Optical Unit, Smartphone, and Method for Manufacturing Optical Unit

Abstract

To provide an optical unit that can suppress a holder holding an optical element from moving in an axial direction of a swing axis.SOLUTION: An optical unit includes an optical element 10, a holder 20, a first support portion 30, a first swing mechanism 110, and an elastic portion 40. The holder 20 holds the optical element 10. The first support portion 30 supports the holder 20 swingably. The first swing mechanism 110 swings the holder 20 with respect to the first support portion 30. The elastic portion 40 connects the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. The first support portion 30 has a pair of side surface portions 32 and a connection portion 31. The pair of side surface portions 32 are arranged on both sides of the holder 20 in an axial direction of a first swing axis. The connection portion 31 connects the pair of side surface portions 32. The elastic portion 40 is arranged between the holder 20 and the side surface portions 32. The elastic portion 40 has a convex portion 45 or a concave portion 22b. The holder 20 or the first support portion 30 has the concave portion 22b or the convex portion 45.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an optical unit, a smartphone, and a method for manufacturing an optical unit.

Background Art

[0002] When taking a still image or a moving image with a camera, image blur may occur due to camera shake. Then, a shake correction device for suppressing image blur and enabling clear shooting has been put into practical use. The shake correction device suppresses image blur by correcting the posture of the camera module according to the camera shake when the camera shakes (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a prism device for an imaging module, which includes a prism, a prism table on which the prism is installed, and a support shaft. The prism seat is rotatable about one support shaft.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the prism device of Patent Document 1, it is conceivable that the support shaft or the prism table moves in the axial direction of the support shaft due to dimensional errors during manufacturing. Specifically, each member is manufactured so that a clearance equal to or greater than the dimensional error occurs so that the prism device can be assembled even when there are dimensional errors. Therefore, it is difficult to suppress the displacement of the prism table in the axial direction of the support shaft.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an optical unit, a smartphone, and a method for manufacturing an optical unit capable of suppressing movement of a holder that holds an optical element in the axial direction of a swing axis.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] An exemplary optical unit of the present disclosure includes an optical element, a holder, a first support portion, a first swing mechanism, and an elastic portion. The optical element changes the traveling direction of light. The holder holds the optical element. The first support portion supports the holder so as to be swingable about a first swing axis. The first swing mechanism swings the holder relative to the first support portion about the first swing axis. The elastic portion connects the holder and the first support portion. The first support portion has a pair of side portions and a connecting portion. The pair of side portions are disposed on both sides of the holder in the axial direction of the first swing axis. The connecting portion connects the pair of side portions. The elastic portion is disposed between the holder and the side portion. The elastic portion has a convex portion that protrudes toward at least one of the holder and the first support portion, or a concave portion that depresses on the side opposite to at least one of the holder and the first support portion. At least one of the holder and the first support portion has a concave portion that depresses on the side opposite to the elastic portion, or a convex portion that protrudes toward the elastic portion. The convex portion or the concave portion of the elastic portion contacts the concave portion or the convex portion of at least one of the holder and the first support portion.

[0008] Another exemplary smartphone of the present disclosure includes the above optical unit.

[0009] Another exemplary method for manufacturing an optical unit according to the present disclosure is a method for manufacturing an optical unit having an optical element, a holder, a first support portion, a first swing mechanism, and an elastic portion. The optical element changes the traveling direction of light. The holder holds the optical element. The first support portion supports the holder so as to be swingable about a first swing axis. The first swing mechanism swings the holder with respect to the first support portion about the first swing axis. The elastic portion connects the holder and the first support portion. The first support portion has a pair of side portions and a connecting portion. The pair of side portions are disposed on both sides of the holder in the axial direction of the first swing axis. The connecting portion connects the pair of side portions. The method for manufacturing the optical unit includes a step of attaching the optical element to the holder, a step of disposing the elastic portion at an end portion of the holder in the axial direction, and a step of disposing the holder and the elastic portion between the pair of side portions of the first support portion. In the step of disposing the holder and the elastic portion, the elastic portion is disposed between the holder and the side portion, and a convex portion or a concave portion of the elastic portion contacts a concave portion or a convex portion of at least one of the holder and the first support portion. The convex portion of the elastic portion protrudes toward at least one of the holder and the first support portion. The concave portion of the elastic portion is recessed on the side opposite to at least one of the holder and the first support portion. The concave portion of at least one of the holder and the first support portion is recessed on the side opposite to the elastic portion. The convex portion of at least one of the holder and the first support portion protrudes toward the elastic portion.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an optical unit, a smartphone, and a method for manufacturing an optical unit that can suppress movement of a holder that holds an optical element in the axial direction of a swing axis.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 5C

Figure 5D

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description will not be repeated.

[0013] In this specification, for ease of understanding, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z that intersect each other are appropriately described. Further, in this specification, the first direction X, the second direction Y, and the third direction Z are orthogonal to each other, but they do not have to be orthogonal. Also, one side of the first direction is described as one side X1 of the first direction X, and the other side of the first direction is described as the other side X2 of the first direction X. Also, one side of the second direction is described as one side Y1 of the second direction Y, and the other side of the second direction is described as the other side Y2 of the second direction Y. Also, one side of the third direction is described as one side Z1 of the third direction Z, and the other side of the third direction is described as the other side Z2 of the third direction Z. Also, for convenience, the first direction X may be described as the vertical direction. One side X1 of the first direction X indicates the downward direction, and the other side X2 of the first direction X indicates the upward direction. However, the vertical direction, the upward direction, and the downward direction are defined for convenience of explanation and do not have to coincide with the vertical direction. Also, it is only for convenience of explanation that the vertical direction is defined, and the orientation of the optical unit according to the present disclosure during use and assembly is not limited.

[0014] First, referring to FIG. 1, an example of the use of the optical unit 1 will be described. FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically showing a smartphone 200 equipped with the optical unit 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The smartphone 200 has the optical unit 1. The optical unit 1 reflects the incident light in a specific direction. As shown in FIG. 1, the optical unit 1 is suitably used, for example, as an optical component of the smartphone 200. Note that the use of the optical unit 1 is not limited to the smartphone 200 and can be used in various devices such as digital cameras and video cameras.

[0015] The smartphone 200 has a lens 202 through which light enters. In the smartphone 200, the optical unit 1 is disposed inside the lens 202. When the light L enters the inside of the smartphone 200 through the lens 202, the traveling direction of the light L is changed by the optical unit 1. Then, the light L is imaged by an imaging element (not shown) through a lens unit (not shown).

[0016] Next, referring to FIGS. 2 to 14, the optical unit 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment disassembled into a movable body 2 and a support body 3. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the optical unit 1 has at least an optical element 10, a holder 20, a first support portion 30, a first swing mechanism 110, and a first preloading portion 40. In the present embodiment, the optical unit 1 further has a second support portion 60 and a second swing mechanism 120. Note that the first preloading portion 40 is an example of the "elastic portion" of the present disclosure. This will be described in detail below.

[0017] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the movable body 2 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the optical unit 1 has a movable body 2 and a support body 3. The support body 3 supports the movable body 2 so as to be swingable about a second swing axis A2.

[0018] The movable body 2 has an optical element 10. The movable body 2 also has a holder 20 and a first support portion 30. The movable body 2 further has a first preloading portion 40. The optical element 10 changes the traveling direction of light. The holder 20 holds the optical element 10. The first support portion 30 supports the holder 20 and the optical element 10 so as to be swingable about a first swing axis A1. Also, the first support portion 30 is supported by the support body 3 so as to be swingable about a second swing axis A2. More specifically, the first support portion 30 is supported by a second support portion 60 of the support body 3 so as to be swingable about the second swing axis A2.

[0019] That is, the holder 20 is swingable with respect to the first support portion 30, and the first support portion 30 is swingable with respect to the second support portion 60. Therefore, since the optical element 10 can be swung about each of the first swing axis A1 and the second swing axis A2, the posture of the optical element 10 can be corrected about each of the first swing axis A1 and the second swing axis A2. Thus, image blur can be suppressed in two directions. As a result, the correction accuracy can be improved as compared with the case where the optical element 10 is swung about only one swing axis. Note that the first swing axis A1 is also referred to as a pitching axis. The second swing axis A2 is also referred to as a roll axis.

[0020] The first swing axis A1 is an axis extending along a third direction Z that intersects the first direction X and the second direction Y. Also, the second swing axis A2 is an axis extending along the first direction X. Therefore, the optical element 10 can be swung about the first swing axis A1 that intersects the first direction X and the second direction Y. Also, the optical element 10 can be swung about the second swing axis A2 that extends along the first direction X. Thus, the posture of the optical element 10 can be appropriately corrected.

[0021] Also, the first support portion 30 supports the holder 20 in the third direction Z. Therefore, the first support portion 30 can be easily swung about the first swing axis A1 extending along the third direction Z. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the first support portion 30 supports the holder 20 in the third direction Z via the first preloading portion 40.

[0022] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VA-VA in FIG. 2. FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VB-VB in FIG. 2. FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VC-VC in FIG. 2. FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VD-VD in FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the optical element 10 and the holder 20 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D and FIG. 6, the optical element 10 is composed of a prism. The prism is formed of a transparent material having a refractive index higher than that of air. Note that the optical element 10 may be, for example, a plate-shaped mirror. In the present embodiment, the optical element 10 has a substantially triangular prism shape. Specifically, the optical element 10 has a light incident surface 11, a light exit surface 12, a reflection surface 13, and a pair of side surfaces 14. Light L is incident on the light incident surface 11. The light exit surface 12 is connected to the light incident surface 11. The light exit surface 12 is disposed perpendicular to the light incident surface 11. The reflection surface 13 is connected to the light incident surface 11 and the light exit surface 12. The reflection surface 13 is inclined at about 45 degrees with respect to each of the light incident surface 11 and the light exit surface 12. The reflection surface 13 reflects the light L traveling in one side X1 of the first direction X to one side Y1 of the second direction Y intersecting the first direction X. That is, the optical element 10 reflects the light L traveling in one side X1 of the first direction X to one side Y1 of the second direction Y intersecting the first direction X. The first direction X and the second direction Y are directions along the traveling direction of the light L (see FIG. 5A). Therefore, the optical element 10 can be swung about the first swing axis A1 intersecting the first direction X and the second direction Y which are the traveling directions of the light L. As a result, the posture of the optical element 10 can be corrected more appropriately. The pair of side surfaces 14 are connected to the light incident surface 11, the light exit surface 12, and the reflection surface 13.

[0023] Also, the optical axis L10 of the optical element 10 and the second swing axis A2 are arranged to overlap. In this specification, the optical axis L10 of the optical element 10 means an axis perpendicular to the light incident surface 11 of the optical element 10 and passing through the center of the reflection surface 13, or the optical axis of the lens 202 through which light is incident, or an axis passing through the intersection of the optical axis of the lens unit at the reflection destination and the reflection surface 13 and extending in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens unit, or an axis passing through the intersection of the straight line passing through the center of the imaging element and the reflection surface 13 and extending in a direction perpendicular to the straight line passing through the center of the imaging element. Typically, the axis perpendicular to the light incident surface 11 of the optical element 10 and passing through the center of the reflection surface 13, the optical axis of the lens 202 through which light is incident, the axis passing through the intersection of the optical axis of the lens unit at the reflection destination and the reflection surface 13 and extending in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens unit, and the axis passing through the intersection of the straight line passing through the center of the imaging element and the reflection surface 13 and extending in a direction perpendicular to the straight line passing through the center of the imaging element all coincide.

[0024] At least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30 has a concave portion that is recessed on the side opposite to the first preloading portion 40, or a convex portion that protrudes toward the first preloading portion 40. In the present embodiment, the holder 20 has an on-axis concave portion 22b that is recessed on the side opposite to the first preloading portion 40. Note that the on-axis concave portion 22b is an example of the "concave portion" of the present disclosure.

[0025] Specifically, the holder 20 is made of, for example, resin. The holder 20 has a holder body 21 and a pair of side portions 22. The holder 20 also has a pair of opposing side surfaces 22a and an on-axis concave portion 22b.

[0026] The holder body 21 extends in the third direction Z. The holder body 21 has a support surface 21a and a plurality of recesses 21d. In this embodiment, the holder body 21 has three recesses 21d. The support surface 21a supports the optical element 10. The support surface 21a faces the reflecting surface 13 of the optical element 10 and is a surface connected to a pair of side portions 22. The support surface 21a is an inclined surface inclined at about 45 degrees with respect to the incident direction of the light L, and contacts the reflecting surface 13 of the optical element 10 over substantially the entire area of the inclined surface. The incident direction of the light L is a direction toward one side X1 of the first direction X. The recesses 21d are arranged on the support surface 21a. The recesses 21d are recessed on the side opposite to the optical element 10. Note that the holder body 21 may not have the recesses 21d.

[0027] Further, the holder body 21 has a back surface 21b and a bottom surface 21c. The back surface 21b is connected to an end portion of the support surface 21a on the side opposite to the emission direction of the light L. Note that the "emission direction of the light L" is one side Y1 of the second direction Y. Also, the "end portion on the side opposite to the emission direction of the light L" is an end portion on the other side Y2 of the second direction Y. The bottom surface 21c is connected to the support surface 21a and the back surface 21b.

[0028] The pair of side portions 22 extend in an intersecting direction that intersects the third direction Z from the holder body 21. The intersecting direction includes, for example, the first direction X and the second direction Y. The pair of side portions 22 are arranged at both ends of the holder body 21 in the third direction Z. The pair of side portions 22 have a shape that is symmetric with respect to each other in the third direction Z. A pair of opposing side surfaces 22a are arranged on each of the pair of side portions 22. The pair of opposing side surfaces 22a face the pair of first preloading portions 40, respectively. The detailed structure of the first preloading portion 40 will be described later. The on-axis recess 22b is arranged on the opposing side surface 22a. The on-axis recess 22b is recessed inward of the holder 20 on the first swing axis A1. The on-axis recess 22b accommodates at least a part of the on-axis convex portion 45 of the first preloading portion 40. The on-axis recess 22b has at least a part of a concave spherical surface. Note that the on-axis convex portion 45 is an example of the "convex portion" of the present disclosure.

[0029] Further, one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30 has a restriction recess 22c. The restriction recess 22c restricts the protrusion 46 of the first biasing portion 40 from moving in a direction intersecting the first swing axis A1. Therefore, for example, even when an impact is applied in a direction intersecting the first swing axis A1, it is possible to suppress the holder 20 from coming off the first support portion 30. Note that the restriction recess 22c is an example of the "restriction portion" of the present disclosure.

[0030] In the present embodiment, the holder 20 has a restriction recess 22c. Specifically, the restriction recess 22c is disposed on the opposing side surface 22a. The restriction recess 22c restricts the first biasing portion 40 from moving along the side surface portion 22 by a predetermined distance or more. More specifically, the restriction recess 22c is recessed inwardly of the holder 20 in the third direction Z. The restriction recess 22c has an inner surface 22d. For example, the restriction recess 22c may be a recess closed on both sides in the first direction X and both sides in the second direction Y. Further, for example, the restriction recess 22c may be a recess open on one side in the first direction X or a recess open on one side in the second direction Y.

[0031] The protrusion 46 of the first biasing portion 40 is disposed inside the restriction recess 22c. The protrusion 46 of the first biasing portion 40 is spaced apart from the inner surface 22d of the restriction recess 22c by a predetermined distance in a state where the on-axis convex portion 45 is fitted into the on-axis concave portion 22b. On the other hand, when an impact or the like is applied to the optical unit 1 and the holder 20 is likely to move by a predetermined distance or more in, for example, the first direction X and the second direction Y, the protrusion 46 of the first biasing portion 40 contacts the inner surface 22d of the restriction recess 22c. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the holder 20 from coming off the first biasing portion 40. In the present embodiment, for example, four restriction recesses 22c are provided. The number of the restriction recesses 22c may be one, but a plurality is preferable.

[0032] The optical unit 1 has a first preloading portion 40. The first preloading portion 40 connects the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. The first preloading portion 40 is elastically deformable. Also, the first preloading portion 40 is disposed on at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. The first preloading portion 40 applies a preload to at least the other of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30 in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1. The axial direction of the first swing axis A1 is a direction along the third direction Z. Note that in this specification, "applying a preload" means applying a load in advance.

[0033] Next, with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the detailed structure of the first preloading portion 40 will be described. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the optical element 10, the holder 20, and the first preloading portion 40 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the optical element 10, the holder 20, the first preloading portion 40, the first support portion 30, and the second magnet 121 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first preloading portion 40 is disposed between the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. Specifically, the first preloading portion 40 is disposed between the holder 20 and the side surface portion 32 of the first support portion 30. Therefore, the first preloading portion 40 can apply a preload to the holder 20 in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1. Thus, the movement of the holder 20 in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1 can be suppressed. As a result, the displacement of the holder 20 in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1 with respect to the first support portion 30 can be suppressed. Further, even when a manufacturing error occurs in the dimensions of each member, rattling or the like in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1 can be suppressed. In other words, for example, the displacement of the position of the holder 20 in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1 can be suppressed.

[0034] Specifically, in the present embodiment, each first preloading portion 40 is a single member. The first preloading portion 40 is formed by bending a single plate member. The first preloading portion 40 is a leaf spring in the present embodiment. The first preloading portion 40 is disposed on the first support portion 30.

[0035] The first preloading portion 40 has a first surface portion 41 located on the holder 20 side, a second surface portion 42 located on the first support portion 30 side, and a curved portion 43 connecting the first surface portion 41 and the second surface portion 42. Therefore, the first preloading portion 40 can be easily deformed in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1. As a result, an elastic force is generated due to the deflection of the curved portion 43, and thus, with a simple configuration, preloading can be easily applied to the holder 20 in the axial direction.

[0036] Specifically, the first surface portion 41 faces the holder 20 in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1. The first surface portion 41 faces the side surface portion 22 of the holder 20. The first surface portion 41 extends along the first direction X and the second direction Y. The first surface portion 41 is arranged along the side surface portion 22. The second surface portion 42 faces the first support portion 30 in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1. The second surface portion 42 faces the side surface portion 32 of the first support portion 30. The second surface portion 42 extends along the first direction X and the second direction Y. The second surface portion 42 is arranged along the side surface portion 32.

[0037] The curved portion 43 is elastically deformable. Thus, the first surface portion 41 and the second surface portion 42 are movable in a direction approaching or separating from each other. In the present embodiment, with the first preloading portion 40 disposed between the holder 20 and the first support portion 30, the first preloading portion 40 is compressed and deformed in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1 such that the first surface portion 41 and the second surface portion 42 approach each other. Therefore, the first preloading portion 40 applies preloading to the holder 20 by a reaction force corresponding to the amount of deformation.

[0038] The first preloading portion 40 has a convex portion protruding toward at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30, or a concave portion recessed on the side opposite to at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. The convex or concave portion of the first preloading portion 40 contacts the concave or convex portion of at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. In the present embodiment, the first preloading portion 40 has an on-axis convex portion 45. The on-axis convex portion 45 may be disposed on one of the first surface portion 41 and the second surface portion 42 and protrude toward one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. In the present embodiment, the on-axis convex portion 45 is disposed on the first surface portion 41 and protrudes toward the holder 20. The on-axis convex portion 45 of the first preloading portion 40 contacts the on-axis concave portion 22b of the holder 20. By having the on-axis convex portion 45 in the first preloading portion 40 and the on-axis concave portion 22b in the holder 20 in this way, the holder 20 can be swung in a state where the first preloading portion 40 is attached to the first support portion 30. That is, the first preloading portion 40 does not swing about the first swing axis A1. Therefore, the holder 20 can be swung with a smaller driving force compared to the case where both the first preloading portion 40 and the holder 20 swing.

[0039] Also, in the present embodiment, the on-axis convex portion 45 is disposed on the first surface portion 41. The on-axis convex portion 45 protrudes toward the holder 20 on the first swing axis A1. The on-axis convex portion 45 has at least a part of a spherical surface. A part of the on-axis convex portion 45 is accommodated in the on-axis concave portion 22b. Therefore, since the on-axis convex portion 45 and the on-axis concave portion 22b are in point contact, the holder 20 can be stably supported by the first preloading portion 40.

[0040] Also, in the present embodiment, a pair of the first preloading portions 40 are provided. That is, the optical unit 1 has a pair of the first preloading portions 40. The pair of the first preloading portions 40 are disposed on both sides in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1 with respect to the holder 20. Therefore, the holder 20 can be supported more stably compared to the case where the first preloading portion 40 is disposed only on one side of the holder 20.

[0041] Specifically, the shaft convex portions 45 of the pair of first preloading portions 40 are respectively in contact with the pair of shaft concave portions 22b of the holder 20. The holder 20 is supported by the first preloading portions 40 at two contact points in contact with the shaft convex portions 45 from both sides in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1. Therefore, the holder 20 can swing about the first swing axis A1 passing through the two contact points.

[0042] Further, the first preloading portion 40 further has a protruding portion 46. The protruding portion 46 is disposed on one of the first surface portion 41 and the second surface portion 42 and protrudes toward one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. In the present embodiment, the protruding portion 46 is disposed on the first surface portion 41, similar to the shaft convex portion 45. The protruding portion 46 protrudes toward the holder 20 in the direction along the first swing axis A1. The protruding portion 46 is provided corresponding to the limiting concave portion 22c. For example, four protruding portions 46 are provided on each first preloading portion 40. A part of the protruding portion 46 is accommodated in the limiting concave portion 22c. The protruding portion 46 is disposed so as to surround the shaft convex portion 45. In other words, the shaft convex portion 45 is disposed inside the region including the four protruding portions 46. Note that the number of the protruding portions 46 may be, for example, one to three, or five or more. Further, the protruding portion 46 is formed by bending the end portion of the first surface portion 41.

[0043] The first preloading portion 40 has a mounting portion 47. The mounting portion 47 is disposed, for example, on the second surface portion 42. The mounting portion 47 is disposed at the upper end of the second surface portion 42. The mounting portion 47 is attached to the upper end of the side surface portion 32 of the first support portion 30. The mounting portion 47 is attached to the side surface portion 32, for example, by sandwiching the upper end of the side surface portion 32 in the first direction X. Note that the first preloading portion 40 may not have the mounting portion 47 and may be fixed to the first support portion 30 using, for example, an adhesive or the like.

[0044] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the movable body 2 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is a view showing the first support portion 30 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment from one side X1 in the first direction X. FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the support 3 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the periphery of the second support portion 60 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0045] As shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, one of the movable body 2 and the support 3 has a first convex portion 71 protruding toward the other of the movable body 2 and the support 3. Specifically, one of the first support portion 30 and the second support portion 60 has a first convex portion 71 protruding toward the other of the first support portion 30 and the second support portion 60. The other of the movable body 2 and the support 3 contacts the first convex portion 71. The first convex portion 71 is disposed on the second swing axis A2. Therefore, the movable body 2 swings about the first convex portion 71. Thus, the length from the contact position between the movable body 2 and the support 3 to the swing center can be reduced. Since the force required to swing the movable body 2 is the product of the length from the contact position to the swing center and the frictional force, by disposing the first convex portion 71 on the second swing axis A2, the force required to swing the movable body 2 can be reduced. That is, the force required to drive the optical unit 1 can be reduced. Note that the material of the first convex portion 71 is not particularly limited, but the first convex portion 71 is formed of, for example, ceramic, resin, or metal.

[0046] Further, since the first convex portion 71 is disposed on the second swing axis A2, the contact position between the movable body 2 and the support 3 does not move with respect to the first convex portion 71. Therefore, for example, the frictional force between the other of the movable body 2 and the support 3 and the first convex portion 71 can be reduced as compared with the case where the other of the movable body 2 and the support 3 slides with respect to the first convex portion 71 when the movable body 2 swings. In addition, since the optical axis L10 and the second swing axis A2 are arranged to overlap, it is possible to suppress the optical axis L10 from deviating from the second swing axis A2 when the movable body 2 is swung.

[0047] In addition, in the present embodiment, the support 3 has the first convex portion 71. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the rotation of the first convex portion 71 when the movable body 2 swings. Thus, the movable body 2 can be stably supported by the first convex portion 71. As a result, the swinging of the movable body 2 is stabilized.

[0048] Further, one of the movable body 2 and the support 3 has a plurality of second convex portions 72 protruding toward the other of the movable body 2 and the support 3. Specifically, one of the first support portion 30 and the second support portion 60 has a plurality of second convex portions 72 protruding toward the other of the first support portion 30 and the second support portion 60. The plurality of second convex portions 72 are arranged at positions separated from the second swing axis A2. The other of the movable body 2 and the support 3 contacts the plurality of second convex portions 72. The first convex portion 71 and the plurality of second convex portions 72 are arranged on the same plane intersecting the second swing axis A2. Therefore, the movable body 2 can be supported by the first convex portion 71 and the plurality of second convex portions 72 arranged on the same plane. As a result, the movable body 2 can be stably supported. The same plane on which the first convex portion 71 and the plurality of second convex portions 72 are arranged includes, for example, a plane including the opposing surface 61a or a plane including the lower opposing surface 31e. Further, the material of the second convex portion 72 is not particularly limited, but the second convex portion 72 is formed of, for example, ceramic, resin, or metal.

[0049] Further, the position of the second convex portion 72 is constant. In other words, the second convex portion 72 does not move relative to one of the movable body 2 and the support 3. In the present embodiment, the second convex portion 72 does not move relative to the support 3. In other words, in the present embodiment, even when the movable body 2 swings, the position of the second convex portion 72 relative to the support 3 is constant. Therefore, the movable body 2 can be supported more stably.

[0050] In the present embodiment, the number of the second convex portions 72 is two. Therefore, since the movable body 2 is supported by three convex portions (the first convex portion 71 and the second convex portions 72), the movable body 2 can be supported more stably than in the case where the movable body 2 is supported by four or more convex portions. Further, in the present embodiment, since point contact is made with the movable body 2 at three points, the movable body 2 can be supported more stably.

[0051] The other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3 has a first concave portion 31f that is recessed in a direction opposite to the first convex portion 71. The first concave portion 31f is in contact with the first convex portion 71. Therefore, by receiving the first convex portion 71 with the concave first concave portion 31f, it is possible to suppress the center of the first convex portion 71 from deviating from the central axis of the first concave portion 31f. As a result, it is possible to suppress image blur caused by the deviation of the rotation center. In addition, it is possible to suppress the rocking of the movable body 2 from becoming unstable due to the deviation of the rotation center. As a result, for example, it is possible to suppress fluctuations in the current value required for rocking.

[0052] In addition, in the present embodiment, the movable body 2 has the first concave portion 31f, and the support body 3 has the first convex portion 71. Therefore, when the first convex portion 71 is a sphere, the movable body 2 can be assembled to the support body 3 with the sphere disposed on the second support portion 60, so that the assembly work can be facilitated.

[0053] Next, with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the structure around the first support portion 30 will be described in detail. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the first support portion 30 has a support main body 31 and a pair of side surface portions 32. The pair of side surface portions 32 are disposed on both sides of the holder 20 in the axial direction of the first rocking axis A1. The support main body 31 connects the pair of side surface portions 32. Note that the support main body 31 is an example of the "connection portion" of the present disclosure.

[0054] The support main body 31 has an upper facing surface 31a. The upper facing surface 31a faces the holder 20 in the first direction X. Note that the upper facing surface 31a is spaced apart from the bottom surface of the holder 20.

[0055] The pair of side surface portions 32 are disposed at both ends of the support main body 31 in the third direction Z. The pair of side surface portions 32 have a shape that is symmetric with respect to each other in the third direction Z. The side surface portion 32 has an inner surface 32a. The inner surface 32a faces the holder 20 in the third direction Z.

[0056] One of the first support portion 30 and the holder 20 has a groove 32b. The groove 32b is recessed on the first rocking axis A1 on the side opposite to the other of the first support portion 30 and the holder 20. The groove 32b accommodates at least a part of the first biasing portion 40 and extends in a direction intersecting the first rocking axis A1. Therefore, by moving the first biasing portion 40 along the groove 32b, the holder 20 and the first biasing portion 40 can be easily attached to the first support portion 30. In the present embodiment, the first support portion 30 has the groove 32b. The groove 32b is recessed on the first rocking axis A1 on the side opposite to the holder 20.

[0057] In the present embodiment, the groove 32b is disposed on the inner surface 32a. The groove 32b accommodates a part of the first biasing portion 40. The groove 32b extends in the first direction X.

[0058] Each side surface portion 32 has a pair of support portions 32c and a connecting portion 32d. The pair of support portions 32c are spaced apart from each other in the second direction Y. The support portion 32c extends in the first direction X. The connecting portion 32d connects the upper portions of the support portions 32c. The length of the connecting portion 32d in the third direction Z is shorter than the length of the support portion 32c in the third direction Z. Then, the groove 32b is formed by the pair of support portions 32c and the connecting portion 32d.

[0059] Also, the first biasing portion 40 is movable along the groove 32b. In the present embodiment, the first biasing portion 40 is movable in the first direction X along the groove 32b. By moving the first biasing portion 40 along the groove 32b, the attachment portion 47 of the first biasing portion 40 sandwiches the connecting portion 32d in the third direction Z. Therefore, the first biasing portion 40 is fixed to the first support portion 30.

[0060] Further, the side surface portion 32 has an outer surface 32e and a housing recess 32f. The outer surface 32e faces outward in the third direction Z. The housing recess 32f is disposed on the outer surface 32e. The housing recess 32f houses at least a part of the second magnet 121 of the second swing mechanism 120. Further, the side surface portion 32 has a pair of notch portions 32g. The notch portions 32g are disposed at the ends of the housing recess 32f in the second direction Y. Protrusions 122a of the magnet support plate 122 are disposed in the notch portions 32g. The magnet support plate 122 supports the second magnet 121. The notch portions 32g support the magnet support plate 122. The material of the magnet support plate 122 is not particularly limited, and for example, a magnetic material may be used. In this case, the magnet support plate 122 is also called a back yoke. By using the magnet support plate 122 made of a magnetic material, magnetic leakage can be suppressed.

[0061] Further, the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3 has a second recess 31g. In the present embodiment, the movable body 2 has the second recess 31g. Specifically, the support main body 31 has a lower facing surface 31e, a first recess 31f, and a second recess 31g. The lower facing surface 31e faces the support body 3 in the first direction X. The first recess 31f and the second recess 31g are disposed on the lower facing surface 31e.

[0062] The first recess 31f is disposed on the second swing axis A2. The first recess 31f has a part of a concave spherical surface. Therefore, in order to receive the first convex portion 71 by the concave spherical surface, for example, it becomes difficult for the first convex portion 71 to shift horizontally within the first recess 31f. As a result, the movable body 2 can be stably supported. On the other hand, for example, when the first recess 31f has a rectangular cross section, the first convex portion 71 is likely to shift horizontally with respect to the first recess 31f. Further, in the present embodiment, for example, unlike the case where the first convex portion 71 and the first recess 31f have a rectangular cross section, the first convex portion 71 and the first recess 31f can be easily brought into point contact.

[0063] The second recess 31g is recessed in a direction opposite to that of the second protrusion 72. The second recess 31g is spaced apart from the first recess 31f. That is, the second recess 31g is spaced apart from the second swing axis A2. A plurality of second recesses 31g are provided. In the present embodiment, two second recesses 31g are provided. The two second recesses 31g are arranged at positions where the distances to the second swing axis A2 are equal. The second recess 31g has a sliding surface 31h and an inner surface 31i.

[0064] Further, the second recess 31g contacts the second protrusion 72. Specifically, the sliding surface 31h of the second recess 31g contacts the second protrusion 72. The sliding surface 31h is arranged substantially parallel to the lower facing surface 31e. That is, the depth of the second recess 31g is substantially constant.

[0065] Also, as shown in FIG. 10, when viewed from the optical axis direction, the contour of the second concave portion 31g is disposed outside the second convex portion 72. Therefore, contact between the second convex portion 72 and the inner surface 31i of the second concave portion 31g can be suppressed. As a result, friction between the second convex portion 72 and the second concave portion 31g can be suppressed. Specifically, the inner surface 31i surrounds the sliding surface 31h. The inner surface 31i is separated from the second convex portion 72. That is, when viewed from the optical axis direction, the contour of the second concave portion 31g is separated from the second convex portion 72. Further, the inner surface 31i is disposed at a position where the second convex portion 72 does not come into contact when the first support portion 30 is swung by the second swing mechanism 120 about the second swing axis A2. In the present embodiment, two second concave portions 31g are provided, but only one may be provided. That is, for example, one second concave portion larger than the second concave portion 31g may be provided, and two second convex portions 72 may be accommodated in one second concave portion. In other words, the contour of one second concave portion may be disposed outside the two second convex portions 72. However, the thickness of the first support portion 30 in the region where the second concave portion is formed becomes thin. Therefore, if one large second concave portion is provided, the strength of the first support portion 30 may decrease. Therefore, in the present embodiment, two second concave portions 31g are provided in order to ensure the thickness of the first support portion 30 in the region other than the movable region of the second convex portion 72. In other words, the second concave portion is formed by dividing it into two. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the thickness of the first support portion 30 between the two second concave portions 31g. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the strength of the first support portion 30.

[0066] Also, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5A, the second convex portion 72 is disposed on the other side Y2 in the second direction Y with respect to the first concave portion 31f. Therefore, contact between the second convex portion 72 and the reflecting surface 13 of the optical element 10 can be suppressed. As a result, it is possible to easily secure a space for arranging the optical element 10. Also, a larger optical element 10 can be mounted. Specifically, a part of the reflecting surface 13 protrudes toward the one side X1 in the first direction X and the one side Y1 in the second direction Y with respect to the lower facing surface 31e. Therefore, contact between the optical element 10 and the portion of the first support portion 30 where the second convex portion 72 is disposed can be suppressed. As a result, a space for arranging the optical element 10 can be secured.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the support 3 has a second support portion 60, a first convex portion 71, a second convex portion 72, and a magnetic member 73. The support 3 preferably has an opposing surface 61a and a third accommodation recess 61d.

[0068] Specifically, the second support portion 60 supports the first support portion 30 so as to be swingable about a second swing axis A2 that intersects the first swing axis A1. Further, the second support portion 60 supports the first support portion 30 in the first direction X.

[0069] FIG. 13 is a view showing the second support portion of the optical unit according to the present embodiment from the other side X2 in the first direction X. As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the second support portion 60 has a support main body 61, a pair of side portions 62, and a back portion 63. The support main body 61 has an opposing surface 61a, a first accommodation recess 61b, at least two second accommodation recesses 61c, and a plurality of third accommodation recesses 61d. In the present embodiment, the support main body 61 has one first accommodation recess 61b, two second accommodation recesses 61c, and two third accommodation recesses 61d. Note that, in the present embodiment, an example in which the second support portion 60 has the first accommodation recess 61b and the second accommodation recess 61c will be described, but one of the movable body 2 and the support 3 may have a first accommodation recess and a second accommodation recess that are recessed in a direction opposite to that of the other of the movable body 2 and the support 3. Further, for example, one of the movable body 2 and the support 3 may have a first accommodation recess, and the other of the movable body 2 and the support 3 may have a second accommodation recess.

[0070] The opposing surface 61a faces the lower opposing surface 31e of the first support portion 30 in the first direction X. The first accommodation recess 61b, the second accommodation recess 61c, and the third accommodation recess 61d are disposed on the opposing surface 61a. The first accommodation recess 61b, the second accommodation recess 61c, and the third accommodation recess 61d are recessed in a direction opposite to the movable body 2 in the first direction X. That is, the first accommodation recess 61b, the second accommodation recess 61c, and the third accommodation recess 61d are recessed on one side X1 of the first direction X. The first accommodation recess 61b faces the first recess 31f of the first support portion 30 in the first direction X. The first accommodation recess 61b is disposed on the same circumference C (see FIG. 13) centered on the second swing axis A2. The first accommodation recess 61b accommodates a part of the first convex portion 71. Accordingly, the first convex portion 71 is disposed on the second swing axis A2.

[0071] Further, the second accommodation recess 61c is separated from the first accommodation recess 61b. Accordingly, the second accommodation recess 61c is separated from the second swing axis A2. Also, in the present embodiment, the second accommodation recess 61c is separated at a distance from the first accommodation recess 61b. The second accommodation recess 61c accommodates a part of the second convex portion 72. Accordingly, the plurality of second convex portions 72 are disposed on the same circumference C centered on the second swing axis A2. Accordingly, the movable body 2 can be supported at positions where the distances from the first convex portion 71 are equal. As a result, the movable body 2 can be supported more stably. Note that the axial direction of the second swing axis A2 is a direction along the first direction X.

[0072] Also, the two second accommodation recesses 61c are arranged in the third direction Z and are disposed at a position farther from the optical element 10 than the first accommodation recess 61b.

[0073] The first accommodation recess 61b holds a part of the first convex portion 71. In the present embodiment, the lower half of the first convex portion 71 is disposed within the first accommodation recess 61b. The first convex portion 71 has at least a part of a spherical surface. Accordingly, since the first convex portion 71 makes point contact with the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3, the frictional force between the first convex portion 71 and the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3 can be made smaller. In the present embodiment, since the first convex portion 71 makes point contact with the movable body 2, the frictional force between the first convex portion 71 and the movable body 2 can be made smaller.

[0074] Also, in the present embodiment, the first convex portion 71 is a sphere. Therefore, the friction between the first convex portion 71 and the first concave portion 31f becomes rolling friction. As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the frictional force between the first convex portion 71 and the first concave portion 31f. Specifically, the first convex portion 71 is rotatable within the first accommodation concave portion 61b. Therefore, the friction between the first convex portion 71 and the first concave portion 31f becomes rolling friction. Note that the first convex portion 71 may be fixed to the first concave portion 31f using, for example, an adhesive.

[0075] The second accommodation concave portion 61c holds a part of the second convex portion 72. In the present embodiment, the lower half of the second convex portion 72 is disposed within the second accommodation concave portion 61c. The second convex portion 72 has at least a part of a spherical surface. Therefore, since the second convex portion 72 makes point contact with the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3, the frictional force between the second convex portion 72 and the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3 can be reduced. In the present embodiment, since the second convex portion 72 makes point contact with the movable body 2, the frictional force between the second convex portion 72 and the movable body 2 can be reduced.

[0076] Also, in the present embodiment, the second convex portion 72 is a sphere. Therefore, since the friction between the second convex portion 72 and the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3 becomes rolling friction, the frictional force can be suppressed. In the present embodiment, the friction between the second convex portion 72 and the movable body 2 becomes rolling friction. Specifically, the second convex portion 72 is rotatable within the second accommodation concave portion 61c. Therefore, the friction between the second convex portion 72 and the second concave portion 31g of the first support portion 30 becomes rolling friction. Note that the second convex portion 72 may be fixed to the second concave portion 31g using, for example, an adhesive.

[0077] Also, as shown in FIGS. 5C and 13, the first receiving recess 61b may have a central recess 611. The central recess 611 is arranged concentrically with the first receiving recess 61b. The first convex portion 71 contacts the edge of the central recess 611. The diameter of the central recess 611 is smaller than the diameter of the first convex portion 71. Therefore, for example, even when a gap is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the first convex portion 71 and the inner peripheral surface of the first receiving recess 61b, the first convex portion 71 can be positioned by the central recess 611. That is, the center of the first convex portion 71 can be arranged on the central axis of the central recess 611. As a result, the center of the first convex portion 71 can be easily arranged on the central axis of the first receiving recess 61b.

[0078] Also, as shown in FIGS. 5D and 13, the second receiving recess 61c may have a central recess 611. The central recess 611 is arranged concentrically with the second receiving recess 61c. The second convex portion 72 contacts the edge of the central recess 611. The diameter of the central recess 611 is smaller than the diameter of the second convex portion 72. Therefore, for example, even when a gap is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the second convex portion 72 and the inner peripheral surface of the second receiving recess 61c, the second convex portion 72 can be positioned by the central recess 611. That is, the center of the second convex portion 72 can be arranged on the central axis of the central recess 611. As a result, the center of the second convex portion 72 can be easily arranged on the central axis of the second receiving recess 61c.

[0079] Also, the materials of the first convex portion 71 and the second convex portion 72 are ceramic. Therefore, it is possible to suppress wear of the first convex portion 71 and the second convex portion 72. Note that the materials of the first convex portion 71 and the second convex portion 72 may be metal. Also in this case, it is possible to suppress wear of the first convex portion 71 and the second convex portion 72. Further, the entire first convex portion 71 and the second convex portion 72 may be formed of metal, or for example, only the surfaces of the first convex portion 71 and the second convex portion 72 may be formed of metal by plating. Also, the first convex portion 71 and the second convex portion 72 may be formed of resin.

[0080] Further, the first convex portion 71 is disposed on one side X1 in the first direction X with respect to the reflecting surface 13 (see FIG. 5A) of the optical element 10. Therefore, the first convex portion 71 can be disposed without blocking the optical path.

[0081] The optical unit 1 has a second preloading portion 150 (see FIG. 5D) disposed on at least one of the movable body 2 and the support body 3. The second preloading portion 150 applies a preload in the axial direction of the second swing axis A2 to at least the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the displacement of the movable body 2 in the axial direction of the second swing axis A2 with respect to the support body 3. Further, even when a manufacturing error occurs in the dimensions of each member, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of rattling or the like in the axial direction of the second swing axis A2. In other words, it is possible to suppress the displacement of the position of the movable body 2 in the axial direction of the second swing axis A2.

[0082] Further, the second preloading portion 150 includes a magnet disposed on one of the movable body 2 and the support body 3, and a magnetic member disposed on the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3. Therefore, since a force that attracts each other acts on the magnet and the magnetic member, a preload can be applied in the axial direction of the second swing axis A2 to at least the other of the movable body 2 and the support body 3 with a simple configuration. In the present embodiment, the second preloading portion 150 includes a second magnet 121 disposed on the movable body 2 and a magnetic member 73 disposed on the support body 3.

[0083] FIG. 14 is a view showing the second support portion 60, the first convex portion 71, the second convex portion 72, and the second magnet 121 of the optical unit 1 according to the present embodiment from the other side X2 in the first direction X. As shown in FIGS. 5D and 14, the third housing recess 61d faces the second magnet 121 of the second swing mechanism 120 in the first direction X. The third housing recess 61d houses the magnetic member 73. The third housing recess 61d has a substantially rectangular shape. The magnetic member 73 has a rectangular shape.

[0084] The magnetic member 73 is a plate-shaped member made of a magnetic material. The magnetic member 73 is disposed on one side X1 of the first direction X with respect to the second magnet 121. Since a force that attracts each other (hereinafter also referred to as an attractive force) acts on the second magnet 121 and the magnetic member 73, it is possible to suppress the positional deviation of the movable body 2 in the first direction X with respect to the support body 3. In addition, since the second magnet 121 of the second swing mechanism 120 is used, an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed. Note that the optical unit 1 may have a magnet for applying an attractive force to the magnetic member 73 separately from the second magnet 121 of the second swing mechanism 120.

[0085] In the present embodiment, two magnetic members 73 are disposed in each third housing recess 61d. In other words, the magnetic members 73 are disposed at intervals in the polarized direction of the second magnet 121 of the second swing mechanism 120. Therefore, the area of the second magnet 121 becomes smaller than the case where the second magnets 121 are not separated. Note that as shown in FIG. 8, the second magnet 121 is polarized in the second direction Y. Here, when the movable body 2 is swung by the second swing mechanism 120, a force acts on the movable body 2 in a direction to return to the reference position due to the attractive force between the second magnet 121 and the magnetic member 73. The reference position is a position where the side surface portion 32 of the first support portion 30 and the side surface portion 62 of the second support portion 60 are parallel to each other as shown in FIG. 5B.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 14, the pair of side surface portions 62 are disposed at both ends of the support body 61 in the third direction Z. The pair of side surface portions 62 have a shape that is symmetric with respect to each other in the third direction Z. The side surface portion 62 has a housing hole 62a in which the second coil 125 of the second swing mechanism 120 is disposed. The housing hole 62a penetrates the side surface portion 62 in the thickness direction. That is, the housing hole 62a penetrates the side surface portion 62 in the third direction Z.

[0087] The back surface portion 63 is disposed at the end of the support body 61 on the other side Y2 in the second direction Y. The back surface portion 63 has a housing hole 63a in which the first coil 115 of the first swing mechanism 110 is disposed. The housing hole 63a penetrates the back surface portion 63 in the thickness direction. That is, the housing hole 63a penetrates the back surface portion 63 in the second direction Y.

[0088] The FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) 80 is arranged to cover the outer sides of a pair of side portions 62 and the outer side of the back portion 63. The FPC 80 has, for example, semiconductor elements, connection terminals, and wirings. The FPC 80 supplies power to the first coil 115 of the first swing mechanism 110 and the second coil 125 of the second swing mechanism 120 at a predetermined timing.

[0089] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the FPC 80 has a substrate 81, connection terminals 82, reinforcing plates 83, and magnetic members 84. The substrate 81 is made of, for example, a polyimide substrate. The substrate 81 has flexibility. The substrate 81 has a plurality of pin insertion holes 81a. The pin insertion holes 81a face the first coil 115. Coil pins (not shown) of the first coil 115 are arranged in the respective pin insertion holes 81a.

[0090] The connection terminals 82 are arranged on the substrate 81. The connection terminals 82 face the first swing mechanism 110 and the second swing mechanism 120. The connection terminals 82 are electrically connected to the terminals of a hall element (not shown). For example, four connection terminals 82 are arranged for one hall element. Three reinforcing plates 83 are arranged on the substrate 81. The reinforcing plates 83 face the first swing mechanism 110 and the second swing mechanism 120. The reinforcing plates 83 suppress the substrate 81 from flexing.

[0091] Three magnetic members 84 are arranged on the substrate 81. Two magnetic members 84 face the second magnet 121 of the second swing mechanism 120. In a state where no current is passed through the second coil 125, an attractive force is generated between the second magnet 121 and the magnetic members 84. Therefore, the movable body 2 is arranged at the reference position in the rotational direction about the second swing axis A2. Further, the remaining one magnetic member 84 faces the first magnet 111 of the first swing mechanism 110. In a state where no current is passed through the first coil 115, an attractive force is generated between the first magnet 111 and the magnetic members 84. Therefore, the movable body 2 is arranged at the reference position in the rotational direction about the first swing axis A1. Further, since an attractive force is generated between the first magnet 111 and the magnetic members 84, it is possible to prevent the holder 20 from coming out to one side Y1 in the second direction Y.

[0092] As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the optical unit 1 further includes a first swing mechanism 110. The first swing mechanism 110 swings the holder 20 with respect to the first support portion 30 about the first swing axis A1. Therefore, the optical element 10 can be easily swung about the first swing axis A1. The first swing mechanism 110 includes a first magnet 111 and a first coil 115. The first coil 115 faces the first magnet 111 in the second direction Y.

[0093] The first magnet 111 is disposed on one of the holder 20 and the second support portion 60. On the other hand, the first coil 115 is disposed on the other of the holder 20 and the second support portion 60. Therefore, due to the magnetic field generated when an electric current flows through the first coil 115, a force acts on the first magnet 111. Then, the holder 20 swings with respect to the first support portion 30. Thus, the holder 20 can be swung with a simple configuration using the first magnet 111 and the first coil 115. In the present embodiment, the first magnet 111 is disposed on the holder 20. The first coil 115 is disposed on the second support portion 60. By disposing the first coil 115 on the second support portion 60, the first coil 115 does not swing with respect to the second support portion 60. Therefore, wiring can be easily performed for the first coil 115 as compared with the case where the first coil 115 is disposed on the first support portion 30, for example.

[0094] Specifically, the first magnet 111 is disposed on the back surface 21b of the holder 20. That is, the first magnet 111 is disposed at the end portion 20a on the other side Y2 in the second direction Y of the holder 20. The first magnet 111 has an n-pole portion 111a made of an n-pole and an s-pole portion 111b made of an s-pole. The first magnet 111 is polarized in the first direction X.

[0095] The first coil 115 is disposed in the accommodation hole 63a of the back surface portion 63 of the second support portion 60. That is, the first coil 115 is disposed at the end portion 60a on the other side Y2 in the second direction Y of the second support portion 60. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the first coil 115 and the first magnet 111 from being disposed on the optical path. Thus, it is possible to suppress the optical path from being blocked by the first coil 115 and the first magnet 111.

[0096] By energizing the first coil 115, a magnetic field is generated around the first coil 115. Then, a force caused by the magnetic field acts on the first magnet 111. As a result, the holder 20 and the optical element 10 swing with respect to the first support portion 30 and the second support portion 60 about the first swing axis A1.

[0097] The second swing mechanism 120 swings the movable body 2 about the second swing axis A2. Specifically, the second swing mechanism 120 swings the first support portion 30 with respect to the second support portion 60 about the second swing axis A2. Accordingly, the optical element 10 can be easily swung about the second swing axis A2. In the present embodiment, the first swing mechanism 110 and the second swing mechanism 120 can easily swing the optical element 10 about the first swing axis A1 and the second swing axis A2, respectively.

[0098] The second swing mechanism 120 includes a second magnet 121 and a second coil 125. The second coil 125 faces the second magnet 121. The second magnet 121 is disposed on one of the first support portion 30 and the second support portion 60. On the other hand, the second coil 125 is disposed on the other of the first support portion 30 and the second support portion 60. Therefore, due to the magnetic field generated when a current flows through the second coil 125, the first support portion 30 swings with respect to the second support portion 60. Thus, the first support portion 30 can be swung with a simple configuration using the second magnet 121 and the second coil 125. In the present embodiment, the second magnet 121 is disposed on the first support portion 30. The second coil 125 is disposed on the second support portion 60. By disposing the second coil 125 on the second support portion 60, the second coil 125 does not swing with respect to the second support portion 60. Therefore, wiring can be easily performed for the second coil 125 as compared with the case where the second coil 125 is disposed on the first support portion 30, for example.

[0099] Specifically, the second magnet 121 is disposed in a housing recess 32f (see FIG. 8) on the side surface portion 32 of the first support portion 30. That is, the second magnet 121 is disposed at an end portion 30a in a direction intersecting the first direction X of the first support portion 30. In the present embodiment, the second magnet 121 is disposed at an end portion 30a in a third direction Z intersecting the first direction X and the second direction Y. The second magnet 121 includes an n-pole portion 121a made of an n-pole and an s-pole portion 121b made of an s-pole. The second magnet 121 is polarized in the second direction Y intersecting the first direction X. Therefore, the movable body 2 can be swung about a second swing axis A2 along the light incident direction.

[0100] The second coil 125 faces the second magnet 121 in the third direction Z. The second coil 125 is disposed in a housing hole 62a (see FIG. 12) on the side surface portion 62 of the second support portion 60. That is, the second coil 125 is disposed at an end portion 60b in the third direction Z of the second support portion 60. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the second coil 125 and the second magnet 121 from being disposed on the optical path. Thus, it is possible to suppress the optical path from being blocked by the second coil 125 and the second magnet 121.

[0101] By energizing the second coil 125, a magnetic field is generated around the second coil 125. Then, a force due to the magnetic field acts on the second magnet 121. As a result, the first support portion 30, the holder 20, and the optical element 10 swing with respect to the second support portion 60 about the second swing axis A2.

[0102] When the optical unit 1 is used in the smartphone 200 as shown in FIG. 1, a hall element (not shown) in the smartphone 200 detects the orientation of the smartphone 200. Then, the first swing mechanism 110 and the second swing mechanism 120 are controlled according to the orientation of the smartphone 200. Further, it is preferable that the optical unit 1 can detect the orientation of the holder 20 with respect to the second support portion 60. In this case, the orientation of the holder 20 with respect to the second support portion 60 can be controlled with high precision. Note that, for example, a gyro sensor may be used as a sensor for detecting the orientation of the smartphone 200.

[0103] Next, with reference to FIG. 15, a method for manufacturing the optical unit 1 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the manufacturing process of the optical unit 1 of the present embodiment. The manufacturing method of the optical unit 1 includes steps S1 to S5.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 15, in step S1, the optical element 10 is attached to the holder 20 (see FIG. 6). At this time, the optical element 10 is fixed to the holder 20 with, for example, an adhesive.

[0105] Next, in step S2, the first preloading portion 40 is disposed at an end portion in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1 of the holder 20 (see FIG. 7). In the present embodiment, the first preloading portions 40 are disposed on both sides in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1 of the holder 20.

[0106] Specifically, the axial protrusion 45 of the first preloading portion 40 is brought into contact with the axial recess 22b of the holder 20. At this time, the protrusion 46 of the first preloading portion 40 is disposed in the limiting recess 22c of the holder 20.

[0107] Next, in step S3, the holder 20 and the first preloading portion 40 are disposed between a pair of side surfaces 32 of the first support portion 30 (see FIG. 8). In the present embodiment, the holder 20 and the pair of first preloading portions 40 are disposed between the pair of side surfaces 32. At this time, the first preloading portion 40 is moved along the groove 32b in a state where it is compressed and deformed in the axial direction of the first swing axis A1.

[0108] In step S3, the first preloading portion 40 is disposed between the holder 20 and the side surface 32.

[0109] Also, in step S3, the convex portion or concave portion of the first preloading portion 40 contacts the concave portion or convex portion of at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. For example, when the first preloading portion 40 has a convex portion, the convex portion of the first preloading portion 40 protrudes toward at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. In this case, the concave portion of at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30 is recessed on the side opposite to the first preloading portion 40. Further, for example, when the first preloading portion 40 has a concave portion, the concave portion of the first preloading portion 40 is recessed on the side opposite to at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30. In this case, the convex portion of at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30 protrudes toward the first preloading portion 40.

[0110] In the present embodiment, the first preloading portion 40 has an on-axis convex portion 45. The holder 20 has an on-axis concave portion 22b. The on-axis convex portion 45 of the first preloading portion 40 contacts the on-axis concave portion 22b of the holder 20.

[0111] Note that in the present embodiment, the on-axis convex portion 45 and the on-axis concave portion 22b are brought into contact in step S2, and in step S3, the contact state between the on-axis convex portion 45 and the on-axis concave portion 22b is maintained. On the other hand, for example, when the first support portion 30 has a concave portion or a convex portion, the convex portion or concave portion of the first preloading portion 40 and the concave portion or convex portion of the first support portion 30 do not contact in step S2 and contact in step S3. In any case, in step S3, the convex portion or concave portion of the first preloading portion 40 contacts the concave portion or convex portion of at least one of the holder 20 and the first support portion 30.

[0112] Next, in step S4, the first magnet 111 is disposed on the holder 20. Also, the second magnet 121 is disposed on the first support portion 30 (see FIG. 8).

[0113] Next, in step S5, the movable body 2 is disposed on the support body 3 (see FIG. 3).

[0114] In this way, the optical unit 1 is assembled.

[0115] In the method for manufacturing the optical unit 1 of the present embodiment, after the first preloading portion 40 is disposed at the end of the holder 20, the holder 20 and the first preloading portion 40 are disposed between a pair of side surface portions 32 of the first support portion 30. Therefore, the assembly work of the optical unit 1 can be facilitated.

[0116] In the present embodiment, an example in which the first magnet 111 and the second magnet 121 are disposed after step S3 has been shown. However, the timing for disposing the first magnet 111 and the second magnet 121 is not particularly limited. For example, the first magnet 111 may be disposed on the holder 20 before step S1. Also, for example, the second magnet 121 may be disposed on the first support portion 30 before step S3.

[0117] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 16 to 18, a first modification example to a third modification example of the present embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, mainly differences from the present embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 15 will be described.

[0118] (First Modification Example) Referring to FIG. 16, a first modification example of the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the optical unit 1 according to the first modification example of the present embodiment. In the first modification example, an example in which the first preloading portion 40 further includes an elastic body 49 will be described. As shown in FIG. 16, the first preloading portion 40 has an elastic body 49 disposed between a first surface portion 41 and a second surface portion 42. The elastic body 49 has elasticity. Therefore, the resonance frequency of the first preloading portion 40 can be adjusted. For example, by changing the material, size, and hardness of the elastic body 49, the resonance frequency of the first preloading portion 40 can be easily made to fall within a desired range.

[0119] The elastic body 49 may be, for example, a gel-like member. When a member that attenuates energy such as gel is used as the elastic body 49, an external impact can be more effectively suppressed. Note that the elastic body 49 may be constituted by, for example, rubber, a spring, or sponge.

[0120] (Second Modified Example) Referring to FIG. 17, a second modified example of the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the structure around the first preloading portion 40 of the optical unit 1 according to the second modified example of the present embodiment. In FIGS. 17 and 18, hatching is omitted for simplicity of the drawing. In the second modified example, an example in which the axially convex portion 45 of the first preloading portion 40 is a sphere will be described.

[0121] As shown in FIG. 17, the first preloading portion 40 has an axially convex portion 45. In the second modified example, the axially convex portion 45 is disposed on the first surface portion 41. The axially convex portion 45 protrudes toward the holder 20. The axially convex portion 45 is a sphere.

[0122] Further, the first surface portion 41 has a through hole 41a. The through hole 41a penetrates the first surface portion 41 in the thickness direction. That is, the through hole 41a penetrates the first surface portion 41 in the third direction Z. The axially convex portion 45 may be fixed to or fitted into the through hole 41a. The axially convex portion 45 may be fixed to the through hole 41a using, for example, an adhesive. A part of the axially convex portion 45 is accommodated in the axially concave portion 22b. Then, the axially convex portion 45 and the axially concave portion 22b are in point contact.

[0123] (Third Modified Example) Referring to FIG. 18, a third modification of the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the structure around the first preloading portion 40 of the optical unit 1 according to the third modification of the present embodiment. In the third modification, an example in which the holder 20 has an on-axis convex portion 22e will be described. As shown in FIG. 18, a pair of side surfaces 22 of the holder 20 has an on-axis convex portion 22e. The on-axis convex portion 22e projects toward the first preloading portion 40 on the first swing axis A1. The on-axis convex portion 22e has, for example, a substantially hemispherical shape.

[0124] The first surface portion 41 of the first preloading portion 40 has an on-axis concave portion 41b. The on-axis concave portion 41b is recessed on the side opposite to the holder 20. The on-axis concave portion 41b is disposed on the first swing axis A1. The on-axis concave portion 41b has a part of a concave spherical surface. A part of the on-axis convex portion 22e is accommodated in the on-axis concave portion 41b. And the on-axis convex portion 22e and the on-axis concave portion 41b are in point contact.

[0125] As described above, the embodiments (including modifications) of the present disclosure have been described with reference to the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented in various aspects without departing from the gist thereof. Also, various formations of the disclosure can be achieved by appropriately combining a plurality of components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiments. For example, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings schematically show each component mainly for easy understanding, and the thickness, length, number, interval, etc. of each illustrated component may be different from the actual ones for convenience of drawing creation. Also, the materials, shapes, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are examples and are not particularly limited, and various changes can be made without substantially departing from the effects of the present disclosure.

[0126] For example, in the above-described embodiment, two parts or two members having symmetrical shapes with respect to each other were described as a "pair", but the present disclosure is not limited to this. A pair of parts or a pair of members may not have completely symmetrical shapes, and a part of the shapes may be different from each other. For example, a part of the shapes of a pair of side portions 22, a pair of first preloading portions 40, a pair of side portions 32, or a pair of side portions 62 may be different from each other.

[0127] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which each first preloading portion 40 has one on-axis convex portion 45 was shown, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, each first preloading portion 40 may have two on-axis convex portions 45. In this case, one on-axis convex portion 45 may protrude toward the holder 20, and the other on-axis convex portion 45 may protrude toward the first support portion 30.

[0128] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the first preloading portion 40 has a convex portion (on-axis convex portion 45) and the holder 20 has a concave portion (on-axis concave portion 22b) was shown. In the above-described third modification example, an example in which the first preloading portion 40 has a concave portion (on-axis concave portion 41b) and the holder 20 has a convex portion (on-axis convex portion 22e) was shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the first preloading portion 40 may have a convex portion and the first support portion 30 may have a concave portion. Also, the first preloading portion 40 may have a concave portion and the first support portion 30 may have a convex portion.

[0129] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the elastic portion (first preloading portion 40) has a first surface portion 41, a second surface portion 42, and a curved portion 43 was shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the elastic portion may be a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped member in which a convex portion or a concave portion is formed.

Industrial Applicability

[0130] The present disclosure can be used, for example, in an optical unit, a smartphone, and a method for manufacturing an optical unit.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0131] 1: Optical unit 10: Optical element 13: Reflecting surface 20: Holder 20a: End portion 22b: Axial recess (recess) 22c: Limiting recess (limiting portion) 30: First support portion 30a: End portion 31: Support body (connection portion) 32: Side surface portion 32b: Groove 40: First preloading portion (elastic portion) 41: First face portion 42: Second face portion 43: Curved portion 45: Axial protrusion (protrusion) 46: Protruding portion 49: Elastic body 60: Second support portion 60a: End portion 60b: End portion 110: First rocking mechanism 111: First magnet 115: First coil 120: Second rocking mechanism 121: Second magnet 125: Second coil 200: Smartphone A1: First rocking axis A2: Second rocking axis L: Light X: First direction X1: One side Y: Second direction Y1: One side Y2: The other side Z: Third direction

Claims

1. An optical element that changes the traveling direction of light, a holder that holds the optical element, a first support portion that supports the holder so as to be swingable about a first swing axis, a first swing mechanism that swings the holder with respect to the first support portion about the first swing axis, and an elastic portion that connects the holder and the first support portion and having, the first support portion has a pair of side portions disposed on both sides of the holder in the axial direction of the first swing axis, and a connecting portion that connects the pair of side portions, the elastic portion is disposed between the holder and the side portion, the elastic portion has a convex portion that protrudes toward at least one of the holder and the first support portion, or a concave portion that depresses on the side opposite to at least one of the holder and the first support portion, at least one of the holder and the first support portion has a concave portion that depresses on the side opposite to the elastic portion, or a convex portion that protrudes toward the elastic portion, the convex portion of the elastic portion contacts the concave portion of at least one of the holder and the first support portion, or the concave portion of the elastic portion contacts the convex portion of at least one of the holder and the first support portion, the elastic portion is a first surface portion located on the holder side, a second surface portion located on the first support portion side, and an elastically deformable curved portion that connects the first surface portion and the second surface portion and having, a second support portion that supports the first support portion so as to be swingable about a second swing axis that intersects the first swing axis, and a second swing mechanism that swings the first support portion with respect to the second support portion about the second swing axis and further having, the first swing mechanism has a first magnet disposed on the holder and a first coil disposed on the second support portion, the second swing mechanism has a second magnet disposed on the first support portion and a second coil disposed on the second support portion, the optical element has a reflecting surface that reflects light traveling on one side in a first direction to one side in a second direction that intersects the first direction, the first magnet is disposed at an end portion of the holder on the other side in the second direction, the first coil is disposed at an end portion of the second support portion on the other side in the second direction, the second magnet is disposed at an end portion of the first support portion in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction, the second coil is disposed at an end portion of the second support portion in the third direction, an optical unit.

2. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein the first swing axis is an axis extending along a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction.

3. having a pair of the elastic parts, The optical unit according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the pair of elastic parts are arranged on both sides of the holder in the axial direction.

4. The elastic part has the convex part, The optical unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the holder has the concave part.

5. The elastic part has the convex part, The convex part is arranged on one of the first surface part and the second surface part and protrudes toward one of the holder and the first support part, The elastic part is further provided with a protruding part that is arranged on one of the first surface part and the second surface part and protrudes toward one of the holder and the first support part, The optical unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein one of the holder and the first support part has a restricting part that restricts the movement of the protruding part in a direction intersecting the first swing axis.

6. The optical unit according to claim 5, wherein the elastic part further has an elastic body arranged between the first surface part and the second surface part.

7. One of the first support part and the holder has a groove that is recessed on the opposite side of the other of the first support part and the holder on the first swing axis, The optical unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the groove accommodates at least a part of the elastic part and extends in a direction intersecting the first swing axis.

8. A smartphone having the optical unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

Images