Camera module and camera actuator

Abstract

The camera module includes: a housing having an internal space; a lens module accommodated in the inner space of the housing and including a first lens barrel; and a camera actuator connected to the first lens barrel and configured to provide a driving force, in which the camera actuator includes: a first movable unit configured to move the first lens barrel in a first direction; a first driver including a first piezoelectric element, connected to the first movable unit, and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; and a magnet and a yoke disposed between the first movable unit and the housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following description relates to the camera module and camera actuator. Background Technology

[0002] A foldable camera module may include a reflector that reflects external light at a 90-degree angle and an optical system that allows the light refracted by the reflector to pass through the width or length of the mobile device. Such a foldable camera module can have sufficient distance between lenses to achieve high magnification optical zoom while maintaining a slim profile.

[0003] Unlike imaging devices such as CCD and CMOS that vertically stack sensors and lenses, foldable camera modules employ a periscope structure, enabling high-magnification optical zoom without increasing overall height. Furthermore, because the periscope structure differs from vertically stacked lenses, foldable camera modules offer an advantage in achieving a slimmer profile compared to these methods.

[0004] As a key factor decisively influencing a camera's zoom performance, it includes not only the specifications of the lenses constituting the optical system but also the drive range of the optical system. Increasing the drive range of the optical system allows for improved zoom performance. In small cameras equipped with zoom lenses, voice coil motor-type drive mechanisms are primarily used to increase the drive range of the optical system.

[0005] However, the voice coil motor-type drive mechanism used as an optical system driving device in folding camera modules in related technologies is disadvantageous in terms of device miniaturization. Therefore, as an alternative to the voice coil motor-type drive mechanism in related technologies, a piezoelectric drive mechanism using piezoelectric elements has recently attracted attention. In the piezoelectric drive mechanism, contraction and expansion occur when a high-frequency pulse voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element, and the resulting contraction and expansion drive the optical system.

[0006] In such piezoelectric drive devices, it is desirable to maintain the contact force between the driver, which includes the piezoelectric element, and the movable unit.

[0007] 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

[0008] The present disclosure provides camera modules and camera actuators that can be miniaturized and are shock resistant.

[0009] In one general aspect, the camera module includes: a housing having an internal space; a lens module housed within the internal space of the housing and including a first lens barrel; and a camera actuator connected to the first lens barrel and configured to provide a driving force, wherein the camera actuator includes: a first movable unit configured to move the first lens barrel in a first direction; a first driver including a first piezoelectric element connected to the first movable unit and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; and a magnet and a yoke disposed between the first movable unit and the housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0010] The magnet can be disposed on a surface of the first movable unit facing the housing, and the yoke can be disposed facing the magnet in a second direction.

[0011] The yoke may extend in the first direction to include a portion that overlaps with the magnet in the second direction.

[0012] The camera actuator may further include: a second movable unit configured to face the first movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, with the first lens barrel inserted between the second movable unit and the first movable unit; and at least one first rolling member disposed on one side of the second movable unit, and the second movable unit may be configured to move the first lens barrel in the first direction using the driving force of the first driver.

[0013] The magnet may include: a first magnet disposed on a surface of the first movable unit; and a second magnet disposed on a surface of the second movable unit, wherein the size of the first magnet may be larger than the size of the second magnet.

[0014] The first rolling component can be a single ball component.

[0015] The first actuator may further include a rod configured such that one end is connected to the first piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit, and the first magnet and the second magnet may be disposed between the rod and the first rolling member along a third direction.

[0016] The first actuator may further include: a rod, configured such that one end is connected to the first piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit; and a friction portion, configured to have abrasion resistance higher than that of the first movable unit, and disposed on a surface of the first movable unit facing the rod.

[0017] The lens module may further include: a second lens barrel disposed on one side of the first lens barrel in the first direction and configured to be movable relative to the housing; and a third lens barrel disposed on the other side of the first lens barrel in the first direction and fixed to the housing.

[0018] The camera actuator may further include: a third movable unit disposed on one side of the second lens barrel and configured to move the second lens barrel in a first direction; a fourth movable unit disposed facing the third movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, with the second lens barrel inserted between the fourth movable unit and the third movable unit; and a second driver including a second piezoelectric element connected to the third movable unit and configured to provide a driving force to the third movable unit.

[0019] The camera module may also include at least one second rolling member disposed on one side of the fourth movable unit.

[0020] The second driver can be positioned diagonally opposite the first driver relative to a reference line parallel to the first direction.

[0021] The camera module may also include a reflection module, which is positioned in front of the first lens barrel in a first direction and configured to change the path of the incident light.

[0022] In another general aspect, the camera actuator includes: a first movable unit configured to move along a first direction; a driver including a piezoelectric element connected to the first movable unit and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; a magnetic yoke disposed on one side of the first movable unit in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a magnet disposed between the first movable unit and the magnetic yoke in the second direction.

[0023] The yoke can be configured to face the magnet in the second direction.

[0024] The yoke may extend in the first direction to include a portion that overlaps with the magnet in the second direction.

[0025] The actuator may be disposed on one side of the first movable unit in the second direction, and the camera actuator may further include: a second movable unit disposed facing the first movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions; and at least one rolling member disposed on one side of the second movable unit.

[0026] The magnet may include: a first magnet disposed on a surface of the first movable unit; and a second magnet disposed on a surface of the second movable unit, wherein the size of the first magnet may be larger than that of the second magnet.

[0027] The actuator may also include a rod configured such that one end is connected to a piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to a first movable unit, and a first magnet and a second magnet may be disposed between the rod and at least one rolling member in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions.

[0028] The actuator may also include a friction portion configured to have higher wear resistance than the first movable unit and disposed on a surface of the first movable unit facing the rod.

[0029] 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. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the camera module according to the implementation method.

[0031] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to the implementation method.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the camera actuator shown.

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A plan view showing the configuration of a portion of the camera module.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the movable unit and driver according to the embodiment.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a plan view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of the lens module shown is taken from line VII-VII'.

[0037] Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of the lens module shown is taken from line VIII-VIII'.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a plan view of a camera actuator according to another embodiment.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a movable unit and a driver according to yet another embodiment.

[0040] Figure 11 It is a perspective view of a movable unit and driver based on a variant of a camera module according to yet another embodiment.

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

[0042] In the following description, although examples of this 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 embodiments are provided to aid the reader in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein. However, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, apparatus, and / or systems described herein will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure. For example, the order of operations described herein is merely illustrative and is not limited to the order set forth herein, except for operations that must occur in a specific order, as will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure. Furthermore, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of features well-known in the art may be omitted.

[0044] The features described herein may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the examples described herein are provided merely to illustrate some of the many possible ways in which the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure.

[0045] Throughout the specification, when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is described as being "on," "connected to," or "attached to" another element, the element may be directly "on," directly "connected to," or directly "attached to" the other element, or there may be one or more other elements between the element and the other element. Conversely, when an element is described as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another element, there are no other elements between the element and the other element.

[0046] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items; similarly, “at least one” includes any one of the associated listed items and any combination of any two or more items.

[0047] Although terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used herein to describe various components, parts, regions, layers, or sections, these components, parts, regions, layers, or sections are not limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish one component, part, region, layer, or section from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein, the first component, first part, first region, first layer, or first section mentioned in these examples may also be referred to as a second component, second part, second region, second layer, or second section.

[0048] Spatial relative terms such as “above,” “above,” “below,” and “under” may be used herein for descriptive convenience to describe the relationship of one element relative to another, as shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition to covering the orientation depicted in the drawings, these spatial relative terms are intended to also cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as being “above” or “above” another element would be located “below” or “under” that other element. Thus, depending on the spatial orientation of the device, the term “above” covers both orientations of “above” and “below”. The device may also be oriented in other ways (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0049] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various examples only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural form as well. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” indicate the presence of the stated features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, operations, components, elements, and / or combinations thereof.

[0050] Due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, the shapes shown in the accompanying drawings may vary. Therefore, the examples described herein are not limited to the specific shapes shown in the accompanying drawings, but include shape variations that occur during manufacturing.

[0051] It should be noted that in this document, the term "may" is used relative to examples, such as regarding what an example may include or implement, meaning that there exists at least one example that includes or implements such a feature, but not all examples are limited to this.

[0052] The features of the examples described herein can be combined in various ways that will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure. Furthermore, although the examples described herein have multiple configurations, other configurations that will become apparent upon understanding this disclosure are also possible.

[0053] For reference, in a three-axis coordinate system, the Z-axis can refer to the direction in which light passes through the lens (i.e., the optical axis direction), the X-axis can refer to the direction perpendicular to the Z-axis, and the Y-axis can refer to the direction perpendicular to both the Z-axis and the X-axis.

[0054] In the following description, as an example, a configuration in which two pairs of movable units are arranged spaced apart in the Z-axis direction within a camera actuator, and drivers are arranged corresponding to each of the two pairs of movable units. This is merely one embodiment used to describe the present invention, and the number of movable units and drivers is not limited to the illustrative form shown in the drawings.

[0055] One or more embodiments of this disclosure may provide camera modules and camera actuators that can be miniaturized and are resistant to shock.

[0056] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the camera module according to the implementation method, and Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to the implementation method.

[0057] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to the embodiments, the camera module 1000 may include a reflection module 1100, a lens module 1200, a camera actuator 100, and an image sensor module (not shown) disposed in a housing 1010 having an internal space.

[0058] The camera module 1000 according to an embodiment may include a cover 1020 that covers the housing 1010 from top in the Y-axis direction. The reflection module 1100 may be configured to change the direction of light travel. As an example, light may be incident through an opening 1021 in the cover 1020, and the direction of travel of the incident light may be changed by the reflection module 1100 to point towards the lens module 1200.

[0059] The reflection module 1100 may include a rotating bracket 1110 supported toward the housing 1010, an optical path changing member 1120 mounted on the rotating bracket 1110, and a reflection driver (not shown) for moving the rotating bracket 1110.

[0060] The optical path alteration component 1120 can change the optical path (e.g., reflect light). The optical path alteration component 1120 may include a mirror, prism, beam splitter, etc. The path of light incident on the camera module 1000 in the Y-axis direction can be changed by the reflection module 1100 to be approximately aligned with the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). The path-altered light can then be incident on the lens module 1200.

[0061] The reflective module 1100 may include a rotating bracket 1110. A first magnetic body (not shown) and a second magnetic body (not shown) may be respectively disposed on the facing surfaces of the housing 1010 and the rotating bracket 1110 facing the housing 1010. The rotating bracket 1110 can be in close contact with the housing 1010 by the attractive force between the first and second magnetic bodies.

[0062] Here, the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body can be a traction yoke and a traction magnet. For example, the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body can be selectively a traction yoke and a traction magnet, or both the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body can be traction magnets.

[0063] As an example, a reflective driver may include multiple magnets and multiple coils arranged to face the multiple magnets.

[0064] The lens module 1200 can be housed within the internal space of the housing 1010. The lens module 1200 may include at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230. The camera actuator 100 may be connected to the lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230 to provide driving force to the lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230.

[0065] Each of at least one of the lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230 may include at least one lens through which light, whose direction of travel is altered by the reflection module 1100, passes. In this embodiment, three lens barrels are provided. However, one or more lens barrels may be used.

[0066] The camera actuator 100 may include at least one movable unit 110 configured to move at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230 in the Z-axis direction; at least one driver 120 connected to the movable unit 110 and configured to provide driving force to the movable unit 110; a magnet 130 disposed between the movable unit 110 and the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction; and a yoke 140 disposed between the movable unit 110 and the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. Furthermore, the camera actuator 100 may include at least one rolling member 150 disposed between at least one movable unit 110 and the housing 1010. Reference is made below. Figure 3The driver 120 may include piezoelectric elements 121a and 122a.

[0067] The movement of at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230 in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction) can realize autofocus (AF) and / or zoom functions. As an example, at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230 may include a first lens barrel 1210, a second lens barrel 1220, and a third lens barrel 1230. In embodiments, all three lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230 may be movable in the optical axis direction, or one of the three lens barrels 1210, 1220, and 1230 may be fixed so as not to move in the optical axis direction. For example, the AF function and the zoom function may be implemented by the first lens barrel 1210 and the second lens barrel 1220, which are movable lens barrels.

[0068] Driver 120 may include a first driver 121 and a second driver 122. See below for reference. Figure 3 The first actuator 121 may include a first piezoelectric element 121a and a first rod 121b located on one side of the first piezoelectric element 121a. (See below for further details.) Figure 3 The second actuator 122 may include a second piezoelectric element 122a and a second rod 122b located on one side of the second piezoelectric element 122a. The first rod 121b may move linearly in response to the contraction and expansion of the first piezoelectric element 121a. The second rod 122b may also move linearly in response to the contraction and expansion of the second piezoelectric element 122a. At least one movable unit 110 may be connected to either the first rod 121b or the second rod 122b to receive driving force.

[0069] The first lens barrel 1210, the second lens barrel 1220, and the third lens barrel 1230 can be arranged on the bottom surface of the housing 1010. For example, the first lens barrel 1210 can be supported on the bottom surface of the housing 1010 by at least one first rolling member 151 and a first rod 121b. The second lens barrel 1220 can be supported on the bottom surface of the housing 1010 by at least one second rolling member 152 and a second rod 122b.

[0070] The image sensor module may include an image sensor (not shown) that converts light passing through the lens into an electrical signal and a printed circuit board (not shown) mounted thereon on the image sensor. Additionally, the image sensor module may include a filter (not shown) that filters light incident through the lens module 1200. The filter may be an infrared cutoff filter.

[0071] Within the internal space of the housing 1010, the reflection module 1100 can be positioned in front of the lens module 1200 along the Z-axis, and the image sensor module can be positioned behind the lens module 1200 along the Z-axis. The reflection module 1100, the lens module 1200, and the image sensor module can be arranged sequentially from one side to the other along the Z-axis within the housing 1010.

[0072] The camera module 1000 of the embodiment may include a structure in which a reflection module 1100, a lens module 1200, and an image sensor module are disposed in a housing 1010. However, even if not shown in the drawings, it may include structures other than the reflection module 1100, lens module 1200, etc. shown in the drawings.

[0073] The housing 1010 can be covered by a cover 1020, which blocks light and makes the interior space invisible. The cover 1020 has an opening 1021 through which light enters, and the light entering through the opening 1021 has its direction of travel changed by a reflection module 1100 before entering the lens module 1200. The cover 1020 can be integrally formed to cover the entire housing 1010, or it can be a separate component to cover the reflection module 1100 and the lens module 1200 respectively.

[0074] In embodiments, housing 1010 may be a single-piece structure or may have a structure comprising multiple housings different for each module. The following detailed description of each configuration is based on the premise that housing 1010 is a single-piece structure, and even if housings are separate structures, all separate structures are included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0075] Within housing 1010, the space for housing lens module 1200 and the space for housing reflection module 1100 can be separated from each other by protruding walls. The protruding walls can be configured to project from the side walls of housing 1010 into the internal space on both sides. Housing 1010 may include connection terminals for connecting camera actuator 100 and controller. The connection terminals can be inserted into the interior of housing 1010. The controller may include an integrated circuit.

[0076] Below, for reference Figures 3 to 8 The camera actuator 100 according to the embodiment will be described in more detail.

[0077] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the camera actuator shown. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A plan view showing the configuration of a portion of the camera module. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the movable unit and driver according to the embodiment. Figure 6 This is a plan view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment. Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of the lens module shown is taken from line VII-VII'. Figure 8 It is along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view of the lens module shown is taken from line VIII-VIII'.

[0078] refer to Figures 3 to 6 The camera actuator 100 according to an embodiment may include at least one movable unit 110. As an example, the camera actuator 100 according to an embodiment may include a first movable unit 111, a second movable unit 112, a third movable unit 113, and a fourth movable unit 114. The movable unit 110 is configured to move at least one lens barrel 1210, 1220, and 1230, and may be referred to as, for example, a support, a mover, a lens holder, etc.

[0079] The first movable unit 111 can be configured to move along the Z-axis direction. As an example, the first movable unit 111 can move along the Z-axis direction by receiving a driving force from the first driver 121 described below. The first movable unit 111 can be located on one side of the first lens barrel 1210 in the X-axis direction.

[0080] The second movable unit 112 may be located on the opposite side of the first lens barrel 1210 in the X-axis direction. The second movable unit 112 may be arranged facing the first movable unit 111 in the X-axis direction, with the first lens barrel 1210 inserted between the second movable unit 112 and the first movable unit 111. The second movable unit 112 can be connected to the first movable unit 111 via the first lens barrel 1210, and therefore can receive driving force from the first driver 121. The second movable unit 112 may be configured to move the first lens barrel 1210 in the Z-axis direction using the driving force of the first driver 121.

[0081] The third movable unit 113 can be configured to move along the Z-axis direction. As an example, the third movable unit 113 can move along the Z-axis direction by receiving a driving force from the second driver 122 described below. The third movable unit 113 can be located on one side of the second lens barrel 1220 in the X-axis direction. The third movable unit 113 can be arranged on one side of the second lens barrel 1220 and configured to move the second lens barrel 1220 in the Z-axis direction.

[0082] The fourth movable unit 114 may be located on the opposite side of the second lens barrel 1220 in the X-axis direction. The fourth movable unit 114 may be arranged to face the third movable unit 113 in the X-axis direction, with the second lens barrel 1220 inserted between the fourth movable unit 114 and the third movable unit 113. The fourth movable unit 114 can be connected to the third movable unit 113 via the second lens barrel 1220 and can therefore receive driving force from the second driver 122. The fourth movable unit 114 may be configured to move the second lens barrel 1220 in the Z-axis direction using the driving force of the second driver 122.

[0083] The first magnet 131 can be located on a surface of the first movable unit 111 facing the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. The first magnet 131 can be arranged on a surface of the first movable unit 111 in the Y-axis direction. The second magnet 132 can be located on a surface of the second movable unit 112 facing the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. The second magnet 132 can be arranged on a surface of the second movable unit 112 in the Y-axis direction. The size of the first magnet 131 can be larger than the size of the second magnet 132. As an example, the length of the first magnet 131 in the Z-axis direction can be greater than the length of the second magnet 132 in the Z-axis direction. As another example, the length of the first magnet 131 in the Y-axis direction can be greater than the length of the second magnet 132 in the Y-axis direction. In this case, the first rolling member 151 can be a single unit. The second rolling member 152 can be a single unit.

[0084] To achieve zoom camera functionality, the first lens barrel 1210 may need to be moved a long distance along the optical axis. Therefore, the first magnet 131 and the second magnet 132 can be magnetized with at least two magnetic poles so that they have N and S poles respectively along the optical axis.

[0085] The third magnet 133 can be located on a surface of the third movable unit 113 facing the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. The third magnet 133 can also be arranged on a surface of the second movable unit 112 in the Y-axis direction. The fourth magnet 134 can be located on a surface of the fourth movable unit 114 facing the housing 1010 in the Y-axis direction. The fourth magnet 134 can also be arranged on a surface of the fourth movable unit 114 in the Y-axis direction. The size of the third magnet 133 can be larger than the size of the fourth magnet 134. As an example, the length of the third magnet 133 in the Z-axis direction can be greater than the length of the fourth magnet 134 in the Z-axis direction. As another example, the length of the third magnet 133 in the Y-axis direction can be greater than the length of the fourth magnet 134 in the Y-axis direction.

[0086] To achieve zoom camera functionality, the second lens barrel 1220 may need to be moved a long distance along the optical axis. Therefore, the third magnet 133 and the fourth magnet 134 can be magnetized with at least two magnetic poles so that they have an N pole and a S pole respectively along the optical axis.

[0087] The first lens barrel 1210 can be fixed to the first movable unit 111 and disposed in the housing 1010 so as to be movable in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). The first lens barrel 1210 can be fixed to the second movable unit 112 and disposed in the housing 1010 so as to be movable in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0088] The second lens barrel 1220 can be disposed on one side of the first lens barrel 1210 in the Z-axis direction. The second lens barrel 1220 can be configured to be movable relative to the housing 1010. The second lens barrel 1220 can be fixed to the third movable unit 113 and disposed in the housing 1010 to be movable in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). The second lens barrel 1220 can be fixed to the fourth movable unit 114 and disposed in the housing 1010 to be movable in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0089] The third lens barrel 1230 can be arranged on the opposite side of the first lens barrel 1210 in the Z-axis direction. The third lens barrel 1230 can be fixed to the housing 1010. The third lens barrel 1230 can be fixed to the first fixing bracket 161 and the second fixing bracket 162 and disposed in the housing 1010.

[0090] The camera actuator 100 according to an embodiment may include at least one driver 120. As an example, the camera actuator 100 according to an embodiment may include a first movable unit 111, a second movable unit 112, a third movable unit 113, and a fourth movable unit 114.

[0091] The first driver 121 may be disposed on one side of the first movable unit 111 in the Y-axis direction. The first driver 121 may be connected to the first movable unit 111 and configured to provide driving force to the first movable unit 111. The first driver 121 may be located on one side of the first magnet 131 in the X-axis direction.

[0092] refer to Figures 3 to 6The first actuator 121 may include a first piezoelectric element 121a, a first rod 121b, and a first fixing member 121c. The first actuator 121 may be a piezoelectric actuator. When a voltage is applied, the first piezoelectric element 121a may contract or expand in the Z-axis direction. The first piezoelectric element 121a may be piezoelectric ceramic. The first rod 121b may be coupled to the first piezoelectric element 121a. The first rod 121b may extend in the Z-axis direction. The first rod 121b may move in the Z-axis direction according to the contraction or expansion of the first piezoelectric element 121a. This movement of the first rod 121b transmits a driving force to the first movable unit 111, enabling it to move the first movable unit 111 and the first lens barrel 1210 in the Z-axis direction.

[0093] As an example, the first movable unit 111 can be connected to a rod-shaped first rod 121b extending in the Z-axis direction. A first piezoelectric element 121a, with the first rod 121b disposed at one end, can be fixed to the housing 1010 via a first fixing member 121c. One end of the first rod 121b can be connected to the first piezoelectric element 121a, and the other end can be connected to the first movable unit 111. The first piezoelectric element 121a can generate a force that pushes or pulls the first rod 121b in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the first movable unit 111 connected to the first rod 121b and the first lens barrel 1210 fixed to the first movable unit 111 can move in the Z-axis direction.

[0094] The second actuator 122 may be arranged on one side of the third movable unit 113 in the Y-axis direction. The second actuator 122 may be connected to the third movable unit 113 and may be configured to provide driving force to the third movable unit 113. The second actuator 122 may be located on one side of the third magnet 133 in the X-axis direction. The second actuator 122 may be arranged diagonally opposite to the first actuator 121 relative to a reference line parallel to the Z-axis direction.

[0095] refer to Figures 3 to 6The structure described for the first actuator 121 can also be applied to the second actuator 122. In other words, the second actuator 122 may include a second piezoelectric element 122a, a second rod 122b, and a second fixing member 122c. The second actuator 122 may be a piezoelectric actuator. When a voltage is applied, the second piezoelectric element 122a may contract or expand in the Z-axis direction. The second piezoelectric element 122a may be piezoelectric ceramic. The second rod 122b may be coupled to the second piezoelectric element 122a. The second rod 122b may extend in the Z-axis direction. The second rod 122b may move in the Z-axis direction according to the contraction or expansion of the second piezoelectric element 122a. This movement of the second rod 122b transmits a driving force to the third movable unit 113, enabling it to move in the Z-axis direction between the third movable unit 113 and the second lens barrel 1220.

[0096] As an example, the third movable unit 113 can be connected to a rod-shaped second rod 122b extending in the Z-axis direction. A second piezoelectric element 122a, with the second rod 122b disposed at one end, can be fixed to the housing 1010 by a second fixing member 122c. One end of the second rod 122b can be connected to the second piezoelectric element 122a, and the other end can be connected to the third movable unit 113. The second piezoelectric element 122a can generate a force that pushes or pulls the second rod 122b in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, the third movable unit 113 connected to the second rod 122b and the second lens barrel 1220 fixed to the third movable unit 113 can move in the Z-axis direction.

[0097] The yoke 140 can be arranged to face the first magnet 131 in the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 can be arranged on one side of the first movable unit 111 in the Y-axis direction. The first magnet 131 can be arranged between the first movable unit 111 and the yoke 140 along the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 can be arranged to face the first magnet 131 in the Y-axis direction.

[0098] The yoke 140 can be arranged to face the second magnet 132 in the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 can be arranged on one side of the second movable unit 112 in the Y-axis direction. The second magnet 132 can be arranged between the second movable unit 112 and the yoke 140 along the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 can be arranged to face the second magnet 132 in the Y-axis direction.

[0099] The yoke 140 can be arranged to face the third magnet 133 in the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 can be arranged on one side of the third movable unit 113 in the Y-axis direction. The third magnet 133 can be arranged between the third movable unit 113 and the yoke 140 along the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 can be arranged to face the third magnet 133 in the Y-axis direction.

[0100] The yoke 140 can be arranged to face the fourth magnet 134 in the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 can be arranged on one side of the fourth movable unit 114 in the Y-axis direction. The fourth magnet 134 can be arranged between the fourth movable unit 114 and the yoke 140 along the Y-axis direction. The yoke 140 can be arranged to face the fourth magnet 134 in the Y-axis direction.

[0101] The yoke 140 may extend in the Z-axis direction. The yoke 140 may extend in the Z-axis direction to include a portion that overlaps with at least one of the first magnet 131, the second magnet 132, the third magnet 133, and the fourth magnet 134 in the Y-axis direction.

[0102] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the diagram, the yoke 140 is shown as an extended plate-like shape to overlap with the first movable unit 111, the second movable unit 112, the third movable unit 113, and the fourth movable unit 114 in the Y-axis direction, but is not limited thereto, and any shape of the yoke 140 extending in the Z-axis direction and arranged to face each of the first movable unit 111, the second movable unit 112, the third movable unit 113, and the fourth movable unit 114 is possible. For example, multiple yokes can be arranged to face each of the first movable unit 111, the second movable unit 112, the third movable unit 113, and the fourth movable unit 114 respectively.

[0103] The yoke 140 can be located between the first movable unit 111 and the bottom surface of the housing 1010. The first movable unit 111 can be pressed in the direction (Y-axis direction) toward the bottom surface of the housing 1010 by the magnetic force acting between the yoke 140 and the first magnet 131. Therefore, the first movable unit 111 can remain in contact with the first actuator 121. The first movable unit 111 can be configured to slide on the upper part of the first rod 121b and roll on the upper part of the first rolling member 151.

[0104] A first magnet 131 can be arranged along the Y-axis between the first movable unit 111 and the housing 1010. A second magnet 132 can be arranged along the Y-axis between the second movable unit 112 and the housing 1010. A second magnet 132 can be arranged along the Y-axis between the second movable unit 112 and the yoke 140.

[0105] The yoke 140 can be located between the third movable unit 113 and the bottom surface of the housing 1010. The third movable unit 113 can be pressed in the direction (Y-axis direction) toward the bottom surface of the housing 1010 by the magnetic force acting between the yoke 140 and the third magnet 133. Therefore, the third movable unit 113 can remain in contact with the second actuator 122. The third movable unit 113 can be configured to slide on the upper part of the second rod 122b and roll on the upper part of the second rolling member 152.

[0106] The third magnet 133 can be arranged along the Y-axis between the third movable unit 113 and the housing 1010. The third magnet 133 can also be arranged along the Y-axis between the third movable unit 113 and the yoke 140. The fourth magnet 134 can be arranged along the Y-axis between the fourth movable unit 114 and the housing 1010. The fourth magnet 134 can also be arranged along the Y-axis between the fourth movable unit 114 and the yoke 140.

[0107] refer to Figure 4 The housing 1010 may include a first guide groove 1010a, in which a first rod 121b is disposed on one side of the first driver 121 in the Y-axis direction. The first rod 121b may be disposed in the first guide groove 1010a and between the first movable unit 111 and the housing 1010. The first guide groove 1010a may extend in the Z-axis direction. The first guide groove 1010a may have various cross-sectional shapes such as circular, V-shaped, or polygonal.

[0108] At least one first rolling member 151 may be disposed on one side of the second movable unit 112 in the Y-axis direction. The first rolling member 151 may be disposed in a second guide groove 1010b extending in the optical axis direction on the bottom surface of the housing 1010. The housing 1010 may have the second guide groove 1010b, in which the first rolling member 151 is disposed, such that the second movable unit 112 can be driven in the Z-axis direction. The first rolling member 151 may be accommodated in the second guide groove 1010b and disposed between the second movable unit 112 and the housing 1010. The second guide groove 1010b may extend in the Z-axis direction. The second guide groove 1010b may have various cross-sectional shapes such as circular, V-shaped, or polygonal.

[0109] The second rod 122b, with its third guide groove 1010c disposed therein, can be located on one side of the second actuator 122 in the Y-axis direction. The second rod 122b can be housed in the third guide groove 1010c and disposed between the third movable unit 113 and the housing 1010. The third guide groove 1010c can extend in the Z-axis direction. The third guide groove 1010c can have various cross-sectional shapes such as circular, V-shaped, or polygonal. The third guide groove 1010c can be diagonally positioned relative to a reference line parallel to the Z-axis direction and opposite to the first guide groove 1010a.

[0110] The second rolling member 152 can be arranged on one side of the fourth movable unit 114 in the Y-axis direction. The second rolling member 152 can be arranged in a fourth guide groove 1010d extending in the optical axis direction on the bottom surface of the housing 1010. The housing 1010 can have the fourth guide groove 1010d, in which the second rolling member 152 is arranged, such that the fourth movable unit 114 can be driven in the Z-axis direction. The second rolling member 152 can be accommodated in the fourth guide groove 1010d and arranged between the fourth movable unit 114 and the housing 1010. The fourth guide groove 1010d can extend in the Z-axis direction. The fourth guide groove 1010d can have various cross-sectional shapes such as circular, V-shaped, or polygonal.

[0111] refer to Figure 7 The first magnet 131 and the second magnet 132 can be arranged along the X-axis between the first rod 121b and the first rolling member 151. (Reference) Figure 8 The third magnet 133 and the fourth magnet 134 can be arranged along the X-axis between the second rod 122b and the second rolling member 152.

[0112] According to the camera module based on the above embodiment, the attractive force between the magnet and the yoke is used to maintain the contact force between the actuator and the movable unit. Therefore, a miniaturized camera actuator structure can be provided that is strongly resistant to physical impacts, easily recovers even after deformation due to external impacts, and is unaffected by external magnetic fields, which is beneficial for maintaining quality. Furthermore, according to the camera module based on the above embodiment, the size of the magnet arranged on one surface of the movable unit connected to the actuator is formed to be larger than the size of the magnet arranged on one surface of the movable unit facing the preceding magnet in the X-axis direction. Therefore, even when the rolling member is set to a single value, the desired driving force can be effectively provided, thereby minimizing the number of components in the camera actuator. In addition, the magnet is arranged between the rod and the rolling member to prevent tilting due to uneven magnetic force, and multiple actuators are arranged diagonally for smoother movement of the movable unit.

[0113] Below, we will refer to Figure 9 Describes a camera module according to another embodiment.

[0114] Figure 9 This is a plan view of a camera actuator according to another embodiment.

[0115] Figure 9 This is a plan view of a camera actuator according to another embodiment. Specific descriptions of the same components will be omitted, except for the size of the magnet and the number of rolling members. Figure 9 The camera actuator 100 can be with Figure 6 The camera actuator is similar to 100.

[0116] refer to Figure 9 , and according to Figures 3 to 8 Compared to the camera module 1000 of the embodiment shown, the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment may include a plurality of first rolling members 151 and a plurality of second rolling members 152, and the sizes of the first magnet 131, the second magnet 132, the third magnet 133, and the fourth magnet 134 may be constant. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. As in the camera module 1000 according to the above embodiment, the sizes of the first magnet 131, the second magnet 132, the third magnet 133, and the fourth magnet 134 may be changed in various ways, including the case where the size of the first magnet 131 is larger than the size of the second magnet 132 and the case where the size of the third magnet 133 is larger than the size of the fourth magnet 134.

[0117] According to another embodiment of the camera module described above, manufacturing costs can be reduced by using multiple magnets of constant size, and constraint force can be increased by using multiple rolling members. Furthermore, drive stability can be improved by applying a three-point support structure combining the actuator rod and multiple rolling members.

[0118] Below, we will refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 Describes a camera module according to another embodiment.

[0119] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a movable unit and a driver according to yet another embodiment, and Figure 11 It is a perspective view of a movable unit and driver based on a variant of a camera module according to yet another embodiment.

[0120] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The camera module 1000 according to the embodiment and the reference Figures 3 to 8 The camera module 1000 described in the embodiment is similar. Specific descriptions of identical components will be omitted, except for the shape of the friction portion 170 and the peripheral portion. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The camera actuator 100 can be with Figures 3 to 8 The camera actuator is similar to 100.

[0121] In addition, the following will refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The first movable unit 111 and the first driver 121 are described, but this example and the following description can also be applied to the third movable unit 113 and the second driver 122.

[0122] refer to Figure 10 , and according to Figures 3 to 8 Compared to the camera module 1000 of the illustrated embodiment, in the camera module 1000 according to the embodiment, the first actuator 121 may further include a friction portion 170 disposed on a surface of the first movable unit 111 facing the first rod 121b. The friction portion 170 may be configured to have a higher wear resistance than the first movable unit 111. As an example, the friction portion 170 may be formed of metal. Similarly, although not shown, the friction portion 170 may be disposed on a surface of the third movable unit 113 facing the second rod 122b.

[0123] refer to Figure 11 In the modified camera module 1000, the friction portion 170 can be at least partially embedded in a surface of the first movable unit 111 facing the first rod 121b. The friction portion 170 can be formed together with the first movable unit 111 using an insert molding process. Similarly, although not shown, the friction portion 170 can be at least partially embedded in a surface of the third movable unit 113 facing the second rod 122b.

[0124] According to another embodiment of the camera module described above, wear on a surface of the movable unit that contacts the driver can be prevented, thereby improving the durability of the camera actuator.

[0125] In one or more embodiments of the camera module and camera actuator, the force between a piezoelectric element and a magnetic yoke is used to maintain the contact state between the drive body and the movable body. Therefore, a miniaturized camera structure can be provided that is highly resistant to physical shocks, easily recovers even after deformation due to external impacts, and is unaffected by external magnetic fields, which helps maintain quality.

[0126] While specific examples have been shown and described above, it will be apparent upon understanding this disclosure that various changes in form and detail may be made to these examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims and their equivalents. The examples described herein are to be understood in a descriptive sense only and not for limiting purposes. The description of features or aspects in each example should be considered applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. Suitable results may still be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order, and / or if components in the described system, architecture, device, or circuit are combined in different ways and / or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is not limited by the specific embodiments but by the claims and their equivalents, and all variations within the scope of the claims and their equivalents should be understood to be included in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A camera module, characterized in that, The camera module includes: The shell has an internal space; A lens module, housed within the internal space of the housing and including a first lens barrel; and A camera actuator, connected to the first lens barrel and configured to provide driving force, the camera actuator comprising: The first movable unit is configured to move the first lens barrel in a first direction; A first actuator, including a first piezoelectric element, is connected to the first movable unit and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; and A magnet and a yoke are disposed between the first movable unit and the housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The magnet is disposed on one surface of the first movable unit facing the housing, and The magnetic yoke is configured to face the magnet in the second direction.

3. The camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The yoke extends in the first direction to include a portion that overlaps with the magnet in the second direction.

4. The camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The camera actuator also includes: The second movable unit is configured to face the first movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, and the first lens barrel is inserted between the second movable unit and the first movable unit; and At least one first rolling member is disposed on one side of the second movable unit, and The second movable unit is configured to move the first lens barrel in the first direction using the driving force of the first driver.

5. The camera module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The magnet includes: A first magnet is disposed on one surface of the first movable unit; and A second magnet is disposed on one surface of the second movable unit, and The size of the first magnet is larger than the size of the second magnet.

6. The camera module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first rolling member is a single ball member.

7. The camera module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first driver also includes: A rod, configured to connect one end to the first piezoelectric element and the other end to the first movable unit, and The first magnet and the second magnet are disposed between the rod and the first rolling member along the third direction.

8. The camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first driver also includes: A rod, configured such that one end is connected to the first piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit; and The friction component is configured to have a higher wear resistance than the first movable unit and is disposed on a surface of the first movable unit facing the rod.

9. The camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lens module also includes: A second lens barrel is disposed on one side of the first lens barrel in the first direction and configured to be movable relative to the housing; and The third lens barrel is disposed on the other side of the first lens barrel in the first direction and fixed to the housing.

10. The camera module according to claim 9, characterized in that, The camera actuator also includes: A third movable unit is disposed on one side of the second lens barrel and configured to move the second lens barrel in the first direction; A fourth movable unit is configured to face the third movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, and the second lens barrel is inserted between the fourth movable unit and the third movable unit; and The second actuator, including a second piezoelectric element, is connected to the third movable unit and configured to provide driving force to the third movable unit.

11. The camera module according to claim 10, characterized in that, The camera module also includes at least one second rolling member disposed on one side of the fourth movable unit.

12. The camera module according to claim 11, characterized in that, The second driver is positioned diagonally opposite the first driver relative to a reference line parallel to the first direction.

13. The camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The camera module further includes a reflection module, which is disposed in front of the first lens barrel in the first direction and configured to change the path of the incident light.

14. A camera actuator, characterized in that, The camera actuator includes: The first movable unit is configured to move along a first direction; An actuator, including a piezoelectric element, is connected to the first movable unit and configured to provide a driving force to the first movable unit; A magnetic yoke is disposed on one side of the first movable unit in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and A magnet is disposed between the first movable unit and the magnetic yoke in the second direction.

15. The camera actuator according to claim 14, characterized in that, The yoke is configured to face the magnet in the second direction.

16. The camera actuator according to claim 14, characterized in that, The yoke extends in the first direction to include a portion that overlaps with the magnet in the second direction.

17. The camera actuator according to claim 14, characterized in that, The driver is disposed on one side of the first movable unit in the second direction, and The camera actuator further includes: The second movable unit is configured to face the first movable unit in a third direction perpendicular to both the first and second directions; and At least one rolling member is disposed on one side of the second movable unit.

18. The camera actuator according to claim 17, characterized in that, The magnet includes: A first magnet is disposed on one surface of the first movable unit; and A second magnet is disposed on one surface of the second movable unit, and The size of the first magnet is larger than the size of the second magnet.

19. The camera actuator according to claim 18, characterized in that, The actuator also includes a lever configured such that one end is connected to the piezoelectric element and the other end is connected to the first movable unit. The first magnet and the second magnet are disposed between the rod and the at least one rolling member along the third direction.

20. The camera actuator according to claim 19, characterized in that, The actuator further includes a friction portion configured to have higher wear resistance than the first movable unit and disposed on a surface of the first movable unit facing the rod.

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