Camera module

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention provide a camera module including a fixed part, a moving part that moves in an optical axis direction with respect to the fixed part, a first driving part that moves the moving part within a first maximum speed, and a second driving part that moves the moving part within a second maximum speed, wherein the first driving part and the second driving part move the moving part in the optical axis direction, and the second maximum speed is greater than the first maximum speed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a camera module. Background Technology

[0002] A camera is a device that captures images of objects or moving images, and is installed in portable devices, drones, vehicles, etc. To improve image quality, camera devices or camera modules may have image stabilization (IS), autofocus (AF), and zoom functions. Image stabilization corrects or prevents image shake caused by user movement, autofocus automatically adjusts the distance between the image sensor and the lens to set the lens's focal length, and zoom increases or decreases magnification to capture images of objects from a distance.

[0003] Meanwhile, as the number of pixels in an image sensor increases, the resolution increases, but the pixel size decreases. With the smaller size, the amount of light received by each pixel in the same amount of time also decreases. Therefore, as the number of pixels in a camera increases, image shake caused by camera shakiness due to slower shutter speeds in dark environments may become more severe. Optical image stabilization (OIS), which corrects movement by altering the optical path, is a typical image stabilization technique.

[0004] According to general OIS technology, camera movement can be detected using sensors such as gyroscopes, and then the lens or camera module including the lens and image sensor can be tilted or moved based on the detected movement. When the lens or camera module including the lens and image sensor is tilted or moved for OIS functionality, additional space needs to be ensured around the lens or camera module for tilting or moving.

[0005] Meanwhile, the actuators for OIS can be positioned around the lens. In this case, the actuators for OIS may include actuators responsible for tilting on two axes perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0006] Furthermore, due to the recent demand for ultra-thin and ultra-compact camera devices, there are many space constraints on the arrangement of actuators used for OIS, etc., and the problem is that it is difficult to ensure sufficient space for tilting or moving the OIS in a lens or camera module including a lens and an image sensor. In addition, as the number of pixels in a camera increases, the size of the lens preferably increases to increase the amount of light received, but the increase in lens size may be limited by the space occupied by the actuators used for OIS.

[0007] In addition, there is a problem that it is difficult to easily perform the AF function that adjusts the focal length of the lens during image capture. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a camera module that performs autofocus at high speed during image capture.

[0010] Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide a camera module that prevents image jitter caused by changes in field of view during image capture.

[0011] Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide a camera module that performs autofocus at more FPS than the number of frames per second (FPS) of image capture.

[0012] Technical solution

[0013] One aspect of the present invention provides a camera module comprising a fixed portion, a movable portion that moves relative to the fixed portion along an optical axis, a first driving portion that moves the movable portion at a first maximum speed or lower, and a second driving portion that moves the movable portion at a second maximum speed or lower, wherein the first driving portion and the second driving portion move the movable portion along an optical axis, and the second maximum speed is greater than the first maximum speed.

[0014] The moving part can repeatedly move and stop within a first time section via the first driving part and the second driving part.

[0015] The fixed part may include at least one of a housing and a base, and the movable part may include at least one of a lens part and an image sensor.

[0016] The lens portion can be disposed in the housing, and the lens portion may include a lens holder and a lens assembly disposed in the lens holder. The image sensor can be disposed in the base.

[0017] During the exposure time, the first moving direction of the moving part caused by the first driving part can be opposite to the second moving direction of the moving part caused by the second driving part.

[0018] The moving part can move linearly via the first drive part.

[0019] During each period of the second time period, the moving part can move vertically via the second driving part.

[0020] In each second time period, the moving part can be moved to the origin via the second driving part.

[0021] The second drive section can be disposed between the moving section and the first drive section, and connected to the moving section and the first drive section.

[0022] The first time period can be less than the reciprocal of the preset playback frame rate (FPS).

[0023] Beneficial effects

[0024] According to embodiments, the present invention can provide a camera actuator suitable for ultra-thin cameras, ultra-compact cameras, and high-resolution cameras. In particular, an actuator for optical image stabilization (OIS) can be effectively configured without increasing the overall size of the camera device.

[0025] According to the embodiments, a camera module that can perform autofocus at high speed even during image capture can be realized.

[0026] Furthermore, the present invention enables a camera module that prevents image jitter caused by changes in field of view during image capture.

[0027] Furthermore, the present invention enables a camera module that performs autofocus at more frames per second (FPS) than the number of frames per second (FPS) of image capture, so as to adjust the focus without requiring user input. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram showing the camera module according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a view used to describe a first driving portion according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a view used to describe the second driving portion according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a view used to describe the autofocus of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a view showing the change in the amount of movement of a camera module for autofocus according to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 7This is a view showing the exposure time corresponding to the amount of movement of the camera module for autofocus according to this embodiment.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a view showing the amount of movement of the first drive portion and the second drive portion in a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a view showing the amount of movement of the first drive portion and the second drive portion in a camera module according to another embodiment.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a view showing the change in the amount of movement of a camera module for autofocus according to yet another embodiment.

[0038] Figure 11 This is a structural diagram showing the camera module according to the second embodiment.

[0039] Figure 12 This is a structural diagram showing a camera module according to a third embodiment.

[0040] Figure 13 This is a structural diagram showing the camera module according to the fourth embodiment.

[0041] Figure 14 This is a structural diagram illustrating a camera module according to a modified embodiment.

[0042] Figure 15 This is a view illustrating an electronic device including a camera module according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Because this invention allows for various modifications and has many embodiments, specific embodiments will be shown and described in the accompanying drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the invention to these specific embodiments, but it should be understood that all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of this invention are included herein.

[0044] Although terms such as “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the invention, a second element may be referred to as a first element, and a first element may similarly be referred to as a second element. The term “and / or” includes any one or any combination of multiple associated listed items.

[0045] When a component is referred to as "connected" or "linked" to another component, it is understood that the component can be directly connected to or linked to the other component, or that another component can exist between the two. Conversely, when a component is referred to as "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another component, it is understood that there is no intermediate component.

[0046] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is intended to include the plural form. It should be understood throughout this specification that the terms “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” and / or “including”, as used herein, specify the presence of the stated features, quantities, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Terms, such as those defined in common dictionaries, should be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant technical context, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalistic manner unless explicitly defined herein.

[0048] In the following detailed description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, identical or corresponding parts will be indicated by identical or corresponding reference numerals in all drawings, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] refer to Figure 1 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the camera module 1000 may include a fixed part G1, a movable part G2, a first driving part M1, and a second driving part M2.

[0051] The fixed portion G1 may include fixed components in the camera module 1000. That is, the fixed portion G1 may include components that do not move when performing autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS). Specifically, in this invention, the fixed portion G1 may include components that do not move when performing AF.

[0052] For example, in the camera module 1000 according to an embodiment, the fixed portion G1 may include at least one of a housing and a base. Furthermore, as described above, the fixed portion G1 may also be conceived as including all components that do not move during AF and OIS operations.

[0053] The moving portion G2 may include a moving component within the camera module 1000. That is, the moving portion G2 may include a component that moves during AF and OIS operations. Specifically, in this invention, the moving portion G2 may include a component that moves during AF operations. Therefore, in an embodiment, the moving portion G2 may include a component that moves along the optical axis. In other words, the moving portion G2 may include a component that moves in a direction parallel to the optical axis.

[0054] For example, in the camera module 1000 according to an embodiment, the moving part G2 may include at least one of a lens portion and an image sensor. Furthermore, as described above, the moving part G2 may be conceived as including all components that move during AF and OIS operations.

[0055] The first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2 can be connected to the fixed portion G1, etc., and move the moving portion G2, thereby moving the moving portion G2 relative to the fixed portion G1. In this case, the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2 can move the moving portion G2 in a direction corresponding to the optical axis direction (e.g., parallel).

[0056] The first drive section M1 and the second drive section M2 may include various actuators. For example, each of the first drive section M1 and the second drive section M2 may include one of a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator, a piezoelectric actuator, and a capacitively driven microelectromechanical system (MEMS) actuator.

[0057] More specifically, the maximum speeds of the first drive section M1 and the second drive section M2 used to move the moving section G2 may be different from each other.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first driving section M1 can cause the moving section G2 to move at a first maximum speed or a lower speed. Furthermore, the second driving section M2 can cause the moving section G2 to move at a second maximum speed or a lower speed. Additionally, the second maximum speed can be greater than the first maximum speed.

[0059] In other words, the minimum time required for the first drive section M1 and the second drive section M2 to move the moving section G2 to the same distance may be different. For example, the minimum time required for the first drive section M1 to move the moving section G2 to a certain distance may be longer than the minimum time required for the drive section M2 to move the moving section G2 to that certain distance.

[0060] Alternatively, the time it takes for the first drive section M1 and the second drive section M2 to enter the normal state after the drive signal is applied, or the time difference between 10% and 90% of the normal state of the first drive section M1 and the second drive section M2 (hereinafter referred to as the drive time difference), can be different. That is, the drive time difference of the first drive section M1 can be longer than the drive time difference of the second drive section M2.

[0061] Therefore, in this specification, the first maximum speed and the second maximum speed are the maximum instantaneous speeds.

[0062] For example, the first drive section M1 can be a VCM. Furthermore, the second drive section M1 can be a piezotype actuator, which has a higher maximum instantaneous speed than a VCM and uses piezoelectric power.

[0063] Alternatively, the first drive section M1 can be a VCM. Furthermore, the second drive section M1 can be a shape memory alloy (SMA) type actuator, which has a higher maximum instantaneous speed than a VCM.

[0064] Alternatively, the first drive section M1 can be a VCM. Furthermore, the second drive section M1 can be an actuator that alters the interface of the liquid lens and has a higher maximum instantaneous speed than a VCM.

[0065] Alternatively, the first drive section M1 can be an SMA-type actuator. Furthermore, the second drive section M1 can be a piezoelectric actuator, which has a higher maximum instantaneous speed than an SMA-type actuator.

[0066] Alternatively, the first drive section M1 can be an actuator that provides an interface change in the liquid lens. Furthermore, the second drive section M1 can be a piezoelectric actuator with a higher maximum instantaneous speed than the first drive section M1 and uses piezoelectric power.

[0067] Alternatively, the first drive section M1 can be an actuator that provides interface changes within the liquid lens. Furthermore, the second drive section M1 can be a piezoelectric actuator with a higher maximum instantaneous speed than the first drive section M1 and utilizes piezoelectric power.

[0068] Alternatively, the first drive section M1 can be a VCM. Furthermore, the second drive section M1 can be an SMA-type actuator, which has a higher maximum instantaneous speed than a VCM. Additional embodiments will be described below.

[0069] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram showing the camera module according to the first embodiment.

[0070] refer to Figure 2 The camera module according to the first embodiment may include a housing 100, a lens portion including a lens holder 200 and a lens assembly 300, an elastic member 400, a base 500, an image sensor 600, a first driving portion M1, and a second driving portion M2.

[0071] The housing 100 can be positioned at the outermost part of the camera module 1000. The housing 100 protects components from external foreign objects. Furthermore, the housing 100 can be formed of a material capable of protecting other components within the housing 100 from external electromagnetic waves. Therefore, the reliability of the camera module can be improved.

[0072] The housing 100 may include a hole. A lens portion, described below, can be placed within this hole. The housing 100 and the lens portion can be connected via a first drive portion M1. The lens portion can move along the optical axis OX via the first drive portion M1.

[0073] This embodiment will be described based on the housing 100 and lens portion connected by the first drive portion M1, and the base 500 and image sensor 600 connected by the second drive portion M2. However, in this invention, since the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2 move these moving portions along the optical axis and are connected to the fixed portion, the components of the moving portions or the components connected to the fixed portion of the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2 can be changed. Specific related embodiments will be described through the second embodiment and the modified embodiments described below.

[0074] The lens portion can be disposed in a hole in the housing 100. The lens portion may include a lens holder 200 and a lens assembly 300.

[0075] The lens holder 200 can be disposed in a hole in the housing 100. Furthermore, the lens holder 200 may include a hole. Specifically, the lens holder 200 may include a hole passing through the lens holder 200 along the optical axis. For example, the inner circumferential surface of the lens holder 200 may include threads corresponding to threads formed on the outer circumferential surface of the lens assembly 300. However, the invention is not limited to this shape. For example, various elements such as elastic members (e.g., leaf springs), guide portions (e.g., spheres), and pins can be disposed between the lens holder 200 and the lens assembly 300, and thus, the lens holder 200 and the lens assembly 300 can be easily coupled. Embodiments will be described below based on the elastic member 400. Furthermore, the description of this coupling can also be applied to other fixed and moving parts.

[0076] The lens assembly 300 can be disposed in the hole of the lens holder 200. The lens assembly 300 may include multiple lenses. Furthermore, the multiple lenses may include fixed lenses whose positions are fixed, and movable lenses that move along the optical axis. Alternatively, all of the multiple lenses may be movable portions.

[0077] The elastic member 400 can be connected to the housing 100 and the lens holder 200. In an embodiment, the housing 100 and the lens holder 200 can be interconnected via the elastic member 400. The elastic member 400 and the housing 100, or the lens holder 200 and the elastic member 400, can be connected by an adhesive or by thermal fusion. The adhesive can be formed of an epoxy resin that is cured by at least one of ultraviolet (UV) light, heat, and laser.

[0078] Furthermore, the elastic member 400 may be disposed between the lens holder 200 and the base 500. Alternatively, the elastic member 400 may also be disposed between the housing 100 and the base 500. In this case, a magnet or coil for performing OIS may be positioned on each of the housing 100 and the base 500. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and the magnet or coil for OIS may also be additionally positioned on each of the lens holder 200 and the housing 100. Alternatively, the magnet or coil for performing OIS may also be positioned on the image sensor 600.

[0079] The base 500 may be disposed within the housing 100. Alternatively, the base 500 may be positioned in the lower portion of the housing 100. The base 500 may include a hole in the optical axis direction. The hole of the base 500 may overlap with the lens assembly 300 in the optical axis direction.

[0080] The base 500 can be connected to the lens holder 200 via the elastic member 400. Furthermore, the elastic member 400 and the lens holder 200, or the base 500 and the elastic member 400, can be connected via adhesive or thermal fusion. The adhesive can be formed from an epoxy resin that is cured by at least one of UV light, heating, and laser.

[0081] The image sensor 600 can be positioned within a hole in the base 500. The image sensor 600 can be disposed at a position corresponding to the lens assembly 300. The image sensor 600 can be disposed on the substrate 700 together with the base 500. In this case, the camera module may also include the substrate 700.

[0082] Image sensor 600 can be electrically connected to substrate 700. Image sensor 600 can be connected to substrate 700 via flip chip. Image sensor 600 can be connected to substrate 700 via soldering.

[0083] Furthermore, the image sensor 600 can be configured to have the same optical axis as the lens. That is, the optical axis of the image sensor 600 can be aligned with the optical axis of the lens. The image sensor 600 can convert light incident on its effective imaging area into an electrical signal. For example, the image sensor 600 can be any of a charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor, a metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) sensor, a carbon-based polymer dot (CPD) sensor, and a charge injection device (CID) sensor.

[0084] The substrate 700 may be a printed circuit board. The substrate 700 may be electrically connected to the control unit (not shown) of the mobile terminal.

[0085] A first driving portion M1 may be disposed between the housing 100 and the lens holder 200. The first driving portion M1 may include a coil M1a and a magnet M1b. The coil M1a and the magnet M1b may be respectively disposed on the lens holder 200 and the housing 100, facing each other. Therefore, the lens holder 200 may move relative to the housing 100 along the optical axis. For example, the first driving portion M1 may be a VCM. Multiple first driving portions M1 may be provided.

[0086] The second drive section M2 can be disposed between the image sensor 600 and the base 500. The second drive section M2 can be a piezoelectric actuator driven by piezoelectric power. By adjusting the size of the second drive section M2, the image sensor 600 can be moved relative to the base 500 in the optical axis direction.

[0087] Furthermore, the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment may include a controller (not shown). The controller may be disposed on the substrate 700. Alternatively, the controller may be positioned outside the substrate 700. The controller may independently control the direction, intensity, and amplitude of the current supplied to drive the first drive section M1 and the second drive section M2. The controller may perform AF function by controlling the first drive section M1 and the second drive section M2. In addition, the controller may also supply current to the drive section performing OIS function to perform OIS. Furthermore, the controller may perform AF feedback control and / or OIS feedback control on the lens driving device.

[0088] Figure 3 This is a view used to describe the first driving portion according to an embodiment, and Figure 4 This is a view used to describe the second driving portion according to this embodiment.

[0089] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In one embodiment, the first driving portion M1 can move the lens holder 200 at a first maximum speed V1 or lower, while the second driving portion M2 can move the image sensor 600 at a second maximum speed V2 or lower.

[0090] The first maximum speed V1 and the second maximum speed V2 are instantaneous speeds. Therefore, within a certain time period, the second drive unit M2 can provide a greater amount of movement than the first drive unit M1. In this specification, the amount of movement refers to the position of each of the first and second drive units, or the position or distance of the moving part after being moved by the first and second drive units.

[0091] Furthermore, since the second maximum speed V2 is greater than the first maximum speed V1, the second drive section M2 can provide a wider speed range than the speed range provided by the first drive section M1. That is, the speed range allowing the moving part to move via the second drive section M2 is wider than the speed range allowing the moving part to move via the first drive section M1. Moreover, the speed range allowing the moving part to move via the second drive section M2 can include the speed range allowing the moving part to move via the first drive section M1.

[0092] Figure 5 This is a view used to describe the autofocus (AF) of a camera module according to an embodiment. Figure 6 This is a view illustrating the change in the amount of movement of the camera module for AF according to an embodiment. Figure 7 This is a view showing the exposure time corresponding to the amount of movement of the camera module for AF according to an embodiment, and Figure 8This is a view showing the amount of movement of the first drive portion and the second drive portion in the camera module according to an embodiment.

[0093] refer to Figure 5 According to the embodiment, the camera module can perform autofocus (AF) at predetermined time intervals during image capture.

[0094] More specifically, the camera module can capture images at rates ranging from several frames per second (FPS) to hundreds of frames per second during image capture. In this case, the exposure time for capturing one image is one frame. That is, there are several to hundreds of frames within one second, and the image sensor can generate several to hundreds of images (or image data pieces) corresponding to those frames.

[0095] The camera module according to the embodiment can use images generated at each frame or images from a predetermined frame to focus on the object (AF). For example, focusing can be performed based on the nearest area. Alternatively, focusing can be performed based on the farthest area.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the camera module can perform focusing at a preset frame P1 among multiple frames P1 and P2. In the following, as... Figure 5 As shown, the embodiment will be described based on the AF exploration performed at the first frame within a section of zero to one second after the start of image capture.

[0097] In other words, the camera module according to the embodiment can use frame P1 (where AF is performed) to set the focus determined after frame P1 as the focus of frame P2 and capture an image.

[0098] In this case, in the camera module according to the embodiment, the frame P1 performing AF may include an exploration section P1a and an exposure section P1b.

[0099] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In this embodiment, the exploration segment P1a can be a time period less than the reciprocal of a preset FPS.

[0100] Furthermore, the exploration segment P1a may include multiple exploration exposure segments ET. Additionally, a single frame may include multiple exploration exposure segments ET. Furthermore, within the exploration segment P1a, the position of the moving portion can be increased in step increments. In other words, according to the embodiment, the moving portion can repeatedly move and stop within a first time period DP via a first driving portion and a second driving portion. With this structure, image jitter generated in each exploration exposure segment ET can be minimized. Therefore, the camera module according to the embodiment can perform more precise AF.

[0101] Furthermore, the first time interval DP can be shorter than the exploration segment P1a. Additionally, the first time interval DP can be less than the reciprocal of the preset FPS.

[0102] Furthermore, the first time period DP can be longer than the exploration exposure period ET. Therefore, while the moving part is stationary, an image for AF can be obtained in each exploration exposure period ET.

[0103] Furthermore, the first time period DP can be a step relative to the position of the moving part. In other words, since the moving part can move and stop within the first time period DP, the first time period DP can include a stopping segment F and a moving segment U of the moving part. Moreover, the stopping segment F of the moving part can correspond to the exploration exposure segment ET.

[0104] According to the embodiment, the camera module can control a first drive portion and a second drive portion to move and stop the moving portion within a plurality of first time periods DP within frame P1 in which AF is performed as described above.

[0105] Therefore, the camera module can move the moving part from the position corresponding to the minimum focal length to the position corresponding to the maximum focal length within frame P1 when performing AF. Alternatively, the camera module can move the moving part from the position corresponding to the minimum focal length to a position closer to the position corresponding to the maximum focal length. With this structure, the camera module according to this embodiment can easily perform AF during image capture without user input (e.g., touch to focus), providing the user with an image captured with more precise focus. Furthermore, the camera module can prevent image jitter caused by moving parts during focus scanning.

[0106] Furthermore, the moving part can be moved via the first driving part and the second driving part, and the first driving part and the second driving part can receive a digital code or a corresponding control signal corresponding to the position of the moving part. That is, in the camera module, the first driving part and the second driving part can use a lookup table storing control signal information for moving the moving part to a predetermined position to move the moving part.

[0107] refer to Figure 8 In the camera module according to this embodiment, the first driving portion and the second driving portion can move the moving portion. Furthermore, in the camera module, the first maximum speed of the first driving portion can be lower than the second maximum speed of the second driving portion.

[0108] In one embodiment, the first driving portion can linearly move the moving portion within the exploration segment P1a (Sa). That is, the first driving portion can move the moving portion at a predetermined speed within multiple first time periods DP within the exploration segment P1a. According to the first embodiment, the first driving portion can move the lens holder within multiple first time periods DP. Furthermore, the first driving portion can linearly move the lens holder.

[0109] Conversely, the second driving section can move the moving part in each time period of the second time period within the exploration segment P1a. The second driving section can move the moving part along the optical axis direction, i.e., the vertical direction (Sb). Furthermore, the second driving section can move the moving part in each time period of the second time period. That is, the second driving section can move the moving part vertically along the optical axis direction in each time period of the second time period. In this case, the second time period can be the same as the first time period DP.

[0110] Furthermore, the moving part can move to the origin at second time intervals via the second driving part. In other words, after moving along the first moving direction, the moving part can move in the second moving direction via the second driving part. In this case, the first moving direction is the direction in which the moving part moves within the exploration exposure segment ET via the first driving part, while the second moving direction is the opposite direction to the first moving direction. The first and second moving directions are parallel to the optical axis.

[0111] Furthermore, more specifically, the moving part can move along a second moving direction within the exploration exposure segment ET via the second driving part, and move along a first moving direction during the time period other than the exploration exposure segment ET in the first time period.

[0112] Therefore, during the overall movement, the moving part can repeatedly stop and move at intervals of a first time period or a second time period. During the entire movement, the moving part can stop for a time period longer than the exploration exposure segment ET in the first or second time period. Furthermore, during the entire movement, the moving part can move for a time period excluding the aforementioned time period longer than the exploration exposure segment ET. In this embodiment, the overall movement of the moving part corresponds to the sum of the positions moved by the moving part in the optical axis direction by the first driving part and the positions moved by the moving part in the optical axis direction by the second driving part.

[0113] However, in an embodiment, the first driving portion can maintain the speed of the moving portion within the first time period DP or the exploration exposure segment ET. That is, the first driving portion can cause the moving portion to move at a constant speed within the first time period DP, the exploration exposure segment ET, or the exploration segment P1a.

[0114] In an embodiment, within the camera module, as the moving part moves via the second drive part in each time period of the second time period, the entire movement of the moving part can have the steps described above. That is, during the overall movement, the moving part can repeatedly move and stop within the first time period DP, and images can be generated at the increasing or decreasing positions of the moving part in each step (Sc). Furthermore, the generated images can be used to determine the focus.

[0115] Furthermore, since the overall movement / stopping of the moving part, or the movement / stopping of the focus, is performed by the second drive part, which has a higher maximum speed than the first drive part, AF can be performed more accurately and with a higher response time.

[0116] Furthermore, in the exposure segment P1b, the moving portion can be moved to correspond to the focus obtained using the image generated in each exploration exposure segment ET.

[0117] Figure 9 This is a view showing the amount of movement of the first drive portion and the second drive portion in a camera module according to another embodiment.

[0118] refer to Figure 9 As described above, in the camera module, the first driving part and the second driving part can move the moving part. That is, the moving part can be moved by either the first driving part or the second driving part.

[0119] Furthermore, in the camera module, the first maximum speed of the first drive section can be lower than the second maximum speed of the second drive section.

[0120] According to another embodiment, the first movement direction of the moving portion caused by the first driving portion can be opposite to the second movement direction of the moving portion caused by the second driving portion. That is, even when the first and second movement directions are parallel to the optical axis direction, the first driving portion can move the lens holder towards the image sensor disposed below the lens holder, while the second driving portion can move the image sensor towards the lens holder disposed above the image sensor. Alternatively, the first driving portion can move the lens holder in a direction from the image sensor towards the lens holder, while the second driving portion can move the image sensor towards the substrate disposed below the image sensor.

[0121] In one embodiment, the first driving part can cause the moving part to move linearly along a first moving direction within the exploration section P1a.

[0122] Furthermore, the first drive section enables the moving section to move at a constant speed within multiple first time periods DP in the exploration segment P1a.

[0123] In addition, the first drive section can move the lens holder within multiple first time periods DP.

[0124] Furthermore, the second driving section can cause the moving section to move within each period of the second time segment within the exploration section P1a. The second driving section can also cause the moving section to move along a second movement direction. In other words, the second driving section can cause the moving section to move along a second movement direction within each period of the second time segment. In this case, the second time segment can be the same as the first time segment DP described above.

[0125] Furthermore, the moving part can move to the origin via the second driving part at intervals of a second time period. In other words, the moving part can move along a second moving direction via the second driving part and also along a first moving direction. More specifically, the moving part can move along the second moving direction within the exploration exposure segment ET via the second driving part, and move along the first moving direction during the time period excluding the exploration exposure segment in the first time period.

[0126] Therefore, during the overall movement, the moving part can repeatedly move and stop at intervals of a first time period or a second time period. During the overall movement, the moving part can stop for a time period longer than the exploration exposure segment ET in the first or second time period. Furthermore, during the overall movement, the moving part can move for a time period excluding the aforementioned time period longer than the exploration exposure segment ET. In this embodiment, the overall movement of the moving part corresponds to the sum of the positions the moving part moves along the optical axis via the first driving part and the positions the moving part moves along the optical axis via the second driving part.

[0127] Furthermore, in another embodiment, the first driving portion can maintain the speed of the moving portion within the first time period DP or the exploration exposure segment ET. That is, the first driving portion can cause the moving portion to move at a constant speed within the first time period DP, the exploration exposure segment ET, or the exploration segment P1a.

[0128] Furthermore, in the camera module, as the moving part moves within each time period of the second time period via the second drive part, the entire movement of the moving part can have the steps described above. That is, during the overall movement, the moving part can repeatedly move and stop within the first time period DP, and images can be generated at the increasing or decreasing positions of the moving part in each step. Moreover, the generated images can be used to determine the focus. Furthermore, since the overall movement / stopping of the moving part, or the movement / stopping of the focus, is performed by the second drive part with a higher maximum speed, AF can be performed more accurately and with a higher response time.

[0129] Furthermore, in the exposure segment P1b, the moving portion can be moved to correspond to the focus obtained using the image generated in each exploration exposure segment ET.

[0130] Figure 10 This is a view showing the change in the amount of movement of a camera module for AF according to yet another embodiment.

[0131] refer to Figure 10 According to yet another embodiment, in the camera module, the first driving portion and the second driving portion can move the moving portion. Furthermore, in the camera module, the first maximum speed of the first driving portion can be lower than the second maximum speed of the second driving portion.

[0132] However, in a camera module according to yet another embodiment, the exploration segment P1a may include a first exploration segment P1a-1 and a second exploration segment P1a-2.

[0133] The camera module can move the moving part within the first exploration segment P1a-1 in the same manner as described above. That is, the first drive part can cause the moving part to move linearly within the first exploration segment P1a-1 and the second exploration segment P1a-2. The first drive part can cause the moving part to move at a constant speed within multiple first time periods DP within the first exploration segment P1a-1 and the second exploration segment P1a-2. The first drive part can cause the moving part to move at a constant speed or different speeds within the first exploration segment P1a-1 and the second exploration segment P1a-2.

[0134] Conversely, the second driving section can move the moving part within each period of the second time interval in the first exploration segment P1a-1 and the second exploration segment P1a-2. The second driving section can move the moving part along the optical axis (i.e., vertically). Furthermore, the second driving section can move the moving part within each period of the second time interval. That is, the second driving section can move the moving part vertically along the optical axis within each period of the second time interval. In this case, the second time interval can be the same as the first time interval DP as described above.

[0135] Furthermore, the second drive section can enable the moving section to move within each of the same or different second time periods in the first exploration segment P1a-1 and the second exploration segment P1a-2.

[0136] Furthermore, the moving part can move to the origin at intervals of a second time period via the second driving part. In other words, the moving part can move along the first moving direction and also along the second moving direction via the second driving part.

[0137] Furthermore, during the overall movement, the moving part can repeatedly stop and move at intervals of a first time period or a second time period within the first exploration segment P1a-1 and the second exploration segment P1a-2. During the entire movement, the moving part can stop for a time period longer than the exploration exposure segment ET in the first or second time period. Additionally, during the entire movement, the moving part can move for a time period excluding the aforementioned time period longer than the exploration exposure segment ET. In this embodiment, the overall movement of the moving part corresponds to the sum of the positions moved by the moving part in the optical axis direction via the first driving part and the positions moved by the moving part in the optical axis direction via the second driving part.

[0138] Furthermore, in the camera module, as the moving part moves through the second drive part in each time period of the second time period, the entire movement of the moving part can have the steps described above. That is, during the overall movement, the moving part can repeatedly move and stop within the first time period DP, and images can be generated at the increasing or decreasing positions of the moving part in each step. Moreover, the generated images can be used to determine the focus. Furthermore, since the overall movement / stopping of the moving part, or the movement / stopping of the focus, is performed by the second drive part with a higher maximum speed, the camera module can perform AF more accurately and with a higher response time.

[0139] In a camera module according to yet another embodiment, the primary focal length can be calculated using an image obtained within the first exploration segment P1a-1. The primary focal length can be calculated approximately.

[0140] Furthermore, the first and second drive sections can cause the moving part to move again within the second exploration section P1a-2. In this case, the moving part can move at a rate lower than or equal to a predetermined ratio of the approximate calculated focal length. Therefore, more precise AF can be performed.

[0141] Furthermore, within the second exploration section P1a-2, the minimum difference in the amount of movement of the moving part stopped by the first drive section and the second drive section may be smaller. In other words, in another camera module, the minimum amount of movement of the moving part within the exploration exposure section ET may differ within the first exploration section P1a-1 and the second exploration section P1a-2.

[0142] In other words, the minimum movement amount of the moving portion within each exploration exposure segment ET of the first exploration segment P1a-1 can be greater than the minimum movement amount of the moving portion within each exploration exposure segment ET of the second exploration segment P1a-2. Therefore, the camera module according to yet another embodiment can provide more accurate AF.

[0143] Furthermore, after the second exploration segment P1a-2, within the exposure segment P1b, the moving portion can be moved to correspond to the focus obtained using the image generated in each exploration exposure segment ET of the second exploration segment P1a-2.

[0144] Figure 11 This is a structural diagram showing the camera module according to the second embodiment.

[0145] refer to Figure 11According to the second embodiment, the camera module may include a housing 100, a lens portion including a lens holder 200 and a lens assembly 300, an elastic member 400, a base 500, an image sensor 600, a first drive portion M1, and a second drive portion M2.

[0146] The lens portion and image sensor 600, which are moving parts, can be moved by the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2.

[0147] Furthermore, the first driving part M1 and the second driving part M2 can move the moving part according to the various embodiments described above, and the various embodiments can be applied to the second embodiment, but do not include the following.

[0148] The first drive portion M1 can be positioned above the base 500 or within the housing 100. Furthermore, the second drive portion M2 can be disposed between the first drive portion M1 and the lens portion, which is a moving part. That is, the first drive portion M1 can move the second drive portion M2 to move the lens portion. Therefore, in the camera module according to the second embodiment, since the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2 are connected to each other, when the first drive portion M1 moves the moving part along a first moving direction, the second drive portion M2 moves the moving part along a second moving direction, thereby reducing vibration. Therefore, more accurate autofocus (AF) can be performed. Furthermore, the reliability of the camera module can be improved.

[0149] Figure 12 This is a structural diagram showing a camera module according to a third embodiment.

[0150] refer to Figure 12 According to the third embodiment, the camera module may include a housing 100, a lens portion including a lens holder 200 and a lens assembly 300, an elastic member 400, a base 500, an image sensor 600, a first drive portion M1, and a second drive portion M2.

[0151] The lens portion and image sensor 600, which are moving parts, can be moved by the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2.

[0152] Furthermore, the first driving part M1 and the second driving part M2 can move the moving part according to the various embodiments described above, and the various embodiments can be applied to the third embodiment, but do not include the following.

[0153] The first drive portion M1 can be disposed on the base 500 or within the housing 100. Furthermore, the second drive portion M2 can be disposed between the first drive portion M1 and the image sensor, which is a moving part. That is, the first drive portion M1 can move the image sensor by moving the second drive portion M2. Therefore, in the camera module according to the third embodiment, since the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2 are connected to each other, when the first drive portion M1 moves the moving part along a first moving direction, the second drive portion M2 can move the moving part along a second moving direction to reduce vibration caused by movement. Therefore, more accurate autofocus (AF) can be performed. Furthermore, the reliability of the camera module can be improved.

[0154] Figure 13 This is a structural diagram showing the camera module according to the fourth embodiment.

[0155] refer to Figure 13 According to the fourth embodiment, the camera module may include a housing 100, a lens portion including a lens holder 200 and a lens assembly 300, an elastic member 400, a base 500, an image sensor 600, a first drive portion M1, and a second drive portion M2.

[0156] The lens portion and image sensor 600, which are moving parts, can be moved by the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2.

[0157] Furthermore, the first driving part M1 and the second driving part M2 can move the moving part according to the various embodiments described above, and the various embodiments can be applied to the fourth embodiment, but do not include the following.

[0158] The first driving part M1 can be disposed on the base 500 or in the housing 100. Furthermore, the first driving part M1 can move the image sensor 600. Furthermore, the second driving part M2 can move the lens part. Therefore, as described above, the first driving part M1 and the second driving part M2 can move different components of the moving part. Furthermore, as described above, the overall movement of the moving part is the sum of the movement of the image sensor and the movement of the lens part.

[0159] Furthermore, in the camera module according to the fourth embodiment, as the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2 are separated, when the first drive portion M1 moves the moving portion along a first moving direction, the second drive portion M2 moves the moving portion along a second moving direction. Therefore, when the first drive portion M1 and the second drive portion M2 move the moving portion in the same direction, an increase in vibration can be prevented. Thus, the reliability of the camera module can be improved.

[0160] Figure 14This is a structural diagram illustrating a camera module according to a modified embodiment.

[0161] refer to Figure 14 According to the modified embodiment, the camera module may include a housing 100, a lens portion including a lens holder 200 and a lens assembly 300, an elastic member 400, a base 500, an image sensor 600, and a first drive portion M1 or a second drive portion M2.

[0162] Only one of the first driving part M1 and the second driving part M2 exists, and it can be connected to the lens part or the image sensor 600, which is a moving part, so as to move at least one of the lens part and the image sensor 600.

[0163] The first driving part M1 or the second driving part M2 can move the moving part according to the various embodiments described above. The various embodiments can be applied to modified embodiments, but do not include the following.

[0164] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lens portion may include a liquid lens portion LL. The liquid lens portion may include a conductive first liquid and a non-conductive second liquid, and the interface at the contact point between the first and second liquids may deform due to an applied voltage. Moreover, depending on the voltage, the interface may have different curvatures. Therefore, the optical path and the focal point can be altered. In other words, the focal point of the liquid lens portion can be changed.

[0165] The first drive portion M1 or the second drive portion M2 can be disposed above the base 500 or within the housing 100. Furthermore, the first drive portion M1 or the second drive portion M2 can move the lens portion or the image sensor 600. For example, the second drive portion M2 can move the lens portion or the image sensor 600.

[0166] Furthermore, in the modified embodiment of the camera module, since the moving parts move via the first drive part M1 or the second drive part M2, the number of moving parts is minimized, thereby minimizing vibrations caused by the movement of the moving parts. Therefore, the reliability of the camera module can be improved.

[0167] The structure of the electronic device according to this embodiment will be described below.

[0168] Figure 15 This is a view illustrating an electronic device including a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0169] refer to Figure 15The electronic device can be any of a mobile phone, portable phone, smartphone, portable communication device, portable smart device, digital camera, laptop computer, digital broadcasting terminal, personal digital assistant (PDA), portable multimedia player (PMP), and navigation device. However, the type of electronic device is not limited to this, and any device used to capture images can be included in the electronic device.

[0170] The electronic device may include a body 1. The body 1 may form the exterior of the electronic device. The body 1 may house a camera module 1000. A display 2 may be disposed on one surface of the body 1. For example, the display 2 and the camera module 1000 may be disposed on one surface of the body 1, and the camera module 1000 may be additionally disposed on another surface of the body 1 (the other surface being located on the side opposite to one of the surfaces).

[0171] The electronic device may include a display 2. The display 2 may be disposed on a surface of the main body 1. The display 2 may output images captured by the camera module 1000.

[0172] An electronic device may include a camera module 1000. The camera module 1000 may be disposed within a main body 1. At least a portion of the camera module 1000 may be housed within the main body 1. Multiple camera modules 1000 may be configured. The camera module 1000 may include a dual-camera device. The camera module 1000 may be disposed on each of one surface and the other surface of the main body 1. The camera module 1000 can capture images of objects.

[0173] Although the invention has been described above primarily with reference to embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention is not limited to these embodiments, but rather that the embodiments are merely exemplary, and that various modifications and applications not shown above may fall within the scope of the invention without departing from the essential characteristics of the present embodiments. For example, the components specifically described in the embodiments may be modified and implemented, and the driving portion described in this specification may include, in addition to the components described in the embodiments, components that generate force to move the moving portion. Furthermore, it should be understood that differences related to modifications and applications fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A camera module, comprising: Fixed part; The movable part moves relative to the fixed part along the optical axis. A first driving component causes the moving component to move at a first maximum speed or a lower speed; as well as The second drive section causes the moving section to move at a second maximum speed or a lower speed. Wherein, the first driving portion and the second driving portion cause the moving portion to move along the optical axis direction, and The second maximum speed is greater than the first maximum speed. The moving part repeatedly moves and stops within a first time period via the first driving part and the second driving part. Wherein, the first driving part moves the moving part at a first maximum speed or a lower speed during the first time period. The second driving part moves the moving part during a second time period that is shorter than the first time period.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The fixing portion includes at least one of a housing and a base; and The moving part includes at least one of a lens part and an image sensor.

3. The camera module according to claim 2, wherein: The lens portion is disposed within the housing; The lens portion includes a lens holder and a lens assembly disposed in the lens holder; and The image sensor is disposed in the base.

4. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, During the exposure time, the first movement direction of the moving part caused by the first driving part is opposite to the second movement direction of the moving part caused by the second driving part.

5. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, The moving part moves linearly via the first driving part.

6. The camera module according to claim 5, wherein, In each period of the second time period, the moving part moves vertically along the optical axis direction via the second driving part.

7. The camera module according to claim 6, wherein, In each second time period, the moving part moves to the origin via the second driving part.

8. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, The second drive portion is disposed between the moving portion and the first drive portion, and is connected to the moving portion and the first drive portion.

9. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, The first time period is less than the reciprocal of the preset playback frames per second (FPS).

Images