, or the like.

[0233] The upper elastic member 150 can include a first inner frame 151 coupled with the upper portion, the upper surface, or the upper end of the coil former 110, a first outer frame 152 coupled with the upper portion, the upper surface, or the upper end of the housing 140, and a first frame connection portion 153 connecting the first inner frame 151 and the first outer frame 152.

[0234] In the first inner frame 151 of the upper elastic member 150, a hole 151a coupled to the first coupling portion 113 of the coil former 110 can be provided; and in the first outer frame 152, a hole 152a coupled to the first coupling portion 144 of the housing 140 can be provided.

[0235] The lower elastic member 160 can include a first lower spring 160a and a second lower spring 160b spaced apart from each other.

[0236] Each of the first and second lower springs 160a, 160b can include a second inner frame 161 coupled with a lower portion, a lower surface, or a lower end of the coil holder 110, a second outer frame 162 coupled with a lower portion, a lower surface, or a lower end of the housing 140, and a second frame connecting portion 163 connecting the second inner frame 161 and the second outer frame 162.

[0237] Further, in the second inner frame 161 of each of the first and second lower springs 160a, 160b, a hole 161a for coupling with the second coupling portion 117 of the coil holder 110 can be provided by welding or a conductive adhesive. In the second outer frame 162 of each of the first and second lower springs 160a, 160b, a hole 162a for coupling with the second coupling portion 147 of the housing 140 can be provided.

[0238] At one end of the second inner frame 161 of the first lower spring, a first engagement portion 7a for coupling to one end of the coil 120 by welding or a conductive adhesive can be provided; and at one end of the second inner frame 161 of the second lower spring 160b, a second engagement portion 7b for coupling to the other end of the coil 120 by welding or a conductive adhesive can be provided.

[0239] At one end of the second outer frame 161 of the first lower spring 160a, a third engagement portion 6a for coupling to the first coupling portion 5a of the circuit board 190 by welding or a conductive adhesive can be provided. At one end of the second outer frame 161 of the second lower spring 160b, a fourth engagement portion 6b for coupling to the second coupling portion 5b of the circuit board 190 by welding or a conductive adhesive can be provided.

[0240] The third engagement portion 6a and the fourth engagement portion 6b can be electrically connected to respective two of the plurality of terminals 19-1 to 19-n of the circuit board 190.

[0241] The driving signal can be provided to the coil 120 by the circuit board 190 and the first and second lower springs 160a and 160b.

[0242] Each of the first frame connecting portion 153 and the second frame connecting portion 163 of the upper elastic member 150 and the lower elastic member 160 is formed to be bent at least once or more times so that a pattern having a predetermined shape can be formed.

[0243] The coil holder 110 can be flexibly (or elastically) supported by the rising and / or lowering operation in the first direction through the positional change and the micro-deformation of the first and second frame connecting portions 153, 163.

[0244] To absorb and buffer the vibration of the coil holder 110, the lens driving apparatus 100-1 can further include a first damper (not shown) disposed between the upper elastic member 150 and the case 140. For example, the first damper (not shown) can be disposed in a space between the first frame connecting portion 153 of the upper elastic member 150 and the case 140.

[0245] Further, for example, the lens driving apparatus 100 can be further equipped with a second damper (not shown) disposed between the second frame connecting portion 163 on each of the first and second lower springs 160a, 160b and the case 140.

[0246] Further, for example, a damper (not shown) can be further disposed between the inner side surface of the case 140 and the outer circumferential surface of the coil holder 110.

[0247] The base 210 can have an opening of the coil holder 110 and / or an opening corresponding to the opening of the case 140, and it can have a shape, for example, a rectangular shape, matching or corresponding to the cover member 300.

[0248] The base 210 can be provided with a step 211 at the lower end of the side surface so that an adhesive can be applied thereto when attaching and fixing the cover member 300. At this time, the step 211 can guide the cover member 300 coupled to the upper side, and can face the lower end of the side plate of the cover member 300.

[0249] The base 210 can be disposed below the coil holder 110 and / or the case 140.

[0250] For example, the base 210 can be disposed below the lower elastic member 160.

[0251] The coupling portion 212 corresponding to the guide groove 148 of the case 140 can be disposed at the upper surface edge of the base 210. The coupling portion of the base 210 can be in the form of a groove, but is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, it can be a protruding portion or a columnar portion protruding from the upper surface of the base.

[0252] Referring to Figure 9 The second lens portion 400 can include a lens barrel 410 and a lens array 420 mounted on the lens barrel 410. The lens array 420 can include at least one lens. For example, the lens array 420 can be a solid lens, and can be formed of glass or plastic, but is not limited thereto.

[0253] The lens barrel 400 can include a first portion 411, a second portion 412 disposed on the first portion 411, and a third portion 413 connecting the first portion 411 and the second portion 412.

[0254] The first portion 411 can be expressed by replacing it with a "lower portion", the second portion 412 can be expressed by replacing it with an "upper portion", and the third portion 413 can be expressed by replacing it with an "intermediate portion" or a "connecting portion".

[0255] The first portion 411 is a portion coupled to the coil holder 110, and can have a structure of a cylinder or a polyhedron, and a cut surface in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can have a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first portion 411 can be formed with a thread or a thread groove for coupling with the coil holder 110, and the coil holder 110 can be formed with a thread or a thread groove for coupling to the first portion 411. In another embodiment, each of the first portion of the lens barrel and / or the thread or the thread groove of the coil holder can be omitted.

[0256] Further, the first portion 411 can include a first opening exposing a portion (e.g., a lower end or a lower surface) of the lens array 420. A diameter of the first portion 411 can be smaller than a diameter of the opening 13 of the coil holder 110.

[0257] The second portion 412 is located on an upper side of the first portion 411, and can have a structure of a cylinder or a polyhedron, and a cut plane in a direction perpendicular to the first portion 411 to the second portion 422 can be a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape. Further, the second portion 412 can include a second opening exposing another portion (e.g., an upper end or an upper surface) of the lens array 420. For example, a diameter of the second portion 412 can be smaller than a diameter of the first portion 411.

[0258] For example, the third portion 413 can be located between the first portion 411 and the second portion 412, and an outer side surface of the third portion can be a plane parallel to a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the outer side surface of the third portion 413 can be a bevel inclined with respect to a lower surface of the first portion 411 or an upper surface of the second portion 412. For example, an internal angle formed by the outer side surface of the second portion 412 and the outer side surface of the third portion 413 can be an obtuse angle or a right angle.

[0259] For example, in another embodiment, a diameter of the third portion can gradually decrease from the first portion to the second portion, and the third portion diameter can be in a range between a diameter of the first portion and a diameter of the second portion.

[0260] Referring to Figure 4a , Figure 8a , Figure 8b and Figure 10 , the coil holder 110 can include a protruding portion 111 protruding from the upper surface 15A toward the film 311 of the first lens portion 310.

[0261] The protruding part 111 can be represented by replacing it with a "pressing part" or a shaper.

[0262] The protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 can contact the films 311B and 311 of the lens portion 310, and it can be a pressing portion that presses the films 311B and 311 when the coil holder 110 moves along the optical axis. In addition, the protruding portion 111 can be used as a shaper to give the liquid lens the desired curvature so as to adjust the focal length.

[0263] The protruding portion 111 can protrude from the upper surface 15A of the coil holder 110 in the optical axis direction. The upper end or upper surface of the protruding portion 111 can be positioned above the upper end or upper surface of the first stop block 114.

[0264] Furthermore, the upper end or upper surface of the protrusion 111 on the upper surface of the coil frame 110 can be positioned above the upper end or upper surface of the first connecting portion 113 of the coil frame 110. In particular, when the first connecting portion 113 of the coil frame 110 has a protruding shape, the upper end or upper surface of the protrusion 111 can be positioned above the upper end or upper surface of the protrusion of the coil frame 110.

[0265] For example, the upper surface of the protruding portion 111 may be closer to the first lens portion 310 or the films 311B and 311 than the upper surface of the first stop block 114 and the upper surface of the first connecting portion 113.

[0266] The upper surface or upper end of the protruding part 111 can be positioned above the upper surface or upper end of the second lens part 400 connected to the coil frame 110.

[0267] For example, the upper surface or upper end of the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 may be closer to the films 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310 than the upper surface or upper end of the second lens portion 400 connected to the coil holder 110.

[0268] For example, the upper surface or upper end of the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 can be positioned above the upper surface or upper end of the lens barrel 410 of the second lens section 400. For example, the upper surface or upper end of the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 can be closer to the films 311B and 311 of the first lens section 310 than the upper surface or upper end of the lens barrel 410.

[0269] For example, the upper surface of the protrusion 111 can be positioned above the upper surface of the second portion 412 of the lens barrel 410. For example, the upper surface of the protrusion 111 can be located closer to the films 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310 than the upper surface of the second portion 412 of the lens barrel 410.

[0270] Further, for example, the upper surface of the protruding portion 111 can be positioned higher than the upper surface of the upper elastic member 150. For example, the upper surface of the protruding portion 111 can be positioned closer to the films 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310 than the upper surface of the upper elastic member 150.

[0271] The protruding portion 111 can be spaced apart from the second lens portion 400, and can be positioned outside the second lens portion 400. For example, the protruding portion 111 can be disposed to surround the second lens portion 400.

[0272] For example, the protruding portion 111 can be positioned outside the lens barrel 410 of the second lens portion 400. For example, the protruding portion 111 can be spaced apart from the lens barrel 410, and can be disposed to surround the lens barrel 410.

[0273] For example, the diameter of the protruding portion 111 can be greater than the diameter of the lens barrel 410. For example, the diameter of the protruding portion 111 can be greater than the diameter of the first portion 411 of the lens barrel 410. Here, the diameter of the protruding portion 111 can be the cross-sectional length of the protruding portion 111 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA, and the diameter of the lens barrel 410 can be the cross-sectional length of the lens barrel 410 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA.

[0274] For example, the diameter of the protruding portion 111 can be less than the diameter of the receiving portion of the receptacle 312. Alternatively, the diameter of the protruding portion 111 can be less than the cross-sectional length in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the liquid 313 positioned in the receiving portion of the receptacle 312.

[0275] For example, the center 309 of the first lens portion 310 and the center 308 of the second lens portion 400 can be aligned with or overlap each other, but are not limited thereto. For example, the center of the first lens portion 310 can be the center of the liquid 313 positioned in the receptacle 312, and can be aligned with or overlap the optical axis OA. Further, for example, the center of the second lens portion 400 can be the center of the lens barrel 410 or the center of the lens array 420.

[0276] Further, with reference to Figure 10 In a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA, the distance D11 between the optical axis OA and the protruding portion 111 can be greater than the distance D12 between the optical axis OA and the outer side surface of the lens barrel 400 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA (D11 > D12).

[0277] For example, the protruding portion 111 can be formed in the same shape as the opening 13 of the coil holder 110 along the opening 13 of the coil holder 110. For example, the shape of the protruding portion 111 can be the same as the shape of the opening 13 of the coil holder 110, such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape, when viewed from above.

[0278] For example, the regions of the films 311B and 311 in contact with the protruding portion 111 can have the same shape as the protruding portion 111.

[0279] For example, the inner side surface 11A of the protruding portion 111 can be parallel to the inner side surface 12A of the coil holder 110 and can be located on the same line, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the inner side surface 11A of the protruding portion 111 can have a step in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis and the inner side surface 12A of the coil holder 110.

[0280] The distance between the protruding portion 111 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis is smaller than the distance between the lens barrel 410 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0281] For example, the distance between the protruding portion 111 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be smaller than the distance between the first portion 411 of the lens barrel 410 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0282] Reference Figure 8a The distance D1 between the protruding portion 111 and the inner side surface of the housing 140 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA can be smaller than the distance D2 between the outer side surface of the lens barrel 410 and the inner side surface of the housing 140 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA (D1 < D2).

[0283] For example, the distance between the protruding portion 111 and the inner side surface of the housing 140 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be smaller than the distance between the outer side surface of the first portion 411 of the lens barrel 410 and the inner side surface of the housing 140 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0284] Further, for example, the distance between the protruding portion 111 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be greater than the distance between the coil 120 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, but in another embodiment, the former can be equal to or smaller than the latter.

[0285] The distance between the protruding portion 111 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be greater than the distance between the sensing magnet 180 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, but in another embodiment, the former can be equal to or less than the latter.

[0286] For example, in the initial position of the coil holder 110, the protruding portion 111 can be in contact with the films 311B and 311. For example, the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 can be coupled or attached to the films 311B or 311 by an adhesive. At this time, in the initial position of the coil holder 110, the protruding portion 111 does not press the films 311B and 311, and a driving force can not be transmitted to the films 311B and 311. In other words, in the initial position of the coil holder 110, the films 311B and 311 of the first lens part 310 can have a planar shape parallel to a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA, and the first lens part 310 can have a planar lens shape.

[0287] In another embodiment, in the initial position of the coil holder 110, the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 can not be in contact with the films 311B and 311, and can be away from the films 311B or 311. In this case, when the coil holder 110 moves a predetermined distance from the initial position to the films 311B and 311, the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 can be in contact with the films 311B and 311.

[0288] For example, the separation distance between the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 and the films 311B and 311 at the initial position of the coil holder 110 can be less than the stroke range of the coil holder 110 for AF driving.

[0289] When the upper surface of the protruding portion 111 is in contact with the films 311B and 311 to press the films 311B and 311, the first lens part 310 can have a convex lens shape due to the protrusion of the films 311B, 311, and the liquid 313 toward the coil holder 110. The curvature of the convex lens of the first lens part 310 can be changed based on the pressure of the protruding portion 111 that presses the films 311B and 311, and the focal length of the first lens part 310 can be adjusted.

[0290] In another embodiment, the protruding portion 111 can include a plurality of portions spaced apart from each other, and the films 311B and 311 can be pressed by the plurality of portions.

[0291] For example, in another embodiment, the protruding portion as a pressing portion can have a convex portion or a concave portion provided or formed at a predetermined point (or position), and at this time, the portion that presses the liquid lens can be the uppermost end or the upper surface of the convex portion. In other words, in another embodiment, the pressing portion can include a plurality of convex portions or concave portions intermittently and spaced apart.

[0292] Generally, to pressurize the membrane of the liquid lens, a pressing part or an actuator separate from the lens driving apparatus equipped with a solid lens is required. However, in the present embodiment, since the coil holder 110 of the lens driving apparatus directly presses the first lens part 310 as a liquid lens, a separate pressing part or actuator is not required.

[0293] Further, since the first lens part 310 is pressed by the coil holder 110 regardless of the shape of the lens barrel mounted on the coil holder 110, the present embodiment can serve as a pressing part without being restricted by the lens barrel.

[0294] Further, since the protruding part 111 located outside the lens barrel presses the membranes 311B and 311 and the liquid 313, the size (e.g., diameter) of the convex lens of the first lens part 310 formed thereby can be increased.

[0295] Further, the focal length of the second lens part 400 is adjusted by the lens driving apparatus 100-1, and at the same time, the focal length of the first lens part 310 can be adjusted due to the pressing by the protruding part 111 of the coil holder 110. In one embodiment, the focal length of the lens module 200-1 can be finely adjusted by the first lens part 310.

[0296] For example, for a close-up mode of a camera, the pressing part can press the liquid lens of the first lens part 310. For example, the pressing part can press the liquid lens of the first lens part 310 to adjust the focal length of the close-up mode of the camera. For example, the close-up mode can be a case where the distance between an object (subject) and the camera (or lens module) can be 10 cm or less, 5 cm or less, or 2 cm or less.

[0297] Alternatively, for example, when a subject is separated by more than a separation distance in a close-up mode, the pressing part can be separated from the liquid lens so as to focus the subject.

[0298] Alternatively, in an embodiment in which the pressing part and the liquid lens are combined or coupled, when a subject is separated by more than a separation distance in a close-up mode, the shape of the liquid lens can become concave as the coil holder 110 moves to infinity to focus the subject.

[0299] For example, in the case of one-way driving, the initial position of the coil holder 110 can correspond to infinity, and at the initial position of the coil holder 110, the liquid lens is not pressed by the pressing part, but the pressing part can only be in contact with the liquid lens. At this time, the shape of the liquid lens can be a flat shape. When the coil holder 110 moves from the initial position to a position for macro photography, the pressing part presses the liquid lens, and thus, the liquid lens can have a convex lens shape toward the subject.

[0300] Alternatively, for example in the case of bidirectional drive, the pressing part can be separated from the liquid lens when the coil holder 110 moves from the initial position to infinity. Alternatively, in an embodiment, where the pressing part is connected or coupled to the liquid lens, the shape of the liquid lens can be a convex lens shape in the direction opposite to the direction from the camera (or lens module) to the subject when the coil holder 110 moves from the initial position to infinity.

[0301] The position for macro photography can be the position corresponding to the maximum stroke or maximum displacement of the coil mount in the direction of the subject, and infinity can be the position corresponding to the maximum stroke or maximum displacement of the coil mount 110 in the direction opposite to the direction toward the subject.

[0302] Figure 11 It shows Figure 4a A modified embodiment of the coil frame 110, Figure 12 It shows that according to Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the lens module in the modified embodiment.

[0303] exist Figure 4a In this configuration, the protruding portion 111, which serves as the pressing part, is formed as part of the coil holder 110, such that the protruding portion 111 and the coil holder 110 are integrally formed. However, in Figure 11 and Figure 12 In this configuration, the coil holder 110A does not have a protruding portion 111, and the pressing frame 325 can be disposed separately from the coil holder 110A. The pressing frame 325 can be referred to as a "pressing part" or a "frame".

[0304] The pressing frame 325 can be disposed between the upper surface of the coil holder 110A and the films 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310, and the films 311B and 311 and the liquid 313 can be pressurized by moving the coil holder 110A in the optical axis direction.

[0305] For example, the shape of the pressing frame 325 viewed from above can be circular, oval, or polygonal, but is not limited to these.

[0306] The pressing frame 325 may be located outside the lens barrel 410 of the second lens section 400. For example, the lower part or lower surface of the pressing frame 325 may contact, connect, or link with the upper surface of the coil holder 110.

[0307] In addition, for example, the upper part or upper surface of the pressing frame 325 may contact, connect or link with the membranes 311B and 311.

[0308] The distance between the pressing frame 325 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis is smaller than the distance between the lens barrel 410 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0309] For example, the distance between the pressing frame 325 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be smaller than the distance between the first portion 411 of the lens barrel 410 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0310] For example, the pressing frame 325 can be spaced apart from the lens barrel 410 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0311] As Figures 1 to 10 described, the protruding portion 111 can be applied or similarly applied to Figure 11 and Figure 12 the pressing frame 325, and all of these can be applied or similarly applied to the pressing portion according to the embodiments described below.

[0312] Further, since the first lens portion 310 is pressed by the coil holder 110 and the pressing frame 325 regardless of the shape of the lens barrel mounted on the coil holder 110, the present embodiment can serve as a pressing portion that is not limited by the lens barrel.

[0313] Further, since the pressing frame 325 located outside the lens barrel presses the films 311B and 311 and the liquid 313, the size (e.g., diameter) of the convex lens of the first lens portion 310 formed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the convex lens can increase.

[0314] Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of a lens module 200-2 according to another embodiment; Figure 14 is Figure 13 a perspective view of a lens driving apparatus 100-2 and a second lens portion 400A coupled in Figure 15 is Figure 13 a perspective view of the second lens portion 400A in Figure 16 is Figure 14 a cross-sectional view of the lens module 200-2 in an AB direction in Figures 13 to 16 the same as Figures 1 to 12 the same constituent members are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same constituent members is simplified or omitted.

[0315] Referring to Figures 13 to 16 , the lens module 200-2 can include a first lens portion 310, a second lens portion 400A, and a lens driving apparatus 100-2.

[0316] In the lens module 200-2, the protruding portion 111 of the lens module 200-1 is formed in the lens barrel 410A.

[0317] In other words, the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 of the lens module 200-1 can be omitted, and the protruding portion 401 can be formed in the lens barrel 410A.

[0318] Referring to Figure 15 and 16 For example, the lens barrel 410A can include a first portion 411 coupled to the coil holder 110, a second portion 412 disposed on the first portion 411, a third portion 413 connecting the first portion 411 and the second portion 412, and a protruding portion 401 protruding from the third portion 413 in a direction toward the optical axis OA or the membranes 311A and 311.

[0319] The protruding portion 401 can protrude or extend from an outer side surface of the third portion 413 of the lens barrel 410A toward the membranes 311A and 311. For example, the protruding portion 401 can be spaced apart from the second portion 412 of the lens barrel 410A. Or, for example, the protruding portion 401 can be in contact with or adjacent to the first portion 411 of the lens barrel 410A.

[0320] For example, the protruding portion 401 can be located closer to the first portion 411 than the second portion 412 of the lens barrel 410A. In another embodiment, the protruding portion 401 can be located closer to the second portion 412 than the first portion 411 of the lens barrel 410A, or can be located at the same distance.

[0321] The protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 410A can be in contact with the membranes 311B and 311 of the lens portion 310, and it can be a pressing portion for pressing the membranes 311B and 311 when the lens barrel 410A moves together with the coil holder 110 in the optical axis direction. In addition, the protruding portion 401 can serve as a shaper to make the liquid lens have a desired curvature, thereby adjusting the focal length.

[0322] For example, an upper surface or an upper end of the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 410A can be positioned higher than an upper surface or an upper end of the coil holder 110. For example, the upper surface or the upper end of the protruding portion 401 can be located closer to the membranes 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310 than the upper surface or the upper end of the coil holder 110.

[0323] The upper end or the upper surface of the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 410A can be positioned higher than the upper end or the upper surface of the first stopper 114 of the coil holder 110.

[0324] Further, the upper end or upper surface of the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 410A can be positioned higher than the upper end or upper surface of the first coupling portion 113 of the coil holder 110. In particular, when the first coupling portion 113 of the coil holder 110 is in the form of a protrusion, the upper end or upper surface of the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 410A can be positioned higher than the upper end or upper surface of the protrusion of the coil holder 110.

[0325] For example, the upper surface of the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 410A can be closer to the films 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310 than the upper surface of the first stopper 114 and the upper surface of the first coupling portion 113.

[0326] The upper surface or upper end of the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 410A can be positioned higher than the upper surface or upper end of the second portion 412 of the lens barrel 410A.

[0327] For example, the upper surface or upper end of the protruding portion 401 can be closer to the films 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310 than the upper surface or upper end of the second portion 412 of the lens barrel 410A.

[0328] Further, for example, the upper surface of the protruding portion 401 can be positioned higher than the upper surface of the upper elastic member 150. For example, the upper surface of the protruding portion 401 can be positioned closer to the films 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310 than the upper surface of the upper elastic member 150.

[0329] The protruding portion 401 can be spaced apart from the coil holder 110.

[0330] Further, for example, at least a portion of the protruding portion 401 can protrude from the opening of the coil holder 110. Further, for example, at least another portion of the protruding portion 401 can be positioned inside the coil holder 110.

[0331] For example, the diameter of the protruding portion 401 can be smaller than the diameter of the opening of the coil holder 110.

[0332] For example, the diameter of the protruding portion 401 can be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the first portion 411 of the lens barrel 410A. Here, the diameter of the protruding portion 401 can be the cross-sectional length of the protruding portion 401 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA.

[0333] For example, the diameter of the protruding portion 401 can be smaller than the diameter of the accommodation portion of the receptacle 312. Alternatively, the diameter of the protruding portion 401 can be smaller than the cross-sectional length of the liquid 313 positioned inside the accommodation portion 315 of the receptacle 312 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0334] For example, the protruding portion 401 can be formed in the same shape as the opening 13 of the coil holder 110 along the opening 13 of the coil holder 110. For example, the shape of the protruding portion 401 can be the same as the shape of the opening 13 of the coil holder 100, such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape, when viewed from above.

[0335] For example, the regions of the films 311B and 311 in contact with the protruding portion 401 can have the same shape as the protruding portion 111.

[0336] For example, the outer side surface of the protruding portion 401 can be parallel and collinear with the outer side surface of the first portion 411 of the lens barrel 410A, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the outer side surface of the protruding portion 401 can have a step in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis and the outer side surface of the lens barrel 410A.

[0337] For example, the distance between the protruding portion 401 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be greater than the distance between the coil holder 110 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0338] Further, for example, the distance between the protruding portion 401 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be greater than the distance between the coil 120 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0339] The distance between the protruding portion 401 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be greater than the distance between the sensing magnet 180 and the side plate 302 of the cover member 300 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0340] Figure 17 is an exploded perspective view of a lens module 200-3 according to another embodiment; Figure 18 is Figure 17 is a perspective view of a second lens portion 400B in Figure 19 is Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the lens module 200-3 in the AB direction in

[0341] In Figures 17 to 19 In Figures 1 to 16 the same components are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description of the same components is simplified or omitted.

[0342] Referring to Figures 17 to 19 , the lens module 200-3 can include a first lens portion 310, a second lens portion 400B, and a lens driving device 100-2.

[0343] In Figure 15In the lens barrel 400A in FIG. 10A, the protruding portion 402 can be provided on the upper surface of the second portion 412 of the lens barrel 400B.

[0344] In other words, the lens barrel 400B can include a first portion 411 for coupling with the coil holder 110, a second portion 412 provided on the first portion 411, a third portion 413 connecting the first portion 411 and the second portion 412, and a protruding portion 402 protruding from the upper surface of the second portion 412 or toward the films 311A and 311 of the first lens portion 310 in the optical axis direction.

[0345] The protruding portion 402 can be spaced apart from the first portion 411. The protruding portion 402 is formed on the upper surface of the second portion 412 of the lens barrel 400B, and this is only different from the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 400A in FIG. 10A, and the description of the protruding portion 401 can be applied or similarly applied to the protruding portion 402. Figure 15 Figure 18

[0346] Figure 20 is an exploded perspective view of a lens module 200-4 according to another embodiment; Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of the lens module 200-4 in FIG. 11A in the AB direction. Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the lens module 200-4 in FIG. 11B in the AB direction.

[0347] Referring to Figure 20 and Figure 21 , Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the lens module 200-4 in FIG. 12A in the AB direction. Figures 17 to 19 is a cross-sectional view of the lens module 200-4 in FIG. 12B in the AB direction.

[0348] In Figures 17 to 19 , the protruding portion 402 as a pressing portion is formed as a part of the lens barrel 400B so that the protruding portion 402 and the lens barrel 400B as a whole are formed, but in Figure 20 and Figure 21 , the protruding portion 402 is not provided in the lens barrel 400, and the pressing frame 325A can be provided separately from the lens barrel 400. The pressing frame 325A can be expressed by replacing it as a "pressing portion" or a "frame".

[0349] The pressing frame 325A can be provided between the upper surface of the lens barrel 400 and the films 311B and 311 of the first lens portion 310, and can pressurize the films 311B, 311, and the liquid 313 by moving the lens barrel 400 and the coil holder 110A together in the optical axis direction.

[0350] For example, the shape of the pressing frame 325A viewed from above can be a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape, but is not limited thereto. ​​

[0351] The pressing frame 325A can be disposed between the upper surface of the second part 412 of the lens barrel 410 and the membranes 311B and 311.

[0352] For example, the lower end or lower surface of the pressing frame 325A may contact, connect, or link with the upper surface of the second part 412 of the lens barrel 410.

[0353] In addition, for example, the upper end or upper surface of the pressing frame 325A may contact, connect or link with the membranes 311B and 311.

[0354] Figures 17 to 19 The description of the protruding part 402 can be applied to the press frame 325A or similar applications.

[0355] In another embodiment, the pressing frame can be modified. Figures 13 to 16 An example of the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 400A is shown. In this example, the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 400A can be omitted to have the same shape as the lens barrel 400. A lens barrel 400 and a separate pressing frame can be provided, and the pressing frame can be disposed between the third portion 413 of the lens barrel 400 and the membranes 311A ​​and 311. In this case, the description of the protruding portion 401 can be applied to the pressing frame or similar applications.

[0356] Figure 22 This is an exploded perspective view of lens module 200-5 according to another embodiment; Figure 23 yes Figure 22 A three-dimensional view of the combined middle lens module 200-5 (the cover component is omitted); Figure 24 yes Figure 23 Cross-sectional view of the middle lens module 200-5 in the CD direction; Figure 25 This is an exploded perspective view of the bracket 320 and the first lens section 310.

[0357] refer to Figures 22 to 25 The lens module 200-5 may include a first lens section 310, a second lens section 400B, a lens driving device 100-2, and a bracket 320.

[0358] and Figure 17 Compared to the lens module 200-3 shown, the lens module 200-5 may also include a bracket 320 for accommodating or supporting the first lens portion 310.

[0359] The bracket 320 is disposed between the first lens portion 310 and the cover member 300, and can accommodate, support or fix the first lens portion 310. The bracket 320 can be referred to as a "fixed frame", "shell" or "housing".

[0360] For example, the bracket 320 can be provided on the housing 140.

[0361] The bracket 320 can include an upper plate 321 and a columnar portion 322 extending from the upper plate 321 in the optical axis direction. The columnar portion 322 can be expressed by replacing it with "support portion" or "protruding portion".

[0362] The upper plate 321 of the bracket 320 can have a polygonal (e.g., quadrangular) shape when viewed from above, but is not limited thereto, and can be implemented in various shapes, such as a circular shape or an elliptical shape, in another embodiment.

[0363] In the upper plate 321 of the bracket 320, an opening 323 corresponding to the first lens part 310 can be formed. For example, the opening 323 of the bracket 320 can expose the first lens part 310. For example, the opening 323 of the bracket 320 can expose at least a portion of the film 311 of the first lens part 310. For example, the form of the opening 323 can be a through-hole or a hole that penetrates the upper plate 321.

[0364] The inner circumferential surface of the bracket 320 formed by the opening 323 can be a bevel. For example, the inner angle between the inner circumferential surface of the bracket 320 and the upper surface of the bracket 320 can be an obtuse angle or a right angle.

[0365] For example, in the lower surface 23 of the upper plate 321 of the bracket 320, a recess 25 for placing or accommodating the first lens part 310 can be formed. For example, the recess 25 can include a bottom surface and a side surface. The bottom surface of the recess 25 can have a step difference in the optical axis direction from the lower surface 23 of the upper plate 321 of the bracket 320. For example, the recess 25 can be a shape recessed from the lower surface 23 of the upper plate 321 of the bracket 320. The side surface of the recess 25 can connect the bottom surface of the recess 25 and the lower surface 23 of the lower plate 321 of the bracket 320.

[0366] The first lens part 310 can be disposed in the recess 25. For example, the opening 323 can be formed on the bottom surface of the recess 25.

[0367] The columnar portion 322 can extend from the lower surface 23A of the upper plate 321 to the upper surface of the housing 140 of the lens driving apparatus 100-2.

[0368] For example, the columnar portion 322 can be provided at the corners of the lower surface 23A of the upper plate 321. For example, the columnar portion 322 can include four columnar portions 322A to 322D provided at the four corners of the lower surface of the upper plate 321.

[0369] For example, the columnar portion 322 can include an escape portion 24 to avoid spatial interference with the stopper of the housing 140. The escape portion 24 can be formed on the inner side surface of the columnar portion 322, but is not limited thereto. For example, the escape portion 24 can include at least one bent or curved surface, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the escape portion can be in the form of a groove or a hole recessed from the inner side surface or the lower surface of the columnar portion 322.

[0370] For example, the upper surface of the receptacle 312 can be coupled to, connected to, or fixed to the lower surface of the bracket 320 by an adhesive. For example, the upper surface of the receptacle 312 can be coupled to, connected to, or fixed to the bottom surface of the groove 25 of the bracket 320 by an adhesive.

[0371] In another embodiment, the upper surface of the receptacle 212 and / or at least a portion of the film 311 can be coupled to, connected to, or fixed to the lower surface (or the bottom surface of the groove 25) of the bracket 320.

[0372] The columnar portion 322 of the bracket 320 can be coupled to the housing 140. For example, the lower surface of the columnar portion 322 of the bracket 320 and / or the inner side surface of the columnar portion 322 of the bracket 320 can be coupled to, connected to, or fixed to the upper surface of the housing 140 by an adhesive. For example, the inner side surface of the columnar portion 322 can be coupled to the stopper 143 of the housing 140 by an adhesive.

[0373] For example, the cover member 300 can be formed by press molding or compression molding, and the flatness of a product formed by press molding is not good compared to the flatness of a product formed by injection molding. The bracket 320 is an injection molded product, and is superior to the cover member 300 in terms of flatness. Accordingly, the flatness of the first lens part 310 mounted on the bracket 320 can be improved in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis compared to the first lens part 310 mounted on the cover member 300.

[0374] Figures 22 to 25 The bracket 320 of FIG. 1 is shown as being applied to the first lens part 400B and the lens driving apparatus 100-2, but is not limited thereto. According to the embodiment described with reference to Figure 21 The bracket 320 can be applied to all lens modules, and Figures 22 to 25 after making necessary modifications.

[0375] Figure 26 A pressing region of the first lens part 310 pressed by the pressing part according to the first embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0376] With reference to Figure 26The pressurized region can be a region in which the liquid 313 and / or the film 311 is directly pressurized by the pressing portion. For example, the pressurized region can be a region in which the pressing portion and the film 311 are in direct contact.

[0377] When no pressure is applied to the liquid 313 because the pressing portion does not apply a driving force to the liquid 313, the film 311 can maintain a horizontal plane perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0378] When a driving force is applied to the liquid 313 by the pressing portion, and pressure is applied to the liquid 313 and / or the film 311, the shape of the film 311 or / and the liquid 313 can be deformed into a bent or curved shape. For example, depending on the degree of pressure applied by the pressing portion, the curvature of the shape of the film 311 or the liquid 313 can be changed, and due to this, the focal length of the first lens portion 310 can be adjusted.

[0379] The first pressurized region 25A can be a region in which the protruding portion 111 of the coil holder 110 (hereinafter referred to as "first pressurized region") presses. Figure 8a and Figure 8b The region pressed by the pressing frame 325 shown in Figure 11 and Figure 12 may be the same as the first pressurized region 25A.

[0380] The second pressurized region 25B can be a region in which the protruding portion 401 of the lens barrel 400A shown in Figure 15 (hereinafter referred to as "second pressurized region") presses. In an embodiment in which a pressing frame is separately provided instead of the protruding portion 401, the pressurized region can be the same as the second pressurized region 25B.

[0381] The third pressurized region 25C can be a region in which the protruding portion 402 of the lens barrel 400B shown in Figure 18 and Figure 19 (hereinafter referred to as "third pressurized region") presses. The region pressed by the pressing frame 325A shown in Figure 20 and Figure 21 may be the same as the third pressurized region 25C.

[0382] The diameter of the first pressurized region 25A can be greater than that of the second pressurized region 25B, and the diameter of the second pressurized region 25B can be greater than that of the third pressurized region 25C. Therefore, the lens size (e.g., the diameter of the lens) of the first lens portion 310 formed by the first pressurized region 25A can be greater than the lens size (e.g., the diameter of the lens) of the first lens portion 310 formed by the second and third pressurized regions 25B and 25C.

[0383] This embodiment can adjust the lens size of the first lens portion 310 according to the displacement position of the pressing portion, and in particular, it can be suitable to realize a large diameter lens size.

[0384] Further, while the focal length of the second lens portion 400, 400A, and 400B is adjusted by the lens driving apparatuses 100-1 and 100-2, since the focal length of the first lens portion 310 can be adjusted by the pressing portion, this embodiment can finely adjust the focal length of the lens modules 200-1 to 200-5 by means of the first lens portion 310.

[0385] Meanwhile, the lens driving apparatus according to the above-described embodiments can be used in various fields, such as a camera module or an optical device.

[0386] Figure 27a is a conceptual diagram of a camera module 2000 according to a first embodiment of the present application.

[0387] Reference Figure 27a The camera module 2000 can include an optical path conversion unit 1200, a lens portion, an image sensor 1600, and a circuit board 1700.

[0388] The optical path conversion unit 1200 converts the path of light incident in the -x-axis direction to the optical axis direction (or a direction parallel to the optical axis) (for example, the z-axis direction) so that it can be emitted to at least one of the lens units 1300 to 1500.

[0389] When the optical path conversion unit 1200 is provided, the light entry path (through which light propagates upward to the image sensor 1600) is extended so that a magnification / reduction function can be performed. To this end, the optical path conversion unit 1200 can include a prism 1210 for converting the path of light incident in the -x-axis direction to the z-axis direction, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. In some cases, the optical path conversion unit 1200 can be omitted.

[0390] The above-described lens portion can include any one of the lens modules 200-1 to 200-5 according to the above-described embodiments.

[0391] The above-described lens portion can include at least one of the lens units 1300 to 1500. For example, the lens portion can include a plurality of lens units 1300 to 1500.

[0392] The above-described plurality of lens units 1300 to 1500 can be aligned in the optical axis OA direction (or in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA).

[0393] According to an embodiment, any one of the plurality of lens units 1300 to 1500 described above can include any one of the lens modules 200-1 to 200-5 described above, and each of the remaining lens units can include a fixed lens part. The fixed lens part at this time can be a lens that does not move in the direction of the optical axis.

[0394] When the camera module 2000 includes a plurality of lens units, any one of the lens modules 200-1 to 200-5 described above is disposed after the optical path conversion unit 1200 or immediately after the optical path conversion unit 1200, or the image sensor 1600 can be disposed before the optical path conversion unit 1200 or immediately before the optical path conversion unit 1200, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, any one of the lens modules 200-1 to 200-5 described above can be disposed between the fixed lens parts.

[0395] In an embodiment of the lens part including the fixed lens part, a separate "cap can" (not shown) can be included. Also, the lens unit including any one of the lens modules 200-1 to 200-5 can perform an AF function, and any one of the remaining lens units can perform an OIS function.

[0396] The image sensor 1600 is disposed on the circuit board 1700. The image sensor 1600 can perform a function of converting light passing through the lens units 1300 to 1500 into image data. More specifically, the image sensor 1600 converts light into an analog signal through a pixel array including a plurality of pixels, and can generate image data by synthesizing a digital signal corresponding to the analog signal.

[0397] The circuit board 1700 can be electrically connected to the image sensor 1600. Also, the circuit board 1700 can be electrically connected to the circuit board 190 of the lens module described above.

[0398] Also, the camera module 2000 can further include a filter disposed between the lens part and the image sensor.

[0399] The filter can be used to prevent light of a specific band among light passing through the lens units 1300 to 1500 from being incident on the image sensor 1600. For example, the filter can be an infrared cut filter, but is not limited thereto. At this time, the filter can be placed parallel to the x-y plane. The camera module 2000 can include a separate bracket for mounting or configuring the filter.

[0400] Figure 27b is an exploded perspective view of a camera module 2000-1 according to another embodiment.

[0401] Reference Figure 27bThe camera module can include the lens module 200-1, an adhesive 612, a filter 610, a bracket 600, a circuit board 800, and an image sensor 810.

[0402] The camera module 2000-1 can include at least one of a motion sensor 820, a control unit 830, and a connector 840.

[0403] Figure 27b The lens module 200-1 is illustrated, but is not limited thereto, and in another embodiment, the camera module 2000-1 can include any one of the other embodiments 200-2 to 200-5 described above.

[0404] The bracket 600 can be disposed under the base 210 of the lens driving apparatus 100-1. The filter 610 can be mounted on the bracket 600, and the bracket 600 can include a seating portion 500 on which the filter 610 is fixed. The seating portion 500 can be a protruding portion protruding from an upper surface of the bracket 600 or a recessed groove recessed from the upper surface of the bracket 600.

[0405] The adhesive 612 can couple or connect the base 210 of the lens driving apparatus 100-1 to the bracket 600. In addition to the above-described adhesive effect, the adhesive 710 can be used to prevent the introduction of foreign matter into the lens driving apparatus 100. For example, the adhesive 612 can be an epoxy resin, a thermosetting adhesive, or a UV-cured adhesive.

[0406] The filter 610 can be used to block light of a specific frequency band among light passing through the lens barrel 400 from being incident on the image sensor 810. For example, the filter 610 can be an infrared cut filter, but is not limited thereto. At this time, the filter 610 can be disposed in parallel to the x-y plane.

[0407] An opening can be formed in the periphery of the bracket 600 on which the filter 610 is mounted, so that light passing through the filter 610 can be incident on the image sensor 810.

[0408] The circuit board 800 is disposed under the bracket 600, and the image sensor 810 can be mounted on the circuit board 800. The image sensor 810 is a portion on which light passing through the filter 610 is incident to form an image contained in the light.

[0409] The circuit board 800 can be equipped with various circuits, elements, control units, etc. to convert an image formed on the image sensor 810 into an electrical signal and transmit it to an external device.

[0410] The circuit board 800 can be formed of an image sensor, a device, and / or a circuit pattern electrically connected to the control unit, and can be implemented by a circuit board in which various elements are coupled. The bracket 600 can be represented by replacing it with a "sensor base."

[0411] The image sensor 810 receives an image included in light incident through the lens driving device 100, and the received image can be converted into an electrical signal. The optical filter 610 and the image sensor 810 can be disposed by being spaced apart from each other by facing each other in the first direction.

[0412] The motion sensor 820 can be mounted on the circuit board 800, and can be electrically connected to the control unit 830 through a circuit pattern provided in the circuit board 800. The motion sensor 820 outputs rotation angular velocity information generated due to movement of the camera module 200. The motion sensor 820 can be implemented with a 2-axis or 3-axis gyro sensor or an angular velocity sensor. In another embodiment, the motion sensor 820 can be omitted.

[0413] The control unit 830 can be disposed or mounted on the circuit board 800, and can be electrically connected to the position sensor 170 and the coil 120 of the lens driving device 100-1. For example, the circuit board 800 can be electrically connected to the circuit board 190 of the lens driving device 100.

[0414] For example, the control unit 830 can supply a driving signal or a power source to the coil 120 and / or the position sensor 170. Alternatively, for example, the control module 830 can transmit and receive a clock signal and a data signal for data communication (e.g., I2C communication) with the position sensor 170.

[0415] The connector 840 is electrically connected with the circuit board 800, and can include a port for electrical connection with an external device.

[0416] Further, the lens module 200-1 to 200-5 according to the embodiments can be included in an optical instrument, the purpose of which is to form an image of an object in space by using the characteristics of light, such as reflection, refraction, absorption, interference, and diffraction, to improve eyesight, to record and reproduce an image through a lens, and optical measurement, image propagation, and transmission, etc. For example, the optical instrument according to the present embodiment can be a mobile phone, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a portable smart device, a digital camera, a laptop computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a personal digital assistant (PAD), a portable multimedia player (PMP), a navigation, etc., but is not limited thereto, and can be any device for photographing an image or a photo.

[0417] Figure 28 is a perspective view of a portable terminal 200A according to a first embodiment of the present application; Figure 29 is Figure 28 is a block diagram of the portable terminal 200A shown in FIG. 1.

[0418] Referring to Figure 28 and Figure 29 , the portable terminal 200A (hereinafter referred to as "terminal") can include a body 850, a wireless communication unit 710, an A / V input unit 720, a sensor unit 740, and an input / output unit 750, a memory unit 760, an interface unit 770, a control unit 780, and a power supply unit 790.

[0419] Figure 28 The body 850 shown in FIG. 1 is a bar, but is not limited thereto, and can have various structures, such as a slide type, a folder type, a swing, a swirl, etc., in which two or more sub-bodies are combined together so that they can move relative to each other.

[0420] The body 850 can include a case (a jacket, a housing, and a cover) forming an appearance. For example, the body 850 can include a front housing 851 and a rear housing 852. Various electronic components of the terminal can be embedded in a space formed between the front housing 851 and the rear housing 852.

[0421] The wireless communication unit 710 can include one or more modules for implementing wireless communication between the terminal 200A and a wireless communication system or between the terminal 200A and a network in which the terminal 200A is located. For example, the wireless communication unit 710 can include any one or more of a broadcast receiving module 711, a mobile communication module 712, a wireless Internet module 713, a near field communication module 714, and a location information module 715.

[0422] The A / V (Audio / Video) input unit 720 is for inputting an audio signal or a video signal, and can include a camera 721 and a microphone 722, etc.

[0423] The camera 721 can include the lens module 200-1 to 200-5 or the camera module 2000 according to an embodiment.

[0424] The sensor unit 740 can generate a sensing signal for controlling an operation of the terminal 200A by detecting a current state of an optical device (e.g., an open / close state of the terminal 200A), a location of the terminal 200A, a user contact, a direction of the terminal 200A, and acceleration and deceleration of the terminal 200A. For example, when the terminal 200A is in the form of a slide phone, it can detect whether the slide phone is open or closed. Also, it can be responsible for sensing functions related to whether the power supply unit 790 is powered, whether the interface unit 770 is coupled to an external device, etc.

[0425] The input / output unit 750 can be configured to generate input or output related to vision, hearing, or touch. The input / output unit 750 can generate input data for controlling an operation of the terminal 200A, and can output information processed by the terminal 200A.

[0426] The input / output unit 750 can include a keypad unit 730, a display module 751, a sound output module 752, and a touch screen panel 753. The keypad unit 720 can generate input data in response to keypad input.

[0427] The display module 751 can include a plurality of pixels whose color changes according to an electrical signal. For example, the display module 751 can include at least one of a liquid crystal display, a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display, an organic light-emitting diode, a flexible display, and a 3D display.

[0428] The sound output module 752 outputs audio data received from the wireless communication unit 710 in a call signal reception mode, a call mode, a record mode, a voice recognition mode, or a broadcast reception mode, or outputs audio data stored in the memory unit 760, etc.

[0429] The touch screen panel 753 can convert a change in capacitance generated by a user touching a specific area of the touch screen into an electrical input signal.

[0430] The memory unit 760 can store a program for processing and controlling the control unit 780, and can temporarily store input / output data (e.g., a phonebook, a message, audio, a still image, a photo, a video, etc.). For example, the memory unit 760 can store an image, such as a photo or a video, photographed by the camera 721.

[0431] The interface unit 770 serves as a path that connects external devices connected to the terminal 200A. The interface unit 770 can receive data from the external devices, receive power and transmit it to each component within the terminal 200A, or transmit data inside the terminal 200A to the external devices. For example, the interface unit 770 can include a wired / wireless headset port, an external charger port, a wired / wireless data port, a memory card port, a port for connecting a device equipped with an identification module, an audio input / output (I / O) port, a video input / output (I / O) port, an earphone port, etc.

[0432] The control unit (controller) 780 can control overall operations of the terminal 200A. For example, the control unit 780 can perform relevant control and processing for a voice call, data communication, a video call, etc.

[0433] The control unit 780 can include a multimedia module 781 for playing multimedia. The multimedia module 781 can be implemented within the control unit 180, or can be implemented separately from the control unit 780.

[0434] The control unit 780 can perform pattern recognition processing capable of recognizing a handwriting input or a drawing input performed on the touch screen as a character and an image, respectively.

[0435] The power supply unit 790 can receive an external power supply or an internal power supply through the control of the control unit 780 to provide a power supply required for the operation of each component.

[0436] An optical apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present application will now be described.

[0437] The optical device can include any one of a cell phone, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a portable smart device, a digital camera, a laptop computer, a digital broadcast terminal, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a Portable Multimedia Player (PMP), and a navigation. However, the type of the optical device is not limited thereto, and any device for photographing an image or a picture can be included in the optical device.

[0438] The optical device can include a main body. The main body can be bar-shaped. Alternatively, the main body can have various structures, such as a slide type, a folding type, a swing, and a swirl in which two or more sub-bodies are coupled to be movable with respect to each other. The main body can include a case (a cover, a housing, and a cover) forming an appearance. For example, the main body can include a front housing and a rear housing. Various electronic components of the optical device can be embedded in a space formed between the front housing and the rear housing.

[0439] The optical device can include a display. The display can be disposed on one surface of the main body of the optical device. The display can output an image. The display can output an image photographed by a camera.

[0440] The optical device can include a camera. The camera can include a Time of Flight (TOF) camera device. The TOF camera device can be disposed in front of the main body of the optical device. In this case, the TOF camera device can be used for various types of biometric recognition, such as user face recognition and iris recognition for security authentication of the optical device.

[0441] The TOF camera device can include a light emitting module and a light receiving module.

[0442] The TOF camera device can include a light emitting module. The light emitting module can be a light emitting component, a light emitting unit, a light emitting assembly, or a light emitting device. The light emitting module can generate an output light signal and then irradiate it to an object. At this time, the light emitting module can generate and output an output light signal in the form of a pulse wave or a continuous wave. The continuous wave can be a sinusoid wave or a squared wave. By generating the output light signal in the form of a pulse wave or a continuous wave, the TOF camera device can detect a phase difference between an output light signal output from the light emitting module and an input light signal input to a light receiving module of the TOF camera device after being reflected from the object. In the present specification, the output light refers to light output from the light emitting module and incident on the object; the input light refers to light output from the light emitting module, reaching the object, being reflected from the object, and then input to the camera device. From the perspective of the object, the output light can be incident light, and the input light can be reflected light.

[0443] The light emitting module irradiates the generated output light signal to the object for a predetermined exposure time (integration time). Here, the exposure period refers to one frame period. In the case of generating a plurality of frames, the predetermined exposure period is repeated. For example, when the TOF camera device photographs the object at a speed of 20 frames / sec, the exposure period is 1 / 20 sec. When 100 frames are generated, the exposure period can be repeated 100 times.

[0444] The light emitting module can generate a plurality of output light signals having different frequencies. The light emitting module can sequentially and repeatedly generate a plurality of output light signals having different frequencies. Alternatively, the light emitting module can simultaneously generate a plurality of output light signals having different frequencies.

[0445] The light emitting module can include a light source. The light source can generate light. The light source can output light. The light source can irradiate light. The light generated by the light source can be infrared rays having a wavelength of 770 to 3000 nm. Alternatively, the light generated by the light source can be visible light having a wavelength of 380 to 770 nm. The light source can include a light emitting diode (LED). The light source can include a plurality of light emitting diodes disposed according to a predetermined pattern. In addition, the light source can include an organic light emitting diode (OLED) or a laser diode (LD).

[0446] The light emitting module can include a light modulation unit for modulating light. The light source can generate an output light signal in a form of a continuous wave or a pulsed wave by repeating on / off at a fixed time interval. The predetermined time interval can be a frequency of the output light signal. The on / off of the light source can be controlled by the light modulation unit. The light modulation unit can control the on / off of the light source so that the light source generates the output light signal in a form of a continuous wave or a pulsed wave. The light modulation unit can control the light source to generate the output light signal in a form of a continuous wave or a pulsed wave by frequency modulation, pulse modulation, etc.

[0447] The light emitting module can include a diffuser. The diffuser can be a diffusion lens. The diffuser can be disposed in front of the light source. Light emitted from the light source can pass through the diffuser and be incident on the subject. The diffuser can change a path of the light emitted from the light source. The diffuser can condense the light emitted from the light source.

[0448] The TOF camera device can include a light receiving module. The light receiving module can be a light receiving component, a light receiving unit, a light receiving assembly, or a light receiving device. The light receiving module can detect light emitted from the light emitting module and reflected from the subject. The light receiving module can generate an input light signal corresponding to the output light signal output from the light emitting module. The light receiving module can be disposed side by side with the light emitting module. The light receiving module can be disposed next to the light emitting module. The light receiving module can be disposed in the same direction as the light emitting module.

[0449] The light receiving module can include a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0450] Hereinafter, a configuration of a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0451] Figure 30 is a perspective view of a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application; Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view along line A-A in Figure 30 Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view along line B-B in Figure 30 Figure 33 is an exploded perspective view of a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application; Figure 34 is an exploded perspective view of a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application, viewed from a different direction from Figure 33 Figure 35 is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a camera device according to the second embodiment of the present application; Figure 36 is a perspective view of a part of a camera device in Figure 35 viewed from another direction; Figure 37 ​​​is a perspective view showing a liquid lens and a driving unit according to a second embodiment of the present application; Figure 38 is a perspective view of a camera module according to the second embodiment of the present application; Figure 39 is a conceptual view for explaining a concept of driving a liquid lens according to the second embodiment of the present application; Figure 40 is a view for explaining a method of driving a liquid lens according to the second embodiment of the present application.

[0452] The camera device can include a bracket 3100. The bracket 3100 can be disposed on a printed circuit board 3510. The bracket 3100 can be fixed to the printed circuit board 3510. The bracket 3100 is disposed on a base 3530. The bracket 3100 can cover at least a portion of the camera module 3500. The liquid lens 3200 can be disposed inside the bracket 3100. The coil 3420 can be disposed in the bracket 3100. The bracket 3100 can be formed of an insulating material.

[0453] The bracket 3100 can include an upper plate 3110. The printed circuit board 3510 can be disposed in parallel in the upper plate 3110. The liquid lens 3200 can be coupled to the upper plate 311. The upper plate 3110 can include a hole (light can pass through which).

[0454] The bracket 3100 can include a side plate 3120. The side plate 3120 can extend from the upper plate 3110. The side plate 3110 can extend downward from an edge of the upper plate 3110. The side plate 3120 can be disposed perpendicularly on the upper plate 3110. The side plate 3120 can be integrally formed with the upper plate 3110. The coil 3420 can be disposed on the side plate 3120.

[0455] The side plate 3120 of the bracket 3100 can include a plurality of side plates. The side plate 3120 can include two side plates. The side plate 3120 of the bracket 3100 can include a first side plate and a second side plate opposite the first side plate.

[0456] The bracket 3100 can include a hole formed in the side plate 3120. The coil 3420 can be accommodated in the hole. The hole of the bracket 3100 can include a first hole 3131 formed on the first side plate and a second hole 3132 formed on the second side plate.

[0457] The bracket 3100 can include a protrusion 3140. The protrusion 3140 can protrude from an outer surface of the side plate 3120 of the bracket 3100. The protrusion 3140 can be inserted into the hole 3330 of the substrate 3300. The protrusion 3140 can be coupled to the substrate 3300. The substrate 3300 can be coupled to the place by the protrusion 3140. In other words, the protrusion 3140 serves as a fitting guide of the substrate 3300, and can enhance the fixing force of the substrate 3300 to the bracket 3100 after the substrate 3300 is assembled.

[0458] The camera device can include a cover. The cover can cover the bracket 3100. The cover can cover the bracket 3100 to form an appearance of the camera device. The cover can include an upper plate and a side plate. The cover can be made of metal.

[0459] The camera device can include a variable focal length lens. The variable focal length lens can include a liquid lens 3200. The liquid lens 3200 can be disposed on the upper plate 3110 of the bracket 3100. The liquid lens 3200 can be disposed at a position corresponding to the lens 3540. The liquid lens 3200 can include a lens surface whose curvature is changed by a driving unit 3400. At least a portion of the liquid lens 3200 can be changed by the driving unit 3400. In addition, the driving unit 3400 can be understood as one component of the liquid lens 3200. In other words, the liquid lens 3200 can be described as including a magnet 3410 and a coil 3420.

[0460] The liquid lens 3200 can include a membrane 3210. The membrane 3210 can include a film. The membrane 3210 can have flexibility. The membrane 3210 can be deformed to have a curvature. The membrane 3210 can be transparent. The membrane 3210 can have elasticity. When the membrane 3210 is pressed down by the lens forming member 3240, the shape is changed and can be restored at the completion of the pressing down of the lens forming member 3220. The membrane 3210 can be elastically extended. The membrane 3210 serves to confine the liquid 3250 and the optical element 3220 within the cavity. An upper surface of the membrane 3210 can be in contact with a lower surface of the liquid 3250. The membrane 3210 can be disposed on a path through which light passes. The membrane 3210 can have light transmittance. The membrane 3210 can have a circular bottom shape. In a modified embodiment, the membrane 3210 can have an elliptical or polygonal bottom surface.

[0461] The membrane 3210 can be a transparent elastic optical membrane. Specifically, the membrane 3210 can have a high elastic property and can have chemical stability. For example, the membrane 3210 can be a PolyDiMethyl Silioxane (PDMS) elastomer, a PolyMethy PhenySiloxame (PMPS) elastomer, a fluorosilicon elastomer, or a poly ether elastomer, or a ptopylen oxide elastomer, a poly ester elastomer, etc.

[0462] When the membrane 3210 has no elasticity or has elasticity but not enough elasticity to restore the inclined lens surface to the original horizontal surface, the liquid lens 3200 can further include an upper-side elastic member (not shown). The upper-side elastic member can be disposed between the membrane 3210 and the lens forming member 3240. In this case, after the lens surface is inclined by the first or second inclined surface, the inclined lens surface can be restored to the horizontal surface by the upper-side elastic member.

[0463] The liquid lens 3200 can include an optical member 3220. The optical member 3220 can face the membrane 3210. The optical member 3220 can accommodate the liquid 3250. The optical member 3220 can be positioned on a path through which light passes. The optical member 3220 can be formed of a material having light transmissivity. The optical member 3220 can include a cavity that accommodates the liquid 3250. The cavity can have a circular bottom shape. As a modified embodiment, the cavity can have an elliptical shape or a polygonal bottom shape. The optical member 3220 can be formed of a non-flexible member.

[0464] The liquid lens 3200 can include a wall body 3230. The wall body 3230 can form a cavity therebetween by connecting the membrane 3210 and the optical member 3220. The wall body 323 can be formed of a light non-transmissive material. The wall body 3230 can accommodate the liquid 3250 therein. The wall body 3230 can be disposed between the optical member 3220 and the membrane 3210. The wall body 3230 can be formed of a non-flexible member.

[0465] In the second embodiment of the present application, the optical member 3220 and the wall body 3230 can be integrally formed. At this time, the optical member 3220 and the wall body 3230 can be referred to as a body. The body can form a cavity in which the membrane 3210 is located therebetween. The liquid 3250 can be disposed in the cavity. That is, the liquid 3250 can be disposed between the membrane 3210 and the body.

[0466] The liquid lens 3200 can include a lens forming member 3240. The lens forming member 3240 can be in contact with the membrane 3210. The lens forming member 3240 can adjust the curvature of the area of the membrane 3210 facing the optical member 3220. The lens forming member 3240 can transmit a driving force applied from the driving unit 3400 to the membrane 3210.

[0467] When no driving force is applied to the liquid 3250 and no pressure is applied to the liquid 3250, the lens surface of the membrane 3210 is located on a horizontal plane. However, when the driving force of the driving unit 3400 is applied to the membrane 3210 by the lens forming member 3240 and the pressure is applied to the pressing region of the liquid 3250, the liquid 3250 flows and the lens of the membrane 3210 is applied with pressure. The plane can be tilted to either side. In the second embodiment of the present application, the shape of the lens surface of the membrane 3210, i.e., the curvature of the lens surface can be changed by the pressure from the liquid 3250, or the lens surface can be tilted.

[0468] According to the second embodiment of the present application, the lens surface of the liquid lens 3200 can be tilted to change the optical path by a voice coil motor (VCM) structure of a magnet and a coil. In the second embodiment of the present application, when a force to press one side of the lens forming member 3240 (refer to (a) of FIG. 32) is generated, the corresponding portion of the membrane 3210 can be pressed. In addition, when a force to pull the other side of the lens forming member 3240 (refer to (b) of FIG. 32) is generated, the corresponding portion of the membrane 3210 can be protruded. Figure 39 Figure 39

[0469] For example, an upward force (see "A" in FIG. 33) on the first magnet 3411 is generated by the first coil 3421 and the first magnet 3411, a downward force (see "B" in FIG. 33) on the second magnet 3412 is generated by the second coil 3422 and the second magnet 3412, a downward force (see "C" in FIG. 33) on the third magnet 3413 is generated by the third coil 3423 and the third magnet 3413, and an upward force (see "D" in FIG. 33) in the fourth magnet 3414 can be generated by the fourth coil 3424 and the fourth magnet 3414. Figure 40 Figure 40 Figure 40 Figure 40

[0470] The lens forming member 3240 can include a window 3241. The window 3241 can pressurize the membrane 3210. The window 3241 can be in contact with the lower surface of the membrane 3210. The window 3241 can be fixed to the membrane 3210 and integrally move with the membrane 3210 as shown in FIG. 34. The window 3241 can be formed of a transparent material. Figure 39

[0471] The lens forming member 3240 can include a frame 3242. The frame 3242 can be coupled to the window 3241. The frame 3242 can transmit the driving force of the driving unit 3400 to the window 3241. The magnet 3410 can be coupled to the frame 3242.

[0472] ​​​​​​​The lens forming member 3240 may include a yoke 3243. The yoke 3243 may be disposed on one surface of the magnet 3410. More specifically, the yoke 3243 may be disposed on an opposing surface of the magnet 3410 facing the side surface of the coil 3420. The yoke 3243 may be disposed between the magnet 3410 and the housing 3244. As a modified embodiment, the yoke 3243 may be provided in a configuration separate from the lens forming member 3240.

[0473] The lens forming member 3240 may include a housing 3244. The housing 3244 may accommodate a magnet 3410. The housing 3244 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the magnet 3410. The housing 3244 may be attached to a frame 3242.

[0474] The liquid lens 3200 may include a liquid 3250. The liquid 3250 may be disposed within a cavity. The liquid 3250 may be a liquid. The liquid 3250 may be transparent. The liquid 3250 may be non-volatile. The liquid 3250 may be chemically stable. For example, the liquid 3250 may be silicone oil or a silicone liquid. Furthermore, the liquid 3250 may comprise any one or more of transparent hydrocarbon oils, ester oils, ether oils, and perfluoropolyether oils.

[0475] Liquid 3250 can have a low viscosity, thus exhibiting good flowability. The viscosity of liquid 3250 can affect its flow rate. If the flow rate is slow, the liquid 3250 may respond slowly to the driving force applied by the drive unit 3400, and precise flow control may be difficult. Specifically, even when a driving force is applied to liquid 3250, the time required for the liquid 3250 to deform the lens surface of membrane 3210—that is, the response time—may increase as the viscosity of liquid 3250 increases. Here, the lens surface can be either the lower or upper surface of membrane 3210. If the viscosity of liquid 3250 is high, an "overshoot" phenomenon may occur, where the deformation exceeds the actual applied pressure.

[0476] The pressing area of ​​liquid 3250 may be located at the edge of liquid 3250. The pressing area may include first to fourth pressing areas. Based on the optical axis OA, the first to fourth pressing areas may be spaced apart from each other at equal intervals, or they may be separated from each other at different intervals.

[0477] At least one of the following may be different: an angle formed by a first line segment connecting the optical axis OA and any point (e.g., the center) of the first pressing area and a second line segment connecting the optical axis OA and any point (e.g., the center) of the second pressing area; an angle formed by a third line segment and a second line segment connecting the optical axis OA and any point (e.g., the center) of the third pressing area; an angle formed by a fourth line segment and a third line segment connecting the optical axis OA and any point (e.g., the center) of the fourth pressing area; or an angle formed by a fourth line segment and a first line segment (hereinafter referred to as the "fourth angle"). Alternatively, all of the first to fourth angles may be the same as 90°.

[0478] When a driving force is applied to the third pressing area, the lens surface of the membrane 3210 can be tilted from the horizontal plane in the form of a first tilted surface, and when the driving force is applied to the fourth pressing area, the lens surface of the membrane 3210 can be tilted from the horizontal plane in the form of a second tilted surface. Thus, when the lens surface of the membrane 3210 is tilted in the form of the first or second tilted surface, the OIS function can be performed. The OIS function performed by a small camera module of a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet can refer to the function being performed to prevent the outline of the captured image from being unclear due to vibrations caused by the user's hand shakiness when capturing still images.

[0479] In a second embodiment of the invention, the curvature of the membrane 3210 can be adjusted by the interaction between the coil 3420 and the magnet 3410. Thus, the liquid lens 3200 can acquire (collect) an image moved 0.25 times the pixel size in a first direction, an image moved 0.25 times the pixel size in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, an image moved upwards 0.25 times the pixel size in a third direction opposite to the first direction, and an image moved 0.25 times the pixel size in a fourth direction opposite to the second direction. In this case, the first to fourth directions can be diagonal directions of pixels.

[0480] As a modified embodiment, the liquid lens 3200 acquires an image that has moved 0.5 times the pixel size in a first direction, an image that has moved 0.5 times the pixel size in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, an image that has moved upwards 0.5 times the pixel size in a third direction opposite to the first direction, and an image that has moved 0.5 times the pixel size in a fourth direction opposite to the second direction. In this case, the first to fourth directions can be directions toward the four sides of the pixel. That is, each of the first to fourth directions can be perpendicular to the side of the pixel.

[0481] The camera device may include a substrate 3300. The substrate 3300 may be disposed on a side plate 3120 of the bracket 3100. The substrate 3300 may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The substrate 3300 may electrically connect the coil 3420 and the printed circuit board 3510. The shape of the substrate 3300 may correspond to the side plate 3120 of the bracket 3100.

[0482] The substrate 3300 may include multiple substrates. The substrate 3300 may include two substrates. The substrate 3300 may include a first substrate 3310 disposed on a first side plate of the support 3100 and a second substrate 3320 disposed on a second side plate of the support 3100.

[0483] The substrate 3300 may include a hole 3330. The hole 3330 may include a protrusion 3140 of the support 3100 inserted therein. The hole 3330 may be formed to a size corresponding to the position of the protrusion 3140 of the support 3100.

[0484] The substrate 3300 may include terminals 3340. Terminals 3340 may be disposed at the lower end of the substrate 3300. The terminals 3340 of the substrate 3300 may be connected to a printed circuit board 3510. The terminals 3340 of the substrate 3300 may be connected to the printed circuit board 3510 using solder balls or conductive epoxy resin. Terminals 3340 may include multiple terminals. The number of terminals 3340 may correspond to the number of wires required for the coil 3420.

[0485] The camera device may include a drive unit 3400. The drive unit 3400 can change the curvature of the lens surface of the liquid lens 3200. The drive unit 3400 may include a magnet 3410 and a coil 3420. The drive unit 3400 can generate a driving force via electromagnetic force. In the following description, an embodiment in which the magnet 3410 is fixed to the liquid lens 3200 and the coil 3420 is fixed to the support 3100 will be described; however, in a modified embodiment, the magnet 3410 is fixed to the support 310, and the coil 3420 may be fixed to the liquid lens 3200.

[0486] The drive unit 3400 may include a magnet 3410. The magnet 3410 may be coupled to the liquid lens 3200. The magnet 3410 may be disposed on the liquid lens 3200. The magnet 3410 may be disposed on the frame 3242. The magnet 3410 may be disposed on the yoke 3243. The magnet 3410 may be disposed between the yoke 3243 and the coil 3420. The magnet 3410 may be disposed between the leg 3242c of the frame 3242 and the housing 3244.

[0487] Magnet 3410 may include multiple magnets. Magnet 3410 may include four magnets. Magnet 3410 may include: a first magnet 3411, which is disposed on lens forming member 3240 and faces first coil 3421; a second magnet 3412, which is disposed on lens forming member 3240 and faces second coil 3422; a third magnet 3413, which is disposed on lens forming member 3240 and faces third coil 3423; and a fourth magnet 3414, which is disposed on lens forming member 3240 and faces fourth coil 3424.

[0488] The angle formed by the virtual line connecting the first magnet 3411 and the fourth magnet 3414 and the virtual line connecting the second magnet 3412 and the third magnet 3413 may not be a right angle.

[0489] The first magnet 3411 and the second magnet 3412 can be disposed on one side of the lens forming member 3240, and the third magnet 3413 and the fourth magnet 3414 can be disposed on the other side of the lens forming member 3240. The outer surfaces of the first magnet 3411 and the second magnet 3412 face the same direction, and the outer surfaces of the third magnet 3413 and the fourth magnet 3414 can also face the same direction. The outer surfaces of the first magnet 3411 and the second magnet 3412 are disposed on the same plane, and the outer surfaces of the third magnet 3413 and the fourth magnet 3414 can also be disposed on the same plane.

[0490] Magnet 3410 can be disposed on the lens forming member 3240 side. Magnet 3410 can be directly connected to lens forming member 3240. Alternatively, magnet 3410 can be indirectly connected to lens forming member 3240 while being connected to another member.

[0491] The upper part of the first magnet 3411 has an N pole polarity, and the lower part of the first magnet 3411 has an S pole polarity. The upper part of the second magnet 3412 has an S pole polarity, and the lower part of the second magnet 3412 may have an N pole polarity. The upper part of the third magnet 3413 has an N pole polarity, and the lower part of the third magnet 3413 has an S pole polarity. The upper part of the fourth magnet 3414 has an S pole polarity, and the lower part of the fourth magnet 3414 may have an N pole polarity. As a modified embodiment, the upper part of the third magnet 3413 has an S pole polarity, the lower part of the third magnet 3413 has an N pole polarity, the upper part of the fourth magnet 3414 has an N pole polarity, and the lower part of the fourth magnet 3414 may have an S pole polarity.

[0492] The drive unit 3400 may include a coil 3420. The coil 3420 may be connected to the substrate 3300. The coil 3420 may face the magnet 3410. The coil 3420 may be configured to face the magnet 3410, and the coil 3420 may electromagnetically interact with the magnet 3410. In this configuration, when current is supplied to the coil 3420 and an electromagnetic field is formed around the coil 3420, the magnet 3410 may move against the coil 3420 through the electromagnetic interaction between the coil 3420 and the magnet 3410. The coil 3420 may be connected to the inner surface of the substrate 3300. The coil 3420 may be disposed in a hole in the side plate 3120 of the support 3100. The coil 3420 and the magnet 3410 may be positioned opposite each other.

[0493] Coil 3420 may include a pair of ends (wires) for power supply. The first end of coil 3420 is pullable upwards, and the second end is pullable downwards. Coil 3420 may include a first end and a second end connected to substrate 3300. Coil 3420 can be soldered to substrate 3300. Coil 3420 can be mounted on substrate 3300 using surface mount technology (SMT).

[0494] The current that generates the Lorentz force can flow in one direction within coil 3420. The current can flow in the forward direction within coil 3420. Simultaneously, the current can flow in the opposite direction within coil 3420. In other words, the current can flow in the reverse direction within coil 3420.

[0495] Coil 3420 may include multiple coils. Coil 3420 may include four coils. Coil 3420 may include first to fourth coils 3421, 3422, 3423, and 3424. Current can be applied independently to the first to fourth coils 3421, 3422, 3423, and 3424. Current can be applied individually to the first to fourth coils 3421, 3422, 3423, and 3424. The first to fourth coils 3421, 3422, 423, and 424 may be electrically disconnected. Coil 3420 may include a first coil 3421 facing a first magnet 3411, a second coil 3422 facing a second magnet 3412, a third coil 3423 facing a third magnet 3413, and a fourth coil 3424 facing a fourth magnet 3414. The first to fourth coils 3421, 3422, 3423, and 3424 may be connected to a bracket 3100.

[0496] The coil 3420 may include a first coil 3421 and a second coil 3422 disposed on the first substrate 3310, and a third coil 3423 and a fourth coil 3424 disposed on the second substrate 3320. The first coil 3422 and the second coil 3422 may be disposed in the first hole 3131 of the bracket 3100. The third coil 3423 and the fourth coil 3424 may be disposed in the second hole 3132 of the bracket 3100.

[0497] In a second embodiment of the invention, the four coils can be controlled by two channels. The first coil 3421 and the second coil 3422 can be electrically connected. However, the direction of the Lorentz force generated between the first coil 3421 and the first magnet 3411 may be opposite to the direction of the Lorentz force generated between the second coil 3422 and the second magnet 3412. For example, the first coil 3421 and the second coil 3422 can be configured to allow current to flow in opposite directions. Alternatively, the first coil 3421 and the second coil 3422 can be wound in opposite directions. Alternatively, the first coil 3421 and the second coil 3422 can be wound in the same direction, and the polarity settings of the first magnet 3411 and the second magnet 3412 can be set in different directions. Simultaneously, the first coil 3421 and the second coil 3422 are electrically separated and can be controlled as a whole by a control unit.

[0498] The third coil 3423 and the fourth coil 3424 can be electrically connected. However, the direction of the Lorentz force generated between the third coil 3423 and the third magnet 3413 may be opposite to the direction of the Lorentz force generated between the fourth coil 3424 and the fourth magnet 3414. The third coil 3423 and the fourth coil 3424 can be arranged such that the current flows in opposite directions. For example, the third coil 3423 and the fourth coil 3424 can be arranged by winding them in opposite directions. Alternatively, the third coil 3423 and the fourth coil 3424 can be wound in the same direction, and the polarity settings of the third magnet 3413 and the fourth magnet 3414 can be set in different directions. Meanwhile, the third coil 3423 and the fourth coil 3424 can be electrically separated and can be controlled as a whole by a control unit.

[0499] In a second embodiment of the present invention, the first coil 3421 may be disposed on the other side of the fourth coil 3424. The second coil 3422 may be disposed on the other side of the third coil 3423. In this case, the virtual straight line connecting the first coil 3421 and the fourth coil 3424 may form an acute angle with the virtual straight line connecting the second coil 3422 and the third coil 3423.

[0500] The camera device may include camera module 3500. Camera module 3500 may include a lens driving device. Camera module 3500 may include a voice coil motor (VCM). Camera module 3500 may include a lens drive motor. Camera module 3500 may include a lens drive actuator. Camera module 3500 may include a fixed focus (FF) module.

[0501] The advantage of the second embodiment of the present invention is that, by only... Figure 35 Some configurations of the second embodiment of the present invention shown are applied to a fixed focal length camera module to implement SR TOF.

[0502] The camera module 3500 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 3510. A light-emitting module and a light-receiving module may be mounted on the PCB 3510. The PCB 3510 may be electrically connected to the light-emitting module and the light-receiving module.

[0503] Camera module 3500 may include sensor 3520. Sensor 3520 may be disposed on printed circuit board 3510. Sensor 3520 can detect light. Sensor 3520 can detect light and output it as an electrical signal. Sensor 3520 can detect light with a wavelength corresponding to the wavelength of light emitted from the light source. Sensor 3520 can detect infrared light. Alternatively, sensor 3520 can detect visible light.

[0504] Sensor 3520 may include: a pixel array that receives light passing through lens 3540 and converts it into an electrical signal corresponding to the light; and a driving circuit for driving a plurality of pixels included in the pixel array and a readout circuit for reading the analog pixel signal of each pixel. The readout circuit can generate a digital pixel signal (or image signal) by comparing the analog pixel signal with a reference signal through analog-to-digital conversion. Here, the digital pixel signal of each pixel contained in the pixel array constitutes an image signal, and when the image signal is transmitted in units of frames, it can be defined as an image frame. That is, the image sensor can output multiple image frames.

[0505] Camera module 3500 may include an image compositing unit. The image compositing unit may include an image processor that receives and processes image signals from sensor 3520 (e.g., interpolation, frame synthesis, etc.). Specifically, the image compositing unit can combine image signals from multiple frames (low resolution) into a single image signal (high resolution). That is, the image compositing unit can synthesize multiple image frames included in the image signals received from sensor 3520 and generate a composite image from the composite result. The composite image generated by the image compositing unit can have a higher resolution than the multiple image frames output from sensor 3520. In other words, the image compositing unit can generate a high-resolution image using super-resolution (SR) technology. The multiple image frames may include image frames generated by changing different optical paths through driving liquid lens 3200.

[0506] The camera module 3500 may include a base 3530. The base 3530 may be mounted on a printed circuit board 3510. The base 3530 may be directly coupled to the upper surface of the printed circuit board 3510. The base 3530 may be integrally formed. Thus, the space between the sensor 3520 and the filter 3550 can be sealed by the base 3530.

[0507] Camera module 3500 may include lens 3540. Lens 3540 may be coupled to base 3530. Lens 3540 may be screwed to base 3530. Lens 3540 may be fixed to base 3530. At least a portion of lens 3540 may be disposed within base 3530. Light reflected from the subject may pass through lens 3540. The optical axis of lens 3540 may be aligned with the optical axis of sensor 3520.

[0508] Camera module 3500 may include a filter 3550. The filter 3550 may be disposed on base 3530. The filter 3550 may be disposed between lens 3540 and sensor 3520. The filter 3550 may be disposed in the optical path between subject and sensor 3520. The filter 3550 may filter light having a predetermined wavelength range. The filter 3550 may allow light of a specific wavelength to pass through. In other words, the filter 3550 may block light of a wavelength other than a specific wavelength by reflecting or absorbing that light. The filter 3550 may allow infrared light and block light of wavelengths other than infrared light. Alternatively, the filter 3550 may allow visible light and block light of wavelengths other than visible light.

[0509] Hereinafter, a method for obtaining high-resolution images in a camera device according to a second embodiment of the present invention using super-resolution (SR) technology will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0510] Figure 41This is a conceptual diagram showing, in sequence, multiple images acquired for super resolution (SR) technology in a camera device according to a second embodiment of the present invention; Figure 42 This is a view showing, in sequence, the first to fourth frames of images acquired by the camera device according to the second embodiment of the present invention for SR technology.

[0511] The super-resolution (SR) technology in the second embodiment of this invention improves resolution by driving the liquid lens 3200 to acquire additional images. Figure 41 In (a), the dot can be the image position captured when the liquid lens 3200 is not driven. In the second embodiment of the invention, by acquiring one frame in each direction and by acquiring a total of four frames through the diagonal tilting of the lens forming member 3240 relative to the film 3210 of the liquid lens 3200 in four directions, the resolution can be increased by a factor of four. At this time, the diagonal tilting of the lens forming member 3240 in four directions can be in the order of upper left, upper right, lower right, and lower left. In the second embodiment of the invention, the driving unit 3400 can be designed such that the lens forming member 3240 can be diagonally tilted to perform the above control. More specifically, as Figure 41 As shown in (b), by controlling the upper left portion of the lens forming member 3240 to tilt upwards, an image of the first frame offset by -0.25 pixels in the x-direction and +0.25 pixels in the y-direction can be obtained in the sensor 3520 (see [reference]). Figure 42 (a)). At this time, the lower right portion of the lens forming component 3240 can tilt downwards. Then, as... Figure 41 As shown in (c), by controlling the upper right portion of the lens forming member 3240 to tilt upwards, a second frame image can be obtained by moving the sensor 3520 by +0.25 pixels in the x-direction and +0.25 pixels in the y-direction (see [reference]). Figure 42 (b)

[0512] At this point, the lower left portion of the lens forming member 3240 can tilt downwards. Subsequently, as... Figure 41 As shown in (d), by controlling the lower right portion of the lens forming member 3240 to tilt upwards, a third frame image can be obtained that is moved +0.25 pixels in the x-direction and -0.25 pixels in the y-direction on the sensor 3520 (see reference). Figure 42 (c)). At this time, the upper left portion of the lens forming member 3240 can tilt downwards. Thereafter, as... Figure 41As shown in (e), by controlling the lower left portion of the lens forming member 3240 to tilt upwards, a fourth frame image can be obtained that is moved by -0.25 pixels in the x-direction and -0.25 pixels in the y-direction on the sensor 3520 (see reference). Figure 42 (d)). At this time, the upper right portion of the lens forming member 3240 can be tilted downward.

[0513] Although the first and second embodiments of the present invention have been described separately above, modified embodiments of the present invention may include certain configurations of the first embodiment and certain configurations of the second embodiment. In other words, in modified embodiments of the present invention, certain configurations of the first embodiment may be replaced by corresponding configurations of the second embodiment, or certain configurations of the second embodiment may be replaced by corresponding configurations of the first embodiment. Furthermore, in modified embodiments of the present invention, some configurations of the second embodiment may be added to the first embodiment, or some configurations of the first embodiment may be added to the second embodiment.

[0514] For example, the liquid lens 3200 and related components of the second embodiment can be used instead of the first lens portion 310 of the first embodiment. Conversely, the first lens portion 310 and related components of the first embodiment can be used as an alternative to the liquid lens 3200 of the second embodiment.

[0515] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without changing the technical concept or basic characteristics. Therefore, it should be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A camera device, comprising: The support includes a top plate and side plates extending from the top plate; A liquid lens is disposed on the upper plate of the bracket; A magnet is attached to the liquid lens; A substrate is disposed on the side plate of the bracket; as well as The coil is connected to the substrate and faces the magnet. The liquid lens includes: A transparent and elastically stretchable film; The body, which forms a cavity with the membrane; Liquid, disposed within the cavity; and A lens-forming member is in contact with the film, and the lens-forming member is configured to adjust the curvature of the film. The side plate of the bracket includes a first side plate and a second side plate disposed opposite to the first side plate. The substrate includes a first substrate disposed on the first side plate of the bracket, and a second substrate disposed on the second side plate of the bracket. The coil includes a first coil and a second coil disposed on the first substrate, and a third coil and a fourth coil disposed on the second substrate. The magnet comprises: a first magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the first coil; a second magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the second coil; a third magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the third coil; and a fourth magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the fourth coil. The upper part of the first magnet has an N pole polarity, and the lower part of the first magnet has an S pole polarity. The upper part of the second magnet has an S pole polarity, and the lower part of the second magnet has an N pole polarity. The first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in a direction that intersects with the optical axis.

2. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The first magnet and the second magnet are disposed on one side of the lens forming member, and The third magnet and the fourth magnet are disposed on the other side of the lens forming member.

3. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The outer surfaces of the first magnet and the outer surfaces of the second magnet face the same direction, and The outer surfaces of the third magnet and the fourth magnet face the same direction.

4. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The outer surfaces of the first magnet and the second magnet are disposed on the same plane, and The outer surfaces of the third magnet and the fourth magnet are disposed on the same plane.

5. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The bracket includes a first hole formed on the first side plate and a second hole formed on the second side plate. The first coil and the second coil are disposed on the first hole of the bracket, and The third coil and the fourth coil are disposed on the second hole of the bracket.

6. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The upper part of the third magnet has an N pole polarity, and the lower part of the third magnet has an S pole polarity. The upper part of the fourth magnet has an S pole polarity, and the lower part of the fourth magnet has an N pole polarity.

7. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The lens forming member includes a yoke, and The magnet is disposed on the yoke and between the yoke and the coil.

8. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The lens forming member includes: a window configured to press the membrane; and a frame coupled to the window, and The magnet is mounted on the frame.

9. The camera device according to claim 8, wherein, The frame includes: a body portion including a hole and connected to the window; and legs extending outward from the body portion. The legs include: a first leg and a second leg, which extend from one side surface of the body portion along a first direction and are spaced apart from each other; and a third leg and a fourth leg, which extend from the other side surface of the body portion along a second direction opposite to the first direction and are spaced apart from each other.

10. The camera device according to claim 9, wherein, Each of the first to the fourth legs includes a hole formed at a location corresponding to a portion of the magnet.

11. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The bracket includes protrusions projecting from the outer surface of the side plate of the bracket, and The substrate includes a hole, and the protrusion of the bracket is inserted into the hole.

12. The camera device according to claim 1, comprising: Printed circuit boards; The sensor is mounted on the printed circuit board; The base is disposed on the printed circuit board; The lens is connected to the base; as well as A filter is disposed on the base and between the lens and the sensor. The liquid lens is positioned at a location corresponding to the lens.

13. The camera device according to claim 12, wherein, The base is directly connected to the upper surface of the printed circuit board, and The base is integrally formed, so that the space between the sensor and the filter is sealed by the base.

14. The camera device according to claim 1, wherein, The curvature of the membrane is controlled by the interaction between the coil and the magnet, so that the liquid lens acquires an image that moves 0.25 times the pixel size in a first direction, an image that moves 0.25 times the pixel size in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, an image that moves upward 0.25 times the pixel size in a third direction opposite to the first direction, and an image that moves 0.25 times the pixel size in a fourth direction opposite to the second direction.

15. A camera device, comprising: The support includes a top plate and side plates extending from the top plate; A liquid lens is disposed on the upper plate of the bracket; A magnet is attached to the liquid lens; as well as The coil, which faces the magnet, The liquid lens includes: A transparent and elastically stretchable film; The body, which forms a cavity with the membrane; Liquid, disposed within the cavity; and A lens-forming member contacts the film to control the curvature of the film. The curvature of the membrane is controlled by the interaction between the coil and the magnet, enabling the liquid lens to acquire images that have moved 0.25 times the pixel size in a first direction, 0.25 times the pixel size in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, 0.25 times the pixel size upwards in a third direction opposite to the first direction, and 0.25 times the pixel size in a fourth direction opposite to the second direction. The side plate of the bracket includes a first side plate and a second side plate disposed opposite to the first side plate. The coil includes a first coil and a second coil disposed on the first side plate of the bracket, and a third coil and a fourth coil disposed on the second side plate of the bracket. The magnet comprises: a first magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the first coil; a second magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the second coil; a third magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the third coil; and a fourth magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the fourth coil. The upper part of the first magnet has an N pole polarity, and the lower part of the first magnet has an S pole polarity. The upper part of the second magnet has an S pole polarity, and the lower part of the second magnet has an N pole polarity. The first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in a direction that intersects with the optical axis.

16. The camera device according to claim 15, wherein, The first direction to the fourth direction are the diagonal directions of the pixel.

17. The camera device according to claim 15, wherein, The outer surfaces of the first magnet and the outer surfaces of the second magnet face the same direction, and The outer surfaces of the third magnet and the fourth magnet face the same direction.

18. A camera device, comprising: The support includes a top plate and side plates extending from the top plate; A liquid lens is disposed on the upper plate of the bracket; A magnet is attached to the liquid lens; A substrate is disposed on the side plate of the bracket; as well as The coil is connected to the substrate and faces the magnet. The liquid lens includes: A transparent and elastically stretchable film; The body, which forms a cavity with the membrane; Liquid, disposed within the cavity; and A lens-forming member is in contact with the film, and the lens-forming member is configured to adjust the curvature of the film. The side plate of the bracket includes a first side plate and a second side plate disposed opposite to the first side plate. The coil includes a first coil and a second coil disposed on the first side plate of the bracket, and a third coil and a fourth coil disposed on the second side plate of the bracket. The magnet comprises: a first magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the first coil; a second magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the second coil; a third magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the third coil; and a fourth magnet disposed on the lens forming member and facing the fourth coil. The upper part of the first magnet has an N pole polarity, and the lower part of the first magnet has an S pole polarity. The upper part of the second magnet has an S pole polarity, and the lower part of the second magnet has an N pole polarity. The first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in a direction that intersects with the optical axis.

19. An optical device, comprising: Light-emitting module; as well as The camera device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, The camera device receives light emitted from the light-emitting module.

Images