Camera module
The camera module design addresses the challenge of unstable driving and insufficient thrust in bendable camera modules by incorporating a surrounding driving mechanism, allowing for easy assembly and improved performance.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2023209724
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-12-12
- Publication Date
- 2025-06-24
Smart Images
Figure 2025093827000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a camera module.
Background Art
[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a bendable camera module. In the bendable camera module, a reflective element, a lens actuation subassembly, and an image sensor are arranged in the optical axis direction. The lens actuation subassembly is sandwiched between the reflective element and the image sensor. In the lens actuation subassembly, a lens barrel houses a lens element. The lens actuation subassembly is moved in the Y-Z plane by a voice coil motor disposed on one of its surfaces (column 6, line 62 - column 7, line 48).
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] In the bendable camera module disclosed in Patent Document 1, a reflective element, a lens actuation subassembly, and an image sensor are arranged in the optical axis direction, and the lens actuation subassembly is sandwiched between the reflective element and the image sensor. For this reason, when an attempt is made to attach the lens actuation subassembly from the optical axis direction, the lens actuation subassembly interferes with the reflective element, the structure holding the reflective element, the image sensor, or the structure holding the image sensor. For this reason, the lens actuation subassembly is attached from a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.
[0005] However, when the lens actuator subassembly is attached from a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, it becomes difficult to arrange voice coil motors on four sides of the lens actuator subassembly. Actually, in the bending type camera module disclosed in Patent Document 1, voice coil motors are arranged only on one side of the lens actuator subassembly. For this reason, it becomes difficult to stably drive the lens actuator subassembly, and the thrust for driving the lens actuator subassembly is insufficient.
[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure has been made in view of this problem. One aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide, for example, a camera module that can be easily assembled, can stably drive a lens group, and can generate a large thrust.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0007] A camera module according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a reflecting element that reflects first light incident along a first optical axis and emits second light along a second optical axis, a driven body including a lens group disposed on the second optical axis, a first housing portion in which a first space for housing the reflecting element is formed, a second housing portion in which a second space for housing the driven body and having an opening opened in a vertical direction perpendicular to the second optical axis is formed, and a driving portion in which a hole is formed, a housing including the driving portion, a holder including a first portion housed in the second space and holding the driven body, and a second portion inserted into the hole and driven by the driving portion, and a cover closing the opening.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0008]
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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Regarding the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.
[0010] 1 First Embodiment 1.1 Camera Module FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing the camera module of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the camera module of the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing a longitudinal section of the camera module of the first embodiment.
[0011] The camera module 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 forms an object image on incident object light, captures the formed object image, and outputs an image signal corresponding to the object image.
[0012] The camera module 1 is a telephoto camera module having an imaging optical system with a long focal length.
[0013] The camera module 1 is incorporated into a smartphone. The camera module 1 may be incorporated into a device other than a smartphone.
[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the camera module 1 includes a main body 11 and a cover 12. The main body 11 includes a reflection element 21, a lens group 22, an infrared cut filter 23, an imaging element 24, a lens barrel 25, a holder 26, an imaging element holder 27, and a housing 28.
[0015] The reflecting element 21 and the lens group 22 constitute a bending optical system that has a first optical axis 41 and a second optical axis 42 and bends the optical path of object light arriving from an object. The second optical axis 42 is perpendicular to the first optical axis 41. The second optical axis 42 does not necessarily have to be perpendicular to the first optical axis 41.
[0016] Here, an X direction DX perpendicular to the first optical axis 41 and the second optical axis 42, a Y direction DY parallel to the first optical axis 41 and perpendicular to the second optical axis 42, and a Z direction DZ perpendicular to the first optical axis 41 and parallel to the second optical axis 42 are defined. Also, a +X direction DX1 which is one direction of the X direction DX, a -X direction DX2 which is the other direction of the X direction DX, a +Y direction DY1 which is one direction of the Y direction DY, a -Y direction DY2 which is the other direction of the Y direction DY, a +Z direction DZ1 which is one direction of the Z direction DZ, and a -Z direction DZ2 which is the other direction of the Z direction DZ are defined.
[0017] 1.2 Reflecting Element The reflecting element 21 reflects the first light incident along the first optical axis 41 and emits the second light along the second optical axis 42.
[0018] The reflecting element 21 is a prism. The reflecting element 21 may be a reflecting element other than a prism. For example, the reflecting element 21 may be a mirror.
[0019] The reflecting element 21 is a right-angled prism. Therefore, the reflecting element 21 has an incident surface 21a, a reflecting surface 21b, and an exit surface 21c. The incident surface 21a intersects the first optical axis 41 and is perpendicular to the Y direction DY. The reflecting surface 21b intersects the first optical axis 41 and the second optical axis 42 and forms a 45° angle with the Y direction DY and the Z direction DZ. The exit surface 21c intersects the second optical axis 42 and is perpendicular to the Z direction DZ.
[0020] On the incident surface 21a of the reflecting element 21, the first light traveling along the first optical axis 41 is incident. On the reflecting surface 21b of the reflecting element 21, the first light traveling along the first optical axis 41 is incident. The reflecting surface 21b reflects the incident first light to generate second light. The reflecting surface 21b emits the second light traveling along the second optical axis 42. The exit surface 21c of the reflecting element 21 emits the second light traveling along the second optical axis 42.
[0021] 1.3 Lens group The lens group 22 is disposed on the second optical axis 42. The lens group 22 is disposed between the reflecting element 21 and the imaging element 24.
[0022] The lens group 22 transmits the second light and condenses the second light on the imaging surface 51. Thereby, the lens group 22 forms an object image on the second light. The object image is formed on the imaging surface 51. The lens group 22 constitutes an imaging optical system that forms an object image on the second light.
[0023] The lens group 22 includes one or more lenses.
[0024] The imaging optical system may include two or more lens groups.
[0025] 1.4 Infrared cut filter The infrared cut filter 23 is disposed on the second optical axis 42. The infrared cut filter 23 is disposed between the lens group 22 and the imaging element 24.
[0026] The infrared cut filter 23 transmits the second light and cuts the infrared component from the second light.
[0027] 1.5 Imaging element The imaging element 24 is disposed on the second optical axis 42.
[0028] The imaging element 24 photoelectrically converts the second light condensed on the imaging surface 51 into an electrical signal. Thereby, the imaging element 24 images the object image formed on the imaging surface 51 and outputs an image signal corresponding to the object image.
[0029] Software processing or the like is performed on the output image signal. As a result, final image data is obtained from the image signal.
[0030] The imaging device 24 is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor, a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor, or the like.
[0031] 1.6 Lens barrel The lens barrel 25 has a cylindrical shape. Therefore, the lens barrel 25 has an inner peripheral surface 25a. A space 25b defined by the inner peripheral surface 25a is formed in the lens barrel 25.
[0032] The space 25b of the lens barrel 25 houses the lens group 22. The inner peripheral surface 25a of the lens barrel 25 holds the outer periphery of the lens provided in the housed lens group 22. Thus, the lens barrel 25 holds the housed lens group 22.
[0033] 1.7 Driven body The lens group 22 and the lens barrel 25 move integrally. Therefore, the lens group 22 and the lens barrel 25 constitute a driven body 61 that is integrally driven.
[0034] 1.8 Holder FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing a holder provided in the camera module of the first embodiment.
[0035] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the holder 26 includes a first portion 71 and a second portion 72.
[0036] The first portion 71 has a semi-cylindrical shape. Therefore, the first portion 71 has an inner peripheral surface 71a. A space 71b defined by the inner peripheral surface 71a is formed in the first portion 71. The space 71b has a semi-cylindrical shape.
[0037] The space 71b of the first portion 71 houses half of the driven body 61.
[0038] The first portion 71 has a cylindrical axis that coincides with the second optical axis 42. Therefore, the second light travels along the cylindrical axis of the first portion 71.
[0039] The inner peripheral surface 71a of the first portion 71 serves as a mounting surface on which the driven body 61 is placed. The driven body 61 is attached to the inner peripheral surface 71a. Thereby, the first portion 71 holds the driven body 61.
[0040] The inner peripheral surface 71a of the first portion 71 is exposed in the +Y direction DY1. Therefore, the driven body 61 is placed on the inner peripheral surface 71a by moving the driven body 61 in the -Y direction DY2 and bringing the driven body 61 into contact with the inner peripheral surface 71a.
[0041] The first portion 71 has an inner diameter that conforms to the outer diameter of the lens barrel 25. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the formation of a non-uniform gap between the lens barrel 25 and the first portion 71.
[0042] The second portion 72 has a cylindrical shape. Therefore, the second portion 72 has an inner peripheral surface 72a. A space 72b defined by the inner peripheral surface 72a is formed in the second portion 72. The space 72b has a columnar shape.
[0043] The second portion 72 has a cylindrical axis that coincides with the second optical axis 42. Therefore, the second light travels through the space 72b of the second portion 72 along the cylindrical axis of the second portion 72.
[0044] The first portion 71 and the second portion 72 have the same outer diameter. The end of the first portion 71 on the -Z direction DZ2 side and the end of the second portion 72 on the +Z direction DZ1 side are connected to each other. The first portion 71 is disposed on the +Z direction DZ1 side with respect to the second portion 72.
[0045] 1.9 Image Sensor Holder The image sensor holder 27 holds the infrared cut filter 23 and the image sensor 24.
[0046] 1.10 Housing As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the housing 28 includes a first accommodating portion 81, a second accommodating portion 82, a driving portion 83, and a third accommodating portion 84.
[0047] The first accommodating portion 81, the second accommodating portion 82, the driving portion 83, and the third accommodating portion 84 form an integral body. Therefore, the driving portion 83 is a part of the housing 28.
[0048] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first accommodating portion 81 includes a wall 91, a wall 92, and a pedestal 93.
[0049] The walls 91 and 92 are separated from the second optical axis 42 in the +X direction DX1 and the -X direction DX2, respectively, and are perpendicular to the X direction DX.
[0050] The pedestal 93 is disposed between the wall 91 and the wall 92.
[0051] The pedestal 93 has a right triangular prism shape. Therefore, the pedestal 93 has a side surface 93a, a side surface 93b, and a side surface 93c. The side surface 93a is perpendicular to the Z direction DZ. The side surface 93b is perpendicular to the Y direction DY. The side surface 93c forms a 45° angle with the Y direction DY and the Z direction DZ.
[0052] A first space 81a defined by the wall 91, the wall 92, and the pedestal 93 is formed in the first accommodating portion 81. The first space 81a accommodates the reflection element 21.
[0053] The side surface 93c of the pedestal 93 is in surface contact with the reflection surface 21b of the reflection element 21. Thereby, the side surface 93c of the pedestal 93 supports the reflection element 21.
[0054] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a cross section of the camera module according to the first embodiment at the Z-direction position where the second accommodating portion is present.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 5, the second accommodating portion 82 includes a first wall 101, a second wall 102, and a third wall 103.
[0056] The first wall 101, the second wall 102, and the third wall 103 are separated from the second optical axis 42 in the -Y direction DY2, the +X direction DX1, and the -X direction DX2, respectively. The first wall 101, the second wall 102, and the third wall 103 are separated from the second optical axis 42 in the three directions of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction, namely, the -Y direction DY2, the +X direction DX1, and the -X direction DX2, respectively, thereby forming a groove-like structure. For this reason, a second space 82a defined by the first wall 101, the second wall 102, and the third wall 103 is formed in the second housing portion 82. The second space 82a houses the driven body 61 and the first portion 71.
[0057] The second space 82a of the second housing portion 82 has a first opening 82b that opens in the +Y direction DY1, which is the direction in which there are no first wall 101, second wall 102, and third wall 103. Since the second space 82a has the first opening 82b that is separated from the second optical axis 42 in the +Y direction DY1, which is the fourth direction, when the driven body 61 is moved in the -Y direction DY2 and the driven body 61 is brought into contact with the inner peripheral surface 71a of the first portion 71, the driven body 61 can pass through the first opening 82b.
[0058] The second housing portion 82 is disposed on the +Z direction DZ1 side with respect to the drive portion 83.
[0059] 1.11 Drive portion FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a cross section of the camera module according to the first embodiment at the Z-direction position where the drive portion is present.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 6, the drive portion 83 includes a fourth wall 111, a fifth wall 112, a sixth wall 113, and a seventh wall 114.
[0061] The fourth wall 111, the fifth wall 112, the sixth wall 113, and the seventh wall 114 are separated from the second optical axis 42 in the -Y direction DY2, +X direction DX1, -X direction DX2, and +Y direction DY1, respectively. The fourth wall 111, the fifth wall 112, the sixth wall 113, and the seventh wall 114 are separated from the second optical axis 42 in four directions of the first direction, the second direction, the third direction, and the fourth direction, namely, the -Y direction DY2, +X direction DX1, -X direction DX2, and +Y direction DY1, respectively, to form a cylindrical structure. Therefore, a hole 83a defined by the fourth wall 111, the fifth wall 112, the sixth wall 113, and the seventh wall 114 is formed in the driving unit 83. The hole 83a extends in the Z direction DZ. The second portion 72 is inserted into the hole 83a. The driving unit 83 holds the inserted second portion 72.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 3, the first portion 71 has a length that is close to the length of the hole 83a of the driving unit 83 in the Z direction DZ. Therefore, the holder 26 including the first portion 71 and the second portion 72 has a length that is generally longer than the length of the hole 83a by the amount of the second portion 72 in the Z direction DZ. For this reason, the holder 26 protrudes from the hole 83a to one side in the Z direction DZ. The second portion 72 is accommodated in the hole 83a. The first portion 71 on the +Z direction DZ1 side with respect to the second portion 72 is accommodated in the second space 82a of the second accommodating portion 82 on the +Z direction DZ1 side with respect to the hole 83a.
[0063] The driving unit 83 drives the second portion 72 in the Z direction DZ. Thereby, the driving unit 83 drives the first portion 71 and the driven body 61 that move integrally with the second portion 72 in the Z direction DZ. By driving the driven body 61 including the lens group 22 in the Z direction DZ in this way, focusing in the full-group extension method can be performed.
[0064] In addition, the drive unit 83 drives the second portion 72 in the X direction DX and the Y direction DY. As a result, the drive unit 83 drives the first portion 71 and the driven body 61 that move integrally with the second portion 72 in the X direction DX and the Y direction DY. By driving the driven body 61 provided with the lens group 22 in the X direction DX and the Y direction DY in this way, optical shake correction can be performed. Instead of driving the second portion 72 in the X direction DX and the Y direction DY by the drive unit 83, the reflecting element 21 may be rotated about a rotation axis parallel to the X direction DX and a rotation axis parallel to the Y direction DY by a drive mechanism that drives the reflecting element 21. The second portion 72 may be driven in the Y direction DY by the drive unit 83, and the reflecting element 21 may be rotated about a rotation axis parallel to the X direction DX by a drive mechanism that drives the reflecting element 21. The second portion 72 may be driven in the X direction DX by the drive unit 83, and the reflecting element 21 may be rotated about a rotation axis parallel to the Y direction DY by a drive mechanism that drives the reflecting element 21.
[0065] The drive unit 83 includes a voice coil motor (VCM) or the like. The coil, magnet, yoke, etc. provided in the VCM are built into the fourth wall 111, the fifth wall 112, the sixth wall 113, and the seventh wall 114.
[0066] In a wide-angle camera module, in many cases, the drive unit surrounds the hole into which the lens group is inserted from four directions perpendicular to the optical axis. For this reason, the drive unit can stably drive the lens group and can exert a large thrust. However, when the hole is surrounded from four directions perpendicular to the optical axis, it is difficult to insert the lens group into the hole from a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. For this reason, the lens group is inserted into the hole from a direction parallel to the optical axis.
[0067] In a telescopic camera module including a bending optical system, in many cases, in the direction parallel to the optical axis, the hole into which the lens group is inserted is sandwiched between the reflecting element or the element holding the reflecting element and the imaging element or the element holding the imaging element. For this reason, it is difficult to insert the lens group into the hole from the direction parallel to the optical axis. Further, when an attempt is made to insert the lens group into the hole from the direction parallel to the optical axis, the accuracy of positioning the lens group becomes low due to the difficulty of inserting the lens group. For this reason, the lens group must be inserted into the hole from the direction perpendicular to the optical axis. For this reason, the driving unit cannot surround the hole from four directions perpendicular to the optical axis. For this reason, the driving unit cannot stably drive the lens group and cannot exert a large thrust.
[0068] In the camera module 1 of the first embodiment, in order to solve these problems, the driving unit 83 surrounds the hole 83a from four directions perpendicular to the second optical axis 42. However, the lens group 22 is not inserted into the hole 83a, and the second portion 72 that moves integrally with the lens group 22 is disposed. Further, the first portion 71 that holds the lens group 22 is disposed in the second space 82a of the second housing portion 82 that can be seen through the first opening 82b of the second housing portion 82 from the +Y direction DY1 side perpendicular to the second optical axis 42. Thereby, the driving unit 83 can stably drive the lens group 22 and can exert a large thrust. In addition, the lens group 22 can be inserted into the second space 82a from the +Y direction DY1 side. For this reason, the assembly of the camera module 1 becomes easy.
[0069] 1.12 The third housing portion FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a cross section of the camera module of the first embodiment at the Z-direction position where the third housing portion exists.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 7, the third housing portion 84 includes a wall 121, a wall 122, and a wall 123.
[0071] The walls 121, 122, and 123 are separated from the second optical axis 42 in the -Y direction DY2, +X direction DX1, and -X direction DX2, respectively. The walls 121, 122, and 123 are separated from the second optical axis 42 in three directions of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction, namely, the -Y direction DY2, +X direction DX1, and -X direction DX2, respectively, thereby forming a groove-like structure. For this reason, a third space 84a defined by the walls 121, 122, and 123 is formed in the third accommodating portion 84. The imaging element holder 27 is disposed in the third space 84a.
[0072] The third space 84a of the third accommodating portion 84 has a second opening 84b that opens in the +Y direction DY1 where there are no walls 121, 122, and 123.
[0073] The third accommodating portion 84 is disposed on the -Z direction DZ2 side with respect to the drive portion 83.
[0074] 1.13 Walls of the housing The housing 28 has a quadrangular prism outer shape and has a bathtub-like shape. The first wall 101 of the second accommodating portion 82, the fourth wall 111 of the drive portion 83, and the wall 121 of the third accommodating portion 84 constitute the bottom wall of the housing 28. The second wall 102 of the second accommodating portion 82, the fifth wall 112 of the drive portion 83, and the wall 122 of the third accommodating portion 84 constitute one side wall of the housing 28. The third wall 103 of the second accommodating portion 82, the sixth wall 113 of the drive portion 83, and the wall 123 of the third accommodating portion 84 constitute the other side wall of the housing 28. An opening that opens in the +Y direction DY1 is formed between the end portion on the +Y direction DY1 side of one side wall of the housing 28 and the end portion on the +Y direction DY1 side of the other side wall of the housing 28.
[0075] 1.14 Cover As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and FIGS. 5 to 7, the cover 12 is attached to the main body 11 and covers the main body 11. Thereby, the cover 12 closes the first opening 82b of the second accommodating portion 82 and the second opening 84b of the third accommodating portion 84.
[0076] When the lens group 22 is attached to the first portion 71, the cover 12 is removed from the main body 11. After the lens group 22 is attached to the first portion 71, the cover 12 is attached to the main body 11.
[0077] A window 12a that intersects the first optical axis 41 is formed in the cover 12. The window 12a allows the first light traveling along the first optical axis 41 to pass through. Thereby, the camera module 1 can take in object light.
[0078] 2 Second Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the first embodiment are also adopted in the second embodiment.
[0079] FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing a longitudinal section of a housing provided in the camera module of the second embodiment.
[0080] In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the first housing portion 81 includes a support plate 94 instead of the pedestal 93.
[0081] The support plate 94 has a first main surface 94a and a second main surface 94b. The first main surface 94a and the second main surface 94b are on opposite sides of each other.
[0082] The first main surface 94a of the support plate 94 faces a direction intermediate between the +Y direction DY1 perpendicular to the second optical axis 42 and the -Z direction DZ2 parallel to the second optical axis 42 and directed from the reflection element 21 toward the lens group 22. The first main surface 94a is in surface contact with the reflection surface 21b of the reflection element 21. Thereby, the first main surface 94a supports the reflection element 21.
[0083] The second main surface 94b of the support plate 94 faces the space 94c.
[0084] In the second embodiment, the main body 11 does not include a drive mechanism for driving the reflecting element 21. Therefore, the space 94c can accommodate a connector with a high profile, circuit components, and the like. As a result, the camera module 1 can be miniaturized. The connector, circuit components, and the like accommodated in the space 94c constitute, for example, an interface for connecting the camera module 1 to other components.
[0085] 3 Third Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the third embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the first embodiment are also adopted in the third embodiment.
[0086] FIG. 9 is a perspective view schematically showing the main body provided in the camera module of the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing the longitudinal section of the main body provided in the camera module of the third embodiment.
[0087] In the third embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the main body 11 includes a fixed lens group 29 and a fixed lens barrel 30.
[0088] The fixed lens group 29 is disposed in the second space 82a of the second accommodating portion 82. The fixed lens group 29 is disposed between the reflecting element 21 and the lens group 22.
[0089] The fixed lens group 29 includes two or more lenses. The fixed lens group 29 has a positive power as a whole. The fixed lens group 29 transmits the second light and guides the second light to the lens group 22.
[0090] 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 at the subsequent stage of the fixed lens group 29. The lens group 22 transmits the second light that has passed through the fixed lens group 29 and condenses the second light on the imaging surface 51. As a result, the lens group 22 forms an object image on the second light. The object image is formed on the imaging surface 51.
[0091] The fixed lens group 29 and the lens group 22 constitute an imaging optical system that forms an object image on the second light.
[0092] The fixed lens barrel 30 has a cylindrical shape. For this reason, the fixed lens barrel 30 has an inner peripheral surface 30a. A space 30b defined by the inner peripheral surface 30a is formed in the fixed lens barrel 30.
[0093] The space 30b of the fixed lens barrel 30 houses the fixed lens group 29. The inner peripheral surface 30a of the fixed lens barrel 30 holds the outer peripheries of the lenses provided in the housed fixed lens group 29. Thereby, the fixed lens barrel 30 holds the housed fixed lens group 29.
[0094] The fixed lens barrel 30 is disposed in the second space 82a of the second housing portion 82. The fixed lens barrel 30 is attached to the second housing portion 82. Thereby, the fixed lens group 29 is fixed to the housing 28 via the fixed lens barrel 30.
[0095] The drive unit 83 can perform focusing in an inner focus method. Thereby, the stroke of the lens group 22 required for focusing can be shortened. Thereby, the camera module 1 can be miniaturized.
[0096] 4 Fourth Embodiment Hereinafter, the differences between the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the first embodiment are also adopted in the fourth embodiment.
[0097] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the camera module of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing the longitudinal section of the camera module of the fourth embodiment.
[0098] In the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the main body 11 includes a lens group 31 and a lens barrel 32.
[0099] When the lens group 31 uses the lens group 22 as the first lens group, it becomes the second lens group. When the lens barrel 32 uses the lens barrel 25 as the first lens barrel, it becomes the second lens barrel.
[0100] The lens group 22 includes two or more lenses. The lens group 22 has a positive power as a whole. The lens group 22 transmits the second light and guides the second light to the lens group 31.
[0101] The lens group 31 is disposed on the second optical axis 42. The lens group 31 is disposed at the subsequent stage of the lens group 22. The lens group 31 is disposed between the lens group 22 and the imaging device 24.
[0102] The lens group 31 includes one or more lenses. The lens group 31 has a negative power as a whole. The lens group 31 transmits the second light that has passed through the lens group 22 and condenses the second light on the imaging surface 51. As a result, the lens group 22 forms an object image on the second light. The object image is formed on the imaging surface 51.
[0103] The lens group 22 and the lens group 31 constitute an imaging optical system that forms an object image on the second light.
[0104] The lens barrel 32 has a cylindrical shape. Therefore, the lens barrel 32 has an inner peripheral surface 32a. A space 32b defined by the inner peripheral surface 32a is formed in the lens barrel 32.
[0105] The space 32b of the lens barrel 32 houses the lens group 31. The inner peripheral surface 32a of the lens barrel 32 holds the outer periphery of the lens provided in the housed lens group 31. As a result, the lens barrel 32 holds the housed lens group 31.
[0106] The lens group 31 and the lens barrel 32 move integrally. Therefore, the lens group 31 and the lens barrel 32 constitute a driven body 62 that is integrally driven. The driven body 62 is accommodated in a third space 84a of the third accommodating portion 84.
[0107] When the driven body 61 is the first driven body, the driven body 62 becomes the second driven body.
[0108] FIG. 13 is a perspective view schematically showing a holder provided in the camera module of the fourth embodiment.
[0109] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the holder 26 includes a third portion 73.
[0110] The third portion 73 has a semi-cylindrical shape. Therefore, the third portion 73 has an inner peripheral surface 73a. A space 73b defined by the inner peripheral surface 73a is formed in the third portion 73. The space 73b has a semi-cylindrical shape.
[0111] The space 73b of the third portion 73 accommodates half of the driven body 62.
[0112] The third portion 73 has a cylindrical axis that coincides with the second optical axis 42. Therefore, the second light travels along the cylindrical axis of the third portion 73.
[0113] The inner peripheral surface 73a of the third portion 73 serves as a mounting surface on which the driven body 62 is placed. The driven body 62 is attached to the inner peripheral surface 73a. Thereby, the third portion 73 holds the driven body 62.
[0114] The inner peripheral surface 73a of the third portion 73 is exposed in the +Y direction DY1. Therefore, the driven body 62 is placed on the inner peripheral surface 73a of the third portion 73 by moving the driven body 62 in the -Y direction DY2 and bringing the driven body 62 into contact with the inner peripheral surface 73a of the third portion 73.
[0115] The third portion 73 has an inner diameter that conforms to the outer diameter of the lens barrel 32. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the formation of a non-uniform gap between the lens barrel 32 and the third portion 73.
[0116] The third portion 73 and the second portion 72 have the same outer diameter. The end of the third portion 73 on the +Z direction DZ1 side and the end of the second portion 72 on the -Z direction DZ2 side are connected to each other. The first portion 71 and the third portion 73 are respectively arranged on the +Z direction DZ1 side and the -Z direction DZ2 side with respect to the second portion 72. For this reason, the holder 26 protrudes from the hole 83a of the drive unit 83 to both sides in the Z direction DZ.
[0117] The third portion 73 is arranged in the third space 84a of the third housing portion 84.
[0118] In the camera module 1 of the fourth embodiment, the drive unit 83 surrounds the hole 83a of the drive unit 83 from four directions perpendicular to the second optical axis 42. However, the lens group 22 and the lens group 31 are not inserted into the hole 83a of the drive unit 83, and the second portion 72 that moves integrally with the lens group 22 and the lens group 31 is inserted. Further, the first portion 71 that holds the lens group 22 is arranged in the second space 82a of the second housing portion 82 that can be seen through the first opening 82b of the second housing portion 82 from the +Y direction DY side perpendicular to the second optical axis 42. Further, the third portion 73 that holds the lens group 31 is arranged in the third space 84a of the third housing portion 84 that can be seen through the second opening 84b of the third housing portion 84 from the +Y direction DY side perpendicular to the second optical axis 42. Thereby, the drive unit 83 can stably drive the lens group 22 and the lens group 31, and can exert a large thrust. In addition, the lens group 22 can be inserted into the second space 82a of the second housing portion 82 from a direction perpendicular to the second optical axis 42. Further, the lens group 31 can be inserted into the third space 84a of the third housing portion 84 from a direction perpendicular to the second optical axis 42. For this reason, the assembly of the camera module 1 becomes easy.
[0119] 5 Fifth Embodiment In the following, the differences between the fifth embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the first embodiment are also adopted in the fifth embodiment.
[0120] FIG. 14 is a perspective view schematically showing the main body provided in the camera module of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing the longitudinal section of the main body provided in the camera module of the fifth embodiment. FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the holder and the driven body provided in the camera module of the fifth embodiment.
[0121] In the fifth embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, the first portion 71 has an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the second portion 72. Thereby, the outer diameter of the driven body 61 held by the first portion 71 can be increased. Thereby, the outer diameter of the lens group 22 constituting the driven body 61 can be made larger than the outer diameter of the second portion 72.
[0122] 6 Sixth Embodiment In the following, the differences between the sixth embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. For points not described, the same configurations as those adopted in the first embodiment are also adopted in the sixth embodiment.
[0123] FIG. 17 is a longitudinal sectional view schematically showing the longitudinal section of the lens holder and the lens group provided in the camera module of the sixth embodiment. FIG. 18 is a perspective view schematically showing the state in which the lens holder and the lens group provided in the camera module of the sixth embodiment are cut in a longitudinal section.
[0124] In the sixth embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the main body 11 does not include the lens barrel 25. For this reason, the first portion 71 directly holds the lens group 22. Thereby, the outer diameter of the first portion 71 can be reduced by the thickness of the lens barrel 25. Thereby, the camera module 1 can be miniaturized.
[0125] On the inner peripheral surface 71a of the first portion 71, a groove 71c is formed in which the outer peripheral portion of the lens provided in the lens group 22 is accommodated.
[0126] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the main body 11 includes a lens cover 33.
[0127] The lens cover 33 has a semi-cylindrical shape. The lens cover 33 faces the first portion 71 with the lens group 22 interposed therebetween. The first portion 71 and the lens cover 33 form a cylindrical structure and surround the lens group 22. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of flare, ghost, etc. due to the light incident on the lens group 22 from the +Y direction DY1 side.
[0128] 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 exhibits the same operational effects, or a configuration that can achieve the same object.
Description of Reference Numerals
[0129] 1 Camera module, 11 Main body, 12 Cover, 21 Reflective element, 21a Incident surface, 21b Reflective surface, 21c Exit surface, 22 Lens group, 23 Infrared cut filter, 24 Image sensor, 25 Lens barrel, 25a Inner peripheral surface, 25b Space, 26 Holder, 27 Image sensor holder, 28 Housing, 29 Fixed lens group, 30 Fixed lens barrel, 30a Inner peripheral surface, 30b Space, 31 Lens group, 32 Lens barrel, 32a Inner peripheral surface, 32b Space, 33 Lens cover, 41 First optical axis, 42 Second optical axis, 51 Imaging plane, 61, 62 Driven body, 71 First part, 71a Inner peripheral surface, 71b Space, 71c Groove, 72 Second part, 72a Inner peripheral surface, 72b Space, 73 Third part, 73a Inner peripheral surface, 73b Space, 81 First accommodating part, 81a First space, 82 Second accommodating part, 82a Second space, 82b First opening, 83 Driving part, 83a Hole, 84 Third accommodating part, 84a Third space, 84b Second opening, 91 92 Wall, 93 Pedestal, 93a, 93b, 93c Side surface, 94 Support plate, 94a First main surface, 94b Second main surface, 94c Space, 101 First wall, 102 Second wall, 103 Third wall, 111 Fourth wall, 112 Fifth wall, 113 Sixth wall, 114 Seventh wall, 121, 122, 123 Wall.
Claims
1. A reflecting element that reflects the first light incident along the first optical axis and emits the second light along the second optical axis; A driven body including a lens group disposed on the second optical axis; A first housing portion in which a first space for housing the reflecting element is formed, a second housing portion in which a second space for housing the driven body and having an opening opened in a vertical direction perpendicular to the second optical axis is formed, and a driving portion in which a hole is formed; a housing comprising; A holder including a first portion housed in the second space for holding the driven body and a second portion inserted into the hole and driven by the driving portion; A cover for closing the opening; A camera module comprising.
2. The first portion has a mounting surface on which the driven body is mounted The camera module according to claim 1.
3. The first portion has a semi-cylindrical shape The camera module according to claim 1.
4. The second housing portion is disposed on one side in a parallel direction parallel to the second optical axis with respect to the driving portion, The first portion is disposed on the one side with respect to the second portion The camera module according to claim 1.
5. The lens group is a first lens group, The driven body is a first driven body, The opening is a first opening, A second driven body including a second lens group disposed on the second optical axis is provided, The housing includes a third housing portion that houses the second driven body and in which a third space having a second opening opened in the vertical direction is formed and is disposed on the other side in the parallel direction with respect to the driving portion, The holder includes a third portion that is disposed in the third space and holds the second driven body and is disposed on the other side with respect to the second portion The camera module according to claim 4.
6. The driven body includes a lens barrel that holds the lens group, The first portion holds the lens barrel The camera module according to claim 1.
7. The first portion directly holds the lens group The camera module according to claim 1.
8. A lens cover that faces the first portion with the lens group interposed therebetween and surrounds the lens group together with the first portion is provided The camera module according to claim 7.
9. The second accommodating portion includes a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall that are separated from the second optical axis in a first direction, a second direction, and a third direction perpendicular to the second optical axis, respectively. The second space is defined by the first wall, the second wall, and the third wall. The opening is separated from the second optical axis in a fourth direction perpendicular to the second optical axis. The driving portion includes a fourth wall, a fifth wall, a sixth wall, and a seventh wall that are separated from the second optical axis in the first direction, the second direction, the third direction, and the fourth direction, respectively. The hole is defined by the fourth wall, the fifth wall, the sixth wall, and the seventh wall. The second direction and the third direction are perpendicular to the first direction and are opposite to each other. The first direction and the fourth direction are opposite to each other. The camera module according to claim 1.
10. The driving portion drives the second portion in a direction parallel to the second optical axis. The camera module according to claim 1.
11. The driving portion drives the second portion in a direction perpendicular to the second optical axis. The camera module according to claim 10.
12. The housing includes a support plate having a first main surface that faces the intermediate direction between the direction perpendicular to the second optical axis and the direction parallel to the second optical axis and from the reflecting element toward the lens group to support the reflecting element, and a second main surface that is on the side opposite to the side where the first main surface is located and faces the space. The camera module according to claim 1.
13. A fixed lens group is provided, which is accommodated in the second space, disposed between the reflecting element and the lens group, and fixed to the housing. The camera module according to claim 1.
14. The lens group has an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the second portion. The camera module according to claim 1.