Camera module and portable electronic device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a reflection module and a camera module including the same, the reflection module including: a housing having an internal space; an optical path folding member disposed in the internal space and configured to change the path of incident light; a first movable body supporting the optical path folding member; a second movable body supporting the first movable body; and a first ball member disposed between the first movable body and the second movable body; wherein the first movable body and the second movable body are respectively capable of rotating around a first axis and a second axis different from the first axis, and wherein the first axis is configured to pass through the first ball member.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application Nos. 10-2019-0166809 and 10-2020-0053939, filed on December 13, 2019 and May 6, 2020, respectively, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The following description relates to a camera module configured to be able to capture images or capture videos of moving objects. Background Art

[0004] The refractive camera module includes: one or more prisms. The one or more prisms are configured to reflect or refract light incident in the first optical axis direction in the second optical axis direction. The refractive camera module may have a thin structure. For example, the camera module is configured to have a low height in the first optical axis direction.

[0005] The refractive camera module may be configured to reduce the phenomenon of resolution degradation caused by user hand shaking. For example, the refractive camera module may include: a driving component for moving one or more lenses in a direction intersecting the first optical axis. However, since the refractive camera module may not have enough space to move one or more lenses in a direction intersecting the first optical axis, a driving component for driving the prism to achieve an image stabilization effect is required. Summary of the invention

[0006] The purpose of providing this summary is to introduce a selection of inventive concepts in a concise form, and these inventive concepts will be further described in the following detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify the key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] In one general aspect, a camera module includes: an optical path folding member, a driving assembly, and a first ball bearing and a second ball bearing, wherein the optical path folding member is configured to refract or reflect light incident along the first optical axis in the direction of a second optical axis intersecting the first optical axis; the driving assembly is configured to provide a driving force to rotate the optical path folding member on a plane intersecting the first optical axis; the first ball bearing and the second ball bearing support the optical path folding member so that the optical path folding member can rotate on the plane. The distance from the first ball bearing to the first optical axis is smaller than the distance from the second ball bearing to the first optical axis.

[0008] The first ball bearing may be arranged to coincide with the first optical axis.

[0009] The second ball bearing may include a plurality of second ball bearings arranged at intervals in a circumferential direction around the first optical axis.

[0010] The drive assembly and the second ball bearing may be spaced apart in a circumferential direction around the first optical axis.

[0011] The driving components may be arranged in a left-right symmetrical manner with the second optical axis as the center.

[0012] The driving assembly may include: a magnet member configured to rotate integrally with the optical path folding member; and a coil member arranged on a plane.

[0013] The polarity of the magnetic member may be formed in a left-right asymmetric manner around the second optical axis.

[0014] The magnet member may include left and right magnet members, and the coil member may include left and right coil members. The first ball bearing may be located on a virtual straight line connecting a winding center of the left coil member and a winding center of the right coil member.

[0015] A distance from the first optical axis to a winding center of the coil member may be smaller than a distance from the first optical axis to the second ball support.

[0016] The camera module may further include a lens module including one or more lenses and configured to image light emitted from the light path folding member on the image sensor.

[0017] In another general aspect, a camera module includes: an optical path folding member configured to refract or reflect light incident on the first optical axis in the direction of a second optical axis intersecting the first optical axis; a first movable body arranged on a fixed body and configured to rotate in a first plane direction intersecting the first optical axis; a second movable body arranged on the first movable body, receiving the optical path folding member, and configured to rotate in a second plane direction including the first optical axis and the second optical axis; and a first ball bearing and a second ball bearing configured to support the first movable body to rotate relative to the fixed body in the first plane direction. The first ball bearing forms a rotation center of the first movable body.

[0018] The camera module may further include a third ball bearing disposed between the first movable body and the second movable body.

[0019] The camera module may further include a first driving assembly disposed between the fixed body and the first movable body and configured to provide a driving force to rotate the first movable body in the first planar direction.

[0020] The camera module may further include a second driving assembly disposed between the fixed body and the second movable body and configured to provide a driving force to rotate the second movable body in the second planar direction.

[0021] The first driving assembly may include: a first magnet member disposed on the first movable body and arranged in a left-right symmetrical manner centered on the second optical axis; and a first coil member disposed on the fixed body and arranged to face the first magnet member.

[0022] The first magnet member may have polarity formed in a left-right asymmetric manner with the first ball bearing as the center.

[0023] In another general aspect, a portable electronic device includes a housing and a prism module arranged in the housing. The prism module includes: a movable body; and a prism held by the movable body and configured to refract or reflect light incident along the first optical axis in the direction of a second optical axis intersecting the first optical axis. The portable electronic device includes: a magnet member, a coil member, and a first ball support and a second ball support, wherein the magnet member is arranged on the movable body; the coil member is arranged on the surface of the housing and configured to interact with the magnet member to rotate the movable body on a first plane intersecting the first optical axis; the first ball support and the second ball support are arranged on the surface of the housing and support the movable body to rotate on the first plane. The distance from the first ball support to the first optical axis is less than the distance from the second ball support to the first optical axis.

[0024] The magnet member may include two magnet members spaced apart from the second optical axis in opposite directions. The coil member may include two coil members spaced apart from the second optical axis in opposite directions.

[0025] The first ball bearing may be located on a virtual straight line connecting the winding centers of the coil members.

[0026] The second ball bearing may include two second ball bearings configured to move along tracks in guide grooves on a surface of the housing.

[0027] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 is along Figure 1 A plan view of the prism module shown is taken along line II.

[0030] Figure 3 is along Figure 2A bottom view of the prism module is shown taken along line II-II.

[0031] Figures 4 to 7 is a plan view taken along line II of the prism module, showing other configurations of the first drive assembly and the first and second ball bearings.

[0032] Figure 8 is a coupling perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0033] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of the prism module is shown.

[0034] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 An exploded perspective view of the fixed body and the movable body shown.

[0035] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A plan view of the fixed body shown.

[0036] Figure 12 is Fig.10 The working state diagram of the movable body is shown.

[0037] Fig.13 yes Fig. 9 An exploded perspective view of the first movable body and the second movable body is shown.

[0038] Figure 14 is Fig.13 The working state diagram of the second movable body is shown.

[0039] Fig.15 yes Fig. 9 The prism module is shown in a three-dimensional connection diagram.

[0040] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 A partially broken away cross-sectional view of a prism module is shown.

[0041] Fig.17 is an exploded perspective view of a prism module according to an embodiment.

[0042] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 An exploded perspective view of the fixed body and the movable body shown.

[0043] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A plan view of the fixed body shown.

[0044] Figure 20 is Fig.18 The working state diagram of the movable body is shown.

[0045] Fig.21 yes Fig.17An exploded perspective view of the fixed body and the movable body shown.

[0046] Figure 22 is Fig.21 The working state diagram of the second movable body is shown.

[0047] Fig.23 yes Fig.17 The prism module is shown in a three-dimensional connection diagram.

[0048] Fig.24 FIG. 22 is a partially cutaway cross-sectional view of the prism module shown in FIG. 22 .

[0049] In all drawings and detailed description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For purposes of clarity, illustration, and convenience, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the relative sizes, proportions, and depictions of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The following detailed description is provided to help the reader obtain a comprehensive understanding of the method, device and / or system described herein. However, after understanding the disclosure of the present application, various changes, modifications and equivalences of the method, device and / or system described herein will be apparent. For example, except for the operations that must occur in a specific order, the order of operations described herein is merely an example and is not limited to the order set forth herein, but changes that will be apparent after understanding the disclosure of the present application may be made. In addition, for greater clarity and brevity, the description of features well known in the art may be omitted.

[0051] The features described herein may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the examples described herein are provided merely to illustrate some of the many possible ways of implementing the methods, devices, and / or systems described herein, which will be apparent after understanding the disclosure of the present application.

[0052] Herein, it should be noted that use of the word “may” with respect to an embodiment or example (e.g., with respect to what an embodiment or example may include or implement) means that there is at least one embodiment or example that includes or implements such feature, and all embodiments and examples are not limited thereto.

[0053] Throughout the specification, when an element such as a layer, a region, or a substrate is described as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element, the element may be directly “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element, or one or more other elements may be present between the element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is described as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element, other elements may not be present between the element and the other element.

[0054] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items.

[0055] Although terms such as "first", "second" and "third" may be used herein to describe various components, parts, regions, layers or portions, these components, parts, regions, layers or portions are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are only used to distinguish one component, part, region, layer or portion from another component, part, region, layer or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein, the first component, first component, first region, first layer or first portion mentioned in the examples may also be referred to as the second component, second component, second region, second layer or second portion.

[0056] Spatially relative terms such as "above", "higher", "below", and "lower" may be used herein for descriptive convenience to describe the relationship of one element relative to another element as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to covering the orientations depicted in the accompanying drawings, these spatially relative terms are intended to also cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, an element described as being "above" or "higher" relative to another element will be "below" or "lower" relative to the other element. Therefore, depending on the spatial orientation of the device, the term "above" covers both "above" and "below" orientations. The device may also be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0057] The terms used herein are only used to describe various examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the articles "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include plural forms as well. The words "include", "comprise" and "have" illustrate the presence of stated features, numbers, operations, components, elements and / or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, components, elements and / or combinations thereof.

[0058] Due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, the shapes shown in the drawings may vary. Therefore, the examples described herein are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the drawings but include shape variations that occur during manufacturing.

[0059] The features of the examples described herein can be combined in various ways, which will be apparent after obtaining an understanding of the disclosure of the present application. In addition, although the examples described herein have multiple configurations, it will be apparent after understanding the disclosure of the present application that other configurations are also possible.

[0060] Figures 1 to 3 A camera module 10 according to an embodiment is shown.

[0061] The camera module 10 may be mounted to a portable electronic product. For example, the camera module 10 may be mounted on a mobile phone, a laptop computer, etc. However, the application of the camera module 10 is not limited to the above electronic products. For example, the camera module 10 may be mounted in an automatic teller machine (ATM), a television for interactive broadcasting, etc.

[0062] The camera module 10 includes, for example, a prism module 20 and a lens module 30. However, the configuration of the camera module 10 is not limited to these modules. For example, the camera module 10 may include a fixing body 220 and an image sensor 340. For example, the fixing body 220 may form a housing constituting the exterior of the camera module 10.

[0063] The prism module 20 may include an optical path folding member. For example, the optical path folding member may be a prism 210. However, the optical path folding member is not limited to a prism. For example, a reflector may be used as another form of an optical path folding member. The prism 210 is configured to transform the optical path incident on the camera module 10. For example, the prism 210 may refract or reflect light incident in the direction of the first optical axis C1 (hereinafter referred to as the "first optical axis direction") in the direction of the second optical axis C2 (hereinafter referred to as the "second optical axis direction").

[0064] For convenience, the following description includes references to prism 210 in relation to other components, elements, and features of camera module 10. However, it should be understood that the following description is applicable to other types of optical path folding members.

[0065] The prism module 20 may include a structure for supporting the optical prism 210. For example, the prism module 20 may include a first movable body 230. The first movable body 230 may be coupled to the prism 210. For example, the first movable body 230 may be coupled to at least one of the back and side surfaces of the prism 210 to support the position of the prism 210 so that the prism 210 does not move outside a set range. The first movable body 230 may be arranged on the fixed body 220. The prism 210 and the first movable body 230 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the fixed body 220. For example, the fixed body 220 may rotate together with the prism 210 on a first plane (e.g., a bottom surface of the fixed body 220) intersecting the first optical axis C1.

[0066] The lens module 30 may include one or more components configured to image the light emitted from the prism 210 to the image sensor 340. For example, the lens module 30 may include one or more lenses. The lens module 30 may be configured to be movable. For example, the lens module 30 may be movable along the second optical axis C2 to enable the camera module 10 to perform focus adjustment.

[0067] The camera module 10 may also include a driving component. For example, the camera module 10 may include a first driving component 250 configured to provide a driving force to drive the rotational movement of the prism 210. The first driving component 250 may include a first magnet member 252 and a first coil member 254. The first magnet member 252 may be arranged to rotate integrally with the prism 210. For example, the first magnet member 252 may be arranged on the prism 210 or the first movable body 230, and may rotate and move on the first plane together with the prism 210. The first coil member 254 may be arranged on the first plane and used as a reference for the rotational movement of the optical path folding device. For example, the first coil member 254 may be arranged on the bottom surface of the fixed body 220. The first driving component 250 may be arranged in a left-right symmetrical manner centered on the second optical axis C2. For example, the first magnet member 252 may be arranged on the prism 210 or the first movable body 230 in a left-right symmetrical manner with the second optical axis C2 as the center, and the first coil member 254 may be arranged on the fixed body 220 in a left-right symmetrical manner with the second optical axis C2 as the center. That is, the first magnet member 252 may include a left first magnet member 252 arranged on the left side of the second optical axis C2 and a right first magnet member 252 arranged on the right side of the second optical axis C2, and the first coil member 254 may include a left first coil portion arranged on the left side of the second optical axis C2 and a right first coil portion arranged on the right side of the second optical axis C2.

[0068] The polarity of each first magnet member 252 may be formed along the second optical axis C2. For example, the polarity of the first magnet member 252 may be formed in the order of N pole and S pole, or S pole and N pole along the second optical axis C2. The polarity of the first magnet member 252 may be formed in a left-right asymmetric manner centered on the second optical axis C2. For example, the polarity of the first magnet member 252 (e.g., the left first magnet member 252) arranged on one side of the second optical axis C2 may be formed in the order of N pole and S pole, and the polarity of the first magnet member 252 (e.g., the right first magnet member 252) arranged on the other side of the second optical axis C2 may be formed in the order of S pole and N pole (see Figure 3 ).

[0069] The camera module 10 may further include a device for supporting the optical path folding device so as to perform a rotational movement of the optical path folding device. For example, the camera module 10 may include a first ball support 272 and a second ball support 274. The first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 may be arranged between the optical path folding device and the first plane. In other words, the first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 may be arranged between the fixed body 220 and the first movable body 230 so that they enable the prism 210 and the first movable body 230 to smoothly rotate.

[0070] Any one of the first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 may be arranged adjacent to the first optical axis C1. For example, the first ball support 272 may be arranged adjacent to the first optical axis C1, or may be arranged to coincide with the first optical axis C1. The first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 may be arranged at different distances from the first optical axis C1. For example, the distance LB1 from the first ball support 272 to the first optical axis C1 may be less than the distance LB2 from the second ball support 274 to the first optical axis C1. The first ball support 272 may be arranged side by side with the first coil member 254. For example, the first ball support 272 may be located on a virtual straight line LC, which connects the center CP1 of the winding of the left first coil member 254 and the center CP2 of the winding of the right first coil member 254, respectively.

[0071] Since in the camera module 10 configured as above, the rotational movement of the prism module 20 (prism 210 and first movable body 230) can be performed with the first optical axis C1 or the first ball bearing 272 as the center, it is possible to omit the configuration for directly fixing the prism 210 or the prism module 20 to the rotation axis of the fixed body 220. Therefore, in the camera module 10, the assembly process can be simplified, and the assembly parts can be simplified.

[0072] Next, we will refer to Figures 4 to 7 Another configuration of the first drive assembly 250 and the first and second ball bearings 272, 274 is described.

[0073] First, refer to Figure 4 Another configuration of the first ball bearing 272 and the second ball bearing 274 is described.

[0074] Reference Figure 4 , the first ball bearing 272 can be configured as the rotation center of the prism 210. For example, Figure 4 , the first ball support 272 may be arranged to coincide with the first optical axis C1. In addition, the first ball support 272 may be arranged side by side with the left first coil member 254 and the right first coil member 254. For example, the first ball support 272 may be arranged on a virtual straight line LC connecting the center CP1 of the winding of the left first coil member 254 and the center CP2 of the winding of the right first coil member 254.

[0075] The left first coil member 254 and the right first coil member 254 may be arranged in an asymmetric shape based on a virtual straight line BB connecting the first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274. For example, the first coil member 254 (e.g., the left first coil member 254) arranged on one side of the straight line BB may be spaced apart from the second ball support 274 by a first distance G1, and the first coil member 254 (e.g., the right first coil member 254) arranged on the other side of the straight line BB may be spaced apart from the second ball support 274 by an amount equal to the first distance G1.

[0076] The camera module 10 having the configuration of the above-described ball bearings 272 and 274 and the first driving assembly 250 can quickly rotate and move the prism 210 using the first ball bearing 272 as a rotation axis.

[0077] Will refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 Other configurations of the first ball bearing 272 and the second ball bearing 274 are described.

[0078] Reference Figure 5 , a plurality of second ball supports 274 may be provided. For example, only one first ball support 272 may be provided, and two second ball supports 274 may be provided. The second ball supports 274 may be arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction around the first optical axis C1. For example, the two second ball supports 274 may be arranged at intervals on a circumference having a predetermined radius RB2 around the first optical axis C1. The first ball support 272 may be arranged at a position symmetrical to the two second ball supports 274 around the first optical axis C1. The distance RB1 from the first ball support 272 to the first optical axis C1 may be smaller than the distance RB2 from the second ball support 274 to the first optical axis C1.

[0079] According to another example, Figure 6As shown in , the first ball support 272 may be arranged to coincide with the first optical axis C1. The second ball support 274 and the first coil member 254 may be arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction around the first optical axis C1. For example, the two second ball supports 274 may be arranged at intervals on a circumference with a predetermined radius RB2 around the first optical axis C1, and the left first coil member 254 and the right first coil member 254 may be arranged at intervals on a circumference with a predetermined radius RC1 around the first optical axis C1. The first coil member 254 may be arranged closer to the first optical axis C1 than the second ball support 274. For example, the distance RC1 from the first optical axis C1 to the center CP1 of the winding of the first coil member 254 and to the center CP2 of the winding may be less than the distance from the first optical axis C1 to the second ball support 274.

[0080] The camera module 10 having the above-described configuration of the first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 can stably support the prism 210 through the first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 and also enable smooth rotational movement of the prism 210 .

[0081] Will refer to Figure 7 Another configuration of the first ball bearing 272 and the second ball bearing 274 is described.

[0082] Reference Figure 7 , the first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 may be respectively disposed in the fixing groove 222 and the guide groove 224 formed on the fixing body 220. For example, the first ball support 272 may be disposed in the fixing groove 222, and the two second ball supports 274 may be disposed in the respective guide grooves 224. The fixing groove 222 may have a different form from the guide groove 224. For example, the fixing groove 222 may be formed to have a triangular shape so that the first ball support 272 can only rotate, and the guide groove 224 may have a curved shape having a predetermined length that enables the second ball support 274 to orbit.

[0083] The camera module 10 configured as described above can limit the position of the first ball support 272 so that the first ball support 272 can be fixed to the rotation center of the prism 210. In addition, the camera module 10 can enable the second ball support 274 to perform orbital motion through the guide groove 224 so that the prism 210 can perform smooth rotational motion through the second ball support 274.

[0084] Figures 8 to 16 A camera module 10 - 1 according to an embodiment is shown.

[0085] Reference Figure 8The camera module 10 - 1 may be mounted on a portable terminal. For example, the camera module 10 - 1 may be mounted on a portable phone, a portable laptop computer, etc. The camera module 10 - 1 may include a prism module 20 - 1 and a lens module 30 .

[0086] Reference Figure 8 , the lens module 30 may include a housing 310 and a lens barrel 320. In addition, the lens module 30 may further include a third driving assembly 330 and an image sensor 340. The housing 310 is configured to receive the lens barrel 320. The lens barrel 320 may include one or more lenses and may be configured to move along the longitudinal direction of the housing 310. The third driving assembly 330 may include a third magnet member 332 and a third coil member 334. The third driving assembly 330 may drive the lens barrel 320. For example, two third magnet members 332 may be arranged on opposite sides of the lens barrel 320, respectively, and two third coil members 334 may be arranged on opposite sides of the housing 310, respectively. The two third magnet members 332 and the two third coil members 334 may interact with each other to move the lens barrel 320 toward one end or the other end of the housing 310. The movement of the lens barrel 320 may enable the camera module 10-1 to perform focus adjustment or focus magnification adjustment.

[0087] Reference Figures 9 to 16 , the prism module 20-1 is configured to change the optical path. For example, the prism module 20-1 may reflect or refract light incident along the first optical axis C1 (hereinafter referred to as the "first optical axis direction") in the direction of the second optical axis C2 intersecting the first optical axis C1 (hereinafter referred to as the "second optical axis direction"). The prism module 20-1 may include a prism 210, a fixed body 220, a first movable body 230, and a second movable body 240. The prism module 20-1 may also include a configuration for driving the prism 210. For example, the prism module 20-1 may also include a first driving assembly 250, a second driving assembly 260, a first ball bearing 272, a second ball bearing 274, and a base member 280. The prism module 20-1 may also include a structure for shielding electromagnetic waves. For example, the prism module 20-1 may also include a shielding cover 290 covering the fixed body 220, the first movable body 230, and the second movable body 240.

[0088] The prism 210 is configured to transform the optical path. For example, the prism 210 may refract or reflect light incident in the first optical axis direction in the second optical axis direction. The prism 210 may have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. For example, the incident surface and the reflection surface of the prism 210 may be formed at a 90-degree angle, and the reflection surface may be formed at a 45-degree angle relative to the incident surface and the reflection surface, respectively.

[0089] The fixing body 220 may fix the position of the prism module 20-1 within the camera module 10-1. For example, the fixing body 220 may be fixed so as not to move on one side of the camera module 10-1, and may fix the relative position of the prism module 20-1 relative to the lens module 30. The fixing body 220 is configured to receive the first movable body 230. For example, the interior of the fixing body 220 may form a space for receiving the first movable body 230, and the front surface of the fixing body 220 may be open to facilitate the insertion and withdrawal of the first movable body 230.

[0090] A space for arranging the first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 may be formed on the fixed body 220. For example, a fixed groove 222 and a guide groove 224 may be formed on the bottom of the fixed body 220. The fixed groove 222 may be formed so that the first ball support 272 can only perform rotational motion. For example, the maximum width of the fixed groove 222 may be equal to or less than the diameter of the first ball support 272. The fixed groove 222 may be formed to substantially coincide with the optical axis of the prism 210. For example, the center of the fixed groove 222 may substantially coincide with the first optical axis C1 of the prism 210. The guide groove 224 may be formed so that the second ball support 274 can perform rolling motion. For example, the maximum length of the guide groove 224 may be greater than the diameter of the second ball support 274. The guide grooves 224 may be arranged in a circumferential direction around the fixed groove 222. For example, two guide grooves 224 may be formed to form an acute angle around the fixed groove 222.

[0091] A space in which some components of the first drive assembly 250 may be arranged may be formed in the fixed body 220. For example, a first cutout portion 228 for arranging the first coil member 254 of the first drive assembly 250 may be formed on the bottom of the fixed body 220. The first cutout portion 228 may be formed in a symmetrical manner with the fixed groove 222 as the center. For example, two first cutout portions 228 may be arranged in a left-right symmetrical manner with the fixed groove 222 as the center.

[0092] The fixing groove 222, the guide groove 224, and the first coil member 254 may be arranged on the bottom of the fixing body 220, and may have a predetermined shape, such as Fig.11 As shown in . For example, the distance R2 from the center of the first coil member 254 to the center of the fixed groove 222 may be less than the distance R1 from the center of the guide groove 224 to the center of the fixed groove 222. The center of the fixed groove 222 may be arranged on a straight line connecting the center CP1 of the first coil member 254. The second ball bearing 274 arranged in the guide groove 224 may be arranged generally around the fixed groove 222 in a circumferential direction. The configuration of the first ball bearing 272 and the second ball bearing 274 may allow smooth rotational motion and may minimize the driving force required for the rotational drive of the first movable body 230.

[0093] A space in which some components of the second driving assembly 260 may be arranged may be formed on the fixed body 220. For example, a second cutout portion 229 in which the second coil member 264 of the second driving assembly 260 is arranged or exposed may be formed on the back side of the fixed body 220.

[0094] The first movable body 230 is configured to be arranged on the fixed body 220. For example, the first movable body 230 may be completely received in the internal space of the fixed body 220. The first movable body 230 may be configured to rotate relative to the fixed body 220. For example, the first movable body 230 may rotate around the first ball bearing 272 arranged in the fixing groove 222. The first movable body 230 may be configured so that the position of the first movable body 230 relative to the fixed body 220 can be aligned. For example, a groove for receiving a portion of the first ball bearing 272 may be formed on the bottom surface of the first movable body 230.

[0095] The first movable body 230 is configured to support the second movable body 240. For example, a left receiving portion 232 and a right receiving portion 232 configured to receive the protruding portion 242 of the second movable body 240 may be formed on both sides of the first movable body 230, respectively. The receiving portion 232 may be formed to restrict the coupling direction of the second movable body 240. For example, the receiving portion 232 may have a shape in which the front surface of the receiving portion 232 is open so that the second movable body 240 can be coupled to the first movable body 230 through the front surface of the first movable body 230. Elements and structures that enable the second movable body 240 to be vertically rotated relative to the first movable body 230 may be arranged in the receiving portion 232. For example, third ball bearings 278 serving as a rotation axis may be arranged in the grooves 234 of the left receiving portion 232 and the right receiving portion 232, respectively. An element for preventing the second movable body 240 from being separated may be coupled to the receiving portion 232. For example, a clip 248 may be fitted to each receiving portion 232 to prevent the protruding portion 242 from being separated.

[0096] The first movable body 230 may be configured to directly or indirectly support the back of the second movable body 240. For example, a support portion 236 having a predetermined inclination may be formed in the first movable body 230. A magnet attached to the second movable body 240 and a yoke or a magnet for providing an attractive force may be arranged on the support portion 236.

[0097] The second movable body 240 may be rotatably arranged in the vertical direction on the first movable body 230. The third ball bearing 278 may be arranged between the first movable body 230 and the second movable body 240 to enable the second movable body 240 to perform a rotational movement. For example, the third ball bearing 278 may be arranged between the receiving portion 232 of the first movable body 230 and the protruding portion 242 of the second movable body 240 to enable the second movable body 240 to rotate in the vertical direction around the third ball bearing 278.

[0098] The second movable body 240 may be configured to support the prism 210. For example, a portion of the second movable body 240 may be tilted to come into close contact with the reflective surface of the prism 210.

[0099] The first drive assembly 250 may include a first magnet member 252, a first coil member 254, and a first yoke member 256. The first magnet member 252 may be arranged on the bottom surface of the first movable body 230, and the first coil member 254 may be arranged in the first cutout portion 228 of the fixed body 220. The first coil member 254 is configured to receive a current through the base member 280. For example, the first coil member 254 may be formed on the upper surface of the base member 280. The first yoke member 256 is configured to generate a predetermined amount of attraction with the first magnet member 252 even when no current is supplied to the first coil member 254. For example, the first yoke member 256 may be formed around the base member 280 on the lower surface of the base member 280 opposite to the first coil member 254. The winding center of the first coil member 254 may be formed to be substantially on the same line as the fixed groove 222 of the fixed body 220. For example, the center of the fixed groove 222 may be located on a straight line connecting the center of the first coil member 254. The polarity of the first magnet member 252 may be formed in a left-right asymmetric manner centered on the fixing slot 222. The polarity of the left first magnet member 252 arranged on one side of the fixing slot 222 may be formed in the order of N pole and S pole, and the polarity of the right first magnet member 252 arranged on the other side of the fixing slot 222 may be formed in the order of S pole and N pole.

[0100] The first driving assembly 250 is configured to generate a driving force required for the rotation operation of the first movable body 230. For example, the first magnet member 252 disposed on the bottom of the first movable body 230 and the first coil member 254 disposed on the first cutout portion 228 of the fixed body 220 interact with each other so that the first movable body 230 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around the first ball bearing 272, as shown in FIG. Fig. 12A and Fig. 12BAs shown in . The first driving assembly 250 may be symmetrically arranged around the second optical axis C2. For example, the first coil member 254 may be symmetrically arranged at the bottom of the fixed body 220 with the second optical axis C2 as the center.

[0101] The second drive assembly 260 may include a second magnet member 262, a second coil member 264, and a second yoke member 266. The second magnet member 262 may be arranged on the back of the second movable body 240, and the second coil member 264 may be arranged on or in the second cutout portion 229 of the fixed body 220. The second coil member 264 is configured to receive a current passing through the base member 280. For example, the second coil member 264 may be formed on the upper surface of the base member 280. The second yoke member 266 and the second magnet member 262 are configured to generate an attractive force having a predetermined size even when no current is supplied to the second coil member 264. For example, the second yoke member 266 may be formed on the lower surface of the base member 280 opposite to the second coil member 264. The winding center of the second coil member 264 may be formed to be located on the same line as the center of the third ball bearing 278. For example, the center of the third ball bearing 278 and the winding center of the second coil member 264 may be arranged on a straight line intersecting the first optical axis C1 of the prism 210 .

[0102] The second driving assembly 260 is configured to generate a driving force for driving the vertical rotation of the second movable body 240. For example, the second magnet member 262 and the second coil member 264 can interact with each other so that the second movable body 240 can rotate upward or downward around the third ball bearing 278, as shown in FIG. Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The rotation center of the second movable body 240 may be formed to substantially coincide with the rotation center of the first movable body 230. For example, the center of the third ball support 278 may be arranged substantially on the same line as the first ball support 272, as shown in FIG. Fig.16 shown.

[0103] The camera module 10-1 configured as above may perform image stabilization by rotating the prism 210 around the first ball support 272 and the third ball support 278, respectively. In addition, the camera module 10-1 may allow image capture or video capture of a slow-moving or fast-moving object by actively rotating the prism 210.

[0104] Figures 17 to 24 A prism module 20 - 2 according to an embodiment is shown.

[0105] Reference Figures 17 to 24, the prism module 20-2 is configured to change the optical path. For example, the prism module 20-2 may refract or reflect light incident along the first optical axis C1 in the direction of the second optical axis C2 intersecting the first optical axis C1 (hereinafter referred to as the "second optical axis direction"). The prism module 20-2 may include a prism 210, a fixed body 220, a first movable body 230-1 and a second movable body 240. The prism module 20-2 may also include a component for driving the prism 210. For example, the prism module 20-2 may also include a first driving component 250, a second driving component 260, a first ball bearing 272, a second ball bearing 274 and a base member 280. The prism module 20-2 may also include a structure for shielding electromagnetic waves. For example, the prism module 20-2 may also include a shielding cover 290 covering the fixed body 220 and the first movable body 230-1 and the second movable body 240.

[0106] The prism 210 is configured to transform the optical path. For example, the prism 210 may refract or reflect light incident in the first optical axis direction in the second optical axis direction. The prism 210 may have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. For example, the incident surface and the reflection surface of the prism 210 may be formed at a 90-degree angle, and the reflection surface may be formed at a 45-degree angle relative to the incident surface and the reflection surface, respectively.

[0107] The fixing body 220 can fix the position of the prism module 20-2 within the camera module 10. For example, the fixing body 220 can be fixed so as not to move on one side of the camera module 10, so that the relative position of the prism module 20-2 can be fixed relative to the lens module 30. The fixing body 220 is configured to receive the first movable body 230-1. For example, the interior of the fixing body 220 can form a space for receiving the first movable body 230-1, and the front surface of the fixing body 220 can be open to facilitate the insertion and withdrawal of the first movable body 230-1.

[0108] A space for arranging the first ball support 272 and the second ball support 274 may be formed in the fixed body 220. For example, a fixed groove 222 and a guide groove 224 may be formed at the bottom of the fixed body 220. The fixed groove 222 may be formed so that the first ball support 272 can only perform rotational motion. For example, the maximum width of the fixed groove 222 may be equal to or less than the diameter of the first ball support 272. The fixed groove 222 may be formed to substantially coincide with the optical axis of the prism 210. For example, the center of the fixed groove 222 may substantially coincide with the first optical axis C1 of the prism 210. The guide groove 224 may be formed so that the second ball support 274 can perform rolling motion. For example, the maximum length of the guide groove 224 may be greater than the diameter of the second ball support 274. The guide grooves 224 may be arranged in a circumferential direction around the fixed groove 222. For example, two guide grooves 224 may be formed to form an acute angle around the fixed groove 222.

[0109] A space in which some components of the first drive assembly 250 may be arranged may be formed in the fixed body 220. For example, a first cutout portion 228 for arranging the first coil member 254 of the first drive assembly 250 may be formed on the bottom of the fixed body 220. The first cutout portion 228 may be arranged in a symmetrical manner with the fixed groove 222 as the center. For example, two first cutout portions 228 may be arranged in a left-right symmetrical manner with the fixed groove 222 as the center.

[0110] like Fig.19 As shown, the fixed groove 222, the guide groove 224 and the first coil member 254 can be arranged on the bottom of the fixed body 220 in a predetermined shape. For example, the distance R2 from the center CP1 of the first coil member 254 to the center of the fixed groove 222 can be less than the distance R1 from the center of the guide groove 224 to the center of the fixed groove 222. The center of the fixed groove 222 can be arranged on a straight line connecting the center CP1 of the first coil member 254. The second ball bearing 274 and the guide groove 224 can be arranged in a circumferential direction around the fixed groove 222. This configuration allows the first movable body 230-1 to rotate smoothly while minimizing the driving force required for the rotation drive of the first movable body 230-1.

[0111] A space in which some components of the second driving assembly 260 may be arranged may be formed in the fixed body 220. For example, a second cutout portion 229 for arranging or exposing the second coil member 264 of the second driving assembly 260 may be formed on the back side of the fixed body 220.

[0112] The first movable body 230-1 is configured to be arranged on the fixed body 220. For example, the first movable body 230-1 may be completely received in the internal space of the fixed body 220. The first movable body 230-1 may be configured to allow rotational movement relative to the fixed body 220. For example, the first movable body 230-1 may rotate around the first ball support 272. The first movable body 230-1 may be configured so that the position of the first movable body 230-1 relative to the fixed body 220 can be aligned. For example, a groove for receiving a portion of the first ball support 272 may be formed on the bottom surface of the first movable body 230-1.

[0113] The first movable body 230-1 is configured to support the second movable body 240. For example, a support portion 238 for supporting the back portion of the second movable body 240 may be formed in the first movable body 230-1. A third ball support 278 that enables the second movable body 240 to perform a rotational movement may be arranged on the support portion 238. For example, the second movable body 240 may rotate in a vertical direction around the third ball support 278. The first movable body 230-1 may be formed with a receiving portion 232, wherein the receiving portion 232 is to be coupled to a protruding portion 242 of the second movable body 240. The receiving portion 232 may be formed to limit the coupling direction of the second movable body 240. For example, the receiving portion 232 may have a shape in which a front surface of the receiving portion 232 is open so that the second movable body 240 can be coupled to the first movable body 230-1 through the front surface of the first movable body 230-1. The receiving portion 232 may be configured to prevent the second movable body 240 from being separated. For example, a clip 248 may be fitted to each receiving portion 232 to prevent the protruding portion 242 from being separated.

[0114] The first movable body 230-1 may be configured to directly or indirectly support the back of the second movable body 240. For example, a support portion 236 having a predetermined inclination may be formed in the first movable body 230-1. A magnet attached to the second movable body 240 and a yoke or a magnet for providing an attractive force may be arranged on the support portion 236.

[0115] The second movable body 240 may be configured to support the prism 210. For example, a portion of the second movable body 240 may be tilted to come into close contact with the reflective surface of the prism 210.

[0116] The first drive assembly 250 may include a first magnet member 252, a first coil member 254, and a first yoke member 256. The first magnet member 252 may be arranged on the bottom surface of the first movable body 230-1, and the first coil member 254 may be arranged in the first cutout portion 228 of the fixed body 220. The first coil member 254 is configured to receive a current through the base member 280. For example, the first coil member 254 may be formed on the upper surface of the base member 280. The first yoke member 256 is configured to generate a predetermined size of attraction with the first magnet member 252 even when no current is supplied to the first coil member 254. For example, the first yoke member 256 may be formed on the lower surface of the base member 280 opposite to the first coil member 254. The winding center of the first coil member 254 may be formed to be approximately located on the same line as the fixed slot 222 of the fixed body 220. For example, the center of the fixed slot 222 may be located on a straight line connecting the center of the first coil member 254. The polarity of the first magnet member 252 may be formed in a left-right asymmetric manner centered on the fixing slot 222. The polarity of the left first magnet member 252 arranged on one side of the fixing slot 222 may be formed in the order of N pole and S pole, and the polarity of the right first magnet member 252 arranged on the other side of the fixing slot 222 may be formed in the order of S pole and N pole.

[0117] The first driving assembly 250 is configured to generate a driving force to drive the rotation operation of the first movable body 230. For example, the first magnet member 252 and the first coil member 254 interact with each other so that the first movable body 230-1 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around the first ball bearing 272, as shown in FIG. Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B shown.

[0118] The second drive assembly 260 may include a second magnet member 262, a second coil member 264, and a second yoke member 266. The second magnet member 262 may be arranged on the back of the second movable body 240, and the second coil member 264 may be arranged on or in the second cutout portion 229 of the fixed body 220. The second coil member 264 is configured to receive a current passing through the base member 280. For example, the second coil member 264 may be formed on the upper surface of the base member 280. The second yoke member 266 and the second magnet member 262 are configured to generate an attractive force having a predetermined size even when no current is supplied to the second coil member 264. For example, the second yoke member 266 may be formed on the lower surface of the base member 280 opposite to the second coil member 264. The winding center of the second coil member 264 may be formed to be located on the same line as the center of the third ball bearing 278. For example, the center of the third ball bearing 278 and the winding center of the second coil member 264 may be arranged on a straight line intersecting the first optical axis C1 of the prism 210 .

[0119] The second driving assembly 260 is configured to generate a driving force to drive the vertical rotation of the second movable body 240. For example, the second magnet member 262 and the second coil member 264 can interact with each other so that the second movable body 240 can rotate upward or downward around the third ball bearing 278, as shown in FIG. Fig.22A and Fig. 22B The rotation center of the second movable body 240 may be formed so that the rotation centers of the first movable body 230-1 and the second movable body 240 substantially coincide with each other. For example, the center of the third ball support 278 may be arranged on substantially the same line as the first ball support 272, as shown in FIG. Fig.24 shown.

[0120] The camera module including the prism module 20-2 configured as described above can perform image stabilization by rotating the prism 210 around the first and third ball bearings 272 and 278, respectively. In addition, the camera module can allow image capture or video capture of slow-moving or fast-moving objects by actively rotating the prism 210.

[0121] As described above, the camera module according to the embodiments described herein can quickly correct hand shaking by driving the prism. In addition, the camera module can drive the prism to quickly perform image capture, continuous image capture, and video capture of a moving object.

[0122] Although the present disclosure includes specific examples, it will be apparent after understanding the disclosure of the present application that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein should be interpreted in a descriptive sense only, and not for limiting purposes. The description of the features or aspects in each example should be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Suitable results may also be obtained if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if the components in the described systems, architectures, devices, or circuits are combined in different ways and / or replaced or supplemented with other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by detailed description, but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be understood to be included in the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A reflection module, comprising: a housing having an interior space; a light path folding member disposed in the internal space and configured to change a path of incident light; A first movable body, supporting the optical path folding member; a second movable body supporting the first movable body; as well as a first ball member disposed between the first movable body and the second movable body; wherein the first movable body and the second movable body are respectively rotatable about a first axis and a second axis different from the first axis, wherein the first shaft is configured to pass through the first ball member, and The first movable body is supported to the second movable body by a magnetic attraction force acting in a third axis direction perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis.

2. The reflection module according to claim 1, wherein: The first ball member is provided in plural and disposed between the first movable body and the second movable body, and The first shaft is configured to pass through at least one of the plurality of first ball members.

3. The reflection module according to claim 2, wherein: The optical path folding member is disposed between any two of the plurality of first ball members.

4. The reflection module according to claim 3, wherein: The light path folding member includes a reflective surface on which the incident light is reflected, and Wherein, a plane extending along the reflective surface passes through at least one of the plurality of first ball members.

5. The reflection module according to claim 2, further comprising: a first magnet, disposed on the first movable body; as well as A first yoke faces the first magnet in a direction of the third axis perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis.

6. The reflection module according to claim 5, wherein: At least one of the first movable body and the second movable body includes a first receiving groove, and wherein at least a portion of each of the plurality of first ball members is accommodated in the first receiving groove and contacts the first receiving groove in the direction of the third axis.

7. The reflection module according to claim 5, further comprising a first coil facing the first magnet in the direction of the third axis in, The first coil and the first magnet are configured to interact with each other to rotate the first movable body.

8. The reflection module according to claim 7, wherein: The winding center of the first coil is arranged on the third axis.

9. The reflection module according to claim 2, further comprising a second ball member provided between the second movable body and the housing, and in, The second axis passes through the second ball member, and the first axis and the second axis are perpendicular to each other.

10. The reflection module according to claim 9, wherein: The number of the second ball member is one.

11. The reflection module according to claim 10, wherein: At least one of the second movable body and the housing includes a second receiving groove, and At least a portion of the second ball member is accommodated in the second receiving groove and contacts the second receiving groove in the direction of the second axis.

12. The reflection module according to claim 10, further comprising a plurality of third ball members disposed between the second movable body and the housing, and in, The plurality of third ball members are disposed spaced apart from the second shaft.

13. The reflection module according to claim 12, wherein: The plurality of third ball members are disposed opposite to each other, wherein a third axis is interposed therebetween, and the third axis is perpendicular to both the first axis and the second axis.

14. The reflection module according to claim 12, wherein: at least one of the second movable body and the housing includes a plurality of third receiving grooves, and the plurality of third ball members are accommodated in the plurality of third receiving grooves, respectively, Wherein, at least one of the plurality of third receiving grooves extends in a circumferential direction around the second axis.

15. The reflection module according to claim 9, further comprising: a second magnet, disposed on the second movable body; as well as The second yoke faces the second magnet in the direction of the second axis.

16. The reflection module according to claim 15, further comprising a second coil facing the second magnet in the direction of the second axis, and in, The second coil and the second magnet are configured to interact with each other to rotate the second movable body.

17. A camera module, comprising: The reflection module according to claim 1; as well as a lens module, configured to receive light emitted from the reflection module; Wherein, the lens module has an optical axis perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis.

Images