Camera actuator comprising lens assembly

Abstract

A camera actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a lens group; a barrel unit encompassing the lens group; an extension unit arranged at one side of the barrel unit; and a guard rail unit arranged to face the extension unit, wherein the extension unit includes: a groove part recessed toward the barrel unit; and a pair of ball members arranged to be spaced apart from each other, on the groove part, in a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction, and the guard rail unit includes: a first protrusion, which protrudes toward the groove part and is arranged between the pair of ball members in the first direction; and a lens assembly in which the length in the first direction from the end of the groove part to the first protrusion in the first direction is greater than the diameter of the ball member.

Description

Camera actuator including lens assembly

[0001] The present invention relates to a camera actuator including a lens assembly.

[0002] A camera is a device that captures images or videos of a subject, and is installed in portable devices, drones, vehicles, etc.

[0003] A camera device or camera module may have an image stabilization (IS) function to correct or prevent shaking caused by the user's movement in order to improve the quality of the image, an auto focusing (AF) function to automatically adjust the distance between the image sensor and the lens to align the focal length of the lens, and a zooming function to increase or decrease the magnification of a distant subject and take pictures using a zoom lens.

[0004] In general, a ball member can be arranged to minimize friction during the process of driving the lens assembly of a camera module by electrical interaction, thereby preventing overload and excessive power consumption.

[0005] However, when arranging multiple ball members, the friction force may actually increase, which may not be a specific solution to the above-described problem. Therefore, by minimizing the number of ball members, the overall overload of the camera module can be prevented, but when the number of ball members is reduced and free space is formed, a slip phenomenon occurs in which the ball members do not roll but remain in place, which may significantly increase the friction force and cause the overall power consumption and overload of the camera module.

[0006] In addition, as the camera actuator performs various functions, each lens assembly housed inside the camera actuator moves along the optical axis direction by the interaction between the coil and the magnet, and there may be a difference in the distance that each lens assembly can move depending on the function that the lens assembly performs.

[0007] A technology is needed to implement a miniature camera actuator by taking advantage of these differences.

[0008] The present invention is an invention devised to solve the problems of the above-described prior art, and has as its object the prevention of slippage of a ball member disposed in a camera actuator and the stabilization of focus on a nearby object in a small camera actuator.

[0009] The problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-described object, a lens assembly includes a lens group, a barrel portion surrounding the lens group, an extension portion disposed on one side of the barrel portion, and a guardrail portion disposed to face the extension portion, wherein the extension portion includes a groove portion recessed toward the barrel portion and a pair of ball members disposed spaced apart from each other in a first direction parallel to an optical axis direction on the groove portion, the guardrail portion includes a first protrusion portion protruding toward the groove portion and disposed between the pair of ball members in the first direction, and a length in the first direction from an end of the groove portion to the first protrusion portion is greater than a diameter of the ball member.

[0011] The first protrusions may be arranged in pairs spaced apart from each other in the first direction, the grooves may protrude in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and may include a second protrusion arranged between the pair of first protrusions in the first direction.

[0012] The guardrail portion may include a first region from the end of the groove portion in the first direction to the first protrusion, and a second region between a pair of the first protrusions in the first direction.

[0013] The ball member may be placed in the first region, and the ball member may not be placed in the second region.

[0014] The second protrusion is arranged in the second region, and the first protrusion and the second protrusion can overlap at least partially in the first direction.

[0015] The above-mentioned home portion includes a first pocket and a second pocket separated by the second protrusion in the first direction, and the first protrusion can be arranged in each of the first pocket and the second pocket.

[0016] The ball member is arranged in each of the first pocket and the second pocket, and the ball member of the first pocket and the ball member of the second pocket may not come into contact with the second protrusion in the first direction.

[0017] The length of the first protrusion in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction may be greater than the radius of the ball member and less than the diameter of the ball member.

[0018] The above first protrusion can protrude vertically toward the groove from one side of the guardrail portion.

[0019] The first protrusions are arranged in pairs spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and the ball member may not be arranged between the pair of first protrusions in the first direction.

[0020] The first protrusions are arranged in plurality spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and the ball members can be arranged between the first protrusions that are adjacent in the first direction.

[0021] The above home portion can be formed to be open in the first direction.

[0022] In addition, a camera actuator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing, a plurality of lens assemblies arranged on the housing in a first direction parallel to an optical axis direction, and a driving unit for driving the lens assemblies in the first direction, wherein the lens assemblies include a lens group, a barrel portion surrounding the lens group, an extension portion arranged on one side of the barrel portion, and a guardrail portion arranged to face the extension portion, wherein the extension portion includes a groove portion recessed toward the barrel portion and a pair of ball members arranged spaced apart from each other in a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction on the groove portion, the guardrail portion includes a first protrusion portion protruding toward the groove portion and arranged between the pair of ball members in the first direction, and a length in the first direction from an end of the groove portion to the first protrusion portion may be greater than a diameter of the ball member.

[0023] The first protrusions may be arranged in pairs spaced apart from each other in the first direction, the grooves may protrude in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and may include a second protrusion arranged between the pair of first protrusions in the first direction.

[0024] The guardrail portion may include a first region from the end of the groove portion in the first direction to the first protrusion, and a second region between a pair of the first protrusions in the first direction.

[0025] The length of the second region in the first direction may be equal to or greater than the driving distance of the lens assembly.

[0026] According to another embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above-described object, a camera actuator includes a housing, an image sensor disposed within the housing, a first lens assembly, a second lens assembly, and a third lens assembly disposed along a first direction parallel to an optical axis direction inside the housing, wherein the second lens assembly and the third lens assembly are individually moved along the first direction inside the housing, the second lens assembly and the third lens assembly are moved in a direction away from each other, the second lens assembly is moved toward the first lens assembly, and the third lens assembly is moved toward the image sensor.

[0027] Here, the maximum stroke of the second lens assembly in the first direction may be the distance between the bottom surface of the first lens assembly facing the second lens assembly and the upper surface of the third lens assembly facing the second lens assembly, and the maximum stroke of the third lens assembly in the first direction may be the distance between the bottom surface of the second lens assembly facing the third lens assembly and the bottom surface of the housing.

[0028] Meanwhile, when the distance between the first lens assembly and the object is 10 cm or less, the second lens assembly may be arranged adjacent to the first lens assembly in the first direction, and the third lens assembly may be arranged adjacent to the image sensor.

[0029] In addition, when the distance between the first lens assembly and the object is less than or equal to a first distance, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly move in opposite directions in the first direction, and when the distance between the first lens assembly and the object is greater than or equal to a second distance, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly move in the same direction in the first direction, and the second distance may be greater than the first distance.

[0030] At this time, the second lens assembly may be a zoom lens assembly, and the third lens assembly may be an auto focus lens assembly.

[0031] Meanwhile, the second lens assembly includes a first magnet and a first driving unit that move the second lens assembly in the first direction, and a second magnet and a second driving unit that move the third lens assembly in the first direction, and the length of the first driving unit in the first direction may be shorter than the length of the second driving unit in the first direction.

[0032] Here, the first driving unit includes a first coil unit and a second coil unit spaced apart in the first direction, the second driving unit includes a third coil unit and a fourth coil unit spaced apart in the first direction, the first magnet may be disposed on the second lens assembly, and the second magnet may be disposed on the third lens assembly.

[0033] Additionally, the length of the first coil unit in the first direction may be shorter than the length of the third coil unit or the fourth coil unit in the first direction.

[0034] Additionally, the total length of the first coil unit and the second coil unit in the first direction may be shorter than the total length of the third coil unit and the fourth coil unit in the first direction.

[0035] Meanwhile, the length of the first magnet in the first direction may be shorter than the length of the second magnet in the first direction.

[0036] A camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described problem can have the effect of preventing slippage of a ball member disposed in a camera actuator and stably securing focus on a nearby object in a small camera actuator.

[0037] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0038] In addition, the effects of the present invention may be described in more detail in the detailed description of the present invention, and may not necessarily be limited to what is presented above.

[0039] The summary set forth above, as well as the detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present application described below, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0040] For the purpose of illustrating the present invention, preferred embodiments are shown in the drawings.

[0041] However, it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the precise arrangements and means illustrated.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a general description of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a camera module of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of a camera module of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the overall configuration of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a schematic description of a second lens assembly and a third lens assembly of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a guardrail portion of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an area of ​​a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a comparison of the lengths of a ball member and a first protrusion of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating contact between a home portion and a guardrail portion and a ball member of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating the elevation of a lens assembly of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating the lowering of a lens assembly of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating a home portion of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating a home portion and a guardrail portion of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a home portion and a guardrail portion of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to a modified example of the present invention;

[0056] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a detailed configuration of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating the length between components of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating in detail a second lens assembly of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating in detail a third lens assembly of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating a state in which an object of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention is distant;

[0061] FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating the movement of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention when an object is far away;

[0062] FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating a state in which an object of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention is in close proximity; and

[0063] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating the movement of an object in a proximity state of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated and described in the drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0065] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as "second," "first," etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a second component may be referred to as "first component," and similarly, a first component may also be referred to as "second component." The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related items described herein or any of multiple related items described herein.

[0066] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0067] The terminology used in this application is only used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, it should be understood that the terms "comprise" or "have" indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0068] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0069] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0070] Additionally, in this specification, a camera actuator is described as a device that moves a lens, but includes concepts that either include a lens or do not include a lens. Hereinafter, the first and second camera actuators are each described as concepts that include a lens. Furthermore, a camera actuator that moves a lens may also be referred to as a "lens moving device" or a "lens driving device."

[0071] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention, in which the purpose of the present invention can be specifically realized, will be described with reference to the attached drawings 1 to 15.

[0072] Specifically, FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the overall structure of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining an exploded view of a camera module of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a cross-section of a camera module of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention taken along line AA', FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the overall structure of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a drawing for roughly explaining a second lens assembly and a third lens assembly of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a guardrail part of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining an area of ​​a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a drawing for comparing the lengths of a ball member and a first protrusion of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining the contact between the groove and the guard rail of the camera actuator including the lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention and the ball member, FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the raising and lowering of the lens assembly of the camera actuator including the lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the lowering of the lens assembly of the camera actuator including the lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining the groove of the camera actuator including the lens assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the groove and the guard rail of the camera actuator including the lens assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention,FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a home portion and a guardrail portion of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to a modified example of the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating a detailed configuration of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] First, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a camera module (1000) according to an embodiment may be composed of a cover (CV), a first camera actuator (A1), a second camera actuator (A2), and a circuit board (B). Here, the first camera actuator (A1) may be used interchangeably as a first actuator, and the second camera actuator (A2) may be used interchangeably as a second actuator.

[0074] The cover (CV) can cover the first camera actuator (A1) and the second camera actuator (A2). The cover (CV) can improve the coupling force between the first camera actuator (A1) and the second camera actuator (A2).

[0075] Furthermore, the cover (CV) may be made of a material that blocks electromagnetic waves. Accordingly, the first camera actuator (A1) and the second camera actuator (A2) within the cover (CV) can be easily protected.

[0076] And the first camera actuator (A1) may be an OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) actuator. For example, the first camera actuator (A1) may move an optical element in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0077] The first camera actuator (A1) may include a fixed focal length lens arranged in a predetermined barrel (not shown). The fixed focal length lens may also be referred to as a "single focal length lens" or "single lens."

[0078] The first camera actuator (A1) can change the path of light. In an embodiment, the first camera actuator (A1) can change the path of light vertically through an internal optical element (e.g., a prism or mirror). For example, the optical element can change the light from a third direction to the optical axis direction. With this configuration, even if the thickness of the mobile terminal is reduced, a lens configuration larger than the thickness of the mobile terminal can be placed within the mobile terminal through the change in the path of light, thereby performing magnification, auto-focusing (AF), zoom, and OIS functions.

[0079] However, this is not limited to the first camera actuator (A1) and the optical path can be changed vertically or at a predetermined angle multiple times.

[0080] The second camera actuator (A2) may be positioned behind the first camera actuator (A1). The second camera actuator (A2) may be coupled to the first camera actuator (A1). The coupling between the two may be achieved in various ways.

[0081] Additionally, the second camera actuator (A2) may be a zoom actuator or an auto focus (AF) actuator. For example, the second camera actuator (A2) may support one or more lenses and move the lenses according to a control signal from a predetermined control unit to perform an auto focus function or a zoom function.

[0082] And one or more lenses can move independently or individually along the optical axis.

[0083] The circuit board (B) may be positioned behind the second camera actuator (A2). The circuit board (B) may be electrically connected to the second camera actuator (A2) and the first camera actuator (A1). In addition, there may be a plurality of circuit boards (B).

[0084] The camera module (1000) according to the embodiment may be composed of a single or multiple camera modules (1000). For example, the multiple camera modules may include a first camera module and a second camera module.

[0085] A single camera module (1000) may include a single or multiple actuators. For example, a single camera module (1000) may include a first camera actuator (A1) and a second camera actuator (A2). Furthermore, the camera module (1000) may be used interchangeably with various terms such as camera device, imaging device, etc.

[0086] The camera module (1000) is placed in a predetermined case (not shown) and may include an actuator (not shown) capable of driving a lens assembly. This will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings to be described later.

[0087] The actuator may be a voice coil motor, a micro actuator, a silicon actuator, etc., and may be applied in various ways such as an electrostatic method, a thermal method, a bimorph method, an electrostatic force method, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, in the present specification, the camera actuator may be referred to as an actuator, etc. In addition, a camera module (1000) composed of a plurality of camera modules may be mounted in various electronic devices such as a mobile terminal. Furthermore, the actuator may be a device that moves or tilts a lens or an optical member. However, below, the actuator is described as a concept including a lens or an optical member. Furthermore, the actuator may be called a 'lens transport device', 'lens transport device', 'optical member transport device', 'optical member moving device', etc.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 3, a camera module according to an embodiment may include a first camera actuator (A1) having an OIS function and a second camera actuator (A2) having a zooming function and an AF function.

[0089] Light can be incident into the camera module (1000) or the first camera actuator (A1) through an opening area located on the upper surface of the first camera actuator (A1). That is, the light is incident into the interior of the first camera actuator (A1) along the optical axis direction, and the optical path can be changed vertically through the optical member. Then, the light can pass through the second camera actuator (A2) and be incident on the image sensor (IS) located at one end of the second camera actuator (A2) (PATH).

[0090] Additionally, in the present specification, the inner side may be a direction toward the first camera actuator (A1) from the cover (CV), and the outer side may be a direction opposite to the inner side. For example, the first camera actuator (A1) and the second camera actuator (A2) may be located inside the cover (CV), and the cover (CV) may be located outside the first camera actuator (A1) or the second camera actuator (A2).

[0091] The camera module (1000) according to the embodiment can improve the spatial limitations of the first camera actuator (A1) and the second camera actuator (A2) by changing the light path. The camera module (1000) according to the embodiment can expand the light path while minimizing the thickness of the camera module (1000) in response to the change in the light path. Furthermore, it should be understood that the second camera actuator (A2) can provide a high range of magnification by controlling the focus, etc. in the expanded light path.

[0092] In addition, the camera module (1000) according to the embodiment can implement OIS by controlling the optical path through the first camera actuator (A1), thereby minimizing the occurrence of decenter or tilt phenomena and producing the best optical characteristics.

[0093] Furthermore, the second camera actuator (A2) may include an optical system and a lens driving unit (710, 720). For example, the second camera actuator (A2) may include at least one of the first lens assembly (200), the second lens assembly (300), and the third lens assembly (400). This will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings to be described later.

[0094] Additionally, the second camera actuator (A2) is equipped with a coil and a magnet to perform high-magnification zooming and autofocus functions.

[0095] For example, the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) may be moving lenses that move through coils, magnets, and guide pins, and the first lens assembly (200) may be a fixed lens, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first lens assembly (200) may perform the function of a focalizer that focuses light at a specific location, and the distance to the subject or the image distance may change significantly depending on the movement of the second lens assembly (300), resulting in a large change in magnification. In addition, the second lens assembly (300), which is a variable magnifier, may play an important role in the change in the focal length or magnification of the optical system. Meanwhile, the image focus formed by the second lens assembly (300), which is a variable magnifier, may have a slight difference depending on the location. Accordingly, the third lens assembly (400) may perform a position compensation function for the image formed by the variable magnifier. For example, the third lens assembly (400) can perform a compensator function that accurately focuses the point imaged by the second lens assembly (300), which is a variable, on the actual image sensor location.

[0096] And the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) can be driven by electromagnetic force due to the interaction between the coil and the magnet. The above-described content can be applied to the lens assembly described later. In addition, the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) can move along the optical axis direction or a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction. And the second lens assembly (300) to the third lens assembly (400) can move in the optical axis direction independently or dependently.

[0097] Furthermore, the first lens assembly (200) may be positioned at the front end of the second lens assembly (300) or the rear end of the third lens assembly (400). That is, the first lens assembly (200) may be positioned adjacent to the first camera actuator or adjacent to the image sensor. In addition, the first lens assembly (200) may be in a fixed state.

[0098] In the present invention, the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) can move along the optical axis direction. In addition, the first lens assembly (200) can be positioned at the front end of the second lens assembly (300) or the rear end of the third lens assembly (400). In addition, the first lens assembly (200) may not move in the optical axis direction. That is, the first lens assembly (200) can be a fixed part. In addition, the second and third lens assemblies can be movable parts.

[0099] Meanwhile, when an actuator for OIS and an actuator for AF / Zoom are arranged according to an embodiment of the present invention, magnetic interference with the magnet for AF / Zoom can be prevented when the OIS is driven. Since the magnet of the first camera actuator (A1) is arranged separately from the second camera actuator (A2), magnetic interference between the first camera actuator (A1) and the second camera actuator (A2) can be prevented. In this specification, OIS can be used interchangeably with terms such as image stabilization, optical image stabilization, optical image correction, and shake correction.

[0100] Before describing a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, the present invention will be described based on a second camera actuator (A2). This is only a limited description to help a sufficient understanding of the invention, and may not necessarily be limited to the illustrated second camera actuator (A2).

[0101] In addition, in the detailed description of the present invention, the background and the arrangement relationship specifically combined with the above-described background were mentioned to help sufficient understanding of the invention, but it is not necessarily limited thereto, and it is only to help understanding of the second camera actuator (A2) described in detail through the drawings described later, and should not be interpreted as being limited to what was mentioned.

[0102] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 4, a camera actuator (A2) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a housing (100), a first lens assembly (200), a second lens assembly (300), a third lens assembly (400), a drive (600), a first driving unit (710), and a second driving unit (720).

[0103] Here, the housing (100) can form the exterior of the camera actuator (A2) according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a space can be formed inside.

[0104] In addition, a second lens assembly (300) and a third lens assembly (400) are positioned inside the housing (100) and are moved along the optical axis direction by the first driving unit (710) and the second driving unit (720), and the first lens assembly (200) can be fixed to the outside of the housing (100).

[0105] At this time, the first lens assembly (200) is fixed to the outside of the housing (100), and a separate cover member may be provided between the first lens assembly (200) and the housing (100), but may not be limited thereto.

[0106] Meanwhile, the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) can be moved along the optical axis direction or a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction by the first driving unit (710) and the second driving unit (720).

[0107] Here, the second lens assembly (300) includes a second lens group (310), a second barrel portion (320) surrounding the second lens group (310), and a second extension portion (330) disposed on one side of the second barrel portion (320), as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. In addition, the third lens assembly (400) may include a third lens group (410), a third barrel portion (420) surrounding the third lens group (410), and a third extension portion (430) disposed on one side of the third barrel portion (430).

[0108] Before going into more detail, let's specifically explain the direction. The first direction is a direction parallel to the optical axis direction, and can mean a direction facing upward and a direction facing downward based on FIG. 5, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction, and can mean a direction facing upward and downward based on FIG. 5 from the second extension (330) to the third extension (430) and a direction facing downward and a direction facing upward and downward based on FIG. 5 from the third extension (430) to the second extension (330), and can mean a direction facing from left to right and from right to left.

[0109] Additionally, the third direction is a direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, and may include a direction from the front to the rear of the housing (100) and a direction from the rear to the front of the housing (100). Here, the third direction may include a direction from the upper left to the lower right and a direction from the lower right to the upper left with reference to FIG. 4.

[0110] To explain in more detail based on this, the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a lens group (310, 410), a barrel part (320, 420), and an extension part (330, 430) as described above, and may include a guardrail part (340) arranged to face each of the extension parts (330, 430) in the second direction.

[0111] Here, the drive (600) is positioned spaced apart from the first driving unit (710) in the first direction, and the drive (600) may be a Drive IC. This will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings to be described later.

[0112] Before explaining this in detail, in order to prevent misunderstandings that may arise in the process of interpreting the explanation or limitations in the explanation of the arrangement, shape, movement, etc. of the configuration due to the specific shape of the present invention, FIGS. 6 to 13 are illustrated in the form of schematic diagrams for explanation, and the fact that the guardrail portion (340) is not illustrated in FIG. 5 is only to prevent limitations in the specific explanation of the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) due to the arrangement of the guardrail portion (340), and should not be interpreted as being limited to what is illustrated.

[0113] In addition, as described above, the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a second lens assembly (300) and a third lens assembly (400), and the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) are different only in the shapes of the second lens group (310) and the third lens group (410), the second barrel part (320) and the third barrel part (420), and the second extension part (330) and the third extension part (430), respectively, and the shape and function of the ball member (331a, 331b, 431a, 431b) and the groove part (332) to be explained through the guardrail part (340) are the same, so the explanation will be limited to the second lens assembly (300), and this is only to help a smooth understanding of the invention, and should not be interpreted as not being arranged in the third lens assembly (400).

[0114] Accordingly, in the detailed description to be described later, the lens assembly (300, 400) may mean the second lens assembly (300) or the third lens assembly (400). In order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, it is understood based on the second lens assembly (300), but it should be understood that the third lens assembly (400) is also arranged in the same or similar manner. In addition, FIGS. 6 to 8 and FIGS. 10 to 15 are cross-sections of A"A"' of FIG. 2, and in order to prevent the arrangement, relationship, and function of the configuration of the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention from becoming complicated or misunderstood as the detailed configuration is illustrated, a cross-section of A"A"' of FIG. 2 is schematically illustrated. This is only to help sufficient understanding of the present invention as described above, and should not be interpreted as being limited to the illustrated form.

[0115] First, the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention includes, as described above, a lens group (310, 410), a barrel part (320, 420) surrounding the lens group (310, 410), an extension part (330, 430) arranged on one side of the barrel part (320, 420), and a guard rail part (340) arranged to face the extension part (330, 430), and the extension part (330, 430) includes a groove part (332) that is sunken toward the barrel part (320, 420) and a pair of ball members (331a, 331b, 431a, 431b) that are arranged spaced apart in a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction on the groove part (332).

[0116] This can be divided into a ball member (331a, 331b) placed in the second lens assembly (300) and a ball member (431a, 431b) placed in the third lens assembly (400). In the following description, the second lens assembly (300) will be used as a reference as described above.

[0117] As described above, only referring to the second lens assembly (300), the guardrail portion (340) includes a body (342), a first protrusion (341a, 341b) protruding from the body (342) toward the groove (332) and positioned between a pair of ball members (331a, 331b) in the first direction, and a length in the first direction from the end (334a, 334b) of the groove (332) to the first protrusion (341a, 341b) in the first direction may be greater than the diameter of the ball members (331a, 331b).

[0118] Referring to FIG. 6 to explain the distinction more clearly here, as illustrated in FIG. 6, a groove (332) is formed in the barrel portion, and a second protrusion (333) is formed that protrudes in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and is disposed between a pair of first protrusions (341a, 341b) in the first direction, and the groove (332) is divided into a first pocket (332a) that is disposed relatively upward in the first direction and a second pocket (332b) that is disposed relatively downward in the first direction based on the second protrusion (333), and the ball member (331a, 331b) disposed on the first pocket (332a) can be divided into a first ball member (331a), and the ball member (331a, 331b) disposed on the second pocket (332b) can be divided into a second ball member (331b).

[0119] In addition, the first protrusions (341a, 341b) may be arranged as a pair in the first direction, and a second protrusion (333) may be arranged between the pair of first protrusions (341a, 341b) in the first direction. In addition, each of the pair of first protrusions (341a, 341b) may be arranged so that a portion thereof is inserted into the first pocket (332a) and the second pocket (332b), and the first protrusion (341a, 341b) arranged in the first pocket (332a) may be distinguished as the 1-1 protrusion (341a), and the first protrusion (341a, 341b) arranged in the second pocket (332b) may be distinguished as the 1-2 protrusion (341b).

[0120] In addition, the first end portion of the home portion (332) in the first direction can be divided into a first end portion (334a) adjacent to the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first ball member (331a) and positioned higher than the second protrusion (333) in the first direction, and a second end portion (334b) adjacent to the first-second protrusion (341b) and the second ball member (331b) and positioned lower than the second protrusion (333) in the first direction.

[0121] To explain specifically based on this, the first pocket (332a) and the second pocket (332b) are arranged to be distinguished by the second protrusion (333) in the first direction, the first ball member (331a) is arranged on the first pocket (332a), and the second ball member (331b) is arranged on the second pocket (332b), so that the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) are also arranged so as not to contact each other, and the first-first protrusion (341a) of the guardrail portion (340) is arranged on the first pocket (332a), and the first-second protrusion (341b) is arranged on the second pocket (332b), so that the movement distance of the lens assembly (300) can be limited through the second protrusion (333) during the movement process of the lens assembly (300) in the first direction.

[0122] In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the guardrail portion (340) includes a first region (S1) that is an area from the first end (334a) to the first-first protrusion (341a) and an area from the second end (334b) to the first-second protrusion (341b) in the first direction, and can be divided into a second region (S2) between the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-second protrusion (341b) in the first direction. Here, the first region (S1) may be an area where the ball members (331a, 331b) are arranged, and the second region (S2) may be an area where the second protrusion (333) is arranged.

[0123] That is, referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first ball member (331a) according to the embodiment of the present invention is disposed in the first region (S1) formed in the first direction by the first end (334a) and the first-first protrusion (341a), and the second ball member (331b) is disposed in the first region (S1) formed in the first direction by the second end (334b) and the first-second protrusion (341b), and the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) may not contact each other due to the second protrusion (333), the first-first protrusion (341a), and the first-second protrusion (341b). More specifically, since the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) are disposed in the first region (S1), the second ball member (331b) disposed in the second region (S2) It may not even come into contact with the protrusion (333).

[0124] This generally utilizes the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) to reduce friction during the movement of the lens assembly (300), but a slip phenomenon occurs in which the lens assembly does not rotate in place due to a bending phenomenon of the extension part or a defect in the manufacturing process of the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b), and the ball members (331a, 331b) that do not rotate due to the slip do not reduce friction but rather cause a problem in which the friction is greatly increased, which may cause problems in that overload and excessive power consumption occur during the driving process of the lens assembly (300).

[0125] The camera actuator (A2) according to an embodiment of the present invention can prevent the slip phenomenon of at least one of the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) through the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-second protrusion (341b) of the guardrail portion (340), even if the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) slip during the raising and lowering process of the lens assembly (300), by contacting the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first ball member (331a), or by contacting the first-second protrusion (341b) and the second ball member (331b).

[0126] To explain in more detail, the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a home portion (332) and a guardrail portion (340), and the home portion (332) includes a first pocket (332a) and a second pocket (332b) which are separated by a second protrusion (333), and a first ball member (331a) and a first-first protrusion (341a) may be arranged in the first pocket (332a), and a second ball member (331b) and a first-second protrusion (341b) may be arranged in the second pocket (332b).

[0127] In addition, with respect to the guardrail portion (340), a first region (S1) is included between the first end (334a) and the first-first protrusion (341a) and between the second end (334b) and the first-second protrusion (341b) in the first direction, and a second region (S2) is included between the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-second protrusion (341b), and in the first region (S1), a first ball member (331a) or a second ball member (331b) is arranged, and in the second region (S2), only a second protrusion (333) is arranged so that the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) do not come into contact with the second protrusion (333) in the first direction.

[0128] At this time, the guardrail portion (340) may be fixedly arranged on the inner surface in the second direction of the housing (100), and accordingly, the second length (L2) of the second region (S2) in the first direction has a fixed length, but the length of the first region (S1) in the first direction may vary according to the movement of the lens assembly (300).

[0129] Specifically, assuming that the length of the first region (S1) between the first end (334a) and the 1-1st protrusion (341a) in the first direction is the first length (L1), the length of the first region (S1) between the second end (334b) and the 1-2nd protrusion (341b) in the first direction is the third length (L3), and the length of the second region (S2) between the 1-1st protrusion (341a) and the 1-2nd protrusion (341b) in the first direction is the third length (L3), the third length (L3) is equal to or greater than the length of the stroke along which the lens assembly (300) is driven, and the sum of the first length (L1) and the third length (L3) is the same during the movement of the lens assembly (300), but each of the first length (L1) and the third length (L3) may vary depending on the movement of the lens assembly (300) in the first direction.

[0130] To put it differently, the sum of the first length (L1) to the third length (L3) may be less than the sum of the lengths of the groove (332) in the first direction, and may be equal to or less than the sum of the lengths of the first pocket (332a) and the second pocket (332b) in the first direction, the second length (L2) may be equal to or greater than the maximum stroke of the lens assembly (300), i.e., the maximum movement length of the lens assembly (300) in the first direction, and the sum of the first length (L1) and the third length (L3) may be equal to or less than the length of the first pocket (332a) in the first direction or the length of the second pocket (332b) in the first direction.

[0131] This means that the first length (L1) becomes maximum when the first-first protrusion (341a) and the second protrusion (333) are in contact in the first direction and the first-second protrusion (341b) and the second end (334b) are in contact, and the third length (L3) becomes maximum when the first-second protrusion (341b) and the first end (334a) are in contact in the first direction and the first-second protrusion (341b) and the second protrusion (333) are in contact, and since this must necessarily be smaller than the total length of the first pocket (332a) or the second pocket (332b), it may be preferable that the sum of the first length (L1) and the third length (L3) be smaller than the length of each of the first pocket (332a) and the second pocket (332b) in the first direction. This can be designed in various ways according to the thickness in the first direction of the first-1 protrusion (341a) and the first-2 protrusion (341b), and may not necessarily be limited to what has been mentioned.

[0132] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 8, in order to prevent slipping of the first ball member (331a) during the driving process of the lens assembly (300) based on the first ball member (331a) and the 1-1 protrusion (341a), the 1-1 protrusion (341a) must apply sufficient pressure to the first ball member (331a), and additional slipping must not occur while the first ball member (331a) is in contact with the 1-1 protrusion (341a), so the fourth length (L4) of the first protrusion (341a, 341b) in the second direction may be larger than the radius (R1) of the first ball member (331a) and smaller than the diameter (R2).

[0133] For example, when the length of the 1-1 protrusion (341a) in the second direction is smaller than the radius (R1) of the first ball member (331a), the side surface rather than the lower portion of the first ball member (331a) is pressed, so that a vector force in the second direction is generated in the first ball member (331a), and the vector force in the second direction provides a force that makes the first ball member (331a) strongly adhere to the first pocket (332a), so that there is a problem of increasing the frictional force and increasing the probability of a slip phenomenon. Therefore, it may be preferable that the fourth length (L4) of the 1-1 protrusion (341a) be larger than the radius (R1) of the first ball member (331a).

[0134] In addition, the first-first protrusion (341a) protrudes perpendicularly to the body (342), and when the first-first protrusion (341a) and the body (342) do not protrude perpendicularly to each other, the first ball member (331a) may slip to improve friction. For example, when the first-first protrusion (341a) does not protrude perpendicularly to the body (342), the first ball member (331a) may come into three-point contact with the first pocket (332a), the body (342), and the first-first protrusion (341a) at the angle formed by the first-first protrusion (341a) and the body (342), so that slipping may be prevented or a pinching phenomenon may occur. Therefore, it may be preferable that the first-first protrusion (341a) protrude perpendicularly to the body (342). This can be interpreted in the same way as the vector force in the second direction that occurs when the fourth length (L4) is smaller than the radius of the first ball member (331a), i.e., the radius (R1).

[0135] At this time, the diameter (R2) of the first ball member (331a) may be equal to the shortest distance in the second direction between the body (342) of the guardrail portion (340) and the groove portion (332). Therefore, when the fourth length (L4) of the 1-1 protrusion (341a) in the second direction is greater than the diameter (R2) of the first ball member (331a), the first ball member (331a) may be separated from the first pocket (332a) or a frictional force may be generated due to contact between the 1-1 protrusion (341a) and the first pocket (332a), so it may be preferable that the fourth length (L4) be smaller than the diameter of the first ball member (331a).

[0136] Accordingly, it may be preferable that the fourth length (L4) of the 1-1 protrusion (341a) be smaller than the diameter (R2) of the 1st ball member (331a) and larger than the radius (R1). The same applies to the relationship between the 1-2 protrusion (341b) and the 2nd ball member (331b), and the 1-2 protrusion (341b) may also have a length in the 2nd direction that is larger than the radius of the 2nd ball member (331b) and smaller than the diameter of the 2nd ball member (331b).

[0137] In addition, it is preferable that the length of the second protrusion (333) in the second direction be smaller than the diameter (R2) of the first ball member (331a), and since there is a need to limit the movement of the lens assembly (300) by contacting the first-first protrusion (341a) or the first-second protrusion (341b) during the movement of the lens assembly (300), the first protrusion (341a, 341b) and the second protrusion (333) can overlap each other at least partially in the first direction.

[0138] In addition, as shown in FIG. 9, when the cross-sectional shape cut in the second direction based on the first pocket (332a) is viewed from the first direction, the first ball member (331a) is in point contact with the first pocket (332a) and in point contact with the body (342) of the guardrail portion (340), so that the frictional force is reduced more effectively, and slipping can be effectively prevented by the first-1 protrusion (341a).

[0139] Based on the above, referring to FIGS. 10 and 11 to explain the slip prevention of the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) through the movement of the lens assembly (300), as shown in FIG. 10, when the lens assembly (300) is raised and lowered in the first direction, since the guardrail portion (340) is fixed, the first ball member (331a) in contact with the first pocket (332a) is lowered as the lens assembly (300) is raised and the second ball member (331b) can also be lowered as the second pocket (332b) moves.

[0140] In this process, the first ball member (331a) moves in a direction closer to the 1-1 protrusion (341a), the second ball member (331b) moves in a direction away from the 1-2 protrusion (341b), and the first ball member (331a) and the 1-1 protrusion (341a) move in a direction away from the first end (334a), so that they have a relatively wide first area (S1), and the second ball member (331b) and the 1-2 protrusion (341b) move in a direction closer to the second end (334b), so that they have a relatively narrow first area (S1).

[0141] However, since the second ball member (331b) is in contact with the body (342) of the guardrail member (340) while in contact with the second end (334b), rolling can occur continuously. If the 1-1 protrusion (341a) does not exist, there may be a problem that the first ball member (331a) comes into contact with the second protrusion (333) and a slip, which is a rolling phenomenon in place, occurs. Accordingly, in the present invention, since the 1-1 protrusion (341a) is in contact with the first ball member (331a) to allow the first ball member (331a) to continuously roll, the slip phenomenon that occurs due to contact with the second protrusion (333) can be prevented.

[0142] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 11, when the lens assembly (300) is lowered in the first direction, the guardrail portion (340) is fixed, so that the first ball member (331a) in contact with the first pocket (332a) is raised and lowered according to the elevation of the lens assembly (300), and the second ball member (331b) can also be raised and lowered according to the movement of the second pocket (332b).

[0143] In this process, the first ball member (331a) moves away from the 1-1 protrusion (341a), the second ball member (331b) moves toward the 1-2 protrusion (341b), and the first ball member (331a) and the 1-1 protrusion (341a) move toward the 1st end (334a) so that they have a relatively narrow first area (S1), and the second ball member (331b) and the 1-2 protrusion (341b) move away from the 2nd end (334b) so that they have a relatively wide first area (S1).

[0144] However, since the first ball member (331a) is in contact with the body (342) of the guardrail member (340) while in contact with the first end (334a), rolling can occur continuously. If the 1st-2nd protrusion (341b) does not exist, there may be a problem that the 2nd ball member (331b) comes into contact with the 2nd protrusion (333) and a slip, which is a rolling phenomenon in place, occurs. Accordingly, in the present invention, since the 1st-2nd protrusion (341b) comes into contact with the 2nd ball member (331b) so that the 2nd ball member (331b) can continuously roll, the slip phenomenon that occurs due to contact with the 2nd protrusion (333) can be prevented.

[0145] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 12 to examine a camera actuator (A2) according to another embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the second protrusion (333) may not be formed in the groove (332), and the groove (332) may not be divided into a first pocket (332a) and a second pocket (332b). However, the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-second protrusion (341b) of the guardrail portion (340) may be divided into a first region (S1) and a second region (S2) to prevent the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) from contacting each other and slipping. Here, the first region (S1) may be a region where the first ball member (331a) or the second ball member (331b) is placed, and the second region (S2) may be a region where the first ball member (331a) or the second ball member (331b) is not placed.

[0146] In this case, if the second protrusion (333) does not exist, there may be an advantage in that an unexpected error in which the distance between the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-second protrusion (341b) becomes smaller than the maximum stroke of the lens assembly (300) due to an error in the manufacturing process can be prevented.

[0147] However, in the case where only the first protrusions (341a, 341b) are arranged, and not the first-first protrusions (341a) and the first-second protrusions (341b), it is difficult for the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) to come into contact with the first protrusions (341a, 341b), so slipping is not properly prevented. Therefore, it may be desirable to divide the first region (S1) into a pair of first regions and a second region (S2) between the first regions (S1) through the first-first protrusions (341a) and the first-second protrusions (341b).

[0148] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 13, a camera actuator (A2) according to another embodiment of the present invention may form a groove (332) without a first end (334a) and a second end (334b). Alternatively, the groove (332) may be formed to be open in the first direction. This may be to further prevent slippage that occurs due to contact with the first end (334a) and the second end (334b).

[0149] Specifically, the first region (S1) is arranged in the first direction in an upper region than the first-first protrusion (341a) and a lower region than the first-second protrusion (341b), and the first ball member (331a) or the second ball member (331b) may not be arranged in the first region (S1), and the first-third protrusion (341c) is arranged between the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-second protrusion (341b) to prevent contact between the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b), and the second region (S2) between the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-second protrusion (341b) is a second region (S2-1) in which the first ball member (331a) is arranged and a second region (S2-2) in which the second ball member (331b) is arranged. It can be divided into areas (S2-2).

[0150] At this time, the camera actuator (A2) according to another embodiment of the present invention has a different description of the first region (S1) and the second region (S2) than the previous embodiment, but this can be interpreted as the 2-1 region (S2-1) and the 2-2 region (S2-2) as the 1-1 region and the 1-2 region by applying the previous embodiment, and the 1st region (S1) can be interpreted as the 2nd region (S2). In other words, it should not be interpreted as being limited to the 1st, 2nd, 1-1, and 1-2 mentioned. However, since the first region (S1) is formed adjacent to the end of the home portion (332) in the description of the present invention and the second region (S2) is formed between the first region (S1), for the sake of consistency of description, it is described as the 2-1 region (S2-1) and the 2-2 region (S2-2), but it can also be interpreted as the 1-1 region and the 1-2 region as described above.

[0151] Meanwhile, in a case where the 1-3 protrusion (341c) is formed in this manner, the first ball member (331a) is arranged in the 2-1 region (S2-1), and the second ball member (331b) is arranged in the 2-2 region (S2-2), there may be an advantage in that the precision required to manufacture the second length (L2) between the 1-1 protrusion (341a) and the 1-2 protrusion (341b) to match the maximum stroke of the lens assembly (300) can be reduced, thereby facilitating production.

[0152] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 14 to explain a camera actuator (A2) according to a modified example of the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the groove portion (322) may not have a second protrusion (333) formed therein, similar to the camera actuator (A2) according to another embodiment of the present invention, and the groove portion (332) may not be divided into a first pocket (332a) and a second pocket (332b). In addition, the groove portion (322) may have a first end portion (334a) and a second end portion (334b) arranged at the end portion of the groove portion (322) in the first direction.

[0153] In addition, the guardrail portion (340) includes a first-first protrusion (341a), a first-second protrusion (341b), and a first-third protrusion (341c) spaced apart in the first direction, and the first-first protrusion (341a) may be arranged closer to the first end (334a) than the first ball member (331a) in the first direction, and the first-second protrusion (341b) may be arranged closer to the second end (334b) than the second ball member (331b) in the first direction. Here, the first-third protrusion (341c) may be arranged between the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-second protrusion (341b) in the first direction, but may be arranged between the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (332b).

[0154] That is, in the camera actuator (A2) according to the modified example of the present invention, the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) are not arranged in the first region (S1) between the first end (334a) and the 1-1st protrusion (341a) in the first direction and between the second end (334b) and the 1-2nd protrusion (341b) in the first direction, and may be arranged only in the 2-1 region (S2-1) between the 1-1st protrusion (341a) and the 1-3rd protrusion (341c) in the first direction and in the 2-2 region (S2-2) between the 1-3rd protrusion (341c) and the 1-2nd protrusion (341b) in the first direction.

[0155] At this time, the first ball member (331a) may be in contact with the first-first protrusion (341a) and the first-third protrusion (341c) in the first direction, and the second ball member (331b) may be in contact with the first-third protrusion (341c) and the first-second protrusion (341b) in the first direction. That is, the length of the second-first region (S2-1) in the first direction may be equal to the length of the first ball member (331a) in the first direction, and the length of the second-second region (S2-2) in the first direction may be equal to the length of the second ball member (331b) in the first direction.

[0156] In this arrangement, slipping caused by contact between the first end (334a) and the second end (334b) due to the elevation of the first ball member (331a) and the second ball member (331b) can be prevented, and there may be an advantage in that the length of the first region (S1) in the first direction can be sufficiently secured, thereby reducing the precision required to design according to the stroke, thereby facilitating production.

[0157] However, the camera actuator (A2) according to the modified example of the present invention is different from the previous embodiment in that the ball members (331a, 331b) are not arranged in the first region (S1) and the ball members (331a, 331b) are arranged in the second region (S2), but this is different from the previous explanation. However, by applying the previous embodiment, the 2-1 region (S2-1) and the 2-2 region (S2-2) can be interpreted as the 1-1 region and the 1-2 region, and the 1 region (S1) can be interpreted as the 2nd region (S2). In other words, the interpretation should not be limited to the 1st, 2nd, 1-1, and 1-2 mentioned. However, since the first region (S1) in the description of the present invention is formed adjacent to the end of the groove (332) and the second region (S2) is formed between the first region (S1), for the sake of consistency of description, it is described as the 2-1 region (S2-1) and the 2-2 region (S2-2), but it can also be interpreted as the 1-1 region and the 1-2 region as described above. As continuously mentioned above, in order to prevent the complex cross-section and configuration from interfering with the understanding of the present invention, FIGS. 6 to 14 are schematic diagrams only to confirm the core of the invention and should not be interpreted separately, and the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) are interpreted as having the same or similar forms as those of FIGS. 6 to 14, and should not be interpreted as being limited to the second lens assembly (300).

[0158] Meanwhile, for a specific description of the camera actuator (A2) according to an embodiment of the present invention, reference may be made to FIGS. 4, 16 to 22.

[0159] Specifically, FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining the length between components of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 17 is a drawing for explaining in detail a second lens assembly of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 18 is a drawing for explaining in detail a third lens assembly of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining when an object of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is in a distant state.

[0160] First, referring to FIG. 4 to organize the above-described matter, a camera actuator (A2) according to an embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 4, includes a housing (100), a second lens assembly (300) and a third lens assembly (400) arranged inside the housing (100) and moving in a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction, and a first lens assembly (200) arranged relatively close to the object (O) in the first direction, i.e., in the direction from the object (O) toward the second lens assembly (300).

[0161] Here, the housing (100) can form the exterior of the camera actuator (A2), and the first lens assembly (200), the second lens assembly (300), and the third lens assembly (400) can be sequentially arranged along the first direction.

[0162] Additionally, based on FIG. 4, the first lens assembly (200) may be placed on the upper side of the housing (100), and the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) may be placed on the inside of the housing (100).

[0163] In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the first lens assembly (200), the second lens assembly (300), and the third lens assembly (400) can be sequentially arranged in the first direction.

[0164] Meanwhile, a cover base (500) may be placed between the first lens assembly (200) and the second lens assembly (300). Here, the first lens assembly (200) may be mounted on the cover base (500), and a separate adhesive member may be placed, and the adhesive member may be epoxy.

[0165] At this time, epoxy is mentioned as an example of an adhesive material to help understanding, and may not necessarily be limited to what is mentioned.

[0166] Meanwhile, the first driving unit (710) and the second driving unit (720) can be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the first direction based on the first direction parallel to the optical axis direction.

[0167] Here, the first driving unit (710) and the second driving unit (720) are arranged in the second direction with the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) interposed therebetween, and the first driving unit (710) and the second driving unit (720) will be described in more detail through the drawings to be described later.

[0168] To explain in more detail based on the above, as illustrated in FIG. 16, the first lens assembly (200) may include a first lens group (210), a first barrel portion (220) surrounding the first lens group (210), and a first extension portion (230) extending in a direction perpendicular to the first direction from the first barrel portion (220). Here, the first lens group (210) may refer to a lens assembly group in which a plurality of lenses are arranged in the first direction. In addition, the first barrel portion (220) may refer to a region surrounding the first lens group (210) and having a predetermined thickness based on an inner surface that comes into contact with the first lens group (210). In addition, the first extension portion may extend in a "sleeve film*" perpendicular to the first direction from the first barrel portion (220), but may extend in a second direction based on FIG. 16 and be bonded to the cover base (500) through the adhesive member described above. That is, the first lens assembly (200) may be fixed to the cover assembly (500) through the first extension portion (230) at the top of the housing (100).

[0169] In addition, the second lens assembly (300) may include a second lens group (310) and a second barrel portion (320) that surrounds the second lens group (310) and a second extension portion (330) that extends from the second barrel portion (320) toward a first side perpendicular to the first direction, and the third lens assembly (400) may include a third lens group (410) and a third barrel portion (420) that surrounds the third lens group (410) and a third extension portion (430) that extends from the third barrel portion (420) toward a second side perpendicular to the first direction.

[0170] Here, the first side refers to a direction toward one side of the housing (100) in the first direction parallel to the optical axis and the second direction perpendicular thereto, the second side may refer to a direction toward the other side of the housing (100) in the second direction, and the second direction may refer to a bidirectional direction toward both sides of the housing (100). That is, the second direction may include a bidirectional direction from the first side to the second side and from the second side to the first side with respect to the housing (100).

[0171] This can be more clearly understood through the first direction, second direction and third direction, as well as the first side and second side, described in the drawing.

[0172] At this time, the second barrel portion (320), the second extension portion (330), the third barrel portion (420), and the third extension portion (430) will be described in more detail through the drawings to be described later.

[0173] Meanwhile, the camera actuator (A2) according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes, in addition to the first lens assembly (200), the housing (100), the second lens assembly (300), and the third lens assembly (400), a first magnet (M1) and a first driving unit (710) disposed on the first side of the housing (100) and driving the second lens assembly (300), a second magnet (M2) and a second driving unit (720) disposed on the second side of the housing (100) and driving the third lens assembly (400), and a drive (600) controlling the first driving unit (710) and the second driving unit (720).

[0174] Here, the first driving unit (710) is arranged on the first side, and the first magnet (M1) can be arranged on the second lens assembly (200) facing the first driving unit (710). In addition, the first driving unit (710) can include a first coil (711, 712) that drives the second lens assembly (300) on the first side through electromagnetic interaction with the first magnet (M1).

[0175] That is, when electricity flows through the first coil (711, 712), an electromagnetic interaction occurs with the first magnet (M1), and accordingly, the second lens assembly (300) can move along the first direction.

[0176] In addition, the second driving unit (720) may be arranged on the second side, and the second magnet (M2) may be arranged on the third lens assembly (400) facing the second driving unit (720). In addition, the second driving unit (720) may include a second coil (721, 722) that drives the third lens assembly (400) on the second side through electromagnetic interaction with the second magnet (M2).

[0177] That is, when electricity flows through the second coil (721, 722), an electromagnetic interaction occurs with the second magnet (M2), and accordingly, the third lens assembly (400) can move along the first direction.

[0178] Here, the first magnet (M1) may be specifically placed between the first coil (711, 712) and the second extension (330), and the second magnet (M2) may be specifically placed between the second coil (721, 722) and the third extension (430).

[0179] At this time, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the length (H3) of the first coil (711, 712) in the first direction may be longer than the length (H1) of the first magnet (M1) in the first direction, and may be arranged shorter than the length (H4) of the second coil (721, 722) in the first direction.

[0180] That is, with respect to the first direction, the length (H3) of the first coil (711, 712) may be shorter than the length (H4) of the second coil (721, 722), the length (H1) of the first magnet (M1) may be shorter than the length (H2) of the second magnet (M2), the length (H3) of the first coil (711, 322) may be longer than the length (H1) of the first magnet (M1), and the length (H4) of the second coil (721, 722) may be longer than the length (H2) of the second magnet (M2).

[0181] At this time, the reason why the first coil (711, 712) is formed shorter in the first direction than the second coil (721, 722) may be because the driving distance of the second lens assembly (300) is relatively shorter than the driving distance of the third lens assembly (400).

[0182] Here, the first coil (711, 712) arranged on the first side is divided into a first coil unit (711) and a second coil unit (712), and the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0183] In addition, the second coil (721, 722) arranged on the second side is divided into a third coil unit (721) and a fourth coil unit (722), and the third coil unit (721) and the fourth coil unit (722) can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0184] Here, the length (H5) of the first coil unit (711) in the first direction may be shorter than the length (H7) of the third coil unit (721) in the first direction and the length (H8) of the fourth coil unit (722) in the first direction.

[0185] Similarly, the length (H6) of the second coil unit (712) in the first direction may be shorter than the length (H7) of the third coil unit (721) in the first direction and the length (H8) of the fourth coil unit (722) in the first direction.

[0186] At this time, the first coil unit (711) can be formed to have a first hollow (711a) defined by the inner diameter, the second coil unit (712) to have a second hollow (712a) defined by the inner diameter, the third coil unit (721) to have a third hollow (721a) defined by the inner diameter, and the fourth coil to have a fourth hollow (722a) defined by the inner diameter.

[0187] Here, similar to the relationship between the first coil (711, 712) and the second coil (721, 722) described above, the length (H9) of the first hollow (711a) can be formed to be relatively shorter in the first direction than the length (H11) of the third hollow (721a) and the length (H12) of the fourth hollow (722a).

[0188] In addition, based on the first direction, the length (H10) of the second hollow (712a) can be formed to be relatively shorter in the first direction than the length (H11) of the third hollow (721a) and the length (H12) of the fourth hollow (722a).

[0189] At this time, the uppermost part of the first hollow (711a) in the first direction may be positioned on the same line as the uppermost part of the third hollow (721a), but the lowermost part of the first hollow (711a) may be positioned relatively higher in the first direction than the lowermost part of the third hollow (721a).

[0190] As a result, the length (H9) of the first coil unit (711) may be shorter than the length (H11) of the third coil unit (721) or the length (H12) of the fourth coil unit (722), and the length (H10) of the second coil unit (712) may be shorter than the length (H11) of the third coil unit (721) or the length (H12) of the fourth coil unit (722).

[0191] That is, the length (H3) of the first coil (711, 712) including the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712) may be shorter than the length (H4) of the second coil (721, 722) including the third coil unit (721) and the fourth coil unit (722).

[0192] Meanwhile, the drive (600) may be arranged to overlap the first coil (711, 712) in a first direction, and may be arranged to overlap the second coil (721, 722) in a second direction from the first side toward the second side.

[0193] To explain this in more detail, the drive (600) can overlap with the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712) in the first direction, and can overlap with the fourth hollow (722a) in the second direction.

[0194] To explain differently, the drive (600) may overlap the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712) in the first direction, but may not overlap the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712) in the second direction, and the drive (600) may not be disposed in the first hollow (711a), the second hollow (712a), the third hollow (721a), and the fourth hollow (722a), but may be disposed outside the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712).

[0195] That is, the drive (600) is positioned inside the housing (100) so as to be distinct from the first coil (711, 712), and the space where the drive (600) is positioned may include an opening (140) that is open in the direction from the first side to the second side in the second direction.

[0196] Additionally, a plurality of openings (140) may be formed in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions.

[0197] Here, the sum of the length (H3) of the first coil (711, 712) in the first direction and the length (H13) of the drive (600) in the first direction may be less than the length (H4) of the second coil (721, 722) in the first direction.

[0198] More specifically, the drive (600) may be arranged separately from the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712) in the first direction, and may be arranged at a relatively long distance from the first lens assembly (200).

[0199] This is different from the conventional case where the drive (600) is placed on the first hollow (711a) or the second hollow (712a), and by placing the drive (600) separately from the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712), the influence of the electromagnetic field generated in the first coil unit (711) and the second coil unit (712) and the magnetic field generated in the first magnet (M1) can be minimized. Accordingly, the amount of heat applied to the drive (600) can be effectively reduced.

[0200] In addition, a first stopper (120) may be further placed inside the housing (100) to face the second lens assembly (300) in the first direction to prevent the second lens assembly (300) from moving and colliding with the housing (100), the first lens assembly (200), or the third lens assembly (400).

[0201] Additionally, the housing (100) may further include a second stopper (130) facing the third lens assembly (400) in the first direction to prevent the third lens assembly (400) from moving and colliding with the housing (100) and the second lens assembly (300).

[0202] At this time, the first stopper (120) is positioned to face the second lens assembly (300) in the first direction, but is positioned to face the first barrel portion (350) and may be positioned on the upper side of the opening portion (140).

[0203] That is, since the first stopper (580) is located on the upper side of the opening (140) in the first direction, the upper surface of the first stopper (120) in the first direction and the upper surface of the second stopper (130) in the first direction may have different linear heights.

[0204] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 18 to explain the second lens assembly (300) in more detail, as shown in FIG. 18, the second lens assembly (300) includes a second lens group (310), a second barrel portion (320), and a second extension portion (330) as described above, and the second lens assembly (300) can be driven by the first driving portion (710).

[0205] Here, the second lens assembly (300) may include a second lens group (310), a second barrel portion (320), and a second extension portion (330) as described above, and the second lens assembly (300) may have a first magnet (M1) disposed between the first extension portion (330) and the first coil (711, 712).

[0206] Here, the second barrel portion (320) is formed in a shape that surrounds the second lens group (310), and the second extension portion (330) extends from the second barrel portion (320) toward the first coil (711, 712) with a wider width, and can extend toward the first coil (711, 712) so as to be relatively inclined toward the lower side of the second lens group (310).

[0207] Additionally, the second extension (330) may have a first recessed space (331) that is recessed from the first side toward the second side so that the first magnet (M1) is placed.

[0208] Here, a first chin (332) may be formed on the upper portion of the second extension portion (330) to prevent the second barrel portion (320) from moving in the first direction and colliding with the first lens assembly (200).

[0209] At this time, the first chin (332) protrudes relatively higher in the first direction than the second lens group (310), thereby preventing damage to the second lens group (310) due to a collision between the first lens assembly (200) and the second lens group (310).

[0210] In addition, a first hall sensor (730) is placed in the first hollow (711a) of the first coil unit (711), and when the second lens assembly (300) moves in the first direction, the second lens assembly (300) and the first hall sensor (730) can overlap in the second direction.

[0211] Meanwhile, the third lens assembly (400) may include a third lens group (410), a third barrel portion (420) surrounding the third lens group (410), and a third extension portion (430) extending from the third barrel portion (420) toward the second driving portion (720), as illustrated in FIG. 19.

[0212] In addition, the third barrel part (420) is formed in a form that surrounds the third lens group (410) similarly to the second barrel part (320), and the third extension part (430) extends from the third barrel part (420) toward the second driving part (720), but can be extended in a way that the upper side is relatively long and inclined in the first direction.

[0213] In addition, the third extension (430) has a second sunken space (431) formed that is sunken toward the first side, so that a second magnet (M2) can be placed on the second sunken space (451).

[0214] As a result, the second magnet (M2) can be placed between the second coil (721, 722) and the third extension (450) in the second direction.

[0215] Here, a second jaw (432) may be formed on the upper portion of the third extension portion (430) to prevent the third barrel portion (420) from moving in the first direction and colliding with the second lens assembly (300).

[0216] At this time, the bottom surface of the third extension (430) facing the second jaw (432) is in contact with the second stopper (130) to prevent collision with the bottom surface of the housing (100), and the second jaw (432) is in contact with the stopper of the cover base (500) facing the second stopper (120) in the first direction to prevent collision with the second lens assembly (300).

[0217] In addition, a second hall sensor (740) may be placed in the fourth hollow (722a) of the fourth coil unit (722), and the third lens assembly (400) may overlap the second hall sensor (740) in the second direction as it moves in the first direction.

[0218] Meanwhile, in order to explain the operation of the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) according to the embodiment of the present invention according to the above-described structure, reference may be made to FIGS. 20 to 22.

[0219] Specifically, FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating a movement of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention when an object is far away, FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating a movement of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention when an object is close, and FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating a movement of a camera actuator including a lens assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention when an object is close.

[0220] First, as illustrated in FIG. 20, when the distance between the housing (100) and the object (O), more specifically, the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O), is greater than or equal to the second distance (D2), the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) may move in the same direction or may move together while being adjacent to each other.

[0221] This moves in the direction of the optical axis, specifically, a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction, from the inside of the housing (100), and as the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O) increases, the second lens assembly (300) moves toward the end of the housing (100) in the direction toward the object (O), and the third lens assembly (400) can move toward the second lens assembly (300).

[0222] To summarize, as shown in FIG. 21, when the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O) is greater than or equal to the second distance (D2), the second lens assembly (300) generally rises to magnify the object (O), and the third lens assembly (400) can also rise.

[0223] Here, the ascending direction is movement in the first direction toward the object (O) as described above, and more specifically, the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) may move in the direction toward the object (O), and in the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention, the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) may move in the direction toward the first lens assembly (200) from the inside of the housing (100).

[0224] That is, when movement toward the object (O) is defined as upward movement and movement away from the object (O) is defined as downward movement, when the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O) is greater than the second distance (D2), the second lens assembly (300) can ascend, and the third lens assembly (400) can also ascend.

[0225] More preferably, when movement in the direction toward the first lens assembly (200) is defined as rising and movement in the direction away from the first lens assembly (200) is defined as falling, when the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O) is greater than the second distance (D2), the second lens assembly (300) may rise, and the third lens assembly (400) may also rise.

[0226] At this time, the second distance (D2) may be the distance between the object (O) and the first lens assembly (200), or may mean the distance between one surface of the housing (100) relatively adjacent to the first camera actuator (A1) and the object (O).

[0227] In addition, the second distance (D2) is greater than the first distance (D1) described later, and the second distance (D2) may be 3 m to 7 m, preferably 4 m to 6 m, more preferably 5 m, but may not necessarily be limited thereto.

[0228] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23, when the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O) becomes smaller, more preferably, when it is less than or equal to the first distance (D1), the second lens assembly (300) may be moved toward the first lens assembly (200), and the third lens assembly (400) may be moved in the opposite direction to the first lens assembly (200) and may be placed on the bottom surface of the housing (100). That is, the third lens assembly (400) may be placed adjacent to the image sensor.

[0229] More specifically, if one side of the housing (100) in which the first lens assembly (200) is arranged is defined as the top side, and the other side of the housing (100) arranged in the opposite direction from the top side in the first direction is defined as the bottom side, then when the object (O) approaches the first lens assembly (200) by a first distance (D1) or less, the second lens assembly (300) may rise toward the first lens assembly (200), and the third lens assembly (400) may move in the opposite direction to the second lens assembly (300). As described above, the second lens assembly (300) may be a zoom lens assembly, and the third lens assembly (400) may be an autofocus lens assembly, for magnifying the object (O).

[0230] Here, with reference to the movement of the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400), when the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O) is less than or equal to the first distance (D1), the second lens assembly (300) moves toward the first lens assembly (200), and the third lens assembly (400) can be positioned adjacent to the image sensor.

[0231] As a result, when the second distance (D2) is greater than or equal to the second distance (D1), the third lens assembly (400) may move in the same direction as the second lens assembly (300) toward a direction away from the image sensor, and when the first distance (D1) is less than or equal to the first distance (D1), the third lens assembly (300) may move in a different direction from the second lens assembly (300) toward a direction closer to the image sensor. Accordingly, the second lens assembly (300) may be arranged adjacent to the first lens assembly (200), and the third lens assembly (400) may be arranged adjacent to the image sensor.

[0232] That is, when movement toward the object (O) is defined as rising and movement away from the object (O) is defined as falling, when the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O) is less than or equal to the first distance (D1), the second lens assembly (300) can rise and the third lens assembly (400) can descend.

[0233] More preferably, when a movement toward the first lens assembly (200) is defined as an upward movement and a movement away from the first lens assembly (200) is defined as a downward movement, when the distance between the first lens assembly (200) and the object (O) is less than or equal to the first distance (D1), the second lens assembly (300) can ascend and the third lens assembly (400) can descend.

[0234] At this time, the first distance (D1) may be the distance between the object (O) and the first lens assembly (200), or may mean the distance between one surface of the housing (100) relatively adjacent to the first camera actuator (A1) and the object (O).

[0235] In addition, the first distance (D1) may be 5 cm to 20 cm, preferably 8 cm to 15 cm, more preferably 10 cm, but may not necessarily be limited thereto.

[0236] Meanwhile, since the second lens assembly (300) moves between the first lens assembly (200) and the third lens assembly (400), the maximum stroke of the second lens assembly (300) may correspond to the distance between the bottom surface of the first lens assembly (200) facing the second lens assembly (300) and the upper surface of the third lens assembly (400) facing the second lens assembly (300) while the third lens assembly (400) has the maximum distance from the first lens assembly (200) inside the housing (100).

[0237] In addition, the maximum stroke of the third lens assembly (400) may correspond to the distance between the bottom surface of the second lens assembly (300) facing the third lens assembly (400) and the bottom surface of the housing (100) that is far from the first lens assembly (200) while the second lens assembly (300) has a minimum distance from the first lens assembly (200) on the inside of the housing (100).

[0238] That is, as a result, the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention can secure a minimum distance between the object (O) and the first lens assembly (200) that can focus the object (O) in a state where the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) are respectively disposed at the ends of the housing (100) in a direction away from each other on the inside of the housing (100).

[0239] In addition, in the past, when an object (O) gets closer to the first lens assembly (200), the third lens assembly (400) had to move a greater distance than before, but in the case of movement in units of cm, there was no space to move, but in the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention, the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) are spaced apart from each other, so there may be an effect of being able to focus at a shorter distance.

[0240] More specifically, since the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) are moved in the same direction while maintaining a predetermined separation range in the past, when taking close-up pictures, both the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) are directed toward the bottom surface of the housing (100) from the inside of the housing (100), and the third lens assembly (400) cannot maintain the predetermined separation range, making it difficult to focus during close-up pictures.

[0241] However, in the camera actuator (A2) according to the embodiment of the present invention, the second lens assembly (300) and the third lens assembly (400) move in different directions, and in close-up photography where the distance between the object (O) and the first lens assembly (200) is 10 cm or less, the second lens assembly (300) moves toward the first lens assembly (200) and is placed at one end of the housing (100), and the third lens assembly (400) moves in the opposite direction to the movement direction of the second lens assembly (300) and is placed at the other end of the housing (100), so that close-up photography can be performed more effectively.

[0242] Accordingly, even when the object (O) and the first lens assembly (200) are positioned closer together, the third lens assembly (400) secures a distance from the second lens assembly (300), and sufficient space is secured for the third lens assembly (400) to move, thereby increasing the maximum stroke of the third lens assembly (400), thereby providing an advantage of securing a more effectively miniaturized camera actuator (A2).

[0243] Having described preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope thereof, in addition to the embodiments described above.

[0244] Therefore, the above-described embodiments should be considered as illustrative rather than restrictive, and accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the above description but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. Lens group; A barrel portion surrounding the above lens group; An extension portion arranged on one side of the above barrel portion; and Includes a guardrail portion positioned facing the above extension portion, The above extension portion includes a groove portion that is sunken toward the barrel portion and a pair of ball members that are spaced apart in a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction on the groove portion, The guardrail portion includes a first protrusion that protrudes toward the groove and is arranged between a pair of ball members in the first direction, A lens assembly in which the length in the first direction from the end of the groove to the first protrusion is greater than the diameter of the ball member.

2. In paragraph 1, The first protrusions are arranged in pairs spaced apart from each other in the first direction, A lens assembly wherein the groove portion protrudes in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and includes a second protrusion positioned between a pair of the first protrusions in the first direction.

3. In paragraph 2, A lens assembly wherein the guardrail portion includes a first region from the end of the groove portion in the first direction to the first protrusion and a second region between a pair of the first protrusions in the first direction.

4. In paragraph 2, In the second region, the second protrusion is arranged, A lens assembly in which the first protrusion and the second protrusion overlap at least partially in the first direction.

5. In paragraph 2, The above home portion includes a first pocket and a second pocket separated by the second protrusion in the first direction, The first protrusion is arranged in each of the first pocket and the second pocket, The ball member is arranged in each of the first pocket and the second pocket, A lens assembly in which the ball member of the first pocket and the ball member of the second pocket do not come into contact with the second protrusion in the first direction.

6. In paragraph 1, A lens assembly in which the length of the first protrusion in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction is greater than the radius of the ball member and less than the diameter of the ball member.

7. In paragraph 1, A lens assembly in which the first protrusion protrudes vertically toward the groove from one surface of the guardrail portion.

8. Housing; A plurality of lens assemblies arranged in a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction on the housing; and including a driving unit that drives the lens assembly in the first direction; The above lens assembly, Lens group; A barrel portion surrounding the above lens group; an extension extending from the above barrel portion; and Includes a guardrail portion positioned facing the above extension portion, The above extension portion includes a groove portion that is sunken toward the barrel portion and a pair of ball members that are spaced apart in a first direction parallel to the optical axis direction on the groove portion, The guardrail portion includes a first protrusion that protrudes toward the groove and is arranged between a pair of ball members in the first direction, A camera actuator in which the length in the first direction from the end of the groove to the first protrusion is greater than the diameter of the ball member.

9. In paragraph 12, The first protrusions are arranged in pairs spaced apart from each other in the first direction, A camera actuator wherein the home portion protrudes in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and includes a second protrusion disposed between a pair of the first protrusions in the first direction.

10. In paragraph 11, The guardrail portion includes a first region from the end of the groove portion in the first direction to the first protrusion, and a second region between a pair of the first protrusions in the first direction, A camera actuator in which the length of the second region in the first direction is equal to or greater than the driving distance of the lens assembly.

Images