Camera module

Abstract

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to a camera module, including: a bobbin; a housing located outside of the bobbin; an elastic member coupled to the bobbin and the housing; a foreign matter discharge passage formed concavely at an upper surface of the housing; and an opening formed at the housing to open at least a portion of the foreign matter discharge passage to an inside of the housing, wherein the foreign matter discharge passage overlaps at least a portion of the elastic member coupled to the housing in a vertical direction, so that foreign matter between the elastic member and the housing can be easily cleaned to reduce an auto focus tilt defect after assembly.

Description

[0001] This case is a divisional application. Its parent application is an application filed on December 24, 2015, with application number 202010485579.0 and titled "Camera Module". The parent application is also a divisional application filed on December 24, 2015, with application number 201510990183.0 and titled "Camera Module". Technical Field

[0002] Based on the teachings of exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, the present invention generally relates to a camera module. Background Technology

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present invention and is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] Generally, camera modules equipped with AF (autofocus) functionality include magnets and coils for providing autofocus.

[0005] When power is supplied to the coil, the bobbin equipped with the coil moves along the optical axis relative to the housing containing the magnet in response to the interaction with the magnetic force of the magnet, thus providing an autofocus function. Therefore, the bobbin needs to be movably fixed to the housing. For this purpose, the bobbin and the housing can be coupled by an elastic element.

[0006] Meanwhile, when the spool and the housing are coupled by the elastic element, if foreign objects such as wire ends, dust and metal shavings are inserted between the housing and the elastic element during the assembly process, these foreign objects will then come into contact with the elastic element, resulting in an increase in the process defect rate caused by the automatic focusing tilt defect.

[0007] Furthermore, even if the cleaning process for foreign objects is carried out before assembly is completed, the cleaning agent containing foreign objects may still remain due to being trapped between the elastic element and the housing. This may cause serious problems such as autofocus tilt defects and autofocus hysteresis defects due to the stickiness of the cleaning agent containing foreign objects.

[0008] Meanwhile, the spool is generally manufactured through injection molding. Due to the characteristics of the injection molding process, burrs will exist in the spool. At this time, during the vertical movement of the spool inside the housing, when a part of the spool contacts a part of the housing, the burrs may remain inside the camera module due to their removal.

[0009] The problem is that foreign objects such as rough edges can reduce the quality and performance of the camera module. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This section provides a general overview of the invention and is not a comprehensive description of its full scope and all its features.

[0011] Exemplary aspects of the present invention attempt to substantially solve at least one of the above-described problems and / or defects, and to provide at least an advantageous camera module. Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a camera module including a foreign matter discharge channel located between an elastic member and a housing, the foreign matter discharge channel being configured to naturally discharge exhaust liquid (foreign matter and cleaning agent).

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a camera module configured to prevent burrs generated during in-line injection molding from entering the interior of the camera module.

[0013] However, it should be emphasized that the present invention is not limited to the specific contents described above. It should be understood that other technical objectives not mentioned herein can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0014] Therefore, in a general aspect of the present invention, a camera module is provided, the camera module comprising:

[0015] spool;

[0016] The housing is located outside the spool;

[0017] An elastic element, said elastic element being coupled to the bobbin and the housing;

[0018] A foreign object discharge channel, wherein the foreign object discharge channel is recessed and formed on the upper surface of the housing; and

[0019] An opening is formed in the housing to allow at least a portion of the foreign object discharge channel to open into the interior of the housing; wherein,

[0020] The foreign object discharge channel overlaps in the vertical direction with at least a portion of the elastic element coupled to the housing.

[0021] Additionally, the camera module includes: a spool; a housing disposed outside the spool; an elastic element coupled to the spool and the housing; a foreign object discharge channel recessed into the upper surface of the housing; and an opening formed on the housing, the opening exposing at least a portion of the foreign object discharge channel to the interior of the housing; wherein at least a portion of the foreign object discharge channel overlaps with the elastic element coupled to the housing in the vertical direction.

[0022] Preferably, but not necessarily, the foreign object discharge channel may include a first channel and a second channel configured to be selectively supported by a support lug of the spool, wherein the second channel is arranged between the first channel and the opening and is recessed deeper than the first channel.

[0023] Preferably, but not necessarily, at least a portion of the first channel and at least a portion of the second channel may be inclined toward the opening direction.

[0024] Preferably, but not necessarily, the foreign object discharge channel may further include a connecting channel configured to connect the first channel and the second channel, wherein the connecting channel will connect an end at one side of the first channel to an end at one side of the second channel.

[0025] Preferably, but not necessarily, at least a portion of the first channel may be inclined toward the connecting channel direction, and at least a portion of the second channel may be inclined toward the opening direction.

[0026] Preferably, but not necessarily, the connection channel may include an inclined surface that slopes from the first channel to the second channel.

[0027] Preferably, but not necessarily, the camera module may further include a lug located between the first channel and the second channel, the lug being raised higher than the first channel to support the elastic element, the elastic element being coupled to the elastic element coupling lug.

[0028] Preferably, but not necessarily, the elastic element may include: an upper elastic element configured to connect the upper end of the spool to the upper end of the housing; and a lower elastic element configured to connect the lower end of the spool to the lower end of the housing, wherein the foreign matter discharge channel is located at the lower end of the upper elastic element.

[0029] Preferably, but not necessarily, the camera module may further include: a first drive component disposed on the spool and a second drive component formed opposite to the first drive component.

[0030] In another general aspect of the invention, a camera module is provided, the camera module comprising:

[0031] spool;

[0032] A first driving component is located outside the spool;

[0033] A housing, located outside the spool;

[0034] A second drive component is disposed on the housing to interact with the first drive component;

[0035] A stopper, the stopper being formed protruding from the periphery of the spool toward the housing; and

[0036] Ribs, arranged on the housing, selectively support the lower end of the stop.

[0037] in,

[0038] The stop includes a contact member that is protruding from its lower surface so as to face downwards, and the contact member has a different shape from the stop.

[0039] Additionally, the camera module includes: a spool; a first drive member disposed on the spool; a housing disposed outside the spool; a second drive member disposed on the housing and interacting with the first drive member; a stopper protruding from the periphery of the spool toward the housing; and a rib disposed on the housing and selectively supporting the stopper on its underside, wherein the stopper includes a contact member protruding downward from its lower surface, wherein the contact member has a shape dissimilar to the shape of the stopper in the bottom view.

[0040] Preferably, but not necessarily, the contact member may be narrower than the width of the stop at least in some portion.

[0041] Preferably, but not necessarily, the distance from the periphery of the spool to the end of the contact member may be less than the distance from the periphery of the spool to the end of the stopper.

[0042] Preferably, but not necessarily, the contact member may be formed from a portion of the lower surface of the downwardly protruding stop.

[0043] Preferably, but not necessarily, the contact member may be formed from a portion of the lower surface of the stop that is concave upwards.

[0044] Preferably, but not necessarily, the thickness of the contact component may be greater than the thickness of the burr formed at the stop.

[0045] Preferably, but not necessarily, the contact element may gradually decrease in width toward the outside.

[0046] Preferably, but not necessarily, the contact member can be formed in the shape of a cube, with both its upper and lower surfaces being quadrilaterals.

[0047] Preferably, but not necessarily, the rib may include a stop receiving groove formed by a portion of the upper surface, the stop receiving groove being concave downward and its shape corresponding to the shape of at least a portion of the stop.

[0048] Preferably, but not necessarily, the camera module may further include: a cushioning material disposed at the lower end of the contact member or the upper end of the stopper receiving groove, so as to overlap perpendicularly with the contact member and the stopper receiving groove.

[0049] Preferably, but not necessarily, the first driving component may include a coil, and the second driving component may include a magnet, wherein the rib may be arranged at the lower end of a magnet receiving component to receive the magnet.

[0050] Beneficial effects

[0051] The beneficial effect of exemplary embodiments of the present invention is that it can easily clean foreign matter between the elastic member and the housing, thereby reducing autofocus tilt defects generated after assembly.

[0052] Another beneficial effect is that by preventing foreign objects from entering the camera module, the stability of camera operation can be enhanced. This is achieved by forming a contact area between the stopper and the ribs by forming lugs or grooves on the stopper or ribs on the cylinder, thus preventing burrs from detaching during injection molding of the cylinder or housing.

[0053] Another beneficial effect is that by forming lugs or grooves on the stop or rib to reduce the contact area between the stop and the rib, even if foreign matter such as debris and adhesive remains on the housing, the rate of camera malfunction defects caused by the adhesion between the stop and the rib can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 3 This is an enlarged perspective view showing the housing at the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the mutual coupling relationship between the housing, the bobbin, and the upper elastic member in the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view showing the lens driving component according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 6 This is a plan view showing the spool according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 7 This is a bottom perspective view of the spool according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 8 This is a plan view illustrating the coupling shape between the online cylinder and the shell according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 9 This is a bottom view showing the coupling shape between the inline cylinder and the housing according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 10 It shows along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken from line A-A';

[0064] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the spool and housing according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0065] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the same reference numerals will be used in different drawings to identify the same components. In describing the present invention, detailed descriptions of constructions or processes well-known in the art may be omitted to avoid obscuring the invention from those skilled in the art due to unnecessary detail regarding such well-known constructions and functions.

[0066] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section.

[0067] When an element or layer is described as “on another element or layer,” “engaged to another element or layer,” “connected to another element or layer,” or “coupled to another element or layer,” it may be directly on, engaged to, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be an intermediate element or layer.

[0068] The optical direction used below can be defined as the optical direction of the lens module coupled to the lens drive component. Furthermore, the optical direction can be used interchangeably with the vertical direction and the z-axis direction.

[0069] The term "autofocus" as used below can be defined as the function of adjusting the focal length relative to the object by moving the lens module in the optical direction in response to the distance to the object, thereby adjusting the distance to the image sensor and enabling a sharp image of the object to be obtained on the image sensor. Furthermore, the meaning of "autofocus" can be used interchangeably with AF (AutoFocus).

[0070] The term "shake correction" as used below can be defined as moving or tilting the lens module in a direction perpendicular to the optical direction to counteract vibrations (movements) caused by external forces on the image sensor. This "shake correction" can be used interchangeably with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization).

[0071] The term “waste liquid (foreign matter and cleaning agent)” as used below can generally be defined as “foreign matter” such as loose threads, dust and metal shavings on the housing (320) and the elastic elements (610, 620) and “cleaning agent” provided for cleaning said foreign matter.

[0072] The configuration of the optical device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail.

[0073] The optical device according to the present invention may include: mobile phone, portable phone, smartphone, portable smart device, digital camera, laptop computer, digital broadcast terminal, PDA (personal digital assistant), PMP (portable multimedia player) and navigation device, but may not be limited to the listed devices, but may also include any device for capturing images or photographs.

[0074] The optical device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include: a main body (not shown), a display unit (not shown) disposed on a surface of the main body to display information; and a camera (not shown) mounted on the main body to capture images or photographs, and the camera having a camera module (not shown).

[0075] The configuration of the camera module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail.

[0076] The camera module may further include: a lens drive (not shown), a lens module (not shown), an IR (infrared) cut-off filter (not shown), a PCB (printed circuit board, not shown), an image sensor (not shown), and a controller (not shown).

[0077] A lens module may include one or more lenses (not shown) and a lens barrel configured to house the one or more lenses. However, the configuration of the lens module is not limited to a lens barrel, and any holder construction configured to hold one or more lenses is possible. The lens module can be moved with the lens drive device by coupling to it. For example, the lens module can be coupled to the interior of the lens drive device. For example, the lens module can be screw-connected to the lens drive device. For example, the lens module can be coupled to the lens drive module using an adhesive (not shown). Meanwhile, light passing through the lens module can illuminate an image sensor.

[0078] The IR cutoff filter can block light from the IR region from entering the image sensor. For example, the IR cutoff filter can be located between the lens module and the image sensor. The IR cutoff filter can be located at a holder member (not shown) formed independently of the base (500). However, the IR cutoff filter can be mounted at a through-hole (510) centrally formed in the base (500). For example, the IR cutoff filter can be formed of a thin film material or a glass material. Alternatively, the IR cutoff filter can be formed by coating a plate-shaped optical filter, such as an image area protecting cover glass or a cover glass, with an IR cutoff coating material.

[0079] The PCB can support a lens driving device. An image sensor can be mounted on the PCB. For example, the image sensor can be mounted on the upper inner side of the PCB, and a sensor holder (not shown) can be mounted on the upper outer side. The sensor holder can have a lens driving component on its upper side. Alternatively, the PCB can have a lens driving component on its upper outer side and an image sensor on its upper inner side. Light passing through the lens module housed inside the lens driving component can illuminate the image sensor mounted on the PCB with the above configuration. The PCB can be equipped with a controller configured to control the lens driving component.

[0080] The image sensor can be mounted on the PCB. The image sensor can be positioned to allow the optical axis to align with the lens module, thus enabling the image sensor to capture light passing through the lens module. The image sensor can be, for example, a CCD (Charged Coupled Device), MOS (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor), CPD, and CID. However, the types of image sensors are not limited to these.

[0081] The controller can be mounted on a PCB. The controller can be located externally to the lens drive component. However, the controller can also be located internally to the lens drive component. The controller can control the direction, intensity, and amplitude of the current supplied to the various components in the lens drive component. The controller can perform at least one of the camera module's autofocus function and shaky camera correction function by controlling the lens drive component.

[0082] That is, the controller can move the lens module in the optical axis direction, in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, or tilt the lens module by controlling the lens driving component. Additionally, the controller can perform feedback control for autofocus and shaky hand correction functions. More specifically, the controller can control the power and current applied to the first, second, and third driving components (220, 320, 420) by receiving the position of the spool (210) or housing (310) detected by the sensor component (700).

[0083] The configuration of the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0084] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view showing the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lens driving component may include a cover can (100), a first mover (200), a second mover (300), a stator (400), a base (500), and an elastic unit (600).

[0086] The cover (100) can form the exterior look of the camera module by accommodating the resilient unit (600), the first mover (200), the stator (400), and the second mover (300) and mounting these components to the base (500). More specifically, the cover (100) can be mounted to the base (500, described later) by allowing its inner side to make close contact with a portion or the entire side surface of the base (500) to protect the internal components from external impacts and prevent the ingress of foreign contaminants.

[0087] In addition, the cover (100) can also perform the function of protecting the components of the camera module from external electronic interference generated by the mobile phone. Therefore, the cover (100) can be formed of a metal material.

[0088] The cover (100) can be implemented by the yoke unit itself, or the yoke unit can be molded and fixed inside the cover. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the cover (100) may have an opening (110) formed on its upper side for exposing a lens unit (not shown), and an inner yoke (not shown) formed by bending inward into the cover (100) on its upper bottom surface. This inner yoke may be located at a concave unit (213) formed on the bobbin (210, described later). In this case, the inner yoke may be arranged at the peripheral corner of the opening on the upper surface of the yoke unit, or it may be arranged on the side surface. The concave unit (213) of the bobbin (210) may be formed at the corresponding position.

[0089] Additionally, the cover (100) may have at least one extended coupling member (120) formed at each bottom end, and the base (500) may have a coupling groove (520) for the coupling member (120) to be inserted, so that the camera module can perform a more robust and tighter fastening and coupling function.

[0090] A first mover (200) may be arranged on the side surface of the lens unit to move the lens unit. The first mover (200) may include a spool (210) configured to fix the lens unit and a first coil unit (220) arranged around the periphery of the spool (210). The lens unit may be a lens barrel having at least one lens (not shown). However, the invention is not limited thereto, and any holder structure capable of supporting the lens may be included within the lens unit.

[0091] The spool (210) can be coupled to the periphery of the lens unit at its inner surface to secure the lens unit. Additionally, the spool (210) may have guide units (211) formed at its periphery, which are configured to guide the winding or mounting of the first coil unit (220, described later). The guide units (211) may be formed continuously along the periphery of the spool (210) or spaced apart at predetermined intervals.

[0092] Additionally, the spool (210) may have upper elastic members (610) configured to support the spool (210) relative to the upper and lower sides, or elastic member coupling lugs (212) for coupling with the lower elastic member (620) formed on its upper and lower surfaces. The spool (210) may further include recessed units (213) formed at its periphery to allow the inner yoke of the cover (100) to be inserted between the spool (210) and the first coil unit (220) wound on the spool (210).

[0093] Additionally, the spool (210) may be fitted with a support lug (215) formed at its periphery. The support lug (215) may be selectively supported on the bottom side by the second exhaust passage (332) of the housing (320). That is, the support lug (215) of the spool (210) may be supported by the second exhaust passage (332) of the housing (320) in response to relative movement of the spool (210) relative to the housing (320). More specifically, the second exhaust passage (332) of the housing (320) may limit the movement of the spool (210) relative to the housing (320) through interaction with the support lug (215) of the spool (210).

[0094] The first coil unit (220) can be guided by the guide unit (211) to wind around the periphery of the spool (210), but four (4) individual coils can also be arranged around the periphery of the spool (210) at 90° intervals. By receiving power applied to the PCB (not shown), the first coil unit (220) can generate an electromagnetic field.

[0095] The second mover (300) may be located on the side surface of the first mover (200) and opposite to the first mover (200). The second mover (300) may include a magnet (310) arranged opposite to the first coil (220) and a housing (320) fixed by the magnet (310).

[0096] More specifically, the magnet (310) can be located at a position corresponding to the periphery of the first coil unit (220) and is attached to the housing (320) by adhesive and installed at equal distances at the four corners inside the housing (320), thereby promoting the efficient use of the internal volume.

[0097] The housing (320) can be formed to correspond to the shape of the inner side surface of the cover (100), which forms the appearance of the camera module. Furthermore, the housing (320) can be formed of an insulating material, and considering production efficiency, it can be formed by extrusion. The housing (320) can also be arranged at a predetermined distance from the cover (100) as a moving part for driving OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) operation.

[0098] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing (320) can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the cover (100) by being spaced apart at a predetermined distance, and can be opened on the upper and lower surfaces to accommodate the first mover (200) in a movable manner in the vertical direction.

[0099] Additionally, the housing (320) may include a magnet receiving unit (321) on its side surface, having a shape corresponding to that of the magnet (310), the magnet receiving unit (321) being configured to receive the magnet (310). The housing may also include at least two stoppers (322) on its upper surface, the stoppers (322) being configured to absorb impact by contacting the upper side of the cover (100) during an external impact, each stopper being protruded at a predetermined distance. The stoppers (322) may be integrally formed with the housing (320).

[0100] In addition, the housing (320) may have elastic coupling lugs (323) formed on the upper and lower surfaces, which are coupled to the upper elastic element (610) and the lower elastic element (620) in the bobbin (210).

[0101] The stator (400) can be arranged on the lower surface of the second mover (300) and positioned opposite to the second mover (300) to move the second mover (300). In addition, the stator (400) can have a through hole (411, 421) corresponding to the lens unit formed in the center.

[0102] More specifically, the stator (400) may include a second coil unit (410) positioned opposite the lower surface of the magnet (310) and a substrate disposed on the upper surface of the second coil unit (410) and configured to supply power, wherein the substrate may include an FPCB (420, flexible printed circuit board).

[0103] The second coil unit (410) can be mounted or formed on the FPCB (420), which is formed on the upper side of the base (500, described below) and can have a through hole (411) formed in the center so that the light signal of the lens unit can pass through.

[0104] Meanwhile, considering the miniaturization of the camera module (reducing the height in the z-axis direction, i.e., the optical axis direction), the second coil unit (410) can be formed as a patterned coil FP coil and arranged on the FPCB. The FPCB (420) can be mounted on the upper surface of the base (500) to apply power to the second coil unit (410), and can be formed with through holes (421) corresponding to the through holes (411) of the second coil unit (410). In addition, the FPCB (420) can include a terminal unit (422) that protrudes downward toward the base (500) by bending at one or both ends, and can receive external power through the terminal unit (422).

[0105] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the camera module may further include a Hall sensor unit (not shown) mounted on the lower or upper surface of the FPCB (420) to correspond to the position of the magnet (310).

[0106] The Hall sensor unit is configured to detect the movement of the magnet (310) and accurately control the actuator through interaction with the FPCB (420). The Hall sensor unit can be arranged in a straight line parallel to the magnet (310) and the optical axis. Additionally, the Hall sensor unit may include two Hall sensors mounted at adjacent corners of the corners of the FPCB (420), since the Hall sensor unit must detect displacement along the x and y axes. Furthermore, the base (500) may be formed with Hall sensor receiving recesses (540) configured to accommodate the Hall sensors.

[0107] Compared to the distance relative to the magnet (310), the Hall sensor unit can be formed closer to the second coil unit (410). However, given that the magnetic field strength generated by the magnet (310) is hundreds of times greater than the electromagnetic field generated by the coil, the influence of the second coil unit (410) can be disregarded when detecting the movement of the magnet (310).

[0108] The lens unit can move forward by independent or organic interaction between the first mover (200), the second mover and the stator (400) to focus the image of the object by interaction between the first mover (200) and / or the second mover (300) and to correct hand tremors by interaction between the first mover (200) and / or the second mover (300).

[0109] Simultaneously, the base (500) can support the stator (400) and the second mover (300), and can have a hollow hole (510) in the center corresponding to the through holes (411, 421). The base (500) can perform the function of a sensor holder to protect the image sensor (not shown), and can be configured to position the IR filter (not shown). In this case, the IR (infrared) filter can be mounted at the hollow hole (510) formed in the center of the base (500). The IR filter can be formed of, for example, a thin film material or a glass material, and a plate optical filter coated with an IR cutoff coating material can be arranged on the image surface protective cover glass or the cover glass. In addition, the base (500) can have a separate sensor holder (not shown) below.

[0110] The base (500) may be formed with at least one fixing lug (530) that protrudes from the upper corner to contact or couple to the inner side surface of the cover (100), wherein the fixing lug (530) is used to guide the cover (100) to couple easily and at the same time to facilitate a firm fixation after coupling.

[0111] Additionally, the base (500) may be formed with a coupling groove (520) for insertion of the coupling member (120) of the cover (100). The coupling groove (520) may be formed partially on the periphery of the base (500) to correspond in shape to the length of the coupling member (120), or it may be formed on the entire periphery of the base (500) to allow a predetermined portion of the lower end of the cover (100) containing the coupling member (120) to be inserted into the coupling groove (520).

[0112] At this point, foreign matter can enter through the through holes (411, 421) and hollow holes (510) of the stator (400) and base (500), and may contaminate the various devices and the image sensor mounted on the PCB below, thereby reducing the performance of the camera module. Specifically, when the camera module is equipped with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) function, FP coils and / or FPCB (420) may be used, in which through holes (411, 421) are formed in the center and processed into other shapes based on the camera module. These processes generate a large amount of foreign matter, which remains even after cleaning after processing, causing numerous problems.

[0113] Therefore, in a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a receiving lug unit (550) may be included, protruding from the upper surface of a base (500) having a hollow hole (510). More specifically, the receiving lug unit (550) is formed to wrap the inner surface of the through holes (411, 421) of the stator (400) by being inserted into them. The diameter of the receiving lug unit (550) may be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the inner surface of the through holes (411, 421) of the stator.

[0114] In addition, the receiving lug unit (550) can be integrally formed with the base (500), and can be formed by protruding in a ring shape as shown in the figure, or by forming at least two lugs at equal or predetermined distances to form the receiving lug unit (550).

[0115] In addition, exemplary embodiments of the present invention may further include the following features to prevent foreign matter from being generated from the stator (400) and to securely mount the stator (400).

[0116] The base (500) may have at least two contact grooves (560) formed on its upper surface in the direction of receiving the lug unit (550), and the stator (400) may have recessed grooves (413, 423) formed at positions corresponding to the contact grooves (560).

[0117] In other words, the recessed grooves (413, 423) can be formed on the second coil unit (410) and FPCB (420) respectively, and can be arranged outside the through holes (411, 421) to form a small round hole shape.

[0118] When adhesive is injected into the recesses (413, 423) after the stator (400) is mounted on the base (500), the adhesive injected into the recesses (413, 423) is introduced between the periphery of the receiving lug unit (550) and the inner surface of the through holes (411, 421) of the stator (400) to limit further foreign matter formation and allow for a secure mounting of the stator (400). Additionally, the adhesive is introduced downwards into the contact groove (560) formed at the base (500), thereby allowing for an even more secure mounting of the stator.

[0119] Additionally, a dust trap may be formed on the upper surface of the base (500) around the through hole (510). The dust trap may be made of epoxy resin or the like. The dust trap may be formed in an annular shape with a diameter larger than that of the through hole. However, the dust trap may be formed in various shapes, including square. In this case, the dust trap and the receiving lug unit (550) may be formed simultaneously, or only one of the dust trap and the receiving lug unit (550) may be formed.

[0120] The lens driving device according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention may further include an elastic element (600) configured to provide a restoring force to the first mover (200) and the second mover (300). The elastic element (600) may be formed from a leaf spring formed by bending or cutting individual sheets to reduce the size of the camera module and improve the manufacturing efficiency of the camera module.

[0121] The elastic element (600) may include: a lower elastic element (620) coupled to the lower surface of the spool (210) and the housing (320); an upper elastic element (610) coupled to the upper surface of the spool (210) and the housing (320); and a lateral elastic element (630) configured to elastically support the housing (320) to the housing (500).

[0122] At this point, the two side elastic members (630), the upper elastic member (610), and the first coil unit (220) can be electrically connected to allow the two side elastic members (630) to transmit power to the upper elastic member (610) by receiving power from the PCB (not shown, described below) and to allow the upper elastic member (610) to in turn transmit the received power to the first coil unit (220). The upper elastic member (610) can be formed as two components, each of which can be used as a terminal.

[0123] In short, each of the upper and lower elastic members (610, 620) may include a first coupling unit and a second coupling unit, as well as a connecting member configured to connect the first coupling unit and the second coupling unit. The connecting member may have at least two bent portions to connect the first coupling unit and the second coupling unit.

[0124] At this time, the first coupling unit of the upper and lower elastic elements (610, 620) can be the part coupled to the housing, while the second coupling unit can be the part coupled to the bobbin, and vice versa. Meanwhile, the side elastic element (630) is used to elastically support the housing (310) relative to the base (500), and the first and second coupling units can be coupled to the housing (320) and the base (500) respectively, or coupled to the upper elastic element (610) coupled to the housing (320) and the base (500) respectively.

[0125] Furthermore, the lens driving device according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention may further include a PCB, wherein the PCB may be mounted on the lower surface of the base (500). An image sensor (not shown) may be formed at the center of the upper surface of the PCB, and various devices for driving the camera module may be mounted thereon. Additionally, the PCB may be electrically connected to the aforementioned side elastic member (630).

[0126] The image sensor (not shown) can be mounted at the upper center of the PDB for positioning along at least one lens and optical axis housed in the lens unit. The image sensor can convert light signals incident through the lens into electrical signals.

[0127] Meanwhile, the adhesive in this exemplary embodiment can be made of thermosetting epoxy resin or UV epoxy resin, and can be cured by heat or UV exposure. However, the thermosetting epoxy resin can be a curing method that involves moving the adhesive into an oven or a curing method that involves directly applying heat to the adhesive, while the UV epoxy resin can be a curing method that involves applying UV light to the adhesive.

[0128] Alternatively, the adhesive can be a mixture of thermosetting and UV-curable epoxy resins, or an epoxy resin suitable for both thermosetting and UV curing. Therefore, either thermosetting or UV curing can be chosen to cure the epoxy resin. The adhesive is not limited to this epoxy resin and can be replaced by any adhesive material.

[0129] Furthermore, the lens driving device according to the first embodiment of the present invention may further include a foreign matter discharge channel (330) inserted between the elastic member (610) and the housing (320) to allow waste liquid (drainage) to be automatically discharged or discharged. The foreign matter discharge channel (330) will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0130] Figure 3 This is a partially enlarged perspective view showing the housing (320) at the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4This is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship between the housing, the bobbin, and the upper elastic element in the lens driving component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] Now, referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing (320) may include a foreign matter discharge channel (330), an opening (340), and a lug (350). An explanation of the housing (320) including the foreign matter discharge channel (330), the opening (340), and the lug (350) will be given. The housing (320) may include an elastic lug (323). This elastic lug (323) may be coupled by elastic elements (610, 620). For example, the elastic lug (323) may be formed by protruding upward from the upper surface (325) of the housing (320).

[0132] The elastic lug (323) can be formed with a circular cross-section, but the invention is not limited thereto and can be formed in any way as long as the elastic elements (610, 620) can be coupled. In the following description, although the structure in which the elastic lug (323) of the housing (320) is coupled through the upper elastic element (610) is emphasized, the structure in which the elastic lug (323) is coupled through the lower elastic element (620) can also be used.

[0133] The foreign object discharge channel (330) may be located on the side of the upper elastic member (610) coupled to the elastic member lug (323). The foreign object discharge channel (330) may be located on the lower surface of the upper elastic member (610) coupled to the housing (320), for example, as... Figure 4 As shown. The foreign object discharge channel (330) may be recessed in the upper surface (325) of the housing (320). In other words, the foreign object discharge channel (330) may be formed lower than the upper surface (325) of the housing (320). The foreign object discharge channel (330) may communicate with the opening (340, described later).

[0134] At this time, at least a portion of the foreign matter discharge channel (330) can be inclined toward the opening (340). With this structure according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, waste liquid located in the foreign matter discharge channel (330) can be discharged through the opening (340).

[0135] Simultaneously, compressed air can be injected into the foreign object discharge channel (330) via an air compressor (not shown), and the air injected into the foreign object discharge channel (330) can be discharged together with the foreign object located in the foreign object discharge channel (330) into the opening (340). In addition, the foreign object discharge channel (330) may include a first channel (331), a second channel (332), and a connecting channel (333). At this time, the second channel (332) is constructed for selectively supporting the support lug (215) of the bobbin (210), so the second channel (332) may be referred to as a "support groove".

[0136] The first channel (331) may be recessed into the upper surface of the housing (320). The first channel (331) may also be formed immediately below the upper elastic member (610) coupled to the housing (320). The first channel (331) may communicate with the opening (340) through the second channel (332). That is, the exhaust fluid in the first channel (331) may be discharged into the opening (340) through the second channel (332).

[0137] Similar to the first channel (331), the second channel (332) can be recessed into the upper surface of the housing (320). The second channel (332) can also be formed directly below the upper elastic member (610) coupled to the housing (320), thereby limiting the downward movement of the spool (210) relative to the housing (320) within a certain range. At the same time, the second channel (332) can communicate with the opening (340) through the first channel (331), so that waste liquid in the first channel (331) can be discharged into the opening (340) through the second channel (332), and waste liquid in the second channel (332) can be directly discharged into the opening (340).

[0138] At this point, the second channel (332) can be recessed deeper than the first channel (331). In addition, at least a portion of the first channel (331) and at least a portion of the second channel (332) can be inclined toward the opening (340), so that the waste liquid in the first channel (331) can be naturally discharged into the opening (340) through the second channel (332), and the waste liquid in the second channel (332) can be directly and naturally discharged into the opening (340).

[0139] The connecting channel (333) can connect the first channel (331) and the second channel (332). The connecting channel (333) can be located at the distal end of one side of the first channel (331) so that no eddies are generated when the waste liquid flows from the first channel (331) to the second channel (332), so that the waste liquid can be easily discharged from the first channel (331) to the second channel (332).

[0140] Meanwhile, at least a portion of the first channel (331) can be inclined toward the connecting channel (333), and at least a portion of the second channel (332) can be inclined toward the opening (340), so that the waste liquid in the first channel (331) can be naturally discharged into the opening (340) through the second channel (332), and the waste liquid in the second channel (332) can be directly and naturally discharged into the opening (340).

[0141] Additionally, the connecting channel (333) may include an inclined surface (not shown) that slopes from the first channel (331) to the second channel (332). Here, an inclined surface simply refers to a surface with an inclination, and the inclination of the inclined surface does not need to be constant or higher or lower than a predetermined level. In other words, the inclined surface serving as the connecting channel between the first channel (331) and the second channel (332) may have a non-constant angle, or the angle of the inclined surface may be small or very steep. That is, the inclined surface may be any surface with any type of inclination, as long as the waste liquid of the first channel (331) can be naturally discharged into the second channel (332), and the waste liquid of the second channel (332) does not flow back.

[0142] Meanwhile, the connecting channel (333) may include, for example, a surface (not shown) that tapers off in the direction (332) from the first channel (331) to the second channel (332), which is functionally similar to the inclined surface described above. That is, the tapered-off surface allows the waste liquid of the first channel (331) to be naturally discharged into the second channel (332) without backflow of the waste liquid in the second channel (332). However, unlike the inclined surface, the tapered-off surface is formed at a predetermined angle from the first channel (331) to the second channel (332).

[0143] The opening (340) can communicate with the foreign matter discharge channel (330), so that waste liquid in the foreign matter discharge channel (330) can be discharged into the opening (340). Alternatively, the opening (340) can be formed on one side surface of the housing (320). The opening (340) can also be formed on the inner surface (326) of the housing (320), such as... Figure 3 The example shown. Even in this case, the opening (340) can still communicate with the foreign matter discharge channel (330) as a waste liquid outlet. The opening (340) can take the shape of an opening on the upper surface, such as Figure 3As shown, however, the invention is not limited thereto and can take any shape, as long as the opening (340) can serve as a discharge outlet for discharging waste liquid. At the same time, the opening (340) can provide space to allow the support lugs (215) of the spool (210) to move vertically.

[0144] A lug (350) can be inserted between the first channel (331) and the second channel (332), and protrudes further than the first channel (331) to support the upper elastic member (610) coupled to the housing (320). Therefore, the lug (350) can be located below the upper elastic member (610) coupled to the housing (320). In this case, it is not necessary for the lug (350) and the upper elastic member (610) to be in constant contact; contact can be generated between the lug (350) and the upper elastic member (610) when the upper elastic member (610) moves.

[0145] Meanwhile, the lug (350) can take the shape of a second channel (332) selectively supported by the support lug (215) of the bobbin (210). The shape of the second channel (332) formed by the lug (350) can correspond to the shape of the support lug (215) of the bobbin (210).

[0146] The following text will refer to Figure 4 The coupling structure of the housing (320), the foreign object discharge channel (330), the upper elastic element (610) and the bobbin (210) is described.

[0147] The upper elastic element (610) can be coupled to the elastic lug (320) of the housing (320) and the elastic lug (212) of the spool (210). That is, the housing (320) and the spool (210) can be coupled by the elastic upper elastic element (610), so that the spool (210) can move relative to the housing (320). However, the relative movement of the spool (210) relative to the housing (320) can be limited within a certain range because the lug (215) of the spool (210) is selectively supported by the second channel of the housing (320). At the same time, the upper elastic element (610) can be provided with a foreign matter discharge channel (330) below, which is formed by the recess of the upper surface (325) of the housing (320). In addition, a lug that is more protruding than the foreign matter discharge channel (330) can support the upper elastic element (610). At this time, as described above, the lug (350) can selectively support the upper elastic member (610) in response to the movement of the upper elastic member (610).

[0148] The following text will refer to Figure 4 The operation of the lens driving component according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0149] Figure 4This is a perspective view showing the coupling relationship between the housing, the bobbin, and the upper elastic member of the lens driving portion according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] See Figure 4 This assumes that the upper elastic element (610) is coupled to the housing (320) and the spool (210). However, it should be noted that the following description can also be applied to the case where the upper elastic element (610) is coupled to the housing (320) but the spool (210) is not coupled.

[0151] Foreign objects such as loose threads, dust, and metal shavings may become lodged between the upper elastic element (610) and the housing (320). In this case, the operator must remove the foreign objects, because if foreign objects are present when the camera module assembly is completed, they can affect the upper elastic element (610) and cause autofocus tilt defects.

[0152] The operator can then inject the cleaning agent into the upper elastic element (610) and the housing (320). The injected cleaning agent mixes with foreign matter, which is waste liquid in the general sense of foreign matter mixed with cleaning agent as discussed earlier.

[0153] Meanwhile, as time goes by, due to the influence of gravity, the waste liquid flows downward, and the waste liquid on the upper elastic member (610) is introduced into the foreign matter discharge channel (330) located below.

[0154] Subsequently, the waste liquid in the foreign matter discharge channel (330) moves to the second discharge channel (332) along the connecting channel (333) formed at an incline on the first channel (331). At the same time, the waste liquid introduced into the second channel (332) is discharged through the opening (340).

[0155] The advantage of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is that foreign matter located between the upper elastic member (610) and the housing (320) can be removed using only the above-described operation.

[0156] The lens driving component according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0157] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view showing the lens driving component according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 This is a plan view illustrating a spool according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a bottom perspective view showing the spool according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a plan view illustrating the coupling shape between the inline cylinder and the housing according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9This is a bottom view showing the coupling shape between the inline cylinder and the housing according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 It shows along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken from line A-A'.

[0158] See Figures 5 to 10 According to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the lens driving component may include: a spool (1100), an autofocus (AF) coil (1200), a magnet (1300), and a housing (1400), and may further include a stator (1500), a first elastic element (1600) and a second elastic element (1610), an OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) spring (1620), a base (1700), and a cover (1800).

[0159] The spool (1100) can be cylindrical with an open top / bottom and can have a pillar-shaped hollow hole. The hollow hole of the spool (1100) can form one or more lenses to accommodate lens units (not shown) through which light passes, wherein the lens units are then screw-coupled. Additionally, the spool (1100) can have a protruding stop (1110) facing outwards. An AF coil (1200) can be wound around the outside of the spool (1100).

[0160] A magnet (1300) may face an AF coil (1200) wound around the outside of a bobbin (1100), and multiple magnets may be formed. When multiple magnets are formed, adjacent magnets (1300) may be arranged at equal distances. When current flows in the AF coil (1200), a magnetic field is formed in the AF coil (1300), wherein the magnet (1300) can move the bobbin (1100) vertically according to its electrical interaction with the AF coil (1200).

[0161] The housing (1400) may have a hollow hole and openings on the upper and lower sides. The housing (1400) may accommodate a bobbin (1100), wherein the bobbin (1100) may be vertically movable inside the housing (1400). The housing (1400) may have plate-shaped ribs (1410) formed on the inner side of the corners, extending diagonally from one surface to another adjacent surface. The space in the inner corners may be divided into upper and lower sections by the ribs (1410). The ribs (1410) may have magnet receiving units (1430) formed downwards to accommodate magnets (1300) to allow the lower surface of the ribs (1410) to contact the upper surface of the magnets (1300).

[0162] The rib (1410) may have a stopper receiving groove (1420) formed on its upper surface to receive the stopper (1110) of the bobbin (1100), and the inner walls of the stopper receiving groove (1420) facing the end of the stopper (1110) which is formed in a direction away from the optical axis may be formed so that they do not contact each other, and the lower surface of the stopper (1110) and the floor surface of the stopper receiving groove (1420) may be arranged to face each other.

[0163] The elastic element can be divided into a first elastic element (1600) and a second elastic element (1610). The first elastic element (1600) can be formed as a leaf spring and arranged on the lower surface of the housing (1400). The first elastic element (1600) can be formed with a hole to allow light to pass through the lens unit. The upper surface of the first elastic element (1600) at the periphery of the hole can be adjacent to the lower surface of the cable tube (1100) to elastically support the cable tube (1100) from the housing (1400).

[0164] A second elastic element (1610) may be arranged on the upper surface of the housing (1400). The second elastic element (1610) may be formed with a hole to allow light to pass through the lens unit. The lower surface of the hole of the second elastic element (1610) may be adjacent to the upper surface of the tube (1100) to allow the tube (1100) to be elastically supported from the housing (1400).

[0165] The first elastic element (1600) and the second elastic element (1610) can elastically support the spool 1100 to move vertically upward and downward through the magnet (1300) to restore the spool (1100) moving along the optical axis.

[0166] Meanwhile, although the arrangement of the first elastic member (1600) and the second elastic member (1610) has been described in the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first elastic member (1600) and the second elastic member (1610) can be arranged in a variable manner according to user selection.

[0167] A base (1700) may have pillars (1710) formed at each corner, and a housing (1400) may be arranged toward the inside of the pillars (1710), wherein the base (1700) may movably support the housing (1400) by means of OIS springs (1620). Since the housing (1400) is spaced apart from the pillars (1710), the housing (1400) supported by the base (1700) may move horizontally up to the spaced distance. The base (1700) may have apertures to allow light to pass through the lens unit. A stator (1500) and a first elastic element (1600) are inserted between the base (1700) and the housing (1400), wherein the stator (1500) may be an OIS coil (1510) and an FPCB (flexible printed circuit board, 1520).

[0168] An OIS coil (1510) may be disposed on the lower surface of a first elastic element (1600). The OIS coil (1510) may be formed of a plate-like material and have holes formed to allow light to pass through the lens unit. The first elastic element (1600) may be disposed between the OIS coil (1510) and the housing (1400). The OIS coil (1510) may face the lower surface of a magnet (1300), which is received in the housing (1400) through a through-hole formed in the first elastic element (1600). The OIS coil (1510) performs shaky correction by horizontally moving the coil (1100) on which the lens unit is mounted and the housing (1400) relative to the image sensor (described below). In other words, when current flows in the OIS coil (1510), a magnetic field is formed in the OIS coil (1510) to move the housing (1400) and the spool (1100) contained in the housing (1400) horizontally in response to the electromagnetic interaction with the magnet (1300).

[0169] The FPCB (1520) can apply power to the OIS coil (1510). The FPCB (1520) can be arranged on the lower surface of the OIS coil (1510). The FPCB (1520) can be formed with holes to allow light to pass through the lens unit. The FPCB (1520) can transmit current supplied through a terminal formed on one side to the OIS coil (1510) or the OIS spring (1620, described below), wherein the current transmitted to the OIS spring (1620) can be supplied to the AF coil (1200) through a second elastic element (1610) to allow a magnetic field to be formed on the AF coil (1200) or the OIS coil (1510).

[0170] An OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) spring (1620) may be arranged on the side surface of the housing (1400). The OIS spring (1620) may elastically support the housing (1400) relative to the base (1700). The OIS spring (1620) may perform the function of restoring the bobbin (1100) and housing (1400) that have been moved horizontally relative to the image sensor (described below) in response to the magnetic field formed by the OIS coil (1510) and the magnet (1300).

[0171] Although not shown in the figure, a PCB can be arranged on the lower surface of the base (1700). An image sensor, configured to convert light passing through the lens unit into an electrical signal, can be mounted on the upper central region of the PCB. The PCB can be equipped with various components to operate the image sensor, or multiple terminal units for powering on or outputting information from the image sensor. Furthermore, an IR (infrared) cutoff filter can be mounted on the base (1700) to filter IR light before it reaches the image sensor.

[0172] A cover (1800) can be arranged outside the housing (1400) to cover or enclose the aforementioned components. The cover (1800) can be formed with holes to allow light to pass through the lens unit.

[0173] The spool (1100) can be manufactured using injection molding. (See reference) Figures 6 to 9 The spool (1100) may have a stop (1110) formed on its periphery in a direction away from the optical axis to restrict the movement of the spool (1100) within a predetermined height of the housing (1400) while allowing it to move vertically within the housing (1400). Due to the characteristics of injection molding, the spool (1100) may have burrs (B) formed on the stop (1110).

[0174] See Figure 10 The second exemplary embodiment of the present invention shows that the contact member (not shown) can be disposed on the lower surface of the stop (1110), and the lug (1111) can be formed by a step (staircase sill) protruding downward from a part of the lower surface of the contact member, or the step case lug (1111) can be formed by a recess in a part of the lower surface of the contact member.

[0175] In a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a lug (1111) is formed on the lower surface of the stop (1110), such as Figure 10As shown, the lower surface of the lug (1111) is allowed to abut the upper surface of the rib (1410), thereby reducing the contact area between the stop (1110) and the rib (1410). At this time, the upper surface of the rib (1410) can accommodate the stop (1110) to form a stop receiving groove (1420).

[0176] Although not shown in the figure, any of the lower surface of the lug (1111) at the stop (1110), the upper surface of the rib (1410), and the ground surface of the stop receiving groove (1420) may be attached with a cushioning material of elastic material, such as rubber or silicone rubber.

[0177] When the stopper contacts the rib (1410) or the stopper receiving groove (1420), the lug (1111) can directly contact the rib (1410) or the stopper receiving groove (1420). Therefore, the contact area between the ground surface of the stopper (1110) and the rib (1410) or the stopper (1110) and the stopper receiving groove (1420) can be reduced by the lug (1111), thereby forming a local space between the stopper (1110) and the rib (1410) or between the stopper (1110) and the stopper receiving groove (1420). Furthermore, the burr (B) formed at the stopper (1110) does not contact the rib (1410) or the stopper receiving groove (1420), and the burr (B) will not fall off the stopper (1110).

[0178] For example, a burr (B) can be formed at the distal end of the stop (1110) facing outward from the optical axis. In this case, the distal end of the stop (1110) facing outward from the optical axis can be spaced a predetermined distance from the inner wall of the stop receiving groove (1420) opposite to the inner side of the corner of the end or the housing (1400), so that the burr (B) will not contact the inner side of the corner of the stop receiving groove or the housing (1400), and the burr will not detach from the stop (1110).

[0179] Burrs (B) can be formed on the lower surface or at the bend area below the end of the stop (1110) facing outward from the optical axis, which is another example of where burrs (B) can be formed. In this case, when the spool (1100) moves vertically inside the housing (1400), the stop (1110) can contact the upper surface of the rib (1410) at the housing (1400) or the ground surface of the stop receiving groove (1420) formed at the stop (1110).

[0180] Furthermore, the burr (B) formed at the stop (1110) will frequently come into contact with the upper surface of the stop receiving groove (1420) or rib (1410) formed at the stop (1110). Therefore, the burr (B) will detach from the stop (1110), resulting in the detached burr (B) remaining in the camera, which in turn hinders the function of other components and causes camera malfunction. However, in the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the burr (B) will not detach from the stop (1110) and will not come into contact with the upper surface of the rib (1410) or the ground surface of the stop receiving groove (1420) because the lug (1111) formed at the stop (1110) is thicker than the burr (B).

[0181] The lug (1111) of the lens driving device according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention may have a shape that gradually tapers away from the optical axis. Specifically, as shown in the figure, it may be a cylinder with both the lower and upper surfaces being trapezoidal. The lug (1111) of the lens driving device according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention may have various variable options according to the user's intention. For example, the lug (1111) may be cylindrical, polygonal, polyhedral including conical or tapered shapes, or may be formed in multiple forms.

[0182] The configuration of the lens driving device according to a modified example of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0183] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing the spool and housing according to a modified example of a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0184] See Figure 11 A modified example of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention may be configured such that the upper surface of the rib (1410) forms a contact area (not shown), a portion of which protrudes upward to provide a lug (1111') with a step, and the upper surface of the lug (1111') abuts the lower surface of the stop (1110), and the lug (1111) protrudes from the lower surface of the stop (1110), which is different from the configuration in the second exemplary embodiment.

[0185] See Figure 11A modified example of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention may preferably be configured such that the upper surface of the rib (1410) is formed with a stop receiving groove (1420) to allow the stop (1410) to be received, the ground surface of the stop receiving groove (1420) is formed with a lug (1111') to allow the upper surface of the lug (1111') to contact the lower surface of the stop (1110), and the thickness of the lug (1111') is greater than the conventional thickness of the burr (B) formed on the stop (1110).

[0186] Although not shown in the figure, either the lower surface of the stop (1110) or the upper surface of the lug (1111') at the rib (1410) may be attached with a cushioning material of elastic material, such as rubber or silicone rubber.

[0187] Meanwhile, when lugs (1111, 1111') can be formed on the upper surface of the stop (1110) or rib (1410) or on the stop receiving groove (1420) to reduce the contact area between the stop (1110) and the rib (1410) or between the stop (1110) and the stop receiving groove (1420), the adhesion between the stop (1110) and the rib (1410) caused by foreign matter in the housing (1400) or between the stop (1110) and the rib (1410) can be reduced. As the adhesion is reduced, additional effects that can be expected include a reduction in camera defect rate, such as autofocus tilt or camera hysteresis.

[0188] It should be understood that although all elements comprising the foregoing exemplary embodiments are presented as acting coupled to one element or via coupling, the invention is not limited thereto. All elements may act by selectively coupling to one or more elements.

[0189] The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore indicate the presence of the stated feature, integral, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups.

[0190] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including scientific and technical terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. It should be further understood that terms such as those defined in common dictionaries should be understood to have the meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant field of this invention, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such.

[0191] However, the camera module described above according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein. Therefore, it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention can cover modifications and variations falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0192] Although specific features or aspects have been disclosed with respect to several embodiments, it is desirable that these features or aspects may be selectively combined with one or more other features and / or aspects of other embodiments.

Claims

1. A lens driving apparatus comprising: a base; a second mover disposed on the base; and a first mover disposed in the second mover and including a bobbin, wherein the bobbin includes a stopper protruding from an outer side surface of the bobbin, wherein the stopper of the bobbin includes a protruding part formed in a lower part of the stopper, and wherein the protruding part of the stopper contacts a part of the second mover when the bobbin moves toward the base, wherein the protruding part of the stopper protrudes from a lower surface of the stopper, wherein a first part of the lower surface of the stopper, which does not form the protruding part, does not contact the second mover when the stopper of the bobbin contacts the part of the second mover. the first mover includes a first coil disposed on the bobbin, 2. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein wherein the second mover includes a housing disposed on the base and a magnet disposed on the housing, and wherein the magnet overlaps the first coil in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction. the bobbin includes a coil accommodation groove formed on the outer side surface of the bobbin, and 3. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 2, wherein wherein the first coil is disposed on the coil accommodation groove of the bobbin. the first part of the lower surface of the stopper is connected to an outer side surface of the stopper.

4. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an area of a lower surface of the protruding part of the stopper is greater than an area of the first part of the lower surface of the stopper.

5. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first part of the lower surface of the stopper overlaps the second mover in an optical axis direction.

6. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the protruding part of the stopper of the bobbin is configured to reduce a contact area between the stopper and the second mover.

7. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stopper of the bobbin is disposed at a position higher than the first coil.

8. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the stopper of the bobbin includes four stoppers, and 9. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein wherein the four stoppers are symmetrical to each other with respect to an optical axis. the stopper of the bobbin includes a first stopper disposed on a first side surface of the bobbin, 10. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 2, wherein wherein the housing includes a first inner side surface facing the first side surface of the bobbin and disposed between a first corner part of the housing and a second corner part of the housing, and wherein the first stopper is closer to the first corner part of the housing than to the second corner part of the housing. 11.A camera module comprising: a printed circuit board; an image sensor disposed on the printed circuit board; the lens driving apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10; and a lens coupled to the bobbin of the lens driving apparatus and spaced apart from the image sensor. 12.A mobile phone comprising the camera module according to claim 11. 13.A lens driving apparatus comprising: a base; a second mover including a housing disposed on the base; a first mover disposed in the second mover and including a bobbin; and ​ ​ an elastic member coupled with the bobbin and the housing, wherein the bobbin includes a stopper protruding from an outer side surface of the bobbin, wherein the stopper of the bobbin includes a protruding part formed in a lower part of the stopper, and wherein the protruding part of the stopper contacts a part of the second mover when the bobbin moves toward the base, wherein the protruding part of the stopper protrudes from a lower surface of the stopper, wherein a first part of the lower surface of the stopper, which does not form the protruding part, does not contact the second mover when the stopper of the bobbin contacts the part of the second mover.

14. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the first mover includes a first coil disposed on the bobbin, wherein the second mover includes a magnet disposed on the housing, and wherein the magnet overlaps the first coil in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction.

15. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the bobbin includes a coil accommodation groove formed on the outer side surface of the bobbin, and wherein the first coil is disposed on the coil accommodation groove of the bobbin.

16. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the first part of the lower surface of the stopper is connected to an outer side surface of the stopper.

17. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 13, wherein an area of a lower surface of the protruding part of the stopper is greater than an area of the first part of the lower surface of the stopper.

18. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the first part of the lower surface of the stopper overlaps the second mover in an optical axis direction.

19. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the protruding part of the stopper of the bobbin is configured to reduce a contact area between the stopper and the second mover.

20. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the stopper of the bobbin is disposed at a position higher than the first coil.

21. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the stopper of the bobbin includes four stoppers, and wherein the four stoppers are symmetrical to each other with respect to an optical axis.

22. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the stopper of the bobbin includes a first stopper disposed on a first side surface of the bobbin, wherein the housing includes a first inner side surface facing the first side surface of the bobbin and disposed between a first corner part of the housing and a second corner part of the housing, and wherein the first stopper is closer to the first corner part of the housing than to the second corner part of the housing.

23. A camera module comprising: a printed circuit board; an image sensor disposed on the printed circuit board; a lens driving device according to any one of claims 13 to 22; and a lens coupled to the bobbin of the lens driving device and spaced apart from the image sensor.

24. A mobile phone comprising the camera module according to claim 23.

25. A lens driving device comprising: a base; a cover disposed on the base; a second mover disposed in the cover; and a first mover disposed in the second mover and including a bobbin, wherein the bobbin includes a stopper protruding from an outer side surface of the bobbin, wherein the stopper of the spool includes a protruding part formed in a lower part of the stopper, and wherein the protruding part of the stopper contacts a part of the second mover when the spool moves toward the base, wherein the protruding part of the stopper protrudes from a lower surface of the stopper, wherein a first part of the lower surface of the stopper, which is not formed with the protruding part, does not contact the second mover when the stopper of the spool contacts the part of the second mover.

26. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the first mover includes a first coil disposed on the spool, wherein the second mover includes a housing disposed on the base and a magnet disposed on the housing, and wherein the magnet overlaps the first coil in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction.

27. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the spool includes a coil accommodation groove formed on the outer side surface of the spool, and wherein the first coil is disposed on the coil accommodation groove of the spool.

28. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the first part of the lower surface of the stopper is connected to an outer side surface of the stopper.

29. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 25, wherein an area of a lower surface of the protruding part of the stopper is greater than an area of the first part of the lower surface of the stopper.

30. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the first part of the lower surface of the stopper overlaps the second mover in an optical axis direction.

31. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the protruding part of the stopper of the spool is configured to reduce a contact area between the stopper and the second mover.

32. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the stopper of the spool is disposed at a position higher than the first coil.

33. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the stopper of the spool includes four stoppers, and wherein the four stoppers are symmetrical to each other with respect to an optical axis.

34. The lens driving apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the stopper of the spool includes a first stopper disposed on a first side surface of the spool, wherein the housing includes a first inner side surface facing the first side surface of the spool and disposed between a first corner part of the housing and a second corner part of the housing, and wherein the first stopper is closer to the first corner part of the housing than to the second corner part of the housing.

35. A camera module comprising: a printed circuit board; an image sensor disposed on the printed circuit board; a lens driving device according to any one of claims 25 to 34; and a lens coupled to the spool of the lens driving device and spaced apart from the image sensor.

36. A mobile phone comprising the camera module according to claim 35.

Images