Mobile devices, camera modules, and mobile device systems

Abstract

This invention relates to a mobile device, preferably a mobile phone, comprising a module holding portion for a camera module used to capture still and / or moving images. The camera module has a connecting segment and can be releasably connected to the module holding portion, wherein the module holding portion has a recess in which the connecting segment is received when the camera module is connected to the mobile device. In the mobile device according to the invention, the recess of the module holding portion is defined to have a circumferential profile formed by arcuate segments and secant segments. The invention also relates to a corresponding camera module and a mobile device system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mobile device, preferably a mobile phone, the mobile device including a module holding part for a camera module for capturing still images and / or moving images, the camera module having a connecting section and releasably connected to the module holding part, wherein the module holding part has a recess that receives the connecting section when the camera module is connected to the mobile device.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a camera module for capturing still and / or moving images for a mobile device (preferably a mobile phone) having a module holding portion, wherein the camera module has a connecting section configured to cooperate with the module holding portion of the mobile device to releasably connect the camera module to the mobile device, wherein the connecting section can be received in a recess of the module holding portion. Background Technology

[0003] Generally, the mobile device is an electronic terminal device used for mobile, wireless data, voice, and / or image communication. For example, a mobile device may be designed as a mobile phone, preferably a smartphone, or a portable minicomputer, preferably a tablet computer.

[0004] Mobile devices of this category are typically equipped with one or more integrated cameras that can capture still and / or moving images. The mobile devices usually have means for processing the captured images in their raw image form (e.g., performing image correction or compressing image data). The processed images can be stored on internal storage media, i.e., storage media integrated into the mobile device, and / or on external storage media, such as memory cards that can be inserted into the mobile device. Furthermore, the devices are typically used to wirelessly or also wiredly transmit image data and other data to other terminal devices and / or servers.

[0005] Due to the limited installation space within mobile devices, the performance capabilities of integrated cameras are often constrained, affecting both the image sensor and the optics. Therefore, for example, the resolution and / or sensitivity of the image sensor can be reduced compared to devices with sufficient available installation space. In the case of the integrated camera's optics, space-related limitations can adversely affect, for example, light intensity and / or optical resolution.

[0006] Dedicated still-image cameras or camcorders, such as digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras, can indeed produce high-quality images. However, these dedicated cameras tend to be heavy and have a considerable size, which negatively impacts handling and transportation. Furthermore, the means for wireless transmission of the recorded images is often absent from such cameras, or only present in limited forms.

[0007] Various solutions are known from the prior art to generate relatively high-quality images using this type of mobile device, and to wirelessly transmit the images to other devices if needed.

[0008] For example, US 2010 / 0208434 A1 discloses a mobile terminal device in which sub-modules, such as projection modules or camera modules, can be releasably and tightly attached to the outside of the housing.

[0009] US 8,704,944 B1 describes a frame for holding a camera module. A smartphone can be clipped into this frame, called a "bracket," where the transmission of commands and image data between the frame and the smartphone is wireless.

[0010] A smartphone known from US 2014 / 0094221 A1 has a bayonet fastener for attaching an external module (e.g., a camera module). Summary of the Invention

[0011] In order to reliably connect an external camera module to a mobile device, a mechanically stable and easy-to-operate interface is required between the mobile device and the camera module.

[0012] The purpose of this invention is to provide a mobile device and a camera module having an improved interface for connecting the mobile device and the camera module.

[0013] This objective is achieved by a mobile device having the features of claim 1 and a camera module having the features of claim 11.

[0014] In the mobile device according to the invention, the recess of the defined module holding portion has a circumferential profile formed by an arc segment and a secant segment. The arc segment and the secant segment are adjacent to each other, such that the secant segment connects the two endpoints of the arc segment. Between the arc segment and the secant segment, there is no transition segment or only a very short transition segment, which may, for example, be formed into a corresponding circular shape due to technical manufacturing aspects, and this transition segment has a very small radius on the order of 1 mm. The radius of the arc segment is preferably constant over the length of the arc. However, in general, the radius of the arc segment can also vary within certain limits. In this case, the term "arc segment" cannot be interpreted in a strictly geometric literal sense, but at least roughly describes the direction of the circumferential profile.

[0015] Due to the design of the circumferential profile of the module retaining part and the circumferential profile of the corresponding camera module connecting section (explained in more detail below) according to the present invention, a compact design of the mechanical interface between the mobile device and the camera module is achieved compared with other designs, wherein, despite this, an anti-rotation connection is still ensured.

[0016] According to an advantageous embodiment of the mobile device, the arc segment extends at an angle of at least 270°, preferably at least 300°, and particularly preferably at least 315°.

[0017] The arc-shaped section advantageously has a latching section, and the secant section advantageously has an undercut section. When the camera module is connected to the mobile device, the latching section engages with the latching section of the camera module, and the undercut section engages with the undercut section of the camera module. Therefore, a stable connection is provided between the module holder and the camera module; however, this connection is easily established and disengaged. To establish the connection, the camera module is first suspended or hooked at an angle with its undercut section in the undercut section of the module holder. The latching sections are then engaged by a tilting motion. Release is performed in the reverse order: the latching sections first disengage at a slight tilt, and then the undercut section of the camera module is detached or unhooked from the undercut section of the module holder.

[0018] According to another advantageous embodiment of the mobile device, the latching section and the undercut section of the module retaining portion are disposed on the circumferential wall of the module retaining portion, preferably on the inner circumferential wall defining the recess. In this embodiment, the base of the recess of the module retaining portion may be without fastening elements or connecting elements.

[0019] Advantageously, the undercut section of the module retaining portion extends over the total length of the associated secant section. Alternatively or additionally, the latching section of the module retaining portion extends over a portion of the associated arcuate section, preferably over a portion of the section arranged opposite to the secant section. For example, the latching section may extend beyond 25% to 75% of the arc length or angle range of the arcuate section.

[0020] According to another advantageous embodiment of the mobile device, the latching section of the module retaining portion is configured as at least one rigid latch nose, which is preferably configured to engage with a corresponding associated latching section disposed at the connection section of the camera module, and preferably with a resilient or spring-supported latching element. Alternatively, the latching section of the module retaining portion may be configured as at least one resilient or spring-supported latching element, which is preferably configured to engage with a corresponding associated latching section disposed at the connection section of the camera module, and preferably with a rigid latch nose. In both alternatives, the corresponding latching element engages with the associated latch nose.

[0021] The latch nose can also be configured as a laterally extending continuous bead that engages with multiple latching elements.

[0022] Advantageously, the latch nose is located at the module holding section, and the latch element is correspondingly located at the connecting section, thereby preventing movable and therefore particularly sensitive parts from being located at the module holding section. Therefore, the risk of damage to the module holding section is reduced when the mobile device is used without the camera module connected, which would otherwise cover or restrict the movable parts.

[0023] According to another advantageous embodiment of the mobile device, the module retaining portion has a plurality of electrical contact elements configured to cooperate with associated electrical contact elements disposed at the connecting section of the connected camera module to provide an electrical interface for transmitting electrical signals and operating current between the mobile device and the camera module, preferably cooperating with contact elements of the module retaining portion disposed on the base surface of the recess. The electrical interface provided herein is specifically used for transmitting power supply voltage and control signals from the mobile device to the camera module, and for transmitting image signals from the camera module to the mobile device, so that the image signals can be further processed and / or stored in the mobile device, and / or transmitted from the mobile device to other remote devices if necessary. Additional data, particularly metadata of the camera module such as setting values, can also be transmitted via the electrical interface.

[0024] The arrangement of the contact elements of the module retainer on the base surface of the recess, in particular in conjunction with the arrangement of the latch section and the undercut section at the circumferential wall of the module retainer, provides good spatial separation between the mechanical components and the electrical components of the interface between the module retainer and the camera module.

[0025] Advantageously, the contact elements of the module retainer are configured as rigid contact elements, preferably as planar contact surfaces. This embodiment also helps to eliminate the need for movable parts in the module retainer itself, thereby reducing the risk of damage when the module device is used without the camera module connected.

[0026] According to another advantageous embodiment of the mobile device, preferably, the contact elements of the module retaining portion are arranged along a curve within a circumferential profile, which preferably extends from the circumferential profile at a constant interval. Corresponding to the circumferential profile, the curve also has arc-shaped segments and linearly extending secant-shaped segments.

[0027] Advantageously, the mobile device has an assembly frame configured to hold multiple components of the mobile device, including a camera module carrier directly fastened to the assembly frame and having a module retainer. The module retainer can be releasably fastened, preferably alternatively fastened to the remainder of the camera module carrier. The camera module carrier reliably transmits the force applied to the module retainer by the coupled camera module to the very stable assembly frame, which is typically configured as a metal component. This ensures a secure connection between the camera module and the mobile device and significantly reduces the risk of damage to the module device, particularly the risk of the module retainer being torn off or detached.

[0028] In the camera module according to the invention, the connecting section is defined to have a circumferential profile formed by an arc section and a secant section. Preferably, the circumferential profile of the connecting section is formed to complement the circumferential profile of the module retaining section, thereby enabling a problem-free connection between the camera module and the mobile device.

[0029] Advantageous embodiments of the camera module will be described below, wherein the aforementioned advantages of corresponding advantageous embodiments of the mobile device are also applied in a similar manner to the advantageous embodiments of the camera module, even if these advantages are not explicitly mentioned below. Furthermore, additional advantageous embodiments and advantages arise from combinations of advantageous embodiments of the camera module and advantageous embodiments of the mobile device.

[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment of the camera module, the arc segment extends at an angle of at least 270°, preferably at least 300°, and particularly preferably at least 315°.

[0031] According to another advantageous embodiment of the camera module, the arc segment has a latching segment and the secant segment has an undercutting segment. When the camera module is connected to a mobile device, the latching segment is configured to engage with the latching segment of the camera module, and the undercutting segment is configured to engage with the undercutting segment of the module retainer.

[0032] Advantageously, the latching section and the undercut section of the connecting section are located on the circumferential wall of the connecting section, preferably on the outer circumferential wall. Therefore, there are no fastening elements or connecting elements on the end face of the connecting section.

[0033] According to another advantageous embodiment of the camera module, the undercut section of the connecting segment extends over the total length of the associated secant section. Alternatively or additionally, the latching section of the connecting segment extends over a portion of the associated arcuate section, preferably over a portion of the arcuate section arranged opposite to the secant section. Correspondingly, advantageously, the latching section of the connecting segment extends beyond 25% to 75% of the arc length or angular range of the arcuate section.

[0034] Advantageously, the latching section of the connecting segment is configured as at least one resilient or spring-supported latching element, preferably configured to engage with a corresponding associated latching section provided at the module holding portion, preferably engaging with a rigid latch nose. Alternatively, the latching section of the connecting segment can be configured as at least one rigid latch nose, preferably configured to engage with a corresponding associated latching section provided at the module holding portion, preferably engaging with a resilient or spring-supported latching element. Thus, one or more latching elements can be provided.

[0035] According to the first alternative, if the latching element is located at the connecting section and the latching nose is correspondingly located at the module holding section, this advantageously helps to eliminate the need for movable parts located at the module holding section, thereby reducing the risk of damage during the use of the mobile device without the camera module connected.

[0036] According to another advantageous embodiment, the connecting section has a plurality of electrical contact elements configured to cooperate with associated electrical contact elements disposed at the module holding portion of the connected mobile device to provide an electrical interface for transmitting electrical signals and operating current between the mobile device and the camera module. Preferably, the contact elements of the connecting section are disposed at an end face of the connecting section. The end face of the connecting section is a surface arranged opposite to the light entry opening of the camera module, and preferably extends parallel to the base surface of the recess of the module holding portion when the camera module is connected to the mobile device.

[0037] Advantageously, the contact elements of the connecting section are configured as elastically or spring-supported contact elements, preferably as contact pins or contact springs. Preferably, the contact elements of the connecting section are movably supported in the axial direction, i.e., along the optical axis of the camera module. This ensures reliable contact with the contact elements of the module retaining portion. The arrangement of elastically or spring-supported contact elements at the connecting section of the camera module allows the corresponding contact elements of the module retaining portion to form rigidity, which in turn helps to keep the module retaining portion free of movable parts, thereby reducing the risk of damage when the camera module is not connected.

[0038] According to another advantageous embodiment of the camera module, preferably, the contact elements of the connecting section are arranged along a curve within a circumferential profile, the curve preferably extending from the circumferential profile at a constant interval.

[0039] The present invention also relates to a mobile device system comprising: a mobile device according to one embodiment or an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, and at least one camera module according to one embodiment or an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the camera module being releasably connected to or capable of being connected to the mobile device.

[0040] Further advantageous embodiments of mobile devices, camera modules, and mobile device systems are derived from the dependent claims, the specification, and the drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0041] The present invention will now be described with reference to embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0042] Figure 1 Perspective view of a mobile device according to an embodiment;

[0043] Figure 2 A perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0044] Figure 3 Figure 1 An internal perspective view of a mobile device;

[0045] Figure 4 Exploded view of the camera module's support structure;

[0046] Figure 5 Internal perspective view of a rear cover for a mobile device, the rear cover being connected to Figure 4 Camera module carrier;

[0047] Figure 6 Figure 1 Another perspective of the mobile device;

[0048] Figure 7 and Figure 8Cross-sectional views of the camera module and module retainer in different assembly positions; and

[0049] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view showing the modified camera module and module retainer in the connected position. Detailed Implementation

[0050] In the following text, the same or similar elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0051] exist Figure 1 The image shows a mobile device 10 designed as a mobile phone or smartphone in this embodiment. Generally, the invention can also be used with other types of mobile devices, such as small portable computers also known as tablets.

[0052] Figure 1 The mobile device 10 is shown from its rear side (i.e., the side opposite to the screen of the mobile device 10). The mobile device 10 has a housing including a rear shell 38. Approximately at the center of the rear shell 38, a circular recess is provided, in which a module retaining portion 12 is arranged. The outer contour of the module retaining portion 12 is also circular.

[0053] The module retaining portion 12 has a recess 13 facing the outer side of the mobile device 10 and defined by a circumferential contour, wherein the circumferential contour has an arcuate segment 14 and a secant segment 16 extending in a straight line. The arcuate segment 14 and the secant segment 16 can be said to define a circumferential wall that laterally defines the recess 13. Further details of the module retaining portion 12 can be found in... Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 I saw it in the middle.

[0054] The recess 13 has a base surface 24 in which a plurality of electrical contact elements 18 are embedded. The electrical contact elements 18 may be formed, for example, as planar contact surfaces. The contact elements 18 are arranged in the circumferential profile along a curve extending from the circumferential profile at a constant spacing.

[0055] exist Figure 2 The accompanying drawing shows a camera module 40, which is releasably connected to a mobile device 10 via a module retainer 12. The camera module 40 may include: an image sensor configured to capture still or moving images; and an objective lens having one or more lenses for generating an image on the image sensor. For simplicity, the image sensor and objective lens are not shown in the drawing.

[0056] The camera module 40 has a generally cylindrical body 60, one end face of which is arranged opposite to the light entry opening and abuts a connecting section 42 that protrudes slightly in the axial direction. The connecting section 42 has a circumferential profile that is slightly recessed inward relative to the circumferential profile of the body 60, and the connecting section is composed of an arc section 44 and a secant section 46.

[0057] The arc segment 44 and secant segment 46 of the camera module 40 match the arc segment 14 and secant segment 16 of the module holding part 12. Figure 1 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 This design allows the connecting section 42 to be received in the recess 13 and latched onto the module retaining portion 12, so as to connect the camera module 40 to the mobile device 10. The design of the connecting section 42 corresponds to the following... Figure 9 Variations of the description.

[0058] Contact elements 48 (corresponding in number and position to contact elements 18 in the module retainer) are arranged at the end face 62 of the connecting section 42 such that the corresponding contact elements 48 of the camera module 40 can make electrical contact with the associated contact elements 18 of the module retainer 12. For example, the contact elements 48 can be configured as spring-loaded contact pins to apply the contact pressure required for reliable electrical contact when the camera module 40 is connected to the mobile device 10.

[0059] Contact elements 18 and 48 define an electrical interface between the camera module 40 and the mobile device 10, through which control signals can be transmitted from the mobile device 10 to the camera module 40, and image signals generated by the image sensor can be transmitted from the camera module 40 to the mobile device 10. Furthermore, if the camera module 40 does not have its own power supply, the power voltage supplied by the battery of the mobile device 10 can also be transmitted to the camera module 40.

[0060] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The design of the mechanical interface between the camera module 40 and the mobile device 10 will now be explained in more detail. For clarity, the camera module 40 shown is slightly simplified, with no electrical or optical components other than some contact elements 48 shown as an example. In the mobile device 10, only the module holding part 12 is shown, where, as in the case of the camera module 40, electrical contact elements are not shown for clarity.

[0061] The secant segments 16 and 46 of the module retainer 12 or the camera module 40 have corresponding undercut segments 20 and 50 that mate with each other for a large portion of their length. In a portion of the arcuate segment 14 of the module retainer 12, a latching segment configured as a beaded latch nose 22 is provided, extending spaced apart from the base surface 24 along the circumferential wall of the recess 13. To allow for seamless insertion of the connecting segment 42 into the recess 13, the beaded latch nose 22 extends relative to the undercut segment 20 within an angle range slightly less than 180°.

[0062] At the outward-facing circumferential wall of the connecting section 42, a movable, supported spherical latching element 52 is provided as a complementary latching section, and this spherical latching element is preloaded radially outward via a compression spring 58 and a pivot arm 56. On one hand, the preload has the effect of ensuring that the latching element 52 reliably engages behind the latch nose 22, thus preventing the camera module 40 from slipping out of the module holding section 12. Furthermore, the force of the compression spring 58 generates a clamping force that keeps the undercut sections 20, 50 engaged. To set the preload or clamping force generated by the compression spring 58, and thus the holding force of the mechanical interface, the preload of the compression spring 58 can be changed by rotating an adjusting screw 57 that cooperates with the compression spring 58; for example, this adjusting screw is configured as a flat-head screw.

[0063] To connect or latch the camera module 40 to the mobile device 10 or the module holding part 12, the camera module 40 and the connecting part 42 are first inserted into the recess 13 at a slight angle, wherein contact is first established between the undercut parts 20 and 50 (see...). Figure 7 Then the camera module 40 is tilted so that the latching element 52 slides on the latch nose 22, wherein, as the latch nose 22 passes, the latching element 52 resists the force exerted by the compression spring 58 and springs slightly back into the connecting section 42, and then engages behind the latch nose 22 (see...). Figure 8 To release or unlock the camera module 40, the reverse process is followed, where sufficient tilting torque must be applied to overcome the force exerted by the compression spring 58 and to achieve the return of the latching element 52.

[0064] exist Figure 9 The diagram shows the relationship between the camera module 40 and the mobile device 10. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The mechanical interface described is a variant. The module holding part 12 corresponds to the... Figure 7 and Figure 8 The described embodiments differ slightly in the outline of the latch nose 22, but the connecting section 42 varies with the features described below.

[0065] Instead of the spherical latching element 52, a lever-shaped latching element 52' is provided, which is pivotally supported and preloaded radially outward via a compression spring 58. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this embodiment, the preload has the effect of reliably engaging the latch segment 53 formed at the latch element 52' behind the latch nose 22, thus preventing the camera module 40 from sliding out of the module retainer 12. Furthermore, the force of the compression spring 58' generates a clamping force that keeps the undercut segments 20, 50 engaged.

[0066] Although the connection or latch between the camera module 40 and the module holding part 12 can be made according to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The same method is used in the embodiments, but according to Figure 9 In a variant, an actuating section 54 is provided at the latching element 52'. Besides tilting the camera module 40, this actuating section must also be pressed to release the camera module, in accordance with... Figure 7 and Figure 8 Compared to the previous embodiment, due to the different profiles, the latch segment 53 and the latch nose 22 engage with each other, making it impossible to unlock without pressing the actuating element 54. When the actuating element 54 is pressed, the latch element 52' resists the force of the compression spring 58, pivots slightly back into the interior of the connecting segment 42, and the latch segment 53 disengages from the latch nose 22.

[0067] Because the profiles of the latch section 53 and the latch nose 22 are chosen such that it is impossible to release the camera module 40 from the module holding section 12 by tilting or overturning alone, therefore, according to Figure 7 and Figure 8 Compared to the previous embodiment, in accordance with Figure 9 In the embodiment of the interface, the risk of accidental separation of the camera module 40 is reduced.

[0068] about Figures 3 to 6 The following will explain in more detail how the module retainer 12 is connected to the rest of the mobile device 10. The mobile device 10 has an assembly frame 36, which is preferably made of metal and extends substantially inside the mobile device 10. By design, portions of the assembly frame 36 are visible from the outside and thus define narrow sides of the mobile device 10. Operating elements such as buttons or electrical connections may be specifically located in this area. The assembly frame 36 serves as a carrier for various components of the mobile device 10, such as electrical components, circuit boards, additional cameras, batteries for power supply, radio modules, etc.

[0069] In this embodiment, the module holding part 12 is part of the camera module carrier part 26, which is connected to the assembly frame 36. Specifically, in Figure 3and Figure 4 As can be readily seen, the camera module carrier 26 has a central region 28 in which a module retaining portion 12 is disposed. In this embodiment, the camera module carrier 26 is formed as multiple parts, and in addition to including the module retaining portion 12, it also includes a carrier plate 27, in which a circular receiving portion 32 for the module retaining portion 12 is formed. In this respect, the module retaining portion 12 is fixed to the carrier plate 27 with screws, so that the module retaining portion 12 can be replaced, for example, in the event of damage or replacement for other reasons. However, according to a variant not shown, the module retaining portion 12 may also be integrally formed in the camera module carrier 26.

[0070] The camera module carrier 26 or carrier plate 27 has six finger-shaped support portions 30 that extend outward from the central region 28 and gradually narrow towards their distal ends. At the distal ends of the support portions 30, corresponding fastening points 34 are provided, these fastening points having holes for receiving fastening screws and at least partially flange-like thickened portions to establish a desired spacing between the assembly frame 36 and the camera module carrier, thereby ensuring sufficient mounting space between the assembly frame 36 and the camera module carrier 26 for accommodating additional components of the mobile device 10.

[0071] The spider-like design of the camera module carrier 16 or carrier plate 27 provides free space extending between the support portions 30, ensuring sufficient mounting space for other components of the mobile device 10 without unnecessarily occupying space by the camera module carrier 26. Furthermore, this design allows the weight of the camera module carrier 26 to be reduced to the necessary amount. If the camera module carrier 26 is made of metal, the slender spider-like design reduces damage to the radio signal reception path caused by shielding and / or reflection effects.

[0072] about Figure 5 and Figure 6 The following will explain in more detail how the rear shell 38 and the camera module carrier 26 are connected to the assembly frame 36.

[0073] For example, the rear shell 38 can be made of a robust plastic material, having a deepened portion 39 in the overlapping area with the module carrier 26, wherein the material thickness of the rear shell 38 is slightly reduced. The outline of the deepened portion 39 generally follows the outer outline of the camera module carrier 26.

[0074] The camera module carrier 26 can first be fastened to the assembly frame 36, specifically by screws. For this purpose, the fastening screws can be guided through holes in the fastening points 34 of the camera module carrier 26 and screwed into corresponding threaded holes provided in the assembly frame 36. Then, the rear cover 38 covering the camera module carrier 26 is similarly fastened to the assembly frame 36, which can be achieved, for example, by screw engagement (particularly from the inside), latching, or gluing. To further increase stability, the rear cover 38 can also be glued to the camera module carrier 26.

[0075] According to a variant, the rear housing 38 can also be connected to the assembly frame 36 together with the camera module carrier 26. The rear housing 38 may have a hole that aligns with a hole in the fastening point 34 of the camera module carrier 26. Fastening of the rear housing 38 and the camera module carrier 26 is achieved such that a fastening screw is guided from the outside of the rear housing 38 through the hole and screwed into a corresponding threaded hole provided in the assembly frame 36. Thus, by means of these fastening screws, the module carrier and the rear housing 38 are fixed to the assembly frame 36. Furthermore, an adhesive bond can be provided between the rear housing 38 and the camera module carrier 26. If the rear housing 38 and the camera module carrier 26 are bonded together, in this respect, the hole in the rear housing 38 can also be made large enough that the head of the fastening screw does not form a form-fit connection with the rear housing 38, but the hole in the rear housing 38 can be said to be recessed to receive a screw head flush with or recessed relative to the outer surface of the rear housing 38. To cover the holes used for fastening screws, the outer side of the rear cover 38 may be covered with a cover or membrane to prevent dirt or moisture from penetrating into the interior of the mobile device 10.

[0076] List of reference numerals

[0077] 10 Mobile Devices

[0078] 12 Module Holding Section

[0079] 13 recess

[0080] 14. Arc Section

[0081] 16. Secant Section

[0082] 18 Contact elements

[0083] 20. Bottom-cut section

[0084] 22. Latch nose

[0085] 24. Substrate surface

[0086] 26 Camera module carrier

[0087] 27 Load-bearing plate

[0088] 28 Central Area

[0089] 30 Support section

[0090] 32 Receiving Section

[0091] 34 Fastening points

[0092] 36 Assemble the frame

[0093] 38 Back cover

[0094] 39. Darker Section

[0095] 40 camera module

[0096] 42 Connecting Section

[0097] 44. Arc Section

[0098] 46. ​​Secant section

[0099] 48 Contact elements

[0100] 50 Undercut section

[0101] 52, 52' latching elements

[0102] 53. Latch section

[0103] 54 Actuating Section

[0104] 56 Pivot Arm

[0105] 57 Adjusting screw

[0106] 58 Compression Springs

[0107] 60 main body

[0108] 62 end face

Claims

1. A mobile device (10) comprising a module holding part (12) for a camera module (40) for capturing still images and / or moving images, the camera module (40) having a coupling section (42) and releasably connected to the module holding part (12). in, The module holding part (12) has a recess (13) in which the connecting section (42) is received when the camera module (40) is connected to the mobile device (10). Its features are, The recess (13) of the module holding part (12) has a circumferential profile formed by an arc segment (14) and a secant segment (16). The arc segment (14) has a latching segment (22), and the secant segment (16) has an undercut segment (20). When the camera module (40) is connected to the mobile device (10), the latching segment (22) engages with the latching segment (52) of the camera module (40), and the undercut segment (20) engages with the undercut segment (50) of the camera module (40). The arc section (14) extends at an angle of at least 270°, and the latch section (22) extends relative to the undercut section (20).

2. The mobile device (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The latch section (22) and the undercut section (20) of the module holding part (12) are disposed at the circumferential wall of the module holding part (12).

3. The mobile device (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The undercut segment (20) of the module retaining portion (12) extends over the total length of the associated secant segment (16), and / or The latching section (22) of the module retaining part (12) extends on a portion of the associated arc section (14).

4. The mobile device (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The latching section (22) of the module retaining part (12) is configured as at least one rigid latch nose (22), or The latching section of the module retaining part (12) is configured as at least one elastic or spring-supported latching element.

5. The mobile device (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The module holding part (12) has a plurality of electrical contact elements (18) configured to cooperate with associated electrical contact elements (48) provided at the connection section (42) of the connected camera module (40) to provide an electrical interface for transmitting electrical signals and operating current between the mobile device (10) and the camera module (40).

6. The mobile device (10) according to claim 5. Its features are, The electrical contact element (18) of the module holding part (12) is configured as a rigid electrical contact element (18).

7. The mobile device (10) according to claim 5. Its features are, The electrical contact element (18) of the module holding part (12) is arranged along a curve within the circumferential profile.

8. The mobile device (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The mobile device (10) has an assembly frame (36) configured as a holding portion for a plurality of components of the mobile device (10). The mobile device (10) includes a camera module carrier (26) which is directly fastened to the assembly frame (36) and has the module holding part (12).

9. The mobile device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mobile device is a mobile phone.

10. The mobile device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The arc segment (14) extends at an angle of at least 300°.

11. The mobile device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The arc segment (14) extends at an angle of at least 315°.

12. The mobile device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The latch section (22) and the undercut section (20) of the module retaining part (12) are disposed at the inner circumferential wall of the module retaining part (12) that defines the recess (13).

13. The mobile device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The latching section (22) of the module retaining part (12) extends on a portion of the associated arc section (14) that is arranged opposite to the secant section (16).

14. The mobile device (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The at least one rigid latch nose is configured to engage with a corresponding associated latch segment (52) located at the connecting segment (42) of the camera module (40).

15. The mobile device (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The at least one rigid latch nose is configured to engage with a latch element (52) that is elastically or spring-supported.

16. The mobile device (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The at least one elastic or spring-supported latching element is configured to engage with a corresponding associated latching segment located at the connecting segment (42) of the camera module (40).

17. The mobile device (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The at least one elastic or spring-supported latching element is configured to engage with a rigid latch nose.

18. The mobile device (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The electrical contact element (18) of the module holding part (12) is disposed on the base surface (24) of the recess (13).

19. The mobile device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The electrical contact element (18) of the module holding part (12) is configured as a planar contact surface.

20. The mobile device (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The curves extend from the circumferential profile at constant intervals.

21. A camera module (40) for capturing still and / or moving images for a mobile device (10), the mobile device (10) having a module holding part (12), wherein, The camera module (40) has a connecting section (42) configured to engage with the module holding section (12) of the mobile device (10) so as to releasably connect the camera module (40) to the mobile device (10). The connecting section (42) can be received in the recess (13) of the module holding section (12). Its features are, The connecting section (42) has a circumferential profile formed by the arc section (44) and the secant section (46). The arc segment (44) has a latching segment (52), and the secant segment (46) has an undercut segment (50). When the camera module (40) is connected to the mobile device (10), the latching segment (52) is configured to engage with the latching segment (22) of the module holding part (12), and the undercut segment (50) is configured to engage with the undercut segment (20) of the module holding part (12). The arc segment (44) extends at an angle of at least 270°, and the latch segment (52) extends opposite to the undercut segment (50).

22. The camera module (40) according to claim 21. Its features are, The latching section (52) and the undercut section (50) of the connecting section (42) are disposed at the circumferential wall of the connecting section (42).

23. The camera module (40) according to claim 21. Its features are, The undercut segment (50) of the connecting segment (42) extends over the total length of the associated secant segment (46), and / or The latching section (52) of the connecting section (42) extends on a portion of the associated arc section (44).

24. The camera module (40) according to claim 21. Its features are, The latching section (52) of the connecting section (42) is configured as at least one elastic or spring-supported latching element (52), or The latching section of the connecting section (42) is configured as at least one rigid latch nose.

25. The camera module (40) according to claim 21. Its features are, The connecting section (42) has a plurality of electrical contact elements (48) configured to cooperate with associated electrical contact elements (18) provided at the module holding section (12) of the connected mobile device (10) to provide an electrical interface for transmitting electrical signals and operating current between the mobile device (10) and the camera module (40).

26. The camera module (40) according to claim 25. Its features are, The electrical contact element (48) of the connecting section (42) is configured as an elastic or spring-supported electrical contact element (48).

27. The camera module (40) according to claim 25. Its features are, The electrical contact element (48) of the connecting section (42) is arranged along a curve within the circumferential profile.

28. The camera module (40) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The mobile device is a mobile phone.

29. The camera module (40) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The arc segment (44) extends at an angle of at least 300°.

30. The camera module (40) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The arc segment (44) extends at an angle of at least 315°.

31. The camera module (40) according to claim 22, characterized in that, The latching section (52) and the undercut section (50) of the connecting section (42) are disposed on the outer circumferential wall of the connecting section (42).

32. The camera module (40) according to claim 23, characterized in that, The latching section (52) of the connecting section (42) extends on a portion of the associated arc section (44) that is arranged opposite to the secant section (46).

33. The camera module (40) according to claim 24, characterized in that, The at least one elastic or spring-supported latching element is configured to cooperate with a corresponding associated latching segment (22) disposed at the module retaining portion (12).

34. The camera module (40) according to claim 24, characterized in that, The at least one elastic or spring-supported latching element is configured to engage with a rigid latch nose (22).

35. The camera module (40) according to claim 24, characterized in that, The at least one rigid latch nose is configured to engage with a corresponding associated latch segment disposed at the module retainer (12).

36. The camera module (40) according to claim 24, characterized in that, The at least one rigid latch nose is configured to engage with a latch element that is elastically or spring-supported.

37. The camera module (40) according to claim 25, characterized in that, The electrical contact element (48) of the connecting section (42) is disposed at the end face (62) of the connecting section (42).

38. The camera module (40) according to claim 26, characterized in that, The electrical contact element (48) of the connecting section (42) is configured as a contact pin or a contact spring.

39. The camera module (40) according to claim 27, characterized in that, The curve extends from the circumferential profile at a constant interval.

40. A mobile device system, the mobile device system comprising: The mobile device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 20. And at least one camera module (40) according to any one of claims 21 to 39, the camera module being releasably connected to or capable of being connected to the mobile device (10).

41. The mobile device system according to claim 40, characterized in that, The mobile device is a mobile phone.

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