Module drive device

Abstract

To provide a module drive device which can be made compact.SOLUTION: A module drive device MD comprises: a first engaging part V1 which is provided such that a module retention part 2 is rockable around a first axis AX1; and a second engaging part V2 which is provided such that a connection member 3 is rockable around a second axis AX2. The frame-like connection member 3 has a first extension part 3E1 to a fourth extension part 3E4. The first engaging part V1 includes first support-side engaging parts V1S provided on respective central parts of the first extension part 3E1 and the second extension part 3E2, and a first rocking-side engaging part V1T provided on the module retention part 2 to engage with the first support-side engaging part V1S. The second engaging part V2 includes second rocking-side engaging parts V2T provided on respective central parts of the third extension part 3E3 and the fourth extension part 3E4, and a second support-side engaging part V2S provided on a fixture-side member FB to engage with the second rocking-side engaging part V2T.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a modular drive device. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known an optical unit (module driving device) in which a gimbal mechanism is disposed above a rectangular movable body (optical module) (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-166011 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The gimbal mechanism described above is configured to be able to rotate the optical module about each of the first and second axes.

[0005] However, the above-mentioned module driving device is configured such that the first axis and the second axis extend along the two diagonals of the rectangular optical module, and when the optical module rotates and tilts around the first axis or the second axis, the positions of the corners of the optical module become high. Therefore, the above-mentioned module driving device requires a large space to accommodate the optical module, which may make it difficult to reduce the size.

[0006] It is therefore desirable to provide a modular drive device that can be made smaller. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A module driving device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a module holder capable of holding an optical module having a lens body and an imaging element; a connecting member connected to the module holder such that the module holder can swing about a first axis that intersects with an optical axis direction; a fixed side member connected to the connecting member such that the connecting member can swing about a second axis that is perpendicular to the axial direction of the first axis; and a drive unit that moves the module holder relative to the fixed side member. The module driving device includes a first engagement portion provided so that the module holder can swing about the first axis, and a second engagement portion provided so that the connecting member can swing about the second axis, and the connecting member is a frame-shaped member inside which the module holder can be placed. The module holder has a first extension portion and a second extension portion that are spaced apart in the axial direction of the second axis and extend in the axial direction of the second axis, and a third extension portion and a fourth extension portion that are spaced apart in the axial direction of the second axis and extend in the axial direction of the first axis, the first engagement portion includes a first support side engagement portion provided in a center portion of each of the first extension portion and the second extension portion in the axial direction of the second axis, and a first swing side engagement portion provided on the module holder so as to engage with the first support side engagement portion, and the second engagement portion includes a second swing side engagement portion provided in a center portion of each of the third extension portion and the fourth extension portion in the axial direction of the first axis, and a second support side engagement portion provided on the fixed side member so as to engage with the second swing side engagement portion. Effect of the Invention

[0008] The above-mentioned module drive device can be miniaturized. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an optical module and a module driving device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the optical module and the module driving device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a more detailed exploded perspective view of the module driver; [Figure 4] 2 is a perspective view of a module holder, a movable metal member, a flexible metal member, and a first metal member. FIG. [Diagram 5] 2 is a perspective view of a fixed metal member, a second metal member, a conductive member, and a base member. FIG. [Figure 6] 1A and 1B are three-views (left side view, top view, and back view) of a metal member to which a shape memory alloy wire is attached. [Figure 7] 2 is a perspective view of a metal member, a flexible metal member, a conductive member, and a shape memory alloy wire. FIG. [Figure 8] 2 is a perspective view of a connecting member, a metal member, a first metal member, a second metal member, and a shape memory alloy wire. FIG. [Figure 9] 2 is a perspective view of a cover member, a connecting member, a movable-side cover member, a first metal member, and a second metal member. FIG. [Figure 10] 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cover member, a connecting member, a movable-side cover member, a first metal member, and a second metal member. FIG. [Figure 11] 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cover member, a connecting member, a movable-side cover member, a first metal member, and a second metal member. FIG. [Figure 12] 1A to 1C are three-view diagrams (right side view, bottom view, and left side view) of an optical module and a module driving device. [Figure 13] 1 is a perspective view of a first assembly composed of a module holder, a flexible metal member, and a first metal member. FIG. [Figure 14] 2 is a perspective view of a second assembly including a first assembly, a second metal member, a conductive member, and a base member. FIG. [Figure 15] 13 is a perspective view of a third assembly constituted by the second assembly and a connecting member. FIG. [Figure 16] 13 is a perspective view of a fourth assembly composed of the third assembly, a metal member, and a shape memory alloy wire. FIG. [Figure 17] 13 is a perspective view of a fifth assembly (module driving device) constituted by the fourth assembly and a cover member. FIG. [Figure 18] 4 is a bottom perspective view of the module holder, the movable metal member, and the flexible metal member. FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an optical module. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a module driving device and an optical module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, a module driving device MD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The module driving device MD is configured to be able to tilt the optical module OM. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the optical module OM and the module driving device MD. Specifically, the upper view of FIG. 1 (above the block arrow) is a perspective view of the module driving device MD with the optical module OM attached, and the lower view of FIG. 1 (below the block arrow) is a perspective view of the module driving device MD with the optical module OM removed. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the optical module OM and the module driving device MD. FIG. 3 is a more detailed exploded perspective view of the module driving device MD, including a perspective view of the optical module OM.

[0011] In FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 3, X1 represents one direction of the X axis constituting the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and X2 represents the other direction of the X axis. Moreover, Y1 represents one direction of the Y axis constituting the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and Y2 represents the other direction of the Y axis. Similarly, Z1 represents one direction of the Z axis constituting the three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, and Z2 represents the other direction of the Z axis. In FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 3, the X1 side of the module driving device MD corresponds to the front side (front side) of the module driving device MD, and the X2 side of the module driving device MD corresponds to the rear side (rear side) of the module driving device MD. Moreover, the Y1 side of the module driving device MD corresponds to the left side of the module driving device MD, and the Y2 side of the module driving device MD corresponds to the right side of the module driving device MD. Moreover, the Z1 side of the module driving device MD corresponds to the upper side (subject side) of the module driving device MD, and the Z2 side of the module driving device MD corresponds to the lower side (imaging element side) of the module driving device MD. The same applies to the other figures.

[0012] The optical module OM is a module including an optical element driving device that drives an optical element. In the illustrated example, the optical module OM includes a lens driving device LD that is an example of an optical element driving device that drives a lens body LS that is an example of an optical element. The lens body LS is, for example, a cylindrical lens barrel that includes at least one lens, and is configured such that its central axis is aligned with the optical axis OA.

[0013] Specifically, the optical module OM includes a lens body LS, a lens driving device LD, a movable-side cover member 4, an image sensor IS, an image sensor holder SH, and a substrate SB, as shown in Fig. 2. The movable-side cover member 4, which is in the form of a lidless box having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped outer shape, houses the lens driving device LD therein and is attached on top of the image sensor holder SH which is mounted on the substrate SB.

[0014] The lens driving device LD is configured to be able to move the lens body LS along the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction) by using a shape memory alloy wire. The optical axis direction includes the axial direction of the optical axis OA and a direction parallel to the axial direction of the optical axis OA. The lens driving device LD is also configured to be able to move the lens body LS along directions perpendicular to the optical axis direction (X-axis direction and Y-axis direction, respectively) by using a shape memory alloy wire. In the illustrated example, the lens driving device LD is configured to move the lens body LS by using a shape memory alloy wire, but may be configured to move the lens body by using a member or mechanism other than the shape memory alloy wire, such as a voice coil motor or a piezoelectric element.

[0015] The movable cover member 4 is configured to function as a housing that covers each member that configures the lens driving device LD. In the illustrated example, the movable cover member 4 is made of a non-magnetic metal such as austenitic stainless steel. However, the movable cover member 4 may be made of a magnetic metal.

[0016] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the movable-side cover member 4 has an open-top box-like outer shape that defines a storage section 4S. The movable-side cover member 4 has a rectangular cylindrical side plate portion 4A and a rectangular annular flat bottom plate portion 4D that is continuous with the lower end (the end on the Z2 side) of the side plate portion 4A. A circular opening 4K is formed in the center of the bottom plate portion 4D. The side plate portion 4A includes a first side plate portion 4A1 to a fourth side plate portion 4A4. The first side plate portion 4A1 and the third side plate portion 4A3 face each other, and the second side plate portion 4A2 and the fourth side plate portion 4A4 face each other. The first side plate portion 4A1 and the third side plate portion 4A3 extend perpendicularly to the second side plate portion 4A2 and the fourth side plate portion 4A4.

[0017] The imaging element holder SH is configured to accommodate and hold the imaging element IS. In the illustrated example, the imaging element holder SH is a substantially rectangular frame-shaped member made of synthetic resin, and the upper surface thereof is joined to the lower surface of the movable-side cover member 4 by an adhesive. An opening SHk is formed in the imaging element holder SH to expose the imaging element IS. A concave portion that is open at the bottom and recessed upward is formed in the lower surface of the imaging element holder SH surrounding the opening SHk, and the imaging element IS is disposed within the concave portion (not shown).

[0018] The substrate SB is a member for realizing electrical connection between each of the module driving device MD and the lens driving device LD and devices outside the module driving device MD, such as the control device CTR. In the illustrated example, the substrate SB is a flexible printed circuit board, and has an outer part SB1 fixed to the module driving device MD, an inner part SB2 fixed to the imaging element holder SH, and a connecting part SB3 connecting the outer part SB1 and the inner part SB2. The connecting part SB3 includes a left connecting part SB3L and a right connecting part SB3R. The imaging element IS is mounted on the inner part SB2. The imaging element holder SH is a spacer member disposed between the inner part SB2 and the movable-side cover member 4.

[0019] 1 and 2, the module driving device MD includes a cover member 1 that is a part of a fixed side member FB. The cover member 1 is configured to function as a housing HS that covers each member that constitutes the module driving device MD. In the illustrated example, the cover member 1 is made of a non-magnetic metal such as austenitic stainless steel. However, the cover member 1 may also be made of a magnetic metal.

[0020] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the cover member 1 has a bottomless box-like outer shape that defines the storage section 1S. The cover member 1 also has a rectangular cylindrical side plate 1A and a rectangular annular flat top plate 1B that is continuous with the upper end (the end on the Z1 side) of the side plate 1A. A circular opening 1K is formed in the center of the top plate 1B. The side plate 1A includes a first side plate 1A1 to a fourth side plate 1A4. The first side plate 1A1 and the third side plate 1A3 face each other, and the second side plate 1A2 and the fourth side plate 1A4 face each other. The first side plate 1A1 and the third side plate 1A3 extend perpendicular to the second side plate 1A2 and the fourth side plate 1A4.

[0021] 2 and 3, the cover member 1 accommodates a module holder 2, a connecting member 3, a metal member 5, a flexible metal member 6, a first metal member 7, a second metal member 8, a conductive member 9, a base member 18, a shape memory alloy wire SA, etc. The module holder 2 constitutes a movable member MB, and the base member 18 constitutes a fixed member FB. The cover member 1 is bonded to the base member 18 and the substrate SB with an adhesive, as shown in FIG.

[0022] The module holder 2 is a member that holds the optical module OM, and is formed by injection molding synthetic resin such as liquid crystal polymer (LCP). In the illustrated example, as shown in FIG. 3, the module holder 2 has a rectangular cylindrical side plate portion 2A and a rectangular annular flat top plate portion 2B that is provided so as to be continuous with the upper end (the end on the Z1 side) of the side plate portion 2A. A circular opening 2K is formed in the center of the top plate portion 2B. The side plate portion 2A includes a first side plate portion 2A1 to a fourth side plate portion 2A4. The first side plate portion 2A1 and the third side plate portion 2A3 face each other, and the second side plate portion 2A2 and the fourth side plate portion 2A4 face each other. The first side plate portion 2A1 and the third side plate portion 2A3 extend perpendicular to the second side plate portion 2A2 and the fourth side plate portion 2A4. In the illustrated example, the outer peripheral surface of the side plate portion 4A of the movable side cover member 4 of the optical module OM is configured to be joined to the inner peripheral surface of the side plate portion 2A of the module holder 2 with an adhesive.

[0023] The connecting member 3 is a member that connects the module holder 2 and the fixed side member FB. Typically, the connecting member 3 is a rectangular frame-shaped member that is disposed inside the base member 18 and outside the module holder 2, and has a first extending portion 3E1 and a second extending portion 3E2 that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the first axis AX1 and extend in the axial direction of the second axis AX2, and a third extending portion 3E3 and a fourth extending portion 3E4 that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the second axis AX2 and extend in the axial direction of the first axis AX1. The first extending portion 3E1 to the fourth extending portion 3E4 form a rectangular ring-shaped extending portion 3E.

[0024] In this embodiment, the connecting member 3 is formed of a metal plate such as stainless steel or copper. The first extension portion 3E1 and the second extension portion 3E2 have a first opposing plate portion 3P whose plate surfaces face each other in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1. The third extension portion 3E3 and the fourth extension portion 3E4 have a second opposing plate portion 3Q whose plate surfaces face each other in the axial direction (X-axis direction) of the second axis AX2. Specifically, the first opposing plate portion 3P includes a first left opposing plate portion 3PL constituting the first extension portion 3E1 and a first right opposing plate portion 3PR constituting the second extension portion 3E2. The second opposing plate portion 3Q includes a second front opposing plate portion 3QF constituting the third extension portion 3E3 and a second rear opposing plate portion 3QB constituting the fourth extension portion 3E4.

[0025] The connecting member 3 is connected to the module holding body 2 via a first metal member 7, a portion of which is embedded in the module holding body 2, and is connected to the base member 18 via a second metal member 8, a portion of which is embedded in the base member 18.

[0026] The first metal member 7 is a member configured to be able to mesh with the connecting member 3, and a portion of it is embedded in the module holder 2. In this embodiment, the first metal member 7 is a member made of a metal such as stainless steel or copper, and includes a first left metal member 7L and a first right metal member 7R, portions of which are embedded in the module holder 2 by insert molding. The first left metal member 7L and the first right metal member 7R are integrally formed. However, the first left metal member 7L and the first right metal member 7R may be formed as separate independent members.

[0027] The second metal member 8 is a member configured to be able to mesh with the connecting member 3, and a portion of it is embedded in the base member 18. In this embodiment, the second metal member 8 is a member formed of a metal such as stainless steel or copper, and includes a second front metal member 8F and a second rear metal member 8B, portions of which are embedded in the base member 18 by insert molding. The second front metal member 8F and the second rear metal member 8B are formed as separate independent members. However, the second front metal member 8F and the second rear metal member 8B may be formed integrally.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 3, the module driving device MD has a first engagement part V1 that is arranged so that the module holder 2 can rotate (swing) around a first axis AX1, and a second engagement part V2 that is arranged so that the connecting member 3 can rotate (swing) around a second axis AX2.

[0029] Specifically, the first engagement portion V1 includes a first support-side engagement portion V1S provided at the center in the axial direction (X-axis direction) of the second axis AX2 of each of the first extension portion 3E1 and the second extension portion 3E2, and a first swing-side engagement portion V1T provided on the first metal member 7 so as to engage with the first support-side engagement portion V1S. This swing mechanism realized by the connecting member 3, the first metal member 7, and the second metal member 8 is also called a gimbal-type swing mechanism.

[0030] More specifically, the first support side engagement portion V1S includes a first left support side engagement portion V1SL provided in the center of the first extension portion 3E1 and a first right support side engagement portion V1SR provided in the center of the second extension portion 3E2. The first swing side engagement portion V1T includes a first left swing side engagement portion V1TL provided in the first left metal member 7L to engage with the first left support side engagement portion V1SL, and a first right swing side engagement portion V1TR provided in the first right metal member 7R to engage with the first right support side engagement portion V1SR.

[0031] In addition, the second engagement portion V2 includes a second swing side engagement portion V2T provided at the center of each of the third extension portion 3E3 and the fourth extension portion 3E4 in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1, and a second support side engagement portion V2S provided on the second metal member 8 so as to engage with the second swing side engagement portion V2T.

[0032] More specifically, the second swing side engagement portion V2T includes a second front swing side engagement portion V2TF provided in the center of the third extension portion 3E3 and a second rear swing side engagement portion V2TB provided in the center of the fourth extension portion 3E4. The second support side engagement portion V2S includes a second front support side engagement portion V2SF provided in the second front metal member 8F to engage with the second front swing side engagement portion V2TF, and a second rear support side engagement portion V2SB provided in the second rear metal member 8B to engage with the second rear swing side engagement portion V2TB.

[0033] The driving unit DM includes a shape memory alloy wire SA, which is an example of a shape memory actuator. In the illustrated example, the shape memory alloy wire SA includes a first wire SA1 to a fourth wire SA4 as shown in FIG. 3. When a current flows through the shape memory alloy wire SA, the temperature increases, and the wire contracts in response to the increase in temperature. The driving unit DM can swing the module holder 2 by utilizing the contraction of the shape memory alloy wire SA.

[0034] The base member 18 is formed by injection molding using a synthetic resin such as liquid crystal polymer (LCP). In the illustrated example, the base member 18 has a generally rectangular outline in top view as shown in Fig. 3, and has an opening 18K at the center. Specifically, the base member 18 has a rectangular annular base portion 18B disposed so as to surround the rectangular opening 18K. The base portion 18B includes a first base portion 18B1 to a fourth base portion 18B4.

[0035] The flexible metal member 6 is configured to be able to connect the fixed side member FB (base member 18) and the movable side member MB (module holder 2). In this embodiment, the flexible metal member 6 is a conductive connecting member (leaf spring) that connects the module holder 2 and the base member 18, and is formed of a metal plate whose main material is, for example, a copper alloy, a titanium-copper alloy (titanium-copper), a copper-nickel alloy (nickel-tin-copper), or the like.

[0036] Specifically, the flexible metal member 6 has an inner portion 6N fixed to the module holder 2, an outer portion 6E fixed to the base member 18, and an elastic arm portion 6G connecting the inner portion 6N and the outer portion 6E. In the illustrated example, the flexible metal member 6 includes a left flexible metal member 6L and a right flexible metal member 6R as shown in Fig. 3. The left flexible metal member 6L has a first inner portion 6N1, a first outer portion 6E1, and a first elastic arm portion 6G1, and the right flexible metal member 6R has a second inner portion 6N2, a second outer portion 6E2, and a second elastic arm portion 6G2. The first inner portion 6N1 is joined to the lower end surface of the second side plate portion 2A2 by crimping, the second inner portion 6N2 is joined to the lower end surface of the fourth side plate portion 2A4 by crimping, the first outer portion 6E1 is joined to the upper end surface of the second base portion 18B2 by crimping, and the second outer portion 6E2 is joined to the upper end surface of the fourth base portion 18B4 by crimping. The flexible metal member 6 may be joined to the module holder 2 or the base member 18 by an adhesive.

[0037] In this way, the flexible metal member 6 is configured to connect the lower surface of the side plate portion 2A of the module holder 2 and the upper surface of the base portion 18B of the base member 18. Specifically, the flexible metal member 6 is configured such that the left flexible metal member 6L connects the lower surface of the second side plate portion 2A2 and the upper surface of the second base portion 18B2, and the right flexible metal member 6R connects the lower surface of the fourth side plate portion 2A4 and the upper surface of the fourth base portion 18B4.

[0038] The metal member 5 is a member to which an end of the shape memory alloy wire SA is fixed. In this embodiment, the metal member 5 is a member formed of a non-magnetic metal such as phosphor bronze, and includes a fixed-side metal member 5F and a movable-side metal member 5M. The fixed-side metal member 5F is configured to be fixed to the base member 18, and the movable-side metal member 5M is configured to be fixed to the module holder 2.

[0039] More specifically, the fixed-side metal member 5F is also called a fixed-side terminal plate and includes a first fixed-side metal member 5F1 to a fourth fixed-side metal member 5F4. The movable-side metal member 5M is also called a movable-side terminal plate and includes a first movable-side metal member 5M1 and a second movable-side metal member 5M2.

[0040] Each of the first wire SA1 to the fourth wire SA4 has one end fixed to the fixed metal member 5F by crimping, welding, etc., and the other end fixed to the movable metal member 5M by crimping, welding, etc. Each of the first wire SA1 to the fourth wire SA4 becomes linear along the outer surface of the side plate portion 2A of the module holder 2 when a current flows therethrough, and is configured to be able to swing the movable member MB (module holder 2) relative to the fixed member FB.

[0041] The conductive member 9 is a member provided so as to allow current to flow through the shape memory alloy wire SA. In the illustrated example, the conductive member 9 is embedded in the base member 18. Specifically, the conductive member 9 includes a left conductive member 9L partially embedded in the second base portion 18B2 of the base member 18, and a right conductive member 9R partially embedded in the fourth base portion 18B4 of the base member 18.

[0042] Next, the positional relationship between the module holder 2 and each of the movable-side metal member 5M, the flexible metal member 6, and the first metal member 7 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the module holder 2, the movable-side metal member 5M, the flexible metal member 6, and the first metal member 7. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 4 (above the block arrow) is a perspective view of the module holder 2, the movable-side metal member 5M, the flexible metal member 6, and the first metal member 7 in a separated state, the center view of Fig. 4 (below the block arrow) is an upper perspective view of the module holder 2 to which the movable-side metal member 5M and the flexible metal member 6 are attached and in which the first metal member 7 is embedded, and the lower view of Fig. 4 is a lower perspective view of the module holder 2 to which the movable-side metal member 5M and the flexible metal member 6 are attached and in which the first metal member 7 is embedded.

[0043] In the illustrated example, the first movable-side metal member 5M1 is bonded by an adhesive to the outer surface (left side surface) of the second side plate portion 2A2 of the module holder 2. Similarly, the second movable-side metal member 5M2 is bonded by an adhesive to the outer surface (right side surface) of the fourth side plate portion 2A4 of the module holder 2.

[0044] The first movable-side metal member 5M1 has a first fixed portion CB1 that is overlapped and fixed to the first inner portion 6N1 of the left-side flexible metal member 6L on the lower surface of the second side plate portion 2A2 of the module holder 2. The first fixed portion CB1 is formed by bending the lower portion of the first movable-side metal member 5M1 into an L-shape. Similarly, the second movable-side metal member 5M2 has a second fixed portion CB2 that is overlapped and fixed to the second inner portion 6N2 of the right-side flexible metal member 6R on the lower surface of the fourth side plate portion 2A4 of the module holder 2. The second fixed portion CB2 is formed by bending the lower portion of the second movable-side metal member 5M2 into an L-shape.

[0045] The first metal member 7 has an embedded portion EM embedded in the module holding body 2, a first swing side engagement portion V1T exposed from the module holding body 2, and an elastic deformation portion EL that is elastically deformable and exposed from the module holding body 2, and is provided between the embedded portion EM and the first swing side engagement portion V1T so as to connect the embedded portion EM and the first swing side engagement portion V1T.

[0046] Next, the positional relationship between the base member 18 and each of the fixed-side metal member 5F, the second metal member 8, and the conductive member 9 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the fixed-side metal member 5F, the second metal member 8, the conductive member 9, and the base member 18. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 5 (above the block arrow) is a perspective view of the fixed-side metal member 5F, the second metal member 8, the conductive member 9, and the base member 18 in a separated state, the center view of Fig. 5 (below the block arrow) is an upper perspective view of the base member 18 to which the fixed-side metal member 5F is attached and in which the second metal member 8 and the conductive member 9 are embedded, and the lower view of Fig. 5 is a lower perspective view of the base member 18 to which the fixed-side metal member 5F is attached and in which the second metal member 8 and the conductive member 9 are embedded.

[0047] In the illustrated example, the first fixed-side metal member 5F1 and the second fixed-side metal member 5F2 are joined by an adhesive to the outer surface (left side surface) of the second base portion 18B2 of the base member 18. Similarly, the third fixed-side metal member 5F3 and the fourth fixed-side metal member 5F4 are joined by an adhesive to the outer surface (right side surface) of the fourth base portion 18B4 of the base member 18.

[0048] The first fixed-side metal member 5F1 has a first connection portion CT1 that is exposed on the lower surface of the base portion 18B of the base member 18 and is fixed to the outer portion SB1 of the board SB by solder, a conductive adhesive, etc. Similarly, the second fixed-side metal member 5F2 has a second connection portion CT2, the third fixed-side metal member 5F3 has a third connection portion CT3, and the fourth fixed-side metal member 5F4 has a fourth connection portion CT4.

[0049] The second metal member 8 has an embedded portion EM embedded in the base member 18, a second support side engagement portion V2S exposed from the base member 18, and an elastic deformation portion EL that is elastically deformable and exposed from the base member 18, and is provided between the embedded portion EM and the second support side engagement portion V2S so as to connect the embedded portion EM and the second support side engagement portion V2S.

[0050] The conductive member 9 is a member for electrically connecting the flexible metal member 6 and the substrate SB. In this embodiment, the conductive member 9 is formed of a metal such as copper. In the illustrated example, the conductive member 9 includes a left conductive member 9L that electrically connects the left flexible metal member 6L and the substrate SB, and a right conductive member 9R that electrically connects the right flexible metal member 6R and the substrate SB.

[0051] Specifically, the left conductive member 9L has a first embedded portion EM1 embedded in the base member 18, a first bonding surface portion CP1 exposed on the upper surface of the second base portion 18B2, and a first terminal portion TM1 exposed on the lower surface of the second base portion 18B2. The right conductive member 9R has a second embedded portion EM2 embedded in the base member 18, a second bonding surface portion CP2 exposed on the upper surface of the fourth base portion 18B4, and a second terminal portion TM2 exposed on the lower surface of the fourth base portion 18B4.

[0052] The base member 18 is configured to function as a wire supporting member that supports one end of each of the first wire SA1 to the fourth wire SA4. With this configuration, the movable member MB is supported by the first wire SA1 to the fourth wire SA4 in a state in which it can swing around each of the first axis line AX1 and the second axis line AX2.

[0053] A wall portion 18D is formed on the upper surface, which is the surface on the subject side (the surface on the Z1 side) of the base member 18. The wall portion 18D includes a first wall portion 18D1 extending upward from the first base portion 18B1 and a second wall portion 18D2 extending upward from the third base portion 18B3. The first wall portion 18D1 and the second wall portion 18D2 are disposed to face each other with the optical axis OA in between.

[0054] Next, the metal member 5 to which the shape memory alloy wire SA is attached will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a three-view (left side view, top view, and back view) of the first fixed side metal member 5F1, the second fixed side metal member 5F2, the first movable side metal member 5M1, the first wire SA1, and the second wire SA2. The positional relationship of each member shown in FIG. 6 corresponds to the positional relationship when the module driving device MD is assembled and current is supplied to each of the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2. In FIG. 6, other members are omitted from the illustration for clarity. In addition, the following description with reference to FIG. 6 relates to the combination of the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2, but can be similarly applied to the combination of the third wire SA3 and the fourth wire SA4.

[0055] Specifically, one end of the first wire SA1 is fixed to the first fixed-side metal member 5F1 at a holding portion J1 of the first fixed-side metal member 5F1, and the other end of the first wire SA1 is fixed to the first movable-side metal member 5M1 at a holding portion J2 on the rear side (X2 side) of the first movable-side metal member 5M1. Similarly, one end of the second wire SA2 is fixed to the second fixed-side metal member 5F2 at a holding portion J3 of the second fixed-side metal member 5F2, and the other end of the second wire SA2 is fixed to the first movable-side metal member 5M1 at a holding portion J4 on the front side (X1 side) of the first movable-side metal member 5M1.

[0056] 7, one end of the third wire SA3 is fixed to the third fixed-side metal member 5F3 at a holding portion J5 of the third fixed-side metal member 5F3, and the other end of the third wire SA3 is fixed to the second movable-side metal member 5M2 at a holding portion J6 on the front side (X1 side) of the second movable-side metal member 5M2. Similarly, one end of the fourth wire SA4 is fixed to the fourth fixed-side metal member 5F4 at a holding portion J7 of the fourth fixed-side metal member 5F4, and the other end of the fourth wire SA4 is fixed to the second movable-side metal member 5M2 at a holding portion J8 on the rear side (X2 side) of the second movable-side metal member 5M2.

[0057] The holding portion J1 is formed by bending a part of the first fixed side metal member 5F1. Specifically, a part of the first fixed side metal member 5F1 is crimped while sandwiching an end (one end) of the first wire SA1 to form the holding portion J1. Note that the coating of the end (one end) of the first wire SA1 is peeled off before being sandwiched by the holding portion J1. Then, the end (one end) of the first wire SA1 is fixed to the holding portion J1 by welding. Thereafter, the end (one end) of the first wire SA1 may be protected with a protective resin. The same applies to the holding portions J2 to J8.

[0058] Also, the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2 are arranged so as to be in a twisted position relative to each other. That is, the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2 are arranged so as not to contact each other (are non-contacting). Specifically, as shown in the left side view of FIG. 6, when viewed from the Y1 side (a direction perpendicular to the plate surface of the fixed-side metal member 5F), the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2 are arranged so as to intersect. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 7, when viewed from the Y2 side (a direction perpendicular to the plate surface of the fixed-side metal member 5F), the third wire SA3 and the fourth wire SA4 are arranged so as to intersect.

[0059] Next, the path of the current flowing through the shape memory alloy wire SA will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the metal member 5, the flexible metal member 6, the conductive member 9, and the shape memory alloy wire SA.

[0060] When the first connection part CT1 of the first fixed side metal member 5F1 is connected to a high potential and the first terminal part TM1 of the left conductive member 9L is connected to a low potential, a current flows through the first connection part CT1 to the first fixed side metal member 5F1. Then, the current passes through the holding part J1, the first wire SA1, and further through the holding part J2 and the first fixed part CB1 of the first movable side metal member 5M1. Then, the current passes through the first inner part 6N1, the first elastic arm part 6G1, and the first outer part 6E1 of the left flexible metal member 6L, the first joint surface part CP1 of the left conductive member 9L, and the first embedded part EM1 of the left conductive member 9L to the first terminal part TM1.

[0061] When the second connection part CT2 of the second fixed-side metal member 5F2 is connected to a high potential and the first terminal part TM1 of the left conductive member 9L is connected to a low potential, a current flows through the second connection part CT2 to the second fixed-side metal member 5F2. The current then passes through the holding part J3, the second wire SA2, and further through the holding part J4 and the first fixed part CB1 of the first movable-side metal member 5M1. The current then passes through the first inner part 6N1, the first elastic arm part 6G1, and the first outer part 6E1 of the left flexible metal member 6L, the first joint surface part CP1 of the left conductive member 9L, and the first embedded part EM1 of the left conductive member 9L to the first terminal part TM1.

[0062] When the third connection part CT3 of the third fixed-side metal member 5F3 is connected to a high potential and the second terminal part TM2 of the right conductive member 9R is connected to a low potential, a current flows through the third connection part CT3 to the third fixed-side metal member 5F3. Then, the current passes through the holding part J5, the third wire SA3, and further through the holding part J6 and the second fixed part CB2 of the second movable-side metal member 5M2. Then, the current passes through the second inner part 6N2, the second elastic arm part 6G2, and the second outer part 6E2 of the right flexible metal member 6R, the second joint surface part CP2 of the right conductive member 9R, and the second embedded part EM2 of the right conductive member 9R to the second terminal part TM2.

[0063] When the fourth connection part CT4 of the fourth fixed-side metal member 5F4 is connected to a high potential and the second terminal part TM2 of the right conductive member 9R is connected to a low potential, a current flows through the fourth connection part CT4 to the fourth fixed-side metal member 5F4. The current then passes through the holding part J7, the fourth wire SA4, and further through the holding part J8 and the second fixed part CB2 of the second movable-side metal member 5M2. The current then passes through the second inner part 6N2, the second elastic arm part 6G2, and the second outer part 6E2 of the right flexible metal member 6R, the second joint surface part CP2 of the right conductive member 9R, and the second embedded part EM2 of the right conductive member 9R to the second terminal part TM2.

[0064] When the first connection part CT1 of the first fixed-side metal member 5F1 is connected to a high potential and when the second connection part CT2 of the second fixed-side metal member 5F2 is connected to a high potential, the path of the current flowing from the first movable-side metal member 5M1 to the first terminal part TM1 of the left conductive member 9L is the same. When the third connection part CT3 of the third fixed-side metal member 5F3 is connected to a high potential and when the fourth connection part CT4 of the fourth fixed-side metal member 5F4 is connected to a high potential, the path of the current flowing from the second movable-side metal member 5M2 to the second terminal part TM2 of the right conductive member 9R is the same.

[0065] The control device CTR (see FIG. 1) outside the module driving device MD as described above can individually control the contraction of each of the first wire SA1 to the fourth wire SA4 by controlling the voltages applied to the connection parts (first connection part CT1 to fourth connection part CT4) of the fixed side metal member 5F, the first terminal part TM1 of the left conductive member 9L, and the second terminal part TM2 of the right conductive member 9R. The control device CTR may be configured to detect the resistance values ​​of each of the first wire SA1 to the fourth wire SA4 and feedback control the contraction amount of each of the first wire SA1 to the fourth wire SA4. In this case, the control device CTR can derive the position and posture of the module holder 2 based on the resistance values ​​of each of the first wire SA1 to the fourth wire SA4. The control device CTR may be disposed in the module driving device MD. The control device CTR may be a component of the module driving device MD.

[0066] The control device CTR may, for example, utilize a driving force due to contraction of a shape memory alloy wire SA serving as the driving section DM to swing the module holder 2 around each of the first axis AX1 and the second axis AX2.

[0067] Next, the swinging of the movable side metal member 5M attached to the module holder 2 (not shown in FIG. 8) by the driving unit DM (shape memory alloy wire SA) will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the connecting member 3, the metal member 5, the first metal member 7, the second metal member 8, and the shape memory alloy wire SA.

[0068] The control device CTR can supply current to each of the first wire SA1 and the fourth wire SA4 to contract each of the first wire SA1 and the fourth wire SA4, thereby causing the movable side metal member 5M to oscillate in the direction indicated by the arrow AR1 around the first axis AX1.

[0069] In addition, the control device CTR can supply current to each of the second wire SA2 and the third wire SA3 to contract each of the second wire SA2 and the third wire SA3, thereby causing the movable side metal member 5M to oscillate in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2 around the first axis AX1.

[0070] In addition, the control device CTR can supply current to each of the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2 to contract each of the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2, thereby causing the movable side metal member 5M to oscillate in the direction indicated by the arrow AR3 around the second axis AX2.

[0071] In addition, the control device CTR can supply current to each of the third wire SA3 and the fourth wire SA4 to contract each of the third wire SA3 and the fourth wire SA4, thereby causing the movable side metal member 5M to oscillate in the direction indicated by the arrow AR4 around the second axis AX2.

[0072] Next, the positional relationship between the cover member 1, the connecting member 3, the movable-side cover member 4, the first metal member 7, and the second metal member 8 will be described with reference to Figs. 9 to 11. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the cover member 1, the connecting member 3, the movable-side cover member 4, the first metal member 7, and the second metal member 8. Specifically, the upper view (above the block arrow) of Fig. 9 shows a state in which the cover member 1 and the combination of the connecting member 3, the movable-side cover member 4, the first metal member 7, and the second metal member 8 are separated, and the lower view (below the block arrow) of Fig. 9 shows a state in which the cover member 1, the connecting member 3, the movable-side cover member 4, the first metal member 7, and the second metal member 8 are combined. Figs. 10 and 11 are cross-sectional views of the cover member 1, the connecting member 3, the movable-side cover member 4, the first metal member 7, and the second metal member 8. Specifically, the upper view of FIG. 10 is a view of the cross section of each member on a virtual plane parallel to the YZ plane including the dashed line L1 in the lower view of FIG. 9, as viewed from the X1 side. The lower view of FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member 3 and the first metal member 7 when the connecting member 3 is engaged with the first metal member 7, and corresponds to the upper view of FIG. 10. The upper view of FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of each member on a virtual plane parallel to the XZ plane including the dashed line L2 in the lower view of FIG. 9, as viewed from the Y2 side. The lower view of FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member 3 and the second metal member 8 when the connecting member 3 is engaged with the second metal member 8, and corresponds to the upper view of FIG. 11. Note that in FIG. 9 to FIG. 11, for clarity, illustration of other members constituting the module driving device MD is omitted.

[0073] 10, the first left support side engagement part V1SL provided in the center of the first left facing plate part 3PL constituting the first extending part 3E1 of the connecting member 3 is configured to mesh with the first left swing side engagement part V1TL provided on the first left metal member 7L. Specifically, the first left support side engagement part V1SL formed to protrude inward (Y2 side) and form a convex curved surface is configured to mesh with the first left swing side engagement part V1TL formed to recess inward (Y2 side) and form a concave curved surface.

[0074] Similarly, the first right support side engagement portion V1SR provided in the center of the first right facing plate portion 3PR constituting the second extending portion 3E2 of the connecting member 3 is configured to mesh with the first right swing side engagement portion V1TR provided on the first right metal member 7R. Specifically, the first right support side engagement portion V1SR formed to protrude inward (Y1 side) and form a convex curved surface is configured to mesh with the first right swing side engagement portion V1TR formed to recess inward (Y1 side) and form a concave curved surface.

[0075] In this way, the first left support side engagement portion V1SL and the first left swing side engagement portion V1TL form a snap-in structure, and the first right support side engagement portion V1SR and the first right swing side engagement portion V1TR form a snap-in structure.

[0076] When the connecting member 3 is pressed against the first metal member 7 from above as shown by the white block arrow in the lower diagram of Fig. 10 in order to engage the connecting member 3 and the first metal member 7, which are separated from each other, the first metal member 7 is deformed (flexed) as shown by the black block arrow in the lower diagram of Fig. 10, and the distance between the first left metal member 7L and the first right metal member 7R is narrowed. Specifically, the first left metal member 7L is temporarily pressed (flexed) inward (Y2 side) by the elastic deformation of the substantially L-shaped elastic deformation portion EL (see Fig. 4), and the first right metal member 7R is temporarily pressed (flexed) inward (Y1 side) by the elastic deformation of the substantially L-shaped elastic deformation portion EL (see Fig. 4). The portion indicated by the dashed line in the lower diagram of Fig. 10 represents a part of the first metal member 7 deformed by contact with the connecting member 3.

[0077] When the connecting member 3 is pushed in to the position shown in the upper diagram of Figure 10, the first metal member 7 returns to the state it was in before it was pressed and narrowed, and the connecting member 3 and the first metal member 7 are connected in a state in which they can swing relatively around the first axis AX1.

[0078] 10, when the movable-side cover member 4 is attached with the connecting member 3 and the first metal member 7 connected, the inward deformation of the first metal member 7 is restricted by the movable-side cover member 4. Specifically, the inward deformation (Y2 side) of the first left-side metal member 7L is restricted by the outer surface of the second side plate portion 4A2 of the movable-side cover member 4, and the inward deformation (Y1 side) of the first right-side metal member 7R is restricted by the outer surface of the fourth side plate portion 4A4 of the movable-side cover member 4.

[0079] More specifically, the movable-side cover member 4 is disposed so that the dimension DS1 (zero in the illustrated example) between the outer surface of the second side plate portion 4A2 and the inner surface of the first left swing-side engagement portion V1TL is smaller than the engagement dimension DS2 between the first left support-side engagement portion V1SL and the first left swing-side engagement portion V1TL. The engagement dimension DS2 corresponds to, for example, the distance between the outer surface (Y1 side surface) of the first left metal member 7L (elastic deformation portion EL) and the inner surface (Y2 side surface) of the first left support-side engagement portion V1SL in a state in which the connecting member 3 and the first metal member 7 are connected. However, the engagement dimension DS2 may be the depth of the recess of the first left swing-side engagement portion V1TL in the Y-axis direction. In the illustrated example, the outer surface of the second side plate portion 4A2 and the inner surface of the first left swing-side engagement portion V1TL are in contact with each other, and the dimension DS1 is zero.

[0080] With this arrangement, even if the first metal member 7 is deformed by some force such as an impact from being dropped, the movable side cover member 4 can prevent the first metal member 7 from narrowing inward to the extent that the engagement between the connecting member 3 and the first metal member 7 is released.

[0081] 11, the second front swing side engagement part V2TF provided at the center of the second front facing plate part 3QF constituting the third extending part 3E3 of the connecting member 3 is configured to mesh with the second front support side engagement part V2SF provided on the second front metal member 8F. Specifically, the second front swing side engagement part V2TF formed so as to protrude outward (X1 side) and form a convex curved surface is configured to mesh with the second front support side engagement part V2SF formed so as to recess outward (X1 side) and form a concave curved surface.

[0082] Similarly, the second rear swing side engagement portion V2TB provided in the center of the second rear facing plate portion 3QB constituting the fourth extending portion 3E4 of the connecting member 3 is configured to mesh with the second rear support side engagement portion V2SB provided on the second rear metal member 8B. Specifically, the second rear swing side engagement portion V2TB formed to protrude outward (X2 side) and form a convex curved surface is configured to mesh with the second rear support side engagement portion V2SB formed to recess outward (X2 side) and form a concave curved surface.

[0083] In this way, the second front swing side engagement portion V2TF and the second front support side engagement portion V2SF form a snap-in structure, and the second rear swing side engagement portion V2TB and the second rear support side engagement portion V2SB form a snap-in structure.

[0084] When the connecting member 3 is pressed against the second metal member 8 from above as shown by the white block arrow in the lower diagram of FIG. 11 in order to engage the connecting member 3 and the second metal member 8, which are separated from each other, the second metal member 8 is deformed (flexed) as shown by the black block arrow in the lower diagram of FIG. 11, and the distance between the second front metal member 8F and the second rear metal member 8B is increased. Specifically, the second front metal member 8F is temporarily pushed outward (flexed) (toward the X1 side) by the elastic deformation of the substantially L-shaped elastic deformation portion EL (see FIG. 5), and the second rear metal member 8B is temporarily pushed outward (flexed) (toward the X2 side) by the elastic deformation of the substantially L-shaped elastic deformation portion EL (see FIG. 5). The portion shown by the dashed line in the lower diagram of FIG. 11 represents a part of the second metal member 8 deformed by contact with the connecting member 3.

[0085] When the connecting member 3 is pushed into the position shown in the upper diagram of Figure 11, the second metal member 8 returns to the state it was in before it was spread apart, and the connecting member 3 and the second metal member 8 are connected in a state in which they can swing relatively around the second axis AX2.

[0086] 11 , when the cover member 1 is attached with the connecting member 3 and the second metal member 8 connected to each other, the outward deformation of the second metal member 8 is restricted by the cover member 1. Specifically, the outward deformation (X1 side) of the second front metal member 8F is restricted by the inner surface of the first side plate portion 1A1 of the cover member 1, and the outward deformation (X2 side) of the second rear metal member 8B is restricted by the inner surface of the third side plate portion 1A3 of the cover member 1.

[0087] More specifically, the cover member 1 is disposed so that a dimension DS3 between the inner surface of the first side plate portion 1A1 and the outer surface of the second front support side engagement portion V2SF is smaller than an engagement dimension DS4 between the second front swing side engagement portion V2TF and the second front support side engagement portion V2SF. Note that the engagement dimension DS4 corresponds to, for example, the distance between the inner surface (X2 side surface) of the second front metal member 8F (elastic deformation portion EL) and the outer surface (X1 side surface) of the second front swing side engagement portion V2TF in a state in which the connecting member 3 and the second metal member 8 are connected. However, the engagement dimension DS4 may be the depth of the recess of the second front support side engagement portion V2SF in the X-axis direction.

[0088] With this arrangement, even if the second metal member 8 is deformed by some force such as an impact from being dropped, the cover member 1 can prevent the second metal member 8 from spreading outward to the extent that the engagement between the connecting member 3 and the second metal member 8 is released.

[0089] Next, the positional relationship between the substrate SB, the shape memory alloy wire SA, the first axis AX1, and the second axis AX2 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a three-sided view (right side view, bottom view, and left side view) of the optical module OM and the module driving device MD. For clarity, the cover member 1 and the base member 18 are omitted in Fig. 12, and a dot pattern is applied to the substrate SB.

[0090] In the lower diagram (left side view) of Fig. 12, a first straight line SL1 represented by a dashed line is a straight line connecting one end of the first wire SA1 to the other end of the first wire SA1 when viewed from the left side along the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1. A second straight line SL2 represented by a dashed line is a straight line connecting one end of the second wire SA2 to the other end of the second wire SA2. A first intersection point NP1 is an intersection point between the first straight line SL1 and the second straight line SL2, and exists at a position different from the first axis AX1, specifically, below (on the Z2 side) the first axis AX1.

[0091] In the upper view (right side view) of Fig. 12, a third straight line SL3 represented by a dashed line is a straight line connecting one end of the third wire SA3 and the other end of the third wire SA3 when viewed from the right side along the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1. A fourth straight line SL4 represented by a dashed line is a straight line connecting one end of the fourth wire SA4 and the other end of the fourth wire SA4. The second intersection point NP2 is an intersection point between the third straight line SL3 and the fourth straight line SL4, and exists at a position different from the first axis AX1, specifically, below (on the Z2 side) the first axis AX1.

[0092] The fixed end SB4 is an inner end of the connecting portion SB3 that connects the outer portion SB1 and the inner portion SB2 of the board SB, which is a flexible printed circuit board. In the illustrated example, the fixed end SB4 includes a left fixed end SB4L that is an inner end of the left connecting portion SB3L and a right fixed end SB4R that is an inner end of the right connecting portion SB3R.

[0093] As shown in the center diagram (bottom view) of FIG. 12, both the left fixed end SB4L and the right fixed end SB4R are arranged so as to be located on the first axis AX1 in the bottom view. That is, both the left fixed end SB4L and the right fixed end SB4R are arranged at the position closest to the first axis AX1. With this arrangement, the board SB can suppress, for example, a force (torque around the first axis AX1) generated when the deformed connecting portion SB3 tries to return to its original shape. In addition, the board SB is arranged so that a distance HT (height difference) is generated between the outer portion SB1 and the inner portion SB2 in the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction). Therefore, the board SB is more likely to disperse the stress acting on the board SB when the module holder 2 swings, compared to a case where there is no height difference.

[0094] Next, a method of assembling the module driving device MD will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0095] First, as shown in Fig. 13, the flexible metal member 6 is attached to the module holder 2 in which the first metal member 7 is embedded. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the first assembly AS1 composed of the module holder 2, the flexible metal member 6, and the first metal member 7. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 13 (the view above the block arrow) is a view of the first assembly AS1 before assembly, and the lower view of Fig. 13 (the view below the block arrow) is a view of the first assembly AS1 after assembly.

[0096] The flexible metal member 6 is fixed to a pedestal portion 2M formed at the lower end of the side plate portion 2A of the module holder 2. In the illustrated example, the first inner portion 6N1 of the left flexible metal member 6L is fixed by crimping to the left pedestal portion 2ML formed at the lower end of the second side plate portion 2A2, and the second inner portion 6N2 of the right flexible metal member 6R is fixed by crimping to the right pedestal portion 2MR formed at the lower end of the fourth side plate portion 2A4. The fixing by crimping is achieved by crushing a protrusion (not shown) formed on the pedestal portion 2M while it is inserted into a through hole formed in the inner portion 6N.

[0097] Thereafter, the first assembly AS1 is turned upside down as shown in Fig. 14, and attached to a base member 18 in which a second metal member 8 and a conductive member 9 are embedded. Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a second assembly AS2 composed of the first assembly AS1, the second metal member 8, the conductive member 9, and the base member 18. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 14 (the view above the block arrow) is a view of the second assembly AS2 before assembly, and the lower view of Fig. 14 (the view below the block arrow) is a view of the second assembly AS2 after assembly.

[0098] The flexible metal member 6 attached to the module holder 2 is fixed to a pedestal portion 18M formed at the upper end of the base portion 18B of the base member 18. In the illustrated example, the first outer portion 6E1 (not visible in FIG. 14) of the left flexible metal member 6L is fixed by crimping to the left pedestal portion 18ML formed at the upper end of the second base portion 18B2, and the second outer portion 6E2 of the right flexible metal member 6R is fixed by crimping to the right pedestal portion 18MR formed at the upper end of the fourth base portion 18B4. The fixing by crimping is realized by squeezing a protrusion (not shown) formed on the pedestal portion 18M while it is inserted into a through hole formed in the outer portion 6E.

[0099] Also, the first outer portion 6E1 (not visible in FIG. 14) of the left flexible metal member 6L is joined by welding to the first joint surface CP1 of the left conductive member 9L exposed on the upper surface of the second base portion 18B2. Similarly, the second outer portion 6E2 of the right flexible metal member 6R is joined by welding to the second joint surface CP2 of the right conductive member 9R exposed on the upper surface of the fourth base portion 18B4.

[0100] Thereafter, the connecting member 3 is attached to the second assembly AS2 as shown in Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a third assembly AS3 constituted by the second assembly AS2 and the connecting member 3. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 15 (the view above the block arrow) is a view of the third assembly AS3 before assembly, and the lower view of Fig. 15 (the view below the block arrow) is a view of the third assembly AS3 after assembly.

[0101] The connecting member 3 is simultaneously engaged by press-fitting (snap-fastening) with the first metal member 7, a portion of which is embedded in the module holder 2, and the second metal member 8, a portion of which is embedded in the base member 18. In the illustrated example, the connecting member 3 is configured so that the first support side engagement portion V1S is engaged with the first swing side engagement portion V1T of the first metal member 7, and the second swing side engagement portion V2T is engaged with the second support side engagement portion V2S of the second metal member 8. When the connecting member 3 is assembled, the first metal member 7 is configured to temporarily deform as shown by the dashed line in the lower diagram of FIG. 10, and the second metal member 8 is configured to temporarily deform as shown by the dashed line in the lower diagram of FIG. 11.

[0102] Thereafter, the metal member 5 to which the shape memory alloy wire SA is fixed is attached to the third assembly AS3 as shown in Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a fourth assembly AS4 consisting of the third assembly AS3, the metal member 5, and the shape memory alloy wire SA. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 16 (the view above the block arrow) is a view of the fourth assembly AS4 before assembly, and the lower view of Fig. 16 (the view below the block arrow) is a view of the fourth assembly AS4 after assembly.

[0103] The metal member 5 is bonded to each of the module holder 2 and the base member 18 by an adhesive. In the illustrated example, the fixed side metal member 5F is bonded to the base member 18 by an adhesive, and the movable side metal member 5M is bonded to the module holder 2 by an adhesive. Specifically, as shown in the upper diagram of FIG. 16, the third fixed side metal member 5F3 is bonded to a rear mounting surface FSB extending upward from a rear end portion of the fourth base portion 18B4 of the base member 18 by an adhesive, and the fourth fixed side metal member 5F4 is bonded to a front mounting surface FSF extending upward from a front end portion of the fourth base portion 18B4 of the base member 18 by an adhesive. In addition, the second movable side metal member 5M2 is bonded to a mounting surface MS formed on a right side surface of the fourth side plate portion 2A4 of the module holder 2 by an adhesive. 16, the first fixed-side metal member 5F1 is joined by an adhesive to a front mounting surface FSF extending upward from the front end of the second base portion 18B2 of the base member 18, and the second fixed-side metal member 5F2 is joined by an adhesive to a rear mounting surface FSB extending upward from the rear end of the second base portion 18B2 of the base member 18. In addition, the first movable-side metal member 5M1 is joined by an adhesive to a mounting surface MS formed on the left side surface of the second side plate portion 2A2 of the module holder 2.

[0104] 16, the fixed-side metal member 5F and the movable-side metal member 5M are shown in a separated state, but they may be connected by a connecting metal plate made of the same material as the fixed-side metal member 5F and the movable-side metal member 5M. In this case, the fixed-side metal member 5F and the movable-side metal member 5M are separated from the connecting metal plate after being attached to the third assembly AS3.

[0105] Thereafter, a cover member 1 is attached to the fourth assembly AS4, as shown in Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a fifth assembly AS5 consisting of the fourth assembly AS4 and the cover member 1. The fifth assembly AS5 corresponds to the module driving device MD. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 17 (the view above the block arrow) is a view of the module driving device MD as the fifth assembly AS5 before assembly, the center view of Fig. 17 (the view below the block arrow) is a top perspective view of the assembled module driving device MD, and the lower view of Fig. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the assembled module driving device MD.

[0106] The cover member 1 is joined to the fourth assembly AS4 by an adhesive. In the illustrated example, the inner surfaces of the side plate portion 1A and the top plate portion 1B of the cover member 1 are joined to the outer surfaces of the base portion 18B and the wall portion 18D of the base member 18 by an adhesive.

[0107] Thereafter, the module driving device MD is turned upside down as shown in the lower diagram of Fig. 17. Then, the first fixing portion CB1 of the first movable-side metal member 5M1 is joined by welding to the first inner portion 6N1 of the left-side flexible metal member 6L, and the second fixing portion CB2 of the second movable-side metal member 5M2 (not visible in Fig. 17) is joined by welding to the second inner portion 6N2 of the right-side flexible metal member 6R (not visible in Fig. 17).

[0108] Here, the joining by welding of the movable metal member 5M and the flexible metal member 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the components of the module driving device MD turned upside down. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the module holder 2, the movable metal member 5M, and the flexible metal member 6, and the lower view of Fig. 18 is an enlarged view of the range R1 surrounded by the dashed line in the upper view of Fig. 18. Note that in Fig. 18, for clarity, illustration of other members constituting the module driving device MD is omitted.

[0109] 18, a pair of protrusions TP protruding downward are formed on the lower end of the fourth side plate portion 2A4 of the module holder 2. In the illustrated example, the pair of protrusions TP includes a front protrusion TP1 and a rear protrusion TP2, and is configured to have a cross section that is a right-angled trapezoid when cut parallel to the YZ plane.

[0110] Therefore, when the second movable-side metal member 5M2 is attached from the Y2 side to the attachment surface MS (see the upper diagram of FIG. 16) formed on the right side of the fourth side plate portion 2A4, the second fixed portion CB2 of the second movable-side metal member 5M2 moves inward (Y1 side) so as to climb over the protruding portion TP. Specifically, as indicated by the dotted arrow in the lower diagram of FIG. 18, the second fixed portion CB2 contacts the inclined surface of the protruding portion TP and deforms so as to spread downward (Z2 side), moves inward (Y1 side) along the lower end surface of the protruding portion TP while remaining in the deformed state, and returns to its original shape when it passes the lower end surface of the protruding portion TP to the inside. At this time, the upper surface (surface on the Z1 side) of the second fixed portion CB2 contacts a part of the lower surface (surface on the Z2 side) of the second inner portion 6N2 of the right flexible metal member 6R so as to be heavy.

[0111] This configuration ensures a tight contact between the upper surface of the second fixing portion CB2 of the second movable-side metal member 5M2 and the lower surface of the second inner portion 6N2 of the right-side flexible metal member 6R, and prevents a gap from being generated between the upper surface of the second fixing portion CB2 and the lower surface of the second inner portion 6N2. Therefore, this configuration has the effect of stabilizing the conductive connection by welding of the contact portion. In addition, this configuration has the effect of preventing the second movable-side metal member 5M2 from moving outward (to the Y2 side) from the fourth side plate portion 2A4 of the module holder 2. This is because the protrusion TP prevents the second fixing portion CB2 from moving outward (to the Y2 side). The same applies to the conductive connection by welding between the upper surface of the first fixing portion CB1 of the first movable-side metal member 5M1 and the lower surface of the first inner portion 6N1 of the left-side flexible metal member 6L.

[0112] The optical module OM is assembled separately from the module driving device MD, as shown in Fig. 19. Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a substrate SB to which a movable cover member 4 that houses the lens body LS and the lens driving device LD, and an imaging element holder SH that houses and holds the imaging element IS are joined. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 19 (the view above the block arrow) is a view of the optical module OM before assembly, and the lower view of Fig. 19 (the view below the block arrow) is a view of the optical module OM after assembly.

[0113] The optical module OM is assembled by bonding the lower surface of the movable cover member 4 to the upper surface of the imaging element holder SH with an adhesive. In the illustrated example, before this bonding, the lens body LS and the lens drive device LD are housed in the movable cover member 4, and the imaging element IS is fixed to the inner part SB2 of the substrate SB with a conductive adhesive or solder. Furthermore, the imaging element holder SH houses the imaging element IS with the imaging surface of the imaging element IS exposed from the opening SHk, and is bonded to the upper surface of the inner part SB2 of the substrate SB with an adhesive. At least a part of the outer shape of the imaging element IS is held by the imaging element holder SH.

[0114] Thereafter, the optical module OM is attached to the module driving device MD as shown in Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the module driving device MD and the optical module OM. Specifically, the upper view of Fig. 20 (the view above the block arrow) is a view before the optical module OM is attached to the module driving device MD, and the lower view of Fig. 20 (the view below the block arrow) is a view after the optical module OM is attached to the module driving device MD.

[0115] In the illustrated example, the optical module OM and the module driving device MD are bonded with an adhesive. The bonding between the optical module OM and the module driving device MD also includes bonding between the first connection part CT1 to the fourth connection part CT4, the first terminal part TM1, and the second terminal part TM2 exposed on the lower surface of the base member 18 and the conductor pattern formed on the upper surface of the outer part SB1 of the substrate SB with a conductive adhesive, solder, or the like, as shown in the lower diagram of FIG.

[0116] As described above, the module driving device MD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes, as shown in FIG. 2, a module holder 2 capable of holding an optical module OM having a lens body LS and an image sensor IS, a connecting member 3 connected to the module holder 2 so that the module holder 2 can swing around a first axis AX1 that intersects the optical axis direction (Z-axis direction), a fixed side member FB (base member 18) connected to the connecting member 3 so that the connecting member 3 can swing around a second axis AX2 that intersects the optical axis direction and is perpendicular to the axial direction of the first axis AX1 (Y-axis direction), and a drive unit DM that moves the module holder 2 relative to the fixed side member FB so that the optical axis OA of the lens body LS is tilted.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 3, the module driving device MD has a first engagement portion V1 that is provided so that the module holder 2 can swing around the first axis AX1, and a second engagement portion V2 that is provided so that the connecting member 3 can swing around the second axis AX2.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 3, the connecting member 3 is formed from a frame-shaped metal inside which the module holder 2 can be placed, and has a first extension portion 3E1 and a second extension portion 3E2 that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the first axis AX1 and extend in the axial direction of the second axis AX2 (X-axis direction), and a third extension portion 3E3 and a fourth extension portion 3E4 that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the second axis AX2 and extend in the axial direction of the first axis AX1.

[0119] The first engagement portion V1 includes a first support side engagement portion V1S provided at the center in the axial direction of the second axis AX2 of each of the first extension portion 3E1 and the second extension portion 3E2, and a first swing side engagement portion V1T provided on the module holder 2 so as to engage with the first support side engagement portion V1S.

[0120] In addition, the second engagement portion V2 includes a second sway side engagement portion V2T provided at the center in the axial direction of the first axis AX1 of each of the third extension portion 3E3 and the fourth extension portion 3E4, and a second support side engagement portion V2S provided on the fixed side member FB (base member 18) so as to engage with the second sway side engagement portion V2T.

[0121] In the illustrated example, the first engagement portion V1 is configured so that the first support side engagement portion V1S protrudes inward to form a convex curved surface and the first swing side engagement portion V1T recesses inward to form a concave curved surface, but the first support side engagement portion V1S may be recessed outward to form a concave curved surface and the first swing side engagement portion V1T protrudes outward to form a convex curved surface. The same applies to the second engagement portion V2.

[0122] In this configuration, since the first engagement portion V1 and the second engagement portion V2 are both provided in the center of the extending portion 3E, the advantage is that it is possible to prevent the position of the corners of the module holder 2 from becoming higher when the module holder 2 swings, compared to a case in which the first engagement portion V1 and the second engagement portion V2 are provided at the ends of the extending portion 3E. Therefore, this configuration makes it possible to reduce the space required to house the module holder 2, and ultimately brings about the advantage of making it possible to make the module driving device MD smaller (lower in height).

[0123] Furthermore, in this configuration, since the connecting member 3 is made of metal, the module driving device MD can be made smaller in size than when the connecting member 3 is made of synthetic resin or the like.

[0124] In addition, the first swing side engagement portion V1T may be formed of a first metal member 7 (see FIG. 4) made of a metal plate, and the second support side engagement portion V2S may be formed of a second metal member 8 (see FIG. 5) made of a metal plate.

[0125] This configuration has the advantage of being able to increase the durability of each of the first engagement portion V1 and the second engagement portion V2 compared to when the first swing side engagement portion V1T and the second support side engagement portion V2S are each made of synthetic resin or the like.

[0126] 4, the first metal member 7 may have an embedded portion EM embedded in the module holder 2 made of synthetic resin, a first swing-side engagement portion V1T exposed from the module holder 2, and an elastically deformable elastic deformation portion EL provided between the embedded portion EM and the first swing-side engagement portion V1T so as to connect the embedded portion EM and the first swing-side engagement portion V1T and exposed from the module holder 2. Also, as shown in FIG. 5, the fixed-side member FB may have a base member 18 made of synthetic resin and a second metal member 8 embedded in the base member 18. The second metal member 8 may have an embedded portion EM embedded in the base member 18, a second support-side engagement portion V2S exposed from the base member 18, and an elastically deformable elastic deformation portion EL provided between the embedded portion EM and the second support-side engagement portion V2S so as to connect the embedded portion EM and the second support-side engagement portion V2S and exposed from the base member 18.

[0127] This configuration makes it possible to use snap fastening that utilizes the elastic deformation portion EL, which has the effect of facilitating the assembly of the connecting member 3 to each of the first metal member 7 and the second metal member 8. As a result, this configuration has the effect of increasing the productivity of the module drive device MD or reducing the manufacturing cost of the module drive device MD. In addition, this configuration has the effect of reducing the number of parts because the snap-in parts (the first metal member 7 having the first swing-side engagement portion V1T and the second metal member 8 having the second support-side engagement portion V2S) are embedded in the module holder 2 or the base member 18 by insert molding, which in turn reduces the number of steps in assembling the module drive device MD.

[0128] As shown in FIG. 2, the base member 18 may be disposed outside the connecting member 3 and may have a pair of wall portions 18D that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the second axis AX2 (X-axis direction) across the module holder 2. The second metal member 8 may be embedded in each of the wall portions 18D as shown in FIG. 5. The fixed-side member FB may have a cover member 1 that constitutes a housing HS together with the base member 18 as shown in FIG. 1. The cover member 1 may have a side plate portion 1A disposed outside the wall portion 18D as shown in FIG. 2. The side plate portion 1A, the second swing-side engagement portion V2T, and the second support-side engagement portion V2S may be disposed such that an engagement dimension DS4 between the second swing-side engagement portion V2T and the second support-side engagement portion V2S in the axial direction of the second axis AX2 (X-axis direction) is larger than a dimension DS3 between the side plate portion 1A and the second support-side engagement portion V2S as shown in FIG. 11.

[0129] This configuration has the effect of preventing disengagement of the snap-in structure (engagement between the second swing-side engaging portion V2T and the second support-side engaging portion V2S) because, with this configuration, even if a strong impact is applied to the module driving device MD due to being dropped or the like, deformation of the second metal member 8 is limited by the side plate portion 1A of the cover member 1.

[0130] The connecting member 3 may be formed of a metal plate. The first extending portion 3E1 and the second extending portion 3E2 may have a first opposing plate portion 3P whose plate surfaces face each other in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1, as shown in FIG. 3. The first support side engaging portion V1S may be formed in the first opposing plate portion 3P in a convex curved shape so that the inner surface of the first opposing plate portion 3P protrudes inward along the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1. The first swing side engaging portion V1T may be formed in a concave curved shape so that the outer surface of the first metal member 7 is concave inward along the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10, the first sway side engagement portion V1T and the first support side engagement portion V1S may be arranged so that an engagement dimension DS2 between the first sway side engagement portion V1T and the first support side engagement portion V1S in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1 is larger than the dimension DS1 between the inner surface of the portion of the first metal member 7 where the first sway side engagement portion V1T is formed (the inner surface of the convex curved portion opposite the concave curved portion) and the outer surface of the optical module OM held by the module holder 2.

[0131] This configuration has the effect of preventing disengagement of the snap-in structure (engagement between the first swing-side engaging portion V1T and the first support-side engaging portion V1S). This is because, with this configuration, even if a strong impact is applied to the module driving device MD due to being dropped or the like, deformation of the first metal member 7 is limited by the optical module OM (the side plate portion 4A of the movable-side cover member 4).

[0132] 3, the connecting member 3 may be formed of a metal plate having a plurality of bent portions BD. In this case, the first extending portion 3E1 and the second extending portion 3E2 may have a first opposing plate portion 3P whose plate surfaces face each other in the axial direction of the first axis AX1 (Y-axis direction). The first support side engaging portion V1S may be formed on the first opposing plate portion 3P. The third extending portion 3E3 and the fourth extending portion 3E4 may have a second opposing plate portion 3Q whose plate surfaces face each other in the axial direction of the second axis AX2 (X-axis direction). The second swing side engaging portion V2T may be formed on the second opposing plate portion 3Q. Furthermore, when the bending portion BD is extended so that the plate surfaces of the first opposing plate portion 3P and the second opposing plate portion 3Q are parallel to the same imaginary plane parallel to the XY plane, i.e., in the state before the bending process is performed on the metal plate that constitutes the connecting member 3, the first support side engagement portion V1S and the second swing side engagement portion V2T may protrude in the same direction (Z1 direction).

[0133] This configuration has the advantage that the protrusion direction (press direction) when forming the first support side engagement portion V1S and the second swing side engagement portion V2T in the metal plate is the same, making it easier to process the connecting member 3 compared to when the protrusion directions (press directions) are different.

[0134] Moreover, the driving unit DM may be configured to have a plurality of shape memory alloy wires SA as shown in Fig. 3. In this case, the shape memory alloy wires SA may be provided at two positions spaced apart from each other in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1 across the optical module OM.

[0135] This configuration provides the advantage of enabling miniaturization compared to a voice coil motor type drive unit having a magnet and a coil. In addition, this configuration provides the advantage of suppressing interference between the shape memory alloy wire SA and the second swing side engagement part V2T and the second support side engagement part V2S, since the shape memory alloy wire SA is disposed at a position different from the engagement (connection) position of the second swing side engagement part V2T and the second support side engagement part V2S. In addition, this configuration provides the advantage of enabling a larger driving force to be realized compared to a voice coil motor type drive unit, making it easier to route the board SB as a flexible printed board, and realizing the advantage of enabling miniaturization of the module drive device MD.

[0136] 3, the shape memory alloy wire SA may have a first wire SA1 and a second wire SA2 disposed at one position in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1, and a third wire SA3 and a fourth wire SA4 disposed at the other position in the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1. In this case, each of the first wire SA1, the second wire SA2, the third wire SA3, and the fourth wire SA4 may have one end fixed to a fixed-side metal member 5F provided on the fixed-side member FB (base member 18), and the other end fixed to a movable-side metal member 5M provided on the movable-side member MB including the module holder 2. When viewed along the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1, the first wire SA1 and the second wire SA2 may cross each other, and the third wire SA3 and the fourth wire SA4 may cross each other.

[0137] This configuration has the effect of realizing a swinging motion around the first axis AX1 and a swinging motion around the second axis AX2. This configuration also has the effect of reducing power consumption and simplifying the electric circuit for driving the drive unit DM, compared to a configuration using five or more shape memory alloy wires SA to realize a swinging motion around two axes. The simplification of the electric circuit also has the effect of making it easier to take measures against noise when the expansion and contraction of the shape memory alloy wires SA is realized by PWM control. In the illustrated example, the electric circuit for driving the drive unit DM is completed on one side (upper surface side) of the base member 18, as shown in FIG. 7. This configuration also has the effect of reducing the number of flexible metal members 6, compared to a configuration using five or more shape memory alloy wires SA to realize a swinging motion around two axes, thereby reducing the driving force required for the swinging motion. In addition, since this configuration has a compact (low-profile) module driving device MD, the amount of expansion and contraction of the shape memory alloy wire SA can be reduced compared to when a shape memory alloy wire is used in a module driving device having a larger size, which ultimately has the effect of realizing a longer life for the shape memory alloy wire SA.

[0138] Also, as shown in the lower drawing of FIG. 12, when viewed along the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1, a first intersection point NP1 between a first straight line SL1 connecting one end of the first wire SA1 to the other end of the first wire SA1 and a second straight line SL2 connecting one end of the second wire SA2 to the other end of the second wire SA2 may be present at a position different from the first axis AX1. Also, as shown in the upper drawing of FIG. 12, when viewed along the axial direction (Y-axis direction) of the first axis AX1, a second intersection point NP2 between a third straight line SL3 connecting one end of the third wire SA3 to the other end of the third wire SA3 and a fourth straight line SL4 connecting one end of the fourth wire SA4 to the other end of the fourth wire SA4 may be present at a position different from the first axis AX1. In this embodiment, in the optical axis direction, the first intersection point NP1 and the second intersection point NP2 are present on the same side (for example, the lower side, which is the Z2 side) as viewed from the first axis AX1.

[0139] This configuration has the effect of ensuring the swinging action of the module holder 2, compared to a case where the positions of the intersections (first intersection NP1 and second intersection NP2) coincide with the position of the first axis AX1. In a configuration where the positions of the intersections coincide with the position of the first axis AX1, the swinging direction becomes unstable, that is, when the shape memory alloy wire SA is contracted, it may swing in either of the two swinging directions.

[0140] The other end of the first wire SA1 and the other end of the second wire SA2 may be electrically connected via a first movable-side metal member 5M1 as shown in Fig. 7. The other end of the third wire SA3 and the other end of the fourth wire SA4 may be electrically connected via a second movable-side metal member 5M2.

[0141] This configuration brings about the effect that it is easier to ensure a current path for the shape memory alloy wire SA compared to a configuration in which the two shape memory alloy wires SA are not electrically connected via the movable side metal member 5M.

[0142] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications and substitutions may be applied to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, each of the features described with reference to the above-described embodiments may be appropriately combined as long as there is no technical contradiction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 1... Cover member 1A... Side plate part 1A1... First side plate part 1A2... Second side plate part 1A3... Third side plate part 1A4... Fourth side plate part 1B... Top plate part 1K... Opening 1S... Storage part 2... Module holder 2A... Side plate part 2B... Top plate part 2K... Opening 2M... Base part 2ML... Left base part 2MR... Right base part 3... Connecting member 3E... Extension part 3E1... First extension part 3E2... Second extension part 3E3... Third extension part 3E4... Fourth extension part 3P... First opposing plate part 3PL... First left opposing plate part 3PR... First right opposing plate part 3Q... Second opposing plate part 3QB... Second rear opposing plate part 3QF... Second front opposing plate part 4... Movable side cover member 4A... Side plate part 4A1... First side plate part 4A2... Second side plate part 4A3... Third side plate part 4A4... Fourth side plate part 4D... Bottom plate part 4K... Opening 4S... Storage part 5... Metal member 5F... Fixed side metal member 5F1... First fixed side metal member 5F2... Second fixed side metal member 5F3... Third fixed side metal member 5F4... Fourth fixed side metal member 5M... Movable side metal member 5M1... First movable side metal member 5M2... Second movable side metal member 6... Flexible metal member 6E... Outer part 6E1... First outer part 6E2... Second outer part 6G... Elastic arm part 6G1... First elastic arm part 6G2... Second elastic arm part 6L... Left flexible metal member 6N... Inner part 6N1... First inner part 6N2... Second inner part 6R... Right flexible metal member 7... First metal member 7L... First left metal member 7R... First right metal member 8... Second metal member 8B... Second rear metal member 8F... Second front metal member 9... Conductive member 9L... Left conductive member 9R... Right conductive member 18... Base member 18B... Base part 18B1... First base part 18B2... Second base part 18B3... Third base part 18B4... Fourth base part 18D... Wall part 18D1... First wall part 18D2... Second wall part 18K... Opening 18M... Base part 18ML... Left base part 18MR... Right base part AS1... First assembly AS2... Second assembly AS3... Third assembly AS4... Fourth assemblyAS5...Fifth assembly AX1...First axis AX2...Second axis BD...Bending section CB1...First fixed section CB2...Second fixed section CP1...First joint surface CP2...Second joint surface CT1...First connection section CT2...Second connection section CT3...Third connection section CT4...Fourth connection section CTR...Control device DM...Drive section EL...Elastic deformation section EM...Embedded section EM1...First buried section EM2...Second buried section FB...Fixed side member HS...Housing IS...Imaging element J1~J8...Holding section LD...Lens drive unit LS...Lens body MB...Movable side member MD...Module drive unit NP1...First intersection NP2...Second intersection OA...Optical axis OM...Optical module SA...Shape memory alloy wire SA1...First wire SA2...Second wire SA3...Third wire SA4...Fourth wire SB...Substrate SB1...Outer part SB2...Inner part SB3...Connection part SB3L...Left connection part SB3R...Right connection part SB4...Fixed end SB4L...Left side fixed end SB4R...Right side fixed end SL1...First straight line SL2...Second straight line SL3...Third straight line SL4...Fourth straight line SH...Imaging element holder TM1...First terminal part TM2...Second terminal part TP...Protruding part TP1...Front side protruding part TP2...Rear protrusion V1...1st engagement part V1S...First support side engagement part V1SL...First left support side engagement part V1SR...First right support side engagement part V1T...First swing side engagement part V1TL...First left swing side engagement part V1TR...First right swing side engagement part V2...Second engagement part V2S...Second support side engagement part V2SB...Second rear support side engagement part V2SF...Second front support side engagement part V2T...Second swing side engagement part V2TB...Second rear swing side engagement part V2TF...Second front swing side engagement part

Claims

1. a module holder capable of holding an optical module having a lens body and an image sensor; a connecting member connected to the module holder so that the module holder can swing about a first axis line intersecting an optical axis direction; a fixed member connected to the connecting member such that the connecting member can swing about a second axis perpendicular to the axial direction of the first axis; a drive unit that moves the module holder relative to the fixed member, the module holder has a first engagement portion provided so as to be pivotable about the first axis, and the connecting member has a second engagement portion provided so as to be pivotable about the second axis, the connecting member is formed of a frame-shaped metal inside which the module holder can be arranged, and has a first extending portion and a second extending portion that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the first axis and extend in the axial direction of the second axis, and a third extending portion and a fourth extending portion that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the second axis and extend in the axial direction of the first axis, the first engagement portion includes a first support side engagement portion provided at a center portion in an axial direction of the second axis of each of the first extension portion and the second extension portion, and a first swing side engagement portion provided on the module holder so as to engage with the first support side engagement portion, the second engagement portion includes a second swing-side engagement portion provided at a center portion in the axial direction of the first axis of each of the third extension portion and the fourth extension portion, and a second support-side engagement portion provided on the fixed-side member so as to engage with the second swing-side engagement portion; A module drive device comprising:

2. the first pivoting side engaging portion is formed by a first metal member made of a metal plate, The second support side engagement portion is formed of a second metal member made of a metal plate.

2. The module drive device according to claim 1.

3. the first metal member has an embedded portion embedded in the module holder made of synthetic resin, the first swing-side engaging portion exposed from the module holder, and an elastically deformable portion provided between the embedded portion and the first swing-side engaging portion and exposed from the module holder, the fixed member has a base member made of synthetic resin and the second metal member embedded in the base member, the second metal member has an embedded portion embedded in the base member, the second support-side engaging portion exposed from the base member, and an elastically deformable portion provided between the embedded portion and the second support-side engaging portion and exposed from the base member.

3. The module drive device according to claim 2.

4. the base member has a pair of wall portions that are disposed outside the connecting member and opposed to each other and spaced apart in the axial direction of the second axis, the second metal member is embedded in each of the wall portions, the fixed member has a cover member that constitutes a housing together with the base member, The cover member has a side plate portion disposed on an outer side of the wall portion, an engagement dimension between the second swing-side engagement portion and the second support-side engagement portion in an axial direction of the second axis is larger than a dimension between the side plate portion and the second support-side engagement portion; 4. The module drive device according to claim 3.

5. The connecting member is formed of a metal plate, The first extension portion and the second extension portion have first opposing plate portions opposed to each other in an axial direction of the first axis, The first support-side engagement portion is formed into a convex curved shape such that an inner surface of the first opposing plate portion protrudes inward along the axial direction of the first axis, The first pivoting side engaging portion is formed into a concave curved shape such that an outer surface of the first metal member is concave inward along the axial direction of the first axis, an engagement dimension between the first swing-side engaging portion and the first support-side engaging portion in the axial direction of the first axis is larger than a dimension between an inner surface of a portion of the first metal member where the first swing-side engaging portion is formed and an outer surface of the optical module held by the module holder; The module driving device according to claim 3 or 4.

6. The connecting member is formed of a metal plate having a plurality of bent portions, The first extension portion and the second extension portion have a first opposing plate portion whose plate surfaces are opposed to each other in the axial direction of the first axis, The first support side engagement portion is formed on the first opposing plate portion, The third extension portion and the fourth extension portion have second opposing plate portions whose plate surfaces face each other in the axial direction of the second axis, The second pivot side engaging portion is formed on the second opposing plate portion, When the bent portion is extended so that the plate surfaces of the first opposing plate portion and the second opposing plate portion are parallel to the same imaginary plane, the first support side engagement portion and the second swing side engagement portion protrude in the same direction.

5. The module driving device according to claim 1.

7. The driving unit includes a plurality of shape memory alloy wires, The shape memory alloy wire is provided at two positions spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the first axis across the optical module.

5. The module driving device according to claim 1.

8. The shape memory alloy wire includes a first wire and a second wire disposed at one position in the axial direction of the first axis, and a third wire and a fourth wire disposed at the other position in the axial direction of the first axis, Each of the first wire to the fourth wire has one end fixed to a fixed-side metal member provided on the fixed-side member and the other end fixed to a movable-side metal member provided on a movable-side member including the module holder, When viewed along the axial direction of the first axis, the first wire and the second wire cross each other, and the third wire and the fourth wire cross each other.

8. The module drive device according to claim 7.

9. When viewed along the axial direction of the first axis, a first intersection of a first line connecting one end of the first wire and the other end of the first wire and a second line connecting one end of the second wire and the other end of the second wire exists at a position different from the first axis, When viewed along the axial direction of the first axis, a second intersection of a third line connecting one end of the third wire and the other end of the third wire and a fourth line connecting one end of the fourth wire and the other end of the fourth wire is located at a position different from the first axis.

9. The module drive device according to claim 8.

10. the other end of the first wire and the other end of the second wire are electrically connected via a first movable-side metal member, The other end of the third wire and the other end of the fourth wire are electrically connected to each other via a second movable-side metal member.

9. The module drive device according to claim 8.

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