Camera module

Abstract

The camera module includes: a housing; a movable body configured to move in an optical axis direction of the housing; a reinforcing member integrally formed on one surface of the movable body and configured to increase rigidity of the movable body; and a first buffer member formed in the reinforcing member and configured to reduce an impact force between the housing and the movable body.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0015811, filed on February 10, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The following description pertains to the camera module. Background Technology

[0004] A camera module mounted on a portable terminal can be configured to perform focus adjustment (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) drives. For example, the camera module can be configured to move the lens module in the direction of the optical axis and in the direction intersecting the optical axis. The lens module can be held in place within the camera module by elastic members or magnetic force. For example, the lens module can be held at a constant height from the bottom of the housing by multiple steel wires, or by magnets and coils used for AF or OIS drives. However, since the above structures may not be able to suppress vibrations of the lens module caused by external impacts, internal noise and malfunctions of the camera module may occur due to lens module vibrations. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The summary portion of this invention is intended to provide a brief overview of the chosen inventive concepts, which will be further described in the detailed description portion below. This summary portion is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] In one general aspect, the camera module includes: a housing; a movable body configured to move in the direction of the optical axis of the housing; a reinforcing member integrally formed on a surface of the movable body and configured to increase the rigidity of the movable body; and a first buffer member formed in the reinforcing member and configured to reduce the impact force between the housing and the movable body.

[0007] The camera module may also include fastening holes formed in the reinforcing member, the fastening holes being configured to assemble with the first buffer member.

[0008] The movable body may include: a first frame configured to move relative to the housing in the direction of the optical axis; a second frame disposed on the first frame and configured to move relative to the first frame in a first direction intersecting the optical axis; and a third frame disposed on the second frame and configured to move relative to the second frame in a second direction intersecting the optical axis.

[0009] The camera module may include a cover member configured to engage with the first frame after the second and third frames are installed, such that the second and third frames do not detach from the first frame.

[0010] The camera module may include a second buffer member formed on the cover member.

[0011] The camera module may include a ball support, which is disposed between the first frame and the second frame, and between the second frame and the third frame.

[0012] The camera module may include: a first drive unit configured to move a first frame in the direction of the optical axis; and a second drive unit configured to move a second frame and a third frame in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis.

[0013] The first driving unit may include: a first driving coil disposed on a first surface of the housing; and a first driving magnet disposed on a first surface of the first frame.

[0014] The second driving unit may include: a second driving coil, respectively disposed on the second surface and the third surface of the housing; and a second driving magnet, respectively disposed on the second surface and the third surface of the third frame.

[0015] The camera module may include a substrate, on which a first drive coil and a second drive coil are disposed, and the substrate may be configured to surround a first surface of a housing, a second surface of a housing, and a third surface of a housing.

[0016] In one general aspect, the camera module includes: a housing; a movable body configured to move in the direction of the optical axis of the housing; a first drive unit configured to move the movable body in the direction of the optical axis; a second drive unit configured to move portions of the movable body in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis; an auxiliary yoke integrally formed on the movable body and configured to interact with the first drive unit and the second drive unit to move the movable body based on the first drive unit and the second drive unit; and a first buffer member formed on the movable body and configured to reduce the impact force between the housing and the movable body.

[0017] The camera module may include a reinforcing member integrally formed on the movable body and configured to have a fastening hole that engages with the first buffer member.

[0018] The camera module may also include a first ball support disposed between the housing and the movable body.

[0019] The movable body may include: a first frame configured to move relative to the housing in the direction of the optical axis; a second frame disposed on the first frame and configured to move relative to the first frame in a first direction intersecting the optical axis; and a third frame disposed on the second frame and configured to move relative to the second frame in a second direction intersecting the optical axis.

[0020] The camera module may include a second buffer member disposed between the first frame and the second frame, and between the second frame and the third frame.

[0021] In one general aspect, the camera module includes: a housing; a first frame configured to move relative to the housing in a direction of an optical axis; a second frame disposed on the first frame and configured to move relative to the first frame in a first direction intersecting the optical axis; a third frame disposed on the second frame and configured to move relative to the second frame in a second direction intersecting the optical axis; a cover member configured to join the second frame and the third frame to the first frame; and one or more first buffer members formed in the cover member and configured to reduce the impact force between the housing and the first frame, the second frame, and the third frame.

[0022] The camera module may include: a reinforcing member integrally formed on the first frame; and one or more second buffer members formed in the reinforcing member and configured to reduce the impact force between the first frame and the housing.

[0023] The camera module may include: a first driving unit configured to drive a first frame in the direction of the optical axis; a second driving unit configured to drive a second frame in the first direction; and a third driving unit configured to drive a third frame in the second direction.

[0024] The third frame can also be configured to move in the direction of the optical axis as the first frame moves in the direction of the optical axis.

[0025] Reducing impact force may include absorbing the impact force between the housing and the first frame, the second frame, and the third frame.

[0026] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments.

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the exemplary camera module shown.

[0029] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the first frame shown.

[0030] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An assembled perspective view of the first frame shown.

[0031] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The first frame shown is along Figure 4 The sectional view taken from line II in the diagram.

[0032] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A partial assembly perspective view of an exemplary camera module shown.

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The bottom perspective view of the exemplary camera module shown.

[0034] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 The camera module shown is along Figure 1 The sectional view taken from line II-II in the diagram.

[0035] Figure 9 and Figure 10 yes Figure 4 The movable bodies shown are respectively along Figure 1 The sectional view taken from lines III-III and IV-IV.

[0036] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments.

[0037] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 An exploded perspective view of the exemplary camera module shown.

[0038] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 An exploded perspective view of the first frame shown.

[0039] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 An assembled perspective view of the first frame shown.

[0040] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The first frame shown is along Figure 14 The sectional view taken by line IV-IV in the diagram.

[0041] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed embodiments, unless otherwise described or provided, the same reference numerals shall be construed as referring to the same elements, features, and structures. For purposes of clarity, illustration, and convenience, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the relative dimensions, scale, and depiction of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The following detailed embodiments are provided to help readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described in this application. However, various changes, modifications, and equivalents to the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described in this application will become apparent after understanding the disclosure of this application. For example, the order of operations described in this application is merely illustrative and is not limited to the order set forth in this application, except for operations that must occur in a specific order, but can be changed, as will become apparent after understanding the disclosure of this application. Furthermore, for clarity and conciseness, descriptions of features well-known in the art may be omitted.

[0043] The terminology used in this application is for describing various examples only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include plural forms as well. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, numbers, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0044] Throughout this specification, when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is described as being "on," "connected to," or "attached to" another element, the element may be directly "on," directly "connected to," or directly "attached to" the other element, or there may be one or more other elements between the element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is described as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another element, there may be no other elements between the element and the other element.

[0045] As used in this application, the term "and / or" includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items.

[0046] Although terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used in this application to describe various components, parts, regions, layers, or portions, these components, parts, regions, layers, or portions are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish one component, part, region, layer, or portion from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the examples described in this application, the first component, first part, first region, first layer, or first portion mentioned in these examples may also be referred to as a second component, second part, second region, second layer, or second portion.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this application (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as would normally be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains after understanding the disclosure of this application. Terms such as those defined in common dictionaries should be interpreted as having the same meaning as they have in the context of the relevant field and in the disclosure of this application, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined in this application.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 Describes the configuration of an exemplary camera module according to one or more implementations.

[0049] According to one or more embodiments, the camera module 10 can be installed in a portable electronic device or communication terminal. In a non-limiting example, the camera module 10 can be installed in a mobile phone, laptop computer, or similar device. The scope of use of the camera module 10 according to the examples is not limited to the above-described electronic devices. In the examples, as a non-limiting example, the camera module 10 can be installed in an automated teller machine (ATM), a television for interactive broadcasting, or a similar device.

[0050] Reference Figure 2 The camera module 10 may include a housing 100, a lens module 160, a movable body 200, a first drive unit 300, and second drive units 400 and 500. The configuration of the camera module 10 is not limited to the components described above. For example, the camera module 10 may also include a substrate 120, a yoke 140, position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630, ball supports 640, 650, and 660, a cover member 700, a reinforcing member 810, and a shield 900.

[0051] The housing 100 can be formed as a cube with open upper and lower surfaces. For example, the housing 100 can be configured as a generally hexahedral shape. Three (3) side surfaces of the housing 100 can be partially cut off. The driving force of the first drive unit 300 and the second drive units 400 and 500 can be transmitted to the movable body 200 through the cut side surfaces. A pair of first guide grooves 102 can be formed on the inner side of the first surface of the housing 100. The first guide grooves 102 can be formed to extend in the height direction of the housing 100. A first ball support member 640 can be disposed in the first guide grooves 102.

[0052] The movable body 200 may be disposed inside the housing 100. The movable body 200 may be configured to move within the housing 100 in the direction of the optical axis and in the direction intersecting the optical axis. The movable body 200 may include multiple components. For example, the movable body 200 may include a first frame 210, a second frame 220, and a third frame 230.

[0053] The first frame 210 can be formed to be open in the vertical direction and have two (2) closed side surfaces and two (2) open side surfaces. A pair of second guide grooves 212 can be formed on the first surface of the first frame 210. A first ball support member 640 can be disposed in the second guide grooves 212. The first frame 210 can be disposed inside the housing 100. The first frame 210 can be configured to move relative to the housing 100 in the direction of the optical axis. For example, the first frame 210 can be in point contact or line contact with the first ball support member 640 to move in the direction of the optical axis. The driving force required to drive the first frame 210 can be provided by the first drive unit 300. First grooves 214 can be formed in the four (4) inner corners of the first frame 210. The first grooves 214 can have a shape with a longitudinal direction. For example, the first grooves 214 can be formed to extend in a first direction intersecting the optical axis. A second ball support member 650 can be disposed in the first grooves 214.

[0054] The second frame 220 may have a generally thin plate shape that is open in the vertical direction. The second frame 220 may be disposed on the first frame 210 and may be configured to move relative to the first frame 210 in a first direction intersecting the optical axis. For example, the second frame 220 may move in the first direction intersecting the optical axis based on its interaction with a second ball support 650 disposed between the first frame 210 and the second frame 220. The driving force required to drive the second frame 220 may be provided by a second drive unit 400. A second groove 224 and a third groove 226 may be formed in the second frame 220. The second groove 224 may be formed in the lower part of the second frame 220, and the third groove 226 may be formed in the upper part of the second frame 220. The second groove 224 may be formed to extend in the first direction intersecting the optical axis. The second groove 224 may, together with the first groove 214, form a space for accommodating the second ball support 650. The third groove 226 may be formed to extend in a second direction intersecting the optical axis and the first direction.

[0055] The third frame 230 can be formed to be open in the vertical direction and have a predetermined height. The third frame 230 can be disposed on the second frame 220 and can be configured to move relative to the second frame 220 in a second direction intersecting the optical axis. For example, the third frame 230 can move in the second direction intersecting the optical axis based on its interaction with a third ball support 660 disposed between the second frame 220 and the third frame 230. The driving force required to drive the third frame 230 can be provided by the second drive unit 500. A fourth groove 234 can be formed in the lower part of the third frame 230. The fourth groove 234 can be formed to extend in the second direction intersecting the optical axis. The fourth groove 234, together with the third groove 226, can form a space for accommodating the third ball support 660.

[0056] Lens module 160 can be combined with third frame 230. Lens module 160 includes at least one lens with refractive power. Lens module 160 can be moved by movable body 200 in the direction of the optical axis and in the direction intersecting the optical axis. In one example, lens module 160 can be moved in the direction of the optical axis based on movement of first frame 210. In another example, lens module 160 can be moved in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis based on movement of second frame 220 and third frame 230. Movement of lens module 160 in the direction of the optical axis enables focus adjustment of camera module 10, and movement of lens module 160 in the direction intersecting the optical axis of camera module 10 enables optical image stabilization (OIS) function of camera module 10.

[0057] The first drive unit 300 can be configured to move the movable body 200 in the direction of the optical axis. In this example, the first drive unit 300 can provide the driving force required to move the movable body 200 in the direction of the optical axis of the first frame 210. The first drive unit 300 may include a first drive coil 310 and a first drive magnet 320. The first drive coil 310 may be disposed on a first surface of the housing 100, and the first drive magnet 320 may be disposed on a first surface of the first frame 210. The first surfaces of the housing 100 and the first surfaces of the first frame 210 may be arranged opposite each other.

[0058] The second drive units 400 and 500 can be configured to move portions of the movable body 200 in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis. For example, the second drive units 400 and 500 can provide the driving force required to move the second frame 220 and the third frame 230. The corresponding second drive units 400 and 500 may include corresponding second drive coils 410 and 510 and corresponding second drive magnets 420 and 520. In a non-limiting example, the second drive coils 410 and 510 may be arranged on corresponding second and third surfaces of the housing 100, and the corresponding second drive magnets 420 and 520 may be arranged on corresponding second and third surfaces of the third frame 230. In this example, the second surface of the housing 100 may be the surface opposite to the second surface of the third frame 230, and the third surface of the housing 100 may be the surface opposite to the third surface of the third frame 230.

[0059] Camera module 10 may include devices for supplying current to drive units 300, 400, and 500. In an example, camera module 10 may include substrate 120. Substrate 120 may be configured to provide the current required to drive the first drive unit 300 and the second drive units 400 and 500. In an example, substrate 120 may supply current to the first drive coil 310 and the second drive coils 410 and 510. Substrate 120 may be configured to provide space or region for arranging the first drive coil 310 and the second drive coils 410 and 510. In an example, substrate 120 may be configured to surround a first surface, a second surface, and a third surface of housing 100 to provide space or region for arranging the first drive coil 310 and the second drive coils 410 and 510 within housing 100. A yoke 140 may be disposed on one side of substrate 120.

[0060] Camera module 10 may include devices for detecting the position of movable body 200. In an example, camera module 10 may include multiple position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630. A first position detection sensor 610 may detect displacement of movable body 200 in the direction of the optical axis, and a second position detection sensor 620 and a third position detection sensor 630 may detect displacement of portions of movable body 200 in a direction intersecting the optical axis. In a non-limiting example, position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630 may be implemented as Hall sensors that detect the strength of magnetic fields generated from drive units 300, 400, and 500. The shapes of position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630 are not limited to Hall sensors. Position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630 may be respectively disposed in a space or region surrounded by corresponding drive coils 310, 410, and 510. In the example, the first position detection sensor 610 can be disposed inside the first drive coil 310, and the second position detection sensor 620 and the third position detection sensor 630 can be disposed inside the second drive coils 410 and 510, respectively.

[0061] Camera module 10 may include a device for attaching a first frame 210 to a third frame 230. In an example, camera module 10 may include a cover member 700 for attaching a second frame 220 and a third frame 230 to the first frame 210. The cover member 700 may be coupled to the first frame 210 in a stacked state of the first to third frames 230 to prevent the second frame 220 and the third frame 230 from being released from the first frame 210. One or more buffer members 830 may be formed in the cover member 700. In an example, a plurality of buffer members 830 protruding in an upward direction may be formed in the upper part of the cover member 700. The one or more buffer members 830 formed as described above may reduce the impact caused by a collision between the movable body 200 and the shield 900.

[0062] Camera module 10 may include a shielding member to protect the camera module from electromagnetic waves. In an example, camera module 10 may include a shielding cover 900. The shielding cover 900 may be shaped to surround housing 100, movable body 200, and cover member 700. Therefore, the shielding cover 900 can block the intrusion or emission of harmful electromagnetic waves generated inside or outside camera module 10.

[0063] The camera module 10 may also include structures to improve the rigidity and movement stability of the movable body 200. In the example, the camera module 10 may also include a reinforcing member 810. (See reference...) Figures 3 to 5 Detailed description of reinforcing component 810.

[0064] The reinforcing member 810 can be integrally formed on the movable body 200. In this example, the reinforcing member 810 can be formed of a metallic material and can be integrally formed on the first frame 210 of the movable body 200, which can be made of a plastic material. The reinforcing member 810 can be formed using injection molding. However, this is a non-limiting example, and the method of forming the reinforcing member 810 is not limited to injection molding. Figure 3 As shown, the reinforcing member 810 may be formed to have a shape substantially the same as or similar to the bottom surface of the first frame 210. The reinforcing member 810 may be formed inside the bottom surface of the first frame 210 to improve the rigidity of the first frame 210. Therefore, even when the thickness of the bottom surface of the first frame 210 is relatively thin, the rigidity of the first frame 210 can be sufficiently ensured by the reinforcing member 810.

[0065] One or more buffer members 820 may be formed in the reinforcing member 810. In an example, one or more buffer members 820 may be formed at the four corner portions of the reinforcing member 810. One or more fastening holes 812 may be formed in the reinforcing member 810, and the one or more buffer members 820 may be fitted into the fastening holes 812. The one or more buffer members 820 may be fitted into the one or more fastening holes 812 by forced assembly, or may be integrally formed with the reinforcing member 810 by injection molding. The one or more buffer members 820 may reduce the impact applied to the first frame 210. For example, the one or more buffer members 820 may reduce the impact energy caused by the collision between the first frame 210 and the housing 100. In an example, one or more holes 218 may be formed in the first frame 210 to expose the buffer members 820 to the outside.

[0066] Figure 4 and Figure 5 It is an enlarged perspective view and a partial sectional view of the first frame 210 on which the reinforcing member 810 is integrally formed.

[0067] The reinforcing member 810 may be integrally formed on the bottom surface of the first frame 210. A portion of the reinforcing member 810 may protrude outward from the first frame 210. In a non-limiting example, the reinforcing member 810 may be formed of a non-magnetic material, unaffected by the drive unit.

[0068] like Figure 5As shown, one or more buffer members 820 may be configured to protrude from the first frame 210 in a downward direction. For example, the buffer member 820 may be formed to protrude through a hole 218 in the first frame 210 in a downward direction. One or more buffer members 820 may be secured to the first frame 210 by a reinforcing member 810. For example, one or more buffer members 820 may be secured by a reinforcing member 810 fixed inside the first frame 210 to prevent separation from the first frame 210. The reinforcing member 810 and the buffer member 820 may be configured to absorb external impacts. In the example, external impacts applied to the buffer member 820 may first be mitigated by plastic deformation of the one or more buffer members 820, and secondly by bending deformation of the reinforcing member 810.

[0069] Reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 Describe the functions of buffer components 820 and 830.

[0070] Buffer members 820 and 830 may be configured to reduce impacts applied to the movable body 200. In an example, buffer member 830 may be formed to protrude in an upward direction to reduce impacts with the shield 900 caused by rapid upward movement of the movable body 200, and one or more buffer members 820 may be formed to protrude in a downward direction to reduce impacts with the housing 100 caused by rapid downward movement of the movable body 200.

[0071] Next, we will refer to Figure 8 Describe the arrangement of the movable body 200 and the drive units 300, 400 and 500.

[0072] Drive units 300, 400, and 500 may be sequentially arranged around the movable body 200 on the first to third surfaces of the housing 100. For example, the first drive unit 300 may be arranged on the first surface of the housing 100 and the first surface of the first frame 210, the second drive unit 400 may be arranged on the second surface of the housing 100 and the second surface of the third frame 230, and the second drive unit 500 may be arranged on the third surface of the housing 100 and the third surface of the third frame 230.

[0073] The movable body 200 can be moved in the direction of the optical axis and in the direction intersecting the optical axis by drive units 300, 400 and 500. For example, the movable body 200 can be moved in the direction of the optical axis (CC) by the first drive units 300 (i.e., 310 and 320). As another example, at least one of the second frame 220 and the third frame 230 of the movable body 200 can be moved in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis by the resultant force of the second drive units 400 and 500 (i.e., 410, 420, 510 and 520).

[0074] Next, we will refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 Describe the moving structure of the second frame 220 and the third frame 230.

[0075] like Figure 9 As shown, the first frame 210, the second frame 220, and the third frame 230 constituting the movable body 200 can be stacked and connected in the direction of the optical axis. The first frame 210 can be configured to accommodate the second frame 220 and the third frame 230. In the example, the second frame 220 and the third frame 230, which are housed inside the first frame 210, can be configured to move in a direction intersecting the optical axis.

[0076] Ball supports 650 and 660 may be arranged between the first frame 210 and the third frame 230. In the example, the second ball support 650 may be disposed between the first frame 210 and the second frame 220, and the third ball support 660 may be disposed between the second frame 220 and the third frame 230.

[0077] The space for accommodating the ball support can be formed in the first frame 210 to the third frame 230. For example, the first groove 214 can be formed in the upper part of the first frame 210, the second groove 224 and the third groove 226 can be formed in the upper and lower parts of the second frame 220, respectively, and the fourth groove 234 can be formed in the lower part of the third frame 230.

[0078] The lengths of the grooves 224 and 234 formed in the lower parts of the second frame 220 and the third frame 230, respectively, can vary depending on the respective movement directions of the second frame 220 and the third frame 230. In the example, the length WY2 of the groove 224 in the first direction can be greater than the length WX1 of the groove 224 in the second direction, and the length WX2 of the groove 234 in the second direction can be greater than the length WY1 of the groove 234 in the first direction. Furthermore, the length WY2 of the groove 224 in the first direction can be greater than the length of each of the grooves 214, 226, and 234 in the first direction, and the length WX2 of the groove 234 in the second direction can be greater than the length of each of the grooves 214, 224, and 226 in the second direction.

[0079] Since the length of the groove 224 of the second frame 220 configured as described above in the first direction can be greater than the length of the groove 214 of the first frame 210 in the first direction, movement of the second frame 220 relative to the first frame 210 is possible. Furthermore, since the length of the groove 234 of the third frame 230 in the second direction can be greater than the length of the groove 226 of the second frame 220 in the second direction, movement of the third frame 230 relative to the second frame 220 is also possible.

[0080] like Figure 9 and 10 As shown in the figure, the second frame 220 may include a reinforcing member 860. In this example, the reinforcing member 860, which strengthens the second frame 220, may be integrally formed on the bottom of the second frame 220. Although not shown, the reinforcing member 860 may have one or more cushioning members formed in a manner similar to one or more cushioning members in the reinforcing member 810. Similarly, the third frame 230 may also include a reinforcing member, which may have one or more cushioning members formed in a manner similar to one or more cushioning members in the reinforcing member 810. In other words, one or more cushioning members may be formed between the first frame 210 and the second frame 220, and between the second frame 220 and the third frame 20.

[0081] Next, we will refer to Figures 11 to 15 This describes an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments. In this example, since the driving structure of the camera module according to this exemplary embodiment may be the same as that of the exemplary camera module according to the exemplary embodiment described above, a detailed description of the driving structure of the camera module will be omitted.

[0082] Reference Figure 12The camera module 10 may include a housing 100, a lens module 160, a movable body 200, a first drive unit 300, and second drive units 400 and 500. The configuration of the exemplary camera module 10 is not limited to the components described above. In this example, the camera module 10 may also include a substrate 120, a yoke 140, position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630, ball supports 640, 650, and 660, a cover member 700, a reinforcing member 810, and a shield 900.

[0083] In a non-limiting example, the housing 100 may be formed as a cube with open upper and lower surfaces. In the example, the housing 100 may be configured as a generally hexahedral shape. Three (3) side surfaces of the housing 100 may be partially cut off. The driving force of the first drive unit 300 and the second drive units 400 and 500 may be transmitted to the movable body 200 through the cut side surfaces. A pair of first guide grooves 102 may be formed on the inner side of the first surface of the housing 100. The first guide grooves 102 may be formed to extend in the height direction of the housing 100. A first ball support member 640 may be disposed in the first guide grooves 102.

[0084] The movable body 200 may be disposed inside the housing 100. The movable body 200 may be configured to move within the housing 100 in the direction of the optical axis and in the direction intersecting the optical axis. The movable body 200 may include multiple components. In the example, the movable body 200 may include a first frame 210, a second frame 220, and a third frame 230.

[0085] The first frame 210 may be formed to be open in the vertical direction and have two (2) closed side surfaces and two (2) open side surfaces. A pair of second guide grooves 212 may be formed on the first surface of the first frame 210. A first ball support member 640 may be disposed in the second guide grooves 212. The first frame 210 may be disposed inside the housing 100. The first frame 210 may be configured to move relative to the housing 100 in the direction of the optical axis. For example, the first frame 210 may be in point contact or line contact with the first ball support member 640 to move in the direction of the optical axis. The driving force required to drive the first frame 210 may be provided by the first drive unit 300. First grooves 214 may be formed in the four (4) inner corners of the first frame 210. The first grooves 214 may have a shape with a longitudinal direction. In an example, the first grooves 214 may be formed to extend in a first direction intersecting the optical axis. A second ball support member 650 may be disposed in the first grooves 214.

[0086] The second frame 220 may have a generally thin plate shape that is open in the vertical direction. The second frame 220 may be disposed on the first frame 210 and may be configured to move relative to the first frame 210 in a first direction intersecting the optical axis. In an example, the second frame 220 may move in the first direction intersecting the optical axis based on a second ball support 650 disposed between the first frame 210 and the second frame 220. The driving force required to drive the second frame 220 may be provided by a second drive unit 400. A second groove 224 and a third groove 226 may be formed in the second frame 220. The second groove 224 may be formed in the lower part of the second frame 220, and the third groove 226 may be formed in the upper part of the second frame 220. The second groove 224 may be formed to extend in the first direction intersecting the optical axis. The second groove 224 may, together with the first groove 214, form a space to accommodate the second ball support 650. The third groove 226 may be formed to extend in a second direction intersecting the optical axis and the first direction.

[0087] The third frame 230 can be formed to be open in the vertical direction and have a predetermined height. The third frame 230 can be disposed on the second frame 220 and can be configured to move relative to the second frame 220 in a second direction intersecting the optical axis. In the example, the third frame 230 can move in the second direction intersecting the optical axis based on a third ball support 660 disposed between the second frame 220 and the third frame 230. The driving force required to drive the third frame 230 can be provided by the second drive unit 500. A fourth groove 234 can be formed in the lower part of the third frame 230. The fourth groove 234 can be formed to extend in the second direction intersecting the optical axis. The fourth groove 234, together with the third groove 226, can form a space to accommodate the third ball support 660.

[0088] Lens module 160 can be combined with third frame 230. Lens module 160 includes at least one lens with refractive power. Lens module 160 can be moved by movable body 200 in the direction of the optical axis and in the direction intersecting the optical axis. In one example, lens module 160 can be moved by first frame 210 in the direction of the optical axis. As another example, lens module 160 can be moved in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis based on second frame 220 and third frame 230. Movement of lens module 160 in the direction of the optical axis enables focus adjustment of camera module 10, and movement of lens module 160 in the direction intersecting the optical axis of camera module 10 enables optical image stabilization (OIS) function of camera module 10.

[0089] The first drive unit 300 can be configured to move the movable body 200 in the direction of the optical axis. In this example, the first drive unit 300 can provide the driving force required to move the first frame 210 in the direction of the optical axis. The first drive unit 300 may include a first drive coil 310 and a first drive magnet 320. The first drive coil 310 may be disposed on a first surface of the housing 100, and the first drive magnet 320 may be disposed on a first surface of the first frame 210. The first surfaces of the housing 100 and the first surfaces of the first frame 210 may be arranged opposite each other.

[0090] The second drive units 400 and 500 can be configured to move portions of the movable body 200 in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis. In the example, the second drive units 400 and 500 can provide the driving force required to move the second frame 220 and the third frame 230. The second drive units 400 and 500 can include corresponding second drive coils 410 and 510 and second drive magnets 420 and 520. The second drive coils 410 and 510 can be arranged on the second and third surfaces of the housing 100, respectively, and the second drive magnets 420 and 520 can be arranged on the second and third surfaces of the third frame 230, respectively. In the example, the second surface of the housing 100 can be the surface opposite to the second surface of the third frame 230, and the third surface of the housing 100 can be the surface opposite to the third surface of the third frame 230.

[0091] Camera module 10 may include devices for supplying current to drive units 300, 400, and 500. In an example, camera module 10 may include substrate 120. Substrate 120 may be configured to provide the current required to drive the first drive unit 300 and the second drive units 400 and 500. In an example, substrate 120 may supply current to the first drive coil 310 and the second drive coils 410 and 510. Substrate 120 may be configured to provide space or region for arranging the first drive coil 310 and the second drive coils 410 and 510. In an example, substrate 120 may be configured to surround a first surface, a second surface, and a third surface of housing 100 to provide space within housing 100 for arranging the first drive coil 310 and the second drive coils 410 and 510. A yoke 140 may be disposed on one side of substrate 120.

[0092] Camera module 10 may include one or more detection devices for detecting the position of movable body 200. In an example, camera module 10 may include multiple position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630. A first position detection sensor 610 may detect displacement of movable body 200 in the direction of the optical axis, and a second position detection sensor 620 and a third position detection sensor 630 may detect displacement of portions of movable body 200 in a direction intersecting the optical axis. Position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630 may be in the form of Hall sensors that detect the strength of magnetic fields generated from drive units 300, 400, and 500. The shape of position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630 is not limited to Hall sensors. Position detection sensors 610, 620, and 630 may be respectively disposed in spaces surrounded by drive coils 310, 410, and 510. In the example, the first position detection sensor 610 may be disposed inside the first drive coil 310, and each of the second position detection sensor 620 and the third position detection sensor 630 may be disposed inside each of the second drive coils 410 and 510.

[0093] Camera module 10 may include a device for attaching the first frame 210 to the third frame 230. In an example, camera module 10 may include a cover member 700 for attaching the second frame 220 and the third frame 230 to the first frame 210. The cover member 700 may be coupled to the first frame 210 in a stacked state of the first frame 210 to the third frame 230 to prevent the second frame 220 and the third frame 230 from being released from the first frame 210. A buffer member 830 may be formed in the cover member 700. In an example, a plurality of buffer members 830 protruding in an upward direction may be formed in the upper part of the cover member 700. The buffer members 830 formed as described above can reduce the impact caused by the collision between the movable body 200 and the shield 900.

[0094] Camera module 10 may include devices to shield it from electromagnetic waves. For example, camera module 10 may include a shielding cover 900. The shielding cover 900 may be shaped to surround housing 100, movable body 200, and cover member 700. Therefore, the shielding cover 900 can block the intrusion or emission of harmful electromagnetic waves generated inside or outside camera module 10.

[0095] The camera module 10 may also include structures to improve the rigidity and movement stability of the movable body 200. In the example, the camera module 10 may also include a reinforcing member 810 and an auxiliary yoke 840. (See reference...) Figures 13 to 15 The reinforcing member 810 and the auxiliary yoke 840 are described in detail.

[0096] The reinforcing member 810 can be integrally formed on the movable body 200. In this example, the reinforcing member 810 can be formed of a metallic material and can be integrally formed on the first frame 210 of the movable body 200. In a non-limiting example, the first frame 210 of the movable body 200 can be formed of a plastic material. The reinforcing member 810 can be formed by injection molding. However, this is merely an example, and the reinforcing member 810 can be formed by processes not limited to injection molding. Figure 13 As shown, the reinforcing member 810 may be formed to have a shape substantially the same as or similar to the bottom surface of the first frame 210. In the example, the reinforcing member 810 may be formed inside the bottom surface of the first frame 210 to improve the rigidity of the first frame 210. Therefore, even when the thickness of the bottom surface of the first frame 210 is relatively thin, the rigidity of the first frame 210 can be sufficiently ensured by the reinforcing member 810.

[0097] One or more buffer members 820 may be formed in the reinforcing member 810. In an example, one or more buffer members 820 may be formed at the four corner portions of the reinforcing member 810. Fastening holes 812 may be formed in the reinforcing member 810, and one or more buffer members 820 may be fitted into the fastening holes 812. The one or more buffer members 820 may be fitted into the one or more fastening holes 812 by forced assembly, or may be integrally formed with the reinforcing member 810 by injection molding. The one or more buffer members 820 may reduce the impact applied to the first frame 210. For example, the one or more buffer members 820 may reduce the impact energy caused by a collision between the first frame 210 and the housing 100. For reference, holes 218 may be formed in the first frame 210 to expose one or more buffer members 820 to the outside.

[0098] Auxiliary yokes 840 (i.e., 842 and 844) may be disposed on the first to third surfaces of the first frame 210. In an example, the first auxiliary yoke 842 may be disposed on the first surface of the first frame 210, and the second auxiliary yoke 844 may be disposed on the second and third surfaces of the first frame 210, respectively. The auxiliary yokes 840 may be formed to extend in the direction of the driving force of the drive units 300, 400, and 500. In an example, the first auxiliary yoke 842 may be formed to extend in the direction of the optical axis, and the second auxiliary yoke 844 may be formed to extend in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis, respectively. The auxiliary yokes 840 may be formed of a magnetic material to improve the driving force of the drive unit.

[0099] Figure 14 and Figure 15 It is an enlarged perspective view and a partial sectional view of the first frame 210 on which the reinforcing member 810 is integrally formed.

[0100] The reinforcing member 810 may be integrally formed on the bottom surface of the first frame 210. A portion of the reinforcing member 810 may protrude outward from the first frame 210. The auxiliary yoke 840 may interact with a portion of the drive units 300, 400, and 500. In this example, the auxiliary yoke 840 may interact with the drive coils 310, 410, and 510 to hold the first frame 210 in a stable position inside the housing 100.

[0101] like Figure 15 As shown, one or more buffer members 820 may be configured to protrude from the first frame 210 in a downward direction. For example, one or more buffer members 820 may be formed to protrude through one or more holes 218 in the first frame 210 in a downward direction. One or more buffer members 820 may be secured to the first frame 210 by a reinforcing member 810. In the example, one or more buffer members 820 may be secured by a reinforcing member 810 fixed inside the first frame 210 without separating from the first frame 210. The reinforcing member 810 and the one or more buffer members 820 may be configured to absorb external impacts. For example, external impacts applied to the one or more buffer members 820 may first be mitigated by plastic deformation of the one or more buffer members 820, and secondly by bending deformation of the reinforcing member 810.

[0102] These examples can reduce the internal noise of a camera module caused by external vibrations as well as malfunctions or damage to the camera module.

[0103] While this disclosure includes specific examples, it will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application 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 limiting purposes. Descriptions of features or aspects in each example should be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Suitable results may still be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described system, architecture, device, or circuit are combined in a different manner, and / or if components in the described system, architecture, device, or circuit are 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: case; A lens module, comprising at least one lens having refractive power; A movable body configured to move in the direction of the optical axis of the housing; A reinforcing member is integrally formed on one surface of the movable body and configured to increase the rigidity of the movable body; as well as A first buffer member is formed in the reinforcing member and configured to reduce the impact force between the housing and the movable body.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, The reinforcing member has a fastening hole formed therein, and the fastening hole is configured to assemble with the first buffer member.

3. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, The movable body includes: The first frame is configured to move relative to the housing in the direction of the optical axis; A second frame, disposed on the first frame, and configured to move relative to the first frame in a first direction intersecting the optical axis; and A third frame is disposed on the second frame and configured to move relative to the second frame in a second direction intersecting the optical axis.

4. The camera module of claim 3, further comprising a cover member configured to engage with the first frame after the second frame and the third frame are mounted, such that the second frame and the third frame do not detach from the first frame.

5. The camera module according to claim 4, further comprising a second buffer member formed on the cover member.

6. The camera module according to claim 3 further includes a ball support member disposed between the first frame and the second frame and between the second frame and the third frame.

7. The camera module according to claim 3, further comprising: A first drive unit is configured to move the first frame in the direction of the optical axis; as well as The second drive unit is configured to move the second frame and the third frame in the first direction and the second direction intersecting the optical axis.

8. The camera module according to claim 7, wherein, The first driving unit includes: A first drive coil is disposed on a first surface of the housing; and A first driving magnet is disposed on the first surface of the first frame.

9. The camera module according to claim 8, wherein, The second drive unit includes: The second drive coil is respectively disposed on the second surface and the third surface of the housing; and The second driving magnet is respectively disposed on the second surface of the third frame and the third surface of the third frame.

10. The camera module of claim 9, further comprising a substrate, wherein the first drive coil and the second drive coil are disposed on the substrate, and the substrate is configured to surround a first surface of the housing, a second surface of the housing, and a third surface of the housing.

11. Camera module, including: case; A lens module, comprising at least one lens having refractive power; A movable body configured to move in the direction of the optical axis of the housing; A first driving unit is configured to move the movable body in the direction of the optical axis; The second drive unit is configured to move a portion of the movable body in a first direction and a second direction intersecting the optical axis; An auxiliary yoke is integrally formed on the movable body and configured to interact with the first drive unit and the second drive unit to move the movable body based on the first drive unit and the second drive unit; as well as A first buffer member is formed on the movable body and configured to reduce the impact force between the housing and the movable body.

12. The camera module of claim 11, further comprising a reinforcing member integrally formed on the movable body and configured to have a fastening hole engaging with the first buffer member.

13. The camera module of claim 11, further comprising a first ball support disposed between the housing and the movable body.

14. The camera module according to claim 11, wherein, The movable body includes: The first frame is configured to move relative to the housing in the direction of the optical axis; A second frame, disposed on the first frame, and configured to move relative to the first frame in a first direction intersecting the optical axis; and A third frame is disposed on the second frame and configured to move relative to the second frame in a second direction intersecting the optical axis.

15. The camera module of claim 14, further comprising a second buffer member disposed between the first frame and the second frame and between the second frame and the third frame.

16. A camera module, including: case; A lens module, comprising at least one lens having refractive power; The first frame is configured to move relative to the housing in the direction of the optical axis; A second frame is disposed on the first frame and configured to move relative to the first frame in a first direction intersecting the optical axis; A third frame is disposed on the second frame and configured to move relative to the second frame in a second direction intersecting the optical axis; A cover member configured to join the second frame and the third frame to the first frame; as well as One or more first cushioning members are formed in the cover member and configured to reduce the impact force between the housing and the first frame, the second frame and the third frame.

17. The camera module of claim 16, further comprising a reinforcing member integrally formed on the first frame, and One or more second buffer members are formed in the reinforcing member and configured to reduce the impact force between the first frame and the shell.

18. The camera module of claim 16, further comprising: A first driving unit is configured to drive the first frame in the direction of the optical axis; The second drive unit is configured to drive the second frame in the first direction; as well as The third drive unit is configured to drive the third frame in the second direction.

19. The camera module according to claim 16, wherein, The third frame is also configured to move in the direction of the optical axis as the first frame moves in the direction of the optical axis.

20. The camera module according to claim 16, wherein, Reducing the impact force includes absorbing the impact force between the housing and the first frame, the second frame, and the third frame.

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