Camera actuator and camera module comprising the same

Abstract

A lens moving apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a moving unit including a lens; a driving unit for moving the moving unit in an optical axis direction; and a sensing unit for sensing a position of the moving unit; wherein the moving unit includes: a magnet scale in which first magnetic poles and second magnetic poles are alternately arranged in a first direction; and a reference magnet corresponding to the magnet scale, and wherein the first magnetic poles and the second magnetic poles are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments relate to a camera actuator and a camera module. BACKGROUND

[0002] A camera module captures a subject and stores it as an image or a video, and is mounted in various devices such as mobile terminals such as a cell phone, a laptop, a drone, and a vehicle.

[0003] In general, the above-described devices are equipped with a micro camera module, and the camera module is capable of performing an auto focus (AF) function of automatically adjusting a distance between an image sensor and a lens to align a focal length of the lens. Further, the camera module can perform a zooming function of enlarging or reducing a magnification of a distant object by using a zoom lens to increase or decrease the magnification.

[0004] Further, recent camera modules employ an image stabilization (IS) technique to correct or prevent image stabilization due to a camera movement caused by an unstable stationary device or a user's movement.

[0005] Such an image stabilization (IS) technique includes an optical image stabilizer (OIS) technique and an image stabilization prevention technique using an image sensor. Here, the OIS technique is a technique of correcting a motion by changing a path of light, and the image stabilization prevention technique using an image sensor is a technique of compensating for a motion in both mechanical and electronic ways, and recently, the OIS technique is increasingly employed.

[0006] Meanwhile, a zoom actuator is used for a zooming function in a camera module. Such an actuator moves positions of a plurality of zoom lens groups for auto focus and a change in a zoom ratio.

[0007] At this time, the actuator must accurately sense a current position of the plurality of zoom lens groups in order to move the positions of the plurality of zoom lens groups and accordingly move the plurality of zoom lens groups to a target position.

[0008] Accordingly, a conventional camera module includes a sensing part for sensing a position of a zoom lens group.

[0009] For example, the sensing part can include a Hall sensor and a single pole magnet. At this time, a camera module requires a stroke of 5 to 10 mm or more in order to implement a high zoom ratio. However, there is a limit to sensing a position of a zoom lens group having a stroke of 5 to 10 mm or more using only a Hall sensor and a single pole magnet.

[0010] As another example, the sensing part can include a photo interrupter (PI) sensor. However, when the position of the lens group is sensed using the PI sensor, light generated from the PI sensor can enter the image sensor, but there is a problem in that image quality deterioration such as a flash occurs. In addition, the PI sensor as described above is difficult to miniaturize, and thus application in a camera module mounted on a terminal is limited.

[0011] In addition, in the conventional camera module, the initial position of the lens group is measured using a mechanical stopper. However, due to injection conditions and assembly deviation of various components included in the camera module, there is a problem in that the precision of the initial position measurement of the lens group using the mechanical stopper is reduced.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need for a new camera module capable of solving the above problems. SUMMARY

[0013] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0014] Embodiments provide a camera actuator and a camera module having improved optical properties.

[0015] In addition, embodiments provide a camera actuator and a camera module capable of auto-focusing and high magnification zooming.

[0016] In addition, embodiments provide a camera actuator and a camera module capable of accurately sensing the current position of the lens group.

[0017] In addition, embodiments provide a camera actuator and a camera module capable of precisely moving the lens group to the initial position.

[0018] In addition, embodiments provide a camera actuator and a camera module capable of preventing problems such as decentration, tilt, friction, etc. from occurring when the lens group is moved.

[0019] In addition, embodiments provide a camera actuator and a camera module capable of having improved process efficiency.

[0020] Technical problems to be solved by the proposed embodiments are not limited to the above technical problems, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the proposed embodiments belong through the following description.

[0021] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0022] A lens driving device according to an embodiment includes a moving part including a lens; a driving part for driving the moving part in an optical axis direction; and a sensing part for sensing a position of the moving part; wherein the moving part includes a magnet scaler in which first magnetic poles and second magnetic poles are alternately arranged in a first direction, and a reference magnet corresponding to the magnet scaler and having first magnetic poles and second magnetic poles arranged in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0023] Further, the reference magnet is a single magnet.

[0024] Further, the first magnetic poles of the reference magnet are arranged to face at least one of the first magnetic poles and the second magnetic poles of the magnet scaler.

[0025] Further, the magnet scaler and the reference magnet are coupled to each other.

[0026] Further, the sensing part outputs a first sensing signal corresponding to a moving position of the reference magnet and a second sensing signal corresponding to a moving position of the magnet scaler; wherein the first sensing signal is a sensing value for moving the moving part to an initial position, and wherein the second sensing signal is a sensing value for moving the moving part to a target position within a moving stroke of the moving part.

[0027] Further, the lens driving device further includes a housing, wherein the housing includes a hole in which at least a part of the sensing part is arranged, and wherein the magnet part and the sensing part overlap each other in the second direction.

[0028] Further, the hole includes a first sub-hole corresponding to the magnet scaler, and a second sub-hole corresponding to the reference magnet, wherein the sensing part includes a first sub-sensing part arranged to face the magnet scaler with respect to the first sub-hole, and a second sub-sensing part arranged to face the reference magnet with respect to the second sub-hole.

[0029] Further, the lens driving device further includes a substrate arranged on an outer peripheral surface of the housing, wherein at least a part of the sensing part is positioned in the hole in a state in which the sensing part is arranged on the substrate.

[0030] Further, the lens driving apparatus further includes a fixed portion disposed in the housing and including the first lens portion, wherein the moving portion includes: a first lens barrel disposed in the housing spaced apart from the fixed portion in the optical axis direction; and a second lens barrel disposed in the housing spaced apart from the moving portion in the optical axis direction, wherein the driving portion includes: a first driving portion coupled to the first lens barrel in the housing and driving the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction; and a second driving portion coupled to the second lens barrel in the housing and driving the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction, wherein the magnet portion includes: a first magnet portion including a first magnet scale and a first reference magnet disposed on one surface of the first lens barrel; and a second magnet portion including a second magnet scale and a second reference magnet disposed on another surface of the second lens barrel, wherein the sensing portion includes: a first sensing portion disposed adjacent to the first magnet portion; and a second sensing portion disposed adjacent to the second magnet portion.

[0031] Further, the housing includes: a first housing in which the fixed portion is disposed; and a second housing in which the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel are disposed, wherein the hole includes: a first hole formed on a lower surface of the second housing and vertically overlapping the first magnet portion and the first sensing portion; and a second hole disposed on an upper surface of the second housing and vertically overlapping the second magnet portion and the second sensing portion.

[0032] Further, the first lens barrel includes a first barrel portion including the second lens portion, a first guide portion extending outward from the first barrel portion, and a first elastic portion connected to the first driving portion, wherein the second lens barrel includes: a second barrel portion including a third lens portion; a second guide portion extending outward from the second barrel portion; and a second elastic portion connected to the second driving portion.

[0033] Further, the first driving portion includes a first piezoelectric device disposed in the housing, and a first extension rod extending in the optical axis direction from the first piezoelectric device, wherein the second driving portion includes a second piezoelectric device disposed in the housing, and a second extension rod extending in the optical axis direction from the second piezoelectric device, wherein an area of the first extension rod is connected to the first elastic portion, and wherein an area of the second extension rod is connected to the second elastic portion.

[0034] Further, the lens driving apparatus includes first and second pins extending in the optical axis direction within the housing and spaced apart from each other, wherein the first pin is disposed to be inserted into a first insertion hole of the first lens barrel, wherein the second pin is disposed to be inserted into a second insertion hole of the second lens barrel, wherein the first lens barrel moves along the first pin, and wherein the second lens barrel moves along the second pin.

[0035] Further, the first lens barrel further includes a first guide groove in which the second pin is disposed, and the second lens barrel further includes a second guide groove in which the first pin is disposed, and wherein the first and second guide grooves have an open shape at one side.

[0036] Further, the first magnet part is a first single magnetization magnet in which the first magnet scale and the first reference magnet are integrally formed, and wherein the second magnet part is a second single magnetization magnet in which the second magnet scale and the second reference magnet are integrally formed.

[0037] On the other hand, a lens driving apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a lens barrel including a lens; a piezoelectric driving part driving the lens barrel in an optical axis direction; a magnet part disposed on the lens barrel; and a sensing part corresponding to the magnet part, wherein the magnet part includes: a magnet scale in which first and second magnetic poles are alternately disposed in the optical axis direction; and a reference magnet corresponding to the magnet scale and having first and second magnetic poles disposed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0038] Further, the reference magnet is a single magnet including the first magnetic pole, the first magnetic pole being arranged to face at least one of the first and second magnetic poles of the magnet scale.

[0039] Further, the sensing part outputs a first sensing signal corresponding to a moving position of the reference magnet and a second sensing signal corresponding to a moving position of the magnet scale; wherein the first sensing signal is a sensing value for moving the moving part to an initial position, and wherein the second sensing signal is a sensing value for moving the moving part to a target position within a moving stroke of the moving part.

[0040] On the other hand, a camera apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a first lens barrel including a first lens part; a second lens barrel including a second lens part spaced apart from the first lens part in an optical axis direction; and a third lens barrel including a third lens part spaced apart from the second lens part in the optical axis direction; a first driving part for driving the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction; a second driving part for driving the third lens barrel in the optical axis direction; a first magnet part including a first magnet scale and a first reference magnet disposed on one surface of the second lens barrel; a second magnet part including a second magnet scale and a second reference magnet disposed on the other surface of the third lens barrel; a first sensing part configured to acquire a first sensing signal corresponding to a magnetic force change of the first magnet part; a second sensing part configured to acquire a second sensing signal corresponding to a magnetic force change of the second magnet part; and a controller configured to control movement of the second lens barrel and the third lens barrel based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal.

[0041] Further, the controller outputs a control signal for moving the first lens barrel to the initial position and the target position to the first driving part based on the first sensing signal acquired through the first sensing part, and outputs a control signal for moving the second lens barrel to the initial position and the target position to the second driving part based on the second sensing signal acquired through the second sensing part.

[0042] Further, the first sensing part includes a first-first sub-sensing part configured to acquire a first sensing signal corresponding to a change in a magnetic force of the first reference magnet, and a first-second sensing part for obtaining a second sensing signal corresponding to a change in a magnetic force of the first magnet scaler, wherein the second sensing part includes a second-first sub-sensing part configured to acquire a third sensing signal corresponding to a change in a magnetic force of the second reference magnet, and a second-second sub-sensing part configured to acquire a fourth sensing signal corresponding to a change in a magnetic force of the second magnet scaler.

[0043] Further, the controller moves the first lens barrel to the initial position based on the first sensing signal, moves the first lens barrel to the target position based on the second sensing signal, moves the second lens barrel to the initial position based on the third sensing signal, and moves the second lens barrel to the target position based on the fourth sensing signal.

[0044] Advantageous Effects

[0045] The camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment can have improved optical properties. In detail, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment include a driving part for driving a lens group, the driving part including a piezoelectric device, the lens group being able to be more precisely controlled by the driving part, and friction generated when the lens group moves being able to be minimized. Accordingly, the embodiment can provide more improved auto-focusing and zooming functions.

[0046] Further, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment can have improved operation reliability. In detail, the embodiment includes a first magnet part and a second magnet part mounted on a lens barrel. In this case, the first magnet part can include a reference magnet, and the second magnet part can include a magnet scaler. Further, the embodiment can include a sensing part disposed adjacent to the first magnet part and the second magnet. The sensing part can measure a change in a magnetic field through the first magnet part and the second magnet part. That is, the sensing part can precisely move the lens group to an initial position by using a change in a magnetic field through the first magnet part. Further, the sensing part can precisely move the lens group to a target position by using a change in a magnetic field through the second magnet part. Accordingly, the embodiment can improve accuracy of auto-focusing and zooming functions of the camera module, and thus can improve operation reliability.

[0047] Further, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment can eliminate assembly deviation. In detail, although the embodiment includes the first magnet part and the second magnet part, this can be a magnet part integrally formed. That is, the integrally formed magnet part can be a magnet configured by simultaneously magnetizing a magnet scale corresponding to the second magnet part and a reference magnet corresponding to the first magnet part. Accordingly, according to the embodiment, it is possible to solve the position error detection occurring due to the assembly deviation of the magnet scale and the reference magnet, and it is possible to further improve the operation reliability.

[0048] Further, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment enable the position of the lens group to be sensed using the magnet scale and the reference magnet instead of the conventional PI sensor, so that it is possible to sense the position of the lens group without image degradation and thus improve the image quality.

[0049] Further, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment can have improved process efficiency. In detail, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment include a housing accommodating a plurality of lens groups, for example, a plurality of lens barrels, and a guide jaw can be provided on an inner lower surface of the housing facing the lens barrels. In this case, the guide jaw can have a position and a distance corresponding to a set lens barrel among the plurality of lens barrels, thereby preventing a non-set lens barrel from being disposed. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively arrange the set barrels at the set positions, and it is possible to prevent misalignment of other lens barrels. Accordingly, the embodiment can reduce defects caused by misalignment of the plurality of lens barrels, and can have improved process efficiency. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0052] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0053] Figure 4 is a front view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0054] Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating a first driving part and a second driving part disposed in a housing in a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0055] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a first driving part according to an embodiment.

[0056] Figure 7is an exploded perspective view of a second driving portion according to an embodiment.

[0057] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a part of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0058] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a housing according to an embodiment.

[0059] Figure 10 is a front view of a second housing according to an embodiment.

[0060] Figure 11 is a front view of a second driving portion disposed in a second housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] Figure 12 is a front view of a first driving portion and a second driving portion disposed in a second housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] Figure 13 is a view illustrating a first driving portion and a second driving portion according to an embodiment.

[0063] Figure 14 is a front view of a second driving portion disposed in a second housing according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0064] Figure 15 is a view illustrating a sensing signal acquired through a sensing portion according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0065] Figure 16 is a view illustrating a second sensing signal shown in Figure 15 in more detail.

[0066] Figure 17 is a view illustrating a sensing signal acquired through a sensing portion according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0067] Figure 18 is a flowchart for explaining an initial operation method of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0068] Figure 19 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of a function of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0069] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0070] Figure 21 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment in which some components are omitted in the camera module.

[0071] Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0072] Figure 23 is a view of a third driving part of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0073] Figure 24 is a view of a third housing of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0074] Figure 25 and 26 is a view of a prism unit of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0075] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0076] Figure 28 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, same drawing reference numerals are used for the same elements across various figures.

[0078] However, the spirit and scope of the present application are not limited to a part of the described embodiments, and can be implemented in various other forms, and one or more elements of the embodiments can be selectively combined and used in substitution within the spirit and scope of the present application.

[0079] Further, unless explicitly defined and described otherwise, the terms used in the embodiments of the present application, including technical and scientific terms, can be interpreted the same as those commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present application pertains and can be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant technology.

[0080] Further, the terms used in the embodiments of the present application are used to describe the embodiments and are not used to limit the present application. In this specification, unless specifically stated otherwise, the singular form can also include the plural form and can include at least one of all combinations when described as "at least one of A, B, and C" in the phrase.

[0081] Further, in describing elements of the embodiments of the present application, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) can be used. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another element, and the terms are not limited to the nature, order, or sequence of the elements. Further, when an element is described as being "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another element, it can not only include when the element is "directly connected," "directly coupled," or "directly connected" to the other element, but also include when the element is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to the other element through another element.

[0082] Also, when described as being formed or disposed "up (above)" or "down (below)" each element, "up (above)" or "down (below)" can include not only when two elements are directly connected to each other, but also when one or more other elements are formed or disposed between the two elements. Also, when expressed as "up (above)" or "down (below)", it can include not only a direction based on an upper direction of one element, but also a lower direction.

[0083] The optical axis direction used below can be defined as an optical axis direction coupled to a lens of a camera actuator and a camera module, and the vertical direction can be defined as a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0084] The autofocus function used below can be defined as a function of automatically focusing on a subject by adjusting a distance from an image sensor in an optical axis direction by moving a lens according to a distance of the subject so that a clear image of the subject can be acquired by the image sensor.

[0085] Meanwhile, the autofocus can correspond to an autofocus (AF). Also, a closed loop autofocus (CLAF) control can be defined as a function of controlling a lens position in real time by sensing a distance between an image sensor and the lens to improve focusing adjustment accuracy.

[0086] In addition, before describing embodiments of the present application, a first direction can mean an x-axis direction shown in the drawings, and a second direction can be a direction different from the first direction. For example, the second direction can mean a y-axis direction shown in the drawings among directions perpendicular to the first direction. Also, a third direction can be different from the first direction and the second direction. For example, the third direction can mean a z-axis direction shown in the drawings among directions perpendicular to the first and second directions. Here, the third direction can mean an optical axis direction.

[0087] Hereinafter, a configuration of a camera module according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0088] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 4 is a front view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating a first driving part and a second driving part disposed in a housing in a camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a first driving part according to an embodiment, Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a second driving part according to an embodiment,Figure 8 is a perspective view of a part of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0089] Referring to Figures 1 to 8 , a camera actuator 1000 according to an embodiment can include a housing 100, a first lens part 105, a first lens barrel 200, a first driving part 300, a second lens barrel 400, and a second driving part 500.

[0090] The housing 100 can form the outside of the camera actuator 1000. The housing 100 can have open upper and lower part areas and can have a hexahedral shape.

[0091] The housing 100 can include an accommodation space therein. The first lens barrel 200, the first driving part 300, the second lens barrel 400, and the second driving part 500 can be accommodated in the accommodation space of the housing 100.

[0092] Here, the first lens part 105 is disposed at a fixed position within the housing 100, and thus, it can be referred to as a "fixed part". In addition, the positions of the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 can be moved within the housing 100 for a zoom function or an auto focus function, and thus, this can be referred to as a "moving part".

[0093] The housing 100 can include a first housing 110 and a second housing 120.

[0094] The first housing 110 can include a first hole 111. The first hole 111 can be formed on one side of the first housing 110. The first hole 111 can be a hollow hole passing through the outside and the inside of the first housing 110.

[0095] The first housing 110 can further include a second hole 112 and a third hole 113. The second hole 112 and the third hole 113 can be disposed on one side of the first housing 110. The second hole 112 and the third hole 113 can be hollow holes passing through the outside and the inside of the first housing 110. The second hole 112 and the third hole 113 can be spaced apart from the first hole 111. In detail, the first hole 111 can be disposed between the second hole 112 and the third hole 113. The first hole 111 can be disposed at an equal interval from the second hole 112 and the third hole 113.

[0096] The second hole 112 can include a plurality of protrusions protruding from an inner circumferential surface of the second hole 112 toward the center of the second hole 112. For example, the plurality of protrusions can include a first protrusion 112a disposed at an upper end of the second hole 112 and a second protrusion 112b disposed at a lower end of the second hole 112 in an optical axis direction.

[0097] In detail, the first protrusion 112a can include a plurality of first sub protrusions (not shown) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of first sub protrusions can be arranged at equal intervals along a circumference of a concentric circle shape from the center of the second hole 112. Also, the second protrusion 112b can be spaced apart from the first protrusion 112a in the optical axis direction. The second protrusion 112b can be disposed below the first protrusion 112a. The second protrusion 112b can include a plurality of second sub protrusions (not shown) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of second sub protrusions can be arranged at equal intervals along a circumference of a concentric circle shape from the center of the second hole 112. The first protrusion 112a and the second protrusion 112b can provide a space in which a portion of the first driving part 300, which will be described later, such as the first buffer member 321, is disposed.

[0098] The third hole 113 can include a plurality of protrusions protruding from an inner circumferential surface of the third hole 113 toward the center of the third hole 113. The plurality of protrusions can include a third protrusion 113a disposed at an upper end of the third hole 113 and a fourth protrusion 1134 disposed at a lower end of the second hole 112 with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0099] The third protrusion 113a can include a plurality of third sub protrusions (not shown) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of third sub protrusions can be arranged at equal intervals along a circumference of a concentric circle from the center of the third hole 113. Also, the fourth protrusion 1134 can be spaced apart from the third protrusion 113a in the optical axis direction. The fourth protrusion 1134 can include a plurality of fourth sub protrusions (not shown) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of fourth sub protrusions can be arranged at equal intervals along a circumference of a concentric circle from the center of the third hole 113. The third protrusion 113a and the fourth protrusion 1134 can provide a space in which a portion of the second driving part 500, which will be described later, such as the third buffer member 521, is disposed.

[0100] The second housing 120 can be disposed below the first housing 110. In detail, the second housing 120 can be disposed below the first housing 110 in the third direction (z-axis, optical axis direction). The second housing 120 can be disposed closer to the image sensor 900, which will be described later, than the first housing 110. The first lens barrel 200, the first driving part 300, the second lens barrel 400, and the second driving part 500 can be disposed in the second housing 120.

[0101] The second housing 120 can be coupled to the first housing 110. For example, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be coupled by a separate fastening member (not shown) such as a screw. Also, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be coupled to each other by physical coupling of a coupling jaw and a coupling groove formed therein, respectively.

[0102] The second housing 120 can include a plurality of holes. As an embodiment, the second housing 120 can include at least one hole formed in an area in which the magnet portions, which will be described later, overlap in a second direction (or y-axis direction).

[0103] Specifically, the second housing 120 can include a first hole (which will be described later) formed in an area in which the magnet portions 610 and 615 disposed in the first lens barrel 200 overlap in the second direction. Also, the second housing 120 can include a second hole (which will be described later) formed in an area in which the magnet portions 620 and 625 disposed in the second lens barrel 400 overlap in the second direction. The first hole can correspond to at least a portion of the magnet portions 610 and 615. Also, the second hole can correspond to at least a portion of the magnet portions 620 and 625. At this time, the magnet portions 610 and 615 included in the first lens barrel 200 are disposed below the first lens barrel 200, and thus, the first hole can be formed on a lower side of the second housing 120. Also, the magnet portions 620 and 625 included in the second lens barrel 400 are disposed above the second lens barrel 400, and thus, the second hole can be formed on an upper side of the second housing 120. This will be described in more detail below.

[0104] The first lens portion 105 is disposed in the housing 100 and can include at least one lens. For example, the first lens portion 105 can be disposed in the first housing 110. In detail, the first lens portion 105 can be disposed in the first hole 111 of the first housing 110. For example, the first lens portion 105 can be coupled to the first housing 110 by a thread formed on an inner circumferential surface of the first hole 111.

[0105] The first lens barrel 200 can be disposed in the housing 100. The first lens barrel 200 can be disposed in the second housing 120. The first lens barrel 200 can be disposed below the first lens portion 105. For example, the first lens barrel 200 can be disposed below the first lens portion 105 in an optical axis direction and can be closer to the image sensor 900 than the first lens portion 105. The first lens barrel 200 can be coupled to the first driving portion 300. The first lens barrel 200 can move in the housing 100 by the first driving portion 300. Specifically, the first lens barrel 200 can move in the optical axis direction by the first driving portion 300.

[0106] The first lens barrel 200 can include a first barrel portion 210, a second lens portion 205, a first guide portion 220, and a first elastic portion 230.

[0107] The first lens barrel part 210 can be disposed in a region overlapping the optical axis and can have an open shape on one surface and another surface. For example, the first lens barrel part 210 can have a cylindrical shape in which one surface and another surface are open.

[0108] The first lens barrel part 210 can include a first through hole 211. The first through hole 211 can be a through hole penetrating one surface and another surface of the first lens barrel part 210. Here, one surface of the first lens barrel part 210 can be a surface facing the first lens part 105, and another surface can be a surface opposite to the one surface and facing the image sensor 900.

[0109] The second lens part 205 can be disposed on the first lens barrel part 210. In detail, the second lens part 205 can be disposed in the first through hole 211. For example, a screw thread can be formed on an inner circumferential surface of the first through hole 211, and the second lens part 205 can be coupled to the first lens barrel part 210 by the screw thread.

[0110] The second lens part 205 can include at least one lens. The second lens part 205 can perform a zoom function. The second lens part 205 can move in the optical axis direction. In detail, the second lens part 205 can move in the optical axis direction with respect to the first lens part 105.

[0111] The first guide part 220 can extend outward from the first lens barrel part 210. For example, the first guide part 220 can extend from the first lens barrel part 210 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, for example, in the first direction (x-axis direction).

[0112] The first guide part 220 can include a first upper surface 221, a first side surface 222, and a first lower surface 223.

[0113] The first upper surface 221 can face an inner upper surface 122 of the case 100, which will be described later. The first upper surface 221 can face the inner upper surface 122 of the case 100 in the second direction (y-axis direction). The first upper surface 221 can include a plurality of sub upper surfaces. In detail, the first upper surface 221 can include a first sub upper surface 221a and a second sub upper surface 221b disposed lower than the first sub upper surface 221a in the second direction (y-axis direction). That is, the second sub upper surface 221b can be disposed adjacent to the first lower surface 223 than the first sub upper surface 221a. At least one first fastening protrusion (not shown) can be disposed on the second sub upper surface 221b. The first fastening protrusion can have a shape protruding upward on the second sub upper surface 221b. The first fastening protrusion can be inserted into a first fixing groove (not shown) formed in a first elastic part 230, which will be described later.

[0114] Further, the first upper surface 221 can include a first stepped surface 225 disposed between the first sub upper surface 221a and the second sub upper surface 221b. The first stepped surface 225 can be connected to the end portions of the first sub upper surface 221a and the second sub upper surface 221b. The first stepped surface 225 can be defined as a first stepped portion 225. That is, the first upper surface 221 can include the first sub upper surface 221a, the second sub upper surface 221b, and the first stepped portion 225 and can have a stepped structure.

[0115] The first lower surface 223 can face the inner lower surface 121 of the housing 100 which will be described later. The first recess 2231 can be disposed on the first lower surface 223. The first recess 2231 can have a concave shape in a direction from the first lower surface 223 to the first upper surface 221. The first recess 2231 can have a T shape, but is not limited thereto. The first magnet portions 610 and 615 which will be described later can be disposed in the first recess 2231. Specifically, the first-first magnet 610 and the first-second magnet 615 which will be described later can be disposed in the first recess 2231. Accordingly, the first recess 2231 can include a first-first sub recess in which the first-first magnet 610 is disposed and a first-second sub recess in which the first-second magnet 615 is disposed. The first-first sub recess and the first-second sub recess can be connected to each other, and differently, they can be divided by a partition wall formed in the middle. Meanwhile, although the first recess 2231 is illustrated as having a T shape and the first magnet portions 610 and 615 are disposed therein in the drawings, embodiments are not limited thereto. In detail, the first-second sub recess of the first recess 2231 can be formed to have the same area as the first-first sub recess so that the length of a neutral zone surrounding the first-second magnet 615 is enlarged. For example, the sum of the size of the first-second magnet 615 and the size of the neutral zone of the first-second magnet 615 can be the same as the size of the first-first magnet 610, and can be greater than this in other ways.

[0116] The first-first magnet 610 can be a magnet scale having a structure in which a plurality of magnets having different polarities are sequentially disposed in a third direction corresponding to the optical axis direction. The first-second magnet 615 can be a reference magnet. Further, the first-second magnet 615 can be a single pole magnet. In detail, the first-second magnet 615 is a single pole magnetized magnet, and thus, it can also be called a "single pole magnet". Further, the first-second magnet 615 is provided to move the lens barrel to an initial position as a reference, and thus, it can be called a "reference magnet". Hereinafter, this will be described as a single pole magnet.

[0117] The first-first magnet 610 can be disposed adjacent to the first-second magnet 615. For example, the first-first magnet 610 can be disposed in direct contact with the first-second magnet 615 in the first recess 2231. As another example, the first-first magnet 610 can be disposed to be spaced apart from the first-second magnet 615 by a predetermined interval in the first recess 2231.

[0118] The first-first magnet 610 and the first-second magnet 615 can be separated from each other. That is, the first-first magnet 610 and the first-second magnet 615 can be a magnet scale and a monopole magnet manufactured by being individually magnetized from each other.

[0119] In addition, the first-first magnet 610 and the first-second magnet 615 can be integrally formed with each other. That is, the first-first magnet 610 and the first-second magnet 615 can be an integrated magnet formed by being magnetized together.

[0120] In addition, a second recess 2232 can be disposed on the first lower surface 223. The second recess 2232 can be spaced apart from the first recess 2231. The second recess 2232 can be disposed in the edge area 223 of the first lower surface. The second recess 2232 can provide an area in which a portion of the first elastic part 230, which will be described later, is disposed. In detail, the second recess 2232 can provide an area in which the first elastic part 230 is installed and fixed.

[0121] The first side surface 222 can be disposed between the first upper surface 221 and the first lower surface 223. In detail, the first side surface 222 can be a surface connecting the first upper surface 221 and the first lower surface 223. In more detail, the first side surface 222 can be a surface connecting the second sub-upper surface 221b and the first lower surface 223. The first side surface 222 can face the second inner surface 124 of the second housing 120, which will be described later.

[0122] A first recess 2221 can be disposed on the first side surface 222. The first recess 2221 can have a concave shape in a direction from the first side surface 222 to the first lens barrel part 210. In addition, the first recess 2221 can have a groove shape extending in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction). When viewed from the front, the first recess 2221 can have a V shape.

[0123] The first guide portion 220 can include a first insertion hole 220h1. The first insertion hole 220h1 can be a hole passing through one surface and another surface of the first guide portion 220. Here, the one surface of the first guide portion 220 can be a surface facing the first lens portion 105, and the other surface can be a surface opposite the one surface and facing the image sensor 900.

[0124] The first pin 250 can be disposed in the first insertion hole 220h1. The first pin 250 can be disposed to pass through the first insertion hole 220h1. The first pin 250 has a shape extending in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction), and can have a longer optical axis direction length than the first lens barrel 200. The first pin 250 can be coupled to at least one of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. The first lens barrel 200 can move the first pin 250 as a moving axis in the optical axis direction. Thereby, the second lens portion 205 disposed in the first lens barrel 200 can perform a zoom function and / or an auto focus function.

[0125] The first elastic portion 230 can be disposed on the first guide portion 220. For example, the first elastic portion 230 can be disposed on the first upper surface 221, the first lower surface 223, and the first side surface 222 of the first guide portion 220. The first elastic portion 230 can be coupled to the first guide portion 220.

[0126] The first elastic portion 230 can include a first elastic member 231 and a second elastic member 232.

[0127] The first elastic member 231 can be coupled to the first guide portion 220. The first elastic member 231 can be disposed at a set position on the first side surface 222.

[0128] The first elastic member 231 can have a shape corresponding to the first side surface 222. For example, the first elastic member 231 can include a first region 231a, a second region 231b, and a third region 231c.

[0129] The first region 231a and the second region 231b can be disposed on the first side surface 222 of the first guide portion 220 and can be spaced apart from each other. The first region 231a and the second region 231b can be disposed on a region of the first side surface 222 on which the first recess 2221 is not disposed.

[0130] The third region 231c can be disposed between the first region 231a and the second region 231b to connect the two regions 231a and 231b. The third region 231c can be disposed in a region corresponding to the first recess 2221. The third region 231c can have a V shape corresponding to the first recess 2221.

[0131] The second elastic member 232 can be disposed on the first guide portion 220. The second elastic member 232 can be coupled to the first guide portion 220.

[0132] The second elastic member 232 can include a fourth region 232a, a fifth region 232b, and a sixth region 232c.

[0133] The fourth region 232a can be disposed on the first upper surface 221 of the first guide portion 220. Specifically, the fourth region 232a can be disposed on the second sub-upper surface 221b of the first guide portion 220. The fourth region can include a first fixing groove (not shown). The first fixing groove can be disposed in a region corresponding to the first fastening protrusion, and can have a shape corresponding to the first fastening protrusion.

[0134] The fifth region 232b can be connected to the fourth region 232a. For example, the fifth region 232b can be bent at one end of the fourth region 232a and disposed on the first side surface 222 of the first guide portion 220. The fifth region 232b can be disposed on the first elastic member 231. The fifth region 232b can be parallel to the first region 231a and the second region 231b. The fifth region 232b can be disposed to cover the first elastic member 231.

[0135] The sixth region 232c can be connected to the fifth region 232b. For example, the sixth region 232c can be bent at one end of the fifth region and disposed on the first lower surface 223 of the first guide portion 220. A portion of the sixth region 232c can be inserted into the second groove 2232 disposed on the first lower surface 223.

[0136] That is, as the first fixing groove formed in the fourth region 232a engages with the first fastening protrusion, the second elastic member 232 can be physically coupled to the first guide portion 220 with the sixth region 232c inserted into the second groove 2232. Accordingly, the first elastic portion 230 can maintain a state of being stably coupled to the first guide portion 220.

[0137] Further, the first lens barrel 200 can further include a first guide groove (210h1). The first guide groove 210h1 can be disposed in an area extending outward from the first barrel portion 210. The first guide groove 210h1 can be disposed in an area corresponding to the second pin 450, which will be described later. The first guide groove 210h1 can provide a space in which the second pin 450 is inserted. The first lens barrel 200 can be moved in the optical axis direction by the first pin 250 and the second pin 450. In this case, the first guide groove 210h1 can have an open shape at one side. For example, the first guide groove 210h1 can have an open shape at a side facing the first inner surface of the housing 100. Accordingly, it is possible to minimize friction and vibration generated when the first lens barrel 200 is moved by the first driving portion 300.

[0138] The camera actuator 1000 can include a first driving portion 300. The first driving portion 300 can be disposed in the housing 100. The first driving portion 300 can be coupled to the first lens barrel 200. The first driving portion 300 can move the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction).

[0139] The first driving portion 300 can include a first piezoelectric device 310, a first extension rod 320, a first buffer member 321, and a second buffer member 322.

[0140] The first piezoelectric device 310 can include a piezoelectric device. For example, the first piezoelectric device 310 can include a material that causes mechanical deformation by an applied voltage. The first piezoelectric device 310 can contract or expand by an applied voltage and can cause mechanical deformation in a set direction. For example, the first piezoelectric device 310 can generate vibration while causing mechanical deformation in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction) by an applied voltage.

[0141] The first piezoelectric device 310 can include a first disk portion 311 and a first protrusion 512. The first disk portion 311 can have a plate shape and can be disposed on the second hole 112. For example, the first disk portion 311 can be disposed on the first protrusion 112a of the second hole 112. In detail, the first disk portion 311 can be disposed on a plurality of first sub-protrusions. The first protrusion 112a can support the first disk portion 311.

[0142] The first protrusion 512 can be disposed below the first disc-shaped portion 311. In detail, the first protrusion 512 can be disposed below the first disc-shaped portion 311 in the third direction (z-axis direction) and can be connected to the first disc-shaped portion 311. A portion of the first protrusion 512 can be disposed in the second hole 112. The first protrusion 512 can have a shape protruding toward the image sensor 900. The width (x-axis, y-axis direction) of the first protrusion 512 can change toward the optical axis direction. For example, the width of the first protrusion 512 can decrease as it approaches the image sensor 900.

[0143] The first extension rod 320 can extend in the optical axis direction. The first extension rod 320 can be disposed parallel to the optical axis and can be connected to the first piezoelectric device 310. For example, the upper end of the first extension rod 320 can be connected to the first protrusion 512. Also, the lower end of the first extension rod 320 can be inserted into the lower end of the housing 100, for example, a fourth hole (not shown) formed at the lower end of the second housing 120.

[0144] Also, one region of the first extension rod 320 can be connected to the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first extension rod 320 can be connected to the first lens barrel 200 through the first elastic part 230. In detail, the first extension rod 320 can be disposed between the first elastic member 231 and the second elastic member 232. In more detail, the first extension rod 320 can be disposed between the third region 231c of the first elastic member 231 and the fifth region 232b of the second elastic member 232. The first extension rod 320 can be fixed by the elastic force of the first elastic 231 and the second elastic 232.

[0145] The first extension rod 320 can transmit the vibration generated by the first piezoelectric device 310 to the first lens barrel 200. The first lens barrel 200 can move upward or downward (z-axis direction, optical axis direction) according to the vibration direction of the first extension rod 320. Thereby, the second lens part 205 in the first lens barrel 200 can move to perform a zoom function of magnification or reduction.

[0146] The first buffer member 321 can be disposed on the first extension rod 320. The first buffer member 321 can be disposed in the upper region of the first extension rod 320. The first buffer member 321 can be disposed in the second hole 112 of the housing 100. For example, the first buffer member 321 can be disposed between the first protrusion 112a and the second protrusion 112b of the second hole 112. The first buffer member 321 can be fixed to the position set by the first protrusion 112a and the second protrusion 112b. Also, the first buffer member 321 can include a through-hole into which the first extension rod 320 is inserted.

[0147] The second shock absorbing member 322 can be disposed on the first extension rod 320. The second shock absorbing member 322 can be disposed on a lower region of the first extension rod 320. The second shock absorbing member 322 can be spaced apart from the first shock absorber member 321 in the optical axis direction. The second shock absorbing member 322 can be disposed in a fourth hole (not shown) of the housing 100. The second shock absorbing member 322 can be disposed to be inserted into the fourth hole. The second shock absorbing member 322 can include a through-hole into which the first extension rod 320 is inserted.

[0148] The first shock absorbing member 321 and the second shock absorbing member 322 can prevent noise caused by vibration of the first extension rod 320. In addition, the first shock absorbing member 321 and the second shock absorbing member 322 can prevent the first extension rod 320 from being deformed or damaged by external impact.

[0149] The second lens barrel 400 can be disposed in the housing 100. The second lens barrel 400 can be disposed in the second housing 120. The second lens barrel 400 can be disposed below the first lens barrel 200. For example, the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed below the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction and can be closer to the image sensor 900 than the first lens barrel 200. The second lens barrel 400 can be coupled to the second driving portion 500. The second lens barrel 400 can move in the housing 100 by the second driving portion 500. In detail, the second lens barrel 400 can move in the optical axis direction by the second driving portion 500.

[0150] The second lens barrel 400 can include a second barrel portion 410, a third lens portion 405, a second guide portion 420, and a second elastic portion 430.

[0151] The second barrel portion 410 is disposed in a region overlapping the optical axis and can have an open shape on one side and the other side. For example, the second barrel portion 410 can have a cylindrical shape in which one surface and the other surface are open.

[0152] The second barrel portion 410 can include a second through-hole 411. The second through-hole 411 can be a through-hole passing through one surface and the other surface of the second barrel portion 410. Here, one surface of the second barrel portion 410 can be a surface facing the first lens barrel 200, and the other surface can be a surface opposite to the one surface and facing the image sensor 900.

[0153] The third lens part 405 can be disposed on the second lens barrel part 410. In detail, the third lens part 405 can be disposed in the second through-hole 411. For example, a screw thread can be formed on an inner circumferential surface of the second through-hole 411, and the third lens part 405 can be coupled to the second lens barrel part 410 by the screw thread.

[0154] The third lens part 405 can include at least one lens. The third lens part 405 can perform an auto-focusing function. The third lens part 405 can move in the optical axis direction. In detail, the third lens part 405 can move in the optical axis direction with respect to the first lens part 105. The third lens part 405 can move separately from the second lens part 205. In addition, the distance that the third lens part 405 can move in the optical axis direction can be the same as or different from that of the second lens part 205.

[0155] The second guide part 420 can extend outward from the second lens barrel part 410. For example, the second guide part 420 can extend from the second lens barrel part 410 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, for example, in the first direction (x-axis direction). In this case, the second guide part 420 can extend in a direction opposite to the first guide part 220. For example, the first guide part 220 can extend from the first lens barrel part 210 in the +x-axis direction, and the second guide part 420 can extend from the second lens barrel part 410 in the -x-axis direction.

[0156] The second guide part 420 can include a second lower surface 421, a second side surface 422, and a second upper surface 423.

[0157] The second upper surface 423 can face the inner upper surface 122 of the housing 100. The second upper surface 423 can face the inner upper surface 122 of the housing 100 in the second direction (y-axis direction). A third groove 4231 can be disposed on the second upper surface 423. The third groove 4231 can have a concave shape in a direction from the second upper surface 423 to the second lower surface 421. A second magnet scale 620, which will be described later, can be disposed in the third groove 4231.

[0158] The third groove 4231 can have a T shape, but is not limited thereto. The second magnet parts 620 and 625, which will be described later, can be disposed in the third groove 4231. In detail, the second-first magnet 620 and the second-second magnet 625, which will be described later, can be disposed in the third groove 4231. Accordingly, the third groove 4231 can include a second-first sub-groove in which the second-first magnet 620 is disposed and a third-second sub-groove in which the second-second magnet 625 is disposed. The third-first sub-groove and the third-second sub-groove can be connected to each other, and differently, they can be divided by a partition wall formed in the middle.

[0159] Meanwhile, although it is illustrated in the drawings that the third recess 4231 has a T shape and the second magnets 620 and 625 are disposed therein, embodiments are not limited thereto. In detail, a third-second sub-recess of the third recess 4231 can be formed to have the same area as a third-first sub-recess, such that the length of a neutral zone surrounding the second-second magnet 615 is enlarged. For example, the size of the second-second magnet 625 and the size of the neutral zone of the second-second magnet 615 can be the same as the size of the second-first magnet 620, and can be greater than this in other ways.

[0160] The second-first magnet 620 can be a magnet scale having a structure in which a plurality of magnets having different polarities are sequentially disposed in a third direction corresponding to the optical axis direction. The second-second magnet 625 can be a reference magnet. The second-second magnet 625 can be a single pole magnet. In detail, the second-second magnet 625 is a single pole magnetized magnet, and thus, it can be referred to as a "single pole magnet." Further, the second-second magnet 625 is provided to move the lens barrel to an initial position as a reference, and thus, it can be referred to as a "reference magnet." Hereinafter, the second-second magnet 625 will be described as a single pole magnet.

[0161] The second-first magnet 620 can be disposed adjacent to the second-second magnet 625. For example, the second-first magnet 620 can be disposed to directly contact the second-second magnet 625 in the third recess 4231. As another example, the second-first magnet 620 can be disposed to be spaced apart from the second-second magnet 625 by a predetermined interval in the third recess 4231.

[0162] The second-first magnet 620 and the second-second magnet 625 can be separated from each other. That is, the second-first magnet 620 and the second-second magnet 625 can be a magnet scale and a single pole magnet manufactured by individually magnetizing each other.

[0163] Further, the second-first magnet 620 and the second-second magnet 625 can be integrally formed with each other. That is, the second-first magnet 620 and the second-second magnet 625 can be an integrated magnet formed by magnetizing together.

[0164] Further, a fourth recess 4232 can be disposed on the second upper surface 423. The fourth recess 4232 can be spaced apart from the third recess 4231. The fourth recess 4232 can be disposed in the edge region 423 of the second upper surface. The fourth recess 4232 can provide an area in which a portion of the second elastic part 430, which will be described later, is disposed. In detail, the fourth recess 4232 can provide an area in which the second elastic part 430 is mounted and fixed.

[0165] The second lower surface 421 can face the inner lower surface 121 of the housing 100. The second lower surface 421 can face the inner lower surface 121 of the housing 100 in the second direction (y-axis direction). The second lower surface 421 can include a plurality of sub-lower surfaces. In detail, the second lower surface 421 can include a first sub-lower surface 421a and a second sub-lower surface 421b disposed above the first sub-lower surface 421a in the second direction (y-axis direction). That is, the second sub-lower surface 421b can be disposed to be more adjacent to the second upper surface 423 than the first sub-lower surface 421a. At least one second fastening protrusion (not shown) can be disposed on the second sub-lower surface 421b. The second fastening protrusion can have a shape protruding downward from the second sub-lower surface 421b. The second fastening protrusion can be inserted into a second fixing groove (not shown) formed in the second elastic portion 430, which will be described later.

[0166] In addition, the second lower surface 421 can include a second stepped surface 425 disposed between the first sub-lower surface 421a and the second sub-lower surface 421b. The second stepped surface 425 can be connected to the end portions of the first sub-lower surface 421a and the second sub-lower surface 421b. The second stepped surface 425 can be defined as a second stepped portion 425. That is, the second lower surface 421 can include the first sub-lower surface 421a, the second sub-lower surface 421b, and the second stepped portion 425, and can have a stepped structure.

[0167] The second side surface 422 can be disposed between the second upper surface 423 and the second lower surface 421. In detail, the second side surface 422 can be a surface connecting the second upper surface 423 and the second lower surface 421. In more detail, the second side surface 422 can be a surface connecting the second sub-lower surface 421b and the second upper surface 423. The second side surface 422 can face the first inner surface 123 of the second housing 120, which will be described later.

[0168] The second recess 4421 can be disposed on the second side surface 422. The second recess 4421 can have a concave shape from the second side surface 422 toward the second lens barrel portion 410. In addition, the second recess 4421 can have a groove shape extending in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction). The second recess 4421 can have a V shape when viewed from the front.

[0169] The second guide portion 420 can include a second insertion hole 420h1. The second insertion hole 420h1 can be a hole passing through one surface and another surface of the second guide portion 420. Here, the one surface of the second guide portion 420 can be a surface facing the first lens barrel 200, and the other surface can be a surface opposite to the one surface and facing the image sensor 900.

[0170] The second pin 450 can be disposed in the second insertion hole 420h1. The second pin 450 can be disposed to pass through the second insertion hole 420h1. The second pin 450 can have a shape extending in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction). The second pin 450 can be spaced apart from the first pin 250 and can be parallel to the first pin 250. The length of the second pin 450 in the optical axis direction can be longer than the length of the second lens barrel 400. The second pin 450 can be coupled to at least one of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. The second lens barrel 400 can move the second pin 450, which is a moving axis, in the optical axis direction. As such, the third lens part 405 disposed in the second lens barrel 400 can perform a zoom function and / or an auto focus function.

[0171] The second elastic part 430 can be disposed on the second guide part 420. For example, the second elastic part 430 can be disposed on the second upper surface 423, the second lower surface 421, and the second side surface 422 of the second guide part 420. The second elastic part 430 can be coupled to the second guide part 420.

[0172] The second elastic part 430 can include a third elastic member 431 and a fourth elastic member 432.

[0173] The third elastic member 431 can be coupled to the second guide part 420. The third elastic member 431 can be disposed at a set position on the second side surface 422.

[0174] The third elastic member 431 can have a shape corresponding to the second side surface 422. For example, the third elastic member 431 can include a seventh region 431a, an eighth region 431b, and a ninth region 431c.

[0175] The seventh region 431a and the eighth region 431b can be disposed on the second side surface 422 of the second guide part 420 and can be spaced apart from each other. The seventh region 431a and the eighth region 431b can be disposed on a region of the second side surface 422 in which the second recess 4221 is not disposed.

[0176] The ninth region 431c can be disposed between the first region 231a and the second region 231b to connect the two regions 431a and 431b. The ninth region 431c can be disposed in a region corresponding to the second recess 4421. The ninth region 431c can have a V shape corresponding to the second recess 4421.

[0177] The fourth elastic member 432 can be disposed on the second guide part 420. The fourth elastic member 432 can be coupled to the second guide part 420.

[0178] The fourth elastic member 432 can include a tenth region 432a, an eleventh region 432b, and a twelfth region 432c.

[0179] The tenth region 432a can be disposed on the second lower surface 421 of the second guide portion 420. In detail, the tenth region 432a can be disposed on the second sub-lower surface 421b of the second guide portion 420. The tenth region can include a second fixing groove (not shown). The second fixing groove can be disposed in a region corresponding to the second fastening protrusion, and can have a shape corresponding to the second fastening protrusion.

[0180] The eleventh region 432b can be connected to the tenth region 432a. For example, the eleventh region 432b can be bent at one end of the tenth region 432a and disposed on the second side surface 422 of the second guide portion 420. The eleventh region 432b can be disposed on the third elastic member 431. The eleventh region 432b can be parallel to the seventh region 431a and the eighth region 431b. The eleventh region 432b can be disposed to cover the third elastic member 431.

[0181] The twelfth region 432c can be connected to the eleventh region 432b. For example, the twelfth region 432c can be bent at one end of the eleventh region and disposed on the second upper surface 423 of the second guide portion 420. A portion of the twelfth region 432c can be inserted into the second groove 2232 disposed on the second upper surface 423.

[0182] That is, as the twelfth region 432c is inserted into the fourth groove 4232, the fourth elastic member 432 can be physically coupled to the second guide portion 420, while the second fixing groove formed in the seventh region 431a is coupled to the second fastening protrusion.

[0183] In addition, the second lens barrel 400 can further include a second guide groove 4221. The second guide groove 4221 can be disposed in a region extending outward from the second barrel portion 410. The second guide groove 4221 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the first pin 250. The second guide groove 4221 can provide a space in which the first pin 250 is inserted. The second lens barrel 400 can move in the optical axis direction by the first pin 250 and the second pin 450. In this case, the second guide groove 4221 can have an open shape at one side. For example, the second guide groove 4221 can have an open side facing the second inner surface of the housing 100. Accordingly, friction and vibration generated when the second lens barrel 400 moves by the second driving portion 500 can be minimized.

[0184] The camera actuator 1000 can include a second driving portion 500. The second driving portion 500 can be disposed in the housing 100. The second driving portion 500 can be coupled to the second lens barrel 400. The second driving portion 500 can move the second lens barrel 400 in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction).

[0185] The second driving portion 500 can include a second piezoelectric device 510, a second extension rod 520, a third buffer member 521, and a fourth buffer member 522.

[0186] The second piezoelectric device 510 can include a piezoelectric device. For example, the second piezoelectric device 510 can include a material that causes mechanical deformation by an applied voltage. The second piezoelectric device 510 can contract or expand by an applied voltage and can cause mechanical deformation in a set direction. For example, the second piezoelectric device 510 can generate vibration while causing mechanical deformation in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction) by an applied voltage.

[0187] The second piezoelectric device 510 can include a second disc portion 511 and a second protrusion portion 512. The second disc portion 511 has a plate shape and can be disposed on the third hole 113. For example, the second disc portion 511 can be disposed on the third protrusion 113a of the third hole 113. In detail, the second disc portion 511 can be disposed on a plurality of third sub-protrusions. The third protrusion 113a can support the second disc portion 511.

[0188] The second protrusion 512 can be disposed below the second disc portion 511. In detail, the second protrusion 512 can be disposed below the second disc portion 511 in the third direction (z-axis direction) and can be connected to the second disc portion 511. A portion of the second protrusion 512 can be disposed in the third hole 113. The second protrusion 512 can have a shape protruding toward the image sensor 900. The width (x-axis, y-axis direction) of the second protrusion 512 can change toward the optical axis direction. For example, the width of the second protrusion 512 can decrease as it approaches the image sensor 900.

[0189] The second extension rod 520 can extend in the optical axis direction. The second extension rod 520 can be disposed parallel to the optical axis and can be connected to the second piezoelectric device 510. For example, the upper end of the second extension rod 520 can be connected to the second protrusion 512. In addition, the lower end of the second extension rod 520 can be inserted into the lower end of the housing 100, for example, a fifth hole (not shown) formed at the lower end of the second housing 120.

[0190] Further, one area of the second extension rod 520 can be connected to the second lens barrel 400. For example, the second extension rod 520 can be connected to the second lens barrel 400 through the second elastic part 430. In detail, the second extension rod 520 can be disposed between the third elastic member 431 and the fourth elastic member 432. In more detail, the second extension rod 520 can be disposed between the ninth area 431c of the third elastic member 431 and the eleventh area 432b of the fourth elastic member 432. The second extension rod 520 can be fixed by the elastic force of the third elastic member 431 and the fourth elastic member 432.

[0191] The second extension rod 520 can transmit the vibration generated by the second piezoelectric device 510 to the second lens barrel 400. The second lens barrel 400 can move upward or downward (z-axis direction, optical axis direction) according to the vibration direction of the second extension rod 520. Through this, the third lens part 405 in the second lens barrel 400 can move to perform a zoom function of magnification or reduction.

[0192] The third buffer member 521 can be disposed on the second extension rod 520. The third buffer member 521 can be disposed on the upper area of the second extension rod 520. The third buffer member 521 can be disposed in the third hole 113. For example, the third buffer member 521 can be disposed between the third protrusion 113a and the fourth protrusion 1134 of the third hole 113. The third buffer member 521 can be fixed to the position set by the third protrusion 113a and the fourth protrusion 1134. Further, the third buffer member 521 can include a through-hole into which the second extension rod 520 is inserted.

[0193] The fourth buffer member 522 can be disposed on the second extension rod 520. The fourth buffer member 522 can be disposed on the lower area of the second extension rod 520. The fourth buffer member 522 can be spaced apart from the third buffer member 521 in the optical axis direction. The fourth buffer member 522 can be disposed in the fifth hole (not shown) of the housing 100. The fourth buffer member 522 can be disposed to be inserted into the fifth hole. The second buffer member 322 can include a through-hole into which the second extension rod 520 is inserted.

[0194] The third buffer member 521 and the fourth buffer member 522 can prevent noise caused by the vibration of the second extension rod 520. Further, the third buffer member 521 and the fourth buffer member 522 can prevent the second extension rod 520 from being deformed or damaged by external impact.

[0195] The camera actuator 1000 can include the first sensing part 830, the first magnet parts 610 and 615, the second sensing part 840, and the second magnet parts 620 and 625.

[0196] The first magnet portions 610 and 615 can include a first-first magnet 610 and a first-second magnet 615. As described above, the first-first magnet 610 is a magnet scale. In addition, the first-second magnet 615 is a reference magnet, which can also be a single pole magnet that is single pole magnetized.

[0197] Hereinafter, for the convenience of description, the first-first magnet 610 will be referred to as a first magnet scale 610, and the first-second magnet 615 will be described as a first single pole magnet 615. In addition, the first magnet portions 610 and 615 are disposed on the first lens barrel 200 to move together with the first lens barrel 200, and thus, it can be referred to as a "moving portion".

[0198] The first magnet scale 610 can be disposed on the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first magnet scale 610 can be disposed on the first lower surface 223. In detail, the first magnet scale 610 can be disposed in a first groove 2231 of the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first groove 2231 can include a first-first sub-groove and a first-second sub-groove. In addition, the first magnet scale 610 can be disposed in the first-first sub-groove of the first groove 2231.

[0199] The first magnet scale 610 can move together with the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction.

[0200] The first magnet scale 610 can include a plurality of magnets. For example, the first magnet scale 610 can have N poles and S poles alternately disposed in the optical axis direction.

[0201] The first single pole magnet 615 can be disposed on the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first single pole magnet 615 can be disposed on the first lower surface 223 together with the first magnet scale 610. In detail, the first single pole magnet 615 can be disposed in the first groove 2231 of the first lens barrel 200 together with the first magnet scale 610. For example, the first groove 2231 can include a first-first sub-groove and a first-second sub-groove. In addition, the first single pole magnet 615 can be disposed in the first-second sub-groove of the first groove 2231.

[0202] The first single pole magnet 615 can move together with the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction, like the first magnet scale 610.

[0203] The first single pole magnet 615 can include one single magnet. For example, the first single pole magnet 615 can be a single pole magnet in which N poles and S poles are disposed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0204] Further, the first single pole magnet 615 can be a magnet including a neutral zone. Here, the neutral zone of the first single pole magnet 615 can be formed in a direction parallel to the optical axis direction, but is not limited thereto. Here, the neutral zone means an interface between an N pole and an S pole of a magnet. The neutral zone of the first single pole magnet 615 can be formed through a magnetization process. The magnetization process refers to a process of making a ferromagnetic material into a magnet other than a magnet, and refers to manufacturing a permanent magnet by applying a strong external magnetic field to a ferromagnetic material to be manufactured as a magnet. When the magnetization process is performed, a surface in contact with magnetization of applying an external magnetic field becomes an N pole (or an S pole), and the other side automatically becomes an S pole (N pole). At this time, a boundary between the automatically generated N pole and S pole is called a neutral zone.

[0205] The first sensing part 830 can be disposed adjacent to the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615. For example, the first sensing part 830 can be disposed to face the first magnet scale 610 in the first direction (x-axis direction) or the second direction (y-axis direction). Specifically, the first sensing part 830 can be disposed to face the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615 in the second direction (y-axis direction). As will be described later, the first sensing part 830 is disposed on the substrate 800. In this case, the substrate 800 can be disposed to surround a partial area of the housing 100. In this case, the substrate 800 can be disposed to surround an area overlapping with an area in which the first magnet scale 610 and the single pole magnet 615 are disposed in the second direction.

[0206] Specifically, the second housing 120 can include a first hole 126 formed in an area overlapping with an area in which the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615 are disposed in the second direction. That is, the second housing 120 can include the first hole 126 corresponding to the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615.

[0207] Further, the substrate 800 can be disposed to cover the first hole 126. In this case, the first sensing part 830 can be disposed in an area of the substrate 800 corresponding to the first hole 126. Specifically, the first sensing part 830 disposed on the substrate 800 can be positioned in the first hole 126. That is, the first sensing part 830 can be disposed to face the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615 through the first hole 126.

[0208] The first sensing part 830 can sense a position of the first magnet scale 610 and a position of the first single pole magnet 615. Accordingly, the first sensing part 830 can sense a position and movement of the first lens barrel 200 moving together with the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615.

[0209] The first magnet scale 610 can have a length corresponding to the stroke of the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first magnet scale 610 can sense the current position of the first lens barrel 200 through the first sensing part 830 within the stroke of the first lens barrel 200.

[0210] The second magnet parts 620 and 625 can include a second-first magnet 620 and a second-second magnet 625. As described above, the second-first magnet 620 can be a magnet scale, and the second-second magnet 615 can be a single pole magnet, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the second magnet parts 620 and 625 are disposed on the second lens barrel 400 to move together with the second lens barrel 400, and thus, it can be referred to as a "moving part".

[0211] Hereinafter, for the convenience of description, the second-first magnet 620 will be referred to as a second magnet scale 620, and the second-second magnet 625 will be described as a second single pole magnet 625.

[0212] The second magnet scale 620 can be disposed on the second lens barrel 400.

[0213] For example, the second magnet scale 620 can be disposed on the second upper surface 423. In detail, the second magnet scale 660 can be disposed in a third groove 4231 of the second lens barrel 400. For example, the third groove 4231 can include a third-first sub-groove and a third-second sub-groove. Furthermore, the second magnet scale 620 can be disposed in the third-first sub-groove of the third groove 4231.

[0214] The second magnet scale 620 can move together with the second lens barrel 400 in the optical axis direction.

[0215] The second magnet scale 620 can include a plurality of magnets. For example, the second magnet scale 620 can have N poles and S poles alternately disposed in the optical axis direction.

[0216] The second single pole magnet 625 can be disposed on the second lens barrel 400. For example, the second single pole magnet 625 can be disposed on the second upper surface 423 together with the second magnet scale 620. In detail, the second single pole magnet 625 can be disposed in the third groove 4231 of the second lens barrel 400 together with the second magnet scale 620. For example, the second single pole magnet 625 can be disposed in the third-second sub-groove of the third groove 4231.

[0217] The second single pole magnet 625 can move together with the second lens barrel 400 in the optical axis direction, like the second magnet scale 620.

[0218] The second unipolar magnet 625 can include one single magnet. For example, the second unipolar magnet 625 can be a unipolar magnet in which N and S poles are disposed in a second direction (y-axis direction) perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0219] Further, the second unipolar magnet 625 can be a magnet including a neutral zone. Here, the neutral zone of the second unipolar magnet 625 can be formed in a direction parallel to the optical axis direction, but is not limited thereto. Here, the neutral zone means an interface between the N and S poles of the magnet. The neutral zone of the second unipolar magnet 625 can be formed by a magnetization process. The magnetization process refers to a process of manufacturing a magnet from a ferromagnetic material other than a magnet, and refers to manufacturing a permanent magnet by applying a strong external magnetic field to a ferromagnetic material to be manufactured as a magnet. When the magnetization process is performed, a surface in contact with magnetization in which an external magnetic field is applied becomes an N pole (or an S pole), and the other side becomes an S pole (N pole) automatically. At this time, a boundary between the automatically generated N and S poles is called a neutral zone.

[0220] The second sensing part 840 can be disposed adjacent to the second magnet scale 620 and the second unipolar magnet 625. For example, the second sensing part 840 can be disposed to face the second magnet scale 620 in the first direction (x-axis direction) or the second direction (y-axis direction). Further, the second sensing part 840 can be disposed to face the second unipolar magnet 625 in the first direction (x-axis direction) or the second direction (y-axis direction).

[0221] Specifically, the second sensing part 840 can be disposed to face the second magnet scale 620 and the second unipolar magnet 625 in the second direction (y-axis direction). As will be described later, the second sensing part 840 is disposed on the substrate 800. In this case, the substrate 800 can be disposed to surround a partial area of the housing 100. In this case, the substrate 800 can be disposed to surround an area overlapping with an area in which the second magnet scale 620 and the unipolar magnet 625 are disposed in the second direction.

[0222] Specifically, the second housing 120 can include a second hole 127 formed in an area overlapping with an area in which the second magnet scale 620 and the second unipolar magnet 625 are disposed in the second direction. That is, the second housing 120 can include the second hole 127 corresponding to the second magnet scale 620 and the second unipolar magnet 625.

[0223] Also, the substrate 800 can be disposed to cover the second hole 127. In this case, the second sensing part 840 can be disposed in a region of the substrate 800 corresponding to the second hole 127. Specifically, the second sensing part 840 disposed on the substrate 800 can be positioned in the second hole 127. The second sensing part 840 can be disposed to face the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625 through the second hole 127.

[0224] The second sensing part 840 can sense the position of the second magnet scale 620 and the position of the second monopole magnet 625. Accordingly, the second sensing part 840 can sense the position and movement of the second lens barrel 400 moving together with the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625.

[0225] The second magnet scale 620 can have a length corresponding to the stroke of the second lens barrel 400. For example, the second magnet scale 620 can sense the current position of the second lens barrel 400 through the second sensing part 840 in the stroke of the second lens barrel 400.

[0226] Meanwhile, as described above, the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 are disposed in the first lens barrel 200.

[0227] Also, the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625 are disposed in the second lens barrel 400.

[0228] The first magnet scale 610 can be provided to sense the position of the first lens barrel 200 in a movement stroke of the first lens barrel 200.

[0229] The second magnet scale 620 can be disposed to sense the position of the second lens barrel 400 in a movement stroke of the second lens barrel 400.

[0230] The first monopole magnet 615 can be provided to sense the initial position of the first lens barrel 200. That is, the first monopole magnet 615 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the initial position of the first lens barrel 200.

[0231] The second monopole magnet 625 can be disposed to sense the initial position of the second lens barrel 400. That is, the second monopole magnet 625 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the initial position of the second lens barrel 400.

[0232] The position sensing operation of the first lens barrel 200 using the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 and the position sensing operation of the second lens barrel 400 using the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625 will be described in more detail below.

[0233] Further, the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 are disposed on one surface of the first lens barrel 200. Further, the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625 are disposed on the other surface of the second lens barrel. In detail, the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 can be disposed on the upper surface or the lower surface of the first lens barrel 200. Further, the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625 can be disposed on the lower surface or the upper surface of the first lens barrel 200 opposite to the surface on which the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 are disposed. For example, as shown in the drawings, the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 can be disposed on the lower surface of the first lens barrel 200. Further, the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625 can be disposed on the upper surface of the second lens barrel. Accordingly, in an embodiment, interference between the first magnet scale 610, the first monopole magnet 615, the second magnet scale 620, and the second monopole magnet 625 can be minimized, and thus, the positions of the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 can be accurately measured.

[0234] Further, although not shown in the drawings, the camera actuator 1000 according to an embodiment can further include a gyro sensor (not shown). The gyro sensor can be disposed in the housing 100. The gyro sensor can detect a movement of a user using the camera actuator.

[0235] The camera actuator 1000 according to an embodiment can include a substrate 800. The substrate 800 can be disposed on the housing 100. The substrate 800 can be disposed to surround a partial area of the housing 100. For example, the substrate 800 can be disposed to surround a portion of the outer side of the second housing 120. The substrate 800 can provide power or current to components disposed in the housing 100. That is, the substrate 800 can be a circuit board, and can include a circuit board having a wiring pattern capable of being electrically connected, such as a rigid printed circuit board (rigid PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (flexible PCB), and a rigid-flexible printed circuit board (rigid-flexible PCB).

[0236] The substrate 800 can include a first end 810. The first end 810 can be disposed on the first piezoelectric device 310 of the first driving portion 300. For example, the first end 810 can be disposed on the first disc-shaped portion 311 of the first piezoelectric device 310. In detail, the first end 810 can be disposed on one surface of the first disc-shaped portion 311. Also, the first end 810 can be disposed on the second piezoelectric device 510 of the second driving portion 500. For example, the second end 820 can be disposed on the second disc-shaped portion 511 of the second piezoelectric device 510. In detail, the first end 810 can be disposed on one surface of the second disc-shaped portion 511.

[0237] The substrate 800 can include a second end 820. The first end 810 can be spaced apart from the first end 810. Also, the second end 820 can be disposed in an area that does not overlap the first end 810 in the optical axis direction.

[0238] The second end 820 can be disposed on the first piezoelectric device 310 of the first driving portion 300. For example, the second end 820 can be disposed on the first disc-shaped portion 311 of the first piezoelectric device 310. In detail, the first end 810 can be disposed on the other surface opposite one surface of the first disc-shaped portion 311. Also, the second end 820 can be disposed on the second piezoelectric device 510 of the second driving portion 500. For example, the second end 820 can be disposed on the second disc-shaped portion 511 of the second piezoelectric device 510. In detail, the second end 820 can be disposed on the other surface opposite one surface of the second disc-shaped portion 511.

[0239] That is, the substrate 800 can supply power to the first piezoelectric device 310 and the second piezoelectric device 510. Accordingly, the first driving portion 300 and the second driving portion 500 can drive the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400, respectively, by the applied power.

[0240] A driver IC (not shown) can be disposed on the substrate 800. The driver IC can control the operation of the first driving portion 300 and the second driving portion 500. In detail, the driver IC can control the intensity or polarity of the power supplied to the first piezoelectric device 310 and the second piezoelectric device 310.

[0241] That is, the driver IC can control the first driving portion 300 to move the first lens barrel 200 in the -optical axis direction or the +optical axis direction based on the initial position. Also, the driver IC can control the second driving portion 500 to move the second lens barrel 400 in the -optical axis direction or the +optical axis direction based on the initial position.

[0242] Meanwhile, the driver IC can control the first driving part 300 and the second driving part 500 according to the sensing signals sensed through the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840.

[0243] First, the driver IC allows the first sensing part 830 to acquire a first sensing signal by a magnetic force generated from the first unipolar magnet 615. Further, the driver IC can control the first driving part 300 to move the first lens barrel 200 to an initial position using the first sensing signal. That is, as the first lens barrel 200 moves, the first unipolar magnet 615 also moves. Thus, according to the position of the first lens barrel 200, a difference occurs in the first sensing signal acquired through the first sensing part 830. Accordingly, the driver IC can store a first reference value for the first sensing signal corresponding to the initial position of the first lens barrel 200. Further, the driver IC can move the position of the first lens barrel 200 so that the first sensing signal corresponding to the first reference value is received through the sensing part 830.

[0244] Further, the driver IC allows the first sensing part 830 to acquire a second sensing signal by a magnetic force generated from the first magnet scale 610. Further, the driver IC can control the first driving part 300 to move the first lens barrel 200 to a target position using the second sensing signal. According to the position of the first lens barrel 200, a difference occurs in the second sensing signal acquired through the first sensing part 830. Accordingly, the driver IC can control the first driving part 300 using a second reference value for the second sensing signal corresponding to the target position of the first lens barrel 200.

[0245] Further, the driver IC allows the second sensing part 840 to acquire a third sensing signal by a magnetic force generated from the second unipolar magnet 625. Further, the driver IC can control the second driving part 500 to move the second lens barrel 400 to an initial position using the third sensing signal. That is, as the second lens barrel 400 moves, the second unipolar magnet 625 also moves. Thus, according to the position of the second lens barrel 400, a difference occurs in the third sensing signal acquired through the second sensing part 840. Accordingly, the driver IC can store a third reference value for the third sensing signal corresponding to the initial position of the second lens barrel 400. Further, the driver IC can move the position of the second lens barrel 400 so that the second sensing signal corresponding to the third reference value is received through the second sensing part 840.

[0246] Further, the driver IC can allow the second sensing part 840 to acquire a fourth sensing signal by a magnetic force generated from the second magnet scale 620. Further, the driver IC can control the second driving part 500 to move the second lens barrel 400 to a target position using the fourth sensing signal. According to the position of the second lens barrel 400, a difference occurs in the fourth sensing signal acquired through the second sensing part 840. Accordingly, the driver IC can control the first driving part 300 to a position where the fourth sensing signal corresponding to the fourth reference value is received based on the fourth reference value corresponding to the target position of the second lens barrel 400.

[0247] The camera actuator 1000 according to an embodiment can include an image sensor 900. The image sensor 900 can collect light passing through in the order of the first lens part 105, the second lens part 205, and the third lens part 405 and convert it into an image. The image sensor 900 can be disposed in line with the optical axis of the lenses of the lens parts 105, 205, and 405. The optical axis of the image sensor 900 and the optical axis of the lenses can be aligned.

[0248] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a housing according to an embodiment, and Figure 10 is a front view of a second housing according to an embodiment. Reference will be made to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The housing 100 according to an embodiment will be described in greater detail.

[0249] The housing 100 can have an open upper portion area and a lower portion area, and can include an accommodation space therein. The housing 100 can include a first housing 110 and a second housing 120. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 can be coupled to each other to form the accommodation space therein, and can be provided in a separable structure.

[0250] The first housing 110 can accommodate the first lens part 105. For example, the first lens part 105 can be disposed in a first hole 111 of the first housing 110. Further, the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed inside the second housing 120.

[0251] The second housing 120 can include an inner lower surface 121, an inner upper surface 122, a first inner surface 123, and a second inner surface 124.

[0252] The inner lower surface 121 of the second housing 120 can be a surface facing the first lower surface 223 of the first lens barrel 200 and the second lower surface 421 of the second lens barrel 400. The inner lower surface 121 can be a surface facing the second stepped portion 425.

[0253] The inner upper surface 122 can face the inner lower surface 121 in the second direction (y-axis direction). The inner upper surface 122 of the second housing 120 can be a surface facing the first upper surface 221 of the first lens barrel 200 and the second upper surface 423 of the second lens barrel 400. The inner upper surface 122 can be a surface facing the first stepped portion 225.

[0254] The first inner surface 123 of the second housing 120 can be disposed between the inner lower surface 121 and the inner upper surface 122. The first inner surface 123 can connect one end of the inner lower surface 121 and one end of the inner lower surface 121. The first inner surface 123 of the second housing 120 can face a side portion of the second lens barrel 400. For example, the first inner surface 123 can be a surface facing the second side surface 422 of the second lens barrel 400. In detail, the first inner surface 123 can face the eleventh region 432b of the fourth elastic member 432.

[0255] The second inner surface 124 of the second housing 120 can be disposed between the inner lower surface 121 and the inner upper surface 122. The second inner surface 124 can connect the other end of the inner lower surface 121 and the other end of the inner lower surface 121. The second inner surface 124 can face the first inner surface 123 in the first direction (x-axis direction). The second inner surface 124 of the second housing 120 can face a side portion of the first lens barrel 200. For example, the second inner surface 124 can be a surface facing the first side surface 222 of the first lens barrel 200. In detail, the second inner surface 124 can face the fifth region 232b of the second elastic member 232.

[0256] The second housing 120 can include a guide jaw 125. The guide jaw 125 can be disposed on the inner lower surface 121. The guide jaw 125 has a shape protruding from the inner lower surface 121 toward the inner upper surface 122 and can extend in the optical axis direction.

[0257] An optical axis direction length of the guide jaw 125 can be the same as an optical axis direction length of the inner lower surface 121. In this case, the guide jaw 125 can extend in the optical axis direction from a boundary connected to the inner lower surface 121 of the first housing 110 to an end of the inner lower surface 121.

[0258] Further, the optical axis direction length of the guide jaw 125 can be shorter than the optical axis direction length of the inner lower surface 121. In this case, the guide jaw 125 can extend in the optical axis direction from a boundary of the inner lower surface 121 and can be spaced apart from the end of the inner lower surface 121.

[0259] The guide jaw 125 can be disposed adjacent to the second driving portion 500 compared to the first driving portion 300. Further, the guide jaw 125 can be disposed closer to the second pin 450 than the first pin 250.

[0260] In addition, the second housing 120 can include a first hole 126 and a second hole 127.

[0261] The first hole 126 can be an arrangement in which the first sensing part 830 disposed on the substrate 800 is disposed.

[0262] Specifically, the first hole 126 can correspond to the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 of the first lens barrel 200 disposed in the second housing 120. Accordingly, the first hole 126 can be formed to correspond to a region in which the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 are disposed. For example, the first hole 126 can be formed in the inner lower surface 121 of the second housing 120. Specifically, the first hole 126 can be formed in a region of the y-axis of the inner lower surface 121 that overlaps the first magnet scale 610 and the first monopole magnet 615. In addition, the substrate 800 is disposed to cover the first hole 126. In this case, the first sensing part 830 can be disposed on the substrate 800, and at least a portion of the first sensing part 830 can be positioned in the first hole 126. Accordingly, the first sensing part 830, the first magnet scale 610, and the first monopole magnet 615 can be disposed to face each other through the first hole 126.

[0263] The second hole 127 can be an arrangement in which the second sensing part 840 disposed on the substrate 800 is disposed.

[0264] Specifically, the second hole 127 can correspond to the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625 of the second lens barrel 400 disposed in the second housing 120. Accordingly, the second hole 127 can be formed to correspond to a region in which the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625 are disposed. For example, the second hole 127 can be formed in the inner upper surface 122 of the second housing 120. Specifically, the second hole 127 can be formed in a region of the y-axis of the inner upper surface 122 that overlaps the second magnet scale 620 and the second monopole magnet 625. In addition, the substrate 800 is disposed to cover the second hole 127. In this case, the second sensing part 840 can be disposed on the substrate 800, and at least a portion of the second sensing part 840 can be positioned in the second hole 127. Accordingly, the second sensing part 840, the second magnet scale 620, and the second monopole magnet 625 can be disposed to face each other through the second hole 127.

[0265] Figure 11 is a front view of a second driving part disposed in a second housing according to an exemplary embodiment, Figure 12 is a front view in which a first driving part and a second driving part are disposed in a second housing according to an embodiment, and Figure 13is a view showing a first driving part and a second driving part according to an embodiment.

[0266] Specifically, Figure 11 and Figure 12 is a view illustrating a state in which the first driving part, the second driving part, the first lens barrel, and the second lens barrel are disposed in the second housing and the substrate 800 is disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the second housing.

[0267] Referring to Figures 11 to 13 , the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed in the housing 100.

[0268] For example, when manufacturing the camera actuator 1000 according to an embodiment, the second lens barrel 400 can be inserted into the second housing 120 before the first lens barrel 200, as shown in Figure 11 . In this case, the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed at a position set by the first pin 250 and the second pin 450.

[0269] In detail, the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed such that the second lower surface 421 faces the inner lower surface 121, and the second upper surface 423 can be disposed to face the inner upper surface 122. In addition, the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed such that the second side surface 422 faces the first inner surface 123, and the second guide groove 4221 can be disposed to face the second inner surface 124. That is, the second stepped portion 425 of the second lens barrel 400 can face the inner lower surface 121.

[0270] The guide jaws 125 can guide the second lens barrel 400. To this end, the guide jaws 125 can be positioned in a region corresponding to the second lens barrel 400. For example, the guide jaws 125 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the second lower surface 421 and the second stepped portion 425 of the second lens barrel 400. In detail, the guide jaws 125 can be disposed in a region in which the second sub-lower surface 421b of the second lens barrel 400 overlaps in the second direction (y-axis direction), and can be disposed in a region not overlapping the first sub-lower surface 421a.

[0271] In this case, the upper surface of the guide jaws 125 can be positioned above the first sub-lower surface 421a in the second direction (y-axis direction). In addition, the upper surface of the guide jaws 125 can be disposed to face the second sub-lower surface 421b. In this case, the upper surface of the guide jaws 125 can be disposed in contact with the second sub-lower surface 421b, or can be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval.

[0272] In addition, one side of the guide jaws 125 can be disposed to face the second stepped portion 425 in the first direction (x-axis direction). At this time, one side of the guide jaws 125 can be disposed to be in contact with the second stepped portion 425, or can be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval.

[0273] In detail, the second lens barrel 400 can include a first distance d1. Here, the first distance d1 can be defined as a distance from one side of the second lens barrel 400 to the second stepped portion 425. Specifically, the first distance d1 can be defined as a distance from the second side surface 422 to the second stepped portion 425 in the first direction (x-axis direction). The first distance d1 can be greater than or equal to a distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide jaws 125 in the first direction. For example, when the first distance d1 is the same as the distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide jaws 125, the guide jaws 125 can be in contact with the first stepped portion 225.

[0274] In addition, when the first distance d1 is longer than the distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide jaws 125, the guide jaws 125 can be spaced apart from the first stepped portion 225 by a predetermined distance. In this case, driving friction of the second lens barrel 400 can be reduced.

[0275] Alternatively, when the first distance d1 is shorter than the distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide jaws 125, the second lens barrel 400 can not be inserted into the second housing 120. In detail, in the above case, the guide jaws 125 can be positioned in a region corresponding to the first sub-lower surface 421a. Accordingly, the second lens barrel 400 can not be inserted into the second housing 120 by the guide jaws 125.

[0276] That is, the second lens barrel 400 preferably satisfies the first distance d1 within the above range. Accordingly, the second lens barrel 400 can be effectively inserted in a manufacturing process, and driving friction between the guide jaws 125 and the second lens barrel 400 can be minimized when the second lens barrel 400 is driven.

[0277] In addition, as Figure 12 indicated, the first lens barrel 200 can be inserted and disposed after the second lens barrel 400 is first disposed in the housing 100. In this case, the first lens barrel 200 can be disposed at a position set by the first pin 250 and the second pin 450.

[0278] In detail, the first lens barrel 200 can be disposed such that the first lower surface 223 faces the inner lower surface 121, and the first upper surface 221 can be disposed to face the inner upper surface 122. Also, in the first lens barrel 200, the first side surface 222 can be disposed to face the second inner surface 124, and the first guide groove 210h1 can be disposed to face the first inner surface 123. That is, the first stepped portion 225 can face the inner upper surface 122.

[0279] The guide jaws 125 can be spaced apart from the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first lens barrel 200 can be disposed in an area that does not correspond to the guide jaws 125. In detail, the first lens barrel 200 can not overlap the guide jaws 125 in the second direction (y-axis direction). Thus, in the process of being disposed in the housing 100, the first lens barrel 200 can be inserted without being caught in the guide jaws 125.

[0280] The first lens barrel 200 can include a second distance d2. Here, the second distance d2 can be defined as a distance from one side of the first lens barrel 200 to the first stepped portion 225. Specifically, the first distance d1 can be defined as a distance from the first side surface 222 to the first stepped portion 225 in the first direction (x-axis direction).

[0281] In this case, the first distance d1 and the second distance d2 can be different from each other. In detail, the first distance d1 can be longer than the second distance d2. Also, the second distance d2 can be shorter than a distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide jaws 125 in the first direction. Thus, it is possible to prevent the first lens barrel 200 from being first inserted and disposed at a position of the second lens barrel 400.

[0282] In detail, the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 can have the same or similar appearance to each other. Thus, in a process of manufacturing the camera actuator, the first lens barrel 200 is mistaken for the second lens barrel 400 and is first inserted into a position of the second lens barrel 400 and assembled. Thus, there is a problem that optical characteristics of the camera actuator 1000 are changed and a defect occurs.

[0283] However, the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 according to the embodiment can include the first stepped portion 225 and the second stepped portion 425. Also, the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 can include the first distance d1 and the second distance d2 that are different from each other by the first stepped portion 225 and the second stepped portion 425.

[0284] Further, the housing 100 according to the embodiment can include a guide jaw 125 disposed on the inner lower surface 121. In this case, the guide jaw 125 can be disposed at a position corresponding to the second stepped portion 425. In addition, the guide jaw 125 can have a distance characteristic corresponding to the first distance d1.

[0285] Accordingly, in a process of assembling the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400, the second lens barrel 400 can be effectively inserted into the housing 100. In addition, it is possible to prevent the first lens barrel 200 from being mistaken for the second lens barrel 400 to be preferentially disposed at the position of the second lens barrel 400 in the assembly process.

[0286] In detail, the second distance d2 can be shorter than the first distance d1. Accordingly, when the first lens barrel 200 is first inserted into the position of the second lens barrel 400, the first sub upper surface 221a of the first lens barrel 200 can come into contact with the guide jaw 125. That is, the first lens barrel 200 can be stuck on the guide jaw 125, making it impossible to be inserted into the second housing 120.

[0287] That is, in the embodiment, the second lens barrel 400 can be easily disposed in a process of manufacturing the camera actuator 1000, and it is possible to prevent the first lens barrel 200 from being reversely inserted and misaligned. Accordingly, the embodiment can reduce defects due to misalignment and can have improved process efficiency.

[0288] Meanwhile, each of the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840 in the embodiment can be configured as a single unit. That is, the first sensing part 830 according to the embodiment can acquire a sensing signal by the magnetic force generated from the first magnet scale 610 and the first unipolar magnet 615 using one sensor. Further, the second sensing part 840 according to the embodiment can acquire a sensing signal by the magnetic force generated from the second magnet scale 620 and the second unipolar magnet 625 using one sensor.

[0289] Accordingly, one first hole 126 can be formed in the inner lower surface 121 of the second housing 120. Also, one first sensing part 830 provided on the substrate 800 can be inserted into the first hole 126. That is, in the embodiment, a sensing signal corresponding to the positions of the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615 can be acquired by the first sensing part 830 including one sensor. Accordingly, the first sensing part 830 can be disposed to overlap at least a portion of the first magnet scale 610 in the y-axis direction. Also, the first sensing part 830 can be disposed to overlap at least a portion of the first single pole magnet 615 in the y-axis direction. Specifically, the first sensing part 830 can include a first portion overlapping the first magnet scale 610 in the y-axis direction and a second portion overlapping the first single pole magnet 615. Also, the first sensing part 830 in the embodiment can acquire a first sensing signal corresponding to a magnetic force generated by the combination of the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615.

[0290] Also, one second hole 127 can be formed in the inner upper surface 122 of the second housing 120. Also, one second sensing part 840 provided on the substrate 800 can be inserted into the second hole 127. That is, in the embodiment, a sensing signal corresponding to the positions of the second magnet scale 620 and the second single pole magnet 625 can be acquired using the second sensing part 840 configured with one sensor. Accordingly, the second sensing part 840 can be disposed to overlap at least a portion of the second magnet scale 620 in the y-axis direction. Also, the second sensing part 830 can be disposed to overlap at least a portion of the second single pole magnet 625 in the y-axis direction. Specifically, the second sensing part 840 can include a first portion overlapping the second magnet scale 620 in the y-axis direction and a second portion overlapping the second single pole magnet 625. Also, the second sensing part 840 in the embodiment can acquire a second sensing signal corresponding to a magnetic force generated by the combination of the second magnet scale 620 and the second single pole magnet 625.

[0291] Figure 14 is a front view of first and second driving parts disposed in a second housing according to another exemplary embodiment. Specifically, Figure 14 is a view showing a state in which the first and second driving parts are disposed in the second housing and a substrate is disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the second housing.

[0292] Before describing Figure 14 the characteristics of the first and second driving parts, the first and second lens barrels are the same as described in the foregoing embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0293] Referring to Figure 14Each of the first and second sensing parts 830 and 840 in another embodiment can be configured in plural. That is, the first sensing part 830 can acquire first and second sensing signals by magnetic force generated from the first magnet scale 610 and the first single pole magnet 615 using two sensors, respectively. Also, the second sensing part 840 can acquire third and fourth sensing signals by magnetic force generated from the second magnet scale 620 and the second single pole magnet 625 using two sensors, respectively.

[0294] In detail, the first sensing part 830 can include a first-first sub-sensing part 831 and a first-second sub-sensing part 832. The first-first sub-sensing part 831 can acquire the first sensing signal by magnetic force generated from the first single pole magnet 615. To this end, the first-first sub-sensing part 831 can be disposed to overlap the first single pole magnet 615 in the y-axis direction. Also, the first-second sub-sensing part 832 can acquire the second sensing signal by magnetic force generated via the first magnet scale 610. To this end, the first-second sub-sensing part 832 can be disposed to overlap the first magnet scale 610 in the y-axis direction.

[0295] Also, the second sensing part 840 can include a second-first sub-sensing part 841 and a second-second sub-sensing part 842. The second-first sub-sensing part 841 can acquire the third sensing signal by magnetic force generated via the second single pole magnet 625. To this end, the second-first sub-sensing part 841 can be disposed to overlap the second single pole magnet 625 in the y-axis direction. Also, the second-second sub-sensing part 842 can acquire the fourth sensing signal by magnetic force generated via the second magnet scale 620. To this end, the second-second sub-sensing part 842 can be disposed to overlap the second magnet scale 620 in the y-axis direction.

[0296] Accordingly, two first holes 126 can be formed in the inner lower surface 121 of the second housing 120. In detail, a first-first sub-hole 126a and a first-second sub-hole 126b can be formed in the inner lower surface 121 of the second housing 120. The first-first sub-hole 126a can overlap the first single pole magnet 615 and the first-first sub-sensing part 831 in the y-axis direction. Accordingly, at least a portion of the first-first sub-sensing part 831 can be positioned in the first-first sub-hole 126a. The first-second sub-hole 126b can overlap the first magnet scale 610 and the first-second sub-sensing part 832 in the y-axis direction. Accordingly, at least a portion of the first-second sub-sensing part 832 can be positioned in the first-second sub-hole 126b.

[0297] Further, two second holes 127 can be formed in the inner upper surface 122 of the second housing 120. In detail, a second-first sub-hole 127a and a second-second sub-hole 127b can be formed on the inner upper surface 122 of the second housing 120. The second-first sub-hole 127a can overlap the second unipolar magnet 625 and the second-first sub-sensing part 841 in the y-axis direction. Accordingly, at least a portion of the second-first sub-sensing part 841 can be positioned in the second-first sub-hole 127a. The second-second sub-hole 127b can overlap the second magnet scaler 620 and the second-second sub-sensing part 842 in the y-axis direction. Accordingly, at least a portion of the second-second sub-sensing part 842 can be positioned in the second-second sub-hole 127b.

[0298] Hereinafter, characteristics of the first magnet scaler 610, the second magnet scaler 620, the first unipolar magnet 615 and the second unipolar magnet 625, the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840 will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Before explaining this, the operations of the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840 are basically the same, and thus, hereinafter, the operation of the first sensing part 830 will be mainly described.

[0299] Figure 15 is a view illustrating a sensing signal acquired by a sensing part according to an exemplary embodiment, and Figure 16 is a view illustrating a second sensing signal shown in Figure 15 in more detail.

[0300] Referring to Figure 15 , the first sensing part 830 can acquire a first sensing signal by a magnetic force generated by the first unipolar magnet 615. Further, the first sensing part 830 can acquire a second sensing signal by a magnetic force generated by the first magnet scaler 610. In detail, the first sensing part 830 can include a first-first sub-sensing part 831 and a first-second sub-sensing part 832 as described above.

[0301] Further, the first-first sub-sensing part 831 can acquire a first sensing signal through a magnetic force generated from the first unipolar magnet 615. Further, the first-second sub-sensing part 832 can acquire a second sensing signal through a magnetic force generated by the first magnet scale 610. To this end, the embodiment can further include a separate shielding member (not shown) for preventing the magnetic force generated by the first unipolar magnet 615 from being transmitted to the first-second sub-sensing part 832, while preventing the magnetic force generated by the first magnet scale 610 from being transmitted to the first-first sub-sensing part 831. For example, the embodiment can enable accurate sensing signals to be acquired from the first-first sub-sensing part 831 and the first-second sub-sensing part 832 while suppressing mutual magnetic field interference between the first magnet scale 610 and the first unipolar magnet 615 using the shielding member. Alternatively, the first-first sub-sensing part 831 and the first-second sub-sensing part 832 can acquire first and second sensing signals of different frequency bands, respectively.

[0302] In this case, the first sensing signal can be a pulse waveform whose amplitude changes according to a change in the magnetic force generated by the first unipolar magnet 615. Here, a voltage range of the pulse waveform can correspond to an operating voltage of the first-first sub-sensing part 831. For example, the pulse waveform can have a certain voltage value corresponding to the magnetic force in the range of -5V to +5V, but is not limited thereto.

[0303] Here, the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840 in the embodiment can be Hall sensors, but are not limited thereto. For example, the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840 can be implemented as any sensor capable of sensing a change in magnetic force other than Hall sensors. For example, the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840 can be implemented as Giant Magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors.

[0304] The first sensing signal is a pulse waveform corresponding to a change in the magnetic force generated from the first unipolar magnet 615. Accordingly, the first sensing signal can be expressed as a pulse waveform having a constant voltage value only in a certain region in which the first unipolar magnet 615 is disposed in the entire moving stroke of the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first sensing signal can have a pulse maintaining 0V, and can be expressed as a pulse waveform in which the voltage value gradually increases as the first lens barrel 200 approaches the initial position. Further, when the first lens barrel 200 is moved to the initial position, the first sensing signal can have a pulse waveform having a maximum voltage value V1. Further, when the first lens barrel 200 is moved from the initial position to another position, the pulse waveform of the first sensing signal can gradually decrease from the maximum voltage value V1.

[0305] Accordingly, when the first lens barrel 200 is positioned at the initial position, the pulse waveform of the first sensing signal can have a maximum voltage value Vl corresponding to the first preset reference value.

[0306] When the camera module is initially driven, the driver IC can control the first driving part 300 to move the first lens barrel 200 in the + or - optical axis direction. Also, the driver IC can monitor the first sensing signal that is changed according to the movement of the first lens barrel 200. Also, when the first sensing signal has the first reference value, the driver IC can determine the position of the first lens barrel 200 at the time point when the first sensing signal corresponding to the first reference value is acquired as the initial position.

[0307] Further, the driver IC can move the first lens barrel 200 from the initial position to a target position. In this case, the target position can be determined by at least one of the gyro data acquired through the gyro sensor, the zoom magnification, and the auto focus information.

[0308] In this case, the sensing signal information corresponding to each step position of the first lens barrel 200 in the entire movement stroke of the first lens barrel 200 can be stored in the driver IC. The sensing signal information can be a voltage value or a sensing value of the second sensing signal corresponding to each step position of the first lens barrel 200. That is, the first lens barrel 200 can be moved by a predetermined step length on the + optical axis or the - optical axis based on the initial position. For ease of explanation, Figure 15 It is shown that the first lens barrel 200 is movable by 8 steps in the + optical axis direction and is movable by 8 steps in the - optical axis direction based on the initial position IP. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, as shown in Figure 16 the first lens barrel 200 can be movable by X steps in the + optical axis direction and can be movable by Y steps in the - optical axis direction based on the initial position IP. Here, the X steps and the Y steps can be the same as or different from each other. For example, the X steps can be 1000 steps, and the Y steps can be 500 steps, but are not limited thereto.

[0309] For example, based on the initial position IP, the first lens barrel 200 can be movable by 8 steps in the + optical axis direction, and can be movable by 8 steps in the - optical axis direction.

[0310] Accordingly, the first lens barrel 200 can be movable in the + optical axis direction with respect to the initial position IP to positions corresponding to the + first step (S1'), the + second step (S2'), the + third step (S3'), the + fourth step (S4'), the + fifth step (S5'), the + sixth step (S6'), the + seventh step (S7'), and the + eighth step (S8'). Also, the first lens barrel 200 can be movable in the - optical axis direction with respect to the initial position IP to positions corresponding to the - first step (S1), the - second step (S2), the - third step (S3), the - fourth step (S4), the - fifth step (S5), the - sixth step (S6), the - seventh step (S7), and the - eighth step (S8).

[0311] Also, the driver IC stores sensing signal information corresponding to each of the 16 steps. Then, when the target position is determined, the driver IC checks the sensing signal information corresponding to the target position. Also, the first lens barrel 200 can be moved until a time point at which a second sensing signal corresponding to the checked sensing signal is received.

[0312] At this time, as shown in the drawing, the sensing signal information of the + first step (S1') and the + fifth step (S5') can be identical to "V3". Also, the sensing signal information of the + second step (S2'), the + fourth step (S4'), the + sixth step (S6'), and the + eighth step (S8') can be identical to "0V". Also, the sensing signal information of the + third step (S3') and the + seventh step (S7') can be identical to "V2".

[0313] However, the first lens barrel 200 is moved step by step from the initial position IP. For example, when the first lens barrel 200 is positioned at the initial position IP and is moved in the + optical axis direction, the next position of the first lens barrel 200 corresponds to the + first step (S1). The driver IC can recognize the position at a time point at which the first 'V3' sensing signal is sensed as a position corresponding to the + first step (S1'), and the position at a time point at which the second 'V3' sensing signal is sensed can be recognized as a position corresponding to the + fifth step (S5') of the target position. However, even though the first lens barrel 200 is moved step by step, a slight positional deviation can occur due to various factors. Accordingly, the driver IC can control the first driver to move the first lens barrel 200 slightly until the voltage value corresponding to the second sensing signal becomes the second 'V3' value.

[0314] Meanwhile, as Figure 16As illustrated in FIG. 8B, the moving step of the lens barrel in the embodiment can be increased. For example, a plurality of sub-steps can be additionally included between the initial position IP and the + first step (S1'). For example, there can be six additional sub-steps Sa between the initial position IP and the + first step (S1'). Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to each of the sub-steps Sa. For example, the first through sixth sub-steps can exist in the + optical axis direction from the initial position IP. Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the first sub-step as "V4". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the second sub-step as "V5". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the third sub-step as "V6". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the fourth sub-step as "V7". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the fifth sub-step as "V8". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the sixth sub-step as "V9".

[0315] Meanwhile, in one embodiment as described above, each of the sensing parts includes two sub-sensing parts, and each sensing signal corresponding to the magnet scale and the single pole magnet is acquired from each of the sub-sensing parts. Alternatively, in another embodiment, each of the sensing parts is configured with only one sensing part, and accordingly, each of the sensing parts can acquire only one sensing signal corresponding to the magnet scale and the single pole magnet.

[0316] Figure 17 FIG. 8B is a view illustrating a sensing signal acquired by a sensing part according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0317] As Figure 17 As illustrated in FIG. 8B, the moving step of the lens barrel in the embodiment can be increased. For example, a plurality of sub-steps can be additionally included between the initial position IP and the + first step (S1'). For example, there can be six additional sub-steps Sa between the initial position IP and the + first step (S1'). Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to each of the sub-steps Sa. For example, the first through sixth sub-steps can exist in the + optical axis direction from the initial position IP. Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the first sub-step as "V4". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the second sub-step as "V5". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the third sub-step as "V6". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the fourth sub-step as "V7". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the fifth sub-step as "V8". Further, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the sixth sub-step as "V9".

[0318] At this time, each sensing signal corresponding to the magnet scale and the single pole magnet in the previous embodiment is acquired from the two sub-sensing parts, respectively.

[0319] Alternatively, the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840 can acquire one sensing signal by the magnetic force generated by the magnet scale and the single pole magnet.

[0320] In this case, one sensing signal sensed by the first sensing part 830 has a pulse waveform in which the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal described above are mixed. Figure 15 The first sensing signal and the second sensing signal described above are mixed.

[0321] Further, one sensing signal sensed by the second sensing part 840 also has a pulse waveform in which the third sensing signal and the fourth sensing signal are mixed.

[0322] In this case, the sensing signal sensed in the remaining regions other than the first region Rl throughout the entire moving stroke can be the same as the above-described second sensing signal or fourth sensing signal.

[0323] For example, the sensing signal acquired by the first sensing part 830 throughout the entire moving stroke of the first lens barrel 200 can be the same as the above-described second sensing signal in the remaining regions other than the first region Rl. Also, the sensing signal acquired by the second sensing part 840 throughout the entire moving stroke of the second lens barrel 400 can be the same as the above-described fourth sensing signal in the remaining regions other than the first region Rl. At this time, the sensing signals acquired by the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840, respectively, have substantially the same characteristics, and thus, the sensing signal acquired by the first sensing part 830 will be mainly described below.

[0324] The first region Rl of the sensing signal can have a voltage value in which the magnetic forces generated by the first magnet calibrator 610 and the first monopole magnet 615 are both reflected. In this case, the pulse waveform in the first region Rl can be different from the pattern of the pulse waveform in other regions other than this. That is, the pulse waveform of the regions other than the first region Rl has a regular sine waveform. However, the first region Rl can have a shape such as a broken waveform instead of a regular sine wave. Thus, the embodiment can check whether the first lens barrel 200 exists at a position corresponding to the first region Rl by analyzing the pulse waveform of the sensing signal. Also, the sensing signal information corresponding to the pulse waveform in the first region Rl can be separately stored. As an example, the driver IC can store the sensing signal information corresponding to the initial position IP of the first lens barrel 200 in the first region Rl and the positions other than this for each step. Thus, it is possible to accurately measure the initial position of the first lens barrel 200 using only one sensing part, and also to accurately move the first lens barrel 200 to a target position.

[0325] Meanwhile, the sensing signal in another embodiment can be a mixed waveform in which two pulse waveforms (for example, the pulse waveform of the first sensing signal and the pulse waveform of the second sensing signal) are mixed. Thus, the driver IC can use a band-pass filter (not shown) to separate the mixed waveform into two separate waveforms (for example, the pulse waveform of the first sensing signal and the pulse waveform of the second sensing signal). Also, the driver IC can accurately move the first lens barrel 200 to the initial position and the target position by using each of the separated individual waveforms.

[0326] Figure 18 is a flowchart for explaining an initial operation method of a camera module according to an embodiment, and Figure 19is a flowchart of an operation method for explaining a function of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0327] Hereinafter, a method of operating a camera module according to an embodiment will be described.

[0328] Referring to Figure 18 , the driver IC moves the lens barrel S100. Specifically, the driver IC controls the first driving part 300 to move the first lens barrel 200 in the + optical axis direction or the - optical axis direction. In addition, the driver IC controls the second driver 500 to move the second lens barrel 400 in the + optical axis direction or the - optical axis direction.

[0329] Then, the driver IC confirms the sensing signals S110 acquired from the first sensing part 830 and the second sensing part 840 according to the movement of the first lens barrel 200 or the second lens barrel 400. In detail, the driver IC checks the first sensing signal acquired through the first sensing part 830 and acquires a first sensing value (for example, a voltage value of the first sensing signal) according to the check. In addition, the driver IC checks the third sensing signal acquired through the second sensing part 840 to acquire a corresponding sensing value (for example, a voltage value of the third sensing signal).

[0330] Next, the driver IC determines whether the acquired sensing value corresponds to a preset reference value S120. The reference value can include a voltage value of the first sensing signal in a state in which the first lens barrel 200 is positioned at the initial position IP (for example, a first reference value). In addition, the reference value can include a voltage value of the second sensing signal in a state in which the second lens barrel 400 is positioned at the initial position IP (for example, a second reference value).

[0331] In addition, when the voltage value of the first sensing signal is the same as the first reference value, the driver IC can determine that the first lens barrel 200 is positioned at the initial position IP and end the initial operation. In addition, when the voltage value of the third sensing signal is the same as the preset second reference value, the driver IC can determine that the second lens barrel 400 is positioned at the initial position IP and end the initial operation.

[0332] In addition, when the voltage value of the first sensing signal acquired through the first sensing part 830 is not the same as the first reference value, the driver IC returns to step S100 to move the first lens barrel 200 to the next step. In addition, when the voltage value of the third sensing signal acquired through the second sensing part 840 is not the same as the second reference value, the driver IC returns to step S100 to move the second lens barrel 400 to the next step.

[0333] Referring to Figure 19, the driver IC can move the first lens barrel 200 and / or the second lens barrel 400 to the target position in a state in which the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 are positioned at the initial position IP.

[0334] To this end, the driver IC can determine the target position of the first lens barrel 200 and determine first sensing signal information corresponding to the determined target position. In addition, the driver IC can determine the target position of the second lens barrel 400 and determine second sensing signal information S200 corresponding to the determined target position. The first sensing signal information can mean a voltage value of the second sensing signal acquired through the first sensing part 830 in a state in which the first lens barrel 200 is positioned at the target position. In addition, the second sensing signal information can mean a voltage value of the fourth sensing signal acquired through the second sensing part 840 in a state in which the second lens barrel 400 is positioned at the target position.

[0335] Thereafter, the driver IC controls the first driver 300 to move the first lens barrel 200 step by step in the +optical axis direction or the -optical axis direction. In addition, the driver IC controls the second driver 500 to move the second lens barrel 400 step by step in the +optical axis direction or the -optical axis direction S210.

[0336] In addition, the driver IC acquires a second sensing value for the second sensing signal acquired through the first sensing part 830 according to the movement of the first lens barrel 200. That is, as the first lens barrel 200 moves, the driver IC acquires a voltage value of the second sensing signal acquired at the moved position. In addition, the driver IC acquires a sensing value for the fourth sensing signal acquired through the second sensing part 840 according to the movement of the second lens barrel 400. That is, as the second lens barrel 400 moves, the driver IC acquires a voltage value of the fourth sensing signal acquired at the moved position.

[0337] Thereafter, the driver IC determines whether the voltage value of the second sensing signal corresponds to the target position of the first lens barrel 200. In addition, the driver IC determines whether the voltage value of the fourth sensing signal corresponds to the target position of the second lens barrel 400 S220.

[0338] Then, when the voltage value of the second sensing signal corresponds to the target position of the first lens barrel 200, the driver IC ends the movement operation of the first lens barrel 200. In addition, when the voltage value of the fourth sensing signal corresponds to the target position of the second lens barrel 400, the driver IC ends the movement of the second lens barrel 400.

[0339] Further, if the voltage value of the second sensing signal does not correspond to the target position of the first lens barrel 200, the driver IC returns to step S210 to move the first lens barrel 200 to a position corresponding to the next step. Further, if the voltage value of the fourth sensing signal does not correspond to the target position of the second lens barrel 400, the driver IC returns to step S210 to move the second lens barrel 400 to a position corresponding to the next step.

[0340] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and Figure 21 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, in which some components are omitted.

[0341] Referring to Figure 20 and Figure 21 , the camera module 10 according to an embodiment can include one or more camera actuators. For example, the camera module 10 can include a first camera actuator 1000 and a second camera actuator 2000, and can include a cover case 15 for protecting the first camera actuator 1000 and the second camera actuator 2000.

[0342] The first camera actuator 1000 can support a plurality of lenses and can perform a zoom function or an auto focus function by moving the lenses in an optical axis direction in response to a control signal from a controller. That is, the first camera actuator 1000 can be a camera actuator described above with reference to Figures 1 to 19 .

[0343] The second camera actuator 2000 can be an optical image stabilizer (OIS) actuator. In this case, light incident from the outside onto the camera module 10 can be preferentially incident onto the second camera actuator 2000. In addition, light incident onto the second camera actuator 2000 by changing a path of the light can be incident on the first camera actuator 1000, and light passing through the first camera actuator 1000 can be incident on the image sensor 900.

[0344] Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment. Further, Figure 23 is a view of a third driving part of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, and Figure 24 is a view of a third housing of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment. Figure 25 and Figure 26 are views of a prism unit of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0345] A second camera actuator according to an embodiment will be described in greater detail with reference to Figures 22 to 26 .

[0346] Referring to Figure 22The second camera actuator 2000 can include a cover member 2100, a third housing 2200, a third driving part 2300, and a prism unit 2400.

[0347] The cover member 2100 can include an accommodation space therein, and at least one side surface can be open. For example, the cover member 2100 can have a structure in which a plurality of side surfaces connected to each other are opened. In detail, the cover member 2100 can have a structure in which a front surface through which light is incident from the outside, a lower surface corresponding to the first camera actuator 1000, a rear surface opposite to the front surface, and a light moving path of the prism unit 2400 to be described later can be provided.

[0348] The cover member 2100 can include a rigid material. For example, the cover member 2100 can include a material such as resin, metal, or ceramic, and can support the third housing 2200 disposed in the accommodation space. For example, the cover member 2100 is disposed to surround the third housing 2200, the third driving part 2300, the prism unit 2400, etc., and can support the components.

[0349] Referring to Figure 23 The third driving part 2300 can include a driving part circuit board 2310, a coil unit 2330, and a magnet 2350.

[0350] The driving part circuit board 2310 can be connected to a power source (not shown) to supply power to the coil unit 2330. The driving part circuit board 2310 can include a circuit board having a wiring pattern capable of being electrically connected, such as a rigid printed circuit board (rigid PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (flexible PCB), and a rigid-flexible printed circuit board (rigid-flexible PCB).

[0351] The coil unit 2330 can be electrically connected to the driving part circuit board 2310. The coil unit 2330 can include one or more coil units. For example, the coil unit 2330 can include a first coil unit 2331, a second coil unit 2332, and a third coil unit 2333.

[0352] The first to third coil units 2331, 2332, and 2333 can be spaced apart from each other. For example, the driving part circuit board 2310 can have a "C" shape, and the first coil unit 2331 and the second coil unit 2332 can be disposed on first and second surfaces of the driving part circuit board 2310, respectively, which face each other. In addition, the third coil unit 2333 can be disposed on a third surface connecting the first and second surfaces of the driving part circuit board 2310.

[0353] The magnets 2350 can include one or more magnets. For example, the magnets 2350 can include a first magnet 2351, a second magnet 2352, and a third magnet 2353 disposed in regions corresponding to the coil units 2330. In detail, the first magnet 2351 can be disposed on a region corresponding to the first coil unit 2331 on a first surface of the driving part circuit board 2310. Also, the second magnet 2352 can be disposed on a region corresponding to the second coil unit 2332 on a second surface of the driving part circuit board 2310. Also, the third magnet 2353 can be disposed on a region corresponding to the third coil unit 2333 on a third surface of the driving part circuit board 2310.

[0354] The third driving part 2300 can further include a Hall sensor. For example, the Hall sensor includes a first Hall sensor (not shown) disposed adjacent to one coil unit selected from among the first coil unit 2331 and the second coil unit 2332, and a second Hall sensor (not shown) disposed adjacent to the third coil unit 2333.

[0355] The third driving part 2300 can tilt the prism unit 2400. The third driving part 2300 can control tilting of the prism unit 2400 along the first axis or the second axis.

[0356] Reference Figure 24 The third housing 2200 can include an accommodation space for accommodating the prism unit 2400. The third housing 2200 can include a plurality of inner surfaces. For example, the third housing 2200 can include a first surface 2200S1 corresponding to a first region of the driving part circuit board 2310 and a second surface 2200S2 corresponding to a second region of the driving part circuit board 2310, and a third surface 2200S3 corresponding to a third region of the driving part circuit board 2310.

[0357] In detail, the third housing 2200 includes a first surface 2200S1 corresponding to the first coil unit 2331, a second surface 2200S2 corresponding to the second coil unit 2332, and a third surface 2200S3 corresponding to the third coil unit 2333. Also, the third housing 2200 can include a fourth surface 2200S4 connected to the first surface 2200S1 and the second surface 2200S2 and connected to the third surface 2200S3.

[0358] The third housing 2200 can include a plurality of housing holes 2210. The housing holes 2210 can be through-hole holes penetrating the outer surface and the inner surface of the third housing 2200. The plurality of housing holes 2210 can include first to third housing holes 2211, 2212, and 2213. The first housing hole 2211 can be a through-hole hole passing through the first surface 2200S1 and the outer surface corresponding to the first surface 2200S1. The second housing hole 2212 can be a through-hole hole passing through the second surface 2200S2 and the outer surface corresponding to the second surface 2200S2. The third housing hole 2213 can be a through-hole hole passing through the third surface 2200S3 and the outer surface corresponding to the third surface 2200S3.

[0359] The first housing hole 2211 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the first coil unit 2331. Also, the first housing hole 2211 can have a size and a shape corresponding to the first coil unit 2331. Accordingly, the first coil unit 2331 can be partially or entirely inserted into the first housing hole 2211.

[0360] The second housing hole 2212 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the second coil unit 2332. Also, the second housing hole 2212 can have a size and a shape corresponding to the size and the shape of the second coil unit 2332. Accordingly, the second coil unit 2332 can be partially or entirely inserted into the second housing hole 2212.

[0361] The third housing hole 2213 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the third coil unit 2333. Also, the third housing hole 2213 can have a size and a shape corresponding to the third coil unit 2333. Accordingly, the third coil unit 2333 can be partially or entirely inserted into the third housing hole 2213.

[0362] Referring to Figure 25 and Figure 26 The prism unit 2400 can be disposed in the third housing 2200. In detail, the prism unit 2400 can be disposed in the accommodation space of the third housing 2200.

[0363] The prism unit 2400 can include a prism 2410 and a prism mover 2430 disposed on the prism 2410.

[0364] The prism 2410 can be a right-angle prism. The prism 2410 can reflect the direction of light incident from the outside. That is, the prism 2410 can change the path of light incident from the outside toward the second camera actuator 2000 toward the first camera actuator 1000.

[0365] The prism mover 2430 can be disposed on the prism 2410. The prism mover 2430 can be disposed to surround the prism 2410. At least one side of the prism mover 2430 can be open and can include an accommodation space therein. In detail, the prism mover 2430 can have a structure in which a plurality of outer surfaces connected to each other are open. For example, the prism mover 2430 can have a structure in which an outer surface corresponding to the prism 2410 is open, and can include an accommodation space defined as a first space 2435 therein.

[0366] The prism mover 2430 can include an inner surface 2435S. The inner surface 2435S can be an inner surface constituting the first space 2435. The first space 2435 can have a shape corresponding to the prism 2410. The inner surface 2435S of the first space 2435 can directly contact the prism 2410.

[0367] The prism mover 2430 can include a step 2436. The step 2436 can be disposed in the first space 2435. The step 2436 can function as a guide and / or a seating portion of the prism 2410. In detail, a protrusion corresponding to the step 2436 can be formed on an outer side of the prism 2410. The prism 2410 can be disposed in the first space 2435 such that the protrusion is guided by the step 2436 of the prism mover 2430. Accordingly, the prism mover 2430 can effectively support the prism 2410. Furthermore, the prism 2410 can be seated at a set position, and can have improved alignment characteristics within the prism mover 2430.

[0368] The prism unit 2400 can include a plurality of outer surfaces. For example, the prism mover 2430 can include a plurality of outer surfaces. The prism mover 2430 can include a first outer surface 2430S1 corresponding to the first surface 2200S1 of the third housing 2200, a second outer surface 2430S2 corresponding to the second surface 2200S2, a third outer surface 2430S3 corresponding to the third surface 2200S3, and a fourth outer surface 2430S4 corresponding to the fourth surface 2200S4.

[0369] Further, the prism mover 2430 can include a plurality of recesses. The recesses can be grooves having a concave shape on the outer surface of the prism mover 2430 in the direction of the first space 2435. The plurality of recesses can include a third recess 2433R1, a fourth recess 2433R2, and a fifth recess 2433R3. For example, the third recess 2433R1 can be disposed on the first outer surface 2430S1. The third recess 2433R1 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the first housing hole 2211. Further, the fourth recess 2433R2 can be disposed on the second outer surface 2430S2. The fourth recess 2433R2 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the second housing hole 2212. Further, the fifth recess 2433R3 can be disposed on the third outer surface 2430S3. The fifth recess 2433R3 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the third housing hole 2213. That is, the first housing hole 2211 can correspond to the first coil unit 2331, and the second housing hole 2212 can correspond to the second coil unit 2332. Further, the third housing hole 2213 can correspond to the third coil unit 2333.

[0370] The magnets 2350 can be disposed in the recesses. For example, the first magnet 2351 is in the third recess 2433R1, the second magnet 2352 is in the fourth recess 2433R2, and the third magnet 2353 is in the third recess 2433R1, so that they can be spaced apart from each other.

[0371] The prism unit 2400 can be controlled in tilt on the first axis (x-axis) or the second axis (y-axis) by the driving portion of the third driving portion 2300. Here, the first axis tilt can mean tilt in the vertical direction (y-axis direction; second direction) with the x-axis direction shown in the drawing as a rotation axis, and the second axis tilt can mean tilt in the left-right direction (x-axis direction; first direction) with the y-axis direction shown in the drawing as a rotation axis.

[0372] Upon application of power, the prism unit 2400 can control tilt based on the attractive force and the repulsive force generated from the third coil unit 2333 and the third magnet 2353.

[0373] In detail, the third driving portion 2300 includes a first virtual line formed of the first coil unit 2331, the second coil unit 2332, the first magnet 2351, and the second magnet 2352. The prism unit 2400 can be disposed rotatable about the line (not shown) as an axis. Here, the first line can be a line extending in the first direction (x-axis direction).

[0374] The third coil unit 2333 and the third magnet 2353 can rotate the prism unit 2400 in the up-down direction (y-axis direction) with the first line as a rotation axis.

[0375] For example, repulsive force is generated between the third coil unit 2333 and the third-first magnet of the third magnet 2353, and attractive force can be generated between the third coil unit 2333 and the third-second magnet of the third magnet 2353. Here, the third-first magnet and the third-second magnet can face each other in the third direction (z-axis direction). In this case, the prism unit 2400 can be tilted in the upward direction (based on the y-axis direction) by the generated electromagnetic force.

[0376] Further, attractive force is generated between the third coil unit 2333 and the third-first magnet of the third magnet 2353, and repulsive force can be generated between the third coil unit 2333 and the third-second magnet of the third magnet 2353. In this case, the prism unit 2400 can be tilted in the downward direction (based on the y-axis direction) by the generated electromagnetic force.

[0377] Upon application of electric power, the prism unit 2400 can control tilting based on attractive force and repulsive force generated from the first coil unit 2331, the second coil unit 2332, the first magnet 2351, and the second magnet 2352.

[0378] In detail, the third driving portion 2300 can be provided such that the prism unit 2400 can rotate around a second virtual line (not shown) formed by the third magnet 2353 and the third coil unit 2333 as an axis. Here, the second line can be a line extending in the second direction (y-axis direction).

[0379] The first coil unit 2331, the second coil unit 2332, the first magnet 2351, and the second magnet 2352 can rotate and move the prism unit 2400 in the left-right direction (x-axis direction) with the second line as a rotation axis.

[0380] For example, repulsive force is generated between the first coil unit 2331 and the first-first magnet of the first magnet 351, and attractive force can be generated between the first coil unit 2331 and the first-second magnet of the first magnet 2351. Further, attractive force is generated between the second coil unit 2332 and the second-first magnet of the second magnet 2352, and repulsive force can be generated between the second coil unit 2332 and the second-second magnet of the second magnet 2352. Here, the first-first magnet and the second-first magnet can face each other in the first direction, and the first-second magnet and the second-second magnet can face each other in the first direction. In this case, the prism unit 2400 can be tilted in the left direction (based on the x-axis direction) by the generated electromagnetic force.

[0381] Further, an attractive force is generated between the first coil unit 2331 and the first-first magnet of the first magnet 2351, and a repulsive force can be generated between the first coil unit 2331 and the first-second magnet of the first magnet 2351. Further, a repulsive force is generated between the second coil unit 2332 and the second-first magnet of the second magnet 2352, and an attractive force can be generated between the second coil unit 2332 and the second-second magnet of the second magnet 2352. In this case, the prism unit 2400 can be tilted in the right direction (based on the x-axis direction) by the generated electromagnetic force.

[0382] That is, the second camera actuator 2000 according to an embodiment can control a moving path of incident light by the third driving part 2300 including a VCM (Voice Coil Motor) method. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and the third driving part 2300 can include a piezoelectric device, for example, a piezoelectric device or a shape memory alloy, and can control the moving path of the incident light by using the piezoelectric device and / or the shape memory alloy.

[0383] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0384] Reference Figure 27 The mobile terminal 3 can include a camera module 10 provided on a rear side, an auto focus device 31, and a flash module 33.

[0385] The camera module 10 can include an image capturing function and an auto focus function. For example, the camera module 10 can include an auto focus function using an image.

[0386] The camera module 10 processes an image frame of a still image or a moving image acquired by an image sensor in a photographing mode or a video call mode. The processed image frame can be displayed on a predetermined display unit and stored in a memory. A camera (not shown) can also be provided on a front face of the mobile terminal body.

[0387] For example, the camera module 10 can include a first camera module 10A and a second camera module 10B. In this case, at least one of the first camera module 10A and the second camera module 10B can include the aforementioned camera module, for example, the camera module 10 according to Figures 1 to 20 Thus, the camera module 10 can implement an OIS function together with a zoom function and an auto focus function.

[0388] The auto focus device 31 can include an auto focus function using a laser. The auto focus device 31 can be mainly used in a condition in which an auto focus function using an image of the camera module 10 is deteriorated, for example, in a vicinity of 10 m or less or in a dark environment. The auto focus device 31 can include a light emitting unit including a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) semiconductor device; and a light receiving unit that converts light energy such as a photodiode into electrical energy.

[0389] The flash module 33 can include a light emitting device in which light is emitted. The flash module 33 can be operated by a camera operation of the mobile terminal or by a control of the user.

[0390] Next, Figure 28 is a perspective view of a vehicle 5 to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied. For example, Figure 28 is an appearance view of a vehicle including a vehicle driving assistance device to which a camera module 10 according to an embodiment is applied.

[0391] Referring to Figure 28 , the vehicle 5 according to an embodiment can also include wheels 53FL, 53RL rotated by a power source and a predetermined sensor. The sensor can be a camera sensor 51, but is not limited thereto.

[0392] The camera 51 can be a camera sensor to which a camera module 10 according to an embodiment is applied.

[0393] The vehicle 5 of an embodiment can acquire image information through the camera sensor 51 that photographs a front image or a surrounding image, and can determine a lane non-recognition situation using the image information and generate a virtual lane when a lane is not recognized.

[0394] For example, the camera sensor 51 can acquire an image of a front by photographing a front of the vehicle 5, and a processor (not shown) can acquire image information by analyzing an object included in the image of the front.

[0395] For example, when an object such as a median strip, a curb, or a street tree corresponding to a lane, a neighboring vehicle, a traveling obstacle, and an indirect road marking is captured in an image captured by the camera sensor 51, the processor can detect such an object and include it in the image information.

[0396] In this case, the processor can further supplement the image information by acquiring distance information from the object detected by the camera sensor 51. The image information can be information about an object photographed in an image.

[0397] The camera sensor 51 can include an image sensor and an image processing module. The camera sensor 51 can process a still image or a moving image acquired by the image sensor (e.g., CMOS or CCD). The image processing module can process a still image or a moving image acquired through the image sensor, extract necessary information, and transmit the extracted information to the processor.

[0398] In this case, the camera sensor 51 can include a stereo camera to improve the measurement accuracy of an object and further secure information such as a distance between the vehicle 5 and the object, but is not limited thereto.

[0399] The camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment can have improved optical properties. In detail, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment include a driving part for driving a lens group, the driving part including a piezoelectric device, the lens group being able to be more precisely controlled by the driving part, and friction generated when the lens group moves being able to be minimized. Accordingly, the embodiment can provide more improved auto focus and zoom functions.

[0400] Further, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment can have improved operation reliability. In detail, the embodiment includes a first magnet part and a second magnet part mounted on a lens barrel. In this case, the first magnet part can include a reference magnet, and the second magnet part can include a magnet scale. Further, the embodiment can include a sensing part disposed adjacent to the first magnet part and the second magnet. The sensing part can measure a change in a magnetic field through the first magnet part and the second magnet part. That is, the sensing part can precisely move the lens group to an initial position by using a change in a magnetic field of the first magnet part. Further, the sensing part can precisely move the lens group to a target position by using a change in a magnetic field of the second magnet part. Accordingly, the embodiment can improve the accuracy of auto focus and zoom functions of the camera module, and thus can improve the operation reliability.

[0401] Further, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment can eliminate assembly deviation. In detail, although the embodiment includes the first magnet part and the second magnet part, this can be a magnet part integrally formed. That is, the integrally formed magnet part can be a magnet configured by magnetizing a magnet scale corresponding to the second magnet part and a reference magnet corresponding to the first magnet part together. Accordingly, according to the embodiment, a position error detection occurring due to assembly deviation of the magnet scale and the reference magnet can be solved, and the operation reliability can be further improved.

[0402] Further, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment enable the position of the lens group to be sensed using the magnet scale and the reference magnet instead of a conventional PI sensor, so that the position of the lens group can be sensed without image degradation and thus the image quality can be improved.

[0403] In addition, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment can have improved process efficiency. In detail, the camera actuator and the camera module according to the embodiment include a housing accommodating a plurality of lens groups, for example, a plurality of lens barrels, and a guide jaw which can be disposed on an inner lower surface of the housing facing the lens barrels. In this case, the guide jaw can have a position and a distance corresponding to a set lens barrel among the plurality of lens barrels, thereby preventing a non-set lens barrel from being disposed. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively arrange the set barrels at the set positions, and it is possible to prevent misalignment of other lens barrels. Accordingly, the embodiment can reduce defects caused by misalignment of the plurality of lens barrels, and can have improved process efficiency.

[0404] The features, structures, effects, and the like described in the above-described embodiments include those in at least one embodiment, and are not necessarily limited to only one embodiment. In addition, the features, structures, effects, and the like illustrated in each of the embodiments can be combined or modified by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong, with respect to other embodiments. Accordingly, matters related to such combinations and changes should be interpreted as included in the scope of the embodiments.

[0405] In the above, the embodiments have been mainly described, but this is only one example and does not limit the embodiments, and those of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong will appreciate that various modifications and applications not illustrated above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments can be implemented by modification. And the differences related to these modifications and applications should be interpreted as included in the scope of the embodiments set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A lens driving device, comprising: The movable part includes a lens; A driving unit is configured to drive the moving unit in the optical axis direction of the lens; as well as A sensing unit, wherein the sensing unit is used to sense the position of the moving unit; The moving part includes: The magnet section includes a magnet calibrator having a structure in which a plurality of magnets with different polarities are sequentially arranged in the optical axis direction; and a reference magnet including a monopole magnet spaced apart from the magnet calibrator in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction and having an N pole and a S pole disposed in a second direction perpendicular to both the optical axis direction and the first direction. The sensing unit acquires each of a first sensing signal corresponding to the magnetic force of the reference magnet that changes according to the movement of the moving unit and a second sensing signal corresponding to the magnetic force of the magnet calibrator that changes according to the movement of the moving unit, and... The driving unit is configured to move the moving unit to an initial position using the first sensing signal and to move the moving unit to a target position using the second sensing signal.

2. The lens driving device according to claim 1, wherein, The N pole of the reference magnet is configured to face at least one of the N pole and S pole of the magnet calibrator.

3. The lens driving device according to claim 1, wherein, The magnet calibrator and the reference magnet are coupled to each other.

4. The lens driving device according to claim 1, wherein, The driving unit moves the moving unit to obtain a first sensing signal at the initial position corresponding to a first reference value, and moves the moving unit to obtain a second sensing signal at the target position corresponding to a second reference value.

5. The lens driving device according to claim 1, further comprising: case, The housing includes a hole, and at least a portion of the sensing element is disposed in the hole. The magnet portion and the sensing portion overlap each other in the second direction.

6. The lens driving device according to claim 5, wherein, The hole includes: A first sub-aperture, the first sub-aperture corresponding to the magnet calibrator; and The second sub-aperture corresponds to the reference magnet. The sensing unit includes: A first sub-sensing unit, the first sub-sensing unit being configured to face the magnet calibrator relative to the first sub-aperture; and The second sub-sensing unit is configured to face the reference magnet relative to the second sub-hole.

7. The lens driving device according to claim 5, further comprising: A substrate, which is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the housing. In the state where the sensing part is disposed on the substrate, at least a portion of the sensing part is positioned in the hole.

8. The lens driving device according to claim 5, wherein, Further includes: A fixing part, which is disposed in the housing and includes a first lens part, The moving part includes: A first lens barrel, wherein the first lens barrel is configured to be spaced apart from the fixing portion in the optical axis direction within the housing; and A second lens barrel is configured to be spaced apart from the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction within the housing. The driving unit includes: A first driving unit, the first driving unit being coupled to the first lens barrel in the housing and driving the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction; and A second drive unit is coupled to the second lens barrel in the housing and drives the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction; The magnet part includes: A first magnet section, comprising a first magnet calibrator and a first reference magnet disposed on one surface of the first lens barrel; and The second magnet section includes a second magnet calibrator and a second reference magnet disposed on another surface of the second lens barrel. The sensing unit includes: A first sensing unit, wherein the first sensing unit is configured to be adjacent to the first magnet unit; and The second sensing unit is configured to be adjacent to the second magnet unit.

9. The lens driving device according to claim 8, wherein, The housing includes: A first housing, wherein the fixing part is disposed in the first housing; and The second housing contains the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel. The hole includes: A first hole is formed on the lower surface of the second housing and overlaps perpendicularly with the first magnet portion and the first sensing portion; and The second hole is disposed on the upper surface of the second housing and overlaps perpendicularly with the second magnet part and the second sensing part.

10. The lens driving device according to claim 8, wherein, The first lens barrel includes: A first lens barrel portion, the first lens barrel portion including a second lens portion; A first guide portion, the first guide portion extending outward from the first lens barrel portion; and A first elastic portion is connected to the first driving portion. The second lens barrel includes: The second lens barrel portion includes a third lens portion; A second guide portion, the second guide portion extending outward from the second lens barrel portion; and The second elastic part is connected to the second driving part.

11. The lens driving device according to claim 10, wherein, The first driving unit includes: A first piezoelectric device, wherein the first piezoelectric device is disposed in the housing; and A first extension rod extends from the first piezoelectric device along the optical axis. The second drive unit includes a second piezoelectric device, which is disposed within the housing; and A second extension rod extends from the second piezoelectric device in the optical axis direction. Wherein, a region of the first extension rod is connected to the first elastic part, and One area of ​​the second extension rod is connected to the second elastic part.

12. The lens driving device according to claim 11, further comprising: A first pin and a second pin, which extend within the housing along the optical axis and are spaced apart from each other, are also present. The first pin is configured to be inserted into the first insertion hole of the first lens barrel. The second pin is configured to be inserted into the second insertion hole of the second lens barrel. Wherein, the first lens barrel moves along the first pin, and wherein the second lens barrel moves along the second pin.

13. The lens driving device according to claim 12, wherein, The first lens barrel further includes a first guide groove, and the second pin is disposed in the first guide groove. The second lens barrel further includes a second guide groove, and the first pin is disposed in the second guide groove. Each of the first guide groove and the second guide groove has an opening shape on one side.

14. The lens driving device according to claim 8, wherein, The first magnet section is a first single-magnetized magnet, in which the first magnet calibrator and the first reference magnet are integrally formed, and The second magnet part is a second single-magnetized magnet, in which the second magnet calibrator and the second reference magnet are integrally formed.

15. A lens driving device, comprising: A lens barrel, the lens barrel including a lens; A piezoelectric drive unit, the piezoelectric drive unit being used to drive the lens barrel in the optical axis direction of the lens; A magnet section is disposed on the lens barrel; as well as The sensing unit corresponds to the magnet unit. The magnet part includes: A magnet calibrator having a structure in which a plurality of magnets with different polarities are sequentially arranged in the direction of the optical axis; and A reference magnet, comprising a monopole magnet, the monopole magnet being spaced apart from the magnet calibrator in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis and having an N pole and a S pole disposed in a second direction perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first direction. The sensing unit outputs a first sensing signal corresponding to the moving position of the reference magnet and a second sensing signal corresponding to the moving position of the magnet calibrator. Wherein, the first sensing signal is a sensing value used to move the lens barrel to an initial position, and The second sensing signal is a sensing value used to move the lens barrel to a target position within the movement stroke of the lens barrel.

16. A lens driving device, comprising: A first lens barrel, the first lens barrel including a first lens section; The second lens barrel includes a second lens portion that is spaced apart from the first lens portion in the optical axis direction of the first lens portion; as well as The third lens barrel includes a third lens portion that is spaced apart from the second lens portion in the optical axis direction; A first driving unit is used to drive the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction; The second driving unit is used to drive the third lens barrel in the optical axis direction; The first magnet section includes a first magnet calibrator and a first reference magnet disposed on one surface of the second lens barrel. The second magnet section includes a second magnet calibrator and a second reference magnet disposed on another surface of the third lens barrel. A first sensing unit is configured to acquire a first sensing signal corresponding to a change in the magnetic force of the first magnet unit. The second sensing unit is configured to acquire a second sensing signal corresponding to the magnetic force change of the second magnet unit; as well as A controller configured to control the movement of the second lens barrel and the third lens barrel based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal. The controller outputs a control signal to the first drive unit based on the first sensing signal acquired by the first sensing unit to move the second lens barrel to an initial position and a target position, and outputs a control signal to the second drive unit based on the second sensing signal acquired by the second sensing unit to move the third lens barrel to an initial position and a target position. The first magnet calibrator has a structure in which a plurality of magnets with different polarities are sequentially arranged in the optical axis direction; and The first reference magnet includes a monopole magnet, which is spaced apart from the first magnet calibrator in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis and has an N pole and an S pole disposed in a second direction perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first direction.

17. The lens driving device according to claim 16, wherein, The first sensing unit includes: First-first sub-sensing units, configured to acquire a first sensing signal corresponding to a magnetic force change of the first reference magnet; and The first and second sensing units are used to obtain a second sensing signal corresponding to the magnetic force change of the first magnet calibrator. The second sensing unit includes a second-first sub-sensing unit, which is configured to acquire a third sensing signal corresponding to a change in the magnetic force of the second reference magnet; and The second-second sub-sensing unit is configured to acquire a fourth sensing signal corresponding to the magnetic force change of the second magnet calibrator.

18. The lens driving device according to claim 17, wherein, The controller moves the first lens barrel to an initial position based on the first sensing signal, moves the first lens barrel to a target position based on the second sensing signal, moves the second lens barrel to an initial position based on the third sensing signal, and moves the second lens barrel to the target position based on the fourth sensing signal.

Images