Camera actuator and camera module including the camera actuator

Abstract

The camera actuator according to an embodiment includes: a first lens portion disposed within a housing; a first lens barrel disposed inside the housing and below the first lens portion; a second lens barrel disposed inside the housing and below the first lens barrel; a first drive unit internally connected to the first lens barrel to move the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction; and a second drive unit internally connected to the second lens barrel to move the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction. Both the first and second lens barrels include an upper surface, a lower surface, and a side surface, which face the inner upper surface, inner lower surface, and inner side surface of the housing, respectively. The upper surface of the first lens barrel includes a first stepped portion. The lower surface of the second lens barrel includes a second stepped portion. A first distance from the side surface of the second lens barrel to the second stepped portion is different from a second distance from the side surface of the first lens barrel to the first stepped portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments involve camera actuators and camera modules. Background Technology

[0002] Camera modules capture objects and store them as images or videos, and are installed in various devices such as mobile terminals, drones, and vehicles.

[0003] Generally, the aforementioned devices are equipped with a miniature camera module that performs autofocus (AF) by automatically adjusting the distance between the image sensor and the lens to align the lens's focal length. Furthermore, the camera module can use a zoom lens to increase or decrease the magnification of distant objects, thereby performing zoom functions to magnify or reduce their size.

[0004] In addition, recent camera modules employ image stabilization (IS) technology to correct or prevent image instability caused by camera movement due to unstable fixtures or user movement.

[0005] Image stabilization (IS) technologies include optical image stabilization (OIS) and image stabilization prevention technologies using image sensors. OIS corrects motion by altering the path of light, while image stabilization prevention technologies using image sensors compensate for motion mechanically and electronically. Recently, OIS technology has been increasingly adopted.

[0006] Meanwhile, the zoom actuator is used for the zoom function in the camera module. However, when the lens moves due to the mechanical movement of the actuator, frictional torque is generated, which leads to problems such as reduced driving force, increased power consumption, and degraded control characteristics.

[0007] In detail, to achieve the desired optical properties, not only must the multiple lens groups be aligned, but the alignment of the multiple lens groups with the image sensor must also be well matched. However, when the center of the spherical surface between the lens groups deviates from the optical axis, tilts (i.e., lens tilting), or when the central axis of the lens group and the image sensor are not aligned, problems such as deterioration in image quality or resolution will occur due to changes in viewing angle or defocusing.

[0008] Furthermore, when the separation distance in the area where friction occurs is increased to reduce the frictional torque resistance of the lens used for zoom function in the moving camera module, the problem of lens de-centering or lens tilting is aggravated when zooming or zooming in the opposite direction occurs.

[0009] Furthermore, multiple zoom lens groups may have similar or symmetrical shapes. Therefore, when assembling multiple zoom lenses, a problem arises where another zoom lens group with a similar or symmetrical shape is assembled first, instead of the intended zoom lens group. In this case, because the multiple zoom lens groups are arranged in positions different from the intended ones, there is a problem of deteriorated overall optical characteristics or failure to perform drive operation.

[0010] Therefore, a new type of camera module is needed to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Technical issues

[0012] The embodiments provide a camera actuator and camera module with improved optical properties.

[0013] In addition, this embodiment provides a camera actuator and camera module capable of autofocus and high-magnification zoom.

[0014] In addition, this embodiment provides a camera actuator and a camera module to prevent problems such as eccentricity, tilting and friction that may occur when the lens group moves.

[0015] In addition, this embodiment provides a camera actuator and a camera module, which can improve processing efficiency.

[0016] Technical solution

[0017] According to one embodiment of the camera actuator, a first lens unit is disposed in a housing; a first lens barrel is disposed in the housing and below the first lens unit; a second lens barrel is disposed in the housing and below the first lens barrel; a first drive unit is connected to the first lens barrel in the housing and moves the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction; and a second drive unit is connected to the second lens barrel in the housing and moves the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction, wherein both the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel include an upper surface, a lower surface, and a side surface, the upper surface, the lower surface, and the side surface facing the inner upper surface, the inner lower surface, and the inner side surface of the housing, respectively; wherein the upper surface of the first lens barrel includes a first step portion; wherein the lower surface of the second lens barrel includes a second step portion; and wherein a first distance from one side surface of the second lens barrel to the second step portion is different from a second distance from one side surface of the first lens barrel to the first step portion.

[0018] Furthermore, the first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0019] In addition, the housing includes a guide claw disposed on the inner lower surface of the housing, wherein the guide claw extends along the optical axis and is disposed in the region corresponding to the second step portion.

[0020] In addition, the housing includes: a first housing, in which a first lens unit is disposed; and a second housing, located below the first housing, in which a first lens barrel and a second lens barrel are disposed.

[0021] Furthermore, the length of the guide claw relative to the optical axis is less than or equal to the length of the inner lower surface of the second housing.

[0022] Furthermore, the first lens barrel includes: a first lens barrel portion including a second lens unit; a first guide portion extending outward from the first lens barrel portion; and a first elastic portion connected to the first drive unit, wherein the second lens barrel includes: a second lens barrel portion including a third lens unit; a second guide portion extending outward from the second lens barrel portion; and a second elastic portion connected to the second drive unit.

[0023] Furthermore, the first drive unit includes: a first piezoelectric device disposed in the housing; and a first extension rod extending from the first piezoelectric device along the optical axis direction, wherein the second drive unit includes: a second piezoelectric device disposed in the housing; and a second extension rod extending from the second piezoelectric device along the optical axis direction, wherein a region of the first extension rod is connected to a first elastic portion, and wherein a region of the second extension rod is connected to a second elastic portion.

[0024] In addition, the camera actuator also includes a first pin and a second pin extending along the optical axis and spaced apart from each other within the housing, wherein the first pin is configured to be inserted into a first insertion hole of the first lens barrel, wherein the second pin is configured to be inserted into a second insertion hole of the second lens barrel, wherein the first lens barrel moves along the first pin, and wherein the second lens barrel moves along the second pin.

[0025] In addition, the first lens barrel also includes a first guide groove, and a second pin is disposed in the first guide groove. The second lens barrel also includes a second guide groove, and a first pin is disposed in the second guide groove. Both the first guide groove and the second guide groove have an opening shape on one side.

[0026] In addition, the camera actuator also includes: a first magnetic scaler disposed on the lower surface of the first lens barrel; a first sensing unit disposed adjacent to the first magnetic scaler; a second magnetic scaler disposed on the upper surface of the second lens barrel; and a second sensing unit disposed adjacent to the second magnetic scaler.

[0027] Furthermore, the camera actuator according to this embodiment includes: a housing; a first lens unit disposed in the housing; a first lens barrel disposed in the housing and below the first lens unit; a second lens barrel disposed in the housing and below the first lens barrel; a first drive unit connected to the first lens barrel in the housing and moving the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction; and a second drive unit connected to the second lens barrel in the housing and moving the second lens barrel in the optical axis direction, wherein the housing includes an inner lower surface facing the lower surface of each of the first and second lens barrels, wherein a guide claw is disposed on the inner lower surface of the housing and protrudes in the direction of the inner upper surface, and wherein the guide claw is disposed in a region that overlaps with the second lens barrel but not with the first lens barrel.

[0028] Furthermore, the lower surface of the second lens barrel includes: a first stage lower surface; a second stage lower surface; disposed above the first stage lower surface; and a second step portion connecting the first stage lower surface and the second stage lower surface, wherein a guide claw is disposed in the region corresponding to the second stage lower surface.

[0029] In addition, the upper surface of the guide claw is located above the lower surface of the first stage.

[0030] In addition, the upper surface of the first lens barrel includes: a first stage upper surface; a second stage upper surface disposed below the first stage upper surface; and a first step portion connected between the first stage upper surface and the second stage upper surface.

[0031] Furthermore, the first distance from one side of the second lens tube to the second step portion is different from the second distance from one side of the first lens tube to the first step portion.

[0032] Furthermore, the first distance can be longer than the second distance.

[0033] Furthermore, the camera module according to this embodiment includes a first camera actuator and a second camera actuator, wherein the first camera actuator performs autofocus or zoom functions, and the second camera actuator performs OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) functions.

[0034] In addition, light incident on the camera module from the outside is incident on the first camera actuator through the second camera actuator.

[0035] Beneficial effects

[0036] The camera actuator and camera module according to this embodiment can have improved optical characteristics. Specifically, the camera actuator and camera module according to the embodiment include a drive unit for moving a lens group including a piezoelectric device. The lens group can be more precisely controlled by the drive unit, and friction generated when the lens group moves can be minimized. Therefore, this embodiment can provide further improved autofocus and zoom capabilities.

[0037] Furthermore, the camera actuator and camera module according to this embodiment can improve processing efficiency. Specifically, the camera actuator and camera module according to the embodiment include a housing that accommodates multiple lens groups (e.g., multiple lens barrels), and a guide claw can be disposed on the inner lower surface of the housing facing the lens barrels. In this case, the guide claw can have a position and a corresponding distance corresponding to a pre-positioned lens barrel among the multiple lens barrels, thereby preventing the placement of unpositioned lens barrels. Therefore, pre-positioned lens barrels can be effectively arranged in designated positions, and other lens barrels can be prevented from being misplaced. Therefore, this embodiment can reduce defects caused by mispositioning of multiple lens barrels and can improve processing efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0041] Figure 4 This is a front view of a camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a first drive unit and a second drive unit disposed in the housing of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0043] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of a first driving unit according to an embodiment.

[0044] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view of the second drive unit according to an embodiment.

[0045] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a portion of the camera actuator according to this embodiment.

[0046] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the housing according to this embodiment.

[0047] Figure 10This is a front view of the second housing according to one embodiment.

[0048] Figure 11 This is a front view of a second drive unit disposed in a second housing according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a front view of a first drive unit and a second drive unit disposed in a second housing according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 13 This is a view showing a first drive unit and a second drive unit according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0052] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment, in which some components are omitted.

[0053] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view of a second camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0054] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the third drive unit of a second camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0055] Figure 18 This is a view of the third housing of a second camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0056] Figure 19 and Figure 20 This is a view of the prism unit of a second camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0057] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of a mobile terminal using a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0058] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of a vehicle using a camera module according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0059] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] However, the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to this embodiment and can be implemented in various other forms. Furthermore, within the spirit and scope of the present invention, one or more elements of this embodiment may be selectively combined and substituted.

[0061] Furthermore, unless otherwise explicitly defined and stated, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention are to be interpreted as having the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains, and terms defined in common dictionaries are to be interpreted as having the same meaning as in the relevant field context.

[0062] Furthermore, the terminology used in the embodiments of the present invention is for describing embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, the singular form may also include the plural form unless specifically stated in the phrase, and when described in “at least one (or more) of A, B, and C,” it may include at least one of all possible combinations of A, B, and C.

[0063] Furthermore, in describing the elements of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are used only to distinguish an element from other elements, and these terms are not limited to the nature, order, or sequence of the elements. Moreover, when an element is described as "connected," "linked," or "attached" to another element, this can include not only when the element is directly "connected," "linked," or "attached" to other elements, but also when the element is "connected," "linked," or "attached" through another element between the element and other elements.

[0064] Furthermore, when described as being formed or disposed "above" or "below" in each element, "above" or "below" can include not only when two elements are directly connected to each other, but also when one or more other elements are formed or disposed between two elements. Additionally, when expressed as "above" or "below," it can include not only the upward direction based on a single element, but also the downward direction.

[0065] The optical axis direction used below can be defined as the optical axis direction of the lens connected to the camera actuator and the camera module, and the vertical direction can be defined as the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0066] The autofocus function used below can be defined as the function of automatically focusing on the object by adjusting the distance from the image sensor by moving the lens in the optical axis direction according to the distance of the object, so that the image sensor can obtain a clear image of the object.

[0067] Meanwhile, autofocus can be referred to as autofocus (AF). In addition, closed-loop autofocus (CLAF) control can be defined as real-time feedback control of the lens position by sensing the distance between the image sensor and the lens to improve the accuracy of focus adjustment.

[0068] Furthermore, before describing embodiments of the present invention, the first direction may refer to the x-axis direction shown in the figure, and the second direction may be a direction different from the first direction. For example, the second direction may represent the y-axis direction perpendicular to the first direction shown in the figure. Additionally, a third direction may be different from the first and second directions. For example, a third direction may refer to the z-axis direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions shown in the figure. Here, the third direction may refer to the optical axis direction.

[0069] The configuration of the camera module according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to one embodiment. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of a camera actuator according to one embodiment. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a camera actuator according to one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a front view of a camera actuator according to one embodiment. Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing a first drive unit and a second drive unit disposed in the housing of a camera actuator according to an embodiment. Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of a first driving unit according to an embodiment. Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view of the second driving unit according to one embodiment. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a portion of a camera actuator according to one embodiment.

[0071] refer to Figures 1 to 8 According to this embodiment, the camera actuator 1000 may include a housing 100, a first lens unit 105, a first lens barrel 200, a first drive unit 300, a second lens barrel 400, and a second drive unit 500.

[0072] The housing 100 can form the exterior of the camera actuator 1000. The housing 100 can have open upper and lower partial regions and can have a hexahedral shape.

[0073] The housing 100 may include a receiving space therein. The first lens barrel 200, the first drive unit 300, the second lens barrel 400, and the second drive unit 500 may be accommodated in the receiving space of the housing 100.

[0074] The housing 100 may include a first housing 110 and a second housing 120.

[0075] The first housing 110 may include a first hole 111. The first hole 111 may be formed on one side of the first housing 110. The first hole 111 may be a hollow hole that passes through the exterior and interior of the first housing 110.

[0076] The first housing 110 may further include a second hole 112 and a third hole 113. The second hole 112 and the third hole 113 may be located on one side of the first housing 110. The second hole 112 and the third hole 113 may be hollow holes passing through the exterior and interior of the first housing 110. The second hole 112 and the third hole 113 may be spaced apart from the first hole 111. Specifically, the first hole 111 may be located between the second hole 112 and the third hole 113. The first hole 111 may be spaced at intervals equal to those between the second hole 112 and the third hole 113.

[0077] The second hole 112 may include a plurality of protrusions extending from the inner circumference of the second hole 112 toward the center of the second hole 112. For example, the plurality of protrusions may include a first protrusion 112a disposed at the upper end of the second hole 112 in the optical axis direction and a second protrusion 112b disposed at the lower end of the second hole 112.

[0078] In detail, the first protrusion 112a may include a plurality of primary protrusions (not shown) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of primary protrusions may be arranged at equal intervals from the center of the second hole 112 along a concentric circle. Furthermore, the second protrusion 112b may be spaced apart from the first protrusion 112a in the optical axis direction. The second protrusion 112b may be disposed below the first protrusion 112a. The second protrusion 112b may include a plurality of secondary protrusions (not shown) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of secondary protrusions may be arranged at equal intervals from the center of the second hole 112 along a concentric circle. The first protrusion 112a and the second protrusion 112b may provide space in which a portion of the first drive unit 300 (e.g., the first buffer member 321), described later, is disposed.

[0079] The third hole 113 may include a plurality of protrusions extending from the inner circumference of the third hole 113 toward the center of the third hole 113. The plurality of protrusions may include a third protrusion 113a disposed at the upper end of the third hole 113 relative to the optical axis and a fourth protrusion 113b disposed at the lower end of the second hole 112.

[0080] The third protrusion 113a may include a plurality of third-level protrusions (shown) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of third-level protrusions may be arranged at equal intervals from the center of the third hole 113 along a concentric circle. Furthermore, the fourth protrusion 113b may be spaced apart from the third protrusion 113a in the optical axis direction. The fourth protrusion 113b may include a plurality of fourth-level protrusions (not shown) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of fourth-level protrusions may be arranged at equal intervals from the center of the third hole 113 along a concentric circle. The third protrusion 113a and the fourth protrusion 113b may provide space in which a portion of the second drive unit 500 (e.g., the third buffer member 521), described later, is disposed.

[0081] The second housing 120 may be disposed below the first housing 110. Specifically, the second housing 120 may be disposed below the first housing 110 in a third direction (z-axis, optical axis direction). The second housing 120 may be positioned closer to the image sensor 900, which will be described later, than the first housing 110. The first lens barrel 200, the first drive unit 300, the second lens barrel 400, and the second drive unit 500 may be disposed within the second housing 120.

[0082] The second housing 120 may be coupled to the first housing 110. For example, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 may be coupled by a separate fastening member (not shown), such as a screw. Alternatively, the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 may be coupled to each other by physical coupling of coupling claws and coupling grooves formed therein, respectively.

[0083] The first lens unit 105 is disposed in the housing 100 and may include at least one lens. For example, the first lens unit 105 may be disposed in the first housing 110. More specifically, the first lens unit 105 may be disposed in the first hole 111 of the first housing 110. For example, the first lens unit 105 may be connected to the first housing 110 by means of a thread formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first hole 111.

[0084] The first lens barrel 200 can be disposed within the housing 100. The first lens barrel 200 can also be disposed within the second housing 120. The first lens barrel 200 can be disposed below the first lens unit 105. For example, the first lens barrel 200 can be disposed below the first lens unit 105 along the optical axis and can be closer to the image sensor 900 than the first lens unit 105. The first lens barrel 200 can be connected to the first drive unit 300. The first lens barrel 200 can move within the housing 100 via the first drive unit 300. Specifically, the first lens barrel 200 can move along the optical axis via the first drive unit 300.

[0085] The first lens barrel 200 may include a first lens barrel portion 210, a second lens unit 205, a first guide portion 220, and a first elastic portion 230.

[0086] The first lens barrel portion 210 can be disposed in the region overlapping with the optical axis and can have an opening shape on one surface and another surface. For example, the first lens barrel portion 210 can have a cylindrical shape, with one surface and another surface being open.

[0087] The first lens barrel portion 210 may include a first through hole 211. The first through hole 211 may be a through hole passing through one surface and another surface of the first lens barrel portion 210. Here, one surface of the first lens barrel portion 210 may be the surface facing the first lens unit 105, and the other surface may be the surface opposite to the first surface and facing the image sensor 900.

[0088] The second lens unit 205 can be disposed on the first lens barrel portion 210. More specifically, the second lens unit 205 can be disposed in the first through hole 211. For example, a thread can be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first through hole 211, and the second lens unit 205 can be connected to the first lens barrel portion 210 by the thread.

[0089] The second lens unit 205 may include at least one lens. The second lens unit 205 can perform a zoom function. The second lens unit 205 can move in the optical axis direction. Specifically, the second lens unit 205 can move relative to the first lens unit 105 in the optical axis direction.

[0090] The first guide portion 220 may extend outward from the first lens barrel portion 210. For example, the first guide portion 220 may extend from the first lens barrel portion 210 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, such as extending in a first direction (x-axis direction).

[0091] The first guide portion 220 may include a first upper surface 221, a first side surface 222, and a first lower surface 223.

[0092] The first upper surface 221 may face the inner upper surface 122 of the housing 100, which will be described later. The first upper surface 221 may also face the inner upper surface 122 of the housing 100 in a second direction (y-axis direction). The first upper surface 221 may include a plurality of secondary upper surfaces. Specifically, the first upper surface 221 may include a first-level upper surface 221a and a second-level upper surface 221b that is positioned lower than the first-level upper surface 221a in the second direction (y-axis direction). That is, the second-level upper surface 221b may be positioned closer to the first lower surface 223 than the first-level upper surface 221a. At least one first fastening protrusion (not shown) may be provided on the second-level upper surface 221b. The first fastening protrusion may have a shape that protrudes upward on the second-level upper surface 221b. The first fastening protrusion may be inserted into a first retaining groove (not shown) formed in the first elastic portion 230, which will be described later.

[0093] Additionally, the first upper surface 221 may include a first stepped surface 225 disposed between the first-stage upper surface 221a and the second-stage upper surface 221b. The first stepped surface 225 may connect to both ends of the first-stage upper surface 221a and the second-stage upper surface 221b. The first stepped surface 225 may be defined as a first stepped portion 225. That is, the first upper surface 221 may include the first-stage upper surface 221a, the second-stage upper surface 221b, and the first stepped portion 225, and may have a stepped structure.

[0094] The first lower surface 223 may face the inner lower surface 121 of the housing 100, which will be described later. A first groove 2231 may be provided on the first lower surface 223. The first groove 2231 may be concave in the direction from the first lower surface 223 to the first upper surface 221. A first magnetic calibrator 610, which will be described later, may be provided in the first groove 2231.

[0095] Furthermore, a second groove 2232 may be provided on the first lower surface 223. The second groove 2232 may be spaced apart from the first groove 2231. The second groove 2232 may be provided in the edge region of the first lower surface 223. The second groove 2232 may provide an area for a portion of the first elastic portion 230 to be disposed, a portion of which will be described later. In detail, the second groove 2232 may provide an area for mounting and securing the first elastic portion 230.

[0096] A first side surface 222 may be disposed between a first upper surface 221 and a first lower surface 223. More specifically, the first side surface 222 may be a surface that connects the first upper surface 221 and the first lower surface 223 together. More specifically, the first side surface 222 may be a surface that connects a second upper surface 221b and a first lower surface 223 together. The first side surface 222 may face the second inner surface 124 of the second housing 120, which will be described later.

[0097] A first recess 2221 may be provided on a first side surface 222. The first recess 2221 may be concave in the direction from the first side surface 222 to the first lens barrel portion 210. Furthermore, the first recess 2221 may have a groove shape extending in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction). When viewed from the front, the first recess 2221 may have a V-shape.

[0098] The first guide portion 220 may include a first insertion hole 220h1. The first insertion hole 220h1 may be a hole passing through one surface and another surface of the first guide portion 220. Here, one surface of the first guide portion 220 may be the surface facing the first lens unit 105, and the other surface may be the surface opposite to the first surface and facing the image sensor 900.

[0099] The first pin 250 can be disposed in the first insertion hole 220h1. The first pin 250 can be configured to pass through the first insertion hole 220h1. The first pin 250 has a shape extending in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction) and can have a longer optical axis length than the first lens barrel 200. The first pin 250 can be coupled to at least one of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. The first lens barrel 200 can move the first pin 250 as a moving axis in the optical axis direction. Thus, the second lens unit 205 disposed in the first lens barrel 200 can perform zoom function and / or autofocus function.

[0100] The first elastic portion 230 may be disposed on the first guide portion 220. For example, the first elastic portion 230 may be disposed on the first upper surface 221, the first lower surface 223, and the first side surface 222 of the first guide portion 220. The first elastic portion 230 may be connected to the first guide portion 220.

[0101] The first elastic portion 230 may include a first elastic member 231 and a second elastic member 232.

[0102] The first elastic member 231 can be connected to the first guide portion 220. The first elastic member 231 can be disposed at a predetermined position on the first side surface 222.

[0103] The first elastic member 231 may have a shape corresponding to the first side surface 222. For example, the first elastic member 231 may include a first region 231a, a second region 231b, and a third region 231c.

[0104] The first region 231a and the second region 231b may be disposed on the first side surface 222 of the first guide portion 220 and may be spaced apart from each other. The first region 231a and the second region 231b may be disposed on the area of ​​the first side surface 222 where the first recess 2221 is not disposed.

[0105] The third region 231c can be disposed between the first region 231a and the second region 231b to connect the two regions 231a and 231b. The third region 231c can be disposed in the region corresponding to the first recess 2221. The third region 231c can have a V-shape corresponding to the first recess 2221.

[0106] The second elastic member 232 may be disposed on the first guide portion 220. The second elastic member 232 may be connected to the first guide portion 220.

[0107] The second elastic member 232 may include a fourth region 232a, a fifth region 232b, and a sixth region 232c.

[0108] A fourth region 232a may be disposed on the first upper surface 221 of the first guide portion 220. More specifically, the fourth region 232a may be disposed on the second upper surface 221b of the first guide portion 220. The fourth region may include a first retaining groove (not shown). The first retaining groove may be disposed in the region corresponding to the first fastening protrusion and may have a shape corresponding to the first fastening protrusion.

[0109] The fifth region 232b may be connected to the fourth region 232a. For example, the fifth region 232b may be bent at one end of the fourth region 232a and disposed on the first side surface 222 of the first guide portion 220. The fifth region 232b may be disposed on the first elastic member 231. The fifth region 232b may be parallel to the first region 231a and the second region 231b. The fifth region 232b may be configured to cover the first elastic member 231.

[0110] The sixth region 232c can be connected to the fifth region 232b. For example, the sixth region 232c can be bent at one end of the fifth region and disposed on the first lower surface 223 of the first guide portion 220. A portion of the sixth region 232c can be inserted into a second groove 2232 disposed on the first lower surface 223.

[0111] In other words, when the first fixing groove formed in the fourth region 232a engages with the first fastening protrusion, the second elastic member 232 can be physically connected to the first guide portion 220, and the sixth region 232c is inserted into the second groove 2232. Therefore, the first elastic portion 230 can remain firmly connected to the first guide portion 220.

[0112] Furthermore, the first lens barrel 200 may also include a first guide groove (210h1). The first guide groove 210h1 may be disposed in a region extending outward from the first lens barrel portion 210. The first guide groove 210h1 may be disposed in a region corresponding to the second pin 450, which will be described later. The first guide groove 210h1 provides space for the second pin 450 to be inserted therein. The first lens barrel 200 can be moved in the optical axis direction via the first pin 250 and the second pin 450. In this case, the first guide groove 210h1 may have an open shape on one side. For example, the first guide groove 210h1 may have an open shape on the side facing the first inner surface of the housing 100. Therefore, friction and vibration generated when the first lens barrel 200 is moved by the first drive unit 300 can be minimized.

[0113] The camera actuator 1000 may include a first drive unit 300. The first drive unit 300 may be disposed in the housing 100. The first drive unit 300 may be coupled to the first lens barrel 200. The first drive unit 300 may move the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction).

[0114] The first drive unit 300 may include a first piezoelectric device 310, a first extension rod 320, a first buffer member 321, and a second buffer member 322.

[0115] The first piezoelectric device 310 may include a piezoelectric device. For example, the first piezoelectric device 310 may include a material that undergoes mechanical deformation by an applied voltage. The first piezoelectric device 310 may contract or expand by an applied voltage and may cause mechanical deformation in a predetermined direction. For example, the first piezoelectric device 310 may generate vibration while simultaneously causing mechanical deformation in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction) by an applied voltage.

[0116] The first piezoelectric device 310 may include a first disc portion 311 and a first protrusion 512. The first disc portion 311 may have a plate-like shape and may be disposed on the second hole 112. For example, the first disc portion 311 may be disposed on the first protrusion 112a of the second hole 112. More specifically, the first disc portion 311 may be disposed on a plurality of first protrusions. The first protrusion 112a may support the first disc portion 311.

[0117] The first protrusion 512 may be disposed below the first disk portion 311. Specifically, the first protrusion 512 may be disposed below the first disk portion 311 in a third direction (z-axis direction) and may be connected to the first disk portion 311. A portion of the first protrusion 512 may be disposed in the second hole 112. The first protrusion 512 may have a shape protruding toward the image sensor 900. The width of the first protrusion 512 (x-axis, y-axis direction) may vary toward the optical axis direction. For example, the width of the first protrusion 512 may decrease as it approaches the image sensor 900.

[0118] The first extension rod 320 can extend along the optical axis. The first extension rod 320 can be arranged parallel to the optical axis and can be connected to the first piezoelectric device 310. For example, the upper end of the first extension rod 320 can be connected to the first protrusion 512. In addition, the lower end of the first extension rod 320 can be inserted into the lower end of the housing 100 (for example, a fourth hole (not shown) formed at the lower end of the second housing 120).

[0119] Furthermore, a region of the first extension rod 320 may be connected to the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first extension rod 320 may be connected to the first lens barrel 200 via the first elastic portion 230. More specifically, the first extension rod 320 may be disposed between the first elastic member 231 and the second elastic member 232. More specifically, the first extension rod 320 may be disposed between the third region 231c of the first elastic member 231 and the fifth region 232b of the second elastic member 232. The first extension rod 320 may be fixed by the elastic force of the first elastic member 231 and the second elastic member 232.

[0120] The first extension rod 320 can transmit the vibration generated by the first piezoelectric device 310 to the first lens barrel 200. The first lens barrel 200 can move up or down (z-axis direction, optical axis direction) according to the vibration direction of the first extension rod 320. As a result, the second lens unit 205 in the first lens barrel 200 can move to perform a zoom function of magnification or reduction.

[0121] The first buffer member 321 may be disposed on the first extension rod 320. The first buffer member 321 may be disposed on the upper region of the first extension rod 320. The first buffer member 321 may be disposed in the second hole 112 of the housing 100. For example, the first buffer member 321 may be disposed between the first protrusion 112a and the second protrusion 112b of the second hole 112. The first buffer member 321 may be fixed to the position defined by the first protrusion 112a and the second protrusion 112b. Furthermore, the first buffer member 321 may include a through hole into which the first extension rod 320 is inserted.

[0122] The second buffer member 322 may be disposed on the first extension rod 320. The second buffer member 322 may be disposed in the lower region of the first extension rod 320. The second buffer member 322 may be spaced apart from the first buffer member 321 in the optical axis direction. The second buffer member 322 may be disposed in a fourth hole (not shown) of the housing 100. The second buffer member 322 may be configured to be inserted into the fourth hole. The second buffer member 322 may include a through hole into which the first extension rod 320 is inserted.

[0123] The first buffer member 321 and the second buffer member 322 can prevent noise caused by the vibration of the first extension rod 320. In addition, the first buffer member 321 and the second buffer member 322 can prevent the first extension rod 320 from being deformed or damaged due to external impact.

[0124] The second lens barrel 400 can be disposed within the housing 100. The second lens barrel 400 can also be disposed within the second housing 120. The second lens barrel 400 can be disposed below the first lens barrel 200. For example, the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed below the first lens barrel 200 along the optical axis and can be closer to the image sensor 900 than the first lens barrel 200. The second lens barrel 400 can be connected to the second drive unit 500. The second lens barrel 400 can move within the housing 100 via the second drive unit 500. Specifically, the second lens barrel 400 can move along the optical axis via the second drive unit 500.

[0125] The second lens barrel 400 may include a second lens barrel portion 410, a third lens unit 405, a second guide portion 420, and a second elastic portion 430.

[0126] The second lens barrel portion 410 is disposed in the region overlapping with the optical axis and may have an open shape on one side and the other side. For example, the second lens barrel portion 410 may have a cylindrical shape, with one surface and the other surface being open.

[0127] The second lens barrel portion 410 may include a second through hole 411. The second through hole 411 may be a through hole passing through one surface and another surface of the second lens barrel portion 410. Here, one surface of the second lens barrel portion 410 may be the surface facing the first lens barrel 200, while the other surface may be the surface opposite to that surface and facing the image sensor 900.

[0128] The third lens unit 405 may be disposed on the second lens barrel portion 410. More specifically, the third lens unit 405 may be disposed in the second through hole 411. For example, a thread may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second through hole 411, and the third lens unit 405 may be threadedly connected to the second lens barrel portion 410.

[0129] The third lens unit 405 may include at least one lens. The third lens unit 405 can perform an autofocus function. The third lens unit 405 can move in the optical axis direction. Specifically, the third lens unit 405 can move relative to the first lens unit 105 in the optical axis direction. The third lens unit 405 can move separately from the second lens unit 205. Furthermore, the distance by which the third lens unit 405 can move in the optical axis direction may be the same as or different from that of the second lens unit 205.

[0130] The second guide portion 420 may extend outward from the second lens barrel portion 410. For example, the second guide portion 420 may extend from the second lens barrel portion 410 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, such as along a first direction (x-axis direction). In this case, the second guide portion 420 may extend in a direction opposite to the first guide portion 220. For example, the first guide portion 220 may extend from the first lens barrel portion 210 in the +x-axis direction, and the second guide portion 420 may extend from the second lens barrel portion 410 in the -x-axis direction.

[0131] The second guide portion 420 may include a second lower surface 421, a second side surface 422, and a second upper surface 423.

[0132] The second upper surface 423 may face the inner upper surface 122 of the housing 100. The second upper surface 423 may face the inner upper surface 122 of the housing 100 in a second direction (y-axis direction). A third groove 4231 may be provided on the second upper surface 423. The third groove 4231 may be concave in the direction from the second upper surface 423 to the second lower surface 421. The second magnetic calibrator 620, described later, may be provided in the third groove 4231.

[0133] Furthermore, a fourth groove 4232 may be provided on the second upper surface 423. The fourth groove 4232 may be spaced apart from the third groove 4231. The fourth groove 4232 may be provided in the edge region of the second upper surface 423. The fourth groove 4232 may provide an area for mounting a portion of the second resilient portion 430 (described later). In detail, the fourth groove 4232 may provide an area for mounting and securing the second resilient portion 430.

[0134] The second lower surface 421 may face the inner lower surface 121 of the housing 100. The second lower surface 421 may face the inner lower surface 121 of the housing 100 in a second direction (y-axis direction). The second lower surface 421 may include a plurality of secondary lower surfaces. Specifically, the second lower surface 421 may include a first-level lower surface 421a and a second-level lower surface 421b disposed above the first-level lower surface 421a in the second direction (y-axis direction). That is, the second-level lower surface 421b may be configured to be closer to the second upper surface 423 than the first-level lower surface 421a. At least one second fastening protrusion (not shown) may be provided on the second-level lower surface 421b. The second fastening protrusion may have a shape that protrudes downward from the second-level lower surface 421b. The second fastening protrusion may be inserted into a second retaining groove (not shown) formed in the second elastic portion 430, which will be described later.

[0135] Furthermore, the second lower surface 421 may include a second stepped surface 425 disposed between the first lower surface 421a and the second lower surface 421b. The second stepped surface 425 may connect to both ends of the first lower surface 421a and the second lower surface 421b. The second stepped surface 425 may be defined as a second stepped portion 425. That is, the second lower surface 421 may include the first lower surface 421a, the second lower surface 421b, and the second stepped portion 425, and may have a stepped structure.

[0136] The second side surface 422 may be disposed between the second upper surface 423 and the second lower surface 421. More specifically, the second side surface 422 may be a surface that connects the second upper surface 423 and the second lower surface 421. More specifically, the second side surface 422 may be a surface that connects the second lower surface 421b and the second upper surface 423. The second side surface 422 may face the first inner surface 123 of the second housing 120, which will be described later.

[0137] The second recess 4221 may be provided on the second side surface 422. The second recess 4221 may have a concave shape extending from the second side surface 422 toward the second lens barrel portion 410. Furthermore, the second recess 4221 may have a groove shape extending in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction). When viewed from the front, the second recess 4221 may have a V-shape.

[0138] The second guide portion 420 may include a second insertion hole 420h1. The second insertion hole 420h1 may be a hole passing through one surface and another surface of the second guide portion 420. Here, one surface of the second guide portion 420 may be the surface facing the first lens barrel 200, and the other surface may be the surface opposite to the first surface and facing the image sensor 900.

[0139] The second pin 450 can be disposed in the second insertion hole 420h1. The second pin 450 can be configured to pass through the second insertion hole 420h1. The second pin 450 can have a shape extending in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction). The second pin 450 can be spaced apart from the first pin 250 and can be parallel to the first pin 250. The length of the second pin 450 in the optical axis direction can be longer than the length of the second lens barrel 400. The second pin 450 can be connected to at least one of the first housing 110 and the second housing 120. The second lens barrel 400 can move the second pin 450 in the optical axis direction as a moving axis. Thus, the third lens unit 405 disposed in the second lens barrel 400 can perform zoom function and / or autofocus function.

[0140] The second elastic portion 430 may be disposed on the second guide portion 420. For example, the second elastic portion 430 may be disposed on the second upper surface 423, the second lower surface 421, and the second side surface 422 of the second guide portion 420. The second elastic portion 430 may be connected to the second guide portion 420.

[0141] The second elastic portion 430 may include a third elastic member 431 and a fourth elastic member 432.

[0142] The third elastic member 431 can be connected to the second guide portion 420. The third elastic member 431 can be disposed at a predetermined position on the second side surface 422.

[0143] The third elastic member 431 may have a shape corresponding to the second side surface 422. For example, the third elastic member 431 may include a seventh region 431a, an eighth region 431b, and a ninth region 431c.

[0144] The seventh region 431a and the eighth region 431b may be disposed on the second side surface 422 of the second guide portion 420 and may be spaced apart from each other. The seventh region 431a and the eighth region 431b may be disposed on the area of ​​the second side surface 422 where the second recess 4221 is not disposed.

[0145] The ninth region 431c can be disposed between the seventh region 431a and the eighth region 432b to connect the two regions 431a and 431b. The ninth region 431c can be disposed in the region corresponding to the second recess 4221. The ninth region 431c can have a V-shape corresponding to the second recess 4221.

[0146] The fourth elastic member 432 may be disposed on the second guide portion 420. The fourth elastic member 432 may be connected to the second guide portion 420.

[0147] The fourth elastic member 432 may include a tenth region 432a, an eleventh region 432b, and a twelfth region 432c.

[0148] The tenth region 432a may be disposed on the second lower surface 421 of the second guide portion 420. More specifically, the tenth region 432a may be disposed on the second lower surface 421b of the second guide portion 420. The tenth region 432a may include a second retaining groove (not shown). The second retaining groove may be disposed in a region corresponding to the second fastening protrusion and may have a shape corresponding to the second fastening protrusion.

[0149] Eleventh region 432b may be connected to tenth region 432a. For example, eleventh region 432b may be bent at one end of tenth region 432a and disposed on the second side surface 422 of second guide portion 420. Eleventh region 432b may be disposed on third elastic member 431. Eleventh region 432b may be parallel to seventh region 431a and eighth region 431b. Eleventh region 432b may be configured to cover third elastic member 431.

[0150] The twelfth region 432c can be connected to the eleventh region 432b. For example, the twelfth region 432c can be bent at one end of the eleventh region and disposed on the second upper surface 423 of the second guide portion 420. A portion of the twelfth region 432c can be inserted into a second groove 2232 disposed on the second upper surface 423.

[0151] In other words, when the twelfth region 432c is inserted into the fourth groove 4232, the fourth elastic member 432 can be physically connected to the second guide 420, and at the same time, the second fixing groove formed in the seventh region 431a is connected to the second fastening protrusion.

[0152] Furthermore, the second lens barrel 400 may also include a second guide groove 410h1. The second guide groove 410h1 may be disposed in a region extending outward from the second lens barrel portion 410. The second guide groove 410h1 may be disposed in a region corresponding to the first pin 250. The second guide groove 410h1 provides space for the first pin 250 to be inserted therein. The second lens barrel 400 can move in the optical axis direction via the first pin 250 and the second pin 450. In this case, the second guide groove 410h1 may have an open shape on one side. For example, the second guide groove 410h1 may have an open side facing the second inner surface of the housing 100. Therefore, friction and vibration generated when the second lens barrel 400 is moved by the second drive unit 500 can be minimized.

[0153] The camera actuator 1000 may include a second drive unit 500. The second drive unit 500 may be disposed in the housing 100. The second drive unit 500 may be coupled to the second lens barrel 400. The second drive unit 500 may move the second lens barrel 400 in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction).

[0154] The second drive unit 500 may include a second piezoelectric device 510, a second extension rod 520, a third buffer member 521, and a fourth buffer member 522.

[0155] The second piezoelectric device 510 may include a piezoelectric device. For example, the second piezoelectric device 510 may include a material that causes mechanical deformation by an applied voltage. The second piezoelectric device 510 may contract or expand by an applied voltage and may cause mechanical deformation in a predetermined direction. For example, the second piezoelectric device 510 may generate vibration while simultaneously causing mechanical deformation in the optical axis direction (z-axis direction) by an applied voltage.

[0156] The second piezoelectric device 510 may include a second disc portion 511 and a second protrusion 512. The second disc portion 511 has a plate-like shape and may be disposed on a third hole 113. For example, the second disc portion 511 may be disposed on a third protrusion 113a of the third hole 113. More specifically, the second disc portion 511 may be disposed on a plurality of third protrusions. The third protrusion 113a may support the second disc portion 511.

[0157] The second protrusion 512 may be disposed below the second disk portion 511. Specifically, the second protrusion 512 may be disposed below the second disk portion 511 in a third direction (z-axis direction) and may be connected to the second disk portion 511. A portion of the first protrusion 512 may be disposed in the third hole 113. The second protrusion 512 may have a shape protruding towards the image sensor 900. The width (x-axis direction, y-axis direction) of the second protrusion 512 may vary towards the optical axis direction. For example, the width of the second protrusion 512 may decrease as it approaches the image sensor 900.

[0158] The second extension rod 520 can extend along the optical axis. The second extension rod 520 can be arranged parallel to the optical axis and can be connected to the second piezoelectric device 510. For example, the upper end of the second extension rod 520 can be connected to the second protrusion 512. In addition, the lower end of the second extension rod 520 can be inserted into the lower end of the housing 100 (for example, a fifth hole (not shown) formed at the lower end of the second housing 120).

[0159] Furthermore, a region of the second extension rod 520 can be connected to the second lens barrel 400. For example, the second extension rod 520 can be connected to the second lens barrel 400 via the second elastic portion 430. More specifically, the second extension rod 520 can be disposed between the third elastic member 431 and the fourth elastic member 432. More specifically, the second extension rod 520 can be disposed between the ninth region 431c of the third elastic member 431 and the eleventh region 432b of the fourth elastic member 432. The second extension rod 520 can be fixed by the elastic force of the third elastic member 431 and the fourth elastic member 432.

[0160] The second extension rod 520 can transmit the vibration generated by the second piezoelectric device 510 to the second lens barrel 400. The second lens barrel 400 can move up or down (z-axis direction, optical axis direction) according to the vibration direction of the second extension rod 520. As a result, the third lens unit 405 in the second lens barrel 400 can move to perform a zoom function of magnification or reduction.

[0161] The third buffer member 521 may be disposed on the second extension rod 520. The third buffer member 521 may be disposed on the upper region of the second extension rod 520. The third buffer member 521 may be disposed in the third hole 113 of the housing 100. For example, the third buffer member 521 may be disposed between the third protrusion 113a and the fourth protrusion 113b of the third hole 113. The third buffer member 521 may be fixed to the position defined by the third protrusion 113a and the fourth protrusion 113b. Furthermore, the third buffer member 521 may include a through hole into which the second extension rod 520 is inserted.

[0162] A fourth buffer member 522 may be disposed on the second extension rod 520. The fourth buffer member 522 may be disposed in the lower region of the second extension rod 520. The fourth buffer member 522 may be spaced apart from the third buffer member 521 in the optical axis direction. The fourth buffer member 522 may be disposed in a fifth hole (not shown) of the housing 100. The fourth buffer member 522 may be configured to be inserted into the fifth hole. The second buffer member 322 may include a through hole into which the second extension rod 520 is inserted.

[0163] The third buffer member 521 and the fourth buffer member 522 can prevent noise caused by the vibration of the second extension rod 520. In addition, the third buffer member 521 and the fourth buffer member 522 can prevent the second extension rod 520 from being deformed or damaged due to external impact.

[0164] The camera actuator 1000 may include a first magnetic calibrator 610, a first sensing unit (not shown), a second magnetic calibrator 620, and a second sensing unit (not shown).

[0165] The first magnetic calibrator 610 can be disposed on the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first magnetic calibrator 610 can be disposed on the first lower surface 223. More specifically, the first magnetic calibrator 610 can be disposed in the first groove 2231 of the first lens barrel 200. The first magnetic calibrator 610 can move together with the first lens barrel 200 along the optical axis.

[0166] The first magnetic calibrator 610 may include multiple magnets. For example, the first magnetic calibrator 610 may have N poles and S poles alternately arranged along the optical axis.

[0167] The first sensing unit can be disposed adjacent to the first magnetic calibrator 610. For example, the first sensing unit can be disposed facing the first magnetic calibrator 610 in a first direction (x-axis direction) or a second direction (y-axis direction). The first sensing unit can detect the position of the first magnetic calibrator 610. Thus, the first sensing unit can detect the position and movement of the first lens barrel 200 that moves together with the first magnetic calibrator 610.

[0168] The second magnetic calibrator 620 can be disposed on the second lens barrel 400. For example, the second magnetic calibrator 620 can be disposed on the second upper surface 423. More specifically, the second magnetic calibrator 620 can be disposed in the third groove 4231 of the second lens barrel 400. The second magnetic calibrator 620 can move together with the second lens barrel 400 along the optical axis.

[0169] The second magnetic calibrator 620 may include multiple magnets. For example, the second magnetic calibrator 620 may have N poles and S poles alternately arranged along the optical axis.

[0170] Furthermore, the second sensing unit may be disposed adjacent to the second magnetic calibrator 620. For example, the second sensing unit may be configured to face the second magnetic calibrator 620 in a first direction (x-axis direction) or a second direction (y-axis direction). The second sensing unit can detect the position of the second magnetic calibrator 620. Thus, the second sensing unit can detect the position and movement of the second lens barrel 400 that moves together with the second magnetic calibrator 620.

[0171] Furthermore, although shown in the figures, the camera actuator 1000 according to this embodiment may also include a gyroscope sensor (shown). The gyroscope sensor may be disposed in the housing 100. The gyroscope sensor can be used by the camera actuator to detect the user's movement.

[0172] The camera actuator 1000 according to this embodiment may include a substrate 800. The substrate 800 may be disposed on a housing 100. The substrate 800 may be configured to surround a portion of the housing 100. For example, the substrate 800 may be configured to surround a portion of the outer side of a second housing 120. The substrate 800 may provide power or current to components disposed within the housing 100. That is, the substrate 800 may be a circuit board and may include a circuit board having wiring patterns capable of electrical connection, such as a rigid printed circuit board (rigid PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (flexible PCB), and a rigid-flexible printed circuit board (rigid-flexible PCB).

[0173] The substrate 800 may include a first end 810. The first end 810 may be disposed on the first piezoelectric device 310 of the first driving unit 300. For example, the first end 810 may be disposed on the first disk portion 311 of the first piezoelectric device 310. More specifically, the first end 810 may be disposed on one surface of the first disk portion 311. Furthermore, the first end 810 may be disposed on the second piezoelectric device 510 of the second driving unit 500. For example, a second end 820 may be disposed on the second disk portion 511 of the second piezoelectric device 510. More specifically, the first end 810 may be disposed on one surface of the second disk portion 511.

[0174] The substrate 800 may include a second end 820. The first end 810 may be spaced apart from the first end 810. In addition, the second end 820 may be disposed in a region that does not overlap with the first end 810 along the optical axis.

[0175] The second end 820 can be disposed on the first piezoelectric device 310 of the first drive unit 300. For example, the second end 820 can be disposed on the first disc portion 311 of the first piezoelectric device 310. More specifically, the first end 810 can be disposed on a surface opposite to one surface of the first disc portion 311. Furthermore, the second end 820 can be disposed on the second piezoelectric device 510 of the second drive unit 500. For example, the second end 820 can be disposed on the second disc portion 511 of the second piezoelectric device 510. More specifically, the second end 820 can be disposed on a surface opposite to one surface of the second disc portion 511.

[0176] In other words, the substrate 800 can supply power to the first piezoelectric device 310 and the second piezoelectric device 510. Therefore, the first driving unit 300 and the second driving unit 500 can drive the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 respectively by the applied power.

[0177] The camera actuator 1000 according to this embodiment may include an image sensor 900. The image sensor 900 can collect light passing through in the order of the first lens unit 105, the second lens unit 205, and the third lens unit 405, and convert it into an image. The image sensor 900 may be configured to coincide with the optical axis of the lenses of the lens units 105, 205, and 405. The optical axis of the image sensor 900 and the optical axis of the lenses may be aligned.

[0178] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the housing according to this embodiment. Figure 10 This is a front view of the second housing according to this embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 9 and Figure 10 The housing 100 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail.

[0179] The housing 100 may have open upper and lower partial regions, and may include receiving spaces therein. The housing 100 may include a first housing 110 and a second housing 120. The first housing 110 and the second housing 120 may be connected to each other to form receiving spaces therein, and may be arranged in a separable structure.

[0180] The first housing 110 can accommodate the first lens unit 105. For example, the first lens unit 105 can be disposed in the first hole 111 of the first housing 110. In addition, the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed inside the second housing 120.

[0181] The second housing 120 may include an inner lower surface 121, an inner upper surface 122, a first inner surface 123, and a second inner surface 124.

[0182] The inner lower surface 121 of the second housing 120 may be the surface facing the first lower surface 223 of the first lens barrel 200 and the second lower surface 421 of the second lens barrel 400. The inner lower surface 121 may be the surface facing the second step portion 425.

[0183] The inner upper surface 122 may face the inner lower surface 121 in the second direction (y-axis direction). The inner upper surface 122 of the second housing 120 may be the surface facing the first upper surface 221 of the first lens barrel 200 and the second upper surface 423 of the second lens barrel 400. The inner upper surface 122 may be the surface facing the first step portion 225.

[0184] The first inner surface 123 of the second housing 120 may be disposed between the inner lower surface 121 and the inner upper surface 122. The first inner surface 123 may connect one end of the inner lower surface 121 and one end of the inner upper surface 122 together. The first inner surface 123 of the second housing 120 may face the side of the second lens barrel 400. For example, the first inner surface 123 may be the surface facing the second side surface 422 of the second lens barrel 400. More specifically, the first inner surface 123 may face the eleventh region 432b of the fourth elastic member 432.

[0185] The second inner surface 124 of the second housing 120 may be disposed between the inner lower surface 121 and the inner upper surface 122. The second inner surface 124 may connect the other end of the inner lower surface 121 and the other end of the inner upper surface 122 together. The second inner surface 124 may face the first inner surface 123 in a first direction (x-axis direction). The second inner surface 124 of the second housing 120 may face the side of the first lens barrel 200. For example, the second inner surface 124 may be the surface facing the first side surface 222 of the first lens barrel 200. More specifically, the second inner surface 124 may face the fifth region 232b of the second elastic member 232.

[0186] The second housing 120 may include a guide claw 125. The guide claw 125 may be disposed on the inner lower surface 121. The guide claw 125 has a shape that protrudes from the inner lower surface 121 toward the inner upper surface 122 and may extend in the optical axis direction.

[0187] The optical axis length of the guide claw 125 can be the same as the optical axis length of the inner lower surface 121. In this case, the guide claw 125 can extend in the optical axis direction from the boundary of the inner lower surface 121 connected to the first housing 110 to the end of the inner lower surface 121.

[0188] Furthermore, the optical axis length of the guide claw 125 can be less than the optical axis length of the inner lower surface 121. In this case, the guide claw 125 can extend from the boundary of the inner lower surface 121 in the optical axis direction and can be spaced apart from the end of the inner lower surface 121.

[0189] The guide claw 125 may be positioned near the second drive unit 500, relative to the first drive unit 300. Furthermore, the guide claw 125 may be positioned closer to the second pin 450 than the first pin 250.

[0190] Figure 11 This is a front view of the second drive unit disposed in the second housing according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 12 This is a front view of the first and second drive units disposed in the second housing according to an embodiment. Figure 13 This is a view of a first driving unit and a second driving unit according to an embodiment.

[0191] Reference Figures 11 to 13 The first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 can be disposed in the housing 100.

[0192] For example, when manufacturing the camera actuator 1000 according to this embodiment, the second lens barrel 400 can be inserted into the second housing 120 before the first lens barrel 200, such as... Figure 11 As shown. In this case, the second lens barrel 400 can be positioned by the first pin 250 and the second pin 450.

[0193] In detail, the second lens barrel 400 can be configured such that the second lower surface 421 faces the inner lower surface 121, and the second upper surface 423 can be configured to face the inner upper surface 122. Furthermore, the second lens barrel 400 can be configured such that the second side surface 422 faces the first inner surface 123, and the second guide groove 410h1 can be configured to face the second inner surface 124. That is, the second stepped portion 425 of the second lens barrel 400 can face the inner lower surface 121.

[0194] The guide claw 125 can guide the second lens barrel 400. For this purpose, the guide claw 125 can be positioned in a region corresponding to the second lens barrel 400. For example, the guide claw 125 can be disposed in a region corresponding to the second lower surface 421 and the second step portion 425 of the second lens barrel 400. More specifically, the guide claw 125 can be disposed in a region overlapping with the second lower surface 421b of the second lens barrel 400 along a second direction (y-axis direction), and can be disposed in a region not overlapping with the first lower surface 421a.

[0195] In this configuration, the upper surface of the guide claw 125 can be positioned above the lower surface 421a of the first stage in the second direction (y-axis direction). Furthermore, the upper surface of the guide claw 125 can be configured to face the lower surface 421b of the second stage. In this configuration, the upper surface of the guide claw 125 can be configured to contact the lower surface 421b of the second stage, or it can be spaced apart from it by a predetermined interval.

[0196] Furthermore, one side of the guide claw 125 can be configured to face the second step portion 425 in the first direction (x-axis direction). In this case, one side of the guide claw 125 can be configured to contact the second step portion 425, or it can be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval.

[0197] Specifically, the second lens barrel 400 may include a first distance d1. Here, the first distance d1 can be defined as the distance from one side of the second lens barrel 400 to the second stepped portion 425. More specifically, the first distance d1 can be defined as the distance from the second side surface 422 to the second stepped portion 425 in a first direction (x-axis direction). The first distance d1 may be greater than or equal to the distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide claw 125 in the first direction. For example, when the first distance d1 is the same as the distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide claw 125, the guide claw 125 may contact the first stepped portion 225.

[0198] Furthermore, when the first distance d1 is greater than the distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide claw 125, the guide claw 125 can be separated from the first step portion 225 by a predetermined distance. In this case, the driving friction of the second lens barrel 400 can be reduced.

[0199] Alternatively, when the first distance d1 is less than the distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide claw 125, the second lens barrel 400 may not be inserted into the second housing 120. Specifically, in the above case, the guide claw 125 may be located in the region corresponding to the lower surface 421a of the first stage. Therefore, the second lens barrel 400 will not be inserted into the second housing 120 by the guide claw 125.

[0200] In other words, the second lens barrel 400 preferably satisfies the first distance d1 within the aforementioned range. Therefore, the second lens barrel 400 can be effectively inserted during the manufacturing process, and the driving friction between the guide claw 125 and the second lens barrel 400 can be minimized when the second lens barrel 400 is driven.

[0201] Furthermore, after the second lens tube 400 is first placed in the housing 100, the first lens tube 200 can be inserted and positioned, such as... Figure 12 As shown. In this case, the first lens barrel 200 can be positioned by the first pin 250 and the second pin 450.

[0202] In detail, the first lens barrel 200 can be configured such that the first lower surface 223 faces the inner lower surface 121, and the first upper surface 221 can be configured to face the inner upper surface 122. Additionally, in the first lens barrel 200, the first side surface 222 can be configured to face the second inner surface 124, and the first guide groove 210h1 can be configured to face the first inner surface 123. That is, the first stepped portion 225 can face the inner upper surface 122.

[0203] The guide claw 125 may be spaced apart from the first lens barrel 200. For example, the first lens barrel 200 may be located in a region that does not correspond to the guide claw 125. Specifically, the first lens barrel 200 may not overlap with the guide claw 125 in the second direction (y-axis direction). Therefore, during the process of placing the first lens barrel 200 in the housing 100, the first lens barrel 200 can be inserted without being jammed by the guide claw 125.

[0204] The first lens barrel 200 may include a second distance d2. Here, the second distance d2 can be defined as the distance from one side of the first lens barrel 200 to the first stepped portion 225. More specifically, the second distance d2 can be defined as the distance from the first side surface 222 to the first stepped portion 225 in a first direction (x-axis direction).

[0205] In this case, the first distance d1 and the second distance d2 can be different from each other. Specifically, the first distance d1 can be greater than the second distance d2. Furthermore, the second distance d2 can be less than the distance from the second side surface 422 to the guide claw 125 in the first direction. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the first lens barrel 200 from being inserted first and positioned at the position of the second lens barrel 400.

[0206] In detail, the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 may have the same or similar appearance to each other. Therefore, during the manufacturing process of the camera actuator, the first lens barrel 200 is mistakenly identified as the second lens barrel 400 and is inserted into the position of the second lens barrel 400 before assembly. Consequently, there is a problem of altered optical characteristics and defects in the camera actuator 1000.

[0207] However, according to one embodiment, the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 may include a first step portion 225 and a second step portion 425. Furthermore, the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400 may include a first distance d1 and a second distance d2 that are different from each other through the first step portion 225 and the second step portion 425.

[0208] Furthermore, the housing 100 according to this embodiment may include a guide claw 125 disposed on the inner lower surface 121. In this case, the guide claw 125 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second step portion 425. Additionally, the guide claw 125 may have a distance characteristic corresponding to a first distance d1.

[0209] Therefore, during the assembly of the first lens barrel 200 and the second lens barrel 400, the second lens barrel 400 can be effectively inserted into the housing 100. Furthermore, it prevents the first lens barrel 200 from being mistaken for the second lens barrel 400 during assembly and thus preferentially positioned at the location of the second lens barrel 400.

[0210] In detail, the second distance d2 can be smaller than the first distance d1. Therefore, when the first lens barrel 200 is inserted into the position of the second lens barrel 400, the first stage upper surface 221a of the first lens barrel 200 can contact the guide claw 125. That is to say, the first lens barrel 200 may be stuck by the guide claw 125, and thus may not be able to be inserted into the second housing 120.

[0211] In other words, in this embodiment, the second lens barrel 400 can be easily set during the manufacturing process of the camera actuator 1000, and the first lens barrel 200 can be prevented from being inserted in reverse or misplaced. Therefore, this embodiment can reduce defects caused by misplacement and can have improved processing efficiency.

[0212] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of a camera module according to one embodiment. Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment, in which some components are omitted.

[0213] refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15According to this embodiment, the camera module 10 may include one or more camera actuators. For example, the camera module 10 may include a first camera actuator 1000 and a second camera actuator 2000, and may include a cover 15 for protecting the first camera actuator 1000 and the second camera actuator 2000.

[0214] The first camera actuator 1000 can support multiple lenses and can perform zoom or autofocus functions by moving the lenses along the optical axis in response to control signals from the controller. In other words, the first camera actuator 1000 can be as described above. Figures 1 to 14 The camera actuator.

[0215] The second camera actuator 2000 can be an optical image stabilizer (OIS) actuator. In this case, light incident on the camera module 10 from the outside can preferentially be incident on the second camera actuator 2000. Furthermore, by changing the path of the light, light incident on the second camera actuator 2000 can be incident on the first camera actuator 1000, and light passing through the first camera actuator 1000 can be incident on the image sensor 900.

[0216] Figure 16 This is an exploded perspective view of a second camera actuator according to one embodiment. Furthermore, Figure 17 This is a view of the third drive unit of the second camera actuator according to one embodiment. Figure 18 This is a view of the third housing of the second camera actuator according to this embodiment. Figure 19 and Figure 20 This is a view of the prism unit of the second camera actuator according to this embodiment.

[0217] Reference Figures 16 to 20 The second camera actuator according to this embodiment will be described in more detail.

[0218] refer to Figure 16 The second camera actuator 2000 may include a cover member 2100, a third housing 2200, a third drive unit 2300, and a prism unit 2400.

[0219] The cover member 2100 may include a receiving space therein, and at least one side surface may be open. For example, the cover member 2100 may have a structure in which multiple side surfaces connected to each other are open. In detail, the cover member 2100 may have a structure in which a front surface through which light is incident from the outside, a lower surface corresponding to the first camera actuator 1000, and a rear surface opposite to the front surface, as well as a light movement path for the prism unit 2400 described later, are provided.

[0220] The cover member 2100 may include a rigid material. For example, the cover member 2100 may include a material such as resin, metal or ceramic, and may support the third housing 2200 disposed in the receiving space. For example, the cover member 2100 may be configured to surround the third housing 2200, the third drive unit 2300, the prism unit 2400, etc., and may support these components.

[0221] Reference Figure 17 The third drive unit 2300 may include a drive unit circuit board 2310, a coil unit 2330, and a magnet 2350.

[0222] The drive unit circuit board 2310 can be connected to a power source (not shown) to power the coil unit 2330. The drive unit circuit board 2310 may include a circuit board with a wiring pattern capable of electrical connection, such as a rigid printed circuit board (rigid PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (flexible PCB), and a rigid-flexible printed circuit board (rigid-flexible PCB).

[0223] Coil unit 2330 may be electrically connected to drive unit circuit board 2310. Coil unit 2330 may include one or more coil units. For example, coil unit 2330 may include first coil unit 2331, second coil unit 2332, and third coil unit 2333.

[0224] The first to third coil units 2331, 2332, and 2333 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the drive unit circuit board 2310 may have a "C" shape, and the first coil unit 2331 and the second coil unit 2332 may be respectively disposed on the first and second surfaces of the drive unit circuit board 2310 facing each other. Furthermore, the third coil unit 2333 may be disposed on a third surface that connects the first and second surfaces of the drive unit circuit board 2310 together.

[0225] Magnet 2350 may include one or more magnets. For example, magnet 2350 may include a first magnet 2351, a second magnet 2352, and a third magnet 2353 disposed in the region corresponding to coil unit 2330. Specifically, the first magnet 2351 may be disposed on the first surface of the drive unit circuit board 2310 in the region corresponding to the first coil unit 2331. Furthermore, the second magnet 2352 may be disposed on the second surface of the drive unit circuit board 2310 in the region corresponding to the second coil unit 2332. Furthermore, the third magnet 2353 may be disposed on the third surface of the drive unit circuit board 2310 in the region corresponding to the third coil unit 2333.

[0226] The third drive unit 2300 may also include a Hall sensor. For example, the Hall sensor includes a first Hall sensor (not shown) disposed adjacent to one of the coil units selected from the first coil unit 2331 and the second coil unit 2332, and a second Hall sensor (not shown) disposed adjacent to the third coil unit 2333.

[0227] The third drive unit 2300 can tilt the prism unit 2400. The third drive unit 2300 can control the tilt of the prism unit 2400 along the first axis or the second axis.

[0228] Reference Figure 18 The third housing 2200 may include a receiving space for accommodating the prism unit 2400. The third housing 2200 may include multiple inner surfaces. For example, the third housing 2200 may include a first surface 2200S1 corresponding to a first region of the drive unit circuit board 2310, a second surface 2200S2 corresponding to a second region of the drive unit circuit board 2310, and a third surface 2200S3 corresponding to a third region of the drive unit circuit board 2310.

[0229] In detail, the third housing 2200 includes a first surface 2200S1 corresponding to the first coil unit 2331, a second surface 2200S2 corresponding to the second coil unit 2332, and a third surface 2200S3 corresponding to the third coil unit 2333. Furthermore, the third housing 2200 may include a fourth surface 2200S4, which is connected to the first surface 2200S1, the second surface 2200S2, and the third surface 2200S3.

[0230] The third housing 2200 may include a plurality of housing holes 2210. Each housing hole 2210 may be a through-hole penetrating the outer and inner surfaces of the third housing 2200. The plurality of housing holes 2210 may include first to third housing holes 2211, 2212, and 2213. The first housing hole 2211 may be a through-hole penetrating the first surface 2200S1 and the corresponding outer surface. The second housing hole 2212 may be a through-hole penetrating the second surface 2200S2 and the corresponding outer surface. The third housing hole 2213 may be a through-hole penetrating the third surface 2200S3 and the corresponding outer surface.

[0231] The first housing hole 2211 can be provided in the region corresponding to the first coil unit 2331. Furthermore, the first receiving hole 2211 can have a size and shape corresponding to the first coil unit 2331. Therefore, the first coil unit 2331 can be partially or completely inserted into the first housing hole 2211.

[0232] The second housing hole 2212 can be provided in the region corresponding to the second coil unit 2332. Furthermore, the second receiving hole 2212 can have dimensions and shape corresponding to the size and shape of the second coil unit 2332. Therefore, the second coil unit 2332 can be partially or completely inserted into the second housing hole 2212.

[0233] The third housing hole 2213 can be provided in the region corresponding to the third coil unit 2333. Furthermore, the third receiving hole 2213 can have a size and shape corresponding to the third coil unit 2333. Therefore, the third coil unit 2333 can be partially or completely inserted into the third housing hole 2213.

[0234] Reference Figure 19 and Figure 20 The prism unit 2400 can be disposed in the third housing 2200. More specifically, the prism unit 2400 can be disposed in the receiving space of the third housing 2200.

[0235] The prism unit 2400 may include a prism 2410 and a prism mover 2430 disposed on the prism 2410.

[0236] Prism 2410 can be a right-angle prism. Prism 2410 can reflect the direction of light incident from the outside. That is, prism 2410 can change the path of light incident from the outside onto the first camera actuator 1000 and then onto the second camera actuator 2000.

[0237] A prism mover 2430 may be disposed on prism 2410. The prism mover 2430 may be configured to surround prism 2410. At least one side of the prism mover 2430 may be open and may include a receiving space therein. More specifically, the prism mover 2430 may have a structure in which multiple outer surfaces are connected to each other and are opened. For example, the prism mover 2430 may have a structure in which the outer surface corresponding to prism 2410 is opened, and may include a receiving space defined as a first space 2435.

[0238] The prism mover 2430 may include an inner surface 2435S. The inner surface 2435S may be the inner surface constituting the first space 2435. The first space 2435 may have a shape corresponding to the prism 2410. The inner surface 2435S of the first space 2435 may directly contact the prism 2410.

[0239] The prism mover 2430 may include a step 2436. The step 2436 may be disposed in the first space 2435. The step 2436 may serve as a guide and / or base portion of the prism 2410. Specifically, a protrusion corresponding to the step 2436 may be formed on the outer side of the prism 2410. The prism 2410 may be disposed in the first space 2435 such that the protrusion is guided by the step 2436 of the prism mover 2430. Therefore, the prism mover 2430 can effectively support the prism 2410. Furthermore, the prism 2410 can be positioned in a predetermined location and can have improved alignment characteristics within the prism mover 2430.

[0240] The prism unit 2400 may include multiple outer surfaces. For example, the prism mover 2430 may include multiple outer surfaces. The prism mover 2430 may include a first outer surface 2430S1 corresponding to a first surface 2200S1 of the third housing 2200, a second outer surface 2430S2 corresponding to a second surface 2200S2, a third outer surface 2430S3 corresponding to a third surface 2200S3, and a fourth outer surface 2430S4 corresponding to a fourth surface 2200S4.

[0241] Furthermore, the prism mover 2430 may include a plurality of recesses. Each recess may be a groove with a concave shape on the outer surface of the prism mover 2430 in the direction of the first space 2435. The plurality of recesses may include a third recess 2433R1, a fourth recess 2433R2, and a fifth recess 2433R3. For example, the third recess 2433R1 may be disposed on the first outer surface 2430S1. The third recess 2433R1 may be disposed in the region corresponding to the first housing hole 2211. Furthermore, the fourth recess 2433R2 may be disposed on the second outer surface 2430S2. The fourth recess 2433R2 may be disposed in the region corresponding to the second housing hole 2212. Furthermore, the fifth recess 2433R3 may be disposed on the third outer surface 2430S3. The fifth recess 2433R3 may be disposed in the region corresponding to the third housing hole 2213. That is, the first housing hole 2211 can correspond to the first coil unit 2331, and the second housing hole 2212 can correspond to the second coil unit 2332. In addition, the third housing hole 2213 can correspond to the third coil unit 2333.

[0242] Magnet 2350 can be disposed in the recess. For example, the first magnet 2351 is in the third recess 2433R1, the second magnet 2352 is in the fourth recess 2433R2, and the third magnet 2353 is in the third recess 2433R1, so that they can be spaced apart from each other.

[0243] The prism unit 2400 can control the tilt of the first axis (x-axis) or the second axis (y-axis) through the drive unit of the third drive unit 2300. Here, the tilt of the first axis can mean tilting in the vertical direction (y-axis direction; second direction), where the x-axis direction shown in the figure is the axis of rotation, and the tilt of the second axis can mean tilting in the left-right direction (x-axis direction; first direction), where the y-axis direction shown in the figure is the axis of rotation.

[0244] The tilt of the prism unit 2400 can be controlled based on the attractive and repulsive forces generated by the third coil unit 2333 and the third magnet 2353 when energized.

[0245] In detail, the third drive unit 2300 includes a virtual first formed by a first coil unit 2331, a second coil unit 2332, a first magnet 2351, and a second magnet 2352. The prism unit 2400 can be rotatably arranged about a line (not shown) that serves as an axis. Here, the first line can be a line extending along a first direction (x-axis direction).

[0246] The third coil unit 2333 and the third magnet 2353 can make the prism unit 2400 rotate in the vertical direction (y-axis direction) with the first line as the axis of rotation.

[0247] For example, a repulsive force is generated between the third coil unit 2333 and the third magnet 2353 (the third-first magnet), and an attractive force is generated between the third coil unit 2333 and the third magnet 2353 (the third-second magnet). Here, the third-first magnet and the third-second magnet can face each other in the third upward direction (z-axis direction). In this case, the prism unit 2400 can be tilted in the upward direction (based on the y-axis direction) by the generated electromagnetic force.

[0248] Furthermore, an attractive force is generated between the third coil unit 2333 and the third magnet 2353 (the third-first magnet), and a repulsive force is generated between the third coil unit 2333 and the third magnet 2353 (the third-second magnet). In this case, the prism unit 2400 can tilt in the downward direction (based on the y-axis direction) by the generated electromagnetic force.

[0249] The tilt of the prism unit 2400 can be controlled based on the attractive and repulsive forces generated by the first coil unit 2331, the second coil unit 2332, the first magnet 2351, and the second magnet 2352 when energized.

[0250] Specifically, a third drive unit 2300 may be provided, such that the prism unit 2400 can rotate about a second virtual line (not shown) formed by the third magnet 2353 and the third coil unit 2333 as an axis. Here, the second line may be a line extending in a second direction (y-axis direction).

[0251] The first coil unit 2331, the second coil unit 2332, the first magnet 2351, and the second magnet 2352 can rotate about the second line as the axis of rotation and move the prism unit 2400 in the left-right direction (x-axis direction).

[0252] For example, a repulsive force is generated between the first coil unit 2331 and the first magnet 351 (first-first magnet), and an attractive force is generated between the first coil unit 2331 and the first magnet 2351 (first-second magnet). Furthermore, an attractive force is generated between the second coil unit 2332 and the second magnet 2352 (second-first magnet), and a repulsive force is generated between the second coil unit 2332 and the second magnet 2352 (second-second magnet). Here, the first-first magnet and the second-first magnet can face each other in a first direction, and the first-second magnet and the second-second magnet can also face each other in the first direction. In this case, the prism unit 2400 can tilt to the left (based on the x-axis direction) by the generated electromagnetic force.

[0253] Furthermore, an attractive force is generated between the first coil unit 2331 and the first magnet 2351 (first-first magnet), and a repulsive force is generated between the first coil unit 2331 and the first magnet 2351 (first-second magnet). Additionally, a repulsive force is generated between the second coil unit 2332 and the second magnet 2352 (second-first magnet), and an attractive force is generated between the second coil unit 2332 and the second magnet 2352 (second-second magnet). In this situation, the prism unit 2400 can tilt to the right (based on the x-axis direction) by the generated electromagnetic force.

[0254] In other words, the second camera actuator 2000 according to this embodiment can control the movement path of light incident by the third driving unit 2300, including the VCM (voice coil motor) method. However, this embodiment is not limited thereto; the third driving unit 2300 may include a piezoelectric device, such as a piezoelectric device or a shape memory alloy, and the movement path of the incident light can be controlled by using piezoelectric elements and / or shape memory alloys.

[0255] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of a mobile terminal using a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0256] refer to Figure 21The mobile terminal 3 may include a camera module 10, an autofocus device 31, and a flash module 33 located on the rear side.

[0257] The camera module 10 may include image capture functionality and autofocus functionality. For example, the camera module 10 may include autofocus functionality that utilizes images.

[0258] The camera module 10 processes image frames of still or moving images acquired by the image sensor in shooting mode or video call mode. The processed image frames can be displayed on a predetermined display unit and stored in memory. The camera (not shown) can also be mounted on the front of the mobile terminal body.

[0259] For example, camera module 10 may include a first camera module 10A and a second camera module 10B. In this case, at least one of the first camera module 10A and the second camera module 10B may include the aforementioned camera module, for example, according to... Figures 1 to 20 The camera module 10. Therefore, the camera module 10 can realize OIS function, zoom function, and autofocus function.

[0260] The autofocus device 31 may include an autofocus function using a laser. The autofocus device 31 can be primarily used under conditions where the autofocus function of the image from the camera module 10 deteriorates, for example, at a distance of 10m or less or in a dark environment. The autofocus device 31 may include a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit. The light-emitting unit includes a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) semiconductor device, and the light-receiving unit converts light energy, such as a photodiode, into electrical energy.

[0261] The flash module 33 may include a light-emitting device therein. The flash module 33 can be operated via the camera of a mobile terminal or via user control.

[0262] Next, Figure 22 This is a perspective view of vehicle 5 using the camera module according to this embodiment. For example, Figure 22 It is an external view of a vehicle including a vehicle driving assistance device, and the camera module 10 according to this embodiment is applied to the vehicle driving assistance device.

[0263] refer to Figure 22 The vehicle 5 according to this embodiment may include wheels 53FL and 53RL that rotate via a power source and predetermined sensors. The sensors may be camera sensors 51, but are not limited thereto.

[0264] Camera 51 may be the camera sensor used in camera module 10 according to this embodiment.

[0265] In this embodiment, the vehicle 5 can acquire image information by capturing images of the front or surroundings using a camera sensor 51, and can use the image information to determine if a lane is not recognized, and generate a virtual lane when a lane is not recognized.

[0266] For example, camera sensor 51 can acquire a frontal image by shooting a picture of the front of vehicle 5, and processor (not shown) can acquire image information by analyzing the objects contained in the frontal image.

[0267] For example, when objects such as the center line corresponding to the lane, curb or roadside trees, adjacent vehicles, driving obstacles and indirect road signs are captured in the image captured by camera sensor 51, the processor can detect such objects and include them in the image information.

[0268] In this scenario, the processor can further supplement the image information by acquiring distance information of the object detected by the camera sensor 51. The image information can be information about the object being photographed in the image.

[0269] Camera sensor 51 may include an image sensor and an image processing module. Camera sensor 51 can process still images or moving images obtained by the image sensor (e.g., CMOS or CCD). The image processing module can process the still images or moving images obtained by the image sensor, extract necessary information, and send the extracted information to a processor.

[0270] In this case, camera sensor 51 may include a stereo camera to improve the measurement accuracy of the object and further ensure information, but not limited to, such as the distance between vehicle 5 and the object.

[0271] The features, structures, effects, etc., described in the above embodiments are included in at least one embodiment, but are not necessarily limited to one embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures, effects, etc., described in each embodiment can be combined or modified by those skilled in the art for other embodiments. Therefore, content related to such combinations and variations should be interpreted as including within the scope of this embodiment.

[0272] The foregoing primarily describes this embodiment, but this is merely an example and does not limit the scope of this embodiment. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications and applications not described above can be made without departing from the fundamental characteristics of this embodiment. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiment can be implemented through modification. Furthermore, differences related to these modifications and applications should be interpreted as including within the scope of the embodiments set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A camera actuator, comprising: The first lens unit is housed within the housing; A first lens barrel is disposed in the housing and below the first lens unit; The second lens barrel is disposed in the housing and below the first lens barrel; A first drive unit is connected to the first lens barrel in the housing and moves the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction; as well as The second drive unit is connected to the second lens barrel within the housing and moves the second lens barrel along the optical axis. Both the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel include an upper surface, a lower surface, and a side surface, with the upper surface, lower surface, and side surface facing the inner upper surface, inner lower surface, and inner side surface of the housing, respectively. The upper surface of the first lens tube includes a first stepped portion. The lower surface of the second lens tube includes a second stepped portion. Wherein, the first distance from one side surface of the second lens barrel to the second step portion is different from the second distance from one side surface of the first lens barrel to the first step portion, and The housing includes guide claws disposed on the inner lower surface of the housing, the guide claws being located in the region corresponding to the second step portion. The first step portion connects the first-stage upper surface and the second-stage upper surface of the upper surface of the first lens barrel, and the inner upper surface is the surface facing the first step portion. The second step portion connects the first and second lower surfaces of the lower surface of the second lens barrel, and the inner lower surface is the surface facing the second step portion. The guide claw contacts the second step portion between the first stage lower surface and the second stage lower surface of the second lens barrel.

2. The camera actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The first distance is greater than the second distance.

3. The camera actuator according to claim 2, wherein, The guide claw extends along the optical axis and is positioned in the region corresponding to the lower surface of the second stage.

4. The camera actuator according to claim 3, wherein, The housing includes: A first housing, wherein the first lens unit is disposed within the first housing; and The second housing is located below the first housing, and the first lens tube and the second lens tube are disposed in the second housing.

5. The camera actuator according to claim 4, wherein, The length of the guide claw relative to the optical axis is less than or equal to the length of the inner lower surface of the second housing.

6. The camera actuator according to claim 1, wherein, The first lens tube includes: The first lens barrel section includes the second lens unit; A first guiding portion extends outward from the first lens barrel portion; and The first elastic portion is connected to the first drive unit. The second lens tube includes: The second lens barrel section includes the third lens unit; The second guide portion extends outward from the second lens barrel portion; and The second elastic portion is connected to the second drive unit.

7. The camera actuator according to claim 6, wherein, The first driving unit includes: A first piezoelectric device is disposed within the housing; and A first extension rod extends from the first piezoelectric device along the optical axis. The second driving unit includes: A second piezoelectric device is disposed within the housing; and The second extension rod extends from the second piezoelectric device along the optical axis. Wherein, a region of the first extension rod is connected to the first elastic portion, and One area of ​​the second extension rod is connected to the second elastic portion.

8. The camera actuator according to claim 7, further comprising: The first pin and the second pin extend within the housing along the optical axis and are spaced apart from each other. The first pin is configured to be inserted into the first insertion hole of the first lens tube. The second pin is configured to be inserted into the second insertion hole of the second lens tube. Wherein, the first lens barrel moves along the first pin, and The second lens barrel moves along the second pin.

9. The camera actuator according to claim 8, wherein, The first lens barrel also includes a first guide groove, and the second pin is disposed in the first guide groove. The second lens barrel further includes a second guide groove, in which the first pin is disposed. Both the first guide groove and the second guide groove have an opening on one side.

10. The camera actuator of claim 1, further comprising: A first magnetic calibrator is disposed on the lower surface of the first lens tube; The first sensing unit is disposed adjacent to the first magnetic calibrator; The second magnetic calibrator is disposed on the upper surface of the second lens tube; as well as The second sensing unit is disposed adjacent to the second magnetic calibrator.

11. A camera actuator, comprising: case, The first lens unit is disposed in the housing; A first lens barrel is disposed in the housing and below the first lens unit; The second lens barrel is disposed in the housing and below the first lens barrel; A first drive unit is connected to the first lens barrel in the housing and moves the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction; as well as The second drive unit is connected to the second lens barrel within the housing and moves the second lens barrel along the optical axis. The housing includes an inner lower surface that faces the lower surface of each of the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel. The guide claw is disposed on the lower inner surface of the housing and protrudes in the direction of the upper inner surface. The guide claw is positioned in a region that overlaps with the second lens barrel in a vertical direction perpendicular to the optical axis, but does not overlap with the first lens barrel in the same vertical direction. Specifically, a second step portion connects the first and second stage lower surfaces of the lower surface of the second lens barrel, and the inner lower surface is the surface facing the second step portion. The guide claw contacts the second step portion between the first stage lower surface and the second stage lower surface of the second lens barrel.

12. The camera actuator according to claim 11, wherein, The upper surface of the guide claw is positioned above the lower surface of the first stage.

13. The camera actuator according to claim 11, wherein, The upper surface of the first lens barrel includes: First-stage upper surface, The second stage upper surface is disposed below the first stage upper surface; and The first step portion connects the upper surface of the first step and the upper surface of the second step.

14. The camera actuator according to claim 13, wherein, The first distance from one side of the second lens barrel to the second step portion is different from the second distance from one side of the first lens barrel to the first step portion.

15. The camera actuator according to claim 14, wherein, The first distance is longer than the second distance.

16. A camera module, comprising: First camera actuator, and Second camera actuator, The first camera actuator performs autofocus or zoom functions, and The second camera actuator performs the function of an optical image stabilizer. The first camera actuator includes: The first lens unit is housed within the housing; A first lens barrel is disposed in the housing and below the first lens unit; The second lens barrel is disposed in the housing and below the first lens barrel; A first driving unit is connected to the first lens barrel within the housing and moves the first lens barrel in the optical axis direction; and The second drive unit is connected to the second lens barrel within the housing and moves the second lens barrel along the optical axis. Both the first lens barrel and the second lens barrel include an upper surface, a lower surface, and a side surface. The upper surface, the lower surface, and the side surface respectively face the inner upper surface, the inner lower surface, and the inner side surface of the housing. The upper surface of the first lens barrel includes a first stepped portion, and the lower surface of the second lens barrel includes a second stepped portion. A first distance from a side surface of the second lens barrel to the second stepped portion is different from a second distance from a side surface of the first lens barrel to the first stepped portion. The housing includes guide claws disposed on the inner lower surface of the housing, the guide claws being located in the region corresponding to the second step portion. The second step portion connects the first and second lower surfaces of the lower surface of the second lens barrel, and the inner lower surface is the surface facing the second step portion. The guide claw contacts the second step portion between the first stage lower surface and the second stage lower surface of the second lens barrel.

17. The camera module according to claim 16, wherein, Light incident on the camera module from the outside is incident on the first camera actuator through the second camera actuator.

18. The camera module according to claim 16, wherein, The first distance is greater than the second distance.

19. The camera module according to claim 18, wherein, The guide claw extends in the direction of the optical axis.

Images