A camera motor, a camera module and an electronic device

Abstract

This application provides a camera motor, a camera module, and an electronic device, relating to the field of electronic device technology. It simplifies the manufacturing process and improves the reliability of connections between components. The camera motor includes a base, a carrier, and a connector; wherein the carrier is used to mount and fix the object to be driven; the carrier is formed on the outer surface of the connector, and at least a portion of the connector is located inside the carrier, the connector and the carrier are integrally formed, and the connector is used to support and connect the carrier to the base. The camera motor of this application is used to achieve autofocus or optical image stabilization in the camera module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic device technology, and in particular to a camera motor, camera module and electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and personal computers (PCs) generally have camera modules for taking photos / videos. To ensure clear images, automatic focusing (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) are required. AF and OIS are achieved using a camera motor. The camera module includes an optical lens and an image sensor; the camera motor drives the movement of the optical lens relative to the image sensor to achieve AF or OIS.

[0003] Currently, camera motors used in camera modules are typically assembled by bonding secondary components together using methods such as adhesive dispensing. As the number of secondary components in camera motors increases, the manufacturing process becomes increasingly complex, hindering automated and efficient production. Furthermore, the adhesive dispensing method for connecting multiple components lacks reliability and is prone to quality issues. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of this application provide a camera motor, a camera module, and an electronic device, which simplify the manufacturing process and improve the reliability of connections between components.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] In a first aspect, some embodiments of this application provide a camera motor, including a base, a carrier, and a connector; wherein the carrier is used to mount and fix an object to be driven; the carrier is formed on the outer surface of the connector, at least a portion of the connector is located inside the carrier, and the connector and the carrier are integrally formed, and the connector is used to support and connect the carrier to the base.

[0007] In the camera motor provided in this application embodiment, since the carrier is formed on the outer surface of the connector, at least a portion of the connector is located inside the carrier, and the connector and carrier are integrally formed, that is, at least a portion of the connector is enclosed within the carrier. This allows the carrier and connector to be a single, integral secondary material, reducing secondary materials, simplifying the production process, and facilitating automated and efficient production. Furthermore, compared to the adhesive dispensing method between components, the connection reliability between the carrier and connector is improved.

[0008] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the camera motor can be a vertical motor, with the base and carrier connected by a spring. Specifically, the connector includes a spring, comprising a fixing part and a spring arm part. The fixing part is located inside the carrier, and the spring arm part is connected to the base and fixed to the carrier through the fixing part. When the connector includes a spring, the carrier is formed on the outer surface of the spring, and at least a portion of the spring is enclosed inside the carrier, making the spring and carrier a single integral secondary material. This reduces secondary materials, simplifies the production process, and facilitates automated and efficient production. Moreover, compared to adhesive bonding between components, the connection between the carrier and the spring is highly reliable.

[0009] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, there are multiple reeds, with at least one reed integrally formed with the carrier. The carrier and the base can be connected by multiple reeds, thus the carrier can be integrally formed with any one reed; the carrier can also be integrally formed with any number of reeds; or the carrier can be integrally formed with all the reeds. In this implementation, the carrier and the reeds can be a single, integral secondary material, simplifying the manufacturing process and improving connection reliability.

[0010] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, multiple springs include upper and lower springs, which are respectively disposed near opposite sides of the carrier. The carrier is formed on the outer surface of the upper spring, and the carrier and the upper spring are integrally formed as a single material; or, the carrier is formed on the outer surface of the lower spring, and the carrier and the lower spring are integrally formed as a single material; or, the carrier is formed on the outer surfaces of both the upper and lower springs, and the carrier, the upper spring, and the lower spring are integrally formed as a single material. The springs can be arranged to include upper and lower springs, such that the upper and lower parts of the carrier are connected to the base by springs, thus making the connection between the carrier and the base more reliable and the vibration generated by the carrier during driven movement more stable. Based on this, the carrier can be integrally formed with either the upper or lower spring, or all three can be integrally formed with the upper and lower springs.

[0011] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the carrier and the spring are injection molded. The function of the spring includes providing an elastic connection between the carrier and the base, facilitating movement of the carrier relative to the base; and energizing the electromagnetic coil on the carrier. Therefore, the spring needs to have a certain strength, as well as good elasticity and conductivity. The spring is generally made of metal, while the carrier is often injection molded from plastic. Thus, the integrated structure of the carrier and the spring can be achieved through the injection molding process.

[0012] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the camera motor includes a Hall magnet and a Hall sensor. The Hall magnet is encased inside a carrier, integrally formed with the carrier. The Hall sensor is mounted on the base, and the Hall magnet and Hall sensor work together to detect the relative position of the base and the carrier. In a closed-loop motor, the relative position of the carrier and the base is detected to more accurately drive the object to be driven on the base to the precise target position. That is, a Hall magnet is placed on the carrier. In related technologies, the Hall magnet is glued to the carrier using adhesive, which suffers from low connection reliability, susceptibility to quality problems, and complex manufacturing processes. Therefore, to solve this problem, the Hall magnet is encased inside the carrier, integrally formed with the carrier.

[0013] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the Hall magnet is positioned close to the side of the carrier facing the Hall sensor. The position of the Hall magnet within the carrier is set as needed; for example, the Hall magnet can be positioned close to the side of the carrier facing the Hall sensor to facilitate easier interaction between the Hall magnet and the Hall sensor.

[0014] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the carrier and the Hall magnet are injection molded. The carrier is typically made of plastic, while the Hall magnet, being magnetic, is generally made of metal. Therefore, the integrated structure of the carrier and the Hall magnet can be achieved through an injection molding process.

[0015] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, an example of a drive motor is shown, wherein the carrier is a cube structure with a circular receiving hole in the center for mounting and fixing the object to be driven (which could be a lens module). In this way, reeds are positioned at the four corners of the carrier to ensure its balance.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the camera motor can be a periscope-type camera motor. The carrier and base of the periscope-type camera motor are connected via a ball joint, and the carrier can rotate around the ball joint that abuts against the base. Specifically, the connector includes a base and a ball joint formed on the base. The base is located inside the carrier and is integrally formed with the carrier, with the ball joint abutting against the base. This integrates the carrier, base, and ball joint into a single, integral secondary material, reducing the amount of secondary materials, simplifying the production process, and facilitating automated and efficient production. Furthermore, the connection between the components is relatively reliable.

[0017] In related technologies, the carrier abuts against the base via a convex spherical portion, and the carrier can rotate relative to the base around the convex spherical portion. The convex spherical portion is formed by bonding a spherical structural member to the carrier. This connection method is unreliable for two main reasons: first, the bonding method itself is not very robust; second, during the mating of the spherical structural member and the carrier, the spherical structural member is easily subjected to its own rotational force, and the mating position between the carrier and the spherical structural member lacks a corresponding structure to limit the rotation of the spherical structural member relative to the carrier, relying solely on the adhesive force to bear the load, further reducing reliability. Therefore, to avoid instability, the connector includes a convex ball and a base. The convex ball is formed on the base, so that the connector formed by the base and the convex ball is not a simple spherical structure. That is, the shape of the base and the convex ball are different. When the convex ball is subjected to a force that causes it to rotate, the rotation of the convex ball relative to the base can be limited by the shape and structure of the component itself through the cooperation between the base and the carrier, which further increases the reliability of the connection and makes the connection more reliable when the base is covered in the carrier.

[0018] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the outer contour of the base's cross-section is larger than that of the convex spherical portion along the direction from the base to the carrier, and the base is completely enclosed within the carrier. In a periscope camera motor, the carrier is driven to move relative to the base, and the convex spherical portion is mainly subjected to impact forces along the direction from the base to the carrier. To reduce the impact of the convex spherical portion on the carrier, the force-bearing area of ​​the carrier can be increased to reduce pressure. Specifically, the outer contour of the base's cross-section is larger than that of the convex spherical portion. Thus, the cross-sectional contour of the base, which is in direct contact with the carrier, is larger than the cross-section of the convex spherical portion, thereby reducing pressure and impact on the carrier. Moreover, this ensures that the relative position of the convex spherical portion and the carrier does not change, further improving reliability.

[0019] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the substrate is a connecting piece, and the convex spherical portion is disposed in the middle of the connecting piece. The substrate can be sheet-like, and the sheet-like substrate can be easily wrapped within the carrier, and while saving material, it can ensure that the outer contour of the cross-section of the substrate is larger than the outer contour of the cross-section of the convex spherical portion in the direction from the substrate into the carrier.

[0020] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the convex sphere is formed by stamping on the substrate. The convex sphere can be formed integrally with the substrate by stamping on the substrate.

[0021] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the convex ball is welded to the substrate. The convex ball can be welded to the substrate to form an integral structure with the substrate.

[0022] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the convex sphere and the base are integrally cast. The convex sphere can be integrally cast with the base so that the convex sphere and the base form an integral structure.

[0023] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the extending direction of the connecting piece is parallel to the extending direction of the outer surface of the carrier closest to it. This allows the sidewall of the connecting piece facing the convex spherical portion to engage with a larger area within the carrier, resulting in better displacement of the convex spherical portion perpendicular to the connecting piece.

[0024] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the two ends of the connecting piece extend away from the convex ball. During the use of a periscope camera motor, the force on the convex ball is primarily vibration that propels it towards the interior of the mount. Therefore, to further enhance the resistance to this vibration and ensure that the relative position of the convex ball and the mount remains unchanged, the two ends of the connecting piece extend away from the convex ball. This provides greater tension and cushioning against the force exerted by the convex ball towards the interior of the mount, ensuring that the vibration does not alter the relative position of the convex ball and the mount.

[0025] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the periscope camera motor is typically housed within the camera module that requires optical path conversion to achieve optical image stabilization. For example, the mount is a right-angled triangular structure, with the hypotenuse used to mount and fix the object to be driven (which could be a prism module), and the convex spherical portion located on one of the right-angled sides of the mount.

[0026] Secondly, some embodiments of this application provide a camera module, which includes a camera motor and a driven object as described in any of the technical solutions in the first aspect above. The driven object is disposed on the carrier of the camera motor and is an optical lens or prism module.

[0027] Since the camera module provided in this application embodiment includes the color temperature detection component of any of the above technical solutions, the two can solve the same technical problem and achieve the same technical effect.

[0028] Thirdly, some embodiments of this application provide an electronic device that includes a camera module and a controller as described in the second aspect. The controller is electrically connected to the camera motor of the camera module and is used to control the camera motor.

[0029] Since the electronic device provided in this application embodiment includes the camera module of the above technical solution, the two can solve the same technical problem and achieve the same technical effect. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1The electronic device provided in this application embodiment is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the back of a mobile phone;

[0031] Figure 2 An exploded view of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the motherboard and camera module of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a camera module for an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a camera module with an integrated periscope-type camera motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 6 A three-dimensional structural diagram of a vertical camera motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 7 An exploded view of a vertical camera motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of a vertical camera motor in related technologies, showing the carrier, upper spring, and lower spring connected by adhesive bonding.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a periscope camera motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 10 Exploded view of the mount, convex ball 1, and base of a periscope camera motor in related technologies;

[0040] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the electrical connections between the motherboard inside the electronic device and the components inside the camera module, provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the structure in which the mount of the camera motor is formed on the outer surface of the connector, as provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 13 A side view of a vertically mounted camera motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 14 An exploded view of a periscope camera motor provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 15 A perspective view of a periscope-type camera motor after installation, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0045] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the structure of a periscope camera motor with a connecting piece as its base, provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connecting piece of the periscope camera motor provided in the embodiment of this application, with both ends extending toward the side away from the convex ball.

[0047] Figure label:

[0048] 1-Housing; 11-Frame; 12-Back cover; 121-Mounting hole; 2-Camera module; 21-Camera assembly; 22-Flash; 23-Optical lens; 24-Image sensor; 25-Prism module; 3-Main board; 4-Decorative cover; 5-Camera motor; 51-Upper shell; 52-Carrier; 521-Spherical part; 522-Circular receiving hole; 53-Base; 54-Spring; 541-Upper spring; 542-Lower spring; Fixing part 543; Spring arm part 544; 55-Electromagnetic coil; 56-Drive magnet; 57-Hall magnet; 58-Chip; 59-Circuit board; 6-Base; 7-Controller. Detailed Implementation

[0049] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0050] Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are defined relative to the positions in which the components are schematically placed in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms are relative concepts, used for relative description and clarification, and can change accordingly depending on the position of the components in the accompanying drawings.

[0051] In the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium.

[0052] In embodiments of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0053] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design. Specifically, the use of the terms "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0054] This application provides an electronic device, which is a type of electronic device with a shooting function. Specifically, the electronic device can be a portable electronic device or other suitable electronic device. For example, the electronic device can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, personal computer, wearable device, camera, video camera, etc.

[0055] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 ,in, Figure 1 The diagram below shows a three-dimensional view of the back of a mobile phone, as provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The exploded view of the electronic device shown.

[0056] In this embodiment, taking a mobile phone as an example, the electronic device includes a housing 1, a camera module 2, a motherboard 3, and a decorative cover 4.

[0057] The housing 1 is a box structure assembled from a front panel (not shown in the figure), a frame 11 and a rear cover 12. Various components of the electronic device are housed inside the housing 1, and the housing 1 is used to protect these components.

[0058] The back cover 12 is provided with mounting holes 121 for mounting decorative cover 4, which protects the camera module 2 inside the housing 1.

[0059] The camera module 2 includes a camera assembly 21 and a flash 22. The camera assembly 21 is used to take photos / videos, and the flash 22 is used to flash to increase brightness when the light is insufficient for taking photos / videos.

[0060] Reference Figure 3 ,for Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the motherboard 3 and camera module 2 of an electronic device. Within the electronic device, the number of camera components 21 can be one or more. The camera module 2 can be used as a front-facing camera or a rear-facing camera. The camera components 21 in the camera module 2 include, but are not limited to, wide-angle camera components, telephoto camera components, depth-of-field camera components, macro camera components, etc., and are not specifically limited here. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The example shown is of a camera module 2 comprising two camera components 21 and used as a rear-facing camera; this should not be considered a particular limitation of this application.

[0061] Reference Figure 4 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a camera module 2. The camera module 2 mainly includes an optical lens 23 and an image sensor 24 for taking pictures and imaging. Ambient light is focused and imaged by the optical lens 23 and transmitted to the image sensor 24. The image sensor 24 is connected to the processing unit (e.g., a chip) on the motherboard 3 to achieve picture imaging.

[0062] To ensure clear images in photos / videos, the camera module 2 needs to perform autofocus and optical image stabilization. Autofocus is typically achieved by the camera motor 5 changing the distance between the optical lens 23 and the image sensor 24, ensuring that the focal point of the optical lens 23 falls precisely on the image sensor 24. Optical image stabilization works by using the camera motor to drive the optical lens 23, or by moving an optical path transmission component (such as a prism), to prevent ambient light fluctuations within the optical lens 23.

[0063] Reference Figure 4 In some embodiments, the optical lens 23 and the image sensor 24 are stacked along the thickness direction of the electronic device. In this case, the camera motor 5 is vertical and used to drive the movement of the optical lens 23 to achieve autofocus or optical image stabilization. (Refer to...) Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a camera module 2 integrating a periscope-type camera motor 5. In some embodiments, the optical lens 23 and the image sensor 24 are arranged side by side along the extension direction of the electronic device. In this case, it is necessary to refract ambient light at a 90-degree angle, which requires a moving prism module 25. The corresponding camera motor 5 is periscope-type, used to drive the movement of the prism module to achieve optical image stabilization.

[0064] Specifically, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 ,in, Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the upright camera motor 5. Figure 7This is an exploded view of the vertical camera motor 5. The vertical camera motor 5 generally includes an upper housing 51, a carrier 52, and a base 53. The upper housing 51 is fastened to the base 53, and the carrier 52 is located between the base 53 and the upper housing 51. The carrier 52 is connected to the base 53 via springs 54 (including an upper spring 541 and a lower spring 542). An electromagnetic coil 55 is provided on the carrier 52, and a driving magnet 56 is provided on the base 53. Through the electromagnetic force of the driving magnet 56 and the electromagnetic coil 55, the carrier 52 can move relative to the base 53, thereby enabling the camera motor 5 to drive the optical lens 23.

[0065] The vertical camera motor 5 drives the optical lens 23 to move in a direction away from or towards the image sensor 24 (refer to the vertical direction in the diagram), which enables focusing. The vertical camera motor 5 also drives the optical lens 23 to move accordingly based on the vibration of the electronic device, compensating for ambient light fluctuations and thus achieving optical image stabilization. The movement of the vertical camera motor 5 driving the optical lens 23 is generally perpendicular to the direction away from or towards the image sensor 24 (refer to the horizontal direction in the diagram).

[0066] The upper spring 541 and lower spring 542 of the vertical motor can not only elastically connect the carrier 52 and the base 53, but also power the electromagnetic coil 55.

[0067] In the camera module 2, which integrates a vertical camera motor 5, the relative position of the carrier 52 and the base 53 needs to be detected in order to accurately control their relative positions. Thus, referring to... Figure 7 This requires the installation of a Hall magnet 57 and a Hall sensor. The Hall magnet 57 is mounted on the carrier 52, and the Hall sensor (not shown in the figure) is mounted on the base 53. The Hall magnet 57 and the Hall sensor are used to detect the relative position of the carrier 52 and the base 53. Generally, a camera motor 5 with a Hall magnet 57 and a Hall sensor is called a closed-loop motor, while a camera motor 5 without a Hall magnet 57 and a Hall sensor is called an open-loop motor.

[0068] It should be noted that, Figure 7 The Hall sensor, not shown, is integrated in chip 58, which is mounted on circuit board 59, and circuit board 59 is fixed on base 53.

[0069] Currently, referring to Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vertical camera motor 5 in the related art, showing the connection between the carrier 52 and the upper and lower springs 541 and 542 via adhesive bonding. It is clear that in the vertical camera motor 5 of the related art, the upper and lower springs 541 are simply bonded to the surface of the carrier 52, and the connection between the carrier 52 and the Hall magnet 57 is also bonded within a groove. This results in a complex manufacturing process for the camera motor 5 and low reliability of the connections between components.

[0070] Reference Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the periscope-type camera motor 5. The periscope-type camera motor 5 includes a housing (not shown), a carrier 52, and a base 53. The carrier 52 and the base 53 are connected by a convex ball 521. The carrier 52 rotates or vibrates on the base 53 with the convex ball 521 as a fulcrum. Moreover, there can be multiple convex balls 521, that is, the carrier 52 can rotate relative to the base 53 in a single axis or in multiple axes. In the camera module 2 integrating the periscope-type camera motor 5, a prism module 25 is mounted on the carrier 52. The prism module 25 can rotate along the thickness direction of the electronic device (refer to...). Figure 5 Ambient light incident vertically is reflected / refracted along the direction of extension of the electronic device (refer to...). Figure 5 (in the horizontal direction) so as to enter the optical lens 23 and the image sensor 24.

[0071] Currently, referring to Figure 10 This is an exploded view of the carrier 52, the convex ball portion 521, and the base of a periscope camera motor 5 in the related art. In the periscope camera motor 5 of the related art, the carrier 52 and the convex ball portion 521 are two separate materials, which are fixed together by adhesive dispensing. High assembly precision is required, but adhesive dispensing is inconvenient due to space constraints, and the adhesive's adhesion is not high, making it easy for the relative positions of the carrier 52 and the convex ball portion 521 to change.

[0072] Embodiments of this application provide a camera module 2, including a camera motor 5 and a driven object, the driven object being disposed on a carrier 52 of the camera motor 5. Depending on its shape, the driven object can be an optical lens 23 or a prism module 25.

[0073] Reference Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the electrical connection between the motherboard 3 inside the electronic device and the components inside the camera module 2. In this embodiment, the electronic device also includes a controller 7. The controller 7 is electrically connected to the camera motor 5 of the camera module 2, and the controller 7 is used to control the operation of the camera motor 5.

[0074] In some embodiments, the controller 7 is located on the motherboard 3. It is understood that the controller 7 may also be located on other structures within the electronic device, such as on the circuit board of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device. Figure 11 The example given is that the controller 7 is set on the motherboard 3, which should not be considered as a special limitation of this application.

[0075] Some embodiments of this application provide a camera motor 5 that can solve the problems of complex processes and poor component connection reliability in related technologies.

[0076] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 12 ,in Figure 12 The diagram shows the structure of the carrier 52 formed on the outer surface of the connector. The camera motor 5 includes a base 53, a carrier 52, and a connector (a spring 54 in the figure is one implementation of the connector). The carrier 52 is used to mount and fix the object to be driven. The carrier 52 is formed on the outer surface of the connector. At least a part of the connector is located inside the carrier 52, and the connector is integrally formed with the carrier 52. The connector is used to support and connect the carrier 52 to the base 53.

[0077] In the camera motor 5 provided in this embodiment, since the carrier 52 is formed on the outer surface of the connector, at least a portion of the connector is located inside the carrier 52, and the connector and carrier 52 are integrally formed, that is, at least a portion of the connector is enclosed within the carrier 52. This allows the carrier 52 and the connector to be a single, integral secondary material, reducing the amount of secondary material, simplifying the production process, and facilitating automated and efficient production. Furthermore, compared to the method of dispensing adhesive between components, this improves the reliability of the connection between the carrier 52 and the connector.

[0078] The carrier 52 and the connector are integrally molded, which can be achieved through injection molding, so that at least a portion of the connector is enclosed by the carrier 52. Injection molding can be a single-stage injection molding or a two-stage injection molding. Single-stage injection molding refers to placing the manufactured connector in a corresponding mold, and then injection molding the carrier 52 in one go, making it an integral part of the connector. Two-stage injection molding refers to first injection molding a portion of the carrier 52, then placing the manufactured connector and the injection-molded portion of the carrier 52 in a corresponding mold for a second injection molding, ultimately making the carrier 52 and the connector an integral part of the material.

[0079] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 ,in Figure 13This is a side view of a vertically mounted camera motor 5. In some embodiments, the camera motor 5 is vertical, with the base 53 and the carrier 52 connected by a spring 54. The spring 54 includes a fixing part 543 and a spring arm 544. The fixing part 543 is located inside the carrier 52, and the spring arm 544 is connected to the base 53 and fixed to the carrier 52 by the fixing part 543. Specifically, the fixing part 543 of the spring 54 is enclosed inside the carrier 52, making the spring 54 and the carrier integrally formed. The spring arm 544 of the spring 54 is used to connect with the base 53. In this way, at least a portion of the spring 54 is enclosed inside the carrier 52, making the spring 54 and the carrier 52 a single integral secondary material, reducing secondary materials, simplifying the production process, and facilitating automated and efficient production. Moreover, compared to the glue-dispensing method between components, the connection between the carrier 52 and the spring 54 is very reliable. In some embodiments, the carrier 52 and the base 53 can be connected by multiple springs 54. Thus, the carrier 52 can be integrally formed with any one spring 54; the carrier 52 can also be integrally formed with any multiple springs 54; or the carrier 52 can be integrally formed with all the springs 54. In this implementation, the carrier 52 and the springs 54 can be a single, integral secondary material, simplifying the manufacturing process and improving connection reliability.

[0080] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The reed 54 includes an upper reed 541 and a lower reed 542, which are respectively disposed near opposite sides of the carrier 52. When the reed 54 includes an upper reed 541 and a lower reed 542, there are various ways to make the carrier 52 integral with the reed 54. For example, the carrier 52 is formed on the outer surface of the upper reed 541, and the carrier 52 is integrally formed with the upper reed 541; or, the carrier 52 is formed on the outer surface of the lower reed 542, and the carrier 52 is integrally formed with the lower reed 542; or, the carrier 52 is formed on the outer surfaces of both the upper reed 541 and the lower reed 542, and the carrier 52 is integrally formed with both the upper reed 541 and the lower reed 542.

[0081] In addition, the reed 54 includes an upper reed 541 and a lower reed 542, and the upper reed 541 and the lower reed 542 are respectively arranged close to the opposite sides of the carrier 52, so that the upper and lower parts of the carrier 52 are connected to the base 53 by the reed 54. In this way, the connection between the carrier 52 and the base 53 is more reliable, and the vibration generated by the carrier 52 when it is driven is more stable.

[0082] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 12This example illustrates one implementation of a vertical camera motor 5. The carrier 52 can be a cube structure with a circular receiving hole 522 in the center. The circular receiving hole 522 is used to mount and fix the object to be driven (which can be an optical lens 23). In this way, the spring 54 can be set at the four corners of the carrier 52 to ensure the balance of the carrier 52 when it vibrates.

[0083] The function of the reed 54 includes providing an elastic connection between the carrier 52 and the base 53, facilitating movement of the carrier 52 relative to the base 53; and energizing the electromagnetic coil 55 on the carrier 52. Therefore, the reed 54 needs to possess certain strength, good elasticity, and conductivity. The reed 54 is generally made of metal, while the carrier 52 is often injection molded from plastic. Thus, the integrated structure of the carrier 52 and the reed 54 can be achieved through an injection molding process. Injection molding can be a single injection molding or a two-stage injection molding. Single injection molding refers to placing the manufactured reed 54 in the corresponding mold, and then injection molding the carrier 52 in one step, making it an integral part of the carrier 54. Two-stage injection molding refers to first injection molding a portion of the carrier 52, then placing the manufactured reed 54 and the injection-molded portion of the carrier 52 in the corresponding mold for a second injection molding, ultimately making the carrier 52 and the reed 54 an integral part of the carrier.

[0084] As mentioned above, in some implementations of the camera motor 5, in order to detect the relative position of the carrier 52 and the base 53 and to more accurately drive the object to be driven on the base 53 to the precise target position, a Hall magnet 57 is installed on the carrier 52, and a corresponding Hall sensor is installed on the base 53. In related technologies, the Hall magnet 57 is glued to the carrier 52 by dispensing adhesive, which also has the problems of low connection reliability, easy quality problems, and complex manufacturing process.

[0085] Therefore, in order to solve this problem, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 The Hall magnet 57 is encased inside the carrier 52, and the Hall magnet 57 and the carrier 52 are integrally formed.

[0086] The position of the Hall magnet 57 within the carrier 52 is set as needed, refer to... Figure 7 The Hall magnet 57 can be positioned close to the side of the carrier 52 facing the Hall sensor, making it easier for the Hall magnet 57 and the Hall sensor to work together.

[0087] The carrier 52 is typically injection molded from plastic, while the Hall magnet 57, being magnetic, is generally made of metal. Therefore, the integrated structure of the carrier 52 and the Hall magnet 57 can be achieved through injection molding. Injection molding can be a single-stage process or a two-stage process. Single-stage injection molding involves placing the manufactured Hall magnet 57 into a corresponding mold, and then injection molding the carrier 52 in one step, making them an integral part of the material. Two-stage injection molding involves first injection molding a portion of the carrier 52, then placing the manufactured Hall magnet 57 and the injection-molded portion of the carrier 52 into a corresponding mold for a second injection molding process, ultimately making the carrier 52 and the Hall magnet 57 an integral part of the material.

[0088] In some embodiments, the camera motor 5 is a periscope type. (See reference...) Figure 14 and Figure 15 ,in, Figure 14 An exploded view of the periscope camera motor 5. Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the periscope camera motor 5 after installation. The carrier 52 and base 53 of the periscope camera motor 5 are connected by a ball joint 521, and the carrier 52 can rotate around the ball joint 521 that abuts against the base 53. Specifically, the connector includes a base 6 and a ball joint 521 formed on the base 6. The base 6 is located inside the carrier 52 and is integrally formed with the carrier 52, while the ball joint 521 abuts against the base 53. In this way, the carrier 52, the base 6, and the ball joint 521 become a single, integral secondary material, reducing the number of secondary materials, simplifying the production process, and facilitating automated and efficient production. Moreover, the connection between the components is relatively reliable.

[0089] In related technologies, refer to Figure 10 The carrier 52 abuts against the base 53 via a convex spherical portion 521. The carrier 52 can rotate relative to the base 53 around the convex spherical portion 521. The convex spherical portion 521 is formed by bonding a spherical structural member to the carrier 52. This connection method is unreliable for two main reasons: first, the bonding method itself is not very reliable; second, in the engagement between the spherical structural member and the carrier 52, the spherical structural member is easily subjected to its own rotational force, and the position where the carrier 52 engages with the spherical structural member lacks a corresponding structure to limit the rotation of the spherical structural member relative to the carrier 52, relying solely on the adhesive force to bear the force, further reducing reliability.

[0090] Therefore, in the embodiments of this application, if the convex ball portion 521 is directly integrally formed with the carrier 52, the connection between the carrier 52 and the convex ball portion 521 will not be reliable enough. To avoid the problem of insecurity, the connector includes the convex ball portion 521 and the base 6. The convex ball portion 521 is formed on the base 6, so that the connector formed by the base 6 and the convex ball portion 521 is not a simple spherical structure. That is, the base 6 and the convex ball portion 521 have different shapes. When the convex ball portion 521 is subjected to a force that causes it to rotate, the rotation of the convex ball portion 521 relative to the carrier 52 can be limited through the cooperation between the base 6 and the carrier 52, which further increases the reliability of the connection, making the connection more reliable when the base 6 is covered inside the carrier 52.

[0091] Reference Figure 5 The periscope-type camera motor 5 is generally located inside the camera module 2 that needs to convert the optical path, in order to achieve optical image stabilization. For example, the carrier 52 is a right-angled triangle structure, the hypotenuse of the carrier 52 is used to mount and fix the object to be driven (which may be the prism module 25), and the convex ball 521 is located on one of the right-angled sides of the carrier 52.

[0092] In the periscope-type camera motor 5, the carrier 52 is driven to move relative to the base 53. The convex ball portion 521 is mainly subjected to impact force along the direction from the base 53 into the carrier 52. To reduce the impact of the convex ball portion 521 on the carrier 52, the force-bearing area of ​​the carrier 52 can be increased to reduce the pressure. In some embodiments, along the direction from the base 53 to the carrier 52, the outer contour of the cross-section of the base 6 is larger than the outer contour of the cross-section of the convex ball portion 521, and the base 6 is completely enclosed inside the carrier 52. In this way, the contour of the cross-section of the base 6, which is in direct contact with the carrier 52, is larger than the cross-section of the convex ball portion 521, thereby reducing the pressure and the impact on the carrier 52. Moreover, this ensures that the relative position of the convex ball portion 521 and the carrier 52 does not change, resulting in higher reliability.

[0093] The shape and structure of the base 6 can be implemented in various ways. As long as the outer contour of the cross-section of the base 6 is larger than the outer contour of the cross-section of the convex ball 521 along the direction from the inside of the carrier 52 towards the convex ball 521, and the base 6 is completely enclosed inside the carrier 52, it can be ensured that there is no relative displacement between the convex ball 521 and the carrier 52, thus ensuring the reliability of the periscope camera motor 5. For example, in some implementations, the base 6 is a connecting piece, with the convex ball 521 located in the middle of the connecting piece. The sheet-like base 6 can be easily enclosed inside the carrier 52, and the two sides of the sheet-like base 6 have sufficient pressure-bearing surfaces to provide greater friction and tension.

[0094] During the use of the periscope camera motor 5, the force on the convex ball 521 is mainly the vibration that causes the convex ball 521 to vibrate towards the interior of the carrier 52. (Refer to...) Figure 16 The diagram shows the structure of the base 6 of the periscope-type camera motor 5 as a connecting piece. In some embodiments, the extending direction of the connecting piece (base 6 in the figure) is parallel to the extending direction of the outer surface of the carrier 52 closest to it. In this way, the sidewall of the connecting piece facing the convex ball 521 will have a larger area of ​​contact with the inside of the carrier 52, which will better facilitate the displacement of the convex ball 521 perpendicular to the connecting piece.

[0095] To further enhance the resistance to vibrations from the convex ball portion 521 towards the interior of the carrier 52, and to ensure that the relative positions of the convex ball portion 521 and the carrier 52 remain unchanged. (Refer to...) Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the periscope camera motor 5, showing the connecting piece (base 6 in the figure) extending at both ends away from the convex ball 521. This allows the connecting piece to provide greater tension and cushioning against the force exerted by the convex ball 521 towards the interior of the carrier 52, ensuring that vibrations of the convex ball 521 towards the interior of the carrier 52 do not cause changes in the relative position of the convex ball 521 and the carrier 52.

[0096] It should also be noted that the base 6 and the convex ball portion 521 are also an integral structure, together forming a connector. There are several ways to achieve this integral structure. For example, the convex ball portion 521 can be stamped onto the base 6 to form an integral structure. Alternatively, the convex ball portion 521 can be welded to the base 6 to form an integral structure. Or, the convex ball portion 521 and the base 6 can be integrally cast to form an integral structure.

[0097] Both the base 6 and the convex ball portion 521 need to withstand significant and prolonged vibration and impact. Therefore, the materials chosen must ensure a certain level of strength. For example, both the base 6 and the convex ball portion 521 are made of high-strength metals or alloys. The base 6 and the convex ball portion 521 are connected together through an integral molding process, that is, as mentioned in the above scheme: the convex ball portion 521 is a protruding structure stamped onto the base 6; or, the convex ball portion 521 and the base 6 are manufactured separately and then fixed together by welding; or, the convex ball portion 521 and the base 6 are directly cast together using a casting mold.

[0098] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0099] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A camera motor, characterized by, include: Base; A carrier, used to mount and fix the object to be driven; A connector, wherein the carrier is formed on the outer surface of the connector, at least a portion of the connector is located inside the carrier, the connector is integrally formed with the carrier, and the connector is used to support and connect the carrier to the base; The connector includes a base and a convex ball portion formed on the base. The base is located inside the carrier and is integrally formed with the carrier. The convex ball portion abuts against the base. The substrate is a connecting piece, and both ends of the connecting piece extend in the thickness direction of the carrier toward the side away from the convex ball.

2. The camera motor of claim 1, wherein, The convex ball portion is located in the middle of the connecting piece.

3. The camera lens motor of claim 2, wherein, The convex spherical portion is formed by stamping on the substrate.

4. The camera motor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The convex spherical portion is welded to the substrate.

5. The camera motor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The convex spherical part and the base are integrally cast.

6. A camera module, characterized in that, include: The camera motor according to any one of claims 1-5; An object to be driven is mounted on the carrier of the camera motor, and the object to be driven is an optical lens.

7. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The camera module as described in claim 6; A controller is electrically connected to the camera motor of the camera module, and the controller is used to control the camera motor.

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