Camera module

Abstract

A camera module according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a housing including a top plate portion and side plate portions extending from the top plate portion, a first lens disposed on the top plate portion of the housing, a first lens barrel disposed below the top plate portion within the housing, a second lens barrel disposed below the first lens barrel within the housing, a second lens disposed on the first lens barrel, a third lens disposed on the second lens barrel, a first piezo motor disposed on the housing and coupled to the first lens barrel to move the first lens barrel, and a second piezo motor disposed on the housing and coupled to the second lens barrel to move the second lens barrel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a camera module.

Background Art

[0002] Portable devices such as tablet PCs and smartphones include a camera module for acquiring video information from a subject. Camera modules for such portable devices are increasingly required to have higher pixel counts and higher performance. In recent years, products with an auto focus (AF) function and a variable focal length, as well as optical zoom capabilities, have been released.

[0003] Generally, a camera module provided in a portable device adjusts auto focus and / or optical zoom by moving a lens in the optical axis direction. To move the lens, a voice coil motor (VCM) type actuator that arranges a coil and a magnet in the camera module and moves the lens by electromagnetic force is widely used. A hall sensor is used to sense the position and movement of the lens.

[0004] However, a conventional VCM type actuator has a problem that its driving force is weak and it is difficult to achieve a long stroke for high magnification zoom.

[0005] In addition, when an existing VCM type actuator increases the length of the stroke for high magnification zoom adjustment, the sizes of both the coil and the magnet also increase, making it difficult to miniaturize the camera module.

[0006] In addition, the position control range of a conventional hall sensor is shorter than the control range for high magnification zoom, making it difficult to achieve high magnification zoom.

[0007] Furthermore, in recent years, the acquisition cost of lenses has been steadily increasing in order to achieve the best optical characteristics, and the resulting increase in lens weight makes it difficult to perform optimal zoom functions with a single drive unit.

[0008] In particular, conventional ball-type drive units have the problem of having low driving force, making it difficult to move high-efficiency, heavy lenses.

[0009] Furthermore, with conventional spring-type drive mechanisms, increasing the number of lenses causes the spring to sag, requiring greater driving force, and the vibration of the spring makes it difficult to shoot video. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a camera module equipped with a piezo motor and a GMR sensor that enables high-ratio zoom.

[0011] Furthermore, the objective is to provide a lens drive device that includes multiple drive units and is capable of quickly driving a high-efficiency, heavy lens group.

[0012] Furthermore, the invention provides a lens drive device with increased driving force by utilizing a solenoid-type drive unit.

[0013] Furthermore, the invention provides a lens drive device in which the optical axis alignment between lens groups is improved by using a pin-type guide.

[0014] Furthermore, the objective is to provide a lens drive device that minimizes the increase in thickness of the lens drive device caused by increasing the number of drive units. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] A camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention may include a housing that includes an upper plate portion and side plate portions extending from the upper plate portion, a first lens disposed on the upper plate portion of the housing, a first lens barrel disposed below the upper plate portion within the housing, a second lens barrel disposed below the first lens barrel within the housing, a second lens disposed on the first lens barrel, a third lens disposed on the second lens barrel, a first piezo motor disposed on the housing and coupled to the first lens barrel to move the first lens barrel, and a second piezo motor disposed on the housing and coupled to the second lens barrel to move the second lens barrel.

[0016] The system may also include a first magnetic scale positioned on the first lens barrel, and a first sensor positioned in the housing for sensing the first magnetic scale.

[0017] Furthermore, each of the first lens, the second lens, and the third lens includes multiple lenses, the first lens is fixed, and the second and third lenses are individually movable.

[0018] Furthermore, the second lens and the third lens move in the optical axis direction, and the distance the second lens can move may be greater than the distance the third lens can move.

[0019] Furthermore, the first lens barrel can be coupled to the first piezo motor via a first elastic member.

[0020] Furthermore, the first lens barrel may include a first barrel portion that houses the second lens and a first guide portion that extends outward from the first barrel portion and is coupled to the first piezo motor.

[0021] Furthermore, the first piezoelectric motor may include a first piezoelectric element disposed on the upper plate portion of the housing and a first column extending in the optical axis direction from the first piezoelectric element.

[0022] Further, a first elastic member disposed between the first guide portion of the first lens barrel and the first column of the first piezoelectric motor can be included.

[0023] Further, the second piezoelectric motor includes a second piezoelectric element disposed on the upper plate portion of the housing and a second column extending in the optical axis direction from the second piezoelectric element, and the second column of the second piezoelectric motor can be disposed on opposite sides of the first column of the first piezoelectric motor with respect to the optical axis.

[0024] Further, a first pin is disposed in the housing so as to be parallel to the first column, and the first lens barrel can move along the first pin.

[0025] Further, a second pin is disposed in the housing so as to be parallel to the second column, the first pin is disposed so as to be adjacent to the first piezoelectric motor closer than the second pin, and the second pin can be disposed so as to be adjacent to the second piezoelectric motor closer than the first pin.

[0026] Further, a substrate disposed on the side plate portion of the housing is included, the substrate includes a first portion disposed on the first piezoelectric element of the first piezoelectric motor and a second portion disposed under the first piezoelectric element of the first piezoelectric motor, and the first portion of the substrate may not overlap the second portion of the substrate in the optical axis direction.

[0027] Further, a first buffer member and a second buffer member disposed on the first column of the first piezoelectric motor can be included.

[0028] Further, the second lens barrel includes a second barrel portion that houses the third lens and a second guide portion that extends outward from the second barrel portion and is coupled to the second piezoelectric motor, and at least a part of the first guide portion can overlap in a direction perpendicular to the second guide portion and the optical axis in an initial state where no current is applied.

[0029] The lens driving device according to the second embodiment of the present invention includes a lens barrel, a first driving unit disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the lens barrel, a second driving unit disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the lens barrel and spaced apart from the first driving unit, and a third driving unit disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the lens barrel and spaced apart from the first driving unit and the second driving unit. A first angle formed by a virtual first straight line connecting the optical axis and the first driving unit and a virtual second straight line connecting the optical axis and the second driving unit may be smaller than a second angle formed by the virtual third straight line connecting the optical axis and the third driving unit and the first straight line and a third angle formed by the second straight line and the third straight line.

[0030] The first driving unit includes a first yoke disposed on the lens barrel, a first coil disposed on the first yoke, and a first magnet facing the first coil. The first yoke includes a first side plate disposed on the lens barrel, a second side plate facing the first side plate, and an upper plate and a lower plate connecting the first side plate and the second side plate. The first coil is wound around the second side plate of the first yoke.

[0031] The first magnet can be formed longer than the length of the second side plate in the optical axis direction.

[0032] The lens barrel includes a groove formed on the outer peripheral surface of the lens barrel, and the first side plate of the first yoke can be disposed in the groove.

[0033] The lens driving device can include a pin at least partially contacting the lens barrel to guide the movement of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction.

[0034] Furthermore, the lens barrel includes a first side surface, a second side surface facing the first side surface, and a third and fourth side surface connecting the first and second sides, the first and second drive units are arranged on the first side surface of the lens barrel, and the third drive unit is arranged on the second side surface of the lens barrel.

[0035] Furthermore, the pin includes a first pin positioned on the third side of the lens barrel and a second pin positioned on the fourth side, wherein the first pin is positioned closer to the third drive unit than the first drive unit, and the second pin is positioned closer to the third drive unit than the second drive unit.

[0036] Furthermore, the lens barrel includes a groove formed on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel in which the pin is positioned, and the groove of the lens barrel includes a first groove formed on the third side surface in which the first pin is positioned, and a second groove formed on the fourth side surface in which the second pin is positioned, and the first groove and the second groove can be formed in different shapes from each other.

[0037] Furthermore, the first groove may include a curved surface that contacts the first pin, and the second groove may include two inclined surfaces that contact the second pin.

[0038] Furthermore, the second angle and the third angle may be the same.

[0039] Furthermore, the second and third angles may be greater than 120° and less than 180°.

[0040] Furthermore, the angle formed by the third line and the first line may be the same as the angle formed by the third line and the second line.

[0041] A camera module according to a second embodiment of the present invention may include a lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0042] This embodiment provides a camera module capable of high-ratio zoom. It also provides a lens drive device that includes multiple drive units and can quickly drive high-ratio, heavy lens groups.

[0043] Furthermore, the driving force can be increased by using a solenoid-type drive unit.

[0044] Additionally, pin-type guides can be used to improve the optical axis alignment between lens groups.

[0045] Furthermore, it is possible to minimize the increase in thickness of the lens drive mechanism caused by increasing the number of drive units. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0046] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a front view of a camera module according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the camera module housing according to the first embodiment of the present invention with the side plate removed. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10]This is a conceptual diagram of the sensor of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is an exploded perspective view of a part of the lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a cross-sectional view of a part of the lens driving device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a cross-sectional view AA of Figure 14. [Figure 16] This is a conceptual diagram of a lens driving device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a conceptual diagram of a lens driving device according to another embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This is a conceptual diagram of a lens driving device according to yet another embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0047] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0048] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and can be realized in various forms that are different from each other, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more components of the embodiments can be selectively combined or substituted for each other.

[0049] Furthermore, unless explicitly defined and described, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) should be interpreted in a way that is generally understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs, and terms that are commonly used, such as predefined terms, should be interpreted in consideration of their meaning in the context of the relevant art.

[0050] Furthermore, the terminology used in the embodiments of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present invention.

[0051] In this specification, singular types can also include plural types unless otherwise specified in the text, and when it says "A and / or at least one of B and C," it can include one or more of all possible combinations of A, B, and C.

[0052] Furthermore, when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., can be used. Such terms are merely used to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the essence, order, or sequence of the component in question.

[0053] Furthermore, when it is stated that one component is “linked,” “joined,” or “connected” to another component, this includes not only cases where the component is directly “linked,” “joined,” or “connected” to that other component, but also cases where it is “linked,” “joined,” or “connected” by yet another component between that component and the other component.

[0054] Furthermore, when it is stated that a component is formed or positioned "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more additional components are formed or positioned between the two components. Also, when expressed as "above" or "below," the meaning can include not only an upward direction but also a downward direction relative to one component.

[0055] In the following, "Optical Axis direction" is defined as the optical axis direction of the lens and / or image sensor coupled to the camera module.

[0056] As used below, "vertical direction" can refer to a direction parallel to the optical axis. The vertical direction can correspond to the "z-axis direction." As used below, "horizontal direction" can refer to a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. That is, the horizontal direction can refer to a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. Therefore, the horizontal direction can include the "x-axis direction" and the "y-axis direction."

[0057] In the following, "autofocus function" is defined as a function that automatically focuses on a subject by adjusting the distance between the image sensor and the lens by moving the lens along the optical axis according to the distance to the subject, so that a clear image of the subject is obtained on the image sensor. On the other hand, "autofocus" can be used in conjunction with "AF (Auto Focus)". Furthermore, "autofocus feedback (CLAF, closed-loop auto focus) control" is defined as a function that senses the distance between the image sensor and the lens and controls the position of the lens in real time with feedback to improve the accuracy of focus adjustment.

[0058] The configuration of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0059] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 is a front view of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention with the side plate removed from the housing. Figures 6 to 9 are perspective views of some components of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram of the sensor of a camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] The camera module 10 may include a housing 100. The housing 100 may form the exterior of the camera module. The housing 100 may be formed in a hexahedral shape with an open bottom.

[0061] The housing 100 may include an upper plate portion 110. A first hole 111 may be formed in the upper plate portion 100. The first hole 111 may be a hollow hole. Screw threads may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first hole 111. A first lens 130 may be placed in the first hole 111. The first lens 130 may be coupled to the first hole 111. A second hole 112 may be formed in the upper plate portion 110. The second hole 112 may be separated from the first hole 111. A third hole 113 may be formed in the upper plate portion 110. The third hole 113 may be separated from the first hole 111 and the second hole 112. The first hole 111 may be placed between the second hole 112 and the third hole 113.

[0062] The second hole 112 may include projections that protrude inward from the inner surface of the second hole 112. The projections may include a plurality of projections. The plurality of projections may include a first projection located at the upper end of the second hole 112 and a second projection located at the lower end of the second hole 112. The first projection may include 1-1 to 1-3 projections spaced apart from each other. The 1-1 to 1-3 projections may be spaced equally apart along the circumferential direction of the second hole 112. The second projection may include 2-1 to 2-3 projections spaced apart from each other. The 2-1 to 2-3 projections may be spaced equally apart along the circumferential direction of the second hole 112. The first projections may not overlap with the second projections in the optical axis direction. When viewed in a plane, the 2-1st projection can be positioned between the 1-1st projection and the 1-2nd projection, the 2-2nd projection can be positioned between the 1-2nd projection and the 1-3rd projection, and the 2-3rd projection can be positioned between the 1-3rd projection and the 1-1st projection.

[0063] A first buffer member 321 can be placed in the second hole 112. The first buffer member 321 can be placed between the first projection and the second projection of the second hole 112. The first buffer member 321 may include a hole. The first column 320 of the first piezo motor 300 can pass through the second hole 112. The first column 320 of the first piezo motor 300 can be placed in the hole of the first buffer member 321. At least a portion of the first piezoelectric element 310 of the first piezo motor 300 can be placed in the second hole 112.

[0064] The third hole 113 may include projections that protrude inward from the inner surface of the third hole 113. The projection may include multiple projections. The multiple projections may include a third projection located at the upper end of the third hole 113 and a fourth projection located at the lower end of the third hole 113. The third projection may include 3-1 to 3-3 projections spaced apart from each other. Each of the 3-1 to 3-3 projections may be spaced equally apart along the circumferential direction of the third hole 113. The fourth projection may include 4-1 to 4-3 projections spaced apart from each other. Each of the 4-1 to 4-3 projections may be spaced equally apart along the circumferential direction of the third hole 113. The third projection may not overlap with the fourth projection in the optical axis direction. When viewed in a plane, the 4-1 projection can be positioned between the 3-1 projection and the 3-2 projection, the 4-2 projection can be positioned between the 3-2 projection and the 3-3 projection, and the 4-3 projection can be positioned between the 3-3 projection and the 3-1 projection.

[0065] A third buffer member 621 can be placed in the third hole 113. The third buffer member 621 can be placed between the third projection and the fourth projection of the third hole 113. The third buffer member 621 may include a hole. The second column 620 of the second piezo motor 600 can pass through the third hole 113. The second column 620 of the second piezo motor 600 can be placed in the hole of the third buffer member 621. At least a portion of the second piezoelectric element 610 of the second piezo motor 600 can be placed in the third hole 113.

[0066] The housing 100 may include a side plate portion 120. The side plate portion 120 may be positioned below the top plate portion 110. A first lens barrel 200, a first piezo motor 300, a first sensor assembly 400, a second lens barrel 500, a second piezo motor 600, and a second sensor assembly 700 may be positioned within the side plate portion 120. The side plate portion 120 may be coupled with the top plate portion 110.

[0067] The camera module 10 may include a first lens barrel 200. The first lens barrel 200 may be located inside the housing 100. The first lens barrel 200 may be located below the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The first lens barrel 200 may be located inside the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The first lens barrel 200 may be coupled to a first piezo motor 300 via a first elastic member 240.

[0068] The first lens barrel 200 may include a first barrel portion 210. The first barrel portion 210 may be cylindrical with an open top and bottom. The first barrel portion 210 can accommodate a second lens 230. The first barrel portion 210 may include a hole 211. The inner circumferential surface of the hole 211 in the first barrel portion 210 may have screw threads formed thereon. The second lens 230 can be positioned in the first barrel portion 210. The second lens 230 can be positioned in the hole 211 of the first barrel portion 210. The second lens 230 can be coupled to the hole in the first barrel portion 210.

[0069] The first lens barrel 200 may include a first guide portion 220. The first guide portion 220 may extend outward from the first barrel portion 210. The first guide portion 220 may include a first side plate 221 and a second side plate 222 that extend outward from the first barrel portion 210 and are positioned on opposite sides of each other. The first guide portion 220 may include a connecting portion 223 that connects the first side plate 221 and the second side plate 222 of the first guide portion 220. The first side plate 221 of the first guide portion 220 may include a groove 2211. The groove 2211 of the first side plate 221 of the first guide portion 220 may be formed by recessing inward from the outer surface of the first side plate 221 of the first guide portion 220. The first side plate 221 of the first guide portion 220 may accommodate a first magnetic scale 410. The first magnetic scale 410 can be positioned on the outer surface of the first side plate 221 of the first guide portion 220. The second side plate 222 of the first guide portion 220 may include a groove. The connecting portion 223 of the first guide portion 220 may include a groove 2231. The groove 2231 of the connecting portion 223 of the first guide portion 220 may be formed in a "V" shape.

[0070] A hole 2222 can be formed in the second side plate 222 of the first guide portion 220. A first pin 224 can be placed in the hole 2222 of the first guide portion 220. The first pin 224 can pass through the hole 2222 of the first guide portion 220. At least a portion of the first guide portion 220 can overlap the second guide portion 520 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis in the initial state where no m current is applied.

[0071] The first guide portion 220 can be coupled to the first piezo motor 300. The first guide portion 220 can be coupled to the first column 320 of the first piezo motor 300. The first column 320 can be coupled to the first guide portion 220 via the first elastic member 240.

[0072] The first guide portion 220 may include a first pin 224. The first pin 224 may be located within the housing 100. The first pin 224 may be located parallel to the second column 620 within the housing 100. The first pin 224 may be located closer to the first piezo motor 300 than the second pin 524. The first pin 224 may be located closer to the first piezo motor 300 than the second pin 524. The first pin 224 may be located on the second side plate 222 of the first guide portion 220. The first pin 224 may pass through the hole 2222 in the second side plate 222. The first pin 224 may be coupled to the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The upper end of the first pin 224 may be coupled to the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The first pin 224 can guide the optical axis movement of the first lens barrel 200. This allows the second lens 230, positioned in the first lens barrel 200, to perform the zooming function.

[0073] The first pin 224 can be positioned on the second lens barrel 500. The first pin 224 can guide the movement of the second lens barrel 500 in the optical axis direction. This allows the third lens 530 positioned on the second lens barrel 500 to perform an autofocus function.

[0074] The first lens barrel 200 may include a first elastic member 240. The first elastic member 240 may be positioned on the first lens barrel 200. The first elastic member 240 may be positioned on the first guide portion 220.

[0075] The first elastic member 240 may include first to sixth regions 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246. The first region 241 can be positioned on the first side plate 221 of the first guide portion 220. The first region 241 can be positioned in the groove 2211 of the first side plate 221 of the first guide portion 220. The second region 242 can be positioned on the opposite side of the first region 241 and on the second side plate 222 of the first guide portion 220. The second region 242 can be positioned in the groove of the second side plate 222 of the first guide portion 220. The third region 243 can connect the first region 241 and the second region 242. The third region 243 can be positioned on the connecting portion 223 of the first guide portion 220. The third region 243 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the connecting portion 223 of the first guide portion 220. The third region 243 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the groove 2231 of the connecting portion 223 of the first guide portion 220. The third region 223 may include a portion formed in a "V" shape. The central portion of the third region 243 may be formed in a "V" shape. The fourth region 244 can be connected to the second region 242 and positioned on the second side plate 222 of the first guide portion 220. The fourth region 244 can be positioned outside the second region 242. The fourth region 244 can extend longer than the second region 242. At least a portion of the fourth region 244 can overlap with the second region 242. The fifth region 245 can be positioned outside the first region 241. The fifth region 245 can be positioned on the first side plate 221 of the first guide portion 220. The fifth region 245 can be positioned on the groove 2211 of the first side plate 221 of the second guide portion 220. The fifth region 245 can extend longer than the first region 241. At least a portion of the fifth region 245 can overlap with the first region 241. The sixth region 246 can connect the fourth region 244 and the fifth region 245. The sixth region 246 can face the third region 243. The sixth region 246 can be separated from the third region 243. The first column 320 of the first piezo motor 300 can be positioned between the third region 243 and the sixth region 246. This allows the first piezo motor 300 to be firmly fixed.

[0076] The camera module 10 may include a first piezoelectric motor 300. The first piezoelectric motor 300 may be located in the housing 100. The first piezoelectric motor 300 may be coupled to the first lens barrel 200. The first piezoelectric motor 300 may move the first lens barrel 200. The first piezoelectric motor 300 may move the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction. The first piezoelectric motor 300 may be an ultrasonic motor.

[0077] The first piezo motor 300 may include a first piezoelectric element 310. The first piezoelectric element 310 may be positioned on the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The first piezoelectric element 310 may include a disc portion 311. The disc portion 311 may be positioned on the second hole 112 of the upper plate portion 110. The disc portion 311 may be positioned on the first projection of the second hole 112 of the upper plate portion 110. The upper plate portion 110 may be positioned on the 1-1 to 1-3 projections of the first projection of the second hole 112.

[0078] The first piezoelectric element 310 may include a projection 312. The projection 312 may extend downward from the disc portion 311. The projection 312 may have its upper end positioned on the disc portion 311 and its lower end positioned on the first column 320. The maximum diameter of the projection 312 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis may be smaller than the diameter of the disc portion 311 in the corresponding direction. The diameter of the projection 312 may decrease as it goes downward from the disc portion 311. The diameter of the lower end of the projection 312 may be the same as the diameter of the first column 320. At least a portion of the projection 312 may be positioned in the second hole 112 of the upper plate portion 110. The projection 312 may include a hole. The upper end of the first column 320 may be positioned in the hole of the projection 312.

[0079] The first piezoelectric element 310 can contract or expand in response to a voltage applied from the substrate 800. The first piezoelectric element 310 can receive a voltage from a first portion 810 of the substrate 800. The first piezoelectric element 310 can contract or expand along the optical axis. The first piezoelectric element 310 can contract or expand along its length depending on the direction in which the voltage is applied. The first piezoelectric element 310 can generate vibrations by contracting or expanding.

[0080] The first piezomotor 300 may include a first column 320. The first column 320 may extend from the first piezoelectric element 310 in the direction of the optical axis. The first column 320 may be positioned on the first lens barrel 200. The first column 320 may be positioned on the first guide section 220. The first column 320 may be coupled to the first guide section 220 by a first elastic member 240. The first column 320 may be positioned between the third region 243 and the sixth region 246 of the first elastic member 240. The first column 320 may be fixed to the first guide section 220 by the elastic force of the first elastic member 240. The first column 320 may be positioned opposite each other with respect to the optical axis from the second column 620 of the second piezomotor 600. The first column 320 may be positioned parallel to the first pin 224. The first column 320 may be parallel to the direction of the optical axis.

[0081] The first column 320 can transmit vibrations generated from the first piezoelectric element 310 to the first lens barrel 200. At this time, the first lens barrel 200 can move upward or downward depending on the direction of vibration of the first column 320. This allows the second lens 230 inside the first lens barrel 200 to move together, enabling zooming functions such as zoom up or zoom out. The first column 320 can contract or expand due to vibrations generated from the first piezoelectric element 310. The first column 320 can transmit vibrations upward or downward depending on the direction in which the voltage is applied.

[0082] The first column 320 may include a first buffer member 321. The first buffer member 321 can be positioned on the first column 320. The first buffer member 321 can be coupled to the upper part of the first column 320. The first buffer member 321 can be positioned in the second hole 112 of the upper plate portion 110. The first column 320 may include a second buffer member 322. The second buffer member 322 can be positioned on the first column 320. The second buffer member 322 can be coupled to the lower part of the first column 320. The second buffer member 322 can be positioned below the first buffer member 321. The second buffer member 322 can be spaced apart from the first buffer member 321 in the optical axis direction. The first and second buffer members 321 and 322 can prevent noise corresponding to vibrations of the first column 320. The first and second buffer members 321 and 322 can prevent deformation or destruction of the first column 320 due to external impacts.

[0083] The camera module 10 may include a first sensor assembly 400. The first sensor assembly 400 may include an MR sensor (Magnetoresistor sensor). The first sensor assembly 400 may include a GMR sensor (Giant magnetoresistor sensor). The first sensor assembly 400 can sense the position and movement of the second lens 230.

[0084] The first sensor assembly 400 may include a first magnetic scale 410. The first magnetic scale 410 may be positioned on the first lens barrel 200. The first magnetic scale 410 may be positioned on the first guide portion 220. The first magnetic scale 410 may be positioned on the first side surface 221 of the first guide portion 220. The first magnetic scale 410 may include a magnet. The first magnetic scale 410 may include multiple magnets. The first magnetic scale 410 may be positioned with its north and south poles intersecting. The first magnetic scale 410 may be positioned with its north and south poles alternating. The first magnetic scale 410 may move along the optical axis with the first lens barrel 200.

[0085] The first sensor assembly 400 may include a first sensor 420. The first sensor 420 may be located in the housing 100. The first sensor 420 may be located on the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The first sensor 420 may be facing the first magnetic scale 410. The first sensor 420 may be located at a distance from the first magnetic scale 410 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The first sensor 420 can recognize the position of the first magnetic scale 410. This allows the position of the first lens barrel 200, which moves with the first magnetic scale 410, to be recognized.

[0086] The first sensor assembly 400 may include a gyro sensor 430. The gyro sensor 430 may be positioned below the first sensor 420. The gyro sensor 430 may be spaced apart from the first sensor 420. At least a portion of the gyro sensor 430 may overlap the first magnetic scale 410 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The gyro sensor 430 may be positioned on the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The gyro sensor 430 can detect the movement of the camera user.

[0087] The camera module 10 may include a second lens barrel 500. The second lens barrel 500 may be located inside the housing 100. The second lens barrel 500 may be located below the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The second lens barrel 500 may be located inside the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The second lens barrel 500 may be located below the first lens barrel 200. The second lens barrel 500 may be spaced apart from the first lens barrel 200 in the optical axis direction. The second lens barrel 500 may be coupled to the second piezo motor 600 via a second elastic member 540.

[0088] The second lens barrel 500 may include a second barrel portion 510. The second barrel portion 510 may be cylindrical with an open top and bottom. The second barrel portion 510 can accommodate a third lens 530. The second barrel portion 510 may include a hole 511. The inner circumferential surface of the hole 511 in the second barrel portion 510 may have screw threads formed thereon. The third lens 530 can be positioned in the second barrel portion 510. The third lens 530 can be positioned in the hole 511 of the second barrel portion 510. The third lens 530 can be coupled to the hole 511 of the second barrel portion 510.

[0089] The second lens barrel 500 may include a second guide portion 520. The second guide portion 520 may extend outward from the second barrel portion 510. The second guide portion 520 may include a first side plate 521 and a second side plate 522 that extend outward from the second barrel portion 510 and are arranged on opposite sides of each other. The second guide portion 520 may include a connecting portion 523 that connects the first side plate 521 and the second side plate 522 of the second guide portion 520. The first side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520 may include a groove. The groove in the first side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520 may be formed by recessing inward from the outer surface of the first side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520. The first side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520 may be on which the second magnetic scale 710 is positioned. The second magnetic scale 710 can be positioned on the outer surface of the first side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520. The second side plate 522 of the second guide portion 520 may include a groove 5221. The connecting portion 523 of the second guide portion 520 may include a groove 5231. The groove 5231 of the connecting portion 523 of the second guide portion 520 may be formed in a "V" shape.

[0090] A hole 5222 can be formed in the second side plate 522 of the second guide portion 520. A second pin 524 can be placed in the hole 5222 of the second side plate 522 of the second guide portion 520. The second pin 524 can pass through the hole 5222 of the second guide portion 520.

[0091] The second guide section 520 can be coupled to the second piezo motor 600. The second guide section 520 can be coupled to the second column 620 of the second piezo motor 600. The second column 620 can be coupled to the second guide section 520 via the second elastic member 540.

[0092] The second guide section 520 may include a second pin 524. The second pin 524 may be located within the housing 100. The second pin 524 may be located within the housing 100 parallel to the first column 320. The second pin 524 may be located closer to the second piezo motor 600 than the first pin 224. The second pin 524 may be located closer to the second piezo motor 600 than the first pin 224.

[0093] The second pin 524 can be positioned on the second side plate 522 of the second guide portion 520. The second pin 524 can pass through the hole 5222 in the second side plate 522. The second pin 524 can be coupled to the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The upper end of the second pin 524 can be coupled to the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The second pin 524 can guide the optical axis movement of the second lens barrel 500. This allows the third lens 530 positioned on the second lens barrel 500 to perform its focusing function. The second pin 524 can be separated from the first pin 224.

[0094] The second pin 524 can be positioned on the first lens barrel 200. The second pin 524 can guide the optical axis movement of the first lens barrel 200. This allows the second lens 230 positioned on the first lens barrel 200 to perform a zooming function.

[0095] The second lens barrel 500 may include a second elastic member 540. The second elastic member 540 may be positioned on the second lens barrel 500. The second elastic member 540 may be positioned on the second guide portion 520.

[0096] The second elastic member 540 may include the first to sixth regions 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, and 546. The first region 541 can be positioned on the second side plate 522 of the second guide portion 520. The first region 541 can be positioned in the groove 5221 of the second side plate 522 of the second guide portion 520. The second region 542 can be positioned on the opposite side of the first region 541 and on the first side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520. The second region 542 can be positioned in the groove of the first side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520. The third region 543 can connect the first region 541 and the second region 542. The third region 543 can be positioned on the connecting portion 523 of the second guide portion 520. The third region 543 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the connecting portion 523 of the second guide portion 520. The third region 543 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the groove 5231 of the connecting portion 523 of the second guide portion 520. The third region 543 may include a portion formed in a "V" shape. The central portion of the third region 543 can be formed in a "V" shape. The fourth region 544 can be connected to the second region 542 and positioned on the first side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520. The fourth region 544 can be positioned outside the second region 542. The fourth region 544 can extend longer than the second region 542. At least a portion of the fourth region 544 can overlap with the second region 542. The fifth region 545 can be positioned outside the first region 541. The fifth region 545 can be positioned on the second side plate 521 of the second guide portion 520. The fifth region 545 can be positioned on the groove 5221 of the second side plate 522 of the second guide portion 520. The fifth region 545 can extend longer than the first region 541. At least a portion of the fifth region 545 can overlap with the first region 541. The sixth region 546 can connect the fourth region 544 and the fifth region 545. The sixth region 546 can face the third region 543. The sixth region 546 can be separated from the third region 543. The second column 620 of the second piezo motor 600 can be positioned between the third region 543 and the sixth region 546. This allows the second piezo motor 600 to be firmly fixed.

[0097] The camera module 10 may include a second piezoelectric motor 600. The second piezoelectric motor 600 may be located in the housing 100. The second piezoelectric motor 600 may be located in the second lens barrel 500. The second piezoelectric motor 600 may be coupled to the second lens barrel 500. The second piezoelectric motor 600 may move the second lens barrel 500. The second piezoelectric motor 600 may move the second lens barrel 500 in the optical axis direction. The second piezoelectric motor 600 may be an ultrasonic motor.

[0098] The second piezo motor 600 may include a second piezoelectric element 610. The second piezoelectric element 610 may be positioned on the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The second piezoelectric element 610 may include a disc portion 611. The disc portion 611 may be positioned on the third hole 113 of the upper plate portion 110. The disc portion 611 may be positioned on the third projection of the third hole 113 of the upper plate portion 110. The upper plate portion 110 may be positioned on the 3-1 to 3-3 projections of the third projection of the third hole 113.

[0099] The second piezoelectric element 610 may include a projection 612. The projection 612 may extend downward from the disc portion 611. The projection 612 may have its upper end positioned on the disc portion 611 and its lower end positioned on the second column 620. The maximum diameter of the projection 612 in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis may be smaller than the diameter of the disc portion 611 in the corresponding direction. The diameter of the projection 612 decreases as it goes downward from the disc portion 611. The diameter of the lower end of the projection 612 may be the same as the diameter of the second column 620. At least a portion of the projection 612 may be positioned in the third hole 113 of the upper plate portion 110. The projection 612 may include a hole. The upper end of the second column 620 may be positioned in the hole of the projection 612.

[0100] The second piezoelectric element 610 can contract or expand in response to a voltage applied from the substrate 800. The second piezoelectric element 610 can contract or expand along the optical axis. The second piezoelectric element 610 can contract or expand along its length depending on the direction in which the voltage is applied. The second piezoelectric element 610 can generate vibrations by contracting or expanding.

[0101] The second piezo motor 600 may include a second column 620. The second column 620 may extend from the second piezoelectric element 610 in the direction of the optical axis. The second column 620 may be positioned in the second lens barrel 500. The second column 620 may be positioned in the second guide section 520. The second column 620 may be coupled to the second guide section 520 by a second elastic member 540. The second column 620 may be positioned between the third and sixth regions of the second elastic member 540. The second column 620 may be fixed to the second guide section 520 by the elastic force of the second elastic member 540.

[0102] The second column 620 can transmit vibrations generated from the second piezoelectric element 610 to the second lens barrel 500. At this time, the second lens barrel 500 can move upward or downward depending on the direction of vibration of the second column 520. This allows the third lens 530 inside the second lens barrel 500 to move together, enabling zooming functions such as zoom up or zoom out. The second column 620 can contract or expand due to vibrations generated from the second piezoelectric element 610. The second column 620 can transmit vibrations upward or downward depending on the direction in which the voltage is applied.

[0103] The second column 620 may include a third buffer member 621. The third buffer member 621 can be positioned on the second column 620. The second buffer member 621 can be coupled to the upper part of the second column 620. The third buffer member 621 can be positioned in the third hole 113 of the upper plate portion 110. The second column 620 may include a fourth buffer member 622. The fourth buffer member 622 can be positioned on the second column 620. The fourth buffer member 622 can be coupled to the lower part of the second column 620. The fourth buffer member 622 can be positioned below the third buffer member 621. The fourth buffer member 622 can be spaced apart from the third buffer member 621 in the optical axis direction. The third and fourth buffer members 621 and 622 can prevent noise corresponding to vibrations of the second column 620. The third and fourth buffer members 621 and 622 can prevent deformation or destruction of the second column 620 due to external impacts.

[0104] The camera module 10 may include a second sensor assembly 700. The second sensor assembly 700 may include an MR sensor (Magnetoresistor sensor). The second sensor assembly 700 may include a GMR sensor (Giant magnetoresistor sensor). The second sensor assembly 700 can sense the position and movement of the third lens 530.

[0105] The second sensor assembly 700 may include a second magnetic scale 710. The second magnetic scale 710 may be positioned on the second lens barrel 500. The second magnetic scale 710 may be positioned on the second guide portion 520. The second magnetic scale 710 may be positioned on the first side surface 521 of the second guide portion 520. The second magnetic scale 710 may include a magnet. The second magnetic scale 710 may include multiple magnets. The second magnetic scale 710 may be positioned with its north and south poles intersecting. The second magnetic scale 710 may be positioned with its north and south poles alternating. The second magnetic scale 710 may move along the optical axis with the second lens barrel 500.

[0106] The second sensor assembly 700 may include a second sensor 720. The second sensor 720 may be located in the housing 100. The second sensor 720 may be located on the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The second sensor 720 may be positioned opposite the second magnetic scale 710. The second sensor 720 may be positioned at a distance from the second magnetic scale 710 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The second sensor 720 can recognize the position of the second magnetic scale 710. This allows the position of the second lens barrel 500, which moves with the second magnetic scale 710, to be recognized.

[0107] The camera module 10 may include a circuit board 800. The circuit board 800 may be placed in the housing 100. The circuit board 800 may be placed on the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The circuit board 800 may be placed outside the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The circuit board 800 may enclose at least a portion of the side plate portion 120. The circuit board 800 may supply power or current to a configuration placed inside the housing 100. The circuit board 800 may be a flexible substrate. The circuit board 800 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0108] The substrate 800 may include a first portion 810. The first portion 810 may be positioned on top of the first piezoelectric element 310 of the first piezoelectric motor 300. The first portion 810 may be positioned on top of the disc portion 311 of the first piezoelectric element 310 of the first piezoelectric motor 300. The first portion 810 may be positioned on top of the second piezoelectric element 610 of the second piezoelectric motor 600. The first portion 810 may be positioned on top of the disc portion 611 of the second piezoelectric element 610 of the second piezoelectric motor 600. The first portion 810 may not overlap with the second portion 820 in the optical axis direction. The substrate 800 may include a second portion 820. The second portion 820 may be positioned below the first piezoelectric element 310 of the first piezoelectric element 300. The second portion 820 may be positioned below the disc portion 311 of the first piezoelectric element 310 of the first piezoelectric element 300. The second portion 820 can be positioned below the second piezoelectric element 610 of the second piezoelectric element 600. The second portion 820 can be positioned below the disc portion 611 of the second piezoelectric element 610 of the second piezoelectric element 600. The second portion 820 may not overlap the first portion 810 in the optical axis direction. The substrate 800 may include a third portion facing the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The first portion 810 can be bent from the third portion. The second portion 820 can be bent from the third portion.

[0109] The camera module 10 may include an image sensor 900. The image sensor 900 can collect light passing through the first to third lenses and convert it into an image. The image sensor 900 can be positioned so that its optical axis aligns with that of the lenses. The optical axis of the image sensor 900 and the optical axis of the lenses are aligned.

[0110] The camera module 10 may include a first lens 130, a second lens 230, and a third lens 530. The first lens 130 may contain multiple lenses. The first lens 130 may be placed in the housing 100. The first lens 130 may be placed in the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The first lens 130 may be placed in the first hole 111 of the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The first lens 130 may be screw-connected to the first hole 111 of the upper plate portion 110 of the housing 100. The first lens 130 may contain multiple lenses. The first lens 130 may be fixed in place.

[0111] The second lens 230 can be placed inside the housing 100. The second lens 230 can be placed inside the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The second lens 230 can be placed inside the first barrel portion 210. The second lens 230 can be placed inside the hole 211 of the first barrel portion 210. The second lens 230 can be coupled to the hole 211 of the first barrel portion 210. The second lens 230 can be screw-coupled to the first barrel portion 210. The second lens 230 can perform a zoom function. The second lens 230 may be a zoom lens. The second lens 230 is movable in the optical axis direction. The second lens 230 is movable in the optical axis direction relative to the first lens 130. The second lens 230 is movable independently of the third lens 530. The distance the second lens 230 can move in the optical axis direction may be greater than the distance the third lens 530 can move in the corresponding direction.

[0112] The third lens 530 can be positioned within the housing 100. The third lens 530 can be positioned within the side plate portion 120 of the housing 100. The third lens 530 may include multiple lenses. The third lens 530 can be positioned within the second lens barrel 500. The third lens 530 can be positioned within the second barrel portion 510 of the second lens barrel 500. The third lens 530 can be positioned within the hole 511 of the second barrel portion 510 of the second lens barrel 500. The third lens 530 can be coupled to the hole 511 of the second barrel portion 510. The third lens 530 can be screw-coupled to the second barrel portion 510. The third lens 530 can perform an autofocus function. The third lens 530 may be a focusing lens. The third lens 530 is movable in the optical axis direction. The third lens 530 is movable in the optical axis direction relative to the first lens 130. The third lens 530 is movable independently of the second lens 230. The distance the third lens 530 can move in the optical axis direction may be greater than the distance the second lens 230 can move in the corresponding direction.

[0113] As described above, the camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention has been explained with reference to Figures 1 to 10. Hereinafter, the lens drive device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be explained with reference to Figures 11 to 18. The detailed description of the lens drive device according to the second embodiment of the present invention may be the same as or different from that of the camera module according to the first embodiment of the present invention in terms of name, terminology, and function, based on the detailed description of each embodiment.

[0114] The configuration of a lens driving device according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0115] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 12 is a perspective view of a partial configuration of a lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of a partial configuration of a lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a partial configuration of a lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view AA of Figure 14, and Figure 16 is a conceptual diagram of a lens drive device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] The lens drive device 1000 may be a voice coil motor (VCM). The lens drive device 1000 may be a lens drive motor. The lens drive device 1000 may be a lens drive motor. The lens drive device 1000 may be a lens drive actuator. In this embodiment, the lens drive device 1000 may include a CLAF actuator or a CLAF module. For example, a camera module is understood to be a lens drive device 1000 with a lens, an image sensor, and a printed circuit board assembled on it.

[0117] The lens drive device 1000 may include a lens barrel 1100. A first drive unit 1200 may be arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. A second drive unit 1300 may be arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The second drive unit 1300 may be arranged at a distance from the first drive unit 1200. A third drive unit 1400 may be arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The third drive unit 1400 may be arranged at a distance from the first drive unit 1200. The third drive unit 1400 may be arranged at a distance from the second drive unit 1300.

[0118] The lens barrel 1100 may include first to fourth sides 1110, 120, 130, and 140. The first to fourth sides 1110, 120, 130, and 140 may form the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The lens barrel 1100 may include a first side 1110, a second side 1120 facing the first side 1110, and a third side 1130 and a fourth side 1140 positioned opposite each other between the first side 1100 and the second side 1120. A first drive unit 1200 and a second drive unit 1200 may be positioned on the first side 1110, spaced apart from each other. A third drive unit 1400 may be positioned on the second side 1120. The third side 1130 may connect the first side 1110 and the second side 1120. The fourth side 1140 can be connected to the first side 1110 and the second side 1120.

[0119] The lens barrel 1100 may include grooves 1111, 112, and 121. The grooves 1111, 112, and 121 may be formed on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The grooves 1111, 112, and 121 may be formed by recessing from the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The grooves 1111, 112, and 121 may extend from the top surface to the bottom surface of the lens barrel 1100. The grooves 1111, 112, and 121 may include a plurality of grooves 1111, 112, and 121. The first to third drive units 1200, 300, and 400 may be arranged in the grooves 1111, 112, and 121, respectively. The grooves 1111, 112, and 121 may include a first groove 1111 in which a first drive unit 1200 is located, a second groove 1112 in which a second drive unit 1300 is located, and a third groove 1121 in which a third drive unit 1400 is located. The grooves 1111, 112, and 121 may be drive unit accommodating grooves.

[0120] The first groove 1111 can be formed on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first groove 1111 can be formed by recessing from the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first groove 1111 can be spaced apart from the second groove 1112. The first groove 1111 can be positioned closer to the third side surface 1130 than to the fourth side surface 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The first drive unit 1200 can be positioned in the first groove 1111. The first yoke 1210 of the first drive unit 12000 can be positioned in the first groove 1111. The first side plate 1211 of the first yoke 1210 can be positioned in the first groove 1111.

[0121] The second groove 1112 can be formed on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The second groove 1112 can be formed by recessing from the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The second groove 1112 can be spaced apart from the first groove 1111. The second groove 1112 can be positioned closer to the fourth side surface 1140 than to the third side surface 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The second yoke 1310 can be positioned in the second groove 1112. The second drive unit 1300 can be positioned in the second groove 1112. The second yoke 1310 of the second drive unit 1300 can be positioned in the second groove 1112. The first side plate 1311 of the second yoke 1310 can be positioned in the second groove 1112.

[0122] The third groove 1121 can be formed on the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The third groove 1121 can be formed by recessing from the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The third yoke 1410 can be positioned in the third groove 1121. The first side plate 1411 of the third yoke 1410 can be positioned in the third groove 1121.

[0123] The lens barrel 1100 may include grooves 1131 and 141. The grooves 1131 and 141 can be formed on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The grooves 1131 and 141 can be formed by recessing from the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The grooves 1131 and 141 can extend from the top surface to the bottom surface of the lens barrel 1100. The grooves 1131 and 141 may include a plurality of grooves 1131 and 141. First and second pins 1610 and 620 can be positioned in the grooves 1131 and 141, respectively. The grooves 1131 and 141 may include a first groove 1131 in which the first pin 1610 is positioned and a second groove 1141 in which the second pin 1620 is positioned. The grooves 1131 and 141 may be guide pin housing grooves.

[0124] The first groove 1131 can be formed on the third side surface 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The first groove 1131 can be formed by recessing from the third side surface 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The first groove 1131 can be formed in a different shape from the second groove 1141. The first groove 1131 can include a curved surface. The first groove 1131 can be formed in a round shape. The first groove 1131 can be formed in a "U" shape. The first groove 1131 can be formed with a semicircular cross-section.

[0125] The first groove 1131 can be formed in the central part of the third side surface 1130. As an example of modification, the first groove 1131 can be formed closer to the second side surface 1120 than a hypothetical line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the third side surface 1130. As an example of modification, the first groove 1131 can be formed closer to the second side surface 1120 than to the first side surface 1110.

[0126] A first pin 1610 can be positioned in the first groove 1131. The first pin 1610 can be movably positioned in the first groove 1131. The first pin 1610 can be movably positioned in the optical axis (A) direction in the first groove 1131. The first groove 1131 can restrict the movement of the first pin 1610 in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis (A). The inner surface of the first groove 1131 can contact the first pin 1610. At least a portion of the inner surface of the first groove 1131 can contact the first pin 1610. At least a portion of the curved surface of the first groove 1131 can contact the first pin 1610.

[0127] The second groove 1141 can be formed on the fourth side surface 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second groove 1141 can be formed by recessing from the fourth side surface 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second groove 1141 can be formed in a different shape from the first groove 1131. The second groove 1141 can include two inclined surfaces. The second groove 1141 can be formed in a "V" shape.

[0128] The second groove 1141 can be formed in the center of the fourth side surface 1140. In a modified example, the second groove 1141 can be formed closer to the second side surface 1120 than a hypothetical line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the fourth side surface 1140. In a modified example, the second groove 1141 can be formed closer to the second side surface 1120 than to the first side surface 1110. The second pin 1620 of the lens barrel 1100 can be positioned in the second groove 1141. The second pin 1620 can be movably positioned in the second groove 1141. The second pin 1620 can be movably positioned in the direction of the optical axis (A). The second groove 1141 can restrict the movement of the second pin 1620 in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis (A) and the first direction. The inner surface of the second groove 1141 can be in contact with the second pin 1620. At least a portion of the inner surface of the second groove 1141 can contact the second pin 1620. At least a portion of the inclined surface of the second groove 1141 can contact the second pin 1620. At least one of the two inclined surfaces of the second groove 1141 can contact the second pin 1620.

[0129] The lens barrel 1100 may include a hole 1150. The hole 1150 may be a hollow hole. A lens may be coupled to the hole 1150. The hole 1150 may be formed penetrating from the center of the lens barrel 1100 in the direction of the optical axis (A). The hole 1150 may include a first hole and a second hole extending downward from the first hole. The length of the first hole in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis (A) may be greater than the length of the second hole in the corresponding direction.

[0130] The lens drive device 1000 may include a first drive unit 1200. The first drive unit 1200 may be positioned on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The first drive unit 1200 may be positioned on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first drive unit 1200 can be separated from the second drive unit 1300. The first drive unit 1200 can be separated from the second drive unit 1300 by a first angle (θ1) formed by a virtual first straight line (l1) connecting the optical axis (A) and the first drive unit 1200 and a virtual second straight line (l2) connecting the optical axis (A) and the second drive unit 1300. In this case, the first straight line (l1) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the first drive unit 1200, and the second straight line (l2) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the second drive unit 1300.

[0131] The first drive unit 1200 may include a first yoke 1210. The first yoke 1210 may be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The first yoke 1210 may be positioned on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. A first coil 1220 may be positioned on the first yoke 1210. The first yoke 1210 may face the first magnet 1230. The first yoke 1210 may include a hole. The hole in the first yoke 1210 can accommodate at least a portion of the first coil 1220.

[0132] The first yoke 1210 may include a first side plate 1211, a second side plate 1212 facing the first side plate 1211, and an upper plate 1213 and a lower plate 1214 connecting the first side plate 1211 and the second side plate 1212. The first side plate 1211 can be positioned on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1211 can be positioned in the first groove 1111 of the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1211 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the first groove 1111 of the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1211 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The first side plate 1211 can be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper end of the first side plate 1211 can be connected to the upper plate 1213, and the lower end can be connected to the lower plate 1214.

[0133] The second side plate 1212 can face the first side plate 1211. The second side plate 1212 can be positioned on the opposite side of the first side plate 1211. The second side plate 1212 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the first side plate 1211. The second side plate 1212 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The second side plate 1212 can be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper end of the second side plate 1212 can be connected to the upper end of the first side plate 1211 via an upper plate 1213. The lower end of the second side plate 1212 can be connected to the lower end of the second side plate 1212 via a lower plate 1213. The first coil 1220 can be placed on the second side plate 1212. The first coil 1220 can be wound around the second side plate 1212. The first coil 1220 can be wound around the outer circumference of the second side plate 1212.

[0134] The upper plate 1213 can connect the upper end of the first side plate 1211 of the first yoke 1210 to the upper end of the second side plate 1212 of the first yoke 1210. At least a portion of the upper plate 1213 can overlap with the first coil 1220 in the optical axis (A) direction. The upper plate 1213 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The lower plate 1214 can connect the lower end of the first side plate 1211 of the first yoke 1210 to the lower end of the second side plate 1212 of the first yoke 1210. At least a portion of the lower plate 1214 can overlap with the first coil 1220 in the optical axis (A) direction. The lower plate 1214 can be formed in a flat plate shape.

[0135] The first drive unit 1200 may include a first coil 1220. The first coil 1220 may be positioned on the first yoke 1210. The first coil 1220 may be positioned on the second side plate 1212 of the first yoke 1210. The first coil 1220 may be wound around the second side plate 1212 of the first yoke 1210. At least a portion of the first coil 1220 may be positioned in contact with the second side plate 1212 of the first yoke 1210. The first coil 1220 may include a first portion positioned between the first side plate 1211 and the second side plate 1212 of the first yoke 1210, a second portion positioned on the outside of the second side plate 1212 of the first yoke 1210 opposite the first portion, and a third and fourth portion connecting the first and second portions. At least a portion of the first coil 1220 can overlap the upper plate 1213 of the first yoke 1210 in the optical axis (A) direction. The first coil 1220 can be positioned closer to the lower plate 1214 of the first yoke 1210 than to the upper plate 1213. The first coil 1220 can be directly wound around the second side plate 1212 of the first yoke 1210. The first coil 1220 can face the first magnet 1230. The first coil 1220 can interact electromagnetically with the first magnet 1230. When current is supplied to the first coil 1220 and an electromagnetic field is formed around the first coil 1220, the electromagnetic interaction between the first coil 1220 and the first magnet 1230 can cause the first coil 1220 to move relative to the first magnet 1230.

[0136] The first drive unit 1200 may include a first magnet 1230. The first magnet 1230 may face the first coil 1220. The first magnet 1230 may face the second portion of the first coil 1220. The first magnet 1230 may interact electromagnetically with the first coil 1220. The first magnet 1230 may be used for zoom driving. The first magnet 1230 may be formed as a flat magnet. The first magnet 1230 may be formed in a flat plate shape. The first magnet 1230 may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The first magnet 1230 may be formed to be longer than the length of the second side plate 1212 in the optical axis (A) direction.

[0137] The lens drive device 1000 may include a second drive unit 1300. The second drive unit 1300 may be located on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The second drive unit 1300 may be located on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The second drive unit 1300 may be located at a distance from the first drive unit 1200.

[0138] The second drive unit 1300 may include a second yoke 1310. The second yoke 1310 may be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The second yoke 1310 may be positioned on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. A second coil 1230 may be positioned on the second yoke 1310. The second yoke 1310 may face a second magnet (not shown). The second yoke 1310 may include a hole. The hole in the second yoke 1310 can accommodate at least a portion of the second coil 1320.

[0139] The second yoke 1310 may include a first side plate 1311, a second side plate 1312 facing the first side plate 1311, and an upper plate 1313 and a lower plate 1314 connecting the first side plate 1311 and the second side plate 1312. The first side plate 1311 can be positioned on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1311 can be positioned in the second groove 1112 of the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1311 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the second groove 1112 of the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1311 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The first side plate 1311 can be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper end of the first side plate 1311 can be connected to the upper plate 1313 and the lower end can be connected to the lower plate 1314.

[0140] The second side plate 1311 can face the first side plate 1312. The second side plate 1311 can be positioned on the opposite side of the first side plate 1311. The second side plate 1312 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the first side plate 1311. The second side plate 1312 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The second side plate 1312 can be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper end of the second side plate 1312 can be connected to the upper end of the first side plate 1311 via an upper plate 1313. The lower end of the second side plate 1312 can be connected to the lower end of the second side plate 1312 via a lower plate 1313. A second coil 1320 can be placed on the second side plate 1312. The second coil 1320 can be wound around the second side plate 1312. The second coil 1320 can be wound around the outer circumference of the second side plate 1312.

[0141] The upper plate 1313 can connect the upper end of the first side plate 1311 of the second yoke 1310 to the upper end of the second side plate 1312 of the second yoke 1310. At least a portion of the upper plate 1313 can overlap with the second coil 1320 in the optical axis (A) direction. The upper plate 1313 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The lower plate 1314 can connect the lower end of the first side plate 1311 of the second yoke 1310 to the lower end of the second side plate 1312 of the second yoke 1310. At least a portion of the lower plate 1314 can overlap with the second coil 1320 in the optical axis (A) direction. The lower plate 1314 can be formed in a flat plate shape.

[0142] The second drive unit 1300 may include a second coil 1320. The second coil 1320 may be positioned on the second yoke 1310. The second coil 1320 may be positioned on the second side plate 1312 of the second yoke 1310. The second coil 1320 may be wound around the second side plate 1312 of the second yoke 1310. At least a portion of the second coil 1320 may be positioned in contact with the second side plate 1312 of the second yoke 1310. The second coil 1320 may include a first portion positioned between the first side plate 1311 and the second side plate 1312 of the second yoke 1310, a second portion positioned on the outside of the second side plate 1312 of the second yoke 1310, opposite the first portion, and a third and fourth portion connecting the first and second portions. At least a portion of the first part of the second coil 1320 can overlap the upper plate 1313 of the second yoke 1310 in the optical axis (A) direction. The second coil 1320 can be positioned closer to the lower plate 1314 than to the upper plate 1313 of the second yoke 1310. The second coil 1320 can be directly wound around the second side plate 1312 of the second yoke 1310. The second coil 1320 can face the second magnet. The second coil 1320 can interact electromagnetically with the second magnet. When current is supplied to the second coil 1320 and an electromagnetic field is formed around the second coil 1320, the electromagnetic interaction between the second coil 1320 and the second magnet can cause the second coil 1320 to move relative to the second magnet.

[0143] The second drive unit 1300 may include a second magnet. The second magnet may face the second coil 1320. The second magnet may face the second portion of the second coil 1320. The second magnet may interact electromagnetically with the second coil 1320. The second magnet may be used for zoom driving. The second magnet may be formed as a flat magnet. The second magnet may be formed in a flat plate shape. The second magnet may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The second magnet may be formed to be longer than the length of the second side plate 1312 in the optical axis (A) direction.

[0144] The lens drive device 1000 may include a third drive unit 1400. The third drive unit 1400 may be positioned on the outer circumferential surface of the lens barrel 1100. The third drive unit 1400 may be positioned on the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The third drive unit 1400 may be positioned at a distance from the first drive unit 1200. The third drive unit 1400 may be separated from the first drive unit 1200 by a second angle (θ2) formed by a virtual third straight line (l3) connecting the optical axis (A) and the third drive unit 1400 and a virtual first straight line (l1) connecting the optical axis (A) and the first drive unit 1200. In this case, the first straight line (l1) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the first drive unit 1200, and the third straight line (l3) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the third drive unit 1400.

[0145] The third drive unit 1400 can be positioned at a distance from the second drive unit 1300. The third drive unit 1400 can be separated from the second drive unit 1300 by a third angle (θ3) formed by a virtual third straight line (l3) connecting the optical axis (A) and the third drive unit 1400, and a virtual second straight line (l2) connecting the optical axis (A) and the second drive unit 1300. In this case, the second straight line (l2) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the second drive unit 1300, and the third straight line (l3) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the third drive unit 1400.

[0146] The third drive unit 1400 may include a third yoke 1410. The third yoke 1410 may be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The third yoke 1410 may be positioned on the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. A third coil 1320 may be positioned on the third yoke 1410. The third yoke 1410 may face a third magnet (not shown). The third yoke 1410 may include a hole. The hole in the third yoke 1410 may accommodate at least a portion of the third coil 1420.

[0147] The third yoke 1410 may include a first side plate 1411, a second side plate 1412 facing the first side plate 1411, and an upper plate 1413 and a lower plate 1414 connecting the first side plate 1411 and the second side plate 1412. The first side plate 1411 can be positioned on the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1411 can be positioned in the third groove 1121 of the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1411 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the third groove 1121 of the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The first side plate 1411 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The first side plate 1411 can be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper end of the first side plate 1411 can be connected to the upper plate 1413, and the lower end can be connected to the lower plate 1414.

[0148] The second side plate 1412 can face the first side plate 1411. The second side plate 1412 can be positioned on the opposite side of the first side plate 1411. The second side plate 1412 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the first side plate 1411. The second side plate 1412 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The second side plate 1412 can be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper end of the second side plate 1412 can be connected to the upper end of the first side plate 1411 via an upper plate 1413. The lower end of the second side plate 1412 can be connected to the lower end of the second side plate 1412 via a lower plate 1413. A third coil 1420 can be placed on the second side plate 1412. The third coil 1420 can be wound around the second side plate 1412. The third coil 1420 can be wound around the outer circumference of the second side plate 1412.

[0149] The upper plate 1413 can connect the upper end of the first side plate 1411 of the third yoke 1410 to the upper end of the second side plate 1412 of the third yoke 1410. At least a portion of the upper plate 1413 can overlap with the third coil 1420 in the optical axis (A) direction. The upper plate 1413 can be formed in a flat plate shape. The lower plate 1414 can connect the lower end of the first side plate 1411 of the third yoke 1410 to the lower end of the second side plate 1412 of the third yoke 1410. At least a portion of the lower plate 1414 can overlap with the third coil 1420 in the optical axis (A) direction. The lower plate 1414 can be formed in a flat plate shape.

[0150] The third drive unit 1400 may include a third coil 1420. The third coil 1420 may be positioned on the third yoke 1410. The third coil 1420 may be positioned on the second side plate 1412 of the third yoke 1410. The third coil 1420 may be wound around the second side plate 1412 of the third yoke 1410. At least a portion of the third coil 1420 may be positioned in contact with the second side plate 1412 of the third yoke 1410. The third coil 1420 may include a first portion positioned between the first side plate 1411 and the second side plate 1412 of the third yoke 1410, a second portion positioned opposite the first portion and on the outside of the second side plate 1412 of the third yoke 1410, and a third and fourth portion connecting the first and second portions. At least a portion of the first part of the third coil 1420 can overlap the upper plate 1413 of the third yoke 1410 in the optical axis (A) direction. The third coil 1420 can be positioned closer to the lower plate 1414 than to the upper plate 1413 of the third yoke 1410. The third coil 1420 can be directly wound around the second side plate 1412 of the third yoke 1410. The fourth coil 1420 can face the third magnet. The third coil 1420 can interact electromagnetically with the fourth magnet. When current is supplied to the third coil 1420 and an electromagnetic field is formed around the third coil 1420, the electromagnetic interaction between the third coil 1420 and the third magnet can cause the third coil 1420 to move relative to the third magnet.

[0151] The third drive unit 1400 may include a third magnet. The third magnet may face the third coil 1420. The third magnet may face the second portion of the third coil 1420. The third magnet may interact electromagnetically with the third coil 1420. The third magnet may be used for zoom driving. The third magnet may be formed as a flat magnet. The third magnet may be formed in a flat plate shape. The third magnet may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The third magnet may be formed to be longer than the length of the second side plate 1412 in the optical axis (A) direction.

[0152] A virtual first straight line (l1) connecting the optical axis (A) and the first drive unit 1200, and a virtual second straight line (l2) connecting the optical axis (A) and the second drive unit 1300, can form a first angle (θ1). In this case, the first straight line (l1) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the first drive unit 1200, and the second straight line (l2) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the second drive unit 1300. A virtual third straight line (l3) connecting the optical axis (A) and the third drive unit 1400, and the first straight line (l1), can form a second angle (θ2). In this case, the third straight line (l3) may be a virtual straight line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the third drive unit 1400. The second straight line (l2) and the third straight line (l3) can form a third angle (θ3).

[0153] The first angle (θ1) may be smaller than the second angle (θ2). The first angle (θ1) may be smaller than the third angle (θ3). The second angle (θ2) may be the same as the third angle (θ3). The second angle (θ2) may be greater than 120° and less than 180°. The third angle (θ3) may be greater than 120° and less than 180°. This makes it possible to minimize the thickness of the lens drive unit 1000 even if the number of drive units increases. The first angle (θ1) may be smaller than 120°. This makes it possible to minimize the thickness of the lens drive unit 1100 even if the number of drive units increases. This makes it possible to reduce the overall thickness of the mobile terminal including the lens drive unit 1000. In addition, if the camera including the lens drive unit 1000 is the front camera of the mobile terminal, it is possible to prevent the camera from protruding beyond the front display of the mobile terminal. If the camera, including the lens drive device 1000, is a rear camera of a mobile device, it is possible to prevent the camera from protruding outward from the rear surface of the housing that forms the exterior of the mobile device.

[0154] Specifically, the straight line connecting the first drive unit 1200 and the second drive unit 1300 at the shortest distance can be perpendicular to the optical axis (A) direction. The straight line connecting the center of the first drive unit 1200 and the center of the second drive unit 1300 at the shortest distance can be perpendicular to the optical axis (A) direction. The straight line connecting the first drive unit 1200 and the second drive unit 1300 at the shortest distance can be substantially orthogonal to the front display of the mobile terminal on which the lens drive device 1000 is mounted.

[0155] More specifically, the thickness of the lens drive device 1000 can be determined by the distance between the first drive unit 1200 and the second drive unit 1300. In this case, the straight line (W) connecting the first drive unit 1200 and the second drive unit 1300 at their maximum distance may be the thickness of the lens drive device 1000. The straight line (W) connecting the first drive unit 1200 and the second drive unit 1300 at their maximum distance can be reduced by a first angle (θ1). More specifically, the straight line (W) connecting the first drive unit 1200 and the second drive unit 1300 at their maximum distance can be reduced as the first angle (θ1) decreases. In this case, the thickness of the lens drive device 1000 can be reduced. The angle (θ1-1) formed by the third straight line (l3) and the first straight line (l1) and the angle (θ1-2) formed by the third straight line (l3) and the second straight line (l2) may be the same. At this time, the angle (θ1-1) formed by the third line (l3) and the first line (l1) can be a clockwise angle with respect to the first line (l1). The angle (θ1-2) formed by the third line (l3) and the second line (l2) can be a counterclockwise angle with respect to the second line. The angles (θ1-1) formed by the third line (l3) and the first line (l1) and the angles (θ1-2) formed by the third line (l3) and the second line (l2) can be less than 60°. This allows the thickness of the lens drive device 1000 to be reduced even if the number of drive units increases. In other words, as the number of drive units increases, the driving force can be increased while simultaneously reducing the thickness of the lens drive device 1000, thereby achieving miniaturization of the module.

[0156] The lens drive device 1000 may include pins 1610 and 620. The pins 1610 and 620 can contact the lens barrel 1100. At least a portion of the pins 1610 and 620 can contact the lens barrel 1100. The pins 1610 and 620 can be positioned in grooves 1131 and 141 of the lens barrel 1100. The pins 1610 and 620 can guide the movement of the lens barrel 1100 in the direction of the optical axis (A). This allows for the optical axis alignment of multiple lens groups.

[0157] Pins 1610 and 620 may include a first pin 1610. The first pin 1610 may be positioned on the third side 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The first pin 1610 may be positioned in the first groove 1131 of the third side 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The first pin 1610 may be movably positioned in the first groove 1131 of the third side 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The first pin 1610 may be movably positioned in the optical axis (A) direction in the first groove 1131 of the third side 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. At least a portion of the first pin 1610 may be in contact with at least a portion of the first groove 1131 of the third side 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The first pin 1610 may be positioned in the central part of the third side 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. In the modified example, the first pin 1610 can be positioned closer to the third drive unit 1400 than to the first drive unit 1200. The first pin 1610 can overlap the second pin 1620 in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis (A).

[0158] Pins 1610 and 1620 may include a second pin 1620. The second pin 1620 may be positioned on the fourth side 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 may be positioned in the second groove 1141 of the fourth side 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 may be movably positioned in the second groove 1141 of the fourth side 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 may be movably positioned in the second groove 1141 of the fourth side 1140 of the lens barrel 1100 in the direction of the optical axis (A). At least a portion of the second pin 1620 may be in contact with at least a portion of the second groove 1141 of the fourth side 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 may be positioned in the central part of the fourth side 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. In the modified example, the second pin 1620 can be positioned closer to the third drive unit 1400 than to the second drive unit 1300. The second pin 1620 can overlap the first pin 1610 in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis (A).

[0159] In the following section, a lens driving device according to another embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0160] Figure 17 is a conceptual diagram of a lens driving device according to another embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] The lens drive device 1000 according to another embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention can be interpreted as having the same configuration as the lens drive device 1000 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, except for the arrangement and number of drive units.

[0162] The lens drive device 1000 may include a lens barrel 1100, a first drive unit 1200, a second drive unit 1300, a third drive unit 1300, a fourth drive unit 1500, a first pin 1610, and a second pin 1620.

[0163] The first drive unit 1200 can be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The first drive unit 1200 can be positioned on the first side surface of the lens barrel 1100. The first drive unit 1200 can be separated from the second drive unit 1300. The first drive unit 1200 can be positioned on the opposite side of the third drive unit 1400 with respect to the optical axis (A). The second drive unit 1300 can be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The second drive unit 1300 can be positioned on the first side surface of the lens barrel 1100. The second drive unit 1300 can be separated from the first drive unit 1200. The second drive unit 1300 can be positioned on the opposite side of the fourth drive unit 1500 with respect to the optical axis (A). The third drive unit 1400 can be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The third drive unit 1400 can be positioned on the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The third drive unit 1400 can be separated from the fourth drive unit 1500. The third drive unit 1400 can be positioned on the opposite side of the first drive unit 1200 with respect to the optical axis (A). The fourth drive unit 1500 can be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The fourth drive unit 1500 can be positioned on the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The fourth drive unit 1500 can be separated from the third drive unit 1400. The fourth drive unit 1500 can be positioned on the opposite side of the second drive unit 1300 with respect to the optical axis (A).

[0164] A virtual fourth line (l4) connecting the optical axis (A) and the first and third drive units 1200 and 400, and a virtual fifth line (l5) connecting the optical axis (A) and the second and fourth drive units 1300 and 500, can form a fourth angle (θ4). In this case, the fourth line (l4) may be a virtual line connecting the centers of the optical axis (A) and the first and third drive units 1200 and 400. The fourth angle (θ4) may be greater than 0° and less than 90°. The fourth angle (θ4) may be a clockwise angle with respect to the fourth line (l4). Alternatively, the fourth angle (θ4) may be a counterclockwise angle with respect to the fifth line (l5).

[0165] The angle (θ4-1) formed by the fourth straight line (l4), the optical axis (A), and a virtual line passing through the centers of the first and second sides 1110 and 120 of the lens barrel 1100 may be the same as the angle (θ4-2) formed by the fifth straight line (l5), the optical axis (A), and a virtual line passing through the centers of the first and second sides 1110 and 120 of the lens barrel 1100.

[0166] The lens drive device 1000 may include a first pin 1610. The first pin 1610 may be located on the lens barrel 1100. The first pin 1610 may be located on the third side surface 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The first pin 1610 may be located in the center of the third side surface 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The lens drive device 1000 may include a second pin 1620. The second pin 1620 may be located on the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 may be located on the fourth side surface 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 may be located in the center of the fourth side surface 1140 of the lens barrel 1100.

[0167] In the following section, the configuration of a lens driving device according to yet another embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0168] Figure 18 is a conceptual diagram of a lens driving device according to yet another embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0169] A lens drive device 1000 according to yet another embodiment of the second embodiment of the present invention can be interpreted as having the same configuration as the lens drive device 1000 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, except for the arrangement of the drive units and the number of drive units.

[0170] The lens drive device 1000 may include a lens barrel 1100, a first drive unit 1200, a second drive unit 1200, a first pin 1610, and a second pin 1620.

[0171] The first drive unit 1200 can be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The first drive unit 1200 can be positioned on the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first drive unit 1200 can be positioned in the center of the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The first drive unit 1200 can be positioned on a virtual line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the first side surface 1110 of the lens barrel 1100. The center of the first drive unit 1200 can be positioned on a virtual sixth line (l6) perpendicular to the direction of the optical axis (A). In this case, when the optical axis (A) is called the z-axis, the sixth line (l6) means the y-axis. The first drive unit 1200 can overlap the second drive unit 1300 in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis (A). In this case, when the optical axis (A) is called the z-axis, the first direction means the y-axis direction.

[0172] The second drive unit 1300 can be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The second drive unit 1300 can be positioned on the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The second drive unit 1200 can be positioned in the center of the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1200. The second drive unit 1200 can be positioned on a virtual line connecting the optical axis (A) and the center of the second side surface 1120 of the lens barrel 1100. The center of the second drive unit 1300 can be positioned on the sixth straight line (l6). The second drive unit 1300 can overlap the first drive unit 1200 in the first direction.

[0173] The first pin 1610 can be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The first pin 1610 can be positioned on the third side surface 1130 of the lens barrel 1100. The first pin 1610 can be positioned on the third side surface 1130 of the lens barrel 1130 in the center. The first pin 1610 can be positioned on a virtual seventh line (l7) perpendicular to the optical axis (A) and the first line. In this case, if the optical axis (A) is called the z-axis and the sixth line (l6) is called the y-axis, then the seventh line (l7) means the x-axis. The first pin 1610 can overlap the second pin 1620 in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis (A) and the first direction. In this case, if the optical axis (A) is called the z-axis and the first direction is called the y-axis direction, then the seventh line (l7) means the x-axis direction.

[0174] The second pin 1610 can be positioned on the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 can be positioned on the fourth side 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 can be positioned in the center of the fourth side 1140 of the lens barrel 1100. The second pin 1620 can be positioned on a second straight line. The second pin 1620 can overlap the first pin 1610 in a second direction.

[0175] The modified examples according to this embodiment may include both a partial configuration of the first embodiment and a partial configuration of the second embodiment. That is, the modified example may include the first embodiment, but omit a partial configuration of the first embodiment and include a corresponding partial configuration of the second embodiment. Alternatively, the modified example may include the second embodiment, but omit a partial configuration of the second embodiment and include a corresponding partial configuration of the first embodiment.

[0176] The features, structures, and effects described in the examples above are included in at least one example, but are not necessarily limited to just one example. Furthermore, the features, structures, and effects exemplified in each example can be combined or modified and implemented in other examples by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the example belongs. Therefore, content related to such combinations and modifications should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the examples.

[0177] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, those with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains should understand that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering its technical idea or essential features. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood to be illustrative and not limiting in all respects.

Claims

1. A housing including an upper plate portion and a side plate portion extending from the upper plate portion, A first lens is positioned on the upper plate portion of the housing, A first lens barrel is positioned within the housing below the upper plate portion, A second lens barrel is positioned below the first lens barrel within the housing, The second lens is positioned in the first lens barrel, A third lens positioned in the second lens barrel, A first piezo motor is disposed in the housing and coupled to the first lens barrel to move the first lens barrel, A second piezo motor is disposed in the housing and coupled to the second lens barrel to move the second lens barrel in the direction of the optical axis, The system includes an image sensor that collects light passing through the first lens, the second lens, and the third lens in that order and converts it into an image, The second lens barrel includes a second barrel portion that houses the third lens and a second guide portion that extends outward from the second barrel portion and is coupled to the second piezo motor. The end of the second barrel portion on the image sensor side is positioned closer to the image sensor than the end of the second guide portion on the image sensor side. The first piezoelectric motor includes a first piezoelectric element disposed on the upper plate and a first column extending from the first piezoelectric element in a direction parallel to the optical axis direction. A first buffer member and a second buffer member are arranged on the first column of the first piezo motor. The first piezoelectric element includes a disc portion and a projection extending downward from the disc portion. The upper plate portion includes a first hole in which the first lens is positioned, a second hole separated from the first hole, and a third hole separated from the first and second holes. At least a portion of the protrusion is positioned in the second hole, The first column penetrates the second hole, The second hole includes a first projection located at the upper end of the second hole and a second projection located at the lower end of the second hole. The first projection does not overlap with the second projection in a direction parallel to the optical axis direction. The first projection includes a plurality of first projections spaced equally apart along the circumferential direction of the second hole, The second projection includes a plurality of second projections spaced equally apart along the circumferential direction of the second hole, The first buffer member is a camera module positioned between the first projection of the second hole and the second projection of the second hole.

2. The first magnetic scale is positioned on the first lens barrel, The camera module according to claim 1, comprising a first sensor disposed in the housing for sensing the first magnetic scale.

3. Each of the first lens, the second lens, and the third lens includes a plurality of lenses, The camera module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first lens is fixed and the second and third lenses are individually movable.

4. The second lens and the third lens move in the direction of the optical axis, The camera module according to claim 3, wherein the distance the second lens can move is greater than the distance the third lens can move.

5. The camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first lens barrel is coupled to the first piezo motor via a first elastic member.

6. The camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first lens barrel includes a first barrel portion for housing the second lens and a first guide portion extending outward from the first barrel portion and coupled to the first piezo motor.

7. The camera module according to claim 6, wherein the first piezo motor includes a first column extending from the first piezoelectric element in the direction of the optical axis.

8. The camera module according to claim 7, further comprising a first elastic member disposed between the first guide portion of the first lens barrel and the first column of the first piezo motor.

9. The camera module according to claim 8, further comprising a first buffer member and a second buffer member disposed on the first column of the first piezo motor.

10. The second piezoelectric motor includes a second piezoelectric element disposed on the upper plate portion of the housing, and a second column extending from the second piezoelectric element in the direction of the optical axis. The camera module according to claim 7, wherein the second column of the second piezo motor is arranged on opposite sides of the first column of the first piezo motor with respect to the optical axis.

11. The first pin is arranged within the housing parallel to the first column, The camera module according to claim 10, wherein the first lens barrel moves along the first pin.

12. A second pin is positioned within the housing parallel to the second column. The camera module according to claim 11, wherein the first pin is positioned closer to the first piezo motor than the second pin, and the second pin is positioned closer to the second piezo motor than the first pin.

13. The housing includes a substrate that is placed on the side plate portion, The substrate includes a first portion positioned on the first piezoelectric element of the first piezo motor and a second portion positioned below the first piezoelectric element of the first piezo motor. The camera module according to claim 7, wherein the first portion of the substrate does not overlap with the second portion of the substrate in the direction of the optical axis.

14. The camera module according to claim 6, wherein at least a portion of the first guide portion overlaps with the second guide portion in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis in an initial state where no current is applied.

15. The camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the second lens performs a zooming function and the third lens performs an autofocus function.

Images