Camera actuator and camera device including the same

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention provides a camera actuator, comprising: a support, which is arranged in a lower part; a rotating part, which is arranged inside the support; an optical component, which is arranged on the rotating part; a first driving part, which is used to tilt the optical component to a first axis by pressing the rotating part; and a second driving part, which is used to tilt the optical component to a second axis by pressing the rotating part, wherein the rotating part comprises: a first rotating plate, which is arranged on the inside; a second rotating plate, which is arranged outside the first rotating plate; a fixed plate, which is arranged outside the second rotating plate; a first bridge, which is arranged between the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate so as to be positioned corresponding to the first axis; and a second bridge, which is arranged between the second rotating plate and the fixed plate so as to be positioned corresponding to the second axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a camera actuator and a camera device including the camera actuator. Background Art

[0002] A camera is a device for taking a picture or video of a subject, and is mounted on a portable device, a drone, a vehicle, etc. The camera device may have an image stabilization (IS) function that corrects or prevents image shaking caused by user movement to improve image quality, an autofocus function that aligns the lens focal length by automatically adjusting the spacing between an image sensor and a lens, and a zoom function that captures a remote subject by increasing or decreasing the magnification of the remote subject through a zoom lens.

[0003] Meanwhile, the pixel density of the image sensor increases as the resolution of the camera increases, so the size of the pixel becomes smaller, and as the pixel becomes smaller, the amount of light received at the same time decreases. Therefore, since the camera has a higher pixel density, image shake caused by hand shake that occurs when the shutter speed is reduced in a dark environment may occur more seriously. As a representative image stabilization (IS) technology, there is an optical image stabilizer (OIS) technology that corrects motion by changing the path of light.

[0004] According to general OIS technology, the movement of the camera can be detected by a gyro sensor or the like, and the lens can be tilted or moved based on the detected movement, or a camera module including a lens and an image sensor can be tilted or moved. When the lens or the camera module including the lens and the image sensor is tilted or moved for OIS, it is necessary to additionally secure a space around the lens or the camera module for tilting or moving.

[0005] Meanwhile, the actuator for OIS may be disposed around the lens. In this case, the actuator for OIS may include an actuator responsible for tilting of two axes (ie, an X-axis and a Y-axis perpendicular to the Z-axis), the Z-axis being the optical axis.

[0006] However, according to the demand for ultra-thin and ultra-small camera devices, there is a large space constraint for arranging an actuator for OIS, and it may be difficult to ensure sufficient space in which the lens or the camera module itself including the lens and the image sensor can be tilted or moved for OIS. In addition, as cameras have a higher pixel density, it is preferred to increase the size of the lens to increase the amount of received light, and there may be a limit to increasing the size of the lens due to the space occupied by the actuator used for OIS.

[0007] In addition, when the zoom function, the AF function, and the OIS function are all included in a camera device, there is also a problem that the OIS magnet and the AF or zoom magnet are disposed close to each other, thereby causing magnetic field interference.

[0008] Additionally, there are spatial constraints or limitations on moving the lens. Summary of the invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] The present invention is directed to a camera actuator for performing two-axis tilting by means of rotating plates connected by a bridge.

[0011] In addition, the embodiment is directed to providing a camera actuator for easily performing two-axis tilting by adjusting the position of a contact point for tilting an optical member.

[0012] In addition, the embodiment is directed to providing a camera actuator which is suitable for an ultra-thin, ultra-small, and high-resolution camera.

[0013] The purpose of the embodiment is not limited thereto, and will also include a purpose or effect that can be identified from the configuration or the embodiment.

[0014] Technical Solutions

[0015] A camera actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a support, which is arranged on a lower part; a rotating part, which is arranged in the support; an optical component, which is arranged on the rotating part; and a first driving part and a second driving part, the first driving part is configured to tilt the optical component along a first axis by pressing the rotating part, and the second driving part is configured to tilt the optical component along a second axis by pressing the rotating part, wherein the rotating part may include: a first rotating plate, which is arranged inside; a second rotating plate, which is arranged outside the first rotating plate; a fixed plate, which is arranged outside the second rotating plate; a first bridge, which is positioned between the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate and corresponds to the first axis; and a second bridge, which is positioned between the second rotating plate and the fixed plate and corresponds to the second axis.

[0016] The first bridge may be positioned on a virtual line bisecting the first rotation plate along the second axis.

[0017] The second bridge may be positioned on a virtual line bisecting the second rotation plate along the first axis.

[0018] The first driving part may include: a first piezoelectric part, which expands and contracts in the optical axis direction; a first connecting rod part, which is connected to the first piezoelectric part; a first moving part, which is connected to the first connecting rod part; a first operating part, which is connected to the first moving part and contacts the first rotating plate; and a first suction part, which is arranged adjacent to the first rotating plate and is configured to pull the first rotating plate.

[0019] The second driving part may include: a second piezoelectric part, which expands and contracts in the optical axis direction; a second connecting rod part, which is connected to the second piezoelectric part; a second moving part, which is connected to the second connecting rod part; a second operating part, which is connected to the second moving part and contacts the second rotating plate; and a second suction part, which is arranged adjacent to the second rotating plate and is configured to pull the second rotating plate.

[0020] The first connecting rod part and the first moving part can move in response to the mechanical deformation of the first piezoelectric part, the second connecting rod part and the second moving part can move in response to the mechanical deformation of the second piezoelectric part, the position of the first moving part can be changed relative to the first connecting rod part when the first connecting rod part moves at a predetermined speed or higher, and the position of the second moving part can be changed relative to the second connecting rod part when the second connecting rod part moves at a predetermined speed or higher.

[0021] The camera actuator may further include a bracket disposed in the mount.

[0022] The bracket may include: a bracket supporting portion, which is disposed on a support; a first protrusion and a second protrusion, which are positioned on the bracket supporting portion; and a third protrusion, which is disposed to be spaced apart from the first protrusion and the second protrusion in the direction of the optical axis.

[0023] The first protrusion may include a first hole, the second protrusion may include a second hole, the third protrusion may include a third hole and a fourth hole, the first hole may overlap with the third hole in the optical axis direction, and the second hole may overlap with the fourth hole in the optical axis direction.

[0024] The first link portion may pass through the first hole and the third hole, and the second link portion may pass through the second hole and the fourth hole.

[0025] Beneficial effects

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a camera actuator may be implemented for performing two-axis tilting by rotating plates connected by a bridge.

[0027] In addition, according to the embodiment, a camera actuator for easily performing two-axis tilting by adjusting the position of a contact point for tilting an optical member may be implemented.

[0028] In addition, a camera actuator can be provided that is suitable for an ultra-thin, ultra-small, high-resolution camera. In particular, an actuator for OIS can be efficiently provided without increasing the overall size of the camera device.

[0029] According to an embodiment of the present invention, tilting in the X-axis direction and tilting in the Y-axis direction do not cause mutual interference of magnetic fields, so a stable structure for performing tilting in the X-axis direction and tilting in the Y-axis direction can be realized, and a precise OIS function can be realized because magnetic field interference with AF or zoom actuators does not occur.

[0030] According to the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to ensure a sufficient amount of light and implement OIS with low power consumption by eliminating the size limitation of the lens.

[0031] Various and beneficial advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to the above contents and will be more easily understood in the course of describing specific embodiments of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 3 is along Figure 1 Cross-sectional view along line AA'.

[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a mount of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a bracket of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 8a is a perspective view of a first driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0040] Figure 8bis an exploded perspective view of a first driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 8c is a side view of a first operating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0042] Figure 9a is a perspective view of a second driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0043] Figure 9b is an exploded perspective view of a second driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0044] Fig.9c is a perspective view of a first operating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0045] Figure 9d is a side view of a first operating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0046] Fig.10 is a perspective view of a first plate portion and a position sensor portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0047] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a rotating portion and an optical member of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0048] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a rotating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0049] Fig.13 is a front view of a rotating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0050] Fig.14 is a top perspective view of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0051] Fig.15 is a front view of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment with a rotating portion and optical components removed.

[0052] Fig.16a and Fig.16b is a view for describing forward movement of a first driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0053] Fig.17a and Fig.17b is a view for describing rearward movement of a first driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0054] Fig.18 is a perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0055] Fig.19 is an exploded perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0056] Fig. 20 is along Fig.18 Cross-sectional view along line D-D'.

[0057] Fig.21 is along Fig.18 Cross-sectional view along line EE'.

[0058] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0059] Fig.23 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] As the present invention is susceptible to various changes and embodiments, specific embodiments are shown and described in the drawings.

[0061] However, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the specific embodiments, and it should be construed that all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included within the spirit and scope of the present invention are included.

[0062] Terms including ordinal numbers such as second or first may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component. For example, a second component may be referred to as a first component, and similarly, a first component may also be referred to as a second component without departing from the scope of the present invention. The term "and / or" includes a plurality of related listed items or a combination of any of the plurality of related listed items.

[0063] When a certain component is described as being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that the component can be directly connected or coupled to the other component, but other components may also exist in between. On the other hand, when a certain component is described as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0064] The terms used in this application are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, it should be understood that terms such as "comprising ..." or "having ..." are intended to specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this specification, but do not exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof in advance.

[0065] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant technology and should not be interpreted as an ideal or overly formal meaning unless explicitly defined in this application.

[0066] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals regardless of the reference numerals, and a repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0067] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, Figure 3 is along Figure 1 Cross-sectional view along line AA'.

[0068] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment may include a housing CV, a first camera actuator 1100, a second camera actuator 1200, and a circuit board 1300. Herein, the first camera actuator 1100 may be used interchangeably with the "first actuator", and the second camera actuator 1200 may be used interchangeably with the "second actuator".

[0069] The cover CV may cover the first camera actuator 1100 and the second camera actuator 1200. A coupling force between the first camera actuator 1100 and the second camera actuator 1200 may be increased by the cover CV.

[0070] In addition, the housing CV may be made of a material that blocks electromagnetic waves. Therefore, the first camera actuator 1100 and the second camera actuator 1200 in the housing CV may be easily protected.

[0071] In addition, the first camera actuator 1100 may be an optical image stabilizer (OIS) actuator.

[0072] The first camera actuator 1100 may include a fixed lens (not shown) disposed in a predetermined lens barrel. In addition, the lens may include, for example, a fixed focal length lens. The fixed focal length lens may be referred to as a "single focal length lens" or a "single lens".

[0073] The first camera actuator 1100 can change the light path. In this embodiment, the first camera actuator 1100 can vertically change the light path through an optical member (e.g., a reflector) therein. Through this configuration, even when the thickness of the mobile terminal is reduced, a lens configuration greater than the thickness of the mobile terminal can be set in the mobile terminal by changing the light path, so that magnification, auto focus (AF), and OIS functions can be performed.

[0074] The second camera actuator 1200 may be disposed at a rear end of the first camera actuator 1100. The second camera actuator 1200 may be coupled to the first camera actuator 1100. In addition, the mutual coupling may be performed by various methods.

[0075] In addition, the second camera actuator 1200 may be a zoom actuator or an AF actuator. For example, the second camera actuator 1200 may support one lens or a plurality of lenses and perform an AF function or a zoom function by moving the lens according to a predetermined control signal of the control part.

[0076] The circuit board 1300 may be provided at a rear end of the second camera actuator 1200. The circuit board 1300 may be electrically connected to the second camera actuator 1200 and the first camera actuator 1100. In addition, a plurality of circuit boards 1300 may be provided.

[0077] The camera module according to the embodiment may be formed as a single camera module or a plurality of camera modules. For example, the plurality of camera modules may include a first camera module and a second camera module.

[0078] In addition, the first camera module may include a single actuator or a plurality of actuators. For example, the first camera module may include a first camera actuator 1100 and a second camera actuator 1200.

[0079] In addition, the second camera module may be disposed in a predetermined housing (not shown) and include an actuator (not shown) that can drive the lens portion. The actuator may be a voice coil motor, a microactuator, a silicon actuator, etc., and may be applied in various methods such as an electrostatic method, a thermal method, a bimodal method, and an electrostatic force method, but is not limited thereto. In addition, in this specification, a camera actuator may be referred to as an actuator, etc. In addition, a camera module including a plurality of camera modules may be installed in various electronic devices such as a mobile terminal.

[0080] refer to Figure 3 , the camera module according to the embodiment may include a first camera actuator 1100 for performing an OIS function and a second camera actuator 1200 for performing a zoom function and an AF function.

[0081] Light may be incident into the camera module through an opening area positioned on the upper surface of the first camera actuator 1100. In other words, light may be incident into the first camera actuator 1100 in an optical axis direction (e.g., an X-axis direction), and the light path may be changed in a vertical direction (e.g., a Z-axis direction) by an optical member. In addition, light may pass through the second camera actuator 1200 and may be incident on an image sensor (PATH) positioned at one end of the second camera actuator 1200.

[0082] In this specification, the bottom surface refers to a side in a first direction. In addition, the first direction is the X-axis direction in the drawings. The second direction is the Y-axis direction in the drawings. The second direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction. In addition, the third direction is the Z-axis direction in the drawings. The third direction is perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction. Here, the third direction (Z-axis direction) corresponds to the optical axis direction, while the first direction (X-axis direction) and the second direction (Y-axis direction) are directions perpendicular to the optical axis and can be tilted by the first camera actuator. A detailed description thereof will be given below.

[0083] In addition, in the following description about the first and second camera actuators, the optical axis direction is the third direction (Z-axis direction) and the description will be made based thereon hereinafter.

[0084] In addition, through this configuration, the camera module according to the embodiment can reduce the space limitation of the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator by changing the optical path. In other words, the camera module according to the embodiment can extend the optical path while minimizing the thickness of the camera module in response to the change of the optical path. In addition, it should be understood that the second camera actuator can provide a high range of magnification by controlling the focus in the extended optical path, etc.

[0085] In addition, the camera module according to the embodiment may implement OIS by controlling the light path by the first camera actuator, thereby minimizing the occurrence of a decentering or tilting phenomenon and providing optimal optical characteristics.

[0086] In addition, the second camera actuator 1200 may include an optical system and a lens driving part. For example, at least one of the first lens assembly, the second lens assembly, the third lens assembly, and a guide part (eg, a guide rail or a guide pin) may be provided in the second camera actuator 1200.

[0087] In addition, the second camera actuator 1200 may include a coil and a magnet and perform a zoom function with a high magnification.

[0088] For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly may be movable lenses moved by coils, magnets, and guide pins, and the third lens assembly may be a fixed lens, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the third lens assembly may perform the function of a focuser, through which light forms an image at a specific position, and the first lens assembly may perform the function of a converter to reform the image formed by the third lens assembly as a focuser at another position. At the same time, the first lens assembly may be in a state where the magnification changes greatly because the distance to the subject or the image distance changes greatly, and the first lens assembly, i.e., the converter, may play an important role in the focal length or magnification change of the optical system. At the same time, the imaging point of the image formed by the first lens assembly (i.e., the converter) may be slightly different depending on the position. Therefore, the second lens assembly may perform a position compensation function for the image formed by the converter. For example, the second lens assembly may perform the function of a compensator to accurately form an image at the actual position of the image sensor using the imaging point of the image formed by the first lens assembly as a converter. For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly may be driven by an electromagnetic force generated due to the interaction between the coil and the magnet. The above description can be applied to the lens assembly to be described below.

[0089] Meanwhile, when the OIS actuator and the AF actuator or the zoom actuator are provided according to an embodiment of the present invention, magnetic field interference with the AF magnet or the zoom magnet can be prevented when the OIS is driven. Since the first driving magnet of the first camera actuator 1100 is provided separately from the second camera actuator 1200, magnetic field interference between the first camera actuator 1100 and the second camera actuator 1200 can be prevented. In this specification, OIS may be used interchangeably with terms such as hand shake correction, optical image stabilization, optical image correction, shake correction, and the like.

[0090] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0091] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the first camera actuator 1100 according to the embodiment may include a mount 1110 , a bracket 1120 , first and second driving parts 1130 and 1140 , a first plate part 1150 , a position sensor part 1160 , a rotating part 1170 , and an optical member 1180 .

[0092] First, the support 1110 may be positioned at the outside of the first camera actuator 1100. Also, the support 1110 may support the bracket 1120, the first and second driving parts 1130 and 1140, the first plate part 1150, the position sensor part 1160, the rotating part 1170, and the optical member 1180.

[0093] The bracket 1120 may be positioned on the support 1110. In addition, the bracket 1120 may support the first driving portion 1130. More specifically, the bracket 1120 may support the first link portion and the second link portion of the first driving portion 1130 and the second driving portion 1140.

[0094] In addition, the bracket 1120 may support an additional board seated on an upper portion thereof and a plurality of Hall sensors of the position sensor portion 1160 .

[0095] In addition, the bracket 1120 may improve reliability according to movement and load of the link part by integrally supporting the first driving part and the second driving part.

[0096] The first driving part 1130 and the second driving part 1140 can make the rotating part 1170 tilt or yaw-tilt (or rotate) around the yaw axis. In addition, the first driving part 1130 and the second driving part 1140 can make the rotating part 1170 tilt or pitch-tilt (or rotate) around the pitch axis. In the specification, the yaw direction corresponds to the first axis, and the yaw tilt is the rotation around the yaw direction. In addition, the pitch direction corresponds to the second axis, and the pitch tilt is the rotation around the pitch direction. In addition, the yaw direction is a direction on the XZ plane and the vertical direction of the tilted rotating part, and the pitch direction is a direction on the YZ plane and the horizontal direction of the tilted rotating part.

[0097] In an embodiment, the first driving portion 1130 can move the positions of the first moving portion and the first operating portion by moving in the third direction (Z axis direction) via the first link portion so as to yaw-tilt the rotating portion 1170. In addition, the second driving portion 1140 can move the second moving portion and the second operating portion by moving in the third direction (Z axis direction) via the second link portion so as to pitch-tilt the rotating portion 1170.

[0098] The first plate portion 1150 may be seated on the support 110. In addition, the first plate portion 1150 may be electrically connected to the first driving portion to change the lengths of the first piezoelectric portion and the second piezoelectric portion through the first driving portion. In other words, an electrical signal (e.g., voltage) input through the first plate portion 1150 may cause the first piezoelectric portion and the second piezoelectric portion to expand in a third direction (Z-axis direction).

[0099] In addition, the first board portion 1150 may include a circuit board having a wiring pattern that can be electrically connected, such as a rigid printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible PCB, and a rigid flexible PCB. However, the present invention is not limited to these types.

[0100] The position sensor portion 1160 may include a first Hall sensor, a second Hall sensor, a first magnet, and a second magnet. Any one of the first Hall sensor and the first magnet may be in contact with the first operating portion. In addition, the other of the first Hall sensor and the first magnet may be in contact with the bracket 1120. Alternatively, the other of the first Hall sensor and the first magnet may be in contact with an additional plate on the bracket 1120. The first magnet in contact with the first operating portion and the first Hall sensor in contact with the bracket 1120 will be described below.

[0101] Therefore, the first magnet in contact with the first operating portion may move in response to the movement of the first operating portion in the third direction (Z-axis direction). In addition, the first Hall sensor may detect a change in magnetic force according to the movement of the first magnet.

[0102] Likewise, any one of the second Hall sensor and the second magnet may be in contact with the second operating portion. In addition, the other of the second Hall sensor and the second magnet may be in contact with the bracket 1120. Alternatively, the other of the second Hall sensor and the second magnet may be in contact with an additional plate on the bracket 1120. The second magnet in contact with the second operating portion and the second Hall sensor in contact with the bracket 1120 will be described below.

[0103] In addition, the second magnet in contact with the second operating portion may move in response to movement of the second operating portion in the third direction (Z-axis direction) In addition, the second Hall sensor may detect a change in magnetic force according to the movement of the second magnet.

[0104] The rotating portion 1170 may be positioned on the support 1110 and supported by the support 1110. In addition, the rotating portion 1170 may support the optical member 1180. In other words, the optical member 1180 may be seated on the rotating portion 1170.

[0105] In an embodiment, some areas of the rotating portion 1170 may be yaw-tilted by the first driving portion. In addition, some areas of the rotating portion 1170 may be pitch-tilted by the second driving portion. The optical member 1180 may also be yaw-tilted or pitch-tilted in response to the rotation (yaw / pitch tilt) of the rotating portion 1170.

[0106] The rotating part 1170 may be yaw-tilted by the pressing and coupling force of the first driving part, and may be pitch-tilted by the pressing and coupling force of the second driving part.

[0107] The optical member 1180 may include a reflective member such as a prism or a reflective mirror. The optical member 1180 may further include at least one lens in front of or behind the reflective member.

[0108] In addition, as described above, since the optical member 1180 is yaw-tilted or pitch-tilted in response to the rotation of the rotating part 1170, the optical path can be changed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z axis direction) as described above. Therefore, the first camera actuator according to the embodiment can perform OIS.

[0109] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a mount of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0110] refer to Figure 6 , the holder 1110 of the first camera actuator according to an embodiment may be positioned at the outside of the first camera actuator.

[0111] In an embodiment, the support 1110 may include a sidewall portion 1111 , a first lower portion 1112 , a second lower portion 1113 , and a rotation support portion 1114 .

[0112] The sidewall portion 1111 may be positioned at one side of the support 1110. The sidewall portion 1111 may contact the first plate portion.

[0113] The first lower portion 1112 may vertically contact the sidewall portion 1111. The first lower portion 1112 may be integrally formed with the sidewall portion 1111.

[0114] The first lower portion 1112 may be positioned at the lowermost side of the first camera actuator. In addition, the first lower portion 1112 may support the first plate portion.

[0115] The second lower portion 1113 may contact the first lower portion 1112. The second lower portion 1113 may extend from the first lower portion 1112 in a third direction (Z-axis direction). In this case, the second lower portion 1113 and the first lower portion 1112 may be integrally formed. The rotating portion 1170 may be positioned on the second lower portion 1113.

[0116] The rotation support portion 1114 may contact the second lower portion 1113. The rotation support portion 1114 may contact a side surface of the second lower portion 1113 and extend in the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0117] In addition, the rotation support portion 1114 may have an inclined surface 1114a inclined with respect to the YZ plane. The inclined surface 1114a may have a first inclination angle θa with respect to the YZ plane.

[0118] In addition, the rotating part may be seated on the inclined surface 1114a. Therefore, the rotating part may also have a first inclination angle θa with respect to the YZ plane.

[0119] In other words, the rotating support portion 1114 can support the rotating portion while supporting the rotating portion to be tilted at a predetermined angle (e.g., a first tilt angle). Therefore, light incident through the upper portion can be reflected by the tilted optical member. Therefore, the first camera actuator according to the embodiment can simultaneously change the optical path, thereby minimizing the thickness (e.g., the length in the first direction) and increasing the degree of freedom of the lens on the optical path to improve the optical performance.

[0120] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a bracket of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0121] refer to Figure 7 , the bracket 1120 of the first camera actuator may include a bracket supporting portion 1121 , a first protrusion 1122 , a second protrusion 1123 , and a third protrusion 1124 .

[0122] The bracket supporting portion 1121 may be positioned at the lower portion of the bracket 1120. The bracket supporting portion 1121 may be positioned on the first and second lower portions of the above-mentioned support 1110. Therefore, the bracket supporting portion 1121 may overlap the first and second lower portions in the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0123] The first protrusion 1122 , the second protrusion 1123 , and the third protrusion 1124 may be positioned at an edge of the bracket supporting portion 1121 .

[0124] The first protrusion 1122 may be positioned on an upper surface of the support support portion 1121 and extend in a first direction (X-axis direction). The first protrusion 1122 may be formed perpendicular to the support support portion 1121 .

[0125] The first protrusion 1122 may be positioned adjacent to an edge of the bracket supporting portion 1121. Specifically, the first protrusion 1122 may be positioned adjacent to one surface facing the second direction (Y-axis direction).

[0126] In addition, the first protrusion 1122 may include a first hole 1122a. The first hole 1122a may be positioned in an upper portion of the first protrusion 1122. The second link portion may be seated in the first hole 1122a.

[0127] The second protrusion 1123 may be positioned on the upper surface of the support support portion 1121 and extend in the first direction (X-axis direction). The second protrusion 1123 may be formed perpendicular to the support support portion 1121.

[0128] The second protrusion 1123 may be positioned adjacent to an edge of the bracket support portion 1121. Specifically, the second protrusion 1123 may be positioned adjacent to another surface that is adjacent to a surface facing the second direction (Y-axis direction). In an embodiment, the second protrusion 1123 may be positioned symmetrically with the first protrusion 1122 in the first direction (X-axis direction) and the third direction (Z-axis direction).

[0129] The second protrusion 1123 may include a second hole 1123a. The second hole 1123a may be positioned in an upper portion of the second protrusion 1123. The first link portion may be seated in the second hole 1123a.

[0130] In addition, the second hole 1123a can be positioned to correspond to the fourth hole 1123b of the third protrusion. For example, the second hole 1123a can be arranged to be symmetrical with the fourth hole 1123b in the first direction (X axis direction). Therefore, the first connecting rod part can pass through the second hole 1123a and the fourth hole 1123b. In addition, the first connecting rod part can be supported by the second hole 1123a and the fourth hole 1123b, and when the first connecting rod part moves in the third direction (Z axis direction), friction force can be applied to the first connecting rod part.

[0131] The third protrusion 1124 may be positioned adjacent to the edge of the bracket support portion 1121. Specifically, the third protrusion 1124 may be positioned to face the first protrusion 1122 and the second protrusion 1123. The third protrusion 1124 may be positioned to correspond to the first protrusion 1122 in the first direction (X-axis direction). In addition, the third protrusion 1124 may be positioned to correspond to the second protrusion 1123 in the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0132] The third protrusion 1124 may include a third hole 1124 a and a fourth hole 1124 b. The third hole 1124 a and the fourth hole 1124 b may be positioned in an upper portion of the third protrusion 1124 .

[0133] In addition, the third hole 1124a can be positioned to correspond to the first hole 1122a. In addition, the fourth hole 1124b can be positioned to correspond to the second hole 1123a. In an embodiment, the third hole 1124a can be positioned to face the first hole 1122a in the first direction (X axis direction). In addition, the fourth hole 1124b can be positioned to face the second hole 1123a in the first direction (X axis direction). Therefore, the second connecting rod portion can pass through the first hole 1122a and the third hole 1124a and can be supported by the first protrusion 1122 and the third protrusion 1124. In addition, the first connecting rod portion can pass through the second hole 1123a and the fourth hole 1124b and can be supported by the second protrusion 1123 and the third protrusion 1124.

[0134] In addition, the length of the third protrusion 1124 in the second direction (Y-axis direction) can be greater than the length of the first protrusion 1122 or the second protrusion 1123 in the second direction (Y-axis direction). In addition, the first protrusion 1122 and the second protrusion 1123 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Through this configuration, the support force of the first connecting rod part and the second connecting rod part can be improved by the third protrusion 1124. In addition, the arrangement space of the first driving part can be easily ensured by setting a separation space between the first protrusion 1122 and the second protrusion 1123.

[0135] In addition, the first protrusion 1122 , the second protrusion 1123 , and the third protrusion 1124 may be integrally formed with the bracket supporting portion 1121 .

[0136] Figure 8a is a perspective view of a first driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 8b is an exploded perspective view of a first driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 8c is a side view of a first operating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0137] refer to Figure 8a and Figure 8b , the first driving part 1130 of the first camera actuator may include a first piezoelectric part 1131 , a first link part 1132 , a first moving part 1133 , a first operating part 1134 , and a first suction part 1135 .

[0138] The first piezoelectric portion 1131 may be formed of a piezoelectric element. In an embodiment, the first piezoelectric portion 1131 may include a piezoelectric element made of a ceramic material.

[0139] In an embodiment, an electric field may be formed in the first piezoelectric portion 1131 due to voltage application, and its length may change. More specifically, the first piezoelectric portion 1131 may be formed by a lattice in which positive ions and negative ions are elastically connected. Therefore, in the first piezoelectric portion 1131, positive ions and negative ions may move when the electric field is formed. For example, positive ions may be pulled in the direction along the electric field, and negative ions may be pulled in the direction opposite to the direction of the electric field. In addition, a stress corresponding to movement or force is generated, and the lattice may be deformed.

[0140] The first piezoelectric portion 1131 may be a polycrystalline body, and the lattice may generally be divided into several polarizations with different polarization directions. In addition, the first piezoelectric portion 1131 may be in a state in which the polarization from the polarization state to the whole is eliminated. At this time, when an electric field is applied to the first piezoelectric portion 1131, the polarization direction inside the crystal is polarized according to the electric field direction, and at the same time, the length of the crystal grains may be increased in the electric field direction. Conversely, when the electric field is removed, the first piezoelectric portion 1131 may maintain a state in which the whole has been polarized. Therefore, the first piezoelectric portion 1131 may operate in an expansion state in which each crystal expands or in a contraction state in which the crystal contracts according to a voltage. In other words, when an electrical signal such as a voltage is applied to the first piezoelectric portion 1131, the first piezoelectric portion 1131 may be mechanically deformed (expanded and contracted in a third direction (Z axis direction)). By this configuration, the first camera actuator according to the embodiment has no electromagnetic interference and almost no influence on the shape, and thus may provide high reliability and improved energy efficiency. The first piezoelectric portion 1131 may be formed of a plurality of layers. In addition, different voltages may be applied to the plurality of layers.Therefore, as described above, the first piezoelectric portion 1131 may contract or expand.

[0141] The first link portion 1132 may be connected to the first piezoelectric portion 1131. Therefore, the first link portion 1132 may move in the third direction (Z-axis direction) in response to expansion and contraction of the first piezoelectric portion 1131.

[0142] The first link portion 1132 may be in the form of a shaft. In addition, the first link portion 1132 may pass through the second hole and the fourth hole as described above. Therefore, the first link portion 1132 may be supported by the bracket 1120.

[0143] The first moving portion 1133 may be connected to the first link portion 1132. The first moving portion 1133 may cover the first link portion 1132. In addition, the first moving portion 1133 may contact the first operating portion 1134. In an embodiment, the first moving portion 1133 may have one side contacting the first link portion 1132 and the other side contacting the first operating portion 1134.

[0144] By this configuration, the first moving part 1133 can move in a third direction (Z-axis direction) in response to the movement of the first connecting rod part 1132. However, the first moving part 1133 can have a predetermined friction force with the first connecting rod part 1132. For example, the first moving part 1133 can move in a third direction (Z-axis direction) by inertial force when the first connecting rod part 1132 moves at a predetermined speed or higher. In other words, the position of the first moving part 1133 can be changed relative to the first connecting rod part 1132. In other words, the position of the first moving part 1133 can be changed with respect to the first connecting rod part 1132.

[0145] On the contrary, when the first link part 1132 moves at a speed lower than a predetermined speed, the first moving part 1133 may not move in the third direction (Z axis direction). In other words, the position of the first moving part 1133 may be relatively maintained with respect to the first link part 1132.

[0146] The first moving part 1133 may include a coupling hole at the other side thereof. The coupling hole may contact the first operating part 1134. A coupling member may be applied to the coupling hole. Therefore, the first operating part 1134 and the first moving part 1133 may be coupled to each other.

[0147] The first operating portion 1134 may include a first operating support portion 1134 a , a first operating extension portion 1134 b , a first seating portion 1134 c , and a first pressing portion 1134 d .

[0148] The first operating support portion 1134a may be disposed to be spaced apart from the first link portion 1132. In addition, the first operating support portion 1134a may at least partially contact the first moving portion 1133. For example, the first operating support portion 1134a may at least partially overlap the first moving portion 1133 in the first direction (X-axis direction). For example, a bottom surface 1134as of the first operating support portion 1134a may be coupled to the first moving portion 1133.

[0149] The first operating extension 1134b may be connected to the first operating support 1134a. The first operating extension 1134b may extend from a lower portion of the first operating support 1134a toward the first link portion 1132. In other words, the first operating extension 1134b may be positioned between the first link portion 1132 and the first operating support 1134a.

[0150] The first seating portion 1134c may be connected to the first operation support portion 1134a, and may have an upper surface inclined at a second inclination angle θb with respect to the ZY plane. The first suction portion 1135 may be seated on the first seating portion 1134c.

[0151] In an embodiment, the first seating portion 1134c may include a first seating groove 1134h. The first seating groove 1134h may also be inclined at a second inclination angle θb with respect to the ZY plane. The second inclination angle θb may correspond to the first inclination angle. With this configuration, the suction force is uniformly provided by the rotating portion and the first suction portion, so that the yaw tilt can be accurately performed.

[0152] The first pressing portion 1134d may be positioned adjacent to the first seating portion 1134c. In addition, the first pressing portion 1134d may contact the first seating portion 1134c. The first pressing portion 1134d may be positioned between the first seating portion 1134c and the rotating portion. Therefore, the first pressing portion 1134d may be positioned closer to the rotating portion than the first seating portion 1134c. With this configuration, the first pressing portion 1134d may press the rotating portion to thereby yaw and tilt. The first pressing portion 1134d may have a first contact surface 1134ds that contacts the rotating portion. The first contact surface 1134ds may also be inclined at a third inclination angle θc with respect to the ZY plane. The third inclination angle θc may correspond to the second inclination angle θb. With this configuration, since the first pressing portion uniformly presses the rotating portion, yaw and tilt may be accurately performed.

[0153] In addition, the first seating portion 1134c can attract the rotating portion to be yaw-tilted by the first suction portion 1135. In other words, the yaw tilting can be performed by pressing the rotating portion while the first pressing portion 1134d moves in the third direction (Z-axis direction). In addition, even when the first pressing portion 1134d moves in the direction opposite to the third direction (Z-axis direction), the rotating portion is kept in contact with the first pressing portion 1134d by the first suction portion 1135, and thus the yaw tilting can be performed.

[0154] The first suction portion 1135 may be seated in the first seating groove 1134h. The first suction portion 1135 may be formed of a magnetic material. For example, the first suction portion 1135 may be a magnet and may form an attractive force with the rotating portion made of a metal material. Therefore, even when the first pressing portion 1134d moves in a third direction (Z-axis direction), the contact between the rotating portion and the first pressing portion 1134d is maintained by the first suction portion 1135, so that yaw tilting can be performed.

[0155] Figure 9a is a perspective view of a second driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 9b is an exploded perspective view of a second driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Fig.9c is a perspective view of a first operating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 9d is a side view of a first operating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0156] refer to Figures 9a to 9d , the second driving portion 1140 of the first camera actuator may include a second piezoelectric portion 1141 , a second link portion 1142 , a second moving portion 1143 , a second operating portion 1144 , and a second suction portion 1145 .

[0157] The second piezoelectric portion 1141 may be formed of a piezoelectric element like the first piezoelectric portion 1131. In an embodiment, the second piezoelectric portion 1141 may include a piezoelectric element made of a ceramic material.

[0158] In addition, an electric field may be formed in the second piezoelectric portion 1141 due to voltage application, and its length may be changed. As described above, the second piezoelectric portion 1141 may operate in an expanded state in which each crystal expands or in a contracted state in which the crystal contracts according to the voltage. In other words, the second piezoelectric portion 1141 may expand and contract in a third direction (Z-axis direction). With this configuration, the first camera actuator according to the embodiment has no electromagnetic interference and almost no influence on the shape, and thus may provide high reliability and improved energy efficiency.

[0159] The second link portion 1142 may be connected to the second piezoelectric portion 1141. Therefore, the second link portion 1142 may move in the third direction (Z-axis direction) in response to expansion and contraction of the second piezoelectric portion 1141.

[0160] The second link portion 1142 may be in the form of an axis. In addition, the second link portion 1142 may pass through the first hole and the third hole as described above. Therefore, the second link portion 1142 may be supported by the bracket 1120. In order to form a predetermined friction force and a coupling force between the first link portion, the second link portion 1142 and the first hole to the fourth hole of the bracket 1120, a coupling member having a friction force may be positioned in the first hole to the fourth hole.

[0161] The second moving portion 1143 may be connected to the second link portion 1142. The second moving portion 1143 may be positioned to surround the second link portion 1142. Also, the second moving portion 1143 may contact the second operating portion 1144. In an embodiment, the second moving portion 1143 may have one side contacting the second link portion 1142 and the other side contacting the second operating portion 1144.

[0162] By this configuration, the second moving part 1143 can move in a third direction (Z-axis direction) in response to the movement of the second connecting rod part 1142. However, the second moving part 1143 can have a predetermined friction force with the second connecting rod part 1142. For example, the second moving part 1143 can move in a third direction (Z-axis direction) by inertial force when the second connecting rod part 1142 moves at a predetermined speed or higher. In other words, the position of the second moving part 1143 can be relatively changed with respect to the second connecting rod part 1142. In other words, the position of the second moving part 1143 can be changed with respect to the second connecting rod part 1142.

[0163] On the contrary, the second moving portion 1143 may not move in the third direction (Z-axis direction) when the second link portion 1142 moves at a speed lower than a predetermined speed. In other words, the position of the second moving portion 1143 may be relatively maintained with respect to the second link portion 1142.

[0164] The second moving part 1143 may include a coupling hole at the other side thereof. The coupling hole may contact the second operating part 1144. A coupling member may be applied to the coupling hole. Therefore, the second operating part 1144 and the second moving part 1143 may be coupled to each other.

[0165] The second operating portion 1144 may include a second operating support portion 1144 a , a second operating extension portion 1144 b , a second seating portion 1144 c , and a second pressing portion 1144 d .

[0166] The second operation support portion 1144a may be disposed to be spaced apart from the second link portion 1142. In addition, the second operation support portion 1144a may at least partially contact the second moving portion 1143. For example, the second operation support portion 1144a may at least partially overlap the second moving portion 1143 in the second direction (X-axis direction). For example, a bottom surface 1144as of the second operation support portion 1144a may be coupled to the second moving portion 1143.

[0167] The second operation extension 1144b may be connected to the second operation support 1144a. The second operation extension 1144b may extend from the lower portion of the second operation support 1144a toward the first link portion 1132. Alternatively, the second operation extension 1144b may extend from the lower portion of the second operation support 1144a toward the 1-1 driving portion. In other words, the second operation extension 1144b may be positioned between the first link portion 1132 and the second operation support 1144a. Therefore, the size of the camera actuator may be reduced by arranging both the first operation portion and the second operation portion in a predetermined space.

[0168] The second seating portion 1144c may be connected to the second operation support portion 1144a, and may have an upper surface inclined at a fourth inclination angle θd with respect to the ZY plane. The second suction portion 1145 may be seated on the second seating portion 1144c.

[0169] In an embodiment, the second seating portion 1144c may include a second seating slot 1144h. The second seating slot 1144h may also be inclined at a fourth inclination angle θd with respect to the ZY plane. The fourth inclination angle θd may correspond to the first inclination angle or the angle at which the rotating portion is inclined with respect to the ZY plane. With this configuration, the suction force is uniformly provided by the rotating portion and the second suction portion, so that the pitch tilt can be accurately performed.

[0170] The second pressing portion 1144d may be positioned adjacent to the second seating portion 1144c. In addition, the second pressing portion 1144d may contact the second seating portion 1144c. The second pressing portion 1144d may be positioned between the second seating portion 1144c and the rotating portion. Therefore, the second pressing portion 1144d may be positioned closer to the rotating portion than the second seating portion 1144c. By this configuration, the second pressing portion 1144d may press the rotating portion to tilt in pitch. The second pressing portion 1144d may have a second contact surface 1144ds that contacts the rotating portion. The second contact surface 1144ds may also tilt with respect to the ZY plane at a fifth inclination angle θe. The fifth inclination angle θe may correspond to the fourth inclination angle θe. By this configuration, since the second pressing portion uniformly presses the rotating portion, the pitch tilt may be accurately performed.

[0171] In addition, the second seating portion 1144c can attract the rotating part to be pitched and tilted by the second suction portion 1145. In other words, the pitch tilting can be performed by pressing the rotating part while the second pressing portion 1144d moves in the third direction (Z axis direction). In addition, even when the second pressing portion 1144d moves in the direction opposite to the third direction (Z axis direction), the rotating part is kept in contact with the second pressing portion 1144d by the second suction portion 1145, so that the pitch tilting can be performed.

[0172] The second suction portion 1145 can be seated in the second seating slot 1144h. The second suction portion 1145 can be formed of a magnetic material. For example, the second suction portion 1145 can be a magnet and can form an attractive force with the rotating part made of a metal material. Therefore, even when the second pressing portion 1144d moves in the third direction (Z-axis direction), the contact between the rotating part and the second pressing portion 1144d is maintained by the second suction portion 1145, so that the pitch tilt of the rotating part can be performed.

[0173] Fig.10is a perspective view of a first plate portion and a position sensor portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0174] refer to Fig.10 , the first camera actuator according to the embodiment may include a first plate portion 1150 and a position sensor portion 1160 .

[0175] As described above, the first plate portion 1150 may be seated on the support 1110. In addition, the first plate portion 1150 may be electrically connected to the first driving portion to change the lengths of the first piezoelectric portion and the second piezoelectric portion through the first driving portion. In other words, an electrical signal (e.g., voltage) input through the first plate portion 1150 may cause the first piezoelectric portion and the second piezoelectric portion to expand in a third direction (Z-axis direction).

[0176] In addition, the first board portion 1150 may include a circuit board having a wiring pattern that can be electrically connected, such as a rigid printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible PCB, and a rigid flexible PCB. However, the present invention is not limited to these types.

[0177] The position sensor portion 1160 may include a first Hall sensor 1161 b , a second Hall sensor 1162 b , a first magnet 1161 a , and a second magnet 1162 a .

[0178] In an embodiment, the first magnet 1161a may be coupled to the first operating portion. More specifically, the first magnet 1161a may be positioned on the bottom surface 1134as of the first operating support 1134a of the first operating portion. In addition, the second magnet 1162a may be coupled to the second operating portion. More specifically, the second magnet 1162a may be positioned on the bottom surface 1144as of the second operating support 1144a of the second operating portion.

[0179] In addition, the first Hall sensor 1161b and the second Hall sensor 1162b may be connected to the bracket 1120 or an additional board on the bracket.

[0180] Therefore, the first magnet 1161a may move in response to the movement of the first operating portion in the third direction (Z-axis direction) In addition, the first hall sensor 1161b may detect a change in magnetic force according to the movement of the first magnet 1161a.

[0181] In addition, the second magnet 1162a contacting the second operating portion may move in response to the movement of the second operating portion in the third direction (Z-axis direction) In addition, the second Hall sensor 1162b may detect a change in magnetic force according to the movement of the second magnet 1162a.

[0182] The first magnet 1161 a and the second magnet 11262 a contact the bottom surface 1134 as of the first operation support portion 1134 a and the bottom surface 1144 as of the second operation support portion 1144 a , respectively, and thus may be inclined at the above-mentioned predetermined angle.

[0183] Fig.11 is a perspective view of a rotating portion and an optical member of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Fig.12 is a perspective view of a rotating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Fig.13 is a front view of a rotating portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0184] refer to Figures 11 to 13 , the optical member 1180 may be seated on the rotating part 1170. As described above, the optical member 1180 may include a reflective member such as a prism or a reflective mirror. In addition, the optical member 1180 may further include at least one lens in front of or behind the reflective member.

[0185] In an embodiment, the rotating portion 1170 may include a first rotating plate 1171 , a second rotating plate 1172 , a fixed plate 1173 , a first bridge BR1 , and a second bridge BR2 .

[0186] The first rotating plate 1171 may be positioned at the innermost side of the rotating portion 1170. The first rotating plate 1171 may support the optical member 1180. The area of ​​the first rotating plate 1171 may be greater than or equal to the area of ​​the optical member 1180. With this configuration, the optical member 1180 may also be easily rotated in response to the rotation of the first rotating plate.

[0187] The second rotating plate 1172 may be positioned outside the first rotating plate 1171. The second rotating plate 1172 may have an open inner side, and the first rotating plate 1171 may be positioned inside the second rotating plate 1172. For example, the second rotating plate 1172 may be in the form of a closed loop or an open loop.

[0188] The second rotating plate 1172 may cover the first rotating plate 1171. The second rotating plate 1172 may rotate independently of or depending on the first rotating plate 1171. For example, only the first rotating plate 1171 may rotate (e.g., yaw-tilt). Alternatively, both the first rotating plate 1171 and the second rotating plate 1172 may rotate (e.g., pitch-tilt).

[0189] The first bridge BR1 may be positioned between the first rotating plate 1171 and the second rotating plate 1172. The first bridge BR1 may include a 1-1 bridge BR1a and a 1-2 bridge BR1b. The 1-1 bridge BR1a may be positioned at the top. In addition, the 1-2 bridge BR1b may be positioned at the bottom.

[0190] The 1-1 bridge BR1a and the 1-2 bridge BR1b may be positioned at a point that bisects the pitch direction between the first rotating plate 1171 and the second rotating plate 1172. As described above, the yaw direction may be defined as a direction on the XZ plane when the rotating portion is a plane. In addition, as described above, the pitch direction may be defined as a direction on the YZ plane when the rotating portion is a plane.

[0191] In addition, the 1-1 bridge BR1a and the 1-2 bridge BR1b can overlap in the yaw direction. With this configuration, the first rotating plate 1171 positioned inside the 1-1 bridge BR1a and the 1-2 bridge BR1b can be accurately rotated (yaw-tilt).

[0192] The fixing plate 1173 may be positioned at the outermost side of the rotating portion 1170. The fixing plate 1173 may be positioned on the inclined surface 1114a of the rotating support portion 1114. Therefore, the fixing plate 1173 may be supported by the rotating support portion 1114 and may not rotate.

[0193] The fixing plate 1173 may be coupled to the second rotating plate 1172 through a second bridge BR2 outside the first rotating plate 1171 and the second rotating plate 1172 .

[0194] The second bridge BR2 may include a 2-1 bridge BR2a and a 2-2 bridge BR2b. The 2-1 bridge BR2a and the 2-2 bridge BR2b may overlap in the pitch direction. By this configuration, the first rotating plate 1171 and the second rotating plate 1172 positioned inside the 2-1 bridge BR2a and the 2-2 bridge BR2b may accurately rotate (pitch-tilt).

[0195] The 2-1 bridge BR2a and the 2-2 bridge BR2b may be positioned parallel to a first virtual line CV1 bisecting the rotating part in the pitch direction.

[0196] In addition, the 1-1 bridge BR1a and the 1-2 bridge BR1b may be positioned parallel to a second virtual line CV2 bisecting the rotating portion in the yaw direction.

[0197] In addition, the first virtual line CV1 may be parallel to the pitch direction, and the second virtual line CV2 may be parallel to the yaw direction.

[0198] In an embodiment, the first rotating plate 1171 can be yaw-tilted by the driving of the above-mentioned first driving part. At this time, the contact points CP1 and CP2 of the first rotating plate 1171 and the first driving part can be positioned at the edge of the first rotating plate 1171. Through this configuration, yaw-tilting can be easily performed even at a small voltage. In other words, the first camera actuator can provide improved power efficiency.

[0199] The contact points CP1 and CP2 of the first rotating plate 1171 may be points or areas. For example, a point (e.g., the first point CP1) may be positioned on the first virtual line CV1 or on a bisector in the vertical direction of the first rotating plate 1171. In addition, an area (e.g., the first area CP2) may be symmetrically positioned on the first virtual line CV1. With this configuration, the rotation of the rotating part according to the pressing force and the suction force is not concentrated on one side, and the rotating part may be accurately yaw-tilted.

[0200] In addition, the second rotating plate 1172 can be driven by the second driving part to pitch and tilt together with the first rotating plate 1171. At this time, the contact points CP3 and CP4 of the second rotating plate 1172 and the second driving part can be positioned at the edge of the second rotating plate 1172. With this configuration, pitch and tilt can be easily performed.

[0201] The contact points CP3 and CP4 of the second rotating plate 1172 may be points or areas. For example, a point (e.g., the second point CP3) may be positioned on the second virtual line CV2 or on a bisector in the vertical direction of the second rotating plate 1172. In addition, an area (e.g., the second area CP4) may be symmetrically positioned on the second virtual line CV2. With this configuration, the rotation of the rotating part according to the pressing force and the suction force is not concentrated on one side, and the rotating part may be accurately pitched-tilted.

[0202] Fig.14 is a top perspective view of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Fig.15 is a front view of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment with a rotating portion and optical components removed.

[0203] refer to Fig.14 and Fig.15 In the first camera actuator according to the embodiment, the first rotating plate 1171 of the rotating part 1170 can be yaw-tilted by the first driving part 1130. At this time, the first link part, the first connecting part, the first operating part and the first suction part of the first driving part 1130 can move in the third direction (Z axis direction). The first link part, the first connecting part, the first operating part and the first suction part can advance and retract in the third direction (Z axis direction).

[0204] For example, the first link portion, the first connection portion, and the first operating portion may move in a third direction (Z-axis direction) (F1a) and press the rotating portion (F1b). In addition, the first link portion, the first connection portion, and the first operating portion may move in a direction opposite to the third direction (Z-axis direction) while maintaining contact with the rotating portion by the suction of the first suction portion (F1c). Alternatively, a predetermined distance between the first suction portion and the rotating portion may be maintained.

[0205] In the first camera actuator according to the embodiment, the second rotating plate 1172 and the first rotating plate 1171 of the rotating part 1170 can be pitched-tilted by the second driving part 1140. At this time, the second link part, the second connecting part, the second operating part and the second suction part of the second driving part 1140 can move in the third direction (Z axis direction) (F2a). The second link part, the second connecting part, the second operating part and the second suction part can advance and retract in the third direction (Z axis direction).

[0206] For example, the second link portion, the second connection portion, and the second operating portion may move in a third direction (Z axis direction) and press the rotating portion. In addition, the second link portion, the second connection portion, and the second operating portion may move in a direction opposite to the third direction (Z axis direction) while maintaining contact with the rotating portion by the suction of the second suction portion (F2c). Alternatively, a predetermined distance may be maintained.

[0207] In addition, the first hall sensor 1161b may be positioned below the first magnet 1161a. When not moved, the first hall sensor 1161b may be positioned to overlap the first magnet 1161a in the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0208] In addition, the second Hall sensor 1162b may be positioned below the second magnet 1162a. Likewise, when there is no movement, the second Hall sensor 1162b may be positioned to overlap with the second magnet 1162a in the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0209] With this configuration, the first camera actuator according to the embodiment can accurately detect positional movement of the first operation portion and the second operation portion.

[0210] Fig.16a and Fig.16b is a view for describing forward movement of a first driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment, Fig.17a and Fig.17b is a view for describing rearward movement of a first driving portion of a first camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0211] The piezoelectric portion (corresponding to the first piezoelectric portion and the second piezoelectric portion) may expand and contract according to the applied voltage. For example, when the applied voltage increases, the piezoelectric portion may expand (F1aa) (see Fig.16b ), which contracts when the voltage is reduced (F1ab) (see Fig.17b ).

[0212] refer to Fig.16a and Fig.16b , the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric part can be adjusted according to the first driving signal PS1, and the position of the moving part (corresponding to the first moving part and the second moving part) can be changed on the connecting rod part (corresponding to the first connecting rod part and the second connecting rod part).

[0213] For example, when the voltage is applied for a predetermined time (t0 to t1) and the pressing portion and the link portion advance at a predetermined speed or lower, the moving portion may have the same position on the link portion. In other words, the distance d1 between the moving portion and the pressing portion may be maintained.

[0214] However, when the voltage is applied for a predetermined time (t1 to t2) and the pressing portion and the connecting rod portion retract at a speed higher than the predetermined speed, the position of the moving portion may change on the connecting rod portion. The total voltage ST2 applied over time (t1 to t2) may be equal to the total voltage ST1 applied over time (t0 to t1). For example, the magnitude of the voltage over time (t1 to t2) may be greater than the magnitude of the voltage over time (t0 to t1). This may vary depending on the piezoelectric portion. In the following, when a positive (+) voltage is applied to the piezoelectric portion, the length of the piezoelectric portion expands in a third direction (Z-axis direction), and when a negative (-) voltage is applied to the piezoelectric portion, the length of the piezoelectric portion contracts in a third direction (Z-axis direction).

[0215] Therefore, the position of the moving part can be maintained by inertia, and thus, the relative position of the moving part on the link part can be the same as the expansion direction. In other words, the distance between the moving part and the pressing part can be increased (increased from d1 to d2). In other words, finally, although the length of the piezoelectric part is the same by applying the first driving signal PS1, the position between the piezoelectric part and the moving part is also increased, and thus, the operating part and the suction part may move in the third direction.

[0216] The first drive signal PS1 may be repeated several times for a predetermined time. For example, the first drive signal may be applied to the piezoelectric part at 100 times per second. Therefore, one cycle of the first drive signal may allow the first moving part to move in the third direction to press the rotating part and perform yaw tilt.

[0217] refer to Fig.17a and Fig.17b, the expansion and contraction of the piezoelectric part can be adjusted according to the second driving signal PS1', and the position of the moving part (corresponding to the first moving part and the second moving part) can be changed on the connecting rod part (corresponding to the first connecting rod part and the second connecting rod part).

[0218] For example, when the voltage is applied for a predetermined time (t0' to t1'), and the pressing portion and the link portion retract at a predetermined speed or less, the moving portion may have the same position on the link portion. In other words, the distance d3 between the moving portion and the pressing portion may be maintained.

[0219] However, when the voltage is applied for a predetermined time (t1' to t2'), and the pressing portion and the connecting rod portion advance at a speed higher than the predetermined speed, the position of the moving portion may change on the connecting rod portion. The total voltage ST2' applied at time (t1' to t2') may be equal to the total voltage ST1' applied at time (t0' to t1'). For example, the magnitude of the voltage at time (t1' to t2') may be greater than the magnitude of the voltage at time (t0' to t1'). As described above, this may change depending on the piezoelectric portion.

[0220] Therefore, the position of the moving part can be maintained by inertia, and thus, the relative position of the moving part on the connecting rod part can be the same as the expansion direction. In other words, the distance between the moving part and the pressing part can be reduced (from d3 to d4). In other words, finally, although the length of the piezoelectric part is the same by applying the second driving signal PS1', the position between the piezoelectric part and the moving part is also reduced, and thus, the moving part and the suction part may move in the direction opposite to the third direction.

[0221] The second drive signal PS1' may be repeated several times for a predetermined time. For example, the second drive signal may be applied to the piezoelectric part at 100 times per second. Therefore, one cycle of the second drive signal may allow the first moving part to move in the third direction to press the rotating part and perform yaw tilt.

[0222] Fig.18 is a perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, Fig.19 is an exploded perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, Fig. 20 is along Fig.18 The cross-sectional view of the line D-D' in FIG. Fig.21 is along Fig.18 Cross-sectional view along line EE'.

[0223] refer to Figures 18 to 21, the second camera actuator 1200 according to the embodiment may include a lens portion 1220, a second housing 1230, a third driving portion 1250, a base portion (not shown), and a second plate portion 1270. In addition, the second camera actuator 1200 may further include a second shielding can (not shown), an elastic portion (not shown), and a coupling member (not shown). In addition, the second camera actuator 1200 according to the embodiment may further include an image sensor IS.

[0224] A second shielding can (not shown) may be positioned in a region (e.g., the outermost side) of the second camera actuator 1200 and positioned to surround components to be described below (the lens portion 1220, the second housing 1230, the elastic portion (not shown), the third driving portion 1250, the base portion (not shown), the second plate portion 1270, and the image sensor IS).

[0225] The second shielding can (not shown) may block or reduce electromagnetic waves generated from the outside. Therefore, the occurrence of malfunction in the third driving part 1250 may be reduced.

[0226] The lens portion 1220 may be positioned in a second shield can (not shown). The lens portion 1220 may be moved in a third direction (Z-axis direction). Thus, the above-described AF function may be performed.

[0227] Specifically, the lens portion 1220 may include a lens assembly 1221 and a barrel 1222 .

[0228] The lens assembly 1221 may include at least one lens. In addition, a plurality of lens assemblies 1221 may be provided, but hereinafter, the description will be based on one lens assembly.

[0229] The lens assembly 1221 may be coupled to the bobbin 1222 to be moved in a third direction (Z-axis direction) by electromagnetic force generated from a third magnet 1252 a and a fourth magnet 1252 b coupled to the bobbin 1222 .

[0230] The barrel 1222 may include an open area surrounding the lens assembly 1221. In addition, the barrel 1222 may be coupled to the lens assembly 1221 by various methods. In addition, the barrel 1222 may include a groove in its side surface and may be coupled to the third magnet 1252a and the fourth magnet 1252b through the groove. A coupling member or the like may be applied to the groove.

[0231] In addition, the bobbin 1222 may be coupled to an elastic portion (not shown) at its upper end and rear end. Therefore, the bobbin 1222 may be supported by the elastic portion (not shown) to move in the third direction (Z axis direction). In other words, the bobbin 1222 may maintain its position while being held in the third direction (Z axis direction). The elastic portion (not shown) may be formed by a leaf spring.

[0232] The second housing 1230 may be disposed between the lens portion 1220 and a second shielding can (not shown). In addition, the second housing 1230 may be disposed to surround the lens portion 1220.

[0233] A hole may be formed in the side of the second housing 1230. The first coil 1251a and the second coil 1251b may be disposed in the hole. The hole may be positioned to correspond to the groove of the above-mentioned bobbin 1222. Alternatively, the first coil and the second coil may be referred to as a "third coil" and a "fourth coil" to correspond to the magnet.

[0234] The third magnet 1252a may be positioned to face the first coil 1251a. In addition, the second magnet 1252b may be positioned to face the second coil 1251b.

[0235] The elastic part (not shown) may include a first elastic member (not shown) and a second elastic member (not shown). The first elastic member (not shown) may be coupled to the upper surface of the barrel 1222. The second elastic member (not shown) may be coupled to the lower surface of the barrel 1222. In addition, the first elastic member (not shown) and the second elastic member (not shown) may be formed by the above-mentioned leaf spring. In addition, the first elastic member (not shown) and the second elastic member (not shown) may provide elasticity with respect to the movement of the barrel 1222.

[0236] The third driving part 1250 may provide driving forces F3 and F4 for moving the lens part 1220 in the third direction (Z-axis direction). The third driving part 1250 may include a driving coil 1251 and a driving magnet 1252.

[0237] The lens portion 1220 may be moved in a third direction (Z-axis direction) by an electromagnetic force formed between the driving coil 1251 and the driving magnet 1252 .

[0238] The driving coil 1251 may include a first coil 1251a and a second coil 1251b. The first coil 1251a and the second coil 1251b may be disposed in a hole formed in a side portion of the second housing 1230. In addition, the first coil 1251a and the second coil 1251b may be electrically connected to the second plate portion 1270. Therefore, the first coil 1251a and the second coil 1251b may receive current, etc., through the second plate portion 1270.

[0239] The driving magnet 1252 may include a third magnet 1252a and a fourth magnet 1252b. The third magnet 1252a and the fourth magnet 1252b may be disposed in the above-mentioned groove of the bobbin 1222 and positioned to correspond to the first coil 1251a and the second coil 1251b.

[0240] The base portion (not shown) may be positioned between the lens portion 1220 and the image sensor IS. Components such as filters may be fixed to the base portion (not shown). In addition, the base portion (not shown) may be provided to surround the image sensor IS. With this configuration, since the image sensor IS is free of foreign matter, the reliability of the device may be improved.

[0241] In addition, the second camera actuator may be a zoom actuator or an AF actuator. For example, the second camera actuator may support one lens or a plurality of lenses and perform an auto focus function or a zoom function by moving the lens according to a predetermined control signal of the controller.

[0242] In addition, the second camera actuator can be a fixed zoom actuator or a continuous zoom actuator. For example, the second camera actuator can provide movement of the lens assembly 1221.

[0243] In addition, the second camera actuator may be formed by a plurality of lens assemblies. For example, the second camera actuator may include at least one of a first lens assembly (not shown), a second lens assembly (not shown), a third lens assembly (not shown), and a guide pin (not shown). The above description may apply to them. Therefore, the second camera actuator may perform a high magnification zoom function by a driving portion. For example, the first lens assembly (not shown) and the second lens assembly (not shown) may be moving lenses moved by a driving portion and a guide pin (not shown), and the third lens assembly (not shown) may be a fixed lens, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the third lens assembly (not shown) may perform the function of a focuser for imaging light at a specific position, and the first lens assembly (not shown) may be used as a converter for reforming an image formed by the third lens assembly as a focuser at another position. At the same time, the first lens assembly may be in a state where the magnification changes greatly because the distance to the subject or the image distance changes greatly, and the first lens assembly as a converter may play an important role in the focal length or magnification change of the optical system. At the same time, the imaging point of the image formed by the first lens assembly as a converter may be slightly different depending on the position. Thus, the second lens assembly can perform a position compensation function on the image formed by the converter. For example, the second lens assembly can perform the function of a compensator to accurately form an image at the actual position of the image sensor using the imaging point of the image formed by the first lens assembly as a converter.

[0244] The image sensor IS may be positioned inside or outside the second camera actuator. In an embodiment, as shown in the figure, the image sensor IS may be positioned inside the second camera actuator. The image sensor IS may receive light and convert the received light into an electrical signal. In addition, the image sensor IS may have a plurality of pixels in an array form. In addition, the image sensor IS may be positioned on the optical axis.

[0245] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0246] refer to Fig. 22 , the mobile terminal 1500 in the embodiment may include a camera module 1000, a flash module 1530, and an AF device 1510 disposed on a rear surface thereof.

[0247] The camera module 1000 may include an image capturing function and an AF function. For example, the camera module 1000 may include an AF function using an image.

[0248] The camera module 1000 processes image frames of still images or moving images obtained by an image sensor in a capture mode or a video call mode.

[0249] The processed image frame may be displayed on a predetermined display portion and stored in a memory.A camera (not shown) may also be provided on the front surface of the body of the mobile terminal.

[0250] For example, the camera module 1000 may include a first camera module and a second camera module, and OIS may be implemented by the first camera module together with an AF or zoom function.

[0251] The flash module 1530 may include a light emitting device for emitting light therein. The flash module 1530 may be operated by a camera operation of the mobile terminal or a user's control.

[0252] The AF device 1510 may include one of the packages of a surface emitting laser device as a light emitting portion.

[0253] The AF device 1510 may include an AF function using laser. The AF device 1510 may be mainly used under a condition where the AF function of an image using the camera module 1000 is degraded, for example, in an environment where a subject approaches 10 m or less or in a dark environment.

[0254] The AF device 1510 may include a light emitting portion including a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) semiconductor device and a light receiving portion for converting light energy into electric energy, such as a photodiode.

[0255] Fig.23 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0256] For example, Fig.23 1 is an external view of a vehicle including a vehicle driver assistance device to which the camera module 1000 according to an embodiment is applied.

[0257] refer to Fig.23 The vehicle 700 in the embodiment may include wheels 13FL and 13FR rotated by a power source and a predetermined sensor. The sensor may be a camera sensor 2000, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0258] The camera may be a camera sensor to which the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment is applied. The vehicle 700 in the embodiment may collect image information through the camera sensor 2000 for capturing a front image or a surrounding image, use the image information to determine a situation in which a lane line is not recognized, and generate a virtual lane line when the lane line is not recognized.

[0259] For example, the camera sensor 2000 may collect a front image by capturing a view in front of the vehicle 700, and the processor (not shown) may collect image information by analyzing an object included in the front image.

[0260] For example, when an object such as a dividing strip, a curb or a street tree corresponding to a lane line, an adjacent vehicle, a driving obstacle, and an indirect road marking is captured in an image captured by the camera sensor 2000, the processor may detect the object and include the detected object in the image information. At this time, the processor may further supplement the image information by acquiring distance information of the object detected via the camera sensor 2000.

[0261] The image information may be information about an object captured in an image. The camera sensor 2000 may include an image sensor and an image processing module.

[0262] The camera sensor 2000 may process a still image or a moving image obtained by an image sensor such as a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) or a charge coupled device (CCD).

[0263] The image processing module may process a still image or a moving image acquired through an image sensor to extract necessary information, and transmit the extracted information to a processor.

[0264] At this time, the camera sensor 2000 may include a stereo camera to improve the measurement accuracy of the object and further ensure information such as the distance between the vehicle 700 and the object, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0265] Although the above mainly describes the embodiments, these embodiments are only illustrative and do not limit the present invention. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and applications not illustrated above are possible without departing from the essential features of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments can be implemented by modification. In addition, the differences related to these modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A camera actuator, comprising: a support, the support being disposed on the lower portion; a rotating part, the rotating part being arranged in the support; an optical member disposed on the rotating portion; as well as a first driving portion configured to tilt the optical member along a first axis by pressing the rotating portion, and a second driving portion configured to tilt the optical member along a second axis by pressing the rotating portion, Wherein, the rotating part comprises: a first rotating plate, the first rotating plate being disposed inside; a second rotating plate, the second rotating plate being disposed outside the first rotating plate; a fixed plate, the fixed plate being arranged outside the second rotating plate; a first bridge positioned between the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate and corresponding to the first axis; and a second bridge, the second bridge being positioned between the second rotating plate and the fixed plate and corresponding to the second axis, Wherein, the first driving part comprises: a first piezoelectric portion configured to expand and contract in an optical axis direction; a first link portion connected to the first piezoelectric portion; a first moving portion connected to the first link portion; a first operating portion connected to the first moving portion and contacting the first rotating plate; and A first suction portion is disposed adjacent to the first rotating plate and is configured to pull the first rotating plate.

2. The camera actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The first bridge is positioned on a virtual line bisecting the first rotating plate along the second axis.

3. The camera actuator according to claim 2, wherein: The second bridge is positioned on a virtual line bisecting the second rotating plate along the first axis.

4. The camera actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The second driving part comprises: a second piezoelectric portion configured to expand and contract in the optical axis direction; a second link portion connected to the second piezoelectric portion; a second moving portion connected to the second link portion; a second operating portion connected to the second moving portion and contacting the second rotating plate; and A second suction portion is disposed adjacent to the second rotating plate and is configured to pull the second rotating plate.

5. The camera actuator according to claim 4, wherein: The first link portion and the first moving portion move in response to mechanical deformation of the first piezoelectric portion, The second link portion and the second moving portion move in response to mechanical deformation of the second piezoelectric portion, When the first link portion moves at a predetermined speed or higher, the position of the first moving portion changes with respect to the first link portion, and When the second link portion moves at a predetermined speed or more, the position of the second moving portion changes with respect to the second link portion.

6. The camera actuator of claim 5, further comprising a bracket disposed in the mount.

7. The camera actuator according to claim 6, wherein: The support comprises: a bracket support portion, the bracket support portion being disposed on the support; a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion and the second protrusion being positioned on the bracket support portion; and A third protrusion is provided to be spaced apart from the first protrusion and the second protrusion in the optical axis direction.

8. The camera actuator according to claim 7, wherein: The first protrusion includes a first hole, The second protrusion includes a second hole, The third protrusion includes a third hole and a fourth hole, The first hole overlaps with the third hole in the optical axis direction, and The second hole overlaps with the fourth hole in the optical axis direction.

9. The camera actuator according to claim 8, wherein: The first connecting rod portion passes through the second hole and the fourth hole, and The second link portion passes through the first hole and the third hole.

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