Optical device

Abstract

To provide an optical device capable of improving the accuracy of positioning a first housing to a second housing and the strength of adhesion of the first housing to the second housing.SOLUTION: The optical device comprises: a first lens group having an optical axis; a supported body which is a second lens group or an image pickup device; a first housing holding the first lens group and including a first contact surface perpendicular to the optical axis and a first recess defining surface that is adjacent to the first contact surface, located behind the first contact surface, and getting closer to the radial inside as closer to the first contact surface; a second housing holding the supported body and including a second contact surface in contact with the first contact surface and a second recess defining surface that is adjacent to the second contact surface, located behind the second contact surface, and defines a recess with the first recess defining surface; and adhesive arranged in the recess for bonding the second housing to the first housing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to optical devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a camera module. In the camera module, a sensor base and an optical system housing are aligned with each other. The sensor base and the optical system housing are joined to each other by a joining member. The tip of the optical system housing has a housing inclined portion that is inclined with respect to the sensor base. The joining member is filled between the housing inclined portion and the sensor base (paragraphs 0078 and 0080 and FIG. 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-028838 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the camera module disclosed in Patent Document 1, the height and inclination of the optical system housing relative to the sensor base are affected by the connecting member, making it difficult to improve the accuracy of positioning the optical system housing relative to the sensor base.

[0005] Furthermore, in this camera module, the area of ​​the interface between the connecting member and the sensor body is small, making it impossible to increase the strength of the connection between the optical system housing and the sensor body.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure has been made in consideration of these problems. An object of the present disclosure is to provide an optical device that can increase the accuracy of positioning a first housing relative to a second housing and increase the strength of adhesion between the first housing and the second housing, for example. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An optical device of one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a first lens group having an optical axis; a held body which is a second lens group or an image sensor; a first housing which holds the first lens group and has a first abutment surface perpendicular to the optical axis and a first recess defining surface which is adjacent to the first abutment surface, is located further back than the first abutment surface and approaches radially inward as it approaches the first abutment surface; a second housing which holds the held body and has a second abutment surface abutting the first abutment surface and a second recess defining surface which is adjacent to the second abutment surface, is located further back than the second abutment surface and defines a recess together with the first recess defining surface; and an adhesive which is disposed in the recess and adheres the second housing to the first housing. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a camera module according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a camera module according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a camera module according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 2 is a perspective view illustrating a front-stage lens housing provided in the camera module of the first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 5] 2 is a perspective view illustrating a rear-stage lens housing provided in the camera module of the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic state of a front-stage lens group, a front-stage lens housing, and a rear-stage lens housing provided in a camera module of a first embodiment, before the front-stage lens housing and the rear-stage lens housing are bonded to each other. [Figure 7] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a lens unit provided in a camera module of a first embodiment and an optical axis adjustment device used to adjust the optical axis of the lens unit. [Figure 8]FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a camera module according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a camera module according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a camera module according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a lens housing included in a camera module according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic view of a housing provided in a camera module according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a camera module according to a second embodiment and an optical axis adjustment device used to adjust the optical axis of the camera module. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a camera module according to a third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a camera module according to a third embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a camera module according to a third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a front-stage lens housing provided in a camera module according to a third embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a rear-stage lens housing provided in a camera module according to a third embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a camera module according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a lens housing provided in a camera module according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic view of a housing provided in a camera module according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a lens housing included in a camera module according to a fifth embodiment. [Diagram 23]FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a lens housing provided in a camera module according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 24] 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a front-stage lens group and a part of a lens housing provided in a camera module of a fifth embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 25] FIG. 13 is a top view diagrammatically illustrating a camera module according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a camera module according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a camera module according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a camera module according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a camera module according to a sixth embodiment. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a rear-stage lens housing provided in a camera module according to a sixth embodiment. [Diagram 31] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a camera module according to a seventh embodiment. [Diagram 32] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a camera module according to a seventh embodiment. [Diagram 33] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a camera module according to an eighth embodiment. [Diagram 34] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of a part of a camera module according to an eighth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0010] 1. First embodiment 1.1 Camera module Fig. 1 is a perspective view that typically illustrates the camera module of the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates the camera module of the first embodiment.

[0011] The camera module 1 of the first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 forms an image of an object, captures the formed image of the object, and outputs an image signal corresponding to the image of the object. The camera module 1 is incorporated in a smartphone. The camera module 1 may be incorporated in a mobile communication terminal other than a smartphone. The camera module 1 may be incorporated in a device other than a mobile communication terminal.

[0012] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the camera module 1 includes a lens unit 11 and an imaging unit 12.

[0013] The lens unit 11 forms an image of an object.

[0014] The imaging unit 12 is disposed after the lens unit 11. The imaging unit 12 captures an image of a formed object and outputs an image signal corresponding to the image of the object.

[0015] 1.2 Lens unit As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the lens unit 11 includes a lens group 21, a lens group 22, a lens housing 23, a lens housing 24, and an adhesive 26.

[0016] The lens group 21 and the lens group 22 configure an optical system 31. The optical system 31 transmits object light coming from an object and focuses the transmitted object light on an imaging surface. In this way, the optical system 31 forms an image of the object on the imaging surface. The optical system 31 has an optical axis 41. The optical system 31 may be replaced with an optical system different from the optical system configured by the lens group 21 and the lens group 22.

[0017] The lens group 21 includes one or more lenses. The lens group 21 has a positive power as a whole. The lens group 21 receives the object light and guides the received object light to the lens group 22. The lens group 21 has an optical axis that coincides with the optical axis 41 of the optical system 31.

[0018] The lens group 22 includes one or more lenses. The lens group 22 has a negative power as a whole. The lens group 22 is disposed after the lens group 21. The lens group 22 focuses the guided object light onto an imaging surface. The lens group 22 has an optical axis that coincides with the optical axis 41 of the optical system 31.

[0019] The lens housing 23 has a cylindrical shape. A hole 23a is formed in the lens housing 23. The hole 23a houses the lens group 21. The lens housing 23 has an inner peripheral surface 23b, an outer peripheral surface 23c, a front surface 23d, and a rear surface 23e. The hole 23a is defined by the inner peripheral surface 23b. The hole 23a has a front opening 23f and a rear opening 23g. The front opening 23f and the rear opening 23g are located on the front surface 23d and the rear surface 23e, respectively. The lens housing 23 holds the lens group 21. The lens housing 23 is also called a lens barrel, etc.

[0020] The lens housing 24 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a hole. Therefore, a hole 24a is formed in the lens housing 24. The hole 24a accommodates the lens group 22. The lens housing 24 has an inner peripheral surface 24b, a front surface 24d, and a rear surface 24e. The hole 24a is defined by the inner peripheral surface 24b. The hole 24a has a front opening 24f and a rear opening 24g. The front opening 24f and the rear opening 24g are located on the front surface 24d and the rear surface 24e, respectively. The front opening 24f overlaps with the rear opening 23g of the lens housing 23. As a result, the hole 24a communicates with the hole 23a. The lens housing 24 holds the lens group 22. The lens housing 24 is also called a lens barrel or the like.

[0021] The lens housing 24 has a shape larger than the shape of the lens housing 23 when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. For this reason, the center of the front surface 24d of the lens housing 24 faces the rear surface 23e of the lens housing 23 or the rear opening 23g in the rear surface 23e. The periphery of the front surface 24d of the lens housing 24 does not face the rear surface 23e of the lens housing 23.

[0022] The adhesive 26 is disposed across the outer circumferential surface 23c of the lens housing 23 and the front surface 24d of the lens housing 24. In this way, the adhesive 26 bonds the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 to each other.

[0023] The adhesive 26 is a cured product of a combination type adhesive that uses both ultraviolet curing and heat curing. Therefore, when the adhesive 26 is arranged across the outer peripheral surface 23c of the lens housing 23 and the front surface 24d of the lens housing 24, a viscous fluid that is a precursor of the adhesive 26 is applied across the outer peripheral surface 23c and the front surface 24d. The applied viscous fluid is irradiated with ultraviolet rays and cured. In this way, a cured product is obtained. The obtained cured product is heated and further cured. In this way, the strength of the cured product is increased. In this way, the adhesive 26 is obtained. The adhesive 26 may be a cured product of a combination type adhesive that uses ultraviolet curing and moisture, a curing accelerator, etc. in parallel.

[0024] When the adhesive 26 is obtained from the viscous fluid, a change in crosslink density due to a chemical reaction and hardening shrinkage such as volume shrinkage occur. Residual stress occurs in the obtained adhesive 26. Outgas is generated from the obtained adhesive 26.

[0025] When an uncured portion remains after a viscous fluid is irradiated with ultraviolet light and not cured, the curing shrinkage becomes larger and the amount of outgassing is increased compared to when no uncured portion remains.

[0026] In the camera module 1, the lens unit 11 is an optical device including a first housing and a second housing bonded to each other by an adhesive 26. Furthermore, the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are respectively the first housing and the second housing bonded to each other by an adhesive 26. Furthermore, the lens group 21 and the lens group 22 are respectively held bodies held by the first housing and the second housing. Furthermore, the lens group 21 and the lens group 22 are respectively the first lens group and the second lens group held by the first housing and the second housing.

[0027] 1.3 Imaging unit As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the imaging unit 12 includes an imaging element 51, an infrared cut filter 52, and a housing 53.

[0028] The imaging element 51 is disposed after the optical system 31. The imaging element 51 receives object light focused on the imaging surface and photoelectrically converts the received object light into an electric signal. As a result, the imaging element 51 captures an object image formed on the imaging surface and outputs an image signal corresponding to the object image. The imaging element 51 is a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, a charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor, or the like.

[0029] The infrared cut filter 52 is disposed after the optical system 31 and before the imaging element 51. The infrared cut filter 52 transmits the object light focused on the imaging surface and removes infrared rays from the transmitted object light.

[0030] The housing 53 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with a hole. A hole 53a is formed in the housing 53. The housing 53 has an inner peripheral surface 53b, an outer peripheral surface 53c, a front surface 53d, and an inner bottom surface 53h. The hole 53a is defined by the inner peripheral surface 53b and the inner bottom surface 53h. The hole 53a has a front opening 53f. The front opening 53f is located on the front surface 53d. The front opening 53f overlaps with a rear opening 24g of the lens housing 24. As a result, the hole 53a communicates with the hole 24a of the lens housing 24.

[0031] 1.4 Lens housing positioning Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a portion of the camera module of the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a front-stage lens housing that is provided in the camera module of the first embodiment. Fig. 5 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a rear-stage lens housing that is provided in the camera module of the first embodiment.

[0032] 3 and 4, the lens housing 23 has an abutment surface 23i. The abutment surface 23i is included in the rear surface 23e of the lens housing 23. The abutment surface 23i is perpendicular to the optical axis 41. The abutment surface 23i faces a first direction D1 toward the rear.

[0033] 3 and 5, the lens housing 24 has an abutment surface 24i. The abutment surface 24i is included in the front surface 24d of the lens housing 24. The abutment surface 24i is perpendicular to the optical axis 41. The abutment surface 24i faces a second direction D2 toward the front stage. The second direction D2 is opposite to the first direction D1.

[0034] The abutment surface 23i of the lens housing 23 and the abutment surface 24i of the lens housing 24 abut against each other. No adhesive 26 is sandwiched between the abutment surface 23i and the abutment surface 24i. This makes it possible to determine the position of the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24 in the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, and eliminates the inclination of the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24.

[0035] When the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are not abutted against each other as in the camera module disclosed in Patent Document 1, and adhesive 26 is sandwiched between the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24, the position and inclination of the lens housing 23 with respect to the lens housing 24 are affected by the amount of adhesive 26, the curing shrinkage that occurs when the adhesive 26 is obtained, and the residual stress that occurs in the adhesive 26. For this reason, it is difficult to achieve the desired position and inclination. Also, individual differences in the position and inclination become large.

[0036] In contrast, when the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are brought into contact with each other as in the camera module 1 of the first embodiment, the position and inclination of the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24 are not affected by the amount of adhesive 26, the curing shrinkage that occurs when the adhesive 26 is obtained, and the residual stress that occurs in the adhesive 26. Therefore, it is easy to make the position and the inclination in a desired state. Also, individual differences in the position and the inclination are reduced.

[0037] The contact surface 23i of the lens housing 23 exists along the entire circumference of the outer periphery of the rear opening 23g of the lens housing 23. The contact surface 24i of the lens housing 24 exists along the entire circumference of the outer periphery of the front opening 24f of the lens housing 24. Therefore, the contact surface 23i and the contact surface 24i have a ring-like shape having a center on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the contact surface 23i and the contact surface 24i abut against each other over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction. This can prevent a gap from being formed between the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24. This can prevent a viscous fluid from flowing into the hole 23a of the lens housing 23 and the hole 24a of the lens housing 24 from between the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24.

[0038] In the camera module 1, the contact surface 23i of the lens housing 23 and the contact surface 24i of the lens housing 24 serve as a first contact surface and a second contact surface, respectively, that come into contact with each other.

[0039] 1.5 Lens Housing Adhesion As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 have recesses 61 formed therein.

[0040] The recess 61 is formed across both the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 .

[0041] When viewed in a plane from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the recess 61 has a ring-like shape that has its center on the optical axis 41 and goes around in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the recess 61 is composed of a groove 71 having a ring-like shape. When viewed in cross section in a plane including the optical axis 41, the recess 61 has two cross sections, each of which has a square cross section, and has a cross-sectional shape that is symmetrical with respect to the optical axis 41.

[0042] In the recess 61, the adhesive 26 is placed.

[0043] The adhesive 26 has a shape that generally fits the shape of the recess 61. Therefore, the adhesive 26 has a ring-like shape that has its center on the optical axis 41 and goes around in the circumferential direction. When viewed in cross section on a plane including the optical axis 41, the adhesive 26 has two cross sections, each of which has a square cross section, and has a cross-sectional shape that is symmetrical with respect to the optical axis 41.

[0044] This allows the same amount of viscous fluid to be applied to positions symmetrical with respect to the optical axis 41. This allows the same magnitude of stress in the cross-sectional direction that occurs at the positions when the viscous fluid is cured. This allows the positional deviation of the lens housing 23 with respect to the lens housing 24 to be suppressed in the X direction and the Y direction perpendicular to the optical axis 41.

[0045] When the adhesive 26 is placed in the recess 61 formed across both the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24, the amount of adhesive 26 that bonds the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 to each other can be increased compared to when the adhesive is placed in a recess, cutout, or the like formed on only one of the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24. This allows the adhesive 26 to strongly bond the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 to each other.

[0046] When the adhesive 26 is placed in the ring-shaped recess 61, the adhesive 26 can bond the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 to each other over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction. This allows the adhesive 26 to strongly bond the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 to each other.

[0047] The adhesive 26 is obtained by applying a viscous fluid to the inside of the recess 61, irradiating the applied viscous fluid with ultraviolet light to change the applied viscous fluid into a hardened material, and then heating the hardened material to change it into a hardened material having even greater strength.

[0048] The recess 61 can hold the viscous fluid by surface tension. Therefore, when the adhesive 26 is obtained from the viscous fluid applied in the recess 61, the viscous fluid can be prevented from spreading, compared to when the adhesive 26 is obtained from the viscous fluid applied on a flat surface.

[0049] 1.6 Recessed surface As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the lens housing 23 has a recess defining surface 23j.

[0050] The recessed portion defining surface 23j of the lens housing 23 has a ring-like shape having a center on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. The recessed portion defining surface 23j is adjacent to the abutting surface 23i of the lens housing 23. The recessed portion defining surface 23j is located radially outward from the abutting surface 23i and is located on the back side of the abutting surface 23i. The recessed portion defining surface 23j being located on the back side of the abutting surface 23i means that the recessed portion defining surface 23j is located on the second direction D2 side of the abutting surface 23i. The recessed portion defining surface 23j faces a first inclined direction inclined radially outward from the first direction D1. Therefore, the recessed portion defining surface 23j approaches the radially inward as it approaches the abutting surface 23i. As a result, the recessed portion defining surface 23j imparts a tapered shape and a notched shape to the rear end of the lens housing 23.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the lens housing 24 has a recess defining surface 24j and a recess defining surface 24k.

[0052] The recessed portion defining surface 24j of the lens housing 24 has a ring-like shape having a center on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. The recessed portion defining surface 24j is included in the front surface 24d of the lens housing 24. The recessed portion defining surface 24j is adjacent to the abutment surface 24i of the lens housing 24. The recessed portion defining surface 24j is located radially outward from the abutment surface 24i and is located on the back side of the abutment surface 24i. The recessed portion defining surface 24j being located on the back side of the abutment surface 24i means that the recessed portion defining surface 24j is located on the first direction D1 side of the abutment surface 24i. The recessed portion defining surface 24j faces a second inclined direction inclined radially outward from the second direction D2. As a result, the recessed portion defining surface 24j approaches the radially inward direction as it approaches the abutment surface 24i.

[0053] The recess defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24 has a ring-like shape centered on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. The recess defining surface 24k is included in the front surface 24d of the lens housing 24. The recess defining surface 24k is adjacent to the recess defining surface 24j of the lens housing 24. The recess defining surface 24k is located radially outward from the recess defining surface 24j and is located on the back side of the abutment surface 24i. The recess defining surface 24k being located on the back side of the abutment surface 24i means that the recess defining surface 24k is located on the first direction D1 side of the abutment surface 24i.

[0054] The recessed portion defining surface 23j of the lens housing 23 and the recessed portion defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24 are generally parallel to each other and constitute the inner side surface of the recessed portion 61. The recessed portion defining surface 24j of the lens housing 24 is generally perpendicular to the recessed portion defining surface 23j and the recessed portion defining surface 24k and constitutes the inner bottom surface of the recessed portion 61. As a result, when viewed in cross section in a plane including the optical axis 41, the recessed portion 61 has two cross sections, each of which has a square cross section. As a result, in the plane including the optical axis 41, the entire inside of the recessed portion 61 can be seen from a direction parallel to the recessed portion defining surface 23j and the recessed portion defining surface 24k. As a result, the entire viscous fluid applied in the recessed portion 61 can be uniformly irradiated with ultraviolet light from that direction. As a result, the entire viscous fluid can be uniformly cured. As a result, it is possible to suppress the remaining of uncured portions. As a result, it is possible to suppress the curing shrinkage from becoming large. In addition, the amount of outgassing can be reduced.

[0055] The angle θ between the recess defining surface 23j of the lens housing 23 and the optical axis 41 1 , and the angle θ between the recess defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24 and the optical axis 41. 2 is preferably θ 1 ≦θ 2 and θ 1 = 45°. 1 and angle θ 2 When this condition is satisfied, the recess 61 does not narrow toward the opening, and the optical path of the ultraviolet light moves away from the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24. This allows the viscous fluid applied inside the recess 61 to be efficiently irradiated with ultraviolet light.

[0056] The spot diameter of the ultraviolet irradiator that irradiates the viscous fluid applied inside the recess 61 with ultraviolet light is desirably set to be larger than the distance from the front edge 23m of the recess defining surface 23j of the lens housing 23 to the radially outer edge 24m of the recess defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24. This allows the entire viscous fluid to be irradiated with ultraviolet light in a plane including the optical axis 41 without moving the optical path of the ultraviolet light. This allows the viscous fluid to be efficiently irradiated with ultraviolet light.

[0057] The recess defining surface 24j of the lens housing 24 faces one inclined direction inclined radially outward from the second direction D2. The recess defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24 faces another inclined direction inclined radially inward from the second direction D2. As a result, the recess defining surface 24j and the recess defining surface 24k define a recess 62. The recess 62 is formed in the lens housing 24 and is a part of the recess 61. When viewed in a plane from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the recess 62 has a ring-like shape having a center on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the recess 62 is composed of a groove 81 having a ring-like shape. When viewed in a cross-section on a plane including the optical axis 41, the recess 62 has two cross sections, each of which has a V-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0058] A portion of the adhesive 26 has a wedge shape and enters the recess 62 of the lens housing 24. The recess defining surfaces 24j and 24k of the lens housing 24 that define the recess 62 prevent the entered portion of the adhesive 26 from moving in the radial direction. This makes it possible to suppress the movement of the adhesive 26 in the shear direction compared to when the adhesive 26 is disposed on a flat surface. This makes it possible to increase the strength of the bond between the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24.

[0059] The recess defining surface 23j of the lens housing 23, the recess defining surface 24j of the lens housing 24, and the recess defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24 serve as a first recess defining surface, a second recess defining surface, and a third recess defining surface that define the recess 61 that becomes the first recess. The recess defining surface 24j and the recess defining surface 24k serve as a second recess defining surface and a third recess defining surface that define the recess 62 that becomes the second recess.

[0060] 1.7 Retention of viscous fluid before bonding FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic state of a front-stage lens group, a front-stage lens housing, and a rear-stage lens housing provided in the camera module of the first embodiment before the front-stage lens housing and the rear-stage lens housing are bonded to each other.

[0061] 6, the recess 62 of the lens housing 24 exists even before the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are bonded to each other. Therefore, the recess 62 can hold the viscous fluid 26p by surface tension even before the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are bonded to each other.

[0062] For this reason, before the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are bonded to each other, the viscous fluid 26p is applied to the inside of the recess 62 of the lens housing 24. Next, the lens housing 23 is placed on the lens housing 24. As a result, the abutment surface 23i of the lens housing 23 and the abutment surface 24i of the lens housing 24 abut against each other. Furthermore, the viscous fluid 26p spreads in the recess 61. Next, the viscous fluid 26p that has spread in the recess 61 is hardened.

[0063] 1.8 Adjusting the Optical Axis FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a lens unit provided in the camera module of the first embodiment and an optical axis adjustment device used to adjust the optical axis of the lens unit.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 7, an optical axis adjustment device 91 used to adjust the optical axis of the lens unit 11 includes a light source 101, a reticle 102, and an imaging unit 103.

[0065] The light source 101 emits light.

[0066] The reticle 102 transmits the light emitted by the light source 101 .

[0067] Lens group 22 transmits the light that has passed through reticle 102 .

[0068] The lens group 21 transmits the light that has passed through the lens group 22 .

[0069] Light that has passed through the lens group 21 enters the imaging section 103 .

[0070] As a result, the pattern of the reticle 102 is projected onto the imaging unit 103. This makes it possible to measure the resolution of the optical system 31 at the central and peripheral image heights.

[0071] When the optical axis 41 is adjusted using the optical axis adjustment device 91, the lens housing 23 is moved relative to the lens housing 24 in the X direction and the Y direction perpendicular to the optical axis 41 while the resolution of the optical system 31 is measured. In addition, the position of the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24 at which the resolution of the optical system 31 is optimized in the X direction and the Y direction is specified. In addition, the viscous fluid 26p is hardened and the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are fixed to each other while the position of the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24 is kept at the position at which the resolution of the optical system 31 is optimized. This allows the optical axis of the lens group 21 and the optical axis of the lens group 22 to be aligned with each other. This allows the lens unit 11 to have high performance.

[0072] In order to move the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24 in the X and Y directions perpendicular to the optical axis 41, the lens housing 23 must be moved in the X and Y directions relative to the lens housing 24 with the abutment surface 23i of the lens housing 23 and the abutment surface 24i of the lens housing 24 in contact with each other. For this reason, the abutment surfaces 23i and 24i are subjected to surface treatment such as mirror polishing and coating. As a result, the abutment surfaces 23i and 24i have a slidability that enables one of the abutment surfaces 23i and 24i to slide against the other of the abutment surfaces 23i and 24i.

[0073] When the lens housing 23 is moved relative to the lens housing 24 in the X and Y directions parallel and perpendicular to the optical axis 41, the movement of the lens housing 23 may cause the viscous fluid 26p to flow radially outward. However, when the recess 62 is formed in the lens housing 24, the viscous fluid 26p can be prevented from flowing radially outward, compared to when the recess 62 is not formed in the lens housing 24. This makes it easier to control the amount of the viscous fluid 26p.

[0074] 1.9 Adhesion area When a part of the adhesive 26 enters the recess 62 of the lens housing 24, the adhesion area Sa16, which is the area of ​​the interface between the lens housing 24 and the adhesive 26, is determined by the size 2T of the recess 62 in the radial direction, the length Ls of the circumference formed by the deepest part of the recess 62 having the maximum depth h, and the inclination angle θ of the recess defining surface 24j and the recess defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24. 3 Using this, it is expressed by equation (1). Sa16=2T·Ls / cosθ 3 (1)

[0075] On the other hand, when the adhesive 26 is placed on a flat surface, the adhesive area Sa16 is expressed by formula (2). Sa16=2T·Ls (2)

[0076] 0 <cosθ 3 < 1, so 2T Ls < 2T Ls / cosθ 3 This relationship means that the adhesion area Sa16 when a part of the adhesive 26 enters the recess 62 of the lens housing 24 is larger than the adhesion area Sa16 when the adhesive 26 is placed on a flat surface.

[0077] 2. Second embodiment The following describes the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment. For points that are not described, the second embodiment employs the same configuration as that employed in the first embodiment.

[0078] 2.1 Camera module Fig. 8 is a perspective view that typically illustrates the camera module of the second embodiment. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates the camera module of the second embodiment.

[0079] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the camera module 2 of the second embodiment includes a lens unit 11, an imaging unit 12, and an adhesive .

[0080] The adhesive 26 bonds the lens unit 11 and the imaging unit 12 to each other.

[0081] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the lens unit 11 includes a lens group 21, a lens group 22, and a lens housing 25.

[0082] The lens housing 25 has a cylindrical shape. Therefore, a hole 25a is formed in the lens housing 25. The hole 25a accommodates the lens group 21 and the lens group 22. The lens housing 25 has an inner peripheral surface 25b, an outer peripheral surface 25c, a front surface 25d, and a rear surface 25e. The hole 25a is defined by the inner peripheral surface 25b. The hole 25a has a front opening 25f and a rear opening 25g. The front opening 25f and the rear opening 25g are located on the front surface 25d and the rear surface 25e, respectively. The lens housing 25 holds the lens group 21 and the lens group 22. The lens housing 25 is also called a lens barrel, etc.

[0083] The front opening 53f of the housing 53 overlaps with the rear opening 25g of the lens housing 25. As a result, the hole 53a of the housing 53 communicates with the hole 25a of the lens housing 25.

[0084] The housing 53 has a shape larger than the shape of the lens housing 25 when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. Therefore, the center of the front surface 53d of the housing 53 faces the rear surface 25e of the lens housing 25 or the rear opening 25g in the rear surface 25e. The periphery of the front surface 53d of the housing 53 does not face the rear surface 25e of the lens housing 25.

[0085] The adhesive 26 is disposed across the outer circumferential surface 25c of the lens housing 25 and the front surface 53d of the housing 53. In this way, the adhesive 26 bonds the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 to each other.

[0086] The camera module 2 is an optical device including a first housing and a second housing bonded to each other by an adhesive 26. The lens housing 25 and the housing 53 are respectively a first housing and a second housing bonded to each other by an adhesive 26. The lens group 21 and the lens group 22 are held by the first housing, and the imaging element 51 is held by the second housing. The lens group 21 and the lens group 22 are a first lens group held by the first housing. The lens group 21 and the lens group 22 are held by the first housing, and the imaging element 51 is held by the second housing.

[0087] 2.2 Lens housing positioning Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a portion of the camera module of the second embodiment. Fig. 11 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a lens housing provided in the camera module of the second embodiment. Fig. 12 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a housing provided in the camera module of the second embodiment.

[0088] 10 and 11, the lens housing 25 has an abutment surface 25i. The abutment surface 25i is included in a rear surface 25e of the lens housing 25. The abutment surface 25i is perpendicular to the optical axis 41. The abutment surface 25i faces a first direction D1 toward the rear.

[0089] 10 and 12, the housing 53 has an abutment surface 53i. The abutment surface 53i is included in a front surface 53d of the housing 53. The abutment surface 53i is perpendicular to the optical axis 41. The abutment surface 53i faces a second direction D2 toward the rear stage. The second direction D2 is opposite to the first direction D1.

[0090] The abutment surface 25i of the lens housing 25 and the abutment surface 53i of the housing 53 abut against each other. No adhesive 26 is sandwiched between the abutment surface 25i and the abutment surface 53i. This makes it possible to determine the position of the lens housing 25 relative to the housing 53 in the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, and eliminates the inclination of the lens housing 25 relative to the housing 53.

[0091] When the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 are brought into contact with each other, the position and inclination of the lens housing 25 relative to the housing 53 are not affected by the amount of adhesive 26, the cure shrinkage that occurs when the adhesive 26 is obtained, and the residual stress that occurs in the adhesive 26. Therefore, it is easy to make the position and the inclination in a desired state. Also, individual differences in the position and the inclination are reduced.

[0092] The contact surface 25i of the lens housing 25 and the contact surface 53i of the housing 53 have a ring-like shape that has a center on the optical axis 41 and goes around in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the contact surface 25i and the contact surface 53i abut against each other over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction. This makes it possible to prevent a gap from being formed between the lens housing 25 and the housing 53. This makes it possible to prevent a viscous fluid from flowing into the hole 25a of the lens housing 25 and the hole 53a of the housing 53 from between the lens housing 25 and the housing 53.

[0093] In the camera module 2, the contact surface 25i of the lens housing 25 and the contact surface 53i of the housing 53 serve as a first contact surface and a second contact surface, respectively, that come into contact with each other.

[0094] 2.3 Lens housing and housing adhesion As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 are formed with a recess 61 .

[0095] The recess 61 is formed across both the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 .

[0096] When viewed in a plane from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the recess 61 has a ring-like shape that has its center on the optical axis 41 and goes around in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the recess 61 is composed of a groove 71 having a ring-like shape. When viewed in cross section in a plane including the optical axis 41, the recess 61 has two cross sections, each of which has a square cross section, and has a cross-sectional shape that is symmetrical with respect to the optical axis 41.

[0097] In the recess 61, the adhesive 26 is placed.

[0098] The adhesive 26 has a shape that generally fits the shape of the recess 61. Therefore, the adhesive 26 has a ring-like shape that has its center on the optical axis 41 and goes around in the circumferential direction. When viewed in cross section on a plane including the optical axis 41, the adhesive 26 has two cross sections, each of which has a square cross section, and has a cross-sectional shape that is symmetrical with respect to the optical axis 41.

[0099] This allows the same amount of viscous fluid to be applied to positions symmetrical with respect to the optical axis 41. This allows the same magnitude of stress in the cross-sectional direction that occurs at the positions when the viscous fluid is cured. This allows the positional deviation of the lens housing 25 with respect to the housing 53 to be suppressed in the X direction and the Y direction perpendicular to the optical axis 41.

[0100] When the adhesive 26 is placed in the recess 61 formed across both the lens housing 25 and the housing 53, the amount of adhesive 26 that bonds the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 to each other can be increased compared to when the adhesive is placed in a recess, cutout, or the like formed on only one of the lens housing 25 and the housing 53. This allows the adhesive 26 to strongly bond the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 to each other.

[0101] When the adhesive 26 is placed in the ring-shaped recess 61, the adhesive 26 can bond the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 to each other over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction. This allows the adhesive 26 to strongly bond the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 to each other.

[0102] 2.4 Recessed surface As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the lens housing 25 has a recess defining surface 25j.

[0103] The recessed portion defining surface 25j of the lens housing 25 has a ring-like shape having a center on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. The recessed portion defining surface 25j is adjacent to the contact surface 25i of the lens housing 25. The recessed portion defining surface 25j is located radially outward from the contact surface 25i and on the back side from the contact surface 25i. The recessed portion defining surface 25j being located on the back side from the contact surface 25i means that the recessed portion defining surface 25j is located on the second direction D2 side from the contact surface 25i. The recessed portion defining surface 25j faces a first inclined direction inclined radially outward from the first direction D1. Therefore, the recessed portion defining surface 25j approaches the radially inward as it approaches the contact surface 25i. As a result, the recessed portion defining surface 25j gives a tapered shape and a notched shape to the rear end of the lens housing 25.

[0104] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, the housing 53 has a recess defining surface 53j and a recess defining surface 53k.

[0105] The recessed portion defining surface 53j of the housing 53 has a ring-like shape having a center on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. The recessed portion defining surface 53j is included in the front surface 53d of the housing 53. The recessed portion defining surface 53j is adjacent to the abutting surface 53i of the housing 53. The recessed portion defining surface 53j is located radially outward from the abutting surface 53i and is located on the back side of the abutting surface 53i. The recessed portion defining surface 53j being located on the back side of the abutting surface 53i means that the recessed portion defining surface 53j is located on the first direction D1 side of the abutting surface 53i. The recessed portion defining surface 53j faces a second inclined direction inclined radially outward from the second direction D2. As a result, the recessed portion defining surface 53j approaches the radially inward direction as it approaches the abutting surface 53i.

[0106] The recess defining surface 53k of the housing 53 has a ring-like shape having a center on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. The recess defining surface 53k is included in the front surface 53d of the housing 53. The recess defining surface 53k is adjacent to the recess defining surface 53j of the housing 53. The recess defining surface 53k is located radially outward from the recess defining surface 53j and is located on the rear side of the abutment surface 53i. The recess defining surface 53k being located on the rear side of the abutment surface 53i means that the recess defining surface 53k is located on the first direction D1 side of the abutment surface 53i.

[0107] The recess-defining surface 25j of the lens housing 25 and the recess-defining surface 53k of the housing 53 are generally parallel to each other and constitute the inner side surface of the recess 61. The recess-defining surface 53j of the housing 53 is generally perpendicular to the recess-defining surface 25j and the recess-defining surface 53k and constitutes the inner bottom surface of the recess 61. As a result, the recess 61 has two cross sections, each of which has a square cross section when viewed in a cross section in a plane including the optical axis 41. As a result, the entire inside of the recess 61 can be seen from a direction parallel to the recess-defining surface 25j and the recess-defining surface 53k in the plane including the optical axis 41. As a result, the entire viscous fluid applied in the recess 61 can be uniformly irradiated with ultraviolet light from that direction. As a result, the entire viscous fluid can be uniformly cured. As a result, it is possible to suppress the remaining of uncured parts. As a result, it is possible to suppress the curing shrinkage from becoming large. In addition, the amount of outgassing can be reduced.

[0108] The angle θ between the recess defining surface 25j of the lens housing 25 and the optical axis 41 1 , and the angle θ 2 is preferably θ 1 ≦θ 2 and θ 1 = 45°. 1 and angle θ 2 When this condition is satisfied, the recess 61 does not narrow toward the opening, and the optical path of the ultraviolet light is also away from the lens housing 25 and the housing 53. This allows the viscous fluid applied inside the recess 61 to be efficiently irradiated with ultraviolet light.

[0109] The spot diameter of the ultraviolet irradiator that irradiates the viscous fluid applied inside the recess 61 with ultraviolet light is desirably set to be larger than the distance from the front edge 25m of the recess defining surface 25j of the lens housing 25 to the radially outer edge 53m of the recess defining surface 53k of the housing 53. This allows the entire viscous fluid to be irradiated with ultraviolet light in one plane including the optical axis 41 without moving the optical path of the ultraviolet light. This allows the viscous fluid to be efficiently irradiated with ultraviolet light.

[0110] The recess defining surface 53j of the housing 53 faces one inclined direction inclined radially outward from the second direction D2. The recess defining surface 53k of the housing 53 faces another inclined direction inclined radially inward from the second direction D2. As a result, the recess defining surface 53j and the recess defining surface 53k define a recess 62. The recess 62 is formed in the housing 53 and is a part of the recess 61. When viewed in a plane from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the recess 62 has a ring-like shape having a center on the optical axis 41 and going around in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the recess 62 is composed of a groove 81 having a ring-like shape. When viewed in a cross-section on a plane including the optical axis 41, the recess 62 has two cross sections, each of which has a V-shaped cross-sectional shape.

[0111] A portion of the adhesive 26 has a wedge shape and enters the recess 62 of the housing 53. The recess defining surfaces 53j and 53k of the housing 53 that define the recess 62 prevent the entered portion of the adhesive 26 from moving in the radial direction. This makes it possible to suppress the movement of the adhesive 26 in the shear direction compared to when the adhesive 26 is disposed on a flat surface. This makes it possible to increase the strength of the bond between the lens housing 25 and the housing 53.

[0112] The recess defining surface 25j of the lens housing 25, the recess defining surface 53j of the housing 53, and the recess defining surface 53k of the housing 53 serve as a first recess defining surface, a second recess defining surface, and a third recess defining surface that define the recess 61 that becomes the first recess. The recess defining surface 53j of the housing 53 and the recess defining surface 53k of the housing 53 serve as a second recess defining surface and a third recess defining surface that define the recess 62 that becomes the second recess.

[0113] 2.5 Adjusting the Optical Axis FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view that diagrammatically illustrates a camera module according to the second embodiment and an optical axis adjustment device used to adjust the optical axis of the camera module.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 13, an optical axis adjustment device 111 used to adjust the optical axis of the camera module 2 includes an object 121 to be imaged.

[0115] The object to be imaged 121 is an imaging chart. Marks or the like for detecting the position are drawn at the center, periphery, etc. of the object to be imaged 121. The object to be imaged 121 is disposed in front of the lens unit 11. This allows the camera module 2 to capture an image of the object to be imaged 121 and output an image signal corresponding to the image of the object to be imaged 121.

[0116] When the optical axis 41 of the camera module 2 is adjusted using the optical axis adjustment device 111, the lens housing 25 is moved relative to the housing 53 in the X and Y directions perpendicular to the optical axis 41 while checking the marks for detecting the position. This allows the center position of the lens housing 25 and the center position of the housing 53 to coincide with each other in the X and Y directions.

[0117] In order to move the lens housing 25 relative to the housing 53 in the X and Y directions perpendicular to the optical axis 41, the lens housing 25 must be moved in the X and Y directions relative to the housing 53 with the abutment surface 25i of the lens housing 25 and the abutment surface 53i of the housing 53 in contact with each other. For this reason, the abutment surfaces 25i and 53i are subjected to surface treatment such as mirror polishing and coating. As a result, the abutment surfaces 25i and 53i have a slidability that enables one of the abutment surfaces 25i and 53i to slide against the other of the abutment surfaces 25i and 53i.

[0118] When the lens housing 25 is moved relative to the housing 53 in the X and Y directions parallel and perpendicular to the optical axis 41, the movement of the lens housing 25 may cause the viscous fluid 26p to flow radially outward. However, when the recess 62 is formed in the housing 53, the viscous fluid 26p can be prevented from flowing radially outward, compared to when the recess 62 is not formed in the housing 53. This makes it easier to control the amount of the viscous fluid 26p.

[0119] 3. Third embodiment The following describes the differences between the third embodiment and the first embodiment. For points that are not described, the third embodiment employs the same configuration as that employed in the first embodiment.

[0120] Fig. 14 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a camera module of the third embodiment. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a camera module of the third embodiment. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a part of the camera module of the third embodiment. Fig. 17 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a front-stage lens housing provided in the camera module of the third embodiment. Fig. 18 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a rear-stage lens housing provided in the camera module of the third embodiment.

[0121] 14 to 16, in the camera module 3 of the third embodiment, the recess 61 in which the adhesive 26 is disposed includes a plurality of holes 72. The plurality of holes 72 are arranged in the circumferential direction and spaced apart from one another when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. The plurality of holes 72 are desirably arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0122] When adhesive 26 is placed in recess 61 which includes a plurality of holes 72 which are circumferentially arranged and spaced apart from one another, adhesive 26 can bond lens housing 23 and lens housing 24 to one another at a plurality of points which are circumferentially arranged and spaced apart from one another.

[0123] When the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are bonded to each other at a plurality of points arranged in the circumferential direction and spaced apart from each other, a plurality of ultraviolet irradiators can be arranged for each of the holes 72. Also, the arranged plurality of ultraviolet irradiators can irradiate the viscous fluid arranged in the plurality of holes 72 with ultraviolet light, respectively. This makes it possible to prevent the amount of ultraviolet light irradiating the adhesive 26 from becoming non-uniform, which is caused by the distance from the ultraviolet irradiator to the adhesive 26 becoming non-uniform. This makes it possible to prevent the position of the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24 from shifting in the X direction and the Y direction perpendicular to the optical axis 41.

[0124] As illustrated in FIG. 17, the recessed portion defining surface 23j of the lens housing 23 includes two or more regions 23j1. When viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the two or more regions 23j1 are arranged in the circumferential direction and are separated from each other. As illustrated in FIG. 18, the recessed portion defining surface 24j of the lens housing 24 includes two or more regions 24j1. When viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the two or more regions 24j1 are arranged in the circumferential direction and are separated from each other. The two or more regions 24j1 face the two or more regions 23j1 in the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, respectively. The recessed portion defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24 includes two or more regions 24k1. When viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the two or more regions 24k1 are arranged in the circumferential direction and are separated from each other. The hole 82 defined by the one region 24j1 and the one region 24k1 adjacent to the one region 24j1 has a conical shape.

[0125] 4 Fourth embodiment The following describes the differences between the fourth embodiment and the second embodiment. For points that are not described, the fourth embodiment employs the same configuration as that employed in the second embodiment.

[0126] Fig. 19 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a camera module according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. 20 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a lens housing provided in the camera module according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 21 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a housing provided in the camera module according to the fourth embodiment.

[0127] 19 to 21, in the camera module 4 of the fourth embodiment, the recess 61 in which the adhesive 26 is disposed includes a plurality of holes 72. The plurality of holes 72 are arranged in the circumferential direction and spaced apart from one another when viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41. The plurality of holes 72 are preferably formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0128] When adhesive 26 is placed in recess 61 that includes a plurality of holes 72 that are circumferentially arranged and spaced apart from one another, adhesive 26 can bond lens housing 25 and housing 53 at a plurality of points that are circumferentially arranged and spaced apart from one another.

[0129] When the lens housing 25 and the housing 53 are bonded to each other at a plurality of points arranged in the circumferential direction and spaced apart from each other, a plurality of ultraviolet irradiators can be arranged for each of the holes 72. Also, the arranged plurality of ultraviolet irradiators can irradiate the viscous fluid arranged in the plurality of holes 72 with ultraviolet light, respectively. This makes it possible to prevent the amount of ultraviolet light irradiating the adhesive 26 from becoming non-uniform, which is caused by the distance from the ultraviolet irradiator to the adhesive 26 becoming non-uniform. This makes it possible to prevent the position of the lens housing 23 from shifting relative to the lens housing 24 in the X direction and the Y direction perpendicular to the optical axis 41.

[0130] As shown in FIG. 20, the recessed portion defining surface 25j of the lens housing 25 includes two or more regions 25j1. When viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the two or more regions 25j1 are arranged in the circumferential direction and are separated from each other. As shown in FIG. 21, the recessed portion defining surface 53j of the housing 53 includes two or more regions 53j1. When viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the two or more regions 53j1 are arranged in the circumferential direction and are separated from each other. The two or more regions 53j1 face the two or more regions 25j1 in the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, respectively. The recessed portion defining surface 53k of the housing 53 includes two or more regions 53k1. When viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the two or more regions 53k1 are arranged in the circumferential direction and are separated from each other. The recess 62 includes a plurality of holes 82. The hole 82 defined by the region 53j1 and the region 53k1 adjacent to the region 53j1 has a conical shape.

[0131] 5 Fifth embodiment The following describes the differences between the fifth embodiment and the first embodiment. For points that are not described, the fifth embodiment employs the same configuration as that employed in the first embodiment.

[0132] The lens housing and the image sensor housing are often made of resin. In many cases, the lens housing and the image sensor housing are manufactured by cutting, molding using a mold, etc. However, in recent years, the lens housing and the image sensor housing are sometimes manufactured by a fused deposition modeling method using a three-dimensional printer.

[0133] The surface of a model created by a 3D printer using the fused deposition modeling method has irregularities that reflect the pitch of the layers. The irregularities that have been created are generally removed by polishing the surface on which the irregularities have been formed.

[0134] Fig. 22 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a lens housing provided in the camera module of the fifth embodiment. Fig. 23 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a portion of the lens housing provided in the camera module of the fifth embodiment. Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a front-stage lens group and a portion of the lens housing provided in the camera module of the fifth embodiment.

[0135] In the camera module 5 of the fifth embodiment, the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are manufactured by a fused deposition modeling method using a three-dimensional printer. As shown in FIG. 22 to FIG. 24, the lamination direction is selected so that unevenness 131 reflecting the lamination pitch is formed on the recessed portion defining surface 23j of the lens housing 23, the recessed portion defining surface 24j of the lens housing 24, and the recessed portion defining surface 24k of the lens housing 24. The formed unevenness 131 is left without being removed by polishing. Therefore, the recessed portion defining surface 23j, the recessed portion defining surface 24j, and the recessed portion defining surface 24k have unevenness 131. This can increase the bonding area, which is the area of ​​the interface between the recessed portion defining surface 23j, the recessed portion defining surface 24j, and the recessed portion defining surface 24k and the adhesive 26. This can allow the adhesive 26 to strongly bond the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 to each other.

[0136] The unevenness 131 of the recess defining surface 23j, the recess defining surface 24j, and the recess defining surface 24k has a height difference that does not prevent the viscous fluid from being irradiated with ultraviolet light, and has a height of, for example, about 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm.

[0137] When the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 are manufactured by a fused deposition modeling method using a three-dimensional printer, so that unevenness 131 is formed on the recess defined surface 23j, the recess defined surface 24j, and the recess defined surface 24k, the time required to manufacture the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 can be shortened compared to when the unevenness 131 is formed by cutting processing or the like.

[0138] The camera module 2 of the second embodiment may be modified so that the recess defining surface 25j of the lens housing 25, the recess defining surface 53j of the housing 53, and the recess defining surface 53k of the housing 53 have projections and recesses.

[0139] 6 Sixth embodiment The following describes the differences between the sixth embodiment and the first embodiment. For points that are not described, the sixth embodiment employs the same configuration as that employed in the first embodiment.

[0140] Fig. 25 is a top view that typically illustrates the camera module of the sixth embodiment. Figs. 26 and 27 are cross-sectional views that typically illustrate the camera module of the sixth embodiment. Figs. 28 and 29 are cross-sectional views that typically illustrate a part of the camera module of the sixth embodiment. Fig. 30 is a perspective view that typically illustrates a rear-stage lens housing provided in the camera module of the sixth embodiment. Figs. 26 and 28 illustrate a cross section at the position of the cutting line AA depicted in Fig. 25. Figs. 27 and 29 illustrate a cross section at the position of the cutting line BB depicted in Fig. 26.

[0141] In the camera module 6 of the sixth embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 26 to FIG. 30, the contact surface 23i of the lens housing 23 includes a plurality of regions 23i1. When viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the plurality of regions 23i1 are arranged in the circumferential direction and are separated from each other. In addition, the contact surface 24i of the lens housing 24 includes a plurality of regions 24i1. When viewed in a plan view from the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, the plurality of regions 24i1 are arranged in the circumferential direction and are separated from each other. The plurality of regions 24i1 abut against the plurality of regions 23i1, respectively. This allows the position of the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24 to be determined in the Z direction parallel to the optical axis 41, and the inclination of the lens housing 23 relative to the lens housing 24 to be eliminated. The peripheral region of each region 23i1 is separated from the lens housing 24. The peripheral region of each region 24i1 is separated from the lens housing 23. This makes it possible to reduce the area where the abutment surfaces 23i and 24i come into contact with each other, thereby reducing the friction that occurs between the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 when the optical axis 41 is adjusted. This makes it easier to adjust the optical axis 41.

[0142] Each region 24i1 of the lens housing 24 protrudes from the region around the region 24i1. Therefore, each region 24i1 has a convex planar shape. The protrusion amount of each region 24i1 is preferably about 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm. As a result, the gap formed between the region around each region 24i1 and the lens housing 23 has a narrow width having a width of about 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm. This allows the gap to hold the viscous fluid by surface tension. This makes it possible to suppress the viscous fluid from flowing into the hole 23a of the lens housing 23 and the hole 24a of the lens housing 24 through the gap.

[0143] In addition to or instead of the structure in which each region 24i1 of the lens housing 24 protrudes from the surrounding region, a structure in which each region 23i1 of the lens housing 23 protrudes from the surrounding region may be employed.

[0144] The camera module 2 of the second embodiment may be modified so that the abutment surface 25i of the lens housing 25 includes a plurality of regions arranged circumferentially and spaced apart from one another, and the abutment surface 53i of the housing 53 includes a plurality of regions arranged circumferentially and spaced apart from one another, with the latter plurality of regions abutting against the former plurality of regions, respectively.

[0145] 7 Seventh embodiment The following describes the differences between the seventh embodiment and the first embodiment. For points that are not described, the seventh embodiment also employs the same configuration as that employed in the first embodiment.

[0146] Fig. 31 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a camera module according to a seventh embodiment. Fig. 32 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a portion of the camera module according to the seventh embodiment.

[0147] In the camera module 7 of the seventh embodiment, as shown in Figures 31 and 32, the hole 23a of the lens housing 23 is a first hole having a first section 23a1 and a second section 23a2, and the hole 24a of the lens housing 24 is a second hole having a third section 24a3 and a fourth section 24a4.

[0148] The first section 23a1 of the lens housing 23 is located in front of the lens group 21 when viewed from the rear opening 23g of the lens housing 23.

[0149] The second section 23a2 of the lens housing 23 is located in front of the first section 23a1 of the lens housing 23 when viewed from the rear opening 23g of the lens housing 23. The second section 23a2 communicates with the first section 23a1. The second section 23a2 has a rear opening 23g on the rear surface 23e of the lens housing 23, which is the first surface. The second section 23a2 has a hole shape larger than the hole shape of the first section 23a1. Therefore, the rear opening 23g has an opening shape larger than the hole shape of the first section 23a1. This makes it possible to reduce the area of ​​the contact surface 23i of the lens housing 23 that exists along the outer periphery of the rear opening 23g.

[0150] The second section 23a2 of the lens housing 23 can be formed by forming a groove along the outer periphery of the opening of a hole formed in the lens housing 23.

[0151] The third section 24a3 of the lens housing 24 is located in front of the lens group 22 when viewed from the front opening 24f of the lens housing 24.

[0152] The fourth section 24a4 of the lens housing 24 is located in front of the third section 24a3 of the lens housing 24 when viewed from the front opening 24f of the lens housing 24. The fourth section 24a4 is connected to the third section 24a3. The fourth section 24a4 has a front opening 24f on the front surface 24d of the lens housing 24, which is the second surface. The fourth section 24a4 has a hole shape larger than the hole shape of the third section 24a3. Therefore, the front opening 24f has an opening shape larger than the hole shape of the third section 24a3. This makes it possible to reduce the area of ​​the contact surface 24i of the lens housing 24 that exists along the outer periphery of the front opening 24f.

[0153] The fourth section 24a4 of the lens housing 24 can be formed by forming a groove along the outer periphery of the opening of a hole formed in the lens housing 24.

[0154] This makes it possible to reduce the area of ​​contact between the abutment surface 23i of the lens housing 23 and the abutment surface 24i of the lens housing 24. This makes it possible to reduce friction that occurs between the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 when the optical axis 41 is adjusted. This makes it easier to adjust the optical axis 41.

[0155] The camera module 2 of the second embodiment may be modified so that hole 25a of lens housing 25 has a section similar to first section 23a1 and second section 23a2, and hole 53a of housing 53 has a section similar to third section 24a3 and fourth section 24a4.

[0156] 8 Eighth embodiment The following describes the differences between the eighth embodiment and the seventh embodiment. For points that are not described, the eighth embodiment also employs the same configuration as that employed in the seventh embodiment.

[0157] Fig. 33 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a camera module according to an eighth embodiment. Fig. 34 is a cross-sectional view that typically illustrates a portion of the camera module according to the eighth embodiment.

[0158] 33 and 34, in the camera module 8 of the eighth embodiment, the hole shape of the second section 23a2 of the lens housing 23 becomes continuously larger from the hole shape of the first section 23a1 of the lens housing 23 toward the rear opening 23g of the lens housing 23. Therefore, the rear opening 23g has an opening shape larger than the hole shape of the first section 23a1. This makes it possible to reduce the area of ​​the contact surface 23i of the lens housing 23 that exists along the outer periphery of the rear opening 23g.

[0159] The second section 23a2 of the lens housing 23 can be formed by performing C-chamfering along the outer periphery of the opening of the hole formed in the lens housing 23.

[0160] The hole shape of the fourth section 24a4 of the lens housing 24 becomes continuously larger from the hole shape of the third section 24a3 of the lens housing 24 toward the front opening 24f of the lens housing 24. Therefore, the front opening 24f of the lens housing 24 has an opening shape larger than the hole shape of the third section 24a3 of the lens housing 24. This makes it possible to reduce the area of ​​the contact surface 24i that exists along the outer periphery of the front opening 24f of the lens housing 24.

[0161] The fourth section 24a4 of the lens housing 24 can be formed by performing C-chamfering along the outer periphery of the opening of the hole formed in the lens housing 24.

[0162] This makes it possible to reduce the area of ​​contact between the abutment surface 23i of the lens housing 23 and the abutment surface 24i of the lens housing 24. This makes it possible to reduce friction that occurs between the lens housing 23 and the lens housing 24 when the optical axis 41 is adjusted. This makes it easier to adjust the optical axis 41 of the lens unit 11.

[0163] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and may be replaced with a configuration that is substantially the same as the configuration shown in the above-described embodiments, a configuration that has the same action and effect, or a configuration that can achieve the same purpose. [Explanation of symbols]

[0164] 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 camera module, 11 lens unit, 12 imaging unit, 21,22 lens group, 23 lens housing, 23a hole, 23a1 first section, 23a2 second section, 23b inner peripheral surface, 23c outer peripheral surface, 23d front surface, 23e rear surface, 23f front opening, 23g rear opening, 23i abutment surface, 23i1 area, 23j recess definition surface, 23j1 area, 23m front edge, 24 lens housing, 24a hole, 24a3 third section, 24a4 fourth section, 24b inner peripheral surface, 24d front surface, 24e rear surface, 24f front opening, 24g rear opening, 24i abutment surface, 24i1 area, 24j recess definition surface, 24j1 area, 24k recessed portion defining surface, 24k1 area, 24m radially outer edge, 25 lens housing, 25a hole, 25b inner peripheral surface, 25c outer peripheral surface, 25d front surface, 25e rear surface, 25f front opening, 25g rear opening, 25i abutment surface, 25j recessed portion defining surface, 25j1 area, 25m front edge, 26 adhesive, 26p viscous fluid, 31 optical system, 41 optical axis, 51 imaging element, 52 infrared cut filter, 53 housing, 53a hole, 53b inner peripheral surface, 53c outer peripheral surface, 53d front surface, 53h inner bottom surface, 53f front opening, 53i abutment surface, 53j recessed portion defining surface, 53j1 area, 53k recess definition surface, 53k1 area, 53m radially outer edge, 61 recess, 62 recess, 71 groove, 72 hole, 81 groove, 91 optical axis adjustment device, 101 light source, 102 reticle, 103 imaging section, 111 optical axis adjustment device, 121 imaged object, 131 unevenness, D1 first direction, D2 second direction.

Claims

1. a first lens group having an optical axis; a held body which is a second lens group or an image pickup element; a first housing that holds the first lens group and has a first contact surface perpendicular to the optical axis and a first recess defining surface adjacent to the first contact surface, located on the back side of the first contact surface, and approaching radially inward as it approaches the first contact surface; a second housing that holds the held body and has a second contact surface that contacts the first contact surface and a second recessed portion defining surface that is adjacent to the second contact surface and located on the back side of the second contact surface and defines a recess together with the first recessed portion defining surface; an adhesive disposed in the recess and adhering the second housing to the first housing; An optical device comprising:

2. The first abutment surface faces a first direction, the second abutment surface faces a second direction opposite to the first direction; the first recess defining surface faces a first inclined direction inclined radially outward from the first direction, The second recess defining surface faces a second inclined direction inclined radially outward from the second direction.

2. The optical device of claim 1.

3. the recess is a first recess, the second recess defining surface faces a first inclined direction inclined radially outward from a direction in which the second contact surface faces, the second housing has a third recess defining surface that is located radially outward of the second recess defining surface, is located on a rear side of the second abutment surface, faces another inclined direction inclined radially inward from the second direction, and defines the first recess together with the first recess defining surface and the second recess defining surface; The second recess portion defining surface and the third recess portion defining surface define a second recess portion that is formed in the second housing and is a part of the first recess portion.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first contact surface and the second contact surface have a ring shape that goes around in a circumferential direction.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the first abutment surface includes a first plurality of regions arranged in a circumferential direction and spaced apart from one another; The second abutment surface includes a second plurality of regions arranged in a circumferential direction and spaced apart from one another.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The first contact surface and the second contact surface have a slidability that enables one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface to slide relative to the other of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The first recess-defining surface and the second recess-defining surface have a ring-like shape that goes around in a circumferential direction.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. the first recess defining surface includes a first two or more regions arranged in a circumferential direction and spaced apart from one another; The second recess defining surface includes two or more second regions arranged in a circumferential direction and spaced apart from one another.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The first recess-defining surface and the second recess-defining surface have projections and recesses.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

10. the first housing has a first surface; a first hole is formed in the first housing, the first hole having a first section and a second section located on the first surface, the second section having a first opening having an opening shape larger than the hole shape of the first section, and communicating with the first section; the second housing has a second surface; a second hole is formed in the second housing, the second hole having a third section and a fourth section that is located on the second surface, has a second opening having an opening shape larger than the hole shape of the third section, and is in communication with the third section; The first abutment surface is located along an outer periphery of the first opening, The second abutment surface is present along the outer periphery of the second opening.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

11. The adhesive has a cross section having a square cross-sectional shape when viewed in a plane including the optical axis.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

12. The adhesive has a cross-sectional shape that is symmetrical with respect to the optical axis when viewed in cross section on a plane including the optical axis.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

13. the object to be held is the second lens group, The optical device is a lens unit.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

14. the held object is the imaging element, The optical device is a camera module.

3. An optical device according to claim 1 or 2.

Images