Camera module

Abstract

A camera module is provided. The camera module includes: a housing; a lens module movably disposed within the housing; and a housing surrounding at least a portion of the housing, in which an opening through which light passes is provided in the housing, and an inner surface of the opening protrudes toward a center of the opening.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0078440, filed on June 17, 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 description pertains to the camera module. Background Technology

[0004] Camera modules can be installed in portable electronic devices, including but not limited to smartphones. Portable electronic devices typically require reduced thickness. Therefore, it is generally desirable for camera modules to also be miniaturized.

[0005] In addition to the need for miniaturization of camera modules, there is also a need to improve the performance of camera modules. As a result, features such as autofocus (AF) adjustment and optical image stabilization (OIS) are added to camera modules, which limits the reduction in the size of camera modules.

[0006] In other words, while miniaturization of the camera module is necessary, it may be difficult to reduce the size of the camera module, thus limiting the reduction of the thickness of portable electronic devices.

[0007] To address these issues, a camera module is proposed that has multiple lenses positioned along the length or width direction of the portable electronic device, rather than the thickness direction, as well as a reflective element that alters the path of incident light.

[0008] Camera modules can have structures that differ from conventional camera modules, such as having a longer total trajectory length (TTL) and reflective elements, and therefore may have reduced image quality due to flare phenomena that do not occur in conventional camera modules. 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 general, the camera module includes: a housing; a lens module movably disposed within the housing; and an outer casing surrounding at least a portion of the housing, wherein an opening through which light passes is disposed within the outer casing, and wherein the inner surface of the opening protrudes toward the center of the opening.

[0011] The opening can include a first inner surface and a second inner surface, wherein the first inner surface and the second inner surface can be disposed to face each other along a first axis passing through a center of the opening and parallel to an optical axis, and wherein the first inner surface and the second inner surface can each include a surface convex toward the center of the opening.

[0012] The first inner surface and the second inner surface can be symmetrical with respect to a second axis orthogonal to the first axis.

[0013] A first width of the opening with respect to the first axis can be narrower than a second width of the opening with respect to the second axis.

[0014] The first inner surface can include a first-first inner surface convex toward the second axis and a first-second inner surface concave from the second axis, and the first-first inner surface and the first-second inner surface can be connected.

[0015] The first-second inner surface can be disposed in plurality, and the plurality of first-second inner surfaces can be respectively disposed on both sides of the first-first inner surface.

[0016] A radius of curvature of the first-first inner surface can be different from a radius of curvature of the first-second inner surface.

[0017] The opening can further include a third inner surface connecting the first inner surface and the second inner surface, and a fourth inner surface connecting the first inner surface and the second inner surface, and the fourth inner surface is disposed to face the third inner surface in a direction of the second axis orthogonal to the first axis, wherein the third inner surface and the fourth inner surface each include a curved surface.

[0018] The third inner surface and the fourth inner surface can each be concave from a direction of the first axis.

[0019] The third inner surface and the fourth inner surface can be symmetrical with respect to the first axis.

[0020] A radius of curvature of the first inner surface is different from a radius of curvature of the third inner surface.

[0021] The first inner surface can include a first-first inner surface convex toward the second axis and a first-second inner surface concave from the second axis, wherein the first-first inner surface and the first-second inner surface are connected, and wherein a radius of curvature of the first-first inner surface, a radius of curvature of the first-second inner surface, and a radius of curvature of the third inner surface are different from each other.

[0022] In a general aspect, a camera module includes a housing, a lens module movably disposed within the housing, a casing surrounding at least a portion of the housing, wherein an opening through which light passes is disposed in the casing, and wherein the opening includes an inner surface convex toward a first axis parallel to an optical axis.

[0023] The opening can include a first inner surface, a second inner surface disposed to face the first inner surface along the first axis, a third inner surface connecting the first inner surface and the second inner surface, and a fourth inner surface disposed to face the third inner surface, wherein the third inner surface and the fourth inner surface can each include a surface convex toward the first axis.

[0024] The third inner surface can include a third-first inner surface convex toward the first axis and a third-second inner surface concave from the first axis, and the third-first inner surface and the third-second inner surface can be connected.

[0025] A radius of curvature of the third-first inner surface can be different from a radius of curvature of the third-second inner surface.

[0026] Other features and aspects will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary portable electronic device having a camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0028] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0029] Figure 3 A schematic exploded perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0030] Figure 4 A plan view of a lens disposed in an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0031] Figure 5A 、 Figure 5B and Figure 5C Various embodiments of a first spacer ring according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0032] Figure 6 A schematic exploded perspective view of a reflection module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0033] Figure 7 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 Various embodiments of an opening of a housing according to one or more embodiments are shown.

[0034] 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 descriptions of the elements in the drawings can be exaggerated for clarity, illustration, and convenience. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following detailed description is presented to aid the reader in gaining a thorough understanding of the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein. However, various changes, modifications, and / or equivalents of the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein could become apparent to those skilled in the art after understanding the present disclosure. For example, the order in which the operations are described and / or the order in which the operations are described in this document can be changed. Other examples of changes, modifications, and / or equivalents will become apparent to those skilled in the art after understanding the present disclosure. As another example, at least a portion of the operations described can be performed in parallel, or in a different order than described. Additionally, features described as being part of one aspect or example can be part of another aspect or example. Furthermore, to the extent that these provisions can not be necessary or that their inclusion can hinder the reader's understanding of the disclosure, then their inclusion can be omitted.

[0036] Although expressions such as "first," "second," and "third," or A, B, (a), (b), etc., can be used in this document to describe various components, elements, regions, layers or parts, the components, elements, regions, layers or parts are not limited by these expressions. Each of these expressions is not used to define importance, sequence or order of, for example, the corresponding components, elements, regions, layers or parts, but is used only to distinguish the corresponding components, elements, regions, layers or parts from other components, elements, regions, layers or parts. Therefore, the first component, the first element, the first region, the first layer or the first part mentioned in these examples can also be called the second component, the second element, the second region, the second layer or the second part without departing from the teachings of the examples described herein.

[0037] Throughout this specification, where a component, element, or layer is described as being "on", "connected to", "coupled to", or "joined to" another component, element, or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, directly coupled to, or directly joined to the other component, element, or layer (e.g., in contact with the other component, element, or layer), or there can be one or more other components, elements, or layers intervening. Where a component, element, or layer is described as being "directly on", "directly connected to", "directly coupled to", or "directly joined to" another component, element, or layer, then there are no intervening components, elements, or layers present. Likewise, the expressions, for example, "between" and "directly between" as well as "adjacent" and "directly adjacent" can also be interpreted in the same way as just described.

[0038] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various examples only and is not intended to be limiting of the 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. By the term "comprising" or "containing" or "including" or "having" or "characterized by" is meant "including, but not limited to", and is intended to cover the terms "consisting essentially of" or "consisting of" or "consisting of and their grammatical variants. As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the expression "and / or" includes any one as well as any combination of any two or more of the associated listed items. The phrases "at least one of A, B, and C", and the like, are intended to mean one or more of A, B, and C, for example, any combination of one or more of A, B, and C (e.g., A alone, B alone, C alone, two of A, B, and C, for example, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together, etc.). As used herein, the term "exemplary" means "an example of" and is not intended to indicate that a described implementation is preferred or superior to other implementations.

[0039] As used herein, the expression "and / or" includes any one as well as any combination of any two or more of the associated listed items. The phrases "at least one of A, B, and C", and the like, are intended to mean one or more of A, B, and C, for example, any combination of one or more of A, B, and C (e.g., A alone, B alone, C alone, two of A, B, and C, for example, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together, etc.). As used herein, the term "exemplary" means "an example of" and is not intended to indicate that a described implementation is preferred or superior to other implementations.

[0040] The features described herein can be embodied in various forms, and should not be construed as being limited to the examples described herein. Rather, these examples are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein to others skilled in the art. Throughout, relative terms such as "can," "might," and "could," when used in relation to examples or embodiments, mean that at least one example or embodiment includes or performs the feature, but that not all examples or embodiments are so limited. The terms "example" and "embodiment" are used synonymously herein (e.g., the phrase "in one example" has the same meaning as "in one embodiment," and "in one or more examples" has the same meaning as "in one or more embodiments").

[0041] One or more examples can provide a camera module that prevents flare phenomenon.

[0042] Figure 1 A perspective view of an example portable electronic device having a camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0043] Referring to Figure 1 , a camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments can be mounted in a portable electronic device 1. The portable electronic device 1 can be, for example only, a portable electronic device such as a mobile communication terminal, a smart phone, a tablet personal computer (PC), or the like.

[0044] As shown in Figure 1 , the portable electronic device 1 has the camera module 1000 to capture an image of an object.

[0045] In one or more examples, the camera module 1000 includes a plurality of lenses. Optical axes (Z-axes) of the plurality of lenses can face a direction perpendicular to a thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the portable electronic device 1 from a front surface to a rear surface, or a direction perpendicular to a direction of the portable electronic device 1 from the rear surface to the front surface.

[0046] In an example, the optical axes (Z-axes) of the plurality of lenses disposed in the camera module 1000 can be formed in a width direction or a length direction of the portable electronic device 1.

[0047] Accordingly, even if the camera module 1000 has functions such as automatic focus adjustment (AF), optical zoom (hereinafter, zoom), and optical image stabilization (hereinafter, OIS), an increase in thickness of the portable electronic device 1 can be prevented. Accordingly, the portable electronic device 1 can be made thinner.

[0048] The camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments can have at least one of an AF function, a zoom function, and an OIS function.

[0049] The camera module 1000 having the AF function, the zoom function, the OIS function, etc. should have various components, and thus the size of the camera module 1000 is increased compared to a typical camera module.

[0050] As the size of the camera module 1000 is increased, it can be difficult to reduce the thickness of the portable electronic device 1 in which the camera module 1000 is installed.

[0051] For example, the camera module includes a plurality of lens groups to perform a zoom operation, and when the plurality of lens groups are disposed in the thickness direction of the portable electronic device, the thickness of the portable electronic device is also increased according to the number of lens groups. Thus, if the thickness of the portable electronic device is not increased, the number of lens groups can not be sufficiently secured, thereby deteriorating the zoom performance.

[0052] In addition, in order to implement the AF function, the zoom function, and the OIS function, an actuator that moves the plurality of lens groups in the optical axis direction or in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis should be installed, and thus when the optical axis (Z-axis) of the lens groups is formed in the thickness direction of the portable electronic device, the actuator that moves the lens groups should also be installed in the thickness direction of the portable electronic device. Thus, the thickness of the portable electronic device is increased.

[0053] However, since the camera module 1000 according to one or more embodiments is disposed such that the optical axes (Z-axes) of the plurality of lenses are perpendicular to the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the portable electronic device 1, the portable electronic device 1 can be made thinner even though the camera module 1000 having the AF function, the zoom function, and the OIS function is installed.

[0054] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown, and Figure 3 A schematic exploded perspective view of an exemplary camera module according to one or more embodiments is shown.

[0055] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the camera module 1000 includes a housing 100, a reflection module 300, a lens module 400, an image sensor module 500, and a case 200.

[0056] The reflection module 300, the lens module 400, and the image sensor module 500 are disposed from one side (e.g., an object side) to the other side (e.g., an image side) inside the housing 100. The housing 100 has an internal space to accommodate the reflection module 300, the lens module 400, and the image sensor module 500. However, in an example, the image sensor module 500 can be attached to the outside of the housing 100.

[0057] Figure 3 An example in which the reflection module 300, the lens module 400, and the image sensor module 500 are disposed inside the housing 100 is illustrated. However, unlike the embodiment of Figure 3 In an example, the reflection module 300 can be disposed outside the housing 100, and in this example, one side of the housing 100 can be open to allow light transmitted from the reflection module 300 to pass through. In addition, in an example, the reflection module 300 disposed outside the housing 100 can be accommodated in a separate housing.

[0058] In an example, the housing 100 can have a box shape with an open upper portion.

[0059] The housing 200 can be coupled to the housing 100 to cover an upper portion of the housing 100. The housing 200 has an opening 210 to allow light to be incident into the housing 200. Light incident through the opening 210 of the housing 200 has a travel direction changed by the reflection module 300 and is incident into the lens module 400.

[0060] The reflection module 300 is configured to change the travel direction of light. For example, the travel direction of light incident inside the housing 100 can be changed to face the lens module 400 by the reflection module 300.

[0061] The reflection module 300 includes a reflection member 310 and a bracket 330 in which the reflection member 310 is disposed.

[0062] The reflection member 310 is configured to change the travel direction of light. For example, the reflection member 310 can be a mirror or a prism that reflects light.

[0063] The lens module 400 includes a plurality of lenses through which light having a travel direction changed by the reflection member 310 passes and a lens barrel 410 that accommodates the plurality of lenses.

[0064] For ease of explanation, Figure 3A first lens L1 disposed closest to an object side among a plurality of lenses, a spacer S1 disposed closest to the object side among a plurality of spacers and disposed on an image side of the first lens L1 (hereinafter referred to as a first spacer), and a second lens L2 disposed on an image side of the first spacer S1 are shown. That is, the plurality of lenses can include lenses other than the first lens L1 and the second lens L2, and the plurality of spacers can include spacers other than the first spacer S1.

[0065] The image sensor module 500 includes a sensor housing 510, an infrared cut filter 530, an image sensor 550, and a printed circuit board 570.

[0066] The infrared cut filter 530 can be mounted in the sensor housing 510. The infrared cut filter 530 can cut light in an infrared range from among light that has passed through the lens module 400.

[0067] The printed circuit board 570 can be coupled to the sensor housing 510, and the image sensor 550 can be mounted in or on the printed circuit board 570.

[0068] Light that has passed through the lens module 400 is received by the image sensor module 500 (e.g., the image sensor 550).

[0069] At least one lens among the plurality of lenses can have a non-circular planar shape. For example, the first lens L1 can be non-circular when viewed in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). In an example, all of the plurality of lenses can have a non-circular planar shape.

[0070] Reference Figure 4 In a plane perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), the first lens L1 has a length in a first direction (X-axis direction) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) that is shorter than a length of the first lens L1 in a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0071] In an example, the first lens L1 has a major axis a and a minor axis b. A line segment that passes through the optical axis (Z-axis) in the first direction (X-axis direction) and connects two side surfaces of the first lens L1 is the minor axis b, and a line segment that passes through the optical axis (Z-axis) in the second direction (Y-axis direction) and connects two side surfaces of the first lens L1 is the major axis a. The major axis a and the minor axis b are perpendicular to each other, and the length of the major axis a is longer than the length of the minor axis b.

[0072] The first lens L1 includes an optical unit 10 and a flange unit 30.

[0073] The optical unit 10 can be a portion in which optical performance of the first lens L1 is shown. For example, light reflected from an object can pass through the optical unit 10 and be refracted.

[0074] The optical unit 10 can have a refractive power and an aspherical shape.

[0075] The flange unit 30 can be configured to fix the first lens L1 to another configuration, for example, a lens barrel 410 or another lens.

[0076] The flange unit 30 can extend from the optical unit 10, and can be integrally formed with the optical unit 10.

[0077] The optical unit 10 can be formed in a non-circular shape. For example, the optical unit 10 can be non-circular when viewed in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). Referring to FIG. 1, the optical unit 10 can be formed in a non-circular shape. Figure 4 In a plane perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis), the optical unit 10 has a length in a first direction (X-axis direction) perpendicular to the optical axis (Z-axis) that is shorter than a length in a second direction (Y-axis direction) perpendicular to both the optical axis (Z-axis) and the first direction (X-axis direction).

[0078] The optical unit 10 includes a first edge 11, a second edge 12, a third edge 13, and a fourth edge 14.

[0079] The respective first edge 11 and second edge 12 have an arc shape when viewed from the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0080] The second edge 12 is disposed on the opposite side of the first edge 11. Also, the first edge 11 and the second edge 12 are disposed to face each other based on the optical axis (Z-axis).

[0081] The fourth edge 14 is disposed on the opposite side of the third edge 13. Also, the third edge 13 and the fourth edge 14 are disposed to face each other with respect to the optical axis (Z-axis).

[0082] The third edge 13 and the fourth edge 14 connect the first edge 11 and the second edge 12, respectively. The third edge 13 and the fourth edge 14 are symmetrical with respect to the optical axis (Z-axis), and can be formed to be parallel to each other.

[0083] The first edge 11 and the second edge 12 have an arc shape, and the third edge 13 and the fourth edge 14 have a substantially straight shape when viewed from the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction).

[0084] The optical unit 10 has a major axis a and a minor axis b. A line segment connecting the third edge 13 and the fourth edge 14 while passing through the optical axis (Z-axis) at the shortest distance is the minor axis b, and a line segment connecting the first edge 11 and the second edge 12 while passing through the optical axis (Z-axis) and perpendicular to the minor axis b is the major axis a. The length of the major axis a is longer than the length of the minor axis b.

[0085] The flange unit 30 extends in the second direction (Y-axis direction) along a portion of the periphery of the optical unit 10. At least a portion of the flange unit 30 contacts the inner surface of the lens barrel 410.

[0086] The flange unit 30 includes a first flange unit 31 and a second flange unit 32. The first flange unit 31 extends from the first edge 11 of the optical unit 10, and the second flange unit 32 extends from the second edge 12 of the optical unit 10.

[0087] The first edge 11 of the optical unit 10 can refer to a portion adjacent to the first flange unit 31, and the second edge 12 of the optical unit 10 can refer to a portion adjacent to the second flange unit 32.

[0088] The third edge 13 of the optical unit 10 can refer to one side surface of the optical unit 10 that does not form the flange unit 30, and the fourth edge 14 of the optical unit 10 can refer to the other side surface of the optical unit 10 that does not form the flange unit 30.

[0089] In an example, referring to Figure 3 , the first lens L1 is disposed such that one of its side surfaces facing the first direction (X-axis direction) faces the bottom surface 110 of the housing 100, and its side surface facing the second direction (Y-axis direction) faces the inner surface of the housing 100. That is, the first lens L1 is disposed such that its side surface facing the first direction (X-axis direction) faces the thickness direction (X-axis direction) of the housing 100, and the side surface facing the second direction (Y-axis direction) faces the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the housing 100.

[0090] Since the first lens L1 is formed such that the length in the first direction (X-axis direction) is shorter than the length in the second direction (Y-axis direction), the thickness of the housing 100 can be reduced.

[0091] Referring to Figure 3 , the first spacer S1 can be disposed behind the first lens L1. A lens can be disposed in front of the first spacer S1, and in an example, another lens can be additionally disposed in front of the first spacer S1 in addition to the first lens L1. That is, since the first spacer S1 is disposed behind the first lens L1, light passing through the first lens L1 can pass through the first spacer S1.

[0092] Figures 5A to 5C Various embodiments of the first spacer according to one or more embodiments are illustrated.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 5, the first spacer S1 has a major axis a and a minor axis b. The plane of the first spacer S1 can have a shape similar to that of an oak barrel.

[0094] The first spacer S1 can have a ring shape in which the center thereof is penetrated. That is, the first spacer S1 can include a hole 41. Light passing through the first lens L1 can pass through the hole 41 of the first spacer S1.

[0095] The inner surface 42 of the first spacer S1 can include a curved surface. The inner surface 42 of the first spacer S1 can be formed as a curved surface having a convex surface and a concave surface repeatedly. By implementing the inner surface 42 of the first spacer S1 as including a curved surface, a flare phenomenon can be prevented from occurring due to reflection from the inner surface 42 of the first spacer S1.

[0096] Figure 6 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a reflection module according to one or more embodiments.

[0097] Referring to Figure 6 The reflection module 300 includes a reflection member 310 and a bracket 330 in which the reflection member 310 is disposed.

[0098] The reflection member 310 is configured to change a traveling direction of light. In one or more examples, the reflection member 310 can be a prism, but can also be implemented as a mirror.

[0099] The reflection member 310 can be in the form of a rectangular solid or a cube that is diagonally divided into two halves, and includes an incident surface 311, a reflection surface 312, and an exit surface 313. The reflection member 310 includes three rectangular surfaces and two triangular surfaces. For example, the incident surface 311, the reflection surface 312, and the exit surface 313 of the reflection member 310 can each be rectangular, and two side surfaces 314 and 315 of the reflection member 310 can each be substantially triangular.

[0100] An angle at which the incident surface 311 and the exit surface 313 are connected is sharp, and thus the angle can be damaged due to impact. When the angle at which the incident surface 311 and the exit surface 313 are connected is damaged due to impact, a flare phenomenon can occur due to unintended reflection of light.

[0101] Accordingly, in order to prevent the reflection member 310 from being damaged due to impact or the like, a chamfer portion 316 can be provided at the angle at which the incident surface 311 and the exit surface 313 of the reflection member 310 are connected.

[0102] For example, the chamfer portion 316 is formed to have a predetermined angle with respect to the incident surface 311 and the exit surface 313. The angle between the chamfer portion 316 and the incident surface 311 and the angle between the chamfer portion 316 and the exit surface 313 can be obtuse.

[0103] The chamfered portion 316 can have a light shielding layer. For example, the light shielding layer can be formed by attaching a light shielding film to the chamfered portion 316 or by coating the chamfered portion 316 with a light shielding paint.

[0104] The bracket 330 has a first side portion 331 and a second side portion 332 surrounding two side surfaces of the reflection member 310. The first side portion 331 is disposed to surround one side surface 314 of the reflection member 310, and the second side portion 332 is disposed to surround the other side surface 315 of the reflection member 310.

[0105] In addition, the bracket 330 has a mounting surface 333 on which the reflection member 310 is mounted. The mounting surface 333 is disposed between the first side portion 331 and the second side portion 332, and the mounting surface 333 can be configured as an inclined surface. For example, the mounting surface 333 can be an inclined surface inclined by 45° with respect to the optical axis (Z-axis) of the plurality of lenses. The reflection surface 312 of the reflection member 310 is coupled to the mounting surface 333 of the bracket 330.

[0106] Figures 7 to 10 Various embodiments of an opening of a housing of one or more embodiments are illustrated.

[0107] Referring to Figures 7 to 10 , the housing 200 has an opening 210 into which light is incident.

[0108] The opening 210 can have a shape substantially corresponding to the incident surface 311 of the reflection member 310. For example, the opening 210 can be substantially similar to a rectangular shape. Accordingly, a width of one side of the opening 210 can be narrower or wider than a width of the other side thereof.

[0109] The opening 210 can include a first width and a second width. The first width can be based on a first axis 2311 passing through the center C of the opening 210 and disposed in a direction parallel to the optical axis. The second width can be based on a second axis 2312 passing through the center C of the opening 210 and disposed in the Y-axis direction. The first width can be narrower than the second width. The first axis 2311 and the second axis 2312 can be orthogonal.

[0110] Based on Figure 7 the embodiment, the opening 210 can include a first inner surface 2211, a second inner surface 2212, a third inner surface 2213, and a fourth inner surface 2214. The first inner surface 2211 and the second inner surface 2212 can have a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the second axis 2312.

[0111] The first inner surface 2211 can be disposed to face the second inner surface 2212. The first inner surface 2211 and the second inner surface 2212 can be disposed to be spaced apart in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311, and the second axis 2312 is interposed between the first inner surface 2211 and the second inner surface 2212.

[0112] The first inner surface 2211 can include a curved surface. The first inner surface 2211 can be formed to be convex toward the center C of the opening 210. The first inner surface 2211 can be formed to be convex toward the second axis 2312.

[0113] The second inner surface 2212 can include a curved surface. The second inner surface 2212 can be formed to be convex toward the center C of the opening 210. The second inner surface 2212 can be formed to be convex toward the second axis 2312. The first inner surface 2211 and the second inner surface 2212 can have a structure symmetrical to each other with respect to the second axis 2312.

[0114] The third inner surface 2213 can connect the first inner surface 2211 and the second inner surface 2212. The fourth inner surface 2214 can be disposed to face the third inner surface 2213. The third inner surface 2213 and the fourth inner surface 2214 can be symmetrical with respect to the first axis 2311.

[0115] Based on an embodiment of Figure 8 The opening 210 can include a first inner surface 2221, a second inner surface 2222, a third inner surface 2223, and a fourth inner surface 2224. The first inner surface 2221 and the second inner surface 2222 can have a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the second axis 2312.

[0116] That is, the first inner surface 2221 can be disposed to face the second inner surface 2222. The first inner surface 2221 and the second inner surface 2222 can be disposed to be spaced apart in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311, and the second axis 2312 is interposed between the first inner surface 2221 and the second inner surface 2222.

[0117] The first inner surface 2221 can include a curved surface. The first inner surface 2221 can be formed to be convex toward the center C of the opening 210. The first inner surface 2221 can be formed to be convex toward the second axis 2312.

[0118] The second inner surface 2222 can include a curved surface. The second inner surface 2222 can be formed to be convex toward the center C of the opening 210. The second inner surface 2222 can be formed to be convex toward an optical axis passing through the opening 210. The second inner surface 2222 can be formed to be convex toward the second axis 2312. The first inner surface 2221 and the second inner surface 2222 can be symmetrical with respect to the second axis 2312.

[0119] The third inner surface 2223 can connect the first inner surface 2221 and the second inner surface 2222. The fourth inner surface 2224 can connect the first inner surface 2221 and the second inner surface 2222. The fourth inner surface 2224 can be disposed to face the third inner surface 2223. The third inner surface 2223 and the fourth inner surface 2224 have a symmetrical structure with respect to the first axis 2311.

[0120] The third inner surface 2223 can include a curved surface. The third inner surface 2223 can be formed to be concave with respect to the center C of the opening 210. The third inner surface 2223 can be away from the first axis 2311 toward the center in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311.

[0121] The fourth inner surface 2224 can include a curved surface. The fourth inner surface 2224 can be formed to be concave with respect to the center C of the opening 210. That is, the fourth inner surface 2224 can be away from the first axis 2311 toward the center in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311.

[0122] Since the first inner surface 2221 and the second inner surface 2222 have a symmetrical structure including a curved surface, a radius of curvature R21 of the first inner surface 2221 and a radius of curvature R22 of the second inner surface 2222 can be the same. Since the third inner surface 2223 and the fourth inner surface 2224 have a symmetrical structure including a curved surface, a radius of curvature R23 of the third inner surface 2223 and a radius of curvature R24 of the fourth inner surface 2224 can be the same.

[0123] The radius of curvature R21 of the first inner surface 2221 can be different from the radius of curvature R23 of the third inner surface 2223. Since the length of the first inner surface 2221 in the second axis 2312 direction is formed to be longer than the length of the third inner surface 2223 in the first axis 2311 direction, when the radius of curvature R21 of the first inner surface 2221 is equal to or smaller than the radius of curvature R23 of the third inner surface 2223, the first width of the opening 210 can become too narrow. Accordingly, it can be preferable that the radius of curvature R21 of the first inner surface 2221 is formed to be greater than the radius of curvature R23 of the third inner surface 2223.

[0124] Based on the embodiment of Figure 9 , the opening 210 can include a first inner surface 2231, a second inner surface 2232, a third inner surface 2233, and a fourth inner surface 2234. The first inner surface 2231 and the second inner surface 2232 can have a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the second axis 2312.

[0125] That is, the first inner surface 2231 can be disposed to face the second inner surface 2232. The first inner surface 2231 and the second inner surface 2232 can be disposed to be spaced apart in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311, and the second axis 2312 is interposed between the first inner surface 2231 and the second inner surface 2232. The first inner surface 2231 and the second inner surface 2232 can be symmetrical with respect to the second axis 2312.

[0126] The first inner surface 2231 can include a plurality of curved surfaces.

[0127] The first inner surface 2231 can include a first-first inner surface 2231a and a plurality of first-second inner surfaces 2231b. The first-first inner surface 2231a and the plurality of first-second inner surfaces 2231b can all be formed as curved surfaces.

[0128] The first-first inner surface 2231a and the plurality of first-second inner surfaces 2231b can be connected to each other. The plurality of first-second inner surfaces 2231b can be respectively disposed on both sides of the first-first inner surface 2231a, and the first-first inner surface 2231a is interposed between the plurality of first-second inner surfaces 2231b. The first-first inner surface 2231a can be formed to be convex toward the second axis 2312. The first-second inner surface 2231b can be formed to be concave from the second axis 2312. Accordingly, the first inner surface 2231 can have convex and concave surfaces alternately disposed. The centers of curvature of the first-first inner surface 2231a and the first-second inner surface 2231b can be disposed on opposite sides, and the first inner surface 2231 is interposed between the centers of curvature of the first-first inner surface 2231a and the first-second inner surface 2231b. That is, an inflection point can be formed at a point where the first-first inner surface 2231a and the first-second inner surface 2231b are connected.

[0129] The second inner surface 2232 can include a plurality of curved surfaces.

[0130] The second inner surface 2232 can include a second-first inner surface 2232a and a plurality of second-second inner surfaces 2232b. The second-first inner surface 2232a and the plurality of second-second inner surfaces 2232b can all be formed as curved surfaces.

[0131] The second-first inner surface 2232a and the plurality of second-second inner surfaces 2232b can be connected to each other. The plurality of second-second inner surfaces 2232b can be respectively disposed on both sides of the second-first inner surface 2232a, and the second-first inner surface 2232a is interposed between the plurality of second-second inner surfaces 2232b. The second-first inner surface 2232a can be formed to be convex toward the second axis 2312. The second-second inner surface 2232b can be formed to be concave from the second axis 2312. Accordingly, the second inner surface 2232 can have convex surfaces and concave surfaces alternately disposed. The centers of curvature of the second-first inner surface 2232a and the second-second inner surface 2232b can be disposed on opposite sides, and the second inner surface 2232 is interposed between the centers of curvature of the second-first inner surface 2232a and the second-second inner surface 2232b. An inflection point can be formed at a point where the second-first inner surface 2232a and the second-second inner surface 2232b are connected.

[0132] The third inner surface 2233 can connect the first inner surface 2231 and the second inner surface 2232. The fourth inner surface 2234 can connect the first inner surface 2231 and the second inner surface 2232. The fourth inner surface 2234 can be disposed to face the third inner surface 2233. The third inner surface 2233 and the fourth inner surface 2234 have a structure symmetrical with respect to the first axis 2311.

[0133] The third inner surface 2233 can include a curved surface. The third inner surface 2233 can be formed to be concave with respect to the center C of the opening 210. The third inner surface 2233 can be away from the first axis 2311 toward the center in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311.

[0134] The fourth inner surface 2234 can include a curved surface. The fourth inner surface 2234 can be formed to be concave with respect to the center C of the opening 210. The fourth inner surface 2234 can be away from the first axis 2311 toward the center in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311.

[0135] The first-first inner surface 2231a, the first-second inner surface 2231b, and the third inner surface 2233 can be sequentially connected. The radius of curvature R31a of the first-first inner surface 2231a, the radius of curvature R31b of the first-second inner surface 2231b, and the radius of curvature R33 of the third inner surface 2233 can be different from each other. In this example, the radius of curvature R33 of the third inner surface 2233 can be greater than the radius of curvature R31a of the first-first inner surface 2231a. In addition, the radius of curvature R33 of the third inner surface 2233 can be formed to be greater than the radius of curvature R31b of the first-second inner surface 2231b.

[0136] Based onFigure 10 In an embodiment of the disclosure, the opening 210 can include a first inner surface 2241, a second inner surface 2242, a third inner surface 2243, and a fourth inner surface 2244. The first inner surface 2241 and the second inner surface 2242 can have a longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the second axis 2312.

[0137] That is, the first inner surface 2241 can be disposed to face the second inner surface 2242. The first inner surface 2241 and the second inner surface 2242 can be disposed to be spaced apart in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311, and the second axis 2312 is interposed between the first inner surface 2241 and the second inner surface 2242. The first inner surface 2241 and the second inner surface 2242 can be symmetrical with respect to the second axis 2312.

[0138] The first inner surface 2241 can be disposed to face the second inner surface 2242. The first inner surface 2241 and the second inner surface 2242 are symmetrical with respect to the second axis 2312.

[0139] The first inner surface 2241 can include a curved surface. The first inner surface 2241 can be formed to be concave based on the center C of the opening 210. The first inner surface 2241 can be away from the second axis 2312 toward the center in a direction parallel to the second axis 2312.

[0140] The second inner surface 2242 can include a curved surface. The second inner surface 2242 can be formed to be concave based on the center C of the opening 210. The second inner surface 2242 can be away from the second axis 2312 toward the center in a direction parallel to the second axis 2312.

[0141] The third inner surface 2243 can connect the first inner surface 2241 and the second inner surface 2242. The fourth inner surface 2244 can connect the first inner surface 2241 and the second inner surface 2242. The fourth inner surface 2244 can be disposed to face the third inner surface 2243. The third inner surface 2243 and the fourth inner surface 2244 are symmetrical with respect to the first axis 2311.

[0142] The third inner surface 2243 can include a plurality of curved surfaces.

[0143] The third inner surface 2243 can include a third-first inner surface 2243a and a plurality of third-second inner surfaces 2243b. The third-first inner surface 2243a and the plurality of third-second inner surfaces 2243b can be formed as curved surfaces.

[0144] The third-first inner surface 2243a and the plurality of third-second inner surfaces 2243b can be connected to each other. The plurality of third-second inner surfaces 2243b can be respectively disposed on both sides of the third-first inner surface 2243a, and the third-first inner surface 2243a is interposed between the plurality of third-second inner surfaces 2243b. The third-first inner surface 2243a can be formed to be convex toward the first axis 2311. The third-second inner surfaces 2243b can be formed to be concave to be away from the first axis 2311 in a direction parallel to the first axis 2311 toward the center. Accordingly, the third inner surface 2243 can have convex surfaces and concave surfaces alternately disposed.

[0145] The fourth inner surface 2244 can include a plurality of curved surfaces.

[0146] The fourth inner surface 2244 can include a fourth-first inner surface 2244a and a plurality of fourth-second inner surfaces 2244b. The fourth-first inner surface 2244a and the plurality of fourth-second inner surfaces 2244b can all be formed to be curved surfaces.

[0147] The fourth-first inner surface 2244a and the plurality of fourth-second inner surfaces 2244b can be connected to each other. The plurality of fourth-second inner surfaces 2244b can be respectively disposed on both sides of the fourth-first inner surface 2244a, and the fourth-first inner surface 2244a is interposed between the plurality of fourth-second inner surfaces 2244b. The fourth-first inner surface 2244a can be formed to be convex toward the first axis 2311. The fourth-second inner surfaces 2244b can be formed to be concave away from the first axis 2311. Accordingly, the fourth inner surface 2244 can have convex surfaces and concave surfaces alternately disposed.

[0148] The third-first inner surface 2243a, the third-second inner surface 2243b, and the first inner surface 2241 can be sequentially connected. The radius of curvature R43a of the third-first inner surface 2243a, the radius of curvature R43b of the third-second inner surface 2243b, and the radius of curvature R41 of the first inner surface 2241 can be different from each other. In this example, the radius of curvature R41 of the first inner surface 2241 can be greater than the radius of curvature R43a of the third-first inner surface 2243a. In addition, the radius of curvature R41 of the first inner surface 2241 can be formed to be greater than the radius of curvature R43b of the third-second inner surface 2243b.

[0149] When the opening of the housing through which light passes is formed as a straight type structure, diffraction can occur when light meets the straight type structure, which can cause a flare.

[0150] According to Figures 7 to 10According to an embodiment of the disclosure, since at least a portion of the inner surface of the opening 210 through which light is incident is formed as a convex curved structure, a straight structure of the opening 210 can be reduced, thereby reducing flare due to diffraction.

[0151] Light incident through the opening 210 of the housing 200 passes through the reflection module 300 and the lens module 400 and reaches the image sensor 550 of the image sensor module 500. A plurality of lenses including a first lens L1 disposed in the most front position are disposed in the lens module 400, and a first spacer S1 is disposed behind the first lens L1. When light passes through the plurality of lenses disposed in the lens module 400, the light is focused toward the optical axis and reaches the image sensor 550.

[0152] When light passes through the respective components of the camera module 1000, when a portion of the light meets a straight structure disposed in the respective components of the camera module 1000, the light can be reflected from the straight structure, thereby causing flare.

[0153] When light passes through the plurality of lenses of the lens module 400, the light is focused toward the optical axis, and thus the probability of meeting a straight structure disposed in the respective components of the camera module 1000 decreases from the object side to the image side. That is, the closer the straight structure is disposed from the image side to the object side, the higher the probability of flare occurrence. Thus, since the straight structure is disposed closer to the object side, a structure for reducing flare can be advantageous.

[0154] According to one or more embodiments, by making the inner surface of the opening 210 of the housing 200 disposed closer to the object side than the lens module 400 and the reflection module 300 a curved surface, flare occurrence in the opening 210 of the housing 200 can be reduced, and in addition, by making the inner surface of the spacer a curved surface as well, flare occurrence at the inner surface of the spacer can be reduced.

[0155] As described above, according to one or more embodiments, a camera module can reduce a flare phenomenon.

[0156] While the disclosure includes specific examples, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art after consideration of the disclosure herein 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 in each example should be considered as being applicable to similar features or aspects in other examples. If the described technology is performed by different sequences of acts, and / or if the described systems, architectures, devices or circuits are combined and / or substituted for one another, or are supplemented, appropriate results can still be achieved. The examples described herein are to be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

[0157] Thus, in addition to the disclosure set forth above and the disclosure set forth in all of the appended drawings, the scope of the disclosure includes the claims and their equivalents, i.e., all variations that fall within the scope of the claims and their equivalents are to be considered included in the disclosure.

Claims

1. A camera module, characterized in that, The camera module includes: case; A lens module, movably disposed within the housing; and The outer casing, surrounding at least a portion of the casing. The opening through which light passes is located within the outer casing, and The inner surface of the opening protrudes toward the center of the opening.

2. The camera module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The opening includes a first inner surface and a second inner surface. Wherein, the first inner surface and the second inner surface are arranged to face each other along a first axis passing through the center of the opening and parallel to the optical axis, and The first inner surface and the second inner surface each include a surface that protrudes toward the center of the opening.

3. The camera module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first inner surface and the second inner surface are symmetrical with respect to a second axis orthogonal to the first axis.

4. The camera module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The opening has a first width relative to the first axis that is narrower than the opening has a second width relative to the second axis.

5. The camera module according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first inner surface includes a first inner surface protruding toward the second axis and a first inner surface recessed from the second axis, and The first inner surface is connected to the first inner surface.

6. The camera module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first and second inner surfaces are configured as multiple, and The first and second inner surfaces are respectively disposed on both sides of the first and second inner surfaces.

7. The camera module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The radius of curvature of the first inner surface is different from the radius of curvature of the first inner surface.

8. The camera module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The opening also includes: A third inner surface, connecting the first inner surface and the second inner surface; and A fourth inner surface connects the first inner surface and the second inner surface, and the fourth inner surface is configured to face the third inner surface in a second axial direction orthogonal to the first axis. The third inner surface and the fourth inner surface each include a curved surface.

9. The camera module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The third inner surface and the fourth inner surface are each recessed from the direction of the first axis.

10. The camera module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The third inner surface and the fourth inner surface are symmetrical with respect to the first axis.

11. The camera module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The radius of curvature of the first inner surface is different from the radius of curvature of the third inner surface.

12. The camera module according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first inner surface includes a first inner surface that protrudes toward the second axis and a first inner surface that is recessed into the second axis. Wherein, the first-first inner surface is connected to the first-second inner surface, and The radii of curvature of the first inner surface, the first inner surface, and the third inner surface are different from each other.

13. A camera module, characterized in that, The camera module includes: case; A lens module, movably disposed within the housing; and The outer casing, surrounding at least a portion of the casing. The opening through which light passes is located within the outer casing, and The opening includes an inner surface that protrudes toward a first axis parallel to the optical axis.

14. The camera module according to claim 13, characterized in that, The opening includes: First inner surface, The second inner surface is configured to face the first inner surface along the first axis. The third inner surface connects the first inner surface and the second inner surface, and The fourth inner surface is configured to face the third inner surface. The third inner surface and the fourth inner surface each include a surface that protrudes toward the first axis.

15. The camera module according to claim 14, characterized in that, The third inner surface includes a third-first inner surface convex toward the first axis and a third-second inner surface recessed from the first axis, and The third-first inner surface is connected to the third-second inner surface.

16. The camera module according to claim 15, characterized in that, The radius of curvature of the third-first inner surface is different from the radius of curvature of the third-second inner surface.

Images