Camera module

Abstract

A camera module is provided. The camera module includes: a housing; a support portion disposed in the housing and configured to move relative to the housing in an optical axis direction; a first damper fixed to the support portion; and a first frame disposed in the support portion, configured to move relative to the support portion in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and having a recessed portion formed on a surface facing the support portion, wherein the first damper protrudes toward the first frame in the optical axis direction, and at least a portion of the recessed portion is configured to face the first damper in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0016692, filed on February 10, 2025, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field

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

[0004] Recently, cameras have been implemented in portable electronic devices such as, but not limited to, smartphones, tablet PCs, and laptops.

[0005] Most camera modules implemented in portable electronic devices have various features such as autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS).

[0006] Because camera modules have various functions, the number of components installed in them increases, and the size and weight of the camera modules also increase.

[0007] In particular, the increased weight due to the larger size of the lenses within the camera module presents a problem: the impact is greater when components collide, which can cause noise during autofocus or optical image stabilization, or exacerbate deformation or damage when subjected to external impacts.

[0008] Therefore, a camera module with a damper structure is needed to reduce noise by improving the buffering effect during the drive operation of autofocus or optical image stabilization. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The summary portion of this invention is intended to provide a brief overview of the chosen concepts, which will be further described in the detailed description portion below. This summary portion is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0010] In general, the camera module includes: a housing; a support portion disposed in the housing and configured to move relative to the housing in an optical axis direction; a first damper fixed to the support portion; and a first frame disposed in the support portion, configured to move relative to the support portion in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and having a recessed portion formed on a surface facing the support portion, wherein the first damper protrudes toward the first frame in the optical axis direction, and wherein at least a portion of the recessed portion faces the first damper in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0011] The camera module may include a second frame disposed between the support and the first frame and configured to move in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, wherein the second frame may include a first through hole through which a first damper passes.

[0012] The first damper may include a surface facing the recessed portion in the optical axis direction.

[0013] Based on the optical axis direction, the minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper can be greater than the minimum gap between the first frame and the second frame.

[0014] Based on the optical axis direction, the minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper can be greater than the minimum gap between the second frame and the load-bearing part.

[0015] Based on the optical axis direction, the minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper can be less than the sum of the minimum gap between the first frame and the second frame and the minimum gap between the second frame and the load-bearing part.

[0016] Based on the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, the minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper can be greater than or equal to the maximum movable distance of the first frame in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and the minimum gap between the second frame and the first damper can be greater than or equal to the maximum movable distance of the second frame in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0017] The first damper may include an elastic material.

[0018] The first damper may include a core.

[0019] The core can be formed from non-magnetic metallic materials.

[0020] The first damper may include a second through-hole that penetrates in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0021] The first damper may include a core.

[0022] The first damper may be disposed in at least one of the corner regions of the load-bearing portion.

[0023] Multiple first dampers can be configured, and at least one pair of the multiple first dampers is configured in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0024] The camera module may further include: a stop member connected to the support portion to cover the first frame; and a housing connected to the housing to cover the stop member, wherein the stop member may include a second damper facing the housing in the optical axis direction.

[0025] In general, the camera module includes: a housing unit; a support portion housed in the housing unit and having a first damper disposed therein; a first frame housed in the support portion and connected to a lens barrel; and a second frame disposed between the support portion and the first frame, wherein the first damper passes through the second frame and a portion of the first damper is housed in the first frame, and wherein, based on the optical axis direction, the minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper is greater than the minimum gap between the first frame and the second frame and the minimum gap between the second frame and the support portion, respectively, and less than the sum of the minimum gap between the first frame and the second frame and the minimum gap between the second frame and the support portion.

[0026] The load-bearing portion may include a first surface facing the first frame and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and the first damper may protrude beyond the second surface of the load-bearing portion.

[0027] The first damper can be fixed to the load-bearing part by means of a fixing member included in the load-bearing part.

[0028] Other features and aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0030] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0031] Figure 3 An exploded perspective view showing the connection relationship between the first frame, the second frame, and the load-bearing component is shown.

[0032] Figure 4 It shows along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'; Figure 5 yes Figure 4 An enlarged view of part A.

[0033] Figure 6 It schematically illustrates the impact being applied in the direction of the optical axis. Figure 4 An example diagram of a camera module.

[0034] Figure 7 This schematically illustrates the impact applied in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. Figure 4 An example diagram of a camera module.

[0035] Figure 8 A plan view of a load-bearing portion in which a first damper is provided is shown according to one or more embodiments.

[0036] Figures 9 to 11 yes Figure 5 A modified example of the first damper.

[0037] Figure 12 and Figure 13 yes Figure 8 Example of modification to the carrier section.

[0038] Throughout the accompanying drawings and detailed embodiments, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements unless otherwise described. For purposes of clarity, illustration, and convenience, the drawings may not be drawn to scale, and the relative dimensions, scale, and descriptions of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The following detailed embodiments are provided to aid the reader in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein. However, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein will become apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application. For example, the order of operations described herein and / or the sequence of operations described herein are merely examples and are not limited to the order set forth herein, except for the order of operations and / or the order of operations which must occur in a specific sequence, but can be varied, as will become apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application. As another example, the order of operations and / or the order of operations can be performed in parallel, except for the order of operations and / or at least a portion of the order of operations which must occur in a sequence (e.g., a specific sequence). Furthermore, for clarity and conciseness, descriptions of features known upon understanding the disclosure of this application may be omitted.

[0040] Although terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third,” or A, B, (a), (b), may be used herein to describe various components, parts, regions, layers, or sections, these components, parts, regions, layers, or sections are not limited by these terms. Each of these terms is not intended to define, for example, the importance, sequence, or order of the corresponding component, part, region, layer, or section, but only to distinguish the corresponding component, part, region, layer, or section from other components, parts, regions, layers, or sections. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein, the first component, first part, first region, first layer, or first section mentioned in these examples may also be referred to as the second component, second part, second region, second layer, or second section.

[0041] Throughout this specification, when a component, element, or layer is described as "on another component, element, or layer," "connected to," "attached to," or "joined to" another component, element, or layer, it may be directly "on another component, element, or layer," directly "connected to," "attached to," or "joined to" another component, element, or layer (e.g., in contact with another component, element, or layer), or one or more other components, elements, or layers may reasonably be present between that component, element, or layer and that other component, element, or layer. When a component, element, or layer is described as "directly on another component, element, or layer," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly joined to" another component, element, or layer, then there are no other components, elements, or layers between that component, element, or layer and that other component, element, or layer. Similarly, expressions such as "between" and "directly between," and "adjacent" and "directly adjacent" may also be interpreted as described above.

[0042] The terminology used herein is for describing various examples only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to equally include the plural forms. As non-limiting examples, the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, or alternatives to the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof. Furthermore, while one embodiment may describe the presence of the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof using the terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” other embodiments may exist in which one or more of the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof are absent.

[0043] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items. Phrases such as “at least one of A, B, and C” are intended to have a disjunctive meaning, and these phrases also include examples in which one or more of A, B, and C may be present (e.g., any combination of one or more of A, B, and C), unless the corresponding description and implementation require that the enumeration (e.g., “at least one of A, B, and C”) be interpreted as having a conjunctive meaning.

[0044] The features described herein may be embodied in various forms and should not be construed as being limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the examples described herein are provided merely to illustrate some of the many possible ways in which the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein will become apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application. In this document, the use of the term “may” (e.g., regarding what an example or implementation may include or implement) with respect to an example or implementation means that there exists at least one example or implementation that includes or implements such a feature, and that all examples or implementations are not limited thereto. The terms “example” or “implementation” as used herein have the same meaning (e.g., the phrase “in one example” has the same meaning as “in one implementation,” and “in one or more examples” has the same meaning as “in one or more implementations”).

[0045] One or more examples may provide camera modules that can minimize the value of noise that may occur during the drive operation of autofocus or optical imaging stabilization.

[0046] One or more examples may provide camera modules that can effectively mitigate impacts applied in the direction of the optical axis or in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0047] The camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments can be used to capture pictures and videos of external objects.

[0048] By way of example only, the camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments can be applied to portable electronic devices such as smartphones.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments.

[0050] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments may include a lens barrel 210, a lens driving device for moving the lens barrel 210, an image sensor module 700 for converting light incident through the lens barrel 210 into an electrical signal, and a housing unit 100 for accommodating the lens barrel 210 and the lens driving device.

[0051] The housing unit 100 may include a housing 110 and an outer shell 120.

[0052] The lens barrel 210 can have a hollow cylindrical shape, and multiple lenses can be arranged inside the lens barrel 210.

[0053] Multiple lenses can be mounted within the lens barrel 210 along the optical axis (Z-axis). The multiple lenses can be arranged in a desired number, and each lens can have the same or different optical properties.

[0054] The lens driving device can be a device that moves the lens barrel 210.

[0055] The lens driving device may include a focus adjustment unit 400 and a shake correction unit 500. The focus adjustment unit 400 can adjust the focus of the camera by moving the lens barrel 210 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis), and the shake correction unit 500 can correct the shake during image capture by moving the lens barrel 210 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (X-axis and Y-axis directions).

[0056] The image sensor module 700 can be a device that converts light incident through the lens barrel 210 into an electrical signal.

[0057] The image sensor module 700 may include an image sensor 710 and a sensor substrate 720 on which the image sensor 710 is mounted.

[0058] Image sensor 710 can convert light incident through lens barrel 210 into electrical signals. In a non-limiting example, image sensor 710 may be a charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS).

[0059] The electrical signals converted by the image sensor 710 can be output as images or videos through the display device of a portable electronic device.

[0060] Image sensor 710 can be electrically connected to sensor substrate 720. In this example, sensor substrate 720 can be a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0061] The lens barrel 210 and the lens driving device can be housed in the housing 110. In an embodiment, the housing 110 may have an internal space, and the lens barrel 210 and the lens driving device can be housed within the internal space of the housing 110.

[0062] Additionally, the image sensor module 700 can be disposed in the lower part of the housing 110. In an embodiment, the sensor substrate 720 can be attached to the bottom surface of the housing 110, and while the sensor substrate 720 is attached to the housing 110, the image sensor 710 can be exposed in the internal space of the housing 110.

[0063] In the example, the main substrate 610, which provides drive signals to the focus adjustment unit 400 and the jitter correction unit 500, can be disposed on the side surface of the housing 110. In an embodiment, the main substrate 610 can be disposed around the side surface of the housing 110.

[0064] The drive coil and position sensor that form the focus adjustment unit 400 and the jitter correction unit 500 can be mounted on the main substrate 610.

[0065] The housing 110 may include an opening on its side surface, and the drive coil and position sensor may be disposed in the opening and exposed to the interior space of the housing 110.

[0066] The housing 120 can be connected to cover the internal space of the housing 110 and can protect the components housed in the internal space.

[0067] In addition, the housing 120 can also serve to shield electromagnetic waves. Therefore, the housing 120 can be formed of a metallic material and can be grounded to a grounding pad included in the sensor substrate 720.

[0068] The camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments may further include a stop 130 to absorb impacts transmitted to internal components due to external impacts, etc., and to prevent the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 from separating from the support portion 310.

[0069] The stop 130 can be coupled to the support portion 310 to cover at least a portion of the upper surface of the first frame 330. The stop 130 may include a body configured to cover the upper surface of the first frame 330 and a fastening portion extending from each corner of the body in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. The stop 130 can be coupled to the support portion 310 via the fastening portions. In an embodiment, the fastening portions can be inserted into a groove formed in the support portion 310 and secured to the support portion 310.

[0070] The stop 130 in this embodiment may include a second damper 131 to enhance the cushioning effect between the housing 120 and the first frame 330. The second damper 131 may be disposed on the stop 130 facing the housing 120 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. The second damper 131 may be disposed at each corner of the body of the stop 130 and may protrude upwards and downwards from the stop 130, thereby mitigating impacts between the housing 120 and the stop 130, and between the stop 130 and the first frame 330, in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.

[0071] In one embodiment, the second damper 131 may be configured to pass through the stop 130. For example, the second damper 131 may be inserted into a hole formed in the body of the stop 130 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. However, embodiments thereof are not limited thereto, and the second damper 131 may be attached to the stop 130 by an insert injection molding process, or the second damper 131 and the stop 130 may be manufactured separately, and then the second damper 131 may be bonded to the stop 130 using an adhesive or the like.

[0072] In the example, the camera module 1000 may include a first damper 320 disposed in the carrier 310 to reduce the value of noise that may occur during the drive for autofocus operation or optical imaging image stabilization operation, thereby effectively buffering the impact applied in the direction of the optical axis or in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0073] In one embodiment, the first damper 320 may have the same shape as a column having length in the optical axis direction, and may be fixed to the support portion 310 and protrude toward the first frame 330. In the example, refer to... Figure 5 The first damper 320 can be fixed to the support portion 310 by means of a fixing member 310f included in the support portion 310. In an embodiment, the fixing member 310f can be integrally formed with the support portion 310 by insert injection molding, and the first damper 320 can be inserted and fixed into a hole formed in the fixing member 310f. However, one or more examples are not limited thereto.

[0074] Furthermore, the first damper 320 can pass through the second frame 350 between the support portion 310 and the first frame 330, and at least a portion thereof can be accommodated in the recessed portion 330r formed in the first frame 330, thereby mitigating the impact caused by collisions between the first frame 330, the second frame 350, and the support portion 310 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. Additionally, the first damper 320 can provide a buffering effect in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) relative to the side surface of the recessed portion 330r of the first frame 330 and the side surface of the through hole 350h of the second frame 350.

[0075] Additionally, refer to Figure 5 In the camera module 1000, the minimum gap G1 between the first damper 320 and the first frame 330 can be determined by its relationship with the minimum gap G2 between the first frame 330 and the second frame 350, and the minimum gap G3 between the second frame 350 and the support portion 310. (Refer to the following text.) Figure 5 It is described in detail.

[0076] In the following text, see references Figure 2The focus adjustment unit 400 in the lens driving device of the camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments will be described.

[0077] According to an embodiment, the focus adjustment unit 400 may include a support portion 310 that houses the lens barrel 210 and a focus adjustment drive unit that generates a driving force so that the lens barrel 210 and the support portion 310 can move in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.

[0078] The support portion 310 can accommodate the lens barrel 210 and can be housed within the internal space of the housing 110.

[0079] The support unit 310 can move relative to the housing 110 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction by the driving force generated by the focus adjustment drive unit together with the lens barrel 210.

[0080] The focus adjustment drive unit may include a focus adjustment magnet 410 and a focus adjustment coil 430.

[0081] The focus adjustment magnet 410 can be disposed on one side surface of the support portion 310, and the focus adjustment coil 430 can be disposed on one side surface of the housing 110 via the main substrate 610.

[0082] In the example, the focus adjustment coil 430 may be disposed on one side surface of the housing 110, and the focus adjustment magnet 410 is disposed on the side surface of the bearing portion 310.

[0083] The focus adjustment magnet 410 and the focus adjustment coil 430 can face each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), and the focus adjustment magnet 410 and the focus adjustment coil 430 can directly face each other through the opening of the housing 110.

[0084] When power is applied to the focus adjustment coil 430, the support part 310 can move in the direction of the optical axis (Z axis) by the electromagnetic force between the focus adjustment magnet 410 and the focus adjustment coil 430.

[0085] In one embodiment, the focus adjustment magnet 410 can move together with the support portion 310 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, and the focus adjustment coil 430 can be fixed to the housing 110. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the positions of the focus adjustment magnet 410 and the focus adjustment coil 430 can be interchanged.

[0086] When the support portion 310 moves, rolling members R1 and R2 can be disposed between the support portion 310 and the housing 110 to reduce friction between the support portion 310 and the housing 110. In the example, rolling members R1 and R2 can be multiple ball members.

[0087] Rolling components R1 and R2 can be respectively set on both sides of the focus adjustment magnet 410.

[0088] In this embodiment, the number of rolling members R1 disposed on one side of the focus adjustment magnet 410 can be greater than the number of rolling members R2 disposed on the other side of the focus adjustment magnet 410. In this example, the rolling members R1 disposed on one side of the focus adjustment magnet 410 can function as main guides, and the rolling members R2 disposed on the other side of the focus adjustment magnet 410 can function as auxiliary guides.

[0089] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The support portion 310 may include first guide grooves 311 and 313 located on both sides of the focus adjustment magnet 410, which respectively accommodate portions of the rolling members R1 and R2.

[0090] In the embodiment, the first guide grooves 311 and 313 can extend in the direction of the optical axis (Z axis), the rolling member R1 disposed on one side of the focus adjustment magnet 410 can contact the first guide groove 311 at two points, and the rolling member R2 disposed on the other side of the focus adjustment magnet 410 can contact the first guide groove 313 at one point.

[0091] In the housing 110, the second guide grooves 111 and 113 can be formed to face the first guide grooves 311 and 313, respectively. Another portion of the rolling members R1 and R2 can be accommodated in the second guide grooves 111 and 113.

[0092] In this embodiment, the second guide grooves 111 and 113 can extend in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis), similar to the first guide grooves 311 and 313. In addition, the rolling member R1 disposed on one side of the focus adjustment magnet 410 can contact the second guide groove 111 at two points, and the rolling member R2 disposed on the other side of the focus adjustment magnet 410 can also contact the second guide groove 113 at two points.

[0093] The outer surface of the main substrate 610 may have a first yoke 470 disposed thereon. In an embodiment, the first yoke 470 may correspond to a magnetic material. The focus adjustment coil 430 may be disposed on one surface of the main substrate 610, and the first yoke 470 may be disposed on the other surface of the main substrate 610.

[0094] The first yoke 470 can face the focus adjustment magnet 410, and the focus adjustment coil 430 is placed between the first yoke 470 and the focus adjustment magnet 410, so that the first yoke 470 and the focus adjustment magnet 410 can face each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z axis).

[0095] Magnetic force can be applied between the first yoke 470 and the focus adjustment magnet 410 in the direction in which the first yoke 470 and the focus adjustment magnet 410 face each other (i.e., in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z axis)).

[0096] Therefore, the support portion 310 can be supported in close contact with the housing 110 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), and the rolling members R1 and R2 can remain in contact with the support portion 310 and the housing 110.

[0097] In addition, the first yoke 470 can also focus the magnetic force generated by the focus adjustment magnet 410 by forming a magnetic circuit with the focus adjustment magnet 410.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the focus adjustment unit 400 may use a closed-loop control method that detects and provides feedback on the position of the lens barrel 210. Therefore, the focus adjustment unit 400 may include a position sensor that detects the position of the lens barrel 210 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.

[0099] A position sensor may be mounted on one side of the housing 110 via the main substrate 610, together with the focus adjustment coil 430. Although not shown, the position sensor may be mounted on the inside or outside of the focus adjustment coil 430. The position sensor may be a magnetic sensor, such as a Hall sensor. However, embodiments thereof are not limited to this, and the position sensor may be implemented as another type of sensor, such as a gyroscope or an accelerometer.

[0100] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing the connection relationship between the first frame 330, the second frame 350, and the support portion 310.

[0101] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The image will be described in one or more embodiments of the lens drive device of the camera module 1000, including the shake correction unit 500.

[0102] When shooting videos, if shaking occurs due to user hand tremors, the shake correction unit 500 can compensate for the shaking by providing a relative displacement corresponding to the shaking to the lens barrel 210.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the jitter correction unit 500 may include a first frame 330 and a second frame 350 that guide the movement of the lens barrel 210, and a jitter correction drive unit that generates a driving force relative to the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (X-axis direction and Y-axis direction).

[0104] The first frame 330 and the second frame 350 can be accommodated in the support portion 310. In an embodiment, the second frame 350 and the first frame 330 can be sequentially accommodated in the support portion 310 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.

[0105] In addition, the lens barrel 210 can be inserted into and fixed in the first frame 330.

[0106] The first frame 330 and the second frame 350 can move relative to the support portion 310 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (X-axis and Y-axis directions) together with the lens barrel 210 by the driving force generated by the jitter correction drive unit.

[0107] In an embodiment, one of the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 can move in a first axis (X-axis) direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), and the other of the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 can move in a second axis (Y-axis) direction perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first axis (X-axis).

[0108] The jitter correction drive unit may include a jitter correction magnet and a jitter correction coil.

[0109] In an embodiment, the jitter correction drive unit may include a first magnet 510a and a first coil 530a that generate driving force in the direction of the first axis (X-axis), and a second magnet 510b and a second coil 530b that generate driving force in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis).

[0110] In this embodiment, the first magnet 510a and the second magnet 510b can be separated and disposed on two mutually perpendicular side surfaces of the first frame 330. Therefore, the first frame 330 can move in the first axis (X-axis) direction and the second axis (Y-axis) direction.

[0111] In the example, the first coil 530a and the second coil 530b can be disposed in the housing 110 via the main substrate 610. In the example, the first coil 530a and the second coil 530b can be disposed on two side surfaces of the housing 110, and these two side surfaces of the housing 110 face each other with two mutually perpendicular side surfaces of the first frame 330 on which the first magnet 510a and the second magnet 510b are disposed.

[0112] The jitter correction magnet and the jitter correction coil can generate a driving force in a direction that faces each other.

[0113] Therefore, the first magnet 510a and the first coil 530a can be arranged to face each other in the direction of the first axis (X-axis), and the second magnet 510b and the second coil 530b can be arranged to face each other in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis).

[0114] In the example, the first magnet 510a and the second magnet 510b can move together with the first frame 330 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (X-axis and Y-axis directions), and the first coil 530a and the second coil 530b can be fixed to the housing 110. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the positions of the first magnet 510a and the first coil 530a, as well as the positions of the second magnet 510b and the second coil 530b, can be interchanged.

[0115] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Multiple spherical components B1 can be disposed between the second frame 350 and the bearing portion 310, and multiple spherical components B2 can be disposed between the first frame 330 and the second frame 350.

[0116] Multiple ball components B1 and B2 can guide the movement of the second frame 350 and the first frame 330, and maintain gaps between the second frame 350 and the support portion 310, as well as between the first frame 330 and the second frame 350.

[0117] Multiple ball components may include a first ball component B1 disposed between the second frame 350 and the support portion 310. In the example, the first ball component B1 may include three or more ball components.

[0118] The first ball component B1 can guide the movement of the second frame 350 in the direction of the first axis (X-axis).

[0119] In this embodiment, since the first frame 330 is supported by the second frame 350 and the lens barrel 210 is fixed to the first frame 330, when the second frame 350 moves in the first axis (X-axis) direction, the lens barrel 210 and the first frame 330 can move together with the second frame 350 in the first axis (X-axis) direction.

[0120] The second frame 350 may include a third guide groove 351 on the surface of the bearing portion 310 facing along the optical axis (Z-axis) that accommodates a portion of the first ball member B1.

[0121] Additionally, a fourth guide groove 315 for accommodating another portion of the first ball member B1 can be formed on the surface of the support portion 310 facing the second frame 350 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. The fourth guide groove 315 may face the third guide groove 351 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.

[0122] The third guide groove 351 and the fourth guide groove 315 can extend in the direction of the first axis (X-axis). Therefore, when a driving force is generated in the direction of the first axis (X-axis), the first ball member B1 can roll along the third guide groove 351 and the fourth guide groove 315 in the direction of the first axis (X-axis), and the movement of the first ball member B1 in the direction of the second axis (Y-axis) can be restricted.

[0123] Multiple spherical components may include a second spherical component B2 disposed between the first frame 330 and the second frame 350. For example, the second spherical component B2 may include three or more spherical components.

[0124] The second ball component B2 can guide the movement of the first frame 330 in the direction of the second axis (Y axis).

[0125] In this embodiment, since the lens barrel 210 is fixed to the first frame 330, when the first frame 330 moves in the second axis (Y-axis) direction, the lens barrel 210 can move together with the first frame 330 in the second axis (Y-axis) direction.

[0126] The first frame 330 may include a fifth guide groove 331 on its surface facing the second frame 350 along the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, in which a portion of the second spherical member B2 is received.

[0127] Additionally, a sixth guide groove 353 may be formed on the surface of the second frame 350 facing the first frame 330 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, in which another portion of the second ball member B2 is accommodated. The sixth guide groove 353 may face the fifth guide groove 331 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.

[0128] The fifth guide groove 331 and the sixth guide groove 353 can extend in the direction of the second axis (Y axis).

[0129] Therefore, when a driving force is generated in the direction of the second axis (Y axis), the second ball member B2 can roll along the fifth guide groove 331 and the sixth guide groove 353 in the direction of the second axis (Y axis), and the movement of the second ball member B2 in the direction of the first axis (X axis) can be restricted.

[0130] As an example, in another embodiment, the second frame 350 may be omitted, and the first frame 330 may be accommodated in the support portion 310 while being fixed to the lens barrel 210.

[0131] In this example, when a driving force is generated in the first axis (X-axis) direction, a plurality of ball members disposed between the first frame 330 and the support portion 310 can roll in the first axis (X-axis) direction, and when a driving force is generated in the second axis (Y-axis) direction, a plurality of ball members disposed between the first frame 330 and the support portion 310 can roll in the second axis (Y-axis) direction.

[0132] Therefore, the guide grooves formed on the surfaces of the first frame 330 and the support portion 310 that face each other in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction can have a shape that does not restrict the movement direction of the multiple ball components in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).

[0133] Although not shown, multiple yokes can be provided in the support portion 310 to face the first magnet 510a and the second magnet 510b disposed in the first frame 330 respectively in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. In an embodiment, the multiple yokes may correspond to magnetic bodies.

[0134] Magnetic attraction can be applied between the multiple yokes and the first magnet 510a and the second magnet 510b in the direction in which the multiple yokes face each other (i.e., in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction). Therefore, the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 can press against the support portion 310 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, and the first ball member B1 can remain in contact with the second frame 350 and the support portion 310, and the second ball member B2 can remain in contact with the first frame 330 and the second frame 350.

[0135] According to an embodiment, the jitter correction unit 500 can use a closed-loop control method that detects and feeds back the position of the lens barrel 210. Therefore, the jitter correction unit 500 may include multiple position sensors. These multiple position sensors can detect the position of the lens barrel 210 in the first axis (X-axis) direction and the second axis (Y-axis) direction.

[0136] Although not shown, multiple position sensors may be disposed on one side of the housing 110 via the main substrate 610, together with the first coil 530a and the second coil 530b. In an embodiment, the multiple position sensors may be disposed on the inner or outer sides of the first coil 530a and the second coil 530b.

[0137] Multiple position sensors can be magnetic sensors, such as Hall sensors, but one or more examples are not limited to this, and multiple position sensors can also be implemented as other types of sensors, such as gyroscopes or accelerometers, which are only examples.

[0138] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 An enlarged view of part A.

[0139] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to an embodiment, the camera module 1000 may include a first damper 320 fixed to the support portion 310. The first damper 320 is configured to reduce the value of noise that may occur during the drive of performing autofocus operation or optical imaging image stabilization operation, and to effectively buffer impacts applied in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis) or in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).

[0140] The first damper 320 in this embodiment can be configured to protrude toward the first frame 330 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. The first damper 320 can have a columnar configuration extending in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.

[0141] Additionally, the first damper 320 may include an elastic material. The first damper 320 may include an elastic or flexible material with high cushioning effect, such as rubber or foam. However, one or more examples are not limited thereto.

[0142] The first damper 320 can be configured to be fixed to the support portion 310. The first damper 320 can be fixed to the support portion 310 by, for example, inserting it into a hole in a fixing member 310f in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the fixing member 310f being integrally formed with the support portion 310 by insert injection molding. However, one or more examples are not limited thereto, and the first damper 320 can also be configured to be directly fixed to a hole formed in the support portion 310.

[0143] The first damper 320 may include one surface facing the first frame 330 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction and another surface facing the housing 110 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. This structure reduces noise when driven to perform autofocus operation. Additionally, when the support portion 310 moves beyond a limited range in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction due to an external impact, the first damper 320 can mitigate the impact by contacting either the first frame 330 or the housing 110.

[0144] Additionally, the first damper 320 may include a side surface facing the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). This structure allows the first damper 320 to reduce noise during optical imaging stabilization. Furthermore, when the support portion 310 moves beyond a limited range in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) due to an external impact, the first damper 320 can mitigate the impact by contacting either the first frame 330 or the second frame 350.

[0145] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, the first frame 330 may include a recessed portion 330r formed on the surface facing the support portion 310. The recessed portion 330r corresponds to the lower part of the first frame 330, that is, the space formed in the region facing the second frame 350 and the support portion 310.

[0146] At least a portion of the recessed portion 330r can face the first damper 320 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). With this structure, a buffering effect can be achieved between the first damper 320 and the recessed portion 330r in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).

[0147] Additionally, the first damper 320 may include a surface facing the recessed portion 330r in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis). With this structure, a buffering effect can be achieved between the first damper 320 and the recessed portion 330r in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).

[0148] In this embodiment, the second frame 350 can be disposed between the support portion 310 and the first frame 330. The second frame 350 may include a first through hole 350h formed in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. In this embodiment, the first damper 320 may be configured to pass through the first through hole 350h.

[0149] refer to Figure 5 Based on the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the minimum gap G1 between the first frame 330 and the first damper 320 can be greater than the minimum gap G2 between the first frame 330 and the second frame 350. Additionally, based on the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the minimum gap G1 between the first frame 330 and the first damper 320 can be greater than the minimum gap G3 between the second frame 350 and the support portion 310.

[0150] Furthermore, based on the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the minimum gap G1 between the first frame 330 and the first damper 320 can be less than the sum of the minimum gap G2 between the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 and the minimum gap G3 between the second frame 350 and the support portion 310 (G2 + G3). In the example, the minimum gap can refer to the minimum gap in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction between each component based on the condition that no impact occurs on the camera module 1000.

[0151] With this structure, when an external impact occurs in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction of the camera module 1000, a full collision between the three components—the support part 310, the second frame 350, and the first frame 330—can be prevented, thereby reducing noise and / or the occurrence of cracks.

[0152] Specifically, by configuring the first damper 320 with the aforementioned gap, the camera module 1000 of this embodiment can induce a collision between the first frame 330 and the first damper 320 after the collision of the support portion 310 and the second frame 350 and before the collision of the second frame 350 and the first frame 330. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the support portion 310, the second frame 350 and the first frame 330 from colliding simultaneously or sequentially, thereby reducing the risk of noise and cracks.

[0153] In the example, refer to Figure 5 Based on the cross-section in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), the cross-sectional area of ​​the first damper 320 can be narrower than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first through hole 350h. That is, the first damper 320 can be configured to have constant gaps S1 and S2 with the second frame 350 within the first through hole 350h.

[0154] In the camera module 1000 of this embodiment, the minimum gap S1 between the first frame 330 and the first damper 320 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) can be greater than or equal to the maximum movable distance of the first frame 330 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Furthermore, the minimum gaps S1 and S2 between the second frame 350 and the first damper 320 can be greater than or equal to the maximum movable distance of the second frame 350 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). With this structure, when the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 are driven for optical imaging image stabilization, each of the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 can be driven to its maximum movable distance (stroke) without contacting the first damper 320. Additionally, when a displacement exceeding the maximum movable distance (stroke) of each of the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 occurs in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), the first damper 320 can collide with each of the first frame 330 and / or the second frame 350 to mitigate the impact.

[0155] Figure 6 This schematically illustrates the impact applied in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis) to... Figure 4 A diagram illustrating an example of a camera module 1000. Figure 7 This schematically illustrates the impact applied in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Figure 4 A diagram illustrating an example of a camera module 1000.

[0156] refer to Figure 6For example, when an impact occurs on the lower surface of the camera module 1000 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 may move downwards respectively, and a collision between the components may occur. That is, the collision between the support portion 310 and the second frame 350, as well as the collision between the first frame 330 and the second frame 350, may occur simultaneously or sequentially.

[0157] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 Prior to the impact, based on the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the minimum clearance G1 between the first frame 330 and the first damper 320 can be less than the sum of the minimum clearance G2 between the first frame 330 and the second frame 350 and the minimum clearance G3 between the second frame 350 and the load-bearing part 310 (G2 + G3). Therefore, even if an impact occurs in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, such as Figure 6 As shown, the impact can also be mitigated by the first frame 330 contacting the first damper 320 before colliding with the second frame 350.

[0158] Meanwhile, the support portion 310 of this embodiment includes one surface facing the first frame 330 and another surface opposite to that one surface, and the first damper 320 can be configured to protrude further than the other surface of the support portion 310. With this structure, the first damper 320 can also reduce the impact on the configuration disposed below the support portion 310 (e.g., Figure 2 The sensor substrate 720 was subjected to impact.

[0159] refer to Figure 7 For example, when an impact occurs on the left surface of the camera module 1000 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), the first frame 330 and / or the second frame 350 may move to the right and collide with the first damper 320. The impact on the first frame 330 and / or the second frame 350 can be mitigated by first colliding with the first damper 320 before colliding with other components such as the support portion 310.

[0160] Figure 8 A plan view of the support portion 310 on which the first damper 320 of this embodiment is disposed is shown.

[0161] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 8 In this embodiment, the first damper 320 can be disposed in at least one of the corner regions of the support portion 310. The first damper 320 can be fixedly disposed on the support portion 310 by means of a fixing member 310f included in the support portion 310.

[0162] In the example, based on a cross section perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), the first damper 320 can have a quadrilateral shape with one corner cut off. The first damper 320 is configured with the shape of the support portion 310 used to set the lens barrel 210 in mind, and the area cut off from the first damper 320 can be formed in the corner region facing the lens barrel 210.

[0163] In the following text, see references Figures 9 to 13 This describes an embodiment in which the shape of the first damper 320 or the position of the first damper 320 in the support portion 310 is modified.

[0164] Figures 9 to 11 yes Figure 5 Modification examples of the first damper 320 (A1, A2, A3).

[0165] Reference Figure 9 According to this modified example A1, the first damper 320 may include a second through-hole 320h. The second through-hole 320h can penetrate the first damper 320 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). When the first damper 320 includes the second through-hole 320h, the extensibility of the first damper 320 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction can be improved by the space of the second through-hole 320h. Therefore, when a collision occurs between the first damper 320 and the first frame 330 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the buffering effect can be further improved.

[0166] refer to Figure 10 According to this modified example A2, the first damper 320 may include a core 320i. The core 320i may be a component having a higher stiffness than the rest of the first damper 320. Preferably, the core 320i may be formed of a non-magnetic metallic material. For example, the core 320i may include at least one of Al, Ti, Cu, Cu-Zn, and SUS, but embodiments thereof are not limited thereto.

[0167] When the core 320i is included inside the first damper 320, the stiffness of the entire first damper 320 is increased, which can prevent the first damper 320 from tilting during the drive operation of autofocus operation or optical imaging image stabilization operation, and minimize the displacement of the position of the first damper 320 or the change in the state of the first damper 320 fixed to the support 310 when an external impact occurs.

[0168] refer to Figure 11According to this modified example A3, the first damper 320 may include a second through-hole 320h and a core 320i. The second through-hole 320h may penetrate the first damper 320 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). In addition, the core 320i, having a higher stiffness than the rest of the first damper 320, may be disposed below the second through-hole 320h.

[0169] Therefore, when a collision occurs with the first frame 330 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the first damper 320 of this modified example can further improve the buffering effect through the second through-hole 320h. The core 320i included inside the first damper 320 prevents tilting of the first damper 320 during drive operations for autofocus or optical image stabilization, and minimizes displacement of the first damper 320's position or change in the state of the first damper 320 fixed to the support 310 in the event of an external impact.

[0170] Figure 12 and Figure 13 yes Figure 8 Modified examples 310' and 310'' of the carrier part 310.

[0171] refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 Multiple first dampers 320 can be disposed in the corner region of the bearing portion 310. In addition, at least one pair of the multiple first dampers 320 can be disposed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (X-axis direction or Y-axis direction).

[0172] When multiple first dampers 320a and 320b are set as in this modified example, the impact force can be dispersed, thereby improving the buffering effect in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction or in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).

[0173] exist Figure 13 In the example of the load-bearing portion 310'' shown, four first dampers 320a, 320b, 320c, and 320d can be respectively disposed in the corner regions of the load-bearing portion 310''. When the first dampers 320a, 320b, 320c, and 320d are disposed at each corner of the load-bearing portion 310'' as in this modified example, the buffering effect in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction or the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) can be further improved. In addition, when the first dampers 320 perform buffering operation, the impact force can be appropriately distributed, and the buffering range can be expanded. Furthermore, when buffering is performed in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the risk of the first frame 330 tilting can be minimized.

[0174] As described above, according to one or more embodiments, the value of noise that may occur during the drive operation of performing autofocus operation or optical imaging image stabilization operation can be reduced.

[0175] Furthermore, according to one or more embodiments, the camera module can effectively mitigate impacts applied in the direction of the optical axis or in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0176] While this disclosure includes specific examples, it will be apparent upon understanding the disclosure of this application that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein are to be understood in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. The description of features or aspects in each example should be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Appropriate results may still be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described system, architecture, apparatus, or circuit are combined in a different manner and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents.

[0177] Therefore, in addition to the above disclosure and all the accompanying drawings, the scope of this disclosure also includes the claims and their equivalents, that is, all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be understood to be included in this disclosure.

Claims

1. Camera module, including: case; A support portion is disposed in the housing and configured to move relative to the housing in the optical axis direction; The first damper is fixed to the bearing portion; A first frame is disposed in the support portion, configured to move relative to the support portion in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and has a recessed portion formed on the surface facing the support portion; as well as An image sensor is disposed in the lower part of the housing. Wherein, the first damper protrudes toward the first frame in the direction of the optical axis, and At least a portion of the recessed portion faces the first damper in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, further comprising: A second frame is disposed between the support portion and the first frame, and is configured to move in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second frame includes a first through hole through which the first damper passes.

3. The camera module according to claim 1, wherein, The first damper includes a surface facing the recessed portion in the direction of the optical axis.

4. The camera module of claim 2, wherein, Based on the optical axis direction The minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper is greater than the minimum gap between the first frame and the second frame.

5. The camera module of claim 2, wherein, Based on the optical axis direction The minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper is greater than the minimum gap between the second frame and the load-bearing part.

6. The camera module of claim 2, wherein, Based on the optical axis direction The minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper is less than the sum of the minimum gap between the first frame and the second frame and the minimum gap between the second frame and the load-bearing part.

7. The camera module of claim 2, wherein, Based on the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, The minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper is greater than or equal to the maximum movable distance of the first frame in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and The minimum gap between the second frame and the first damper is greater than or equal to the maximum movable distance of the second frame in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

8. The camera module of claim 1, wherein, The first damper comprises an elastic material.

9. The camera module of claim 8, wherein, The first damper includes a core.

10. The camera module of claim 9, wherein, The core is formed of a non-magnetic metallic material.

11. The camera module of claim 8, wherein, The first damper includes a second through hole penetrating in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

12. The camera module of claim 11, wherein, The first damper includes a core.

13. The camera module of claim 1, wherein, The first damper is disposed in at least one of the corner regions of the bearing portion.

14. The camera module of claim 13, wherein, The first damper is configured as a plurality of first dampers, and at least one pair of the plurality of first dampers is disposed in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

15. The camera module according to claim 1, further comprising: A stop member is attached to the support portion to cover the first frame; as well as The outer casing is attached to the housing to cover the stop. The stop member includes a second damper, which faces the housing in the optical axis direction.

16. A camera module, including: Casing unit; The support portion is housed within the housing unit and has a first damper disposed therein; The first frame is housed in the support portion and connected to the lens barrel; The second frame is disposed between the support portion and the first frame; as well as An image sensor is disposed in the lower part of the housing unit. The first damper passes through the second frame, and a portion of the first damper is housed within the first frame. Specifically, based on the optical axis direction, the minimum gap between the first frame and the first damper is greater than the minimum gap between the first frame and the second frame and the minimum gap between the second frame and the load-bearing part, and less than the sum of the minimum gap between the first frame and the second frame and the minimum gap between the second frame and the load-bearing part.

17. The camera module according to claim 16, wherein, The supporting portion includes a first surface facing the first frame and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and The first damper protrudes beyond the second surface of the bearing portion.

18. The camera module of claim 16, wherein, The first damper is fixed to the bearing portion by a fixing member included in the bearing portion.

Images