Lens driving device and camera module

Abstract

The lens driving device (101) includes a base member (3), a support member (8), a lens holding member (2), and a second driving section (DM2) configured to have a shape memory alloy wire (SB) that moves the base member (3) relative to the support member (8) in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction. The base member (3) and the lens holding member (2) are disposed on the upper surface side of the support member (8) in the up-down direction along the optical axis direction, and the base member (3) has a main body portion (3B) disposed on the upper surface side of the support member (8) and a protruding portion (3T) protruding downward from the upper surface of the support member (8). The shape memory alloy wire (SB) is disposed between the support member (8) and the protruding portion (3T) so as to face the lower surface of the support member (8).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to lens driving devices and camera modules. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, there were known lens driving devices (see Patent Document 1) that could move the base (base component) of a lens module in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis using shape memory alloy wires. In this lens driving device, the shape memory alloy wires were arranged between a movable component, i.e., a first circuit board, mounted on the bottom surface of the base, and a support component (fixed side component), i.e., a second circuit board.

[0003] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-018083 Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve However, the shape memory alloy wire is slack when not energized, so if an impact such as a fall is applied to the lens drive device, it may become entangled in part of the first circuit board (e.g., the arm of an L-shape), which is a movable part.

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a lens driving device that can suppress problems related to the winding of shape memory alloy wires used to move the base component in a direction intersecting the optical axis.

[0006] Technical solutions for solving technical problems An embodiment of the lens driving device disclosed herein includes: a fixed-side component including a support member; a base component supported on the support member; a lens holding member capable of holding a lens body; and a driving unit configured to have a plurality of shape memory alloy wires that move the base component relative to the support member in a direction intersecting the optical axis. The base component and the lens holding member are disposed on the upper surface side of the support member in a vertical direction along the optical axis. The base component has a main body portion disposed on the upper surface side of the support member and a protrusion portion protruding downward from the upper surface of the support member. The shape memory alloy wires are disposed between the fixed-side component and the protrusion portion and are configured to face the lower surface of the support member.

[0007] Invention Effects The lens driving device described above can suppress problems related to the winding of shape memory alloy wires. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a camera module of a lens driving device including embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the lens driving device shown.

[0010] Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional view of the lens holding component, the lens-side metal component, and the leaf spring.

[0011] Figure 4 It is a three-dimensional view of the base components, magnet, base side metal components, leaf spring, and flexible metal components.

[0012] Figure 5 It is a three-dimensional view of the base components, the supported metal components, the flexible metal components, and the embedded metal components.

[0013] Figure 6 It is a three-dimensional view of the supporting metal components, the supported metal components, the flexible metal components, the supporting components, the embedded metal components, and the magnetic components.

[0014] Figure 7 It is a three-dimensional view of the supporting metal components, the supporting components, and the embedded metal components.

[0015] Figure 8 It is a side view of the base-side metal components, the lens-side metal components, and the shape memory alloy wires.

[0016] Figure 9 It is a three-dimensional view of the base-side metal components, lens-side metal components, support-side metal components, supported-side metal components, flexible metal components, embedded metal components, and shape memory alloy wires.

[0017] Figure 10 It is a three-dimensional view of the base-side metal components, lens-side metal components, flexible metal components, embedded metal components, and shape memory alloy wires.

[0018] Figure 11 It is a three-dimensional view of the supporting metal components, the supported metal components, the flexible metal components, the embedded metal components, and the shape memory alloy wires.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a bottom view of the base component, the flexible metal component, and the second drive unit.

[0020] Figure 13 These are bottom and sectional views of the base component, support component, and second drive unit.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating another configuration example of the lens driving device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The lens drive device shown is viewed from below.

[0023] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 The front view of the lens drive device shown.

[0024] Figure 17 yes Figure 14 The right-side view of the lens drive device shown. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, the lens driving device 101 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the camera module CM, including the lens drive device 101. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the lens driving device 101.

[0026] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this system, X1 represents one direction of the X-axis constituting a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and X2 represents the other direction of the X-axis. Similarly, Y1 represents one direction of the Y-axis constituting a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and Y2 represents the other direction of the Y-axis. Likewise, Z1 represents one direction of the Z-axis constituting a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and Z2 represents the other direction of the Z-axis. Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 In this diagram, the X1 side of the lens driving device 101 corresponds to the front side (front face side) of the lens driving device 101, and the X2 side corresponds to the rear side (back face side) of the lens driving device 101. Furthermore, the Y1 side of the lens driving device 101 corresponds to the left side of the lens driving device 101, and the Y2 side corresponds to the right side of the lens driving device 101. Additionally, the Z1 side of the lens driving device 101 corresponds to the upper side (subject side) of the lens driving device 101, and the Z2 side corresponds to the lower side (image sensor side) of the lens driving device 101. The same applies to other diagrams.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the camera module CM is configured to include a substrate SU, a lens driving device 101, a lens body LS mounted on the lens driving device 101, and an imaging element IS mounted on the substrate SU opposite to the lens body LS. Furthermore, the camera module CM is connected to a control device (not shown) comprising a microcomputer including a CPU and memory. In the example shown, the control device is located externally to the camera module CM, but it could also be located internally. Figure 1 As shown, a lens drive device 101 with a generally rectangular shape is mounted on a substrate SU on which an image sensor IS is mounted.

[0028] Specifically, such as Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the lens driving device 101 includes a cover member 1, a support member 8, and a magnetic member 10, which are part of the fixed side member FB. The cover member 1 is configured to function as part of the housing HS of the lens driving device 101. In the example shown, the cover member 1 is formed of a non-magnetic metal. However, the cover member 1 may also be formed of a magnetic metal. Additionally, as... Figure 1 As shown, the cover component 1 has a bottomless box-shaped shape that defines the storage section 1S.

[0029] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the cover component 1 has a rectangular cylindrical outer peripheral wall portion 1A and a rectangular annular and flat top plate portion 1B that is continuous with the upper end (Z1 side end) of the outer peripheral wall portion 1A. A circular opening 1K is formed in the center of the top plate portion 1B. 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. Furthermore, 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. Moreover, as Figure 1 As shown, the cover component 1, the support component 8, and the magnetic component 10 are joined together by an adhesive to form the housing HS.

[0030] like Figure 2 As shown, between the cover component 1 and the magnetic component 10 are housed a lens holding component 2, a base component 3, a magnet 4, a metal component 5, a leaf spring 6, a flexible metal component 7, a support component 8, an embedded metal component 9, a shape memory alloy wire SA, and a shape memory alloy wire SB.

[0031] Lens holding component 2 is capable of holding lens body LS (see reference). Figure 1 The movable side component MB is formed by the components of the lens body LS. The lens body LS is, for example, a cylindrical lens tube having at least one lens, configured such that its central axis is along the optical axis OA.

[0032] In the example shown, the lens holding component 2 is formed by injection molding of a synthetic resin such as a liquid crystal polymer (LCP). Specifically, as... Figure 2 As shown, the lens holding member 2 includes a cylindrical portion 2C extending along the optical axis OA, and a corner portion 2D protruding radially outward from the cylindrical portion 2C into a circle centered on the optical axis OA. The corner portion 2D includes a first corner portion 2D1 and a second corner portion 2D2. The first corner portion 2D1 and the second corner portion 2D2 are configured to extend radially in opposite directions relative to each other across the optical axis OA. Furthermore, a portion of a leaf spring 6 is mounted on each of the two corner portions 2D.

[0033] The drive unit DM is configured to move the movable side member MB relative to the fixed side member FB. In the example shown, the drive unit DM includes shape memory alloy wires as an example of a shape memory actuator. Specifically, the drive unit DM includes a first drive unit DM1 for moving the lens holding member 2 relative to the base member 3, and a second drive unit DM2 for moving the base member 3 relative to the support member 8. The first drive unit DM1 includes shape memory alloy wire SA, and the second drive unit DM2 includes shape memory alloy wire SB. The shape memory alloy wire SA includes first wire SA1 to eighth wire SA8, and the shape memory alloy wire SB includes first wire SB1 to fourth wire SB4.

[0034] Shape memory alloy wires heat up when an electric current flows through them, and shrink accordingly as the temperature rises. Specifically, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the shape memory alloy wire SA is configured such that, when current is supplied, it is stretched into a straight line along the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall 1A of the cover member 1, enabling the lens holding member 2 to move relative to the base member 3. Furthermore, one end of each of the first wire SA1 to the eighth wire SA8 is fixed to the lens-side metal member 5M by crimping or welding, and the other end is fixed to the base-side metal member 5F by crimping or welding. Figure 2 As shown, the shape memory alloy wire SB is configured such that when current is supplied, it is stretched into a straight line along each side of the support member 8, allowing the base member 3 to move relative to the support member 8. Furthermore, one end of each of the first wire SB1 to the fourth wire SB4 is fixed to the supported side metal member 5N by crimping or welding, and the other end is fixed to the support side metal member 5G by crimping or welding.

[0035] In other words, the shape memory alloy wire SA has: a first wire SA1 and a second wire SA2 arranged such that the extensions of the shape memory alloy wire SA intersect each other (approximately orthogonally) when viewed along the optical axis (Z-axis direction); a third wire SA3 that intersects the first wire SA1 in a side view (front view) viewed from a first direction (X-axis direction) perpendicular to the optical axis OA; and a fourth wire SA4 that intersects the second wire SA2 in a side view (right side view) viewed from a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to both the optical axis OA and the first direction (X-axis direction). Furthermore, the shape memory alloy wire SA has: a fifth wire SA5 and a sixth wire SA6, arranged such that, when viewed along the optical axis (Z-axis direction), the extensions of the shape memory alloy wire SA intersect each other (approximately orthogonally); a seventh wire SA7, which intersects the fifth wire SA5 in a side view (rear view) viewed from a first direction (X-axis direction) perpendicular to the optical axis OA; and an eighth wire SA8, which intersects the sixth wire SA6 in a side view (left side view) viewed from a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to both the optical axis OA and the first direction (X-axis direction). Additionally, the first wire SB1 and the third wire SB3 are positioned opposite each other across the optical axis OA, and the second wire SB2 and the fourth wire SB4 are positioned opposite each other across the optical axis OA. Moreover, when viewed along the optical axis (Z-axis direction), the first wire SB1 and the third wire SB3 are arranged such that, relative to the second wire SB2 and the fourth wire SB4, the extensions of the shape memory alloy wire SB intersect each other (approximately orthogonally). In addition, the intersection of two shape memory alloy wires means that the straight line connecting one end of one shape memory alloy wire and the straight line connecting one end of another shape memory alloy wire intersects.

[0036] The first drive unit DM1 can move the lens holding member 2 up and down along the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction) parallel to the optical axis OA by utilizing the contraction of the shape memory alloy wire SA. Furthermore, the shape memory alloy wire SA is configured such that if one or more of the first wire SA1 to the eighth wire SA8 contract, the lens holding member 2 moves, and through this movement, one or more of the other wires are stretched. The second drive unit DM2 can move the base member 3 (including the lens holding member 2) back and forth along a first direction (X-axis direction) perpendicular to the optical axis OA by utilizing the contraction of the shape memory alloy wire SB, and can also move the base member 3 (including the lens holding member 2) left and right along a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to both the optical axis OA and the first direction by utilizing the contraction of the shape memory alloy wire SB. Furthermore, the shape memory alloy wire SB is configured such that if one or more of the first wire SB1 to the fourth wire SB4 contract, the base member 3 moves, and through this movement, one or more of the other wires are stretched.

[0037] The base component 3 is a component that can move relative to the fixed side component FB (support component 8) along the X-axis and Y-axis directions, respectively, constituting the movable side component MB. In the illustrated example, the base component 3 is formed by injection molding using a synthetic resin such as liquid crystal polymer (LCP). Specifically, the base component 3 has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above, with a generally circular opening 3K in the center. Specifically, the base component 3 has a rectangular annular body portion 3B formed to surround the opening 3K and a portion protruding upward from the body portion 3B, namely a corner portion 3D. The corner portion 3D includes a first corner portion 3D1 and a second corner portion 3D2. The first corner portion 3D1 and the second corner portion 3D2 are arranged radially opposite each other across the optical axis OA. More specifically, the main body 3B has four sides 3E (first side 3E1 to fourth side 3E4), a first corner 3D1 is provided between the first side 3E1 and the second side 3E2, and a second corner 3D2 is provided between the third side 3E3 and the fourth side 3E4.

[0038] Magnet 4 is a component that cooperates with the magnetic component 10 fixed to the support component 8 to prevent the base component 3 from separating from the support component 8. Specifically, magnet 4 is disposed on the base component 3 in a manner that magnetically attracts the magnetic component 10 bonded and fixed to the support component 8. In the example shown, magnet 4 is a permanent magnet magnetized by two poles along the Z-axis direction, including a first magnet 41 and a second magnet 42.

[0039] Metal component 5 is configured to fix the end of a shape memory alloy wire. In the example shown, metal component 5 is formed of a non-magnetic metal and includes a base-side metal component 5F, a lens-side metal component 5M, a support-side metal component 5G, and a supported-side metal component 5N. Base-side metal component 5F is configured to be fixed to the corner 3D of base component 3. Lens-side metal component 5M is configured to be fixed to the corner 2D of lens holding component 2. Support-side metal component 5G is configured to be fixed to the lower surface of support component 8. Supported-side metal component 5N is configured to be fixed to a protrusion 3T protruding downward from the lower surface of base component 3 (see reference). Figure 4 Furthermore, the base-side metal component 5F can also be embedded in the corner 3D of the base component 3, and the lens-side metal component 5M can also be embedded in the corner 2D of the lens holding component 2. In addition, the support-side metal component 5G can also be embedded in the lower surface of the support component 8, and the supported-side metal component 5N can also be embedded in the protrusion 3T of the base component 3.

[0040] More specifically, the base-side metal component 5F includes the first base-side metal component 5F1 to the eighth base-side metal component 5F8, and the lens-side metal component 5M includes the first lens-side metal component 5M1 to the eighth lens-side metal component 5M8. Furthermore, the second base-side metal component 5F2 and the fourth base-side metal component 5F4 are integrated to form a common base-side metal component 5FC (first common base-side metal component 5FC1), and the sixth base-side metal component 5F6 and the eighth base-side metal component 5F8 are integrated to form a common base-side metal component 5FC (second common base-side metal component 5FC2). Additionally, the support-side metal component 5G includes the first support-side metal component 5G1 to the fourth support-side metal component 5G4, and the supported-side metal component 5N includes the first supported-side metal component 5N1 and the second supported-side metal component 5N2.

[0041] The leaf spring 6 is configured to support the lens holding member 2 so that it can move relative to the base member 3 in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA. In this embodiment, the leaf spring 6 is made of a metal plate, for example, a copper alloy, a titanium-copper alloy (titanium copper), or a copper-nickel alloy (nickel-tin copper). In the example shown, with the lens driving device 101 in a neutral state, the leaf spring 6 connects the lens holding member 2 and the base member 3 in such a way that the center of the lens holding member 2 coincides with the center of the base member 3. Specifically, the leaf spring 6 is configured to connect the corner 2D formed on the lens holding member 2 with the corner 3D formed on the base member 3. Furthermore, the neutral state of the lens drive device 101 is, for example, a state in which current is supplied to the first line SA1 to the eighth line SA8 and the first line SB1 to the fourth line SB4 respectively, and the movable side component MB (lens holding component 2 and base component 3) is located in the middle of the movable range of each of the three mutually orthogonal axes (X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis), that is, the movable side component MB (lens holding component 2 and base component 3) is in a neutral position. Typically, in the neutral state of the lens drive device 101, the lens holding component 2 is located in the center of the movable range of each of the three axes, and the base component 3 is located in the center of the movable range of each of the two axes (X-axis and Y-axis).

[0042] The flexible metal component 7 is used to supply current to the shape memory alloy wire SA and the shape memory alloy wire SB respectively. Specifically, the flexible metal component 7 has a fixed joint fixed to the support component 8, a movable joint fixed to the base component 3, and an elastic arm that can elastically deform to connect the fixed joint and the movable joint. In the example shown, the flexible metal component 7 includes a first flexible metal component 7A to an eighth flexible metal component 7H.

[0043] Support member 8 is a component used to support the movable side member MB, constituting the fixed side member FB. In the illustrated example, support member 8 is formed by injection molding using a synthetic resin such as liquid crystal polymer (LCP). Specifically, support member 8 has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above, with a generally circular opening 8K in the center. Furthermore, support member 8 has a rectangular annular base 8B formed to surround the opening 8K, and an outer peripheral wall portion 8W that protrudes downward (towards Z2) along the edge (outer periphery) of the lower surface of base 8B. In the illustrated example, the outer peripheral wall portion 8W is discontinuously arranged along the edge (generally rectangular outer periphery) of the lower surface of base 8B, but it can also be arranged continuously without gaps.

[0044] The embedded metal component 9 is a component embedded in the support component 8. Specifically, the embedded metal component 9 has a terminal portion for external electrical connection and a joint portion exposed on the surface of the support component 8 for engagement with other metal components. In the example shown, the embedded metal component 9 includes a first embedded metal component 9A to a twelfth embedded metal component 9L.

[0045] The magnetic component 10 cooperates with the magnet 4 fixed to the base component 3 to prevent the base component 3 from separating from the support component 8. In the example shown, the magnetic component 10 is a rectangular ring-shaped and flat metal plate formed of magnetic metal. However, the magnetic component 10 can also be a magnet, as long as it can generate a magnetic attraction between itself and the magnet 4, and can also be formed of magnetic resin material or the like. In addition, the magnetic component 10 can also be embedded into the support component 8 by means of embedding molding or the like. Specifically, the magnetic component 10 has a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above, and has a generally circular opening 10K in the center.

[0046] Next, refer to Figure 3 The positional relationship between the component installed on the lens holding component 2 and the lens holding component 2 will be explained. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the lens holding component 2, the lens-side metal component 5M, and the leaf spring 6. Specifically, Figure 3 The image above (located above the block arrow) is an exploded perspective view of the lens holding component 2, the lens-side metal component 5M, and the leaf spring 6. Figure 3 The image below (located below the block arrow) is a three-dimensional view of the assembly of the lens holding component 2, the lens-side metal component 5M, and the leaf spring 6.

[0047] exist Figure 3In the example shown in the figure above, the second lens-side metal component 5M2 is fixed to the outer side of the sidewall on the Y2 side of the first corner 2D1, i.e., the upper part of the second side surface LF2. Specifically, with the two square protrusions 2V formed on the outward (Y2 side) side of the first corner 2D1 engaged with the two rectangular holes AH formed on the second lens-side metal component 5M2, the second lens-side metal component 5M2 is fixed to the first corner 2D1 by an adhesive. The adhesive is, for example, a light-curing adhesive. Light-curing adhesives include, for example, ultraviolet-curing adhesives or visible-light-curing adhesives. Similarly, the first lens-side metal component 5M1 is fixed to the outer side of the sidewall on the X1 side of the first corner 2D1, i.e., the upper part of the first side surface LF1, the third lens-side metal component 5M3 is fixed to the lower part of the first side surface LF1, and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 is fixed to the lower part of the second side surface LF2. In addition, the fifth lens-side metal component 5M5 is fixed to the outer side of the sidewall on the X2 side of the second corner 2D2, which is the upper part of the third side LF3; the sixth lens-side metal component 5M6 is fixed to the outer side of the sidewall on the Y1 side of the second corner 2D2, which is the upper part of the fourth side LF4; the seventh lens-side metal component 5M7 is fixed to the lower part of the third side LF3; and the eighth lens-side metal component 5M8 is fixed to the lower part of the fourth side LF4.

[0048] The leaf spring 6 has a corner 3D fixed to the base component 3 (see reference). Figure 2 The lens side portion 6B comprises a base-side portion 6B, a lens-side portion 6L fixed to the corner 2D of the lens holding member 2, and an elastic portion 6G connecting the base-side portion 6B and the lens-side portion 6L. Specifically, the base-side portion 6B includes a first base-side portion 6B1 and a second base-side portion 6B2, the lens-side portion 6L includes a first lens-side portion 6L1 and a second lens-side portion 6L2, and the elastic portion 6G includes a first elastic portion 6G1 to a fourth elastic portion 6G4. The first elastic portion 6G1 connects the first lens-side portion 6L1 and the first base-side portion 6B1, the second elastic portion 6G2 connects the first base-side portion 6B1 and the second lens-side portion 6L2, the third elastic portion 6G3 connects the second lens-side portion 6L2 and the second base-side portion 6B2, and the fourth elastic portion 6G4 connects the second base-side portion 6B2 and the first lens-side portion 6L1.

[0049] Two first through holes 6H1 are formed on the first lens side portion 6L1 for inserting two upward-projecting circular protrusions 2P formed on the upper surface of the first corner portion 2D1. Similarly, two second through holes 6H2 are formed on the second lens side portion 6L2 for inserting two upward-projecting circular protrusions 2P formed on the upper surface of the second corner portion 2D2. In the illustrated example, the leaf spring 6 is joined to the protrusions 2P using an adhesive. However, the joining of the leaf spring 6 to the protrusions 2P can also be achieved by hot riveting or cold riveting the protrusions 2P.

[0050] Similarly, a portion 6B1 on the first base side is formed for forming the first corner 3D1 (see reference). Figure 4 The upper surface of the ) has two circular protrusions 3P that extend upwards (see reference). Figure 4 Two third through holes 6H3 are inserted through. Additionally, two circular protrusions 3P (see reference) are formed on the second base side portion 6B2, protruding upwards from the upper surface of the second corner portion 3D2. Figure 2 The two fourth through holes 6H4 are inserted. In the example shown, the leaf spring 6 and the protrusion 3P are joined by adhesive. However, the joining of the leaf spring 6 and the protrusion 3P can also be achieved by hot riveting or cold riveting the protrusion 3P.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the leaf spring 6 is configured to be rotationally symmetrical about the optical axis OA. Therefore, the leaf spring 6 can provide a well-balanced suspended support for the lens holding member 2. In addition, the leaf spring 6 will not adversely affect the weight balance of the movable side member MB (lens holding member 2) supported by eight shape memory alloy wires SA (first wire SA1 to eighth wire SA8).

[0052] Next, refer to Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The positional relationship between the components that contact the base component 3 and the base component 3 is explained. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the base component 3, magnet 4, base-side metal component 5F, supported-side metal component 5N, leaf spring 6, and flexible metal component 7 from above. Specifically, Figure 4 The image above (located above the block-shaped arrow) is an exploded perspective view of the base component 3, magnet 4, base-side metal component 5F, supported-side metal component 5N, leaf spring 6, and flexible metal component 7. Figure 4 The following diagram (located below the block-shaped arrow) is an assembly perspective view of the base component 3, magnet 4, base-side metal component 5F, supported-side metal component 5N, leaf spring 6, and flexible metal component 7. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the base component 3, the supported metal component 5N, the flexible metal component 7, and the embedded metal component 9.

[0053] like Figure 4 As shown in the figure above, a receiving portion 3R with an upward opening (Z1 direction) is formed at the corner 3D of the base component 3. Furthermore, a magnet 4 is housed in the receiving portion 3R and fixed with an adhesive. Specifically, a first receiving portion 3R1 with an upward opening is formed at the first corner 3D1, and a second receiving portion 3R2 with an upward opening is formed at the second corner 3D2. A first magnet 41 is housed in the first receiving portion 3R1, and a second magnet 42 is housed in the second receiving portion 3R2.

[0054] In addition, Figure 4 In the example shown in the figure above, the first common base side metal component 5FC1 is fixed to the outer side surface, i.e., the second side surface SF2, of the sidewall on the Y2 side of the second corner portion 3D2, which is arranged along the fourth side portion 3E4 of the base component 3. Specifically, with the two square protrusions 3V formed on the outward (Y2 side) side of the second corner portion 3D2 engaged with the two rectangular holes RH formed on the first common base side metal component 5FC1, the first common base side metal component 5FC1 is fixed to the second corner portion 3D2 by adhesive. Similarly, the second common base-side metal component 5FC2 is fixed to the outer side of the sidewall on the Y1 side of the first corner 3D1 arranged along the second edge 3E2 of the base component 3, i.e., the fourth side SF4; the first base-side metal component 5F1 is fixed to the outer side of the sidewall on the X1 side of the first corner 3D1 arranged along the first edge 3E1 of the base component 3, i.e., the lower part of the first side SF1; the third base-side metal component 5F3 is fixed to the upper part of the first side SF1; the fifth base-side metal component 5F5 is fixed to the outer side of the sidewall on the X2 side of the second corner 3D2 arranged along the third edge 3E3 of the base component 3, i.e., the lower part of the third side SF3; and the seventh base-side metal component 5F7 is fixed to the upper part of the third side SF3.

[0055] The first flexible metal component 7A to the eighth flexible metal component 7H each have a first movable joint 7AQ to an eighth movable joint 7HQ. Furthermore, the first movable joint 7AQ includes a first inner movable joint 7AQ1 and a first outer movable joint 7AQ2, and the fifth movable joint 7EQ includes a fifth inner movable joint 7EQ1 and a fifth outer movable joint 7EQ2.

[0056] like Figure 5As shown, a through hole is formed in the eighth movable joint 7HQ for inserting a circular protrusion 3Q that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the base member 3. In the example shown, the flexible metal member 7 (eighth movable joint 7HQ) and the base member 3 (protrusion 3Q) are joined by an adhesive. However, the joining of the flexible metal member 7 (eighth movable joint 7HQ) and the base member 3 (protrusion 3Q) can also be achieved by hot riveting or cold riveting the protrusion 3Q. The same applies to the first movable joints 7AQ to the seventh movable joints 7GQ.

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown, a protrusion 3T is formed on the lower surface of the base component 3. The protrusion 3T includes a first protrusion 3T1 and a second protrusion 3T2. Furthermore, four through holes are formed on the first outer movable joint 7AQ2 for inserting four downwardly projecting protrusions 3Q (protrusions 3TQ) formed on the lower surface of the first protrusion 3T1. The engagement between the first outer movable joint 7AQ2 and the protrusions 3TQ is achieved using an adhesive. However, the engagement between the first outer movable joint 7AQ2 and the protrusions 3TQ can also be achieved by hot riveting or cold riveting the protrusions 3TQ.

[0058] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, rounded quadrilateral through holes for welding are formed on the second movable joint 7BQ to the fourth movable joint 7DQ and the sixth movable joint 7FQ to the eighth movable joint 7HQ. Furthermore, the second movable joint 7BQ is joined to the third base-side metal member 5F3 by welding. However, the joining of the second movable joint 7BQ to the third base-side metal member 5F3 can also be achieved by a conductive adhesive material or the like. The same applies to the joining of the third movable joint 7CQ to the first base-side metal member 5F1, the fourth movable joint 7DQ to the second common base-side metal member 5FC2, the sixth movable joint 7FQ to the seventh base-side metal member 5F7, the seventh movable joint 7GQ to the fifth base-side metal member 5F5, and the eighth movable joint 7HQ to the first common base-side metal member 5FC1.

[0059] The supported metal component 5N is fixed to the lower end face of the protrusion 3T of the base component 3 via the flexible metal component 7. Specifically, the first supported metal component 5N1 is fixed to the first protrusion 3T1 via the first outer movable joint 7AQ2, and the second supported metal component 5N2 is fixed to the second protrusion 3T2 via the fifth outer movable joint 7EQ2. More specifically, the first supported metal component 5N1 and the first outer movable joint 7AQ2 are each formed with four through holes for the four protrusions 3TQ formed on the lower end face of the first protrusion 3T1 to pass through. Furthermore, the first supported metal component 5N1, the first outer movable joint 7AQ2, and the first protrusion 3T1 are joined by an adhesive. However, the joining of the first supported metal component 5N1, the first outer movable joint 7AQ2, and the first protrusion 3T1 can also be achieved by hot riveting or cold riveting the protrusions 3TQ. Furthermore, a rounded quadrilateral through hole is formed on the first supported metal member 5N1 for use during welding. The first supported metal member 5N1 is joined to the first outer movable joint 7AQ2 by welding. However, the joining of the first supported metal member 5N1 to the first outer movable joint 7AQ2 can also be achieved using a conductive adhesive material or the like. The same applies to the joining of the second supported metal member 5N2, the fifth outer movable joint 7EQ2, and the second protrusion 3T2.

[0060] Next, refer to Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 The positional relationship between the component installed on the support component 8 and the support component 8 is explained. Figure 6 This is a top perspective view of the supporting metal component 5G, the supported metal component 5N, the flexible metal component 7, the supporting component 8, the embedded metal component 9, and the magnetic component 10. Specifically, Figure 6 The above figure (located above the block-shaped arrow) is an exploded perspective view of the supporting metal component 5G, the supported metal component 5N, the flexible metal component 7, the supporting component 8 with the embedded metal component 9, and the magnetic component 10. Figure 4 The following diagram (located below the block arrow) is an assembled perspective view of the supporting metal component 5G, the supported metal component 5N, the flexible metal component 7, the supporting component 8, the embedded metal component 9, and the magnetic component 10. Figure 7 This is a lower perspective view of the supporting metal component 5G, the supporting component 8, and the embedded metal component 9. Furthermore, the magnetic component 10 is bonded and fixed to the supporting component 8 in a manner that does not contact either the supporting metal component 5G or the supported metal component 5N. Additionally, the supported metal component 5N is not directly mounted on the supporting component 8, but for ease of understanding, it is shown... Figure 6 The diagram in the middle is shown.

[0061] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first flexible metal component 7A to the eighth flexible metal component 7H each have a first fixed joint portion 7AP to an eighth fixed joint portion 7HP. In addition, the first embedded metal component 9A to the twelfth embedded metal component 9L each have a first terminal portion 9AT to a twelfth terminal portion 9LT, and a first joint portion 9AP to a twelfth joint portion 9LP.

[0062] Furthermore, a through hole is formed in the first fixed joint 7AP for inserting a circular protrusion 8P that protrudes upward from the upper surface of the support member 8. In the illustrated example, the flexible metal member 7 (first fixed joint 7AP) and the support member 8 (protrusion 8P) are joined by an adhesive. However, the joining of the flexible metal member 7 (first fixed joint 7AP) and the support member 8 (protrusion 8P) can also be achieved by hot riveting or cold riveting the protrusion 8P. The same applies to the second fixed joint 7BP to the eighth fixed joint 7HP.

[0063] Furthermore, through holes with rounded quadrilaterals for welding are formed in the first fixing joint 7AP to the eighth fixing joint 7HP. The first fixing joint 7AP and the first joint 9AP are joined by welding. However, the joining of the first fixing joint 7AP and the first joint 9AP can also be achieved using a conductive adhesive material or the like. The same applies to the joining of the second fixing joint 7BP and the second joint 9BP, the third fixing joint 7CP and the third joint 9CP, the fourth fixing joint 7DP and the fourth joint 9DP, the fifth fixing joint 7EP and the fifth joint 9EP, the sixth fixing joint 7FP and the sixth joint 9FP, the seventh fixing joint 7GP and the seventh joint 9GP, and the eighth fixing joint 7HP and the eighth joint 9HP.

[0064] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first support-side metal component 5G1 is fixed to the support component 8 by adhesive when its two square protrusions 8V, which protrude downwards (Z2 side) from the lower surface of the support component 8, engage with the two rectangular holes formed in the first support-side metal component 5G1. However, the connection between the first support-side metal component 5G1 and the support component 8 can also be achieved by hot riveting or cold riveting the protrusions 8V. The same applies to the second support-side metal components 5G2 to the fourth support-side metal components 5G4.

[0065] In addition, such as Figure 7As shown, a rounded quadrilateral through hole is formed in the first support-side metal component 5G1 for welding. Furthermore, the first support-side metal component 5G1 is joined to the ninth embedded metal component 9I by welding. However, the joining of the first support-side metal component 5G1 to the ninth embedded metal component 9I can also be achieved using a conductive adhesive material or the like. The same applies to the joining of the second support-side metal component 5G2 to the tenth embedded metal component 9J, the third support-side metal component 5G3 to the eleventh embedded metal component 9K, and the fourth support-side metal component 5G4 to the twelfth embedded metal component 9L.

[0066] Next, refer to Figure 8 The metal component 5, which is equipped with shape memory alloy wire SA, will be described. Figure 8 This is a side view of the base-side metal component 5F, the lens-side metal component 5M, and the shape memory alloy line SA. Specifically, Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the first base-side metal component 5F1, the third base-side metal component 5F3, the first common base-side metal component 5FC1, the first lens-side metal components 5M1 to the fourth lens-side metal components 5M4, and the first line SA1 to the fourth line SA4, viewed from the right oblique front side along a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA. Furthermore, Figure 8 The positional relationships of the components shown correspond to the positional relationships of the lens driving device 101 when it is in a neutral state. Additionally, refer to... Figure 8 The following explanation applies to the combination of lines SA1 to SA4, but the same applies to the combination of lines SA5 to SA8.

[0067] Specifically, one end of the first wire SA1 is fixed to the first lens-side metal component 5M1 at the holding portion J1, and the other end of the first wire SA1 is fixed to the first base-side metal component 5F1 at the holding portion J2. Similarly, one end of the second wire SA2 is fixed to the second lens-side metal component 5M2 at the holding portion J3, and the other end of the second wire SA2 is fixed to the first common base-side metal component 5FC1 at the holding portion J4 below the second base-side metal component 5F2. In addition, one end of the third wire SA3 is fixed to the third lens-side metal component 5M3 at the holding portion J5, and the other end of the third wire SA3 is fixed to the third base-side metal component 5F3 at the holding portion J6. In addition, one end of the fourth line SA4 is fixed to the fourth lens side metal member 5M4 at the holding part J7 of the fourth lens side metal member 5M4, and the other end of the fourth line SA4 is fixed to the first common base side metal member 5FC1 at the holding part J8 on the upper side of the first common base side metal member 5FC1, which functions as the fourth base side metal member 5F4.

[0068] The retaining part J1 is formed by bending a portion of the first lens-side metal member 5M1. Specifically, the retaining part J1 is formed by bending a portion of the first lens-side metal member 5M1 while one end of the first wire SA1 is inserted. Furthermore, one end of the first wire SA1 is fixed to the retaining part J1 by welding. The same applies to the retaining parts J2 to J8.

[0069] like Figure 8 As shown, the first wire SA1 and the third wire SA3 are configured in a twisted position relative to each other. That is, the first wire SA1 and the third wire SA3 are configured in a non-contact manner. The same applies to the combination of the second wire SA2 and the fourth wire SA4.

[0070] The base component 3 is configured to function as a line support component supporting the other ends of each of the first line SA1 to the eighth line SA8. According to this configuration, the lens holding component 2 is supported by the base component 3 via the first line SA1 to the eighth line SA8 in a state where it can move in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA, that is, in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0071] The lens-side metal component 5M has an extension portion EL configured to extend circumferentially (tangentially) along a circle centered on the optical axis OA. Specifically, the first lens-side metal component 5M1 has a first extension portion EL1, the second lens-side metal component 5M2 has a second extension portion EL2, the third lens-side metal component 5M3 has a third extension portion EL3, and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 has a fourth extension portion EL4.

[0072] In the example shown, the first lens-side metal component 5M1 and the second lens-side metal component 5M2 are arranged such that the second extension portion EL2 is located outside the first extension portion EL1 (on the side away from the optical axis OA), and the first extension portion EL1 and the second extension portion EL2 are joined together with a conductive adhesive. Similarly, the third lens-side metal component 5M3 and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 are arranged such that the fourth extension portion EL4 is located outside the third extension portion EL3, and the third extension portion EL3 and the fourth extension portion EL4 are joined together with a conductive adhesive. Alternatively, the joining of the extension portions EL can also be achieved by welding or brazing. Furthermore, the extension portions EL can also be configured so that they do not overlap radially, i.e., are adjacent in the optical axis direction.

[0073] Next, refer to Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 The positional relationships of the metal component 5, the flexible metal component 7, the embedded metal component 9, the shape memory alloy wire SA, and the shape memory alloy wire SB, which are components through which current flows, are explained. Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional view of metal component 5, flexible metal component 7, embedded metal component 9, shape memory alloy wire SA, and shape memory alloy wire SB. Specifically, Figure 9 The image above is a perspective view of the components related to the electrical path, including the shape memory alloy wire SA. Figure 9 The image below is a perspective view of the components related to the electrical path, including the shape memory alloy wire SB. Figure 10 It is Figure 9 The above image is a portion of the extracted image. Figure 10 The top left diagram shows the components related to the power path, which includes the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2. Figure 10 The upper right diagram shows the components related to the power path, which includes the third wire SA3 and the fourth wire SA4. Figure 10 The lower left diagram shows the components related to the power path, which includes the fifth wire SA5 and the sixth wire SA6. Figure 10 The lower right diagram shows the components related to the power path, including the seventh line SA7 and the eighth line SA8. Additionally, Figure 11 It is to extract Figure 9 The image below is a partial image. Figure 11 The top left diagram shows the components associated with the energized path containing the first wire SB1. Figure 11 The lower left diagram shows the components related to the energized path containing the second wire SB2. Figure 11 The lower right diagram shows the components related to the power path including the third wire SB3. Figure 11 The upper right diagram shows the components associated with the power path containing the fourth line SB4.

[0074] like Figure 10 As shown in the upper left figure, when the third terminal 9CT of the third embedded metal component 9C is connected to a high potential, the eighth terminal 9HT of the eighth embedded metal component 9H (refer to...) Figure 2 When connected to a low potential, current flows from the third terminal portion 9CT of the third embedded metal component 9C through the third joint portion 9CP of the third embedded metal component 9C, the third flexible metal component 7C (the third fixed joint portion 7CP and the third movable joint portion 7CQ), the first base-side metal component 5F1 (joint portion 5F1Q and holding portion J2), the first line SA1, the first lens-side metal component 5M1 (holding portion J1 and first extension portion EL1), the second lens-side metal component 5M2 (second extension portion EL2 and holding portion J3), the second line SA2, the first common base-side metal component 5FC1 (holding portion J4 and joint portion 5FC1Q), and the eighth flexible metal component 7H (the eighth movable joint portion 7HQ and the eighth fixed joint portion 7HP (see reference)). Figure 2 )) and the eighth joint 9HP of the eighth embedded metal component 9H (refer to Figure 2 The flow is directed to the eighth terminal 9HT of the eighth embedded metal component 9H.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown in the upper right figure, when the second terminal 9BT of the second embedded metal component 9B is connected to a high potential, the eighth terminal 9HT of the eighth embedded metal component 9H (refer to...) Figure 2 When connected to a low potential, current flows from the second terminal portion 9BT of the second embedded metal component 9B through the second joint portion 9BP of the second embedded metal component 9B, the second flexible metal component 7B (the second fixed joint portion 7BP and the second movable joint portion 7BQ), the third base-side metal component 5F3 (joint portion 5F3Q and holding portion J6), the third line SA3, the third lens-side metal component 5M3 (holding portion J5 and third extension portion EL3), the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 (fourth extension portion EL4 and holding portion J7), the fourth line SA4, the first common base-side metal component 5FC1 (holding portion J8 and joint portion 5FC1Q), the eighth flexible metal component 7H (eighth movable joint portion 7HQ and eighth fixed joint portion 7HP (see reference) Figure 2), and the eighth joint 9HP of the eighth embedded metal component 9H (refer to Figure 2 The flow is directed to the eighth terminal 9HT of the eighth embedded metal component 9H.

[0076] Furthermore, in either the case where the third terminal portion 9CT of the third embedded metal component 9C is connected to a high potential or the case where the second terminal portion 9BT of the second embedded metal component 9B is connected to a high potential, the path of the current flowing from the first common base side metal component 5FC1 to the eighth terminal portion 9HT of the eighth embedded metal component 9H is the same.

[0077] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown in the lower left figure, when the seventh terminal 9GT of the seventh embedded metal component 9G is connected to a high potential and the fourth terminal 9DT of the fourth embedded metal component 9D is connected to a low potential, current flows from the seventh terminal 9GT of the seventh embedded metal component 9G through the seventh joint 9GP of the seventh embedded metal component 9G, the seventh flexible metal component 7G (the seventh fixed joint 7GP and the seventh movable joint 7GQ), the fifth base-side metal component 5F5 (joint 5F5Q and holding part J9), the fifth line SA5, and the fifth lens. The side metal component 5M5 (holding part J10 and fifth extension part EL5), the sixth lens side metal component 5M6 (sixth extension part EL6 and holding part J11), the sixth line SA6, the second common base side metal component 5FC2 (holding part J12 and joint part 5FC2Q), the fourth flexible metal component 7D (fourth movable joint part 7DQ and fourth fixed joint part 7DP), and the fourth joint part 9DP of the fourth embedded metal component 9D flow to the fourth terminal part 9DT of the fourth embedded metal component 9D.

[0078] In addition, such as Figure 10As shown in the lower right figure, when the sixth terminal 9FT of the sixth embedded metal component 9F is connected to a high potential and the fourth terminal 9DT of the fourth embedded metal component 9D is connected to a low potential, current flows from the sixth terminal 9FT of the sixth embedded metal component 9F through the sixth joint 9FP of the sixth embedded metal component 9F, the sixth flexible metal component 7F (the sixth fixed joint 7FP and the sixth movable joint 7FQ), the seventh base-side metal component 5F7 (joint 5F7Q and holding part J13), the seventh wire SA7, and the seventh through-hole. The mirror-side metal component 5M7 (holding part J14 and seventh extension part EL7), the eighth lens-side metal component 5M8 (eighth extension part EL8 and holding part J15), the eighth line SA8, the second common base-side metal component 5FC2 (holding part J16 and connecting part 5FC2Q), the fourth flexible metal component 7D (fourth movable connecting part 7DQ and fourth fixed connecting part 7DP), and the fourth connecting part 9DP of the fourth embedded metal component 9D flow to the fourth terminal part 9DT of the fourth embedded metal component 9D.

[0079] Furthermore, in either the case where the sixth terminal 9FT of the sixth embedded metal component 9F is connected to a high potential or the case where the seventh terminal 9GT of the seventh embedded metal component 9G is connected to a high potential, the path of the current flowing from the second common base side metal component 5FC2 to the fourth terminal 9DT of the fourth embedded metal component 9D is the same.

[0080] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown in the upper left figure, when the ninth terminal portion 9IT of the ninth embedded metal component 9I is connected to a high potential and the first terminal portion 9AT of the first embedded metal component 9A is connected to a low potential, the current flows from the ninth terminal portion 9IT of the ninth embedded metal component 9I through the ninth joint portion 9IP of the ninth embedded metal component 9I, the first support side metal component 5G1 (holding portion J17), the first line SB1, the first supported side metal component 5N1 (holding portion J18), the first flexible metal component 7A (first outer movable joint portion 7AQ2, first inner movable joint portion 7AQ1 and first fixed joint portion 7AP), and the first joint portion 9AP of the first embedded metal component 9A to the first terminal portion 9AT of the first embedded metal component 9A.

[0081] In addition, such as Figure 11As shown in the upper right figure, when the twelfth terminal 9LT of the twelfth embedded metal component 9L is connected to a high potential and the first terminal 9AT of the first embedded metal component 9A is connected to a low potential, the current flows from the twelfth terminal 9LT of the twelfth embedded metal component 9L through the twelfth joint 9LP of the twelfth embedded metal component 9L, the fourth support side metal component 5G4 (holding part J21), the fourth line SB4, the first supported side metal component 5N1 (holding part J22), the first flexible metal component 7A (first outer movable joint 7AQ2, first inner movable joint 7AQ1 and first fixed joint 7AP), and the first joint 9AP of the first embedded metal component 9A to the first terminal 9AT of the first embedded metal component 9A.

[0082] Furthermore, in either the case where the ninth terminal 9IT of the ninth embedded metal component 9I is connected to a high potential or the case where the twelfth terminal 9LT of the twelfth embedded metal component 9L is connected to a high potential, the path of the current flowing from the first supported side metal component 5N1 to the first terminal 9AT of the first embedded metal component 9A is the same.

[0083] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown in the lower left figure, when the tenth terminal 9JT of the tenth embedded metal component 9J is connected to a high potential and the fifth terminal 9ET of the fifth embedded metal component 9E is connected to a low potential, the current flows from the tenth terminal 9JT of the tenth embedded metal component 9J through the tenth joint 9JP of the tenth embedded metal component 9J, the second support side metal component 5G2 (holding part J19), the second line SB2, the second supported side metal component 5N2 (holding part J20), the fifth flexible metal component 7E (the fifth outer movable joint 7EQ2, the fifth inner movable joint 7EQ1 and the fifth fixed joint 7EP), and the fifth joint 9EP of the fifth embedded metal component 9E to the fifth terminal 9ET of the fifth embedded metal component 9E.

[0084] In addition, such as Figure 11 As shown in the lower right figure, when the eleventh terminal 9KT of the eleventh embedded metal component 9K is connected to a high potential and the fifth terminal 9ET of the fifth embedded metal component 9E is connected to a low potential, the current flows from the eleventh terminal 9KT of the eleventh embedded metal component 9K through the eleventh joint 9KP of the eleventh embedded metal component 9K, the third support side metal component 5G3 (holding part J23), the third line SB3, the second supported side metal component 5N2 (holding part J24), the fifth flexible metal component 7E (the fifth outer movable joint 7EQ2, the fifth inner movable joint 7EQ1, and the fifth fixed joint 7EP) and the fifth joint 9EP of the fifth embedded metal component 9E to the fifth terminal 9ET of the fifth embedded metal component 9E.

[0085] Furthermore, in either the case where the tenth terminal 9JT of the tenth embedded metal component 9J is connected to a high potential or the case where the eleventh terminal 9KT of the eleventh embedded metal component 9K is connected to a high potential, the path of the current flowing from the second supported side metal component 5N2 to the fifth terminal 9ET of the fifth embedded metal component 9E is the same.

[0086] The control device located outside the lens driving device 101 described above can control the lengths of the shape memory alloy wires SA (first wire SA1 to eighth wire SA8) and SB (first wire SB1 to fourth wire SB4) by controlling the voltage applied to the terminals (first terminal 9AT to twelfth terminal 9LT) of the first embedded metal component 9A to the twelfth embedded metal component 9L respectively. For example, the control device can also detect the resistance value of each shape memory alloy wire and control the length of each shape memory alloy wire based on the detection result. Alternatively, the control device can be disposed within the lens driving device 101. Furthermore, the control device can also be a component of the lens driving device 101.

[0087] The control device can, for example, utilize the driving force generated by the contraction of the shape memory alloy wire SA, which serves as the first drive unit DM1, in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA, to move the lens holding member 2 in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA (Z-axis direction) on the Z1 side (subject side) of the imaging element IS. Furthermore, by moving the lens holding member 2 in this way, the control device can also realize an automatic focus adjustment function, which is one of the lens adjustment functions. Specifically, the control device can also move the lens holding member 2 away from the imaging element to enable macro photography, and move the lens holding member 2 closer to the imaging element to enable infinity-angle photography.

[0088] Furthermore, the control device can also control the current flowing in the shape memory alloy wire SB, which serves as the second drive unit DM2, to move the lens holding member 2 and the base member 3 together in directions intersecting the optical axis OA (both the X-axis and Y-axis directions). Thus, the control device can also achieve jitter correction.

[0089] Next, refer to Figure 12 The positional relationships between the second drive unit DM2, the base component 3, and the flexible metal component 7 are explained. Figure 12 This is a bottom view of the base component 3, the flexible metal component 7, and the second drive unit DM2. Specifically, Figure 12 The image above is a bottom view of the base component 3 and the second drive unit DM2. Figure 12The figure below is a bottom view of the flexible metal component 7 and the second drive unit DM2. The second drive unit DM2 includes first line SB1 to fourth line SB4, first support-side metal components 5G1 to fourth support-side metal components 5G4, first supported-side metal component 5N1, and second supported-side metal component 5N2.

[0090] like Figure 12 As shown in the figure above, the second drive unit DM2 is configured such that, when viewed along the optical axis, it is located inside the quadrilateral RT indicated by the dashed line surrounding the base member 3 in the neutral state of the lens drive device 101.

[0091] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown in the figure below, the second drive unit DM2 is configured such that, when viewed along the optical axis, it is separated by a distance from the optical axis. Figure 12 The support member 8 (not shown in the figure below) partially overlaps with the flexible metal member 7. Specifically, the first line SB1 is arranged to overlap with the first flexible metal members 7A to the fourth flexible metal members 7D, the second line SB2 is arranged to overlap with the third flexible metal members 7C to the fifth flexible metal members 7E, the third line SB3 is arranged to overlap with the fifth flexible metal members 7E to the eighth flexible metal members 7H, and the fourth line SB4 is arranged to overlap with the first flexible metal member 7A, the seventh flexible metal member 7G, and the eighth flexible metal member 7H.

[0092] When viewed along the optical axis, this configuration has the effect of reducing the size of the lens drive device 101 compared to the case where the shape memory alloy lines SB (first line SB1 to fourth line SB4) are located further outward than the quadrilateral RT.

[0093] Next, refer to Figure 13 The positional relationships between the second drive unit DM2, the base component 3, and the support component 8 are explained. Figure 13 This diagram shows the positional relationship between the base component 3, the support component 8, and the second drive unit DM2. Specifically, Figure 13 The image above is a bottom view of the base component 3, the support component 8, and the second drive unit DM2. Figure 13 The following figure is a cross-sectional view of the base component 3, the support component 8, and the second drive unit DM2. Specifically, Figure 13 The image below is a view from the X1 side containing... Figure 13 The figure above shows a cross-sectional view of the base component 3, the support component 8, and the second drive unit DM2 in the YZ plane of the section line CL1.

[0094] like Figure 13As shown in the figure below, the base component 3 is configured such that, in the neutral state of the lens driving device 101, the lower end face of the protrusion 3T (first protrusion 3T1) protrudes from the upper surface of the support component 8 to a position at a distance from DS1 through the through portion 8T (first through portion 8T1) of the support component 8. This is so that, on the lower side of the support component 8, the position (height) of the supported side metal component 5N (first supported side metal component 5N1) in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction) is the same as the position (height) of the support side metal component 5G (first support side metal component 5G1 and second support side metal component 5G2).

[0095] According to this configuration, the lens driving device 101 can realize a lens driving device 101 including a second driving unit DM2 (shape memory alloy wire SB) disposed on the lower surface side of the support member 8 with only a simple structure of providing a protrusion 3T on the base member 3 and a through part 8T on the support member 8. Specifically, this configuration provides the effect of being able to assemble the supported side metal member 5N constituting the second driving unit DM2 to the base member 3 and the support side metal member 5G constituting the second driving unit DM2 to the support member 8 with a simple structure.

[0096] Next, refer to Figures 14-17 Another configuration example of the lens driving device 101 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, namely the lens driving device 101A, will be described. Figure 14 This is a lower perspective view of the lens driving device 101A. Specifically, Figure 14 The image above (the image above the block arrow) is an exploded perspective view of the lens driving device 101A. Figure 14 The image below (the image below the block arrow) is an assembled perspective view of the lens drive device 101A. Additionally, Figure 15 This is a bottom view of the lens drive device 101A. Additionally, in Figure 15 For ease of understanding, the illustration of the magnetic component 10 has been omitted, and a dot pattern has been added to the support component 8. Additionally, Figure 16 This is the front view of the lens drive device 101A after it has been flipped up and down. Figure 17 This is a right-side view of the lens drive device 101A after it has been flipped up and down. Specifically, Figure 16 The image below is Figure 16 The above image shows an enlarged view of the area R1 enclosed by the dashed line. Figure 17 The image below is Figure 17 The above image shows an enlarged view of the area R2 enclosed by the dashed line. Furthermore, in... Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 In order to make it easier to understand and explain, dot patterns have been added to the support component 8.

[0097] The lens drive device 101A differs from the lens drive device 101 in that it has 16 limiting portions RP on the lower surface BS of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W of the support member 8 and 16 through portions 10C on the magnetic member 10, but is otherwise the same as the lens drive device 101. Therefore, the description of the common parts will be omitted below, and the different parts will be described in detail.

[0098] In the example shown, the 16 limiting portions RP are protrusions 8Q that extend downward from the lower surface BS of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W, corresponding to the 16 through portions 10C provided on the magnetic component 10. Specifically, the protrusions 8Q that serve as limiting portions RP are used to suppress the shape memory alloy wire SB from entering the gap between the support member 8 and the magnetic component 10 that is momentarily generated when a strong impact caused by a drop or other event is applied to the lens drive device 101 and the magnetic component 10 deflects.

[0099] In the example diagram, such as Figure 15 As shown, the protrusion 8Q of the limiting part RP is formed at a position further outward than the straight line SL connecting one end and the other end of the shape memory alloy wire SB. Specifically, the limiting part RP includes a first limiting part RP1 to a fourth limiting part RP4. That is, the protrusion 8Q includes a first protrusion 8Q1 to a fourth protrusion 8Q4. Furthermore, the first protrusion 8Q1, which is the first limiting part RP1, is formed further outward than the first straight line SL1 connecting one end and the other end of the first wire SB1, and the second protrusion 8Q2, which is the second limiting part RP2, is formed further outward than the second straight line SL2 connecting one end and the other end of the second wire SB2. Similarly, the third protrusion 8Q3, which is the third limiting part RP3, is formed at a position further outward than the third straight line SL3 connecting one end and the other end of the third wire SB3, and the fourth protrusion 8Q4, which is the fourth limiting part RP4, is formed at a position further outward than the fourth straight line SL4 connecting one end and the other end of the fourth wire SB4.

[0100] In addition, such as Figure 16 The image below and Figure 17As shown in the figure below, the protrusion 8Q is configured such that the amount of protrusion EQ1 protruding downward from the lower surface BS of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W is smaller than the amount of protrusion EQ2 of the magnetic member 10. This is to prevent the lens driving device 101A from floating off the substrate SU when it is mounted on the substrate SU, as this would be caused by the lower end face of the protrusion 8Q contacting the substrate SU instead of the lower surface of the magnetic member 10. That is, it is to prevent a gap from being generated between the upper surface of the substrate SU and the lower surface of the magnetic member 10. However, as long as the floating of the lens driving device 101A can be avoided, the amount of protrusion EQ1 of the protrusion 8Q can be the same as or larger than the amount of protrusion EQ2 of the magnetic member 10. In addition, in the example shown, the amount of protrusion EQ1 of the protrusion 8Q is greater than half of the amount of protrusion EQ2 of the magnetic member 10, but as long as the shape memory alloy wire SB can be prevented from entering the gap between the support member 8 and the magnetic member 10, it can be less than half of the amount of protrusion EQ2 of the magnetic member 10.

[0101] In the example shown, the convex portion 8Q is configured as a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape, but it can also be configured as any other shape such as a cylinder, an elliptical cylinder, or a polygonal prism. Furthermore, the convex portion 8Q can have a shape that tapers at the front end or a shape that thickens at the front end.

[0102] In the example diagram, the number of protrusions 8Q is 6 on the X1 side, 6 on the X2 side, 2 on the Y1 side, and 2 on the Y2 side, totaling 16. However, it could also be 1 on each of the X1, X2, Y1, and Y2 sides, or a total of 17 or more. Furthermore, the number of protrusions on each of the X1, X2, Y1, and Y2 sides can be different or the same.

[0103] Additionally, in the example diagram, such as Figure 16 As shown, the protrusion 8Q is configured such that its width WD1 is smaller than the width WD2 of the terminal portion of the embedded metal component 9. However, the protrusion 8Q may also be configured such that its width WD1 is larger than the width WD2 of the terminal portion of the embedded metal component 9.

[0104] Additionally, in the example diagram, such as Figure 14 As shown, the protrusion 8Q is configured such that the inner end face (the side closest to the optical axis OA) is coplanar with the inner end face of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W. However, the protrusion 8Q may also be configured such that the inner end face is located further away from the optical axis OA than the inner end face of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W.

[0105] In addition, Figure 14In the example shown, the support member 8 is configured such that the depth (dimension in the X-axis direction) of a portion (two) of the protrusions 8Q of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W respectively provided on the X1 side and X2 side is smaller than the depth DP1 of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W. Furthermore, the support member 8 is configured such that the depth (dimension in the Y-axis direction) of all the protrusions 8Q of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W respectively provided on the Y1 side and Y2 side is the same as the depth DP2 of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W. However, the support member 8 may be configured such that the depth of all the protrusions 8Q is smaller than the depth of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W, or it may be configured such that the depth is the same as the depth of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W.

[0106] In addition, such as Figure 14 As shown in the figure below, an adhesive for joining the support member 8 and the magnetic member 10 can also be applied to the through portion 10C of the receiving protrusion 8Q. Alternatively, in the example shown, the through portion 10C is a notch, but it could also be a through hole.

[0107] As mentioned above, such as Figure 2As shown, the lens driving device 101 of the present disclosure includes: a base member 3; a lens holding member 2 having a cylindrical portion 2C capable of holding a lens body LS and movable relative to the base member 3; and a driving unit (first driving unit DM1) disposed between the base member 3 and the lens holding member 2, and configured to have a plurality of shape memory alloy lines SA that move the lens holding member 2 in the vertical direction at least along the optical axis. The shape memory alloy lines SA have a first line SA1 and a third line SA3 that intersect each other in a side view (front view) viewed from a first direction (X-axis direction) orthogonal to the optical axis OA, and a second line SA2 and a fourth line SA4 that intersect each other in a side view (right side view) viewed from a second direction (Y-axis direction) orthogonal to the optical axis OA and perpendicular to the first direction (X-axis direction). The first line SA1, the second line SA2, the third line SA3, and the fourth line SA4 are each configured such that one end is fixed to a corresponding lens-side metal member 5M provided (fixed) on the outer peripheral surface of the lens holding member 2, and the other end is fixed to a corresponding base-side metal member 5F provided (fixed) on the base member 3, and the two ends are aligned in a straight line when energized. Furthermore, the first line SA1 and the second line SA2 are respectively arranged such that one end is closer to the subject side (i.e., higher) than the other end in the optical axis direction, and the third line SA3 and the fourth line SA4 are respectively arranged such that the other end is closer to the subject side (i.e., higher) than one end in the optical axis direction. Additionally, the lens-side metal member 5M includes: a first lens-side metal member 5M1 that fixes one end of the first line SA1; a second lens-side metal member 5M2 that fixes one end of the second line; a third lens-side metal member 5M3 that fixes one end of the third line SA3; and a fourth lens-side metal member 5M4 that fixes one end of the fourth line SA4. The first lens-side metal component 5M1 and the second lens-side metal component 5M2 are electrically connected, and the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2 are connected in series. That is, the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2 are connected in series (forming a series circuit). Similarly, the third lens-side metal component 5M3 and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 are electrically connected, and the third wire SA3 and the fourth wire SA4 are connected in series. In addition, the first lens-side metal component 5M1 and the third lens-side metal component 5M3 are arranged in a separated but adjacent state on the first side LF1 of the lens holding component 2, and the second lens-side metal component 5M2 and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 are arranged in a separated but adjacent state on the second side LF2 of the lens holding component 2. That is, the first lens-side metal component 5M1 and the third lens-side metal component 5M3 are insulated from each other in the absence of shape memory alloy wires, and the second lens-side metal component 5M2 and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 are insulated from each other in the absence of shape memory alloy wires. In the example shown, one end of the first wire SA1 and one end of the second wire SA2 are adjacent to each other.That is, the distance between one end of the first line SA1 and one end of the second line SA2 is less than the distance between the other end of the first line SA1 and the other end of the second line SA2. The same applies to the relationship between the third line SA3 and the fourth line SA4.

[0108] This configuration effectively suppresses problems related to the retention of the shape memory alloy wire SA. This is because the shape memory alloy wire SA is configured such that one end remains straight when energized, preventing the middle portion from hooking onto other components. Therefore, this configuration suppresses problems such as the middle portion of the shape memory alloy wire sliding on other components, resulting in wear powder, grinding, or friction, or the middle portion of the shape memory alloy wire detaching from the holding element. Thus, even when a strong impact, such as from a drop, is applied to the lens drive device 101, this configuration can suppress any impact on the subsequent operation of the lens drive device 101.

[0109] Alternatively, the lens holding member 2 may have a corner portion 2D (first corner portion 2D1), and the first side surface LF1 and the second side surface LF2 may be adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, separated by the first corner portion 2D1. In the example shown, the corner portion 2D (first corner portion 2D1) is configured such that the plane along the first side surface LF1 is perpendicular to the plane along the second side surface LF2.

[0110] Because the first side LF1 and the second side LF2 are close together, this configuration makes it easier to make the corresponding lens-side metal parts 5M conduct to each other, compared to the case where the first side LF1 and the second side LF2 are separated.

[0111] Furthermore, the first lens-side metal component 5M1 and the third lens-side metal component 5M3 can also be arranged adjacent to each other in a separated state along the optical axis. Similarly, the second lens-side metal component 5M2 and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 can also be arranged adjacent to each other in a separated state along the optical axis. In this case, as... Figure 8As shown, the first lens-side metal component 5M1 and the second lens-side metal component 5M2 may also have a portion (extension setting portion EL) located radially outward of the other in a circle centered on the optical axis OA, and are joined at this portion (extension setting portion EL). Similarly, the third lens-side metal component 5M3 and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 may also have a portion (extension setting portion EL) located radially outward of the other, and are joined at this portion (extension setting portion EL). Furthermore, the first extension setting portion EL1 of the first lens-side metal component 5M1 and the second extension setting portion EL2 of the second lens-side metal component 5M2 may also be arranged in contact with each other, and the third extension setting portion EL3 of the third lens-side metal component 5M3 and the fourth extension setting portion EL4 of the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 may also be arranged in contact with each other.

[0112] Compared to configurations without an extension section EL, this configuration facilitates communication between the corresponding lens-side metal components 5M.

[0113] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, corner 2D can also have a corner side CF. In this case, as... Figure 8 As shown, the first lens-side metal component 5M1, the second lens-side metal component 5M2, the third lens-side metal component 5M3, and the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4 may each have an extension portion EL extending along the corner side surface CF, and the corresponding extension portions EL are joined to each other. In the example shown, the first corner portion 2D1 has a first corner side surface CF1, and the second corner portion 2D2 has a second corner side surface CF2. Furthermore, the first extension portions EL1 to the fourth extension portions EL4 are respectively arranged to extend along the first corner side surface CF1, and the fifth extension portions EL5 to the eighth extension portions EL8 are respectively arranged to extend along the second corner side surface CF2. In addition, the corner side surface CF may not be a plane but a curved surface.

[0114] This configuration provides the following effect: since the two joined extension portions EL are arranged along the same surface, i.e., the corner side CF, the joining of the corresponding extension portions EL becomes easier compared to the case where the two joined extension portions EL are arranged on different surfaces. Therefore, this configuration can improve the assemblability of the lens drive device 101, thereby improving the productivity of the lens drive device 101.

[0115] Furthermore, the corresponding extension parts EL can also be joined together by welding. This configuration makes it easier to join the corresponding extension parts EL together.

[0116] Alternatively, the base-side metal component 5F may include: a first base-side metal component 5F1 that fixes the other end of the first line SA1; a second base-side metal component 5F2 that fixes the other end of the second line SA2; a third base-side metal component 5F3 that fixes the other end of the third line SA3; and a fourth base-side metal component 5F4 that fixes the other end of the fourth line SA4. In this case, the first base-side metal component 5F1 and the third base-side metal component 5F3 may be fixed to the first side surface SF1 of the base component 3 in a state that is separate from each other and adjacent to each other, and the second base-side metal component 5F2 and the fourth base-side metal component 5F4 may be integrated into a common base-side metal component 5FC (first common base-side metal component 5FC1) and fixed to the second side surface SF2 of the base component 3.

[0117] This configuration, compared to the case where the second base-side metal component 5F2 and the fourth base-side metal component 5F4 are configured as separate and independent components, results in the ability to reduce the number of components.

[0118] Additionally, the first line SA1, the third line SA3, the first lens-side metal component 5M1, the third lens-side metal component 5M3, the first base-side metal component 5F1, and the third base-side metal component 5F3 can also be provided in pairs, separated by the optical axis (cylindrical portion 2C). In the illustrated example, the fifth line SA5, the seventh line SA7, the fifth lens-side metal component 5M5, the seventh lens-side metal component 5M7, the fifth base-side metal component 5F5, and the seventh base-side metal component 5F7 correspond to the first line SA1, the third line SA3, the first lens-side metal component 5M1, the third lens-side metal component 5M3, the first base-side metal component 5F1, and the third base-side metal component 5F3, respectively. Similarly, the second line SA2, the fourth line SA4, the second lens-side metal component 5M2, the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4, and the common base-side metal component 5FC (first common base-side metal component 5FC1) can also be provided in pairs, separated by the optical axis (cylindrical portion 2C). In the example diagram, the sixth line SA6, the eighth line SA8, the sixth lens-side metal component 5M6, the eighth lens-side metal component 5M8, and the second common base-side metal component 5FC2 correspond to the second line SA2, the fourth line SA4, the second lens-side metal component 5M2, the fourth lens-side metal component 5M4, and the first common base-side metal component 5FC1, respectively.

[0119] This configuration provides a more stable movement of the lens holding member 2 in the optical axis direction compared to the case where the first drive unit DM1 is positioned at an offset location around the optical axis OA.

[0120] Alternatively, the lens drive device 101 may also have a support member 8 (fixed side member FB) disposed on the lower side of the base member 3 and another drive unit (second drive unit DM2) that moves the base member 3 in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction.

[0121] This configuration results in the following effects: in addition to automatic focus adjustment, it also enables shake correction.

[0122] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the lens driving device 101 according to the embodiments of this disclosure includes: a fixed side member FB, including a support member 8; a base member 3, supported on the support member 8; a lens holding member 2, having a cylindrical portion 2C capable of holding a lens body LS, and capable of moving relative to the base member 3 at least along the optical axis direction; and a driving part DM (second driving part DM2), configured to have a plurality of shape memory alloy wires SB that move the base member 3 relative to the support member 8 in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction. The base member 3 and the lens holding member 2 are disposed on the upper surface side of the support member 8 (base 8B) in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) along the optical axis direction. The base member 3 has a main body portion 3B disposed on the upper surface side of the support member 8 (base 8B) and a protrusion 3T protruding downward from the upper surface of the support member 8 (base 8B) (see reference). Figure 4 The shape memory alloy wire SB is disposed between the fixed side member FB and the protrusion 3T, and is arranged opposite to the lower surface of the support member 8 (base 8B).

[0123] This configuration effectively suppresses problems related to the entanglement of the shape memory alloy wire SB. Because the shape memory alloy wire SB is positioned on the lower surface of the support member 8, it avoids contact with movable side members MB (base member 3) and the like, which are positioned on the upper surface of the support member 8. Consequently, this configuration increases the freedom of component placement. Specifically, it prevents the shape memory alloy wire SB from entangled with other components in the event of undesirable deformation. Therefore, this configuration reduces the distance between the shape memory alloy wire SB and other components, thereby increasing the design freedom of the lens drive device 101.

[0124] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the support member 8 may also have a through portion 8T (a through portion 8T through which at least a portion of the protrusion 3T is inserted) for the protrusion 3T of the base member 3. In the example shown, the support member 8 includes a first through portion 8T1 for the first protrusion 3T1 and a second through portion 8T2 for the second protrusion 3T2. Furthermore, the lower end face of the protrusion 3T may not be located below the lower surface of the base 8B of the support member 8.

[0125] This configuration, through its simple structure, enables the realization of a lens driving device 101, including a second drive unit DM2 (shape memory alloy wire SB) disposed on the lower surface side of the support member 8. Specifically, this configuration allows for the simple assembly of the supported side metal member 5N constituting the second drive unit DM2 to the base member 3.

[0126] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, an opening 8K can also be formed in the support member 8 (base 8B) through which light passing through the lens body LS can pass. In this case, the support member 8 (base 8B) may also have a partition 8S located between the through portion 8T and the opening 8K. In the example shown, the support member 8 includes a first partition 8S1 located between the opening 8K and the first through portion 8T1, and a second partition 8S2 located between the opening 8K and the second through portion 8T2.

[0127] This configuration results in the following effect: compared to the case where the opening 8K and the through portion 8T are continuous, the strength of the support member 8 can be improved.

[0128] Alternatively, a metal component 9 may be embedded in the partition 8S. In the example shown, a wide portion 9AU of the first embedded metal component 9A is provided in the first partition 8S1, and a wide portion 9EU of the fifth embedded metal component 9E is provided in the second partition 8S2.

[0129] This configuration further enhances the strength of the support member 8. Additionally, it facilitates the winding of the embedded metal member 9, which functions as part of the electrical path.

[0130] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown in the figure above, when viewed along the optical axis, the shape memory alloy wire SB can also be located inside the quadrilateral RT surrounding the base component 3. Specifically, the base component 3 (main body 3B) can also have a first side 3E1 and a third side 3E3 facing each other across an opening 3K in a first direction (X-axis direction) perpendicular to the optical axis, and a second side 3E2 and a fourth side 3E4 facing each other across an opening 3K in a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to both the optical axis and the first direction (X-axis direction). Furthermore, the shape memory alloy wires SB (first wire SB1 to fourth wire SB4) can also be located inside the straight line (each side of the quadrilateral RT indicated by dashed lines) along the outer edge of the first side 3E1 to the fourth side 3E4 when viewed along the optical axis.

[0131] This configuration, compared to the case where the shape memory alloy lines SB (first line SB1 to fourth line SB4) are located further outward than the quadrilateral RT when viewed along the optical axis, has the effect of reducing the size of the lens driving device 101.

[0132] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, a support-side metal component 5G can be provided on the lower surface of the support component 8, or a supported-side metal component 5N can be provided on the protrusion 3T of the base component 3. In this case, the support-side metal component 5G may include a first support-side metal component 5G1, a second support-side metal component 5G2, a third support-side metal component 5G3, and a fourth support-side metal component 5G4; the supported-side metal component 5N may include a first supported-side metal component 5N1 and a second supported-side metal component 5N2; and the shape memory alloy wire SB may include a first wire SB1, a second wire SB2, a third wire SB3, and a fourth wire SB4. Furthermore, it is also possible that one end of the first wire SB1 is fixed to the first supported metal component 5N1, and the other end is fixed to the first supporting metal component 5G1; one end of the second wire SB2 is fixed to the second supported metal component 5N2, and the other end is fixed to the second supporting metal component 5G2; one end of the third wire SB3 is fixed to the second supported metal component 5N2, and the other end is fixed to the third supporting metal component 5G3; and one end of the fourth wire SB4 is fixed to the first supported metal component 5N1, and the other end is fixed to the fourth supporting metal component 5G4. Additionally, in the example shown, the supported metal component 5N is fixed to the protrusion 3T of the base component 3 via the flexible metal component 7, but it can also be fixed to metal embedded in the base component 3.

[0133] This configuration, through its simple construction, enables the realization of a current-carrying path that includes the shape memory alloy wire SB. This is because the supported metal component 5N, which holds one end of the shape memory alloy wire SB in place, also functions as part of the current-carrying path. As a result, this configuration allows the shape memory alloy wire SB to be reliably positioned at the desired location.

[0134] Alternatively, the support member 8 may also have a portion of its upper surface exposed as an exposed portion EX (see reference). Figure 6 The exposed state of the embedded metal component 9. In this case, such as Figure 5 As shown, the base component 3 may have multiple contact portions 3C (guided portions GE) that protrude downwards from the main body 3B, with their front ends contacting a portion of the exposed portion EX of the embedded metal component 9, i.e., the guide portion GD. In the example shown, as... Figure 5As shown, the exposed portions EX are respectively included in the first embedded metal component 9A, the fifth embedded metal component 9E, and the seventh embedded metal component 9G. In addition, the guided portions GE include a first guided portion GE1 that contacts a portion of the exposed portion EX of the first embedded metal component 9A, namely the first guided portion GD1; a second guided portion GE2 that contacts a portion of the exposed portion EX of the fifth embedded metal component 9E, namely the second guided portion GD2; and a third guided portion GE3 that contacts a portion of the exposed portion EX of the seventh embedded metal component 9G, namely the third guided portion GD3.

[0135] This configuration allows the embedded metal component 9 to be used as a guide GD when the base component 3 moves in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. In other words, this configuration allows the embedded metal component 9, which is less prone to deformation than synthetic resin, to be used as the guide GD. Furthermore, compared to the situation where synthetic resin components slide against each other, the sliding between the metal (embedded metal component 9) and the synthetic resin (base component 3) can suppress the abrasion of the synthetic resin. Therefore, this configuration results in less abrasive powder generation.

[0136] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the fixed-side component FB may also include a magnetic component 10. In this case, multiple magnets 4 (a first magnet 41 and a second magnet 42) may also be provided on the base component 3. Furthermore, Figure 5 The exposed portion EX and the contact portion 3C shown can also be configured to press against each other by the attraction force acting between the magnet 4 and the magnetic component 10. Furthermore, in the example shown, the magnetic component 10 is a shielding plate bonded and fixed to the lower side of the support component 8, but it can also be a magnetic metal component embedded in the support component 8.

[0137] This configuration prevents the base component 3 from separating (lifting) from the support component 8. In other words, this configuration ensures reliable contact between the base component 3 and the embedded metal component 9 embedded in the support component 8.

[0138] In addition, such as Figure 2 and Figure 14 As shown, the fixed-side component FB may also have a plate-shaped component (magnetic component 10) arranged opposite the lower surface of the support component 8 with the shape memory alloy wire SB separated from it. Furthermore, the magnetic component 10, as a plate-shaped component, may be configured to suppress the influence of the magnetic field generated by the shape memory alloy wire SB on the imaging element IS. That is, the magnetic component 10, as a plate-shaped component, may also be configured to function as a magnetic shield.

[0139] This configuration results in the following effect: it enables the magnet 4 (refer to...) Figure 2The magnet 4 and the magnetic component 10 exert an appropriate magnetic attraction force, thereby preventing the distance between the magnet 4 and the magnetic component 10 from increasing through magnetic force.

[0140] In addition, such as Figure 14 As shown, the support member 8 may also have an outer peripheral wall portion 8W that protrudes downward (towards Z2) from the edge of the support member 8. Furthermore, the shape memory alloy wire SB may be configured to face the inner surface (the surface facing the optical axis OA) of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W of the support member 8. That is, the shape memory alloy wire SB may also be disposed between the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W and the optical axis OA. Additionally, as... Figure 15 As shown, the plate-shaped component (magnetic component 10) can also be configured to contact the front end (lower surface BS) of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W. Furthermore, as... Figure 15 As shown, the fixed-side component FB may also have a limiting portion RP further outward than the straight line SL connecting one end of the shape memory alloy wire SB and the other end. The limiting portion RP is the part that prevents the shape memory alloy wire SB from being clamped between the outer peripheral wall portion 8W of the support component 8 and the plate-shaped component (magnetic component 10). Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the limiting portion RP is part of the support component 8 (protrusion 8Q), but it may also be part of the plate-shaped component (magnetic component 10). For example, the limiting portion RP may also be formed by bending upwards a portion (tongue) that protrudes outwards from the outer periphery of the magnetic component 10. In this case, a recess for receiving the tongue may also be formed on the lower end face of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W.

[0141] This configuration effectively prevents the shape memory alloy wire SB from being trapped between the outer peripheral wall 8W of the support member 8 and the plate-shaped member (magnetic member 10). Specifically, in a configuration without the limiting part RP, when the lens drive device 101 is subjected to an impact caused by a drop or similar event, the shape memory alloy wire SB, which is in a relaxed state due to the lack of current flow, may become trapped in the gap that momentarily forms between the outer peripheral wall 8W and the magnetic member 10. Furthermore, the shape memory alloy wire SB trapped between the outer peripheral wall 8W and the magnetic member 10 may not contract properly when current is supplied, and the second drive part DM2 may be unable to move the base member 3 properly relative to the support member 8. Additionally, the gap between the outer peripheral wall 8W and the magnetic member 10 may be created, for example, due to the bending of the central portion of the edge 10E of the magnetic member 10 after an impact, and then disappear when the shape of the magnetic member 10 returns to normal. Typically, the four corners of the magnetic member 10 are fixed to the support member 8 by adhesive. Figure 14The configuration shown can prevent the shape memory alloy wire SB in a flexed state from entering the gap by means of the limiting part RP, thereby preventing the shape memory alloy wire SB from being trapped between the outer peripheral wall part 8W and the magnetic component 10. The limiting part RP contacts the shape memory alloy wire SB that is about to enter the gap that is instantaneously created between the outer peripheral wall part 8W and the magnetic component 10, and is used to prevent the shape memory alloy wire SB from entering the gap.

[0142] Alternatively, the plate-shaped component (magnetic component 10) may also have a through portion 10C. Furthermore, as... Figure 14 As shown, the limiting part RP can also be a protrusion 8Q inserted into the through part 10C. The protrusion 8Q is a portion that protrudes further downward (towards Z2) from the outer peripheral wall part 8W. In this case, the through part 10C can also be a part provided at a position corresponding to the protrusion 8Q, such as... Figure 14 The notch shown. Furthermore, the through portion 10C can also be a through hole through which the protrusion 8Q is inserted. In the example shown, the shape memory alloy wire SB is disposed within the space formed between the support member 8 and the magnetic member 10, configured to contract and tighten when current is supplied. The shape memory alloy wire SB is in a relaxed state when no current is supplied. Furthermore, when no current is supplied to the shape memory alloy wire SB, the lower surface BS of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W is in contact with the upper surface of the magnetic member 10.

[0143] This configuration provides the following effect: it prevents the plate-shaped member (magnetic member 10) mounted on the support member 8 from contacting the lower surface BS of the outer peripheral wall portion 8W and instead from contacting the lower end face of the protrusion 8Q, which serves as the limiting portion RP, and thus from floating off the support member 8. This is because the configuration prevents the lower end face of the protrusion 8Q from contacting the upper surface of the plate-shaped member (magnetic member 10) through the through portion 10C.

[0144] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the lens driving device 101 may also have an additional driving part DM (first driving part DM1) that moves the lens holding member 2 relative to the base member 3 at least in the optical axis direction. In this case, as Figure 2 As shown, a flexible metal component 7 for power supply, electrically connected to at least one of the drive unit DM (second drive unit DM2) and other drive units DM (first drive unit DM1), can also be provided between the support component 8 (base 8B) and the base component 3 (main body 3B). Furthermore, when viewed along the optical axis, the shape memory alloy wire SB and the flexible metal component 7 can also be... Figure 12 As shown in the image below, there is a partial overlap.

[0145] Compared to a configuration without the flexible metal component 7, this configuration has the effect of easily ensuring the electrical path including the shape memory alloy wire SB.

[0146] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications and substitutions can be applied to the above-described embodiments and the embodiments described below without departing from the scope of the present invention. Features described with reference to the above-described embodiments and the embodiments described below can be appropriately combined as long as they are not technically contradictory.

[0147] For example, in the above-described embodiments, the metal component 5 is fixed to each component (each of the lens holding component 2, the base component 3, and the support component 8) by an adhesive or the like, but it may also be embedded in each component or formed as a conductive pattern on the surface of each component.

[0148] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the base component 3 has three contact portions 3C (guided portions GE) on the lower surface of the main body 3B, but it may also have four contact portions 3C. In this case, it is preferable that, when viewed from above, the contact portions 3C are located near (adjacent to) the metal components 5. This configuration provides the effect of stably driving the base component 3 when the shape memory alloy wire SB contracts. Specifically, the base component 3 may also have contact portions 3C that protrude downward from the four corners of the main body 3B in a manner that is located near the group of the first support-side metal components 5G1 and the second support-side metal components 5G2, the group of the third support-side metal components 5G3 and the fourth support-side metal components 5G4, and the group of the first supported-side metal components 5N1 and the second supported-side metal components 5N2, respectively.

[0149] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-025881, filed on February 22, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0150] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

Claims

1. A lens driving device, characterized in that, have: Fixed-side components, including support components; Base component, supported by the support component; Lens holding component, capable of holding the lens body; and The drive unit is configured to have a plurality of shape memory alloy wires that allow the base component to move relative to the support component in a direction intersecting the optical axis. The base component and the lens holding component are arranged on the upper surface side of the support component in the vertical direction along the optical axis. The base component has a main body portion disposed on the upper surface side of the support component and a protrusion portion protruding downward from the upper surface of the support component. The shape memory alloy wire is disposed between the fixed side component and the protrusion, and is configured to face the lower surface of the support component.

2. The lens driving device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support member has a through portion for the protrusion to be disposed.

3. The lens driving device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The support member has an opening through which light passing through the lens can pass. The support member has a partition located between the through portion and the opening.

4. The lens driving device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Embedded metal components are disposed in the partition.

5. The lens driving device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, When viewed along the optical axis, the shape memory alloy wire is located inside the quadrilateral surrounding the base component.

6. The lens driving device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, A support-side metal component is provided on the lower surface of the support component. A supported metal component is provided on the protrusion. The support-side metal components include a first support-side metal component, a second support-side metal component, a third support-side metal component, and a fourth support-side metal component. The supported metal component includes a first supported metal component and a second supported metal component. The shape memory alloy wire includes a first wire, a second wire, a third wire, and a fourth wire. One end of the first wire is fixed to the first supported metal component, and the other end is fixed to the first supporting metal component. One end of the second wire is fixed to the second supported metal component, and the other end is fixed to the second supporting metal component. One end of the third line is fixed to the second supported metal component, and the other end is fixed to the third supported metal component. One end of the fourth line is fixed to the first supported metal component, and the other end is fixed to the fourth supported metal component.

7. The lens driving device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The support member has an embedded metal component, which is embedded in such a way that a portion of it is exposed on the upper surface of the support member. The base component has multiple contact portions that protrude downward from the main body portion, and the front end of each contact portion contacts a guide portion that is part of the exposed portion of the embedded metal component.

8. The lens driving device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The fixed-side component includes a magnetic component. A magnet is provided on the base component. The exposed portion and the contact portion are configured to press against each other by an attractive force acting between the magnet and the magnetic component.

9. The lens driving device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The fixed side component has a plate-shaped component arranged opposite the lower surface of the support component, separated by the shape memory alloy wire.

10. The lens driving device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support member has a downwardly protruding outer peripheral wall portion at its edge. The shape memory alloy wire is arranged opposite to the inner surface of the outer peripheral wall of the support member. The plate-shaped component is disposed in contact with the front end of the outer peripheral wall portion. The fixed-side component has a limiting portion located on the outer side of the straight line connecting one end and the other end of the shape memory alloy wire.

11. The lens driving device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The plate-shaped component has a through portion. The limiting part is a protrusion that passes through the through portion of the plate-shaped component.

12. The lens driving device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, It has other driving parts that allow the lens holding member to move relative to the base member at least in the optical axis direction. A flexible metal component electrically connected to at least one of the driving unit and other driving units is provided between the support component and the base component. When viewed along the optical axis, the shape memory alloy wire overlaps with a portion of the flexible metal component.

13. A camera module, characterized in that, have: The lens driving device according to any one of claims 1-4; The lens body fixed to the lens holding member; and An imaging element opposite to the lens body.

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