Camera modules and optics

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a camera module, which includes: a housing; a lens barrel, which is arranged in the housing; a first elastic member and a second elastic member, which are connected to the lens barrel; and a piezoelectric motor, which includes a column, which is arranged between the first elastic member and the second elastic member, wherein: the first elastic member and the second elastic member squeeze the column of the piezoelectric motor; the lens barrel includes a main body part and a connecting part, which is connected to the main body part; and the connecting part includes a groove and a protrusion, the groove is connected to one side of the second elastic member, and the protrusion is connected to the other side of the second elastic member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This embodiment relates to a camera module and an optical device. Background Art

[0002] Portable devices such as tablets and smartphones are equipped with camera modules for acquiring image information from a subject. Camera modules for such portable devices are increasingly required to have high pixel counts and high performance. Recently, with advancements in autofocus (AF) functionality and focal length, products capable of optical zoom have been released.

[0003] Typically, a camera module installed in a portable device moves a lens along an optical axis to adjust autofocus and / or optical zoom. To move the lens, a voice coil motor (VCM) type actuator is widely used. This actuator uses electromagnetic force by providing a coil and a magnet on the camera module, and uses a Hall effect sensor to detect the position and movement of the lens.

[0004] However, conventional VCM actuators have a problem in that it is difficult to implement a long stroke for high-magnification zooming due to weak driving force, and therefore the use of piezoelectric motors has been increasing in recent years.

[0005] However, since the piezoelectric motor has a characteristic of driving the lens through the carbon rod using vibration generated from the piezoelectric element, there is a problem in that the piezoelectric motor must be fixed by pressing the piezoelectric motor with strong pressure. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical Topics

[0007] The present embodiment is intended to provide a lens driving device including an elastic member for squeezing and fixing the lens driving device using a piezoelectric motor using a strong pressure.

[0008] Furthermore, it is intended to provide a lens driving device in which an elastic member can keep constant the pressure applied to the piezoelectric motor.

[0009] Furthermore, it is intended to provide a lens driving device in which the structure of an elastic member is simplified to achieve miniaturization and improvement of an assembly structure.

[0010] Technical Solution

[0011] The camera module according to the present embodiment includes: a housing; a lens barrel, which is arranged inside the housing; a first elastic member and a second elastic member, which are connected to the lens barrel; and a piezoelectric motor, which includes a column, which is arranged between the first elastic member and the second elastic member, wherein the first elastic member and the second elastic member squeeze the column of the piezoelectric motor, wherein the lens barrel includes a main body unit and a connecting unit, which is connected to the main body unit, and wherein the connecting part includes a groove and a protrusion, the groove is connected to one side of the second elastic member, and the protrusion is connected to the other side of the second elastic member.

[0012] Furthermore, the coupling unit of the lens barrel may include a first groove into which one side of the first elastic member is inserted, and a second groove into which the other side of the first elastic member is inserted.

[0013] In addition, the first elastic member may include a first part and a second part and a third part, the first part has a first length in the optical axis direction, the second part and the third part extend from the first part, and the second part and the third part have a second length in the optical axis direction that is smaller than the first length.

[0014] In addition, the first portion of the first elastic member includes: a first inclined surface, which is arranged between the first portion of the first elastic member and the second portion of the first elastic member; and a second inclined surface, which is arranged between the first portion of the first elastic member and the third portion of the first elastic member, wherein the inclination direction of the first inclined surface of the first elastic member may be different from the inclination direction of the second inclined surface of the first elastic member.

[0015] In addition, the first elastic member includes an extension portion bent at a first angle from the first portion, wherein the extension portion of the first elastic member may not contact the post of the piezoelectric motor.

[0016] In addition, the second elastic member includes: a first region, which is arranged on one side of the connecting unit of the lens barrel; a second region, which is arranged on the other side of the connecting unit of the lens barrel; and a third region, which connects the first region and the second region, wherein the third region of the second elastic member is formed into a flat shape and can at least partially contact the column of the piezoelectric motor.

[0017] Furthermore, the second region of the second elastic member may include a bent portion bent toward the third region of the second elastic member.

[0018] Furthermore, the other side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel includes a groove, wherein the bent portion of the second region of the second elastic member may be disposed to be caught by the groove of the coupling unit of the lens barrel.

[0019] Furthermore, the bent portion of the second elastic member is formed in a hook shape, and the bent portion of the second elastic member and the lens barrel may be hook-coupled.

[0020] In addition, the first elastic member includes: a first part, the first part having a first length in the optical axis direction; a second part, the second part extending from the first part and having a second length less than the first length in the optical axis direction; and a third part, wherein the second area of ​​the second elastic member includes two second areas spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction, and wherein the second part of the first elastic member can be arranged in the space between the two second areas of the second elastic member.

[0021] Furthermore, the second portion and the third portion of the first elastic member may be parallel to the third region of the second elastic member.

[0022] In addition, the coupling unit of the lens barrel includes: a first outer side surface; a second outer side surface, which is arranged at an opposite side of the first outer side surface; and a third outer side surface, which connects the first outer side surface and the second outer side surface, wherein the first elastic member is arranged on the second outer side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel, and wherein the second elastic member can be spaced apart from the first elastic member.

[0023] In addition, the coupling unit of the lens barrel includes: a first outer side surface; a second outer side surface, which is arranged at an opposite side of the first outer side surface; and a third outer side surface, which connects the first outer side surface and the second outer side surface, wherein the coupling unit of the lens barrel includes a groove formed in the second outer side surface, and wherein at least a portion of the second elastic member can be inserted into the groove of the second outer side surface of the coupling unit.

[0024] In addition, the connecting unit includes a protrusion protruding from the first outer side surface of the connecting unit, the second elastic member includes a hole formed at a position corresponding to the protrusion of the connecting unit, and the protrusion of the connecting unit can pass through the hole of the second elastic member.

[0025] Furthermore, a groove formed in a “V” shape of the coupling unit is further included, and the first portion of the first elastic member may be formed in a shape corresponding to the groove of the coupling unit of the lens barrel.

[0026] Furthermore, the lens barrel includes a protrusion protruding from an outer peripheral surface of the main body unit of the lens barrel and provided at an opposite side of the coupling unit, and a pin for guiding movement of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction may be provided in the protrusion.

[0027] In addition, the housing includes an upper plate unit and a side plate unit, the side plate unit extending from the upper plate unit; the lens barrel includes a first lens barrel and a second lens barrel, the first lens barrel is arranged below the upper plate unit of the housing, and the second lens barrel is arranged below the first lens barrel; the lens barrel includes a first lens, a second lens and a third lens, the first lens is connected to the upper plate unit of the housing, the second lens is connected to the first lens barrel, and the third lens is connected to the second lens barrel; and the second lens and the third lens can be able to move individually.

[0028] Furthermore, the second lens and the third lens may be movable in the optical axis direction, and a moving distance of the second lens may be different from a moving distance of the third lens.

[0029] An optical device according to the present invention includes a main body, a camera module provided on the main body, and a display provided in the main body and outputting an image photographed by the camera module.

[0030] The camera module according to the present embodiment includes: a housing; a lens barrel, which is arranged in the housing; a first elastic member and a second elastic member, which are connected to the lens barrel; and a piezoelectric motor, which includes a column, which is arranged between the first elastic member and the second elastic member, wherein the first elastic member and the second elastic member squeeze the column of the piezoelectric motor, wherein the lens barrel includes a main body unit and a connecting unit, which is connected to the main body unit, wherein the second elastic member is connected to the groove of the connecting unit through a hook shape at one side of the second elastic member, and is connected to the protrusion of the connecting unit through an open shape at the other side of the second elastic member.

[0031] Furthermore, a surface connecting one side and the other side of the second elastic member may include a flat surface or a curved surface that is at least partially curved.

[0032] Beneficial effects

[0033] According to the present embodiment, a lens driving device including an elastic member for pressing and fixing the lens driving device using a piezoelectric motor with a strong pressure can be provided.

[0034] Furthermore, the elastic member can keep the pressure applied to the piezoelectric motor constant.

[0035] Furthermore, the structure of the elastic member can be simplified, thereby enabling improvement in miniaturization and assemblability. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0037] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a front view of the camera module according to this embodiment after removing the upper plate unit.

[0038] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line A-A'.

[0039] Figure 4 is a perspective view after removing the side panel unit from the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0040] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0041] Figure 6 FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first lens barrel of a camera module according to this embodiment.

[0042] Figure 7yes Figure 6 Exploded three-dimensional diagram.

[0043] Figure 8 FIG. 4 is a side view of the second lens barrel of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0044] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Exploded three-dimensional diagram.

[0045] Figure 10 FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the first lens barrel of the camera module according to the present embodiment from another angle.

[0046] Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the second lens barrel of the camera module according to the present embodiment from another angle.

[0047] Figures 12 to 14 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a first piezoelectric motor, a first elastic member, and a second elastic member of the camera module according to the present embodiment.

[0048] Figure 15 FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first elastic member and a second elastic member of a camera module according to this embodiment.

[0049] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Exploded three-dimensional diagram.

[0050] Figure 17 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a first piezoelectric motor, a first elastic member, and a second elastic member of a camera module according to a modified embodiment of the present embodiment.

[0051] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a first elastic member and a second elastic member of a camera module according to a modified embodiment of the present embodiment.

[0052] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 Exploded three-dimensional diagram. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to some embodiments to be described, but can be implemented in various forms, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more constituent elements can be selectively combined or replaced between embodiments.

[0055] In addition, unless otherwise clearly defined and described, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as meanings that are generally understood by those skilled in the art, and commonly used terms (such as terms defined in dictionaries) may be interpreted in consideration of the meaning of the background of the relevant technology.

[0056] Furthermore, the terms used in this specification are for describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0057] In this specification, the singular form may include the plural form unless otherwise specified in the phrase, and when described as "at least one of A and B and C" (or more than one), this may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B and C.

[0058] In addition, when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish some components from other components, and these terms do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of these components.

[0059] Moreover, when a component is described as being “connected,” “coupled” or “interconnected” to another component, the component is not only directly connected, coupled or interconnected to the other component, but may also include the case where the component is “connected,” “coupled” or “interconnected” with another component between the other component.

[0060] In addition, when described as being formed or arranged "on (above)" or "below (below)" of each component, "on (above)" or "below (below)" is intended to include not only a case where two components are in direct contact, but also a case where one or more additional components are formed or arranged between the two components. In addition, when expressed as "on (above)" or "below (below)", it can include meanings based on the upward direction as well as the downward direction of one component.

[0061] The “optical axis direction” used hereinafter is defined as the optical axis direction of the image sensor and / or the lens coupled to the lens driving device.

[0062] The "vertical direction" used below may be a direction parallel to the optical axis. The vertical direction may correspond to the "Z-axis direction." The "horizontal direction" used below may be a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. In other words, the horizontal direction may be a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. Therefore, the horizontal direction may include the "X-axis direction" and the "Y-axis direction."

[0063] As used herein, the term "autofocus (AF) function" is defined as a function that automatically focuses on a subject by adjusting the distance to the image sensor by moving the lens along the optical axis according to the distance of the subject, enabling the image sensor to obtain a clear image of the subject. Furthermore, "closed-loop autofocus (CLAF) control" is defined as a function that performs real-time feedback control of the lens position by sensing the distance between the image sensor and the lens to improve the accuracy of focus adjustment.

[0064] An “optical image stabilization (OIS) function” used hereinafter is defined as a function of moving or tilting a lens in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis to cancel vibration (movement) generated in an image sensor by an external force.

[0065] Hereinafter, the configuration of the camera module according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0066] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 2 is a front view of the camera module according to this embodiment after removing the upper plate unit; Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line A-A'; Figure 4 is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment with the side plate unit removed; Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 6 is a perspective view of a first lens barrel of a camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Exploded perspective diagram; Figure 8 is a side view of the second lens barrel of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Exploded perspective diagram; Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the first lens barrel of the camera module according to this embodiment from another angle; Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the second lens barrel of the camera module according to this embodiment from another angle; Figures 12 to 14 is a diagram of a first piezoelectric motor, a first elastic member, and a second elastic member of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 15 is a perspective view of a first elastic member and a second elastic member of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Exploded perspective diagram; Figure 17 is a view of a first piezoelectric motor, a first elastic member, and a second elastic member of a camera module according to a modified embodiment of the present embodiment; Figure 18 is a perspective view of a first elastic member and a second elastic member of a camera module according to a modified embodiment of the present embodiment; and Figure 19 yes Figure 18 Exploded three-dimensional diagram.

[0067] The camera module 10 may include a housing. The housing may be a covering member. The housing may form the appearance of the camera module 10. The housing may have a hexahedron shape. A lens barrel may be disposed within the housing. The housing may accommodate at least one of the first lens barrel 200, the second lens barrel 300, the first piezoelectric motor 400, the second piezoelectric motor 500, the first pin 610, and the second pin 620.

[0068] The housing may include an upper plate unit 110. The upper plate unit 110 may be a lens barrel for accommodating a first lens 140. The upper plate unit 110 may have a hexahedron shape having an open lower surface. The upper plate unit 110 may include a hole 111. The upper plate unit 110 may accommodate the first lens 140. The first lens 140 may be disposed in the hole 111 of the upper plate unit 110. The upper plate unit 110 may include: an upper plate 112; a side plate 113 extending downward from the upper plate 112; and a barrel unit 114 protruding upward from the upper plate 112. The barrel unit 114 may accommodate the first lens 140 therein.

[0069] The upper plate unit 110 may include a first protrusion 115 that protrudes upward from the upper plate 112. The first protrusion 115 may fix the first piezoelectric motor 400. The first protrusion 115 may include a hole. The first column 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400 may be disposed in the hole of the first protrusion 115. In this case, at least a portion of the first column 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400 may protrude further upward than the first protrusion 115. The upper plate unit 110 may include a second protrusion 116 that protrudes upward from the upper plate 112.

[0070] The upper plate unit may include a second protrusion 116 that protrudes upward from the upper plate 112. The second protrusion 116 may be spaced apart from the first protrusion 115. The barrel unit 114 may be disposed between the first protrusion 115 and the second protrusion 116. The second protrusion 116 may fix the second piezoelectric motor 500. The second protrusion 116 may include a hole. The second column of the second piezoelectric motor 500 may be disposed in the hole of the second protrusion 116. At this time, at least a portion of the second column of the second piezoelectric motor 500 may protrude further upward than the second protrusion 116.

[0071] The housing may include a side panel unit 120. The side panel unit 120 may have a hexahedral shape with an open upper surface and a lower surface. The side panel unit 120 may extend downward from the outer periphery or outer edge of the upper panel unit 110. The side panel unit 120 may be coupled to the upper panel unit 110. The side panel unit 120 may be coupled to the side panel 113 of the upper panel unit 110. The side panel unit 120 may connect the upper panel unit 110 and the lower panel unit 130.

[0072] The housing may include a lower plate unit 130. The lower plate unit 130 may be disposed on an opposite side of the upper plate unit 110. The lower plate unit 130 may be a lens barrel for accommodating a fourth lens. The lower plate unit 130 may include a first hole. The fourth lens may be disposed in the first hole of the lower plate unit 130. The lower plate unit 130 may include a second hole. The second hole may secure the first piezoelectric motor 400. The lower end of the first column 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400 may be disposed in the second hole. A retaining member 134 may be disposed in the second hole, the retaining member 134 being used to secure the lower end of the first column 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400. The lower plate unit 130 may include a third hole. The third hole may secure the second piezoelectric motor 500. The lower end of the second column of the second piezoelectric motor 500 may be disposed in the third hole. The retaining member 134 may be disposed in the third hole, the retaining member 134 being used to secure the lower end of the second column of the second piezoelectric motor 500. The retaining member 134 may be formed of a rubber material.

[0073] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a first lens 140. The first lens 140 may be a lens group including a plurality of lenses. The first lens 140 may include a spacer disposed between the plurality of lenses. The first lens 140 may be disposed in the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The first lens 140 may be disposed in the hole 111 of the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The first lens 140 may be coupled to the barrel unit 114 of the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The position of the first lens 140 may be fixed. The first lens 140 may not move in the optical axis direction. The optical axis direction of the first lens 140 may be consistent with the optical axis directions of the second to fourth lenses.

[0074] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a fourth lens 150. The fourth lens 150 may be a lens group including a plurality of lenses. The fourth lens 150 may include spacers disposed between the plurality of lenses. The fourth lens 150 may be disposed in the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The fourth lens 150 may be disposed in a first hole in the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The fourth lens 150 may have a fixed position. The fourth lens 150 may not move in the optical axis direction. The optical axis direction of the fourth lens 150 may be consistent with the optical axis directions of the first lens 140, the second lens 240, and the third lens 340.

[0075] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a first lens barrel 200. The first lens barrel 200 may be disposed inside the housing. The first lens barrel 200 may be disposed below the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The first lens barrel 200 may be disposed inside the side plate unit 120 of the housing. The second lens 240 may be disposed in the first lens barrel 200. The first lens barrel 200 may be movable along the optical axis. The first lens barrel 200 may be movable along the optical axis to perform autofocus. Alternatively, the first lens barrel 200 may be movable along the optical axis to perform zooming. The first lens barrel 200 may be coupled to the first piezoelectric motor 400. The first lens barrel 200 may be coupled to the first piezoelectric motor 400 via a first elastic member and a second elastic member.

[0076] The first lens barrel 200 may include a main body unit 210. Hereinafter, the main body unit 210 of the first lens barrel 200 may be referred to as the first main body unit 210. The first main body unit 210 may have a cylindrical shape with an open upper surface and a lower surface. The first main body unit 210 may include a hole 211. The second lens 240 may be disposed in the hole 211 of the first main body unit 210. The second lens 240 may be coupled to the interior of the main body unit 210. The first main body unit 210 may be connected to a first coupling unit 220. The first main body unit 210 may be integrally formed with the first coupling unit 220. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first main body unit 210 may be formed separately from the first coupling unit 220.

[0077] The first lens barrel 200 may include a coupling unit 220. Hereinafter, the coupling unit 220 of the first lens barrel 200 may be referred to as the first coupling unit 220. The first coupling unit 220 may protrude from an outer circumferential surface of the first body unit 210. The first coupling unit 220 may be connected to the first body unit 210. The first coupling unit 220 may be coupled to the first body unit 210.

[0078] The first coupling unit 220 may include a first outer side surface 221 , a second outer side surface 222 disposed at an opposite side of the first outer side surface 221 , and a third outer side surface 223 connecting the first and second outer side surfaces 221 and 222 .

[0079] The first coupling unit 220 may include a first groove 224 into which one side of the first elastic member 710 is inserted. The first groove 224 may be formed in the third outer surface 223 of the first coupling unit 220. The first groove 224 may be connected to the third groove 226, described later. The first groove 224 may open toward the third groove 226 of the first coupling unit 220. The first groove 224 may be formed in an area protruding from the third outer surface 223 of the first coupling unit 220. The bottom surface of the first groove 224 may form the same plane as the third outer surface 223 of the first coupling unit 220. The third portion 713 of the first elastic member 710 may be disposed in the first groove 224. The length of the first groove 224 in the optical axis direction may be the same as the length of the third portion 713 of the first elastic member 710 in the corresponding direction. This allows the first elastic member 710 and the first coupling unit 220 to be assembled. As a result, the first elastic member 710 is securely fixed to the first coupling unit 220. The length of the first groove 224 in the optical axis direction may be the same as the length of the protrusion 229 of the first coupling unit 220 in the optical axis direction.

[0080] The first coupling unit 220 may include a second groove 225 into which the other side of the first elastic member 710 is inserted. The second groove 225 may be formed in the third outer surface 223 of the first coupling unit 220. The second groove 225 may be connected to the third groove 226 of the first coupling unit 220. The second groove 225 may open toward the third groove 226 of the first coupling unit 220. The second groove 225 may be connected to the fourth groove 227 of the first coupling unit 220. The second groove 225 may open toward the fourth groove 227 of the first coupling unit 220. The second groove 225 may be connected to the inner surface of the fourth groove 227 of the first coupling unit 220. At least a portion of the second groove 225 may overlap with the fifth groove 228 of the first coupling unit 220 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. At least a portion of the second groove 225 may overlap with both fifth grooves 228 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second groove 225 may be formed in a region protruding from the third outer side surface 223 of the first coupling unit 220. The bottom surface of the second groove 225 may form the same plane as the third outer side surface 223 of the first coupling unit 220. The length of the second groove 225 in the optical axis direction may be the same as the length of the second portion 712 of the first elastic member 710 in the corresponding direction. Thus, the first elastic member 710 and the first coupling unit 220 can be assembled. As a result, the first elastic member 710 can be securely fixed to the first coupling unit 220.

[0081] The first coupling unit 220 may include a groove 226. Hereinafter, the groove 226 of the first coupling unit 220 may be a third groove 226. The third groove 226 may be formed in the third outer surface 223. The third groove 226 may be formed by being recessed from the third outer surface 223. The third groove 226 may be formed in a "V" shape. The third groove 226 may include an inclined surface, which is formed obliquely relative to the third outer surface 223. The inclined surface of the third groove 226 may include two inclined surfaces. The two inclined surfaces may have different inclination directions. The first elastic member 710 may be disposed in the third groove 226. The first column 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400 may be disposed in the third groove 226.

[0082] The first coupling unit 220 may include a groove 227. Hereinafter, the groove 227 of the first coupling unit 220 may be referred to as a fourth groove 227. The fourth groove 227 may be formed in the third outer side surface 223 of the first coupling unit 220. The fourth groove 227 may be formed by being recessed from the third outer side surface 223 of the coupling unit 220. The fourth groove 227 may be spaced apart from the third groove 226. One side of the second elastic member 720 may be disposed in the fourth groove 227. The fourth groove 227 may be coupled to one side of the second elastic member 720.

[0083] The fourth groove 227 may include a groove 228. Hereinafter, the groove 228 may be referred to as the fifth groove 228. The fifth groove 228 may be formed on the inner surface of the fourth groove 227. The inner surface of the fourth groove 227 may be located on the opposite side of the first outer surface 221 of the first coupling unit 220. The inner surface of the fourth groove 227 may be located between the first outer surface 221 of the first coupling unit 220 and the second outer surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220. At least a portion of one side of the second elastic member 720 may be disposed in the fifth groove 228. At least a portion of one side of the second elastic member 720 and at least a portion of one side of the fifth groove 228 may be hook-coupled. The fifth groove 228 may be configured so that at least a portion of one side of the second elastic member 720 is retained. The fifth groove 228 may include two fifth grooves 228-1 and 228-2, which are spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction. At least a portion of one side of the second elastic member 720 may be disposed in each of the two fifth grooves 228 - 1 and 228 - 2 .

[0084] The first coupling unit 220 may include a protrusion 229. The protrusion 229 may protrude from the first outer side surface 221 of the first coupling unit 220. The protrusion 229 may be coupled to the other side of the second elastic member 720. The protrusion 229 may extend through a hole 721-1 formed on the other side of the second elastic member 720. The protrusion 229 may be coupled to the other side of the second elastic member 720 in a clamping manner. The protrusion 229 may protrude outward from the other side of the second elastic member 720. This prevents the second elastic member 720 from separating.

[0085] The first lens barrel 200 may include a first protrusion 230. The first protrusion 230 may protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the first main body unit 210. The first protrusion 230 may be spaced apart from the first coupling unit 220. The first protrusion 230 may be spaced apart from the first coupling unit 220 in the circumferential direction of the first main body unit 210. The first protrusion 230 may be disposed on an opposite side of the first coupling unit 220 relative to the optical axis direction. A first pin 600 may be disposed in the first protrusion 230. Thus, the first lens barrel 200 can move in the optical axis direction along the first pin 610. The first lens barrel 200 can move in the optical axis direction along the first pin 610 and the second pin 620.

[0086] The first lens barrel 200 may include a second lens 240. The second lens 240 may be a lens group including a plurality of lenses. The second lens 240 may include spacers disposed between the plurality of lenses. The second lens 240 may be movable in the optical axis direction. The second lens 240 may be movable independently of the third lens 340. When the second lens 240 is a lens for autofocus, the third lens 340 may be a zoom lens. Conversely, when the second lens 240 is a zoom lens, the third lens 340 may be a lens for autofocus. The movable distance of the second lens 240 may be different from the movable distance of the third lens 340.

[0087] The first lens barrel 200 may include a groove 260. The groove 260 may be formed in the first coupling unit 220. The groove 260 may be formed in the second outer surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220. The groove 260 may be recessed from the second outer surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220. At least a portion of the groove 260 may communicate with the fourth groove 227 of the first coupling unit 220. The first sensor assembly 250, described later, may be disposed in the groove 260. The first magnetic scale 251 of the first sensor assembly 250, described later, may be disposed in the groove 260. The length of the groove 260 in the optical axis direction may correspond to the length of the first magnetic scale 251 in the optical axis direction. The width of the groove 260 in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis may include a region corresponding to the width of the first magnetic scale 251 in the first direction and a region longer than the width of the first magnetic scale 251 in the first direction. This facilitates assembly of the first magnetic scale 251.

[0088] The camera module 10 may include a first sensor assembly 250. The first sensor assembly 250 may include a magnetoresistive sensor (MR sensor). The first sensor assembly 250 may include a giant magnetoresistive sensor (GMR sensor). The first sensor assembly 250 may detect the position and movement of the second lens 240.

[0089] The first sensor assembly 250 may include a first magnetic scale 251. The first magnetic scale 251 may be disposed in the first lens barrel 200. The first magnetic scale 251 may be disposed in the first coupling unit 220. The first magnetic scale 251 may include a magnet. The first magnetic scale 251 may include a plurality of magnets. In the first magnetic scale 251, the north pole and the south pole may be arranged to intersect with each other. In the first magnetic scale 251, the north pole and the south pole may be arranged alternately. The first magnetic scale 251 may move along the optical axis together with the first lens barrel 200.

[0090] The first sensor assembly 250 may include a first sensor 252. The first sensor 252 may be disposed in the housing. The first sensor 252 may be disposed in the side plate unit 120 of the housing. The first sensor 252 may face the first magnetic scale 251. The first sensor 252 may be disposed so as to be spaced apart from the first magnetic scale 251 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The first sensor 252 may identify the position of the first magnetic scale 251. Thus, the position of the first lens barrel 200, which moves together with the first magnetic scale 251, may be identified.

[0091] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a second lens barrel 300. The second lens barrel 300 may be disposed inside the housing. The second lens barrel 300 may be disposed below the first lens barrel 200 of the housing. The second lens barrel 300 may be disposed inside the side plate unit 120 of the housing. The third lens 340 may be disposed inside the second lens barrel 300. The second lens barrel 300 may be movable along the optical axis. The second lens barrel 300 may be movable along the optical axis to perform autofocus. Alternatively, the second lens barrel 300 may be movable along the optical axis to perform zooming. The second lens barrel 300 may be coupled to the second piezoelectric motor 500. The second lens barrel 300 may be coupled to the second piezoelectric motor 500 via a third elastic member 810 and a fourth elastic member 820.

[0092] The second lens barrel 300 may include a second main body unit 310. The second main body unit 310 may be cylindrical with an open upper surface and a lower surface. The second main body unit 310 may include a hole 311. The third lens 340 may be disposed in the hole 311 of the second main body unit 310. The third lens 340 may be coupled to the interior of the second main body unit 310.

[0093] The second lens barrel 300 may include a coupling unit 320. Hereinafter, the coupling unit 320 of the second lens barrel 300 may be referred to as a second coupling unit 320. The second coupling unit 320 may protrude from an outer circumferential surface of the second body unit 310. The second coupling unit 320 may be connected to the second body unit 310. The second coupling unit 320 may be coupled to the second body unit 310.

[0094] The second coupling unit 320 may include a first outer side surface 321 , a second outer side surface 322 disposed at an opposite side of the first outer side surface 321 , and a third outer side surface 323 connecting the first outer side surface 321 and the second outer side surface 322 .

[0095] The second coupling unit 320 may include a first groove 324 into which one side of the third elastic member 810 is inserted. The first groove 324 may be formed in the third outer surface 323 of the second coupling unit 320. The first groove 324 may be connected to the third groove 326, described later. The first groove 324 may open toward the third groove 326 of the second coupling unit 320. The first groove 324 may be formed in an area protruding from the third outer surface 323 of the second coupling unit 320. The bottom surface of the first groove 324 may form the same plane as the third outer surface 323 of the second coupling unit 320. The third portion 813 of the third elastic member 810 may be disposed in the first groove 324. The length of the first groove 324 in the optical axis direction may be the same as the length of the third portion 813 of the third elastic member 810 in the corresponding direction. This allows the third elastic member 810 and the second coupling unit 320 to be assembled and coupled. As a result, the third elastic member 810 is securely fixed to the second coupling unit 320. The length of the first groove 324 in the optical axis direction may be the same as the length of the protrusion 329 of the second coupling unit 320 in the optical axis direction.

[0096] The second coupling unit 320 may include a second groove 325 into which the other side of the third elastic member 810 is inserted. The second groove 325 may be formed in the third outer surface 323 of the second coupling unit 320. The second groove 325 may be connected to the third groove 326 of the second coupling unit 320. The second groove 325 may open toward the third groove 326 of the second coupling unit 320. The second groove 325 may be connected to the fourth groove 327 of the second coupling unit 320. The second groove 325 may open toward the fourth groove 327 of the second coupling unit 320. The second groove 325 may be connected to the inner surface of the fourth groove 327 of the second coupling unit 320. At least a portion of the second groove 325 may overlap with the fifth groove 328 of the second coupling unit 320 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. At least a portion of the second groove 325 may overlap with both fifth grooves 328 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second groove 325 may be formed in an area protruding from the third outer side surface 323 of the second coupling unit 320. The bottom surface of the second groove 325 may form the same plane as the third outer side surface 323 of the second coupling unit 320. The length of the second groove 325 in the optical axis direction may be the same as the length of the second portion 812 of the third elastic member 810 in the corresponding direction. Thus, the third elastic member 810 and the second coupling unit 320 can be assembled and coupled. As a result, the third elastic member 810 can be securely fixed to the second coupling unit 320.

[0097] The second coupling unit 320 may include a groove 326. Hereinafter, the groove 326 of the second coupling unit 320 may be referred to as a third groove 326. The third groove 326 may be formed in the third outer surface 323. The third groove 326 may be formed by being recessed from the third outer surface 323. The third groove 326 may be formed in a "V" shape. The third groove 326 may include an inclined surface, which is formed obliquely relative to the third outer surface 323. The inclined surface of the third groove 326 may include two inclined surfaces. The two inclined surfaces may have different inclination directions. The third elastic member 810 may be disposed in the third groove 326. The second column of the second piezoelectric motor 500 may be disposed in the third groove 326.

[0098] The second coupling unit 320 may include a groove 327. Hereinafter, the groove 327 of the second coupling unit 320 may be referred to as a fourth groove 327. The fourth groove 327 may be formed in the third outer side surface 323 of the second coupling unit 320. The fourth groove 327 may be formed by being recessed from the third outer side surface 323 of the second coupling unit 320.

[0099] The fourth groove 327 may include a plurality of grooves 328. Hereinafter, the grooves 328 may be referred to as the fifth groove 328. The fifth groove 328 may be formed in the inner surface of the fourth groove 327. The inner surface of the fourth groove 327 may be located on the opposite side of the first outer surface 321 of the second coupling unit 320. The inner surface of the fourth groove 327 may be located between the first outer surface 321 of the second coupling unit 320 and the second outer surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320. At least a portion of one side of the fourth elastic member 820 may be located in the fifth groove 328. At least a portion of one side of the fifth groove 328 and the fourth elastic member 820 may be hook-engaged. The fifth groove 328 may be configured so that at least a portion of one side of the fourth elastic member 820 is engaged. The fifth groove 328 may include two fifth grooves 328-1 and 328-2, spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction. At least a portion of one side of the fourth elastic member 820 may be disposed in each of the two fifth grooves 328 - 1 and 328 - 2 .

[0100] The second coupling unit 320 may include a protrusion 329. The second coupling unit 320 may protrude from the first outer side surface 321 in the protrusion 329. The protrusion 329 may be coupled to the other side of the fourth elastic member 820. The protrusion 329 may penetrate a hole 821-1 formed on the other side of the fourth elastic member 820. The protrusion 329 may be coupled to the other side of the fourth elastic member 820 in a clamping manner. The protrusion 329 may protrude further outward than the other side of the fourth elastic member 820. Thus, the fourth elastic member 820 can be prevented from separating.

[0101] The second coupling unit 320 may include a groove 326 formed in the third outer surface 323. The groove 326 may be formed in a V-shape. The groove 326 may include an inclined surface that is formed obliquely relative to the third outer surface 323. The inclined surface of the groove 326 may include two inclined surfaces. The two inclined surfaces may have different inclination directions. The third elastic member 810 may be disposed in the groove 326. The second column of the second piezoelectric motor 500 may be disposed in the groove 326.

[0102] The second lens barrel 300 may include a second protrusion 330. The second protrusion 330 may protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the second main body unit 310. The second protrusion 330 may be spaced apart from the second coupling unit 320. The second protrusion 330 may be spaced apart from the second coupling unit 320 in the circumferential direction of the second main body unit 310. The second protrusion 330 may be disposed on the opposite side of the second coupling unit 320 relative to the optical axis. A first pin 610 may be disposed in the second protrusion 330. Thus, the second lens barrel 300 can move in the optical axis direction along the first pin 610. The second lens barrel 300 can move in the optical axis direction along the first pin 610 and the second pin 620.

[0103] The second lens barrel 300 may include a third lens 340. The third lens 340 may be disposed in the second main body unit 310 of the second lens barrel 300. The third lens 340 may be a lens group including a plurality of lenses. The third lens 340 may include spacers disposed between the plurality of lenses. The third lens 340 may be movable in the optical axis direction. The third lens 340 may be movable independently of the second lens 240. When the third lens 340 is a lens for autofocus, the second lens 240 may be a zoom lens. Conversely, when the third lens 340 is a zoom lens, the second lens 240 may be a lens for autofocus. The movable distance of the third lens 340 may be different from the movable distance of the second lens 240.

[0104] The second lens barrel 300 may include a groove 360. The groove 360 ​​may be formed in the second coupling unit 320. The groove 360 ​​may be formed in the second outer surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320. The groove 360 ​​may be recessed from the second outer surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320. At least a portion of the groove 360 ​​may communicate with the fourth groove 327 of the second coupling unit 320. The second sensor assembly 350, described later, may be disposed in the groove 360. The second magnetic scale 351 of the second sensor assembly 350, described later, may be disposed in the groove 360. The length of the groove 360 ​​in the optical axis direction may correspond to the length of the second magnetic scale 351 in the optical axis direction. The width of the groove 360 ​​in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis may include a region corresponding to the width of the second magnetic scale 351 in the first direction and a region longer than the width of the second magnetic scale 351 in the first direction. This facilitates assembly of the second magnetic scale 351.

[0105] The camera module 10 may include a second sensor assembly 350. The second sensor assembly 350 may include a magnetoresistive sensor (MR sensor). The second sensor assembly 350 may include a giant magnetoresistive sensor (GMR sensor). The second sensor assembly 350 may detect the position and movement of the third lens 340.

[0106] The second sensor assembly 350 may include a second magnetic scale 351. The second magnetic scale 351 may be disposed in the second lens barrel 300. The second magnetic scale 351 may be disposed in the second coupling unit 320. The second magnetic scale 351 may include a magnet. The second magnetic scale 351 may include a plurality of magnets. In the second magnetic scale 351, the north pole and the south pole may be arranged to intersect with each other. In the second magnetic scale 351, the north pole and the south pole are arranged alternately. The second magnetic scale 351 may move along the optical axis together with the second lens barrel 300.

[0107] The second sensor assembly 350 may include a second sensor 352. The second sensor 352 may be disposed in the housing. The second sensor 352 may be disposed in the side plate unit 120 of the housing. The second sensor 352 may face the second magnetic scale 351. The second sensor 352 may be disposed so as to be spaced apart from the second magnetic scale 351 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second sensor 352 may identify the position of the second magnetic scale 351. Thus, the position of the second lens barrel 300, which moves together with the second magnetic scale 351, may be identified.

[0108] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a first piezoelectric motor 400. The first piezoelectric motor 400 may be disposed in a housing. The first piezoelectric motor 400 may be coupled to the first lens barrel 200. The first piezoelectric motor 400 may move the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction. The first piezoelectric motor 400 may be an ultrasonic motor.

[0109] The first piezoelectric motor 400 may include a first column 410. The first column 410 may be coupled to the first lens barrel 200. The first column 410 may be fixed to the first lens barrel 200 via a first elastic member and a second elastic member. When the first lens barrel 200 moves in the optical axis direction, the first column 410 may not move. The upper end of the first column 410 may be disposed in the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The upper end of the first column 410 may be disposed in the hole 111 of the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The upper end of the first column 410 may be fixed by the retaining member 134. The other end of the first column 410 may be disposed in the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The other end of the first column 410 may be disposed in the second hole of the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The other end of the first column 410 may extend through the second hole of the lower plate unit 130 of the housing to protrude out of the lower plate unit 130. The lower end of the first column 410 may be coupled to the first piezoelectric element 420. The lower end of the first column 410 may be fixed to the first piezoelectric element 420 by an adhesive. In this case, the adhesive may include an epoxy resin adhesive. The first column 410 may include a carbon rod. The first column 410 may receive vibrations generated by the first piezoelectric element 420 to move the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction. The first column 410 may extend parallel to the optical axis direction. The first column 410 may be disposed in the first coupling unit 220 of the first lens barrel 200. The first column 410 may be disposed between the first elastic member and the second elastic member.

[0110] The first column 410 can transmit the vibration generated by the first piezoelectric element 420 to the first lens barrel 200. At this time, the first lens barrel 200 can move upward or downward according to the movement direction of the first column 410. As a result, the second lens 240 in the first lens barrel 200 is moved together, and a zoom function or an autofocus function of zooming in or out can be performed. The first column 410 can shrink or stretch due to the vibration generated by the first piezoelectric element 420. The first column 410 can transmit the vibration in the upward direction or the downward direction according to the direction of the applied voltage.

[0111] The first piezoelectric motor 400 may include a first piezoelectric element 420. The first piezoelectric element 420 may be disposed in the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The first piezoelectric element 420 may be disposed in a second hole of the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The first piezoelectric element 420 may contract or expand by a voltage applied from the first substrate 430. The first piezoelectric element 420 may receive a voltage from the first substrate 430. The first piezoelectric element 420 may contract or expand along the optical axis. The first piezoelectric element 420 may contract or expand in its longitudinal direction depending on the direction of the applied voltage. The first piezoelectric element 420 may generate vibration by contracting or expanding.

[0112] The first piezoelectric motor 400 may include a first substrate 430. The first substrate 430 may include a flexible printed circuit substrate. The first substrate 430 may be electrically connected to the first piezoelectric element 420. The first substrate 430 may apply power to the first piezoelectric element 420. The first substrate 430 may include a first portion 431 disposed within the first piezoelectric element 420 and a second portion 432 disposed below the first piezoelectric element 420. The first substrate 430 may protrude toward the exterior of the housing.

[0113] The first piezoelectric motor 400 may include a first buffer member 440. The first buffer member 440 may be disposed in the first column 410. The first buffer member 440 may surround the lower end of the first column 410. The first buffer member 440 may be disposed in the second hole of the lower plate unit 130. The first buffer member 440 may prevent noise caused by vibration of the first column 410. The first buffer member 440 and the retaining member 134 may prevent the first column 410 from being deformed or damaged due to external impact.

[0114] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a second piezoelectric motor 500. The second piezoelectric motor 500 may be disposed in the housing. The second piezoelectric motor 500 may be coupled to the second lens barrel 300. The second piezoelectric motor 500 may move the second lens barrel 300 in the optical axis direction. The second piezoelectric motor 500 may be an ultrasonic motor.

[0115] The second piezoelectric motor 500 may include a second column. The second column may be coupled to the second lens barrel 300. The second column may be fixed to the second lens barrel 300 via a third elastic member 810 and a fourth elastic member 820. When the second lens barrel 300 moves in the optical axis direction, the second column may not move. The upper end of the second column may be disposed in the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The upper end of the second column may be disposed in the hole 111 of the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The upper end of the second column may be fixed by the retaining member 134. The other end of the second column may be disposed in the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The other end of the second column may be disposed in the third hole of the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The other end of the second column may extend through the third hole of the lower plate unit 130 of the housing to protrude outside the lower plate unit 130. The lower end of the second column may be coupled to the second piezoelectric element 520. The lower end of the second column may be fixed to the second piezoelectric element 520 via an adhesive. In this case, the adhesive may include an epoxy resin adhesive. The second column may include a carbon rod. The second column may receive vibrations generated from the second piezoelectric element 520 to move the second lens barrel 300 in the optical axis direction. The second column may extend parallel to the optical axis direction. The second column may be disposed in the first coupling unit 220 of the second lens barrel 300. The second column may be disposed between the third elastic member 810 and the fourth elastic member 820.

[0116] The second column can transmit the vibration generated by the first piezoelectric element 420 to the second lens barrel 300. At this time, the second lens barrel 300 can move upward or downward according to the moving direction of the second column. As a result, the second lens 240 in the second lens barrel 300 is moved together and can perform a zoom function or an autofocus function of zooming in or out. The second column can shrink or stretch due to the vibration generated by the first piezoelectric element 420. The second column can transmit vibration in an upward direction or a downward direction according to the direction of the applied voltage.

[0117] The second piezoelectric motor 500 may include a second piezoelectric element 520. The second piezoelectric element 520 may be disposed in the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The second piezoelectric element 520 may be disposed in a third hole of the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The first piezoelectric element 420 may contract or expand by a voltage applied from the second substrate 530. The first piezoelectric element 420 may receive a voltage from the second substrate 530. The first piezoelectric element 420 may contract or expand along the optical axis. The first piezoelectric element 420 may contract or expand in its longitudinal direction depending on the direction of the applied voltage. The first piezoelectric element 420 may generate vibration by contracting or expanding.

[0118] The second piezoelectric motor 500 may include a second substrate 530. The second substrate 530 may include a flexible printed circuit substrate. The second substrate 530 may be electrically connected to the first piezoelectric element 420. The second substrate 530 may apply power to the first piezoelectric element 420. The first substrate 430 may include a first portion 531 disposed above the first piezoelectric element 420 and a second portion 532 disposed below the first piezoelectric element 420. The first substrate 430 may protrude toward the exterior of the housing.

[0119] The second piezoelectric motor 500 may include a first buffer member 540. The first buffer member 540 may be disposed in the second column. The first buffer member 540 may surround the lower end of the second column. The first buffer member 540 may be disposed in the second hole of the lower plate unit 130. The first buffer member 540 may prevent noise caused by vibration of the second column. The first buffer member 540, together with the retaining member 134, can prevent the second column from being deformed or damaged by external impact.

[0120] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a first pin 610. The first pin 610 may be disposed inside the housing. The first pin 610 may be disposed in the housing in parallel with a second pin 620 (described later). The first pin 610 may be disposed closer to the first piezoelectric motor 400 than the second pin 620. The first pin 610 may be coupled to the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The upper end of the first pin 610 may be coupled to the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The first pin 610 may be disposed in the first coupling unit 220. The first pin 610 may extend through the hole 270 of the first coupling unit 220. Thus, the first pin 610 may guide movement of the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction. As a result, the second lens 240 disposed in the first lens barrel 200 may perform a zoom function or an autofocus function. The first pin 610 may be coupled to the second lens barrel 300. The first pin 610 may be disposed in the second protrusion 330 of the second lens barrel 300. Thus, the first pin 610 can guide the movement of the second lens barrel 300 in the optical axis direction. That is, the first pin 610 is set in the hole of the first coupling unit 220 of the first lens barrel 200 and the second protrusion 330 of the second lens barrel 300, thereby being able to guide the movement of the first lens barrel 200 and the second protrusion 330 in the optical axis direction.

[0121] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a second pin 620. The second pin 620 may be disposed inside the housing. The second pin 620 may be disposed inside the housing parallel to the first post. The second pin 620 may be disposed closer to the second piezoelectric motor 500 than the first pin 610. The second pin 620 may be coupled to the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The upper end of the second pin 620 may be coupled to the upper plate unit 110 of the housing. The second pin 620 may be disposed in the second coupling unit 320. The second pin 620 may extend through the hole 370 of the second coupling unit 320. Thus, the second pin 620 may guide movement of the second lens barrel 300 in the optical axis direction. As a result, the third lens 340 disposed in the second lens barrel 300 may perform a zoom function or an autofocus function. The second pin 620 may be coupled to the first lens barrel 200. The second pin 620 may be disposed on the first protrusion 230 of the first lens barrel 200. Thus, the second pin 620 can guide the movement of the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction. That is, the second pin 620 is provided on the second coupling unit 320 of the second lens barrel 300 and the first protrusion 230 of the first lens barrel 200, thereby being able to guide the movement of the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 300 in the optical axis direction.

[0122] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a first elastic member 710. The first elastic member 710 may fix the first piezoelectric motor 400 to the first lens barrel 200. The first elastic member 710 may be disposed on the second outer side surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220. The first elastic member 710 may be spaced apart from the second elastic member 720. The first elastic member 710 may be spaced apart from the second elastic member 720 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0123] The first elastic member 710 may include a first portion 711. The first portion 711 may be formed into a shape corresponding to the groove 224 of the second outer surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220. The first portion 711 may be formed into a V-shaped cross-section. The first portion 711 may include a first inclined surface inclined relative to the second portion 712 and a second inclined surface inclined relative to the third portion 713. The first and second inclined surfaces may be integrally formed. The inclination direction of the first inclined surface may be different from the inclination direction of the second inclined surface. The inclination direction of the first inclined surface may be opposite to the inclination direction of the second inclined surface. The first inclined surface may be disposed between the first portion 711 and the second portion 712. The second inclined surface may be disposed between the first portion 711 and the third portion 713. The first portion 711 may have a first length in the optical axis direction.

[0124] The first elastic member 710 may include a second portion 712. The second portion 712 may extend from one end of the first portion 711 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second portion 712 may extend from an outer surface of the first portion 711 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The length of the second portion 712 in the optical axis direction may be less than the length of the first portion 711 in the optical axis direction. The second portion 712 may be disposed between two second regions of the second elastic member 720. The second portion 712 may have a second length in the optical axis direction. The second length of the second portion 712 may be less than the second length of the first portion 711. The second portion 712 may extend from the first portion 711. The second portion 712 may have the same length in the optical axis direction as the third portion 713 of the first elastic member 710, described later. The second portion 712 and the third portion 713 may be formed symmetrically with respect to the first portion 711. The second portion 712 may be parallel to the third region 724 of the second elastic member 720.

[0125] The first elastic member 710 may include a third portion 713. The third portion 713 may extend from the other end of the first portion 711 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The third portion 713 may extend from the outer surface of the first portion 711 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The third portion 713 may have a second length in the optical axis direction. The second length of the third portion 713 in the optical axis direction may be less than the first length of the first portion 711 in the optical axis direction. The second length of the third portion 713 in the optical axis direction may be the same as the length of the second portion 712 in the optical axis direction. The third portion 713 may overlap with the second portion 712 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The third portion 713 may be disposed in a hole in the first region of the second elastic member 720. The second portion 712 and the third portion 713 may not contact the first post 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400. The third portion 713 may be parallel to the third region 724 of the second elastic member 720.

[0126] In a modified embodiment, the first elastic member 710 may further include an extension 714. The extension 714 may extend from the first portion 711 of the first elastic member 710. The extension 714 may be bent at a first angle relative to the first portion 711 of the first elastic member 710. The surface of the extension 714 facing the first coupling unit 220 may form an acute angle with the first portion 711 of the first elastic member 710. The surface of the extension 714 facing the second elastic member 720 may form an obtuse angle with the first portion 711. The extension 714 may not contact the first post 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400. This facilitates insertion of the first post 410. Furthermore, the first post 410 can be easily press-fitted between the first and second elastic members 710, both of which have high elastic strength. The extension 714 may include a first extension 714-1 extending from a first inclined surface of the first portion 711 and a second extension 714-2 extending from a second inclined surface of the first portion 711. The first extension 714-1 may be at least partially spaced apart from the second extension 714-2. The separation distance between the first extension 714-1 and the second extension 714-2 may increase as they extend upward. The first extension 714-1 and the second extension 714-2 may not contact the first post 410. The first extension 714-1 and the second extension 714-2 may guide the first post 410 when assembling the first post 410.

[0127] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a second elastic member 720. The second elastic member 720 may be formed of an elastic material. The second elastic member 720 may be arranged to be caught in the groove 224 of the second outer side surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220. The second elastic member 720 may press the first piezoelectric motor 400 in a direction toward the first lens barrel 200. Thus, the second elastic member 720 may fix the first piezoelectric motor 400 to the first lens barrel 200. The second elastic member 720 is coupled to the fifth groove 228 of the first coupling unit 220 via a hook shape on one side, and may be coupled to the protrusion 229 of the first coupling unit 220 via an opening shape 721-1 on the other side.

[0128] The second elastic member 720 may include a first region 721 disposed on one side surface of the first coupling unit 220 , a second region 722 disposed on the other side surface of the first coupling unit 220 , and a third region 724 connecting the first and second regions 721 and 722 .

[0129] The first region 721 of the second elastic member 720 may be disposed on the first outer side surface 221 of the first coupling unit 220. The first region may be parallel to the first outer side surface 221 of the first coupling unit 220. The first region 721 may include a hole 721-1. In the first region 721, the protrusion 229 of the first coupling unit 220 may be disposed in the hole 721-1. In the first region 721, the hole 721-1 may be formed at a position corresponding to the protrusion 229 of the first coupling unit 220. In the first region 721, the first coupling unit 220 and the protrusion 229 may extend through the hole 721-1. The hole 721-1 of the first region 721 may be coupled to the protrusion 229 of the first coupling unit 220 using a one-touch clip method. The first region 721 may be disposed inside the protrusion 229 of the first coupling unit 220. That is, the protrusion 229 protrudes from the first region 721 to prevent the second elastic member 720 from being separated.

[0130] The second region 722 may be disposed on the second outer surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220. The second region 722 of the second elastic member 720 may include two second regions 722-1 and 722-2 spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction. The second portion 712 of the first elastic member 710 may be disposed between the two second regions 722-1 and 722-2. Each of the two second regions 722-1 and 722-2 may be disposed in the two fifth grooves 228-1 and 228-2 of the first coupling unit 220. The second region 722 may include: a portion parallel to the second outer surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220; and a curved portion 723 that bends from the parallel portion and is disposed in the fifth groove 228 of the second outer surface 222 of the first coupling unit 220. The curved portion 723 may have a hook shape. The curved portion 723 may be curved toward the third region 724. The curved portion 723 may at least partially have a curvature. The bent portion 723 may be configured to be caught in the fifth groove 228 of the first coupling unit 220. In the bent portion 723, the first coupling unit 220 may be hooked and coupled to the fifth groove 228. The bent portion 723 may be formed at a position corresponding to the fifth groove 228 of the first coupling unit 220. The bent portion 723 may include a hook shape.

[0131] The third region 724 of the second elastic member 720 may be disposed between the first region 721 and the second region 722. The third region 724 may face the first elastic member 710. The third region 724 may be spaced apart from the first elastic member 710. The third region 724 may contact the first post 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400. The third region 724 may compress the first post 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400. The third region 724 may be formed flat. The third region 724 may at least partially contact the first post 410 of the first piezoelectric motor 400. The inner surface of the third region 724 facing the first coupling unit 220 may include a curved shape at the portion in contact with the first post 410. The inner surface of the third region 724 may at least partially have a curvature. The inner surface of the third region 724 may include a curved surface formed by at least partially recessing the inner surface. The outer surface opposite the inner surface of the third region 724 may include a flat surface. The camera module 10 according to the present embodiment may include a third elastic member 810 .

[0132] The third elastic member 810 may fix the second piezoelectric motor 500 to the second lens barrel 300. The third elastic member 810 may be provided on the second outer side surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320. The third elastic member 810 may be spaced apart from the fourth elastic member 820. The third elastic member 810 may be spaced apart from the fourth elastic member 820 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0133] The third elastic member 810 may include a first portion 811. The first portion 811 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the groove 324 of the second outer surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320. The first portion 811 may have a V-shaped cross-section. The first portion 811 may include a first inclined surface formed obliquely relative to the second portion 812 and a second inclined surface formed obliquely relative to the second portion 813. The first and second inclined surfaces may be integrally formed. The inclination direction of the first inclined surface may be different from that of the second inclined surface. The inclination direction of the first inclined surface may be opposite to that of the second inclined surface. The first inclined surface may be disposed between the first portion 811 and the second portion 812. The second inclined surface may be disposed between the first portion 811 and the third portion 813. The first portion 811 may have a first length along the optical axis.

[0134] The third elastic member 810 may include a second portion 812. The second portion 812 may extend from one end of the first portion 811 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second portion 812 may extend from the outer surface of the first portion 811 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The length of the second portion 812 in the optical axis direction may be less than the length of the first portion 811 in the optical axis direction. The second portion 812 may be disposed between the two second regions 822-1 and 822-2 of the fourth elastic member 820. The second portion 812 may have a second length in the optical axis direction. The second length of the second portion 812 may be less than the second length of the first portion 811. The second portion 812 may extend from the first portion 811. The second portion 812 may have the same length in the optical axis direction as the third portion 813 of the third elastic member 810, described later. The second portion 812 and the third portion 813 may be formed symmetrically with respect to the first portion 811. The second portion 812 may be parallel to the third region 824 of the fourth elastic member 820.

[0135] The third elastic member 810 may include a third portion 813. The third portion 813 may extend from the other end of the first portion 811 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The third portion 813 may extend from the outer surface of the first portion 811 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The third portion 813 may have a second length in the optical axis. The second length of the third portion 812 in the optical axis may be less than the first length of the first portion 811 in the optical axis. The second length of the third portion 813 in the optical axis may be the same as the length of the second portion 812 in the optical axis. The third portion 813 may overlap with the second portion 812 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The third portion 813 may be disposed in the hole 821-1 of the first region 821 of the fourth elastic member 820. The second portion 812 and the third portion 813 may not contact the first post 410 of the second piezoelectric motor 500. The third portion 813 may be parallel to the third region 824 of the fourth elastic member 820.

[0136] In a modified embodiment, the third elastic member 810 may further include an extension. The extension may extend from the first portion 811 of the third elastic member 810. The extension 811 may be bent at a first angle relative to the first portion 811 of the third elastic member 810. The surface of the extension facing the second coupling unit 320 may form an acute angle with the first portion 811 of the third elastic member 810. The surface of the extension facing the third elastic member 810 may form an obtuse angle with the first portion 811. The extension may not contact the second post of the second piezoelectric motor 500. This facilitates insertion of the second post. Furthermore, the second post can be easily press-fitted between the third elastic member 810 and the fourth elastic member 820, both of which have high elastic strength. The extension may include a first extension extending from a first inclined surface of the first portion 811 and a second extension extending from a second inclined surface of the first portion 811. The first extension may be at least partially spaced apart from the second extension. The separation distance between the first and second extensions may increase as they extend upward. The first and second extensions may not contact the second column. The first and second extensions may guide the second column when assembling the second column. The third elastic member 810 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the first elastic member 710.

[0137] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a fourth elastic member 820. The fourth elastic member 820 may be formed of an elastic material. The fourth elastic member 820 may be arranged to be caught in the groove 324 of the second outer side surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320. The fourth elastic member 820 may press the second piezoelectric motor 500 in a direction toward the second lens barrel 300. Thus, the fourth elastic member 820 may fix the second piezoelectric motor 500 to the second lens barrel 300. The fourth elastic member 820 is coupled to the fifth groove 328 of the second coupling unit 320 via a hook shape on one side, and may be coupled to the protrusion 329 of the second coupling unit 320 via an opening shape 821-1 on the other side.

[0138] The fourth elastic member 820 may include: a first region 821, which is disposed on one side of the second connecting unit 320; a second region 822, which is disposed on the other side of the second connecting unit 320; and a third region 824, which connects the first region 821 and the second region 822.

[0139] The first region 821 of the fourth elastic member 820 may be disposed on the first outer side surface 321 of the second coupling unit 320. The first region 821 of the fourth elastic member 820 may be parallel to the first outer side surface 221 of the second coupling unit 320. The first region 821 may include a hole 821-1. In the first region 821, the protrusion 329 of the second coupling unit 320 may be disposed in the hole 821-1. In the first region 821, the hole 821-1 may be formed at a position corresponding to the protrusion 329 of the second coupling unit 320. In the first region 821, the second coupling unit 320 and the protrusion 329 may extend through the hole 821-1. The hole 821-1 of the first region 821 may be coupled to the protrusion 329 of the second coupling unit 320 using a one-touch clip method. The first region 821 may be disposed further inward than the protrusion 329 of the second coupling unit 320. That is, the protrusion 329 protrudes further than the first region 821 to prevent the fourth elastic member 820 from being separated.

[0140] The second region 822 may be disposed on the second outer surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320. The second region 822 of the fourth elastic member 820 may include two second regions 822-1 and 822-2 spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction. The second portion 812 of the third elastic member 810 may be disposed between the two second regions 822-1 and 822-2. Each of the two second regions 822-1 and 822-2 may be disposed in the two fifth grooves 328-1 and 328-2 of the second coupling unit 320. The second region 822 may include a portion parallel to the second outer surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320; and a curved portion 823 that bends from the parallel portion and is disposed in the fifth groove 328 of the second outer surface 322 of the second coupling unit 320. The curved portion 823 may include a hook shape. The curved portion 823 may be configured to be caught in the fifth groove 328 of the second coupling unit 320. In the curved portion 823, the second coupling unit 320 may be hooked and coupled to the fifth groove 328. The curved portion 823 may be curved toward the third region 824. The curved portion 823 may at least partially have a curvature. The curved portion 823 may be formed at a position corresponding to the fifth groove 328 of the second coupling unit 320. The curved portion 823 may include a hook shape.

[0141] The third region 824 of the fourth elastic member 820 may be disposed between the first region 821 and the second region 822. The third region 824 may face the third elastic member 810. The third region 824 may be spaced apart from the third elastic member 810. The third region 824 may contact the second post of the second piezoelectric motor 500. The third region 824 may compress the second post of the second piezoelectric motor 500. The third region 824 may be formed flat. The third region 824 may at least partially contact the second post of the second piezoelectric motor 500. The inner surface of the third region 824 facing the second coupling unit 320 may include a curved shape at the portion in contact with the second post. The inner surface of the third region 824 may at least partially have a curvature. The inner surface of the third region 824 may include a curved surface formed by at least partially recessing the inner surface. The outer surface opposite the inner surface of the third region 824 may include a flat surface.

[0142] The camera module 10 according to this embodiment may include a printed circuit substrate 900. The printed circuit substrate 900 may be disposed below the housing. The printed circuit substrate 900 may be disposed below the lower plate unit 130 of the housing. The printed circuit substrate 900 may supply power or current to components disposed inside the housing. The printed circuit substrate 900 may include a flexible substrate. The printed circuit substrate 900 may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). An image sensor 910 may be disposed on an upper surface of the printed circuit substrate 900. The image sensor 910 may be disposed on the printed circuit substrate 900. The image sensor 910 may be disposed at positions corresponding to the first to fourth lenses 140, 240, 340, and 150.

[0143] Hereinafter, an optical device according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0144] The optical device may be any one of a handheld phone, a portable phone, a smart phone, a portable smart device, a digital camera, a notebook computer, a digital broadcast terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), and a navigation. However, the type of the optical device is not limited thereto, and any device for taking a video or a picture may be included in the optical device.

[0145] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A camera module, comprising: case; a lens barrel disposed in the housing; a first elastic member and a second elastic member, wherein the first elastic member and the second elastic member are coupled to the lens barrel; as well as a piezoelectric motor comprising a post disposed between the first elastic member and the second elastic member, wherein the first elastic member and the second elastic member press the column of the piezoelectric motor, The lens barrel includes a main body unit and a connecting unit, wherein the connecting unit is connected to the main body unit, and The coupling unit includes a groove and a protrusion, the groove is coupled to one side of the second elastic member, and the protrusion is coupled to the other side of the second elastic member. wherein the second elastic member includes a first region, a second region, and a third region, the first region being provided on one side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel, the second region being provided on the other side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel, and the third region connecting the first region and the second region, and The third region of the second elastic member is formed in a flat shape, and at least a portion of the third region contacts the column of the piezoelectric motor.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The coupling unit of the lens barrel includes a first groove into which one side of the first elastic member is inserted and a second groove into which the other side of the first elastic member is inserted.

3. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The first elastic member includes a first portion having a first length in an optical axis direction, and a second portion and a third portion extending from the first portion and having a second length smaller than the first length in the optical axis direction.

4. The camera module according to claim 3, wherein: The first portion of the first elastic member includes a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface, the first inclined surface is provided between the first portion of the first elastic member and the second portion of the first elastic member, the second inclined surface is provided between the first portion of the first elastic member and the third portion of the first elastic member, and The first inclined surface of the first elastic member has an inclined direction different from the inclined direction of the second inclined surface of the first elastic member.

5. The camera module according to claim 4, wherein: The first elastic member includes an extension portion bent at a first angle from the first portion, and Wherein, the extending portion of the first elastic member does not contact the column of the piezoelectric motor.

6. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: in, the second elastic member comprising a curved inner surface facing the post, wherein the second elastic member is configured to press the post toward the first elastic member at the curved inner surface, and Wherein, an outer surface of the second elastic member opposite to the curved inner surface is flat.

7. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The second region of the second elastic member includes a bent portion that is bent toward the third region of the second elastic member.

8. The camera module according to claim 7, wherein: The other side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel includes a groove, and wherein the bent portion of the second region of the second elastic member is configured to be caught by the groove of the coupling unit of the lens barrel.

9. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The first region of the second elastic member includes an aperture, and Wherein, the hole of the second elastic member is coupled to the protrusion of the coupling unit of the lens barrel.

10. The camera module according to claim 3, wherein: The second region of the second elastic member includes two second regions spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction, and The second portion of the first elastic member is disposed between the two second regions of the second elastic member.

11. The camera module according to claim 10, wherein: The second portion and the third portion of the first elastic member are parallel to the third region of the second elastic member.

12. A camera module comprising: case; a lens barrel disposed in the housing and comprising a main body unit and a coupling unit connected to the main body unit; a first elastic member and a second elastic member, wherein the first elastic member and the second elastic member are coupled to the lens barrel; as well as a piezoelectric motor comprising a post disposed between the first elastic member and the second elastic member, wherein the piezoelectric motor is configured to move the lens barrel in the direction of the optical axis, wherein the second elastic member is configured to press the post toward the first elastic member, wherein the second elastic member includes a first region, a second region, and a third region, the first region being provided on one side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel, the second region being provided on the other side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel, and the third region connecting the first region and the second region, and The third region of the second elastic member is formed in a flat shape, and at least a portion of the third region contacts the column of the piezoelectric motor.

13. The camera module according to claim 12, wherein: The second elastic member has a hook shape coupled with the lens barrel.

14. The camera module according to claim 12, comprising a pin provided in the direction of the optical axis, in, The lens barrel slides along the pin.

15. The camera module according to claim 12, comprising: a magnetic scale, the magnetic scale being disposed on the lens barrel; as well as A magnetoresistive sensor is configured to detect the magnetic scale.

16. A camera module comprising: case; a lens barrel disposed in the housing; a first elastic member and a second elastic member, wherein the first elastic member and the second elastic member are coupled to the lens barrel; as well as a piezoelectric motor comprising a post disposed between the first elastic member and the second elastic member, wherein the first elastic member and the second elastic member press the column of the piezoelectric motor, The lens barrel includes a main body unit and a connecting unit, wherein the connecting unit is connected to the main body unit, and wherein the second elastic member is coupled to the groove of the coupling unit through a hook shape at one side of the second elastic member, and is coupled to the protrusion of the coupling unit through an open shape at the other side of the second elastic member, wherein the second elastic member includes a first region, a second region, and a third region, the first region being provided on one side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel, the second region being provided on the other side surface of the coupling unit of the lens barrel, and the third region connecting the first region and the second region, and The third region of the second elastic member is formed in a flat shape, and at least a portion of the third region contacts the column of the piezoelectric motor.

17. An optical device comprising: main body; A camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 16, disposed on the main body; as well as A display is provided on the main body and outputs an image captured by the camera module.

Images