Vehicle camera and vehicle

Abstract

The camera module includes a lens barrel; a lens disposed within the lens barrel; a heat-generating member including a heat-generating portion disposed on a surface of the lens; and a sensor member including a sensor portion disposed on a lower surface of the heat-generating portion, and the lens includes a groove where the heat-generating portion and the sensor portion are coupled.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present embodiment relates to a vehicle camera and a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, ultra-miniature camera modules have been developed and are widely used in small electronic products such as smartphones, laptops, and game consoles.

[0003] As automobiles become more widespread, miniature cameras are increasingly used not only in small electronic products but also in vehicles. For example, they are used in black box cameras for vehicle protection or to collect objective information on traffic accidents, rearview cameras that allow drivers to monitor blind spots at the rear of the vehicle through a screen to ensure safety when reversing, and perimeter detection cameras that can monitor the area around the vehicle.

[0004] The camera may include a lens, a lens holder that houses the lens, an image sensor that converts an image of a subject captured by the lens into an electrical signal, and a printed circuit board on which the image sensor is mounted. The housing that defines the exterior of the camera has a sealed structure to prevent internal components from being contaminated by foreign matter, including moisture.

[0005] In the case of a camera module, since it is placed outside the vehicle and is heavily affected by the outside air, frost, condensation, ice, etc. frequently form on the lens in winter, which can significantly degrade the performance of the camera module. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] This embodiment provides a camera module and a vehicle that can quickly remove frost and ice that form on the lens surface through a heat function. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The camera module according to this embodiment includes a lens barrel, a lens disposed within the lens barrel, a heat-generating member including a heat-generating portion disposed on the surface of the lens, and a sensor member including a sensor portion disposed on the underside of the heat-generating portion, and the lens includes a groove that connects the heat-generating portion and the sensor portion.

[0008] The heat generating portion may be a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) ink applied to the surface of the lens.

[0009] The heat generating portion may be black in color.

[0010] The heat generating portion and the sensor portion may each have a ring-shaped cross section.

[0011] A temperature sensor may be disposed on the lower surface of the sensor portion.

[0012] The heat generating portion and the sensor portion may be interposed between an upper surface of the lens barrel and a lower surface of the lens.

[0013] A rib that protrudes downward may be disposed on the lower surface of the sensor portion.

[0014] The heat generating member may include a first connecting portion having one end connected to the heat generating portion and the other end connected to a printed circuit board, and the sensor member may include a second connecting portion having one end connected to the sensor portion and the other end connected to the printed circuit board, and the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion may be arranged to at least partially overlap each other.

[0015] The first and second connecting parts may be flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs).

[0016] According to another embodiment, a camera module includes a first body, a lens module disposed within the first body and including a lens barrel and a lens disposed within the lens barrel, a printed circuit board disposed within the first body, and a heat-generating member that provides heat to the lens, wherein the heat-generating member may include a heating element disposed on a surface of the lens and a substrate that electrically connects the heating element and the printed circuit board. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to this embodiment, the lens surface is heated based on the information sensed by the temperature sensor, which has the advantage of not only efficiently removing frost and ice that form on the lens surface but also efficiently managing the power supply. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view of a lens barrel according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling structure of a first lens, a heat generating member, and a sensor member according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a first lens, a heat generating member, and a sensor member according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 is a perspective view illustrating a coupling structure of a first lens, a heat generating member, and a sensor member according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a lens heating structure according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a substrate according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a lens heating structure according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a camera module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a first lens according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a lens barrel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0020] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but can be realized in various different forms, and one or more of the components between the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined or substituted within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0021] Furthermore, unless otherwise clearly defined and described, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as meanings that are commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs, and commonly used terms, such as terms defined in a dictionary, may be interpreted in light of the contextual meaning of the relevant art.

[0022] Furthermore, the terms used in the examples of the present invention are intended to describe the examples and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0023] In this specification, the singular can include the plural unless otherwise specified in the context, and when it is stated as "A and at least one (or more) of B and C," it can include one or more of all possible combinations of A, B, and C.

[0024] Furthermore, when describing components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. are used to distinguish the components from other components, and the terms do not limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

[0025] It should be noted that when a component is described as being "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it can include not only the case where the component is directly "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" to the other component, but also the case where the component is "coupled," "coupled," or "connected" by another component between the component and the other component.

[0026] Furthermore, when described as being formed or disposed "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only the case where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also the case where one or more other components are formed or disposed between the two components. Furthermore, when described as "above" or "below," it can include not only the meaning of the upward direction but also the meaning of the downward direction based on one component.

[0027] The "optical axis direction" used below is defined as the optical axis direction of the lens. On the other hand, the "optical axis direction" can also correspond to the "up-down direction," "z-axis direction," etc.

[0028] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 1, a vehicle 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a body 2, a door 3, glass 4, headlamps 5, tail lamps 6 and a camera module 10.

[0031] The body 2 may be an exterior member of the vehicle 1. The body 2 may have various forms such as a frame type, a monocoque type, etc. One or more doors 3 may be attached to the side of the body 2. The glass 4 may be attached to the front and rear upper portions of the body 2 (portions where fillers are formed) and the doors 3. The head lamps 5 may be attached to the front lower portion of the body 2. The tail lamps 6 may be attached to the rear lower portion of the body 2.

[0032] A camera module 10 may be installed on a side of the body 2 or on a front door among one or more of the doors 3. The camera module 10 may be installed in front of the glass 4 connected to the door 3. That is, in the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the side mirror can be replaced with the camera module 10.

[0033] The camera module 10 can capture images of both sides of the rear of the vehicle. Images captured by the camera module 10 may be electrically connected to a display unit (not shown) via an electronic control unit (ECU) or the like. Therefore, the images captured by the camera module 10 can be played on a display unit under the control of the electronic control unit (ECU).

[0034] An interior space for a driver may be formed inside the body 2. A display unit may be installed inside the body 2. The display unit may output images captured by the camera module 10. The display unit may be installed on a dashboard (not shown) inside the body 2.

[0035] The above-described installation form of the camera module 10 in the vehicle 1 is an example, and the camera module 10 can be used as one or more of the front camera, side camera, rear camera, and black box of the vehicle 1.

[0036] The camera module according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the appearance of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a lens barrel according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the coupling structure of a first lens, a heat-generating member, and a sensor member according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the first lens, a heat-generating member, and a sensor member according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating the coupling structure of a first lens, a heat-generating member, and a sensor member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] 2 to 7, the camera module 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a lens barrel 100, a retainer 200, a lens 300, a heat generating member 400, and a sensor member 500.

[0039] The lens barrel 100 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with open top and bottom surfaces. A space 110 in which the lens 300 is disposed may be formed inside the lens barrel 100. The space 110 of the lens barrel 100 may include a plurality of regions with different cross-sectional areas. For example, a region in the space inside the lens barrel 100 in which a first lens 310 (described later) is disposed may have a larger cross-sectional area than other regions.

[0040] The camera module 10 may include a body (not shown) in which the lens barrel 100 is disposed and which forms the outer shape of the camera module 10. The body may include a front body and a rear body. A hole into which the lens barrel 100 is coupled may be formed in the front surface of the front body, and the lens barrel 100 may be disposed such that at least a portion thereof protrudes from the outer surface of the front body.

[0041] A screw coupling portion 130 may be formed on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 100 for coupling with the front body or other components within the front body.

[0042] The lens barrel 100 may include a plurality of regions with different cross-sectional areas. For example, the lens barrel 100 may include a first region and a second region disposed below the first region. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first region may be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second region. The retainer 200 may be disposed outside the first region. The retainer 200 may be attached to the outer surface of the lens barrel 100 by adhesive or by screwing via a thread.

[0043] A protrusion 120 may be formed on the upper surface of the lens barrel 100, protruding upward and supporting a side surface of a first lens 310 (described later). The protrusion 120 may cover a portion of the side surface of the first lens 310. The inner surface of the protrusion 120 may contact the side surface of the first lens 310.

[0044] A sidewall 140 may be formed on the side of the lens barrel 100. The sidewall 140 may be a groove-like recessed portion recessed inward relative to other regions. The sidewall 140 may be formed on the side of the first region where the outermost lens 310 is disposed. The sidewall 140 may be formed by cutting the region where the protrusion 120 is formed by a predetermined distance in the circumferential direction. When viewed from the side, the sidewall 140 may be a hole-like portion that penetrates a portion of the protrusion 120 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. The sidewall of the first region corresponding to the region where the sidewall 140 is formed may be flat. At least a portion of the heat-generating member 400 and the sensor member 500 may be disposed on the sidewall 140. The sidewall 140 may include a bottom surface 141 and a plurality of guide surfaces 142 disposed on both sides of the bottom surface 141. The guide surfaces 142 may be disposed to form obtuse angles with the bottom surface 141.

[0045] The lens 300 may be disposed within the lens barrel 100. A plurality of lenses 300 may be provided and disposed spaced apart from each other along the optical axis. The lens 300 may include a first lens 310 and a second lens disposed below the first lens 310. The first lens 310 and the second lens may be spaced apart from each other. In the space 110 within the lens barrel 100, the cross-sectional areas of the regions where the first lens 310 and the second lens are disposed may differ. The first lens 310 may be referred to as an outermost lens. The first lens 310 may have a larger cross-sectional area than the other lenses. An incident surface of the first lens 310 may protrude above the top surface of the lens barrel 100 or the top surface of the retainer 200.

[0046] The first lens 310 may include an incident surface 311 through which light is incident, an exit surface 312 through which the incident light exits, and a connecting surface connecting the incident surface 311 and the exit surface 312. The connecting surfaces may include a first connecting surface 314 and a second connecting surface 315. The first connecting surface 314 may form a side surface of the first lens 310. The second connecting surface 315 may form a bottom surface of the first lens 310. A groove 316 recessed upward relative to other regions may be formed in the bottom surface of the first lens 310. The bottom surface of the groove 316 may be stepped relative to the second connecting surface 315 in the optical axis direction. The bottom surface of the groove 316 may be positioned above the second connecting surface 315.

[0047] The groove 316 may have a ring-shaped cross section.

[0048] The retainer 200 may be coupled to an outer surface of the lens barrel 100. The retainer 200 may be coupled to an upper end of the lens barrel 100. At least a portion of the retainer 200 may be disposed within the front body.

[0049] The retainer 200 may have a ring-shaped cross section. The retainer 200 may be arranged so that at least a portion thereof covers an edge of the incident surface 311 of the first lens 310. The retainer 200 may be arranged so as to wrap around the edge of the first lens 310. The retainer 200 may contact a portion of the incident surface of the first lens 310.

[0050] The heat generating member 400 may be a PTC heater (positive temperature coefficient heater).

[0051] The heat generating member 400 may be disposed outside the lens barrel 100. One end of the heat generating member 400 may be disposed on the surface of the first lens 310, and the other end may be coupled to a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board may be disposed within the body of the camera module 10.

[0052] The heat generating member 400 may include a heat generating part 410 , a first connecting part 420 and a first terminal part 430 .

[0053] The heating part 410 may be disposed between an upper surface of the lens barrel 100 and a lower surface of the first lens 310. The heating part 410 may be disposed in the groove 316. The heating part 410 may have a ring-shaped cross section. An adhesive or adhesive tape may be disposed between the heating part 410 and the groove 316.

[0054] The heating unit 410 may generate heat. The heating unit 410 may include a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) material and may be fabricated in the form of a semiconductor device. The heating unit 410 may include a PTC element, an electrode plate, and an insulating plate. The heating unit 410 may include heating ink coated on a sheet on which a circuit pattern is formed.

[0055] The heat generated by the heating unit 410 can remove frost, ice, etc. formed on the surface of the first lens 310 .

[0056] The heat generating part 410 may be black in color.

[0057] The first terminal unit 430 may be coupled to the printed circuit board. A connector for electrically and physically coupling with the first terminal unit 430 may be disposed on a surface of the printed circuit board.

[0058] The first connecting part 420 may be disposed to connect the first terminal part 430 and the heat generating part 410. The first connecting part 420 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The first connecting part 420 may include a circuit pattern. The first connecting part 420 may have a region that is folded at least once. The first connecting part 420 may be disposed on the outside of the lens barrel 100. At least a portion of the first connecting part 420 may be disposed in the avoidance part 140. The first connecting part 420 may be coupled to a side of the lens barrel 100 via the bottom surface 141 and the guide surface 142.

[0059] The sensor member 500 may be disposed inside the heat-generating member 400. The sensor member 500 may be disposed so that at least a portion thereof overlaps with the heat-generating member 400. The sensor member 500 may be disposed so that at least a portion thereof overlaps with the heat-generating member 400 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. The sensor member 500 may be at least partially coupled to the avoiding portion 140. The sensor member 500 and the heat-generating member 400 may be disposed so as to overlap with the avoiding portion 140.

[0060] The sensor member 500 and the heat generating member 400 may be arranged so as not to overlap at least partially.

[0061] The sensor member 500 may include a sensor part 530 , a second connection part 540 and a second terminal part 550 .

[0062] The sensor unit 530 may be disposed between an upper surface of the lens barrel 100 and a lower surface of the first lens 310. The sensor unit 530 may be disposed in the groove 316. The sensor unit 530 may be disposed below the heating unit 410. The upper surface of the sensor unit 530 and the lower surface of the heating unit 410 may be in contact with each other. The sensor unit 530 may have a ring-shaped cross section. An adhesive or adhesive tape may be disposed between the sensor unit 530 and the heating unit 410.

[0063] A temperature sensor 510 may be disposed on the lower surface of the sensor unit 530. The temperature sensor 510 may detect the temperature of the heat generating unit 410 or the first lens 310. The temperature sensor 510 may be mounted on the lower surface of the sensor unit 530. A circuit pattern (not shown) for electrical connection of the temperature sensor 510 may be formed on the sensor unit 530.

[0064] A rib 520 may be formed on the lower surface of the sensor unit 530. The rib 520 may have a shape that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the sensor unit 530. The strength of the sensor unit 530 may be reinforced through the rib 520. The rib 520 may contact the upper surface of the lens barrel 100. A plurality of ribs 520 may be provided and arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0065] The second terminal unit 550 may be coupled to the printed circuit board. A connector for electrically and physically coupling with the second terminal unit 550 may be disposed on a surface of the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board to which the first terminal unit 430 is coupled and the printed circuit board to which the second terminal unit 550 is coupled may be different. Alternatively, the printed circuit board to which the first terminal unit 430 is coupled and the printed circuit board to which the second terminal unit 550 is coupled may be the same.

[0066] The second connecting portion 540 may be disposed to connect the second terminal portion 550 and the sensor 530. The second connecting portion 540 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The second connecting portion 540 may include a circuit pattern. The second connecting portion 540 may have a region that is folded at least once. The second connecting portion 540 may be disposed on the outer side of the lens barrel 100. The second connecting portion 540 may be disposed on the inner side of the first connecting portion 420. At least a portion of the second connecting portion 540 may be disposed on the avoiding portion 140. The second connecting portion 540 may be coupled to a side of the lens barrel 100 via the bottom surface 141 and the guide surface 142.

[0067] According to the above-described structure, the lens surface is heated based on the information sensed by the temperature sensor, which has the advantage of not only efficiently removing frost and ice that form on the lens surface but also efficiently managing the power supply.

[0068] The camera module according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0069] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 8, a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a first body 1100, a second body 1200, a lens module 1300, a lens holder 1400, a printed circuit board 1500, sealing members 1610 and 1620, and a heat generating member 1700.

[0071] The first body 1100 may form the outer shape of the camera module. The first body 1100 may be referred to as any of a front body, an upper housing, and a first housing. A space may be formed inside the first body 1100 to accommodate the lens module 1300, the lens holder 1400, and the printed circuit board 1500.

[0072] The second body 1200 may form the outer shape of the camera module by being coupled to the first body 1100. The second body 1200 may be referred to as any one of a rear body, a lower housing, and a second housing. The second body 1100 may be coupled to the lower surface of the first body 1100. The second body 1200 may be coupled to the first body 1100 by any one of ultrasonic welding, laser welding, and heat welding. Alternatively, the second body 1200 and the first body 1100 may be coupled to each other using epoxy. An internal space in which the printed circuit board 1500 is disposed may be formed within the second body 1200. The internal space of the first body 1100 and the internal space of the second body 1200 may be connected.

[0073] A connector lead-out portion 1220 protruding downward from other regions may be formed on the lower surface of the second body 1200. A space may be formed inside the connector lead-out portion 1220 so that pins 1530 (described later) can be disposed therein. An external connector may be coupled to the connector lead-out portion 1220, and the external connector may include terminals (not shown) electrically and physically coupled to the pins 1530.

[0074] The lens module 1300 may be disposed within the first body 1100. At least a portion of the lens module 1300 may protrude above the first body 1100. The lens module 1300 may include a lens barrel 1310, a lens 1350, and a retainer 1320.

[0075] The lens barrel 1310 may be disposed within the first body 1100. The lens barrel 1310 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with open top and bottom surfaces. A space in which the lens 1350 is disposed may be formed inside the lens barrel 1310. The space in the lens barrel 1310 may include a plurality of regions with different cross-sectional areas. For example, a region in the space in the lens barrel 1310 in which a first lens 1351 (described later) is disposed may have a larger cross-sectional area than other regions. At least a portion of the lens barrel 1310 may be disposed within the lens holder 1400. The lens barrel 1310 may be coupled to the lens holder 1400. The lens barrel 1310 may be coupled to the lens holder 1400 by threading.

[0076] The lens barrel 1310 may include a plurality of regions having different cross-sectional areas. For example, the lens barrel 1310 may include a first region and a second region disposed below the first region. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first region may be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second region. The second region may be threadedly coupled to the lens holder 1400. A screw thread or a screw groove may be formed on an outer circumferential surface of the second region. The heat-generating member 1700 may be disposed to surround a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the first region.

[0077] The lens barrel 1310 may include a protrusion 1314. The protrusion 1314 may be disposed between the first region and the second region. The protrusion 1314 may have a shape in which a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1310 protrudes outward. The protrusion 1314 may have a ring-shaped cross section.

[0078] The lens 1350 may be disposed within the lens barrel 1310. A plurality of lenses 1310 may be provided and disposed spaced apart from one another along the optical axis. The plurality of lenses 1310 may include a first lens 1351, a second lens 1352, a third lens 1353, a fourth lens 1354, a fifth lens 1355, and a sixth lens 1356. The first to sixth lenses 1351, 1352, 1353, 1354, 1355, and 1356 may be disposed sequentially along the optical axis. The first lens 1351 may be referred to as an outermost lens. The first lens 1351 may have a larger cross-sectional area than the other lenses. Spacers may be disposed between the plurality of lenses to space adjacent lenses.

[0079] The retainer 1320 may be coupled to an outer surface of the lens barrel 1310. The retainer 1320 and the lens barrel 1310 may be coupled to each other using epoxy. Alternatively, the retainer 1320 may be coupled to the lens barrel 1310 by threading. The retainer 1320 may be coupled to an upper end of the lens barrel 1310. The retainer 1320 may be disposed within the first body 1100. An incident surface of the first lens 1351 may protrude above an upper surface of the retainer 1320.

[0080] The above-described combined structure of the lens barrel 1310 and the retainer 1320 is merely an example, and the camera module may be embodied as an integrated structure in which the lens barrel 1310 and the retainer 1320 are integrated.

[0081] The retainer 1320 may have a ring-shaped cross section. The retainer 1320 may be arranged so that at least a portion thereof surrounds the edge of the lens 1350. The retainer 1320 may be arranged so that it surrounds the edge of the first lens 1351. The retainer 1320 may be arranged so that it covers the edge of the incident surface of the first lens 1351. The retainer 1320 may contact a portion of the incident surface of the first lens 1351.

[0082] A sealing member coupling groove 1322 to which a sealing member 1620 (described later) is coupled may be formed on the outer surface of the retainer 1320. The sealing member coupling groove 1322 may have a groove shape in which a portion of the outer surface of the retainer 1320 is recessed inward more than other regions.

[0083] The lens holder 1400 may be disposed within the first body 1100. The lens holder 1400 may be disposed outside the lens barrel 1310. The lens holder 1400 may have a space formed therein to which the lens barrel 1310 is coupled. A screw thread or a screw groove may be formed on an inner surface of the lens holder 1400 facing the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1310.

[0084] A coupling portion 1420 having a shape that protrudes downward from other regions may be formed on a lower surface of the lens holder 1400. The lower surface of the coupling portion 1420 may contact an upper surface of the printed circuit board 1500. A screw hole into which a screw is coupled may be formed on the lower surface of the coupling portion 1420. The lens holder 1400 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 1500 by screwing the screw.

[0085] The printed circuit board 1500 may be disposed below the lens module 1300. The printed circuit board 1500 may be disposed inside the second body 1200. The printed circuit board 1500 may be disposed below the lens holder 1400. The printed circuit board 1500 may have a plate shape, and at least one component for driving the camera module may be disposed on the top and bottom surfaces. For example, an image sensor 1510 may be disposed on the top surface of the printed circuit board 1500 facing the lens 1350. The image sensor 1510 may be disposed to face the lens 1350 in the optical axis direction. The optical axis of the image sensor 1510 may be aligned with that of the lens 1350.

[0086] Pins 1530 may be disposed on the lower surface of the printed circuit board 1500. The pins 1530 may have a shape that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the printed circuit board 1500. At least a portion of the pins 1530 may be disposed within the connector outlet 1220. The pins 1530 may be coupled to external terminals, thereby providing power to the heat generating member 1700.

[0087] A connector 1520 may be disposed on the lower surface of the printed circuit board 1500. The connector 1520 may be mounted on the lower surface of the printed circuit board 1500. The connector 1520 may be coupled to one end of the heat-generating member 1700. The connector 1520 may be electrically connected to one end of the heat-generating member 1700. The printed circuit board 1500 may be electrically connected to the heat-generating member 1700 through the connector 1520. The connector 1520 may be a BTOB connector or an FFC connector.

[0088] The printed circuit board 1500 includes screw holes that face the screw holes of the lens holder 1400 and can be screw-coupled to the lens holder 1400 .

[0089] The camera module may include sealing members 1610 and 1620. The sealing members 1610 and 1620 may include a first sealing member 1610 disposed between the first body 1100 and the second body 1200, and a second sealing member 1620 disposed between the outer surface of the retainer 1320 and the inner surface of the first body 1100. The interior space of the camera module may be sealed from the outside through the sealing members 1610 and 1620. The sealing members 1610 and 1620 may have a cross section in a closed loop shape. For example, the second sealing member 1620 may be formed in a ring shape.

[0090] A heat generating structure for a lens according to a second embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0091] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a lens heating structure according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a plan view of a substrate according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] 9 and 10, a protrusion 1311 may be disposed on the upper surface of the lens barrel 1310, protruding upward and surrounding the first lens 1351. The protrusion 1311 may be formed integrally with the lens barrel 1310.

[0093] The first lens 1351 may include an incident surface 1371, an exit surface 1372 facing the incident surface 1371, and a connecting surface 1373 connecting the incident surface 1371 and the exit surface 1372. Light incident into the first lens 1351 through the incident surface 1371 may be directed toward the image sensor 151 through the exit surface 1372.

[0094] The coupling surface 1373 may include a first surface 1374 facing the upper surface of the second lens 13502 or the lens barrel 1310, and a second surface 1375 facing the inner surface of the protrusion 1311. The first surface 1374 and the second surface 1375 may be disposed perpendicular to each other. The first surface 1374 may be coupled to the exit surface 1372, and the second surface 1375 may be coupled to the entrance surface 1371.

[0095] The retainer 1320 may include a first region 1324 disposed on the incident surface 1371 and the protrusion 1311, and a second region 1326 disposed to surround the outer surface of the lens barrel 1310. The first region 1324 and the second region 1326 may be disposed perpendicular to each other.

[0096] The camera module may include a heat generating member 1700. The heat generating member 1700 may be a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) heater. The heat generating member 1700 may include PTC ink 1730 applied to the surface of the first lens 1351 and a substrate 1710 electrically connected to the PTC ink 1730.

[0097] The PTC ink 1730 may be applied to the surface of the first lens 1351. The PTC ink 1730 may be applied to the underside of the first lens 1351. The PTC ink 1730 may be applied to the coupling surface 1373. The PTC ink 1730 may be applied to each of the first surface 1374 and the second surface 1375. The PTC ink 1730 may generate heat when power is supplied.

[0098] The PTC ink 1730 may be black, and the PTC ink 173 may be black, so that light reflection from the surface of the lens 1350 can be prevented.

[0099] The PTC ink 1730 may also be referred to as a heating element.

[0100] The substrate 1710 may have one end connected to the PTC ink 1730 and the other end connected to the printed circuit board 1500. The substrate 1710 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The substrate 1710 may include a region that is folded at least one time. A circuit pattern 1720 may be formed on a surface of the substrate 1710. The circuit pattern 1720 may be disposed on a surface of the substrate 1710 that faces the PTC ink 1730. The circuit pattern 1720 may be a metal paste.

[0101] 10 , the substrate 1710 may include an upper end 1712, a lower step 1716, and a connecting portion 1714. The upper end 1712 may have a ring-shaped cross section and may be connected to the PTC ink 1730. The upper end 1712 may contact a portion of the lower surface of the PTC ink 1730. The lower step 1716 may be connected to the printed circuit board 1500. The lower step 1716 may be coupled to the connector 1520. The connecting portion 1714 is disposed to connect the upper end 1712 and the lower step 1716 and may have a region that is bent at least once. At least a portion of the connecting portion 1714 may be disposed in a hole 1318 in the lens barrel 1310, which will be described later.

[0102] Meanwhile, the lens barrel 1310 may include a hole 1318 through which the substrate 1710 passes. The substrate 1710 may be disposed to pass through the hole 1318. The hole 1318 may include a plurality of regions perpendicular to each other. The hole 1318 may include a first hole 1318a and a second hole 1318b. The first hole 1318a and the second hole 1318b may be connected to each other and disposed perpendicular to each other.

[0103] A sealing member 1630 may be disposed between the first lens 1351 and the upper surface of the lens barrel 1310. The sealing member 1630 may prevent foreign matter from entering between the lens barrel 1310 and the first lens 1351.

[0104] The above structure has the advantage that frost or ice formed on the lens surface can be quickly removed by the heat generated from the heat generating member.

[0105] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a lens heating structure according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] This embodiment is otherwise identical to the second embodiment, but differs in the arrangement of the heat generating components. Therefore, only the characteristic features of this embodiment will be described below, and the explanation of the second embodiment will be used for the remaining parts.

[0107] 11, a protrusion 1311 may be disposed on the upper surface of the lens barrel 1310, protruding upward and surrounding the first lens 1351. The protrusion 1311 may be formed integrally with the lens barrel 1310.

[0108] The first lens 2351 may include an incident surface 2371, an exit surface 2372 facing the incident surface 2371, and a connecting surface 2373 connecting the incident surface 2371 and the exit surface 2372. The connecting surface 2373 may be formed on a side surface of the first lens 2351. The connecting surface 2373 may be covered by a retainer 2320.

[0109] The coupling surface 2373 may include a first surface 2374 disposed to face the retainer 2320 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and a second surface 2375 disposed to face the retainer 2320 in the optical axis direction. The first surface 2374 and the second surface 2375 may be disposed perpendicular to each other. The first surface 2374 may be coupled to the incident surface 2371. The second surface 2375 may be disposed at an upper end of the first lens 2351.

[0110] The retainer 2320 may include a first region 2324 disposed on the lens barrel 1310 and a second region 2326 disposed to surround a side surface of the lens barrel 1310. The first region 2324 and the second region 2326 may be disposed perpendicular to each other. The first region 2324 may be disposed to overlap with the second surface 2375 in the optical axis direction. The first region 2324 may contact the first surface 2374.

[0111] The heat generating component may include a PTC ink 2730 disposed on the second surface 2375 and a substrate 2710 electrically connected to the PTC ink 2730 .

[0112] The PTC ink 2730 may be applied to a surface of the first lens 2351. The PTC ink 2730 may be applied to an upper surface of the first lens 2351. The PTC ink 2730 may be applied to a second surface 2375 of the coupling surface 2373. The PTC ink 2730 may generate heat when power is supplied.

[0113] The PTC ink 2730 may also be referred to as a heating element.

[0114] The substrate 2710 may have one end connected to the PTC ink 2730 and the other end connected to the printed circuit board 1500. The substrate 2710 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The substrate 2710 may include a region that is folded at least one time. A circuit pattern 2720 may be formed on a surface of the substrate 2710. The circuit pattern 2720 may be disposed on a surface of the substrate 2710 that faces the PTC ink 2730.

[0115] At least a portion of the substrate 2710 may be disposed between the lens barrel 1310 and the retainer 2320. A separation portion may be formed between the outer surface of the lens barrel 1310 and the inner surface of the retainer 2320 so that the substrate 2710 passes through. The separation portion may have a hole shape.

[0116] A sealing member 1630 may be disposed between the lower surface of the first lens 2351, i.e., the exit surface of the first lens 2351, and the upper surface of the lens barrel 1310. The sealing member 1630 can prevent foreign matter from entering between the lens barrel 1310 and the first lens 2351. Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the sealing member 1630 can also be supported by the outer surface of the second lens 1352, which has the advantage of ensuring a larger space within the module.

[0117] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a camera module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a first lens according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a lens barrel according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] This embodiment is otherwise identical to the second embodiment, but differs in the arrangement of the heat generating components. Therefore, only the characteristic features of this embodiment will be described below, and the explanation of the previous embodiment will be used for the remaining parts.

[0119] 12 to 15, the camera module according to this embodiment may include a lens barrel 3310, a lens, a retainer 3320, and a heat generating member 3700.

[0120] The lens barrel 3310 may include a space therein for receiving the lens. A protrusion 3312 protruding upward may be formed on the upper surface of the lens barrel 3310. The protrusion 3312 may support a side surface of the first lens 3350.

[0121] A flange 3319 may be formed on a side of the lens barrel 3310. The lens barrel 3310 may be divided into a first region and a second region based on the flange 3319. The first region may be disposed above the flange 3319, and the second region may be disposed below the flange 3319. A cross-sectional area of ​​the first region may be larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​the second region. The second region may be threadably coupled to a lens holder 1400 (see FIG. 8).

[0122] A first surface 3314 and a second surface 3313 may be formed on the upper surface of the lens barrel 3310. The first surface 3314 and the second surface 3313 may be arranged with a step in the optical axis direction. The first surface 3314 may be arranged outside the second surface 3313. The first surface 3314 may be arranged higher than the second surface 3313. The upper surface of the protrusion 3312 may be arranged higher than the first surface 3314.

[0123] A avoidance portion 3316 may be formed on a side surface of the lens barrel 3310. The avoidance portion 3316 may be a groove recessed inward from other regions. The avoidance portion 3316 may be formed on a side surface of the first region. An upper surface of the avoidance portion 3316 may be positioned above the first surface 3314 and below an upper surface of the protrusion 3312.

[0124] Lenses may be disposed within the lens barrel 3310. The lenses may include a first lens 3350 and a second lens 3360. The first lens 3350 and the second lens 3360 may be disposed in a vertical direction based on the optical axis direction. The first lens 3350 may be the outermost lens. An incident surface 3351 of the first lens 3350 may be disposed above the top surface of the lens barrel 3310.

[0125] The first lens 3350 may include an incident surface 3351 through which light is incident, an exit surface 3352 through which light is emitted, and a plurality of connecting surfaces 3353 and 3355. The plurality of connecting surfaces 3353 and 3355 connect the incident surface 3351 and the exit surface 3352 and may include a first connecting surface 3353 and a second connecting surface 3355. The first connecting surface 3353 may form a side surface of the first lens 3350. The second connecting surface 3355 may form a bottom surface of the first lens 3350. The second connecting surface 3355 may include a protruding region 3356 that protrudes downward. The protruding region 3356 may be connected to the exit surface 3352.

[0126] When the first lens 3350 is viewed from below, the second connecting surface 3355 may have a groove shape, excluding the protruding region 3356. Accordingly, based on the bottom surface of the first lens 3350, the bottom surface of the protruding region 3356 may be the second connecting surface, and the second connecting surface 3355 may be called a groove.

[0127] A length A of the second coupling surface 3355 excluding the protruding region 3356 may be ⅔ or less of a length B of the protruding region 3356 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0128] The length C of the first connecting surface 3353 based on the optical axis direction may be 0.5 mm or more.

[0129] The retainer 3320 may be disposed on the lens barrel 3310 to support the first lens 3350. The retainer 3320 may be disposed to surround the outer surface of the lens barrel 3310. A hole for exposing the first lens 3350 may be formed in the center of the retainer 3320.

[0130] The heat-generating member 3700 may have one end disposed on the lower surface of the first lens 3350 and the other end connected to a printed circuit board. The heat-generating member 3700 includes a heat-generating portion, which may be in contact with the second connecting surface 3355 excluding the protruding region 3356. The lower surface of the heat-generating portion may be supported by the first surface 3314 of the lens barrel 3310.

[0131] At least a portion of the connecting portion of the heat generating member 3700 may be disposed in the avoidance portion 3316 .

[0132] The camera module may include a sealing member 3600, which may be disposed between a lower surface of the protruding region 3356 and the second surface 3313. The sealing member 3600 may be supported by a side surface of the second lens 3360.

[0133] Although all components constituting the embodiments of the present invention have been described above as being combined or operating in combination, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this embodiment. That is, within the scope of the present invention, all components may be selectively combined and operate in combination with one another. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the terms "comprise," "comprise," "have," and the like used above mean that the relevant component may be inherently present, and therefore should be interpreted as including other components rather than excluding other components. Unless otherwise defined, all terms, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs. Terms commonly used, including predefined terms, should be interpreted in accordance with the context of the relevant art and should not be interpreted as idealized or overly formal unless expressly defined in the present invention.

[0134] The above description merely exemplifies the technical concept of the present invention, and various modifications and variations may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the technical concept of the present invention. The scope of the present invention should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical concepts within the scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. The lens barrel and a lens disposed within the lens barrel; a heat generating member including a heat generating portion disposed on a surface of the lens; a sensor member including a sensor unit disposed on a lower surface of the heat generating unit, The lens includes a groove through which the heat generating portion and the sensor portion are coupled.

2. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the heat generating portion is a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) ink applied to a surface of the lens.

3. The camera module according to claim 1 , wherein the heat generating portion is black in color.

4. The camera module according to claim 1 , wherein the heat generating portion and the sensor portion each have a ring-shaped cross section.

5. The camera module according to claim 4 , wherein a temperature sensor is disposed on the lower surface of the sensor unit.

6. The camera module according to claim 1 , wherein the heat generating portion and the sensor portion are interposed between an upper surface of the lens barrel and a lower surface of the lens.

7. The camera module according to claim 1 , wherein a rib that protrudes downward is disposed on the lower surface of the sensor portion.

8. the heat generating member includes a first connecting portion, one end of which is connected to the heat generating portion and the other end of which is connected to a printed circuit board; the sensor member includes a second connection portion, one end of which is connected to the sensor portion and the other end of which is connected to the printed circuit board; The camera module according to claim 1 , wherein the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are arranged to at least partially overlap each other.

9. The camera module of claim 8 , wherein the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are flexible printed circuit boards (FPCB).

10. A first body; a lens module disposed within the first body, the lens module including a lens barrel and a lens disposed within the lens barrel; a printed circuit board disposed within the first body; a heat generating member that provides heat to the lens; The heat generating member includes a heat generating element disposed on a surface of the lens, and a substrate electrically connecting the heat generating element and the printed circuit board.

Images