Camera module

Abstract

The camera module includes: a housing; a first lens module configured to be movable in a first direction of the housing; a second lens module configured to be movable in the first direction; a first magnet provided on the first lens module; a first yoke member provided on the housing to face a first side surface of the first magnet and configured to limit a moving position of the first lens module relative to the housing; and a second yoke member provided on the second lens module to face a second side surface of the first magnet and configured to limit a moving position of the second lens module relative to the first lens module.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0117404 filed in the Korean Intellectual Property Office on September 3, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a camera module configured to be capable of auto-focusing or zooming. Background Art

[0004] The camera module can be installed in a mobile electronic device. For example, the camera module can be installed in a mobile terminal, a laptop computer, a virtual reality device, an augmented reality device, etc.

[0005] Camera modules can be configured to automatically focus or zoom to improve image capture quality. For example, a camera module can clearly capture an image of a subject using the autofocus function. As another example, a camera module can capture an image of a distant subject using the zoom function, or can capture a magnified image of a subject at a close distance. However, because the aforementioned mobile electronic devices provide relatively limited mounting space, it is not easy to install a camera module capable of autofocus and zoom in these mobile electronic devices.

[0006] The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the present disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with respect to the present disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This Summary is provided to briefly introduce a selection of inventive concepts that will be further described in the Detailed Description below. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] In one general aspect, a camera module includes: a housing; a first lens module configured to be movable in a first direction of the housing; a second lens module configured to be movable in the first direction; a first magnet disposed on the first lens module; a first yoke member disposed on the housing to face a first side surface of the first magnet and configured to limit a moving position of the first lens module relative to the housing; and a second yoke member disposed on the second lens module to face a second side surface of the first magnet and configured to limit a moving position of the second lens module relative to the first lens module.

[0009] The camera module may further include a first driving unit that drives the first lens module in a first direction.

[0010] The first driving unit may include a first magnet and a first driving coil provided on the housing.

[0011] The camera module may further include a second driving unit that drives the second lens module in the first direction.

[0012] The second driving unit may include a second magnet provided on the second lens module and a second driving coil provided on the housing.

[0013] The second yoke member may be disposed on a first surface of the second lens module, and the second magnet may be disposed on a second surface of the second lens module.

[0014] The camera module may further include a first ball bearing disposed between the housing and the first lens module.

[0015] The camera module may further include a support portion formed to face the first surface of the second lens module extending in the first direction.

[0016] The first magnet may be provided in the support portion, and a hole for exposing one or more of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first magnet may be formed in the support portion.

[0017] A guide groove extending in the first direction and accommodating the ball bearing therein may be formed in the supporting portion.

[0018] The camera module may further include a second ball bearing disposed between the supporting portion and the second lens module.

[0019] In another general aspect, a camera module includes: a first lens module including a first lens group; a second lens module including a second lens group; a housing configured to accommodate the first lens module therein; a first driving unit configured to drive the first lens module in an optical axis direction of the first lens group; a second driving unit configured to drive the second lens module in the optical axis direction; a first yoke member disposed on a first side surface of the housing; a second yoke member disposed on a first side surface of the second lens module; and a magnet disposed on the first side surface of the first lens module, wherein the first yoke member, the magnet, and the second yoke member are sequentially disposed at intervals along a direction intersecting the optical axis.

[0020] A first surface of the magnet may face the first yoke member, and a second surface of the magnet may face the second yoke member.

[0021] The first driving unit may include a first driving magnet disposed on a second side surface of the first lens module, and a first driving coil disposed on a second side surface of the housing.

[0022] The second driving unit may include a second driving coil provided on the third side surface of the housing, and a second driving magnet provided on one side surface of the second lens module facing the third side surface of the housing.

[0023] The camera module may further include a first ball member disposed between the housing and the first lens module, and a second ball member disposed between the first lens module and the second lens module.

[0024] In another general aspect, a camera module includes: a housing; a first magnetic member disposed in the housing; a first lens module disposed in the housing and movable in a first direction; a second magnetic member disposed on the first lens module to face the first magnetic member; a second lens module disposed in the housing and movable in the first direction; a third magnetic member disposed on the second lens module to face the second magnetic member, wherein the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are pulled toward each other, and wherein the second magnetic member and the third magnetic member are pulled toward each other.

[0025] The first magnetic member may include a first yoke member, the second magnetic member may include a first magnet, and the third magnetic member may include a second yoke member.

[0026] The camera module may further include a first driving coil disposed on the housing to face a second magnetic member, wherein the second magnetic member may include a first magnet, and wherein a magnetic interaction between the first driving coil and the first magnet may move the first lens module in a first direction.

[0027] The camera module may further include a second magnet disposed on the second lens module, and a second driving coil disposed on the housing to face the second magnet, wherein a magnetic interaction between the second driving coil and the second magnet can move the second lens module in the first direction.

[0028] The camera module may further include a first ball member disposed between the housing and the first lens module, and a second ball member disposed between the second lens module and one or more of the housing and the first lens module.

[0029] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the appended claims, the accompanying drawings, and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An assembled perspective view of the camera module is shown.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the camera module is shown.

[0033] Figure 4 and Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the camera module in use is shown.

[0034] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to another exemplary embodiment.

[0035] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An assembled perspective view of the camera module is shown.

[0036] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the camera module is shown.

[0037] Figure 9 、 Figure 10 and Figure 11 It shows Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the camera module in use is shown.

[0038] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to still another exemplary embodiment.

[0039] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 An assembled perspective view of the camera module is shown.

[0040] Figure 14 、 Figure 15 、 Figure 16 and Figure 17 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the camera module is shown.

[0041] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to still another exemplary embodiment.

[0042] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An assembled perspective view of the camera module is shown.

[0043] Figure 20 and Figure 21 yes Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the camera module is shown.

[0044] Throughout the drawings and detailed description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For purposes of clarity, illustration, and convenience, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the relative sizes, proportions, and depictions of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Hereinafter, although examples of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, for example, it should be noted that the examples are not limited thereto.

[0046] The following detailed description is provided to help the reader gain a comprehensive understanding of the methods, devices and / or systems described herein. However, various changes, modifications and equivalents of the methods, devices and / or systems described herein will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure. For example, the order of operations described herein is merely an example, and except for operations that must occur in a specific order, it is not limited to the order set forth herein, but can be changed, which will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure. In addition, for the sake of clarity and brevity, descriptions of features that are well known in the art may be omitted.

[0047] The features described herein may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the examples described herein are provided merely to illustrate some of the many possible ways to implement the methods, devices, and / or systems described herein that will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure.

[0048] Throughout the specification, when an element such as a layer, a region, or a substrate is described as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element, the element may be directly “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” the other element, or one or more other elements may be present between the element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is described as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element, there are no other elements between the element and the other element.

[0049] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items; similarly, "at least one" includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items.

[0050] Although terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used herein to describe various members, components, regions, layers, or portions, these members, components, regions, layers, or portions are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish one member, component, region, layer, or portion from another member, component, region, layer, or portion. Thus, without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein, a first member, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion mentioned in these examples may also be referred to as a second member, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0051] Spatially relative terms such as "above," "upper," "below," "lower," etc. may be used herein for descriptive convenience to describe the relationship of one element relative to another element as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to covering the orientations depicted in the accompanying drawings, these spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is turned over, an element described as being "above" or "above" relative to another element will be "below" or "lower" relative to the other element. Thus, depending on the spatial orientation of the device, the term "above" covers both the orientations of "above" and "below." The device may also be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0052] The terms used herein are for describing various examples only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the articles "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. The terms "comprise", "include" and "have" indicate the presence of the stated features, numbers, operations, components, elements and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, components, elements and / or combinations thereof.

[0053] Due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, variations in the shapes shown in the drawings may occur. Therefore, the examples described herein are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the drawings but include variations in shapes that occur during manufacturing.

[0054] It should be noted that herein, use of the word “may” with respect to an example, for example, regarding what an example may include or implement, means that there is at least one example that includes or implements such feature, and all examples are not limited thereto.

[0055] The features of the examples described herein may be combined in various ways that will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure. In addition, although the examples described herein have various configurations, other configurations that will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure are also possible.

[0056] One aspect of the present disclosure may provide a camera module that can be mounted in a mobile electronic device and configured to enable automatic focusing and zooming.

[0057] The camera module according to the present disclosure can be installed in an electronic device. For example, the camera module can be installed in a mobile terminal, a laptop computer, a virtual reality device, glasses, etc. However, the electronic devices in which the camera module can be installed are not limited to the above devices. For example, the camera module can be installed in all portable electronic devices such as portable game consoles.

[0058] A camera module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may include multiple lens modules. For example, the camera module may include a first lens module and a second lens module, each of which is configured to be movable along an optical axis. Furthermore, the camera module may further include a housing configured to accommodate the first lens module and the second lens module.

[0059] The camera module can be configured to significantly reduce fluctuations in the first lens module and the second lens module caused by external impacts. For example, the camera module may include a unit for fixing the positions of the first lens module and the second lens module (in a non-driven state). In a specific example, the camera module may include a magnet and a yoke member. The magnet may be provided on the first lens module, and the yoke member may be provided on the second lens module and the housing. The magnet may be provided between the first yoke member provided on the housing and the second yoke member provided on the second lens module, and in the non-driven state of the lens module, the magnet may always constantly maintain the position of the first lens module relative to the housing and the position of the second lens module relative to the first lens module.

[0060] In the camera module configured as described above, it is possible to significantly reduce fluctuations of the lens modules due to external shocks while increasing a focus shift width by driving a plurality of lens modules in an optical axis direction.

[0061] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments in the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, for example.

[0062] First, refer to Figures 1 to 5 A camera module according to an exemplary embodiment in the present disclosure is described.

[0063] The camera module 10 according to the exemplary embodiment may include a housing 100, a first lens module 200, and a second lens module 300. However, the components of the camera module 10 are not limited to the above-described components. For example, the camera module 10 may further include a fixing unit 400 for aligning or maintaining the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300, and a driving unit 500 for driving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. Furthermore, the camera module 10 may further include an image sensor 710 configured to convert incident light signals thereon into electrical signals. The image sensor 710 may be disposed on the housing 100 via a substrate 720.

[0064] The housing 100 may be configured to accommodate the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 therein. For example, a space 102 may be formed in the housing 100 in which the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be sequentially accommodated. The space 102 may be formed so as not to obstruct the movement of light. For example, the space 102 may be formed so as to be open in the direction of the optical axis C.

[0065] The housing 100 may be configured to accommodate the fixing unit 400 and the driving unit 500. For example, the different sides 104 and 106 of the housing 100 may be partially or fully opened to accommodate some components of the fixing unit 400 and some components of the driving unit 500.

[0066] The first lens module 200 can be configured to allow light incident on the camera module 10 to form an image on the image sensor 710. To this end, the first lens module 200 can include one or more lenses having predetermined refractive power. For example, the first lens module 200 can include two or more lenses having positive or negative refractive power. However, the number of lenses housed in the first lens module 200 is not limited to two. The first lens module 200 can be configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the first lens module 200 can be moved toward the second lens module 300 or toward the image sensor 710 via the drive unit 500.

[0067] The second lens module 300 can be configured to allow light incident on the camera module 10 to be incident on the first lens module 200, or to reflect light incident on the camera module 10 onto the first lens module 200. To this end, the second lens module 300 may include one or more lenses having a predetermined refractive power. For example, the second lens module 300 may include one or more lenses having a positive refractive power or a negative refractive power. However, the number of lenses housed in the second lens module 300 is not limited to one. The second lens module 300 can be configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the second lens module 300 can be moved toward an object (subject) or toward the first lens module 200 via the drive unit 500.

[0068] The fixing unit 400 can be configured to align or constantly maintain the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. As an example, the fixing unit 400 can align the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 so that the optical axes of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 coincide with each other. As another example, the fixing unit 400 can constantly maintain the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in a non-driven state so that the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 do not collide with each other or with the inner wall of the housing 100 or the image sensor 710 due to external impact.

[0069] The fixing unit 400 may include a magnet 402 and yoke members 410 and 420. For example, the fixing unit 400 may include one magnet 402, a first yoke member 410, and a second yoke member 420. However, the components of the fixing unit 400 are not limited thereto. For example, the fixing unit 400 may also include two magnets and one yoke member.

[0070] The magnet 402 may be disposed on the first lens module 200. For example, the magnet 402 may be disposed on a surface of the first lens module 200 that is substantially parallel to the optical axis C. The magnet 402 may be formed to have a relatively large size. For example, the height of the magnet 402 (in the direction of the optical axis C) may be greater than the height of the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the height hm of the magnet 402 may be substantially equal to or less than the sum (hb1 + hb2) of the height hb1 of the first lens module 200 and the height hb2 of the second lens module 300. The polarity of the magnet 402 may be formed along the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the magnet 402 may be configured to generate the maximum magnetic force at its two ends in the direction of the optical axis C. However, the polarity direction of the magnet 402 is not limited to this.

[0071] The first yoke member 410 may be disposed on the housing 100. For example, the first yoke member 410 may be disposed on a side of the housing 100 that faces the first surface of the magnet 402 disposed on the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the first yoke member 410 may be disposed so as to face the first polarity formed on the first surface of the magnet 402. Therefore, a predetermined attractive force may always act between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 402. This attractive force formed between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 402 enables the first lens module 200 to be aligned and fixed relative to the housing 100. The first yoke member 410 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the first yoke member 410 may be formed to have a smaller size than the magnet 402. As a specific example, the height hy1 of the first yoke member 410 may be less than ½ of the height hm of the magnet 402.

[0072] The second yoke member 420 may be provided on the second lens module 300. For example, the second yoke member 420 may be provided on a side of the second lens module 300 that faces the second surface of the magnet 402 provided on the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the second yoke member 420 may be provided so as to face the second polarity formed on the second surface of the magnet 402. Therefore, a predetermined attractive force may always act between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 402. The attractive force formed between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 402 may enable the second lens module 300 to be aligned and fixed relative to the first lens module 200. The second yoke member 420 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the second yoke member 420 may be formed to have a smaller size than the magnet 402. As a specific example, the height hy2 of the second yoke member 420 may be less than half the height hm of the magnet 402.

[0073] The fixing unit 400 configured as described above can align the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 as described above, and thus can achieve accurate image capture through the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. In addition, the fixing unit 400 can fix the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with a predetermined amount of force, and thus can reduce the phenomenon that the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 or other components of the camera module 10 are damaged due to external impact.

[0074] The driving unit 500 may be configured to drive the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the driving unit 500 may simultaneously drive the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 toward the object or the image sensor 710. As another example, the driving unit 500 may drive only one of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 toward the object or the image sensor 710. As yet another example, the driving unit 500 may be configured to drive the first lens module 200 toward the image sensor 710 and the second lens module 300 toward the object. As yet another example, the driving unit 500 may be configured to drive the first lens module 200 toward the object and the second lens module 300 toward the image sensor 710.

[0075] The driving unit 500 may include driving magnets 512 and 514 and a driving coil 520. In addition, the driving unit 500 may further include a circuit board 530. The driving magnets 512 and 514 may be respectively provided on the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. For example, the first driving magnet 512 may be provided on the first lens module 200, and the second driving magnet 514 may be provided on the second lens module 300. The driving coil 520 may be provided to face the first driving magnet 512 and the second driving magnet 514. For example, the first driving magnet 512 and the second driving magnet 514 may be provided to face one driving coil 520.

[0076] The first driving magnet 512 and the second driving magnet 514 can generate a predetermined driving force by interacting with the driving coil 520. As an example, the first driving magnet 512 can generate a driving force required to drive the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C by interacting with the driving coil 520, and the second driving magnet 514 can generate a driving force required to drive the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C by interacting with the driving coil 520.

[0077] The driving magnets 512 and 514 and the driving coil 520 may be configured to drive the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in various forms.

[0078] As an example, the first driving magnet 512 and the second driving magnet 514 can be configured to generate the same magnitude of driving force through interaction with the driving coil 520. For example, the driving force generated between the first driving magnet 512 and the driving coil 520 can have the same magnitude as the driving force generated between the second driving magnet 514 and the driving coil 520. Therefore, when a driving current is supplied to the driving coil 520, the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be driven with the same magnitude of displacement.

[0079] As another example, the first drive magnet 512 and the second drive magnet 514 can be configured to generate drive forces of different magnitudes through interaction with the drive coil 520. For example, the drive force generated between the first drive magnet 512 and the drive coil 520 can be smaller or larger than the drive force generated between the second drive magnet 514 and the drive coil 520. Therefore, when a drive current is supplied to the drive coil 520, the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be driven with displacements of different magnitudes. For reference, this type of driving can be performed by forming the first drive magnet 512 and the second drive magnet 514 of different sizes.

[0080] As another example, the first drive magnet 512 and the second drive magnet 514 can be configured to generate drive forces in different directions by interacting with the drive coil 520. For example, the direction of the drive force generated between the first drive magnet 512 and the drive coil 520 can be opposite to the direction of the drive force generated between the second drive magnet 514 and the drive coil 520. Therefore, when a drive current is supplied to the drive coil 520, the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be driven in opposite directions. For reference, this type of driving can be performed by forming the first drive magnet 512 and the second drive magnet 514 so that the polarity directions of the first drive magnet 512 and the second drive magnet 514 are symmetrical to each other.

[0081] The driving unit 500 configured as described above can achieve auto-focusing or zooming of the camera module 10 by moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the optical axis C direction.

[0082] The camera module 10 including the above components may be configured to be installed in an electronic device. For example, the camera module 10 may be manufactured as follows Figure 2 Therefore, the camera module 10 according to the present exemplary embodiment may be installed in a smartphone, a virtual reality device, an augmented reality device, a laptop computer, or the like.

[0083] Will refer to Figure 3 An assembled cross-sectional structure of the camera module 10 is described.

[0084] The camera module 10 may include a first lens module 200 and a second lens module 300. Figure 3As shown. The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be arranged sequentially in the direction of the optical axis C. As a specific example, the first lens module 200 can be arranged below the second lens module 300 (i.e., arranged adjacent to the image sensor 710). Therefore, the light incident on the camera module 10 can pass through the second lens module 300 and the first lens module 200 sequentially, and then be incident on (forming an image) the image sensor 710. The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be configured to have different optical properties. As an example, the first optical system or the first lens group constituting the first lens module 200 can be configured to have positive refractive power, and the second optical system or the second lens group constituting the second lens module 300 can be configured to have negative refractive power. However, the optical properties of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 are not limited thereto.

[0085] The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be maintained at a constant position in a non-driven state. As an example, the position of the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C can be fixed by the attraction between the magnet 402 provided on one side of the first lens module 200 and the first yoke member 410 provided on one side of the housing 100. As another example, the position of the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C can be fixed by the attraction between the second yoke member 420 provided on one side of the second lens module 300 and the magnet 402 provided on the first lens module 200.

[0086] In the driven state, the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in a direction intersecting the optical axis can be maintained constant. As an example, the position of the first lens module 200 in a direction intersecting the optical axis C can be maintained constant by the attractive force between the magnet 402 and the first yoke member 410, and the attractive force between the first drive magnet 512 and the drive coil 520. As another example, the position of the second lens module 300 in a direction intersecting the optical axis C can be maintained constant by the attractive force between the magnet 402 and the second yoke member 420, and the attractive force between the second drive magnet 514 and the drive coil 520.

[0087] Therefore, in the camera module 10 according to the present exemplary embodiment, stable driving of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 may be achieved while significantly reducing shaking of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 due to external impact.

[0088] Will refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 An operation example of the camera module 10 is described.

[0089] The camera module 10 can perform auto focus and zoom by driving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the camera module 10 can perform auto focus and zoom by driving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. Figure 4 The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 are moved with the same displacement as shown or as shown in FIG. Figure 5 The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 are shown to be moved at different displacements to perform auto-focusing and zooming.

[0090] Next, we will refer to Figures 6 to 11 A camera module according to another exemplary embodiment is described.

[0091] According to another exemplary embodiment, a camera module 12 may include a housing 100, a first lens module 200, and a second lens module 300. However, the components of the camera module 12 are not limited to the aforementioned components. For example, the camera module 12 may further include a fixing unit 400 for aligning or maintaining the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300, as well as a first driving unit 500 and a second driving unit 600 for driving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. Furthermore, the camera module 12 may further include an image sensor 710 configured to convert incident light signals thereon into electrical signals. The image sensor 710 may be disposed on the housing 100 via a substrate 720.

[0092] The housing 100 may be configured to accommodate the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 therein. For example, a space 102 may be formed in the housing 100 in which the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be sequentially accommodated. The space 102 may be formed so as not to obstruct the movement of light. For example, the space 102 may be formed so as to be open in the direction of the optical axis C.

[0093] The housing 100 may be configured to allow for placement of the fixing unit 400 and the first and second drive units 500 and 600. For example, the different side portions 104 and 106 of the housing 100 may be formed to be partially or completely open, allowing for placement of some components of the fixing unit 400 and some components of the first and second drive units 500 and 600.

[0094] The first lens module 200 can be configured to allow light incident on the camera module 12 to form an image on the image sensor 710. To this end, the first lens module 200 can include one or more lenses having predetermined refractive power. For example, the first lens module 200 can include two or more lenses having positive or negative refractive power. However, the number of lenses housed in the first lens module 200 is not limited to two. The first lens module 200 can be configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the first lens module 200 can be moved toward the second lens module 300 or toward the image sensor 710 via the first drive unit 500.

[0095] The second lens module 300 can be configured to allow light incident on the camera module 12 to be incident on the first lens module 200, or to reflect light incident on the camera module 12 toward the first lens module 200. To this end, the second lens module 300 may include one or more lenses having a predetermined refractive power. For example, the second lens module 300 may include one or more lenses having a positive refractive power or a negative refractive power. However, the number of lenses housed in the second lens module 300 is not limited to one. The second lens module 300 can be configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the second lens module 300 can be moved toward an object (subject) or toward the first lens module 200 via the second drive unit 600.

[0096] The fixing unit 400 can be configured to align or constantly maintain the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. As an example, the fixing unit 400 can align the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 so that the optical axes of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 coincide with each other. As another example, the fixing unit 400 can constantly maintain the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in a non-driven state so that the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 do not collide with each other or with the inner wall of the housing 100 or the image sensor 710 due to external impact.

[0097] The fixing unit 400 may include a magnet 402 and yoke members 410 and 420. For example, the fixing unit 400 may include one magnet 402, a first yoke member 410, and a second yoke member 420. However, the components of the fixing unit 400 are not limited thereto. For example, the fixing unit 400 may also include two magnets and one yoke member.

[0098] The magnet 402 may be disposed on the first lens module 200. For example, the magnet 402 may be disposed on a surface of the first lens module 200 that is substantially parallel to the optical axis C. The magnet 402 may be formed to have a relatively large size. For example, the height of the magnet 402 (in the direction of the optical axis C) may be greater than the height of the first lens module 200. The polarity of the magnet 402 may be formed along the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the magnet 402 may be configured so that the maximum magnetic force is generated at its two ends in the direction of the optical axis C. However, the polarity of the magnet 402 is not limited to this.

[0099] The first yoke member 410 may be provided on the housing 100. For example, the first yoke member 410 may be provided on a side of the housing 100 that faces the first surface of the magnet 402 provided on the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the first yoke member 410 may be provided so as to face the first polarity formed on the first surface of the magnet 402. Thus, a predetermined attractive force may always act between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 402. The attractive force formed between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 402 may enable the first lens module 200 to be aligned and fixed relative to the housing 100. The first yoke member 410 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the first yoke member 410 may be formed to have a smaller size than the magnet 402.

[0100] The second yoke member 420 may be provided on the second lens module 300. For example, the second yoke member 420 may be provided on a side of the second lens module 300 that faces the second surface of the magnet 402 provided on the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the second yoke member 420 may be provided so as to face the second polarity formed on the second surface of the magnet 402. Thus, a predetermined attractive force may always act between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 402. The attractive force formed between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 402 may enable the second lens module 300 to be aligned and fixed relative to the first lens module 200. The second yoke member 420 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the second yoke member 420 may be formed to have a smaller size than the magnet 402.

[0101] The fixing unit 400 configured as described above can align the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 as described above, and thus can achieve accurate image capture by the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. In addition, the fixing unit 400 can fix the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with a predetermined amount of force, and thus can reduce the phenomenon that the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 or other components of the camera module 12 are damaged due to external impact.

[0102] The first drive unit 500 can be configured to drive the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the first drive unit 500 can drive the first lens module 200 toward the object or image sensor 710. The first drive unit 500 can include a first drive magnet 510 and a first drive coil 520. The first drive magnet 510 can be disposed on the first lens module 200. For example, the first drive magnet 510 can be disposed on a surface of the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the first drive magnet 510 can be disposed in a position facing the magnet 402. The first drive coil 520 can be disposed facing the first drive magnet 510. For example, the first drive coil 520 can be disposed on the side 106 of the housing 100 facing the first drive magnet 510 via the circuit board 530. In this way, the first drive unit 500 can move the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C by generating a driving force between the first drive magnet 510 and the first drive coil 520.

[0103] The second drive unit 600 can be configured to drive the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the second drive unit 600 can drive the second lens module 300 toward the object or image sensor 710. The second drive unit 600 can include a second drive magnet 610 and a second drive coil 620. The second drive magnet 610 can be disposed on the second lens module 300. For example, the second drive magnet 610 can be disposed on a surface of the second lens module 300. As a specific example, the second drive magnet 610 can be disposed in a position facing the second yoke member 420. The second drive coil 620 can be disposed facing the second drive magnet 610. For example, the second drive coil 620 can be disposed on the side 106 of the housing 100 facing the second drive magnet 610 via the circuit board 530. In this way, the second drive unit 600 can move the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C by generating a driving force between the second drive magnet 610 and the second drive coil 620.

[0104] The camera module 12 can perform auto focus and zoom by the first driving unit 500 and the second driving unit 600. As an example, the camera module 12 can perform auto focus and zoom by moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with the same displacement, moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with different displacements, or moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in different directions.

[0105] Will refer to Figure 8 The assembled cross-sectional structure of the camera module 12 is described.

[0106] The camera module 12 may include a first lens module 200 and a second lens module 300. Figure 8 As shown. The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be arranged sequentially in the direction of the optical axis C. As a specific example, the first lens module 200 can be arranged below the second lens module 300 (i.e., arranged adjacent to the image sensor 710). Therefore, the light incident on the camera module 12 can pass through the second lens module 300 and the first lens module 200 sequentially, and then be incident on (forming an image) the image sensor 710. The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be configured to have different optical properties. As an example, the first optical system or the first lens group constituting the first lens module 200 can be configured to have positive refractive power, and the second optical system or the second lens group constituting the second lens module 300 can be configured to have negative refractive power. However, the optical properties of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 are not limited thereto.

[0107] The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be maintained at a constant position in a non-driven state. As an example, the position of the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C can be fixed by the attraction between the magnet 402 provided on one side of the first lens module 200 and the first yoke member 410 provided on one side of the housing 100. As another example, the position of the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C can be fixed by the attraction between the second yoke member 420 provided on one side of the second lens module 300 and the magnet 402 provided on the first lens module 200.

[0108] In the driven state, the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in a direction intersecting the optical axis can be maintained constant. As an example, the position of the first lens module 200 in a direction intersecting the optical axis C can be maintained constant by maintaining a balance between the attractive force between the magnet 402 and the first yoke member 410 and the attractive force between the first drive magnet 510 and the first drive coil 520. As another example, the position of the second lens module 300 in a direction intersecting the optical axis C can be maintained constant by maintaining a balance between the attractive force between the magnet 402 and the second yoke member 420 and the attractive force between the second drive magnet 610 and the second drive coil 620.

[0109] Therefore, in the camera module 12 according to the present exemplary embodiment, stable driving of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 may be achieved while significantly reducing shaking of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 due to external impact.

[0110] Will refer to Figures 9 to 11 An operation example of the camera module 12 is described.

[0111] The camera module 12 can perform auto focus and zoom by driving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the camera module 12 can perform auto focus and zoom by driving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. Figure 9 and Figure 11 Only one of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 is moved as shown or Figure 10 Both the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 are shown to be moved to perform auto-focusing or zooming.

[0112] Next, we will refer to Figures 12 to 17 A camera module according to still another exemplary embodiment is described.

[0113] According to another exemplary embodiment, a camera module 14 may include a housing 100, a first lens module 200, and a second lens module 300. However, the components of the camera module 14 are not limited to the aforementioned components. For example, the camera module 14 may further include a fixing unit 400 for aligning or maintaining the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300, as well as a first driving unit 500 and a second driving unit 600 for driving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. Furthermore, the camera module 14 may further include an image sensor 710 configured to convert incident light signals thereon into electrical signals. The image sensor 710 may be disposed on the housing 100 via a substrate 720.

[0114] The housing 100 may be configured to accommodate the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 therein. For example, a space 102 may be formed in the housing 100 in which the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be sequentially accommodated. The space 102 may be formed so as not to obstruct the movement of light. For example, the space 102 may be formed so as to be open in the direction of the optical axis C.

[0115] The housing 100 may be configured to allow for placement of the fixing unit 400 and the first and second drive units 500 and 600. For example, the different side portions 104, 106, and 110 of the housing 100 may be formed to be partially or completely open, allowing for placement of some components of the fixing unit 400 and some components of the first and second drive units 500 and 600.

[0116] The housing 100 can be configured to enable the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 to be smoothly driven. For example, a groove 108 for accommodating ball bearings 810 and 820 can be formed in the inner wall of one side of the housing 100. The groove 108 can be formed along the optical axis C. The ball bearings 810 and 820 disposed in the groove 108 can reduce frictional resistance between the inner wall of the housing 100 and the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300, thereby enabling the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 to be smoothly driven. For example, the first ball bearing 810 can be disposed between the housing 100 and the first lens module 200 to reduce contact friction between the housing 100 and the first lens module 200, and the second ball bearing 820 can be disposed between the housing 100 and the second lens module 300 to reduce contact friction between the housing 100 and the second lens module 300.

[0117] The first lens module 200 can be configured to allow light incident on the camera module 14 to form an image on the image sensor 710. To this end, the first lens module 200 can include one or more lenses having predetermined refractive power. For example, the first lens module 200 can include two or more lenses having positive or negative refractive power. However, the number of lenses housed in the first lens module 200 is not limited to two. The first lens module 200 can be configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the first lens module 200 can be moved toward the second lens module 300 or toward the image sensor 710 via the first drive unit 500.

[0118] A first guide groove 208 corresponding to the groove 108 of the housing 100 may be formed in one side of the first lens module 200. The first guide groove 208 may be formed to face the groove 108 to form a space in which the first ball bearing 810 may be accommodated.

[0119] The second lens module 300 can be configured to allow light incident on the camera module 14 to be incident on the first lens module 200, or to reflect light incident on the camera module 14 toward the first lens module 200. To this end, the second lens module 300 may include one or more lenses having predetermined refractive power. For example, the second lens module 300 may include one or more lenses having positive or negative refractive power. However, the number of lenses housed in the second lens module 300 is not limited to one. The second lens module 300 can be configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the second lens module 300 can be moved toward an object (subject) or toward the first lens module 200 via the second drive unit 600.

[0120] A second guide groove 308 corresponding to the groove 108 of the housing 100 may be formed in one side of the second lens module 300. The second guide groove 308 may be formed to face the groove 108 to form a space in which the second ball bearing 820 may be accommodated.

[0121] The fixing unit 400 can be configured to align or constantly maintain the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. As an example, the fixing unit 400 can align the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 so that the optical axes of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 coincide with each other. As another example, the fixing unit 400 can constantly maintain the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in a non-driven state so that the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 do not collide with each other or with the inner wall of the housing 100 or the image sensor 710 due to external impact.

[0122] The fixing unit 400 may include a magnet 402 and yoke members 410 and 420. For example, the fixing unit 400 may include one magnet 402, a first yoke member 410, and a second yoke member 420. However, the components of the fixing unit 400 are not limited thereto. For example, the fixing unit 400 may also include two magnets and one yoke member.

[0123] The magnet 402 may be disposed on the first lens module 200. For example, the magnet 402 may be disposed on a surface of the first lens module 200 that is substantially parallel to the optical axis C. The magnet 402 may be formed to have a relatively large size. For example, the height of the magnet 402 (in the direction of the optical axis C) may be greater than the height of the first lens module 200. The polarity of the magnet 402 may be formed along the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the magnet 402 may be configured so that the maximum magnetic force is generated at its two ends in the direction of the optical axis C. However, the polarity of the magnet 402 is not limited to this.

[0124] The first yoke member 410 may be provided on the housing 100. For example, the first yoke member 410 may be provided on a side of the housing 100 that faces the first surface of the magnet 402 provided on the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the first yoke member 410 may be provided so as to face the first polarity formed on the first surface of the magnet 402. Thus, a predetermined attractive force may always act between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 402. The attractive force formed between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 402 may enable the first lens module 200 to be aligned and fixed relative to the housing 100. The first yoke member 410 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the first yoke member 410 may be formed to have a smaller size than the magnet 402.

[0125] The second yoke member 420 may be provided on the second lens module 300. For example, the second yoke member 420 may be provided on a first surface of the second lens module 300 that faces the second surface of the magnet 402 provided on the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the second yoke member 420 may be provided so as to face the second polarity formed on the second surface of the magnet 402. Thus, a predetermined attractive force may always act between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 402. The attractive force formed between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 402 may enable the second lens module 300 to be aligned and fixed relative to the first lens module 200. The second yoke member 420 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the second yoke member 420 may be formed to have a smaller size than the magnet 402.

[0126] The fixing unit 400 configured as described above can align the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 as described above, and thus can achieve accurate image capture by the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. In addition, the fixing unit 400 can fix the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with a predetermined amount of force, and thus can reduce the phenomenon that the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 or other components of the camera module 14 are damaged due to external impact.

[0127] The first drive unit 500 can be configured to drive the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the first drive unit 500 can drive the first lens module 200 toward the object or image sensor 710. The first drive unit 500 can include a first drive magnet 510 and a first drive coil 520. The first drive magnet 510 can be disposed on the first lens module 200. For example, the first drive magnet 510 can be disposed on a surface of the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the first drive magnet 510 can be disposed in a position facing the magnet 402. The first drive coil 520 can be disposed facing the first drive magnet 510. For example, the first drive coil 520 can be disposed on the side 106 of the housing 100 facing the first drive magnet 510 via the circuit board 530. In this way, the first drive unit 500 can move the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C by generating a driving force between the first drive magnet 510 and the first drive coil 520.

[0128] The second drive unit 600 can be configured to drive the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the second drive unit 600 can drive the second lens module 300 toward an object or an image sensor 710. The second drive unit 600 can include a second drive magnet 610 and a second drive coil 620. The second drive magnet 610 can be disposed on the second lens module 300. For example, the second drive magnet 610 can be disposed on the second surface of the second lens module 300. As a specific example, the second drive magnet 610 can be disposed in a position facing the second guide groove 308. The second drive coil 620 can be disposed facing the second drive magnet 610. For example, the second drive coil 620 can be disposed on the side 110 of the housing 100 facing the second drive magnet 610 via the circuit board 630. In this way, the second drive unit 600 can move the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C by generating a driving force between the second drive magnet 610 and the second drive coil 620.

[0129] The camera module 14 can perform auto focus and zoom by the first driving unit 500 and the second driving unit 600. As an example, the camera module 14 can perform auto focus and zoom by moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with the same displacement, moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with different displacements, or moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in different directions.

[0130] The camera module 14 including the above components can be configured to be installed in an electronic device. For example, the camera module 14 can be configured as follows: Figure 13 Therefore, the camera module 14 according to the present exemplary embodiment can be installed in a smartphone, a virtual reality device, an augmented reality device, a laptop computer, etc.

[0131] Next, we will refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 The cross-sectional structure of the camera module 14 is described.

[0132] The second lens module 300 may be configured to be housed in the housing 100, as shown in FIG. Figure 14 The second yoke member 420 and the second driving magnet 610 may be respectively disposed on two different side surfaces of the second lens module 300 . In addition, a second ball bearing 820 may be disposed on another side surface of the second lens module 300 .

[0133] The second lens module 300 in the non-driven state can be configured to remain at a constant position in the housing 100. As an example, the position of the second lens module 300 in a direction intersecting the optical axis C can be determined by the second ball bearing 820 and the second driving unit 600. As a specific example, the second lens module 300 can be arranged to be in close contact with the second ball bearing 820 due to the magnetic force generated between the second driving magnet 610 and the second driving coil 620. As another example, the position of the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C can be determined by the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 402. As a specific example, the position of the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C can be converged to a position where the attractive force between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 402 is maximum.

[0134] The first lens module 200 may be configured to be housed in the housing 100, as shown in FIG. Figure 15 The first yoke member 410 and the first driving magnet 510 may be respectively provided on two opposite side surfaces of the first lens module 200 . In addition, a first ball bearing 810 may be provided on another side surface of the first lens module 200 .

[0135] The first lens module 200 in the non-driven state can be configured to always remain at a constant position in the housing 100. As an example, the position of the first lens module 200 in a direction intersecting the optical axis C can be determined by the first ball bearing 810, the magnet 402, and the first driving magnet 510. As a specific example, the first lens module 200 can be arranged to be in close contact with the first ball bearing 810 by the magnetic force generated between the magnet 402 and the first yoke member 410, and the magnetic force generated between the first driving magnet 510 and the first driving coil 520. As another example, the position of the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C can be determined by the magnet 402 and the first yoke member 410. As a specific example, the position of the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C can be converged to a position where the attractive force between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 402 is maximum.

[0136] Next, we will refer to Figure 16 and Figure 17 The longitudinal cross-sectional structure of the camera module 14 is described.

[0137] The camera module 14 may include a first lens module 200 and a second lens module 300. Figure 16 and Figure 17As shown. The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be arranged sequentially in the direction of the optical axis C. As a specific example, the first lens module 200 can be arranged below the second lens module 300 (i.e., arranged adjacent to the image sensor 710). Therefore, the light incident on the camera module 14 can pass through the second lens module 300 and the first lens module 200 sequentially, and then be incident on (forming an image) the image sensor 710. The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be configured to have different optical properties. As an example, the first optical system or the first lens group constituting the first lens module 200 can be configured to have positive refractive power, and the second optical system or the second lens group constituting the second lens module 300 can be configured to have negative refractive power. However, the optical properties of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 are not limited thereto.

[0138] The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be maintained at a constant position in a non-driven state. As an example, the position of the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C can be fixed by the attraction between the magnet 402 provided on one side of the first lens module 200 and the first yoke member 410 provided on one side of the housing 100. As another example, the position of the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C can be fixed by the attraction between the second yoke member 420 provided on one side of the second lens module 300 and the magnet 402 provided on the first lens module 200.

[0139] In the driven state, the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the direction intersecting the optical axis can be kept constant. As an example, the position of the first lens module 200 in the direction intersecting the optical axis C can be kept constant by maintaining a balance between the attractive force between the magnet 402 and the first yoke member 410 and the attractive force between the first driving magnet 510 and the first driving coil 520 (see FIG. Figure 16 As another example, the position of the second lens module 300 in the direction crossing the optical axis C can be maintained constantly by the magnetic force generated between the second driving magnet 610 and the second driving coil 620 and the second ball support 820 (see Figure 17 ) to maintain constant.

[0140] Therefore, in the camera module 14 according to the present exemplary embodiment, it is possible to achieve stable driving of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 while significantly reducing the shaking of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 due to external impact. In addition, in the camera module 14 according to the present exemplary embodiment, by providing the ball bearings 810 and 820 between the housing 100 and the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300, it is possible to smoothly drive the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C.

[0141] For reference, a driving form of the camera module 14 according to the present exemplary embodiment is the same as or similar to that of the camera module according to the above exemplary embodiment, and thus a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0142] Next, we will refer to Figures 18 to 21 A camera module according to still another exemplary embodiment is described.

[0143] According to another exemplary embodiment, a camera module 16 may include a housing 100, a first lens module 200, and a second lens module 300. However, the components of the camera module 16 are not limited to the above-described components. For example, the camera module 16 may further include a fixing unit 400 for aligning or maintaining the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300, as well as a first driving unit 500 and a second driving unit 600 for driving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. In addition, the camera module 16 may further include an image sensor 710 configured to convert an incident light signal thereon into an electrical signal. The image sensor 710 may be disposed on the housing 100 via a substrate 720. In addition, the camera module 16 may further include a shielding cover 900 configured to shield electromagnetic waves. In addition, the camera module 16 may further include an anti-separation member 910 for preventing the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 from separating.

[0144] The housing 100 can be configured to accommodate the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 therein. For example, a space 102 can be formed in the housing 100 to sequentially accommodate the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. The space 102 can be formed so as not to obstruct the movement of light. For example, the space 102 can be formed to be open in the direction of the optical axis C.

[0145] The housing 100 may be configured to accommodate the fixing unit 400 and the first and second drive units 500 and 600. For example, different sides of the housing 100 may be partially or fully opened to accommodate some components of the fixing unit 400 and some components of the first and second drive units 500 and 600.

[0146] The first lens module 200 can be configured to allow light incident on the camera module 16 to form an image on the image sensor 710. To this end, the first lens module 200 can include one or more lenses having predetermined refractive power. For example, the first lens module 200 can include two or more lenses having positive or negative refractive power. However, the number of lenses housed in the first lens module 200 is not limited to two. The first lens module 200 can be configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the first lens module 200 can be moved toward the second lens module 300 or toward the image sensor 710 via the first drive unit 500.

[0147] A support portion 230 extending in the direction of the optical axis C may be formed on one side of the first lens module 200. The support portion 230 may be formed to face the first surface of the second lens module 300. The support portion 230 may be configured to accommodate certain components of the fixing unit 400 or the first driving unit 500 therein. For example, an opening 232 that may expose the first and second surfaces of the first driving magnet 510 may be formed in the support portion 230. The support portion 230 may be configured to enable smooth driving of the first and second lens modules 200, 300. As an example, guide grooves 208 and 238 may be formed in one and the other sides of the support portion 230, respectively. A first ball bearing 810 for reducing contact friction between the housing 100 and the first lens module 200 may be disposed in the guide groove 208, and a second ball bearing 820 for reducing contact friction between the first and second lens modules 200, 300 may be disposed in the guide groove 238. A stopper member 830 for preventing the ball bearings 810 and 820 from being separated may be additionally provided above the guide grooves 208 and 238 .

[0148] The second lens module 300 can be configured to allow light incident on the camera module 16 to be incident on the first lens module 200, or to reflect light incident on the camera module 16 toward the first lens module 200. To this end, the second lens module 300 may include one or more lenses having predetermined refractive power. For example, the second lens module 300 may include one or more lenses having positive or negative refractive power. However, the number of lenses housed in the second lens module 300 is not limited to one. The second lens module 300 can be configured to be movable in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the second lens module 300 can be moved toward an object (subject) or toward the first lens module 200 via the second drive unit 600.

[0149] A guide groove 308 corresponding to the guide groove 238 of the supporting portion 230 may be formed in one side of the second lens module 300. The guide groove 308 may be formed to face the guide groove 238 to form a space in which the second ball bearing 820 may be accommodated.

[0150] The fixing unit 400 can be configured to align or constantly maintain the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. For example, the fixing unit 400 can align the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 so that the optical axes of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 coincide with each other. As another example, the fixing unit 400 can constantly maintain the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in a non-driven state so that the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 do not collide with each other or with the inner wall of the housing 100 or the image sensor 710 due to external impact.

[0151] The fixing unit 400 may include a magnet 510 and yoke members 410 and 420. For example, the fixing unit 400 may include a magnet 510, a first yoke member 410, and a second yoke member 420. However, components of the fixing unit 400 are not limited thereto.

[0152] The magnet 510 can be provided on the first lens module 200. For example, the magnet 510 can be provided in the opening 232 of the support portion 230. The polarity of the magnet 510 can be formed along the optical axis C direction. For example, the magnet 510 can be configured to form the maximum magnetic force at its two ends in the optical axis C direction. However, the polarity direction of the magnet 510 is not limited to this. The magnet 510 can be used as a component for driving the first lens module 200. For example, the magnet 510 can be used as a first driving magnet constituting the first driving unit 500. Therefore, in the following description, the magnet 510 and the first driving magnet 510 are the same component and will be represented by the same reference numerals.

[0153] The first yoke member 410 may be disposed on the housing 100. For example, the first yoke member 410 may be disposed on one side of the housing 100 so as to face the first surface of the magnet 510. As a specific example, the first yoke member 410 may be disposed so as to face the first surface of the magnet 510. Thus, an attractive force of a predetermined magnitude may always act between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 510. The attractive force formed between the first yoke member 410 and the magnet 510 may enable the first lens module 200 to be aligned and fixed relative to the housing 100. The first yoke member 410 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the first yoke member 410 may be formed to have a smaller size than the magnet 510.

[0154] The second yoke member 420 may be provided on the second lens module 300. For example, the second yoke member 420 may be provided on one side of the second lens module 300 so as to face the second surface of the magnet 510 provided in the support portion 230. As a specific example, the second yoke member 420 may be provided so as to face the second surface of the magnet 510. Thus, an attractive force of a predetermined magnitude may always act between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 510. The attractive force formed between the second yoke member 420 and the magnet 510 may enable the second lens module 300 to be aligned and fixed relative to the first lens module 200. The second yoke member 420 may be formed to have a predetermined size. For example, the second yoke member 420 may be formed to have a smaller size than the magnet 510.

[0155] The fixing unit 400 configured as described above can align the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 as described above, and thus can achieve accurate image capture by the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. In addition, the fixing unit 400 can fix the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with a predetermined amount of force, and thus can reduce the phenomenon that the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 or other components of the camera module 16 are damaged due to external impact.

[0156] The first drive unit 500 can be configured to drive the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the first drive unit 500 can drive the first lens module 200 toward an object or the image sensor 710. The first drive unit 500 can include a first drive magnet 510 and a first drive coil 520. The first drive magnet 510 can be disposed on the first lens module 200. For example, the first drive magnet 510 can be disposed on a surface of the first lens module 200. As a specific example, the first drive magnet 510 can be disposed in the support portion 230. The first drive coil 520 can be disposed so as to face the first drive magnet 510. For example, the first drive coil 520 can be disposed on a side of the housing 100 facing the first drive magnet 510 via the circuit board 530. In this way, the first drive unit 500 can move the first lens module 200 in the direction of the optical axis C by generating a driving force between the first drive magnet 510 and the first drive coil 520.

[0157] The second drive unit 600 can be configured to drive the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. As an example, the second drive unit 600 can drive the second lens module 300 toward an object or an image sensor 710. The second drive unit 600 can include a second drive magnet 610 and a second drive coil 620. The second drive magnet 610 can be disposed on the second lens module 300. For example, the second drive magnet 610 can be disposed on one surface of the second lens module 300. As a specific example, the second drive magnet 610 and the second yoke member 420 can be disposed on a first side surface and a second side surface of the second lens module 300 that intersect each other, respectively. The second drive coil 620 can be disposed so as to face the second drive magnet 610. For example, the second drive coil 620 can be disposed on a side of the housing 100 that faces the second drive magnet 610 via the circuit board 530. In this way, the second drive unit 600 can move the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C by generating a driving force between the second drive magnet 610 and the second drive coil 620. Meanwhile, the circuit board 530 may be configured so that the first driving coil 520 and the second driving coil 620 can be arranged. For example, the circuit board 530 may be formed of a bendable flexible material or may be configured in a form having a bent portion formed on one side thereof.

[0158] The camera module 16 can perform auto focus and zoom by the first driving unit 500 and the second driving unit 600. As an example, the camera module 16 can perform auto focus and zoom by moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with the same displacement, moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 with different displacements, or moving the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in different directions. For reference, the driving form of the camera module 16 according to this exemplary embodiment is the same as that of the embodiment of the present invention. Figures 9 to 11 , and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0159] The shielding cover 900 can be configured to cover a substantial portion of the housing 100. For example, the shielding cover 900 can be configured to cover the upper portion and four side surfaces of the housing 100. The shielding cover 900 can be configured to shield electromagnetic waves. For example, the shielding cover 900 can be formed of metal or a material including metal to reduce or prevent harmful electromagnetic waves from being introduced into the camera module 16. An anti-separation member 910 can be disposed in the housing 100 and configured to prevent the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 from separating. For example, the anti-separation member 910 can be securely fixed to the upper portion of the housing 100 and press the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 toward the interior of the housing 100. However, the anti-separation member 910 does not restrict the movement of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in the direction of the optical axis C. For example, the anti-separation member 910 can be configured in an elastically deformable shape or formed of an elastically deformable material to allow the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 to be moved in the direction of the optical axis C within a predetermined range.

[0160] The camera module 16 configured as described above may be configured to occupy a space such as Figure 19 Therefore, the camera module 16 can be installed in a small electronic device. For example, the camera module 16 can be installed in a smart phone, a virtual reality device, an augmented reality device, a laptop computer, various mobile electronic devices, etc.

[0161] Next, we will refer to Figure 20 and Figure 21 A cross-sectional structure of the camera module 16 is described.

[0162] The camera module 16 may include a first lens module 200 and a second lens module 300 disposed at a predetermined interval along the optical axis C direction. Figure 20 As shown. As a specific example, the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be arranged sequentially along the optical axis C direction from the image sensor 710 toward the object. The first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be arranged to have the same optical axis. For example, light incident through the second lens module 300 can be incident on the first lens module 200 without being reflected or refracted to the surrounding environment.

[0163] The camera module 16 can be configured to align or fix the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300. For example, the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be aligned or fixed by a first yoke member 410, a first drive magnet 510, and a second yoke member 420 disposed on one side of the housing 100. As an example, the first lens module 200 can be fixed in a specific position by an attractive force between the first yoke member 410 disposed on one side of the housing 100 and a first drive magnet 510 disposed in the support portion 230. As another example, the second lens module 300 can be fixed in a specific position by an attractive force between the first drive magnet 510 disposed in the support portion 230 and a second yoke member 420 disposed on one side of the second lens module 300. For example, the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can be aligned relative to the first drive magnet 510 disposed in the first lens module 200. Therefore, according to this exemplary embodiment, the optical axes of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 can also be aligned together with the horizontal positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 (the positions of the first lens module 200 and the second lens module 300 in a direction intersecting the optical axes). At the same time, the position of the second lens module 300 can also be aligned by the second driving unit 600. For example, the second driving magnet 610 and the second driving coil 620 can allow a predetermined amount of force to act on the second lens module 300, so as to allow the position of the second lens module 300 relative to the first lens module 200 to be constantly maintained.

[0164] The first yoke member 410, the first drive magnet 510, and the second yoke member 420 can be arranged at predetermined intervals along a direction intersecting the optical axis. The first yoke member 410, the first drive magnet 510, and the second yoke member 420 can be configured to generate magnetic forces of the same magnitude. For example, the distance from the first yoke member 410 to the first surface of the first drive magnet 510 and the distance from the second yoke member 420 to the second surface of the first drive magnet 510 can be substantially the same as each other. Alternatively, the magnitude of the magnetic force generated between the first yoke member 410 and the first drive magnet 510 can be substantially the same as the magnitude of the magnetic force generated between the second yoke member 420 and the first drive magnet 510. The latter condition can be adjusted by adjusting the size of the first yoke member 410 and the second yoke member 420 or the distance between the first yoke member 410, the second yoke member 420, and the first drive magnet 510.

[0165] As described above, according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a camera module capable of automatic focusing and zooming may be provided.

[0166] Furthermore, in the present disclosure, the structure of the camera module can be simplified to reduce the manufacturing cost of the camera module while achieving miniaturization of the camera module.

[0167] Although specific examples have been shown and described above, it will be apparent after understanding this disclosure that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein are to be understood in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. The description of features or aspects in each example should be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Appropriate results may still be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described systems, architectures, devices, or circuits are combined in different ways and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited by the specific embodiments, but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be understood to be included in this disclosure.

Claims

1. Camera module, including: case; a first lens module configured to be movable in a first direction of the housing; a second lens module configured to be movable in the first direction; an image sensor, disposed on the housing on an imaging side of the first lens module; a first magnet, disposed on the first lens module; a first yoke member provided on the housing to face a first side surface of the first magnet and configured to limit a moving position of the first lens module relative to the housing; as well as A second yoke member is provided on the second lens module to face the second side surface of the first magnet and is configured to limit a moving position of the second lens module relative to the first lens module. 2 . The camera module of claim 1 , further comprising a first driving unit driving the first lens module in the first direction.

3. The camera module according to claim 2, wherein: The first driving unit includes: the first magnet; and The first driving coil is arranged on the shell. 4 . The camera module of claim 1 , further comprising a second driving unit driving the second lens module in the first direction.

5. The camera module according to claim 4, wherein: The second driving unit includes: a second magnet, disposed on the second lens module; and The second driving coil is arranged on the shell.

6. The camera module according to claim 5, wherein: The second yoke member is disposed on a first surface of the second lens module, and Wherein, the second magnet is arranged on the second surface of the second lens module. 7 . The camera module of claim 1 , further comprising a first ball bearing disposed between the housing and the first lens module. 8 . The camera module of claim 1 , further comprising a support portion formed to face a first surface of the second lens module extending in the first direction.

9. The camera module according to claim 8, wherein: The first magnet is disposed in the support portion, and Here, a hole for exposing one or more of the first side surface and the second side surface of the first magnet is formed in the supporting portion.

10. The camera module according to claim 8, wherein: A guide groove extending in the first direction and accommodating a ball bearing therein is formed in the supporting portion. 11 . The camera module of claim 8 , further comprising a second ball bearing disposed between the supporting portion and the second lens module.

12. Camera module, including: A first lens module includes a first lens group; A second lens module includes a second lens group; a housing configured to accommodate the first lens module in the housing; an image sensor, disposed on the housing on an imaging side of the first lens module; a first driving unit configured to drive the first lens module in the optical axis direction of the first lens group; a second driving unit configured to drive the second lens module in the direction of the optical axis; a first yoke member disposed on a first side surface of the housing; a second yoke member, disposed on a first side surface of the second lens module; as well as a magnet, disposed on a first side surface of the first lens module, The first yoke member, the magnet, and the second yoke member are sequentially arranged at intervals along a direction intersecting the optical axis.

13. The camera module according to claim 12, wherein: A first surface of the magnet faces the first yoke member, and a second surface of the magnet faces the second yoke member.

14. The camera module according to claim 12, wherein: The first driving unit includes: a first driving magnet disposed on a second side surface of the first lens module; and The first driving coil is arranged on the second side surface of the shell.

15. The camera module according to claim 12, wherein: The second driving unit includes: a second driving coil disposed on a third side surface of the housing; and A second driving magnet is provided on one side surface of the second lens module facing the third side surface of the housing.

16. The camera module according to claim 12, further comprising: a first ball member disposed between the housing and the first lens module; as well as The second ball member is disposed between the first lens module and the second lens module.

17. Camera module, including: case; a first magnetic member disposed in the housing; a first lens module, disposed in the housing and movable in a first direction; a second magnetic member disposed on the first lens module to face the first magnetic member; a second lens module, disposed in the housing and movable in the first direction; a third magnetic member disposed on the second lens module to face the second magnetic member; an image sensor, disposed on the housing on the imaging side of the first lens module, wherein the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are pulled toward each other, and Wherein, the second magnetic member and the third magnetic member are pulled toward each other.

18. The camera module according to claim 17, wherein: The first magnetic member includes a first yoke member, Wherein, the second magnetic member includes a first magnet, and Wherein, the third magnetic component includes a second yoke component.

19. The camera module according to claim 17, further comprising a first driving coil provided on the housing to face the second magnetic member, in, The second magnetic member includes a first magnet, and The magnetic interaction between the first driving coil and the first magnet moves the first lens module in the first direction.

20. The camera module of claim 19, further comprising: a second magnet, disposed on the second lens module; as well as a second driving coil provided on the housing to face the second magnet, The magnetic interaction between the second driving coil and the second magnet moves the second lens module in the first direction.

21. The camera module of claim 17, further comprising: a first ball member disposed between the housing and the first lens module; as well as A second ball member is disposed between the second lens module and one or more of the housing and the first lens module.

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