Hybrid zoom drive actuator

Abstract

The hybrid zoom drive actuator according to the present application is characterized by including: a first carrier on which a first lens is mounted; a second carrier located on an upper portion or a lower portion of the first carrier with respect to an optical axis direction, on which a second lens is mounted; a housing that houses the first carrier and the second carrier; a first drive portion that moves the first carrier in the optical axis direction; a drive magnet mounted on the second carrier; a drive coil that faces the drive magnet and that provides a drive force to move the second carrier in the optical axis direction; a Hall sensor that senses a position of the second carrier; and a first circuit board on which the drive coil and the Hall sensor are mounted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a zoom drive actuator, and more specifically, to a hybrid zoom drive actuator capable of further and more stably improving drive performance determined by the extended travel distance of the lens using a dual drive source. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of hardware technology for image processing and the increasing user demand for image shooting, functions such as autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) have been implemented in camera modules installed in mobile terminals such as mobile phones and smartphones, as well as in stand-alone camera devices.

[0003] In addition, a zoom lens actuator that can change the size of the subject in various ways through zoom-in and zoom-out functions has recently been disclosed. An actuator that can achieve zoom functions in more diverse ways by using autofocus (AF) and combining the positional relationships of multiple lenses (lens assemblies) has also been disclosed.

[0004] In the case of such a zoom lens actuator, since the zoom lens moves a distance (also known as stroke) along the optical axis direction that is extended or expanded compared to a regular lens, it is preferably designed to ensure sufficient driving force and improve time response characteristics.

[0005] However, in the case of existing actuators, since they are designed to ensure the independent movement space of multiple carriers, the space utilization is reduced accordingly, and the size of the actuator itself becomes larger accordingly. Therefore, it can be said that they are difficult to apply to applications such as smartphones where thickness and volume are important issues.

[0006] Furthermore, in the case of existing actuators, the drive units that drive each carrier are also individually configured with the same number as the carriers, and each drive unit utilizes the magnetic or electromagnetic force between the coil and the magnet. Therefore, magnetic field interference may occur between drive units that need to achieve independent driving. Thus, in the case of existing actuators, in order to prevent such magnetic field interference, each drive unit needs to be arranged separately, which also results in a reduction in space utilization.

[0007] Furthermore, when the magnetic force between the coil and the magnet is used as the driving force of the carrier, the size of the coil and the magnet needs to be increased in order to increase the driving force. In order to improve the space utilization, a more complex and precise structure is required to avoid magnetic field interference, etc. Therefore, it can be said that the efficiency of manufacturing or assembly processes will be reduced. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical problems to be solved

[0009] The present invention is proposed to solve the technical problems described in the background above, and its object is to provide a hybrid zoom drive actuator that can not only more effectively increase the driving force and accuracy of zoom or AF, but also more effectively realize the space utilization of the actuator.

[0010] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will be understood from the following description and will become clearer through embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, the objects and advantages of the present invention can be achieved through the structures described in the claims and combinations thereof.

[0011] Problem-solving methods

[0012] A hybrid zoom drive actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned objectives may be configured as follows: a first carrier, on which a first lens is mounted; a second carrier, located above or below the first carrier with respect to the optical axis direction, on which a second lens is mounted; a housing, housing the first carrier and the second carrier; a first drive unit, for moving the first carrier along the optical axis direction; a drive magnet, mounted on the second carrier; a drive coil, facing the drive magnet, for providing drive force in such a way that the second carrier moves along the optical axis direction; a Hall sensor, for sensing the position of the second carrier; and a first circuit board, on which the drive coil and the Hall sensor are mounted.

[0013] Preferably, the first circuit board of the present invention is configured to be disposed on the first carrier in such a way that it moves along the optical axis together with the first carrier.

[0014] Preferably, the actuator of the present invention may further include a driver that controls the drive coil by applying an electric current of magnitude and direction corresponding to the signal value of the Hall sensor. In this case, the driver may be configured to control the movement of the second carrier in a manner corresponding to the direction and magnitude of movement of the first carrier when the first carrier moves.

[0015] In addition, the second carrier of the present invention can be disposed in the movement space provided by the first carrier. In this case, the first carrier may include a stop structure that sets the movement range of the second carrier.

[0016] Furthermore, the second carrier of the present invention may include: a second mounting machine, the second lens mounted on the second mounting machine; and a second support portion disposed on one of the left or right sides of the second mounting machine, having a shape that extends beyond the second mounting machine with respect to the optical axis direction, and the driving magnet mounted on the second support portion.

[0017] Additionally, the first carrier of the present invention may include: a first mounting machine, the first lens mounted on the first mounting machine; a first support portion having the first circuit board on its outer side and including a first receiving portion providing a moving space for the second support portion, the first support portion being disposed on one of the left or right sides of the first mounting machine; and a first guide portion disposed on the opposite side of the first support portion on the left or right side of the first mounting machine, in which case the first support portion or the first guide portion may be physically connected to the first drive portion.

[0018] Preferably, the first support portion of the present invention may be configured to have a shape that extends beyond the first mounting machine with respect to the optical axis direction, and to have a shape that extends in a direction opposite to the extension direction of the second support portion.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the second carrier of the present invention may further include a second guide member disposed on the opposite side of the second support portion in the left or right side of the second mounting machine. In this case, the first guide member of the first carrier may include a second receiving portion that provides a moving space for the second guide member.

[0020] Preferably, the first carrier of the present invention may include: a first guide rail formed on the first support portion and facing a first groove rail formed on the second support portion; and a second guide rail formed on the first guide member and facing a second groove rail formed on the second guide member, wherein a component of the first support portion or the first guide member that is not connected to the first drive portion may include a groove rail facing the guide rail formed on the housing.

[0021] In this case, the invention may further include ball bearings, which are respectively arranged between the guide rail and the groove rail, between the first guide rail and the first groove rail, and between the second guide rail and the second groove rail.

[0022] Invention Effects

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, by symmetrically realizing the physical structure of multiple carriers in opposite directions, not only can the independent range of motion of each lens (lens assembly) mounted on each carrier be fully ensured, but the structure and shape of the entire device can also be realized in a more spatially dense form, thereby enabling further optimization such as miniaturization of the mobile terminal.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a driving force such as a motor is applied in one of the multiple carriers and a magnetic force between a coil and a magnet is applied in another carrier. Therefore, not only is there no need for additional design to avoid magnetic field interference, disturbances, etc., but the driving force can be further enhanced by motor drive, etc.

[0025] Furthermore, the present invention is designed to move along with other carriers by means of coils, sensing sensors, etc., which are provided on a carrier that moves by a driving force such as a motor. Therefore, it can provide a basic structure that can accurately maintain the interval between multiple carriers within an appropriate range through appropriate control processing. This not only improves the accuracy of zoom and AF functions, but also further improves time response characteristics. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The following drawings, which are attached to this specification, illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention that follows, serve to enable a more effective understanding of the technical concept of the invention. Therefore, the invention should not be construed as being limited to the matters described in such drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the overall structure of the actuator and camera module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the overall structure of an actuator according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the detailed structure of a first carrier, etc., according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the detailed structure of a first carrier, etc., according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the detailed structure of a second carrier, etc., according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the first carrier and the second carrier, etc.;

[0033] Figure 7This is a cross-sectional view showing the detailed construction of an actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of various carriers according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should not be construed that the terms or words used in this specification and claims have the common or dictionary-defined meanings. Based on the principle that inventors should appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best describe their invention, they should be interpreted as meanings and concepts consistent with the technical concept of the present invention.

[0036] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the structures shown in the accompanying drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical concept of the present invention. It should be understood that there are many equivalents and variations that can replace them for the purposes of this application.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of a zoom drive actuator (hereinafter referred to as "actuator") 100 and a camera module 1000 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] The actuator 100 of the present invention can not only be implemented by a single device, but also as... Figure 1 As shown, it is implemented by the camera module 1000 together with the reflection system module 200, etc.

[0039] The actuator 100 of the present invention is equivalent to an actuator that enables automatic focusing (AF) or zooming by linearly moving multiple carriers equipped with lenses (lens assemblies) along the optical axis direction.

[0040] The reflection system module 200, which can be positioned in front of or above the actuator 100 (based on the optical axis direction), performs the function of reflecting or refracting the light path Z1 of the subject into a path Z in the lens direction. The light reflected or refracted in this way along the optical axis (Z-axis) is introduced into an image sensor such as a CMOS or CCD by a lens (lens assembly) mounted on the carrier.

[0041] The reflection system module 200, which modifies the path of light, may include a reflection system 210, which may be composed of one or a combination of a mirror or a prism. The reflection system 210 may be composed of various components capable of changing the direction of light introduced from an external system to the optical axis, but for improved optical performance, it may preferably be made of glass.

[0042] The camera module 1000 of the present invention, including the reflection system module 200, is configured to introduce light in the direction of the lens by refracting the path of light. Therefore, the device itself can be set along the length direction of the portable terminal instead of the length direction, so as not to increase the thickness of the portable terminal, and to optimize the miniaturization or thinning of the portable terminal.

[0043] According to the embodiment, the reflection system 210 may also be configured to rotate and move via a drive unit that generates magnetic force, such as a magnet or a coil. If the reflection system 210 moves or rotates in this way, the light of the subject reflected (refracted) by the reflection system 210 moves in the ±Y direction and / or ±X direction and is incident on the lens and imaging element, thus enabling X-axis and / or Y-axis direction correction based on hand shake.

[0044] The light from the subject reflected by the reflection system module 200 is incident on the first lens (first lens assembly, first lens barrel) 60 and the second lens (second lens assembly, second lens barrel) 70, which are set inside the actuator 100. During this process, the positions (optical axis direction reference) of the first lens 60 and the second lens 70 are adjusted in combination to realize zoom function or AF function.

[0045] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in order to improve the optical performance of the actuator 100, such as zoom ratio, etc., Figure 1 As illustrated, a fixed lens (fixed lens assembly, fixed lens barrel) 50 may be provided in front of the actuator 100 (based on the optical axis direction).

[0046] In the following description of the present invention, the direction axis corresponding to the path of light incident on the first lens 60, etc., is defined as the optical axis (Z-axis), and the two axes perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) are defined as the X-axis and the Y-axis.

[0047] Figure 1 The fourth circuit board 180-4 shown is a circuit board electrically connected to the first drive unit 170 of the present invention. The second circuit board 180-2 is equivalent to a circuit board connected to the first circuit board 180-1 of the present invention, which is equipped with a drive coil C, a Hall sensor H, etc., through an interface 180-3 made of a material with elasticity or flexibility as a medium.

[0048] The second circuit board 180-2 and the fourth circuit board 180-4 are preferably configured in a manner that includes externally exposed components, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, for electrical connection and data signal processing interface connection with external devices (such as the main board of a smartphone).

[0049] Figure 2This is a diagram showing the overall structure of an actuator 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] The actuator 100 of the present invention corresponds to the basic frame structure of the actuator 100, including: a housing 110, which houses the internal structure; and an outer shell 190 (see...). Figure 1 ), which, when combined with the housing 110, can serve as a shield; the first carrier 120 and the second carrier 130.

[0051] The first carrier 120 equipped with the first lens 60 and the second carrier 130 equipped with the second lens 70 are respectively equivalent to moving bodies that move linearly along the optical axis (Z-axis direction). From the corresponding relative angle, the housing 110 is equivalent to a fixed body.

[0052] The second carrier 130 can be located above or below the first carrier 120 with reference to the optical axis direction, as follows: Figure 2 As shown in the embodiments, the description will be based on an embodiment in which the second carrier 130 is located lower than the first carrier 120 (optical axis direction reference).

[0053] The first driving unit 170 of the present invention is a structure that moves the first carrier 120 along the optical axis direction. As a structure that enables linear movement along the optical axis direction, it can be implemented by various applicable examples such as shape memory alloy (SMA), piezoelectric, microelectromechanical system (MEMS). It is self-evident that the carrier 120 can be moved in a specific direction by using external control signals or sensed signal systems.

[0054] However, the first drive unit 170 can be implemented by a motor drive unit 170 capable of converting rotational force into linear driving force, thereby further improving the movement efficiency of the first carrier 120, whose movement range is extended. In the following description, an embodiment applicable to a motor drive unit as an example of the first drive unit will be used as a reference.

[0055] As described below, the first carrier 120 is configured to move along the optical axis direction by being physically connected to the motor drive unit 170. In order to achieve the accuracy of linear movement and the physical support for linear movement, as shown in the figure, it can be configured to move along the axis 171.

[0056] A driving magnet M is provided on the second carrier 130, which is equipped with the second lens 70 (see...). Figure 5 ), drive coil C (see Figure 3 It is positioned facing the driving magnet M.

[0057] If an appropriate amount and direction of power is applied to the drive coil C under the control of the driver H, a magnetic force is generated between the drive coil C and the drive magnet M, and the second carrier 130 uses the generated magnetic force as a driving force to move along the optical axis.

[0058] According to the embodiment, a sensing sensor may also be included to sense the position of the second carrier 130, etc. In this case, if the sensing sensor senses the position of the second carrier 130, etc., and transmits a corresponding signal to the driver H, control is performed by applying a power of corresponding magnitude and direction to the drive coil C.

[0059] The aforementioned sensor can be implemented by a Hall sensor (H), which uses the Hall effect to sense changes in the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field of a magnet existing within the sensing area and outputs a corresponding electrical signal.

[0060] Thus, when the sensor is implemented by a Hall sensor, the Hall sensor H is configured to sense the magnitude and / or direction of the magnetic field of the driving magnet M disposed on the second carrier 130 and output a corresponding signal.

[0061] Preferably, the sensing of the Hall sensor H and the control processing of the driver are configured to be applied cyclically through feedback control, so as to further improve the driving accuracy through time-series and continuous control.

[0062] It goes without saying that the driver can be implemented by independent electronic components or elements, but it is generally implemented as a single electronic component (chip) integrated with the Hall sensor through a SOC (System-on-Chip) or similar device. Therefore, in the accompanying drawings, the Hall sensor and the driver are labeled with the same reference numeral H.

[0063] Alternatively, the driver can be configured to be the same as the number of individual Hall sensors (coils) and implemented by individual Hall sensors and a single chip. However, depending on the implementation, it can also be configured not to be the same as the number of individual Hall sensors, but implemented by a portion of individual Hall sensors and a single chip, by adjusting the number of channels used for electrical connection with the Hall sensors, etc.

[0064] According to the present invention, the actuator 100 drives multiple carriers individually, some of which are physically driven by the motor drive unit 170, and others are driven by the electromagnetic force between the coil and the magnet.

[0065] Therefore, compared with existing actuators that are driven by multiple carriers composed of electromagnetic fields, the actuator 100 according to the present invention can not only fundamentally eliminate factors that damage driving accuracy, such as magnetic field interference and disturbance, and further improve driving accuracy, but also simultaneously achieve sufficient travel distance guarantee and driving force enhancement for zoom drive.

[0066] According to the implementation method, it is preferably designed such that the carrier with a relatively large movement distance, such as zoom drive, is driven by the motor drive unit 170, and the carrier with a relatively small movement distance, such as autofocus, is driven by the electromagnetic field structure.

[0067] The accompanying drawings show a first carrier 120 equipped with a first lens 60 and a second carrier 130 equipped with a second lens 70, but this is only one embodiment. According to the implementation, there may be more lenses and carriers.

[0068] In the following description, for the sake of efficiency, two carriers disposed on the actuator 100 are illustrated. Figure 2 Based on the optical axis direction, the carrier located at the top (front) is called the first carrier 120, and the carrier located at the bottom (rear) is called the second carrier 130.

[0069] Thus, if the first carrier 120 and the second carrier 130 move linearly along the optical axis, the lenses (lens assemblies) mounted on each carrier also move linearly along the optical axis, thereby realizing AF or zoom functions through the relative positional relationship between these lenses.

[0070] As described above, the image sensor 30 refers to an imaging element such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS), which, according to the embodiment, can be arranged at the lower end (optical axis direction reference) of the actuator 100 in a form that is mounted together with a physical structure such as a bracket on the fifth circuit board 180-5.

[0071] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the detailed structure of a first carrier 120, etc., according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] As described above, the first carrier 120 equipped with the first lens 60 is a moving body that moves linearly along the optical axis, specifically including a first mounting machine 121 equipped with the first lens 60, a first support 123, and a first guide 125.

[0073] As illustrated in the attached drawings, the first mounting machine 121 is provided with a space corresponding to the shape of the first lens 60 for mounting the first lens 60. According to the embodiment, a housing or stopper (not shown) for preventing the first lens 60 from dislodging along the X-axis direction may be provided on the upper part (X-axis reference) of the first mounting machine 121.

[0074] The first support portion 123 includes a first receiving portion 1231, which provides space for the second support portion 133 of the second carrier 130 (described later) to move. A drive magnet M is mounted on the second support portion 133 of the second carrier 130.

[0075] The first support portion 123 is disposed on one side of the left or right side (Y-axis reference) of the first mounting machine 121, as shown in the figure. Preferably, it is configured to have a shape that extends in length in the optical axis direction of the first mounting machine 121 based on the optical axis direction.

[0076] The first support portion 123 can be integrally formed with the first mounting machine 121. In order to achieve a physical structure that is symmetrical to the second support portion 133 of the second carrier 130 described later, it is preferably configured in a shape that extends in any direction in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0077] The first circuit board 180-1, serving as the circuit board for mounting the drive coil C and the Hall sensor H, is disposed on the outer side of the first carrier 120, specifically on the first support portion 123. Figure 4 As illustrated, the yoke 195 is arranged along the outer side of the first circuit board 180-1 so that the magnetic force generated by the drive coil C is concentrated in the direction of the drive magnet M.

[0078] The first guide 125 is a structure that guides the linear movement of the first carrier 120 more stably and gently. It is set on the opposite side of the first support 123 with the first mounting machine 121 as a reference. According to the embodiment, it may include a second receiving part 1251, which provides space for the second guide 135 of the second carrier 130 to move.

[0079] The motor drive unit 170, which is a drive unit that moves the first carrier 120 along the optical axis, specifically includes: a motor 177 that provides rotational force; and a shaft component 173 that rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the motor 177 and has threads or the like.

[0080] Additionally, the motor drive unit 170 may include a moving medium 175, which is physically connected to the shaft member 173 via threads or the like formed inside the motor drive unit 170, and is engaged with the first support portion 123 or the first guide member 125. The accompanying drawings illustrate an embodiment where the moving medium 175 is engaged with the first support portion 123 via a coupling portion 1236.

[0081] The aforementioned moving medium 175 is physically connected to the first support 123 and is connected in a way that suppresses rotation. Therefore, if the shaft component 175 rotates by the rotation of the motor 177, the moving medium 175 moves up and down along the thread of the shaft component 175. As the moving medium 175 moves up and down, the first support 123, i.e. the first carrier 120, moves up and down along the optical axis.

[0082] At this time, the first support 123 receives physical support and guidance from the shaft 171 through the through hole 1235 or the track structure, thus maintaining linearity in the optical axis direction of the first carrier 120.

[0083] A portion of the cross-section (XY plane) of the through-hole 1235 can be formed as a line to reduce the physical load between the shaft 171 and the through-hole 1235. In particular, when the attractive force generated by the yoke or the like acts on the first carrier 120 along the bottom direction (X-axis reference), the upper cross-section of the through-hole 1235 can be formed as a line. With this configuration, since the portion where the shaft 171 and the through-hole 1235 contact each other is a line, frictional resistance can be reduced.

[0084] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, by extending the length of the through hole 1235 that moves along the axis 171 or forming multiple portions having through holes 1235, the portion physically guided by the axis 171 is expanded, thereby minimizing the tilting and swaying of the second carrier 130, and thus more effectively realizing the linear movement of the second carrier 130.

[0085] As described above, the first circuit board 180-1, which is equipped with the drive coil C and the Hall sensor H, is disposed on the first carrier 120, specifically on the first carrier 120. Therefore, when the first carrier 120 moves, the first circuit board 180-1 moves together with the first carrier 120 along the optical axis.

[0086] The Hall sensor H is equivalent to a structure that senses the magnetic field of the driving magnet M and outputs a corresponding electrical signal. Therefore, the output value of the Hall sensor H will change not only when the driving magnet M moves relative to the Hall sensor H, but also when the Hall sensor H moves relative to the driving magnet M.

[0087] Therefore, if the output value of the Hall sensor H is set to be the output value corresponding to the reference position (default), then even if the Hall sensor H moves by the movement of the first carrier 120, the appropriate magnitude and direction of power are applied to the drive coil C through the control processing of the driver H, so that feedback control can be performed with the position of the second carrier 130 carrying the drive magnet M as the reference position (or the position based on this reference).

[0088] When zoom driving is performed, multiple lenses (first lens and second lens) need to move within an appropriate interval. However, even without a physically complex structure, the present invention can automatically control the movement of the first carrier 120 by means of the control processing through the above structure. Even if the first carrier 120 moves, the second carrier 130 moves naturally together with the first carrier 120.

[0089] As described above, the first support portion 123 of the first carrier 120 provides space for the second support portion 133 of the second carrier 130 to move through the first receiving portion 1231, and the first guide portion 125 of the first carrier 120 provides space for the second guide portion 135 of the second carrier 130 to move through the second receiving portion 1251.

[0090] Based on this structural relationship, the second carrier 130 of the present invention is disposed in the movable space provided by the first carrier 120 in the form of being mounted on the first carrier 120.

[0091] According to the embodiment, in order to prevent the physical detachment of the second carrier 130, guide the movement of the companion caused by the movement of the first carrier 120, and limit the movement range of the second carrier 130, stopper structures 1237 and 1257 that can be formed in an inwardly protruding shape may be included at the ends of the first support portion 123 and the first guide member 125 of the first carrier 120.

[0092] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, the components of the first support portion 123 or the first guide 125 that are not physically connected to the motor drive portion 170 (the first guide 125) may include a groove 1254 facing the guide rail 111 formed in the housing 110.

[0093] With this structure, the first carrier 120 of the present invention can move more flexibly and linearly by means of the minimum friction generated by the movement, rolling, and point-contact of the third ball B3, thereby further improving noise reduction, driving force minimization, and driving accuracy.

[0094] Additionally, the first carrier 120 may include a first guide rail 1233 and a second guide rail 1253 (see...). Figure 6 ).

[0095] The first guide rail 1233 is formed on the first support portion 123 of the first carrier 120 and faces the first groove rail 1333 formed on the second support portion 133 of the second carrier 130 (see...). Figure 5 ).

[0096] The second guide rail 1253 can be formed on the first guide member 125 of the first carrier 120 and face the second groove 1353 formed on the second guide member 135 of the second carrier 130. The first ball bearings B1 can be arranged between the first guide rail 1233 and the first groove 1333 and between the second guide rail 1253 and the second groove 1353 respectively.

[0097] In the embodiment illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the positions of the drive coil C1, drive magnet M, etc. correspond to the positions of the motor drive unit 170. However, this is only one embodiment. According to the implementation, the electromagnetic field structure driving the second carrier 130 can be on the left (right) (Y-axis reference), and the position of the motor drive unit 170 can be on the right (left), which is self-evident.

[0098] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the detailed structure of a second carrier 130, etc., according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the first carrier 120 and the second carrier 130, etc.

[0099] like Figure 5 As shown, the second carrier 130 according to the present invention may include a second mounting machine 131, a second support portion 133 and a second guide 135. The second mounting machine 131 has a groove shape corresponding to the second lens 70 to mount the second lens 70.

[0100] The second support part 133 is disposed on one of the left or right sides of the second mounting machine 131, has a shape that extends from the second mounting machine 131 with reference to the optical axis direction, and is equipped with the aforementioned driving magnet M.

[0101] The second support portion 133, which is provided with the driving magnet M, is housed in the first receiving portion 1231, which is a space provided by the first support portion 123. With this arrangement, the driving magnet M faces the driving coil C provided on the first carrier 120.

[0102] The second guide 135, as a structure that guides the linear movement of the second carrier 120 more stably and gently, is set on the opposite side of the second support 133 with the second mounting machine 131 as a reference, and is housed in the form of a second receiving part 1251 installed on the first guide 125.

[0103] As described above, a second groove 1353 is formed on the second guide 135, with the first ball B1 between it and facing the second guide rail 1253, and a first groove 1333 is formed on the second support 133, with the first ball B1 between it and facing the first guide rail 1233.

[0104] The second carrier 130 has a physical structure corresponding to the first carrier 120, and as shown in the figure, it is formed into a structure that is symmetrical to the first carrier 120.

[0105] Specifically, the first support portion 123 of the first carrier 120 is preferably configured to have a shape that extends in a direction relative to the first mounting machine 121 with respect to the optical axis direction, and has a shape that extends in a direction opposite to the extension direction of the second support portion 133 of the second carrier 130.

[0106] Thus, the first carrier 120 and the second carrier 130 have similar physical structures. By placing the first mounting machine 121 carrying the first lens 60 and the second mounting machine 131 carrying the second lens 70 in the middle, sufficient movement distance of the first lens 60 and the second lens 70 can be ensured.

[0107] In addition, the above structure allows for the expansion of the space for the drive magnet M and drive coil C used to drive the second carrier 130, thereby effectively enhancing the driving force.

[0108] According to the embodiment, the track structure for guiding the movement of the first ball B1, the second ball B2 and the third ball B3 can be implemented in the form of a first guide rail 1233 and a first groove rail 1333 for guiding the movement of the first ball B1, and a second guide rail 1253 and a second groove rail 1353 for guiding the movement of the second ball B2, wherein a component made of inserted metal material is used.

[0109] With this configuration, the characteristics of the interface in contact with the balls can be improved, thereby improving and maintaining the effect of reducing friction, and minimizing damage caused by physical collisions with the balls due to drops, as well as the resulting scattering of foreign objects. The groove 1254 and guide rail 111 that guide the movement of the third ball B3 are also the same.

[0110] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the detailed construction of an actuator 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of carriers 120 and 130 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] As shown in the aforementioned attached figures and Figure 7 As shown, the second carrier 130 of the present invention is disposed in the movable space provided by the first carrier, such as the first receiving portion 1231 of the first support portion 123 and the second receiving portion 1251 of the first guide 125.

[0112] According to the embodiment, the second carrier 130 can be configured to move along the optical axis direction by the physical support and guidance of first balls B1 arranged between the first carrier 120 and the second carrier 130, specifically between the first guide rail 1233 and the first groove rail 1333 of the first carrier 120 and between the second guide rail 1253 and the second groove rail 1353 of the first carrier 120.

[0113] As described above, the driving magnet M for moving the second carrier 130 along the optical axis is disposed on the second carrier 130, and the driving coil C is disposed on the first carrier 120.

[0114] Therefore, if the driver H controls the application of an appropriate magnitude and direction of power to the drive coil C, the second carrier 130 moves along the optical axis with reference to the first carrier 120, which is a relatively stationary body. Figure 8 (A1), the second lens 70 moves along the optical axis by moving the second carrier 130. Figure 8 (A1).

[0115] In this case, such as Figure 8 As shown in the figure below, the second support portion 133 and the second guide member 135 of the second carrier 130 are configured to not only prevent external detachment but also move within a range of motion designed according to product specifications, etc., through the moving spaces S1 and S2 provided by the first receiving portion 1231 and the second receiving portion 1251 of the first carrier 120 and the stop structures 1237 and 1257.

[0116] As described above, the first carrier 120 moves independently of the second carrier 130 along the optical axis direction through the drive control of the motor drive unit 170 and the physical support and guidance of the shaft 171. Figure 8 (A2), if the first carrier 120 moves, the first lens 70 mounted on the first carrier 120 moves along the optical axis direction. Figure 8 (A2).

[0117] The second carrier 130 can be configured such that even if the first carrier 120 moves independently, it moves together with the physical movement of the first carrier 120 within a specific range through the stop structures 1237, 1257, etc.

[0118] Furthermore, as described above, the drive coil C and Hall sensor H that drive the second carrier 130 are disposed on the first carrier 120, which moves independently along the optical axis. That is, the drive coil C and Hall sensor H that drive the second carrier 130 are not disposed on a fixed body with an absolute reference, but on a moving body that moves independently.

[0119] As described above, if the first carrier 120 moves, the relative positional relationship between the Hall sensor H and the driving magnet M changes, and with this change, the signal value output by the Hall sensor H to the driver H changes.

[0120] Therefore, by applying an appropriate magnitude and direction of power to the drive coil C corresponding to the changing signal value, the second carrier 130 and the first carrier 120 can move in tandem along the optical axis. Furthermore, through this control process, even if the first carrier 120 moves, an appropriate interval between the first carrier 120 and the second carrier 130 can be maintained continuously.

[0121] In other words, the change in the signal value output by the Hall sensor H has a functional relationship with the direction / magnitude of the movement of the first carrier 120. Therefore, when the first carrier 120 is moved by the control of the above structure and the driver H, the movement of the second carrier 130 can be controlled so that it accurately corresponds to the direction and magnitude of the movement of the first carrier 120.

[0122] The present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited thereto. It is self-evident that those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains can make various modifications and variations within the equivalent scope of the technical concept and claims of the present invention.

[0123] In the above description of the present invention, qualifiers such as first, second, etc., are merely tool concepts used to relatively distinguish between constituent elements and should therefore be interpreted as not being terms used to indicate a specific order, priority, etc.

[0124] The description of the present invention and the accompanying drawings, which are provided to illustrate embodiments of the present invention, are shown in a slightly exaggerated manner to emphasize or highlight the technical content of the present invention. However, it should be understood that, considering the above description and the matters shown in the drawings, various modifications and applications can be made at the level of a person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, which is self-evident.

Claims

1. A hybrid zoom drive actuator, characterized in that, include: A first carrier, with a first lens mounted on the first carrier; The second carrier is located above or below the first carrier with the optical axis direction as a reference, and the second lens is mounted on the second carrier; A housing that contains the first carrier and the second carrier; The first driving unit causes the first carrier to move along the optical axis. A driving magnet is mounted on the second carrier; A driving coil, facing the driving magnet, provides driving force by moving a second carrier along the optical axis. Hall effect sensor, to sense the position of the second carrier; as well as The first circuit board, on which the drive coil and the Hall sensor are mounted. The second carrier includes: A second mounting machine, wherein the second lens is mounted on the second mounting machine; and The second support portion is disposed on one of the left or right sides of the second placement machine, and has a shape that extends beyond the second placement machine with reference to the optical axis direction. The driving magnet is mounted on the second support portion. The first carrier includes: The first mounting machine, wherein the first lens is mounted on the first mounting machine; A first support portion, having the first circuit board on its outer side, and including a first receiving portion providing mobility space for the second support portion, the first support portion being disposed on one of the left or right sides of the first placement machine; and The first guide is located on the opposite side of the first support portion on the left or right side of the first placement machine. The first support or the first guide is physically connected to the first drive unit.

2. The hybrid zoom drive actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first circuit board is disposed on the first carrier in such a way that it moves along the optical axis together with the first carrier.

3. The hybrid zoom drive actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a driver that controls the drive coil by applying an electrical force of magnitude and direction corresponding to the signal value of the Hall sensor. When the first carrier moves, the driver controls the movement of the second carrier in a manner corresponding to the direction and magnitude of movement of the first carrier.

4. The hybrid zoom drive actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second carrier is disposed in the mobile space provided by the first carrier. The first carrier includes a stop structure that defines the range of motion of the second carrier.

5. The hybrid zoom drive actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first support portion has a shape that extends beyond the first mounting machine with reference to the optical axis direction, and has a shape that extends in the opposite direction to the extension direction of the second support portion.

6. The hybrid zoom drive actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second carrier further includes a second guide, which is disposed on the opposite side of the second support portion on the left or right side of the second placement machine. The first guide of the first carrier includes a second receiving section that provides a space for the movement of the second guide.

7. The hybrid zoom drive actuator according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first carrier includes: A first guide rail is formed in the first support portion and faces the first groove rail formed in the second support portion; and The second guide rail is formed on the first guide member and faces the second groove rail formed on the second guide member. One of the components in the first support or the first guide that is not connected to the first drive includes a groove rail, the groove rail facing the guide rail formed in the housing. It also includes ball bearings, which are respectively arranged between the guide rail and the groove rail, between the first guide rail and the first groove rail, and between the second guide rail and the second groove rail.

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