Auto-focus driving device, camera device, and optical device

Abstract

The embodiment relates to an automatic focusing driving device. The automatic focusing driving device comprises a fixing unit; a movable unit disposed in the fixed unit; a first magnet and a coil for moving the movable unit in an optical axis direction; a ball disposed between the fixed unit and the movable unit; and a second magnet and a yoke having interacting attraction forces, in which the first magnet and the coil overlap in a first direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction, and the ball is disposed between the second magnet and the yoke in the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This embodiment relates to an autofocus driving device, a camera device, and an optical device. Background Art

[0002] A camera device is a device for capturing images or videos of a subject, and is mounted in optical devices such as smartphones, drones, and vehicles.

[0003] The camera device features an autofocus function that automatically adjusts focus based on the distance to the subject. This autofocus function is achieved as the lens moves relative to the image sensor along the optical axis. This movement of the lens can be guided by a drive magnet and a coil. Alternatively, the lens movement can be guided by a ball. In this case, the attractive force between the drive magnet and the yoke can be used to create close contact between the fixed and movable parts of the ball.

[0004] However, when using a drive magnet to bring the ball into contact, the yoke must cover the entire range of motion of the drive magnet. Therefore, there are limitations on increasing the height of the drive magnet. If there are limitations on the height of the drive magnet, this can be problematic because it can be difficult to ensure linearity during operation.

[0005] (Patent Document 1 KR 10-2015-0118005 A) Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical Topics

[0007] The present embodiment is intended to provide an autofocus driving device with minimal constraints on increasing the height of the driving magnet during design.

[0008] The present embodiment aims to provide an autofocus driving device that does not have any constraints on the height of a driving magnet because the driving magnet does not function in ball contact.

[0009] This embodiment aims to provide an autofocus drive device with a minimized height in the optical axis direction.

[0010] This embodiment is directed to providing an autofocus drive device, wherein the drive magnet is designed to have a maximum size in the optical axis direction.

[0011] The present embodiment aims to provide an autofocus driving device having enhanced electromagnetic force between a driving magnet and a coil.

[0012] Technical Solution

[0013] According to the present embodiment, the autofocus drive device includes: a fixed unit; a movable unit arranged in the fixed unit; a first magnet and a coil, the first magnet and the coil being used to move the movable unit in the optical axis direction; a ball, the ball being arranged between the fixed unit and the movable unit; and a second magnet and a yoke, the second magnet and the yoke having an attractive force that interacts with each other, wherein the first magnet and the coil overlap with each other in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and wherein the ball can be arranged between the second magnet and the yoke in the first direction.

[0014] The ball bearing overlaps the second magnet in the first direction, and the ball bearing may overlap the yoke in the first direction.

[0015] At least one of the fixed unit and the movable unit includes a groove in which the ball bearings are arranged, and the groove may be arranged along an optical axis direction.

[0016] The yoke may not overlap with the first magnet in the first direction.

[0017] The second magnet may be spaced apart from the first magnet.

[0018] In the optical axis direction, the length of the second magnet may be longer than the length of the first magnet.

[0019] In a second direction perpendicular to both the optical axis direction and the first direction, the length of the second magnet may be shorter than the length of the first magnet.

[0020] The second magnet may be disposed in the fixed unit, and the yoke may be disposed in the movable unit.

[0021] The first magnet may be disposed in the movable unit, and the coil may be disposed in the fixed unit.

[0022] The autofocus driving device includes a substrate connecting the movable unit and the fixed unit, a first magnet is disposed in the fixed unit, and the coil is disposed in the movable unit and can be electrically connected to the substrate.

[0023] The balls include a first ball and a second ball, and when viewed from above, the first ball is arranged at a first corner area of the movable unit, and when viewed from above, the second ball can be arranged at a second corner area of the movable unit that is diagonal to the first corner area.

[0024] The fixed unit includes a first groove in contact with the first ball and a second groove in contact with the second ball, the movable unit includes a first groove in contact with the first ball and a second groove in contact with the second ball, and the second groove of the fixed unit and the second groove of the movable unit can be formed in different shapes.

[0025] The second magnet includes a first unit magnet and a second unit magnet, the yoke includes a first yoke and a second yoke, the first ball is arranged between the first unit magnet and the first yoke, the second ball is arranged between the second unit magnet and the second yoke, and the first unit magnet can be larger than the second unit magnet.

[0026] The camera device according to the present embodiment may include: a printed circuit board; an image sensor arranged in the printed circuit board; an autofocus driving device arranged in the printed circuit board; and a lens coupled to the autofocus driving device.

[0027] The optical device according to the present embodiment may include: a main body; a camera device disposed in the main body; and a display disposed in the main body and outputting at least one or more of an image and a video captured by the camera device.

[0028] Beneficial effects

[0029] Through the present embodiment, it is possible to minimize the constraints on increasing the height of the driving magnet during design.

[0030] This ensures linearity in the AF drive range.

[0031] Furthermore, the drive magnet may be arranged to have a maximum size within the autofocus drive device.

[0032] Through this, the electromagnetic force between the driving magnet and the coil can be strengthened.

[0033] Furthermore, since the magnet and the magnetic element for close ball contact are not greatly associated with other components, the interior of the autofocus drive device can be designed with a high degree of freedom.

[0034] This allows the height of the autofocus drive device along the optical axis to be minimized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the lens driving device according to this embodiment.

[0036] Figure 2 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA.

[0037] Figure 3 FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0038] Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment, with the cover omitted.

[0039] Figure 5 It is from Figure 4 Observed from different directions, Figure 4 A partial stereoscopic view of the lens driving device in the state.

[0040] Figure 6 is Figure 4 A top view of the lens driving device in the state.

[0041] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Magnified view of area A.

[0042] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 Magnified view of area B.

[0043] Figure 9 It is along Figure 1 A sectional view taken along line BB and a partially enlarged view thereof.

[0044] Figure 10 It is along Figure 1 A sectional view taken along line CC and a partially enlarged view thereof.

[0045] Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment, showing a driving unit, balls, and a ball pressing unit.

[0046] Figure 12 FIG. 1 is a front view of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment, and is used to compare the size of the attractive magnet and the size of the repulsive magnet.

[0047] Figure 13 is a top view of the lens driving device according to the first modified embodiment, with the cover omitted.

[0048] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Magnified view of area A.

[0049] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 Magnified view of area B.

[0050] Figure 16is a cross-sectional view of the lens driving device according to the first modified embodiment, which is cut away to show a cross section of a driving unit.

[0051] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the lens driving device according to the first modified embodiment, cut away to show a cross section of the second ball bearing and related components.

[0052] Figure 18 is a perspective view showing a fixing unit, a base plate, and related components of a lens driving device according to a first modified embodiment.

[0053] Figure 19 It is from Figure 18 Observed from different directions, Figure 18 A three-dimensional diagram of the lens driving device in the state.

[0054] Figure 20 is a top view of a lens driving device according to a second modified embodiment, with the cover omitted.

[0055] Figure 21 1 is a perspective view showing a fixing unit, a substrate, and related configurations of a lens driving device according to a second modified embodiment.

[0056] Figures 22 to 24 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining autofocus driving of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a state of the movable unit in an initial state in which no current is applied to the coil. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the movable unit moves upward in the optical axis direction when a forward current is applied to the coil. Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the movable unit moves downward in the optical axis direction when a reverse current is applied to the coil.

[0057] Figures 25 to 27 1 and 2 are diagrams for explaining autofocus driving of the lens driving apparatus according to the first and second modified embodiments. Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view showing a state of the movable unit in an initial state in which no current is applied to the coil. Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the movable unit moves upward in the optical axis direction when a forward current is applied to the coil. Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the movable unit moves downward in the optical axis direction when a reverse current is applied to the coil.

[0058] Figure 28 is an exploded perspective view of the camera device according to this embodiment.

[0059] Figure 29is a perspective view of the optical device according to this embodiment.

[0060] Figure 30 is a perspective view of an optical device according to a modified embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] However, the technical idea of the present invention is not limited to certain embodiments to be described, but can be implemented in various forms, and one or more constituent elements can be selectively combined or replaced between embodiments within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention.

[0063] In addition, unless otherwise clearly 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 are generally understood by those skilled in the relevant technical field, and common terms such as terms defined in dictionaries may be interpreted in consideration of their meanings in the context of the relevant technology.

[0064] In addition, the terms used in this specification are used to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. In this specification, unless otherwise specified in a phrase, a singular form may include a plural form, and when described as "at least one (or more) of A, B, and C", it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, and C.

[0065] Furthermore, in describing components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as "first," "second," A, B, (a), and (b) may be used.

[0066] These terms are only intended to distinguish certain components from other components, and these terms do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

[0067] Furthermore, when a component is described as being “connected,” “coupled,” or “interconnected” to another component, the component may not only be directly connected, coupled, or interconnected to the other component, but may also include a situation where the component is “connected,” “coupled,” or “interconnected” due to the presence of another component between the component and the other component.

[0068] Furthermore, when described as being formed or arranged “on (above)” or “below (below)” respective components, “on (above)” or “below (below)” means that it includes not only a case where the two components are in direct contact, but also a case where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as “on (above)” or “below (below)”, it can include not only a meaning in the upward direction relative to a component, but also a meaning in the downward direction relative to the component.

[0069] The term “optical axis” used in the following text (see Figure 22 The “OA) direction” is defined as the optical axis direction of the lens and / or image sensor connected to the lens driving device.

[0070] As used herein, the term "vertical direction" may be a direction parallel to or identical to the optical axis. The vertical direction may correspond to the z-axis direction. As used herein, the term "horizontal direction" may be a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. In other words, the horizontal direction may be a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. Therefore, the horizontal direction may include the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction.

[0071] As used below, the term "autofocus (AF) function" is defined as a function that automatically focuses on a subject by adjusting the distance to the image sensor by moving the lens along the optical axis according to the distance to the subject, thereby enabling a clear image of the subject to be obtained on the image sensor. Furthermore, "closed-loop autofocus (CLAF) control" is defined as a function that detects the distance between the image sensor and the lens to provide real-time feedback control of the lens position, thereby improving the accuracy of focus adjustment.

[0072] Hereinafter, one of the “x-axis” and the “y-axis” is referred to as a “first axis”, and the other may be referred to as a “second axis”.

[0073] Hereinafter, one of the “x-axis direction” and the “y-axis direction” is referred to as a “first direction”, and the other may be referred to as a “second direction”.

[0074] Hereinafter, one of the “driving magnet 310 ” and the “attracting magnet 510 ” is referred to as a “first magnet”, and the other may be referred to as a “second magnet”.

[0075] Hereinafter, the “lens driving device 10 ” may be an “autofocus driving device”.

[0076] Hereinafter, the configuration of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0077] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the lens driving device according to this embodiment. Figure 2It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA. Figure 3 FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment. Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment, with the cover omitted. Figure 5 It is from Figure 4 Observed from different directions, Figure 4 A partial stereoscopic view of the lens driving device in the state. Figure 6 is Figure 4 A top view of the lens driving device in the state. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Magnified view of area A. Figure 8 yes Figure 6 Magnified view of area B. Figure 9 It is along Figure 1 A sectional view taken along line BB and a partially enlarged view thereof. Figure 10 It is along Figure 1 A sectional view taken along line CC and a partially enlarged view thereof. Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment, showing a driving unit, balls, and a ball pressing unit. Figure 12 FIG. 1 is a front view of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment, and is used to compare the size of the attractive magnet and the size of the repulsive magnet.

[0078] The lens driving device 10 may be a voice coil motor (VCM). The lens driving device 10 may be a lens driving motor. The lens driving device 10 may be a lens driving actuator. The lens driving device 10 may include an AF module. The lens driving device 10 may include an AF actuator.

[0079] The lens driving device 10 may include a fixing unit 100. The fixing unit 100 may be a relatively fixed portion when the movable unit 200 moves. The movable unit 200 may be movable relative to the fixing unit 100.

[0080] The lens driving device 10 may include a base 110. The fixing unit 100 may include the base 110. The base 110 may be arranged below the holder 210. The base 110 may be coupled to the cover 130. The holder 210 may be arranged on the base 110. The holder 210 may be arranged on the lower plate 111 of the base 110. The holder 210 may be arranged inside the base 110. The holder 210 may be arranged inside the side plate 112 of the base 110.

[0081] The base 110 may include a lower plate 111. The lower plate 111 of the base 110 may support the lower surface of the movable unit 200. The lower plate 111 of the base 110 may support the lower surface of the holder 210. The lower plate 111 of the base 110 may serve as a lower stopper for the movable unit 200. The lower plate 111 of the base 110 may serve as a lower stopper for the holder 210.

[0082] The base 110 may include a side panel 112. The side panel 112 may be a "side portion." The side panel 112 may be a "side wall." The side panel 112 of the base 110 may extend from the upper surface of the lower panel 111. The side panel 112 may include a plurality of side panels.

[0083] The base 110 may include a columnar portion 113. The columnar portion 113 may extend from the upper surface of the lower plate 111. The ball bearing 400 may be disposed on the columnar portion 113. A groove 114 may be formed in the columnar portion 113, and the ball bearing 400 may be disposed in the groove 114. The columnar portion 113 may be referred to as a "protruding portion."

[0084] Fixed unit 100 may include: a first sidewall on which coil 320 is disposed; a second sidewall disposed opposite the first sidewall; and a protruding portion disposed between the first sidewall and the second sidewall in a first direction, with the first sidewall facing the second sidewall, so as to overlap the first and second sidewalls. In this case, the protruding portion may be a columnar portion 113. In the x-axis direction, movable unit 200 may include a protruding portion disposed between the first sidewall of fixed unit 100 and the protruding portion. Ball bearings 400 may be disposed between the protruding portion of movable unit 200 and the protruding portion of fixed unit 100.

[0085] The base 110 may include a groove 114. The cylindrical portion 113 may include the groove 114. The groove 114 may be formed in the cylindrical portion 113. The groove 114 may be a "ball receiving groove." The ball 400 may be arranged in the groove 114. The groove 114 may be in direct contact with the ball 400. The groove 114 may be arranged along the optical axis.

[0086] The groove 114 may include a plurality of grooves. The groove 114 may include two grooves. The two grooves may be arranged parallel to each other. The groove 114 may include a first groove 114-1 and a second groove 114-2. The first groove 114-1 may contact the first rolling ball 410. The second groove 114-2 may contact the second rolling ball 420.

[0087] The base 110 may include a groove 115. The groove 115 may be a "magnet receiving groove." The attraction magnet 510 may be arranged in the groove 115. The groove 115 may have a shape corresponding to the attraction magnet 510. The groove 115 may be formed on the outer surface of the side plate 112 of the base 110. The depth of the groove 115 may correspond to the thickness of the attraction magnet 510.

[0088] The base 110 may include a step 116. The step 116 may be formed at a lower end of an outer surface of the base 110. The step 116 may protrude from the outer surface of the base 110. The side plate 132 of the cover 130 may be disposed in the step 116 of the base 110.

[0089] The lens drive device 10 may include a substrate 120. The fixing unit 100 may include the substrate 120. The substrate 120 may be disposed in the fixing unit 100. The substrate 120 may be disposed in the base 110. The substrate 120 may be disposed in the side plate 112 of the base 110. The substrate 120 may be disposed on the outer surface of the side plate 112 of the base 110. The substrate 120 may be disposed in the cover 130. The substrate 120 may be disposed in the side plate 132 of the cover 130. The substrate 120 may be disposed on the inner surface of the side plate 132 of the cover 130. The substrate 120 may be disposed on the outer surface of the side plate 132 of the cover 130. The substrate 120 may be arranged parallel to the optical axis. The coil 320 and the sensor 330 may be disposed in the substrate 120. The substrate 120 may include a printed circuit board (PCB). The substrate 120 may include a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0090] The substrate 120 may include a terminal 121. The terminal 121 may be formed at the lower end of the outer surface of the substrate 120. The terminal 121 of the substrate 120 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 50 of the camera device 10A. The terminal 121 of the substrate 120 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 50 of the camera device 10A. The terminal 121 of the substrate 120 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 50 of the camera device 10A by solder. The terminal 121 may include a plurality of terminals. The terminal 121 may include eight terminals. The terminal 121 may include a terminal electrically connected to the coil 320. The terminal 121 may include a terminal electrically connected to the sensor 330. The terminal 121 may include a ground terminal for grounding.

[0091] The lens driving device 10 may include a cover 130. The fixing unit 100 may include the cover 130. The cover 130 may be disposed on the base 110. The cover 130 may be arranged on the base 110. The cover 130 may be coupled to the base 110. The cover 130 may be fixed to the base 110. The cover 130 may accommodate the holder 210 therein. The cover 130 may be a shielding member. The cover 130 may be a shielding cover.

[0092] The cover 130 may include an upper plate 131. The upper plate 131 of the cover 130 may serve as an upper stopper for the movable unit 200. The upper plate 131 of the cover 130 may serve as an upper stopper for the holder 210. The upper plate 131 may be arranged on the movable unit 200. The upward movement of the movable unit 200 may be restricted by the movable unit 200 coming into contact with the upper plate 131. The upper plate 131 may include a hole for light to pass through.

[0093] The cover 130 may include a side panel 132. The side panel 132 may extend from the upper panel 131. The side panel 132 may be arranged on the base 110. The side panel 132 may be arranged on a step 116 formed to protrude from the lower portion of the outer surface of the base 110. The side panel 132 may include a plurality of side panels. The side panel 132 may include four side panels. The side panels 132 may include a first side panel and a second side panel arranged opposite to each other, and a third side panel and a fourth side panel arranged opposite to each other.

[0094] The lens driving device 10 may include a movable unit 200. The movable unit 200 may be arranged in the fixed unit 100. The movable unit 200 may be arranged inside the fixed unit 100. The movable unit 200 may be arranged on the fixed unit 100. The movable unit 200 may be arranged movably in the fixed unit 100. The driving unit 300 may move the movable unit 200 relative to the fixed unit 100. The driving unit 300 may move the movable unit 200 relative to the fixed unit 100 along the optical axis. The movable unit 200 may be arranged inside the fixed unit 100 movably along the optical axis. The movable unit 200 may move along the optical axis. The movable unit 200 may move during AF driving. The lens may be coupled to the movable unit 200.

[0095] The lens driving device 10 may include a reinforcing plate 140. The fixing unit 100 may include the reinforcing plate 140. The reinforcing plate 140 may be arranged to prevent the columnar portion 113 of the base 110 from being damaged. The reinforcing plate 140 may reinforce the columnar portion 113. When viewed from above, the reinforcing plate 140 may have a shape that is bent twice. The reinforcing plate 140 may include a first portion arranged on the outer surface of the side plate 112 of the base 110, a second portion arranged on the inner surface of the columnar portion 113 of the base 110, and a third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion. The reinforcing plate 140 may include a groove for reinforcing the connection with at least one or more of the base 110 and the holder 210. The groove of the reinforcing plate 140 may be formed in the central area.

[0096] In this embodiment, the reinforcing plate 140 can be arranged to surround the ball component of the two groups of ball components that is farther from the driving magnet 310. In a modified embodiment, the reinforcing plate 140 can be arranged to surround each of the two groups of ball components. Alternatively, the reinforcing plate 140 can be arranged to surround the ball component of the two groups of ball components that is closer to the driving magnet 310.

[0097] The lens driving device 10 may include a holder 210. The movable unit 200 may include the holder 210. The holder 210 may be an "AF holder". The holder 210 may be a "bobbin". The holder 210 may be a "carrier". The holder 210 may be arranged inside the base 110. The holder 210 may be arranged on the base 110. The holder 210 may be arranged inside the cover 130. The holder 210 may be arranged in a movable manner. The holder 210 may be arranged in a movable manner along the optical axis direction.

[0098] The retainer 210 may include a protruding portion. The protruding portion may be arranged between the side plate 112 and the columnar portion 113 of the base 110. The balls 400 may be arranged in the protruding portion of the retainer 210. The grooves 212 for arranging the balls 400 may be formed in the protruding portion of the retainer 210.

[0099] The holder 210 may include a groove 212. The groove 212 may be a "ball receiving groove." The ball 400 may be arranged in the groove 212. The groove 212 may be in direct contact with the ball 400. The groove 212 may be arranged along the optical axis. The groove 212 may guide the ball 400 to move along the optical axis. The groove 212 of the holder 210 may be arranged to face the groove 114 of the base 110. The ball 400 may be arranged between the groove 212 of the holder 210 and the groove 114 of the base 110.

[0100] The groove 212 may include a plurality of grooves. The groove 212 may include two grooves. The two grooves may be arranged parallel to each other. The groove 212 may include a first groove 212-1 and a second groove 212-2. The first groove 212-1 may contact the first rolling ball 410. The second groove 212-2 may contact the second rolling ball 420.

[0101] The second groove 114 - 2 of the fixed unit 100 and the second groove 212 - 2 of the movable unit 200 may be formed in different shapes.

[0102] The retainer 210 may include a groove 213. The groove 213 may be a "driving magnet accommodating groove". The groove 213 may be formed on the outer side surface of the retainer 210. The groove 213 may be formed in a concave shape on the side surface of the retainer 210. The driving magnet 310 may be arranged in the groove 213. The groove 213 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the driving magnet 310. The groove 213 may be recessed to a depth equal to the thickness of the driving magnet 310.

[0103] The holder 210 may include an upper stopper 214. The upper stopper 214 may be formed on the upper surface of the holder 210. The upper stopper 214 may protrude from the upper surface of the holder 210. The upper stopper 214 may include a protrusion. The upper stopper 214 may overlap with the upper plate 131 of the cover 130 in the optical axis direction. When the holder 210 moves upward along the optical axis, the upper stopper 214 may contact the upper plate 131 of the cover 130. The upper stopper 214 may include a plurality of upper stops. The upper stopper 214 may include four upper stops.

[0104] The lens driving device 10 may include a driving unit 300. The driving unit 300 may move the movable unit 200 along the optical axis. The driving unit 300 may move the holder 210 along the optical axis. The driving unit 300 may move the holder 210 along the optical axis using electromagnetic force. The driving unit 300 may include a driving magnet 310 and a coil 320. The driving magnet 310 and the coil 320 may move the movable unit 200 along the optical axis.

[0105] The lens drive device 10 may include a drive magnet 310. The drive unit 300 may include the drive magnet 310. The drive magnet 310 may be disposed in the movable unit 200. The drive magnet 310 may be disposed in the holder 210. The drive magnet 310 may be fixed to the holder 210. The drive magnet 310 may be coupled to the holder 210. The drive magnet 310 may be attached to the holder 210 via an adhesive. The drive magnet 310 may be disposed inside the cover 130. The drive magnet 310 may be disposed between the coil 320 and the holder 210. The drive magnet 310 may be disposed inside the coil 320. The drive magnet 310 may overlap with the coil 320 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The drive magnet 310 may face the coil 320 in the x-axis direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The drive magnet 310 may face the coil 320. The drive magnet 310 may face the coil 320. The driving magnet 310 can be arranged at a position corresponding to the coil 320. The driving magnet 310 can interact with the coil 320. The driving magnet 310 can electromagnetically interact with the coil 320. The driving magnet 310 can move. The driving magnet 310 can be arranged in a movable manner. The driving magnet 310 can move during AF driving. The driving magnet 310 can move together with the holder 210. The driving magnet 310 can move along the optical axis. When current is applied to the coil 320, the driving magnet 310 can move along the optical axis.

[0106] The driving magnet 310 may be a quadrupole magnet. The driving magnet 310 may include a quadrupole magnet. The driving magnet 310 may include a lower magnet portion having an N pole and an S pole. The driving magnet 310 may include an upper magnet portion having an S pole and an N pole. The driving magnet 310 may include a neutral portion disposed between the lower magnet portion and the upper magnet portion.

[0107] The upper magnet portion may be disposed on the lower magnet portion. The lower magnet portion and the upper magnet portion may be disposed along the optical axis. The lower magnet portion and the upper magnet portion may be spaced apart in the optical axis direction. The neutral portion may be disposed between the lower magnet portion and the upper magnet portion.

[0108] The lens driving device 10 may include a coil 320. The driving unit 300 may include the coil 320. The coil 320 may be arranged in the substrate 120. The coil 320 may be arranged on the inner surface of the substrate 120. The coil 320 may be arranged in the fixing unit 100. The coil 320 may be arranged in the base 110. The coil 320 may be arranged inside the cover 130. The coil 320 may be arranged outside the driving magnet 310. The coil 320 may be arranged between the side plate 132 of the cover 130 and the driving magnet 310. The coil 320 may be fixed. Even during AF driving, the coil 320 may remain fixed. The coil 320 may interact with the driving magnet 310. The coil 320 may face the driving magnet 310. The coil 320 may face the driving magnet 310. The coil 320 may be arranged at a position corresponding to the driving magnet 310. The coil 320 may overlap the driving magnet 310 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The coil 320 may overlap the driving magnet 310 in an x-axis direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0109] The lens driving device 10 may include a sensor 330. The driving unit 300 may include the sensor 330. The sensor 330 may detect the driving magnet 310. The sensor 330 may be disposed in the substrate 120. The sensor 330 may be disposed in the coil 320. The sensor 330 may be a Hall sensor. The movement or position of the driving magnet 310 detected by the sensor 330 may be used as feedback for autofocus driving.

[0110] In a variant embodiment, the sensor 330 may be a driver IC. The driver IC may include a Hall element for detecting the driving magnet 310 . The driver IC may include a sensing unit. The sensing unit may include a Hall element (Hall IC). The driver IC may be electrically connected to the coil 320 and may apply current to the coil 320 .

[0111] The lens driving device 10 may include a yoke 350. The driving unit 300 may include a yoke 350. The yoke 350 may be arranged on the driving magnet 310. The yoke 350 may be arranged in the holder 210. The yoke 350 may be arranged in the movable unit 200. The yoke 350 may be arranged on the inner surface of the driving magnet 310. The yoke 350 may prevent leakage of the magnetic flux of the driving magnet 310. That is, due to the arrangement of the yoke 350, the electromagnetic interaction force between the driving magnet 310 and the coil 320 may be enhanced.

[0112] The lens driving device 10 may include a guide member. The guide member may be a guide portion. The guide member may include a ball bearing 400. The guide member may include a shaft. The guide member may include a pin. The guide member may include a cylindrical member. The guide member may guide the movable unit 200 to move in a specific direction relative to the fixed unit 100.

[0113] The lens drive device 10 may include a ball bearing 400. The ball bearing 400 may guide the movement of the movable unit 200 relative to the fixed unit 100 in the optical axis direction. The ball bearing 400 may guide the movement of the holder 210 relative to the base 110 in the optical axis direction. The ball bearing 400 may be arranged between the fixed unit 100 and the movable unit 200. The ball bearing 400 may be arranged between the base 110 and the holder 210. The ball bearing 400 may be arranged between the base 110 and the holder 210 in the x-direction. Alternatively, the ball bearing 400 may be arranged between the base 110 and the holder 210 in the y-direction. The ball bearing 400 may be arranged in the groove 114 of the base 110. The ball bearing 400 may be arranged in the groove 212 of the holder 210. The ball bearing 400 may be arranged in both the groove 114 of the base 110 and the groove 212 of the holder 210. The ball 400 may be disposed between the groove 114 of the base 110 and the groove 212 of the retainer 210. The ball 400 may be in the shape of a sphere. The ball 400 may be formed of metal. The ball 400 may be formed to be non-magnetic. The surface of the ball 400 may be coated with grease.

[0114] When viewed from above, the side plate 112 of the base 110 , the protruding portion of the retainer 210 , the balls 400 , and the columnar portion 113 of the base 110 may be sequentially arranged on a virtual straight line.

[0115] The driving magnet 310 and the coil 320 may overlap in the x-axis direction. The ball 400 may be arranged between the attracting magnet 510 and the yoke 520 in the x-axis direction. The ball 400 may overlap with the attracting magnet 510 in the x-axis direction. The ball 400 may overlap with the yoke 520 in the x-axis direction.

[0116] At least one of the fixed unit 100 and the movable unit 200 may include grooves 114 and 212 in which the balls 400 are disposed. The grooves 114 and 212 may be arranged along the optical axis. Thus, the balls 400 can move along the optical axis. Thus, the movable unit 200 can be guided by the balls 400 and can move relative to the fixed unit 100 along the optical axis.

[0117] The ball bearings 400 may include a plurality of ball bearings. The ball bearings 400 may include a plurality of unit ball bearings. The ball bearings 400 may be provided as two groups of four ball bearings, for a total of eight ball bearings. The ball bearings 400 may include a first ball bearing 410 and a second ball bearing 420. The first ball bearing 410 may be arranged in a first corner region of the optical axis, the base 110, and the retainer 210. The second ball bearing 420 may be arranged in a second corner region of the optical axis, the base 110, and the retainer 210. In this case, the first corner and the second corner may be arranged diagonally to each other. When viewed from above, the first ball bearing 410 may be arranged in a first corner region of the movable unit 200. When viewed from above, the second ball bearing 420 may be arranged in a second corner region of the movable unit 200 that is located diagonally to the first corner region.

[0118] The first rolling ball 410 may be arranged in the first groove 114-1 of the fixed unit 100. The first rolling ball 410 may contact the first groove 114-1 of the fixed unit 100. The first rolling ball 410 may be guided by the first groove 114-1 of the fixed unit 100. The first rolling ball 410 may move along the first groove 114-1 of the fixed unit 100. The first rolling ball 410 may be arranged in the first groove 212-1 of the movable unit 200. The first rolling ball 410 may contact the first groove 212-1 of the movable unit 200. The first rolling ball 410 may be guided by the first groove 212-1 of the movable unit 200. The first rolling ball 410 may move along the first groove 212-1 of the movable unit 200. The first rolling ball 410 may be arranged between the first groove 114-1 of the fixed unit 100 and the first groove 212-1 of the movable unit 200.

[0119] When viewed from above, the first groove 114-1 of the fixed unit 100 may be a V-shaped groove. The first groove 114-1 may contact the first rolling ball 410 at two points. The first groove 114-1 may be a two-point contact groove. When viewed from above, the first groove 212-1 of the movable unit 200 may be a V-shaped groove. The first groove 212-1 may contact the first rolling ball 410 at two points. The first groove 212-1 may be a two-point contact groove.

[0120] The first ball 410 may be arranged between the first unit magnet 511 and the first yoke 521. The first ball 410 may be arranged between the first unit magnet 511 and the first yoke 521 in the x-axis direction. The first ball 410 may overlap with the first unit magnet 511 in the x-axis direction. The first ball 410 may overlap with the first yoke 521 in the x-axis direction.

[0121] The second rolling ball 420 may be arranged in the second groove 114-2 of the fixed unit 100. The second rolling ball 420 may contact the second groove 114-2 of the fixed unit 100. The second rolling ball 420 may be guided by the second groove 114-2 of the fixed unit 100. The second rolling ball 420 may move along the second groove 114-2 of the fixed unit 100. The second rolling ball 420 may be arranged in the second groove 212-2 of the movable unit 200. The second rolling ball 420 may contact the second groove 212-2 of the movable unit 200. The second rolling ball 420 may be guided by the second groove 212-2 of the movable unit 200. The second rolling ball 420 may move along the second groove 212-2 of the movable unit 200. The second rolling ball 420 may be arranged between the second groove 114-2 of the fixed unit 100 and the second groove 212-2 of the movable unit 200.

[0122] When viewed from above, the second groove 114-2 of the fixed unit 100 may be in the shape of the letter V. The second groove 114-2 may contact the second rolling ball 420 at two points. The second groove 114-2 may be a two-point contact groove. When viewed from above, the second groove 212-2 of the movable unit 200 may be in the shape of the letter U or C. The second groove 212-2 may contact the second rolling ball 420 at one point. Alternatively, the second groove 212-2 may contact the second rolling ball 420 at two points. Alternatively, the second groove 212-2 may contact the second rolling ball 420 at three points.

[0123] The second ball 420 may be arranged between the second unit magnet 512 and the second yoke 522. The second ball 420 may be arranged between the second unit magnet 512 and the second yoke 522 in the x-axis direction. The second ball 420 may overlap with the second unit magnet 512 in the x-axis direction. The second ball 420 may overlap with the second yoke 522 in the x-axis direction.

[0124] The lens driving device 10 may include a cover plate 450. The cover plate 450 may be a "ball bearing cover plate". The cover plate 450 may be arranged in the holder 210. The cover plate 450 may be coupled to the holder 210. The cover plate 450 may be fixed to the holder 210. The cover plate 450 may be arranged on the upper surface of the holder 210. The cover plate 450 may include a hole coupled to the protrusion of the holder 210. The cover plate 450 may overlap with the ball bearing 400 in the optical axis direction. The cover plate 450 may cover the upper side of the ball bearing 400. The cover plate 450 may cover the ball bearing 400 from above. The cover plate 450 may prevent the ball bearing 400 from escaping upward.

[0125] The lens driving device 10 may include a ball pressing member. The ball pressing member may pressurize the ball 400. The ball pressing member may pressurize the ball 400 between the fixed unit 100 and the movable unit 200. The ball pressing member may pressurize the ball 400 against the fixed unit 100 and the movable unit 200. The ball pressing member may maintain contact between the ball 400 and the fixed unit 100 and the movable unit 200. The ball pressing member may include an attractive magnet 510 and a yoke 520 that apply an attractive force to each other.

[0126] The lens driving device 10 may include an attraction magnet 510. The ball pressing member may include an attraction magnet 510. The attraction magnet 510 may be arranged in the fixing unit 100. The attraction magnet 510 may be coupled to the fixing unit 100. The attraction magnet 510 may be fixed to the fixing unit 100. The attraction magnet 510 may be attached to the fixing unit 100 with an adhesive. The attraction magnet 510 may be arranged in the base 110. The attraction magnet 510 may be coupled to the base 110. The attraction magnet 510 may be fixed to the base 110. The attraction magnet 510 may be attached to the base 110 with an adhesive. The attraction magnet 510 may be arranged on an outer surface of the base 110. The attraction magnet 510 may be arranged in the groove 115 of the base 110. The attraction magnet 510 may be arranged within the cover 130. The attracting magnet 510 may be disposed in the side plate 132 of the cover 130. The attracting magnet 510 may be disposed on an inner surface of the side plate 132 of the cover 130.

[0127] The attraction magnet 510 can apply attraction to the yoke 520. The attraction magnet 510 can be arranged so as to generate attraction to the yoke 520. The attraction magnet 510 can be arranged at a position corresponding to the yoke 520. The attraction magnet 510 can be arranged adjacent to the yoke 520. The attraction magnet 510 can pressurize the yoke 520 toward the ball 400. The attraction magnet 510 can pull the yoke 520 toward the ball 400. The attraction magnet 510 can pressurize the retainer 210 toward the ball 400 through the attraction with the yoke 520. By the attraction between the attraction magnet 510 and the yoke 520, the ball 400 can be in close contact between the fixed unit 100 and the movable unit 200. By the attraction between the attraction magnet 510 and the yoke 520, the ball 400 can be in close contact between the base 110 and the retainer 210.

[0128] The attracting magnet 510 may overlap the yoke 520 in the x-axis direction. The attracting magnet 510 may overlap the ball 400 in the x-axis direction. The attracting magnet 510 may be disposed between the side plate 132 of the cover 130 and the base 110 in the x-axis direction.

[0129] The attraction magnet 510 may be spaced apart from the driving magnet 310. The attraction magnet 510 may be formed as a component separate from the driving magnet 310. Thus, the design freedom of the driving magnet 310 can be ensured. The attraction magnet 510 may not overlap with the driving magnet 310 in the optical axis direction. The attraction magnet 510 may not overlap with the driving magnet 310 in the x-axis direction. The attraction magnet 510 may not overlap with the driving magnet 310 in the y-axis direction.

[0130] Reference Figure 12 , in the optical axis direction, the length H1 of the attraction magnet 510 may be longer than the length H2 of the driving magnet 310. In the optical axis direction, the length H2 of the driving magnet 310 may be 60% to 74% of the length H1 of the attraction magnet 510. In the optical axis direction, the length H2 of the driving magnet 310 may be 55% to 79% of the length H1 of the attraction magnet 510. Since the length of the attraction magnet 510 is formed to be longer than the length of the driving magnet 310, even if the driving magnet 310 moves up and down, the attraction force of the attraction magnet 510 can be maintained over the entire section.

[0131] In the y-axis direction, the length of the attraction magnet 510 may be shorter than the length of the driving magnet 310. In the x-axis direction, the length of the attraction magnet 510 may be shorter than the length of the driving magnet 310. In the x-axis direction, the length of the attraction magnet 510 may be equal to the length of the driving magnet 310. In the x-axis direction, the length of the attraction magnet 510 may be longer than the length of the driving magnet 310.

[0132] In the optical axis direction, the length of the yoke 520 may be shorter than the length of the driving magnet 310. The length of the yoke 520 may be 91% to 97% of the length of the driving magnet 310. The length of the yoke 520 may be 90% to 98% of the length of the driving magnet 310. In a modified embodiment, the length of the yoke 520 may be equal to the length of the driving magnet 310. In a modified embodiment, the length of the yoke 520 may be longer than the length of the driving magnet 310.

[0133] The length of the attraction magnet 510 in the optical axis direction can be formed so as to overlap with the yoke 520 throughout the entire range of movement of the yoke 520. That is, when the yoke 520 moves upward to its maximum extent, the upper end of the attraction magnet 510 and the upper end of the yoke 520 can be arranged at corresponding heights. Furthermore, when the yoke 520 moves downward to its maximum extent, the lower end of the attraction magnet 510 and the lower end of the yoke 520 can be arranged at corresponding heights. In the initial position, the upper end of the attraction magnet 510 can be arranged higher than the upper end of the yoke 520. In the initial position, the lower end of the attraction magnet 510 can be arranged lower than the lower end of the yoke 520. In the initial position, the upper end of the attraction magnet 510 can be arranged higher than the upper end of the driving magnet 310. In the initial position, the lower end of the attraction magnet 510 can be arranged lower than the lower end of the driving magnet 310.

[0134] The attracting magnet 510 may be a dipole magnet. The attracting magnet 510 may be formed with an inner surface and an outer surface having different polarities. In a modified embodiment, the attracting magnet 510 may be a quadrupole magnet.

[0135] The attraction magnet 510 may include a plurality of magnets. The attraction magnet 510 may include two magnets. The attraction magnet 510 may include a first unit magnet 511 and a second unit magnet 512. The first unit magnet 511 and the second unit magnet 512 may be spaced apart from each other. The first unit magnet 511 may pressurize the first ball 410. The second unit magnet 512 may pressurize the second ball 420.

[0136] The lens driving device 10 may include a yoke 520. The ball pressing member may include the yoke 520. The yoke 520 may be disposed in the movable unit 200. The yoke 520 may be coupled to the movable unit 200. The yoke 520 may be fixed to the movable unit 200. The yoke 520 may be attached to the movable unit 200 using an adhesive. The yoke 520 may be disposed in the holder 210. The yoke 520 may be coupled to the holder 210. The yoke 520 may be fixed to the holder 210. The yoke 520 may be attached to the holder 210 using an adhesive.

[0137] The yoke 520 may be a magnetic yoke. The yoke 520 may generate an attractive force with the attractive magnet 510. The yoke 520 may be located at a position corresponding to the attractive magnet 510. The yoke 520 may face the attractive magnet 510. The yoke 520 may be located on the opposite side of the attractive magnet 510 relative to the ball 400. The yoke 520 may pressurize the ball 400. The yoke 520 may cause the movable unit 200 to pressurize the ball 400 toward the fixed unit 100. The yoke 520 may cause the retainer 210 to pressurize the ball 400 toward the base 110.

[0138] The yoke 520 may not overlap the driving magnet 310 in the x-axis direction. The yoke 520 may not overlap the coil 320 in the x-axis direction. The yoke 520 may overlap the attracting magnet 510 in the x-axis direction. The yoke 520 may overlap the ball 400 in the x-axis direction.

[0139] The yoke 520 may include a plurality of yokes. The yoke 520 may include two yokes. The yoke 520 may include a first yoke 521 and a second yoke 522. The first yoke 521 and the second yoke 522 may be spaced apart from each other. The first yoke 521 may be arranged at a position corresponding to the first unit magnet 511. The first yoke 521 may generate an attractive force with the first unit magnet 511. The second yoke 522 may be arranged at a position corresponding to the second unit magnet 512. The second yoke 522 may generate an attractive force with the second unit magnet 512.

[0140] Hereinafter, the configuration of a lens driving device according to a first modified embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0141] Figure 13 is a top view of the lens driving device according to the first modified embodiment, with the cover omitted. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Magnified view of area A. Figure 15 yes Figure 13 Magnified view of area B. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the lens driving device according to the first modified embodiment, which is cut away to show a cross section of a driving unit. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the lens driving device according to the first modified embodiment, cut away to show a cross section of the second ball bearing and related components. Figure 18 is a perspective view showing a fixing unit, a base plate, and related components of a lens driving device according to a first modified embodiment. Figure 19 It is from Figure 18 Observed from different directions Figure 18 A three-dimensional diagram of the lens driving device in the state.

[0142] Hereinafter, the differences between the lens driving device according to the first modified embodiment and the lens driving device according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. Therefore, the configuration according to the first modified embodiment not described below can be applied by analogy with the description of the present embodiment.

[0143] The lens driving device according to the first modified embodiment may include substrates 122 and 123 connecting the movable unit 200 and the fixed unit 100. The substrates may include an inner substrate 122. The substrates may include an outer substrate 123. A driving magnet 310 may be disposed in the fixed unit 100. A coil 320 may be disposed in the movable unit 200. The coil 320 may be electrically connected to the substrates 122 and 123.

[0144] The inner substrate 122 may include a terminal 122a. The terminal 122a of the inner substrate 122 may be arranged on an upper surface of the inner substrate 122. The terminal 122a of the inner substrate 122 may be coupled to the outer substrate 123. The terminal 122a of the inner substrate 122 may be electrically connected to a terminal of the outer substrate 123.

[0145] The outer substrate 123 may include a connecting portion 123a. The connecting portion 123a may include a curved portion. The connecting portion 123a may have a curved shape. The connecting portion 123a may be formed in a movable manner. The outer substrate 123 may include a fixing unit fixed to the base 110. The connecting portion 123a may connect the fixing unit of the outer substrate 123 with the inner substrate 122. The connecting portion 123a of the outer substrate 123 may movably support the holder 210. The connecting portion 123a of the outer substrate 123 may be electrically connected to the coil 320a arranged in the movable unit 200.

[0146] In a first variant embodiment, the second ball bearing 420a may be positioned differently from the position in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the second ball bearing 420a may be positioned at the second corner region of the movable unit 200. In the first variant embodiment, the second ball bearing 420a may be positioned at the third corner region. When viewed from above, the second corner region is located at 5 o'clock, while the third corner region may be located at 7 o'clock.

[0147] Therefore, the second groove 114-2a of the fixed unit 100 and the second groove 212-2a of the movable unit 200 may also be arranged in the third corner area of the fixed unit 100 and the movable unit 200. The second rolling ball 420a may be arranged between the second groove 114-2a of the fixed unit 100 and the second groove 212-2a of the movable unit 200.

[0148] In the first variant embodiment, the driving magnet 310a may be arranged in the fixed unit 100. The coil 320a may be arranged in the movable unit 200. When current is applied to the coils 320 and 320a, the driving magnet 310 moves in the present embodiment, but in the first variant embodiment, the coil 320a may move. The coil 320a may be arranged in the inner substrate 122. The coil 320a may be electrically connected to the inner substrate 122 and the outer substrate 123. The coil 320a may be movably supported by the outer substrate 123.

[0149] In the first modified embodiment, the yoke 350a may be arranged on the outer surface of the driving magnet 310a. Thus, the yoke 350a can enhance the electromagnetic interaction force between the driving magnet 310a and the coil 320a.

[0150] In the first modified embodiment, the attracting magnets 511a and 512a may be disposed in the movable unit 200. The first unit magnet 511a and the second unit magnet 512a may be disposed in the movable unit 200. At this time, the yokes 521a and 522a may be disposed in the fixed unit 100. The first yoke 521a and the second yoke 522a may be disposed in the fixed unit 100.

[0151] In a first variant embodiment, when viewed from above, the first groove 114-1 of the fixed unit 100 may be a groove in the shape of the letter V. The first groove 114-1 may contact the first rolling ball 410 at two points. The first groove 114-1 may be a two-point contact groove. When viewed from above, the first groove 212-1 of the movable unit 200 may be a groove in the shape of the letter U or C. The first groove 212-1 may contact the first rolling ball 410 at one point. Alternatively, the first groove 212-1 may contact the first rolling ball 410 at two points. Alternatively, the first groove 212-1 may contact the first rolling ball 410 at three points.

[0152] In the first modified embodiment, when viewed from above, the second groove 114-2a of the fixed unit 100 may be a V-shaped groove. The second groove 114-2a may contact the second rolling ball 420a at two points. The second groove 114-2a may be a two-point contact groove. When viewed from above, the second groove 212-2a of the movable unit 200 may be a V-shaped groove. The second groove 212-2a may contact the second rolling ball 420a at two points. The second groove 212-2a may be a two-point contact groove.

[0153] Hereinafter, a configuration of a lens driving device according to a second modified embodiment is described with reference to the drawings.

[0154] Figure 20 is a top view of a lens driving device according to a second modified embodiment, with the cover omitted. Figure 21 1 is a perspective view showing a fixing unit, a substrate, and related configurations of a lens driving device according to a second modified embodiment.

[0155] Hereinafter, the lens driving device according to the second variant embodiment will be described mainly with reference to the differences between the lens driving device according to the present embodiment and the lens driving device according to the first variant embodiment. Therefore, the construction according to the second variant embodiment not described below can be applied by analogy based on the descriptions in the present embodiment and the first variant embodiment.

[0156] In the lens driving device according to the second modified embodiment, the first unit magnet 511b may be larger than the second unit magnet 512b. Figure 20In the x-axis direction, the thickness of the first unit magnet 511b may be greater than the thickness of the second unit magnet 512b. Thus, the attraction between the first unit magnet 511b and the first yoke 521b may be greater than the attraction between the second unit magnet 512b and the second yoke 522b.

[0157] Hereinafter, the deformable configurations of the lens drive devices according to the present embodiment, the first variant embodiment, and the second variant embodiment will be described again. The attraction magnet 510 is arranged in the fixed unit 100, and the yoke 520 can be arranged in the movable unit 200. Alternatively, the attraction magnet 510 is arranged in the movable unit 200, and the yoke 520 can be arranged in the fixed unit 100. The drive magnet 310 is arranged in the movable unit 200, and the coil 320 can be arranged in the fixed unit 100. Alternatively, the drive magnet 310 is arranged in the fixed unit 100, and the coil 320 can be arranged in the movable unit 200. The first ball 410 is arranged in the first corner region, and the second ball 420 can be arranged in the second corner region located diagonally opposite the first corner region. Alternatively, the second ball 420 can be arranged in the third corner region that is not located diagonally opposite the first corner region. In this case, the drive magnet 310 can be arranged between the first corner region and the third corner region. The first unit magnet 511 and the second unit magnet 512 may have the same size. Alternatively, the first unit magnet 511 and the second unit magnet 512 may have different sizes.

[0158] In this embodiment, the attractive magnet 510 can be arranged in the fixed unit 100. In the case of a variant embodiment, the attractive magnet 510 is arranged in the movable unit 200. In this case, the present embodiment can have an advantage because the movement of the movable unit 200 can be caused by other magnetic components. At the same time, in this embodiment, the coil 320 can be arranged in the fixed unit 100. In the case of a variant embodiment, the coil 320 is arranged in the movable unit 200. In this case, there is a disadvantage that the design of the substrate for supplying current to the coil 320 becomes complicated. In this embodiment, the first ball 410 and the second ball 420 can be arranged diagonally to each other. At this time, the phenomenon of tilting in the movable unit 200 can be minimized.

[0159] Hereinafter, auto focus (AF) driving of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0160] Figures 22 to 24 FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining autofocus driving of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a state of the movable unit in an initial state in which no current is applied to the coil. Figure 23is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the movable unit moves upward in the optical axis direction when a forward current is applied to the coil. Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the movable unit moves downward in the optical axis direction when a reverse current is applied to the coil.

[0161] like Figure 22 As shown, at an initial position where no current is applied to the coil 320 , the movable unit 200 may be disposed at a position spaced apart from both the upper plate 131 of the cover 130 and the base 110 .

[0162] When a positive current is applied to the coil 320, the driving magnet 310 can move upward along the optical axis due to the electromagnetic interaction between the coil 320 and the driving magnet 310 (see FIG. Figure 23 (A in FIG). At this time, the holder 210 can move upward along the optical axis together with the drive magnet 310. Furthermore, the lens can move upward along the optical axis together with the holder 210. As a result, the distance between the lens and the image sensor changes, and the focus of the image formed on the image sensor by the lens can be adjusted.

[0163] When a reverse current is applied to the coil 320, the driving magnet 310 can move downward along the optical axis due to the electromagnetic interaction between the coil 320 and the driving magnet 310 (see FIG. Figure 24 (B in FIG). At this time, the holder 210 can move downward along the optical axis together with the drive magnet 310. Furthermore, the lens can move downward along the optical axis together with the holder 210. This allows the distance between the lens and the image sensor to change, and the focus of the image formed on the image sensor by the lens can be adjusted.

[0164] Meanwhile, during the movement of the driving magnet 310, the sensor 330 can detect the strength of the magnetic field of the driving magnet 310 to detect the movement or position of the lens along the optical axis. The movement or position of the lens along the optical axis detected by the sensor 330 can be used for autofocus feedback control.

[0165] Hereinafter, autofocus (AF) driving of the lens driving apparatus according to the first modified embodiment and the second modified embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0166] Figures 25 to 27 1 and 2 are diagrams for explaining autofocus driving of the lens driving apparatus according to the first and second modified embodiments. Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view showing a state of the movable unit in an initial state in which no current is applied to the coil. Figure 26is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the movable unit moves upward in the optical axis direction when a forward current is applied to the coil. Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the movable unit moves downward in the optical axis direction when a reverse current is applied to the coil.

[0167] like Figure 25 As shown, at an initial position where no current is applied to the coil 320 , the movable unit 200 may be disposed at a position spaced apart from both the upper plate 131 of the cover 130 and the base 110 .

[0168] When a positive current is applied to the coil 320, the coil 320 can move upward along the optical axis due to the electromagnetic interaction between the coil 320 and the driving magnet 310 (see FIG. Figure 26 (A in FIG). At this time, holder 210 can move upward along the optical axis together with coil 320. Furthermore, the lens can move upward along the optical axis together with holder 210. As a result, the distance between the lens and the image sensor changes, and the focus of the image formed on the image sensor by the lens can be adjusted.

[0169] When a reverse current is applied to the coil 320, the coil 320 can move downward along the optical axis due to the electromagnetic interaction between the coil 320 and the driving magnet 310 (see FIG. Figure 27 (B in FIG). At this time, holder 210 can move downward along the optical axis together with coil 320. Furthermore, the lens can move downward along the optical axis together with holder 210. This allows the distance between the lens and the image sensor to change, and the focus of the image formed on the image sensor by the lens to be adjusted.

[0170] At the same time, during the movement of the coil 320, the sensor 330 can move along with the coil 320 to detect the strength of the magnetic field of the drive magnet 310, thereby detecting the movement or position of the lens along the optical axis. The movement or position of the lens along the optical axis detected by the sensor 330 can be used for autofocus feedback control.

[0171] Hereinafter, a camera apparatus according to the present embodiment is described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0172] Figure 28 is an exploded perspective view of the camera device according to this embodiment.

[0173] The camera apparatus 10A may include a camera module.

[0174] The camera device 10A may include a lens module 20. The lens module 20 may include at least one lens. The lens may be arranged at a position corresponding to the image sensor 60. The lens module 20 may include a lens and a lens barrel. The lens module 20 may be coupled to a holder 210 of the lens driving device 10. The lens module 20 may be coupled to the holder 210 via a threaded coupling and / or an adhesive. The lens module 20 may move integrally with the holder 210.

[0175] The camera device 10A may include an optical filter 30. The optical filter 30 may block light of a specific frequency band from being incident on the image sensor 60, among the light passing through the lens module 20. The optical filter 30 may be arranged parallel to the xy plane. The optical filter 30 may be arranged between the lens module 20 and the image sensor 60. The optical filter 30 may be arranged in the sensor base 40. In a modified embodiment, the optical filter 30 may be arranged in the base 110. The optical filter 30 may include an infrared filter. The infrared filter may block light in the infrared band from being incident on the image sensor 60.

[0176] The camera device 10A may include a sensor base 40. The sensor base 40 may be arranged between the lens driving device 10 and the printed circuit board 50. The sensor base 40 may include a protruding portion 41 on which the optical filter 30 is arranged. An opening may be formed in the portion of the sensor base 40 on which the optical filter 30 is arranged so that light passing through the optical filter 30 can be incident on the image sensor 60. An adhesive member may couple or attach the base 110 of the lens driving device 10 to the sensor base 40. The adhesive member may also be used to prevent foreign matter from entering the interior of the lens driving device 10. The adhesive member may include at least one of an epoxy resin, a thermosetting adhesive, and an ultraviolet curing adhesive.

[0177] In a modified embodiment, the sensor base 40 may be omitted. In this case, the optical filter 30 may be coupled to the base 110 of the lens driving device 10. The optical filter 30 may be coupled to the lower surface of the base 110 of the lens driving device 10. In addition, in a modified embodiment, the sensor holder 40 may be formed to protect only the image sensor 60. That is, the base 110 of the lens driving device 10 may be directly arranged in the printed circuit board 50. In this case, the sensor holder 40 may be arranged in the base 110. The base 110 may be formed to surround the sensor holder 40. The base 110 may include a leg portion, that is, an outer side wall disposed in the printed circuit board 50.

[0178] The camera device 10A may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 50. The PCB 50 may be a substrate or a circuit board. The lens driving device 10 may be disposed within the PCB 50. The sensor base 40 may be disposed between the PCB 50 and the lens driving device 10. The PCB 50 may be electrically connected to the lens driving device 10. The image sensor 60 may be disposed within the PCB 50. Various circuits, components, control units, etc. may be provided within the PCB 50 to convert an image formed on the image sensor 60 into an electrical signal and transmit the electrical signal to an external device.

[0179] The camera device 10A may include an image sensor 60. The image sensor 60 may be configured so that light passing through the lens and filter 30 is incident to form an image. The image sensor 60 may be mounted on a printed circuit board 50. The image sensor 60 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 50. For example, the image sensor 60 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 50 using surface mount technology (SMT). As another example, the image sensor 60 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 50 using flip-chip technology. The image sensor 60 may be arranged so that its optical axis is aligned with the optical axis of the lens. In other words, the optical axis of the image sensor 60 and the optical axis of the lens may be aligned. The image sensor 60 may convert light incident on the effective image area of the image sensor 60 into an electrical signal. The image sensor 60 may be any of a charge-coupled device (CCD), a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS), a CPD, and a CID.

[0180] The camera apparatus 10A may include a motion sensor 70. The motion sensor 70 may be mounted on the printed circuit board 50. The motion sensor 70 may be electrically connected to the control unit 80 via a circuit pattern provided in the printed circuit board 50. The motion sensor 70 may output rotational speed information generated by movement of the camera apparatus 10A. The motion sensor 70 may include a two-axis or three-axis gyro sensor or an angular velocity sensor.

[0181] The camera device 10A may include a control unit 80. The control unit 80 may be arranged in the printed circuit board 50. The control unit 80 may be electrically connected to the coil 320 of the lens driving device 10. The control unit 80 may independently control the direction, intensity, and amplitude of the current supplied to the coil 320. The control unit 80 may control the lens driving device 10 to perform an autofocus function and / or an anti-shake correction function. In addition, the control unit 80 may perform autofocus feedback control and / or anti-shake correction feedback control on the lens driving device 10.

[0182] The camera apparatus 10A may include a connector 90. The connector 90 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 50. The connector 90 may include a port for electrically connecting to an external device.

[0183] Hereinafter, the optical device of this embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0184] Figure 29 is a perspective view of the optical device according to this embodiment; and Figure 30 is a perspective view of an optical device according to a modified embodiment.

[0185] Optical device 1 may include any one or more of a mobile phone, a cellular phone, a portable terminal, a mobile terminal, a smartphone, a smart tablet, a portable smart device, a digital camera, a laptop computer, a digital broadcast terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), and a navigation device. Optical device 1 may include any device for capturing an image or a photograph.

[0186] The optical device 1 may include a main body 20. The optical device 1 may include a camera device 10A. The camera device 10A may be arranged in the main body 20. The camera device 10A may photograph a subject. The optical device 1 may include a display. The display may be arranged in the main body 20. The display may output one or more of an image and a video photographed by the camera device 10A. The display may be arranged on a first surface of the main body 20. The camera device 10A may be arranged on one or more of the first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface of the main body 20. Figure 29 As shown, the camera device 10A may have three cameras arranged in a vertical direction. Figure 30 As shown, the camera device 10A-1 may have three cameras arranged in a horizontal direction.

[0187] In a modified embodiment, the image sensor 60 may be arranged in the holder 210. In this case, the image sensor 60 can move along the optical axis. When current is applied to the coil 320, the image sensor 60 can move along the optical axis through electromagnetic interaction between the coil 320 and the drive magnet 310. In this case, the lens can be arranged to be fixed. That is, in a modified embodiment, the lens is fixed, while the image sensor 60 can move along the optical axis. This allows the distance between the lens and the image sensor 60 to be varied, thus enabling autofocus (AF) functionality.

[0188] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without changing the technical concept or essential features of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. An automatic focus driving device, comprising: Fixed unit; a movable unit, the movable unit being arranged in the fixed unit; a first magnet and a coil configured to move the movable unit in the optical axis direction; a ball bearing, the ball bearing being arranged between the fixed unit and the movable unit; as well as a second magnet and a yoke, wherein the second magnet and the yoke have a mutual attraction, wherein the first magnet and the coil overlap each other in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and The ball is arranged between the second magnet and the yoke in the first direction.

2. The automatic focus driving device according to claim 1, wherein: The ball overlaps with the second magnet in the first direction, and The ball bearing overlaps with the yoke in the first direction.

3. The automatic focus driving device according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the fixed unit and the movable unit includes a groove in which the balls are arranged, and Wherein, the grooves are arranged along the optical axis direction.

4. The automatic focus driving device according to claim 1, wherein: The yoke does not overlap with the first magnet in the first direction.

5. The automatic focus driving device according to claim 1, wherein: The second magnet is spaced apart from the first magnet.

6. The automatic focus driving device according to claim 1, wherein: In the optical axis direction, the length of the second magnet is greater than the length of the first magnet.

7. The automatic focus driving device according to claim 1, wherein: In a second direction perpendicular to both the optical axis direction and the first direction, the length of the second magnet is shorter than the length of the first magnet.

8. The automatic focus driving device according to claim 1, wherein: The second magnet is arranged on the fixing unit, and Wherein, the yoke is arranged on the movable unit.

9. The automatic focus driving device according to claim 1, wherein: The first magnet is arranged on the movable unit, and Wherein, the coil is arranged on the fixing unit.

10. The autofocus driving device according to claim 1, comprising a substrate connecting the movable unit and the fixed unit, in, The first magnet is arranged on the fixing unit, The coil is arranged on the movable unit and is electrically connected to the substrate.

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