Actuator for camera
By designing the movement mechanism of the housing and support in the camera module, and combining it with coil and magnet drive units, the problem of drive force control caused by increased weight was solved, enabling precise movement of the image sensor and efficient execution of its functions.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202423131367.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-03-27
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-18
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-25
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-12-18
AI Technical Summary
As camera module performance improves, its weight increases, making it difficult to precisely control the driving force used to perform autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) functions.
The actuator design includes a housing, first and second support parts, and a drive unit. By moving the image sensor in the optical axis direction and the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, the AF and OIS functions are performed respectively. The drive unit, which combines multiple coils and magnets, generates driving force in different directions and detects the position through a Hall sensor.
It achieves precise movement control of the image sensor, reduces the size and power consumption of the drive unit, and improves the accuracy of AF and OIS functions.
Smart Images
Figure CN223599944U_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Cross-references to related applications
[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0041806, filed on March 27, 2024, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field
[0003] The following disclosure relates to actuators used in cameras. Background Technology
[0004] In recent years, camera modules have been used in mobile communication terminals such as tablet PCs or laptops and smartphones.
[0005] In addition, the camera module may include actuators with autofocus (AF) and optical image stabilization (OIS) to generate high-resolution images.
[0006] For example, the actuator can perform the AF function by moving the lens module in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis), or the OIS function by moving the lens module in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0007] However, as performance improves, camera modules tend to become heavier. Furthermore, the weight of the drive unit used to move the lens module also has an impact, which can make it more difficult to precisely control the drive force used to perform AF or OIS functions.
[0008] The above information is presented as background information and is intended to aid in understanding this disclosure. No determination or assertion is made as to whether any of the above content can be used as prior art with respect to this disclosure. Utility Model Content
[0009] This summary portion is provided to briefly introduce the selection of concepts, which will be further described in the detailed description portion below. This summary portion is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0010] In one general aspect, an actuator for a camera includes a housing having an internal space, a first carrier disposed in the housing, a second carrier disposed in the first carrier, an image sensor fixed to the second carrier, a first driving unit configured to move the first carrier relative to the housing in a direction parallel to an imaging face of the image sensor, the first driving unit including a coil portion disposed on the first carrier, and a second driving unit configured to move the second carrier relative to the first carrier in a direction perpendicular to the imaging face, the second driving unit including a first magnet disposed on the second carrier.
[0011] The first driving unit can include a first sub-driving unit configured to move the first carrier in a first direction crossing an optical axis, and a second sub-driving unit configured to move the first carrier in a second direction crossing both the optical axis and the first direction.
[0012] The coil portion can include a first coil included in the first sub-driving unit, and a second coil included in the second sub-driving unit.
[0013] The second driving unit can further include a third coil disposed on the first carrier, and the third coil can face the first magnet disposed on the second carrier.
[0014] The first coil can be disposed in a plurality, and the second coil can be disposed in a plurality.
[0015] The second driving unit can overlap the first sub-driving unit in the first direction.
[0016] The actuator can further include a Hall sensor facing the first magnet.
[0017] The first sub-driving unit can include a second magnet disposed in the housing, and the second sub-driving unit can include a third magnet disposed in the housing.
[0018] The first sub-driving unit can be configured to generate a driving force in the first direction, and the second sub-driving unit can be configured to generate a driving force in the second direction.
[0019] The first driving unit can further include a second magnet disposed in the housing.
[0020] The second magnet can have a North (N) pole and a South (S) pole disposed in a direction parallel to the imaging face.
[0021] The first magnet can have a North (N) pole and a South (S) pole disposed in a direction parallel to the optical axis.
[0022] The second driving unit can further include a Hall sensor facing the first magnet.
[0023] The actuator can further include a sensor board including a moving portion on which the image sensor is disposed, a fixed portion mounted on the housing, and a connection portion connecting the moving portion and the fixed portion to each other.
[0024] The moving portion can be coupled to the second carrier.
[0025] The connection portion can be disposed along an outer periphery of the moving portion.
[0026] Other features and aspects will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and from the detailed description which follows. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0027] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0028] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 1 line I-I' of
[0029] Figure 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0030] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a housing, a first carrier, and a first driving unit according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0031] Figure 5 is a bottom view of a housing according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0032] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 1 line II-II' of
[0033] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a first driving unit according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0034] Figure 8 is a plan view of a sensor board of an actuator according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0035] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 8 line III-III' of
[0036] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a first carrier, a second carrier, and a second driving unit according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0037] Figure 11 is a perspective view of an assembly shown in Figure 10 viewed from another direction.
[0038] Figure 12 is a side view of the second carrier portion.
[0039] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a camera module according to another embodiment of the disclosure.
[0040] Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a camera module according to another embodiment of the disclosure.
[0041] Throughout the drawings and detailed description, unless otherwise described, like reference characters refer to like elements. The drawings can not be to scale and the relative dimensions, proportions, and depiction of elements in the drawings can be exaggerated for purpose of clarity, illustration and convenience. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] Hereinafter, while examples of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that the examples are not limited thereto.
[0043] The following detailed description is provided to help the reader obtain a thorough understanding of the methods, devices, and / or systems described herein. However, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, devices, and / or systems described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art after understanding the present disclosure. For example, the order of the operations described herein is merely an example and is not limited to the order set forth herein, except where the order of operations must be specific, and can be changed, which will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after understanding the present disclosure. Also, descriptions of features that are well known in the art can be omitted for more clarity and conciseness.
[0044] The features described herein can be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples described herein. Rather, these examples are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of implementing the methods, devices, and / or systems described herein to those skilled in the art after understanding the present disclosure. Accordingly, known methods, devices, and materials are described in terms of their functionality and effects, rather than specific details of their structure and implementation.
[0045] Throughout the specification, when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is referred to as being "on", "connected to", or "coupled to" another element, it can be directly on, directly connected to, or directly coupled to the other element, or one or more other elements can be interposed therebetween. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on", "directly connected to", or "directly coupled to" another element, no other elements are interposed therebetween.
[0046] As used herein, the term "and / or," includes any one, and any combination, of the associated listed items; similarly "at least one of' includes any one of the associated listed items, and any combination of two or more of the associated listed items.
[0047] Although the terms "first," "second," and "third" can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed above can also be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein.
[0048] Spatially relative terms, such as "on", "above", "below", "bottom", "top", and the like, can be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Such spatially relative terms can be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as being "on" or "above" other elements or features would then be oriented "below" other elements or features. Thus, the term "on" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
[0049] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various examples only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The
[0050] Variations can be made in the shape of the elements shown in the figures as a result of, for example, manufacturing processes and / or tolerances. Therefore, the examples described herein are not limited to the precise examples shown in the figures, but include variations as a result of, for example, manufacturing processes and / or tolerances.
[0051] It should be noted that, in this document, the use of the expression "can", for example with respect to examples that can include or implement a feature, means that at least one example exists among the examples that include or implement the feature, and that all examples are not limited to this.
[0052] Features of the examples described herein can be combined in a variety of ways as will be apparent after the disclosure is understood. Also, although examples described herein have a variety of configurations, other configurations are possible in light of the disclosure.
[0053] According to embodiments of the disclosure, a camera module can be mounted on a portable electronic device. The portable electronic device can be a mobile electronic device such as a mobile communication terminal, a smart phone, or a tablet personal computer (PC).
[0054] In the specification, a direction in which an imaging surface of the image sensor S faces can be referred to as an optical axis (Z-axis) direction.
[0055] In the specification, the fact that the image sensor S moves in parallel with the imaging surface of the image sensor S can be understood as the image sensor S moving in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0056] Further, the first axis direction (X-axis direction) and the second axis direction (Y-axis direction) can be examples of two directions that are perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) and cross each other. In the specification, the first axis direction (X-axis direction) and the second axis direction (Y-axis direction) can be understood as two directions that are perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) and cross each other.
[0057] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along Figure 1 line I-I' of Figure 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0058] Referring to Figures 1 to 3 , a camera module 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can include a lens module 20 and an actuator 10 for a camera (hereinafter, referred to as "actuator").
[0059] The lens module 20 includes one or more lenses and a lens barrel. The one or more lenses can be disposed in the lens barrel. When a plurality of lenses is disposed, the plurality of lenses can be mounted in the lens barrel along the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0060] The lens module 20 can be coupled to the housing 110. The housing 110 can be formed in a square box shape having a through portion passing through in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, and the lens module 20 can be inserted into the through portion of the housing 110 and fixed to the housing 110.
[0061] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the lens module 20 can be a fixed member fixed to the housing 110. For example, the lens module 20 can be a fixed member that does not move during an auto focus (AF) operation or an optical image stabilization (OIS) operation.
[0062] The camera module 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can perform an AF function and an OIS function by moving the image sensor S rather than the lens module 20. The camera module 1 can move the relatively light image sensor S, and thus move the image sensor S using a relatively small driving force. The size of components included in the actuator 10 can thus be reduced.
[0063] The actuator 10 can include the housing 110, a first carrier 200, and a second carrier 300.
[0064] The first carrier 200 can be accommodated in the housing 110 and moved relative to the housing 110 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). That is, the first carrier 200 can be a fixed member that does not move in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction during an AF operation, and a moving member that moves in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) during an OIS operation.
[0065] The second carrier 300 can be accommodated in the first carrier 200 and moved relative to the first carrier 200 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. Also, the second carrier 300 can be restricted from moving relative to the first carrier 200 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Thus, when the first carrier 200 moves in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), the second carrier 300 can move in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) together with the first carrier 200.
[0066] The image sensor S can be fixed to the second carrier 300 and moved together with the second carrier 300.
[0067] Thus, the image sensor S can perform an AF function by moving in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction together with the second carrier 300, and perform an OIS function by moving in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) together with the second carrier 300.
[0068] The second carrier 300 can be installed with an infrared cut filter IRCF.
[0069] The actuator 10 can further include a housing 140. The housing 140 can be coupled to the case 110 and protect internal components of the actuator 10.
[0070] The image sensor S can be mounted on the sensor board 400. The sensor board 400 can have one portion coupled to the second carrier 300 and another portion coupled to the case 110.
[0071] The image sensor S can be mounted on one portion of the sensor board 400 coupled to the second carrier 300.
[0072] One portion of the sensor board 400 can be coupled to the second carrier 300, and when the second carrier 300 moves, one portion of the sensor board 400 can also move together with the second carrier 300.
[0073] Accordingly, the image sensor S can perform an AF function by moving in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction and an OIS function by moving in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0074] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a case, a first carrier, and a first driving unit according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Figure 5 is a bottom view of a case according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0075] Figure 6 is a sectional view taken along Figure 1 line II-II' of FIG. 1A; and Figure 7 is a perspective view of a first driving unit according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0076] Referring to Figures 4 to 7 , the first carrier 200 can be disposed in the case 110. In the case 110, the first carrier 200 can move in a first axis direction (X-axis direction) or a second axis direction (Y-axis direction) with respect to the case 110.
[0077] The first axis direction (X-axis direction) can denote a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), and the second axis direction (Y-axis direction) can denote a direction perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first axis direction (X-axis direction).
[0078] The actuator 10 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can include a first driving unit 500. The first driving unit 500 can generate a driving force in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis (Z-axis), thereby moving the first carrier 200 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). The first driving unit 500 can include a magnet portion having a plurality of magnets and a coil portion having a plurality of coils. That is, the magnet portion can include a first magnet 511 included in a first sub-driving unit 510 and a second magnet 531 included in a second sub-driving unit 530 described below. Also, the coil portion can include a first coil 513 included in the first sub-driving unit 510 and a second coil 533 included in the second sub-driving unit 530 described below.
[0079] The first driving unit 500 can include a first sub-driving unit 510 and a second sub-driving unit 530. The first sub-driving unit 510 can generate a driving force in a first axis direction (X-axis direction), and the second sub-driving unit 530 can generate a driving force in a second axis direction (Y-axis direction).
[0080] The first sub-driving unit 510 can include a driving magnet and a driving coil. Here, the driving magnet included in the first sub-driving unit 510 can be referred to as a first magnet 511, and the driving coil included in the first sub-driving unit 510 can be referred to as a first coil 513. The first magnet 511 and the first coil 513 can overlap each other in a first axis direction (X-axis direction) crossing the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0081] The first coil 513 can be disposed on a first plate 550. The first plate 550 can be mounted on the first carrier 200 for the first magnet 511 and the first coil 513 to face each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). The first plate 550 is shown as being coupled to the outside of the first carrier 200 in the drawings. However, the first plate 550 can be coupled to the first carrier 200 by insert injection. That is, the first plate 550 can be integrally formed with the first carrier 200 and include a conductor capable of transmitting an electrical signal.
[0082] The first coil 513 can have a hollow ring shape and can be elongated in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction). The first coil 513 can be disposed on the first plate 550. Also, the first coil 513 can be a copper foil pattern printed on the first plate 550.
[0083] The first magnet 511 can face the first coil 513. For example, the first magnet 511 can face the first coil 513 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0084] The housing 110 can include a mounting groove 111. The mounting groove 111 can be a groove that is inserted from an inner surface of the housing 110 to an outer surface of the housing 110 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Alternatively, the mounting groove 111 can be a hole that passes through a side surface of the housing 110 in a direction crossing the optical axis (Z-axis). The first magnet 511 can be disposed in the mounting groove 111 of the housing 110. The size of the actuator 10 and the camera module 1 can be prevented from increasing due to the thickness of the first magnet 511 by disposing the first magnet 511 in the mounting groove 111 of the housing 110.
[0085] The first magnet 511 can be magnetized such that one surface (for example, a surface facing the first coil 513) has a south (S) pole or a north (N) pole. For example, when one surface of the first magnet 511 facing the first coil 513 has an N pole, the other surface (for example, a surface opposite to the one surface) of the first magnet 511 can be magnetized to have an S pole.
[0086] The first magnet 511 can include one or more magnets, and the first coil 513 can include a number of coils corresponding to the number of magnets included in the first magnet 511.
[0087] For example, when the first magnet 511 includes only one magnet, the first coil 513 can also include one coil, and when the first magnet 511 includes a plurality of magnets, the first coil 513 can also include a plurality of coils.
[0088] The first coil 513 can be a moving member that is mounted with the first plate 550 on the first carrier 200 and moves with the first carrier 200, and the first magnet 511 can be a fixed member that is fixed to the housing 110.
[0089] When power is applied to the first coil 513, the first carrier 200 can move in the first axis direction (X-axis direction) by electromagnetic force between the first magnet 511 and the first coil 513. The movement of the first carrier 200 can be more precisely controlled and energy for moving the first carrier 200 can be saved by disposing the first coil 513, which is lighter than the first magnet 511, on the first carrier 200 as a moving member.
[0090] The second sub-driving unit 530 can include a driving magnet and a driving coil. Here, the driving magnet included in the second sub-driving unit 530 can be referred to as a second magnet 531, and the driving coil included in the second sub-driving unit 530 can be referred to as a second coil 533.
[0091] The second coil 533 can be disposed on the first plate 550. The first plate 550 can be mounted on the first support portion 200 for the second magnet 531 and the second coil 533 to face each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). The first plate 550 is shown as being coupled to the outside of the first support portion 200 in the drawings. However, the first plate 550 can be coupled to the first support portion 200 by insert injection. That is, the first plate 550 can be integrally formed with the first support portion 200 and include a conductor capable of transmitting an electrical signal.
[0092] The second coil 533 can have a hollow ring shape and can be elongated in the first axis direction (X-axis direction). The second coil 533 can be disposed on the first plate 550. Also, the second coil 533 can be a copper foil pattern printed on the first plate 550.
[0093] The second magnet 531 can face the second coil 533. For example, the second magnet 531 can face the second coil 533 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0094] The housing 110 can include a mounting recess 111. The mounting recess 111 can be a recess that is inserted from an inner surface of the housing 110 to an outer surface of the housing 110 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis). Alternatively, the mounting recess 111 can be a hole that passes through a side surface of the housing 110 in a direction crossing the optical axis (Z-axis). The second magnet 531 can be disposed in the mounting recess 111 of the housing 110. The size of the actuator 10 and the camera module 1 can be prevented from increasing due to the thickness of the second magnet 531 by disposing the second magnet 531 in the mounting recess 111 of the housing 110.
[0095] The second magnet 531 can be magnetized to have an N-pole or an S-pole at one surface (e.g., a surface facing the second coil 533). For example, when one surface of the second magnet 531 facing the second coil 533 has an N-pole, the other surface (e.g., a surface opposite to the one surface) of the second magnet 531 can be magnetized to have an S-pole.
[0096] The second magnet 531 can include one or more magnets, and the second coil 533 can include a number of coils corresponding to the number of magnets included in the second magnet 531.
[0097] For example, when the second magnet 531 includes only one magnet, the second coil 533 can also include one coil, and when the second magnet 531 includes a plurality of magnets, the second coil 533 can also include a plurality of coils.
[0098] The second coil 533 can be a moving member installed with the first plate 550 on the first carrier 200 and moving together with the first carrier 200, and the second magnet 531 can be a fixed member fixed to the housing 110.
[0099] When power is applied to the second coil 533, the first carrier 200 can move in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction) by electromagnetic force between the second magnet 531 and the second coil 533. At the same time, the first carrier 200 can be rotated by setting the magnitude of the driving force in the first axis direction (X-axis direction) and the magnitude of the driving force in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction) to be different from each other.
[0100] The movement of the first carrier 200 can be more precisely controlled and energy for moving the first carrier 200 can be saved by setting the second coil 533, which is lighter than the second magnet 531, on the first carrier 200 as a moving member.
[0101] The first ball member B1 can be disposed between the housing 110 and the first carrier 200.
[0102] The first ball member B1 can contact each of the housing 110 and the first carrier 200.
[0103] The first ball member B1 can be used to guide the movement of the first carrier 200 during the OIS operation. The first ball member B1 can also be used to maintain the distance between the housing 110 and the first carrier 200 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.
[0104] When the first carrier 200 moves with respect to the housing 110 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), the first ball member B1 can guide the movement of the first carrier 200 by performing a rolling motion in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0105] For example, when a driving force is generated in the first axis direction (X-axis direction), the first ball member B1 can perform a rolling motion in the first axis direction (X-axis direction). Accordingly, the first ball member B1 can guide the movement of the first carrier 200 in the first axis direction (X-axis direction).
[0106] In addition, when a driving force is generated in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction), the first ball member B1 can perform a rolling motion in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction). Accordingly, the first ball member B1 can guide the movement of the first carrier 200 in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction).
[0107] The first ball member B1 can include a plurality of balls disposed between the housing 110 and the first carrier 200. The number of balls included in the first ball member B1 can be three or more.
[0108] The guide groove in which the first ball member B1 is disposed can be disposed in at least one of the surfaces of the housing 110 and the first bearing portion 200 facing each other in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis). For example, the first guide groove 230 can be disposed in the upper surface of the first bearing portion 200, and the second guide groove 120 can be disposed in the inner upper surface of the housing 110.
[0109] The first ball member B1 can be disposed to be inserted between the housing 110 and the first bearing portion 200 in the first guide groove 230 and the second guide groove 120.
[0110] While the first ball member B1 is accommodated in the first guide groove 230 and the second guide groove 120, movement of the first ball member B1 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis) can be restricted, and the first ball member B1 can move in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0111] The first guide groove 230 and the second guide groove 120 can each have a polygonal planar shape or a circular planar shape. The first guide groove 230 and the second guide groove 120 can have a size greater than the diameter of the first ball member B1. For example, a cross section of the first guide groove 230 or the second guide groove 120 on a plane perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) can be greater than the diameter of the first ball member B1.
[0112] Meanwhile, the first bearing portion 200 can include a support pad 231, and at least a portion of the support pad 231 can form a bottom surface of the first guide groove 230. Accordingly, the first ball member B1 can roll in contact with the support pad 231.
[0113] The support pad 231 can be integrally formed with the first bearing portion 200 by insert injection. In this case, the support pad 231 can be manufactured to be integrally formed with the first bearing portion 200 by injecting a resin material into a mold while fixing the support pad 231 to the inside of the mold. The support pad 231 can be made of a stainless steel material. The support pad 231 can also be disposed in the housing 110.
[0114] The actuator 10 according to the embodiment of the disclosure can detect a position of the first bearing portion 200 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0115] To this end, a first position sensor 515 and a second position sensor 535 can be disposed. The first position sensor 515 can be disposed on the first plate 550 and face the first magnet 511, and the second position sensor 535 can be disposed on the first plate 550 and face the second magnet 531.
[0116] The first position sensor 515 and the second position sensor 535 can each include one or more Hall sensors.
[0117] The first position sensor 515 can include two Hall sensors. The two Hall sensors of the first position sensor 515 can be spaced apart from each other in a second axis direction (Y-axis direction). The direction in which the two Hall sensors of the first position sensor 515 are spaced apart from each other can be perpendicular to the direction in which the first magnet 511 and the first coil 513 face each other.
[0118] For example, the first magnet 511 can include two magnets spaced apart from each other in a direction (or second axis direction (Y-axis direction)) perpendicular to a direction (or first axis direction (X-axis direction)) in which a driving force is generated by the first magnet 511, and the first position sensor 515 can include two Hall sensors facing the two magnets.
[0119] The actuator 10 can detect whether the first carrier 200 rotates by the two Hall sensors facing the first magnet 511.
[0120] The second position sensor 535 can include two Hall sensors. The two Hall sensors of the second position sensor 535 can be spaced apart from each other in a first axis direction (X-axis direction). The direction in which the two Hall sensors of the second position sensor 535 are spaced apart from each other can be perpendicular to the direction in which the second magnet 531 and the second coil 533 face each other.
[0121] For example, the second magnet 531 can include two magnets spaced apart from each other in a direction (or first axis direction (X-axis direction)) perpendicular to a direction (or second axis direction (Y-axis direction)) in which a driving force is generated by the second magnet 531, and the second position sensor 535 can include two Hall sensors facing the two magnets.
[0122] The actuator 10 can detect whether the first carrier 200 rotates by the two Hall sensors facing the second magnet 531.
[0123] Meanwhile, a rotational force can be intentionally generated by generating a bias between the driving force of the first sub-driving unit 510 and the driving force of the second sub-driving unit 530, using the resultant force of the first sub-driving unit 510 and the second sub-driving unit 530, or using the two magnets included in the second sub-driving unit 530.
[0124] The first guide groove 230 and the second guide groove 120 can each have a polygonal planar shape or a circular planar shape greater than the diameter of the first ball member B1. Accordingly, the first ball member B1 can perform a rolling motion in several directions perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0125] Accordingly, the first carrier 200 can rotate around the optical axis (Z-axis) while being supported by the first ball member B1.
[0126] Meanwhile, for convenience, the specification describes that the first carrier 200 rotates while taking the optical axis (Z-axis) as its rotation axis. However, when the first carrier 200 rotates, the rotation axis can not coincide with the optical axis (Z-axis). For example, the first carrier 200 can rotate using an arbitrary axis parallel to the direction in which the imaging surface of the image sensor S faces as its rotation axis.
[0127] Further, when the first carrier 200 needs to move linearly rather than rotate, the driving force of the first sub-driving unit 510 and / or the driving force of the second sub-driving unit 530 can be controlled so as to cancel any rotational force that unintentionally occurs in the driving force of the first sub-driving unit 510 and the driving force of the second sub-driving unit 530.
[0128] The traction magnet 250 or the traction yoke 260 can be disposed on the upper surface of the first carrier 200. The traction magnet 250 or the traction yoke 260 can be disposed on the upper surface of the side wall of the first carrier 200 on which the first coil 513 or the second coil 533 is not disposed.
[0129] When the traction magnet 250 is disposed on the upper surface of the first carrier 200, the traction yoke 260 can be disposed on the inner side of the housing 110 and face the traction magnet 250.
[0130] When the traction yoke 260 is disposed on the upper surface of the first carrier 200, the traction magnet 250 can be disposed on the inner side of the housing 110 and face the traction yoke 260.
[0131] The first carrier 200 and the housing 110 can be drawn together in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) by magnetic attraction force generated between the traction yoke 260 and the traction magnet 250.
[0132] Figure 8 is a plan view of a sensor plate of an actuator according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III' of Figure 8 .
[0133] Referring to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , the sensor plate 400 can include a moving portion 410, a fixed portion 430, and a connection portion 450. The sensor plate 400 can be a rigid-flexible printed circuit board (RFPCB).
[0134] The image sensor S can be mounted on the moving part 410. The moving part 410 can be coupled to a lower surface of the second carrier 300 described below. For example, an area of the moving part 410 can be greater than an area of the image sensor S, and the moving part 410 located outside the image sensor S can be coupled to the lower surface of the second carrier 300.
[0135] The moving part 410 can be a moving member that moves together with the first carrier 200 and the second carrier 300 during the OIS operation. The moving part 410 can be a rigid printed circuit board (RPCB).
[0136] The fixed part 430 can be coupled to a lower surface of the housing 110. The fixed part 430 can be a fixed member that does not move during the OIS operation. The fixed part 430 can be a rigid printed circuit board (RPCB).
[0137] The connection part 450 can be disposed between the moving part 410 and the fixed part 430 and connect the moving part 410 and the fixed part 430 to each other. The connection part 450 can be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). When the moving part 410 moves, the connection part 450 disposed between the moving part 410 and the fixed part 430 can be bent.
[0138] The connection part 450 can extend along an outer periphery of the moving part 410. The connection part 450 can include a plurality of slits that pass through the connection part 450 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. The plurality of slits can be disposed between the moving part 410 and the fixed part 430 while having a distance therebetween. Accordingly, the connection part 450 can include a plurality of bridge elements 455 that are spaced apart from each other by the plurality of slits. The plurality of bridge elements 455 can extend along edges of the moving part 410.
[0139] The connection part 450 can include a first support part 451 and a second support part 453. The connection part 450 can be connected to the fixed part 430 by the first support part 451. Also, the connection part 450 can be connected to the moving part 410 by the second support part 453.
[0140] For example, the first support part 451 can be in contact with the fixed part 430 and spaced apart from the moving part 410. Also, the second support part 453 can be in contact with the moving part 410 and spaced apart from the fixed part 430.
[0141] For example, the first support portion 451 can extend in the first axis direction (X-axis direction), thereby connecting the plurality of bridge elements 455 of the connection portion 450 and the fixed portion 430 to each other. In an embodiment, the first support portion 451 can include two supports disposed to face each other in the first axis direction (X-axis direction).
[0142] The second support portion 453 can extend in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction), thereby connecting the plurality of bridge elements 455 of the connection portion 450 and the moving portion 410 to each other. In an embodiment, the second support portion 453 can include two supports disposed to face each other in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction).
[0143] Accordingly, the moving portion 410 can move in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) or rotate about the optical axis (Z-axis) while being supported by the connection portion 450.
[0144] In an embodiment, the plurality of bridge elements 455 connected to the first support portion 451 can bend when the image sensor S moves in the first axis direction (X-axis direction). Also, the plurality of bridge elements 455 connected to the second support portion 453 can bend when the image sensor S moves in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction). Also, the plurality of bridge elements 455 connected to the first support portion 451 and the plurality of bridge elements 455 connected to the second support portion 453 can bend together when the image sensor S rotates.
[0145] In an embodiment, the length of the fixed portion 430 in the first axis direction (X-axis direction) and the length of the fixed portion 430 in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction) can be different. For example, the length of the fixed portion 430 in the first axis direction (X-axis direction) can be longer than the length of the fixed portion 430 in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction). In an embodiment, the sensor board 400 can have an overall quadrangular (e.g., rectangular) shape.
[0146] In this type of sensor board 400, when the length of the first support portion 451 and the length of the second support portion 453 are the same as each other, the load applied to the bridge elements 455 connected to the first support portion 451 and the load applied to the bridge elements 455 connected to the second support portion 453 can become different from each other, which can cause difficulty in controlling the operation of the camera module 1.
[0147] Accordingly, the length of the first support portion 451 and the length of the second support portion 453 can be made different from each other, so that the length of each of the plurality of bridge elements 455 extending from the first support portion 451 in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction) and the length of each of the plurality of bridge elements 455 extending from the second support portion 453 in the first axis direction (X-axis direction) can be made substantially the same as each other.
[0148] Here, the length of the first support portion 451 can mean the length of the first support portion 451 in the second axis direction (Y-axis direction), and the length of the second support portion 453 can mean the length of the second support portion 453 in the first axis direction (X-axis direction).
[0149] Referring to Figure 9 , a through-hole can be provided in the moving portion 410, and the image sensor S can be provided in the through-hole. The thickness of the through-hole and the thickness of the image sensor S can be substantially the same as each other.
[0150] In addition, the reinforcement 470 can be coupled to the lower surface of the moving portion 410. The reinforcement 470 can also be coupled to the lower surface of the fixed portion 430.
[0151] Accordingly, compared to the case where the image sensor S is provided on the upper surface of the sensor board 400, the thickness of the sensor board 400 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction can be reduced by the thickness of the image sensor S.
[0152] Meanwhile, referring to Figure 2 , the base 700 can be coupled to the lower portion of the sensor board 400.
[0153] The base 700 can be coupled to the sensor board 400 and cover the lower portion of the sensor board 400. The base 700 can serve to prevent external foreign substances, etc. from entering through the distance between the moving portion 410 and the fixed portion 430 of the sensor board 400.
[0154] The heat dissipation film can be provided on the lower portion of the base 700. Accordingly, heat generated in the image sensor S can be effectively dissipated.
[0155] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a first carrier, a second carrier, and a second driving unit according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Figure 11 is a perspective view of the assembly illustrated in Figure 10 , viewed from another direction. Figure 12 is a side view of the second carrier.
[0156] Referring to Figure 10 and Figure 11 , the second carrier 300 can be provided in the first carrier 200.
[0157] The second bearing part 300 can be disposed in the first bearing part 200, move together with the first bearing part 200 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), and move relative to the first bearing part 200 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0158] The second driving unit 600 can generate a driving force in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis) to move the second bearing part 300 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0159] The second driving unit 600 can include a driving magnet and a driving coil. Here, the driving magnet included in the second driving unit 600 can be referred to as a third magnet 610, and the driving coil included in the second driving unit 600 can be referred to as a third coil 630.
[0160] The third magnet 610 and the third coil 630 can face each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0161] The third magnet 610 can be disposed on the second bearing part 300. For example, the third magnet 610 can be disposed on an outer surface of the second bearing part 300. The third magnet 610 can overlap the first magnet 511 in the first axis direction (X-axis direction).
[0162] One surface (e.g., a surface facing the third coil 630) of the third magnet 610 can be magnetized to have both N and S poles. For example, one surface of the third magnet 610 facing the third coil 630 can include an N pole, a neutral region, and an S pole formed in order in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0163] The other surface (e.g., a surface opposite to the one surface) of the third magnet 610 can be magnetized to have both S and N poles. For example, the other surface of the third magnet 610 can have an S pole, a neutral region, and an N pole in order in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0164] The third coil 630 can be disposed on the first bearing part 200. For example, the third coil 630 can be disposed on an inner surface of the first bearing part 200. The third coil 630 can face the third magnet 610 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0165] The third coil 630 can be disposed on a second plate 670, which can be mounted on the first bearing part 200, for facing the third magnet 610 and the third coil 630 with each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0166] The third magnet 610 can be a moving member that moves together with the second carrier 300 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction during the AF operation, and the third coil 630 can be a fixed member fixed to the second plate 670 and the first carrier 200.
[0167] When power is applied to the third coil 630, the second carrier 300 can move in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction by electromagnetic force between the third magnet 610 and the third coil 630.
[0168] The sensor plate 400 in which the image sensor S is mounted can be coupled to the second carrier 300, and the image sensor S can thus also move in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction by the movement of the second carrier 300.
[0169] The second ball member B2 can be disposed between the first carrier 200 and the second carrier 300. The second ball member B2 can include a plurality of balls disposed in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. When the second carrier 300 moves in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the plurality of balls can perform a rolling motion in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.
[0170] The second yoke 690 can be disposed on the first carrier 200. The second yoke 690 can face the third magnet 610. For example, the third coil 630 can be disposed on one surface of the second plate 670, and the second yoke 690 can be disposed on the other surface of the second plate 670.
[0171] The third magnet 610 and the second yoke 690 can generate magnetic attraction between each other. For example, the magnetic attraction can act between the third magnet 610 and the second yoke 690 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0172] The second ball member B2 can be in contact with each of the first carrier 200 and the second carrier 300 by the magnetic attraction between the third magnet 610 and the second yoke 690.
[0173] A guide groove can be disposed in the surfaces of the first carrier 200 and the second carrier 300 that face each other. For example, the first groove g1 and the third groove g3 can be disposed in the second carrier 300, and the second groove g2 and the fourth groove g4 can be disposed in the first carrier 200. Each groove can be long in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.
[0174] The first groove g1 and the second groove g2 can face each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), and some of the plurality of balls in the second ball member B2 (for example, a first ball group BG1 described below) can be disposed in a space between the first groove g1 and the second groove g2.
[0175] Among the plurality of balls included in the first ball group BG1, a ball disposed on the outermost side in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) can make two-point contact with both the first groove g1 and the second groove g2.
[0176] That is, among the plurality of balls included in the first ball group BG1, the outermost ball in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) can make two-point contact with the first groove g1 and two-point contact with the second groove g2.
[0177] The first groove g1 and the second groove g2 can constitute a main rolling portion G1, and the first ball group BG1 and the main rolling portion G1 can function as a main guide that guides movement of the second bearing part 300 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0178] The third groove g3 and the fourth groove g4 can face each other in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), and some of the plurality of balls (for example, a second ball group BG2 described below) in the second ball member B2 can be disposed in a space between the third groove g3 and the fourth groove g4.
[0179] Among the plurality of balls included in the second ball group BG2, a ball disposed on the outermost side in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) can make two-point contact with either one of the third groove g3 and the fourth groove g4, and one-point contact with the other one of the third groove g3 and the fourth groove g4.
[0180] For example, among the plurality of balls included in the second ball group BG2, the outermost ball in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) can make contact with the third groove g3 at one point, and make two-point contact with the fourth groove g4 (or the outermost ball in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) can make contact with the third groove g3 at two points, and make one-point contact with the fourth groove g4).
[0181] The third groove g3 and the fourth groove g4 can constitute an auxiliary rolling portion G2, and the second ball group BG2 and the auxiliary rolling portion G2 can function as an auxiliary guide that supports movement of the second bearing part 300 in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0182] The second ball member B2 can include the first ball group BG1 and the second ball group BG2, and the first ball group BG1 and the second ball group BG2 can each include a plurality of balls disposed in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis).
[0183] The first ball group BG1 and the second ball group BG2 can be spaced apart from each other in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) (for example, the Y-axis direction). The number of balls included in the first ball group BG1 and the number of balls included in the second ball group BG2 can be different.
[0184] For example, the first ball group BG1 can include two or more balls disposed in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis), and the second ball group BG2 can include fewer balls than the number of balls included in the first ball group BG1.
[0185] The number of balls belonging to each ball group can be changed on the premise that the number of balls belonging to the first ball group BG1 and the number of balls belonging to the second ball group BG2 are different from each other. Hereinafter, descriptions are provided based on an embodiment in which the first ball group BG1 includes three balls and the second ball group BG2 includes two balls for convenience of explanation.
[0186] Among the three balls included in the first ball group BG1, two balls disposed on the outermost sides in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) can have the same diameter, and one ball disposed between the two balls can have a diameter smaller than that of the outermost balls.
[0187] For example, among the plurality of balls included in the first ball group BG1, each of the two outermost balls in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) can have a first diameter, and one ball disposed therebetween can have a second diameter. Here, the first diameter is greater than the second diameter.
[0188] The two balls included in the second ball group BG2 can have diameters identical to each other. For example, the two balls included in the second ball group BG2 can have a third diameter.
[0189] In addition, the first diameter and the third diameter can be identical. Here, the identical diameters can mean diameters that are identical in a physical sense including manufacturing errors.
[0190] The distance between the centers of the outermost balls in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) among the plurality of balls included in the first ball group BG1 can be different from the distance between the centers of the outermost balls in the direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) among the plurality of balls included in the second ball group BG2.
[0191] For example, the distance between the centers of the two balls having the first diameter can be greater than the distance between the centers of the two balls having the third diameter.
[0192] To secure movement of the second carrier 300 parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis) when moving in the direction of the optical axis (Z-axis) (i.e., to prevent tilting of the second carrier 300), the center point CP of the attractive force acting between the third magnet 610 and the second yoke 690 can need to be positioned in the support region A connecting the contact points of the second ball member B2 and the second carrier 300 (or the first carrier 200) to each other.
[0193] If the center point CP of the gravity deviates from the support area A, the position of the second bearing part 300 can be displaced during the movement of the second bearing part 300, which can cause the second bearing part 300 to tilt. Thus, it is necessary to make the support area A as wide as possible.
[0194] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the size (e.g., diameter) of each of some of the plurality of balls included in the second ball member B2 can be intentionally made smaller than the size (e.g., diameter) of each of the other balls. In this case, the larger balls among the plurality of balls can be intentionally brought into contact with the second bearing part 300 (or the first bearing part 200).
[0195] Among the three balls included in the first ball group BG1, the diameters of two balls can be greater than the diameter of the other ball, and the two balls in the first ball group BG1 can be in contact with the first bearing part 200 and the second bearing part 300, respectively. Also, the two balls in the second ball group BG2 can have the same diameter, and thus be in contact with the first bearing part 200 and the second bearing part 300, respectively.
[0196] Thus, as Figure 12 As shown in FIG. 13, the second ball member B2 can be in four-point contact with the first bearing part 200 (or the second bearing part 300) when viewed from the first axial direction (X-axis direction). Also, the support area A connecting the contact points to each other can have a quadrangular shape (e.g., trapezoidal shape).
[0197] Thus, the support area A can be made wider, and the center point CP of the gravity acting between the third magnet 610 and the second yoke 690 can thus be stably positioned in the support area A. Thus, the camera module 1 can secure its driving stability during the AF operation.
[0198] Meanwhile, even when the two balls of the second ball group BG2 are made to have the same diameter, the two balls of the second ball group BG2 can not physically have exactly the same diameter due to manufacturing errors, etc. In this case, any one of the two balls included in the second ball group BG2 can be in contact with the second bearing part 300 (or the first bearing part 200).
[0199] Thus, the support area A connecting the contact points of the second ball member B2 with the second bearing part 300 (or the first bearing part 200) can have a triangular shape.
[0200] Even though the support area A has a triangular shape, the support area A can still be wide through the outermost ball among the three balls of the first ball group BG1 in a direction parallel to the optical axis (Z-axis), thus allowing the camera module 1 to secure its driving stability during the AF operation.
[0201] In addition to ensuring the driving stability of the camera module 1 during the AF operation, it is also important for the camera module 1 to have a reduced height (or to be made slim) in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. Here, when simply reducing the height of the camera module 1 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, the height of the support region A in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction can also be reduced.
[0202] That is, when simply reducing the height of the camera module 1 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction, a driving stability problem of the camera module 1 during the AF operation can occur.
[0203] In an embodiment of the disclosure, the auxiliary yoke 691 can face the third magnet 610. For example, the auxiliary yoke 691 can be disposed on the inner side of the third coil 630 and face the third magnet 610.
[0204] The auxiliary yoke 691 can be closer to the main guide than the auxiliary guide. The auxiliary yoke 691 can be made of a material capable of generating an attractive force with the third magnet 610.
[0205] Therefore, the resultant force of the attractive force acting between the third magnet 610 and the second yoke 690 and the attractive force acting between the third magnet 610 and the auxiliary yoke 691 can be positioned closer to the main guide than the auxiliary guide.
[0206] In another embodiment, the third magnet 610 can be disposed on one outer surface of the second carrier 300 to be biased to one side in the length direction (for example, the second axis direction (Y-axis direction)) of the third magnet 610.
[0207] The center of one outer surface of the second carrier 300 and the center of the third magnet 610 can not be aligned with each other. The third magnet 610 can be biased to the main guide.
[0208] That is, the third magnet 610 can be closer to the main guide than the auxiliary guide.
[0209] The closer the support region A is to the main guide, the longer the length in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction. Therefore, the center point CP of the attractive force can be more stably positioned in the support region A by disposing the third magnet 610 closer to the main guide.
[0210] Meanwhile, the actuator 10 can detect the position of the second carrier 300 in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.
[0211] To this end, the third position sensor 650 can be provided. The third position sensor 650 can be disposed on the second plate 670 and face the third magnet 610. The third position sensor 650 can be a Hall sensor.
[0212] In the camera module 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the image sensor S can move in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction during the AF operation, and the image sensor S can move in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) during the OIS operation.
[0213] Further, even when the image sensor S moves in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction during the AF operation, the relative positions of the magnet and the coil included in the first driving unit 500 do not change, and the camera module 1 can thus accurately control the driving force thereof for the OIS operation.
[0214] Further, even when the image sensor S moves in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) during the OIS operation, the relative positions of the magnet and the coil included in the second driving unit 600 do not change, and the camera module 1 can thus accurately control the driving force thereof for the AF operation.
[0215] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a camera module according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0216] Reference Figure 13 According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the camera module 1” can include a housing 30, a reflection module R, a lens module 20, and an actuator 10.
[0217] In the present embodiment, the optical axis (Z-axis) of the lens module 20 can be perpendicular to the thickness direction of the portable electronic device (i.e., the direction from the front surface of the portable electronic device to the rear surface of the portable electronic device, or the direction from the rear surface of the portable electronic device to the front surface of the portable electronic device).
[0218] For example, the optical axis (Z-axis) of the lens module 20 can be formed in the width direction or the length direction of the portable electronic device.
[0219] When the components included in the camera module are stacked in the thickness direction of the portable electronic device, the thickness of the portable electronic device can increase.
[0220] However, in the camera module 1” of the present embodiment, the optical axis (Z-axis) of the lens module 20 can be formed in the width direction or the length direction of the portable electronic device, thereby reducing the thickness of the portable electronic device.
[0221] The reflection module R and the lens module 20 can be disposed in the housing 30. For example, the reflection module R and the lens module 20 can be fixed to the housing 30. Alternatively, the reflection module R and the lens module 20 can also be disposed in separate housings and the separate housings can be coupled to each other.
[0222] The reflection module R can change the traveling direction of light. For example, light incident into the housing 30 can change its advancing direction to the lens module 20 by the reflection module R. The reflection module R can be a mirror or a prism that reflects light.
[0223] The actuator 10 can be accommodated in the housing 30 and disposed behind the lens module 20. As another example, the actuator 10 can be coupled to the rear end of the housing 30.
[0224] In the present embodiment, the lens module 20 can be accommodated in the housing 30 of the camera module 1” rather than coupled to the housing 110 of the actuator 10. Accordingly, the housing 110 of the actuator 10 in the present embodiment can not have a portion coupled to the lens module 20. Other configurations of the actuator 10 can be the same as the actuator 10 according to the embodiments of the disclosure described above.
[0225] The image sensor S can be disposed in the actuator 10, can move in the first axis direction (X-axis direction) or the second axis direction (Y-axis direction), or can rotate while taking the optical axis (Z-axis) as its rotation axis. Also, the image sensor S can move in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.
[0226] Accordingly, the camera module 1” can perform an OIS operation or an AF operation by moving the image sensor S.
[0227] Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a camera module according to another embodiment of the disclosure.
[0228] Reference Figure 14 According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the camera module 1”’ can include a housing 30, a reflection module R’, a lens module 20, and an actuator 10.
[0229] The reflection module R’ and the actuator 10 can be accommodated in the housing 30. For another example, the actuator 10 can be coupled to the housing 30 from the outside of the housing 30.
[0230] The reflection module R’ can change the advancing direction of light. For example, light incident into the housing 30 can change its advancing direction twice or more by the reflection module R’. To this end, the reflection module R’ can include two or more reflection surfaces. For example, the cross section of the reflection module R’ can have a parallelogram shape.
[0231] The reflection module R’ can be a mirror or a prism that reflects light multiple times.
[0232] Light can be reflected multiple times by the reflection module R’ until the light is received by the image sensor S, and thus the optical path is formed longer in a limited space. In this way, the camera module 1”’ can have a smaller size.
[0233] The lens module 20 can be disposed in front of the reflection module R'. For example, the lens module 20 can be closer to the object than the reflection module R'.
[0234] An optical axis (Z-axis) of the lens module 20 can be oriented in a thickness direction of the portable electronic device.
[0235] In the present embodiment, the lens module 20 can be accommodated in the housing 30 of the camera module 1''' instead of being coupled to the housing 110 of the actuator 10. Thus, the housing 110 of the actuator 10 in the present embodiment can not have a portion coupled to the lens module 20. Other configurations of the actuator 10 can be the same as the actuator 10 according to the embodiments of the disclosure described above.
[0236] The image sensor S can be disposed in the actuator 10, can be moved in the first axis direction (X-axis direction) or the second axis direction (Y-axis direction), or can be rotated while having the optical axis (Z-axis) as a rotation axis. Further, the image sensor S can be moved in the optical axis (Z-axis) direction.
[0237] Thus, the camera module 1''' can perform an OIS operation or an AF operation by moving the image sensor S.
[0238] As set forth above, according to the embodiments of the disclosure, the actuator for a camera can provide improved auto-focusing performance and optical image stabilization performance.
[0239] While specific examples have been shown and described in the foregoing detailed description, it will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein are to be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each example should be considered as being applicable to similar features or aspects within other examples. Proper results can be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described systems, architectures, devices, or circuits are combined in a different manner, and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of the disclosure is defined not by the detailed description, but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents are to be construed as being included in the disclosure.
Claims
1. An actuator for a camera, characterized in that, The actuator includes: a housing having an internal space; a first carrier provided in the housing; a second carrier provided in the first carrier; an image sensor fixed to the second carrier; a first driving unit configured to move the first carrier relative to the housing in a direction parallel to an imaging surface of the image sensor, the first driving unit including a coil portion provided on the first carrier; and a second driving unit configured to move the second carrier relative to the first carrier in a direction perpendicular to the imaging surface, the second driving unit including a first magnet provided on the second carrier.
2. The actuator of claim 1, wherein, The first driving unit further includes: a first sub-driving unit configured to move the first carrier in a first direction crossing an optical axis; and a second sub-driving unit configured to move the first carrier in a second direction crossing both the optical axis and the first direction.
3. The actuator of claim 2, wherein, The coil portion includes: a first coil included in the first sub-driving unit; and a second coil included in the second sub-driving unit.
4. The actuator of claim 3, wherein, The second driving unit further includes a third coil provided on the first carrier, and the third coil faces the first magnet provided on the second carrier.
5. The actuator of claim 3, wherein, The first coil is provided in a plurality, and the second coil is provided in a plurality.
6. The actuator of claim 2, wherein, The second driving unit overlaps the first sub-driving unit in the first direction.
7. The actuator of claim 6, wherein, The actuator further includes a Hall sensor facing the first magnet.
8. The actuator of claim 2, wherein, The first sub-driving unit includes a second magnet provided in the housing, and the second sub-driving unit includes a third magnet provided in the housing.
9. The actuator of claim 2, wherein, The first sub-driving unit is configured to generate a driving force in the first direction, and the second sub-driving unit is configured to generate a driving force in the second direction.
10. The actuator of claim 1, wherein, The first driving unit further includes a second magnet provided in the housing.
11. The actuator of claim 10, wherein, The second magnet has a north pole and a south pole provided in a direction parallel to the imaging surface.
12. The actuator of claim 1, wherein, The first magnet has a north pole and a south pole provided in a direction parallel to an optical axis.
13. The actuator of claim 1, wherein, The second driving unit further includes a Hall sensor facing the first magnet.
14. The actuator of claim 1, wherein, The actuator further includes a sensor board including: a moving portion on which the image sensor is provided; a fixed portion mounted on the housing; and a connecting portion connecting the moving portion and the fixed portion to each other.
15. The actuator of claim 14, wherein, The moving portion is coupled to the second carrier.
16. The actuator of claim 14, wherein, The connecting portion is provided along an outer periphery of the moving portion.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Battery management system, battery pack, electric vehicle, and battery management method
KR1020240041806A