Optical system and camera module including the same

Abstract

A camera module according to an embodiment includes a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens arranged along an optical axis from the object side to the light source side, wherein the first lens has a negative refractive power, the second lens and the third lens have a positive refractive power, the first lens has a meniscus shape convex toward the object side, and an aperture is not arranged between the object and the first lens, between the first and second lenses, between the second and third lenses, or between the third lens and the light source, and the following mathematical formula can be satisfied. DH / TTL > 0.21 (DH is half the diagonal length (D) of the light source, and TTL is the distance from the object side surface of the first lens to the top surface of the light source along the optical axis.)

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The embodiment relates to an optical system and a camera module including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Camera modules perform the function of capturing objects and saving them as images or videos, and are installed in various applications. In particular, camera modules are manufactured in ultra-compact sizes and are applied not only to portable devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and laptops, but also to drones and vehicles, providing a wide range of functions.

[0003] Recently, the demand and supply for 3D content have been increasing. Accordingly, various technologies capable of perceiving 3D content by obtaining depth information using cameras are being researched and developed. For example, technologies capable of obtaining depth information include technologies using stereo cameras, technologies using structured light cameras, technologies using DFD (Depth from defocus) cameras, and technologies using TOF (Time of flight) camera modules.

[0004] First, the technology using stereo cameras is a technique that generates depth information by utilizing differences in distance, spacing, etc., arising from the left-right parallax of images received through multiple cameras, such as cameras positioned on the left and right.

[0005] In addition, technology using structured light cameras is a technique that generates depth information by utilizing light sources arranged to form a set pattern, while technology using DFD (Depth from defocus) cameras is a technique that generates depth information by utilizing multiple images with different focal points captured in the same scene, based on the blurring of focus.

[0006] Furthermore, a Time of Flight (TOF) camera is a technology that generates depth information by calculating the distance to an object through measuring the time it takes for light emitted from a light source toward the object to reflect off it and return to the sensor. Such TOF cameras have recently been attracting attention due to their advantage of being able to acquire depth information in real time.

[0007] However, TOF cameras pose safety risks due to the use of light in relatively high wavelength bands. Specifically, the light used in TOF cameras generally falls within the infrared wavelength range, and there is a concern that if this light strikes sensitive areas of the human body, such as the eyes or skin, it can cause various injuries and diseases.

[0008] Furthermore, as the distance between the TOF camera and the object increases, the light energy per unit area reaching the object decreases, which can consequently reduce the light energy reflected back from the object. Consequently, there is a problem in that the accuracy of depth information regarding the object decreases.

[0009] In addition, as mentioned above, when an object is located at a distance, stronger light may be emitted toward the object to improve the accuracy of the object's depth information. However, this may cause issues regarding increased camera power consumption and safety concerns.

[0010] Additionally, the light source of the TOF camera includes a light-emitting element having multiple emitters, and the light-emitting element can provide output light toward an object located in front. At this time, light loss may occur during the process of light emitted from the light-emitting element being emitted from the TOF camera. For example, light emitted from the light-emitting element may be unnecessarily lost in the central and / or peripheral fields due to configurations such as multiple lenses and apertures. Accordingly, the light provided to the central and peripheral fields of the Field of Illumination (FOI) area formed by the output light may not be uniform. As a result, when an object is located in the central or peripheral area, the accuracy of the object's depth information may be reduced.

[0011] Therefore, a new camera capable of solving the aforementioned problem is required. The problem to be solved

[0012] The embodiment aims to provide an optical system capable of minimizing light loss and a camera module including the same.

[0013] In addition, the embodiment aims to provide an optical system capable of improving the accuracy of depth information about an object and a camera module including the same.

[0014] In addition, the embodiment aims to provide an optical system having a simple structure and enhanced optical properties, and a camera module including the same. means of solving the problem

[0015] A camera module according to an embodiment includes a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens arranged along an optical axis from the object side to the light source side, wherein the first lens has a negative refractive power, the second lens and the third lens have a positive refractive power, the first lens has a meniscus shape convex toward the object side, and an aperture is not arranged between the object and the first lens, between the first and second lenses, between the second and third lenses, or between the third lens and the light source, and the following mathematical formula can be satisfied.

[0016] D H / TTL > 0.21

[0017] (D H is 1 / 2 of the diagonal length (D) of the light source, and TTL is the distance from the object side surface of the first lens to the top surface of the light source along the optical axis.)

[0018] Additionally, the light source is positioned facing the third lens and includes a plurality of emitters for light emission, the plurality of emitters including a first emitter positioned in the central region of the light source and a second emitter positioned in the peripheral region of the light source, and the divergence angles of the light emitted from the first and second emitters may be the same.

[0019] In addition, the second lens may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the light source.

[0020] In addition, the third lens may have a convex shape on both the object side and the light source side.

[0021] In addition, the size of the effective aperture (CA; Clear Aperture) of the third lens may be larger than the size of the effective aperture of the first lens.

[0022] In addition, the above optical system can satisfy the following mathematical formula.

[0023]

[0024] (θ is an angle that is half the divergence angle of the above light source. Also, θ R2 represents the angle with respect to the upper meridional ray of the above light source (+Y vignetting value), and θ R3 represents the angle with respect to the lower meridional ray of the above light source (vignetting value of -Y). Also, θ R4 represents the angle (+X vignetting value) with respect to the +X sagittal ray of the above light source, and θ R5 represents the angle (-X vignetting value) for the -X sagittal ray of the above light source.

[0025] In addition, the Chief Ray Angle (CRA) of the above optical system may be less than 3 degrees.

[0026] In addition, the first to third lenses may satisfy the following mathematical formula.

[0027] |f1| > |f3| > |f2|

[0028] (f1 is the focal length of the first lens, f2 is the focal length of the second lens, and f3 is the focal length of the third lens.)

[0029] In addition, the first to third lenses may satisfy the following mathematical formula.

[0030] 0.4 < L1_CT < L3_CT < L2_CT > 0.75

[0031] (L1_CT is the center thickness of the first lens at the optical axis, L2_CT is the center thickness of the second lens at the optical axis, and L3_CT is the center thickness of the third lens at the optical axis.)

[0032] Additionally, the camera module according to the embodiment includes a light-receiving unit comprising a light-emitting unit and an image sensor, the light-emitting unit includes a light source and a first lens unit disposed on the light source and comprising a plurality of lenses, the first lens unit includes a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens disposed along an optical axis from the object side to the light source side, the first lens has a negative refractive power, the second lens and the third lens have a positive refractive power, the first lens has a meniscus shape convex toward the object side, the light-emitting unit does not include an aperture, and can satisfy the following mathematical formula.

[0033] D H / TTL > 0.21

[0034] (D H is 1 / 2 of the diagonal length (D) of the light source, and TTL is the distance from the object side surface of the first lens to the top surface of the light source along the optical axis.)

[0035] In addition, the light-emitting part can emit output light having the shape of a dot pattern or a surface pattern.

[0036] Additionally, the light-emitting unit further includes a driving member connected to the first lens unit, and the driving member can move the first lens unit in the direction of the optical axis to control the shape of the output light emitted from the light-emitting unit into a point pattern or a surface pattern. Effects of the invention

[0037] The optical system and camera module according to the embodiment can have enhanced optical characteristics and can implement a slim optical system. Accordingly, the light-emitting part including the optical system can be implemented in a compact size and light emitted from the light source can be uniformly emitted at a set angle of view.

[0038] In addition, the light-emitting part of the optical system and camera module according to the embodiment may omit the aperture. Accordingly, the light-emitting part can be designed without considering the area of ​​the parallel beam lost due to the aperture when designing the light-emitting part. In addition, as the aperture is omitted, it is possible to prevent the central field area of ​​the light source from being formed over-specced compared to the surrounding field area, and to design the light source so that the required numerical aperture (NA) for each field (field 0 to 1) is satisfied with only a minimum amount of light.

[0039] Accordingly, the overall TTL of the optical system with the aperture omitted can be reduced, and improved optical characteristics can be achieved. In addition, since the aperture is omitted, a wider variety of designs can be applied.

[0040] In addition, the optical system and camera module according to the embodiment can effectively determine depth information about an object and have improved spatial resolution. Specifically, the embodiment can control the position of the first lens unit to provide output light corresponding to the distance to the object. For example, when the object is located at a long distance, the position of the first lens unit can be controlled to provide light with a point pattern to the object, and when the object is located at a short distance, the position of the first lens unit can be controlled to provide light with a surface pattern to the object. Accordingly, the embodiment can provide optimal light to an object located in front, thereby enabling more effective determination of depth information about the object. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0041] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of the light-emitting part and the light-receiving part in a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing one side of a light source according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a light signal generated by a light-emitting part in a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the arrangement of light-emitting parts in a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is another drawing showing the arrangement of the light-emitting part in a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the light pattern of the output light according to an embodiment. FIGS. 8 and 9 are schematic diagrams showing light emitted from a light-emitting part according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the optical system of the first lens part according to an embodiment. Figure 11 is a graph showing the aberration diagram of the optical system according to Figure 10. Figure 12 is a graph showing the geometrical MTF characteristics of the optical system according to Figure 10. FIGS. 13 and FIGS. 14 are perspective views of a mobile terminal and a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0042] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0043] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to some of the described embodiments but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of the components among the embodiments may be selectively combined or substituted.

[0044] In addition, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted in a sense that is generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. Terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in advance, may be interpreted in consideration of their meaning in the context of the relevant technology.

[0045] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. In this specification, the singular form may include the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text, and when described as "at least one of A and B and C (or more than one)," it may include one or more of all combinations that can be formed from A, B, and C.

[0046] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention. These terms are intended merely to distinguish the component from other components and are not to limit the essence, order, or sequence of the component. Furthermore, where it is stated that a component is 'connected,' 'combined,' or 'connected' to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, combined, or connected to the other component, but also cases where it is 'connected,' 'combined,' or 'connected' due to another component located between the component and the other component.

[0047] Furthermore, when described as being formed or placed "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 other components are formed or placed between the two components. Additionally, when expressed as "above or below," it may include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction relative to a single component.

[0049] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 1, a camera module (1000) according to an embodiment may include a light-emitting part (100) and a light-receiving part (300).

[0051] The light-emitting unit (100) can emit light. The light-emitting unit (100) can emit light of a set intensity in a set direction. The light-emitting unit (100) can emit light in the visible light to infrared wavelength band. The light-emitting unit (100) can form a light signal. The light-emitting unit (100) can form a light signal set by a signal applied from a control unit (not shown). The light-emitting unit (100) can generate and output an output light signal in the form of a pulse wave or a continuous wave by the applied signal. Here, the continuous wave may be in the form of a sinusoid wave or a squared wave. In addition, the light signal may refer to a light signal incident on an object. The light signal output by the light-emitting unit (100) may be an output light or an output light signal based on the camera module (1000), and the light output by the light-emitting unit (100) may be an incident light or an incident light signal based on the object.

[0052] The light-emitting unit (100) can irradiate the light signal onto the object for a predetermined exposure period (integration time). Here, the exposure period may mean one frame period. For example, if the frame rater of the camera module (1000) is 30 FPS (Frames per second), the period of one frame may be 1 / 30 second.

[0053] The light-emitting unit (100) can output a plurality of light signals having the same frequency. Additionally, the light-emitting unit (100) can output a plurality of light signals having different frequencies. For example, the light-emitting unit (100) can repeatedly output a plurality of light signals having different frequencies according to a set rule. Additionally, the light-emitting unit (100) can simultaneously output a plurality of light signals having different frequencies.

[0054] The light receiving unit (300) may be positioned adjacent to the light emitting unit (100). For example, the light receiving unit (300) may be positioned side by side with the light emitting unit (100). The light receiving unit (300) may receive light. The light receiving unit (300) may detect light reflected from the object, such as input light. Specifically, the light receiving unit (300) may detect light emitted from the light emitting unit (100) and reflected from the object. The light receiving unit (300) may detect light of a wavelength band corresponding to the light emitted by the light emitting unit (100).

[0056] The camera module (1000) may further include a control unit (not shown). The control unit may be connected to at least one of the light-emitting unit (100) and the light-receiving unit (300). The control unit may control the operation of at least one of the light-emitting unit (100) and the light-receiving unit (300). For example, the control unit may include a first control unit (not shown) that controls the light-emitting unit (100). The first control unit may control a light signal applied to the light-emitting unit (100). The first control unit may control the intensity, frequency pattern, etc., of the light signal.

[0057] Additionally, the control unit may further include a second control unit (not shown) that controls the light-emitting unit (100). Specifically, the second control unit may control at least one of the first lens unit (130) and the light source (110) of the light-emitting unit (100). For example, the second control unit may control a driving signal applied to the driving member (150). Additionally, the second control unit may control a driving signal applied to the light source (110).

[0058] The control unit can control the operation of the light-emitting unit (100) according to the size, position, shape, etc. of an object located in front of the camera module (1000). For example, the control unit can control the intensity of the emitted light, the size of the light pattern, the shape of the light pattern, etc., according to the position of the object.

[0060] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the camera module (1000) may further include a coupling part (not shown) and a connecting part (not shown).

[0061] The above-mentioned coupling portion may be connected to an optical device to be described later. The coupling portion may include a circuit board and a terminal disposed on the circuit board. For example, the terminal may be a connector for a physical or electrical connection with the optical device.

[0062] The above connection portion may be disposed between the substrate of the camera module (1000) described later and the coupling portion. The above connection portion may connect the substrate and the coupling portion. For example, the above connection portion may include a flexible PCB (FBCB) and may electrically connect the substrate and the circuit board of the coupling portion. Here, the substrate may be at least one of the first substrate of the light-emitting portion (100) and the second substrate of the light-receiving portion (300).

[0064] The above camera module (1000) may be a Time of Flight (TOF) camera that emits light toward an object and calculates depth information of the object based on the time or phase difference of the light reflected back from the object.

[0066] The light-emitting part and the light-receiving part according to the embodiment will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0067] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part in a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a diagram showing one side of a light source according to an embodiment. In addition, FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a light signal generated by a light-emitting part in a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the arrangement of a light-emitting part in a camera module according to an embodiment. In addition, FIG. 6 is another diagram showing the arrangement of a light-emitting part in a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a light pattern of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 7, the light-emitting unit (100) may be disposed on a first substrate (not shown). The first substrate may support the light-emitting unit (100). The first substrate may be electrically connected to the light-emitting unit (100). The first substrate may be a circuit board. The first substrate may include a wiring layer for supplying power to the light-emitting unit (100) and may be a printed circuit board (PCB) formed of a plurality of resin layers. For example, the first substrate may include at least one of a rigid PCB, a metal core PCB (MCPCB), a flexible PCB (FPCB), and a rigid flexible PCB (RFPCB).

[0070] Additionally, the first substrate may include glass, a synthetic resin including resin and epoxy, and may include ceramic with excellent thermal conductivity or a metal with an insulated surface. The first substrate may have a shape such as a plate or a lead frame, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, although not shown in the drawings, a Zener diode, a transformer regulator, a resistor, etc. may be further disposed on the first substrate, but is not limited thereto.

[0071] An insulating layer (not shown) or a protective layer (not shown) may be disposed on the first substrate. The insulating layer or the protective layer may be disposed on at least one of one side and the other side of the first substrate.

[0073] The above-mentioned light-emitting unit (100) may include a light source (110) and a first lens unit (130).

[0074] The light source (110) may be placed on the first substrate. The light source (110) may be electrically connected to the first substrate. The light source (110) may be physically connected to the first substrate and may come into direct contact with it.

[0075] The light source (110) may include a light-emitting element. For example, the light source (110) may include at least one light-emitting element among a light-emitting diode (LED), a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) having an emitter for light emission, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), and a laser diode (LD).

[0076] The light source (110) may include one or more light-emitting elements.

[0077] For example, the light source (110) may include a single light-emitting element. In this case, the single light-emitting element may include a plurality of emitters (111) for emitting light. Specifically, a plurality of apertures emitting light may be formed on one side of the light-emitting element, and the light formed from the light-emitting element may be emitted through the apertures. Here, the emitter (111) may be defined as the minimum unit emitting light from the light source (110) and may refer to the apertures. The plurality of emitters (111) may be arranged according to a predetermined rule, facing the lens that is closest to the light source (110) among the first lens parts (130) to be described later.

[0078] Additionally, the light source (110) may include a plurality of light-emitting elements. In this case, the plurality of light-emitting elements may be arranged along a pattern set on the first substrate. Each of the plurality of light-emitting elements may include a plurality of emitters (111) for light emission. The plurality of emitters (111) arranged in each of the plurality of light-emitting elements may be arranged according to a predetermined rule.

[0079] The light source (110) may include a plurality of channels for individually controlling a plurality of emitters and / or a plurality of light-emitting elements. Accordingly, the light source (110) can selectively drive and control a plurality of emitters and / or a plurality of light-emitting elements.

[0080] The light source (110) may have a set size. For example, the aperture of the light source (110) may have a set size, such as a diameter, for light emission. Additionally, the light source (110) may have a set diagonal length (D). Here, the diagonal length (D) of the light source (110) may refer to the diagonal length of the effective area of ​​one side of the light source (110) where the aperture is formed.

[0081] The light source (110) can emit light of a set wavelength band. Specifically, the light source (110) can emit visible light or infrared light. For example, the light source (110) can emit visible light of a wavelength band of about 380 nm to about 700 nm. In addition, the light source (110) can emit infrared light of a wavelength band of about 700 nm to about 1 mm.

[0082] The light source (110) can emit laser light. Specifically, the light-emitting element of the light source (110) can emit a plurality of laser lights from the upper surface of the light source (110) toward the first lens portion (130). The light-emitting element of the light source (110) can emit light of the same or different wavelengths. Additionally, the light-emitting element of the light source (110) can emit light of the same or different intensities.

[0084] The light source (110) can form a set light signal.

[0085] For example, referring to FIG. 4(a), the light source (110) can generate light pulses at a constant period. The light source (110) has a predetermined pulse repetition period (t modulation ) with a predetermined pulse width (t pulse It is possible to generate optical pulses having ).

[0086] Additionally, referring to FIG. 4(b), the light source (110) can group a certain number of light pulses to generate a single phase pulse. The light source (110) has a predetermined phase pulse period (t phase ) and a predetermined phase pulse width (t exposure , t illumination , t integration A phase pulse having ) can be generated. Here, one phase pulse period (t phase) can correspond to a single subframe. A subframe can be called a phase frame. Phase pulse periods can be grouped into a predetermined number. Four phase pulse periods (t phase The method of grouping ) can be called the 4-phase method. 8 periods (t phase Grouping ) can be called the 8-phase method.

[0087] Additionally, referring to FIG. 4(c), the light source (110) can group a certain number of phase pulses to generate a single frame pulse. The light source (110) has a predetermined frame pulse period (t frame ) and a predetermined frame pulse width (t phase group(sub-frame group) A frame pulse having ) can be generated. Here, one frame pulse period (t frame ) can correspond to a single frame. Therefore, when capturing an object at 10 FPS, 10 frame pulse cycles (tframes) can be repeated per second. In the 4-phase method, one frame can contain 4 subframes. That is, one frame can be generated through 4 subframes. In the 8-phase method, one frame can contain 8 subframes. That is, one frame can be generated through 8 subframes. For the purpose of explanation above, the terms optical pulse, phase pulse, and frame pulse have been used, but are not limited thereto.

[0089] The first lens portion (130) may be placed on the light source (110). The first lens portion (130) may include a plurality of lenses spaced apart from the light source (110) and a housing that accommodates the lenses.

[0090] The first lens portion (130) may include three or more lenses, for example, three lenses. The plurality of lenses may be provided with at least one material among glass and plastic, and may include the same material or some different material.

[0091] The first lens unit (130) may be positioned on the emission path of light emitted from the light source (110). Specifically, a plurality of lenses of the first lens unit (130) may be positioned on the emission path of light emitted from the light source (110). The center (optical axis) of the plurality of lenses may overlap with the optical axis of the light source (110).

[0092] The first lens unit (130) can control the path of light emitted from the light source (110). For example, the first lens unit (130) can diffuse, scatter, refract, or concentrate the light emitted from the light source (110). Additionally, the first lens unit (130) can perform a collimating function. For example, at least one of the plurality of lenses can collimate the light emitted from the light source (110). Here, collimating may mean reducing the divergence angle of the light, and ideally, it may mean causing the light to travel parallel without converging or diverging. The first lens unit (130) can concentrate the light emitted from the light source (110) into parallel light.

[0094] The first lens unit (130) can receive light emitted from the light source (110) and transform it into various shapes. For example, the first lens unit (130) can transform the light emitted from the light source (110) into a plurality of point light source shapes (Fig. 7(a)). As another example, the first lens unit (130) can transform the light emitted from the light source (110) into cross-sectional shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, or a polygon. That is, the first lens unit (130) can transform the light emitted from the light source (110) into a surface light source shape (Fig. 7(b)).

[0095] The shape of the output light may change depending on the distance between the first lens unit (130) and the light source (110). For example, when the focus of the first lens unit (130) is positioned at the light source (110), the output light may have the shape of a dot pattern. Additionally, when the focus of the first lens unit (130) is moved away from the light source (110), the output light may have the shape of a surface pattern.

[0096] The first lens unit (130) can prevent light emitted from the light source (110) from being directly irradiated onto an object. For example, the first lens unit (130) can control the light emitted from the light source (110) to prevent light from being directly irradiated onto light-sensitive areas such as human eyes, skin, etc.

[0097] In addition, the first lens portion (130) can improve the uniformity of light emitted from the light source (110). For example, the first lens portion (130) can prevent the formation of a hot spot where light is concentrated in an area corresponding to a plurality of emitters of the light source (110).

[0099] The light-emitting unit (100) may further include a first filter (170). The first filter (170) may be positioned between the light source (110) and the first lens unit (130). The first filter (170) may allow light of a set wavelength band to pass through and may filter light of a different wavelength band. Specifically, the first filter (170) may allow light of a set wavelength band among the light emitted from the light source (110) to pass through and may block light of a different wavelength band.

[0101] In addition, the light-emitting part (100) may further include a driving member (150) as shown in FIG. 6.

[0102] The driving member (150) may be disposed on the first lens portion (130). The driving member (150) may be connected to the first lens portion (130). For example, the driving member (150) may be coupled to the housing of the first lens portion (130).

[0103] The driving member (150) can move the first lens unit (130). For example, the driving member (150) can move the entire first lens unit (130) or at least one of the plurality of lenses included in the first lens unit (130). The driving member (150) can move the first lens unit (130) in the direction of the optical axis (OA) by a signal applied from the second control unit.

[0104] The driving member (150) may include at least one actuator. For example, the driving member (150) may include at least one of a VCM (Voice Coil Motor), a piezoelectric device, a shape memory alloy, or a MEMS device as the actuator. The driving member (150) may control the position of the first lens part (130) and / or at least one of the plurality of lenses using the driving force of the actuator.

[0105] The driving member (150) can control the distance between the light source (110) and the first lens unit (130). For example, the driving member (150) can move the first lens unit (130) along the optical axis (OA) on the light source (110). Additionally, the driving member (150) can move at least one of the plurality of lenses along the optical axis (OA) on the light source (110). Accordingly, the distance between the light source (110) and the first lens unit (130) can be increased or decreased, and the path of the light emitted from the light source (110) and the shape of the output light can be changed.

[0106] For example, the driving member (150) can control the distance between the light source (110) and the focal point of the collimator lens. Specifically, the driving member (150) can control the path of the emitted light, the shape and size of the light pattern, etc., by controlling the position of the focal point of the collimator lens to move from a reference position. The driving member (150) can control the apparent source size of the light pattern by controlling the position of the collimator lens.

[0107] In detail, at least one point pattern of light or a surface pattern of light can be irradiated onto an object located in front of the camera module (1000) according to the distance between the light source (110) and the focal point of the collimator lens.

[0108] The size of the dot pattern may change depending on the distance between the light source (110) and the focal point of the collimator lens. For example, as the light source (110) and the focal point of the collimator lens get closer, the size of the dot pattern may become smaller. At this time, when the light source (110) is located on the focal side of the collimator lens, the intensity of the dot pattern, specifically the intensity of the light, may be the greatest.

[0109] Additionally, as the focal point of the light source (110) and the collimator lens becomes further apart, the size of the dot pattern may increase. At this time, as the focal point of the light source (110) and the collimator lens becomes further apart, the size of the dot pattern may increase further, and multiple adjacent dot patterns may overlap. Furthermore, if the focal point of the light source (110) and the collimator lens becomes further apart, the size of the dot pattern may increase further, and the area where the multiple dot patterns overlap may increase, allowing it to be adjusted into surface illumination, which is light of a surface pattern.

[0110] Here, light having a dot pattern may refer to light that is irradiated in the form of multiple dots in an area set as in FIG. 7(a), and light having a flood pattern may refer to light of surface illumination that is irradiated entirely in an area set as in FIG. 7(b).

[0111] Additionally, the driving member (150) may be omitted as shown in FIG. 5. In this case, the distance between the light source (110) and the first lens part (130) may be fixed. For example, the distance between the light source (100) and the focal point of the collimator lens may be fixed. Specifically, the light source (100) may be positioned at the focal point of the collimator lens.

[0113] Referring again to FIG. 2, the light receiving unit (300) is disposed on a second substrate and may include an image sensor (310) and a second lens unit (330).

[0114] The second substrate may support the light receiving unit (300). The second substrate may be electrically connected to the light receiving unit (300). The second substrate may be a circuit board. The second substrate may include a wiring layer for supplying power to the light emitting unit (100) and may be a printed circuit board (PCB) formed of a plurality of resin layers. For example, the second substrate may include at least one of a rigid PCB, a metal core PCB (MCPCB), a flexible PCB (FPCB), and a rigid flexible PCB (RFPCB).

[0115] Additionally, the second substrate may include glass, a synthetic resin including resin and epoxy, and may include ceramic with excellent thermal conductivity or a metal with an insulated surface. The second substrate may have a shape such as a plate or a lead frame, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, although not shown in the drawings, a Zener diode, a transformer regulator, a resistor, etc. may be further disposed on the second substrate, but is not limited thereto.

[0116] An insulating layer (not shown) or a protective layer (not shown) may be disposed on the second substrate. The insulating layer or the protective layer may be disposed on at least one of one side and the other side of the second substrate.

[0118] The image sensor (310) may be placed on the second substrate. The image sensor (310) may be in direct contact with the upper surface of the second substrate and may be electrically connected to the second substrate. The image sensor (310) may be electrically connected to the second substrate.

[0119] The image sensor (310) can detect light. The image sensor (310) can detect light that is reflected from an object and incident on the camera module (1000). Specifically, the image sensor (310) can detect reflected light that is emitted from the light-emitting unit (100), reflected from the object, and incident. The image sensor (310) can detect light of a wavelength corresponding to the light emitted from the light source (110). For example, the image sensor (310) may include an infrared sensor capable of detecting infrared rays (IR) emitted from the light source (110). The image sensor (310) can detect light incident through the second lens unit (330) to be described later. The image sensor (310) can detect light emitted from the light source (110) and reflected from the object, and can detect depth information of the object using time or phase difference.

[0120] The image sensor (310) may be positioned in a different direction from the light source (110). For example, the optical axis of the image sensor (310) and the optical axis (OA) of the light source (110) may be in different directions. Specifically, the optical axis of the image sensor (310) and the optical axis (OA) of the light source (110) may be perpendicular.

[0122] The second lens portion (330) may be placed on the image sensor (310). The second lens portion (330) may be spaced apart from the image sensor (310) and may include at least one lens and a housing that accommodates the lens. The lens may include at least one of glass and plastic.

[0123] The second lens unit (330) may be positioned on the light path incident on the light receiving unit (300). The second lens unit (330) may allow light emitted from the light source (110) and reflected from the object to pass in the direction of the image sensor (310). To this end, the optical axis of the second lens unit (330) may correspond to the optical axis of the image sensor (310).

[0125] The light receiving unit (300) may include a second filter (not shown). The second filter may be placed between the object and the image sensor (310). For example, the second filter may be placed between the image sensor (310) and the second lens unit (330).

[0126] The second filter above can pass light of a set wavelength band and filter light of a different wavelength band. Specifically, the second filter can pass light of a wavelength corresponding to the light source (110) among the light incident on the light receiving unit (300) through the second lens unit (330), and can block light of a wavelength band different from the light source (110).

[0128] FIGS. 8 and 9 are schematic diagrams showing light emitted from a light-emitting part according to an embodiment.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the light source (110) according to the embodiment may have a set divergence angle. For example, the divergence angle of the light source (110) may be about 30 degrees or less. In detail, the divergence angle of the light source (110) may be about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees. More specifically, the divergence angle of the light emitted through the aperture may be about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees.

[0130] At this time, the divergence angle of the light source (110) can satisfy the following mathematical formula 1.

[0132] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0133]

[0135] In mathematical formula 1, θ is an angle that is half the divergence angle of the light source (110). Also, θ R2 represents the angle (+Y vignetting value) with respect to the upper meridional ray of the light source (110), and θ R3 represents the angle (-Y vignetting value) with respect to the lower meridional ray of the light source (110). Also, θ R4 represents the angle (+X vignetting value) for the +X sagittal ray of the light source (110), and θ R5 represents the angle (-X vignetting value) for the -X sagittal ray of the light source (110).

[0137] Specifically, the above [Equation 1] may be as follows to prevent or minimize light loss in the surrounding field.

[0139] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0140]

[0142] In addition, when the design light quantity of the optical system of the first lens part (130) is defined as the numerical aperture (NA), the light quantity per field (NA ave ) can satisfy the following mathematical formula 2.

[0144] [Mathematical Formula 2]

[0145]

[0146]

[0148] In mathematical formula 2, n represents the refractive index, and θ is an angle that is half the divergence angle of the light source. Also, θ R2 represents the angle with respect to the upper meridional ray (+Y vignetting value), and θ R3 represents the angle with respect to the lower meridional ray (the vignetting value of -Y). Also, θ R4 represents the angle (+X vignetting value) for the +X sagittal ray, and θ R5 -X represents the angle for the sagittal ray (-X vignetting value).

[0150] Additionally, the light source (110) may include a first emitter positioned in the central region (CA) of the light source (110) and a second emitter positioned in the peripheral region (EA) of the light source (110). In this case, the divergence angles of the light emitted from the first and second emitters may be the same.

[0152] Additionally, the first lens portion (130) of the light-emitting portion (100) may have an effective focal length (EFL). For example, the effective focal length (EFL) of the first lens portion (130) may be approximately 340 µm to approximately 1050 µm. More specifically, the effective focal length (EFL) of the first lens portion (130) may be approximately 600 µm to approximately 1000 µm. The first lens portion (130) may have a fixed effective focal length within the above-described range.

[0153] The light-emitting unit (100) may have a field of view (FOI; Field Of Illumination) set by the first lens unit (130). For example, light emitted from the light source (110) may pass through the first lens unit (130) to have a set FOI angle. Specifically, the first lens unit (130) may control the path of parallel light passing through the collimating lens so that the output light has a set field of view. The FOI angle of the output light may be about 120 degrees or less. Specifically, the FOI angle of the output light may be about 90 degrees or less. The FOI angle of the output light may be about 60 degrees to about 90 degrees.

[0154] The first lens unit (130) may have a set Chief Ray Angle (CRA). For example, the CRA of the first lens unit (130) may be less than about 5 degrees. Specifically, the CRA of the first lens unit (130) may be less than about 3 degrees. Here, the CRA can be defined by the following Equation 3.

[0156] [Mathematical Formula 3]

[0157]

[0159] θ in mathematical equation 3 R2represents the angle (+Y vignetting value) with respect to the upper meridional ray of the light source (110), and θ R3 represents the angle (-Y vignetting value) for the lower meridional ray of the light source (110).

[0161] The first lens part (130) of the light-emitting part (100) according to the embodiment may omit the aperture.

[0162] Specifically, the conventional first lens unit (130) includes an aperture capable of controlling light emitted from the light source (110), and there is a problem in that the numerical aperture (NA) of the central field (0 field area) and the peripheral field (1 field area) of the light source (110) are different due to the aperture.

[0163] For example, when designing the light-emitting unit (100), the design is carried out based on the criterion that a parallel beam is incident on the first lens unit (130) from the outside and an image is formed on the light source (110).

[0164] At this time, if the first lens part (130) includes an aperture, the area of ​​the parallel light can change according to the angle of the incident parallel beam by the aperture. As a result, the numerical aperture (NA) value of the light formed at the center (center field, 0 field area) of the light source (110) has a structure in which it is larger than the numerical aperture (NA) of the light formed at the periphery (periphery field, 1 field area) of the light source (110).

[0165] Therefore, in the conventional case, the design was carried out to satisfy the peripheral field characteristics of the light source (110), such as the set specifications (numerical aperture (NA)) of the peripheral field, and as a result, it was inevitable that the numerical aperture (NA) of the central field of the light source (110) was designed to be over-specced.

[0166] In addition, as the first lens part (130) of the light-emitting part (100) includes an aperture, there was a problem in that the total track length (TTL) of the first lens part (130) was increased.

[0168] However, as described above, the aperture may be omitted in the embodiment. Specifically, an aperture may not be placed between the object and the first lens (131), between the first lens (131) and the second lens (132), between the second lens (132) and the third lens (133), or between the third lens (133) and the light source (110).

[0169] Accordingly, parallel light incident on the first lens portion (130) of the light-emitting portion (100) can be formed into an image without passing through the aperture. In this case, the embodiment omits the aperture, so there is no need to consider the area of ​​the parallel beam that is lost by the aperture.

[0170] That is, since the aperture is omitted in the embodiment, it is possible to prevent the central field area from being formed in an over-spec as in the conventional method, and to design the light source (110) so that the required numerical aperture (NA) for each field (0 to 1 field) is satisfied with only a minimum amount of light.

[0171] Accordingly, the embodiment can reduce the total TTL of the first lens part (130) and have improved optical characteristics. In addition, since the aperture is omitted, there is an effect of allowing for a wider variety of designs.

[0173] Hereinafter, the optical system for the first lens part (130) according to the embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12.

[0174] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the optical system of the first lens unit according to an embodiment, and FIG. 11 is a graph showing the aberration diagram of the optical system according to FIG. 10. In addition, FIG. 12 is a graph showing the geometrical MTF characteristics of the optical system according to FIG. 10.

[0175] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 12, the first lens portion (130) according to the embodiment may include a plurality of lenses disposed on the light source (110).

[0176] The first lens unit (130) may include a first lens (131), a second lens (132), and a third lens (133) arranged sequentially from the object side toward the light source (110). The first lens (131), the second lens (132), and the third lens (133) may be arranged sequentially along the optical axis (OA) of the light source (110). That is, the first lens (131) may be the lens located at the farthest distance from the light source (110). Additionally, the third lens (133) may be the lens located at the closest distance to the light source (110).

[0177] The light emitted from the light source (110) can pass through the third lens (133), the second lens (132), and the first lens (131) sequentially and be emitted toward an object.

[0179] Each of the plurality of lenses may include an effective region and a non-effective region. The effective region may be a region through which light incident on each of the first to third lenses (131, 132, 133) passes. That is, the effective region may be a region where the incident light is refracted to realize optical characteristics.

[0180] The above-mentioned ineffective region may be positioned around the above-mentioned effective region. The above-mentioned ineffective region may be an area where the light is not incident. That is, the above-mentioned ineffective region may be an area unrelated to the above-mentioned optical characteristics. Additionally, the above-mentioned ineffective region may be an area fixed to a barrel (not shown), etc., that accommodates the lens.

[0182] A first filter (170) may be disposed between the plurality of lenses (131, 132, 133) and the light source (110). The first filter (170) may be disposed between the third lens (133) and the light source (110). The first filter (170) can pass light of a set wavelength band and filter light of a different wavelength band. Specifically, the first filter (170) can pass light of a set wavelength band among the light emitted from the light source (110) and block light of a different wavelength band.

[0184] Additionally, the first lens unit (130) may not include a separate aperture as described above. That is, the first lens unit (130) may omit an aperture positioned between the first lens (131) and an object, between the plurality of lenses (131, 132, 133), or between the third lens (133) and the light source (110).

[0186] The following describes the multiple lenses in more detail.

[0187] The first lens (131) may have a positive (+) or negative (-) refractive power. Specifically, the first lens (131) may have a negative (-) refractive power. The first lens (131) may include plastic or glass materials. For example, the first lens (131) may be provided with a plastic material.

[0188] The first lens (131) may include a first surface (S1) defined as the object side surface and a second surface (S2) defined as the light source (110) side surface. The first surface (S1) of the first lens (131) may be convex and the second surface (S2) may be concave. That is, the first lens (131) may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the object side. Alternatively, the first surface (S1) of the first lens (131) may be concave and the second surface (S2) may be concave. That is, the first lens (131) may have a shape where both surfaces are concave. Alternatively, the first surface (S1) of the first lens (131) may be concave and the second surface (S2) may be convex. That is, the first lens (131) may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the light side. In addition, the first surface (S1) of the first lens (131) may be convex and the second surface (S2) may be convex. That is, the first lens (131) may have a shape in which both surfaces are convex.

[0189] At least one of the first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) may be an aspherical surface. For example, both the first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) may be aspherical surfaces.

[0191] The second lens (132) may have a positive (+) or negative (-) refractive power. Specifically, the second lens (132) may have a positive (+) refractive power. The second lens (132) may include plastic or glass materials. For example, the second lens (132) may be provided with a plastic material.

[0192] The second lens (132) may include a third surface (S3) defined as the object side surface and a fourth surface (S4) defined as the light source (110) side surface. The third surface (S3) may be convex, and the fourth surface (S4) may be concave. That is, the second lens (132) may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the object side. Alternatively, the third surface (S3) may be convex, and the fourth surface (S4) may be convex. That is, the second lens (132) may have a shape that is convex on both sides. Alternatively, the third surface (S3) may be concave, and the fourth surface (S4) may be convex. That is, the second lens (132) may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the light source (110) side. Alternatively, the third surface (S3) may be concave, and the fourth surface (S4) may be concave. That is, the second lens (132) may have a shape where both sides are concave.

[0193] At least one of the third surface (S3) and the fourth surface (S4) may be an aspherical surface. For example, both the third surface (S3) and the fourth surface (S4) may be aspherical surfaces.

[0195] The third lens (133) may have a positive (+) or negative (-) refractive power. Specifically, the third lens (133) may have a positive (+) refractive power. The third lens (133) may include plastic or glass materials. For example, the third lens (133) may be provided with a plastic material.

[0196] The third lens (133) may include a fifth surface (S5) defined as the object side surface and a sixth surface (S6) defined as the light source (110) side surface. The fifth surface (S5) may be convex, and the fifth surface (S5) may be concave. That is, the third lens (133) may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the object side. Alternatively, the fifth surface (S5) may be convex, and the sixth surface (S6) may be convex. That is, the third lens (133) may have a shape that is convex on both sides. Alternatively, the fifth surface (S5) may be concave, and the sixth surface (S6) may be convex. That is, the third lens (133) may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the light source (110) side. Alternatively, the fifth surface (S5) may be concave, and the sixth surface (S6) may be concave. That is, the third lens (133) may have a shape where both sides are concave.

[0197] At least one of the fifth surface (S5) and the sixth surface (S6) may be an aspherical surface. For example, both the fifth surface (S5) and the sixth surface (S6) may be aspherical surfaces.

[0199] The first to third lenses (131, 132, 133) may have a set effective aperture size (CA; Clear Aperture).

[0200] For example, the effective aperture size of the third lens (133) may be larger than the effective aperture size of the first lens (131). Specifically, the effective aperture size of the object side (fifth surface (S5)) and the light source (110) side (sixth surface (S6)) of the third lens (133) may be larger than the effective aperture size of the object side (first surface (S1)) and the light source (110) side (second surface (S2)) of the first lens (131).

[0201] Additionally, the size of the effective aperture of the first lens (131) may be larger than the size of the effective aperture of the second lens (132). Specifically, the size of the effective aperture of the object side surface (first surface (S1)) of the first lens (131) may be larger than the size of the effective aperture of the object side surface (third surface (S3)) and the light source (110) side surface (fourth surface (S4)) of the second lens (132). Additionally, the size of the effective aperture of the light source (110) side surface (second surface (S2)) of the first lens (131) may be the smallest among the sizes of the effective apertures of the first to sixth surfaces (S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6).

[0203] The light source (110) and the first lens unit (130) according to the embodiment may satisfy at least one of the mathematical formulas described below. Accordingly, the embodiment may reduce the total track length (TTL) of the first lens unit (130) and satisfy the numerical aperture (NA) required for each field (field 0 to 1) of the light source (110).

[0205] [Mathematical Formula 4]

[0206] D H / TTL > 0.21

[0207] D in mathematical equation 4 H is half the diagonal length (D) of the light source (110), and TTL is the distance in the direction of the optical axis (OA) from the vertex of the object side surface (first surface (S1)) of the first lens (131) to the upper surface of the light source (110).

[0209] [Mathematical Formula 5]

[0210] |f1| > |f3| > |f2|

[0211] In mathematical formula 5, f1 is the focal length of the first lens, f2 is the focal length of the second lens, and f3 is the focal length of the third lens.

[0213] [Mathematical Formula 6]

[0214] 0.4 < L1_CT < L3_CT < L2_CT < 0.75

[0215] In mathematical formula 6, L1_CT is the center thickness (mm) at the optical axis (OA) of the first lens (131), L2_CT is the center thickness (mm) at the optical axis (OA) of the second lens (132), and L3_CT is the center thickness (mm) at the optical axis (OA) of the third lens (133).

[0217] [Mathematical Formula 7]

[0218] 1 < d12 / d23 < 1.15

[0219] In mathematical formula 7, d12 is the distance (mm) between the first lens (131) and the second lens (132) on the optical axis (OA), and d23 is the distance (mm) between the second lens (132) and the third lens (133) on the optical axis (OA).

[0221] [Mathematical Formula 8]

[0222] 0.7 < d12 / L1_CT < 1

[0223] In mathematical formula 8, d12 is the distance (mm) between the first lens (131) and the second lens (132) on the optical axis (OA), and L1_CT is the center thickness (mm) of the first lens (131) on the optical axis (OA).

[0225] [Mathematical Formula 9]

[0226] 0.5 < d12 / L2_CT < 0.8

[0227] In mathematical formula 9, d12 is the distance (mm) between the first lens (131) and the second lens (132) on the optical axis (OA), and L2_CT is the center thickness (mm) of the second lens (132) on the optical axis (OA).

[0229] [Mathematical Formula 10]

[0230] | L3_R1 / L3_R2| < | L1_R1 / L1_R2| < | L2_R1 / L2_R2|

[0231] In mathematical formula 10, L1_R1 is the radius of curvature (mm) of the object side surface (first surface (S1)) of the first lens (131), and L1_R2 is the radius of curvature of the light side surface (second surface (S2)) of the first lens (131).

[0232] Additionally, L2_R1 is the radius of curvature (mm) of the object side surface (third surface (S3)) of the second lens (132), and L2_R2 is the radius of curvature of the light side surface (fourth surface (S4)) of the second lens (132).

[0233] Additionally, L3_R1 is the radius of curvature (mm) of the object side surface (fifth surface (S5)) of the third lens (133), and L3_R2 is the radius of curvature of the light side surface (sixth surface (S6)) of the third lens (133).

[0235] [Mathematical Formula 11]

[0236] 0.34 < EFL < 1.05

[0237] In mathematical formula 11, EFL (Effective focal length) is the effective focal length (mm) of the first lens part (130).

[0239] [Mathematical Formula 12]

[0240] TTL < 4

[0241] In mathematical formula 12, TTL (Total track length) is the distance in the direction of the optical axis (OA) from the vertex of the object side surface (first surface (S1)) of the first lens (131) to the upper surface of the light source (110).

[0243] [Mathematical Formula 13]

[0244] 0.5 < BFL < 1

[0245] In mathematical formula 13, BFL (Back focal length) is the distance along the optical axis (OA) from the vertex of the light source side of the third lens (133) closest to the light source (110) to the upper surface of the light source (110).

[0247] [Mathematical Formula 14]

[0248] 60 ≤ FOI ≤ 120

[0249] In mathematical formula 14, FOI (Field Of Illumination) may represent the angle (degree) of the output light emitted from the light source (110) and passed through the first lens part (130).

[0251] [Mathematical Formula 15]

[0252] 0.95 < D H / BFL < 1.25

[0253] D in mathematical equation 15 H is half the diagonal length (D) of the light source (110), and BFL (Back focal length) is the distance from the vertex of the light source side of the third lens (133) closest to the light source (110) to the upper surface of the light source (110) along the optical axis (OA).

[0255] [Mathematical Formula 16]

[0256] 4 < TTL / BFL < 5

[0257] In mathematical formula 16, TTL (Total track length) is the distance along the optical axis (OA) from the vertex of the object side surface (first surface (S1)) of the first lens (131) to the upper surface of the light source (110), and BFL (Back focal length) is the distance along the optical axis (OA) from the vertex of the light source side surface of the third lens (133) closest to the light source (110) to the upper surface of the light source (110).

[0259] [Mathematical Formula 17]

[0260] 0.2 < EFL / TTL < 0.3

[0261] In mathematical formula 17, EFL (Effective focal length) is the effective focal length (mm) of the first lens part (130), and TTL (Total track length) is the distance in the direction of the optical axis (OA) from the vertex of the object side surface (first surface (S1)) of the first lens (131) to the upper surface of the light source (110).

[0263] [Mathematical Formula 18]

[0264] 0.95 < EFL / BFL < 1.3

[0265] In mathematical formula 18, EFL (Effective focal length) is the effective focal length (mm) of the first lens part (130), and BFL (Back focal length) is the distance along the optical axis (OA) from the vertex of the light source side of the third lens (133) closest to the light source (110) to the upper surface of the light source (110).

[0267] lens noodle Radius of curvature (R, mm) Thickness or gap (mm) Refractive index Abesu Effective radius (mm) First lens Page 1 2.55 0.5126 1.635 20.37 0.7279 Page 2 0.907 0.4481 0.3553 Second lens Page 3 -2.609 0.6674 1.635 20.37 0.4879 Page 4 -0.719 0.4158 0.6609 Third lens Page 5 1.315 0.606 1.635 20.37 0.911 Page 6 -5.905 0.2407 0.9937 filter infinity 0.21 1.514 54.48 infinity 0.2493 light source 0

[0269] Table 1 is for the radius of curvature, thickness of each lens, distance between each lens, refractive index, Abbe's number, and semi-aperture of the first to third lenses (131, 132, 133) according to the embodiment. Specifically, Table 1 is for data when the output light of the light-emitting unit (100) has the form of a dot pattern (Fig. 7(a)).

[0271] Referring to FIG. 1 and Table 1, the first lens (131) may have a negative (-) refractive power. The first surface (S1) of the first lens (131) may be convex, and the second surface (S2) may be concave. The first lens (131) may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the object.

[0272] The second lens (132) may have a positive (+) refractive power. The third surface (S3) of the second lens (132) may be concave, and the fourth surface (S4) may be convex. The second lens (132) may have a meniscus shape that is convex toward the light source (110). The third surface (S3) may be aspherical, and the fourth surface (S4) may be aspherical.

[0273] The third lens (133) may have a positive (+) refractive power. The fifth surface (S5) of the third lens (133) may be convex, and the sixth surface (S6) may be convex. The third lens (133) may have a shape where both sides are convex. The fifth surface (S5) may be aspherical, and the sixth surface (S6) may be aspherical.

[0274] Additionally, the optical system (1000) may not include an aperture. That is, an aperture may not be placed between the object and the first lens (131), between the first and second lenses (131, 132), between the second and third lenses (132, 133), and between the third lens (133) and the light source (110).

[0276] The values ​​of the aspherical coefficients of each lens surface in the first lens part (130) according to the embodiment are as shown in Table 2 below.

[0278] Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 K 9.8519 -18.462 -2.0868 -0.0912 -3.7463 -89.7083 A 8.05E-01 6.53E+00 -9.13E-01 -3.79E-01 2.95E-03 6.26E-01 B -2.62E+00 -8.73E+01 -1.39E+00 -1.68E+00 -1.05E+00 -3.05E+00 C 1.17E+01 2.45E+03 1.59E+01 3.36E+01 3.04E+00 5.65E+00 D -3.89E+01 -5.97E+04 7.56E+01 -3.77E+02 -1.38E+01 -7.34E+00 E 9.05E+01 1.06E+06 -1.22E+03 2.51E+03 4.77E+01 9.99E+00 F -1.24E+02 -1.23E+07 5.54E+03 -1.01E+04 -8.83E+01 -1.20E+01 G 6.24E+01 8.74E+07 -5.62E+03 2.44E+04 8.77E+01 8.99E+00 H 5.64E+01 -3.46E+08 -2.08E+04 -3.24E+04 -4.39E+01 -3.51E+00 J -6.70E+01 5.81E+08 4.04E+04 1.83E+04 8.37E+00 5.44E-01

[0280] Examples D 1.65 mm D H 0.825mm f1 -2.5217 mm f2 1.3739 mm f3 1.7506 mm EFL 0.8488 mm TTL 3.3499 BFL 0.7 mm FOI 80 degrees

[0282] mathematical formula Examples Mathematical formula 4 D H / TTL > 0.21 0.2463 Mathematical formula 5 |f1| > |f3| > |f2| content Mathematical formula 6 0.4 < L1_CT < L3_CT < L2_CT < 0.75 content Mathematical formula 7 1 < d12 / d23 < 1.15 1.0777 Mathematical formula 8 0.7 < d12 / L1_CT < 1 0.8742 Mathematical formula 9 0.5 < d12 / L2_CT < 0.8 0.6714 Mathematical formula 10 | L3_R1 / L3_R2| < | L1_R1 / L1_R2| < | L2_R1 / L2_R2| content Mathematical formula 11 0.34 < EFL < 1.05 0.8488 Mathematical formula 12 TTL < 4 3.3499 Mathematical formula 13 0.5 < BFL < 1 0.7 Mathematical formula 14 60 ≤ FOI ≤ 120 80 Mathematical formula 15 0.95 < DH / BFL < 1.25 1.1786 Mathematical formula 16 4 < TTL / BFL < 5 4.7856 Mathematical formula 17 0.2 < EFL / TTL < 0.3 0.2534 Mathematical formula 18 0.95 < EFL / BFL < 1.3 1.2126

[0284] Table 3 is for items of the mathematical formulas described above in the first lens unit (130) according to the embodiment, and is for the diagonal length (D) of the light source (110), the TTL (Total track length), BFL (Back focal length), and EFL value of the first lens unit (130), and the focal lengths (f1, f2, f3) of each of the first to third lenses (131, 132, 133).

[0285] In addition, Table 4 is for the result values ​​of the mathematical formulas 4 to 18 described above in the first lens part (130) according to the embodiment.

[0286] Referring to Table 4, it can be seen that the first lens part (130) according to the embodiment satisfies at least one of Equations 4 to 18. Specifically, it can be seen that the first lens part (130) according to the embodiment satisfies all of Equations 4 to 18.

[0288] Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, the light-emitting unit (100) may be provided with a driving member (150) so that the first lens unit (130) can move in the direction of the optical axis (OA). In this case, the output light of the light-emitting unit (100) may have a surface pattern shape (Fig. 7(b)).

[0289] Specifically, the driving member (150) can move the first lens part (130) in the direction of the optical axis (OA) within a range of about 100 μm to about 200 μm. For example, the driving member (150) can move the first lens part (130) by 150 μm when changing from a point-shaped output light to a surface-shaped output light.

[0290] In this case, the gap (BFL) between the third lens (133) and the light source (110) can be changed from 0.7 mm to 0.85 mm, and the total TTL of the first lens unit (130) can be changed from 3.3499 mm to 3.4999 mm. Output light of a surface pattern can be provided to the object. In addition, the light-emitting unit (100) according to the embodiment can satisfy all of the above mathematical formulas 4 to 18 even when providing output light of a surface pattern.

[0292] Accordingly, the light-emitting unit (100) according to the embodiment has enhanced optical characteristics and may have aberration characteristics and geometrical MTF characteristics such as FIG. 11 and FIG. 12. Here, FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are graphs of aberration and MTF characteristics for output light of a dot pattern, where in FIG. 11 the X-axis may represent focal length (mm) and distortion (%), and the Y-axis may represent the height of the image.

[0293] That is, the light-emitting part (100) according to the embodiment can be provided with a structure that omits the aperture. Accordingly, the design can be carried out to satisfy the required numerical aperture (NA) for each field (field 0 to 1) of the light source (110) with only a minimum amount of light. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the central field area from being formed over-specced compared to the surrounding field area as in the conventional method.

[0294] In addition, the embodiment can reduce the total TTL of the first lens part (130), and as the aperture is omitted, a more diverse design for improving optical characteristics can be applied.

[0296] FIGS. 13 and FIGS. 14 are perspective views of a mobile terminal and a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0297] First, referring to FIG. 13, a camera module (1000) according to an embodiment can be applied to a mobile terminal (2000). A first camera module (10A) and a second camera module (10B) may be disposed on the rear of the mobile terminal (2000) according to an embodiment.

[0298] The first camera module (10A) described above may include a light-emitting part (100) and a light-receiving part (300) as a camera module. The first camera module (10A) may be a Time of Flight (TOF) camera.

[0299] The second camera module (10B) may include an image capture function. Additionally, the second camera module (10B) may include at least one of an auto focus, a zoom function, and an OIS function. The second camera module (10B) may process still images or video frames obtained by an image sensor in a shooting mode or a video call mode. The processed image frames may be displayed on a predetermined display unit or stored in memory. Additionally, although not shown in the drawing, a camera may also be placed on the front of the mobile terminal (2000).

[0300] A flash module (2030) may be disposed on the rear of the mobile terminal (2000). The flash module (2030) may include a light-emitting element that emits light inside. The flash module (1530) may be operated by the operation of the camera of the mobile terminal or by the control of a user.

[0301] Accordingly, the user can photograph and display an object using the mobile terminal (2000). Additionally, the user can effectively determine the depth information of the object using the first camera module (10A) and detect the depth information of the object in real time.

[0303] Additionally, referring to FIG. 14, the camera module (1000) according to the embodiment can be applied to a vehicle (3000).

[0304] A vehicle (3000) according to an embodiment may be equipped with a wheel (3210, 3230) that rotates by a power source and a predetermined sensor. The sensor may include a camera sensor (3100), and the camera sensor (3100) may be a camera sensor including the camera module (1000) described above.

[0305] A vehicle (3000) according to an embodiment can acquire image information and depth information through a camera sensor (3100) that captures a front image or a surrounding image, and can determine a situation where a lane is not identified using the image and depth information and generate a virtual lane when it is not identified.

[0306] For example, a camera sensor (3100) captures the front of a vehicle (3000) to obtain a front image, and a processor (not shown) can obtain image information by analyzing objects included in the front image.

[0307] For example, when the camera sensor (3100) captures an image of objects such as a median strip, curb, or roadside tree corresponding to a lane, adjacent vehicle, driving obstruction, and indirect road marking, the processor can detect not only image information but also depth information of these objects. That is, the embodiment can provide more specific and accurate information about the objects to the occupant of the vehicle (3000).

[0309] The features, structures, effects, etc. described in the embodiments above are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention and are not necessarily limited to only one embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures, effects, etc. exemplified in each embodiment may be combined or modified and implemented in other embodiments by a person skilled in the art to which the embodiments belong. Therefore, details regarding such combinations and modifications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention.

[0310] Furthermore, although the invention has been described above with reference to embodiments, this is merely illustrative and does not limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible within the scope of the essential characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments may be modified and implemented. Differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0312] Camera Module: 1000 Light-emitting part: 100 Light source: 110 First lens section: 130 First lens: 131 Second lens: 132 Third lens: 133 Light receiver: 300 Image sensor: 310 Second lens section: 330

Claims

Claim 1 An optical system comprising a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens arranged along an optical axis from the object side to the light source side, wherein the first lens has a negative refractive power, the second lens and the third lens have a positive refractive power, the first lens has a meniscus shape convex toward the object side, and an optical system satisfying the following mathematical formula without an aperture being placed between the object and the first lens, between the first and second lenses, between the second and third lenses, or between the third lens and the light source. H / TTL > 0.21(D H is 1 / 2 of the diagonal length (D) of the light source, and TTL is the distance from the object side surface of the first lens to the top surface of the light source along the optical axis.) Claim 2 In claim 1, the light source is positioned facing the third lens and includes a plurality of emitters for light emission, wherein the plurality of emitters includes a first emitter positioned in the central region of the light source and a second emitter positioned in the peripheral region of the light source, and the divergence angles of the light emitted from the first and second emitters are the same as each other, an optical system. Claim 3 In claim 2, the second lens is an optical system having a meniscus shape that is convex toward the light source. Claim 4 In claim 2, the third lens is an optical system having an object side surface and a light source side surface, respectively, having a convex shape. Claim 5 In claim 2, the optical system in which the size of the effective aperture (CA; Clear Aperture) of the third lens is larger than the size of the effective aperture of the first lens. Claim 6 In any one of claims 1 to 5, the optical system is an optical system satisfying the following mathematical formula. (θ is an angle that is half the divergence angle of the above light source. Also, θ R2 represents the angle with respect to the upper meridional ray (+Y vignetting value), and θ R3 represents the angle with respect to the lower meridional ray (the vignetting value of -Y). Also, θ R4 represents the angle (+X vignetting value) for the +X sagittal ray, and θ R5 represents the angle for the -X sagittal ray (-X vignetting value). Claim 7 An optical system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the Chief Ray Angle (CRA) of the optical system is less than 3 degrees. Claim 8 In any one of claims 1 to 5, the first to third lenses are an optical system satisfying the following mathematical formula: |f1| > |f3| > |f2| (f1 is the focal length of the first lens, f2 is the focal length of the second lens, and f3 is the focal length of the third lens). Claim 9 In any one of claims 1 to 5, the first to third lenses are an optical system satisfying the following mathematical formula: 0.4 < L1_CT < L3_CT < L2_CT < 0.75 (L1_CT is the center thickness of the first lens at the optical axis, L2_CT is the center thickness of the second lens at the optical axis, and L3_CT is the center thickness of the third lens at the optical axis.) Claim 10 A camera module comprising a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit including an image sensor, wherein the light-emitting unit comprises a light source; and a first lens unit disposed on the light source and comprising a plurality of lenses, wherein the first lens unit comprises a first lens, a second lens, and a third lens disposed along an optical axis from the object side to the light source side, wherein the first lens has a negative refractive power, the second lens and the third lens have a positive refractive power, and the first lens has a meniscus shape convex toward the object side, and the light-emitting unit does not include an aperture and satisfies the following mathematical formula. H / TTL > 0.21(D H is 1 / 2 of the diagonal length (D) of the light source, and TTL is the distance from the object side surface of the first lens to the top surface of the light source along the optical axis.) Claim 11 In claim 10, the light-emitting part is a camera module that emits output light having the shape of a dot pattern or a surface pattern. Claim 12 A camera module according to claim 11, wherein the light-emitting part further includes a driving member connected to the first lens part, and the driving member moves the first lens part in the direction of the optical axis to control the shape of the output light emitted from the light-emitting part into a point pattern or a surface pattern.

Images