Piezoelectric driving device and camera module

Abstract

The present invention improves ease of manufacture of a piezoelectric driving device. A piezoelectric drive device (101) is provided with a biasing member (7) that biases a piezoelectric drive unit (PD) toward a receiving member (RC). The biasing member (7) is formed of a metal plate rolled in a predetermined rolling direction (Y-axis direction), and has one end separated from the other end in the rolling direction intersecting the Z-axis direction. A support part (7S) that is positioned between the one end and the other end and that supports the piezoelectric driving part (PD); an elastically deformable part (7G) that is provided between the fixed part (7F) and the support part (7S) and that is elastically deformable; and a plurality of bent parts (7N) that are provided between the one end and the other end. Each of the plurality of bent sections (7N) is bent such that the bending axis (7X) is substantially perpendicular to the rolling direction (Y-axis direction).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to piezoelectric actuators and camera modules. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, an actuator (piezoelectric drive device) was known that moved a lens barrel (movable side component) by means of a piezoelectric element, which was pressed against the lens barrel (movable side component) by a leaf spring having a preloaded part bent into an L-shape (force application part) (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-152265 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In this device, the leaf spring is processed by repeated rolling to thin it out. Therefore, the thinner the leaf spring, the higher its hardness and the worse its machinability.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need to provide piezoelectric actuators that are easier to manufacture.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] The piezoelectric drive device according to the embodiments of this disclosure includes: a fixed-side member; a movable-side member movable relative to the fixed-side member; a piezoelectric drive unit disposed on one side member, which is one of the movable-side member and the fixed-side member, and configured to have a piezoelectric element; a receiving member disposed on the other side member, which is the other of the movable-side member and the fixed-side member, and in contact with the piezoelectric drive unit; and a force-applying member that applies force to the piezoelectric drive unit toward the receiving member. The piezoelectric drive device is configured such that, via the piezoelectric drive unit, the movable-side member moves relative to the fixed-side member in a first direction. The force-applying component is composed of a metal sheet rolled along a predetermined rolling direction. In the rolling direction intersecting the first direction, one end of the force-applying component is separated from the other end. The force-applying component has: a fixing portion disposed at one end and the other end, and fixed to the side component; a support portion located between one end and the other end, supporting the piezoelectric drive portion; an elastically deformable portion disposed between the fixing portion and the support portion, capable of elastic deformation; and a plurality of bending portions disposed between one end and the other end, each bending portion bending in a manner where the bending axis is substantially perpendicular to the rolling direction.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] The piezoelectric drive device described above can improve manufacturability. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a camera module of a piezoelectric drive device including embodiments of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0015] Figure 3 It constitutes Figure 1 A front perspective view of the holding component, force-applying component, magnet, piezoelectric drive unit, receiving component, and magnetic sensor of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0016] Figure 4 It constitutes Figure 1 The rear perspective view of the piezoelectric drive device includes the holding component, the force-applying component, the magnet, the piezoelectric drive unit, the receiving component, and the magnetic sensor.

[0017] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0018] Figure 6 It indicates composition Figure 1 The diagram shows the piezoelectric element and contact components of the piezoelectric drive device.

[0019] Figure 7 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the operation of the piezoelectric drive device.

[0020] Figure 8 It constitutes Figure 1 Three views of the force-applying component of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0021] Figure 9 It constitutes Figure 1 Front view of the force-applying component of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0022] Figure 10 It constitutes Figure 1 The three views of the force-applying component, piezoelectric element, and contact component of the piezoelectric drive device are shown.

[0023] Figure 11 It constitutes Figure 1 Three views of the holding and force-applying components of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0024] Figure 12 It constitutes Figure 1The diagram shows a perspective view of the holding component, force-applying component, piezoelectric element, and contact component of the piezoelectric drive device.

[0025] Figure 13 It constitutes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the lens holding component, base component, and guide shaft component of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0026] Figure 14 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0027] Figure 15 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0028] Figure 16 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0029] Figure 17 It constitutes Figure 1 A perspective view of the components of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0030] Figure 18 It constitutes Figure 1 A perspective view of the components of the piezoelectric drive device shown.

[0031] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of a piezoelectric drive device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 20 It constitutes Figure 19 A top view of the lens holding component, guide shaft component, piezoelectric element, and contact component of the piezoelectric drive device shown. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The following is for reference Figures 1-5 The piezoelectric drive device 101 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a camera module CM, which is an example of an optical device including a piezoelectric drive device 101. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the piezoelectric drive device 101. Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the holding member 6, the force-applying member 7, the magnet MG, the piezoelectric drive unit PD, the receiving member RC, and the magnetic sensor SR constituting the piezoelectric drive device 101. Specifically, Figure 3 This is a 3D view of the front. Figure 4 It's a rear 3D view. Also, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The images above are assembly 3D diagrams. Figure 3 and Figure 4The images below are exploded 3D diagrams. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the piezoelectric drive device 101. Specifically, Figure 5 The image above is an observation from the Z1 side and includes... Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-section of the piezoelectric drive device 101 in an imaginary plane parallel to the XY plane of the cut line CL1. Additionally, Figure 5 The image below is Figure 5 The above image shows an enlarged view of the area R1 enclosed by the dashed line.

[0034] Figure 1 In the coordinate system, X1 represents one direction of the X-axis, and X2 represents the other direction of the X-axis. Y1 represents one direction of the Y-axis, and Y2 represents the other direction of the Y-axis. Z1 represents one direction of the Z-axis, and Z2 represents the other direction of the Z-axis. Figure 1 In the diagram, the X1 side of the piezoelectric drive device 101 corresponds to the front side (front face) of the piezoelectric drive device 101, and the X2 side corresponds to the rear side (back face) of the piezoelectric drive device 101. The Y1 side of the piezoelectric drive device 101 corresponds to the left side of the piezoelectric drive device 101, and the Y2 side corresponds to the right side of the piezoelectric drive device 101. The Z1 side of the piezoelectric drive device 101 corresponds to the upper side (subject side) of the piezoelectric drive device 101, and the Z2 side corresponds to the lower side (image sensor side) of the piezoelectric drive device 101. The same applies to other figures.

[0035] The camera module CM comprises a piezoelectric drive unit 101, a lens body LS (an example of an optical element OE), and an imaging element IS mounted opposite the lens body LS on a substrate (not shown). The piezoelectric drive unit 101 has a generally cuboid shape and is mounted on the substrate on which the imaging element IS is mounted. Alternatively, the optical element OE can be a mirror, prism, diffraction grating, light-emitting element, light-receiving element, imaging element, or optical filter, etc. Furthermore, the optical element OE can be a combination of various elements. Additionally, if the optical element OE is a component other than the lens body LS, the imaging element IS can be omitted.

[0036] In the example diagram, such as Figure 2As shown, the piezoelectric drive device 101 includes a fixed-side component FB and a movable-side component MB. Specifically, the fixed-side component FB, which supports the movable-side component MB, includes a cover component 1, a base component 3, and a guide shaft component 4. The movable-side component MB includes a lens holding component 2 and is supported by the guide shaft component 4 so that it can slide along a movement direction (Z-axis direction) parallel to the optical axis direction. The optical axis direction includes the direction of the optical axis OA associated with the lens body LS held by the lens holding component 2, and a direction parallel to the optical axis OA. The lens body LS is, for example, a cylindrical lens tube having at least one lens. In addition, the movable-side component MB is configured to move relative to the fixed-side component FB along a predetermined movement direction by the force generated by the piezoelectric drive unit PD.

[0037] Cover component 1 is a component that forms part of the housing HS, configured to cover the upper and sides of the movable side component MB. In the example shown in the figure, as... Figure 2 As shown, the cover member 1 has a generally rectangular cylindrical outer peripheral wall portion 1A and a flat, rectangular annular top plate portion 1B. Specifically, the outer peripheral wall portion 1A includes a first side plate portion 1A1 to a fourth side plate portion 1A4. The first side plate portion 1A1 and the third side plate portion 1A3 are opposite each other, and the second side plate portion 1A2 and the fourth side plate portion 1A4 are opposite each other. In addition, the second side plate portion 1A2 and the fourth side plate portion 1A4 extend perpendicularly to the first side plate portion 1A1 and the third side plate portion 1A3. That is, the first side plate portion 1A1 and the third side plate portion 1A3 extend perpendicularly to the second side plate portion 1A2 and the fourth side plate portion 1A4. A generally circular opening 1K is formed in the central portion of the top plate portion 1B. In addition, the cover member 1 is manufactured by performing stamping and deep drawing processes on a metal sheet. However, the cover member 1 may also be formed of other materials such as synthetic resin.

[0038] The base component 3 is a part that forms part of the housing HS. In the example shown, the base component 3 is formed of synthetic resin. However, the base component 3 can also be formed of metal. Specifically, such as... Figure 2As shown, the base component 3 has a generally rectangular cylindrical outer peripheral wall portion 3A and a rectangular annular bottom plate portion 3B. Specifically, the outer peripheral wall portion 3A includes a first side plate portion 3A1 to a fourth side plate portion 3A4. The first side plate portion 3A1 and the third side plate portion 3A3 are opposite each other, and the second side plate portion 3A2 and the fourth side plate portion 3A4 are opposite each other. In addition, the second side plate portion 3A2 and the fourth side plate portion 3A4 extend perpendicularly to the first side plate portion 3A1 and the third side plate portion 3A3. That is, the first side plate portion 3A1 and the third side plate portion 3A3 extend perpendicularly to the second side plate portion 3A2 and the fourth side plate portion 3A4. A generally circular opening 3K is formed in the central portion of the bottom plate portion 3B. In addition, a cutout portion 3C for receiving and holding the retaining component 6 is formed at the left front corner of the outer peripheral wall portion 3A. Specifically, a first notch 3C1 is formed in the first side plate portion 3A1, and a second notch 3C2 is formed in the second side plate portion 3A2. In addition, the base member 3 is joined to the cover member 1 by an adhesive or the like, and together with the cover member 1, they form the housing HS.

[0039] The guide shaft component 4 is configured to guide (movably support) the movable side component MB (lens holding component 2) in the vertical direction relative to the fixed side component FB (base component 3). In the example shown, the guide shaft component 4 is a generally cylindrical component made of metal, embedded in a receiving recess 3R formed inside the outer peripheral wall portion 3A of the base component 3, and secured by adhesive AD6 (see reference). Figure 13 It is fixed to the base component 3. Specifically, the guide shaft component 4 includes a first guide shaft component 41 and a second guide shaft component 42 having the same structure, and the receiving recess 3R includes a first receiving recess 3R1 for the first guide shaft component 41 to be inserted and a second receiving recess 3R2 for the second guide shaft component 42 to be inserted.

[0040] The lens holding member 2 is configured to hold the optical element OE. In the illustrated example, the lens holding member 2 is formed by injection molding of a synthetic resin such as liquid crystal polymer (LCP). Furthermore, the lens holding member 2 is configured to hold the lens body LS by using an adhesive to fix it to the inside of a generally cylindrical cylindrical portion 2C. Additionally, the lens holding member 2 has a guided portion 2G that protrudes radially outward from the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 2C and receives the guide shaft member 4. Specifically, the guided portion 2G includes a first guided portion 2G1 and a second guided portion 2G2. The first guided portion 2G1 has a concave portion CS that receives the first guide shaft member 41 in a U-shaped depression when viewed from above, and the second guided portion 2G2 has a flat portion FS that receives the second guide shaft member 42 in a flat plane when viewed from above. In this embodiment, "viewing from above" means viewing the object or part along a first direction (Z-axis direction). The same applies below.

[0041] Stops 2S are provided on the upper and lower end faces of the cylindrical portion 2C of the lens holding member 2. In the example shown in the figure, as... Figure 2 As shown, three upper stop portions 2SU are provided on the upper end surface of the cylindrical portion 2C. These three upper stop portions 2SU are formed to contact the lower surface (top surface) of the top plate portion 1B of the cover member 1 when the lens holding member 2 moves in the Z1 direction. Similarly, three lower stop portions 2SD are provided on the lower end surface of the cylindrical portion 2C (see reference). Figure 14 The three lower stop portions 2SD are formed to contact the upper surface (inner bottom surface) of the base plate portion 3B of the base member 3 when the lens holding member 2 moves in the Z2 direction.

[0042] Furthermore, a recess 2U for accommodating the receiving component RC and a recess 2V for accommodating the magnet MG are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 2C of the lens holding component 2. The magnet MG and the magnetic sensor SR are components used to detect the position of the movable side component MB. Moreover, the magnet MG constitutes a part of the movable side component MB. In the example shown, the magnet MG is a permanent magnet magnetized into two poles along the Z-axis. The magnetic sensor SR is composed of a Hall element and is configured to detect the position of the movable side component MB containing the magnet MG by measuring the output voltage of the Hall element, which varies according to the magnitude of the magnetic field received by the Hall element from the magnet MG. However, the magnetic sensor SR may also be configured to detect the position of the movable side component MB using a magnetoresistive element such as a giant magnetoresistive effect (GMR) element, a semiconductor magnetoresistive (SMR) element, an anisotropic magnetoresistive (AMR) element, or a tunnel magnetoresistive (TMR) element.

[0043] The receiving component RC is a component that receives the driving force generated by the piezoelectric drive unit PD. In the example shown, the receiving component RC is a roughly cylindrical component made of metal, constituting the movable side component MB.

[0044] The retaining member 6 is configured to hold the piezoelectric drive unit PD. In the example shown, the retaining member 6 is one of the fixed-side members FB, and is formed by injection molding of a synthetic resin such as liquid crystal polymer (LCP). Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, the retaining member 6, while holding the force-applying member 7 and the piezoelectric drive unit PD, is inserted into the cutout 3C of the base member 3 from the Z1 side, and then through the adhesive AD4 (see reference). Figure 5 (See the image below) It is fixed to the base component 3.

[0045] The urging member 7 is configured to urge the piezoelectric drive unit PD against the receiving member RC so that the piezoelectric drive unit PD contacts the receiving member RC. In the illustrated example, the urging member 7 is constituted by a leaf spring member formed by subjecting a rolled metal plate to a stamping process, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, and is fixed to the holding member 6 via the fixing portion 7F. Specifically, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the fixing portion 7F includes a left fixing portion 7FL and a right fixing portion 7FR. The urging member 7 may also be configured to generate an elastic restoring force that causes the left fixing portion 7FL and the right fixing portion 7FR to approach each other when installed on the holding member 6. In addition, when the holding member 6 is installed on the base member 3, the fixing portion 7F of the urging member 7 is fixed to the base member 3 and the holding member 6 by an adhesive AD4 (refer to the lower figure of Figure 5 ).

[0046] The piezoelectric drive unit PD is configured to move the movable-side member MB (lens holding member 2) along a predetermined moving direction. In the illustrated example, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is an example of a friction drive unit using the drive system disclosed in U.S.Patent No. 7,786,648, and includes a piezoelectric element 8, a contact member 9, and a flexible wiring board 10. The piezoelectric drive unit PD is configured to be urged by the urging member 7 held by the holding member 6 and pressed against the receiving member RC.

[0047] Specifically, the piezoelectric element 8 is configured to be able to perform bending vibration (original Japanese: 曲げ振動) according to the applied voltage. In the illustrated example, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the piezoelectric element 8 extends in the Y-axis direction along the rotation axis 8X. In addition, the piezoelectric element 8 is configured to be able to perform bending vibration having two nodes (nodal points ND). When performing bending vibration, the portions of the two nodal points ND hardly vibrate. In Figure 3 and Figure 4 , for clarity, a cross pattern is marked at the position of the nodal point ND in the piezoelectric element 8. Moreover, the positions of the nodal points ND in the piezoelectric element 8 include the position of the first nodal point ND1 and the position of the second nodal point ND2. The position of the nodal point ND corresponds to a position at a predetermined distance from the end of the piezoelectric element 8. The predetermined distance is, for example, approximately one-fourth of the full length of the piezoelectric element 8.

[0048] The flexible wiring board 10 is a flexible wiring board including a conductive pattern, and is configured to be able to be electrically connected to an external power supply source and the piezoelectric element 8.

[0049] In the example shown, the flexible wiring substrate 10 is configured to apply a voltage to the piezoelectric element 8. Specifically, the flexible wiring substrate 10 includes a left unfolded portion 10L, a right unfolded portion 10R, a connecting portion 10C (lower connecting portion 10CD and upper connecting portion 10CU) connecting the left unfolded portion 10L and the right unfolded portion 10R, an extension portion 10E extending from the center of the lower connecting portion 10CD in the Z1 direction, and a joining portion 10J extending from the extension portion 10E and engaging with the piezoelectric element 8. Figure 3 As shown in the diagram above, capacitor CD, resistor RS, and driver integrated circuit DR are mounted in the left expansion section 10L. The right expansion section 10R is for connecting to external devices, and a terminal section for connecting to external devices is provided at the lower end of the right expansion section 10R. Additionally, as... Figure 4 As shown in the figure above, a capacitor CD, a resistor RS, a magnetic sensor SR, and a thermistor TM are mounted on the right extended section 10R.

[0050] Additionally, the piezoelectric element 8 extends along the rotation axis 8X and is bonded to the proximal side (X2 side) surface of the flexible wiring substrate 10 via adhesive AD1. "Proximal side" refers to the side closer to the receiving component RC compared to the "distal side." In the example shown, as... Figure 3 As shown, the piezoelectric element 8 has electrodes ED at the four corners of its distal side (X1 side) surface. Furthermore, the four electrodes ED in the piezoelectric element 8 are connected via adhesive AD1 to four connection portions PT (see reference) on the proximal side surface of the junction 10J formed on the flexible wiring substrate 10. Figure 4 ) join.

[0051] In the example shown, the adhesive AD1 is an anisotropic conductive film that is heated and pressurized while disposed between the piezoelectric element 8 and the flexible wiring substrate 10, and is fixed to both the piezoelectric element 8 and the flexible wiring substrate 10. Thus, the four electrodes ED of the piezoelectric element 8 and the four connecting portions PT, which are part of the conductive pattern of the flexible wiring substrate 10, are individually electrically connected. However, the adhesive AD1 could also be a conductive adhesive or solder, etc.

[0052] Furthermore, in the example shown, conductive patterns are formed on both sides of the flexible wiring substrate 10, and an insulating film covering the conductive patterns is provided on both sides except for exposed portions such as the connection portion PT. Moreover, in order to achieve more reliable insulation, an insulating protective film is provided on the portions that contact the force-applying member 7 and the portions that contact the piezoelectric element 8.

[0053] The piezoelectric drive unit PD is configured such that it is pressed against the receiving member RC by a force-applying member 7 mounted on the holding member 6 fixed to the base member 3 and applied towards the X2 side. In the example shown in the figure, as... Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the force-applying member 7 is configured such that the positions corresponding to the two nodes ND formed during the bending vibration of the piezoelectric element 8 (the positions of the end faces 7E of the protruding plate portion 7P) are in contact with the distal side (X1 side) of the joint portion 10J of the flexible wiring substrate 10. Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the end face 7E of the force-applying member 7 and the joint portion 10J of the flexible wiring substrate 10 are connected by adhesive AD2 (see reference...). Figure 10 ) join.

[0054] In the example diagram, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the force-applying member 7 has: a plate-shaped base 7M configured to face the distal surface of the piezoelectric drive unit PD; and a protruding plate 7P that bends from the edge of the base 7M in the extending direction (Y-axis direction) of the piezoelectric element 8 and protrudes toward the proximal surface side (X2 side) of the piezoelectric drive unit PD. Specifically, the protruding plate 7P includes a right protruding plate 7PR that bends in an L-shape from the right edge of the base 7M and protrudes toward the X2 side, and a left protruding plate 7PL that bends in an L-shape from the left edge of the base 7M and protrudes toward the X2 side.

[0055] Additionally, the protruding plate portion 7P has a support protrusion 7Q that protrudes towards the piezoelectric drive portion PD in the Z-axis direction. In the example shown in the figure, as... Figure 8 As shown, the support protrusion 7Q includes a left support protrusion 7QL formed on the left protruding plate portion 7PL and a right support protrusion 7QR formed on the right protruding plate portion 7PR. Furthermore, the left support protrusion 7QL includes a lower left support protrusion 7QLD and an upper left support protrusion 7QLU, and the right support protrusion 7QR includes a lower right support protrusion 7QRD and an upper right support protrusion 7QRU. Specifically, the support protrusions 7Q (lower left support protrusion 7QLD, upper left support protrusion 7QLU, lower right support protrusion 7QRD, and upper right support protrusion 7QRU) are each formed to extend (protrude) in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction (Y-axis direction) of the piezoelectric element 8 (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, as... Figure 10 As shown in the rear view, the positions of the various support protrusions 7Q are preferably corresponding to the nodes ND of the piezoelectric element 8, and specifically, they are separated from each other in the extension direction (Y-axis direction) of the piezoelectric element 8.

[0056] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4As shown, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is mounted on the force-applying member 7 such that the distal surface (X1 side) of the joint portion 10J of the flexible wiring substrate 10 contacts the end face 7E of the protruding plate portion 7P of the force-applying member 7. Specifically, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is mounted on the force-applying member 7 such that the positions in the joint portion 10J corresponding to the first node ND1 and the second node ND2 of the piezoelectric element 8 respectively contact the left end face 7EL and the right end face 7ER of the force-applying member 7 respectively. In other words, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is mounted on the force-applying member 7 such that the portion of the distal surface (X1 side) of the joint portion 10J that does not correspond to the first node ND1 and the second node ND2 of the piezoelectric element 8 does not contact the force-applying member 7.

[0057] Next, refer to Figure 6 The operation of the piezoelectric drive unit (PD) will be explained. Figure 6 This diagram shows the piezoelectric element 8 and contact member 9 that constitute the piezoelectric drive unit PD. Figure 6 For clarity, the flexible wiring substrate 10 is omitted from the illustration. Specifically, Figure 6 The topmost image is a three-dimensional view of the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact component 9. Figure 6 The second, third, and fourth figures from the top are top views of the piezoelectric element 8 and contact component 9, viewed along the Z-axis. Figure 6 The fifth, sixth, and seventh figures from the top are front views of the piezoelectric element 8 and contact component 9, viewed along the X-axis. Furthermore, in... Figure 6 In the image, for ease of understanding, the flexural shape of the piezoelectric drive unit PD is exaggerated.

[0058] In the example shown, the piezoelectric element 8 has two portions (first portion 81 and second portion 82) arranged along the Z-axis, and two electrodes ED capable of being individually applied voltage are formed in each of these portions. Specifically, a first electrode ED1 and a second electrode ED2 are formed in the first portion 81, and a first electrode ED11 and a second electrode ED12 are formed in the second portion 82. Furthermore, in... Figure 6 For clarity, the first part 81 is marked with a dot pattern, and the second part 82 is marked with a diagonal line pattern.

[0059] When the piezoelectric drive unit PD applies voltage to the first part 81 and the second part 82 separately at appropriate timings, it can, for example, cause the piezoelectric element 8 (piezoelectric drive unit PD) to bend and vibrate (circular motion) in such a way that the trajectory drawn by the piezoelectric element 8 (the center point CP) at a predetermined point becomes a circular track centered on the rotation axis 8X. Furthermore, the circular motion can also be elliptical motion. That is, the piezoelectric element 8 can achieve the action of drawing a circle at the center point CP (circular motion or elliptical motion). In the example shown, the center point CP of the piezoelectric element 8 is the center of gravity of the piezoelectric element 8. However, the center point CP can also be located within the contact member 9 fixed to the piezoelectric element 8. This is because the contact member 9 also performs circular motion along with the piezoelectric element 8. Additionally, by applying voltage to the first part 81 and the second part 82 separately at appropriate times, the piezoelectric drive unit PD can switch the direction of movement (rotation direction) along the circular track of the center point CP between clockwise and counterclockwise when viewed from the side along the rotation axis 8X. Furthermore, the circle (circular orbit) drawn by the center point CP does not have to be a perfect circle; it can be roughly circular or elliptical.

[0060] exist Figure 6 In the topmost diagram, the dashed arrows depicting the piezoelectric element 8 indicate an example of the bending vibration of the piezoelectric element 8 (a circular motion in which the piezoelectric element 8 flexes while rotating counterclockwise around the rotation axis 8X). Furthermore, although not indicated by arrows, the piezoelectric element 8 can flex while rotating clockwise around the rotation axis 8X.

[0061] Contact member 9 is mounted on piezoelectric element 8 and configured to contact receiving member RC. In the illustrated example, contact member 9 is bonded to the surface of one side of piezoelectric element 8 by adhesive in a manner that covers the entire surface of one side (proximal side, X2 side) of piezoelectric element 8. Contact member 9 is formed of a metal such as titanium copper or stainless steel, and is configured with an appropriate thickness so as to be able to undergo bending vibration (circular motion) together with the bending vibration (circular motion) of piezoelectric element 8. In the illustrated example, contact member 9 is a friction plate formed of stainless steel. Contact member 9 extends in the same direction as the extension direction of piezoelectric element 8, and is the same length as the piezoelectric element 8. Moreover, contact member 9 is configured to contact the movable side member MB (receiving member RC) at its central portion in its extension direction. Specifically, contact member 9 is configured to contact the movable side member MB (receiving member RC) at the portion where the amplitude of the bending vibration (circular motion) is the largest (the portion corresponding to the antinode of the bending vibration). Furthermore, in the example shown, the contact surface 9S of the contact member 9 on the side that contacts the movable side member MB (proximal side, X2 side) becomes a convex curved surface protruding towards the X2 side. That is, the contact surface 9S is configured to form a surface with a protrusion.

[0062] The contact between the metal movable side member MB (receiving member RC) and the metal contact member 9 is to avoid wear on the movable side member MB (receiving member RC) caused by the contact between the synthetic resin movable side member MB (receiving member RC) and the metal contact member 9. Furthermore, as long as contact between the movable side member MB (receiving member RC) and the contact member 9 can be achieved, the length of the contact member 9 along the rotation axis 8X can differ from the length of the piezoelectric element 8 along the rotation axis 8X. For example, the length of the contact member 9 along the rotation axis 8X can be smaller than the length of the piezoelectric element 8 along the rotation axis 8X. However, the length of the contact member 9 in the extending direction (along the rotation axis 8X) is preferably longer than the length of the piezoelectric element 8.

[0063] When the first electrode ED1 is connected to a high potential and the second electrode ED2 is connected to a low potential in a contracted manner with the first part 81, and the first electrode ED11 is connected to a high potential and the second electrode ED12 is connected to a low potential in a contracted manner with the second part 82, as shown in the second figure from the top, the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 flex in a proximal-side protrusion manner. Hereinafter, the state of the piezoelectric drive unit PD when the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 protrude to the proximal side is also referred to as the "proximal-side protrusion state".

[0064] Furthermore, when the first electrode ED1 and the second electrode ED2 are connected to the same potential with the first portion 81 not extending or retracting, or when voltage is stopped being applied to the first electrode ED1 and the second electrode ED2 respectively and the first electrode ED11 and the second electrode ED12 are connected to the same potential with the second portion 82 not extending or retracting, or when voltage is stopped being applied to the first electrode ED11 and the second electrode ED12 respectively, as shown in the third and sixth figures from the top, the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 extend in a straight line. Hereinafter, the state of the piezoelectric drive unit PD when the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 extend in a straight line is also referred to as the "neutral state". In addition, the state when the voltage is stopped is also referred to as the "initial state".

[0065] Furthermore, when the first electrode ED1 is connected to a low potential and the second electrode ED2 is connected to a high potential by extending the first part 81, and the first electrode ED11 is connected to a low potential and the second electrode ED12 is connected to a high potential by extending the second part 82, as shown in the fourth figure from the top, the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 flex in a manner that protrudes distally. Hereinafter, the state of the piezoelectric drive unit PD when the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 protrude distally is also referred to as the "distal protrusion state".

[0066] Furthermore, when the first electrode ED1 is connected to a low potential and the second electrode ED2 is connected to a high potential by extending the first part 81, and the first electrode ED11 is connected to a high potential and the second electrode ED12 is connected to a low potential by contracting the second part 82, as shown in the fifth figure from the top, the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 flex in a manner that protrudes upwards in the figure. Hereinafter, the state of the piezoelectric drive unit PD when the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 protrude upwards in the figure is also referred to as the "upper protrusion state".

[0067] Furthermore, when the first electrode ED1 is connected to a high potential and the second electrode ED2 is connected to a low potential by contracting the first part 81, and the first electrode ED11 is connected to a low potential and the second electrode ED12 is connected to a high potential by extending the second part 82, as shown in the seventh figure from the top, the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 flex in a manner that protrudes downwards in the figure. Hereinafter, the state of the piezoelectric drive unit PD when the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 protrude downwards in the figure is also referred to as the "downward convex state".

[0068] Furthermore, when a voltage is applied between the first electrode ED1 (first electrode ED11) and the second electrode ED2 (second electrode ED12) to elongate or contract the first part 81 (second part 82) in its extending direction, the contact member 9 fixed to one side of the piezoelectric element 8 is prevented from changing size in the extending direction. Therefore, the piezoelectric drive section PD deforms into the state described above. Additionally, the flexible wiring substrate 10 fixed to the other side of the piezoelectric element 8 can deform to follow the shape changes of the piezoelectric element 8.

[0069] In the example shown, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is configured such that the first electrode ED1 is connected to a high potential and the second electrode ED2 is connected to a low potential to cause the first portion 81 to contract, and the first electrode ED1 is connected to a low potential and the second electrode ED2 is connected to a high potential to cause the first portion 81 to extend. However, it can also be configured such that the first electrode ED1 is connected to a low potential and the second electrode ED2 is connected to a high potential to cause the first portion 81 to contract, and the first electrode ED1 is connected to a high potential and the second electrode ED2 is connected to a low potential to cause the first portion 81 to extend. The same applies to the second portion 82.

[0070] Next, refer to Figure 7 The relationship between the bending vibration (circular motion) of the piezoelectric drive unit PD and the motion of the movable side component MB (receiving component RC) is explained. Figure 7 This is a right-side view of the movable side component MB (receiving component RC) and the piezoelectric drive unit PD. Specifically, Figure 7 The left image shows the movable side component MB (receiving component RC) in its initial position. Figure 7The central view shows the movable side component MB (receiving component RC) when it has moved to a position higher than its initial position. Figure 7 The right figure shows the movable side member MB (receiving member RC) moved to a position lower than its initial position. The initial position of the movable side member MB (receiving member RC) is, for example, the position of the movable side member MB (receiving member RC) when it is located at the center of its movable range in the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, in... Figure 7 For clarity, the RC connector is marked with a dot pattern, and adhesives AD2 and AD3 are marked with a cross pattern. Additionally, in... Figure 7 For clarity, the flexible wiring substrate 10 is omitted from the central and right views.

[0071] The piezoelectric drive device 101 repeatedly changes the state of the piezoelectric drive unit PD in the order of proximal convex state, upper convex state, distal convex state, lower convex state, proximal convex state, ... thereby achieving... Figure 7 As shown by arrow AR1 in the central diagram, the movable side component MB (receiving component RC) can be translated upwards (Z1 side).

[0072] In addition, by repeatedly changing the state of the piezoelectric drive unit PD in the order of proximal convex state, lower convex state, distal convex state, upper convex state, proximal convex state, ..., the movable side member MB (receiving member RC) can be translated downward (Z2 side) as shown by arrow AR2 in the right figure.

[0073] Next, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The details of the force-applying component 7 will be explained. Figure 8 These are the three views (top view, left view, and right view) of the force-applying component 7. Figure 9 This is the front view of the force-applying component 7.

[0074] The force-applying component 7 is made of a metal sheet rolled along a specified rolling direction (Y-axis direction). In the example shown, as... Figure 8 As shown in the top view above, the force-applying component 7 is configured to be symmetrical from left to right when viewed from above, and as... Figure 9As shown, the configuration is symmetrical from left to right in the main view. Specifically, the force-applying member 7 is configured such that its left and right ends are separated in the rolling direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to the first direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, the force-applying member 7 has a fixing part 7F fixed to the fixing side member FB (holding member 6), a support part 7S located between the left and right ends and supporting the piezoelectric drive part PD, an elastically deformable part 7G disposed between the fixing part 7F and the support part 7S, 20 bending parts 7N disposed between the left and right ends, and 10 inclined parts 7T disposed between two adjacent bending parts 7N. Each of the 20 bending parts 7N is bent with its bending axis 7X approximately perpendicular to the rolling direction (Y-axis direction). The bending axis 7X is an axis extending parallel to the bending line, which is a line indicating the position of the punch contact used in the bending process.

[0075] like Figure 8 As shown, the support portion 7S has: a flat base 7M, facing the surface of the distal side (X1 side) of the piezoelectric drive portion PD; and two protruding plate portions 7P, facing each other in a state separated from the base 7M in the rolling direction (Y-axis direction), and protruding from the base 7M toward the piezoelectric drive portion PD side (X2 side). Figure 9 As shown, the base 7M is configured as a plate extending along the YZ plane.

[0076] like Figure 8 As shown, the two protruding plate portions 7P include a right protruding plate portion 7PR that bends in an L-shape from the right edge of the base portion 7M and protrudes toward the X2 side, and a left protruding plate portion 7PL that bends in an L-shape from the left edge of the base portion 7M and protrudes toward the X2 side.

[0077] The fixing part 7F includes a left fixing part 7FL disposed at the left end of the force-applying member 7 and a right fixing part 7FR disposed at the right end of the force-applying member 7.

[0078] like Figure 8 As shown, the elastic deformation portion 7G includes a left elastic deformation portion 7GL disposed between the left fixed portion 7FL and the left protruding plate portion 7PL of the support portion 7S, and a right elastic deformation portion 7GR disposed between the right fixed portion 7FR and the right protruding plate portion 7PR of the support portion 7S. Specifically, as Figure 9As shown, the left elastic deformation portion 7GL includes: an upper left elastic deformation portion 7GLU, which is disposed between the upper end of the left fixing portion 7FL and the upper end of the left protruding plate portion 7PL of the support portion 7S; a lower left elastic deformation portion 7GLD, which is disposed between the lower end of the left fixing portion 7FL and the lower end of the left protruding plate portion 7PL of the support portion 7S; and a left central elastic deformation portion 7GLC, which extends along the Z-axis direction and connects the upper left elastic deformation portion 7GLU and the lower left elastic deformation portion 7GLD. Additionally, the right elastic deformation portion 7GR includes: an upper right elastic deformation portion 7GRU, which is disposed between the upper end of the right fixing portion 7FR and the upper end of the right protruding plate portion 7PR of the support portion 7S; a lower right elastic deformation portion 7GRD, which is disposed between the lower end of the right fixing portion 7FR and the lower end of the right protruding plate portion 7PR of the support portion 7S; and a right central elastic deformation portion 7GRC, which extends along the Z-axis direction and connects the upper right elastic deformation portion 7GRU and the lower right elastic deformation portion 7GRD.

[0079] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, an opening 7H is formed in the force-applying component 7. The opening 7H includes a first opening 7H1 and a second opening 7H2. Specifically, the first opening 7H1 includes a first left opening 7H1L ​​and a first right opening 7H1R, and the second opening 7H2 includes a second left opening 7H2L and a second right opening 7H2R.

[0080] like Figure 8 As shown, the 20 bends 7N include first bends 7N1 to sixth bends 7N6. Specifically, the first bend 7N1 includes a first left bend 7NL1 and a first right bend 7NR1, the second bend 7N2 includes a second left bend 7NL2 and a second right bend 7NR2, the third bend 7N3 includes a third left bend 7NL3 and a third right bend 7NR3, the fourth bend 7N4 includes a fourth left bend 7NL4 and a fourth right bend 7NR4, the fifth bend 7N5 includes a fifth left bend 7NL5 and a fifth right bend 7NR5, and the sixth bend 7N6 includes a sixth left bend 7NL6 and a sixth right bend 7NR6.

[0081] Furthermore, the bending process is typically performed sequentially from the front end side (fixed part 7F side) of the force-applying member 7. In the illustrated example, the bending process is performed in the order of the first bending part 7N1, the second bending part 7N2, the third bending part 7N3, the fourth bending part 7N4, the fifth bending part 7N5, and the sixth bending part 7N6.

[0082] More specifically, such as Figure 9As shown, the first left bend 7NL1 includes a first lower left bend 7NLD1 and a first upper left bend 7NLU1, and the first right bend 7NR1 includes a first lower right bend 7NRD1 and a first upper right bend 7NRU1. Furthermore, the second left bend 7NL2 includes a second lower left bend 7NLD2 and a second upper left bend 7NLU2, and the second right bend 7NR2 includes a second lower right bend 7NRD2 and a second upper right bend 7NRU2. Additionally, the third left bend 7NL3 includes a third lower left bend 7NLD3 and a third upper left bend 7NLU3, and the third right bend 7NR3 includes a third lower right bend 7NRD3 and a third upper right bend 7NRU3. Finally, the fourth left bend 7NL4 includes a fourth lower left bend 7NLD4 and a fourth upper left bend 7NLU4, and the fourth right bend 7NR4 includes a fourth lower right bend 7NRD4 and a fourth upper right bend 7NRU4.

[0083] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, each of the 20 curved portions 7N has a corresponding bending axis 7X. Specifically, the first curved portion 7N1 to the sixth curved portion 7N6 each have a first bending axis 7X1 to a sixth bending axis 7X6. Specifically, the first bending axis 7X1 includes a first left bending axis 7XL1 and a first right bending axis 7XR1, the second bending axis 7X2 includes a second left bending axis 7XL2 and a second right bending axis 7XR2, the third bending axis 7X3 includes a third left bending axis 7XL3 and a third right bending axis 7XR3, the fourth bending axis 7X4 includes a fourth left bending axis 7XL4 and a fourth right bending axis 7XR4, the fifth bending axis 7X5 includes a fifth left bending axis 7XL5 and a fifth right bending axis 7XR5, and the sixth bending axis 7X6 includes a sixth left bending axis 7XL6 and a sixth right bending axis 7XR6.

[0084] More specifically, such as Figure 9 As shown, the first left curved shaft 7XL1 includes a first lower left curved shaft 7XLD1 and a first upper left curved shaft 7XLU1, and the first right curved shaft 7XR1 includes a first lower right curved shaft 7XRD1 and a first upper right curved shaft 7XRU1. Additionally, the second left curved shaft 7XL2 includes a second lower left curved shaft 7XLD2 and a second upper left curved shaft 7XLU2, and the second right curved shaft 7XR2 includes a second lower right curved shaft 7XRD2 and a second upper right curved shaft 7XRU2. Furthermore, the third left curved shaft 7XL3 includes a third lower left curved shaft 7XLD3 and a third upper left curved shaft 7XLU3, and the third right curved shaft 7XR3 includes a third lower right curved shaft 7XRD3 and a third upper right curved shaft 7XRU3. Finally, the fourth left curved shaft 7XL4 includes a fourth lower left curved shaft 7XLD4 and a fourth upper left curved shaft 7XLU4, and the fourth right curved shaft 7XR4 includes a fourth lower right curved shaft 7XRD4 and a fourth upper right curved shaft 7XRU4.

[0085] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, the inclined portion 7T is a portion of the plate surface that is inclined relative to the X-axis and Y-axis, respectively, and includes a left inclined portion 7TL and a right inclined portion 7TR. Specifically, the left inclined portion 7TL includes a first left inclined portion 7TL1, a second left inclined portion 7TL2, and a third left inclined portion 7TL3, and the right inclined portion 7TR includes a first right inclined portion 7TR1, a second right inclined portion 7TR2, and a third right inclined portion 7TR3. The inclined portion 7T is preferably configured to have a width (length along the rolling direction) that is more than three times the thickness of the plate.

[0086] More specifically, such as Figure 9 As shown, the first left-tilted portion 7TL1 includes a first upper-left tilted portion 7TLU1 and a first lower-left tilted portion 7TLD1, and the first right-tilted portion 7TR1 includes a first upper-right tilted portion 7TRU1 and a first lower-right tilted portion 7TRD1. Furthermore, the second left-tilted portion 7TL2 includes a second upper-left tilted portion 7TLU2 and a second lower-left tilted portion 7TLD2, and the second right-tilted portion 7TR2 includes a second upper-right tilted portion 7TRU2 and a second lower-right tilted portion 7TRD2.

[0087] Next, refer to Figure 10 The positional relationship between the force-applying component 7, the piezoelectric element 8, and the contact component 9 is explained. Figure 10 These are three views (top view, rear view, and left view) of the force-applying component 7, the piezoelectric element 8, and the contact component 9. Additionally, in Figure 10 For clarity, adhesives AD2 and AD3 are marked with a cross pattern.

[0088] Specifically, such as Figure 10 As shown in the lower left figure (left view), the surface of the distal side (X1 side) of the piezoelectric element 8 is bonded with adhesive AD1 (see reference). Figure 3 The junction 10J of the flexible wiring substrate 10 and the flexible wiring substrate 10 (see reference) Figure 3 ) Joining, the distal side (X1 side) of the joint 10J surface (in Figure 10 (Not shown in the figure) It is joined to the end face 7E of the protruding plate portion 7P of the force-applying component 7 by adhesive AD2.

[0089] In addition, the surface of the proximal side (X2 side) of the piezoelectric element 8 is joined to the contact member 9 by an adhesive (not shown), and the upper side (Z1 side) and lower side (Z2 side) of the contact member 9 are joined to the support protrusion 7Q of the protruding plate portion 7P of the force-applying member 7 by adhesive AD3.

[0090] More specifically, the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 are positioned at positions Pb corresponding to the respective nodes ND of the two nodes ND in the piezoelectric element 8, on the upper (Z1 side) and lower (Z2 side) surfaces of the contact member 9, respectively (refer to...). Figure 3 It is mounted on the force-applying component 7 in a manner opposite to the support protrusion 7Q of the force-applying component 7. In the example shown in the figure, as Figure 3 As shown, position Pb includes: position Pb1 on the upper (Z1 side) surface of contact member 9 corresponding to the first wavelet ND1; position Pb2 on the upper (Z1 side) surface of contact member 9 corresponding to the second wavelet ND2; position Pb11 on the lower (Z2 side) surface of contact member 9 corresponding to the first wavelet ND1; and position Pb12 on the lower (Z2 side) surface of contact member 9 corresponding to the second wavelet ND2. Furthermore, as... Figure 10 As shown in the lower right figure (rear view), the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 are mounted on the force-applying member 7 with position Pb1 opposite the upper left support protrusion 7QLU, position Pb2 opposite the upper right support protrusion 7QRU, position Pb11 opposite the lower left support protrusion 7QLD, and position Pb12 opposite the lower right support protrusion 7QRD. That is, the contact member 9 is supported by the force-applying member 7 at two points on its upper surface and two points on its lower surface. Furthermore, the force-applying member 7 and the contact member 9 are joined at two points on their upper and lower surfaces using adhesive AD3.

[0091] Next, refer to Figure 11 The positional relationship between the holding component 6 and the force-applying component 7 is explained. Figure 11 These are the three views (top view, front view, and left view) of the retaining component 6 and the force-applying component 7. Furthermore, in Figure 11 For clarity, the markings on component 6 are shown in the image.

[0092] Specifically, the retaining member 6 is a component for retaining the force-applying member 7 on which the piezoelectric drive unit PD is mounted, and has a generally rectangular annular frame portion 6E. The frame portion 6E has a lower side portion 6ED, a left side portion 6EL, a right side portion 6ER, and an upper side portion 6EU. Moreover, the left side portion 6EL has a left engaging portion 6FL that protrudes outward (to the left) in a manner that engages with the left fixing portion 7FL of the force-applying member 7, and the right side portion 6ER has a right engaging portion 6FR that protrudes outward (to the right) in a manner that engages with the right fixing portion 7FR of the force-applying member 7.

[0093] More specifically, the left engaging portion 6FL is configured such that, when the force-applying member 7 is installed on the retaining member 6, a second left opening 7H2L extends from the inside to the outside between the first upper left inclined portion 7TLU1 and the first lower left inclined portion 7TLD1 of the force-applying member 7, and engages with the inner end (front end) of the left fixing portion 7FL. Similarly, the right engaging portion 6FR is configured such that, when the force-applying member 7 is installed on the retaining member 6, a second right opening 7H2R extends from the inside to the outside between the first upper right inclined portion 7TRU1 and the first lower right inclined portion 7TRD1 of the force-applying member 7, and engages with the inner end (front end) of the right fixing portion 7FR.

[0094] Furthermore, the force-applying member 7, as a leaf spring component, can also be configured to apply a restoring force when installed on the retaining member 6, such that the left fixing part 7FL and the right fixing part 7FR approach each other. In this case, the force-applying member 7 installed on the retaining member 6 can generate a force that prevents the force-applying member 7 from falling off the retaining member 6.

[0095] Furthermore, the retaining member 6 has protrusions 6P formed in such a way that they clamp the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9 from above and below, respectively. Specifically, the protrusions 6P include a left protrusion 6PL disposed on the left side of the support portion 7S of the force-applying member 7, and a right protrusion 6PR disposed on the right side of the support portion 7S of the force-applying member 7. Moreover, the left protrusion 6PL includes an upper left protrusion 6PLU disposed on the upper side of the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9, and a lower left protrusion 6PLD disposed on the lower side of the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9. Similarly, the right protrusion 6PR includes an upper right protrusion 6PRU disposed above the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9, and a lower right protrusion 6PRD disposed below the piezoelectric element 8 and the contact member 9.

[0096] Next, refer to Figure 12 The positional relationship between the holding component 6, the force-applying component 7, and the piezoelectric drive unit PD (piezoelectric element 8 and contact component 9) will be explained. Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the retaining component 6, the force-applying component 7, the piezoelectric element 8, and the contact component 9. Specifically, Figure 12 The image above is a perspective view of the retaining component 6, the force-applying component 7, the piezoelectric element 8, and the contact component 9, viewed from the upper right front. Figure 12 The image below is a perspective view of the retaining component 6, the force-applying component 7, the piezoelectric element 8, and the contact component 9, viewed from a slightly upper left rear angle. Furthermore, in Figure 12 For clarity, the diagram of the flexible wiring substrate 10 is omitted from the illustration of the marking pattern of the retaining component 6.

[0097] Specifically, the force-applying component 7 is mounted on the retaining component 6 with the piezoelectric drive unit PD attached via adhesive AD2 and adhesive AD3. In the example shown, the force-applying component 7 is mounted on the retaining component 6 with the protrusion 6P inserted into the first opening 7H1 and the engaging portion 6F inserted into the second opening 7H2.

[0098] In this state, such as Figure 12 As shown in the figure above, the upper left elastic deformable portion 7GLU is disposed between the upper side portion 6EU and the upper left protrusion 6PLU; the lower left elastic deformable portion 7GLD is disposed between the lower side portion 6ED and the lower left protrusion 6PLD; the upper right elastic deformable portion 7GRU is disposed between the upper side portion 6EU and the upper right protrusion 6PRU; and the lower right elastic deformable portion 7GRD is disposed between the lower side portion 6ED and the lower right protrusion 6PRD. Additionally, the support portion 7S is disposed between the left protrusion 6PL and the right protrusion 6PR, and between the upper side portion 6EU and the lower side portion 6ED.

[0099] Additionally, in the example shown, the retaining component 6 and the force-applying component 7 are in contact with the rear end face BE of the right engaging part 6FR and the front end face FE of the right fixing part 7FR (see reference). Figure 12 (as shown in the image above), and the rear end face BE of the left engaging part 6FL contacts the front end face FE of the left fixing part 7FL (refer to...). Figure 12 (See the image below) while other parts combine with each other in a way that does not touch.

[0100] Moreover, such as Figure 5 As shown in the figure below, the retaining member 6, on which the force-applying member 7 is mounted, is fixed to the base member 3 by adhesive AD4. Specifically, the base member 3, the retaining member 6, and the force-applying member 7 are secured to the base member 3 by applying an adhesive to the recess 3S provided in the base member 3 (see figure below). Figure 5 The adhesive AD4 (as shown in the figure below) integrates and fixes the recess 3S, the engaging part 6F, and the fixing part 7F.

[0101] Next, refer to Figures 13-16 This section provides a detailed explanation of the guiding organization GM. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the lens holding component 2, the base component 3, and the guide shaft component 4. Specifically, Figure 13 The image above is Figure 5 The above image shows an enlarged view of the area R2 enclosed by the dashed line. Figure 13 The image below is Figure 5 The above image shows an enlarged view of the area R3 enclosed by the dashed line. Figures 14-16 This is a cross-sectional view of the piezoelectric drive device 101. Specifically, Figure 14 Observed from the X1 side and included Figure 5 The diagram shows a cross-section of the piezoelectric drive device 101 in an imaginary plane perpendicular to the XY plane of the imaginary line L2. Figure 15 Observed from the Y2 side and included Figure 5 The diagram shows a cross-section of the piezoelectric drive device 101 in an imaginary plane perpendicular to the XY plane of the cut line CL2. Figure 16 Observed from the Y2 side and included Figure 5 The diagram shows a cross-section of the piezoelectric drive device 101 in an imaginary plane perpendicular to the XY plane of the cut line CL3. Furthermore, in Figure 15 In the diagram, for ease of understanding, the invisible left recess 41GL is actually represented by a dashed line. Similarly, in... Figure 16 In the middle, for ease of understanding, the invisible left groove portion 42GL is actually represented by a dashed line.

[0102] The guiding mechanism GM is a mechanism that guides the movement of the movable side component MB relative to the fixed side component FB. In the example shown, the guiding mechanism GM guides the movement of the lens holding component 2 relative to the base component 3 along the optical axis, and is composed of the guided portion 2G of the lens holding component 2, the columnar portions 30 (first columnar portion 31 and second columnar portion 32) of the base component 3, and the guiding shaft component 4. Specifically, the guiding mechanism GM includes a first guiding mechanism GM1 composed of the first guided portion 2G1, the first columnar portion 31, and the first guiding shaft component 41, and a second guiding mechanism GM2 composed of the second guided portion 2G2, the second columnar portion 32, and the second guiding shaft component 42.

[0103] like Figure 2 As shown, the columnar portion 30 is formed to protrude upward from the base plate portion 3B at the corner of the base member 3. Specifically, a first columnar portion 31, which is one of the columnar portions 30, is formed on the inner side of the right corner of the base member 3, and a second columnar portion 32, which is the other columnar portion 30, is formed on the inner side of the left corner of the base member 3. In addition, a receiving recess 3R for receiving the guide shaft member 4 is formed in the columnar portion 30. Specifically, a first receiving recess 3R1 for receiving the first guide shaft member 41 is formed in the first columnar portion 31, and a second receiving recess 3R2 for receiving the second guide shaft member 42 is formed in the second columnar portion 32. With the lens holding member 2 embedded inside the base member 3, the guide shaft member 4 is inserted into the receiving recess 3R, and then fixed to the base member 3 by injecting adhesive AD6 into the receiving recess 3R. In addition, the lens holding member 2 moves towards the X1 side when the guide shaft member 4 is inserted into the receiving recess 3R. Therefore, the lens holding member 2 can press the receiving member RC, which is installed in the recess 2U, against the piezoelectric drive part PD (contact surface 9S of the contact member 9) supported by the force applying member 7. In other words, the force applying member 7 can press the piezoelectric drive part PD (contact surface 9S of the contact member 9) against the receiving member RC.

[0104] Specifically, such as Figure 13 As shown in the figure above, the opening of the first columnar portion 31 on the X1 side of the first receiving recess 3R1 has a pair of convex portions 31P (left convex portion 31PL and right convex portion 31PR) facing each other along the Y-axis direction. The pair of convex portions 31P are configured to engage with a pair of groove portions 41G (left groove portion 41GL and right groove portion 41GR) formed on the first guide shaft member 41.

[0105] like Figure 2 As shown, a pair of recesses 41G are formed extending along the extending direction (Z-axis direction) of the first guide shaft member 41, covering approximately two-thirds of the total length of the first guide shaft member 41. More specifically, as... Figure 14 As shown, a pair of recesses 41G are formed and extend over the respective surfaces of the first guide shaft member 41 on the Y1 and Y2 sides.

[0106] Similarly, as Figure 13 As shown in the figure below, the second columnar portion 32 has a pair of convex portions 32P (left convex portion 32PL and right convex portion 32PR) facing each other along the Y-axis direction at the opening on the X1 side of the second receiving recess 3R2. The pair of convex portions 32P are configured to engage with a pair of recesses 42G (left recess 42GL and right recess 42GR) formed on the second guide shaft member 42.

[0107] like Figure 2 As shown, a pair of recesses 42G are formed extending along the extending direction (Z-axis direction) of the second guide shaft member 42, covering approximately two-thirds of the total length of the second guide shaft member 42. More specifically, as... Figure 14 As shown, a pair of recesses 42G are formed and extend over the respective surfaces of the second guide shaft member 42 on the Y1 and Y2 sides, covering the range HT1L.

[0108] In the example shown, the first guide shaft component 41 and the second guide shaft component 42 are formed as follows: Figure 13 As shown, they have approximately the same diameter, and as Figure 14 As shown, the lengths in the Z-axis direction are approximately the same. Furthermore, the range HT1R, corresponding to the length of a pair of grooves 41G, and the range HT1L, corresponding to the length of a pair of grooves 42G, have approximately the same size.

[0109] The guide shaft component 4, inserted into the receiving recess 3R, contacts the guided portion 2G of the lens holding component 2, pressing the lens holding component 2 towards the X1 side. Specifically, as... Figure 13 As shown in the figure above, the two contact portions 41C (left contact portion 41CL and right contact portion 41CR) of the first guide shaft component 41, when viewed from above, contact with the concave portion CS of the first guided portion 2G1. Furthermore, in Figure 13 In the above figure, for clarity, the contact part 41C is marked with a cross pattern.

[0110] More specifically, such as Figure 15 As shown, the concave portion CS has an upper concave portion CSU formed at the upper end of the first guided portion 2G1, and a lower concave portion CSD formed at the lower end of the first guided portion 2G1. Additionally, the left contact portion 41CL has an upper left contact portion 41CLU that contacts the upper concave portion CSU, and a lower left contact portion 41CLD that contacts the lower concave portion CSD.

[0111] Furthermore, the four contact portions 41C on the top, bottom, left, and right are each formed to extend over a range HT2 in the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the left contact portion 41CL is formed to extend over a range HT2L in the Z-axis direction. More specifically, the upper left contact portion 41CLU is formed to extend over a range HT2LU in the Z-axis direction, and the lower left contact portion 41CLD is formed to extend over a range HT2LD in the Z-axis direction. In the example shown, the ranges HT2LD and HT2LU have approximately the same size. Additionally, although the illustration is omitted, the right contact portion 41CR is the same.

[0112] According to this structure, the first guiding mechanism GM1, including the first guided portion 2G1 and the first guiding shaft component 41, can realize the positioning of the lens holding component 2. Specifically, the first guiding shaft component 41 can suppress the movement of the lens holding component 2 towards the X2 side, the Y1 side, and the Y2 side, respectively, through four contact portions 41C.

[0113] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown in the figure below, in a top view, a contact portion 42C of the second guide shaft component 42 contacts the planar portion FS of the second guided portion 2G2. Furthermore, in Figure 13 In the image below, a cross symbol is marked on the contact part 42C for clarity.

[0114] More specifically, such as Figure 16 As shown, the planar portion FS has an upper planar portion FSU formed at the upper end of the second guided portion 2G2, and a lower planar portion FSD formed at the lower end of the second guided portion 2G2. Additionally, the contact portion 42C has an upper contact portion 42CU that contacts the upper planar portion FSU, and a lower contact portion 42CD that contacts the lower planar portion FSD.

[0115] Furthermore, the upper and lower contact portions 42C are respectively formed to extend throughout the range HT2 in the Z-axis direction. Specifically, the upper contact portion 42CU is formed to extend throughout the range HT2U in the Z-axis direction, and the lower contact portion 42CD is formed to extend throughout the range HT2D in the Z-axis direction. In the example shown, the ranges HT2D and HT2U have approximately the same size.

[0116] According to this structure, the second guiding mechanism GM2, including the second guided portion 2G2 and the second guiding shaft component 42, allows the lens holding component 2 to move in the Y-axis direction and suppresses the movement of the lens holding component 2 towards the X2 side. Therefore, this structure has the effect of absorbing the tolerances of the components constituting the piezoelectric drive device 101.

[0117] Next, refer to Figure 17 as well as Figure 18 The assembly method of the piezoelectric drive device 101 will be described. Figure 17 and Figure 18 This is a perspective view of the components constituting the piezoelectric drive device 101. Specifically, Figure 17 The image above is a perspective view of base component 3. Figure 17 The central view is a perspective view of the base component 3, in which the holding component 6, the force-applying component 7, and the piezoelectric drive unit PD are installed. Figure 17 The image below is a perspective view of the base component 3 with the lens holding component 2 further installed. Additionally, Figure 18 The image above is a perspective view of the base component 3 with the guide shaft component 4 further installed. Figure 18 The following figure is a perspective view of the base component 3 with the cover component 1 further installed, i.e., a perspective view of the piezoelectric drive device 101. Furthermore, in Figure 17 as well as Figure 18 For clarity, newly installed components are marked with dotted patterns.

[0118] First, such as Figure 17 As shown in the central diagram, a retaining member 6, a force-applying member 7, and a piezoelectric drive unit PD are mounted on the base component 3. Specifically, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is mounted on the force-applying member 7, the force-applying member 7 with the piezoelectric drive unit PD mounted is mounted on the retaining member 6, and the retaining member 6 with the force-applying member 7 mounted is mounted on the base component 3. Furthermore, the base component 3 (recess 3S), the retaining member 6 (engaging portion 6F), and the force-applying member 7 (fixed portion 7F) are connected by adhesive AD4 (see reference). Figure 5 It is fixed as a whole.

[0119] After that, as Figure 17As shown in the figure below, the lens holding member 2 is installed before the guide shaft member 4 is installed on the base member 3. Specifically, the lens holding member 2 is housed inside the outer peripheral wall 3A of the base member 3 with the magnet MG and the receiving member RC installed.

[0120] After that, as Figure 18 As shown in the figure above, a guide shaft component 4 is inserted between the lens holding component 2 and the base component 3. Specifically, as... Figure 13 As shown in the figure above, the first guide shaft component 41 is inserted from top to bottom into the two recessed portions 41G in a manner that accommodates the two protrusions 31P formed in the first columnar portion 31. Similarly, as Figure 13 As shown in the figure below, the second guide shaft component 42 is inserted from top to bottom into the two recessed portions 42G in a manner that accommodates the two protrusions 32P formed in the second columnar portion 32. At this time, as Figure 18 As shown by arrow AR3 in the above figure, the lens holding member 2 is pressed towards the X1 side by the guide shaft member 4. This is to ensure space for accommodating the guide shaft member 4 between the guided portion 2G of the lens holding member 2 and the columnar portion 30 of the base member 3. Therefore, the receiving member RC fixed to the lens holding member 2 is pressed against the contact member 9 of the piezoelectric drive unit PD. As a result, the force-applying member 7 can press the contact member 9 of the piezoelectric drive unit PD against the receiving member RC.

[0121] Then, as Figure 18 As shown in the figure below, a cover component 1 is mounted on a base component 3. In the example shown, the inner side of the cover component 1 is bonded to the outer side of both the base component 3 and the flexible wiring substrate 10 by an adhesive (not shown).

[0122] Next, refer to Figure 19 as well as Figure 20 Other configuration examples of the piezoelectric drive device 101 will be described. Figure 19 This is a perspective view of other configuration examples of the piezoelectric drive device 101. Specifically, Figure 19 The image above (located above the block arrow) is an exploded 3D view. Figure 19 The image below (located below the block arrow) is an assembled 3D diagram. Figure 20 It constitutes Figure 19 The image shows a top view of the lens holding member 2, guide shaft member 4, piezoelectric element 8, and contact member 9 of the piezoelectric drive device 101. Furthermore, in... Figure 20 For clarity, dot patterns are marked on guide shaft component 4, and cross patterns are marked on contact part 42C.

[0123] Figure 19 The piezoelectric drive device 101 shown is Figure 1The main difference in the piezoelectric drive device 101 shown is that the guide shaft component 4 passes through the cover component 1 and the base component 3 and is fixed to the cover component 1 and the base component 3. Figure 1 In the piezoelectric drive device 101 shown, the guide shaft component 4 is fixed to the base component 3 without passing through the cover component 1 and the base component 3. Specifically, in Figure 19 In the piezoelectric drive device 101 shown, the guide shaft component 4 is inserted into the through hole 1H formed in the top plate portion 1B of the cover component 1 and the through hole 3H formed in the bottom plate portion 3B of the base component 3.

[0124] In addition, Figure 19 In the piezoelectric drive device 101 shown, the lens holding member 2 and Figure 1 The difference in the piezoelectric drive device 101 shown is that, in Figure 20 The guided portion 2G shown has a through portion 2T.

[0125] Specifically, in Figure 19 In the piezoelectric drive device 101 shown, such as Figure 20 As shown, the lens holding member 2 has a first through portion 2T1 formed in the first guided portion 2G1 and a second through portion 2T2 formed in the second guided portion 2G2. The first through portion 2T1 is a generally circular through hole through which the first guide shaft member 41 is inserted, including a generally circular concave portion CS when viewed from above. In addition, the second through portion 2T2 is a cutout with an outwardly opening through which the second guide shaft member 42 is inserted, including two flat portions FS.

[0126] Furthermore, the first guide shaft component 41 is configured such that, when viewed from above, its annular portion, i.e., the contact portion 41C of its outer periphery, slidably contacts the concave portion CS of the first guided portion 2G1. Additionally, the second guide shaft component 42 is configured to contact, at its two contact portions 42C, two planar portions FS respectively disposed opposite each other in the X-axis direction.

[0127] Furthermore, the first guide shaft component 41 and the second guide shaft component 42 are configured to face each other across an imaginary line L1 connecting the center of the receiving component RC and the central axis (optical axis OA) of the movable side component MB (lens holding component 2) when viewed from above along the first direction (Z-axis direction).

[0128] Furthermore, the first guided portion 2G1 has a concave portion CS that accommodates at least a portion of the first guide shaft member 41, and the second guided portion 2G2 has two planar portions FS that extend substantially parallel to the imaginary line L2 connecting the first guide shaft member 41 and the second guide shaft member 42 when viewed from above along the first direction (Z-axis direction). The two planar portions FS are configured to slide on the second guide shaft member 42.

[0129] According to this structure, the first guiding mechanism GM1, including the first guided portion 2G1 and the first guiding shaft component 41, can realize the positioning of the lens holding component 2. Specifically, the first guiding shaft component 41 can suppress the movement of the lens holding component 2 toward the X1 side, X2 side, Y1 side, and Y2 side respectively by means of the annular contact portion 41C when viewed from above.

[0130] Furthermore, according to this structure, the second guiding mechanism GM2, including the second guided portion 2G2 and the second guiding shaft component 42, can suppress movement of the lens holding component 2 in the X-axis direction and allow movement of the lens holding component 2 in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, this structure has the effect of absorbing the tolerances of the components constituting the piezoelectric drive device 101.

[0131] As mentioned above, such as Figure 2 As shown, the piezoelectric drive device 101 according to the embodiments of this disclosure includes: a fixed side member FB; a movable side member MB, which is movable relative to the fixed side member FB; and a piezoelectric drive unit PD, which is disposed on one side member (in which the movable side member MB and the fixed side member FB are located). Figure 2 The example shown is the fixed-side component FB, configured to have a piezoelectric element 8; a receiving component RC is provided on the other side of the component that is the movable-side component MB and the fixed-side component FB (in Figure 2 In the example shown, the movable side member (MB) is in contact with the piezoelectric drive unit PD; and the force-applying member 7 applies force to the piezoelectric drive unit PD towards the receiving member RC, configured such that the movable side member MB moves relative to the fixed side member FB in the first direction (Z-axis direction) via the piezoelectric drive unit PD. Furthermore, as... Figure 8 As shown, the force-applying component 7 is made of a metal plate rolled along a specified rolling direction (Y-axis direction). In the rolling direction (Y-axis direction) intersecting the first direction (Z-axis direction), one end (left end) is separated from the other end (right end). It has a fixing part 7F respectively disposed at one end (left end) and the other end (right end) and fixed to a side component (fixed side component FB); a support part 7S located between one end (left end) and the other end (right end) and supporting the piezoelectric drive part PD; an elastically deformable part 7G disposed between the fixing part 7F and the support part 7S; and multiple (20) bending parts 7N disposed between one end (left end) and the other end (right end), as shown. Figure 9 As shown, multiple (20) bends 7N are bent in a manner that is approximately perpendicular (approximately orthogonal) to the rolling direction (Y-axis direction) with respect to the bending axis 7X.

[0132] This structure provides the following benefits: even when the force-applying component 7, which is a leaf spring component, becomes harder due to repeated rolling, the bending direction is a "good way" direction (perpendicular to the rolling direction), thus suppressing the generation of cracks or fractures during bending compared to a "bad way" direction (parallel to the rolling direction). Therefore, this structure improves the manufacturability of the piezoelectric drive device 101. Furthermore, this structure provides a double-support configuration where both ends of the leaf spring component are fixed, resulting in a structure that is difficult to twist due to multiple bends between one end and the other, meaning that the piezoelectric drive unit PD can be properly supported even when the piezoelectric element 8 moves.

[0133] Furthermore, the bend 7N is preferably bent using an obtuse angle bend, such that the angle formed between the two parts connected by the bend 7N is an obtuse angle. In the example shown, as... Figure 8 As shown in the top view, the bend 7N bends at an angle of approximately 135 degrees between the two parts connected by the bend 7N.

[0134] This structure offers the following advantages: compared to forming the force-applying component 7 by bending at an acute angle where the angle between the two parts connected by the bending portion 7N is acute, it is less susceptible to springback or cracks. Furthermore, this structure helps to suppress the formation of cracks or breakages during bending. Additionally, this structure allows the leaf spring component to be bent approximately perpendicularly via two or more bending portions 7N.

[0135] In addition, such as Figure 8As shown, the force-applying component 7 preferably has a first flat plate portion (base 7M), a second flat plate portion (right protruding plate portion 7PR), and a third flat plate portion (third right inclined portion 7TR3) located between the first flat plate portion and the second flat plate portion. Moreover, the plane along the plate surface of the first flat plate portion (base 7M) is substantially perpendicular to the plane along the plate surface of the second flat plate portion (right protruding plate portion 7PR), the plane along the plate surface of the first flat plate portion (base 7M) is inclined to the plane along the plate surface of the third flat plate portion (third right inclined portion 7TR3), and the plane along the plate surface of the second flat plate portion (right protruding plate portion 7PR) is inclined to the plane along the plate surface of the third flat plate portion (third right inclined portion 7TR3). Furthermore, the first flat plate portion (base 7M) and the third flat plate portion (third right-inclined portion 7TR3) are connected by a first curved portion 7N (sixth right-inclined portion 7NR6), and the second flat plate portion (right protruding plate portion 7PR) and the third flat plate portion (third right-inclined portion 7TR3) are connected by a second curved portion 7N (fifth right-inclined portion 7NR5). Moreover, the first curved portion 7N (sixth right-inclined portion 7NR6) and the second curved portion 7N (fifth right-inclined portion 7NR5) are included in a plurality of (20) curved portions 7N.

[0136] Compared to structures where a portion of the leaf spring component is bent approximately perpendicularly via a single bend, this structure offers the advantage of being less susceptible to springback or cracking. Furthermore, this structure helps to suppress the formation of cracks or breakage during bending. Additionally, this structure allows the leaf spring component to be bent approximately perpendicularly via two or more bends 7N.

[0137] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, the support portion 7S of the force-applying member 7 preferably has: a flat base 7M, which is opposite to the piezoelectric drive portion PD; and two protruding plate portions 7P, which are opposite to each other in the rolling direction (Y-axis direction) separated from the base 7M, and extend from the base 7M toward the piezoelectric drive portion PD side (X2 side). Moreover, the plate surface of the base 7M is along the first direction (Z-axis direction), the base 7M constitutes a first flat plate portion, and the two protruding plate portions 7P (left protruding plate portion 7PL and right protruding plate portion 7PR) respectively constitute a second flat plate portion.

[0138] This structure enables the piezoelectric drive unit PD to be supported by the support portion 7S, which has increased rigidity.

[0139] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown in the figure below, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is preferably fixed to the end face 7E of the protruding plate 7P. In the example shown, as Figure 10 As shown, the piezoelectric drive part PD (joint part 10J of flexible wiring substrate 10) is fixed to the end face 7E by adhesive AD2.

[0140] This structure can support the piezoelectric drive unit PD with a narrower area of ​​end face 7E, thus making it less likely to hinder the movement of the piezoelectric drive unit PD.

[0141] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, the force-applying component 7 preferably includes: an elastically deformable portion 7G disposed between a fixed portion 7F, whose surface is substantially parallel to the surface of the plate and the protruding plate portion 7P, and the protruding plate portion 7P, extending in the direction along the rolling direction (Y-axis direction); at least two bent portions 7N (a third bent portion 7N3 and a fourth bent portion 7N4), which form a plurality (20) of bent portions 7N between one end of the elastically deformable portion 7G and the protruding plate portion 7P; and at least two other bent portions 7N (a first bent portion 7N1 and a second bent portion 7N2), which form a plurality (20) of bent portions 7N between the other end of the elastically deformable portion 7G and the fixed portion 7F. Moreover, the fixed portion 7F extends from the outer bent portion (first bent portion 7N1) of the at least two other bent portions 7N (first bent portion 7N1 and second bent portion 7N2) located on the side away from the elastically deformable portion 7G in the same direction as the extending direction (X-axis direction) of the protruding plate portion 7P.

[0142] The structure has the following effect: the force-applying component 7, which is a leaf spring component, has a stepped shape, so the rigidity of the force-applying component 7 in the torsional direction is improved, that is, the force-applying component 7 is difficult to twist, and the movement of the piezoelectric drive part PD (piezoelectric element 8) can be properly transmitted to the receiving component RC.

[0143] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, multiple (two) elastic deformation portions 7G are preferably provided separately in the first direction (Z-axis direction). Moreover, an opening 7H (first right opening 7H1R) is formed between the two elastic deformation portions 7G (upper right elastic deformation portion 7GRU and lower right elastic deformation portion 7GRD) provided separately in the first direction (Z-axis direction).

[0144] This structure has the following effect: the width dimension (length in the Z-axis direction) of the elastic deformation part 7G can be adjusted to obtain the desired spring constant.

[0145] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, the fixed-side component FB preferably has a housing HS that is generally rectangular in shape when viewed from the first direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, the piezoelectric drive unit PD and the force-applying member 7 are disposed on the fixed side member FB (base member 3) at the portion corresponding to the corner (front corner) of the housing HS. Additionally, the receiving member RC is disposed on the movable side member MB (lens holding member 2). In the example shown, as... Figure 5As shown in the figure below, the receiving component RC is fixed to the lens holding component 2 by applying adhesive AD5 to the recess 2U provided in the cylindrical portion 2C of the lens holding component 2.

[0146] This structure improves the space efficiency within the housing HS, thereby enabling the miniaturization of the piezoelectric drive device 101.

[0147] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the piezoelectric drive device 101 according to the embodiments of this disclosure includes: a fixed side member FB; a movable side member MB, which is movable relative to the fixed side member FB; and a piezoelectric drive unit PD, which is disposed on one side member (in which the movable side member MB and the fixed side member FB are located). Figure 2 The example shown is the fixed-side component FB, configured to have a piezoelectric element 8; a receiving component RC is provided on the other side of the component that is the movable-side component MB and the fixed-side component FB (in Figure 2 In the example shown, the movable side member (MB) is in contact with the piezoelectric drive unit PD; the force-applying member 7 applies force to the piezoelectric drive unit PD towards the receiving member RC; and the guiding mechanism GM guides the movement of the movable side member MB, which moves along with the piezoelectric element 8. The piezoelectric drive device 101 is configured such that the movable side member MB moves relative to the fixed side member FB in a first direction (Z-axis direction) via the piezoelectric drive unit PD. The force-applying member 7 has a fixing part 7F respectively provided at one end (left end) and the other end (right end) and fixed to one side member (fixed side member FB), a support part 7S located between one end (left end) and the other end (right end) and supporting the piezoelectric drive unit PD, and an elastically deformable part 7G provided between the fixing part 7F and the support part 7S. The guiding mechanism GM is configured to include a guide shaft member 4 provided at the fixed side member FB and a guided part 2G provided at the movable side member MB (lens holding member 2). The guide shaft component 4 includes a first guide shaft component 41 and a second guide shaft component 42, which are arranged opposite each other in a first direction (Z-axis direction) and are separated by a movable side component MB (lens holding component 2). The guided portion 2G includes a first guided portion 2G1 that can slide on the first guide shaft component 41 and a second guided portion 2G2 that can slide on the second guide shaft component 42. Furthermore, the first guided portion 2G1 and the second guided portion 2G2 are respectively configured to be pressed against the first guide shaft component 41 and the second guide shaft component 42 by the force of the force-applying component 7.

[0148] This structure, by utilizing the guide shaft component 4, reduces the structural complexity of the guide mechanism GM compared to a structure using ball bearings. Furthermore, compared to a structure using ball bearings, this structure improves the ease of assembly (manufacturability) of the piezoelectric drive device 101.

[0149] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the receiving component RC preferably extends along the first direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, the first guide shaft component 41 and the second guide shaft component 42 are configured to face each other across an imaginary line L1 that connects the center of the receiving component RC and the central axis (optical axis OA) of the movable side component MB (lens holding component 2) when viewed from above along the first direction (Z-axis direction).

[0150] This structure allows for a well-balanced and stable guidance of the movement of the movable side component MB.

[0151] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, the fixed side components FB (cover component 1 and base component 3) are preferably contained within a housing HS having a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above along the first direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown in the figure above, the housing HS has a first corner CN1 and a third corner CN3 located on one side of the diagonal when viewed from above along a first direction (Z-axis direction), and a second corner CN2 and a fourth corner CN4 located on the other side of the diagonal. The guide mechanism GM includes a first guide mechanism GM1 and a second guide mechanism GM2. Figure 5 As shown in the figure below, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is disposed inside the first corner CN1. In addition, the first guide mechanism GM1, which includes a first guide shaft member 41 and a first guided part 2G1, is disposed inside the second corner CN2, and the second guide mechanism GM2, which includes a second guide shaft member 42 and a second guided part 2G2, is disposed inside the fourth corner CN4.

[0152] Compared to structures where the guide mechanism GM is positioned elsewhere than at the corners, this structure improves space efficiency within the housing HS, thereby enabling miniaturization of the piezoelectric drive device 101. Furthermore, compared to structures where the guide mechanism GM is positioned elsewhere than at the corners, this structure provides more stable guidance for the movement of the movable side component MB.

[0153] In addition, preferably, such as Figure 5As shown, the first guided portion 2G1 has a concave portion CS that accommodates at least a portion of the first guide shaft member 41, and the second guided portion 2G2 has a planar portion FS that extends substantially parallel to the imaginary line L2 connecting the first guide shaft member 41 and the second guide shaft member 42 when viewed from above along a first direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, the planar portion FS is configured to slide on the second guide shaft member 42.

[0154] This structure enables the positioning of the movable side component MB (lens holding component 2) using the first guide shaft component 41 and the first guided part 2G1. Furthermore, this structure allows for the absorption of minor dimensional deviations (tolerances) in components such as the lens holding component 2 by utilizing the second guide mechanism GM2.

[0155] In addition, such as Figure 16 As shown, the planar portion FS is preferably located at two separate positions in the first direction (Z-axis direction) on the second guided portion 2G2. Specifically, the planar portion FS includes an upper planar portion FSU and a lower planar portion FSD, which are separated in the first direction (Z-axis direction).

[0156] Compared to the structure in which the planar portion FS is connected without being separated vertically, this structure reduces the sliding resistance between the second guide shaft component 42 and the second guided portion 2G2.

[0157] In addition, the movable side component MB (lens holding component 2) is preferably made of synthetic resin, and the first guide shaft component 41 and the second guide shaft component 42 are respectively made of metal.

[0158] Compared to cases where the first guide shaft component 41 and the second guide shaft component 42 are each made of synthetic resin, this structure allows for smooth sliding of the movable side component MB (lens holding component 2). This is because it enables sliding between the synthetic resin and the metal.

[0159] In addition, preferably, such as Figure 2 As shown, the fixed-side component FB includes a base component 3, a first guide shaft component 41, and a second guide shaft component 42, each formed in a generally cylindrical shape, and having at least two recesses 41G and 42G extending along a first direction (Z-axis direction). Furthermore, as... Figure 14 As shown, with the convex portions 31P and 32P on the base component 3 engaged with the recessed portions 41G and 42G, the first guide shaft component 41 and the second guide shaft component 42 are connected by adhesive AD6 (see reference). Figure 13 ) Fixed to base component 3.

[0160] This structure allows for easy mounting of the first guide shaft component 41 and the second guide shaft component 42 onto the base component 3.

[0161] In addition, preferably, such as Figure 13 As shown, the groove portions 41G and 42G are disposed at different positions in the circumferential direction from the contact portions 41C and 42C that contact the guided portion 2G. Furthermore, preferably, as shown... Figure 15 as well as Figure 16 As shown, the range HT2 of the contact portions 41C and 42C in the first direction (Z-axis direction) at least partially overlaps with the range HT1 of the groove portions 41G and 42G in the first direction (Z-axis direction). In the example shown, as... Figure 15 As shown, in the first direction (Z-axis direction), the range HT2LD of the lower left contact portion 41CLD overlaps with the range HT1R of the left groove portion 41GL, as... Figure 16 As shown, in the first direction (Z-axis direction), the range HT2D of the lower contact portion 42CD overlaps with the range HT1L of the left groove portion 42GL.

[0162] Compared to non-repeating structures, this structure allows for the extension of the length of the grooves 41G and 42G in the Z-axis direction, resulting in a more stable engagement with the protrusions 31P and 32P of the base component 3.

[0163] In addition, it is preferable that the receiving component RC is made of metal, and the contact component 9 of the piezoelectric drive part PD that contacts the receiving component RC is also made of metal.

[0164] Compared to structures that bring synthetic resins into contact with each other or structures that bring synthetic resins into contact with metal, this structure has the effect of suppressing the generation of foreign matter such as abrasive powder.

[0165] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications or substitutions can be applied to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, the various features described with reference to the above embodiments can be appropriately combined as long as they are not technically contradictory.

[0166] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the piezoelectric drive unit PD is disposed on the fixed side component FB, and the receiving component RC is disposed on the movable side component MB. However, it is also possible that the piezoelectric drive unit PD is disposed on the movable side component MB, and the receiving component RC is disposed on the fixed side component FB.

[0167] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the bent portion 7N is bent at an angle of approximately 135 degrees between the two parts connected by the bent portion 7N (approximately 45 degrees for a portion of the force-applying member 7). In this case, for example, the base 7M of the support portion 7S of the force-applying member 7 and the protruding plate portion 7P are formed to be perpendicular to each other by two obtuse-angle bends (also known as 45-degree bends). However, the bent portion 7N may also be bent at an angle of approximately 150 degrees between the two parts connected by the bent portion 7N (approximately 30 degrees for a portion of the force-applying member 7). In this case, for example, the base 7M of the support portion 7S of the force-applying member 7 and the protruding plate portion 7P are formed to be perpendicular to each other by three obtuse-angle bends (also known as 30-degree bends).

[0168] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0169] 1. Cover component; 1A. Outer peripheral wall portion; 1A1. First side plate portion; 1A2. Second side plate portion; 1A3. Third side plate portion; 1A4. Fourth side plate portion; 1B. Top plate portion; 1K. Opening; 2. Lens holding component; 2C. Cylindrical portion; 2G. Guided portion; 2G1. First guided portion; 2G2. Second guided portion; 2S. Stop portion; 2SD. Lower stop portion; 2SU. Upper stop portion; 2U. Recess; 2V. Recess; 3. Base component; 3A. Outer peripheral wall portion; 3A1. First side plate portion; 3A2. Second side plate portion; 3A3. Third side plate portion; 3A4. Fourth side plate; 3B...bottom plate; 3C...cutout; 3C1...first cutout; 3C2...second cutout; 3K...opening; 3R...receiving recess; 3R1...first receiving recess; 3R2...second receiving recess; 3S...recess; 4...guide shaft assembly; 6...retaining assembly; 6E...frame; 6ED...lower side; 6EL...left side; 6ER...right side; 6EU...upper side; 6F...locking part; 6FL...left locking part; 6FR...right locking part; 6P...protrusion; 6PL...left protrusion; 6PLD...lower left protrusion; 6PLU...upper left protrusion; 6PR···Right protrusion; 6PRD···Lower right protrusion; 6PRU···Upper right protrusion; 7···Force-applying component; 7E···End face; 7EL···Left end face; 7ER···Right end face; 7F···Fixing part; 7FL···Left fixing part; 7FR···Right fixing part; 7G···Elastic deformation part; 7GL···Left elastic deformation part; 7GLC···Left central elastic deformation part; 7GLD···Left lower elastic deformation part; 7GLU···Left upper elastic deformation part; 7GR···Right elastic deformation part; 7GRC···Right central elastic deformation part; 7GRD···Left lower elastic deformation part; 7GRU···Left upper elastic deformation part; 7H···Opening; 7H1··· • First opening; 7H1L··· First left opening; 7H1R··· First right opening; 7H2··· Second opening; 7H2L··· Second left opening; 7H2R··· Second right opening; 7M··· Base; 7N··· Bend; 7N1··· First bend; 7NL1··· First left bend; 7NLD1··· First lower left bend; 7NLU1··· First upper left bend; 7NR1··· First right bend; 7NRD1··· First lower right bend; 7NRU1··· First upper right bend; 7N2··· Second bend; 7NL2··· Second left bend; 7NLD2··· Second lower left bend; 7NLU2··· Second upper left bend;7NR2···Second right bend; 7NRD2···Second lower right bend; 7NRU2···Second upper right bend; 7N3···Third bend; 7NL3···Third left bend; 7NLD3···Third lower left bend; 7NLU3···Third upper left bend; 7NR3···Third right bend; 7NRD3···Third lower right bend; 7NRU3···Third upper right bend; 7N4···Fourth bend; 7NL4···Fourth left bend; 7NLD4···Fourth lower left bend; 7NLU4···Fourth upper left bend; 7NR4···Fourth right bend; 7NRD4···Fourth lower right bend; 7NRU4···Fourth right bend Upper bend; 7N5··· Fifth bend; 7NL5··· Fifth left bend; 7NR5··· Fifth right bend; 7N6··· Sixth bend; 7NL6··· Sixth left bend; 7NR6··· Sixth right bend; 7P··· Protruding plate; 7PL··· Left protruding plate; 7PR··· Right protruding plate; 7Q··· Support protrusion; 7QL··· Left support protrusion; 7QLD··· Lower left support protrusion; 7QLU··· Upper left support protrusion; 7QR··· Right support protrusion; 7QRD··· Lower right support protrusion; 7QRU··· Upper right support protrusion; 7S··· Support; 7T··· Inclined section; 7TL··· Left inclined section; 7TL1··· First left inclined section Part; 7TLD1···First lower left inclined part; 7TLU1···First upper left inclined part; 7TL2···Second left inclined part; 7TLD2···Second lower left inclined part; 7TLU2···Second upper left inclined part; 7TL3···Third left inclined part; 7TR···Right inclined part; 7TR1···First right inclined part; 7TRD1···First lower right inclined part; 7TRU1···First upper right inclined part; 7TR2···Second right inclined part; 7TRD2···Second lower right inclined part; 7TRU2···Second upper right inclined part; 7TR3···Third right inclined part; 7X···Bending shaft; 7X1···First bending shaft; 7XL1···First left bending shaft; 7XLD 1···First lower left curved shaft; 7XLU1···First upper left curved shaft; 7XR1···First right curved shaft; 7XRD1···First lower right curved shaft; 7XRU1···First upper right curved shaft; 7X2···Second curved shaft; 7XL2···Second left curved shaft; 7XLD2···Second lower left curved shaft; 7XLU2···Second upper left curved shaft; 7XR2···Second right curved shaft; 7XRD2···Second lower right curved shaft; 7XRU2···Second upper right curved shaft; 7X3···Third curved shaft; 7XL3···Third left curved shaft; 7XLD3···Third lower left curved shaft; 7XLU3···Third upper left curved shaft; 7XR3···Third right curved shaft;7XRD3···Third lower right bend shaft; 7XRU3···Third upper right bend shaft; 7X4···Fourth bend shaft; 7XL4···Fourth left bend shaft; 7XLD4···Fourth lower left bend shaft; 7XLU4···Fourth upper left bend shaft; 7XR4···Fourth right bend shaft; 7XRD4···Fourth lower right bend shaft; 7XRU4···Fourth upper right bend shaft; 7X5···Fiveth bend shaft; 7XL5···Fiveth left bend shaft; 7XR5···Fiveth right bend shaft; 7X6···Sixth bend shaft; 7XL6···Sixth left bend shaft; 7XR6···Sixth right bend shaft; 8···Piezoelectric element; 8X···Rotation shaft; 9···Contact component; 9S···Connector Contact surface; 10··· Flexible wiring substrate; 10C··· Connecting part; 10CD··· Lower connecting part; 10CU··· Upper connecting part; 10E··· Extension part; 10J··· Joining part; 10L··· Left unfolding part; 10R··· Right unfolding part; 30··· Columnar part; 31··· First columnar part; 32··· Second columnar part; 41··· First guide shaft component; 41C··· Contact part; 41CL··· Left contact part; 41CLD··· Lower left contact part; 41CLU··· Upper left contact part; 41CR··· Right contact part; 41G··· Groove part; 41GL··· Left groove part; 41GR··· Right groove part; 42··· Second guide shaft component; 42C··· • Contact portion; 42CD • Lower contact portion; 42CU • Upper contact portion; 42G • Recessed portion; 42GL • Left recessed portion; 42GR • Right recessed portion; 81 • First part; 82 • Second part; 101 • Piezoelectric drive; AD1~AD6 • Adhesive; BE • Rear end face; CD • Capacitor; CM • Camera module; CN • Corner; CN1 • First corner; CN2 • Second corner; CN3 • Third corner; CN4 • Fourth corner; CP • Center point; CS • Concave portion; CSD • Lower concave portion; CSU • Upper concave portion; DR • Driver integrated circuit; ED • Electrodes; ED1, ED11...first electrodes; ED2, ED12...second electrodes; FB...fixed side component; FE...front end face; FS...planar part; FSD...lower plane part; FSU...upper plane part; GM...guide mechanism; GM1...first guide mechanism; GM2...second guide mechanism; HS...housing; IS...image sensor; LS...lens body; MB...movable side component; MG...magnet; ND...section; ND1...first section; ND2...second section; OA...optical axis; OE...optical element; Pb, Pb1, Pb2, Pb11, Pb12...position; PD...piezoelectric drive unit;PT (Transfer Target) connection; RC (Receiving Component); RS (Resistor); SR (Magnetic Sensor); TM (Thermistor).

Claims

1. A piezoelectric drive device, characterized in that, have: Fixed side components; A movable side component that is movable relative to the fixed side component; A piezoelectric drive unit is provided on one side member, which is one of the movable side member and the fixed side member, and is configured to have a piezoelectric element; A receiving component is disposed on the other side of the movable side component and the fixed side component, and contacts the piezoelectric drive unit; as well as The force-applying component applies force to the piezoelectric drive unit towards the receiving component. The piezoelectric drive device is configured such that, via the piezoelectric drive unit, the movable side component moves in a first direction relative to the fixed side component. The force-applying component is made of a metal plate rolled along a specified rolling direction. The force-applying component is separated at one end from the other end in the rolling direction, which intersects the first direction. The force-applying component includes: a fixing portion, which is respectively disposed at one end and the other end and fixed to the side component; a support portion, which is located between one end and the other end and supports the piezoelectric drive portion; an elastic deformation portion, which is disposed between the fixing portion and the support portion and is capable of elastic deformation; and a plurality of bending portions, which are disposed between one end and the other end. Each of the multiple bending portions is bent in a manner in which the bending axis is substantially perpendicular to the rolling direction.

2. The piezoelectric drive device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bend is bent in such a way that the angle formed between the two parts connected by the bend is an obtuse angle.

3. The piezoelectric drive device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The force-applying component has a first plate portion, a second plate portion, and a third plate portion located between the first plate portion and the second plate portion. The plane along the surface of the first plate portion is approximately perpendicular to the plane along the surface of the second plate portion. The plane along the surface of the first plate portion is inclined to the plane along the surface of the third plate portion. The plane along the surface of the second flat plate is inclined to the plane along the surface of the third flat plate. The first flat plate portion and the third flat plate portion are connected by a first curved portion. The second flat plate portion is connected to the third flat plate portion via a second curved portion. The first bend and the second bend are included in a plurality of the bends.

4. The piezoelectric drive device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The support portion of the force-applying component has: a flat base opposite to the piezoelectric drive portion; and two protruding plates opposite to each other in the rolling direction separated by the base, extending from the base toward the side where the piezoelectric drive portion is located. The base plate surface is along the first direction. The base portion constitutes the first flat plate portion, and the two protruding plate portions respectively constitute the second flat plate portion.

5. The piezoelectric drive device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The piezoelectric drive unit is fixed to the end face of the protruding plate.

6. The piezoelectric drive device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The force-applying component includes: an elastically deformable portion disposed between the fixed portion and the protruding plate portion, with the plate surface generally parallel to the plate surface of the protruding plate portion, and extending in a direction along the rolling direction; at least two bending portions forming a plurality of bending portions between one end of the elastically deformable portion and the protruding plate portion; and at least two other bending portions forming a plurality of bending portions between the other end of the elastically deformable portion and the fixed portion. The fixing portion extends from the outer curved portion of one of the at least two other curved portions, located on the side away from the elastically deformable portion, in the same direction as the extension direction of the protruding plate portion.

7. The piezoelectric drive device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The elastic deformation portions are provided separately in multiple ways in the first direction. An opening is formed between the two elastically deformable portions that are separated along the first direction.

8. The piezoelectric drive device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The fixed-side component has a housing that is generally rectangular in shape when viewed from the first direction. The piezoelectric drive unit and the force-applying component are disposed on the fixed side component at portions corresponding to the corners of the housing. The receiving component is disposed on the movable side component.

9. A camera module, comprising: The piezoelectric drive device according to claim 1; The lens body, which is fixed to the movable side component; and A camera element, which is positioned opposite the lens body.

Images