Lens driving device, camera device, and optical instrument

Abstract

The present embodiment relates to a lens driving device comprising: a base; a carrier disposed in the base; a magnet disposed on the carrier; a coil disposed facing the magnet; a first ball disposed between the base and the carrier in a first direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction; and a yoke overlapping the magnet in the first direction, wherein the yoke moves in a direction corresponding to the magnet if the magnet moves.

Description

Lens actuators, camera devices and optical instruments

[0001] The present embodiment relates to a lens driving device, a camera device, and an optical device.

[0002] Modern smartphones are equipped with cameras capable of taking high-resolution photos and videos.

[0003] In particular, recent smartphone cameras have been equipped with an autofocus function that automatically adjusts focus based on the distance to the subject. This autofocus function can be performed by moving the lens along the optical axis relative to the image sensor. Accordingly, the lens actuator may include a ball that guides the movement of a moving part on which the lens is positioned, and a magnet and yoke that contact the ball between the moving part and the fixed part.

[0004] However, in the conventional lens actuator, when the magnet placed on the moving part moves, a return force is applied between the magnet and the yoke fixed to the fixed part, which increases the current consumption for moving the moving part.

[0005] (Patent Document 1) KR 10-2018-0007841 A

[0006] The present embodiment aims to provide a lens actuator that minimizes the retardation force acting on a magnet even when the magnet moves.

[0007] That is, the goal is to provide a lens driving device that minimizes current consumption during auto focus operation.

[0008] A lens driving device according to the present embodiment includes: a base; a carrier disposed within the base; a magnet disposed on the carrier; a coil disposed to face the magnet; a first ball disposed between the base and the carrier in a first direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction; and a yoke overlapping the magnet in the first direction, wherein the yoke can move in a direction corresponding to the magnet when the magnet moves.

[0009] When current is applied to the coil, the magnet can move in the direction of the optical axis, and the yoke can move in the direction of the optical axis corresponding to the magnet.

[0010] The above magnet can exert an attractive force on the yoke in the first direction.

[0011] The above base includes a body portion and a metal insert member arranged in the body portion, and the yoke can be in contact with the insert member.

[0012] The above yoke may include a body portion that overlaps the coil in the first direction, and a leg portion that is bent inward from the body portion and comes into contact with the insert member.

[0013] The leg portion of the yoke may be formed on both edges of the body portion of the yoke, and the leg portion of the yoke may include a groove that forms a gap between a portion of the leg portion and the insert member.

[0014] The lens actuator includes a substrate disposed between the yoke and the coil; and a cover coupled to the base and including an upper plate and a side plate, wherein the yoke can be spaced apart from the body portion of the base, the substrate, and the side plate of the cover.

[0015] The above lens actuator may include a second ball disposed between the yoke and the base in the first direction.

[0016] In the optical axis direction, the length of the yoke may be equal to or shorter than the length of the magnet.

[0017] A lens driving device according to the present embodiment includes: a base; a carrier disposed within the base; a magnet disposed on the carrier; a coil disposed to face the magnet; a first ball disposed between the base and the carrier in a first direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction; and a yoke overlapping the magnet in the first direction, wherein the yoke can be disposed to be movable in the optical axis direction.

[0018] A lens driving device according to the present embodiment includes a base; a carrier disposed within the base; a magnet disposed on the carrier; a coil disposed to face the magnet; a first ball disposed between the base and the carrier in a first direction perpendicular to an optical axis direction; and a yoke overlapping the magnet in the first direction, wherein a portion of the yoke may overlap the base, the carrier, and the first ball in the first direction.

[0019] A camera device according to the present embodiment may include a printed circuit board; an image sensor disposed on the printed circuit board; the lens driving device disposed on the printed circuit board; and a lens coupled to the carrier of the lens driving device.

[0020] An optical device according to the present embodiment may include a main body; the camera device disposed in the main body; and a display disposed in the main body and outputting at least one of an image and a video captured by the camera device.

[0021] Through this embodiment, the liter force acting on the magnet can be minimized even when the magnet moves.

[0022] That is, the current consumption during auto focus operation can be minimized.

[0023] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0024] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Figure 1.

[0025] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 2.

[0026] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the leg portion of the yoke and related configuration of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0027] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the leg portion and related configuration of the yoke of the lens driving device according to a modified example.

[0028] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the yoke and ball and related configuration of a lens driving device according to another modified example.

[0029] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view viewed from BB in Figure 1.

[0030] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0031] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment with the cover omitted.

[0032] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional perspective view of Figure 9 taken perpendicular to the optical axis and viewed from above.

[0033] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of Fig. 9 with the yoke omitted.

[0034] Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a fixing part and related configuration of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the moving part and related configuration of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 14 is a drawing for explaining auto focus driving of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0037] Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a camera device according to the present embodiment.

[0038] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of an optical device according to the present embodiment.

[0039] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0040] However, the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described, but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, one or more of the components between the embodiments can be selectively combined or substituted for use.

[0041] In addition, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as having a meaning that can be generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined and described, and terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

[0042] Additionally, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are intended to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0043] In this specification, the singular may also include the plural unless specifically stated otherwise in the phrase, and when it is described as “A and / or at least one (or more) of B, C”, it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, C.

[0044] Additionally, in describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and are not intended to limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

[0045] And, when a component is described as being 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' to another component, it may include not only cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' directly to the other component, but also cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' by another component between the component and the other component.

[0046] Additionally, when described as being formed or arranged "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below," the meaning may include not only the upward direction but also the downward direction based on one component.

[0047] The 'optical axis direction' used below is defined as the optical axis direction of the lens and / or image sensor coupled to the lens driving device.

[0048] The 'vertical direction' used below may be a direction parallel to or the same direction as the optical axis direction. The vertical direction may correspond to the 'z-axis direction'. The 'horizontal direction' used below may be a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. That is, the horizontal direction may be a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. Therefore, the horizontal direction may include the 'x-axis direction' and the 'y-axis direction'.

[0049] The 'auto focus (AF) function' used below is defined as a function that automatically focuses on a subject by adjusting the distance from the image sensor by moving the lens in the optical axis direction according to the distance of the subject so that a clear image of the subject can be obtained on the image sensor. In addition, 'closed-loop auto focus (CLAF) control' is defined as a function that detects the distance between the image sensor and the lens and provides feedback control of the position of the lens in real time to improve the accuracy of focus adjustment.

[0050] Hereinafter, either “ball (410)” or “ball (420)” may be referred to as the “first ball” and the other may be referred to as the “second ball”.

[0051] Hereinafter, either the “x-axis direction” or the “y-axis direction” may be referred to as the “first direction” and the other may be referred to as the “second direction.”

[0052]

[0053] Below, the configuration of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment is described with reference to the drawings.

[0054] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a leg portion of a yoke and related components of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a leg portion of a yoke and related components of a lens driving device according to a modified example. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a yoke and a ball and related components of a lens driving device according to another modified example. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of Fig. 1. Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment with a cover omitted. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line AA of Fig. 9 taken from above and cut perpendicular to the optical axis. Fig. 11 is a perspective view of Fig. 9 with the yoke omitted. Fig. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a fixed part and related components of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment. Fig. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a moving part and related components of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0055] The lens driving device (10) may include a fixed portion. The fixed portion may be a portion that is relatively fixed when the moving portion moves. The fixed portion may be a portion that is fixed when the autofocus is driven. The fixed portion may correspond to the image sensor (60) side, and the moving portion may correspond to the lens side.

[0056] The lens actuator (10) may include a base (110). The fixing member may include the base (110). The base (110) may accommodate a carrier (210) therein. The base (110) may be disposed on the outside of the carrier (210). The base (110) may be disposed under the carrier (210). The base (110) may be coupled to a cover (130). The base (110) may be disposed within the cover (130). The base (110) may be disposed under the cover (130).

[0057] The base (110) may include a body portion (111). The body portion (111) may form the exterior of the base (110). The body portion (111) may include a lower plate and a side wall portion. An insert member (120) may be arranged in the body portion (111) of the base (110). The insert member (120) may be arranged in the side wall portion of the base (110).

[0058] The base (110) may include a groove (112). The groove (112) may be a ball rail. A ball (410) may be placed in the groove (112). The groove (112) may be placed in the optical axis direction. The groove (112) may extend in the optical axis direction. The ball (410) may come into contact with the groove (112). The ball (410) may move along the groove (112).

[0059] The groove (112) of the base (110) may include a first groove (112-1). The first groove (112-1) may be a V-shaped groove. The first groove (112-1) may contact the ball (410) at two points. The first groove (112-1) may include a first surface and a second surface that contact the ball (410).

[0060] The groove (112) of the base (110) may include a second groove (112-2). The second groove (112-2) may be a trapezoidal groove. The second groove (112-2) may contact the ball (410) at one point. The second groove (112-2) may include a first surface that contacts the ball (410).

[0061] The ball (410) can come into contact with the carrier (210) at two points. In this case, the ball (410) placed in the first groove (112-1) of the base (110) can come into contact with four points in total: two points on the carrier (210) and two points on the base (110). Meanwhile, the ball (410) placed in the second groove (112-2) of the base (110) can come into contact with three points in total: two points on the carrier (210) and one point on the base (110).

[0062] The base (110) may include a stopper (113). The stopper (113) may be formed on the upper surface of the lower plate of the base (110). The stopper (113) may limit the downward movement of the carrier (210). The stopper (113) may come into contact with the carrier (210) when the carrier (210) moves downward. The stopper (113) may come into contact with the lower stopper (214) of the carrier (210). The stopper (113) may include a protrusion.

[0063] The base (110) may include a groove (114). A leg portion (512) of a yoke (510) may be arranged in the groove (114). The leg portion (512) of the yoke (510) may be inserted into the groove (114). The groove (114) may be formed so as not to contact the leg portion (512) of the yoke (510). The groove (114) may be formed so as to avoid the leg portion (512) of the yoke (510). The groove (114) may extend in the optical axis direction.

[0064] Hereinafter, one of the grooves (112) and (114) of the base (110) may be referred to as the “first groove” and the other may be referred to as the “second groove”.

[0065] The lens actuator (10) may include an insert member (120). The fixing member may include the insert member (120). The base (110) may include the insert member (120). However, the insert member (120) may be understood as a separate member from the base (110). The insert member (120) may be an insert plate. The insert member (120) may be in contact with the yoke (510). The insert member (120) may be in contact with the leg portion (512) of the yoke (510). The insert member (120) may support the leg portion (512) of the yoke (510).

[0066] The insert member (120) may be formed of metal. In the present embodiment, the leg portion (512) of the yoke (510) is made to contact the metal insert member (120) rather than the body portion (111) of the injection-molded base (110), thereby preventing the occurrence of a splitting phenomenon of the injection-molded product that may occur when the yoke (510) moves. In the present embodiment, the insert member (120) may be arranged so as not to come into contact at all with the body portion (111) of the injection-molded base (110).

[0067] The lens actuator (10) may include a cover (130). The fixing member may include the cover (130). The cover (130) may be placed on the base (110). The cover (130) may be placed on the base (110). The cover (130) may be fixed to the base (110). The cover (130) may be coupled to the base (110). The cover (130) may be adhesively bonded to the base (110). The cover (130) may accommodate at least a portion of the base (110) therein. The cover (130) may be a shield can. The cover (130) may be formed of metal.

[0068] The cover (130) may include a top plate (131). The top plate (131) may include a hole through which light passes. The top plate (131) may include a hole formed at a position corresponding to a lens. The cover (130) may include a side plate (132). The side plate (132) may extend from the top plate (131). The side plate (132) may extend downward from an outer edge of the top plate (131). The side plate (132) may be formed in a shape bent from the top plate (131).

[0069] The side plate (132) of the cover (130) may include a plurality of side plates. The side plate (132) may include a first side plate and a second side plate positioned opposite each other, and a third side plate and a fourth side plate positioned opposite each other.

[0070] The lens driving device (10) may include a moving part. The moving part may be a part that moves relative to the fixed part. The moving part may be moved by the driving part. The moving part may be arranged to be movable relative to the fixed part. The moving part may move relative to the fixed part during autofocus operation.

[0071] The lens actuator (10) may include a carrier (210). The moving part may include the carrier (210). The carrier (210) may be placed on the base (110). The carrier (210) may be placed on the base (110). The carrier (210) may be placed within the base (110). The carrier (210) may be movably placed on the base (110). The carrier (210) may move relative to the base (110). The carrier (210) may move in the optical axis direction. The carrier (210) may be coupled to a lens. The carrier (210) may move integrally with the lens.

[0072] The carrier (210) may include a groove (211). The groove (211) may be a ball rail. A ball (410) may be arranged in the groove (211). The groove (211) may be arranged in the optical axis direction. The groove (211) may extend in the optical axis direction. The ball (410) may come into contact with the groove (211). The ball (410) may move along the groove (211).

[0073] The carrier (210) may include a groove (212). The groove (212) may be a magnet receiving groove. A magnet (310) may be placed in the groove (212). The groove (212) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the magnet (310). The groove (212) may receive at least a portion of the magnet (310).

[0074] Hereinafter, one of the grooves (211) and (212) of the carrier (210) may be referred to as the “first groove” and the other may be referred to as the “second groove”.

[0075] The carrier (210) may include an upper stopper (213). The upper stopper (213) may be formed on the upper surface of the carrier (210). The upper stopper (213) may form the upper end of the carrier (210). The upper stopper (213) may contact the upper plate (131) of the cover (130) when the carrier (210) moves upward. That is, the upward movement of the carrier (210) may be restricted by the upper stopper (213). The upper stopper (213) may include a protrusion.

[0076] The carrier (210) may include a lower stopper (214). The lower stopper (214) may be formed on the lower surface of the carrier (210). The lower stopper (214) may form the lower end of the carrier (210). The lower stopper (214) may come into contact with the base (110) when the carrier (210) moves downward. That is, the downward movement of the carrier (210) may be restricted by the lower stopper (214). The lower stopper (214) may include a protrusion.

[0077] The lens actuator (10) may include a driving unit. The driving unit may move the moving unit relative to the fixed unit. The driving unit may move the moving unit when power is applied. The driving unit may include a magnet and a coil. The driving unit may move the moving unit through electromagnetic interaction.

[0078] The lens driving device (10) may include a magnet (310). The driving unit may include a magnet (310). The magnet (310) may be placed on the carrier (210). The magnet (310) may be placed on the carrier (210). The magnet (310) may be fixed to the carrier (210). The magnet (310) may be coupled to the carrier (210). The magnet (310) may be bonded to the carrier (210) with an adhesive.

[0079] The magnet (310) can be positioned corresponding to the coil (320). The magnet (310) can overlap the coil (320) in the x-axis direction. The magnet (310) can be positioned to face the coil (320). The magnet (310) can face the coil (320). The magnet (310) can interact with the coil (320). The magnet (310) can electromagnetically interact with the coil (320). The magnet (310) can move when current is applied to the coil (320). The magnet (310) can move integrally with the carrier (210).

[0080] The magnet (310) may be a four-pole magnet. The magnet (310) may include a first magnet portion including a north pole and a south pole, a second magnet portion disposed on the first magnet portion and including a south pole and a north pole, and a neutral portion disposed between the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion. The magnet (310) may be disposed in the optical axis direction.

[0081] The magnet (310) can exert an attractive force on the yoke (510) in a first direction. At this time, the first direction may be the x-axis direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The magnet (310) can be arranged so that an attractive force acts on the yoke (510). The ball (410) can be pressed between the carrier (210) and the base (110) by the force that causes the magnet (310) to move toward the yoke (510). Through this, the ball (410) can be maintained in close contact with the carrier (210) and the base (110).

[0082] The lens driving device (10) may include a coil (320). The driving unit may include the coil (320). The coil (320) may be disposed on the substrate (330). The coil (320) may be disposed on the substrate (330). The coil (320) may be fixed to the substrate (330). The coil (320) may be coupled to the substrate (330). The coil (320) may be soldered to the substrate (330). The coil (320) may be disposed on the base (110). The coil (320) may be disposed on the base (110). The coil (320) may be fixed to the base (110). The coil (320) may be disposed on the side plate (132) of the cover (130). The coil (320) may be disposed on the side plate (132) of the cover (130).

[0083] The coil (320) can be arranged to face the magnet (310). The coil (320) can face the magnet (310). The coil (320) can be arranged at a position corresponding to the magnet (310). The coil (320) can overlap the magnet (310) in the x-axis direction. The coil (320) can move the magnet (310). The coil (320) can move the carrier (210). The coil (320) can move the lens.

[0084] When current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move. When a forward current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move upward. When a reverse current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move downward. However, conversely, when a reverse current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move upward, and when a forward current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move downward.

[0085] The lens driving device (10) may include a substrate (330). The driving unit may include the substrate (330). The substrate (330) may be placed on the base (110). The substrate (330) may be fixed to the base (110). The substrate (330) may be coupled to the base (110). The substrate (330) may be adhesively bonded to the base (110). The substrate (330) may be placed on the side plate (132) of the cover (130). The substrate (330) may be placed on the side plate (132) of the cover (130). The substrate (330) may be placed between the yoke (510) and the coil (320). The substrate (330) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The substrate (330) can supply power to the coil (320). The substrate (330) can supply power to the sensor (340). The substrate (330) can be arranged parallel to the optical axis.

[0086] The substrate (330) may include a terminal (331). The terminal (331) may be disposed on an outer surface of the substrate (330). The terminal (331) may be formed at a lower end of the substrate (330). The terminal (331) may include a plurality of terminals. The terminal (331) may be coupled to a terminal of a printed circuit board (50). The terminal (331) may include a terminal electrically connected to a sensor (340). The terminal (331) may include a terminal electrically connected to a coil (320).

[0087] The lens driving device (10) may include a sensor (340). The driving unit may include the sensor (340). The sensor (340) may be disposed on the substrate (330). The sensor (340) may be disposed on the substrate (330). The sensor (340) may be coupled to the substrate (330). The sensor (340) may be soldered to the substrate (330).

[0088] The sensor (340) can detect the magnet (310). The sensor (340) can detect the magnetic force of the magnet (310). The sensor (340) may be a Hall sensor. The sensor (340) can detect the position or movement of the magnet (310). Through this, the sensor (340) can detect the position or movement of the carrier (210). The sensor (340) can detect the carrier (210). The position of the magnet (310) detected by the sensor (340) can be used for autofocus feedback control.

[0089] The lens actuator (10) may include a guide portion. The guide portion may guide the movement of the movable portion relative to the fixed portion. The guide portion may guide the movement of the movable portion in a specific direction. In the present embodiment, the guide portion may guide the movable portion to move in the optical axis direction relative to the fixed portion.

[0090] The lens actuator (10) may include a ball (410). The guide portion may include the ball (410). The ball (410) may be placed on the base (110). The ball (410) may be in contact with the base (110). The ball (410) may be placed in a groove (112) of the base (110). The ball (410) may be placed on the groove (112) of the base (110). The ball (410) may be in contact with the groove (112) of the base (110).

[0091] The ball (410) can be placed on the carrier (210). The ball (410) can be placed on the carrier (210). The ball (410) can be in contact with the carrier (210). The ball (410) can be placed in the groove (211) of the carrier (210). The ball (410) can be placed on the groove (211) of the carrier (210). The ball (410) can be in contact with the groove (211) of the carrier (210).

[0092] The ball (410) can be placed between the base (110) and the carrier (210). The ball (410) can be placed between the groove (112) of the base (110) and the groove (211) of the carrier (210). The ball (410) can be placed between the base (110) and the carrier (210) in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0093] The ball (410) can move in the direction of the optical axis. The ball (410) can move together with the carrier (210) when the carrier (210) moves. However, the amount of movement of the ball (410) and the amount of movement of the carrier (210) may be different. Alternatively, the amount of movement of the ball (410) and the amount of movement of the carrier (210) may be the same. The ball (410) can limit the movement of the carrier (210) to movement in the direction of the optical axis. The movement of the carrier (210) may be limited in a direction other than the direction of the optical axis by the ball (410). The ball (410) can guide the movement of the carrier (210) in the direction of the optical axis.

[0094] The lens actuator (10) may include a ball pressurizing unit. The ball pressurizing unit may be provided to maintain the ball in a close contact state between the moving unit and the fixed unit. In other words, the ball pressurizing unit may help guide the movement of the moving unit while preventing the ball from being dislodged.

[0095] The lens actuator (10) may include a yoke (510). The ball pressurizing unit may include the yoke (510). The yoke (510) may pressurize the ball (410) through an attractive force with the magnet (310). The yoke (510) may have an attractive force with the magnet (310). The yoke (510) may be formed of metal. The yoke (510) may be positioned at a position corresponding to the magnet (310). The yoke (510) may overlap the magnet (310) in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. A portion of the yoke (510) may overlap the base (110), the carrier (210), and the ball (410) in the first direction.

[0096] The yoke (510) may be arranged to be movable in the direction of the optical axis. The yoke (510) may move in the direction of the optical axis. The yoke (510) may move in a direction corresponding to the magnet (310) when the magnet (310) moves. When current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) moves in the direction of the optical axis, and the yoke (510) may move in the direction of the optical axis corresponding to the magnet (310). The direction of movement of the yoke (510) may be the same as the direction of movement of the magnet (310). The amount of movement of the yoke (510) may be the same as the amount of movement of the magnet (310). However, the amount of movement of the yoke (510) may be smaller than the amount of movement of the magnet (310). The upper and lower stroke spaces of the yoke (510) may be formed wider than the upper and lower stroke spaces of the carrier (210). Through this, the phenomenon of the movement of the carrier (210) being obstructed by the yoke (510) can be prevented.

[0097] The yoke (510) may be in contact with the insert member (120). The yoke (510) may be disposed on the insert member (120). The yoke (510) may only be in contact with the insert member (120). Through this, the frictional force generated when the yoke (510) moves may be minimized. The yoke (510) may be spaced apart from the body portion (111) of the base (110). The yoke (510) may be spaced apart from the substrate (330). The yoke (510) may be spaced apart from the side plate (132) of the cover (130). A gap may exist between the yoke (510) and the body portion (111) of the base (110). A gap may exist between the yoke (510) and the substrate (330). A gap may exist between the yoke (510) and the side plate (132) of the cover (130).

[0098] In the optical axis direction, the length of the yoke (510) may be equal to or shorter than the length of the magnet (310). Alternatively, the length of the yoke (510) may be longer than the length of the magnet (310).

[0099] The yoke (510) may include a body portion (511). The body portion (511) may overlap with the coil (320) in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. The body portion (511) may be a portion for which attraction is primarily exerted with the magnet (310). The body portion (511) may connect two leg portions (512).

[0100] The yoke (510) may include a leg portion (512). The leg portion (512) may be formed by being bent from the body portion (511). The leg portion (512) may be bent inward from the body portion (511). The leg portion (512) may be in contact with the insert member (120). The leg portion (512) may be arranged in the insert member (120). The leg portion (512) of the yoke (510) may be formed at both edges of the body portion (511) of the yoke (510). The leg portion (512) may have a shape bent around an imaginary first axis with respect to the body portion (511). At this time, the imaginary first axis may be parallel to the optical axis.

[0101] In a variation, the yoke (510a) may include a groove (513) formed in the leg portion (512). The groove (513) may form a separation space between a portion of the leg portion (512) and the insert member (120). The groove (513) may be formed in the leg portion (512). The groove (513) may be formed at an end of the leg portion (512). The contact area between the leg portion (512) and the insert member (120) may be reduced by the groove (513). Through this, the frictional force between the yoke (510a) and the insert member (120) may be reduced.

[0102] In a variation, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the lens actuator (10) may include a ball (420). The ball (420) may be disposed between the yoke (510b) and the base (110). The ball (420) may be disposed between the yoke (510b) and the base (110) in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. The ball (420) may guide the movement of the yoke (510b). The yoke (510b) may contact the ball (420) and may not contact the insert member (120). The leg portion (512) of the yoke (510b) may be omitted.

[0103] The present embodiment may include a structure in which a ball (410) is supported by the magnetic force, i.e., the attractive force, of a magnet (310) and a yoke (510). The present embodiment may include a variable yoke (510) structure in which the yoke (510) moves in the same direction as the magnet (310) moves.

[0104] The yoke (510) is not fixed to the substrate (330) and can move in the same direction as the magnet (310) moves along the groove (114) of the base (110).

[0105] In the structure of this embodiment, the return force can theoretically be 0. However, in practice, a return force may exist. If the return force becomes 0 or decreases, the holding force decreases, thereby reducing the current consumption for autofocus operation.

[0106] In this embodiment, a groove (114) may be formed in the base (110) for the yoke (510) to move. The groove (114) may be in the form of an injection molded product. However, in order to reduce friction and secure strength, an insert member (120), for example, an insert frame, may be exposed. The exposed insert frame and the yoke (510) are in contact with each other, and grease may be applied therebetween for reducing friction. The yoke (510) may be supported on the surface of the exposed insert frame.

[0107] In this embodiment, the yoke (510) may not come into contact with the substrate (330) and the cover (130) for driving. In the drawing, the optical axis height of the yoke (510) is depicted as being greater than the optical axis height of the magnet (310). However, the optical axis height of the yoke (510) may be equal to or smaller than the optical axis height of the magnet (310).

[0108] When viewed from above, the yoke (510) may have a T-shape for support. That is, the yoke (510) may include two bends. The supported area of ​​the yoke (510), that is, the area where the leg portion (512) of the yoke (510) comes into contact with the insert member (120), may be changed.

[0109]

[0110] Below, the auto focus operation of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment is described with reference to the drawings.

[0111] Fig. 14 is a drawing for explaining auto focus driving of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0112] When current is applied to the coil (320), an electromagnetic field is formed around the coil (320), which can interact with the magnet (310). At this time, the coil (320) is fixed to the substrate (300) and the base (110), so that the magnet (310) can move. The magnet (310) can move together with the carrier (210) and the lens (see A and C of FIG. 14). Through this, the lens can move relative to the image sensor (60).

[0113] In more detail, when a forward current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move upward in the optical axis direction due to the interaction between the coil (320) and the magnet (310). Through this, the lens can move away from the image sensor (60).

[0114] Additionally, when a reverse current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move downward in the optical axis direction due to the interaction between the coil (320) and the magnet (310). Through this, the lens can be brought closer to the image sensor (60).

[0115] In this way, by applying a forward or reverse current to the coil (320), the image of the subject formed on the image sensor (60) can be clearly adjusted. That is, auto focus operation can be performed.

[0116] Furthermore, the sensor (340) can detect the magnetic field of the magnet (310) in real time to detect the positions of the magnet (310), the carrier (210), and the lens. Feedback control can be performed to move the lens to a more accurate position through the position of the lens detected by the sensor (340). In the present embodiment, more precise autofocus operation can be performed through autofocus feedback control.

[0117] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, when the magnet (310) moves in the optical axis direction, the yoke (510) may also move together (see B of FIG. 14). The direction of movement of the yoke (510) may be the same as the direction of movement of the magnet (310). The amount of movement of the yoke (510) may be the same as or less than the amount of movement of the magnet (310). Through this structure, in the present embodiment, the centering force generated so that the center of the magnet (310) and the center of the yoke (510) coincide can be minimized. In other words, the return force or centering force generated in the magnet (310) in the present embodiment can be minimized compared to the comparative example in which the yoke (510) is fixed to the base (110). Therefore, in the present embodiment, driving is possible with less power as much as the reduced return force, so that the current consumed for driving the autofocus can be reduced.

[0118]

[0119] Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a camera device according to the present embodiment.

[0120] The camera device (10A) may include a lens driving device (10). The lens driving device (10) may be a voice coil motor (VCM). The lens driving device (10) may be a lens driving motor. The lens driving device (10) may be a lens driving actuator. The lens driving device (10) may include an AF module. As a variation, the lens driving device (10) may include an OIS module. The lens driving device (10) may be a device that drives a lens. As illustrated in the drawing, the lens driving device (10) may include a lens. However, the lens may be understood as a separate component from the lens driving device (10) as a component of the camera device (10A).

[0121] The camera device (10A) may include a lens module (20). The lens module (20) may be disposed on an image sensor (60). The lens module (20) may be coupled to a lens driving device (10). The lens module (20) may be coupled to a carrier (210) of the lens driving device (10). The lens module (20) may be moved integrally with the carrier (210). The lens module (20) may be disposed to be movable with respect to the image sensor (60). The lens module (20) may be moved in the optical axis direction with respect to the image sensor (60).

[0122] The lens module (20) may include a lens. The lens may include a plurality of lenses. The lens module (20) may include a barrel. The plurality of lenses may be arranged within the barrel. The plurality of lenses may be coupled to the inner surface of the barrel. The plurality of lenses may be arranged in a stacked manner within the barrel.

[0123] The camera device (10A) may include a filter (30). The filter (30) may block light of a specific frequency band from passing through the lens module (20) from being incident on the image sensor (60). The filter (30) may be arranged parallel to the xy plane. The filter (30) may be arranged between the lens module (20) and the image sensor (60). The filter (30) may be arranged on the sensor base (40). Alternatively, the filter (30) may be arranged on the base (110) of the lens driving device (10). The filter (30) may include an infrared filter. The infrared filter may block light in the infrared region from being incident on the image sensor (60).

[0124] The camera device (10A) may include a sensor base (40). The sensor base (40) may be disposed between the lens actuator (10) and the printed circuit board (50). The sensor base (40) may include a protrusion (41) on which a filter (30) is disposed. An opening may be formed in a portion of the sensor base (40) on which the filter (30) is disposed so that light passing through the filter (30) may be incident on the image sensor (60). The adhesive member may couple or adhere the base (110) of the lens actuator (10) to the sensor base (40). The adhesive member may additionally serve to prevent foreign substances from entering the interior of the lens actuator (10). The adhesive member may include at least one of an epoxy, a thermosetting adhesive, and an ultraviolet-curable adhesive.

[0125] The camera device (10A) may include a printed circuit board (PCB) (50). The printed circuit board (50) may be a substrate or a circuit board. A lens driving device (10) may be disposed on the printed circuit board (50). A sensor base (40) may be disposed between the printed circuit board (50) and the lens driving device (10). The printed circuit board (50) may be electrically connected to the lens driving device (10). An image sensor (60) may be disposed on the printed circuit board (50). Various circuits, components, control units, etc. may be provided on the printed circuit board (50) to convert an image formed on the image sensor (60) into an electrical signal and transmit it to an external device.

[0126] The camera device (10A) may include an image sensor (60). The image sensor (60) may be configured to form an image by incident light passing through a lens and a filter (30). The image sensor (60) may be mounted on a printed circuit board (50). The image sensor (60) may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (50). For example, the image sensor (60) may be coupled to the printed circuit board (50) using surface mounting technology (SMT). As another example, the image sensor (60) may be coupled to the printed circuit board (50) using flip chip technology. The image sensor (60) may be arranged such that its optical axis is aligned with that of the lens. That is, the optical axis of the image sensor (60) and the optical axis of the lens may be aligned. The image sensor (60) can convert light irradiated onto the effective image area of ​​the image sensor (60) into an electrical signal. The image sensor (60) can be any one of a CCD (charge coupled device), a MOS (metal oxide semi-conductor), a CPD, and a CID.

[0127] The camera device (10A) may include a motion sensor (70). The motion sensor (70) may be mounted on a printed circuit board (50). The motion sensor (70) may be electrically connected to a control unit (80) through a circuit pattern provided on the printed circuit board (50). The motion sensor (70) may output rotational angular velocity information due to the movement of the camera device (10A). The motion sensor (70) may include a two-axis or three-axis gyro sensor or an angular velocity sensor.

[0128] The camera device (10A) may include a control unit (80). The control unit (80) may be disposed on a printed circuit board (50). The control unit (80) may be electrically connected to a coil (320) of a lens driving device (10). The control unit (80) may individually control the direction, intensity, amplitude, etc. of the current supplied to the coil (320). The control unit (80) may control the lens driving device (10) to perform an autofocus function and / or a shake correction function. Furthermore, the control unit (80) may perform autofocus feedback control and / or shake correction feedback control for the lens driving device (10).

[0129] The camera device (10A) may include a connector (90). The connector (90) may be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (50). The connector (90) may include a port for electrically connecting to an external device.

[0130]

[0131] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of an optical device according to the present embodiment.

[0132] The optical device (1) may include one or more of a mobile phone, a cell phone, a portable terminal, a mobile terminal, a smart phone, a smart pad, a portable smart device, a digital camera, a laptop computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a PMP (Portable Multimedia Player), and a navigation device. The optical device (1) may include any device for taking images or photographs.

[0133] An optical device (1) may include a main body (2). The optical device (1) may include a camera device (10A). The camera device (10A) may be disposed on the main body (2). The camera device (10A) may photograph a subject. The optical device (1) may include a display. The display may be disposed on the main body (2). The display may output one or more of an image or video captured by the camera device (10A). The display may be disposed on a first surface of the main body (2). The camera device (10A) may be disposed on one or more of the first surface of the main body (2) and a second surface opposite the first surface. The camera device (10A) may have a triple camera disposed in a vertical direction of the main body (2). Alternatively, the camera device (10A) may have a triple camera disposed in a horizontal direction of the main body (2).

[0134]

[0135] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential features thereof. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. Base; A carrier placed within the above base; A magnet placed on the carrier; A coil arranged facing the above magnet; A first ball disposed between the base and the carrier in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis; and Including a yoke that overlaps the magnet in the first direction, The above yoke is a lens driving device that moves in a direction corresponding to the magnet when the magnet moves.

2. In paragraph 1, A lens driving device in which, when current is applied to the coil, the magnet moves in the direction of the optical axis and the yoke moves in the direction of the optical axis in correspondence with the magnet.

3. In paragraph 1, The above magnet is a lens driving device in which the yoke and the above magnet act in the first direction.

4. In paragraph 1, The above base includes a body portion and a metal insert member disposed in the body portion, The above yoke is a lens actuator that comes into contact with the above insert member.

5. In paragraph 4, A lens actuator including a body portion overlapping the coil in the first direction and a leg portion bent inward from the body portion and in contact with the insert member.

6. In paragraph 5, The leg portion of the above yoke is formed on both edges of the body portion of the above yoke, A lens actuator, wherein the leg portion of the yoke includes a groove that forms a gap between a portion of the leg portion and the insert member.

7. In paragraph 4, a substrate disposed between the yoke and the coil; and A cover coupled to the above base and including a top plate and side plates, The above yoke is a lens actuator spaced apart from the body part of the base, the substrate, and the side plate of the cover.

8. In paragraph 1, A lens actuator including a second ball disposed between the yoke and the base in the first direction.

9. In paragraph 1, A lens driving device in which the length of the yoke in the optical axis direction is equal to or shorter than the length of the magnet.

10. Base; A carrier placed within the above base; A magnet placed on the carrier; A coil arranged facing the above magnet; A first ball disposed between the base and the carrier in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis; and Including a yoke that overlaps the magnet in the first direction, The above yoke is a lens driving device arranged to be movable in the direction of the optical axis.

Images