Camera Module

Abstract

The embodiment relates to a camera module and a driving device for the camera module. The camera module according to the embodiment may include a lens module and a first bracket having a first rounded surface and coupled to the lens module to move; a second bracket having a second rounded surface corresponding to the first rounded surface; a ball bearing disposed between the first rounded surface of the first bracket and the second rounded surface of the second bracket; and a drive unit disposed between the lens module and the second bracket. The width and height of the second rounded surface of the second bracket may be greater than the width and height of the first rounded surface of the first bracket.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiment relates to a camera driving device and a camera module including the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Camera modules have the function of photographing a subject and storing the photographed subject as an image or video. They are installed in mobile terminals such as mobile phones, notebooks, drones, vehicles, and the like.

[0003] Meanwhile, ultra-compact camera modules are built into portable devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and notebooks, and such camera modules can perform an auto focus (AF) function that automatically adjusts the distance between the image sensor and the lens to align the focal length of the lens.

[0004] For example, recently, camera modules have been able to perform a zooming function, such as zooming up or zooming out, by increasing or decreasing the magnification of a distant object through a zoom lens.

[0005] Recently, camera modules have adopted image stabilization (IS) technology to correct or prevent image blur caused by camera movement due to an unstable fixing device or user movement. Such IS technology includes optical image stabilization (OIS) technology and image sensor-based image stabilization technology.

[0006] OIS technology compensates for movement by changing the path of light. Image sensor-based anti-blur technology compensates for movement using both mechanical and electronic methods, with OIS technology being more widely adopted.

[0007] On the other hand, the higher the pixel count of an image sensor, the higher the resolution and the smaller the pixel size, but the smaller the pixel size, the less light it can receive at the same time. Therefore, the higher the pixel count of a camera, the slower the shutter speed in a dark environment, and the more severe the image blur caused by camera shake.

[0008] Therefore, in order to capture distortion-free images in dark nighttime or especially in videos using high-pixel cameras, the OIS function has recently become essential.

[0009] Meanwhile, OIS technology is a method to correct image quality by moving the camera lens or image sensor to correct the optical path, but OIS technology detects the camera movement through a gyro sensor and calculates the distance the lens or image sensor should move based on that. For example, there are two OIS correction methods: the lens shift method and the lens tilt method.

[0010] Meanwhile, video shooting using mobile phone cameras has become popular recently, and internet personal broadcasting that shoots video in real time, such as Afreeca TV, is gaining in popularity. If the OIS function is activated when shooting such video, video distortion becomes severe, causing problems such as nausea in users and viewers.

[0011] For example, FIG. 1a is a conceptual diagram of an OIS using a lens movement method in a conventional camera module, and FIG. 1b is a conceptual diagram of an OIS using a lens tilt method in a conventional camera module.

[0012] Referring to FIG. 1a, in the case of the conventional Lens Shift method, the optical axis, which is the reference point of the point where the spatial resolution (SFR) value is the highest in the image sensor, moves repeatedly from Z1 to Z2 according to the movement of the lens, causing severe distortion of the video, which may even cause nausea in the user. This problem also occurs in the Sensor Shift method.

[0013] Also, referring to FIG. 1b, in the case of the conventional Lens Tilt method, the optical axis is repeatedly distorted from Z1 to Z2 according to the lens tilt, changing the distance between the lens and the image sensor, and the optical axis, which is the basis of the spatial resolution (SFR) value, moves, causing more severe distortion of the video. This problem is also present in the Sensor Tilt method.

[0014] However, the reality is that no suitable technical solution has been provided to the above-mentioned problems.

[0015] On the other hand, conventional OIS technology requires a mechanical driving device for lens movement, etc., resulting in a complex structure, and the need to install driving elements, gyro sensors, etc., limiting the realization of ultra-compact camera modules. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0016] The embodiments aim to provide a camera module and a camera module driving device that can provide an excellent OIS function with no image distortion even when shooting moving images.

[0017] Moreover, the embodiments aim to solve the above-mentioned technical problems and provide an ultra-compact camera module.

[0018] The technical problems of the embodiments are not limited to those described in this section, but also include those that can be understood from the description of the invention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0019] The camera module of the embodiment may include a lens module and a first bracket having a first rounded surface and moving in combination with the lens module, a second bracket having a second rounded surface corresponding to the first rounded surface, a ball bearing arranged between the first rounded surface of the first bracket and the second rounded surface of the second bracket, and a drive unit arranged between the lens module and the second bracket.

[0020] A width and height of the second rounded surface of the second bracket may be greater than a width and height of the first rounded surface of the first bracket.

[0021] In addition, the camera module of the embodiment may include a lens module and a first bracket having a first rounded surface and moving while being coupled to the lens module, a second bracket having a second rounded surface corresponding to the first rounded surface, a ball bearing arranged between the first rounded surface of the first bracket and the second rounded surface of the second bracket, and a drive unit arranged between the lens module and the second bracket.

[0022] The first rounded surface of the first bracket may include at least two first unit rounded surfaces, and the two first unit rounded surfaces may be disposed on opposite sides of the lens module.

[0023] The second rounded surface of the second bracket may include at least two second unit rounded surfaces, each of the at least two second unit rounded surfaces being arranged to correspond to each of the at least two first unit rounded surfaces.

[0024] In addition, the camera module of the embodiment may include a lens module and a first bracket having a first rounded surface and moving while being coupled to the lens module, a second bracket having a second rounded surface corresponding to the first rounded surface, a ball bearing arranged between the first rounded surface of the first bracket and the second rounded surface of the second bracket, and a drive unit arranged between the lens module and the second bracket.

[0025] The lens module rotates along the second round surface with respect to an optical axis, and the lens module is driven up and down along the second round surface with respect to the optical axis.

[0026] In an embodiment, the ball bearings are movable along a first rounded surface and the second rounded surface such that the lens module rotates about an optical axis.

[0027] The ball bearings are movable along the first rounded surface and the second rounded surface such that the lens module tilts relative to an imaginary plane perpendicular to an optical axis.

[0028] The first rounded surface may be disposed on an outer surface of the first bracket.

[0029] The second rounded surface may be disposed on an inner surface of the second bracket.

[0030] An upper end of the first bracket may be disposed lower than an upper end of the second bracket.

[0031] The first bracket may include a first recessed area formed on an inner surface of the first bracket and positioned corresponding to the first rounded surface, and the second bracket may include a second recessed area formed on an outer surface of the second bracket and positioned corresponding to the second rounded area.

[0032] The embodiment may further include a circuit board disposed under the second bracket and controlling the drive unit, the circuit board including a rigid circuit board and a flexible circuit board, and a portion of the flexible circuit board may be disposed in a second recessed area of ​​the second bracket.

[0033] The first bracket may include a ball receiving portion in which the ball bearing is disposed, and the ball receiving portion may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first recess area.

[0034] The driving unit may include a first driving unit that generates an electromagnetic force in an optical axis direction, and a second driving unit that generates an electromagnetic force in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0035] The first driving unit may include a first coil unit coupled to the first bracket and a first magnet unit coupled to the second bracket, and the second driving unit may include a second coil unit coupled to the first bracket and a second magnet unit coupled to the second bracket.

[0036] The first bracket may include a ball receiving portion in which the ball bearing is disposed.

[0037] In addition, the camera module of the embodiment may include a lens module, a first bracket that supports and drives the lens module, a second bracket that houses the first bracket, a ball arranged between the first bracket and the second bracket, and a driving unit that drives the lens module.

[0038] In addition, the driving device of the camera module in the embodiment may include a first bracket that supports and drives a predetermined lens module, a second bracket that houses the first bracket, a driving unit that drives the first bracket, and a circuit board that controls the driving unit. Effect of the Invention

[0039] The embodiment can provide a camera module and a camera module driving device that can provide an excellent OIS function with no image distortion even when shooting moving images.

[0040] In addition to the above-mentioned technical effects, the embodiment has a technical effect of providing an ultra-compact camera module.

[0041] In addition, the embodiment has the advantage that the correction range is wider than that of the lens movement method because the entire module including the lens and image sensor is moved, and the optical axis of the lens and the axis of the image sensor do not shift, thereby minimizing image distortion.

[0042] The technical effects of the embodiments are not limited to the contents described in this section, but include those that can be understood from the description of the invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0043] [Figure 1a] FIG. 1a is a conceptual diagram of an OIS using a lens movement method in a conventional camera module. [Figure 1b] FIG. 1b is a conceptual diagram of an OIS using the lens tilt method in a conventional camera module. [Figure 2a] FIG. 2a is a perspective view showing a camera module according to an embodiment. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2b is a bottom perspective view of the camera module of the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to the embodiment. [Figure 4a] FIG. 4a is a cross-sectional perspective view of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a taken along line A1-A1'. [Figure 4b] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a taken along line A1-A1'. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a partial enlarged view of the first region B1 of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4b. [Figure 6a]FIG. 6a is a cross-sectional view taken along line A2-A2' of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a. [Figure 6b] FIG. 6b is a partial enlarged view of the second region B2 of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6a. [Figure 6c] FIG. 6c is a partial enlarged view of the third region B3 of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6a. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first bracket and a driving part in the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a. [Figure 8a] FIG. 8a is a driving example diagram of the camera module according to the embodiment. [Figure 8b] FIG. 8b is a diagram illustrating an example of driving the camera module according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a spring in a camera module according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a connection between a spring and a first bracket in a camera module according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0044] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Although the embodiments can be modified in various ways and can have various forms, specific embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the text. It should be understood that this is not intended to limit the embodiments to the specific disclosed forms, but includes all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included within the spirit and technical scope of the embodiments.

[0045] Terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used to distinguish one component from another. Furthermore, terms specifically defined in consideration of the configuration and function of the embodiments are intended to describe the embodiments, and do not limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0046] In the description of the embodiments, when it is described that an element is formed "on" or "under," it includes two elements that are in direct contact with each other or one or more other elements that are indirectly disposed between the two elements. In addition, when it is expressed as "on" or "under," it can include not only the upper direction but also the lower direction based on one element.

[0047] Additionally, as used below, relational terms such as "above / upper" and "below / lower" do not necessarily require or imply a certain physical or logical relationship or order between such entities or elements, but may be used to distinguish one entity or element from another.

[0048] (Example) FIG. 2a is a perspective view showing a camera module 201 of an embodiment, FIG. 2b is a bottom perspective view of the camera module 201 of the embodiment, and FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the camera module 201 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a.

[0049] In the embodiment, the direction parallel to the optical axis of the light is defined as the z-axis, the plane perpendicular to the optical axis is defined as the xy plane, and the x-axis and y-axis in the xy plane are defined as mutually perpendicular directions, but are not limited thereto. In this case, the x-axis is defined as the horizontal coordinate axis, and the y-axis is defined as the vertical coordinate axis, but are not limited thereto.

[0050] The camera module's movements can include linear movements along large axes and rotational movements around axes.

[0051] The rotational movement can include a pitch, which means a vertical rotational movement around the horizontal coordinate axis (x-axis) of the camera module as the rotational axis, a yaw, which means a left-right rotational movement around the vertical coordinate axis (y-axis) of the camera module as the rotational axis, and a roll, which means a rotational movement around the optical axis (z-axis) passing through the front-rear direction of the camera module as the rotational axis, as shown in Fig. 2a. The pitch and yaw may be rotations in the x-axis or y-direction.

[0052] The camera module according to the embodiment can be applied to the front or rear of the mobile phone, or both the bottom and rear.

[0053] 3, which is an exploded perspective view of the camera module 201 according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a. The camera module 201 according to the embodiment may include a lens module 200, a first bracket 310, a ball bearing 316, a second bracket 320, a driving unit 340, and a circuit board 350.

[0054] The technical features will be described in detail below with reference to Figs. 2a and 2b.

[0055] 2a, a camera module 201 according to an embodiment may include a circuit board 350, an image sensor (not shown) disposed on the circuit board 350, a lens unit 220 disposed on the image sensor, and a housing 210 that houses the lens unit 220. The image sensor, the lens unit 220, and the housing 210 may be referred to as a lens module 200.

[0056] The camera module 201 of the embodiment may include a separate AF driver, such as a VCM, MEMS, piezo, liquid lens, or the like.

[0057] In some embodiments, the image sensor substrate may be formed integrally with or separately from the circuit board 350. For example, in some embodiments, if the image sensor substrate is formed separately from the circuit board 350, they may be electrically connected to each other.

[0058] In addition, the camera module 201 of the embodiment may include a gyro sensor (not shown) arranged on the circuit board 350 to detect movement, a module driving unit 300 to drive the lens module 200 in response to an input / output signal of the gyro sensor, and a driving circuit element (not shown) to control the module driving unit 300.

[0059] The module driving part 300 may include a first bracket 310 for supporting and driving the lens module 200 , a second bracket 320 for receiving the first bracket 310 , and a driving part 340 for driving the first bracket 310 .

[0060] The module driver 300 can move the lens module 200 coupled to the first bracket 310 in pitch, yaw, and roll directions based on the x, y, and z axes. The first bracket 310 supports the lens module 200 and components of the module driver 300, such as coils, and can perform the AF function of the lens module 200 as well as Pitch, Yaw, and Roll operations.

[0061] The second bracket 320 may be a fixing part for receiving the first bracket 310 and performing pitch, yaw, and roll operations of the lens module 200 through the first bracket 310.

[0062] In an embodiment, the second bracket 320 can be fixed to the mobile phone, and the first bracket 310 can be attached to the camera module to guide the operation of the camera module.

[0063] 9, the first bracket 310 and the second bracket 320 are connected by a spring 400, which can set an initial position of the lens module 200. The spring 400 can include an outer support part 410, a spring part 420, and an inner support part 430. The outer support part 410 is supported or fixed to the second bracket 320, and the inner support part 430 is supported or fixed to the first bracket 310.

[0064] Meanwhile, in another embodiment, the initial position of the lens module 200 can be set between the first bracket 310 and the second bracket 320 by a predetermined magnetic force.

[0065] Next, FIG. 10 is a view showing an example of the connection between the spring 400 and the first bracket 310 in the embodiment.

[0066] For example, the inner support portion 430 of the spring 400 is supported or fixed to the first bracket 310 .

[0067] Referring again to FIG. 2a, the camera module 201 of the embodiment may further include a shielding can (not shown) installed on the outer surfaces of the lens module 200, the first bracket 310, and the second bracket 320. The shielding can may also be referred to as a cover housing. The shielding can is made of a metal material such as steel (SUS) and can block electromagnetic waves flowing in and out of the camera module and can also prevent foreign matter from entering the camera module.

[0068] Next, in the camera module 201 of the embodiment, the image sensor can include a solid-state imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Image Sensor) or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), and an analog-to-digital conversion unit that converts an analog electrical signal output from the solid-state imaging element into a digital value and outputs it.

[0069] In an embodiment, the lens unit 220 is provided with a lens barrel (not shown) and a lens (not shown). The lens may include a single lens or multiple lenses. The lens may include a liquid lens.

[0070] In the embodiment, an actuator (not shown) capable of driving the lens unit 220 is disposed in the housing 210. The actuator may be a voice coil motor, a micro actuator, a silicon actuator, a shape memory alloy (SAM), etc., and may be variously applied to an electrostatic type, a thermal type, a bimorph type, an electrostatic force type, a piezoelectric type actuator, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0071] For example, according to the embodiment, the actuator may support the lens unit 220 and move the lens up and down in response to a control signal from a predetermined control unit to perform an autofocus function.

[0072] The lens module 200 may include a voice coil motor, a MEMS actuator, or a piezoelectric actuator to move the lens up and down, and in another embodiment, may include a liquid lens in addition to the lens without a separate actuator.

[0073] The voice coil motor moves the entire lens of the lens module up and down, the MEMS and piezo actuators move parts of the lens of the lens module up and down, and the liquid lens can function to adjust the focus by changing the curvature of the interface between two liquids.

[0074] In the embodiment, the gyro sensor may be a two-axis gyro sensor that detects two types of rotational motion amounts, pitch and yaw, which indicate large motions in a two-dimensional image frame, or a three-axis gyro sensor that detects all of the motion amounts of pitch, yaw, and roll for more accurate camera shake correction. The motions corresponding to pitch, yaw, and roll detected by the gyro sensor are converted into appropriate physical quantities depending on the camera shake correction method and correction direction.

[0075] Next, referring to Figures 2a and 2b together, in an embodiment, the circuit board 350 may include any board having an electrically connected wiring pattern, such as a rigid printed circuit board (Rigid PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (Flexible PCB), or a rigid flexible printed circuit board (Rigid Flexible PCB).

[0076] For example, referring to Fig. 2b, the circuit board 350 may include a first circuit board 351, a second circuit board 352, and a third circuit board 353. The first circuit board 351 may be a rigid printed circuit board (Rigid PCB), the second circuit board 352 may be a flexible printed circuit board (Flexible PCB) or a rigid flexible printed circuit board (Rigid Flexible PCB), and the third circuit board 353 may be a rigid circuit board, but is not limited thereto.

[0077] In this case, the second circuit board 352 may be arranged in a bent shape in the form of a flexible circuit board.

[0078] The first circuit board 351 is fixed to the second bracket 320, and the third circuit board 353 is electrically connected to the lens module 200, but is not limited thereto.

[0079] 2a, in an embodiment, the second bracket 320 may have a plurality of second recesses 320R2, for example, the second bracket 320 may have a second recess 320R2 on each of four sides.

[0080] In the embodiment, since other components besides the circuit board are disposed in the second recess 320R2 region, space efficiency is improved and a more compact configuration is possible, which is a unique effect.

[0081] In this embodiment, the second circuit board 352 is disposed in the second recess 320R2 area of ​​the second bracket 320, which has the unique effect of dispersing tension induced from the second circuit board 352 and preventing interference with the second bracket 320, thereby significantly improving mechanical and electrical reliability.

[0082] For example, referring to FIG. 2b, the second circuit boards 352 are separately arranged in the second recessed areas 320R2 of the second bracket 320, which has a unique effect of dispersing the tension received by the second circuit boards 352, resulting in a technical effect of significantly improving mechanical and electrical reliability.

[0083] In addition, in the embodiment, the second circuit board 352 is disposed in the second recess 320R2 area of ​​the second bracket 320, thereby preventing interference between the second circuit board 352 and the driving unit 240, etc., and improving electrical reliability.

[0084] Next, Figure 4a is a cross-sectional oblique view of the camera module 201 taken along line A1-A1' for the embodiment shown in Figure 2a, Figure 4b is a cross-sectional view of the camera module 201 taken along line A1-A1' for the embodiment shown in Figure 2a, and Figure 5 is a partially enlarged view of the first region B1 of the camera module for the embodiment shown in Figure 4b.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the first bracket 310 may have a plurality of first recessed regions 310R1. For example, the first bracket 310 may have a first recessed region 310R1 on each of four side surfaces.

[0086] According to the embodiment, the first bracket 310 includes a first recess 310R1 region, which allows precision injection and contributes to miniaturization, and the reduction in weight can improve the operating speed. A protrusion may be formed in the first recess region 310R1 at a position corresponding to the ball bearing 316.

[0087] In an embodiment, the second bracket 320 may also have a plurality of second recesses 320R2. For example, the second bracket 320 may have a second recess 320R2 on each of four side surfaces.

[0088] The first bracket 310 may also include a plurality of ball receiving portions 312 in which the ball bearings 316 are disposed. For example, the first bracket 310 may include a ball receiving portion 312 on each of four side surfaces.

[0089] 5, the first vertical width W1 of the ball receiving portion 312 of the first bracket 310 may be larger than the diameter D1 of the ball, for example, 1.1 to 1.5 times the diameter D1 of the ball, thereby ensuring a movement space of the lens module during Yaw and Pitch driving. In an embodiment, the first vertical width W1 of the ball receiving portion 312 of the first bracket 310 may be 1.2 times the diameter D1 of the ball, but is not limited thereto.

[0090] In an embodiment, the diameter D1 of the ball may be about 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm, but is not limited thereto.In an embodiment, the diameter D1 of the ball may be about 0.6 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0091] 5, in an embodiment, the first bracket 310 includes a first rounded surface 310S having a curved side cross section, and the second bracket 320 includes a second rounded surface 320S having a curved surface corresponding to the first rounded surface 310S. The curvature of the first rounded surface 310S may be the same as the curvature of the second rounded surface 320S, but is not limited thereto.

[0092] As a result, according to the embodiment, the first rounded surface 310S and the second rounded surface 320S areas of the first bracket 310 and the second bracket 320, which are curved surfaces, respectively, have the same curvature, so that they are separated from each other during yaw, pitch, and roll driving and can be driven without interference.

[0093] In an embodiment, the first bracket 310 and the second bracket 320 are spaced apart by a certain distance due to the ball bearing 316, and in an embodiment, the space may be 0.2 mm, and in another embodiment, the space may be 0.2 to 0.5 mm.

[0094] The first rounded surface 310S may be disposed on an outer cross section of the first bracket 310, and the second rounded surface 320S may be disposed on an inner cross section of the second bracket 320.

[0095] According to the embodiment, the first bracket 310 and the second bracket 320 have a first rounded surface 310S and a second rounded surface 320S, which are curved surfaces, respectively, so that the driving unit 340 can smoothly drive the lens module 200 in roll, yaw, and pitch.

[0096] In the embodiment, the upper end of the first bracket 310 is disposed lower than the upper end of the second bracket 320 so that the lens module 200 can be smoothly driven in a roll motion.

[0097] In addition, in the embodiment, the lower end of the first bracket 310 is disposed higher than the lower end of the second bracket 320 so that at least one of the roll, yaw, and pitch movements of the lens module 200 can be smoothly performed.

[0098] Also, referring to FIG. 5, in the embodiment, the lower end of the second bracket 320 may include a stopper portion 320B to function as a stopper for stopping the movement of the first bracket 310.

[0099] Also, referring to FIG. 5, the first bracket 310 has a first recess 310R1 region, which allows for precision injection and contributes to miniaturization. The reduced weight also improves the operating speed.

[0100] Next, Figure 6a is a cross-sectional view of line A2-A2' of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in Figure 2a, Figure 6b is a partial enlarged view of the second region B2 of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in Figure 6a, and Figure 6c is a partial enlarged view of the third region B3 of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in Figure 6a.

[0101] In an embodiment, the first bracket 310 may include a plurality of ball receiving portions 312 in which the ball bearings 316 are disposed. For example, the first bracket 310 may include the ball receiving portions 312 on each of four side surfaces.

[0102] In this embodiment, the first bracket 310 may include a first rounded surface 310S whose side cross section is a curved surface.

[0103] In an embodiment, the first rounded surface 310S of the first bracket 310 includes at least two first unit rounded surfaces 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3, and 310SR4, and the two first unit rounded surfaces 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3, and 310SR4 may be arranged on opposite sides of each other with the lens module 200 as the center.

[0104] For example, the first bracket 310 may include 1-1 to 1-4 unit rounded surfaces 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3, and 310SR4, and the 1-1 to 1-2 unit rounded surfaces 310SR1 and 310SR2 may be disposed on opposite sides to each other with the lens module 200 as a center. Also, the 1-3 to 1-4 unit rounded surfaces 310SR3 and 310SR4 may be disposed on opposite sides to each other with the lens module 200 as a center.

[0105] The first unit round surface can be referred to as an inclined side pillar.

[0106] The example first bracket 310 may include a plurality of angled side posts and a vertical side post disposed between each of the angled side posts.

[0107] For example, the first bracket 310 may include 1-1 to 1-4 inclined side pillars 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3, and 310SR4 on four sides, and 1-1 to 1-4 vertical side pillars 310SV1, 310SV2, 310SV3, and 310SV4 arranged between each of these inclined side pillars.

[0108] The 1-1 inclined side pillar 310SR1 and the 1-2 inclined side pillar 310SR2 may be arranged symmetrically, and the 1-3 inclined side pillar 310SR3 and the 1-4 inclined side pillar 310SR4 may also be arranged symmetrically to each other.

[0109] In addition, in the embodiment, the second bracket 320 may also include a second rounded surface 320S whose side cross section is a curved surface.

[0110] In an embodiment, the second rounded surface 320S of the second bracket 320 may include at least two second unit rounded surfaces 320SR1, 320SR2, 320SR3, and 320SR4, and the two second unit rounded surfaces 320SR1, 320SR2, 320SR3, and 320SR4 may be arranged on opposite sides of each other with the lens module 200 as the center.

[0111] For example, the second bracket 320 may include 2-1 to 2-4 unit rounded surfaces 320SR1, 320SR2, 320SR3, and 320SR4, and the 2-1 to 2-2 unit rounded surfaces 320SR1 and 320SR2 may be disposed on opposite sides to each other with the lens module 200 as a center. Also, the 2-3 to 2-4 unit rounded surfaces 320SR3 and 320SR4 may be disposed on opposite sides to each other with the lens module 200 as a center.

[0112] The second unit round surface can be referred to as an inclined side pillar.

[0113] For example, the second round surface 320S of the second bracket 310 may include 2-1 to 2-4 inclined side pillars 320SR1, 320SR2, 320SR3, and 320SR4, and vertical side pillars 320SV1, 320SV2, 320SV3, and 320SV4 arranged between each of these inclined side pillars.

[0114] The 2-1 inclined side pillar 320SR1 and the 2-2 inclined side pillar 320SR2 may be arranged symmetrically, and the 2-3 inclined side pillar 320SR3 and the 2-4 inclined side pillar 320SR4 may also be arranged symmetrically to each other.

[0115] In an embodiment, the ball receiving portion 312 may be disposed between the first rounded surface 310S of the first bracket 310 and the second rounded surface 320S of the second bracket 320.

[0116] For example, the ball receiving portions 312 are respectively disposed between the 1-1 unit rounded surface to the 1-4 unit rounded surface 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3, 310SR4 and the corresponding 2-1 unit rounded surface to the 2-4 unit rounded surface 320SR1, 320SR2, 320SR3, 320SR4.

[0117] In the embodiment, the first bracket 310 includes the 1-1 unit rounded surface to the 1-4 unit rounded surface 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3, and 310SR4, but does not necessarily include the vertical side pillars 310SV1, 310SV2, 310SV3, and 310SV4.

[0118] That is, in the embodiment, the first bracket 310 may have a structure in which the 1-1 unit round surface to the 1-4 unit round surfaces 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3, and 310SR4 are interconnected.

[0119] In the embodiment, when the first bracket 310 does not include the vertical side pillars 310SV1, 310SV2, 310SV3, and 310SV4, the housing of the lens module and the 1-1 unit rounded surface to the 1-4 unit rounded surface 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3, and 310SR4 are integrally formed, but is not limited to this.

[0120] 6a and 2b, the yaw and pitch drive will be described. In the embodiment, the yaw function is performed when the 1-1 unit round surface 310SR1 rises and the 1-2 unit round surface 310SR2 descends. In the embodiment, the pitch function is performed when the 1-3 unit round surface 310SR3 rises and the 1-4 unit round surface 310SR4 descends, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0121] Next, FIG. 6b is a partial enlarged view of the second region B2 of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6a.

[0122] In the embodiment, the ball receiving portion 312 of the first bracket 310 may have a V-shape. Also, the ball bearing 316 may contact the first bracket 310 and the second bracket 320 at three points overall.

[0123] For example, in the embodiment, the ball receiving portion 312 provided in the first bracket 310 may have a V-rail shape by including a first inclined surface 312S1, a second inclined surface 312S2, and a bottom surface 312B.

[0124] For example, in an embodiment, the ball accommodating portion 312 of the first bracket 310 has a V-shaped rail formed in the z-axis direction, and the ball bearing 316 can make three-point contact with the first bracket 310 by making two-point contact and one-point contact with the second bracket 320.

[0125] Meanwhile, the horizontal cross section of the ball receiving part 312 may have a circular shape.

[0126] In an embodiment, the 1-1 unit round surface 310SR1 of the first bracket 310 may have a round protrusion 310SP in an opposite region corresponding to the ball receiving portion 312. The 1-2, 1-3, and 1-4 unit round surfaces 310SR2, 310SR3, and 310SR4 may also have round protrusions 310SP in opposite regions corresponding to the ball receiving portion 312.

[0127] According to the embodiment, the 1-1, 1-2, 1-3 and 1-4 unit round surfaces 310SR1, 310SR2, 310SR3 and 310SR4 have round protrusions 310SP protruding into the first recess region 310R1, which is the opposite region corresponding to the ball accommodating portion 312, to provide a space in which the ball accommodating portion 312 is formed and the ball accommodating portion 312 is formed to have a sturdy structure, thereby improving the reliability of the rolling drive of the ball bearing 316.

[0128] Next, FIG. 6c is a partial enlarged view of the third region B3 of the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6a.

[0129] In an embodiment, the first bracket 310 may include a 1-2 recess 310R2 between the 1-1 unit rounded surface 310SR1 and the 1-1 vertical post 310SV1.

[0130] In addition, in the embodiment, the second bracket 320 may include a 2-1 protrusion 320SP1 between the 2-1 unit round surface 320SR1 and the 2-1 vertical post 320SV1.

[0131] The 2-1 protrusion 320SP1 allows the first bracket 310 to be disposed in the 1-2 recess 310R2 so that yaw, pitch or roll drive can be smoothly performed.

[0132] In addition, the 2-1 protrusion 320SP1 may function as a stopper when the first bracket 310 is driven in a roll direction.

[0133] Next, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first bracket 310 and a driving part 340 in the camera module according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2a, and FIGS. 8a and 8b are diagrams illustrating an example of driving the camera module according to the embodiment.

[0134] In an embodiment, the driving unit 340 may include a first driving unit 341 and a second driving unit 342 .

[0135] The driver 340 is coupled to a lens module, but is not limited thereto.

[0136] 7, the first actuator 341 may include a first magnet 341m and a first coil unit 341c to generate a first force F1 in a first direction. For example, the first actuator 341 may include a first magnet 341m and a donut-shaped first coil unit 341c to generate a first force F1 in a z-axis direction.

[0137] For example, the first magnet 341m is a magnet in which the north pole and the south pole are arranged in a vertical direction, and can induce a vertical electromagnetic force.

[0138] The second actuator 342 includes a second magnet 342m and a second coil 342c and can induce a force F2 in a second direction. For example, the second magnet 342m is seated on the second coil 342c such that the N-pole or S-pole faces horizontally, thereby inducing a force F2 in a horizontal direction (Y-axis direction).

[0139] For example, the second actuator 342 may include a second magnet 342m and a donut-shaped second coil 342c to generate a second force F2 in the y-axis direction.

[0140] In addition, in the embodiment, a first yoke 344 is disposed between the driving part 340 and the first bracket 310, and the first yoke 344 functions as a back yoke to make the magnetic flux uniform and prevent the magnetic flux from leaking out to the outside.

[0141] In the embodiment, a second yoke (not shown) made of iron may be further provided between the second magnet 342m and the second coil portion 342c. For example, a magnetic member such as the second yoke is inserted and disposed inside the second coil portion 342c. As a result, a solenoid can be realized by providing the second yoke at the center of the second coil portion 342c and the yoke and the second coil portion 342c. By realizing the solenoid, a force that pulls or pushes the magnet is generated.

[0142] According to FIG. 7, the first and second coils 341c, 342c are attached to the first bracket 310, and the first and second magnets 341m, 342m are spaced apart from the coils. However, a structure in which the first and second magnets 341m, 342m are attached to the first bracket 310 and the coils are spaced apart is also possible.

[0143] This enables roll drive or yaw / pitch tilt drive as shown in Figures 8a and 8b.

[0144] For example, referring to FIG. 8a, an embodiment allows for a Roll drive.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 6c, in an embodiment, the 2-1 protrusion 320SP1 may allow the first bracket 310 to be disposed in the 1-2 recess 310R2 to smoothly perform roll driving.

[0146] In addition, the 2-1 protrusion 320SP1 can function as a stopper for the roll drive of the first bracket 310.

[0147] Also, referring to FIG. 8b, the embodiment enables Yaw / Pitch tilt driving.

[0148] 5, in an embodiment, the first bracket 310 includes a first rounded surface 310S having a curved side cross section, and the second bracket 320 includes a second rounded surface 320S having a curved surface corresponding to the first rounded surface 310S. The curvature of the first rounded surface 310S may be the same as the curvature of the second rounded surface 320S, but is not limited thereto.

[0149] As a result, according to the embodiment, the first rounded surface 310S and the second rounded surface 320S areas of the first bracket 310 and the second bracket 320, which are curved surfaces, respectively, have the same curvature, so that they are separated from each other during yaw, pitch, and roll driving and can be driven without interference.

[0150] The first rounded surface 310S may be disposed on an outer cross section of the first bracket 310, and the second rounded surface 320S may be disposed on an inner cross section of the second bracket 320.

[0151] According to the embodiment, the first bracket 310 and the second bracket 320 have a first rounded surface 310S and a second rounded surface 320S, which are curved surfaces, respectively, so that the driving unit 340 can smoothly drive the lens module 200 in roll, yaw, and pitch.

[0152] In the embodiment, the upper end of the first bracket 310 is disposed lower than the upper end of the second bracket 320 so that the lens module 200 can be smoothly driven in a roll motion.

[0153] In addition, in the embodiment, the lower end of the first bracket 310 is disposed higher than the lower end of the second bracket 320 so that at least one of the roll, yaw, and pitch movements of the lens module 200 can be smoothly performed.

[0154] Also, referring to FIG. 5, in the embodiment, the lower end of the second bracket 320 may include a stopper portion 320B to function as a stopper for stopping the movement of the first bracket 310.

[0155] According to the embodiment, a rotation angle of about 0.8 to 2.0 degrees (including a rotation angle of 1 degree) can be secured by the roll drive or the yaw / pitch tilt drive, thereby enabling an effective OIS function.

[0156] The embodiment can provide a camera module and a camera module driving device that can provide an excellent OIS function with no image distortion even when shooting moving images.

[0157] In addition to the above-mentioned technical effects, the embodiment has a technical effect of providing an ultra-compact camera module.

[0158] The features, structures, effects, etc. described in the above embodiments are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, and are not necessarily limited to one embodiment. In addition, the features, structures, effects, etc. exemplified in each embodiment can be combined or modified in other embodiments by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiment belongs. Therefore, the contents related to such combinations and modifications should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention.

[0159] In addition, the above description has been centered on the embodiments, but these are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. A person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains may make various modifications and applications not exemplified above within the scope of the essential characteristics of the present embodiments. For example, each component specifically presented in the embodiments may be modified and implemented. The differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention defined in the appended claims. [Industrial Applicability]

[0160] The camera module of the embodiment may include a separate AF driver, such as a VCM, MEMS, piezo, liquid lens, or the like.

[0161] In an embodiment, the image sensor substrate may be integrally formed with the circuit board or may be formed separately.

[0162] In addition, the camera module of the embodiment may include a gyro sensor (not shown) arranged on the circuit board to detect movement, a module driving unit that drives the lens module in response to an input / output signal of the gyro sensor, and a driving circuit element (not shown) that controls the module driving unit.

[0163] In the camera module of the embodiment, the lens module may include a voice coil motor, a MEMS actuator, or a piezoelectric actuator to move the lens up and down, and another embodiment may include a liquid lens in addition to the lens without a separate actuator.

Claims

1. A lens module; a first bracket having a first round surface and coupled to the lens module for movement; a second bracket having a second rounded surface corresponding to the first rounded surface; a ball bearing disposed between the first rounded surface of the first bracket and the second rounded surface of the second bracket; a driving unit disposed between the lens module and the second bracket; Including, an upper end of the second rounded surface of the second bracket is positioned higher than an upper end of the first rounded surface of the first bracket; a lower end of the second rounded surface of the second bracket is disposed lower than a lower end of the first rounded surface of the first bracket, the first rounded surface is disposed on an outer surface of the first bracket; the second rounded surface is disposed on an inner surface of the second bracket; the first bracket includes a recess; the second bracket includes a protrusion, The protrusion allows the first bracket to be disposed in the recess so that yaw, pitch, or roll drive can be smoothly performed, The protrusion serves as a stopper when the first bracket is driven to roll. Camera module.

2. A lens module; a first bracket having a first round surface and coupled to the lens module for movement; a second bracket having a second rounded surface corresponding to the first rounded surface; a ball bearing disposed between the first rounded surface of the first bracket and the second rounded surface of the second bracket; a driving unit disposed between the lens module and the second bracket; Including, The first round surface of the first bracket includes at least two first unit round surfaces, the two first unit round surfaces being disposed on opposite sides of the lens module; the second rounded surface of the second bracket includes at least two second unit rounded surfaces, each of the at least two second unit rounded surfaces being arranged to correspond to each of the at least two first unit rounded surfaces; an upper end of the second rounded surface of the second bracket is positioned higher than an upper end of the first rounded surface of the first bracket; a lower end of the second rounded surface of the second bracket is disposed lower than a lower end of the first rounded surface of the first bracket, the first rounded surface is disposed on an outer surface of the first bracket; the second rounded surface is disposed on an inner surface of the second bracket; the first bracket includes a recess; the second bracket includes a protrusion, The protrusion allows the first bracket to be disposed in the recess so that yaw, pitch, or roll drive can be smoothly performed, The protrusion serves as a stopper when the first bracket is driven to roll. Camera module.

3. A lens module; a first bracket having a first round surface and coupled to the lens module for movement; a second bracket having a second rounded surface corresponding to the first rounded surface; a ball bearing disposed between the first rounded surface of the first bracket and the second rounded surface of the second bracket; a driving unit disposed between the lens module and the second bracket; Including, the lens module rotates along the second round surface with respect to an optical axis; the lens module is driven vertically along the second round surface with respect to the optical axis; an upper end of the second rounded surface of the second bracket is positioned higher than an upper end of the first rounded surface of the first bracket; a lower end of the second rounded surface of the second bracket is disposed lower than a lower end of the first rounded surface of the first bracket, the first rounded surface is disposed on an outer surface of the first bracket; the second rounded surface is disposed on an inner surface of the second bracket; the first bracket includes a recess; the second bracket includes a protrusion, The protrusion allows the first bracket to be disposed in the recess so that yaw, pitch, or roll drive can be smoothly performed, The protrusion serves as a stopper when the first bracket is driven to roll. Camera module.

4. 4. The camera module of claim 1, wherein the first bracket includes a first recessed area formed on an inner surface of the first bracket and disposed at a position corresponding to the first rounded surface.

5. the second bracket includes a second recess area formed in an outer surface of the second bracket and disposed at a position corresponding to the second rounded surface; a second circuit board disposed in the second recessed area of ​​the second bracket; A camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the first bracket includes a ball receiving portion in which the ball bearing is disposed, The camera module according to claim 4 , wherein the ball receiving portion is disposed at a position corresponding to the first recessed area.

7. The camera module of claim 1 , wherein the first bracket includes a plurality of inclined side posts and a vertical inclined post disposed between each of the inclined side posts.

8. The camera module of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first bracket includes 1-1 inclined side pillars to 1-4 inclined side pillars and a vertical side pillar arranged between the 1-1 inclined side pillars to 1-4 inclined side pillars.

9. The camera module of claim 8 , wherein the 1-1 inclined side pillar and the 1-2 inclined side pillar are arranged symmetrically, and the 1-3 inclined side pillar and the 1-4 inclined side pillar are arranged symmetrically.

10. The camera module of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second round surface of the second bracket includes 2-1 to 2-4 inclined side pillars and a vertical side pillar arranged between the 2-1 to 2-4 inclined side pillars.

11. Further comprising a circuit board below the lens module; The circuit board includes a first circuit board, a third circuit board, and a second circuit board between the first circuit board and the third circuit board. A camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The camera module according to claim 6 , wherein the first rounded surface of the first bracket includes a rounded protrusion in an opposite area corresponding to the ball receiving portion.

Images