Camera module and camera actuator

Abstract

The camera module includes: a housing having an internal space; a lens module accommodated in the inner space of the housing and including a first lens barrel; and a camera actuator connected to the first lens barrel and configured to provide a driving force, in which the camera actuator includes: a first movable unit configured to move the first lens barrel in a first direction; a first driver including a first piezoelectric element, connected to the first movable unit, and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; and a magnet and a yoke disposed between the first movable unit and the housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following description relates to a camera module and a camera actuator. Background Art

[0002] A foldable camera module can include a reflectometer that reflects external light at 90 degrees and an optical system that allows the light refracted by the reflectometer to pass across the width or length of the mobile device. This foldable camera module can have sufficient distance between lenses to achieve high-magnification optical zoom while maintaining a slim profile.

[0003] Unlike related art methods that vertically stack sensors (such as CCDs and CMOS imaging devices) and lenses, the folded camera module uses a periscope structure, enabling high-magnification optical zoom without increasing the overall height. Furthermore, because the periscope structure differs from related art methods that vertically stack lenses, the folded camera module is advantageous in achieving a slimmer module compared to related art methods.

[0004] Key factors that significantly influence a camera's zoom performance include not only the specifications of the lenses that comprise the optical system but also the drive range of the optical system. Increasing the drive range of the optical system can improve zoom performance. In compact cameras equipped with zoom lenses, voice coil motor-type drive mechanisms are particularly useful for increasing the drive range of the optical system.

[0005] However, the voice coil motor-type drive mechanism used in related art as an optical system drive device for foldable camera modules is disadvantageous in terms of device miniaturization. Therefore, as an alternative to the voice coil motor-type drive mechanism of related art, piezoelectric drive mechanisms using piezoelectric elements have recently attracted attention. In piezoelectric drive mechanisms, applying a high-frequency pulse voltage to the piezoelectric element causes it to contract and expand, which in turn drives the optical system.

[0006] In such a piezoelectric type driving device, it is desirable to maintain the contact force between the driver including the piezoelectric element and the movable unit.

[0007] The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the present disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with respect to the present disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Aspects of the present disclosure may provide a camera module and a camera actuator that may be miniaturized and resistant to impact.

[0009] In a general aspect, a camera module includes: a housing having an internal space; a lens module accommodated in the internal space of the housing and including a first lens barrel; and a camera actuator connected to the first lens barrel and configured to provide a driving force, wherein the camera actuator includes: a first movable unit configured to move the first lens barrel in a first direction; a first driver including a first piezoelectric element connected to the first movable unit and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; and a magnet and a yoke arranged between the first movable unit and the housing in a second direction intersecting with the first direction.

[0010] The magnet may be provided on one surface of the first movable unit facing the housing, and the yoke may be provided to face the magnet in the second direction.

[0011] The yoke may extend in the first direction to include a portion overlapping the magnet in the second direction.

[0012] The camera actuator may further include: a second movable unit, arranged to face the first movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction and with the first lens barrel interposed between the second movable unit and the first movable unit; and at least one first rolling member, arranged on one side of the second movable unit, and the second movable unit may be configured to move the first lens barrel in the first direction using the driving force of the first driver.

[0013] The magnet may include a first magnet disposed on one surface of the first movable unit and a second magnet disposed on one surface of the second movable unit, and a size of the first magnet may be larger than a size of the second magnet.

[0014] The first rolling member may be a single ball member.

[0015] The first driver may further include a rod provided so that one end is connected to the first piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit, and the first and second magnets may be provided between the rod and the first rolling member along the third direction.

[0016] The first driver may further include: a rod configured so that one end is connected to the first piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit; and a friction portion configured to have higher wear resistance than the first movable unit and provided on a surface of the first movable unit facing the rod.

[0017] The lens module may further include a second lens barrel disposed on one side of the first lens barrel in the first direction and configured to be movable relative to the housing; and a third lens barrel disposed on the other side of the first lens barrel in the first direction and fixed to the housing.

[0018] The camera actuator may further include: a third movable unit, which is arranged on one side of the second lens barrel and configured to move the second lens barrel in a first direction; a fourth movable unit, which is arranged to face the third movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction and with the second lens barrel interposed between the fourth movable unit and the third movable unit; and a second driver, including a second piezoelectric element, connected to the third movable unit and configured to provide driving force to the third movable unit.

[0019] The camera module may further include at least one second rolling member provided on one side of the fourth movable unit.

[0020] The second driver may be disposed diagonally to the first driver with respect to a reference line parallel to the first direction.

[0021] The camera module may further include a reflection module disposed in front of the first lens barrel in the first direction and configured to change a path of incident light.

[0022] In another general aspect, a camera actuator includes: a first movable unit configured to move along a first direction; a driver including a piezoelectric element connected to the first movable unit and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; a yoke disposed on one side of the first movable unit in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a magnet disposed between the first movable unit and the yoke in the second direction.

[0023] The yoke may be disposed to face the magnet in the second direction.

[0024] The yoke may extend in the first direction to include a portion overlapping the magnet in the second direction.

[0025] The driver can be arranged on one side of the first movable unit in the second direction, and the camera actuator can also include: a second movable unit, arranged to face the first movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction; and at least one rolling member, arranged on one side of the second movable unit.

[0026] The magnet may include a first magnet disposed on one surface of the first movable unit; and a second magnet disposed on one surface of the second movable unit, and a size of the first magnet may be larger than that of the second magnet.

[0027] The driver may further include a rod configured so that one end is connected to the piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit, and the first magnet and the second magnet may be arranged between the rod and the at least one rolling member in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions.

[0028] The driver may further include a friction portion configured to have higher wear resistance than the first movable unit and provided on one surface of the first movable unit facing the rod.

[0029] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a concise form that will be further described in the Detailed Description below. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Exploded perspective view of the camera actuator shown in .

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A plan view of the configuration of a portion of the camera module is shown in FIG.

[0034] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a movable unit and a driver according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 6 is a plan view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 VII-VII' of the lens module shown in FIG.

[0037] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII' of the lens module shown in FIG.

[0038] Figure 9 is a plan view of a camera actuator according to another embodiment.

[0039] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a movable unit and a driver according to still another embodiment.

[0040] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a movable unit and a driver according to a modification of a camera module according to still another embodiment.

[0041] Throughout the drawings and detailed description, unless otherwise described, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For purposes of clarity, illustration, and convenience, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the relative sizes, proportions, and depictions of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Hereinafter, although examples of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that the examples are not limited thereto.

[0043] The following detailed description is provided to help the reader gain a comprehensive understanding of the methods, devices and / or systems described herein. However, various changes, modifications and equivalents of the methods, devices and / or systems described herein will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure. For example, the order of operations described herein is merely an example, and except for operations that must occur in a specific order, it is not limited to the order set forth herein, but can be changed, which will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure. In addition, for the sake of clarity and brevity, descriptions of features that are well known in the art may be omitted.

[0044] The features described herein may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the examples described herein are provided merely to illustrate some of the many possible ways to implement the methods, devices, and / or systems described herein that will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure.

[0045] Throughout the specification, when an element such as a layer, a region, or a substrate is described as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element, the element may be directly “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” the other element, or one or more other elements may be present between the element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is described as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element, there are no other elements between the element and the other element.

[0046] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items; similarly, "at least one" includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items.

[0047] Although terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used herein to describe various members, components, regions, layers, or portions, these members, components, regions, layers, or portions are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish one member, component, region, layer, or portion from another member, component, region, layer, or portion. Thus, without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein, a first member, first component, first region, first layer, or first portion mentioned in these examples may also be referred to as a second member, second component, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0048] Spatially relative terms such as "above," "above," "below," and "below" may be used herein for descriptive convenience to describe the relationship of one element relative to another element as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to covering the orientations depicted in the accompanying drawings, these spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, an element described as being "above" or "above" relative to another element will be "below" or "below" relative to the other element. Thus, depending on the spatial orientation of the device, the term "above" covers both orientations of "above" and "below." The device may also be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0049] The terms used herein are only used to describe various examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include plural forms as well. The terms "include," "comprising," and "having" indicate the presence of the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0050] Due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, the shapes shown in the drawings may vary. Therefore, the examples described herein are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the drawings but include variations in shape that occur during manufacturing.

[0051] It should be noted that herein, use of the word “may” with respect to an example, for example, regarding what an example may include or implement, means that there is at least one example that includes or implements such feature, and all examples are not limited thereto.

[0052] The features of the examples described herein may be combined in various ways that will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure. In addition, although the examples described herein have various configurations, other configurations that will be apparent after understanding the present disclosure are also possible.

[0053] For reference, in a three-axis coordinate system, the Z axis may refer to the direction in which light passes through the lens (ie, the optical axis direction), the X axis may refer to the direction perpendicular to the Z axis, and the Y axis may refer to the direction perpendicular to the Z axis and the X axis.

[0054] Hereinafter, a configuration will be described as an example in which two pairs of movable units are arranged spaced apart in the Z-axis direction in a single camera actuator, and a driver is arranged corresponding to each of the two pairs of movable units. This is merely one embodiment for describing the present invention, and the number of movable units and drivers is not limited to the illustrative form shown in the drawings.

[0055] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a camera module and a camera actuator that can be miniaturized and resistant to impact.

[0056] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0057] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a camera module 1000 according to an embodiment may include a reflection module 1100 , a lens module 1200 , a camera actuator 100 , and an image sensor module (not shown) provided in a housing 1010 having an internal space.

[0058] The camera module 1000 according to the embodiment may include a cover 1020 covering the housing 1010 from the top in the Y-axis direction. The reflective module 1100 may be configured to change the direction of light. For example, light may be incident through the opening portion 1021 of the cover 1020, and the direction of the incident light may be changed by the reflective module 1100 to be directed toward the lens module 1200.

[0059] The reflection module 1100 may include a rotating bracket 1110 supported toward the housing 1010 , an optical path changing member 1120 mounted on the rotating bracket 1110 , and a reflection driver (not shown) that moves the rotating bracket 1110 .

[0060] The optical path changing member 1120 can change the optical path (e.g., reflect light). The optical path changing member 1120 may include a reflector, a prism, a beam splitter, etc. The path of light incident on the camera module 1000 in the Y-axis direction can be changed by the reflective module 1100 so as to be substantially aligned with the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). The light with the changed path can then be incident on the lens module 1200.

[0061] The reflection module 1100 may include a rotating bracket 1110. The housing 1010 and the rotating bracket 1110 facing the housing 1010 may be provided with a first magnetic body (not shown) and a second magnetic body (not shown) on their facing surfaces, respectively. The rotating bracket 1110 may be in close contact with the housing 1010 due to the attraction between the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body.

[0062] Here, the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body may be a pulling yoke and a pulling magnet. For example, the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body may selectively be a pulling yoke and a pulling magnet, or both the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body may be a pulling magnet.

[0063] As an example, the reflection driver may include a plurality of magnets and a plurality of coils arranged to face the plurality of magnets.

[0064] The lens module 1200 may be accommodated in the inner space of the housing 1010. The lens module 1200 may include at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230. The camera actuator 100 may be connected to the lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230 to provide driving force thereto.

[0065] Each of the at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230 may include at least one lens through which light whose traveling direction is changed by the reflection module 1100 passes. In an embodiment, three lens barrels are provided. However, there may be one or more lens barrels.

[0066] The camera actuator 100 may include at least one movable unit 110 configured to move at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230 in the Z-axis direction, at least one driver 120 connected to the movable unit 110 and configured to provide a driving force to the movable unit 110, a magnet 130 arranged between the movable unit 110 and the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction, and a yoke 140 arranged between the movable unit 110 and the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. In addition, the camera actuator 100 may include at least one rolling member 150 arranged between the at least one movable unit 110 and the housing 1010. Figure 3, the driver 120 may include piezoelectric elements 121 a and 122 a.

[0067] The movement of at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230 in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction) can realize an autofocus (AF) function and / or a zoom function. As an example, the at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230 may include a first lens barrel 1210, a second lens barrel 1220, and a third lens barrel 1230. In an embodiment, all three lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230 can be moved in the optical axis direction, or one of the three lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230 can be fixed so as not to move in the optical axis direction. For example, the AF function and the zoom function can be realized by the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220 as movable lens barrels.

[0068] The driver 120 may include a first driver 121 and a second driver 122. Figure 3 , the first driver 121 may include a first piezoelectric element 121a and a first rod 121b located on one side of the first piezoelectric element 121a. Figure 3 The second driver 122 may include a second piezoelectric element 122a and a second rod 122b located on one side of the second piezoelectric element 122a. The first rod 121b may move linearly according to the contraction and expansion of the first piezoelectric element 121a. The second rod 122b may move linearly according to the contraction and expansion of the second piezoelectric element 122a. At least one movable unit 110 may be connected to the first rod 121b or the second rod 122b to receive the driving force.

[0069] The first lens barrel 1210, the second lens barrel 1220, and the third lens barrel 1230 may be arranged on the bottom surface of the housing 1010. For example, the first lens barrel 1210 may be supported on the bottom surface of the housing 1010 by at least one first rolling member 151 and a first rod 121 b. The second lens barrel 1220 may be supported on the bottom surface of the housing 1010 by at least one second rolling member 152 and a second rod 122 b.

[0070] The image sensor module may include an image sensor (not shown) that converts light passing through the lens into an electrical signal and a printed circuit board (not shown) on which the image sensor is mounted. In addition, the image sensor module may include an optical filter (not shown) that filters light incident through the lens module 1200. The optical filter may be an infrared cutoff filter.

[0071] In the internal space of the housing 1010, the reflection module 1100 may be disposed in front of the lens module 1200 in the Z-axis direction, and the image sensor module may be disposed behind the lens module 1200 in the Z-axis direction. The reflection module 1100, the lens module 1200, and the image sensor module may be sequentially arranged from one side toward the other side in the housing 1010 in the Z-axis direction.

[0072] The camera module 1000 of the embodiment may include a structure in which a reflection module 1100, a lens module 1200, and an image sensor module are provided in a housing 1010. However, even if not shown in the drawings, a structure other than the reflection module 1100, the lens module 1200, etc. shown in the drawings may be included.

[0073] The housing 1010 may be covered by a cover 1020 so that light is cut off and the interior space is not visible. The cover 1020 has an opening portion 1021 through which light is incident. The light incident through the opening portion 1021 changes its traveling direction by the reflection module 1100 and is incident on the lens module 1200. The cover 1020 may be integrally provided to cover the entire housing 1010, or may be provided as separate components to cover the reflection module 1100 and the lens module 1200 separately.

[0074] In an embodiment, the housing 1010 may be an integral structure, or may have a structure including a plurality of housings that are different for each module. When each configuration is described in detail below, the description is based on the structure in which the housing 1010 is an integral structure, and even if the housing is not described separately as a separate structure, all structures in which the housing is a separate structure are also included in the scope of the present disclosure.

[0075] In the housing 1010, the space for the lens module 1200 and the space for the reflector module 1100 may be separated from each other by a protruding wall. The protruding wall may be configured to protrude from the sidewalls of the housing 1010 into the interior space on both sides. The housing 1010 may include connection terminals for connecting the camera actuator 100 and the controller. The connection terminals may be inserted into the interior of the housing 1010. The controller may include an integrated circuit.

[0076] Below, reference Figures 3 to 8 , the camera actuator 100 according to an embodiment will be described in more detail.

[0077] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Exploded perspective view of the camera actuator shown in . Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A plan view of the configuration of a portion of the camera module is shown in FIG. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a movable unit and a driver according to an embodiment. Figure 6 is a plan view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment. Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 VII-VII' of the lens module shown in FIG. Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII' of the lens module shown in FIG.

[0078] refer to Figures 3 to 6 The camera actuator 100 according to the embodiment may include at least one movable unit 110. As an example, the camera actuator 100 according to the embodiment may include a first movable unit 111, a second movable unit 112, a third movable unit 113, and a fourth movable unit 114. The movable unit 110 is configured to move at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230, and may be referred to as, for example, a carrier, a mover, a lens holder, or the like.

[0079] The first movable unit 111 may be configured to move along the Z-axis direction. As an example, the first movable unit 111 may be moved along the Z-axis direction by receiving a driving force from the first driver 121 described below. The first movable unit 111 may be located on one side of the first lens barrel 1210 in the X-axis direction.

[0080] The second movable unit 112 may be located on the other side of the first lens barrel 1210 in the X-axis direction. The second movable unit 112 may be arranged to face the first movable unit 111 in the X-axis direction with the first lens barrel 1210 interposed therebetween. The second movable unit 112 may be connected to the first movable unit 111 via the first lens barrel 1210 and may thus receive a driving force from the first driver 121. The second movable unit 112 may be configured to move the first lens barrel 1210 in the Z-axis direction using the driving force of the first driver 121.

[0081] The third movable unit 113 may be configured to move along the Z-axis direction. As an example, the third movable unit 113 may be movable along the Z-axis direction by receiving a driving force from the second driver 122 described below. The third movable unit 113 may be located on one side of the second lens barrel 1220 in the X-axis direction. The third movable unit 113 may be arranged on one side of the second lens barrel 1220 and configured to move the second lens barrel 1220 in the Z-axis direction.

[0082] The fourth movable unit 114 may be located on the other side of the second lens barrel 1220 in the X-axis direction. The fourth movable unit 114 may be arranged to face the third movable unit 113 in the X-axis direction with the second lens barrel 1220 interposed therebetween. The fourth movable unit 114 may be connected to the third movable unit 113 via the second lens barrel 1220 and may therefore receive a driving force from the second driver 122. The fourth movable unit 114 may be configured to move the second lens barrel 1220 in the Z-axis direction using the driving force of the second driver 122.

[0083] The first magnet 131 may be located on a surface of the first movable unit 111 that faces the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. The first magnet 131 may be arranged on a surface of the first movable unit 111 in the Y-axis direction. The second magnet 132 may be located on a surface of the second movable unit 112 that faces the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. The second magnet 132 may be arranged on a surface of the second movable unit 112 in the Y-axis direction. The size of the first magnet 131 may be larger than the size of the second magnet 132. As an example, the length of the first magnet 131 in the Z-axis direction may be larger than the length of the second magnet 132 in the Z-axis direction. As another example, the length of the first magnet 131 in the Y-axis direction may be larger than the length of the second magnet 132 in the Y-axis direction. In this case, the first rolling member 151 may be provided as a single member. The second rolling member 152 may be provided as a single member.

[0084] In order to realize the zoom camera function, the first lens barrel 1210 may need to move a long distance in the optical axis direction. Therefore, the first magnet 131 and the second magnet 132 may be magnetized with at least two magnetic poles so as to have an N pole and an S pole in sequence in the optical axis direction, respectively.

[0085] The third magnet 133 may be located on a surface of the third movable unit 113 that faces the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. The third magnet 133 may be arranged on a surface of the second movable unit 112 in the Y-axis direction. The fourth magnet 134 may be located on a surface of the fourth movable unit 114 that faces the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. The fourth magnet 134 may be arranged on a surface of the fourth movable unit 114 in the Y-axis direction. The size of the third magnet 133 may be larger than the size of the fourth magnet 134. As an example, the length of the third magnet 133 in the Z-axis direction may be larger than the length of the fourth magnet 134 in the Z-axis direction. As another example, the length of the third magnet 133 in the Y-axis direction may be larger than the length of the fourth magnet 134 in the Y-axis direction.

[0086] To achieve a zoom camera function, the second lens barrel 1220 may need to move a long distance in the optical axis direction. Therefore, the third magnet 133 and the fourth magnet 134 may be magnetized with at least two magnetic poles to have an N pole and an S pole in sequence in the optical axis direction, respectively.

[0087] The first lens barrel 1210 may be fixed to the first movable unit 111 and disposed in the housing 1010 so as to be movable in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). The first lens barrel 1210 may be fixed to the second movable unit 112 and disposed in the housing 1010 so as to be movable in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0088] The second lens barrel 1220 may be arranged on one side of the first lens barrel 1210 in the Z-axis direction. The second lens barrel 1220 may be configured to be movable relative to the housing 1010. The second lens barrel 1220 may be fixed to the third movable unit 113 and disposed in the housing 1010 so as to be movable in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). The second lens barrel 1220 may be fixed to the fourth movable unit 114 and disposed in the housing 1010 so as to be movable in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0089] The third lens barrel 1230 may be disposed on the other side of the first lens barrel 1210 in the Z-axis direction. The third lens barrel 1230 may be fixed to the housing 1010. The third lens barrel 1230 may be fixed to the first fixing bracket 161 and the second fixing bracket 162 and disposed in the housing 1010.

[0090] The camera actuator 100 according to the embodiment may include at least one driver 120. As an example, the camera actuator 100 according to the embodiment may include a first movable unit 111, a second movable unit 112, a third movable unit 113, and a fourth movable unit 114.

[0091] The first driver 121 may be disposed on one side of the first movable unit 111 in the Y-axis direction. The first driver 121 may be connected to the first movable unit 111 and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit 111. The first driver 121 may be located on one side of the first magnet 131 in the X-axis direction.

[0092] refer to Figures 3 to 6, the first driver 121 may include a first piezoelectric element 121a, a first rod 121b and a first fixing member 121c. The first driver 121 may be a piezoelectric actuator. When a voltage is applied, the first piezoelectric element 121a may contract or expand in the Z-axis direction. The first piezoelectric element 121a may be a piezoelectric ceramic. The first rod 121b may be coupled to the first piezoelectric element 121a. The first rod 121b may extend in the Z-axis direction. The first rod 121b may move in the Z-axis direction according to the contraction or expansion of the first piezoelectric element 121a. This movement of the first rod 121b transmits a driving force to the first movable unit 111, enabling it to move the first movable unit 111 and the first lens barrel 1210 in the Z-axis direction.

[0093] As an example, the first movable unit 111 can be connected to a first rod 121b that is elongated in the Z-axis direction. A first piezoelectric element 121a having the first rod 121b arranged at one end can be fixed to the housing 1010 by a first fixing member 121c. One end of the first rod 121b can be connected to the first piezoelectric element 121a, and the other end can be connected to the first movable unit 111. The first piezoelectric element 121a can generate a force that pushes or pulls the first rod 121b in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the first movable unit 111 connected to the first rod 121b and the first lens barrel 1210 fixed to the first movable unit 111 can move in the Z-axis direction.

[0094] The second driver 122 may be arranged on one side of the third movable unit 113 in the Y-axis direction. The second driver 122 may be connected to the third movable unit 113 and may be configured to provide a driving force to the third movable unit 113. The second driver 122 may be located on one side of the third magnet 133 in the X-axis direction. The second driver 122 may be arranged diagonally to the first driver 121 with respect to a reference line parallel to the Z-axis direction.

[0095] refer to Figures 3 to 6The structure described for the first driver 121 can also be applied to the second driver 122. In other words, the second driver 122 may include a second piezoelectric element 122a, a second rod 122b, and a second fixing member 122c. The second driver 122 may be a piezoelectric actuator. When a voltage is applied, the second piezoelectric element 122a may contract or expand in the Z-axis direction. The second piezoelectric element 122a may be a piezoelectric ceramic. The second rod 122b may be coupled to the second piezoelectric element 122a. The second rod 122b may extend in the Z-axis direction. The second rod 122b may move in the Z-axis direction according to the contraction or expansion of the second piezoelectric element 122a. This movement of the second rod 122b transmits a driving force to the third movable unit 113, enabling it to move the third movable unit 113 and the second lens barrel 1220 in the Z-axis direction.

[0096] As an example, the third movable unit 113 can be connected to a second rod 122b that is elongated in the Z-axis direction. A second piezoelectric element 122a, with the second rod 122b arranged at one end, can be fixed to the housing 1010 via a second fixing member 122c. One end of the second rod 122b can be connected to the second piezoelectric element 122a, and the other end can be connected to the third movable unit 113. The second piezoelectric element 122a can generate a force that pushes or pulls the second rod 122b in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the third movable unit 113 connected to the second rod 122b and the second lens barrel 1220 fixed to the third movable unit 113 can move in the Z-axis direction.

[0097] The yoke 140 may be arranged to face the first magnet 131 in the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 may be arranged on one side of the first movable unit 111 in the Y-axis direction. The first magnet 131 may be arranged between the first movable unit 111 and the yoke 140 along the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 may be arranged to face the first magnet 131 in the Y-axis direction.

[0098] The yoke 140 may be arranged to face the second magnet 132 in the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 may be arranged on one side of the second movable unit 112 in the Y-axis direction. The second magnet 132 may be arranged between the second movable unit 112 and the yoke 140 along the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 may be arranged to face the second magnet 132 in the Y-axis direction.

[0099] The yoke 140 may be arranged to face the third magnet 133 in the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 may be arranged on one side of the third movable unit 113 in the Y-axis direction. The third magnet 133 may be arranged between the third movable unit 113 and the yoke 140 along the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 may be arranged to face the third magnet 133 in the Y-axis direction.

[0100] The yoke 140 may be arranged to face the fourth magnet 134 in the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 may be arranged on one side of the fourth movable unit 114 in the Y-axis direction. The fourth magnet 134 may be arranged between the fourth movable unit 114 and the yoke 140 along the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 may be arranged to face the fourth magnet 134 in the Y-axis direction.

[0101] The yoke 140 may extend in the Z-axis direction so as to include a portion overlapping at least one of the first magnet 131 , the second magnet 132 , the third magnet 133 , and the fourth magnet 134 in the Y-axis direction.

[0102] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the yoke 140 is shown as an expanded plate-like shape so as to overlap with the first movable unit 111, the second movable unit 112, the third movable unit 113, and the fourth movable unit 114 in the Y-axis direction, but is not limited thereto, and regarding the shape of the yoke 140, any shape is possible that extends in the Z-axis direction and can be arranged to face each of the first movable unit 111, the second movable unit 112, the third movable unit 113, and the fourth movable unit 114. For example, a plurality of yokes may be arranged to face each of the first movable unit 111, the second movable unit 112, the third movable unit 113, and the fourth movable unit 114, respectively.

[0103] The yoke 140 may be located between the first movable unit 111 and the bottom surface of the housing 1010. The first movable unit 111 may be pressed in a direction (Y-axis direction) toward the bottom surface of the housing 1010 by the magnetic force acting between the yoke 140 and the first magnet 131. Thus, the first movable unit 111 may maintain a state of contact with the first driver 121. The first movable unit 111 may be configured to slide on the upper portion of the first rod 121b and roll on the upper portion of the first rolling member 151.

[0104] The first magnet 131 may be arranged along the Y-axis direction between the first movable unit 111 and the housing 1010. The first magnet 131 may be arranged along the Y-axis direction between the first movable unit 111 and the yoke 140. The second magnet 132 may be arranged along the Y-axis direction between the second movable unit 112 and the housing 1010. The second magnet 132 may be arranged along the Y-axis direction between the second movable unit 112 and the yoke 140.

[0105] The yoke 140 may be located between the third movable unit 113 and the bottom surface of the housing 1010. The third movable unit 113 may be pressed in a direction (Y-axis direction) toward the bottom surface of the housing 1010 by the magnetic force acting between the yoke 140 and the third magnet 133. Therefore, the third movable unit 113 may maintain a state of contact with the second driver 122. The third movable unit 113 may be configured to slide on the upper portion of the second rod 122b and roll on the upper portion of the second rolling member 152.

[0106] The third magnet 133 may be arranged along the Y-axis direction between the third movable unit 113 and the housing 1010. The third magnet 133 may be arranged along the Y-axis direction between the third movable unit 113 and the yoke 140. The fourth magnet 134 may be arranged along the Y-axis direction between the fourth movable unit 114 and the housing 1010. The fourth magnet 134 may be arranged along the Y-axis direction between the fourth movable unit 114 and the yoke 140.

[0107] refer to Figure 4 The housing 1010 may include a first guide groove 1010a, and the first rod 121b is arranged on one side of the first driver 121 in the Y-axis direction in the first guide groove 1010a. The first rod 121b may be placed in the first guide groove 1010a and arranged between the first movable unit 111 and the housing 1010. The first guide groove 1010a may extend in the Z-axis direction. The first guide groove 1010a may have various cross-sectional shapes, such as a circular shape, a V-shape, or a polygonal shape.

[0108] At least one first rolling member 151 may be arranged on one side of the second movable unit 112 in the Y-axis direction. The first rolling member 151 may be arranged in a second guide groove 1010b extending in the optical axis direction on the bottom surface of the housing 1010. The housing 1010 may have a second guide groove 1010b, in which the first rolling member 151 is arranged, so that the second movable unit 112 can be driven in the Z-axis direction. The first rolling member 151 may be accommodated in the second guide groove 1010b and arranged between the second movable unit 112 and the housing 1010. The second guide groove 1010b may extend in the Z-axis direction. The second guide groove 1010b may have various cross-sectional shapes, such as a circular shape, a V-shape, or a polygonal shape.

[0109] The third guide groove 1010c, in which the second rod 122b is arranged, can be located on one side of the second driver 122 in the Y-axis direction. The second rod 122b can be placed in the third guide groove 1010c and arranged between the third movable unit 113 and the housing 1010. The third guide groove 1010c can extend in the Z-axis direction. The third guide groove 1010c can have various cross-sectional shapes, such as circular, V-shaped, or polygonal. The third guide groove 1010c can be positioned diagonally to the first guide groove 1010a relative to a reference line parallel to the Z-axis direction.

[0110] The second rolling member 152 may be arranged on one side of the fourth movable unit 114 in the Y-axis direction. The second rolling member 152 may be arranged in a fourth guide groove 1010d extending in the optical axis direction on the bottom surface of the housing 1010. The housing 1010 may have a fourth guide groove 1010d, and the second rolling member 152 may be arranged in the fourth guide groove 1010d, so that the fourth movable unit 114 can be driven in the Z-axis direction. The second rolling member 152 may be accommodated in the fourth guide groove 1010d and arranged between the fourth movable unit 114 and the housing 1010. The fourth guide groove 1010d may extend in the Z-axis direction. The fourth guide groove 1010d may have various cross-sectional shapes, such as a circular shape, a V-shape, or a polygonal shape.

[0111] refer to Figure 7 , the first magnet 131 and the second magnet 132 may be arranged between the first rod 121b and the first rolling member 151 along the X-axis direction. Figure 8 , the third magnet 133 and the fourth magnet 134 may be disposed between the second rod 122 b and the second rolling member 152 along the X-axis direction.

[0112] According to the camera module based on the above-mentioned embodiment, the contact force between the driver and the movable unit is maintained by the attraction between the magnet and the yoke. Therefore, a miniaturized camera actuator structure can be provided, which is strong against physical shocks, easily recovers even after being deformed by external shocks, and is not affected by external magnetic fields, which is conducive to maintaining quality. In addition, according to the camera module based on the above-mentioned embodiment, the size of the magnet arranged on one surface of the movable unit connected to the driver is formed to be larger than the size of the magnet arranged on one surface of the movable unit facing the previous magnet in the X-axis direction. Therefore, even when the rolling member is provided as a single one, the desired driving force can be effectively provided, thereby minimizing the number of components of the camera actuator. In addition, the magnet is arranged between the rod and the rolling member to prevent tilting due to uneven magnetic force, and a plurality of drivers are arranged in a diagonal direction to move the movable unit more smoothly.

[0113] Below, we will refer to Figure 9 A camera module according to another embodiment is described.

[0114] Figure 9 is a plan view of a camera actuator according to another embodiment.

[0115] Figure 9 1 is a plan view of a camera actuator according to another embodiment. Detailed descriptions of the same components will be omitted. Except for the size of the magnet and the number of rolling members, Figure 9 The camera actuator 100 can be used with Figure 6 The camera actuator 100 is similar.

[0116] refer to Figure 9 , and according to Figures 3 to 8 Compared to the camera module 1000 of the embodiment shown in , the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment may include a plurality of first rolling members 151 and a plurality of second rolling members 152, and the sizes of the first magnet 131, the second magnet 132, the third magnet 133, and the fourth magnet 134 may be constant. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. As in the camera module 1000 according to the above-described embodiment, the sizes of the first magnet 131, the second magnet 132, the third magnet 133, and the fourth magnet 134 may be changed in various ways, including a case where the size of the first magnet 131 is larger than the size of the second magnet 132 and a case where the size of the third magnet 133 is larger than the size of the fourth magnet 134.

[0117] According to the camera module of another embodiment described above, the manufacturing cost can be reduced by using multiple magnets of constant size, and the restraining force can be increased by using multiple rolling members. In addition, the driving stability can be improved by using a three-point support structure combining a drive rod and multiple rolling members.

[0118] Below, we will refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 A camera module according to another embodiment is described.

[0119] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a movable unit and a driver according to yet another embodiment, and Figure 11 is a perspective view of a movable unit and a driver according to a modification of a camera module according to still another embodiment.

[0120] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The camera module 1000 according to the embodiment is different from the camera module 1000 according to the reference Figures 3 to 8 The camera module 1000 of the embodiment described is similar. Detailed description of the same components will be omitted. Except for the shape of the friction portion 170 and the peripheral portion, Figure 10 and Figure 11 The camera actuator 100 can be used with Figures 3 to 8 The camera actuator 100 is similar.

[0121] In addition, the following references Figure 10 and Figure 11 The first movable unit 111 and the first driver 121 are described, but this example and the following description can also be applied to the third movable unit 113 and the second driver 122 .

[0122] refer to Figure 10 , and according to Figures 3 to 8 Compared to the camera module 1000 of the embodiment shown in FIG, in the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment, the first actuator 121 may further include a friction portion 170 arranged on one surface of the first movable unit 111 facing the first rod 121 b. The friction portion 170 may be configured to have a higher wear resistance than the first movable unit 111. As an example, the friction portion 170 may be formed of metal. Similarly, although not shown, the friction portion 170 may be arranged on one surface of the third movable unit 113 facing the second rod 122 b.

[0123] refer to Figure 11 In the camera module 1000 according to the modification, the friction portion 170 may be at least partially embedded in one surface of the first movable unit 111 facing the first rod 121b. The friction portion 170 may be formed together with the first movable unit 111 using an insert injection molding process. Similarly, although not shown, the friction portion 170 may be at least partially embedded in one surface of the third movable unit 113 facing the second rod 122b.

[0124] According to the camera module of another embodiment described above, it is possible to prevent one surface of the movable unit that contacts the driver from being worn, thereby improving the durability of the camera actuator.

[0125] In one or more embodiments of the camera module and camera actuator, the force between the piezoelectric element and the magnetic yoke is used to maintain contact between the driving body and the movable body. This allows for a compact camera structure that is robust against physical shock, easily recovers even after deformation due to external impact, and is unaffected by external magnetic fields, which contributes to maintaining quality.

[0126] Although specific examples have been shown and described above, it will be apparent after understanding this disclosure that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein are to be understood in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. The description of features or aspects in each example should be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Appropriate results may still be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described systems, architectures, devices, or circuits are combined in different ways and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited by the specific embodiments, but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be understood to be included in this disclosure.

Claims

1. Camera module, including: a housing having an interior space; a lens module housed in the interior space of the housing and comprising a first lens barrel; as well as a camera actuator connected to the first lens barrel and configured to provide a driving force, the camera actuator comprising: a first movable unit configured to move the first lens barrel in a first direction; a first driver including a first piezoelectric element, connected to the first movable unit, and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; and a magnet and a yoke disposed between the first movable unit and the housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction, Wherein, the magnet is configured to be magnetized with at least two magnetic poles.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The magnet is provided on one surface of the first movable unit facing the housing, and Wherein, the yoke is arranged to face the magnet in the second direction.

3. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The yoke extends in the first direction to include a portion overlapping the magnet in the second direction.

4. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The camera actuator further comprises: a second movable unit disposed to face the first movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction with the first lens barrel interposed therebetween; and at least one first rolling member provided on one side of the second movable unit, and wherein the second movable unit is configured to move the first lens barrel in the first direction using the driving force of the first actuator.

5. The camera module according to claim 4, wherein: The magnet comprises: a first magnet provided on one surface of the first movable unit; and a second magnet provided on one surface of the second movable unit, and Wherein, the size of the first magnet is larger than the size of the second magnet.

6. The camera module according to claim 5, wherein: The first rolling member is a single ball member.

7. The camera module according to claim 5, wherein: The first driver further includes: a rod configured to connect one end to the first piezoelectric element and the other end to the first movable unit, and The first magnet and the second magnet are disposed between the rod and the first rolling member along the third direction.

8. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The first driver further includes: a rod provided so that one end is connected to the first piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit; and The friction portion is configured to have higher wear resistance than the first movable unit and is provided on one surface of the first movable unit facing the rod.

9. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein: The lens module further includes: a second lens barrel provided on one side of the first lens barrel in the first direction and configured to be movable relative to the housing; and A third lens barrel is provided on the other side of the first lens barrel in the first direction and is fixed to the housing.

10. The camera module according to claim 9, wherein: The camera actuator further comprises: a third movable unit provided on one side of the second lens barrel and configured to move the second lens barrel in the first direction; a fourth movable unit disposed to face the third movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction with the second lens barrel interposed therebetween; and A second driver, including a second piezoelectric element, is connected to the third movable unit and is configured to provide a driving force to the third movable unit. 11 . The camera module of claim 10 , further comprising at least one second rolling member provided on one side of the fourth movable unit.

12. The camera module according to claim 11, wherein: The second driver is disposed diagonally to the first driver with respect to a reference line parallel to the first direction. 13 . The camera module of claim 1 , further comprising a reflection module disposed in front of the first lens barrel in the first direction and configured to change a path of incident light.

14. Camera actuator, comprising: a first movable unit configured to move along a first direction; a driver including a piezoelectric element, connected to the first movable unit, and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; a yoke provided on one side of the first movable unit in a second direction intersecting the first direction; as well as A magnet is provided between the first movable unit and the yoke in the second direction and is configured to be magnetized with at least two magnetic poles.

15. The camera actuator according to claim 14, wherein: The yoke is disposed to face the magnet in the second direction.

16. The camera actuator according to claim 14, wherein: The yoke extends in the first direction to include a portion overlapping the magnet in the second direction.

17. The camera actuator according to claim 14, wherein: The driver is provided on one side of the first movable unit in the second direction, and Wherein, the camera actuator further includes: a second movable unit disposed to face the first movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction; and At least one rolling member is provided on one side of the second movable unit.

18. The camera actuator according to claim 17, wherein: The magnet comprises: a first magnet provided on one surface of the first movable unit; and a second magnet provided on one surface of the second movable unit, and Wherein, the size of the first magnet is larger than the size of the second magnet.

19. The camera actuator according to claim 18, wherein: The driver further includes a rod provided so that one end is connected to the piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit, and The first magnet and the second magnet are disposed between the rod and the at least one rolling member along the third direction.

20. The camera actuator according to claim 19, wherein: The driver further includes a friction portion configured to have higher wear resistance than the first movable unit and provided on one surface of the first movable unit facing the rod.

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