Camera actuator and camera module including the same

Abstract

Disclosed is a camera actuator, the camera actuator comprising: a housing; a bobbin moving in an optical axis direction inside the housing and including a receiving hole and first and second side surfaces disposed on opposite sides of the receiving hole in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction; a driving unit that moves the bobbin and includes a magnet disposed on a first side surface of the bobbin and a coil facing the magnet; a magnetic body disposed in the housing and positioned at a position corresponding to the magnet; and a ball disposed on the second side surface of the bobbin. The ball is pressed between the second side surface of the bobbin and the housing due to a repulsive force generated by the magnetic body and the magnet.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a camera actuator and a camera module including the camera actuator. Background Art

[0002] A camera is a device for taking pictures or videos by capturing images of an object, and is mounted on mobile devices, drones, vehicles, etc. To improve image quality, a camera module may have an image stabilizer (IS) function for correcting or preventing image shaking caused by the user's movements; an autofocus (AF) function for aligning the focus of the lens by automatically adjusting the distance between the image sensor and the lens; and a zoom function for capturing images of distant objects by increasing or decreasing the magnification of the image of the distant object using a zoom lens.

[0003] However, since the position of the lens assembly is maintained by the force of the magnetic yoke in the camera module, it is difficult to reduce the weight. In addition, there is a continuous demand for miniaturization by reducing the height. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a camera actuator and a camera module that provide a holding force by generating a repulsive force through a magnet and a magnetic body without a separate magnet or yoke.

[0006] In addition, embodiments of the present invention are directed to providing a camera actuator and a camera module, which can be miniaturized by providing a spherical member on a side surface.

[0007] In addition, various embodiments of the present invention are directed to providing a camera actuator and a camera module whose driving efficiency is improved by the positions or shapes of a magnetic body, a magnet, and a coil that generate a repulsive force.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention are also directed to providing a camera actuator suitable for an ultra-thin, ultra-small, and high-resolution camera.

[0009] The purpose of each embodiment is not limited thereto, and may also include purposes or effects that can be determined according to configurations or embodiments to be described below.

[0010] Technical Solution

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a camera actuator includes: a housing; a coil frame that moves in the housing along the optical axis and includes a receiving hole and a first side surface and a second side surface, the first side surface and the second side surface being arranged opposite to each other relative to the receiving hole in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis; a driving unit that includes a magnet arranged on the first side surface of the coil frame and a coil facing the magnet and moves the coil frame; a magnetic body that is arranged in the housing and at a position corresponding to the magnet; and a spherical member that is arranged on the second side surface of the coil frame, wherein the spherical member is pressed between the second side surface of the coil frame and the housing by a repulsive force generated by the magnetic body and the magnet.

[0012] The magnet may be accommodated in a first groove of the first side surface, the spherical member may be accommodated in a second groove of the second side surface, and the first groove may overlap with the second groove in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0013] The case may include a first case side portion and a second case side portion facing the first case side portion, an inner surface of the first case side portion may face the second side surface, and an inner surface of the second case side portion may face the first side surface.

[0014] The housing may include a guide groove provided on an inner surface of the first housing side portion, and the ball may be provided in the guide groove.

[0015] The second housing side portion may include a coil accommodating hole and a magnetic body groove disposed to be spaced apart from the coil accommodating hole in the optical axis direction, and the magnetic body may be disposed in the magnetic body groove.

[0016] The magnetic body groove may be provided in an outer surface of the second housing side portion.

[0017] The magnet may include a first region, a neutral region, and a second region that are sequentially disposed in the optical axis direction.

[0018] The magnetic body may include a first magnetic body adjacent to the first region and a second magnetic body adjacent to the second region.

[0019] In the first region, the magnetic poles of the outer surface of the first magnetic body and the magnetic poles of the inner surface of the first magnetic body can be the same, and in the second region, the magnetic poles of the outer surface of the second magnetic body and the magnetic poles of the inner surface of the second magnetic body can be the same.

[0020] The coil may be disposed between the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body.

[0021] The coil may include a coil hole, and a length of the coil hole may be greater than a length of the neutral region.

[0022] The length of the first region or the second region may be smaller than the length of the coil.

[0023] The neutral region may overlap with one of the magnetic bodies in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0024] When the magnet is moved to one side as much as possible, the first magnetic body may not overlap with the second region in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0025] When the magnet is moved to the other side as far as possible, the second magnetic body may not overlap with the first region in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0026] The magnetic body may be spaced apart from the coil in the optical axis direction, and the magnetic body may overlap with the coil in the optical axis direction.

[0027] The bobbin may be pressed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction from the first side surface toward the second side surface by a repulsive force generated by the magnetic body and the magnet.

[0028] A camera actuator according to an embodiment includes: a housing; a coil frame, which is arranged in the housing and includes a first side surface and a second side surface arranged opposite to each other; a driving unit, which includes a coil and a magnet facing each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction and causes the coil frame to move along the optical axis direction; a magnetic body, which is arranged in the housing and overlaps with at least one area of the magnet in one direction; and a spherical member, which is arranged between the housing and the first side surface of the coil frame, wherein the magnet is arranged on the second side surface of the coil frame, and the spherical member is arranged to overlap with the magnet in one direction.

[0029] One surface of the at least one region of the magnet and one surface of the magnetic body may face each other and have the same magnetic pole.

[0030] A camera actuator according to an embodiment includes: a housing; a coil frame, which is arranged in the housing; a driving unit, which includes a coil and a magnet and moves the coil frame along the optical axis; a spherical member, which is arranged between the housing and the coil frame; and a first magnetic body and a second magnetic body, which are arranged in the housing, generate a repulsive force with the magnet, and are spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction, wherein the magnet is arranged on one surface of the coil frame, the coil, the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body are arranged on a side portion of the housing facing a side surface, and at least a portion of the coil is arranged between the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body.

[0031] Beneficial effects

[0032] According to embodiments of the present invention, a camera actuator and a camera module that provide a holding force by generating a repulsive force through a magnet and a magnetic body without a separate magnet or yoke can be implemented.

[0033] In addition, according to the embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to implement a camera actuator and a camera module that can be miniaturized by the spherical member provided on the side surface.

[0034] In addition, according to the embodiments of the present invention, a camera actuator and a camera module whose driving efficiency is improved by the positions or shapes of a magnetic body, a magnet, and a coil that generate a repulsive force may be realized.

[0035] According to the embodiments of the present invention, a camera actuator suitable for an ultra-thin, ultra-small, and high-resolution camera can be provided.

[0036] Various beneficial advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to the above contents and will be more easily understood during the course of describing the specific embodiments of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0038] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0039] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 View of line AA' in.

[0040] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0041] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0042] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a housing of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0043] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a lens assembly in a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0044] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a driving unit, a substrate, and a magnetic body in a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0045] Figure 9 It is along Figure 4 View of line DD' in.

[0046] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 Stereoscopic image.

[0047] Figure 11 is a view of a lens assembly disposed at a specific position in a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 12 is a view of a lens assembly disposed at another specific position in a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0049] Figure 13 is a diagram of a lens assembly disposed in a second camera actuator in a first state, according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 14 is a diagram of a lens assembly disposed in a second camera actuator in a second state, according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating a circuit board according to an embodiment.

[0052] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0053] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Since the present invention can have various changes and various embodiments, each specific embodiment is illustrated and described in the drawings. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not intended to be limited to each specific embodiment, and the present invention should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents and substitutes included in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0055] Terms including ordinal numbers such as second or first can be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component. For example, without departing from the scope of the invention, the second component can be referred to as the first component, and similarly, the first component can also be referred to as the second component. The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related listed items or any one of multiple related listed items.

[0056] When a first component is described as being “connected” or “coupled” to a second component, it should be understood that the first component may be directly connected or coupled to the second component, or a third component may be present between the first and second components. On the other hand, when a component is described as being “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another component, it should be understood that there is no further component between the component and the other component.

[0057] The terms used in this application are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular includes the plural. In this application, it should be understood that the terms "including" and "having" are intended to specify that the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this specification are present, but do not exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. For example, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this application.

[0059] Hereinafter, various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals regardless of the reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0060] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 View of line AA' in.

[0061] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment may include a cover member CV, a first camera actuator 1100, a second camera actuator 1200, and a circuit board 1300. Here, the first camera actuator 1100 may be used interchangeably with the "first actuator", and the second actuator 1200 may be used interchangeably with the "second actuator".

[0062] The cover CV may cover the first camera actuator 1100 and the second camera actuator 1200. A coupling force between the first camera actuator 1100 and the second camera actuator 1200 may be increased by the cover CV.

[0063] In addition, the cover CV may be made of a material that blocks electromagnetic waves. Therefore, the first camera actuator 1100 and the second camera actuator 1200 in the cover CV may be easily protected.

[0064] In addition, the first camera actuator 1100 may be an optical image stabilizer (OIS) actuator. For example, the first camera actuator 1100 may move an optical member in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis (an axis of incident light).

[0065] The first camera actuator 1100 may include a fixed focal length lens provided in a predetermined lens barrel (not shown). The fixed focal length lens may be referred to as a "single focal length lens" or a "single lens."

[0066] The first camera actuator 1100 can change the optical path. In an embodiment, the first camera actuator 1100 can vertically change the optical path by an internal optical component (e.g., a prism or a mirror). For example, the optical component can change the light from a first direction (X-axis direction) to a third direction (Z-axis direction). Alternatively, the optical component can change the light from a first axis to a second axis. With this configuration, even when the thickness of the mobile terminal is reduced, a lens with a focal length greater than the thickness of the mobile terminal is provided in the mobile terminal by a change in the optical path, so that magnification and autofocus (AF), zoom, and OIS functions can be performed.

[0067] However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the first camera actuator 1100 may change the optical path vertically or a plurality of times at a predetermined angle.

[0068] The second camera actuator 1200 may be disposed behind the first camera actuator 1100. The second camera actuator 1200 may be coupled to the first camera actuator 1100. In addition, the mutual coupling may be performed through various methods.

[0069] In addition, the second camera actuator 1200 may be a zoom actuator or an AF actuator. For example, the second camera actuator 1200 may support one or more lenses and perform an AF function or a zoom function by moving the lenses according to a predetermined control signal of the control unit.

[0070] In addition, the lens or lenses may be independently or individually movable along the optical axis.

[0071] The circuit board 1300 may be provided behind the second camera actuator 1200. The circuit board 1300 may be electrically connected to the second camera actuator 1200 and the first camera actuator 1100. In addition, the circuit board 1300 may be provided as a plurality of circuit boards 1300.

[0072] The camera module according to the embodiment may be formed of one camera module or a plurality of camera modules. For example, the plurality of camera modules may include a first camera module and a second camera module.

[0073] In addition, the first camera module may include one actuator or a plurality of actuators. For example, the first camera module may include a first camera actuator 1100 and a second camera actuator 1200.

[0074] In addition, the second camera module may include an actuator (not shown) that is disposed in a predetermined housing (not shown) and that can drive the lens portion. The actuator may be a voice coil motor, a microactuator, a silicon actuator, etc. and may be applied in various ways such as an electrostatic method, a thermal method, a bimorph method, and an electrostatic force method, but is not limited thereto. In addition, in this specification, the camera actuator may be referred to as an "actuator" or the like. In addition, a camera module formed by a plurality of camera modules may be installed in various electronic devices such as mobile terminals. In addition, the actuator may be a device for moving or tilting a lens or an optical component. However, the actuator will be described below as including a lens or an optical component. In addition, the actuator may be referred to as a "lens conveying device," a "lens moving device," an "optical component conveying device," an "optical component moving device," or the like.

[0075] Reference Figure 3 , a camera module according to an embodiment may include a first camera actuator 1100 for performing an OIS function and a second camera actuator 1200 for performing a zoom function and an AF function.

[0076] Light can enter the camera module or the first camera actuator through an open area located on the upper surface of the first camera actuator 1100. That is, light can mainly enter the first camera actuator 1100 in a vertical direction (e.g., based on the X-axis direction of the incident light), and the optical path can be changed along the optical axis direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) by the optical component. In addition, light can pass through the second camera actuator 1200 and can be incident on the image sensor IS (path) located at one end of the second camera actuator 1200 (PATH). In this specification, the Z-axis direction or the third direction will be described below as the optical axis direction. In addition, the first direction and the X-axis direction will be described as the vertical direction. In addition, the second direction and the Y-axis direction will be described as the horizontal direction.

[0077] In this specification, the lower surface refers to a side in the first direction. In addition, the first direction is the X-axis direction in the drawings and can be used interchangeably with the second axis direction. The second direction is the Y-axis direction in the drawings and can be used interchangeably with the first axis direction. The second direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction. In addition, the third direction is the Z-axis direction in the drawings and can be used interchangeably with the third axis direction. In addition, the third direction is a direction perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction. Here, the third direction (Z-axis direction) corresponds to the optical axis direction, and the first direction (X-axis direction) and the second direction (Y-axis direction) are directions perpendicular to the optical axis. In addition, hereinafter, in the description of the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator, the optical axis direction is the third direction (Z-axis direction), and the following description will be given based on the above description.

[0078] In addition, in this specification, "inside" may be a direction from the cover CV to the first camera actuator, and "outside" may be a direction opposite to "inside." That is, the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator may be located inside the cover CV, and the cover CV may be located outside the first camera actuator or the second camera actuator.

[0079] Furthermore, with this configuration, the camera module according to embodiments can address spatial limitations on the first and second camera actuators by varying the optical path. That is, the camera module according to embodiments can extend the optical path in response to the change in the optical path while minimizing the thickness of the camera module. Furthermore, it should be understood that the second camera actuator can provide a wide range of magnifications by controlling the focal point within the extended optical path.

[0080] In addition, the camera module according to the embodiment may implement OIS by controlling an optical path through the first camera actuator, thereby minimizing the occurrence of decentering or tilting phenomena and providing the best optical characteristics.

[0081] In addition, the second camera actuator 1200 may include an optical system and a lens driving unit. For example, at least one of a first lens assembly, a second lens assembly, and a third lens assembly may be provided in the second camera actuator 1200.

[0082] In addition, the second camera actuator 1200 may include a coil and a magnet, and perform a high magnification zoom function and an AF function.

[0083] For example, while the first and second lens assemblies can be movable lenses that move through coils, magnets, and guide pins, and the third lens assembly can be a fixed lens, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. For example, the third lens assembly can function as a focuser, using which light forms an image at a specific location, and the first lens assembly can function as a converter, reshaping the image formed by the third lens assembly, acting as a focuser, at another location. Furthermore, because the distance to the object or image distance varies significantly, the first lens assembly can experience significant variations in magnification, and the first lens assembly, acting as a converter, can play a significant role in varying the focal length or magnification of the optical system. Furthermore, the image point formed by the first lens assembly, acting as a converter, can vary slightly depending on its position. Therefore, the second lens assembly can function as a positional compensator for the image formed by the converter. For example, the second lens assembly can use the image point formed by the first lens assembly, acting as a converter, to perform a compensator function, accurately forming an image at the actual location on the image sensor. For example, the first and second lens assemblies can be driven by electromagnetic forces generated by the interaction between the coil and the magnet. The above description can be applied to the lens assembly to be described below. In addition, the first to third lens assemblies can move along the optical axis, that is, along the third direction. In addition, the first to third lens assemblies can move along the third direction independently or in relation to each other. In the present invention, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly can move along the optical axis. In addition, the third lens assembly can be located in front of the first lens assembly or behind the second lens assembly. In addition, the third lens assembly may not move along the optical axis. In other words, the third lens assembly can be a fixed component. In addition, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly can be movable components.

[0084] Furthermore, when an OIS actuator and an AF actuator / zoom actuator are provided according to an embodiment of the present invention, magnetic field interference with the AF magnet / zoom magnet can be prevented when the OIS is driven. Since the first drive magnet of the first camera actuator 1100 is provided separately from the second camera actuator 1200, magnetic field interference between the first camera actuator 1100 and the second camera actuator 1200 can be prevented. In this specification, OIS may be used interchangeably with terms such as hand shake correction, optical image stabilization, optical image correction, and shake correction.

[0085] In particular, the optical member RM in the first camera actuator 1100 can be tilted along the X-axis or the Y-axis. Therefore, the optical path can be easily changed according to the X-axis tilt or the Y-axis tilt.

[0086] The optical member RM may be seated on a holder of the first camera actuator or the like. In an embodiment, the optical member RM may be formed of a mirror or a prism. Hereinafter, the optical member 1132 is illustrated as a prism, but the optical member RM may be formed of a plurality of lenses as in the above-described embodiment. Alternatively, the optical member RM may be formed of a plurality of lenses and a prism or a mirror. In addition, the optical member RM may include a reflector disposed therein, however, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto.

[0087] The optical member RM in the first camera actuator 1100 may be tilted along the X-axis or the Y-axis by driving of the VCM, etc. That is, OIS may be implemented by tilting or rotating the optical member RM in the Y-axis direction or the X-axis direction.

[0088] The first camera actuator 110 may reflect light incident in the first direction (X-axis direction) in a third direction (Z-axis direction) perpendicular to the first direction using the optical member RM. In addition, the second camera actuator to be described below may receive the reflected light.

[0089] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 6 is a perspective view of a housing of a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 7 is a perspective view of a lens assembly in a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, and Figure 8 is a perspective view of a driving unit, a substrate, and a magnetic body in a second camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0090] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to an embodiment, the second camera actuator 1200 (or camera device, zoom lens conveying device, zoom lens moving device, or lens conveying device) may include a shield cover 1210, a lens assembly 1220, a housing 1230, a magnetic body 1240, a driving unit 1250, a base portion 1260, a substrate 1270, and a spherical member B. Furthermore, the second camera actuator 1200 may further include an elastic portion (not shown) and a coupling member (not shown). The elastic portion may provide shock absorption between lenses or provide shock absorption or stoppering of the lens assembly. The coupling member may contact specific components to couple the various components.

[0091] In addition, as will be described below, the lens assembly 1220 may include a lens group having at least one lens. The lens assembly 1220 may be referred to as a lens holder, a coil frame, a lens receiving member, a lens conveying member, etc. The lens assembly 1220 (lens group) can move along the optical axis. In this case, the second camera actuator may include a moving part that moves along the optical axis like the lens group, and a fixed part that is relatively fixed and does not move in the optical axis direction, unlike the moving part. In this embodiment, the moving part may include a lens assembly and a magnet. In addition, the fixed part may include a housing, a substrate, a coil, and a Hall sensor. In addition, a driving magnet may be provided on one of the moving part and the fixed part, and a driving coil may be provided on the other. The movement distance of the lens assembly to be described below corresponding to this description may correspond to the movement distance of the moving part.

[0092] The shield cover 1210 may be located at an area (eg, outermost edge) of the second camera actuator 1200. In addition, the shield cover 1210 may be positioned to surround various components (the lens assembly 1220, the housing 1230, the magnetic body 1240, the driving unit 1250, the base portion 1260, and the substrate 1270).

[0093] The shield cover 1210 may block or reduce electromagnetic waves generated from the outside, thereby reducing the occurrence of malfunction of the driving unit 1250.

[0094] The lens assembly 1220 can move along the optical axis. The lens assembly 1220 can be located at the shield 1210 and the housing 1230. A zoom or AF function can be performed by moving the lens assembly 1220. For example, a zoom function can be performed by moving the lens assembly 1220. The lens assembly 1220 may include at least one moving group. The lens assembly 1220 can be moved along a third direction or the optical axis by a force (e.g., an electromagnetic force) generated by the driving unit 1250.

[0095] The housing 1230 may surround the lens assembly 1220. The housing 1230 may be located between the lens assembly 1220 and the shield cover 1210. For example, the length of the housing 1230 in the optical axis direction may be greater than the length in the horizontal direction. In addition, the width of the housing 1230 in the second direction (Y-axis direction) may be greater than the height in the first direction (X-axis direction). Thus, the second camera actuator and the camera module can be made compact.

[0096] The housing 1230 may be referred to as a "main barrel," "lens barrel," "barrel," or the like.

[0097] Refer again Figure 6The housing 1230 may include a housing hole 1230h. Light provided from the first camera actuator through the housing hole 1230h may be provided to the image sensor after passing through the lens group of the lens assembly 1220.

[0098] In addition, the housing 1230 may include a first housing side portion 1231 and a second housing side portion 1232. The first housing side portion 1231 and the second housing side portion 1232 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction. In addition, the first housing side portion 1231 and the second housing side portion 1232 may be arranged to face each other. For example, the first housing side portion 1231 and the second housing side portion 1232 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the optical axis.

[0099] In addition, the housing 1230 may include a guide groove G in the inner side portion of the housing. In addition, the housing side portion of the housing 1230 may include a coil receiving hole 1232h and magnetic body grooves 1232g1 and 1232g2.

[0100] For example, the first housing side portion 1231 may include a guide groove G. The ball B may be seated in the guide groove G. Thus, the ball B may roll or slide along the guide groove G, allowing the lens assembly 1220 to move along the optical axis. For example, the guide groove G may be a track. Alternatively, the guide groove G may be located on the inner side portion 1231IS of the first housing side portion 1231.

[0101] In addition, the spherical member B can be located on a side portion of the housing rather than on the upper or lower surface of the housing. Furthermore, the spherical member B can be disposed between the lens assembly 1220 and the housing 1230. Furthermore, the spherical member B can be disposed between the second side surface 1222 of the lens assembly 1220 and the first side portion of the housing 1230. Thus, the second camera actuator can have a minimized length in the first or vertical direction. Consequently, the camera actuator can be miniaturized.

[0102] In addition, the inner side surface 1231IS of the first housing side portion 1231 can face the second side surface of the lens assembly 1220, which will be described below. In addition, the guide groove G can face the second side surface of the lens assembly 1220. In particular, the guide groove G can face the recessed portion 1222h of the lens assembly 1220. For example, the guide groove G can overlap with the recessed portion 1222h in the optical axis direction.

[0103] In addition, at least a portion of the guide groove G can overlap with the magnet 1252 located at the first side surface 1221 in the horizontal direction. At least a portion of the spherical member B can also overlap with the magnet 1252 located at the first side surface 1221 in the horizontal direction. With this configuration, in order to provide a pressing force to the spherical member B accommodated in the second side surface located on the side opposite to the first side surface, a repulsive force between the magnet and the magnetic body may be required. That is, for the pressing force on the spherical member, it can be effective to generate a repulsive force between the coil frame (or lens assembly) and the housing on the first side surface. The repulsive force to be described below can effectively press the lens assembly 12220 toward the spherical member B.

[0104] The second housing side portion 1232 may include a coil receiving hole 1232h and magnetic body grooves 1232g1 and 1232g2. The coil receiving hole 1232h and the magnetic body grooves 1232g1 and 1232g2 may be positioned to face the guide groove G in the housing 1230.

[0105] The coil 1251 may be located at the coil receiving hole 1232h. Furthermore, the magnetic body grooves 1232g1 and 1232g2 may be configured as one or more magnetic body grooves. For example, the magnetic body grooves 1232g1 and 1232g2 may include a first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and a second magnetic body groove 1232g2.

[0106] The first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction. In addition, the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 can overlap each other in the optical axis direction. With this configuration, when the repulsive force generated between the magnetic body 1240 and the magnet 1252 is applied to the lens assembly 1220, changes in the tilt or eccentricity of the lens assembly 1220 can be suppressed. In other words, the driving accuracy can be improved. In addition, the repulsive force can be generated by the magnet and the magnetic body as a retaining force for driving without a separate magnet or yoke. With this configuration, the lightweight second camera actuator can be achieved.

[0107] In addition, the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 can be located at the outer surface 1232OS of the second shell side portion 1232. Therefore, the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 can be arranged to be spaced apart from the magnetic body 1240 in the horizontal direction. In addition, the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 can overlap with the coil accommodating hole 1232h in the optical axis direction or the third direction. With this configuration, the magnetic body 1240 can be spaced apart from the coil 1251 in the optical axis direction, and can coincide (or overlap) with the coil 1251 in the optical axis direction. The first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 can coincide (or overlap) with the coil 1251 in the optical axis direction. In addition, the first magnetic body 1241, the second magnetic body 1242 and the coil 1251 can be arranged on the substrate 1270. In addition, the first magnetic body 1241, the second magnetic body 1242, and the coil 1251 can be located on the inner surface of the substrate 1270 or on the same surface as the substrate 1270. In addition, at least a portion of the second housing side portion 1232 can be located between the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 (or the second magnetic body groove 1232g2) and the magnet 1252. Therefore, the magnitude of the repulsive force applied to the lens assembly 1220 can be adjusted. In other words, by applying an appropriate repulsive force to the lens assembly 1220, the consumption of the current required to drive the lens assembly can be effectively controlled.

[0108] As another example, the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 may be located on the inner surface of the second housing side portion 1232. For example, the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 may be located on the inner surface of the outer surface 1232OS of the second housing side portion 1232. Thus, the size of the magnetic body 1240 can be reduced while maintaining the repulsive force, thereby achieving lightweighting of the second camera actuator.

[0109] For example, the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 can be formed as grooves or recesses. Therefore, the first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 can be located at the outer surface 1232OS or the inner surface of the second housing side portion 1232 according to the assembly direction.

[0110] As another example, the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 may include holes. Thus, the magnetic body 1240 can be freely arranged within the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2. This facilitates assembly between components in the second camera actuator (increases in the assembly direction). Furthermore, the horizontal spacing distance between the magnetic body 1240 and the magnet 1252 can be easily adjusted.

[0111] In addition, the coil accommodating hole 1232h can be located between the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2. The coil accommodating hole 1232h can overlap with the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 in the optical axis direction. The coil 1251 can be located at the coil accommodating hole 1232h. In addition, the coil 1251 can be coupled to a substrate 1270 disposed outside the housing 1230. The coil 1251 can be electrically connected to the substrate 1270.

[0112] Coil receiving hole 1232h can overlap with first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and second magnetic body groove 1232g2 in the optical axis direction. Therefore, a repulsive force close to the driving force can be generated. Therefore, tilting of lens assembly 1220 can be suppressed, thereby improving driving accuracy and generating a balanced retention force for lens assembly 1220.

[0113] In addition, the outer surface of the housing 1230 can be disposed on or in contact with the substrate. For example, the outer surface 1232OS of the second housing side portion 1232 can be located at the substrate 170. Alternatively, the outer surface 1232OS of the second housing side portion 1232 can be in contact with the substrate 170.

[0114] Refer again Figure 7 , lens assembly 1220 may be located at housing 1230 and move along the optical axis. Second camera actuator 1200 may be an actuator that performs a fixed zoom or a continuous zoom function. For example, the second camera actuator may be an actuator that performs a fixed zoom. The following description will be given based on the above description.

[0115] Additionally, lens assembly 1220 may include a receiving hole 1220h for receiving a lens group. At least one lens may be disposed in receiving hole 1220h. Furthermore, receiving hole 1220h may be located in the path of light whose path has been altered or reflected by the first camera actuator. For example, receiving hole 1220h or the lens group may overlap with the aforementioned optical components in the optical axis direction or in the third direction (Z-axis direction).

[0116] The lens assembly 1220 may include a first side surface 1221 and a second side surface 1222. The first side surface 1221 and the second side surface 1222 may face each other in the lens assembly 1220. The first side surface 1221 and the second side surface 1222 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the second direction. In addition, the first side surface 1221 and the second side surface 1222 may be symmetrical with respect to the optical axis. In addition, the first side surface 1221 and the second side surface 1222 may be outer surfaces of the lens assembly 1220. The first side surface 1221 and the second side surface 1222 may overlap with each other in the horizontal direction. The first side surface 1221 and the second side surface 1222 may be positioned relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction (e.g., horizontal direction) relative to the receiving hole 1220h. For example, the first side surface 1221 and the second side surface 1222 may be positioned to face each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction (e.g., horizontal direction) relative to the receiving hole 1220h.

[0117] The magnets and balls may be disposed on an outer surface of the lens assembly 1220 .

[0118] The magnet may be disposed on one side surface of the lens assembly 1220 or the coil former, and the spherical member may be disposed on the other side surface. For example, the magnet 1252 may be disposed on the first side surface 1221. The spherical member B may be disposed on the second side surface 1222.

[0119] In addition, the second side surface 1222 may face the inner side surface 1231IS of the first case side portion 1231. The first side surface 1221 may face the inner surface of the second case side portion 1232.

[0120] The seating groove 1221h can be located at the first side surface 1221. The seating groove 1221h can be a "magnet groove". Alternatively, the seating groove 1221 can be a "first groove". The magnet 1252 can be disposed in the seating groove 1221h. In addition, the magnet 1252 can be disposed (or accommodated) in the first groove or magnet groove of the first side surface 1221. The seating groove 1221h can face the coil accommodating hole 1232h and the magnetic body grooves 1232g1 and 1232g2. The seating groove 1221h can overlap with the coil accommodating hole 1232h and the magnetic body grooves 1232g1 and 1232g2 in the horizontal direction.

[0121] In addition, a recess 1222h may be provided in the second side surface 1222. The recess 1222h may be provided as a single recess or as a plurality of recesses. The recess 1222h may be positioned to correspond to the guide groove G. The recess 1222h may be positioned to face the guide groove G. In addition, the ball B may be located between the recess 1222h and the guide groove G. The guide groove G may be a "second groove." That is, the recess 1222h may coincide with (or overlap) the guide groove G in the horizontal direction.

[0122] In addition, the lens assembly 1220 can be provided as one or more lens assemblies. In addition, the lens assembly can be moved by 2 mm to 12 mm.

[0123] Refer again Figure 8 , the magnetic body 1240 can be disposed in the housing 1230. The magnetic body 1240 can be disposed in the magnetic body grooves 1232g1 and 1232g2. The magnetic body 1240 can be disposed at a position corresponding to the magnet 1252. For example, the magnetic body 1240 can be positioned to correspond to the path along which the magnet 1252 moves in the optical axis direction. The magnetic body 1240 may include a first magnetic body 1241 and a second magnetic body 1242 that are spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction. The first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 can be disposed sequentially in the optical axis direction.

[0124] The first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 may be located at the first magnetic body groove 1232g1 and the second magnetic body groove 1232g2 , respectively.

[0125] The coil 1251 may be located between the first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 .

[0126] The first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 may be disposed a predetermined distance apart from the coil 1251. In addition, the first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 may be located on both sides of the coil 1251 parallel to a movement path of the lens assembly.

[0127] Therefore, when the lens assembly 1220 moves along the optical axis direction through the coil 1251 and the magnet 1252, the lens assembly 1220 can be pressed by the repulsive force of the magnetic body 1240 and the magnet 1252. More specifically, the coil frame or the lens assembly 1220 can be pressed by the repulsive force of the magnetic body 1240 and the magnet 1252 in the direction from the first side surface to the second side surface perpendicular to the optical axis direction. The repulsive force can correspond to a retaining force. That is, the movement of the lens assembly 1220 can be maintained at a position corresponding to a predetermined height without tilting toward one side within the housing 1230. That is, the first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 can generate a repulsive force with the magnet 1252, so that even when the lens assembly moves, the posture of the lens assembly can be maintained to prevent the lens assembly from tilting to one side or deviating from the movement path.

[0128] The driving unit 1250 may include a coil 1251, a magnet 1252, and a position sensor 1253. The coil 1251 and the magnet 1252 generate electromagnetic force to move the lens assembly 1220.

[0129] The magnet 1252 can be disposed in the seating recess 1221h of the lens assembly 1220. In addition, the coil 1251 can be positioned to face the magnet 1252. Therefore, the above-mentioned electromagnetic force can be generated by the current flowing in the coil 1251. Even when the lens assembly 1220 moves, an area of the magnet 1252 can coincide with (or overlap) the coil 1251 in the horizontal direction. In other words, the coil 1251 can coincide with or overlap the magnetic body 1240 in the horizontal direction. Therefore, the driving efficiency can be improved.

[0130] Furthermore, even when the lens assembly 1220 moves, at least one region of the magnet 1252 can overlap horizontally with the magnetic body 1240. Therefore, even when the lens assembly 1220 moves, the repulsive force can press the lens assembly 1220 toward the spherical member B, thereby generating a driving and retaining force. That is, the spherical member B between the second side surface 1222 of the lens assembly 1220 and the housing 1230 can be pressed by the repulsive force of the magnetic body 1240 and the magnet 1252. Furthermore, the coil 1251 can be disposed on the substrate 1270 and electrically connected to the substrate 1270. Furthermore, the first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 can be disposed so as to be spaced apart from each other in the optical axis direction relative to the coil 1251. For example, at least a portion of the coil 1251 can be disposed between the first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242. The first magnetic body 1241 and the second magnetic body 1242 can be positioned adjacent to the substrate 1270.

[0131] In addition, the position sensor 1253 can be provided as one or more position sensors. The position sensor 1253 can include a Hall sensor. The position sensor 1253 can be located within the coil 1251. In addition, the position sensor 1253 can be provided on the substrate 1270 and electrically connected to the substrate 1270.

[0132] Since the magnet 1252 is provided on the lens assembly 1220, the magnet 1252 may be provided to be spaced apart from the coil 1251 in the horizontal direction. In addition, the magnet 1252 may be provided to be spaced apart from the magnetic body 1240 in the horizontal direction.

[0133] In addition, the length of the coil 1251 in the horizontal direction can be greater than the length of the magnetic body in the horizontal direction (second direction Y). Therefore, the horizontal spacing distance between the coil 1251 and the magnet 1252 can be smaller than the horizontal spacing distance between the magnetic body and the magnet 1252. Therefore, the driving force can be increased by increasing the electromagnetic force.

[0134] In addition, in an embodiment, the magnet 1252 may include a first area PA1, a neutral area NA, and a second area PA2 that are sequentially disposed in the optical axis direction.

[0135] The first area PA1 and the second area PA2 may have magnetic poles. The first area PA1 may be positioned adjacent to the first magnetic body 1241. The second area PA2 may be positioned adjacent to the second magnetic body 1242. The repulsive force may be generated by the first area PA1 and the first magnetic body 1241 of the magnet 1252. Additionally, the repulsive force may be generated by the second area PA2 and the second magnetic body 1242 of the magnet 1252.

[0136] In an embodiment, the coil, the first magnetic body, and the second magnetic body can be arranged on one side portion of the shell. In addition, the spherical member can be arranged on the other side portion. In this case, the one side portion can correspond to the second shell side portion. In addition, the other side portion can correspond to the first shell side portion. In addition, the second shell side portion as a side portion can face one side surface (first side surface) of the above-mentioned coil former.

[0137] Additionally, a spherical member B may be disposed between the housing 1230 and the lens assembly 1220. Specifically, the spherical member B may be disposed in a guide groove G disposed in the inner surface 1231IS of the first housing side portion 1231. Furthermore, the spherical member B may be located in the recess 12222h of the lens assembly. Furthermore, the spherical member B may be disposed on the second side surface of the lens assembly. Thus, the spherical member B may be located between the recess 1222h of the lens assembly and the guide groove G of the housing 1230. The spherical member B may include any of a rolling member, a rolling body, a spherical member, and the like.

[0138] The driving unit 1250 according to an embodiment may be located at one side surface or one side portion of the housing 1230. For example, the driving unit 1250 may be located at the second housing side portion 1232. With this configuration, electrical connection with the substrate can be easily made, and design or testing of electrical control signals can be easily performed.

[0139] Base portion 1260 can be located behind housing 1230. Base portion 1260 can be located between lens assembly 1220 and the image sensor in the circuit board. Components such as optical filters can be secured to base portion 1260. Furthermore, base portion 1260 can be positioned to surround the image sensor. This configuration improves component reliability by keeping foreign matter away from the image sensor. However, the following description will be provided without base portion 1260 in some drawings.

[0140] The substrate 1270 may be located on the outer surface of the housing 1230. The substrate 1270 may be a plate extending along the optical axis. Alternatively, the substrate 1270 may have a curved portion depending on the structure. The substrate 1270 may include a flexible printed circuit board, a flexible-rigid printed circuit board, or a rigid printed circuit board.

[0141] In addition, the substrate 1270 may be coupled to the housing 1230 and electrically connected to the coil 1251 and the position sensor 1253. In addition, a control unit (eg, a driver IC) may be located at the substrate 1270.

[0142] Figure 9 It is along Figure 4 The view of line DD' in Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A stereogram of Figure 11 is a view of a lens assembly disposed at a specific position in a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 12 is a view of a lens assembly provided at another specific position in a second camera actuator according to an embodiment, Figure 13 is a view of a lens assembly disposed in a second camera actuator in a first state according to an embodiment, and Figure 14 is a diagram of a lens assembly disposed in a second camera actuator in a second state, according to an embodiment.

[0143] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 , the magnetic body may include a first magnetic body 1241 adjacent to the first area PA1 and a second magnetic body 1242 adjacent to the second area PA2. Therefore, the first area PA1 and the second area PA2 may be sequentially disposed in the optical axis direction.

[0144] In addition, the magnetic pole of the outer surface of the first magnetic body 1241 located in the first area PA1 and the magnetic pole of the inner surface of the first magnetic body 1241 can be the same. When the magnetic pole of the outer surface located in the first area PA1 is the north pole (or the south pole), the magnetic pole of the inner surface of the first magnetic body 1241 can be the north pole (or the south pole).

[0145] In addition, when the magnetic pole of the outer surface located in the second area PA2 is the N pole (or S pole), the magnetic pole of the inner surface of the second magnetic body 1242 may be the N pole (or S pole).

[0146] The first magnetic body and the second magnetic body can be configured as monopole magnets. In addition, the magnets can be configured as dipole magnets or monopole magnets.

[0147] That is, the magnetic body according to the embodiment can have the same magnetic pole as an area of an adjacent magnet. In addition, even in the movement of the magnet 1252 according to the lens assembly 1220, the magnetic poles of the facing surfaces between the magnetic body and the magnet can be the same. For example, a surface of at least one area of the magnet and a surface of the magnetic body can face each other and have the same magnetic pole. Therefore, the above-mentioned repulsive force can be generated. In an embodiment, a surface (e.g., the outer surface) of the magnet 1252 and a surface (e.g., the inner surface) of the magnetic body adjacent to the outer surface of the magnet can face each other and have the same magnetic pole. For example, the outer surface of the first area PA1 of the magnet 1252 can have the same magnetic pole as the inner surface of the first magnetic body 1241. In addition, the outer surface of the second area PA2 of the magnet 1252 can have the same magnetic pole as the inner surface of the second magnetic body 1242.

[0148] In addition, the magnetic poles of the inner surface of the first magnetic body 1241 may be opposite to the magnetic poles of the outer surface of the second area PA2. In addition, the magnetic poles of the outer surface of the first area PA1 may correspond to (or may be the same as) the magnetic poles of the outer surface of the second area PA2.

[0149] Therefore, when the lens assembly moves in the optical axis direction by the electromagnetic forces F3 and F4, the lens assembly can accurately move along the guide groove without being separated from the guide groove.

[0150] Refer again Figure 11 and Figure 12 , the length L1 of the first area PA1 in the optical axis direction can correspond to (and can be the same as) the length L3 of the second area PA2 in the optical axis direction. The length L1 of the first area PA1 in the optical axis direction or the length L3 of the second area PA2 in the optical axis direction can be greater than the length L2 of the neutral area NA in the optical axis direction. With this configuration, a long stroke can be achieved using the magnet 1252, and the driving force can be increased.

[0151] The length L4 from the first magnetic body 1241 to the outside of the coil 1251 can correspond to the length L6 between the first area PA1 and the neutral area NA in the optical axis direction. The length L4 from the first magnetic body 1241 to the outside of the coil 1251 can correspond to or be less than the length L6 between the first area PA1 and the neutral area NA in the optical axis direction. This configuration can suppress the back electromotive force generated by the coil 1251. In other words, driving efficiency can be improved.

[0152] In addition, a length L4 from the first magnetic body 1241 to the outside of the coil 1251 may correspond to the sum of a gap between the first magnetic body 1241 and the coil 1251 and a length of the coil 1251 .

[0153] The length L7 from the second magnetic body 1242 to the outside of the coil 1251 may correspond to the length L6 of the first area PA1 (or the second area) and the neutral area NA in the direction of the optical axis. The length L7 from the second magnetic body 1242 to the outside of the coil 1251 may be less than or equal to the length L6 of the first area PA1 (or the second area) and the neutral area NA in the direction of the optical axis. With this configuration, the back electromotive force generated by the coil 1251 can be suppressed. That is, the driving efficiency can be improved. In addition, the length L7 from the second magnetic body 1242 to the outside of the coil 1251 may correspond to the sum of the gap between the second magnetic body 1242 and the coil 1251 and the length of the coil 1251.

[0154] In addition, the coil 1251 may include a coil hole located at its center area. The coil hole may be formed by winding the coil. The length L5 of the coil hole may be greater than the length L2 of the neutral area NA. Therefore, the efficiency of generating back electromotive force of the coil and the first and second areas PA1 and PA2 can be improved.

[0155] The length L1 of the first area PA1 or the length L3 of the second area PA2 can be smaller than the length of the coil 1251. Furthermore, the sum of the length L1 (or L3) of the first area PA1 (or second area PA2) and the length L2 of the neutral area NA can be greater than the length of the coil. Therefore, the generation of the aforementioned back electromotive force can be effectively suppressed.

[0156] In addition, in a telephoto or wide angle, the neutral area NA may horizontally coincide with (or overlap) one of the magnetic bodies 1241 and 1242 .

[0157] In the first state or telephoto, the lens assembly 1220 can be moved to one side as far as possible. For example, in the first state or telephoto, the lens assembly 1220 can be closest to the first camera actuator or can be moved in a direction opposite to the optical axis as far as possible.

[0158] In the second state or wide angle, the lens assembly 1220 can be moved as far as possible to the other side. For example, in the second state or telephoto, the lens assembly 1220 can be closest to the image sensor or can be moved as far as possible along the optical axis.

[0159] In the first state (telephoto) or the second state (wide angle), the neutral area NA can coincide with (or overlap) the magnetic bodies 1241 and 1242, thereby suppressing the attractive force generated by the other magnetic bodies as much as possible. In other words, the repulsive forces F1 and F2 can effectively press the lens assembly. In this case, the first repulsive force F1 is the force generated between the second magnetic body 1242 and the magnet (e.g., the second area). The second repulsive force F2 is the force generated between the first magnetic body 1241 and the magnet (e.g., the first area).

[0160] Refer again Figure 13 and Figure 14 In the second camera actuator according to the embodiment, in the first state or telephoto, the first magnetic body 1241 may not coincide with (or overlap) the second area PA2 in the horizontal direction. The first magnetic body 1241 may be disposed so as not to be aligned with the second area PA2. In other words, the first magnetic body 1241 may be disposed so as to be spaced apart from the second area PA2 by a predetermined distance Gap 2 in the optical axis direction.

[0161] In addition, in the second camera actuator according to the embodiment, in the second state or wide-angle state, the second magnetic body 1242 may not coincide with (or overlap) the first area PA1 in the horizontal direction. The second magnetic body 1242 may be arranged to be misaligned with the first area PA1. In other words, the second magnetic body 1242 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first area PA1 by a predetermined distance Gap 1 in the optical axis direction.

[0162] In the first state or the second state, the neutral area NA may horizontally coincide with (or overlap) the coil 1251 and at least one of the magnetic bodies 1241 and 1242. Therefore, the first area PA1 and the second area PA2 may face regions of current flowing in different directions in the coil 1251. Alternatively, one of the first area PA1 and the second area PA2 may face one region of the coil 1251.

[0163] In addition, one of the first and second areas PA1 and PA2 can face one of the magnetic bodies (e.g., the first or second magnetic body). Therefore, even in the maximum motion state, the generation of back electromotive force can be prevented, thereby further improving driving efficiency.

[0164] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating a circuit board according to an embodiment.

[0165] Reference Figure 15 As described above, the circuit board 1300 according to the embodiment may include a first circuit board 1310 and a second circuit board 1320. The first circuit board 1310 may be located below the base and coupled to the base. In addition, the image sensor IS may be provided on the first circuit board 1310. In addition, the first circuit board 1310 and the image sensor 15 may be electrically connected. That is, the base may be located at the rear end portion of the second camera actuator, and the image sensor and the circuit board (first circuit board portion) may be located at the rear end portion of the base. The base may include a filter (e.g., infrared). The circuit board 1300 may include an image sensor and a sensor base.

[0166] In addition, the second circuit board 1320 can be located at the side portion of the base. In particular, the second circuit board 1320 can be located at the first side portion of the base. Therefore, the second circuit board 1320 can be located adjacent to the coil located adjacent to the first side portion, so that electrical connection can be easily made. In addition, the second circuit board 1320 can be located at the second side portion. As described above, the second circuit board 1320 can be provided as a plurality of second circuit boards. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the second circuit board 1320 can be provided on only one side portion of the first side portion and the second side portion.

[0167] In addition, the circuit board 1300 may further include a fixing plate (not shown) located at a side surface of the circuit board. Therefore, even when the circuit board 1300 is formed of a flexible material, the circuit board 1300 may be coupled to the base while maintaining rigidity through the fixing plate.

[0168] The second circuit board 1320 of the circuit board 1300 can be positioned on the side portion of the driving unit 1250. The circuit board 1300 can be electrically connected to the first driving part and the driving part. For example, the electrical connection can be made by surface mounting technology (SMT). However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to this method.

[0169] The circuit board 1300 may include a circuit board having a line pattern that can make electrical connections, such as a rigid printed circuit board (PCB), a flexible PCB, a rigid-flexible PCB, etc. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to these types.

[0170] In addition, the circuit board 1300 can be electrically connected to another camera module in the terminal or a processor of the terminal. Therefore, the above-mentioned camera actuator and the camera module including the camera actuator can send and receive any signal in the terminal.

[0171] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0172] like Figure 16 As illustrated in FIG, the mobile terminal 1500 of the present embodiment may include a camera module 1000, a flash module 1530, and an AF device 1510 provided on a rear surface thereof.

[0173] The camera module 1000 may include an image capturing function and an AF function. For example, the camera module 1000 may include an AF function using an image.

[0174] The camera module 1000 processes image frames of still images or moving images obtained through an image sensor in a capture mode or a video call mode.

[0175] The processed image frames may be displayed on a predetermined display and stored in a memory.A camera (not shown) may also be provided on the front surface of the body of the mobile terminal.

[0176] For example, the camera module 1000 may include a first camera module 1000A and a second camera module 1000B, and the first camera module 1000A may implement an OIS function as well as an AF or zoom function.

[0177] The flash module 1530 may include a light emitting element for emitting light therein. The flash module 1530 may be operated by a camera operation of the mobile terminal or a user's control.

[0178] The AF device 1510 may include one of the packages of a surface light emitting laser element as a light emitting portion.

[0179] The AF device 1510 may include an AF function using laser. The AF device 1510 may be mainly used in a case where the AF function using the image of the camera module 1000 is degraded, for example, at a proximity of 10 m or less or in a dark environment.

[0180] The AF device 1510 may include a light emitting portion having a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) semiconductor device and a light-receiving portion for converting light energy into electrical energy, such as a photodiode.

[0181] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0182] For example, Figure 17 1 is an external view of a vehicle including a vehicle driving assistance device to which the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment is applied.

[0183] Reference Figure 17 The vehicle 700 according to the embodiment may include wheels 13FL and 13FR that are rotated by a power source and a predetermined sensor. Although the sensor may be the camera sensor 2000, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0184] The camera 2000 may be a camera sensor to which the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment is applied. The vehicle 700 according to the embodiment may acquire image information through the camera sensor 2000 for capturing a front image or a surrounding image, use the image information to determine a situation where a lane is not recognized, and generate a virtual lane when the lane is not recognized.

[0185] For example, the camera sensor 2000 may acquire a front image by capturing a front view of the vehicle 700 , and the processor (not shown) may acquire image information by analyzing an object included in the front image.

[0186] For example, when lanes, adjacent vehicles, obstacles to movement, and objects corresponding to indirect road markings, such as a median, a curb, or a tree, are captured in an image captured by the camera sensor 2000, the processor may detect the objects and include the detected objects in the image information. At this time, the processor may further supplement the image information by acquiring distance information to the objects detected by the camera sensor 2000.

[0187] The image information may be information about an object captured in the image.The camera sensor 2000 may include an image sensor and an image processing module.

[0188] The camera sensor 2000 may process a still image or a moving image obtained through an image sensor such as a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) or a charge coupled device (CCD).

[0189] The image processing module may process a static image or a moving image acquired by the image sensor to extract necessary information, and transmit the extracted information to the processor.

[0190] In this case, although the camera sensor 2000 may include a stereo camera for improving the measurement accuracy of the object and further ensuring information such as the distance between the vehicle 700 and the object, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0191] Although the various embodiments have been primarily described above, these embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the present invention, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and applications not illustrated above are possible without departing from the basic characteristics of the various embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the various embodiments may be implemented by modifications thereof. In addition, differences associated with these modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A camera actuator comprising: case; a coil bobbin that moves within the housing along the optical axis and includes a receiving hole and a first side surface and a second side surface, the first side surface and the second side surface being disposed opposite to each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis relative to the receiving hole; a driving unit including a magnet provided on the first side surface of the bobbin and a coil facing the magnet and moving the bobbin; a magnetic body, the magnetic body being disposed in the housing and at a position corresponding to the magnet; as well as a spherical member disposed on the second side surface of the coil former, The spherical member is pressed between the second side surface of the coil bobbin and the housing by a repulsive force generated by the magnetic body and the magnet.

2. The camera actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The magnet is accommodated in a first groove of the first side surface, The ball is received in the second groove of the second side surface, and The first groove and the second groove overlap in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

3. The camera actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The housing comprises a first housing side portion and a second housing side portion opposite to the first housing side portion, The inner surface of the first housing side portion faces the second side surface, and An inner surface of the second housing side portion faces the first side surface.

4. The camera actuator according to claim 3, wherein: The housing includes a guide groove provided in the inner surface of the first housing side portion, and The spherical member is disposed in the guide groove.

5. The camera actuator according to claim 3, wherein: The second housing side portion includes a coil accommodating hole and a magnetic body groove, the magnetic body groove is provided to be spaced apart from the coil accommodating hole in the optical axis direction, and The magnetic body is disposed in the magnetic body groove.

6. The camera actuator according to claim 5, wherein: The magnetic body groove is provided in an outer surface of the second housing side portion.

7. The camera actuator according to claim 1, wherein: The magnet includes a first region, a neutral region, and a second region that are sequentially arranged in the optical axis direction.

8. The camera actuator according to claim 7, wherein: The magnetic body includes a first magnetic body adjacent to the first region and a second magnetic body adjacent to the second region.

9. The camera actuator according to claim 8, wherein: The magnetic poles of the outer surface of the first magnetic body with respect to the first region and the magnetic poles of the inner surface of the first magnetic body are the same, and A magnetic pole of an outer surface of the second magnetic body with respect to the second region is the same as a magnetic pole of an inner surface of the second magnetic body.

10. The camera actuator according to claim 8, wherein: The coil is disposed between the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body.

Images