Lens driving device and camera module

Abstract

Provided is a lens driving device and a camera module that can generate sufficient driving force (thrust) even when a cover member is formed of a non-magnetic material. A lens driving device (100) includes a housing (HS) including a base member (18) and a cover member (4) formed of a non-magnetic material; a lens holding member (2) disposed inside the housing (HS); a coil (3) fixed to the lens holding member (2); a magnet (5) opposed to the coil (3) and fixed to an inner surface of the cover member (4); and an upper leaf spring (16) and a lower leaf spring (26) that support the lens holding member (2) so as to be movable in an optical axis direction. The magnet (5) is fixed to the inner surface of the cover member (4) in such a manner that an upper surface is positioned higher than the upper leaf spring (16) and a lower surface is positioned lower than the lower leaf spring (26).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates, for example, to a lens driving device mounted on a portable device with a camera, and a camera module including a lens driving device. Background Technology

[0002] Conventionally, lens driving devices are known, comprising: a cover member made of a non-magnetic material; a lens holding member disposed within the cover member and capable of holding the lens body; a coil fixed to the lens holding member; a magnet opposite to the coil and fixed to the inner surface of the cover member; and a leaf spring supporting the lens holding member so as to be movable along the optical axis (see Patent Document 1). In this device, the driving force (thrust) for moving the lens holding member along the optical axis is generated electromagnetically by a driving unit composed of a magnet and a coil.

[0003] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2018 / 043132

[0004] However, in this device, since the cover component is made of a non-magnetic material, the driving force (thrust) may be insufficient due to the weight of the lens body. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a lens drive device that can generate sufficient driving force (thrust) even when the cover part is made of a non-magnetic material.

[0006] The lens driving device according to embodiments of the present invention includes: a frame including a base member and a cover member made of a non-magnetic material; a lens holding member disposed in the frame and capable of holding a lens body; a coil fixed to the lens holding member; a magnet opposite to the coil and fixed to the inner surface of the cover member; and an upper leaf spring and a lower leaf spring supporting the lens holding member so as to be movable along the optical axis direction. The upper leaf spring has an upper movable side support fixed to the upper part of the lens holding member, an upper fixed side support fixed to the cover member, and an elastic arm provided between the upper movable side support and the upper fixed side support. The lower leaf spring has a lower movable side support fixed to the lower part of the lens holding member, a lower fixed side support fixed to the base member, and an elastic arm provided between the lower movable side support and the lower fixed side support. The upper surface of the magnet is located above the upper leaf spring, and the lower surface of the magnet is located below the lower leaf spring.

[0007] Invention Effects

[0008] The lens driving device described above can generate sufficient driving force (thrust) even when the cover part is made of non-magnetic material. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the lens driving device.

[0010] Figure 2 This is an exploded three-dimensional view of the lens driving device.

[0011] Figure 3A This is a three-dimensional view of the lens holding component.

[0012] Figure 3B It is a perspective view of a lens holding component with a coil and an upper leaf spring installed.

[0013] Figure 3C This is a perspective view of the bottom surface of the lens holding component, which has the coil and lower leaf spring installed.

[0014] Figure 4A This is a bottom view of the lens holding component with the coil installed.

[0015] Figure 4B This is a bottom view of a part of the lens holding assembly with the coil installed.

[0016] Figure 5A This is a top view of the upper leaf spring.

[0017] Figure 5B This is a top view of the lower leaf spring.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a component that forms part of the fixed-side component.

[0019] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the assembly sequence of the upper assembly.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the assembly sequence of the lens drive device.

[0021] Figure 9A This is a perspective view of the lens drive device with the lower cover component removed.

[0022] Figure 9B This is the front view of the lens drive device.

[0023] Figure 9C This is the left view of the lens drive device.

[0024] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view of the cover component, magnet, and base component.

[0025] Explanation of symbols

[0026] 2: Lens holding component; 2K: Through hole; 2T: Protruding setting part; 3: Coil; 3C: Connecting part; 4: Cover component; 4A: Outer peripheral wall part; 4A1: First side plate part; 4A2: Second side plate part; 4A3: Third side plate part; 4A4: Fourth side plate part; 4B: Top plate part; 4C: Step part; 4C1: First step part; 4C2: Second step part; 4C3: Third step part; 4C4: Fourth step part; 4S: Storage part; 5: Magnet; 5A: First magnet; 5AL: First lower magnet; 5AU: First upper magnet; 5B: Second magnet; 5BL: Second lower magnet; 5BU: Second upper magnet; 6: Leaf spring; 7: Metal component; 7A: First metal component ; 7AC: Connecting part; 7AT: Terminal part; 7B: Second metal part; 7BC: Connecting part; 7BT: Terminal part; 7C: Third metal part; 7CP: End; 7CT: Terminal part; 7D: Fourth metal part; 7DP: End; 7E: Fifth metal part; 7EP: End; 7F: Sixth metal part; 7FP: End; 12: Cylindrical part; 12D: Base part; 12H: Recess; 12P: Protrusion; 12PA: First protrusion; 12PB: Second protrusion; 13: Winding part; 13A: First winding part; 13B: Second winding part; 16: Upper leaf spring; 16b: Corner part; 16e: Outer part; 16g: Elastic arm part; 16i: Inner part; 1 6r: Stack part; 18: Base component; 18E: Outer peripheral side part; 18G: Recess; 18GL: Left side recess; 18GR: Right side recess; 18K: Opening; 18S: Protrusion; 18T: Protruding part; 18W: Wall part; 18WB: Rear side wall part; 18WF: Front side wall part; 18WL: Left side wall part; 18WR: Right side wall part; 26: Lower leaf spring; 26A: First lower leaf spring; 26B: Second lower leaf spring; 26c: Inner joining part; 26d: Outer joining part; 26dt: Through hole; 26e: Outer part; 26g: Elastic arm part; 26h: Connecting plate part; 26i: Inner part; 26p: Connecting part; 33: Extension part; 33A: The 1. Extension section; 33B: Second extension section; 33c: Opposing section; 33m: Winding section; 72: Holding section; 72A: First holding section; 72B: Second holding section; 82: Protrusion section; 82s: Storage section; 82u: Inner wall section; 82v: Outer wall section; 82w: Side wall section; 82z: Opening section; 100: Lens driving device; AD1~AD4: Adhesive; CU: Cut section; CU1: First cut section; CU2: Second cut section; CU3: Third cut section; CU4: Fourth cut section; DM: Driving section; FB: Fixed side component; HS: Frame; LA: Lower assembly; OA: Optical axis; UA: Upper assembly; VC: Vibration damping component; WM: Welded metal. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Hereinafter, a lens driving device 100, which is an example of an embodiment of the present invention, will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional view of the lens driving device 100. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the lens driving device 100.

[0028] exist Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 In this system, X1 represents one direction of the X-axis constituting the three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, and X2 represents the other direction of the X-axis. Similarly, Y1 represents one direction of the Y-axis constituting the three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, and Y2 represents the other direction of the Y-axis. Likewise, Z1 represents one direction of the Z-axis constituting the three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, and Z2 represents the other direction of the Z-axis. Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 In this diagram, the X1 side of the lens driving device 100 corresponds to the front side (front face side) of the lens driving device 100, and the X2 side corresponds to the rear side (back face side) of the lens driving device 100. Furthermore, the Y1 side of the lens driving device 100 corresponds to the left side of the lens driving device 100, and the Y2 side corresponds to the right side of the lens driving device 100. Additionally, the Z1 side of the lens driving device 100 corresponds to the upper side (subject side) of the lens driving device 100, and the Z2 side corresponds to the lower side (image sensor side) of the lens driving device 100. This is also true in other diagrams.

[0029] like Figure 2 As shown, the lens driving device 100 includes: a lens holding member 2 capable of holding a lens body (not shown); a drive unit DM that generates a driving force (thrust) to move the lens holding member 2 along the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction); a leaf spring 6 supporting the lens holding member 2 so as to be movable along the optical axis direction; a fixing side member FB that fixes the leaf spring 6; and a metal member 7 that realizes the electrical connection between an external power supply and the lens driving device 100. The lens body is, for example, a cylindrical lens barrel having at least one lens, configured such that its central axis is along the optical axis direction. The "optical axis direction" includes the direction of the optical axis OA associated with the lens body and the direction parallel to the optical axis OA.

[0030] like Figure 2 As shown, the drive unit DM includes: a coil 3; two elliptical winding portions 13 (first winding portion 13A and second winding portion 13B) held on two opposing sides of the four sides of a lens holding member 2 having a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape; and a magnet 5, arranged radially (perpendicular to the optical axis OA) opposite the coil 3. Additionally, Figure 2For clarity, a detailed illustration of the winding state of the conductive wire covered by the insulating member is omitted regarding the winding section 13. The same applies to the other figures illustrating the winding section 13.

[0031] Cover component 4 is a cylindrical outer shell made of non-magnetic material, forming part of the fixed side component FB. In the example shown, cover component 4 is made by punching and drawing a sheet of austenitic stainless steel.

[0032] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the cover member 4 has a rectangular cylindrical outer peripheral wall portion 4A and a rectangular annular top plate portion 4B continuously disposed from the upper end (Z1 side end) of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A, forming a receiving portion 4S. A circular opening is formed in the center of the top plate portion 4B. In addition, the top plate portion 4B has four stepped portions 4C formed at each of the four corners. The four stepped portions 4C are formed to be recessed downward (in the Z2 direction), including the first stepped portion 4C1 to the fourth stepped portion 4C4.

[0033] The outer peripheral wall portion 4A includes a first side plate portion 4A1 to a fourth side plate portion 4A4. The first side plate portion 4A1 and the third side plate portion 4A3 are arranged opposite each other to form a pair of side plate portions. Similarly, the second side plate portion 4A2 and the fourth side plate portion 4A4 are arranged opposite each other to form another pair of side plate portions. Furthermore, each of the first side plate portion 4A1 and the third side plate portion 4A3 is perpendicular to each of the second side plate portion 4A2 and the fourth side plate portion 4A4.

[0034] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, a plurality of cutouts CU are formed in the lower part of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A. Specifically, four first cutouts CU1 are formed in the lower part of the first side plate portion 4A1, four second cutouts CU2 are formed in the lower part of the second side plate portion 4A2, four third cutouts CU3 are formed in the lower part of the third side plate portion 4A3, and four fourth cutouts CU4 are formed in the lower part of the fourth side plate portion 4A4.

[0035] The cover component 4, thus constructed, houses the lens retaining component 2, the coil 3, the magnet 5, and the leaf spring 6 within the storage section 4S, and as... Figure 1 As shown, the cover component 4 is combined with the base component 18, and together with the base component 18, they form the frame HS.

[0036] Magnet 5 forms part of the drive unit DM. In the example shown, magnet 5 includes a first magnet 5A configured to face the second side plate 4A2 and a second magnet 5B configured to face the fourth side plate 4A4.

[0037] The first magnet 5A is composed of a combination of two permanent magnets (dipolar magnets) that are radially polarized. Figure 2The N pole is represented by a cross-shaded line, and the S pole by a diagonal shaded line. Compared to a single dipole magnet or a single quadrupole magnet polarized along the optical axis, the combination of two dipole magnets has the advantage of more reliably suppressing magnetic field leakage to the outside of the cover component 4. However, the first magnet 5A can be composed of either a single dipole magnet or a single quadrupole magnet. The same applies to the second magnet 5B.

[0038] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first magnet 5A includes a first upper magnet 5AU and a first lower magnet 5AL. Furthermore, the second magnet 5B includes a second upper magnet 5BU and a second lower magnet 5BL. The first upper magnet 5AU, the first lower magnet 5AL, the second upper magnet 5BU, and the second lower magnet 5BL all have a generally cuboid shape.

[0039] Furthermore, the magnet 5 is positioned outside the coil 3 (winding portion 13) and along both sides of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A of the cover member 4. Additionally, the magnet 5 is secured by adhesive AD2 (see reference). Figure 7 The first upper magnet 5AU and the first lower magnet 5AL are located on the outside of the first winding portion 13A and are fixed to the inner surface of the second side plate portion 4A2. Furthermore, the second upper magnet 5BU and the second lower magnet 5BL are located on the outside of the second winding portion 13B and are fixed to the inner surface of the fourth side plate portion 4A4.

[0040] The leaf spring 6 includes an upper leaf spring 16 disposed between the lens holding member 2 and the cover member 4, and a lower leaf spring 26 disposed between the lens holding member 2 and the base member 18. The lower leaf spring 26 includes a first lower leaf spring 26A and a second lower leaf spring 26B.

[0041] The fixed side component FB includes a cover component 4 and a base component 18 with an embedded metal component 7.

[0042] The lens drive unit 100 is mounted on a substrate (not shown) having a generally rectangular shape and on which an imaging element (not shown) is mounted. The substrate, the lens drive unit 100, the lens body mounted on the lens holding member 2, and the imaging element mounted on the substrate opposite to the lens body constitute a camera module. The coil 3 is connected to an external power source via the lower leaf spring 26, the metal member 7, and the substrate. When current flows in the coil 3, the drive unit DM generates a driving force (thrust) along the optical axis direction electromagnetically.

[0043] The lens driving device 100 achieves automatic focus adjustment by using the driving force to move the lens holding member 2 along the optical axis on the Z1 side (subject side) of the imaging element. Specifically, the lens driving device 100 can move the lens holding member 2 in a direction away from the imaging element for macro photography, and can move the lens holding member 2 in a direction closer to the imaging element for infinity photography.

[0044] Next, refer to Figures 3A-3C , Figure 4A as well as Figure 4B The lens holding component 2 will be described below. Figure 3A This is a three-dimensional view of the lens holding component 2. Figure 3B Shown in Figure 3A The lens holding component 2 is equipped with a coil 3 and an upper leaf spring 16. Figure 3C This is a perspective view of the bottom surface of the lens holding member 2, showing the state in which the coil 3 and the lower leaf spring 26 are installed on the lens holding member 2. Figure 4A This is a bottom view of lens holding component 2. Figure 4B It is by Figure 4A An enlarged view of the portion R1 surrounded by the dashed line. Additionally, in... Figure 3B as well as Figure 3C For clarity, dot matrix patterns are marked on coil 3 and leaf spring 6. Furthermore, in... Figure 4B For clarity, a dot matrix pattern is marked on coil 3.

[0045] In the example shown, the lens holding component 2 is manufactured by injection molding a synthetic resin such as a liquid crystal polymer (LCP). Specifically, as... Figure 3A As shown, the lens holding member 2 includes a cylindrical portion 12 with a through hole 2K extending along the optical axis.

[0046] A spiral groove is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 12, allowing adhesive to be filled between the inner circumferential surface and the lens body. Furthermore, an annular pedestal portion 12D is provided in the cylindrical portion 12, and this annular pedestal portion 12D has four recesses 12H on its subject-side end face. Figure 3B As shown, the annular inner portion 16i that constitutes the upper leaf spring 16 is mounted on the base portion 12D.

[0047] like Figure 3AAs shown, a protrusion 12P for holding the coil 3 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 12. In the example shown, the protrusion 12P protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 12 and has a generally cuboid shape, such that a conductive wire is wound around the coil axis CX perpendicular to the optical axis direction. Specifically, the protrusion 12P is disposed on two opposing outer surfaces of the lens holding member 2. In the example shown, the protrusion 12P includes a first protrusion 12PA disposed on the outer surface on the Y1 side and a second protrusion 12PB disposed on the outer surface on the Y2 side.

[0048] like Figure 3B As shown, the winding portion 13 of the coil 3 is formed by winding a conductive wire around the protrusion 12P. Specifically, the winding portion 13 includes a first winding portion 13A (see reference 12P) configured to face the second side plate portion 4A2. Figure 3B The second winding portion 13B, configured to be opposite the fourth side plate portion 4A4 (see reference). Figure 3C The first winding portion 13A and the second winding portion 13B are connected by a connecting portion 3C. Furthermore, the first winding portion 13A is wound around the first protrusion 12PA (see reference). Figure 3B The second winding portion 13B is wound around the second protrusion 12PB (see reference). Figure 3C In the example shown, the winding portion 13 is fixed to the protrusion 12P without adhesive, but adhesive can also be used to fix it to the protrusion 12P. Furthermore, the winding direction of the winding portion 13 is arbitrary, for example, determined by the configuration (magnetization direction) of the magnet 5. Additionally, the winding portion 13 can be mounted to the protrusion 12P while wound.

[0049] like Figure 3C As shown, the lens holding member 2 includes two holding portions 72 with square convex protrusions protruding downwards (in the Z2 direction) from the end face of the imaging element side (Z2 side) and four circular convex protruding setting portions 2T.

[0050] like Figure 4A As shown, the holding portion 72 includes a first holding portion 72A for one end of the wire constituting the coil 3 and a second holding portion 72B for the other end of the wire constituting the coil 3. In this way, both ends of the wire constituting the coil 3 are wound and held in the holding portion 72.

[0051] like Figure 3CAs shown, the protruding part 2T includes two protruding parts 2T corresponding to the first lower leaf spring 26A and two protruding parts 2T corresponding to the second lower leaf spring 26B. The inner portions 26i of the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B, which serve as lower movable side supports, are mounted and fixed to the protruding parts 2T. The fixing of the inner portions 26i of the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B is achieved by thermal riveting the protruding parts 2T that pass through the through holes formed in the inner portions 26i. Figure 3C In the figure, the protruding part 2T is shown in a deformed state at the front end after hot riveting. The same applies to the other figures.

[0052] Next, the drive unit DM of the lens drive device 100 will be described. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the drive unit DM includes a coil 3 and a magnet 5. Specifically, the coil 3 includes a first winding portion 13A arranged opposite to the second side plate portion 4A2, and a second winding portion 13B arranged opposite to the fourth side plate portion 4A4. The magnet 5 includes a first magnet 5A bonded to the inner surface of the second side plate portion 4A2, and a second magnet 5B bonded to the inner surface of the fourth side plate portion 4A4. Furthermore, the drive unit DM generates a driving force (thrust) by the current flowing in the coil 3 and the magnetic field generated by the magnet 5, causing the lens holding member 2 to move up and down along the optical axis.

[0053] like Figure 4A As shown, the extension 33 of the coil 3 includes a first extension 33A connected to the first winding portion 13A at one end of the wire constituting the coil 3, and a second extension 33B connected to the second winding portion 13B at the other end of the wire constituting the coil 3.

[0054] Specifically, such as Figure 4B As shown, the first extension 33A includes a winding portion 33m that is wound around the first holding portion 72A, and an opposing portion 33c that extends opposite to the bottom surface (Z2 side surface) of the lens holding member 2. The same applies to the second extension 33B.

[0055] In the example shown, the first extension 33A is wound around the first holding portion 72A of the lens holding member 2 before the wire of the coil 3 is wound around the outer periphery of the first protrusion 12PA. Figure 4B In the example shown, a portion of the wire of coil 3 is wound three turns in the first holding portion 72A. Thus, the winding portion 33m is formed in the first holding portion 72A, and a portion of the first extension portion 33A is held in the first holding portion 72A.

[0056] Next, the wire is wound around the outer periphery of the first protrusion 12PA. At this time, as Figure 4BAs shown, the wire extending from the winding portion 33m to the first protrusion 12PA extends in a manner opposite to the bottom surface of the lens holding member 2. The portion opposite to the bottom surface of the lens holding member 2 constitutes the opposing portion 33c of the first extension portion 33A.

[0057] In the first protrusion 12PA, after the first winding portion 13A is formed, the wire drawn from the first winding portion 13A is wound onto the outer periphery of the second protrusion 12PB. Furthermore, when the winding of the wire onto the outer periphery of the first protrusion 12PA and the winding of the wire onto the outer periphery of the second protrusion 12PB are completed, as... Figure 4A As shown, the second extension 33B, connected to the other end of the wire constituting coil 3, extends from the right side (Y2 surface) to the bottom side (Z2 surface) of the lens holding member 2. Specifically, the opposing portion 33c extends opposite to the bottom surface of the lens holding member 2, and the winding portion 33m is wound around the second holding portion 72B of the lens holding member 2. Figure 4A In the example shown, the second extension 33B is wound three turns around the second retaining part 72B.

[0058] Next, refer to Figure 5A as well as Figure 5B The details of leaf spring 6 will be explained. Figure 5A This is a top view of the upper leaf spring 16. Figure 5B This is a top view of the lower leaf spring 26.

[0059] In the example shown, the leaf spring 6 is made of a metal plate primarily of copper alloy. Specifically, the leaf spring 6 includes an upper leaf spring 16 disposed between the lens holding member 2 and the cover member 4, and a lower leaf spring 26 disposed between the lens holding member 2 and the base member 18. Each of the leaf springs 6 (upper leaf spring 16, first lower leaf spring 26A, and second lower leaf spring 26B) connects the lens holding member 2 to the fixed-side member FB, supporting the lens holding member 2 in the air, allowing the lens holding member 2 to move relative to the fixed-side member FB along the optical axis. Furthermore, the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B also function as power supply components for supplying current to the coil 3. Therefore, the first lower leaf spring 26A is electrically connected to one end of the wire constituting the coil 3, and the second lower leaf spring 26B is electrically connected to the other end of the wire constituting the coil 3.

[0060] Specifically, such as Figure 5AAs shown, the upper leaf spring 16 has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above, and includes an annular inner portion 16i fixed to the lens holding member 2 as an upper movable side support, two outer portions 16e fixed to the cover member 4 as an upper fixed side support, and four elastic arms 16g located between the inner portion 16i and each of the two outer portions 16e. Specifically, the inner portion 16i is configured to be connected to the base portion 12D of the lens holding member 2 (see reference). Figure 3A The two outer portions 16e are opposite each other. Each outer portion 16e has two corner portions 16b and a stack portion 16r connecting the two corner portions 16b. The stack portion 16r includes a first stack portion 16r1 extending along the first side plate portion 4A1 and a second stack portion 16r2 extending along the third side plate portion 4A3. The corner portions 16b are connected by adhesive AD1 (see reference). Figure 7 It is fixed to the stepped portion 4C formed at the corner of the cover component 4 (top plate portion 4B).

[0061] More specifically, when the upper leaf spring 16 is assembled into the lens drive unit 100, such as Figure 3B As shown, the inner portion 16i is mounted on the pedestal portion 12D of the lens holding member 2 (see reference). Figure 3A Furthermore, the inner portion 16i is bonded by adhesive AD3 (see reference) applied to each of the four recesses 12H formed in the base portion 12D. Figure 8 The outer portion 16e is fixed to the lens holding member 2. An adhesive AD1 (see reference) is applied to the top surface of the stepped portion 4C formed at the corner of the cover member 4 (top plate portion 4B). Figure 7 It is fixed to the top surface of the cover component 4.

[0062] like Figure 5A As shown, the upper leaf spring 16 has a shape that is substantially rotationally symmetrical about twice with respect to the optical axis OA. Furthermore, the upper leaf spring 16 is fixed to the lens holding member 2 in the inner portion 16i and to the cover member 4 in the outer portion 16e. Therefore, the upper leaf spring 16 can support the lens holding member 2 in the air with good balance.

[0063] like Figure 5B As shown, the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B are configured such that their inner sides are approximately semi-circular. Furthermore, each of the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B includes an inner portion 26i fixed to the lens holding member 2 as a lower movable side support, two outer portions 26e fixed to the base member 18 (which is a fixed side member FB) as a lower fixed side support, and an elastic arm portion 26g located between the inner portion 26i and the outer portions 26e.

[0064] like Figure 5BAs shown, the inner portion 26i of each of the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B includes two inner joining portions 26c fixed to the lens holding member 2, a connecting portion 26p connecting the two inner joining portions 26c, and a connecting plate portion 26h opposing the extension portion 33 of the coil 3 in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0065] When the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B are assembled into the lens drive device 100, Figure 3C The lens holding member 2 shown has four protruding parts 2T that are inserted and fitted into each other. Figure 5B The diagram shows circular through holes provided in the inner engaging portions 26c of each of the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B. This allows the inner portions 26i of each of the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B to be positioned and fixed to the lens retaining member 2. The first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B are fixed to the lens retaining member 2, for example, by hot riveting or cold riveting at the protruding portion 2T of the lens retaining member 2.

[0066] Reference Figure 4B The following description mainly concerns the relationship between the first lower leaf spring 26A, the lens holding member 2, and the coil 3. Here, the description related to the first lower leaf spring 26A also applies to the second lower leaf spring 26B.

[0067] like Figure 3C as well as Figure 4B As shown, the connecting plate portion 26h of the inner part 26i of the first lower leaf spring 26A (refer to...) Figure 5B When the lens driving device 100 is assembled, it faces the protrusion 82 of the lens holding member 2. That is, the subject-side (Z1 side) surface of the connecting plate portion 26h faces the receiving portion 82s formed by the protrusion 82. Furthermore, as... Figure 4B As shown, the opposing portion 33c of the first extension portion 33A of the coil 3 extends between the subject-side surface of the inner portion 26i (connecting plate portion 26h) of the first lower leaf spring 26A and the shooting element-side (Z2 side) surface of the lens holding member 2.

[0068] like Figure 4B As shown, the protrusion 82 includes an inner wall portion 82u located on the center side of the lens holding member 2, an outer wall portion 82v opposite to the inner wall portion 82u and located on the outer side, and a side wall portion 82w located between the inner wall portion 82u and the outer wall portion 82v on the side near the first holding member 72A. Figure 4BAs shown, an open portion 82z with a wall opening is formed on the front end side of the protrusion 82, which is far from the first retaining portion 72A. The opposing portion 33c of the first extension 33A extends outward through the open portion 82z. Furthermore, a storage portion 82s is formed in the space surrounded by three wall portions (inner wall portion 82u, outer wall portion 82v, and side wall portion 82w). The storage portion 82s is configured to accommodate the conductive adhesive connecting the first extension 33A of the coil 3 and the first lower leaf spring 26A.

[0069] like Figure 3C As shown, when the first lower leaf spring 26A is assembled to the lens holding member 2, the first holding portion 72A protrudes downward (in the Z2 direction) from the inner portion 26i of the first lower leaf spring 26A such that its front end is located on the imaging element side (Z2 side) of the inner portion 26i. Furthermore, a portion of the winding portion 33m is wound around the first holding portion 72A such that it is located on the imaging element side (Z2 side) of the inner portion 26i.

[0070] The first lower leaf spring 26A and the first extension 33A of the coil 3 are electrically and physically connected by a conductive adhesive formed by dispersing conductive fillers such as silver particles in a synthetic resin. Specifically, before the first lower leaf spring 26A is installed onto the lens holding member 2, a conductive adhesive is applied to the receiving portion 82s of the lens holding member 2, which is surrounded by the protrusion 82. After that, the first lower leaf spring 26A is installed onto the lens holding member 2. Furthermore, the protruding part 2T of the lens holding member 2 is heat-riveted, and the conductive adhesive is heat-cured. The application of the conductive adhesive to the receiving portion 82s and the heat curing of the conductive adhesive are carried out in a state where the lens holding member 2 is inverted, with the first holding portion 72A protruding vertically upward. Therefore, even if the conductive adhesive is fluid, it can be properly retained in the desired position (the position within the receiving portion 82s). Furthermore, a portion of the opposing portion 33c is embedded within the conductive adhesive because it is disposed within the receiving portion 82s. Additionally, the conductive adhesive is not limited to thermosetting types; it can also be UV-curing or moisture-curing types, etc.

[0071] like Figure 5B As shown, the outer portion 26e of the first lower leaf spring 26A includes two outer engaging portions 26d fixed to the base member 18. A through hole is provided in the outer engaging portions 26d of the first lower leaf spring 26A, and a protruding portion 18T is provided on the upper surface of the base member 18 (see reference). Figure 6 The outer portion 26e of the first lower leaf spring 26A is thus positioned and fixed to the base component 18.

[0072] like Figure 5BAs shown, the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B have a shape that is approximately twice rotationally symmetrical with respect to the optical axis OA. Furthermore, the first lower leaf spring 26A is connected to the lens holding member 2 via two inner engagement portions 26c, and to the base member 18 via two outer engagement portions 26d. The same applies to the second lower leaf spring 26B. With this configuration, the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B can provide good balance and support for the lens holding member 2 in the air while it is movable along the optical axis.

[0073] Next, refer to Figure 6 The details of the base component 18 will be explained. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the components that form part of the fixed-side component FB. Specifically, Figure 6 The image above is a perspective view of the base component 18 without the embedded metal component 7. Figure 6 The central view is a perspective view of the metal component 7 to be embedded in the base component 18. Figure 6 The following figure is a perspective view of the base component 18 after the metal component 7 is embedded. Furthermore, in the example shown, the fixed side component FB includes the cover component 4, the magnet 5, the metal component 7, and the base component 18. Additionally, in... Figure 6 For clarity, a dot matrix pattern is marked on the metal part 7.

[0074] The base component 18 is manufactured by injection molding using a synthetic resin such as a liquid crystal polymer. In the example shown, as... Figure 6 As shown, the base component 18 has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above, and has a circular opening 18K in the center.

[0075] Furthermore, six upwardly projecting portions 18T are provided on the subject-side (Z1-side) surface (upper surface) of the base component 18. The projecting portions 18T are inserted into and fitted into through holes located at the outer engagement portions 26d of each of the first lower leaf spring 26A and the second lower leaf spring 26B. At this time, the projecting portions 18T are thermally riveted and fixed to the outer engagement portions 26d. Figure 6 The protruding part 18T is shown in a deformed state at its front end after hot riveting. Alternatively, the protruding part 18T can be fixed to the outer joining portion 26d by cold riveting.

[0076] Furthermore, two recesses 18G are provided on the upper surface of the base component 18, which are recessed downwards. In the example shown in the figure, the recesses 18G include a left recess 18GL that is provided opposite to the lower surface of the first magnet 5A (first lower magnet 5AL), and a right recess 18GR that is provided opposite to the lower surface of the second magnet 5B (second lower magnet 5BL).

[0077] Furthermore, four upwardly protruding wall portions 18W are provided on the upper surface of the base component 18. In the example shown, the wall portions 18W are configured to inhibit the adhesive AD4 (see reference) used for bonding and fixing the cover component 4 and the base component 18. Figure 8 It passes through the upper surface of the base member 18 and enters the opening 18K. Specifically, the wall portion 18W includes a rear side wall portion 18WB, a front side wall portion 18WF, a left side wall portion 18WL, and a right side wall portion 18WR. The front side wall portion 18WF is configured to face the inner surface of the first side plate portion 4A1 and extend along the Y-axis direction. The rear side wall portion 18WB is configured to face the inner surface of the third side plate portion 4A3 and extend along the Y-axis direction. The left side wall portion 18WL is configured to face the inner surface of the second side plate portion 4A2 and extend along the inner bottom surface of the left recess 18GL in the X-axis direction. The right side wall portion 18WR is configured to face the inner surface of the fourth side plate portion 4A4 and extend along the inner bottom surface of the right recess 18GR in the X-axis direction.

[0078] Furthermore, four upwardly protruding portions 18S are provided at the corners of the base component 18. In the illustrated example, the four protrusions 18S are configured such that the upper surfaces of each protrusion are located on the same plane. Moreover, the four protrusions 18S are configured to mount and fix the outer engagement portion 26d of the lower leaf spring 26 on their respective upper surfaces. Additionally, the protruding portion 18T is configured to protrude upwards from the upper surface of the protrusions 18S.

[0079] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, a metal component 7 formed of a metal plate is embedded in the base component 18. The metal plate includes materials such as copper or iron or alloys with copper or iron as the main components.

[0080] Metal component 7 includes first metal component 7A to sixth metal component 7F. First metal component 7A has a connecting portion 7AC exposed in the upper surface (Z1-side surface) of the protrusion 18S formed on the base component 18, and second metal component 7B has a connecting portion 7BC exposed in the upper surface (Z1-side surface) of the other protrusions 18S formed on the base component 18. Furthermore, the surfaces of each connecting portion 7AC and connecting portion 7BC are located on the same plane as the upper surfaces of each of the four protrusions 18S.

[0081] The connecting part 7AC has a through hole 26dt in the outer engagement portion 26d including the first lower leaf spring 26A (see reference). Figure 5B In the partially connected state, it is joined to the outer joining portion 26d of the first lower leaf spring 26A via a conductive bonding material. The conductive bonding material is, for example, solder or conductive adhesive. In the example shown, the conductive bonding material is a conductive adhesive.

[0082] Similarly, the connecting portion 7BC has a through hole 26dt in the outer engagement portion 26d including the second lower leaf spring 26B (see reference). Figure 5B In the state of partial contact, it is connected to the outer contact portion 26d of the second lower leaf spring 26B via a conductive contact material.

[0083] The first metal component 7A has a terminal portion 7AT that protrudes downward from the bottom surface (Z2 side surface) of the base component 18, and the second metal component 7B has a terminal portion 7BT that protrudes downward from the bottom surface (Z2 side surface) of the base component 18.

[0084] The third metal component 7C has a terminal portion 7CT protruding downward from the bottom surface (Z2 side surface) of the base component 18 and an end portion 7CP protruding outward from the corner of the base component 18 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The fourth metal component 7D has an end portion 7DP protruding outward from the corner of the base component 18 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The fifth metal component 7E has an end portion 7EP protruding outward from the corner of the base component 18 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The sixth metal component 7F has an end portion 7FP protruding outward from the corner of the base component 18 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0085] After the base component 18 is positioned by combining with the outer peripheral side portion 18E of the cover component 4 on the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A, each of the ends 7CP to 7FP is welded to the lower end of the four corners of the cover component 4 to fix it to the cover component 4. Furthermore, the cover component 4 and the base component 18 are connected by adhesive AD4 (see reference). Figure 8 ( ) Fixed. In addition, the cover component 4 is connected to the ground via the terminal portion 7CT of the third metal component 7C.

[0086] Next, refer to Figure 7 The upper assembly UA of the lens driving device 100 will be described below. The upper assembly UA is mainly composed of the cover part 4, the upper leaf spring 16, and the magnet 5. Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the assembly sequence of the upper assembly UA. Specifically, Figure 7 The topmost image shows a perspective view of the cover component 4 in an inverted configuration. Figure 7 The second image from the top shows a perspective view of the cover component 4 after the upper leaf spring 16 is embedded. Furthermore, Figure 7 The third image from the top further shows the first upper magnet 5AU embedded (in) Figure 7 (Not visible in the middle) and a perspective view of the cover component 4 behind the second upper magnet 5BU. Figure 7 The bottommost figure further shows a perspective view of the cover component 4 after the first lower magnet 5AL and the second lower magnet 5BL are embedded. That is, Figure 7The bottom image shows the completed state of the upper assembly UA. Additionally, in... Figure 7 In order to make it clear, the immediately following component embedded in the cover component 4 is marked with a dot matrix pattern.

[0087] Typically, such as Figure 7 As shown, the upper assembly UA of the lens drive device 100 is assembled with the cover member 4 in an inverted position, that is, with the inner (Z2 side) surface (top surface) of the top plate portion 4B facing upwards. In this state, adhesive AD1 is applied to the top surface (Z2 side surface) of each of the four corner steps 4C of the cover member 4 (top plate portion 4B). The step portion 4C is configured to abut against the corner portion 16b of the upper fixed side support portion of the upper leaf spring 16, that is, the outer portion 16e.

[0088] Afterwards, the upper leaf spring 16 is as follows Figure 7 The upper leaf spring 16 is embedded inside the cover member 4 in an inverted state, as shown in the second figure from the top. Specifically, the upper leaf spring 16 is disposed inside the cover member 4 such that the upper surface (Z1 side surface) of the corner portion 16b is in contact with the top surface (Z2 side surface) of the step portion 4C of the cover member 4, and the upper surface (Z1 side surface) of the stack portion 16r is not in contact with the top surface (Z2 side surface) of the top plate portion 4B of the cover member 4. In the example shown, the outer portion 16e (corner portion 16b) of the upper leaf spring 16 is bonded and fixed to the top surface of the step portion 4C of the cover member 4 by adhesive AD1.

[0089] Next, adhesive AD2 is applied to the inner surfaces of the second side plate portion 4A2 and the fourth side plate portion 4A4 in the cover component 4. Specifically, as follows... Figure 7 As shown in the second figure from the top, adhesive AD2, used to bond and fix the outer surface of the second magnet 5B to the inner surface of the fourth side plate 4A4, is applied to the inner surface of the fourth side plate 4A4. Figure 7 It cannot be observed in the middle, but an adhesive AD2 for bonding and fixing the outer surface of the first magnet 5A to the inner surface of the second side plate 4A2 is also coated on the inner surface of the second side plate 4A2.

[0090] In the example shown, adhesives AD1 and AD2 are applied at different times, but they can also be applied simultaneously. Furthermore, adhesives AD1 and AD2 are hybrid adhesives that are cured by ultraviolet light or heat. Ultraviolet-based curing is effective for achieving rapid bonding (temporary fixation), while heat-based curing is effective for achieving higher bond strength than ultraviolet-based curing. However, adhesives AD1 and AD2 can be other adhesives such as moisture-curing adhesives, ultraviolet-curing adhesives, or heat-curing adhesives.

[0091] After that, as Figure 7 As shown in the third figure from the top, the second upper magnet 5BU of the second magnet 5B is embedded inside the cover member 4. Specifically, the second upper magnet 5BU is embedded in the cover member 4 such that its outer surface contacts the inner surface of the fourth side plate portion 4A4. In the example shown, the second upper magnet 5BU is embedded in the cover member 4 in a manner that does not contact the corner portion 16b of the upper leaf spring 16. Even for in Figure 7 The same applies to the first upper magnet 5AU, which is not visible in the figure. Additionally, in the example shown, the stack portion 16r of the upper leaf spring 16 is formed along each of the first side plate portion 4A1 and the third side plate portion 4A3, but not along each of the second side plate portion 4A2 and the fourth side plate portion 4A4. This is to avoid interference with the magnet 5 embedded within the cover member 4.

[0092] Afterwards, if in a state Figure 7 As shown in the bottom figure, the second lower magnet 5BL of the second magnet 5B is embedded into the interior of the cover member 4 in the same way as the second upper magnet 5BU. Specifically, the second lower magnet 5BL is embedded into the cover member 4 on the lower side (Z2 side) of the second upper magnet 5BU, with its outer surface contacting the inner surface of the fourth side plate portion 4A4. The same applies to the first lower magnet 5AL.

[0093] Next, refer to Figure 8 The lower assembly LA of the lens drive device 100 will be described below. The lower assembly LA mainly consists of a lens holding component 2, a coil 3, a metal component 7, a lower leaf spring 26, and a base component 18.

[0094] like Figure 8 As shown, the upper assembly UA is assembled to the lower assembly LA. Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the assembly sequence of the lens driving device 100. Specifically, Figure 8 The topmost diagram shows a three-dimensional view of the lower assembly LA. Figure 8 The second figure from the top shows a perspective view of the lower assembly LA with adhesive AD3 applied to the four recesses 12H of the pedestal portion 12D formed in the cylindrical portion 12 of the lens holding member 2, and with the vibration damping member VC installed between the lens holding member 2 and the base member 18. Figure 8 The third image from the top shows a perspective view of the lower assembly LA after the upper assembly UA is installed. Figure 8 The bottommost figure shows a perspective view of the lens drive device 100 with the lower ends of the four corners of the cover component 4 welded to the metal component 7 by welding metal WM, and with adhesive AD4 applied between the cover component 4 and the base component 18. Additionally, in Figure 8For clarity, cross-line patterns are marked on adhesive AD3, adhesive AD4, vibration damping component VC, and weld metal WM.

[0095] Typically, such as Figure 8 As shown, the upper assembly UA and the lower assembly LA are joined with the upper surface of the lower assembly LA facing upwards, that is, with the upper surface of the pedestal portion 12D in the cylindrical portion 12 of the lens holding member 2 facing upwards. In this state, as... Figure 8 As shown in the second figure from the top, adhesive AD3 is applied to the four recesses 12H formed in the pedestal portion 12D. Vibration damping components VC are installed between the front side of the lens holding member 2 and the front sidewall portion 18WF of the base member 18, and between the rear side of the lens holding member 2 and the rear sidewall portion 18WB of the base member 18. The vibration damping component VC is a component used to suppress the vibration of the lens holding member 2. In the example shown, the vibration damping component VC is a gel-like component formed by curing the adhesive.

[0096] After that, as Figure 8 As shown in the third figure from the top, the lower assembly LA is embedded into the upper assembly UA. Specifically, the lower assembly LA is embedded into the upper assembly UA in such a way that the inner side portion 16i of the upper leaf spring 16 is connected to the base portion 12D of the lens holding member 2, and in such a way that the lower ends of the four corners of the cover member 4 are connected to each of the third metal member 7C to the sixth metal member 7F.

[0097] In this state, the front sidewall portion 18WF of the base component 18 is configured such that each of the four first cutout portions CU1 formed at the lower part of the first side plate portion 4A1 exposes its outer surface. Figure 8 It cannot be observed in the middle, but the same applies to the rear side wall portion 18WB of the base component 18. Furthermore, the first lower magnet 5AL is configured in this state to expose the outer surface of each of the four second cutouts CU2 formed at the lower part of the second side plate portion 4A2. Figure 8 It cannot be observed in the middle, but the same is true for the second lower magnet 5BL.

[0098] After that, as Figure 8 As shown in the bottommost figure, the lower end of the cover component 4 is welded to each of the third metal component 7C to the sixth metal component 7F by welding metal WM. Furthermore, the cover component 4, the magnet 5, and the base component 18 are bonded and fixed together by adhesive AD4.

[0099] Specifically, such as Figure 8 As shown in the bottommost figure, the first side plate portion 4A1 of the cover member 4 and the front side wall portion 18WF of the base member 18 are bonded and fixed together by adhesive AD4 applied to the first cut portion CU1. Furthermore, as... Figure 8As shown in the bottommost figure, the second side plate portion 4A2 of the cover component 4 and the first lower magnet 5AL are bonded and fixed to the left side recess 18GL of the base component 18 by adhesive AD4 applied to the second cut portion CU2.

[0100] Furthermore, in the example diagram, adhesives AD3 and AD4 are thermosetting adhesives, unlike adhesives AD1 and AD2, which are mixtures of UV-curing and thermosetting adhesives. Thermosetting adhesives can achieve higher bond strength than mixed adhesives. However, adhesives AD3 and AD4 can be other adhesives such as moisture-curing adhesives, UV-curing adhesives, or mixed adhesives.

[0101] Next, refer to Figures 9A to 9C The positional relationship of the coil 3, magnet 5, and leaf spring 6 stored in the frame HS is explained. Figure 9A This is a perspective view of the lens drive device 100 with the lower cover component 4 removed. Figure 9B This is a front view of the lens drive device 100. Figure 9C This is a left view of the lens driving device 100. Furthermore, Figures 9A to 9C The lens drive device 100 in its initial state is shown. Furthermore, the initial state of the lens drive device 100 refers to the state of the lens drive device 100 when no current flows through the coil 3. Additionally, in Figure 9B as well as Figure 9C In the diagram, because of the interior of the frame HS, the cover component 4 is shown in cross-section. Furthermore, in... Figure 9C In the middle, the first winding portion 13A of the coil 3, which is hidden in the shadow of the first magnet 5A and cannot be seen, is represented by a single-dot dashed line.

[0102] like Figures 9A to 9C As shown, magnet 5 is bonded and fixed to the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A such that its upper end protrudes upward beyond the upper leaf spring 16 and its lower end protrudes downward beyond the lower leaf spring 26. Furthermore, as... Figure 9B As shown, the magnet 5 is bonded and fixed to the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A by means of its upper surface being in contact with the top surface of the top plate portion 4B of the cover component 4. Furthermore, as... Figure 9C As shown, the corner portion 16b of the upper leaf spring 16 is glued and fixed to the top surface of the step portion 4C of the cover component 4.

[0103] Specifically, such as Figure 9B as well as Figure 9C As shown, the distance between the upper and lower ends of the magnet 5 in the Z-axis direction, i.e., the width H1, is greater than the distance between the upper leaf spring 16 and the lower leaf spring 26 in the Z-axis direction, i.e., the width H2. Furthermore, the width H2 is greater than the distance between the upper and lower ends of the winding portion 13 of the coil 3 in the Z-axis direction, i.e., the width H3.

[0104] The widths H1, H2, and H3 are each set such that even when the lens holding member 2 moves upward along the optical axis OA via the drive unit DM, the upper end of the coil 3 (winding part 13) is located below the upper end of the magnet 5. Furthermore, the widths H1, H2, and H3 are each set such that even when the lens holding member 2 moves downward along the optical axis OA via the drive unit DM, the lower end of the coil 3 (winding part 13) is located above the lower end of the magnet 5. In other words, the widths H1, H2, and H3 are set such that the coil 3 (winding part 13) moves vertically within the width H1, meaning it will not move vertically beyond the width H1. In other words, the maximum value of the current flowing through the coil 3 is limited so that the coil 3 (winding part 13) will not move vertically beyond the width H1.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 9C As shown, the distance between one end of the first magnet 5A in the X-axis direction, i.e., the width W1, is approximately the same as the distance between one end of the first winding portion 13A of the coil 3 in the X-axis direction, i.e., the width W2. However, the width W1 can also be larger than the width W2.

[0106] Thus, the widths W1 and W2 are each set such that the magnetic field generated by the magnet 5 can vertically traverse the entire area of ​​the straight section (the part extending in a straight line along the X-axis) of the coil 3 (winding section 13).

[0107] In addition, such as Figure 9C As shown, the width W1 is smaller than the distance between one end and the other end of the recess 18G of the base component 18 in the X-axis direction, i.e., the width W3. Furthermore, the widths W1 and W3 are each set such that the magnet 5 does not contact the base component 18, and the lower end of the magnet 5 enters the recess 18G. That is, the widths W1 and W3 are each set such that interference between the magnet 5 and the base component 18 is avoided when the upper assembly UA is assembled in the lower assembly LA.

[0108] Next, refer to Figure 10 The bonding and fixing of the cover component 4, magnet 5 and base component 18 will be explained. Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the cover component 4, the magnet 5, and the base component 18, showing... Figure 8 The cross section in the cut surface CS shown.

[0109] like Figure 10As shown, a gap GP is formed between the lower surface LF of the magnet 5 (first lower magnet 5AL) and the inner bottom surface BF of the recess 18G in the base component 18. This is because, with the upper surface of the magnet 5 in contact with the top surface of the top plate portion 4B of the cover component 4, its outer surface is bonded and fixed to the inner surface of the second side plate portion 4A2 of the cover component 4 by adhesive AD2. Therefore, the adhesive AD4 applied to the second cut portion CU2 enters the gap GP and cures while bonded to the magnet 5, the cover component 4, and the base component 18.

[0110] Compared to the case where the magnet 5 is only bonded to the cover member 4, this configuration improves the bonding strength of the magnet 5 relative to the fixed side member FB. Therefore, this configuration provides the following effect: it can more reliably prevent the magnet 5 from peeling off from the cover member 4 when strong forces such as impacts are applied to the lens drive device 100.

[0111] As mentioned above, such as Figure 2 As shown, the lens driving device 100, as an example of this embodiment, includes: a frame HS comprising a base member 18 and a cover member 4 made of a non-magnetic material; a lens holding member 2 disposed within the frame HS and capable of holding a lens body; a coil 3 fixed to the lens holding member 2; a magnet 5 opposite to the coil 3 and fixed to the inner surface of the cover member 4; and an upper leaf spring 16 and a lower leaf spring 26 supporting the lens holding member 2 so that it can move along the optical axis. Furthermore, as... Figure 5A As shown, the upper leaf spring 16 has an inner portion 16i fixed to the upper part of the lens holding member 2 as an upper movable side support, an outer portion 16e fixed to the cover member 4 as an upper fixed side support, and an elastic arm portion 16g disposed between the inner portion 16i and the outer portion 16e. Figure 5B As shown, the lower leaf spring 26 has an inner portion 26i fixed to the lower part of the lens holding member 2 as a lower movable side support, an outer portion 26e fixed to the base member 18 as a lower fixed side support, and an elastic arm portion 26g disposed between the inner portion 26i and the outer portion 26e. Figure 9B As shown, the magnet 5 is mounted on the cover component 4 with its upper surface positioned above the upper leaf spring 16 and its lower surface positioned below the lower leaf spring 26.

[0112] In this configuration, the magnet 5 is sized such that it is integrally opposed to the side of the coil 3 (winding portion 13) fixed to the lens holding member 2 even when the lens holding member 2 moves up and down in the optical axis direction, and is mounted on the cover member 4. Therefore, this configuration can generate sufficient driving force (thrust) through the drive portion DM even when the cover member 4 is made of a non-magnetic material.

[0113] That is, in this configuration, the magnet 5 is formed with a greater length (height) in the optical axis direction compared to the magnet in a configuration that includes a cover member made of magnetic material. Therefore, by increasing the length (height) of the magnet 5, this configuration can suppress the decrease in driving force (thrust) when the cover member made of magnetic material is replaced with a cover member 4 made of non-magnetic material.

[0114] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown in the figure above, in the lens driving device 100, a recess 18G can be formed in the base member 18, which is recessed below the upper surface of the protrusion 18S that serves as the fixing part. Furthermore, the lower end of the magnet 5 can be disposed in the recess 18G. Additionally, the protrusion 18S is configured as the outer portion 26e of the lower fixing side support that supports the lower leaf spring 26.

[0115] In this configuration, the lower end of the magnet 5 can be accommodated in the recess 18G. Therefore, this configuration has the following effect: it avoids the situation where, in a configuration where the magnet 5 is positioned above the base member 18, the length (height) of the lens drive device 100 in the optical axis direction increases by the same amount as the length (height) of the magnet 5 in the optical axis direction. Alternatively, this configuration can reduce the height of the lens drive device 100.

[0116] Furthermore, in the lens driving device 100, the space between the lower surface LF of the magnet 5 and the inner bottom surface BF of the recess 18G can also be... Figure 10 As shown, there is a gap GP, and a portion of the adhesive AD4 attached to the magnet 5, the cover component 4, and the base component 18 enters the gap GP.

[0117] This configuration, compared to the case where adhesive AD4 is attached to the cover component 4 and the base component 18 but not to the magnet 5, results in an effect that can improve the bonding strength between the magnet 5 and the fixed side component FB.

[0118] Furthermore, in the lens driving device 100, the cover member 4 may also include an outer peripheral wall portion 4A and a top plate portion 4B. In this case, the lower part of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A covers the outer peripheral side portion 18E of the base member 18. The magnet 5 is fixed to the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A such that its lower part is exposed from a cutout CU formed in the lower part of the outer peripheral wall portion 4A. Furthermore, an adhesive AD4, provided to cover the lower open cutout CU, is attached to the magnet 5, the cover member 4, and the base member 18. Figure 8In the example shown, the first lower magnet 5AL is fixed to the inner surface of the second side plate 4A2 by protruding from the lower part of the second cutout CU2 formed in the lower part of the second side plate 4A2 of the outer peripheral wall 4A. Furthermore, an adhesive AD4, which covers the second cutout CU2, is attached to the first lower magnet 5AL, the cover member 4 (second side plate 4A2), and the base member 18.

[0119] Furthermore, in the lens driving device 100, such as Figure 2 As shown, the outer peripheral wall portion 4A can be configured to include a first side plate portion 4A1, a second side plate portion 4A2, a third side plate portion 4A3, and a fourth side plate portion 4A4, with the first side plate portion 4A1 and the third side plate portion 4A3 facing each other, and the second side plate portion 4A2 and the fourth side plate portion 4A4 facing each other. In this case, the magnet 5 may include a first magnet 5A fixed to the inner surface of the second side plate portion 4A2, and a second magnet 5B fixed to the inner surface of the fourth side plate portion 4A4. Furthermore, the upper leaf spring 16 or the lower leaf spring 26 may include a stack extending along each of the first side plate portion 4A1 and the third side plate portion 4A3. Figure 2 In the example shown, the upper leaf spring 16 includes stack portions 16r extending along each of the first side plate portion 4A1 and the third side plate portion 4A3.

[0120] Furthermore, in the lens driving device 100, such as Figure 1 As shown, the top plate portion 4B may have four stepped portions 4C formed at its four corners. In this case, the upper surface of the magnet 5 is in contact with the top surface of the top plate portion 4B between two stepped portions 4C. In the example shown, the upper surface of the first upper magnet 5AU is in contact with the top surface of the top plate portion 4B between the second stepped portion 4C2 and the third stepped portion 4C3. Furthermore, the upper surface of the second upper magnet 5BU is in contact with the top surface of the top plate portion 4B between the first stepped portion 4C1 and the fourth stepped portion 4C4.

[0121] In this configuration, the upper leaf spring 16 is able to contact the top surface of the stepped portion 4C located below the upper surface of the magnet 5. Therefore, since this configuration ensures that the upper end of the lens retaining member 2 can enter the space between the upper leaf spring 16 and the top plate portion 4B of the cover member 4, no other components such as gaskets are needed to ensure such space. Thus, compared to configurations that include gaskets, this configuration reduces the number of components.

[0122] Furthermore, in the lens driving device 100, such as Figure 3B as well as Figure 3CAs shown, the coil 3 may have a coil axis CX perpendicular to the vertical direction (optical axis direction). The magnet 5 may include an upper magnet and a lower magnet that overlap in the vertical direction (optical axis direction). Furthermore, the coil 3 may be fixed to the lens holding member 2 in a manner that allows it to move vertically within the width between the upper end of the upper magnet and the lower end of the lower magnet.

[0123] In the example shown, magnet 5 includes a first magnet 5A and a second magnet 5B. Furthermore, the first magnet 5A includes a first upper magnet 5AU and a first lower magnet 5AL, and the second magnet 5B includes a second upper magnet 5BU and a second lower magnet 5BL. Additionally, coil 3 includes a first winding portion 13A and a second winding portion 13B. And, as... Figure 9B As shown, the first winding portion 13A is fixed to the first protrusion 12PA of the lens holding member 2 in a manner that allows it to move up and down within a width H1 between the upper end of the first upper magnet 5AU and the lower end of the first lower magnet 5AL. Furthermore, as... Figure 9B As shown, the second winding portion 13B is fixed to the second protrusion 12PB of the lens holding member 2 in such a way that it moves up and down within the width H1 between the upper end of the second upper magnet 5BU and the lower end of the second lower magnet 5BL.

[0124] In this configuration, the first magnet 5A is sized such that it can be integrally opposed to the side of the first winding portion 13A fixed to the lens holding member 2 even when the lens holding member 2 moves up and down in the optical axis direction. Similarly, the second magnet 5B is sized such that it can be integrally opposed to the side of the second winding portion 13B fixed to the lens holding member 2 even when the lens holding member 2 moves up and down in the optical axis direction. Therefore, this configuration can generate sufficient driving force (thrust) through the drive unit DM even when the cover member 4 is made of a non-magnetic material.

[0125] Furthermore, in the lens driving device 100, an adhesive AD4 (see reference) can be applied between the outer surface of the magnet 5 and the inner surface of the cover member 4, and is attached to the lower part of the magnet 5, the cover member 4, and the base member 18. Figure 8 Different adhesives AD2 (refer to) Figure 7 For example, adhesive AD2 can be a hybrid adhesive that is both UV-curable and thermosetting, while adhesive AD4 can be a thermosetting adhesive. In this case, when assembling the upper assembly UA, the magnet 5 is temporarily fixed to the cover component 4 using the UV-curable adhesive AD2. After the upper assembly UA is assembled to the lower assembly LA, it is completely fixed to the cover component 4 using both the thermosetting adhesive AD2 and adhesive AD4. Furthermore, the curing of the thermosetting adhesive AD4 can be achieved simultaneously with the curing of the thermosetting adhesive AD2.

[0126] In this configuration, after the magnet 5 is temporarily fixed to the cover component 4 by the UV-cured adhesive AD2, it is completely fixed to the cover component 4 by the same heat-cured adhesives AD2 and AD4. Therefore, this configuration improves both the assemblability of the magnet 5 to the cover component 4 and the adhesive strength between the cover component 4 and the magnet 5.

[0127] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various modifications and substitutions can be applied to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, each feature described with reference to the above embodiments can be appropriately combined as long as there is no technical contradiction.

[0128] For example, in the above embodiment, the first magnet 5A is composed of a combination of a first upper magnet 5AU and a first lower magnet 5AL, which are magnetized in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA. However, it can also be composed of a single diode magnetized along the optical axis. In this case, the upper pole of the diode corresponds to the inner pole of the first upper magnet 5AU, and the lower pole corresponds to the inner pole of the first lower magnet 5AL. The same applies to the second magnet 5B.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the coil 3 is a coil having a coil axis CX perpendicular to the optical axis direction, but it can be a coil with the coil axis along the optical axis OA and wound around the outer periphery of the lens holding member 2.

[0130] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the outer portion 16e of the upper leaf spring 16 is fixed while in contact with the top plate portion 4B of the cover member 4. However, it is also possible that a gasket is provided between the top plate portion 4B and the outer portion 16e. In this case, the outer portion 16e can be fixed to the cover member 4 via the gasket.

Claims

1. A lens driving device, comprising: The frame includes a base component and a cover component made of a non-magnetic material; A lens holding component is disposed within the aforementioned frame and is capable of holding the lens body; The coil is fixed to the lens holding component described above; A magnet, positioned opposite the aforementioned coil, is fixed to the inner surface of the aforementioned cover component; and The upper and lower leaf springs support the lens holding member so that it can move along the optical axis. The lens driving device is characterized by the following features: The aforementioned upper leaf spring has an upper movable side support fixed to the upper part of the lens holding member, an upper fixed side support fixed to the stepped part of the cover member, and an elastic arm provided between the upper movable side support and the upper fixed side support. The lower leaf spring described above has a lower movable side support fixed to the lower part of the lens holding member, a lower fixed side support fixed to the base member, and an elastic arm provided between the lower movable side support and the lower fixed side support. The aforementioned cover component includes an outer peripheral wall portion and a top plate portion. The aforementioned top plate has four stepped sections formed at its four corners, and these four stepped sections are formed to be concave downwards. The top surface of the stepped portion of the cover member, which is fixed to the upper surface of the upper fixed side support of the upper leaf spring, is located below the top surface of the top plate portion of the cover member that is in contact with the upper surface of the magnet. The upper surface of the magnet is located above the upper leaf spring, and the lower surface of the magnet is located below the lower leaf spring.

2. The lens driving device according to claim 1, wherein, A recess is formed on the lower surface of the fixing portion of the lower fixed side support portion that supports the lower leaf spring in the aforementioned base component. The lower end of the magnet is disposed in the aforementioned recess.

3. The lens driving device according to claim 2, wherein, There is a gap between the lower surface of the magnet and the inner bottom surface of the recess, and a portion of the adhesive attached to the magnet, the cover component, and the base component enters the gap.

4. The lens driving device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The lower part of the aforementioned outer peripheral wall is covered by the outer peripheral side of the aforementioned base component. The magnet is fixed to the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall portion by means that the lower part of the magnet protrudes from the cutout formed in the lower part of the outer peripheral wall portion. An adhesive, applied in a manner that covers the aforementioned open cut-out portion below, is attached to the aforementioned magnet, the aforementioned cover component, and the aforementioned base component.

5. The lens driving device according to claim 4, wherein, The aforementioned outer peripheral wall portion is configured to include a first side plate portion, a second side plate portion, a third side plate portion, and a fourth side plate portion, wherein the first side plate portion and the third side plate portion are opposite to each other, and the second side plate portion and the fourth side plate portion are opposite to each other. The aforementioned magnets include a first magnet fixed to the inner surface of the second side plate and a second magnet fixed to the inner surface of the fourth side plate. The aforementioned upper leaf spring or the aforementioned lower leaf spring includes a stack extending along each of the aforementioned first side plate portion and the aforementioned third side plate portion.

6. The lens driving device according to claim 4, wherein, The upper surface of the magnet is in contact with the top surface of the top plate between the two stepped portions.

7. The lens driving device according to claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned coil has a coil axis perpendicular to the vertical direction. The aforementioned magnets include an upper magnet and a lower magnet that overlap in the vertical direction. The coil is fixed to the lens holding member in such a way that it can move up and down within the width between the upper end of the upper magnet and the lower end of the lower magnet.

8. The lens driving device according to claim 1, wherein, An adhesive, different from the adhesive used to attach the lower part of the magnet, the cover part, and the base part, is applied between the outer surface of the magnet and the inner surface of the cover part.

9. A camera module, comprising: The lens driving device according to any one of claims 1 to 8; The aforementioned lens body; and The imaging element opposite to the aforementioned lens.

Images