Sensor actuator and camera module comprising the same

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a sensor actuator comprising: an image sensor configured to convert incident light into an electrical signal; and a first driving portion and a second driving portion configured to move the image sensor in a first direction and a second direction, respectively. Each of the first and second driving portions includes one or more drivers, each driver including a line having a varying length configured to move the image sensor. The one or more drivers in the second driving portion are configured to move the image sensor and the first driving portion together, and the first and second directions are different from each other. This disclosure also relates to a camera module including the sensor actuator.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0076846, filed on June 14, 2021, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a sensor actuator and a camera module including the sensor actuator. Background Technology

[0004] Recently, cameras have been used in portable electronic devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and laptop PCs, and features such as autofocus, optical image stabilization, and zoom have been added to cameras in mobile devices.

[0005] In addition, the camera module is equipped with an actuator that directly moves the lens or image sensor or indirectly moves a reflective module including reflective elements for optical image stabilization. Typically, the actuator can use driving force generated by magnets and coils to move the lens, image sensor, or reflective module.

[0006] When using conventional actuators that include magnets and coils to move multiple lenses or image sensors, it is difficult to produce camera modules with small dimensions due to the size of the magnets and coils included in the actuator.

[0007] Furthermore, regarding actuators that include magnets and coils, it is important to note that the electromagnetic fields generated by the magnets and coils may have electromagnetic effects on other components of the camera module or other electronic components outside the camera module.

[0008] Furthermore, when using actuators that include magnets and coils to move multiple lenses or image sensors, power consumption is significant and precise control is difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The summary portion of this invention is intended to provide a brief overview of the chosen inventive concepts, which will be further described in the detailed description portion below. This summary portion is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0010] In one general aspect, the sensor actuator includes: an image sensor configured to convert incident light into an electrical signal; and a first driving portion and a second driving portion configured to move the image sensor in a first direction and a second direction, respectively. Each of the first and second driving portions includes one or more drivers, each of the one or more drivers including a line having a varying length configured to move the image sensor. The one or more drivers in the second driving portion are configured to move the image sensor and the first driving portion together, and the first and second directions are different from each other.

[0011] One or more actuators may also include: a rod connected to a line, configured to rotate about a rotation axis based on changes in the length of the line to move an image sensor; and a rod axis forming the rotation axis.

[0012] The distance that an image sensor can move based on the change in line length can be greater than the amount of change in line length.

[0013] The rod may include a connecting portion that connects to the wire and a contact portion that contacts the plate on which the image sensor is mounted. A rotation axis may be located between the connecting portion and the contact portion.

[0014] In the rod, the distance from the connecting part to the rotation axis can be less than the distance from the contact part to the rotation axis.

[0015] The contact portion of the rod can have a curved surface.

[0016] The first direction can be a direction perpendicular to the first axis of the optical axis, and the second direction can be a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first axis.

[0017] The first drive section may include: a movable plate configured to movably accommodate an image sensor; a first driver disposed on the movable plate and configured to move the image sensor in the positive direction of the first axis; and a second driver disposed on the movable plate and configured to move the image sensor in the negative direction of the first axis.

[0018] The sensor actuator may further include a sensor plate surrounding the periphery of the image sensor. The movable plate may include a first guide portion extending in the direction of a first axis. The first guide portion may include a first extension portion extending from the movable plate in the direction of an optical axis and a first bent portion bending from the first extension portion in a direction intersecting the optical axis. At least a portion of the sensor plate may be inserted between the first bent portion and the movable plate to move the sensor plate in the direction of the first axis.

[0019] The sensor actuator may also include a friction-reducing member located on a portion of the sensor plate between the first bent portion and the movable plate.

[0020] The second drive section may include: a base configured to movably accommodate a movable plate; a third drive disposed on the base and configured to move the movable plate in the positive direction of the second axis; and a fourth drive disposed on the base and configured to move the movable plate in the negative direction of the second axis.

[0021] The base may include a second guide portion extending in the direction of the second axis. The second guide portion may include a second extension portion extending from the base in the direction of the optical axis and a second curved portion bending from the second extension portion in a direction intersecting the optical axis. At least a portion of the movable plate may be inserted between the second curved portion and the base to move the movable plate in the direction of the second axis.

[0022] The sensor actuator may also include a friction-reducing member disposed on a portion of the movable plate between the second bent portion and the base.

[0023] The first driver, second driver, third driver, and fourth driver can be driven independently of each other.

[0024] In another general aspect, the camera module includes a lens module and a sensor actuator. The lens module includes one or more lenses, and the sensor actuator is configured to receive incident light passing through the lens module. The sensor actuator includes: an image sensor, a movable plate, and a base stacked in the direction of the optical axis; a first line configured to move the image sensor relative to the movable plate in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis; and a second line configured to move the movable plate relative to the base in a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first axis. The first line is disposed on the movable plate, and the second line is disposed on the base.

[0025] At least a portion of the first line may be configured to extend in the direction of the second axis, and at least a portion of the second line may be configured to extend in the direction of the first axis.

[0026] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the appended claims, the accompanying drawings, and the detailed description below. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of an example of a camera module according to one or more embodiments.

[0028] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an example of a sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments.

[0029] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of an example including a first drive portion in a sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments.

[0030] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view of an example of a second drive portion included in a sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments.

[0032] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken from line A-A'.

[0033] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B'.

[0034] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a reference view illustrating the driving of a driver included in a sensor actuator, according to one or more embodiments.

[0035] Figures 9A to 9F This is a reference view illustrating the driving of a sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments.

[0036] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed embodiments, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For purposes of clarity, illustration, and convenience, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the relative dimensions, scale, and depiction of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The following detailed embodiments are provided to help the reader gain a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein. However, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein will be apparent after understanding the disclosure of this application. For example, the order of operations described herein is merely illustrative and is not limited to the order set forth herein, except for operations that must occur in a specific order, but can be changed as will become apparent after understanding the disclosure of this application. Furthermore, for clarity and conciseness, descriptions of features known after understanding the disclosure of this application may be omitted.

[0038] The features described herein may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the examples described herein are provided only to illustrate some of the many possible ways in which the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application.

[0039] Throughout this specification, when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is described as being "on," "connected to," or "attached to" another element, the element may be directly "on," directly "connected to," or directly "attached to" the other element, or there may be one or more other elements between the element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is described as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another element, there are no other elements between the element and the other element.

[0040] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items.

[0041] Although terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used herein to describe various components, parts, regions, layers, or sections, these components, parts, regions, layers, or sections are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish one component, part, region, layer, or section from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein, the first component, first part, first region, first layer, or first section mentioned in these examples may also be referred to as a second component, second part, second region, second layer, or second section.

[0042] Spatial relative terms such as “above,” “above,” “below,” and “below” may be used herein for descriptive convenience to describe the relationship of one element relative to another, as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to covering the orientation depicted in the drawings, these spatial relative terms are intended to also cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as being “above” or “above” another element would be located “below” or “below” that other element. Thus, depending on the spatial orientation of the device, the term “above” covers both orientations of “above” and “below”. The device may also be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or otherwise), and the spatial relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0043] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various examples only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural form as well. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, numbers, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0044] Variations in the shapes shown in the figures may occur due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the examples described herein are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the figures, but include shape variations that may occur during manufacturing.

[0045] The features of the examples described herein can be combined in various ways that will become apparent after understanding the disclosure of this application. Furthermore, although the examples described herein have multiple configurations, other configurations that will become apparent after understanding the disclosure of this application are also possible.

[0046] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of an example of camera module 1 according to one or more embodiments.

[0047] According to one or more embodiments, the camera module 1 can be disposed in a portable electronic device such as a mobile communication terminal, a smartphone, or a tablet PC.

[0048] According to one or more embodiments, the camera module 1 may include a lens module 20, a sensor actuator 10, and a housing 30. The lens module 20 includes one or more lenses, the sensor actuator 10 is provided with an image sensor 100 that converts light incident through the lens module 20 into an electrical signal, and the housing 30 covers the lens module 20 and the image sensor 100.

[0049] One or more lenses for imaging an object can be housed in the lens module 20. In the case of multiple lenses, the lenses can be mounted inside the lens module 20 and aligned along the optical axis (e.g., the Z-axis). The lens module 20 may include one or more cylindrical lens barrels, each of which is hollow.

[0050] According to one or more embodiments, camera module 1 may include a lens driver (not shown) for moving lens module 20. The lens driver (not shown) may move lens module 20 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis) to perform focusing or zooming functions, or move lens module 20 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the X-axis or Y-axis) to perform optical image stabilization. Alternatively, the lens driver (not shown) may rotate lens module 20 about the optical axis (Z-axis), or rotate lens module 20 about an axis perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the X-axis or Y-axis) to perform optical image stabilization. That is, the lens driver (not shown) may include a focusing unit for performing focusing and an optical image stabilization unit for performing optical image stabilization.

[0051] Sensor actuator 10 may include one or more driving portions of image sensor 100 and motion image sensor 100 (e.g., Figure 2(200 and 300 in the middle).

[0052] Image sensor 100 can convert light incident through lens module 20 into an electrical signal. For example, image sensor 100 may include a charge-coupled device or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor. Image sensor 100 can be electrically connected to circuit board 400, and therefore, the electrical signal converted by image sensor 100 can be output to the outside through circuit board 400.

[0053] According to one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator 10 may further include a filter (not shown) disposed adjacent to the image sensor 100. For example, the sensor actuator 10 may be provided with an infrared filter (not shown), and the infrared filter (not shown) may be configured to block light with wavelengths in the infrared region relative to light incident through the lens module 20.

[0054] The sensor actuator 10 can be aligned with the lens module 20 in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). The sensor actuator 10 may be equipped with an image sensor 100 to convert light incident through the lens module 20 into electrical signals. The sensor actuator 10 can move the image sensor 100 in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction) or in a direction intersecting the optical axis (e.g., the X-axis direction or the Y-axis direction) to perform optical image stabilization. For example, the sensor actuator 10 can move the image sensor 100 in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis (XY plane) to perform optical image stabilization. Alternatively, the sensor actuator 10 can rotate the image sensor 100 about the optical axis (Z-axis) or about an axis perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (X-axis or Y-axis) to perform optical image stabilization.

[0055] The housing 30 can be configured to cover the upper side of the lens module 20 and the sensor actuator 10. An entrance aperture 31 can be formed in the upper surface of the housing 30, and light incident through the entrance aperture 31 can be incident on the lens module 20 housed in the housing 30.

[0056] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 2 A sensor actuator 10 is described according to one or more embodiments.

[0057] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an example of a sensor actuator 10 according to one or more embodiments.

[0058] According to one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator 10 can move the image sensor 100 in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis (e.g., the XY plane) to correspond to the camera module. Figure 1 The shaking in 1) is used to perform optical image stabilization.

[0059] The sensor actuator 10 may include an image sensor 100, a sensor plate 110 surrounding the image sensor 100, a first drive portion 200 movably disposed therein in the sensor plate 110, a second drive portion 300 movably disposed therein in the first drive portion 200, and a circuit board 400 electrically connected to the image sensor 100.

[0060] In one or more embodiments, the image sensor 100, the first driving portion 200, the second driving portion 300, and the circuit board 400 may be aligned with the lens module (e.g., Figure 1 The optical axes (e.g., the Z-axis direction) of 20) are arranged side by side. For example, as Figure 2 As shown, the image sensor 100 can be disposed on the upper side of the first driving part 200, the first driving part 200 can be disposed on the upper side of the second driving part 300, and the second driving part 300 can be disposed on the upper side of the circuit board 400. That is, the image sensor 100, the first driving part 200, the second driving part 300, and the circuit board 400 can be stacked sequentially along the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0061] The image sensor 100 can be combined with the sensor plate 110 to move relative to the first drive portion 200. For example, as Figure 2 As shown, the sensor plate 110 (including the image sensor 100) can move on the upper surface of the first drive portion 200 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (e.g., the X-axis direction or the Y-axis direction). According to one or more embodiments, in the sensor actuator 10, the sensor plate 110 can be integrated with the image sensor 100.

[0062] The first drive section 200 can move the sensor plate 110 on which the image sensor 100 is mounted in a direction perpendicular to a first axis (e.g., the X axis) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). The first drive section 200 may include a movable plate 210 and one or more drivers 220 and 230, in which the image sensor 100 is movably housed, and the one or more drivers 220 and 230 move the image sensor 100.

[0063] The second drive portion 300 can move the first drive portion 200 in a direction different from the first axis (X-axis). For example, the second drive portion 300 can move the first drive portion 200 in a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first axis (X-axis) (e.g., Y-axis). The second drive portion 300 may include a base 310 and one or more drivers 320 and 330, with a movable plate 210 of the first drive portion 200 movably housed in the base 310, and the one or more drivers 320 and 330 moving the movable plate 210. In one or more embodiments, the second drive portion 300 can move the first drive portion 200 and the image sensor 100 together. That is, when the first drive portion 200 moves in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis) via the second drive portion 300, the image sensor 100 housed in the first drive portion 200 can also move together in the same direction as the first drive portion 200.

[0064] According to one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator 10 can perform optical image stabilization by moving the image sensor 100 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) or the second axis (Y-axis) via the first drive portion 200 and the second drive portion 300.

[0065] The circuit board 400 may be disposed on the underside of the second drive section 300. The circuit board 400 may be electrically connected to the image sensor 100 to receive image information from the image sensor 100. In addition, the circuit board 400 may be electrically connected to one or more drivers 220 and 230 included in the first drive section 200 and one or more drivers 320 and 330 included in the second drive section 300 to apply current or voltage to the drivers 220, 230, 320 and 330 or to send control signals to the drivers 220, 230, 320 and 330.

[0066] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 3 A first drive portion 200 is described according to one or more embodiments.

[0067] Figure 3 It includes sensor actuators according to one or more embodiments ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the first driving part 200 in (10) of the diagram. Figure 3 The first drive section 200 shown includes the above reference. Figure 2 The first drive section described ( Figure 2 The characteristics of 200 in the text will be used, and therefore, their description will not be repeated.

[0068] According to one or more embodiments, the first driving portion 200 can move the image sensor in a direction perpendicular to a first axis (e.g., the X axis) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Figure 1 or Figure 2 100) or equipped with an image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The sensor board of 100 in the middle ( Figure 2 (110 in the middle).

[0069] The first drive section 200 may include a sensor board therein. Figure 2 The movable plate 210 of the 110) and the sensor plate disposed in the movable plate 210 to move the sensor plate ( Figure 2 One or more drivers 220 and 230 (of which 110) are included. Drivers 220 and 230 may include lines 221 and 231, each of which has a changing length when current or voltage is applied to either driver 220 or 230, and the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle can be moved by the driving force generated by the change in the length of line 221 or 231.

[0070] In one or more embodiments, the first driving portion 200 may include a movable plate 210. Image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 100) or equipped with an image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The sensor board of 100 in the middle ( Figure 2 110) can be movably housed within the movable plate 210. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, the movable plate 210 may include a first guide portion 240 extending in one direction (X-axis direction), and the sensor plate ( Figure 2 At least a portion of 110 can be inserted into the first guide portion 240 to slide on the upper surface of the movable plate 210 along the extending direction of the first guide portion 240. The movable plate 210 may include one or more first guide portions 240. For example, the movable plate 210 may include two or more first guide portions 240 disposed at opposite edges of the movable plate 210, each extending in one direction (X-axis direction).

[0071] In one or more embodiments, the movable plate 210 may be configured as a plate-like member with at least a portion of its surface perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Therefore, the sensor plate ( Figure 2The movable plate 210 can move together with the movable plate 210 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the X-axis direction). Meanwhile, the movable plate 210 is not limited to a plate shape and can be configured in various shapes.

[0072] In one or more embodiments, the movable plate 210 can be positioned facing the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The portion 100 of the image sensor has a first hollow portion 250. The image sensor is housed on the upper surface of the movable plate 210. Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the middle can enter from the lower side of the movable plate 210 through the first hollow part 250. For example, it is included in the camera module ( Figure 1 The circuit board in (1) can be disposed on the lower side of the first drive portion 200, and is electrically connected to the image sensor via the first hollow portion 250 of the first drive portion 200. Figure 1 or Figure 2 (100 in the middle).

[0073] According to one or more embodiments, the first driving portion 200 may include one or more drivers 220 and 230. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, the first driving part 200 may include components respectively disposed on the sensor board ( Figure 2 The first driver 220 and the second driver 230 on both sides of 110).

[0074] In one or more embodiments, each of the drivers in the first drive portion 200 may be located at a different position than the first guide portion 240 of the first drive portion 200. For example, the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 may be respectively located at the two side edges of the movable plate 210 where the first guide portion 240 is not located. That is, as Figure 3 As shown, when the movable plate 210 has a quadrilateral upper surface, the first guide portion 240 can be respectively disposed on one side and the opposite side, and the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be respectively disposed on the other side adjacent to one side and the opposite side.

[0075] Either of the drivers 220 and 230 can move or rotate the image sensor relative to the movable plate 210. Figure 1 or Figure 2 (100 in the text). For example, the first driver 220 can move the image sensor relative to the movable plate 210 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first axis (X-axis). Figure 1 or Figure 2 100) or equipped with an image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2The sensor board of 100 in the middle ( Figure 2 (110 in the middle).

[0076] According to one or more embodiments, the first driver 220 may include: a first wire 221, the length of which changes when a voltage is applied to the first wire 221; a first rod 222, which is connected to the first wire 221 and rotates about a predetermined rotation axis according to the change in the length of the first wire 221; and a first rod shaft 223, which forms the rotation axis of the first rod 222.

[0077] A current or voltage may be applied to the first line 221 from outside the first drive portion 200, and the first line 221 may be configured to have a length that changes as current or voltage is applied thereto. For example, the first line 221 may comprise a shape memory alloy whose length changes when a voltage or current is applied thereto. In one or more embodiments, the amount of length change of the first line 221 may be proportional to the magnitude of the voltage or current applied to the first line 221, or may be proportional to the time period of the voltage or current applied to the first line 221.

[0078] According to one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the first line 221 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the Y-axis direction), and may contract in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the Y-axis direction) when a voltage is applied.

[0079] One end of the first wire 221 can be fixed to the movable plate 210 by the first fixing member 224. In one or more embodiments, the first fixing member 224 can be formed of a conductive material, and therefore, one end of the first wire 221 can be electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) via the first fixing member 224.

[0080] The other end of the first wire 221 can be connected to the first rod 222. In one or more embodiments, a first connecting member 225 may also be provided to bind the other end of the first wire 221 and the first rod 222 to each other. The first connecting member 225 may be formed of a conductive material, and thus, the other end of the first wire 221 may be electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) via the first connecting member 225. That is, each of one end and the other end of the first wire 221 may be electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) to apply current or voltage to it. When a voltage is applied to the first wire 221 and the length of the first wire 221 contracts, the tension of the first wire 221 may be correspondingly transmitted to the first rod 222 connected to the first wire 221.

[0081] In one or more embodiments, the first rod 222 may be rotatably supported on the movable plate 210 by the first rod shaft 223.

[0082] The first rod 222 can be configured as a rigid rod-shaped member. For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first rod 222 can be configured to extend from the connection portion 222a connected to the first line 221 to the contact sensor plate. Figure 2 The rigid member of the contact portion 222b in (110). However, Figure 3 The shape of the first rod 222 shown is merely an example, and the shape of the first rod 222 can be set in various ways.

[0083] The first rod 222 can rotate about the rotation axis formed by the first rod axis 223. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, the first rod axis 223 can be inserted into the movable plate 210 by passing through the first rod 222, and therefore, the first rod 222 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise about the first rod axis 223. Figure 3 As shown, the first rod shaft 223 can be a separate component inserted into the first rod 222. However, this is only an example, and the first rod shaft 223 can be integrally formed with the first rod 222. That is, the first rod shaft 223 can be integrally formed with the first rod 222 and rotatably inserted into the movable plate 210.

[0084] The first rod 222 may include a connecting portion 222a connected to the first line 221. The connecting portion 222a of the first rod 222 may be connected to the first line 221 via a first connecting member 225. When the connecting portion 222a of the first rod 222 and the first line 221 are in contact with each other, the first connecting member 225 may be configured as a clamp or fixture mounted on the connecting portion 222a of the first rod 222.

[0085] The contact portion 222b of the first rod 222 can be configured to contact an image sensor. Figure 1 or Figure 2 100) or equipped with an image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The sensor board of 100 in the middle ( Figure 2 (110 in the text). In one or more embodiments, the contact portion 222b of the first rod 222 can push or pull the image sensor according to the change in length of the first line 221. Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle) or sensor board ( Figure 2 110) to move the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle) or sensor board ( Figure 2(110 in the text). For example, when the first line 221 retracts and the connecting portion 222a of the first rod 222 rotates, the contact portion 222b of the first rod 222 can also rotate in the same torque direction to push and move the image sensor ( ). Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle) or sensor board ( Figure 2 (110 in the middle).

[0086] In one or more embodiments, the first rod 222 contacts the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle) or sensor board ( Figure 2 A portion of 110 in the model can have a curved surface. For example, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the first rod 222 contacts the sensor plate ( Figure 2 The contact portion 222b of (110) can have a curved surface. Therefore, the curved surface of the contact portion 222b can smoothly press the sensor plate (110) while the first rod 222 rotates. Figure 2 110 in the middle), or it can make the sensor plate change proportionally to the amount of rotation of the first rod 222 ( Figure 2 The distance traveled is 110 (in the original text).

[0087] In one or more embodiments, the first thread 221 may be connected to the first rod 222 while at least a portion of the first thread 221 is wound around the first roller 226. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, the first thread 221 can extend between its end connected to the first fixing member 224 and its other end connected to the first connecting member 225 while at least a portion of the first thread 221 is wound around the first roller 226. Therefore, the extension direction of the first thread 221 can change as it passes through the first roller 226.

[0088] The first roller 226 can be rotatably mounted on the movable plate 210, and a portion of the first thread 221 can be wound around the first roller 226 so as to be rotatable to correspond to changes in the length of the first thread 221. The axis of rotation of the first roller 226 can be formed by a first roller shaft 227. The first roller shaft 227 can be inserted into the movable plate 210 by passing through the first roller 226. However, the first roller shaft 227 can be integrally formed with the first roller 226.

[0089] In one or more embodiments, the first roller 226 may be disposed adjacent to the connecting portion 222a of the first rod 222. Therefore, a portion of the first line 221 extending from the first roller 226 to the connecting portion 222a of the first rod 222 may be substantially perpendicular to the first rod 222. When the first line 221 is perpendicularly connected to the first rod 222, the tension caused by the contraction of the length of the first line 221 can generate a large torque on the first rod 222.

[0090] In one or more embodiments, the first driving portion 200 may further include a second driver 230 independent of the first driver 220. The second driver 230 can move the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle) or sensor board ( Figure 2 (110 in the middle).

[0091] In one or more embodiments, the second actuator 230 may have the same structure as the first actuator 220. That is, the second actuator 230 may include: a second wire 231, the length of which changes when power is applied to the second wire 231; a second rod 232, connected to the second wire 231 and configured to be rotatable; and a second rod shaft 233, forming the rotation axis of the second rod 232. Furthermore, the second actuator 230 may include a second fixing member 234 capable of securing the second wire 231 to the movable plate 210 and a second connecting member 235 capable of binding the second rod 232 and the second wire 231 to each other. Additionally, the second actuator 230 may also include a second roller 236 and a second roller shaft 237, at least a portion of the second wire 231 being wound around the second roller 236, and the second roller shaft 237 forming the rotation axis of the second roller 236. Here, the second line 231, the second rod 232, the second rod shaft 233, the second fixing member 234, the second connecting member 235, the second roller 236, and the second roller shaft 237 can each have the same structure as the first line 221, the first rod 222, the first rod shaft 223, the first fixing member 224, the first connecting member 225, the first roller 226, and the first roller shaft 227 of the first driver 220 described above. Therefore, the description of the components of the second driver 230 that overlap with the above-described components of the first driver 220 will not be repeated, and only the differences between the second driver 230 and the first driver 220 will be described below.

[0092] In one or more embodiments, the first drive portion 200 may include a second drive 230 disposed at a different location from the first drive 220. For example, as Figure 3 As shown, the first driving section 200 may include components on the sensor board ( Figure 2The first driver 220 and the second driver 230 are located on both sides of the movable plate 210. In one or more embodiments, the second line 231 of the second driver 230 and the first line 221 of the first driver 220 may be respectively located at opposite edges of the movable plate 210 and may extend in directions parallel to each other.

[0093] When the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 are located in different positions, the driving directions of the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can also be different from each other.

[0094] In one or more embodiments, the second driver 230 and the first driver 220 can move the image sensor in opposite directions. Figure 1 or Figure 2 (100 in the text). For example, the first driver 220 can move the image sensor in the positive direction of the first axis (X-axis). Figure 1 or Figure 2 (100 in the first axis), and the second driver 230 can move the image sensor (in the negative direction of the first axis (X-axis)). Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the middle). That is to say, the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the first axis (X-axis) can be moved in the positive and negative directions of the first axis (X-axis) by the first driver 220 and the second driver 230.

[0095] In one or more embodiments, the rotation directions of the first rod 222 and the second rod 232 may be the same as each other, depending on the contraction of the first line 221 and the second line 231. For example, when the first line 221 contracts, the first rod 222 rotates clockwise to move the image sensor ( ) in the positive direction of the first axis (X-axis). Figure 1 or Figure 2 (100 in the middle). On the other hand, when the second line 231 contracts, the second rod 232 rotates clockwise to move the image sensor in the negative direction of the first axis (X-axis). Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the middle). That is to say, the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the middle can be moved in the positive or negative direction of the first axis (X-axis) by contracting either the first line 221 or the second line 231.

[0096] In one or more embodiments, the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be controlled independently of each other. For example, only one of the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be driven, or the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be driven sequentially. In this way, the first driving section 200 can appropriately move the image sensor (Z-axis) in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the X-axis direction). Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the middle is used to perform optical image stabilization.

[0097] In one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 10) may also include an image sensor capable of moving in a direction different from the first drive portion 200 (e.g., the Y-axis direction). Figure 1 or Figure 2 The second drive section of 100) Figure 2 (300 in the middle).

[0098] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 4 Describe the second drive section 300.

[0099] Figure 4 It includes sensor actuators according to one or more embodiments ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of an example of the second drive section 300 in section 10). Figure 4 The first drive section shown corresponds to the reference above. Figure 3 The first drive section described ( Figure 3 (200 in the text). Therefore, for the first drive section which will be described below, refer to the above reference. Figure 3 The first drive section provided ( Figure 3 The description of 200 in the text.

[0100] According to one or more embodiments, the second driving portion 300 can move the first driving portion (in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) – for example, the Y-axis direction) Figure 3 (200 in the text). For example, the second drive section 300 can move the first drive section (200) in a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first axis (X-axis) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Figure 3 200 in the middle). When the first drive part ( Figure 3 When the 200 in the middle moves in the direction of the second axis (Y axis) via the second drive part 300, it is accommodated in the first drive part ( Figure 3 Image sensor in 200) Figure 1 or Figure 2The 100 in the middle can also be in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis) with the first drive part ( Figure 3 The second drive part 300 moves together with the first drive part (200) in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis). That is, the second drive part 300 can move together with the first drive part (200) in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis). Figure 3 200 in the middle) and image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 (100 in the middle).

[0101] According to one or more embodiments, the second drive portion 300 may include a base 310 and one or more drivers 320 and 330, the first drive portion ( Figure 3 The movable plate of 200) Figure 3 The movable plate (210) is housed in the base 310, and one or more drives 320 and 330 are disposed on the base 310 to move the movable plate. Figure 3 (210 in the text). Drivers 320 and 330 may include lines 321 and 331, each having a changing length when current or voltage is applied to either driver 320 or 330, and a movable plate ( Figure 3 210 in the middle can be moved by the driving force generated by the change in the length of line 321 or 331.

[0102] In one or more embodiments, the second drive portion 300 may include a base 310. (Image sensor) Figure 1 or Figure 2 100) or equipped with an image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The sensor board of 100 in the middle ( Figure 2 110 in the middle) and the first drive section ( Figure 3 The 200 in the middle can be movably accommodated in the base 310. For example, as Figure 4 As shown, the base 310 may include a second guide portion 340 extending in one direction (Y-axis direction), and a movable plate ( Figure 3 At least a portion of the second guide portion 340 can be inserted into the second guide portion 340 to slide on the upper surface of the base 310 along the extending direction of the second guide portion 340. The base 310 may include one or more second guide portions 340. For example, the base 310 may include two or more second guide portions 340 disposed at opposite edges of the base 310, each extending in one direction (Y-axis direction).

[0103] In one or more embodiments, the direction in which the second guide portion 340 extends may be perpendicular to the first guide portion. Figure 3 The direction in which 240 extends. For example, the first guide portion ( Figure 3The first guide portion 340 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the first axis (X-axis) and the optical axis (Z-axis), and the second guide portion 340 can extend in a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first axis (X-axis) and the second axis (Y-axis). Because the first guide portion ( Figure 3 The 240 in the middle and the second guide portion 340 extend in directions perpendicular to each other, so the sensor plate ( Figure 2 110 in the middle) and movable plate ( Figure 3 210 in the middle can be respectively along the first guide part ( Figure 3 The 240 in the middle and the second guide portion 340 move in directions perpendicular to each other.

[0104] In one or more embodiments, the base 310 may be configured as a plate-like member with at least a portion of its surface perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Therefore, the movable plate ( Figure 3 The 210 in the middle can move together with the base 310 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). At the same time, the base 310 is not limited to a plate shape, and can be set in various shapes.

[0105] In one or more embodiments, the base 310 can be positioned facing the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The base 310 has a second hollow portion 350 in part 100. The second hollow portion 350 of the base 310 and the movable plate ( Figure 3 The first hollow part of 210) Figure 3 The 250s in the middle can be interconnected. Therefore, they are housed in the movable plate ( Figure 3 The image sensor on the upper surface of (210) Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle) can be passed through the first hollow part ( Figure 3 The second hollow portion 350 enters from the lower side of the base 310. For example, it includes a sensor actuator (250). Figure 1 or Figure 2 The circuit board in 10) Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 400 in the first drive section 300 can be disposed on the lower side of the second drive section 300, and through the first drive section 300. Figure 3 The first hollow part of 200) Figure 3 The second hollow portion 350 of the second drive portion 300 is electrically connected to the image sensor (250 in the middle) and the second hollow portion 350 of the second drive portion 300. Figure 1 or Figure 2 (100 in the middle).

[0106] According to one or more embodiments, the second drive portion 300 may include one or more drivers 320 and 330. For example, as Figure 4As shown, the second drive section 300 may include a third driver 320 and a fourth driver 330 respectively disposed on both sides of the base 310.

[0107] In one or more embodiments, either of the drivers 320 and 330 included in the second drive portion 300 can move or rotate the first drive portion relative to the base 310. Figure 3 (200 in the middle). For example, the third driver 320 can move the first drive portion relative to the base 310 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) and the second axis (Y-axis). Figure 3 200 in the middle) and image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle). That is to say, the movable board ( Figure 3 210 in the first drive section) and included in the first drive section Figure 3 The first and second drives in (200) and housed in the movable plate ( Figure 3 Image sensor in 210) Figure 1 The 100 in the middle can move together in the direction of the second axis (Y axis) by the driving force generated by the third driver 320.

[0108] In one or more embodiments, either of the drivers 320 and 330 included in the second drive portion 300 may have the same characteristics as referenced above. Figure 3 The first driver described ( Figure 3 The structure is the same as that of 220 in the second drive section 300. For example, the third drive 320 and the fourth drive 330 of the second drive section 300 can have the same structure as the first drive ( Figure 3 The third actuator 320 has the same structure as 220 in the previous embodiment. That is, according to one or more embodiments, the third actuator 320 may include: a third wire 321, the length of which changes when a voltage is applied to the third wire 321; a third rod 322, connected to the third wire 321 and rotating about a predetermined rotation axis according to the change in the length of the third wire 321; and a third rod shaft 323, forming the rotation axis of the third rod 322. Furthermore, the third rod 322 of the third actuator 320 may include a connecting portion 322a and a contact portion 322b, and a third connecting member 325 may be connected to the connecting portion 322a of the third rod 322. The third wire 321 may be fixed to the base 310 by a third fixing member 324. The third actuator 320 may also include a third roller 326 and a third roller shaft 327, at least a portion of the third wire 321 being wound around the third roller 326, and the third roller shaft 327 forming the rotation axis of the third roller 326.

[0109] Similarly, according to one or more embodiments, the fourth actuator 330 may include: a fourth wire 331, the length of which changes when a voltage is applied to the fourth wire 331; a fourth rod 332, connected to the fourth wire 331 and rotating about a predetermined rotation axis according to the change in the length of the fourth wire 331; and a fourth rod shaft 333, forming the rotation axis of the fourth rod 332. Furthermore, a fourth connecting member 335 may be provided to bind the fourth wire 331 and the fourth rod 332 of the fourth actuator 330 to each other. The fourth wire 331 may be fixed to the base 310 by a fourth fixing member 334. The fourth actuator 330 may also include a fourth roller 336 and a fourth roller shaft 337, at least a portion of the fourth wire 331 being wound around the fourth roller 336, and the fourth roller shaft 337 forming the rotation axis of the fourth roller 336.

[0110] In the following text, the comparison with the first drive will not be repeated. Figure 3 The above description of the components of the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 overlapping with the components of the first driver (220) will only describe the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 with respect to the first driver ( Figure 3 The difference between 220 and 220.

[0111] According to one or more embodiments, at least one of the drivers 320 and 330 included in the second drive portion 300 may be disposed on the base 310. For example, as Figure 4 As shown, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can be respectively disposed at opposite edges of the base 310.

[0112] In one or more embodiments, each of the drivers 320 and 330 of the second drive portion 300 may be located at a different position than the second guide portion 340 of the second drive portion 300. For example, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 may be located at the edge of the base 310 where the second guide portion 340 is not located. Figure 4 As shown, when the base 310 has a quadrilateral upper surface, the second guide portion 340 can be respectively disposed on one side and the opposite side, and the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can be respectively disposed on the other side adjacent to one side and the opposite side.

[0113] In one or more embodiments, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 of the second drive portion 300 may be adjacent to the first guide portion ( Figure 3 The third drive 320 and the fourth drive 330 are configured as follows: (240) Therefore, the third drive 320 and the fourth drive 330 can respectively push or pull the first drive section ( Figure 3 The formation of the first guiding part (200) in the middle Figure 3 Part 240) to move the first drive part ( Figure 3 (200 in the middle).

[0114] In one or more embodiments, the driving directions of the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 may be different from each other. In other words, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 may move the image sensor in opposite directions. Figure 1 or Figure 2 100 in the middle) or the first drive section ( Figure 3 (200 in the example). For example, the third driver 320 can drive the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the middle moves in the positive direction of the second axis (Y-axis), and the fourth driver 330 can push the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the middle moves in the negative direction of the second axis (Y-axis). That is, the first drive part ( Figure 3 200 in the middle) and housed in the first drive section ( Figure 3 Image sensor in 200) Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the middle can be moved in the positive and negative directions of the second axis (Y axis) by the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330.

[0115] In one or more embodiments, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 may be respectively disposed relative to the first driving portion ( Figure 3 The first drive of 200) Figure 3 220 in the middle) and the second drive ( Figure 3 At the intersection of 230 and the image sensor ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 100 in the image is located at the center. For example, when viewing the sensor actuator from above... Figure 1 or Figure 2 When 10 is in the middle, the first driver ( Figure 3 220 in the middle), second drive ( Figure 3 The third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can be located adjacent to the image sensor (230), respectively. Figure 1 or Figure 2 The four sides of the 100) are set.

[0116] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 5 to 7 The structure of a sensor actuator 10 comprising a first driver 220, a second driver 230, a third driver 320, and a fourth driver 330 according to one or more embodiments is described.

[0117] Figure 5This is a perspective view of a sensor actuator 10 according to one or more embodiments. Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken by line A-A', and Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view taken by line B-B'.

[0118] The following will refer to Figures 5 to 7 The described sensor actuator 10 and its components include those referenced above. Figures 1 to 4 The characteristics of the sensor actuator 10 and its components are described, and therefore, their description will not be repeated.

[0119] According to one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator 10 may include an image sensor 100 that converts light incident in the optical axis direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) into an electrical signal and one or more drivers 220, 230, 320, 330 capable of moving the image sensor 100.

[0120] The image sensor 100 can be housed in a sensor plate 110 having a hollow portion. The sensor plate 110 can be formed as a plate-shaped member with a hollow portion, and incident light can pass through the hollow portion onto the image sensor 100 housed in the sensor plate 110. Meanwhile, the sensor plate 110 is not limited to a plate shape and can be configured in various shapes. Alternatively, the sensor plate 110 can be integrally formed with the image sensor 100.

[0121] The sensor plate 110, which is equipped with the image sensor 100, can be movably housed in the first drive section. Figure 2 or Figure 3 In the movable plate 210 of (200). For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the sensor plate 110, which is equipped with the image sensor 100, can be housed in the movable plate 210 so that it can move along the upper surface of the movable plate 210 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the X-axis direction).

[0122] The movable plate 210 can be movably accommodated in the second drive section. Figure 2 or Figure 4 In the base 310 of (300) in the middle. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the movable plate 210 can be accommodated in the base 310 so that it can move along the upper surface of the base 310 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the Y-axis direction).

[0123] In one or more embodiments, the sensor board 110, the movable board 210, and the base 310 may be stacked in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, a circuit board electrically connected to the image sensor 100 or one or more drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 (e.g., Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 400 in the middle can also be set on the lower side of the base 310.

[0124] In one or more embodiments, the direction in which the sensor plate 110 can move relative to the movable plate 210 and the direction in which the movable plate 210 can move relative to the base 310 may intersect each other. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the sensor plate 110 can move relative to the movable plate 210 in a direction perpendicular to the first axis (X-axis) and the optical axis (Z-axis), and the movable plate 210 can move relative to the base 310 in a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first axis (X-axis). Therefore, the image sensor 100 housed in the sensor plate 110 can move in both the first axis (X-axis) and the second axis (Y-axis) directions.

[0125] In one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator 10 may include one or more drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 capable of moving the image sensor 100 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (XY plane). For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the sensor actuator 10 may include a first driver 220 and a second driver 230 that move the image sensor 100 in a direction perpendicular to a first axis (X-axis) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Furthermore, the sensor actuator 10 may include a third driver 320 and a fourth driver 330 that move the image sensor 100 in a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first axis (X-axis).

[0126] In one or more embodiments, the plurality of drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 included in the sensor actuator 10 may be located at different positions. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the four drivers 220, 230, 320 and 330 can be arranged adjacent to the four sides of the image sensor 100, respectively.

[0127] In one or more embodiments, a plurality of drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 included in the sensor actuator 10 may be disposed on different layers of the sensor actuator 10. For example, as Figure 5As shown, the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be disposed on the movable plate 210, and the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can be disposed on the base 310 located on the lower side of the movable plate 210.

[0128] In one or more embodiments, the drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 disposed on different layers of the sensor actuator 10 can be configured to move different components of the sensor actuator 10. For example, multiple drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 can move different plates 110 and 210. That is, as Figure 5 As shown, the first driver 220 disposed on the movable plate 210 can be configured to move the sensor plate 110, and the third driver 320 disposed on the base 310 can be configured to move the movable plate 210. In one or more embodiments, when the movable plate 210 moves via the third driver 320, the sensor plate 110 and one or more drivers 220 and 230 can also move together with the movable plate 210. That is, the sensor plate 110 and one or more drivers 220 and 230 disposed on the second driving part ( Figure 4 One or more drivers 320 and 330 on the base 310 of the image sensor 100, sensor board 110 and first drive section (300) can move the image sensor 100, sensor board 110 and first drive section (300). Figure 3 (200 in the middle).

[0129] Each of the drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 according to one or more embodiments may include a wire whose length changes when a current or voltage is applied thereto, and the wires included in the plurality of drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 may be disposed on different layers of the sensor actuator 10. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the first line 221 included in the first driver 220 can be disposed on the movable plate 210, and the fourth line 331 included in the fourth driver 330 can be disposed on the base 310 located on the lower side of the movable plate 210.

[0130] According to one or more embodiments, each of the plurality of lines included in the drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 can move the image sensor 100 in a direction different from the direction in which the line extends. For example, at least a portion of the first line 221 of the first driver 220 can extend in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis), and the image sensor 100 can move in a direction perpendicular to the second axis (Y-axis) according to the length variation of the first line 221. Furthermore, at least a portion of the fourth line 331 of the fourth driver 330 can extend in the direction of the first axis (X-axis), and the image sensor 100 can move in a direction perpendicular to the first axis (X-axis) according to the length variation of the fourth line 331. Therefore, according to one or more embodiments, the plurality of lines can be integrally arranged in a small space of the sensor actuator 10 to move the image sensor 100 in various directions.

[0131] According to one or more embodiments, drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 may be electrically connected to a circuit board ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 The 400 in the example is used to receive current or voltage from an external power source. For example, such as... Figure 5 As shown, one end and the other end of the first wire 221 included in the first driver 220 can be connected to cables 228 and 229 respectively for electrical connection to the circuit board. Figure 1 or Figure 2 The first fixing member 224 and the first connecting member 225 are formed of conductive material, and cables 228 and 229 can be connected to the first fixing member 224 and the first connecting member 225 respectively to electrically connect to the first line 221. Therefore, a closed circuit can be configured to allow voltage or current to flow through the first line 221 from an external power source (not shown). However, the connection structure between the first line 221 and the external power source (not shown) is not limited to what has been described above. For example, at least one of the cables 228 and 229, which are respectively connected to one end and the other end of the first line 221, can be omitted. Figure 5 As shown, one end of the fourth line 331 can be connected to the fourth fixing member 334, and the fourth fixing member 334 can be directly electrically connected to the circuit board. Figure 1 or Figure 2 (400 in the middle). Therefore, one end of the fourth wire 331 can be electrically connected to the circuit board without a cable ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 (400 in the middle). Alternatively, the other end of the fourth wire 331 can be connected to the circuit board via cable 338 ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 (400 in the middle).

[0132] The sensor plate 110 can be housed in the movable plate 210 and move in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the X-axis direction). In one or more embodiments, the movable plate 210 may have a first guide portion 240 that guides the movement of the sensor plate 110. According to one or more embodiments, the first guide portion 240 may include a first extension portion 241 extending from the movable plate 210 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis) and a first curved portion 242 bending from the first extension portion 241 in a direction intersecting the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the Y-axis direction). The first extension portion 241 and the first curved portion 242 may be formed to be substantially perpendicular to each other, and the first curved portion 242 and the movable plate 210 may be formed to be substantially parallel to each other. That is, the first guide portion 240 may be formed to extend on the movable plate 210 in a direction perpendicular to a first axis (e.g., the X-axis) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), while having Shaped cross section.

[0133] In one or more embodiments, the image sensor 100 or the sensor plate 110 on which the image sensor 100 is disposed may be at least partially inserted between the first curved portion 242 and the movable plate 210 to be slidably movable in the direction of a first axis (X-axis) extending from the first guide portion 240. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the first guide portion 240 may have a first guide groove surrounded by the movable plate 210, the first extension portion 241 and the first curved portion 242, and the sensor plate 110 may be at least partially inserted into the first guide groove to be slidably movable in the direction of the first axis (X-axis).

[0134] In one or more embodiments, the first guide portions 240 may be respectively disposed at opposite edges of the movable plate 210. In this case, the first curved portions 242 included in the respective first guide portions 240 may be curved from the first extension portions 241 in a direction facing each other.

[0135] To reduce friction between the sensor plate 110 and the movable plate 210, one or more friction-reducing members 112 may be provided at the portions of the sensor plate 110 and the movable plate 210 that are adjacent to each other. In one or more embodiments, one or more friction-reducing members 112 may be provided on at least a portion of the sensor plate 110 between the insertion first bent portion 242 and the movable plate 210. For example, as... Figure 6As shown, the sensor plate 110 may include a first insertion portion 111 inserted into a first guide portion 240 of the movable plate 210, and a friction-reducing member 112 may be disposed on the first insertion portion 111. The friction-reducing member 112 may be a protruding member that reduces the contact area between the sensor plate 110 and the movable plate 210. When configured as a protruding shape, the friction-reducing member 112 may be configured to protrude upward and downward from the first insertion portion 111, respectively. Alternatively, the friction-reducing member 112 may be configured to protrude from the ends of the first insertion portion 111 in directions perpendicular to the optical axis. In one or more embodiments, the friction-reducing member 112 may be integrally formed with the sensor plate 110. However, the friction-reducing member 112 is not limited thereto and may be configured as, for example, a bushing, a linear bearing, or a ball bearing. Alternatively, the friction-reducing member 112 may be disposed on the first guide portion 240 of the movable plate 210.

[0136] In one or more embodiments, the sensor plate 110 may contact the movable plate 210 via the friction-reducing member 112. That is, the portion of the sensor plate 110, excluding the friction-reducing member 112, may be spaced apart from the movable plate 210 at predetermined intervals. Therefore, a very small frictional force can be generated between the sensor plate 110 and the movable plate 210.

[0137] In one or more embodiments, a friction-reducing lubricating material may be applied between the friction-reducing member 112 and the first guide portion 240 or the movable plate 210.

[0138] In one or more embodiments, the movable plate 210 may be accommodated in the base 310 for movement in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the Y-axis direction). In one or more embodiments, the base 310 may have a second guide portion 340 for guiding the movement of the movable plate 210. According to one or more embodiments, the second guide portion 340 may include a second extension portion 341 extending from the base 310 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis) and a second curved portion 342 bending from the second extension portion 341 in a direction intersecting the optical axis (Z-axis) (e.g., the X-axis direction). The second extension portion 341 and the second curved portion 342 may be formed to be substantially perpendicular to each other, and the second curved portion 342 and the base 310 may be formed to be substantially parallel to each other. That is, the second guide portion 340 may be formed to extend on the base 310 in a direction perpendicular to a second axis (e.g., the Y-axis) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), while having Shaped cross section.

[0139] In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the movable plate 210 may be inserted between the second curved portion 342 and the base 310 to be slidably movable in the direction of a second axis (Y-axis) extending from the second guide portion 340. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the second guide portion 340 may have a second guide groove surrounded by the base 310, the second extension portion 341, and the second curved portion 342, and the movable plate 210 may be at least partially inserted into the second guide groove to be slidably movable in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis).

[0140] In one or more embodiments, the second guide portions 340 may be respectively disposed at opposite edges of the base 310. In this case, the second curved portions 342 included in the respective second guide portions 340 may be curved from the second extension portions 341 in a direction facing each other.

[0141] To reduce friction between the movable plate 210 and the base 310, one or more friction-reducing members 212 may be provided at the portions of the movable plate 210 and the base 310 that are adjacent to each other. In one or more embodiments, one or more friction-reducing members 212 may be provided on at least a portion of the movable plate 210 between the insertion second bent portion 342 and the base 310. For example, as Figure 7 As shown, the movable plate 210 may include a second insertion portion 211 in the second guide portion 340 of the insertion base 310, and a friction-reducing member 212 may be disposed on the second insertion portion 211. Alternatively, the friction-reducing member 212 may be disposed on the second guide portion 340 of the base 310. The friction-reducing member 212 disposed between the movable plate 210 and the base 310 may have the same structure as the friction-reducing member 112 disposed between the sensor plate 110 and the movable plate 210 described above. For example, the friction-reducing member 212 may be disposed on the second insertion portion 211, and may be a protruding member configured to reduce the contact area between the movable plate 210 and the base 310.

[0142] In one or more embodiments, the movable plate 210 may contact the base 310 via the friction-reducing member 212. That is, the portion of the movable plate 210 other than the friction-reducing member 212 may be spaced apart from the base 310 at predetermined intervals. Therefore, a very small frictional force can be generated between the movable plate 210 and the base 310.

[0143] In one or more embodiments, a friction-reducing lubricating material may be applied between the friction-reducing member 212 and the second guide portion 340 or the base 310.

[0144] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 8A and Figure 8B Describes a driver according to one or more implementations (e.g., Figure 5 The driver is 220, 230, 320 or 330.

[0145] Figure 8A and Figure 8B It is used to explain the sensor actuators (e.g., according to one or more embodiments) included in the sensor actuators according to one or more embodiments. Figure 5 The drive in 10) (e.g., Figure 5 The reference view for the drive (220, 230, 320, or 330) is shown below. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The described driver 320 corresponds to the reference above. Figures 3 to 5 The description refers to any of the drives 220, 230, 320, and 330, and therefore, their overlapping descriptions will not be repeated. Furthermore, although references... Figure 8A and Figure 8B Only one driver (e.g., a third driver) is described, but this can also be applied to other drivers included in a sensor actuator (e.g., a first driver, a second driver, and a fourth driver). That is, the driver 320 described below can correspond to the one mentioned above. Figures 3 to 5 Any one of the first drive 220, the second drive 230, the third drive 320, and the fourth drive 330 described.

[0146] According to one or more embodiments, the driver 320 may include a line 321 whose length varies according to a control signal, a rod 322 connected to the line 321 and rotating according to the length of the line 321, and a rod shaft 323 forming the rotation axis of the rod 322.

[0147] Line 321 can be electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) via cable 328 to receive current or voltage. At least a portion of line 321 can be fixed by fixing member 324, and another portion of line 321 can be connected to rod 322 via connecting member 325 for mobility. Therefore, when the length of line 321 is reduced, line 321 can pull rod 322 connected to line 321 via connecting member 325, causing rod 322 to rotate.

[0148] The lever 322 may include a connecting portion 322a connected to the line 321 and a contact portion 322b that contacts the movable plate 210 or the sensor plate 110. The connecting portion 322a of the lever 322 may move together with the line 321 according to the change in the length of the line 321, and the contact portion 322b may move the image sensor 100 in a predetermined direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) according to the rotation of the lever 322.

[0149] In one or more embodiments, the rotation axis of the rod 322 can be disposed between the connecting portion 322a and the contact portion 322b. In this case, the distance from the connecting portion 322a to the rotation axis can be different from the distance from the contact portion 322b to the rotation axis. For example, when the distance from the rotation axis formed by the rod shaft 323 to the connecting portion 322a is referred to as a first distance C1 and the distance from the rotation axis to the contact portion 322b is referred to as a second distance C2, the first distance C1 can be smaller than the second distance C2, such as... Figure 8A As shown. Since the first distance C1 is less than the second distance C2, when the rod 322 rotates, the arc trajectory drawn by the connecting part 322a can be shorter than the arc trajectory drawn by the contact part 322b.

[0150] Furthermore, since the second distance C2 is greater than the first distance C1, the moving distance of the contact portion 322b rotating according to the change in length of the line 321 can be greater than the amount of change in length of the line 321. Therefore, the moving distance of the image sensor 100 moved by the contact portion 322b of the rod 322 can be relatively greater than the amount of change in length of the line 321. For example, when a predetermined voltage is applied to the line 321, when the amount of change in length of the line 321 is referred to as the third distance d1 and the moving distance of the image sensor 100 according to the change in length of the line 321 is referred to as the fourth distance d2, the fourth distance d2 can be greater than the third distance d1. That is, in the sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments ( Figure 1 , Figure 2 or Figure 5 In 10), through the structure of the rod 322 in which the first distance C1 and the second distance C2 are different from each other, the moving distance of the image sensor 100 can have a larger value than the amount of change in the length of the line 321. Therefore, even if the amount of change in the length of the line 321 is small, sufficient movement stroke of the image sensor 100 can be ensured. In this way, according to one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator ( Figure 1 , Figure 2 or Figure 5 (10) The motion of the image sensor 100 can be used to perform optical image stabilization more effectively.

[0151] According to one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator ( Figure 1 , Figure 2 or Figure 5 10) may include a plurality of drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 for moving the image sensor 100 in different directions. Referring below... Figures 9A to 9F This describes the drivers for multiple drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330.

[0152] Figures 9A to 9FThis is a reference view used to explain the driving of the sensor actuator 10 according to one or more embodiments. Reference will be made below. Figures 9A to 9F The described sensor actuator 10 includes the above reference. Figure 1 All features of the sensor actuator 10 described in Figure 8 will be described again, and therefore, their overlapping descriptions will not be repeated.

[0153] According to one or more embodiments, the sensor actuator 10 may include a plurality of drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 that receive electrical energy from an external power source (not shown) to move the image sensor 100. For example, as Figure 9A As shown, the sensor actuator 10 may include a first driver 220 and a second driver 230 capable of moving the image sensor 100 in a direction perpendicular to the first axis (X-axis) of the optical axis (Z-axis), and may include a third driver 320 and a fourth driver 330 capable of moving the image sensor 100 in a direction perpendicular to the second axis (Y-axis) of the first axis (X-axis).

[0154] The first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can move the sensor plate 110 on which the image sensor 100 is mounted. For example, Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, the first driver 220 or the second driver 230 can move the sensor plate 110 in the direction of the first axis (X-axis). The first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be disposed on the movable plate 210 and can be controlled independently of each other. For example, one of the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be driven, and the other of the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be left undriven. When the first driver 220 is driven, the image sensor 100 can move in the positive direction of the first axis (X-axis), and when the second driver 230 is driven, the image sensor 100 can move in the negative direction of the first axis (X-axis). In one or more embodiments, the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be driven simultaneously or sequentially. For example, the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can receive current or voltage of different amplitudes simultaneously or sequentially to precisely move the image sensor 100 to a desired position on the first axis (X-axis).

[0155] In one or more embodiments, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 may be configured to move the movable plate 210 in which the image sensor 100 is housed. When the movable plate 210 moves in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis) via the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330, the image sensor 100 may also move together with the movable plate 210. For example, as... Figure 9C and Figure 9DAs shown, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can move the movable plate 210 in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis). When the movable plate 210 moves, the first driver 220, the second driver 230, and the sensor plate 110 disposed on the movable plate 210 can also move together. The third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can be disposed on the base 310 and can be controlled independently of each other. For example, one of the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can be driven, while the other can be left undriven. When the third driver 320 is driven, the movable plate 210 and the image sensor 100 can move in the positive direction of the second axis (Y-axis), and when the fourth driver 330 is driven, the movable plate 210 and the image sensor 100 can move in the negative direction of the second axis (Y-axis). In one or more embodiments, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can be driven simultaneously or sequentially. For example, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can receive current or voltage of different amplitudes simultaneously or sequentially to precisely move the image sensor 100 to the desired position on the second axis (Y-axis).

[0156] In one or more embodiments, at least some of the first driver 220, second driver 230, third driver 320, and fourth driver 330 may be driven simultaneously or sequentially. Therefore, the image sensor 100 can move in various directions on a plane perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (XY plane). For example, as... Figure 9E As shown, the first driver 220 and the third driver 320 can be driven simultaneously. That is, the third driver 320 can move the movable plate 210 in the positive direction of the second axis (Y-axis), and simultaneously, the first driver 220 can move the sensor plate 110 in the positive direction of the first axis (X-axis). Therefore, the image sensor 100 can move rapidly in a diagonal direction between the positive directions of the first axis (X-axis) and the second axis (Y-axis) to perform optical image stabilization. Alternatively, as... Figure 9F As shown, the second driver 230 and the fourth driver 330 can be driven simultaneously, causing the image sensor 100 to move rapidly in the diagonal direction between the negative direction of the first axis (X-axis) and the negative direction of the second axis (Y-axis) to perform optical image stabilization.

[0157] According to one or more embodiments, in the sensor actuator 10, multiple drivers 220, 230, 320, and 330 that move the image sensor 100 in different directions can be disposed on different layers. For example, the third driver 320 and the fourth driver 330 can be disposed on the base 310, and the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can be disposed on a movable plate 210 located on the upper side of the base 310. Therefore, even if the movable plate 210 is moved by the third driver 320 or the fourth driver 330, the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can maintain the same position relative to the movable plate 210 and the image sensor 100. That is, the relative position between the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 and the image sensor 100 can remain unchanged. Therefore, the first driver 220 and the second driver 230 can precisely move the image sensor 100 regardless of whether the third driver 320 or the fourth driver 330 is driven, thereby accurately performing the optical image stabilization function.

[0158] As described above, a sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments and a camera module including the sensor actuator can move an image sensor in a direction intersecting the optical axis to achieve optical image stabilization.

[0159] Since the sensor actuator and the camera module including the sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments can use a line of varying length to move the image sensor, a sensor actuator and camera module with a simple structure and high operational reliability can be provided.

[0160] Since the sensor actuator and the camera module including the sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments can use a line of varying length to move the image sensor, the power consumption required to move the image sensor can be reduced.

[0161] According to one or more embodiments, a sensor actuator and a camera module including the sensor actuator can move an image sensor in a direction intersecting the optical axis using a very small change in the length of a line.

[0162] Since the sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments and the camera module including the sensor actuator can move the image sensor using a line of varying length, electromagnetic interference in another electronic component can be minimized.

[0163] A sensor actuator according to one or more embodiments and a camera module including the sensor actuator are capable of precisely and rapidly moving an image sensor by adjusting the speed and amount of length change of the line.

[0164] This disclosure can solve at least some of the problems mentioned above in the prior art, and the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a sensor actuator or a camera module including the sensor actuator that can move an image sensor in a simple structure to achieve autofocus, optical image stabilization, etc., while reducing power consumption.

[0165] While this disclosure includes specific examples, it will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein are to be understood in a descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes. Descriptions of features or aspects in each example should be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Suitable results may still be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described system, architecture, device, or circuit are combined in different ways and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited by the specific embodiments but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be understood to be included in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A sensor actuator, comprising: An image sensor configured to convert incident light into electrical signals; A circuit board, wherein the image sensor is electrically connected to the circuit board; The first drive section is configured to move the image sensor in a first direction; as well as The second driving section is configured to move the first driving section in the second direction to drive the image sensor to move in the second direction via the first driving section. Each of the first driving portion and the second driving portion includes one or more drivers, each of the one or more drivers including a line of varying length configured to move the image sensor. The first direction and the second direction are different from each other. The first direction is the direction perpendicular to the first axis of the optical axis, and The second direction is a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first axis.

2. The sensor actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more drives also include: A rod, connected to the line, configured to rotate about a rotation axis based on the length variation of the line to move the image sensor; and The rod shaft forms the rotation axis.

3. The sensor actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The moving distance of the image sensor based on the change in the length of the line is greater than the amount of change in the length of the line.

4. The sensor actuator according to claim 2, wherein, The rod includes a connecting portion and a contact portion. The connecting portion is connected to the wire, and the contact portion contacts a plate on which the image sensor is mounted. The rotating shaft is located between the connecting portion and the contact portion.

5. The sensor actuator according to claim 4, wherein, In the rod, the distance from the connecting portion to the rotation axis is less than the distance from the contact portion to the rotation axis.

6. The sensor actuator according to claim 4, wherein, The contact portion of the rod has a curved surface.

7. The sensor actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The first driving part includes: A movable plate configured to movably accommodate the image sensor; A first driver, disposed on the movable plate, is configured to move the image sensor in the positive direction of the first axis; and A second driver, disposed on the movable plate, is configured to move the image sensor in the negative direction of the first axis.

8. The sensor actuator of claim 7, further comprising a sensor plate surrounding the periphery of the image sensor. in, The movable plate includes a first guide portion extending in the direction of the first axis. The first guiding portion includes a first extending portion and a first bending portion, the first extending portion extending from the movable plate in the direction of the optical axis, and the first bending portion bending from the first extending portion in a direction intersecting the optical axis. At least a portion of the sensor plate is inserted between the first bent portion and the movable plate to move the sensor plate in the direction of the first axis.

9. The sensor actuator of claim 8 further includes a friction-reducing member located on the portion of the sensor plate inserted between the first bent portion and the movable plate.

10. The sensor actuator according to claim 7, wherein, The second drive section includes: A base configured to movably accommodate the movable plate; A third actuator, disposed on the base, is configured to move the movable plate in the positive direction of the second axis; and A fourth driver, disposed on the base, is configured to move the movable plate in the negative direction of the second axis.

11. The sensor actuator according to claim 10, wherein, The base includes a second guide portion extending in the direction of the second axis. The second guiding portion includes a second extending portion and a second curved portion, the second extending portion extending from the base in the direction of the optical axis, and the second curved portion bending from the second extending portion in a direction intersecting the optical axis. At least a portion of the movable plate is inserted between the second curved portion and the base to move the movable plate in the direction of the second axis.

12. The sensor actuator of claim 11, further comprising a friction-reducing member disposed on the portion of the movable plate inserted between the second bent portion and the base.

13. The sensor actuator according to claim 10, wherein, The first driver, the second driver, the third driver, and the fourth driver are driven independently of each other.

14. A camera module, including: Lens module, comprising one or more lenses; as well as A sensor actuator, configured to receive incident light passing through the lens module, the sensor actuator comprising: An image sensor, a movable plate, and a base are stacked along the optical axis. A circuit board, wherein the image sensor is electrically connected to the circuit board; A first line is disposed on the movable plate and configured to move the image sensor relative to the movable plate in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis; and The second line is disposed on the base and configured to move the movable plate relative to the base in a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first axis, so as to drive the image sensor to move in the direction of the second axis via the movable plate.

15. The camera module according to claim 14, wherein, At least a portion of the first line is configured to extend in the direction of the second axis, and At least a portion of the second line is configured to extend in the direction of the first axis.

Images