Camera for vehicle and vehicle

Abstract

The camera module includes: a lens barrel; a lens disposed in the lens barrel; a heating member including a heating unit disposed on a surface of the lens; and a sensor member including a sensor unit disposed on a bottom surface of the heating unit, in which the lens includes a groove to which the heating unit and the sensor unit are coupled.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present embodiment relates to a vehicle camera and a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Recently, ultra-small camera modules have been developed and widely used in small electronic products such as smartphones, laptop computers, and game consoles.

[0003] As cars become more popular, ultra-small cameras are widely used in vehicles and small electronic products. For example, black box cameras provide objective data for vehicle protection or traffic accidents, rear monitoring cameras allow drivers to monitor blind spots at the rear of the vehicle through a screen to ensure safety when reversing, and surrounding detection cameras that can monitor the surrounding environment of the vehicle.

[0004] The camera may be equipped with a lens, a lens holder accommodating the lens, an image sensor that converts an image of an object collected in the lens into an electrical signal, and a printed circuit board on which the image sensor is mounted. A housing forming the appearance of the camera is formed with a structure in which the entire area is sealed to prevent internal components from being contaminated by foreign matter including moisture.

[0005] In the case of a camera module, since the camera module is disposed outside the vehicle and is greatly affected by the outside air, frost, condensation and freezing often occur in the lens in winter. When frost, condensation and freezing occur in the lens, there is a problem that the performance of the camera module is greatly deteriorated. Summary of the invention

[0006] Technical Topics

[0007] The present embodiment is directed to providing a camera module and a vehicle capable of quickly removing frost or ice generated on the surface of a lens through a heating function.

[0008] Technical Solution

[0009] According to the present embodiment, the camera module includes: a lens barrel; a lens disposed inside the lens barrel; a heating component including a heating unit disposed on a surface of the lens; and a sensor component including a sensor unit disposed on a lower surface of the heating unit, wherein the lens includes a groove, and the heating unit and the sensor unit are connected to the groove.

[0010] The heating unit may be a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) ink applied to the surface of the lens.

[0011] The heating unit may have a black color.

[0012] Each of the heating unit and the sensor unit may have a ring-shaped cross section.

[0013] A temperature sensor may be provided on a lower surface of the sensor unit.

[0014] The heating unit and the sensor unit may be interposed between an upper surface of the lens barrel and a lower surface of the lens.

[0015] A rib protruding downward may be provided on a lower surface of the sensor unit.

[0016] The heating member includes a first connecting portion having one end connected to the heating unit and the other end connected to the printed circuit board, and the sensor member includes a second connecting portion having one end connected to the sensor unit and the other end connected to the printed circuit board, and the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion can be arranged to overlap with at least a portion thereof.

[0017] The first connection portion and the second connection portion may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0018] According to another embodiment, a camera module includes: a first body; a lens module, which is arranged inside the first body, and the lens module includes a lens barrel and a lens arranged inside the lens barrel; a printed circuit board, which is arranged inside the first body; and a heating member, which provides heat to the lens, wherein the heating member may include a heating unit and a substrate, the heating unit is arranged on a surface of the lens, and the substrate electrically connects the heating unit and the printed circuit board.

[0019] Beneficial effects

[0020] According to the present embodiment, since the surface of the lens is heated based on information detected by the temperature sensor, not only can frost or ice formed on the surface of the lens be effectively removed, but there is also an advantage that power can be effectively managed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a lens barrel according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling structure of a first lens, a heating member, and a sensor member according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a first lens, a heating member, and a sensor member according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 7 : is a perspective view illustrating a coupling structure of a first lens, a heating member, and a sensor member according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a lens heat generating structure according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Fig.10 is a plan view of a substrate according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of a lens heat generating structure according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a camera module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view of a first lens according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Fig.15 is a perspective view of a lens barrel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to some embodiments to be described, but can be implemented in various forms, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of the constituent elements can be selectively combined or replaced between the various embodiments.

[0038] In addition, unless explicitly defined and described, the terms (including technical terms and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as meanings that can be generally understood by those skilled in the art, and commonly used terms, such as terms defined in dictionaries, may be explained in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

[0039] In addition, the terms used in the present specification are used to describe various embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0040] In this specification, unless specifically stated in a phrase, a singular form may include a plural form, and when described as "at least one (or more than one) of A and B and C", it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B and C.

[0041] In addition, when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish a component from other components, and these terms do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

[0042] Furthermore, when a component is described as being “connected,” “coupled” or “interconnected” to another component, the component is not only directly connected, coupled or interconnected to the other component, but may also include a case where the component is “connected,” “coupled” or “interconnected” due to another component between the other components.

[0043] In addition, when described as being formed or disposed “on (above)” or “under (below)” each component, “on (above)” or “under (below)” indicates that it includes not only a case where two components are in direct contact but also a case where one or more other components are formed or disposed between the two components. In addition, when expressed as “on (above) or under (below)”, it may include not only a meaning in an upward direction relative to one component but also a meaning in a downward direction relative to one component.

[0044] The "optical axis direction" used hereinafter is defined as the optical axis direction of the lens. Meanwhile, the "optical axis direction" may correspond to the "up and down direction", "z-axis direction" and the like.

[0045] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Reference Figure 1 , a vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a body 2 , a door 3 , a glass 4 , a headlight 5 , a taillight 6 , and a camera module 10 .

[0048] The body 2 may be an exterior member of the vehicle 1. The body 2 may have various forms, such as a frame type and a monocoque type. One or more doors 3 may be coupled to a side surface of the body 2. In addition, glass 4 may be coupled to the front and rear of a portion where a pillar is formed by an upper portion of the body 2 and the doors 3. A headlamp 5 may be mounted at the front of a lower portion of the body 2. A taillamp 6 may be mounted at the rear of the lower portion of the body 2.

[0049] The camera module 10 may be mounted on a side portion of the vehicle body 2 or on a door provided at the front of one or more of the doors 3. The camera module 10 may be mounted in front of the glass 4 coupled to the door 3. That is, the side mirror in the vehicle 1 of the present embodiment may be rearranged together with the camera module 10.

[0050] The camera module 10 described above can capture images of both rear sides of the vehicle. The images captured by the camera module 10 can be electrically connected to a display unit (not shown) through an electronic control unit (ECU) or the like. Therefore, the images captured by the camera module 10 can be controlled by the electronic control unit (ECU) and played back on the display unit.

[0051] An interior space for a driver may be formed inside the vehicle body 2. A display unit may be installed inside the vehicle body 2. The display unit may output an image captured by the camera module 10. The display unit may be installed on a dashboard (not shown) inside the vehicle body 2.

[0052] The installation form of the camera module 10 inside the above-mentioned vehicle 1 is exemplary, and the camera module 10 may be used for one or more of a front camera, a side camera, a rear camera, and a black box of the vehicle 1 .

[0053] Hereinafter, a camera module according to a first embodiment is described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a perspective view of a lens barrel according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling structure of a first lens, a heating member, and a sensor member according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a first lens, a heating member, and a sensor member according to a first embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 7 : is a perspective view illustrating a coupling structure of a first lens, a heating member, and a sensor member according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Reference Figures 2 to 7 , the camera module 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a lens barrel 100 , a holder 200 , a lens 300 , a heating member 400 , and a sensor member 500 .

[0056] The lens barrel 100 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open upper surface and a lower surface. A space 110 in which the lens 300 is disposed may be formed inside the lens barrel 100. The space 110 of the lens barrel 100 may include a plurality of regions having different cross-sectional areas. For example, a region in which a first lens 310, which will be described later, is disposed in the internal space of the lens barrel 100 may be formed to have a larger cross-sectional area than other regions.

[0057] The camera module 10 may include a body (not shown) that forms the appearance of the camera module 10 and has a lens barrel 100 disposed therein. The body may include a front body and a rear body. A hole to which the lens barrel 100 is coupled is formed at the front of the front body, and at least a portion of the lens barrel 100 may be disposed to protrude from the outer surface of the front body.

[0058] A threaded coupling portion 130 for coupling with the front body or other components inside the front body may be formed on an outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 100 .

[0059] The lens barrel 100 may include a plurality of regions with different cross-sectional areas. For example, the lens barrel 100 may include a first region and a second region disposed at a lower portion of the first region. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first region may be formed to be greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second region. The holder 200 may be disposed on the outer side of the first region. The holder 200 may be coupled to the outer surface of the lens barrel 100 by an adhesive, or may be coupled to the outer surface of the lens barrel 100 by a threaded screw.

[0060] A protrusion 120 that protrudes upward and supports a side surface of a first lens 310 to be described later may be formed on the upper surface of the lens barrel 100. A portion of the side surface of the first lens 310 may be covered by the protrusion 120. An inner surface of the protrusion 120 may contact the side surface of the first lens 310.

[0061] A circumventing portion 140 may be formed on the side surface of the lens barrel 100. The circumventing portion 140 may have a groove shape that is more inwardly concave than other regions. The circumventing portion 140 may be formed on the side surface of the first region where the outermost lens 310 is provided. The circumventing portion 140 may have a shape obtained by cutting the formation region of the protruding portion 120 by a predetermined distance in the circumferential direction. When observed from the side surface, the circumventing portion 140 may have a hole shape that penetrates a portion of the protruding portion 120 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. The side portion of the first region corresponding to the formation region of the circumventing portion 140 may be flat. At least a portion of the heating member 400 and the sensor member 500 may be disposed on the circumventing portion 140. The circumventing portion 140 may include a bottom surface 141 and a plurality of guide surfaces 142 disposed on both sides of the bottom surface 141. The guide surface 142 may be disposed to form an obtuse angle with the bottom surface 141.

[0062] The lens 300 may be disposed inside the lens barrel 100. The lens 300 may be disposed in a plurality of numbers and may be disposed spaced apart from each other based on the optical axis direction. The lens 300 may include a first lens 310 and a second lens disposed at a lower portion of the first lens 310. The first lens 310 and the second lens may be spaced apart from each other. In the space 110 inside the lens barrel 100, the cross-sectional area of ​​the region where the first lens 310 is disposed may be different from the cross-sectional area of ​​the region where the second lens is disposed. The first lens 310 may be referred to as the outermost lens. The first lens 310 may be formed to have a larger cross-sectional area than other lenses. The incident surface of the first lens 310 may protrude more upward than the upper surface of the lens barrel 100 or the upper surface of the holder 200.

[0063] The first lens 310 may include an incident surface 311 through which light is incident, an exit surface 312 through which the incident light is emitted, and a connection surface connecting the incident surface 311 and the exit surface 312. The connection surface may include a first connection surface 314 and a second connection surface 315. The first connection surface 314 may form a side surface of the first lens 310. The second connection surface 315 may form a lower surface of the first lens 310. A groove 316 having a shape that is more concave upward than other areas may be formed on the lower surface of the first lens 310. The bottom surface of the groove 316 may be provided with a step portion from the second connection surface 315 in the optical axis direction. The bottom surface of the groove 316 may be provided to be higher than the second connection surface 315.

[0064] The groove 316 may have a ring-shaped cross-section.

[0065] The holder 200 may be coupled to an outer surface of the lens barrel 100. The holder 200 may be coupled to an upper end portion of the lens barrel 100. At least a portion of the holder 200 may be disposed inside the front body.

[0066] The holder 200 may have a ring-shaped cross section. At least a portion of the holder 200 may be disposed to cover an edge of the incident surface 311 of the first lens 310. The holder 200 may be disposed to surround an edge of the first lens 310. The holder 200 may contact a portion of the incident surface of the first lens 310.

[0067] The heating member 400 may be a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater.

[0068] The heating member 400 may be disposed outside the lens barrel 100. The heating member 400 may have one end disposed on the surface of the first lens 310 and the other end coupled to the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board may be disposed inside the body of the camera module 10.

[0069] The heating member 400 may include a heating unit 410 , a first connection portion 420 , and a first terminal portion 430 .

[0070] The heating unit 410 may be disposed between the upper surface of the lens barrel 100 and the lower surface of the first lens 310. The heating unit 410 may be disposed in the groove 316. The heating unit 410 may have a cross-sectional shape of a ring shape. An adhesive or tape may be disposed between the heating unit 410 and the groove 316.

[0071] The heating unit 410 may generate heat. The heating unit 410 may include a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) material and may be manufactured in the form of a semiconductor device. The heating unit 410 may include a PTC device, an electrode plate, and an insulating plate. The heating unit 410 may include a heating ink applied to a sheet having a circuit pattern formed thereon.

[0072] Frost, ice, and the like generated on the surface of the first lens 310 may be removed by heat generated from the heating unit 410 .

[0073] The heating unit 410 may be black.

[0074] The first terminal portion 430 may be coupled to the printed circuit board. A connector electrically and physically coupled to the first terminal portion 430 may be provided on a surface of the printed circuit board.

[0075] The first connection portion 420 may be provided to connect the first terminal portion 430 and the heating unit 410. The first connection portion 420 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The first connection portion 420 may include a circuit pattern. The first connection portion 420 may have an area bent at least once. The first connection portion 420 may be provided outside the lens barrel 100. At least a portion of the first connection portion 420 may be provided on the avoidance portion 140. The first connection portion 420 may be coupled to the side surface of the lens barrel 100 through the bottom surface 141 and the guide surface 142.

[0076] The sensor member 500 may be disposed at an inner side portion of the heating member 400. The sensor member 500 may be disposed so that at least a portion overlaps with the heating member 400. The sensor member 500 may be disposed so that at least a portion overlaps with the heating member 400 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. At least a portion of the sensor member 500 may be coupled to the avoidance portion 140. The sensor member 500 and the heating member 400 may be disposed so as to overlap with the avoidance portion 140.

[0077] At least a portion of the sensor member 500 and the above-mentioned heating member 400 may be disposed not to overlap each other.

[0078] The sensor member 500 may include a sensor unit 530 , a second connection portion 540 , and a second terminal portion 550 .

[0079] The sensor unit 530 may be disposed between the upper surface of the lens barrel 100 and the lower surface of the first lens 310. The sensor unit 530 may be disposed in the groove 316. The sensor unit 530 may be disposed at the lower portion of the heating unit 410. The upper surface of the sensor unit 530 and the lower surface of the heating unit 410 may be in contact. The sensor unit 530 may have a cross section of an annular shape. An adhesive or tape may be disposed between the sensor unit 530 and the heating unit 410.

[0080] A temperature sensor 510 may be provided on a lower surface of the sensor unit 530. The temperature sensor 510 may detect a temperature of the heating unit 410 or the first lens 310. The temperature sensor 510 may be mounted on a lower surface of the sensor unit 530. A circuit pattern (not shown) for electrical connection of the temperature sensor 510 may be formed in the sensor unit 530.

[0081] A rib 520 may be formed on the lower surface of the sensor unit 530. The rib 520 may have a shape protruding downward from the lower surface of the sensor unit 530. The strength of the sensor unit 530 may be enhanced by the rib 520. The rib 520 may contact the upper surface of the lens barrel 100. The rib 520 may be provided in a plurality of numbers and may be provided to be spaced apart from each other with respect to the circumferential direction.

[0082] The second terminal portion 550 may be coupled to a printed circuit board. A connector electrically and physically coupled to the second terminal portion 550 may be provided on the surface of the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board coupled to the first terminal portion 430 and the printed circuit board coupled to the second terminal portion 550 may be different. In contrast, the printed circuit board coupled to the first terminal portion 430 and the printed circuit board coupled to the second terminal portion 550 may be the same.

[0083] The second connection portion 540 may be arranged to connect the second terminal portion 550 and the sensor 530. The second connection portion 540 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The second connection portion 540 may include a circuit pattern. The second connection portion 540 may have an area folded at least once. The second connection portion 540 may be arranged outside the lens barrel 100. The second connection portion 540 may be arranged inside the first connection portion 420. At least a portion of the second connection portion 540 may be arranged in the avoidance portion 140. The second connection portion 540 may be connected to the side surface of the lens barrel 100 through the bottom surface 141 and the guide surface 142.

[0084] According to the above structure, since the surface of the lens is heated based on information detected by the temperature sensor, not only can frost or ice appearing on the surface of the lens be effectively removed, but there is also an advantage that power can be effectively managed.

[0085] Hereinafter, a camera module according to a second embodiment is described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0086] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Reference Figure 8 , a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a first body 1100 , a second body 1200 , a lens module 1300 , a lens holder 1400 , a printed circuit board 1500 , sealing members 1610 and 1620 , and a heating member 1700 .

[0088] The first body 1100 may form the appearance of the camera module. The first body 1100 may be referred to as any one of a front body, an upper housing, and a first housing. A space may be formed inside the first body 1100 so that the lens module 1300, the lens holder 1400, and the printed circuit board 1500 may be disposed.

[0089] The second body 1200 may form the appearance of a camera module by being coupled to the first body 1100. The second body 1200 may be referred to as any one of a rear body, a lower housing, and a second housing. The second body 1100 may be coupled to the lower surface of the first body 1100. The second body 1200 may be coupled to the first body 1100 by any one of ultrasonic welding, laser welding, and thermal welding. Different from this, the second body 1200 and the first body 1100 may be coupled to each other by epoxy resin. An internal space in which a printed circuit board 1500 is disposed may be formed inside the second body 1200. The space inside the first body 1100 and the space inside the second body 1200 may be connected.

[0090] A connector withdrawal portion 1220 may be formed on the lower surface of the second body 1200 that protrudes downward from other regions. A space may be formed inside the connector withdrawal portion 1220 so that a pin 1530 to be described later is disposed. An external connector is coupled to the connector withdrawal portion 1220, and the external connector may include a terminal (not shown) electrically and physically coupled to the pin 1530.

[0091] The lens module 1300 may be disposed inside the first body 1100. At least a portion of the lens module 1300 may protrude upward from the first body 1100. The lens module 1300 may include a lens barrel 1310, a lens 1350, and a holder 1320.

[0092] The lens barrel 1310 may be disposed inside the first body 1100. The lens barrel 1310 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open upper surface and a lower surface. A space in which a lens 1350 is disposed may be formed inside the lens barrel 1310. The space of the lens barrel 1310 may include a plurality of regions with different cross-sectional areas. For example, a region of the lens barrel 1310 in which a first lens 1351 to be described later is disposed may have a larger cross-sectional area than other regions. At least a portion of the lens barrel 1310 may be disposed inside the lens holder 1400. The lens barrel 1310 may be coupled to the lens holder 1400. The lens barrel 1310 may be threadedly coupled to the lens holder 1400.

[0093] The lens barrel 1310 may include a plurality of regions with different cross-sectional areas. For example, the lens barrel 1310 may include a first region and a second region disposed at a lower portion of the first region. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first region may be greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second region. The second region may be threadedly coupled to the lens holder 1400. A thread or thread groove may be formed in the outer circumferential surface of the second region. The heating member 1700 may be disposed around a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the first region.

[0094] The lens barrel 1310 may include a protrusion 1314. The protrusion 1314 may be disposed between the first region and the second region. The protrusion 1314 may have a shape in which a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1310 protrudes outward. The protrusion 1314 may have a cross-section in a ring shape.

[0095] The lens 1350 may be disposed inside the lens barrel 1310. A plurality of lenses 1310 may be provided and the plurality of lenses may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other relative to the optical axis direction. The plurality of lenses 1310 may include a first lens 1351, a second lens 1352, a third lens 1353, a fourth lens 1354, a fifth lens 1355, and a sixth lens 1356. The first to sixth lenses 1351, 1352, 1353, 1354, 1355, and 1356 may be disposed in sequence relative to the optical axis direction. The first lens 1351 may be referred to as the outermost lens. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first lens 1351 may be greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the other lenses. A spacer for spacing apart adjacent lenses may be disposed between the plurality of lenses.

[0096] The holder 1320 may be coupled to the outer surface of the lens barrel 1310. The holder 1320 and the lens barrel 1310 may be coupled to each other by epoxy resin. Different from this, the holder 1320 may be threadedly coupled to the lens barrel 1310. The holder 1320 may be coupled to the upper end of the lens barrel 1310. The holder 1320 may be disposed inside the first body 1100. The incident surface of the first lens 1351 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the holder 1320.

[0097] The above-described coupling structure between the lens barrel 1310 and the holder 1320 is exemplary, and the camera module may be implemented in an integrated structure in which the lens barrel 1310 and the holder 1320 are integrated.

[0098] The holder 1320 may have a cross section of a ring shape. At least a portion of the holder 1320 may be provided to cover an edge of the lens 1350. The holder 1320 may be provided to surround an edge of the first lens 1351. The holder 1320 may be provided to cover an edge of an incident surface of the first lens 1351. The holder 1320 may be in contact with a portion of the incident surface of the first lens 1351.

[0099] A sealing member coupling groove 1322 to which a sealing member 1620 to be described later is coupled may be formed on the outer surface of the holder 1320. The sealing member coupling groove 1322 may have a groove shape in which a portion of the outer surface of the holder 1320 is recessed inwardly than other regions.

[0100] The lens holder 1400 may be disposed inside the first body 1100. The lens holder 1400 may be disposed outside the lens barrel 1310. The lens holder 1400 may have a space formed therein to couple with the lens barrel 1310. A thread or a thread groove may be formed on an inner surface of the outer circumferential surface of the lens holder 1400 facing the lens barrel 1310.

[0101] A coupling portion 1420 may be formed on a lower surface of the lens holder 1400 that protrudes downward from other regions. The lower surface of the coupling portion 1420 may contact the upper surface of the printed circuit board 1500. A screw hole coupled with a screw may be formed on the lower surface of the coupling portion 1420. The lens holder 1400 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 1500 by screw threads.

[0102] The printed circuit board 1500 may be disposed at a lower portion of the lens module 1300. The printed circuit board 1500 may be disposed inside the second body 1200. The printed circuit board 1500 may be disposed at a lower portion of the lens holder 1400. The printed circuit board 1500 may have a plate shape, and at least one component for driving the camera module may be disposed on its upper and lower surfaces. For example, an image sensor 1510 may be disposed on an upper surface of the printed circuit board 1500 facing the lens 1350. The image sensor 1510 may be disposed to face the lens 1350 in the optical axis direction. The image sensor 1510 may be optically aligned with the lens 1350.

[0103] A pin 1530 may be provided on the lower surface of the printed circuit board 1500. The pin 1530 may have a shape protruding downward from the lower surface of the printed circuit board 1500. At least a portion of the pin 1530 may be provided inside the connector withdrawal portion 1220. The pin 1530 is coupled to an external terminal, and thus, power may be supplied to the heating member 1700.

[0104] A connector 1520 may be provided on the lower surface of the printed circuit board 1500. The connector 1520 may be mounted on the lower surface of the printed circuit board 1500. The connector 1520 may be coupled to one end of the heating member 1700. The connector 1520 may be electrically connected to one end of the heating member 1700. The printed circuit board 1500 may be electrically connected to the heating member 1700 through the connector 1520. The connector 1520 may be a BTB connector or an FFC connector.

[0105] The printed circuit board 1500 includes a screw hole facing the screw hole of the lens holder 1400 , and may be threadably coupled to the lens holder 1400 .

[0106] The camera module may include sealing members 1610 and 1620. The sealing members 1610 and 1620 may include a first sealing member 1610 disposed between the first body 1100 and the second body 1200, and a second sealing member 1620 disposed between the outer surface of the holder 1320 and the inner surface of the first body 1100. The space inside the camera module may be sealed from the external area by the sealing members 1610 and 1620. The sealing members 1610 and 1620 may have a cross-section of a closed loop shape. For example, the second sealing member 1620 may be formed in a ring shape.

[0107] Hereinafter, a heat generating structure of a lens according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0108] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a lens heat generating structure according to a second embodiment of the present invention; and

[0109] Fig.10 is a plan view of a substrate according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] Reference Figures 9 and 10 The lens barrel 1310 may be provided on an upper surface thereof with a protruding portion 1311 protruding upward and disposed to surround the first lens 1351. The protruding portion 1311 may be formed as one body with the lens barrel 1310.

[0111] The first lens 1351 may include an incident surface 1371, an exit surface 1372 facing the incident surface 1371, and a connecting surface 1373 connecting the incident surface 1371 to the exit surface 1372. Light incident into the first lens 1351 through the incident surface 1371 may be guided toward the image sensor 1510 through the exit surface 1372.

[0112] The connection surface 1373 may include a first surface 1374 facing the upper surface of the second lens 1352 or the lens barrel 1310 and a second surface 1375 facing the inner surface of the protruding portion 1311. The first surface 1374 and the second surface 1375 may be perpendicular to each other. The first surface 1374 may be connected to the exit surface 1372, and the second surface 1375 may be connected to the incident surface 1371.

[0113] The holder 1320 may include an incident surface 1371 , and a first region 1324 disposed on the protruding portion 1311 and a second region 1326 disposed to surround the outer surface of the lens barrel 1310 .

[0114] The first region 1324 and the second region 1326 may be perpendicular to each other.

[0115] The camera module may include a heating member 1700 . The heating member 1700 may be a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heater. The heating member 1700 may include a PTC ink 1730 applied to a surface of the first lens 1351 and a substrate 1710 electrically connected to the PTC ink 1730 .

[0116] The PTC ink 1730 may be applied to the surface of the first lens 1351. The PTC ink 1730 may be applied to the lower surface of the first lens 1351. The PTC ink 1730 may be applied to the connection surface 1373. The PTC ink 1730 may be applied to the first surface 1374 and the second surface 1375, respectively. The PTC ink 1730 may generate heat by providing electricity.

[0117] The PTC ink 1730 may have a black color. The PTC ink 1730 may be black. Therefore, it is possible to prevent light from being reflected from the surface of the lens 1350.

[0118] The PTC ink 1730 may be referred to as a heating unit.

[0119] One end of the substrate 1710 may be connected to the PTC ink 1730, and the other end of the substrate 1710 may be connected to the printed circuit board 1500. The substrate 1710 may be a flexible circuit board (FPCB). The substrate 1710 may include an area bent at least once. A circuit pattern 1720 may be formed on the surface of the substrate 1710. The circuit pattern 1720 may be disposed on the surface of the substrate 1710 facing the PTC ink 1730. The circuit pattern 1720 may be a metal paste.

[0120] like Fig.10As shown in the figure, the substrate 1710 may include an upper end portion 1712, a lower end portion 1716 and a connecting portion 1714. The upper end portion 1712 has a cross section of an annular shape and can be connected to the PTC ink 1730. The upper end portion 1712 may contact a portion of the lower surface of the PTC ink 1730. The lower end portion 1716 may be connected to the printed circuit board 1500. The lower end portion 1716 may be connected to the connector 1520. The connecting portion 1714 is configured to connect the upper end portion 1712 and the lower end portion 1716, and may have an area that is bent at least once. At least a portion of the connecting portion 1714 may be disposed in a hole 1318 to be described later inside the lens barrel 1310.

[0121] Meanwhile, the lens barrel 1310 may include a hole 1318 through which the substrate 1710 penetrates. The substrate 1710 may be arranged to penetrate the hole 1318. The hole 1318 may include a plurality of regions perpendicular to each other. The hole 1318 may include a first hole 1318a and a second hole 1318b. The first hole 1318a and the second hole 1318b are connected to each other and may be arranged vertically.

[0122] A sealing member 1630 may be disposed between the first lens 1351 and the upper surface of the lens barrel 1310. By the sealing member 1630, foreign substances may be prevented from being introduced between the lens barrel 1310 and the first lens 1351.

[0123] According to the above structure, there is an advantage in that frost or ice generated on the surface of the lens can be quickly removed by the heat generated from the heating member.

[0124] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of a lens heat generating structure according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0125] In this embodiment, other parts are the same as those of the second embodiment, but there are differences according to the arrangement structure of the heating member. Therefore, hereinafter, only the characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described, and the description of the second embodiment will be referred to in the remaining parts.

[0126] Reference Fig.11 The lens barrel 1310 may be provided on an upper surface thereof with a protruding portion 1311 protruding upward and disposed to surround the first lens 1351. The truncation region 1311 may be formed integrally with the lens barrel 1310.

[0127] The first lens 2351 may include an incident surface 2371, an exit surface 2372 facing the incident surface 2371, and a connection surface 2373 connecting the incident surface 2371 to the exit surface 2372. The connection surface 2373 may be formed on a side surface of the first lens 2351. The connection surface 2373 may be covered by the holder 2320.

[0128] The connecting surface 2373 may include a first surface 2374 and a second surface 2375, the first surface 2374 being arranged to face the holder 2320 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and the second surface 2375 being arranged to face the holder 2320 in the optical axis direction. The first surface 2374 and the second surface 2375 may be perpendicular to each other. The first surface 2374 may be connected to the incident surface 2371. The second surface 2375 may be arranged at the edge of the upper surface of the first lens 2351.

[0129] The holder 2320 may include a first region 2324 disposed on the lens barrel 1310 and a second region 2326 disposed to surround the side surface of the lens barrel 1310. The first region 2324 and the second region 2326 may be perpendicular to each other. The first region 2324 may be disposed to overlap with the second surface 2375 in the optical axis direction. The first region 2324 may contact the first surface 2374.

[0130] The heating member may include a PTC ink 2730 disposed on the second surface 2375 and a substrate 2710 electrically connected to the PTC ink 2730 .

[0131] The PTC ink 2730 may be applied to a surface of the first lens 2351. The PTC ink 2730 may be applied to an upper surface of the first lens 2351. The PTC ink 2730 may be applied to the second surface 2375 connecting the surface 2373. The PTC ink 2730 may generate heat by supplying electricity.

[0132] The PTC ink 2730 may be referred to as a heating unit.

[0133] The substrate 2710 may have one end connected to the PTC ink 2730 and the other end connected to the printed circuit board 1500. The substrate 2710 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The substrate 2710 may include an area bent at least once. A circuit pattern 2720 may be formed on the surface of the substrate 2710. The circuit pattern 2720 may be disposed on the surface of the substrate 2710 facing the PTC ink 2730.

[0134] At least a portion of the substrate 2710 may be disposed between the lens barrel 1310 and the holder 2320. A separation portion may be formed between the outer surface of the lens barrel 1310 and the inner surface of the holder 2320 such that the substrate 2710 penetrates the separation portion. The separation portion may have a hole shape.

[0135] A sealing member 1630 may be provided between the lower surface of the first lens 2351, that is, the exit surface of the first lens 2351, and the upper surface of the lens barrel 1310. The sealing member 1630 may prevent foreign matter from being introduced between the lens barrel 1310 and the first lens 2351. Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, since the sealing member 1630 may be supported by the outer surface of the second lens 1352, there is an advantage that a space inside the module may be more widely ensured.

[0136] Fig.12 is a perspective view of a camera module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view of a first lens according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention; and Fig.15 is a perspective view of a lens barrel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] In this embodiment, other parts are the same as those of the second embodiment, but there are differences according to the arrangement structure of the heating member. Therefore, hereinafter, only the characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described, and the description of the above embodiment will be referred to in the remaining parts.

[0138] Reference Figures 12 to 15 , the camera module according to the present embodiment may include a lens barrel 3310 , a lens, a holder 3320 , and a heating member 3700 .

[0139] The lens barrel 3310 may include a space for accommodating a lens. A protrusion 3312 protruding upward may be formed on an upper surface of the lens barrel 3310. The protrusion 3312 may support a side surface of the first lens 3350.

[0140] A flange 3319 may be formed on the side surface of the lens barrel 3310. With respect to the flange 3319, the lens barrel 3310 may be divided into a first region and a second region. The first region may be disposed on an upper portion of the flange 3319, and the second region may be disposed on a lower portion of the flange 3319. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first region may be greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second region. The second region may be threadedly coupled to the lens holder 1400 (see Figure 8 ).

[0141] A first surface 3314 and a second surface 3313 may be formed on the upper surface of the lens barrel 3310. The first surface 3314 and the second surface 3313 may be stepped in the optical axis direction. The first surface 3314 may be disposed outside the second surface 3313. The first surface 3314 may be disposed at the upper side of the second surface 3313. The upper surface of the protruding portion 3312 may be disposed at the upper side of the first surface 3314.

[0142] A circumvention portion 3316 may be formed on the side surface of the lens barrel 3310. The circumvention portion 3316 may have a groove shape that is concave inwardly than other regions. The circumvention portion 3316 may be formed on the side surface of the first region. The upper surface of the circumvention portion 3316 may be disposed at the upper side of the first surface 3314, and may be disposed at the lower side of the upper surface of the truncated port 3312.

[0143] The lens may be disposed in the lens barrel 3310. The lens may include a first lens 3350 and a second lens 3360. The first lens 3350 and the second lens 3360 may be disposed vertically relative to the optical axis direction. The first lens 3350 may be the outermost lens. An incident surface 3351 of the first lens 3350 may be disposed at the upper side of the upper surface of the lens barrel 3310.

[0144] The first lens 3350 may include an incident surface 3351 through which light is incident, an exit surface 3352 through which light is emitted, and a plurality of connection surfaces 3353 and 3355. The plurality of connection surfaces 3353 and 3355 may connect the incident surface 3351 to the exit surface 3352, and may include a first connection surface 3353 and a second connection surface 3355. The first connection surface 3353 may form a side surface of the first lens 3350. The second connection surface 3355 may form a lower surface of the first lens 3350. The second connection surface 3355 may include a protruding area 3356 protruding downward. The protruding area 3356 may be connected to the exit surface 3352.

[0145] When the first lens 3350 is viewed from below, the second connection surface 3355 may have a groove shape except for the protruding region 3356. Therefore, relative to the lower surface of the first lens 3350, the lower surface of the protruding region 3356 may be referred to as a second connection surface, and the second connection surface 3355 may be referred to as a groove.

[0146] With respect to the direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, a length A of the second connection surface 3355 excluding the protruding region 3356 may be less than 2 / 3 of a length B of the protruding region 3356 .

[0147] A length C of the first connection surface 3353 may be greater than or equal to 0.5 mm with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0148] The holder 3320 may be disposed on the lens barrel 3310 and may support the first lens 3350. The holder 3320 may be disposed to surround the outer surface of the lens barrel 3310. A hole for exposing the first lens 3350 may be formed at the center of the holder 3320.

[0149] The heating member 3700 may have one end disposed on the lower surface of the first lens 3350 and the other end connected to the printed circuit board. The heating member 3700 may include a heating portion, and the heating portion may contact the second connection surface 3355 except the protruding area 3356. The heating member may have a lower surface supported by the first surface 3314 of the lens barrel 3310.

[0150] At least a portion of the connection portion of the heating member 3700 may be disposed in the avoidance portion 3316 .

[0151] The camera module includes a sealing member 3600, and the sealing member 3600 may be disposed between a lower surface of the protruding region 3356 and the second surface 3313. The sealing member 3600 may be supported by a side surface of the second lens 3360.

[0152] In the above description, it is described that all the components constituting the embodiments of the present invention are combined or operated into one component, but the present invention is not necessarily limited to these embodiments. In other words, within the scope of the present invention, all components in each component can be selectively operated in combination with one or more components. In addition, unless otherwise explicitly stated, the above-mentioned terms "comprising", "including" or "having" refer to that the corresponding components may be inherent, and therefore should be understood as not excluding other components, but also including other components. Unless otherwise defined, all terms including technical terms and scientific terms have the same meaning as those of ordinary skill in the art are generally understood. Commonly used terms, such as terms defined in dictionaries, should be interpreted as being consistent with the contextual meaning of the relevant technology, and unless the present invention is clearly defined, should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formalized sense.

[0153] The above description is only an illustration of the technical concept of the present invention, and a person skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs will be able to make various modifications and variations without departing from the basic features of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present invention, but are intended to describe the present invention, and the scope of the technical concept of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention should be interpreted by the attached claims, and all technical concepts within the equivalent range should be interpreted as included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A camera module, comprising: Lens barrel; A lens, wherein the lens is arranged inside the lens barrel; a heating member, the heating member comprising a heating unit disposed on a surface of the lens; as well as a sensor member including a sensor unit disposed on a lower surface of the heating unit, Wherein, the lens includes a groove, and the heating unit and the sensor unit are coupled to the groove.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, in, The heating unit is a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) ink applied to the surface of the lens.

3. The camera module according to claim 1, in, The heating unit has a black color.

4. The camera module according to claim 1, in, Each of the heating unit and the sensor unit has a ring-shaped cross section.

5. The camera module according to claim 4, in, A temperature sensor is provided on a lower surface of the sensor unit.

6. The camera module according to claim 1, in, The heating unit and the sensor unit are interposed between an upper surface of the lens barrel and a lower surface of the lens.

7. The camera module according to claim 1, in, A rib protruding downward is provided on a lower surface of the sensor unit.

8. The camera module according to claim 1, in, The heating member includes a first connection portion having one end connected to the heating unit and the other end connected to the printed circuit board, wherein the sensor member includes a second connection portion having one end connected to the sensor unit and another end connected to the printed circuit board, and Wherein, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are arranged to overlap at least a portion thereof.

9. The camera module according to claim 8, in, The first connection portion and the second connection portion are flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs).

10. A camera module, comprising: first ontology; A lens module, wherein the lens module is disposed inside the first body, and the lens module comprises a lens barrel and a lens disposed inside the lens barrel; A printed circuit board, wherein the printed circuit board is arranged inside the first body; as well as a heating member that provides heat to the lens, The heating component includes a heating unit and a substrate, the heating unit is arranged on the surface of the lens, and the substrate electrically connects the heating unit and the printed circuit board.

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