Camera module

Abstract

The present embodiment relates to a camera module including: a first body including a lens; a second body coupled to the first body and including a connection portion; and a sealing member and a grounding member disposed in the connection portion of the second body, wherein the connection portion includes a first region having a first hole and a second region having a second hole having a diameter larger than that of the first hole, the sealing member is arranged in the second region, the grounding member is arranged to be spaced apart from the sealing member, and the second region is located between the first region and the grounding member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This implementation relates to a camera module. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, ultra-miniature camera modules are under development and are widely used in small electronic products such as smartphones, laptops and game consoles.

[0003] With the increasing prevalence of automobiles, ultra-compact cameras are not only widely used in small electronic products, but also in vehicles. Examples include black box cameras that provide objective data for vehicle protection or traffic accidents, rear-view cameras that allow drivers to monitor blind spots behind the vehicle on a screen while reversing to ensure safety, and peripheral detection cameras that can monitor the vehicle's surroundings.

[0004] Traditional camera modules suffer from assembly time losses and increased unit prices because the rear body consists of two rear bodies. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This embodiment aims to provide a camera module in which the assembly process is minimized through the use of a rear body.

[0006] In addition, it is intended to provide a camera module that can be waterproofed and grounded through a single hole, without requiring a separate component to prevent the grounding component from separating from the waterproof component.

[0007] In addition, a camera module is provided that reduces costs by unifying the various parts and by eliminating the four screws used to connect the two conventional rear bodies.

[0008] Technical solutions

[0009] The camera module according to this embodiment includes: a first body including a lens; a second body coupled to the first body and including a connecting portion; and a sealing member and a grounding member disposed in the connecting portion of the second body, wherein the connecting portion includes a first region and a second region, the first region having a first hole, the second region having a second hole with a diameter larger than the diameter of the first hole, wherein the sealing member is disposed in the second region, the grounding member is disposed spaced apart from the sealing member, and the second region may be located between the first region and the grounding member.

[0010] The inner peripheral surface of the second region of the connecting portion can be arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner peripheral surface of the first region of the connecting portion.

[0011] The connecting portion includes a third region having a third hole with a diameter greater than that of the second hole, and the inner circumferential surface of the third region of the connecting portion can be arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner circumferential surface of the second region of the connecting portion.

[0012] The third region may include: a lower region extending from the second region; and a middle region extending from the lower region to include an inner circumferential surface having a circular shape.

[0013] The third region may include an upper region extending upward from the middle region of the third region, and the width of the upper region of the third region may increase as it moves away from the middle region.

[0014] The inner peripheral surface of the middle region of the third region can be formed as an inclination.

[0015] The height of the second region of the connecting part can be greater than the height of the third region of the connecting part.

[0016] At least a portion of the grounding member may overlap with the stepped portion of the connecting part along the optical axis.

[0017] The stepped portion of the connection can restrict the movement of the grounding component in the downward direction.

[0018] The middle area of ​​the third region can guide the grounding component to be inserted into the lower area of ​​the third region.

[0019] The camera module according to this embodiment includes a substrate assembly disposed inside a second body, wherein the substrate assembly includes a first substrate, a second substrate disposed below the first substrate, a third substrate electrically connecting the first substrate and the second substrate, and a connector connected to the second substrate, wherein a grounding member is disposed in the connector and is at least partially disposed in a second region of a hole in the second body, and wherein the connector and the grounding member can be integrally formed.

[0020] The second body is formed of a metallic material, the inner peripheral surface of the second region of the connecting portion of the second body includes a protective layer, and the inner peripheral surface of the third region of the connecting portion of the second body may not include a protective layer.

[0021] The metallic material may include aluminum, and the protective layer may include an anodic oxide layer (Al2O3 layer).

[0022] The camera module according to this embodiment includes: a first body including a lens; a second body coupled to the first body and including a connecting portion; and a sealing member and a grounding member disposed in the connecting portion of the second body, wherein the connecting portion includes a first region, a second region, and a third region, the first region having a first hole, the second region having a second hole with a diameter larger than the diameter of the first hole, and the third region having a third hole with a diameter larger than the diameter of the second hole, wherein the sealing member is disposed in the second region, and wherein the grounding member is disposed in the third region.

[0023] Furthermore, the second region can be located between the first and third regions.

[0024] The lower end of the sealing member can contact the surface facing the sealing member of the protrusion of the connector lead-out portion.

[0025] The protrusion of the connector lead-out portion can be located on the side further outward than the second region of the connection portion of the second body.

[0026] The sealing member is arranged in the first region of the connection portion, at least a portion of the grounding member is arranged in the second region of the connection portion, and the height of the first region of the connection portion may be higher than the height of the second region of the connection portion.

[0027] The camera module according to this embodiment includes: a first body including a lens; a second body coupled to the first body and including a connecting portion; and a sealing member and a grounding member, the sealing member being disposed in the connecting portion of the second body, and the grounding member being disposed on the sealing member, wherein the connecting portion includes an inner surface defining a hole, wherein the inner surface of the connecting portion includes a first stepped surface and a second stepped surface, and wherein the sealing member can be disposed between the first stepped surface and the second stepped surface.

[0028] The sealing member can be inserted into the hole of the connecting part from the inside of the second body.

[0029] Beneficial effects

[0030] This embodiment provides a camera module in which the assembly process is minimized by using the rear body.

[0031] In addition, a camera module can be provided that is waterproof and grounded through a single hole, without requiring a separate component to prevent the grounding component from separating from the waterproof component.

[0032] Furthermore, costs can be reduced by unifying the various parts and by eliminating the four screws used to connect the two rear bodies in a conventional manner. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment, viewed from another angle.

[0035] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a partial configuration of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the second body of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0039] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of part A.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a partial configuration of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0041] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A magnified view of part B.

[0042] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the first body of the camera module according to this embodiment.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the third sealing member according to this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0044] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but can be implemented in various forms, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of the constituent elements can be selectively combined or substituted between the embodiments.

[0046] Furthermore, unless explicitly defined and described, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, and commonly used terms, such as those defined in dictionaries, may be interpreted in the context of the relevant art.

[0047] Furthermore, the terminology used in this specification is for describing embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention.

[0048] In this specification, unless specifically stated in the phrase, the singular form may include the plural form, and when described as “at least one (or more than one) of A, B and C”, it may include one or more of all combinations that can be made of A, B and C.

[0049] Furthermore, when describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are intended only to distinguish components from other components, and the nature, sequence, or order of the components is not limited by these terms.

[0050] Furthermore, when a component is described as “connected,” “linked,” or “interconnected” to another component, the component is not only directly connected, linked, or interconnected with other components, but may also include situations where the component is “connected,” “linked,” or “interconnected” between other components due to another component.

[0051] Furthermore, when described as being formed or arranged "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" means not only the case where two components are in direct contact, but also the case where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Additionally, when expressed as "above" or "below," it can include not only the meaning of an upward direction based on a component, but also the meaning of a downward direction based on a component.

[0052] The term "optical axis direction" as used below can be defined as the optical axis direction of the lens. Additionally, "optical axis direction" can correspond to any of the "vertical direction," "vertical direction," and "z-axis direction."

[0053] In the following, the camera module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment, viewed from another angle. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a partial configuration of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 6This is a cross-sectional view of the second body of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of part A;

[0055] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a partial configuration of the camera module according to this embodiment; Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A magnified view of part B; Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the first body of the camera module according to this embodiment; and Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the third sealing member according to this embodiment.

[0056] The camera module 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be a vehicle camera module. The camera module 10 can be coupled to a vehicle. The camera module 10 can be used for any or more of a front camera, side camera, rear camera, and black box of the vehicle. The camera module 10 can be disposed in the front of the vehicle. The camera module 10 can be disposed in the rear of the vehicle. The camera module 10 can be coupled to the windshield of the vehicle. The camera module 10 can be coupled to the windshield at the front or rear of the vehicle. The camera module 10 can be disposed on the side of the vehicle. The camera module 10 can capture a subject and output the subject as an image to a display (not shown).

[0057] The camera module 10 may include bodies 100 and 200. Bodies 100 and 200 may form the external appearance of the camera module 10. Bodies 100 and 200 may be formed in a hexahedral shape. However, it is not limited to this shape, and the shapes of bodies 100 and 200 may vary.

[0058] Both bodies 100 and 200 may include a first body 100. The first body 100 may be referred to as a first housing or front body. The first body 100 may be formed of a metallic material. The first body 100 may be a metallic body. The first body 100 may be formed of an aluminum material. The first body 100 may be disposed above the second body 200. The first body 100 may be coupled to the second body 200. The first body 100 may be threadedly coupled to the second body 200.

[0059] The first body 100 may include a first body portion 110. The first body portion 110 may include an upper plate 111 and side plates 112 extending from the upper plate 111. The first body portion 110 may include the upper plate 111 and a plurality of side plates 112 extending downward from the outer edge of the upper plate 111. The first body portion 110 may include a plurality of corners arranged between the plurality of side plates 112. At least a portion of the lower end of the first body portion 110 may be spaced apart from the second body 200. The upper plate 111 may be spaced apart from the second body 200 along the optical axis.

[0060] The first body portion 110 may include a columnar portion 113 protruding downward from the lower end of the upper plate 111. The columnar portion 113 may protrude downward from a corner of the first body portion 110. The columnar portion 113 may be connected to the second body 200. The columnar portion 113 may include four columnar portions 113 formed at the four corners of the first body portion 110. The area between the four columnar portions 113 located at the lower end of the first body portion 110 may be spaced apart from the second body 200 along the optical axis. The columnar portion 113 may include a groove 113a. The groove 113a may be formed by recessing from the lower end of the columnar portion 113. The groove 113a may be aligned with a hole 233 in the second body 200. The central axis of the groove 113a may coincide with the central axis of the hole 233 in the second body 200. A connecting member 500 may be arranged in the groove 113a. The inner peripheral surface of the groove 113a may include a shape corresponding to the outer peripheral surface of the connecting member 500. The inner circumferential surface of the groove 113a may be formed by threads. In a modified embodiment, the groove 113a and the connecting member 500 may be fixed by an adhesive.

[0061] The first body portion 110 may include a protruding portion 114. The protruding portion 114 may protrude downward from the lower surface of the upper plate 111 of the first body portion 110. The length of the protruding portion 114 in the optical axis direction may be less than the length of the columnar portion 113 in the corresponding direction. The protruding portion 114 may be arranged at a side portion further inward than the columnar portion 113. The protruding portion 114 may not protrude below the columnar portion 113. The first substrate 310 may be arranged in the protruding portion 114. The protruding portion 114 may be connected to the first substrate 310. The protruding portion 114 may be connected to the outer edge of the first substrate 310. The protruding portion 114 may be formed to have a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer edge of the first substrate 310. The protruding portion 114 may overlap with at least a portion of the second body 200 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0062] The first body portion 110 may include a recessed portion 115. The recessed portion 115 may be formed by recessing into the lower surface of the upper plate 111 of the first body portion 110. The recessed portion 115 and the second body 200 may be spaced apart from each other along the optical axis. A third sealing member 600, which will be described below, may be disposed in the recessed portion 115. A protruding portion 610 of the third sealing member 600 may be disposed in the recessed portion 115. The recessed portion 115 may be disposed on a side portion further outward than the protruding portion 114. The recessed portion 115 may be formed between the side plate 112 and the protruding portion 114.

[0063] The first body 100 may include a lens barrel unit 120. The lens barrel unit 120 may be a lens barrel. The lens barrel unit 120 may be formed of a plastic or metal material. The lens barrel unit 120 may be coupled to the first body portion 110. The lens barrel unit 120 may be fixed to the first body portion 110 by an adhesive. In a modified embodiment, the lens barrel unit 120 may extend upward from the upper surface of the upper plate 111 of the first body portion 110. In this case, the lens barrel unit 120 and the first body portion 110 may be integrally formed. The lens barrel unit 120 may be coupled to a lens 130, which will be described below. The lens barrel unit 120 may house the lens 130 therein. The lens barrel unit 120 may include a hole. The lens 130 may be disposed in the hole of the lens barrel unit 120. The inner peripheral surface of the hole of the lens barrel unit 120 may include a shape corresponding to the shape of the lens 130. The lower portion of the lens barrel unit 120 can be inserted into the first body portion 110, and the upper portion of the lens barrel unit 120 can be exposed to the outside. The lens barrel unit 120 may include: a first portion that overlaps with the first body portion 110 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis; and a second portion that extends upward from the first portion and does not overlap with the first body portion 110 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. In this case, the second portion of the lens barrel unit 120 can be exposed to the outside.

[0064] The first body 100 may include a lens 130. The lens 130 may include multiple lenses 130. The lens 130 may include multiple lenses 130 with different diameters. The lens 130 may be coupled to a lens barrel unit 120. The lens 130 may be disposed within an aperture of the lens barrel unit 120. The lens 130 may include spacers (not shown) disposed between the multiple lenses 130. The lens 130 may be aligned with an image sensor 340, which will be described below. The optical axis may be aligned with the image sensor 340 of the lens 130. The optical axis of the lens 130 may coincide with the optical axis of the image sensor 340. The first body 100 may include an infrared filter (IR filter) disposed between the lens 130 and the image sensor 340.

[0065] The first body 100 may include a first sealing member 140. The first sealing member 140 may be referred to as either an O-ring or a waterproof member. The first sealing member 140 may be disposed between the first body portion 110 and the lens barrel unit 120. The first sealing member 140 may be disposed between the first body portion 110 and a first portion of the lens barrel unit 120. The first sealing member 140 can prevent moisture from penetrating between the first body portion 110 and the lens barrel unit 120. That is, the first sealing member 140 can perform a waterproof function.

[0066] Camera module 10 may include a second body 200. The second body 200 may be referred to as a rear body, a lower housing, or a second housing. The second housing 200 may be formed of a metallic material. The second body 200 may be a metallic body. The second body 200 may be formed into a rectangular shape with an open upper portion. The second body 200 may be disposed below the first body 100. The second body 200 may be coupled to the first body 100. The second body 200 may be threadedly coupled to the first body 100. The second body 200 may form an internal space by coupling with the first body 100. A third sealing member 600, which will be described below, may be disposed on the upper portion of the second body 200.

[0067] The second body 200 may include a base plate. The base plate may face the upper plate 111 of the first body portion 110 of the first body 100. The base plate may be spaced apart from the upper plate 111 of the first body portion 110 of the first body 100 along the optical axis. The base plate may be parallel to the upper plate 111 of the first body portion 110 of the first body 100. The base plate may be formed in a rectangular shape. In this case, the corners of the base plate may include at least a partially rounded shape.

[0068] The second body 200 may include a protruding portion 211 projecting upward from the base plate. At least a portion of the second connector 362 may be disposed inside the protruding portion 211. The second connector 362 may penetrate the protruding portion 211. The height H3 of the protruding portion 211 in the optical axis direction may be higher than the height H1 in the corresponding direction of the second region 214 of the connecting portion 212 of the base plate of the second body 200, which will be described below. The interior of the protruding portion 211 may include at least a portion of the second region 214 of the connecting portion 212 of the base plate of the second body 200, a third region 215, an intermediate region 215b, and an upper region 215c.

[0069] The second body 200 may include a connecting portion 212. The connecting portion 212 may be a connector lead-out portion or a cable lead-out portion. The connecting portion 212 may be formed in the base plate of the second body 200. The connecting portion 212 may be formed by penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the base plate of the second body 200. The connecting portion 212 may be formed in a protrusion 211. The connecting portion 212 may be formed by penetrating the protrusion 211 and the base plate of the second body 200. The connecting portion 212 may connect to a hole 221 in the connector lead-out portion 220, which will be described below. The connecting portion 212 may include an inner surface defining the hole. The connecting portion 212 may include a first stepped surface 216 located between the inner peripheral surface of the first region 213 and the inner peripheral surface of the second region 214. The connecting portion 212 may include a second stepped surface 217 located between the inner peripheral surface of the second region 214 and the inner peripheral surface of the third region 215. The second sealing member 400 may be disposed between the first stepped surface 216 and the second stepped surface 217. The lower end of the second sealing member 400 may contact the first stepped surface 216. At least a portion of the grounding member 370 may overlap with the second stepped surface 218 along the optical axis.

[0070] The connecting portion 212 may include a first region 213 having a first hole. The first region 213 may be positioned lower than the second region 214. The first region 213 may be positioned lower than the base plate 210 of the second body 200. The inner peripheral surface of the first region 213 may be formed by a protrusion 222. The first region 213 may have a first diameter d2. The first region 213 may have a first diameter d2 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The first diameter d2 of the first region 213 may be smaller than the second diameter d2 of the second region 214. The first diameter d2 of the first region 213 may be smaller than the third diameter d3 of the lower region 215a of the third region 215. The inner peripheral surface of the first region 213 may be arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner peripheral surface of the second region 214. The height h4 of the first region 213 may be lower than the second height h2 of the second region 214. The height h4 of the first region 213 in the optical axis direction may be lower than the second height h2 of the second region 214. The height H4 of the first region 213 can correspond to the height of the protruding part 222 in the corresponding direction.

[0071] The connecting portion 212 may include a second region 214 having a second hole. The second region 214 may be referred to as a waterproof region. The second region 214 may have a second diameter d2. The second region 214 may have a second diameter d2 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second diameter d2 of the second region 214 may be smaller than the minimum diameter in the corresponding direction of the third region 215 of the connecting portion 212, which will be described below. The second diameter d2 of the second region 214 may be smaller than the third diameter d3 of the lower region 215a of the third region 215. The second region 214 may be formed below the third region 215. The second region 214 may not be spaced apart from the third region 215 along the optical axis. The height H1 of the second region 214 in the optical axis direction may be higher than the height H2 of the third region 215 in the optical axis direction. A second sealing member 400, which will be described below, may be arranged in the second region 214. The second region 214 may be located between the first region 213 and the grounding member. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second region 214 in the optical axis direction can be larger than that of the third region 215 in the optical axis direction. This is to maximize waterproofing by filling the second region 214 with a second sealing member 400 arranged in a compressed state inside the second region 214. Furthermore, since the grounding member can achieve grounding function when only a portion of the grounding member contacts the interior of the third region 215, miniaturization of the camera module 10 can be achieved while realizing both grounding and waterproofing by making the third region 215, i.e., the grounding region, small in size and the second region 214, i.e., the waterproof region, large in size.

[0072] The inner peripheral surface of the second region 214 can be arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner peripheral surface of the first region 213. The inner peripheral surface of the second region 214 can also be arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner peripheral surface of the third region 215. The second region 214 can be disposed between the third region 215 and the first region 213. The second region 214 can be formed between the lower region 215a of the third region 215 and the first region 213. The height H1 of the second region 214 in the optical axis direction can be greater than the height H1 of the third region 215 in the optical axis direction. The height H1 of the second region 214 in the optical axis direction can be greater than the height H2 of the lower region 215a of the third region 215 in the optical axis direction.

[0073] The connecting portion 212 may include a third region 215 having a third hole. The third region 215 may be referred to as a grounding region. The third region 215 may extend upward from the second region 214. The third region 215 may be formed inside the protrusion 211. The third region 215 may not overlap with the base plate of the second body 200 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The third region 215 may have a third diameter d3. The third region 215 may have a third diameter d3 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The third diameter d3 of the third region 215 may be larger than the second diameter d2 of the second region 214.

[0074] The inner peripheral surface of the third region 215 can be formed at the outer side of the inner peripheral surface of the second region 214. The inner peripheral surfaces of the third region 215 and the second region 214 can form a stepped structure. The inner peripheral surface of the third region 215 can be arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner peripheral surface of the second region 214. At least a portion of the grounding member can overlap with the stepped portion located between the inner peripheral surfaces of the second region 214 and the inner peripheral surface of the third region 215 along the optical axis. This prevents the grounding member from moving downwards. That is, it prevents the grounding member from moving downwards due to vehicle vibrations and from being positioned in the second region 214, i.e., the waterproof region. When the grounding member moves downwards, it is held by the stepped structure between the second region 214 and the third region 215, thus preventing downward movement more effectively than the stepped structure itself. Furthermore, since the grounding member cannot move below the stepped structure between the second region 214 and the third region 215, movement toward the third region 215, i.e., the grounding region, can be prevented by the grounding member when the second sealing member 400 also extends upwards by compression.

[0075] The third region 215 may include a lower region 215a. The lower region 215a may extend from the second region 214. The lower region 215a may extend upward from the second region 214. The lower region 215a may be arranged between the middle region 215b of the third region 215 and the second region 214.

[0076] The third region 215 may include an intermediate region 215b. The intermediate region 215b may extend upward from the lower region 215b. The intermediate region 215b may have an inner peripheral surface comprising a circular shape 215d. The inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b may be formed obliquely. The inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b may be formed obliquely relative to the lower region 215a.

[0077] The intermediate region 215b can be spaced apart from the second region 214 along the optical axis. The intermediate region 215b can be spaced apart from the second region 214 along the optical axis via the lower region 215a of the third region 215. The intermediate region 215b can extend upward from the lower region 215a. The intermediate region 215b can connect the second region 214 and the lower region 215a. The intermediate region 215b can be formed between the lower region 215a and the upper region 215c. The diameter of the intermediate region 215b in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be larger than the diameter d2 of the second region 214 in the corresponding direction. The minimum diameter of the intermediate region 215b in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be larger than the diameter d2 of the second region 214 in the corresponding direction. The minimum diameter of the intermediate region 215b in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis can be the same as the diameter d3 of the lower region 215a in the corresponding direction. The diameter of the intermediate region 215b in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis can increase as it travels away from the lower region 215a along the optical axis. The height of the intermediate region 215b in the optical axis can be smaller than the height H1 of the second region 214 in the optical axis. The height of the intermediate region 215b in the optical axis can be smaller than the height H2 of the lower region 215a of the third region 215 in the optical axis. The inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b can include a circular shape 215d. The inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b can include a curved surface 215d. The inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b can include curvature. The inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b can be at least partially circular. The lower end of the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b can be arranged in the same plane as the inner peripheral surface of the lower region 215a. The inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b can have a shape that curves outward more as it travels from the lower end to the upper end of the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b. Therefore, when the grounding member is inserted into the third region 215 of the connection portion 212, the impact applied to the substrates 410, 420, and 430 can be minimized. In the case of a conventional camera module, when the grounding member is inserted into the third region 215 of the connection portion 212, the grounding member is inserted together with the connector 360 in a gathered state at the end of the grounding member, and if the intermediate region 215b is not circular, a strong force is applied to the board when the grounding member is inserted, and in this case, the substrates 410, 420, and 430 are often damaged. However, in the case of the camera module 10 according to this embodiment, by forming the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate region 215b into a circle, the grounding member can be flexibly inserted into the third region 215 of the connection portion 212, so that the impact applied to the substrates 410, 420, and 430 can be minimized.

[0078] The third region 215 may have an upper region 215c. The upper region 215c may extend from the middle region 215b. The upper region 215c may extend upward from the middle region 215b. The width of the upper region 215c may increase as it moves away from the middle region 215b. The width of the upper region 215c in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis may increase as it moves away from the middle region 215b.

[0079] The connecting portion 212 may include an upper region 215c. The upper region 215c may extend upward from the middle region 215b. The upper region 215c may be formed above the middle region 215b. The diameter of the upper region 215c in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis may be larger than the diameter d2 of the second region 214 in the corresponding direction. The maximum diameter of the upper region 215c in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis may be larger than the diameter d2 of the second region 214 in the corresponding direction. The diameter of the upper region 215c in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis may be larger than the third diameter d1 of the lower region 215a of the third region 215. The maximum diameter of the upper region 215c in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis may be larger than the diameter of the third region 215 in the corresponding direction. The minimum diameter of the upper region 215c in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis may be the same as the maximum diameter of the middle region 215b in the corresponding direction. The diameter of the upper region 215c in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis can increase as it moves away from the middle region 215b. The inner peripheral surface of the upper region 215c may include an inclined surface 215e. The inner peripheral surface of the upper region 215c can be formed to be more outwardly inclined as it moves away from the middle region 215b. Therefore, when the grounding member is inserted into the hole along with the connector 360, the grounding member can be guided. In this case, the impact applied to the substrates 410, 420, and 430 can be minimized.

[0080] A protective layer (not shown) may be disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the connecting portion 212. This protective layer may be an anodized protective layer (Al2O3 layer). The protective layer may be formed in the second region 214, i.e., the waterproof region of the connecting portion 212, and the protective layer may not be formed in the third region 215, i.e., the grounding region. The protective layer is formed in the second body 200, i.e., the metal body, to form a waterproof region, and the third region 215, which serves as the grounding region, may have the protective layer peeled off for grounding to expose the metal body.

[0081] The second body 200 may include a connector lead-out portion 220. The connector lead-out portion 220 may be connected to the base plate of the second body 200. A connector 360 may be disposed inside the connector lead-out portion 220. A second connector 362 may be disposed inside the connector lead-out portion 220. The connector lead-out portion 220 may include a hole 221. The connector 360 may be disposed in the hole 221. The hole 221 may accommodate at least a portion of the connector 360. Thus, the connector lead-out portion 220 may secure the connector 360. The hole 221 may communicate with the connection portion 212 of the second body 200.

[0082] The connector lead-out portion 220 may include a protrusion 222. The protrusion 222 may be formed by protruding from the inner peripheral surface of the hole 221 of the connector lead-out portion 220. The protrusion 221 may be formed by protruding from a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the hole 221 of the connector lead-out portion 220. The protrusion 221 may be disposed below the connecting portion 212 of the second body 200. In the protrusion 221, the connecting portion 212 of the second body 200 may be disposed below the second region 214. The protrusion 222 may be disposed further outward than the second region 214 of the connecting portion 212. The protrusion 222 may be disposed at a position lower than the base plate 210 of the second body 200. The protrusion 222 may be disposed below the second sealing member 400. The protrusion 222 may overlap with the second sealing member 400 along the optical axis. The protrusion 222 may support the second sealing member 400. The protruding portion 222 may include a first surface, a second surface arranged opposite to the first surface, and a third surface connecting the first and second surfaces and parallel to the inner circumferential surface of the hole 221 of the connector lead-out portion 220. The first surface of the protruding portion 222 may face the second sealing member 400. The second connector 362 may be arranged in the first surface of the protruding portion 222. The second sealing member 400 may be arranged in the first surface of the protruding portion 222. Thus, the second sealing member 400 can be prevented from separating and being removed in a direction opposite to that toward the lens 130. More specifically, the second sealing member 400 is inserted from the interior of the second body 200 and assembled into the second region 214 of the connecting portion 212 of the second body 200, and at this time, the second sealing member 400 can be prevented from separating and being removed in a direction opposite to that toward the lens 130. In the case of a conventional camera module, the sealing member is inserted and assembled from the outside of the second body through the hole of the connector lead-out portion. In this case, to prevent the sealing member from separating and being removed in a direction opposite to the lens direction, a separate cover is arranged to seal the lower end of the connector lead-out distribution. Therefore, problems arise in terms of increased component number, increased structural complexity, and increased assembly time. In the camera module 10 according to this embodiment, the second sealing member 400 is assembled by inserting it from the interior of the second body 200 and supporting it by a protrusion 222 extending from the inner circumferential surface of the hole 221 in the connector lead-out portion 220. Even without a separate cover, separation of the second sealing member 400 can be prevented.

[0083] The second body 200 may include a side plate 210. The side plate 210 may extend upward from the base plate of the second body 200. The side plate 210 may include a first side plate, a second side plate, a third side plate disposed on the opposite side of the first side plate, and a fourth side plate disposed on the opposite side of the second side plate. The second side plate 200 may include four corners formed between the first side plate and the fourth side plate.

[0084] The second body 200 may include a connecting portion 230. The connecting portion 230 may be used when the camera module 10 is connected to a vehicle or the like. The connecting portion 230 may include a first connecting portion 231 and a second connecting portion 232 arranged opposite to the first connecting portion 231. The first connecting portion 231 may extend outward from the upper portion of a first side plate of the second body 200. The second connecting portion 232 may extend outward from the upper portion of a third side plate of the second body 200.

[0085] The second body 200 may include a hole 233. The hole 233 may be formed in the upper surface of the second body 200. The hole 233 may be formed in regions corresponding to the four corners of the second body 200. The hole 233 may be penetrated by a connecting member 500, which will be described below. Thus, the connecting member 500 can interconnect the first body 100 and the second body 200. The central axis of the hole 233 may be concentric with the central axis of the groove 113a of the first body 100.

[0086] The camera module 10 may include a substrate assembly 300. The substrate assembly 300 may be disposed inside the second body 200. The substrate assembly 300 may be disposed in an internal space formed by connecting the first body 100 and the second body 200.

[0087] The substrate assembly 300 may include a first substrate 310. The first substrate 310 may include a printed circuit board. The first substrate 310 may include a rigid printed circuit board. An image sensor 340 may be disposed in the first substrate 310. In this case, the first substrate 310 may be referred to as a sensor substrate. The first substrate 310 may include: a first surface facing a first body portion 110 of the first body 100; and a second surface disposed on the opposite side of the first surface. The image sensor 340 may be disposed on the first surface of the first substrate 310. The first substrate 310 may be coupled to the first body 100. The first substrate 310 may be coupled to a protrusion 114 of the first body 100. In the outer edge region of the first surface of the first substrate 310, the first body 100 may be coupled to the protrusion 114.

[0088] The substrate assembly 300 may include a second substrate 320. The second substrate 320 may include a printed circuit board. The second substrate 320 may include a rigid printed circuit board. The second substrate 320 may be disposed below the first substrate 310. The second substrate 320 may be spaced apart from the first substrate 310. The second substrate 320 may be spaced apart from the first substrate 310 along an optical axis. The second substrate 320 may supply power to the first substrate 310. The second substrate 320 may be arranged parallel to the first substrate 310. The second substrate 320 may be electrically connected to a connector 360. The second substrate 320 may include a first surface facing the first substrate 310; and a second surface disposed on the opposite side of the first surface. The connector 360 may be disposed on the second surface of the second substrate 320. A first connector 361 may be disposed on the second surface of the second substrate 320. The second substrate 320 may be electrically connected to the first connector 361.

[0089] The substrate assembly 300 may include a third substrate 330. The third substrate 330 may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The third substrate 330 may electrically connect the first substrate 310 and the second substrate 320. One end of the third substrate 330 may be connected to the first substrate 310, and the other end of the third substrate 330 may be connected to the second substrate 320. The third substrate 330 may be elastic.

[0090] The substrate assembly 300 may include a shielding member 350. The shielding member 350 may be referred to as a spacer. The shielding member 350 may be referred to as a shielding cover. The shielding member 350 may be referred to as an electromagnetic wave shielding member. The shielding member 350 can block electromagnetic interference (EMI) or electromagnetic waves.

[0091] The shielding member 350 can be disposed below the first substrate 310. The shielding member 350 can be disposed above the second substrate 320. The shielding member 350 can be disposed between the first substrate 310 and the second substrate 320. The shielding member 350 can separate the first substrate 310 and the second substrate 320 along the optical axis.

[0092] The substrate assembly 300 may include a connector 360. The connector 360 electrically connects a cable (not shown) to the second substrate 420. The connector 360 includes: a first connector 361 electrically connected to the second substrate 320; and a second connector extending from the first connector 361 and electrically connecting the first connector 361 to the cable 362. The first connector 361 may be disposed in a second surface of the second substrate 320. The first connector 361 may be secured to the second surface of the second substrate 320. The first connector 361 may be electrically connected to the second substrate 420. The second connector 362 may be electrically connected to the first connector 361. The second connector 362 may be electrically connected to the cable. The second connector 362 may be disposed inside a connector lead-out portion 220 of the second body 200. At least a portion of the second connector 362 is disposed inside the connector lead-out portion 220 of the second body 200, and the remaining portion of the second connector 362 may be disposed inside a protrusion 211 of the second body 200.

[0093] The substrate assembly 300 may include a grounding member. The grounding member may include a gasket. The grounding member may be integrally formed with connector 360. The grounding member may be coupled to a first connector 361. A second connector 362 may be disposed inside the grounding member. One end of the grounding member may be coupled to the first connector 361, and the other end of the grounding member may not contact the first connector or the second connector 362. When the other end of the grounding member is disposed on the opposite side of the end contacting the first connector 361 for grounding purposes, the grounding member may contact a second region, i.e., a grounding region. In this case, the grounding function can be performed as long as some regions of all regions of the grounding member are in contact with the second region. (Refer to...) Figure 8According to this embodiment, the other end of the grounding member of the camera module 10 can be positioned at half the height H2 (1 / H2) in the optical axis direction of the second region. However, it is not limited to this and as mentioned above, the grounding member can be grounded as long as it contacts some regions of all regions of the second region. The grounding member can be formed in an annular shape. The grounding member can include a first portion connected to the first connector 361 and a second portion extending downward from the first portion. The first portion can be formed in an annular shape. The first portion can include an extension extending downward from the surface in contact with the first connector 361. This extension can contact the outer peripheral surface of the second connector 362. The extension can be connected to a protrusion protruding from the outer peripheral surface of the second connector 362. The diameter of the second portion can increase as the second portion extends downward from the first portion. The second portion can be arranged obliquely relative to the first portion. The second portion can be formed in a tapered shape relative to the first portion. The second portion can include a plurality of protrusions. The plurality of protrusions can be spaced apart from each other. Thus, the second portion can be elastic. Thus, the second portion can converge along the inclined surface 215e of the upper region 215c of the third region 215. The lower end of the second portion may include a portion that bends toward the first portion. The bent portion of the second portion may contact the inner circumferential surface of the lower region 215a of the third region 215 of the connecting portion 212.

[0094] The grounding member can be inserted into the hole of the connecting portion 212 from inside the second body 200. The grounding member can be inserted into the third region 215 of the connecting portion 212 inside the second body 200. The grounding member can be fitted and connected to the connecting portion 212 of the second body 200. The grounding member can be fitted and connected to the third region 215 of the connecting portion 212 of the second body 200. In this case, the second part of the grounding member can be inserted and guided through the inclined surface 215e of the upper region 215c of the third region 215. At this time, the multiple protrusions of the second part can be inserted while converging inwards.

[0095] The camera module 10 may include a second sealing member 400. The second sealing member 400 may be a waterproof member. The second sealing member 400 may be formed of an elastic material. The second sealing member 400 may be disposed in a first region of the hole. The second sealing member 400 may be disposed in a first region under compression. The second sealing member 400 disposed in the first region may fill the interior of the first region as the compression is released. This prevents moisture from penetrating between the second body 200 and the connector 360. The second sealing member 400 may be spaced apart from the grounding member along the optical axis. The second sealing member 400 may not be disposed in the second region. The second sealing member 400 may not overlap with the second region in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second sealing member 400 may overlap with the first region in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second sealing member 400 may overlap with the grounding member along the optical axis. The lower end of the second sealing member 400 may contact the surface facing the protrusion 222 of the connector lead-out portion 220. The second sealing member 400 can be inserted into the hole of the connecting portion 212 from the inside of the second body 200.

[0096] Camera module 10 may include a coupling member 500. The coupling member 500 can connect the first body 100 to the second body 200. The coupling member 500 can thread the first body 100 and the second body 200 to each other. The coupling member 500 may include a screw. The screw may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the coupling member 500.

[0097] The camera module 10 may include a third sealing member 600. The third sealing member 600 may be referred to as either a gasket or a waterproof member. The third sealing member 600 may be made of an elastic material. The third sealing member 600 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the groove portion 115 of the first body portion 110. The third sealing member 600 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer edge of the first substrate 310. The third sealing member 600 may be formed to be larger than the outer edge of the first substrate 310. The third sealing member 600 may be disposed on the first body portion 110 of the first body 100. The third sealing member 600 may be disposed between the first body 100 and the second body 200. The third sealing member 600 may be disposed in the space between the first body 100 and the second body 200. The height of the assembled third sealing member 600 in the optical axis direction may be smaller than its height before assembly. That is, the third sealing member 600 may be disposed between the first body 100 and the second body 200 in a compressed state along the optical axis direction to perform a waterproof function. This prevents moisture from penetrating the space between the first body 100 and the second body 200.

[0098] The third sealing member 600 may include a protrusion 610. The protrusion 610 may protrude from at least a portion of the surface of the third sealing member 600 facing the first body 100. The protrusion 610 may be inserted into a recessed portion 115 of the first body portion 110. When the first body 100 is assembled with the second body 200, the protrusion 610 and the recessed portion 115 of the first body portion 110 may prevent the third sealing member 600 from moving. That is, when the first body 100 is assembled with the second body 200, the third sealing member 600 is engaged with the first body 100 when the second body 200 is mounted on the first body 100, and at this time, the third sealing member 600 may be used to guide the position so that the third sealing member does not deviate from its original position.

[0099] Embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A camera module, the camera module comprising: A first body, the first body including a lens; A second body, which is connected to the first body and includes a connecting portion; as well as A sealing member and a grounding member are arranged in the connecting portion of the second body. The connecting portion includes a first region, a second region, and a third region. The first region has a first hole, the second region has a second hole with a diameter larger than that of the first hole, and the third region is connected to the second region. The sealing member is arranged in the second region. The grounding component is arranged in the third region. The third region of the connecting portion has a third hole with a diameter larger than that of the second hole. The inner peripheral surface of the third region of the connecting portion is arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner peripheral surface of the second region of the connecting portion. The third region includes: a lower region extending from the second region; and a middle region extending from the lower region to include an inner circumferential surface having a circular shape. The third region includes an upper region extending upward from the middle region of the third region, and The width of the upper region of the third region increases as the third region moves away from the middle region.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, in, The grounding member is spaced apart from the sealing member, and wherein the inner peripheral surface of the second region of the connecting portion is arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner peripheral surface of the first region of the connecting portion.

3. The camera module according to claim 1, in, The middle region of the third region guides the grounding member to be inserted into the lower region of the third region.

4. A camera module, the camera module comprising: A first body, the first body including a lens; A second body, which is connected to the first body and includes a connecting portion; as well as A sealing member and a grounding member are arranged in the connecting portion of the second body. The connecting portion includes a first region, a second region, and a third region. The first region has a first hole, the second region has a second hole with a diameter larger than that of the first hole, and the third region has a third hole with a diameter larger than that of the second hole. The sealing member is arranged in the second region. The grounding component is arranged in the third region. The second region is located between the first region and the third region. The third region of the connecting portion has a third hole with a diameter larger than that of the second hole. The inner peripheral surface of the third region of the connecting portion is arranged to have a stepped portion relative to the inner peripheral surface of the second region of the connecting portion. The third region includes: a lower region extending from the second region; and a middle region extending from the lower region to include an inner circumferential surface having a circular shape. The middle region of the third region guides the grounding member to be inserted into the lower region of the third region.

5. The camera module according to claim 4, in, The protruding portion of the connector lead-out portion is located on a side further outward than the second region of the connecting portion of the second body.

6. The camera module according to claim 4, in, The sealing member is arranged in the first region of the connection portion. Wherein, at least a portion of the grounding member is arranged in the second region of the connection portion, and The height of the first region of the connecting portion is higher than the height of the second region of the connecting portion.

Images